> Twilight Sparkle gets a Genshin Impact Season 1 > by MLPandMiraculousFanatic > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Episode 1: The Beginning of a New Adventure > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Episode begins on the beach where some symbols were drawn as a few crabs checked it out while Paimon spoke "So... What you're both saying is that you fell here from another world?" Paimon asked [Flashback Start] The screen the showed a flew flashing lights in the dark before finally seven ponies, one dragon and two people were seen walking down the stone streets "But when you wanted to leave and go on to the next world your path was blocked by some unknown god?" Paimon asked Three red lights then appeared as Rainbow flew forward a bit in anger "Hey scaredy cat, show yourself!" Rainbow ordered angrily Applejack then stepped forward too "She's right, your tyrantry is over!" Applejack reminded angrily Just then a girl with appeared who looked bigger than all 10 people "Outlanders, your journey ends here" The person said "Not if we have anything to say about it!" Pinkie said angrily They then all glared while Rarity could only look in awe as Lumine could only look at the person angrily "Who're you?!" Lumine asked "The sustainer of heavenly principles" The person answered "You certainly look like it" Rarity said "Rarity! Focus!" Twilight ordered "The arrogation of pony and mankind ends now!" The person said Just then a massive block appeared which caused most ponies to jump to the side in fright only to see Rarity and Fluttershy got caught! "Rarity! Fluttershy!" The others called out "Ack! Save yourselves my friends!" Fluttershy called out "Yeah, get yourselves to safety!" Rarity ordered "No, we're not!" Twilight said Pinkie then flew towards the block with her mane and used a flame thrower causing the god to get pain "Ouch! You stupid fool! Don't hurt me!" The god said "Not until my friends are---" Pinkie started only to get caught "Ack!" Pinkie called out "Pinkie!" The group called out "We better fight now!" Rainbow ordered "No we're not! It's too dangerous!" Twilight said "I agree sugarcube, I don't like this god but she's too dangerous! We'd better escape!" Applejack said Spike then flew up "Yes, move out!" Spike said The group then galloped to safety leaving the two humans to prepare to fight as they fought while the god summoned some blocks towards the group which the group dodged until Spike fell off of Twilight's back which Twilight felt making her stop "Spike!" Twilight called out But soon enough Spike was gone as Twilight began began sobbing but just when Twilight was about to get hit by the blocks she felt herself being pushed aside "Careful!" Rainbow called out Twilight then turned around only to see Applejack was gone while Rainbow got trapped "Hold on!" Twilight called out Twilight then rushed to Rainbow "Just go Twilight, I can handle whatever it takes" Rainbow said as she struggled to get free "But... Only if I... Can free myself... Of course" Rainbow said between struggles "But Rainbow...!" Twilight started "Twilight, if anything happens to me just know that I love you no matter what so please, escape this brat no matter what and..." Rainbow said as the blocks slowly began engulfing her "Save us" Rainbow finished before she was fully engulfed Twilight then sobbed before she noticed the blocks rushing towards her "I'll never forget you Rainbow, or anypony for that matter!" Twilight said Twilight then flew as fast as she could to evade the blocks as she tried to reach the person as she noticed the two people continuing to fight only for the boy to get trapped while the girl blocked it as she used her magic to make a shield causing her to get trapped in the blocks surrounded in the shield as she slowly began gasping for her breath before slowly falling unconscious as she could hear a girl screaming which made her let lose a tear knowing she'd failed "I'm sorry my friends" Twilight thought [Flashback End] "And just like that the god took away Lumine's brother and my friends, some kind of seal was cast upon me and I lost my wings so while we used to travel from universe to universe we are now trapped here with my friends nowhere to be seen" Twilight finished explaining We then saw a tiny girl with white hair, an large white jacket with yellow parts, white shoes with yellow parts and a space like colored cape getting teary eyed "I feel so horrible" Paimon said "No, no, it's fine, I just need to find them is all, I just hope they're fine" Twilight explained "I know what you mean miss but don't worry, we're gonna find them no matter what!" Pinkie said "Thanks miss" Twilight thanked "Just call me Paimon miss" Paimon suggested "And you may call me Twilight" Twilight said The two then turned around where they saw a girl with long blonde hair with a few bows, a white and blue scarf, a white, yellow and blue dress and white and yellow boots drawing with a stick on the sand "Hey, you okay Lumine?" Twilight asked "Yeah I am but how many years was it again?" Lumine asked "I don't know" Twilight answered "Yeah but I intend to find out" Lumine said "Same! You still need to find your brother and I need to find my friends!" Twilight said "I agree but what happened when you woke up?" Lumine asked "I just went around and found some leaves and other edible vegeterian stuff to eat, I even cooked it right there!" Twilight explained pointing to the campfire she just blowed out "That explains why I was alone when I woke up" Aether explained "Yeah but it wasn't until we met Paimon two months ago" Twilight explained "Yeah, Paimon really owes you for that otherwise Paimon likely would've drowned" Paimon explained "I still don't know how that's possible" Twilight explained "Still, Paimon will do her best to be a great guide" Paimon said "Thanks Paimon, I will trust your word for it, Pinkie promise" Twilight explained The duo then turned around to see Lumine looking into the distance before Paimon turned to them "Speaking of which, we should head off, let's get going!" Paimon suggested "Where are we going?" Twilight asked "I'll tell you later!" Paimon said "Okay!" Twilight said The two then began running to another side of the beach, presumably the part where Twilight used to find food but soon enough they got to a dead end "The path ends here, guess we'll just have to climb" Paimon explained "I'll just teleport if that's okay" Twilight said "That's fine too" Paimon said Lumine then climbed while Paimon and Twilight teleported to the upper part of the cliff and when Lumine arrived Paimon turned to her "Okay, let's take the route we planned now!" Paimon said "Can you tell us now?!" Twilight asked, getting more impatient "Ugh! Fine!" Paimon said in disbelief before thinking "We're off to..." Paimon thought before she realized it "The Statue of the Seven!" Paimon answered "Which of the seven are you looking for exactly?" Twilight asked "Uhh..." Paimon started nervously "We'll explain later" Lumine said "You know it too?!" Twilight asked angrily "The moment you went to find food we were talking about it so I guess nobody told you" Lumine explained "Oh okay, let's go then" Twilight said The two then continued walk while Paimon followed their lead until they got to a cliff making Paimon teleport closer and look at the sight in awe "Oh wowwwww!" Paimon called out in awe The two then looked in disbelief before they approached their guide only to see the sight too "Wow! This looks amazing!" Twilight said in awe "This doesn't look like your country, right?" Lumine asked "No it doesn't, sure this looks like something Equestria would have but this does not look like it, did we travel to the past?" Twilight asked "I'm not sure Twilight" Lumine answered "Oh okay" Twilight said Paimon then turned to the duo and pointed to a spot in the outskirts where they saw the Statue of the Seven "That's a Statue of the Seven!" Paimon answered "Wow! How'd you know that?!" Twilight asked "Well, there are a few of these statues scattered across the land to show the Seven's protection over the world" Paimon explained "What are Seven's? And what are these Statues for?" Twilight asked "They are gods and among the seven gods this god controls the wind" Paimon explained "Oh okay" Twilight answered "Paimon's not sure whether the god you're looking for is the Anemo God but Paimon'll take you to the Anemo God's place first and there's a reason why" Paimon explained "But you won't tell me, right?" Twilight asked "Yep, not until you get more of an explanation about the world" Paimon explained "Okay" Twilight said The group then began walking as Paimon began speaking again "As we all know, poetry and language flow like the wind, there'll definitely be someone there who knows about your brother or friends, at least, that's what Paimon thinks, whether the gods actually answer you is a different story, you never know unless you try so let's hop to it!" Paimon reminded The two soon reached the pond where they suddenly stopped "Now what?!" Twilight said "I guess we have to swim" Lumine said "Ugh! Fine, at least it isn't ice" Twilight said in disbelief The two then swam and soon enough they arrived at the Statue of the Seven as Lumine approached the statue "What are you doing?!" Twilight asked in shock and worry Lumine then looked back at Paimon in worry before Paimon nodded making her sigh in relief while Twilight only got more worried until Lumine touched the stone causing the stone to charge all of it's energy into a ball in the palm of a creature's hands before a ball of light flew towards Lumine and flew into her chest causing some magic to go into her veins "Are you okay?!" Twilight asked running towards Lumine in worry "Yeah, I'm fine, thanks for asking" Lumine answered "No worries but let me guess you two made plans without me knowing?!" Twilight asked "A little bit but there are some parts with you in it" Paimon answered "SOME?!" Twilight asked "Okay Twilight, I know you want to find your friends but you don't need to worry as you have us" Lumine reminded "Then why couldn't you wait until I was with you girls to discuss it?!" Twilight asked "Yeah, sorry about that but we can assure you it won't happen again" Paimon said "Okay then" Twilight said in disbelief "Anyways did you just feel the elements of the world?" Paimon asked "Yeah I did" Lumine answered "Seems all you had to do was just touch the statue and you got the power of the Anemo!" Paimon said in happiness before she realized something "As much as they want it people in this world can never get a hold of power as easily as you" Paimon explained "I agree, I didn't learn my magic so easily so maybe you can" Twilight explained "Yeah and I think I know why, it's because..." Lumine started before she got confused "Ah-ha, it's because you're not from this worl to begin with" Paimon explained "Maybe but it might also not be true, I just need to do some scientific tests" Twilight explained "No need, I can figure it out easily" Lumine said before turning to Paimon "Now what?" Lumine asked "If we keep heading west from here we'll eventually reach Mondstadt, the city of Freedom" Paimon explained pointing to what looked like an ancient city "This place looks a lot like old Equestria" Twilight said in awe "I agree even though I do not know how Equestria looks like" Lumine said "When this is all over I will immediately show you" Twilight said "Promise?" Lumine asked "Yes, I pinkie promise, cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye" Twilight said singingly "Very well" Lumine said "Anyways, what is Mondstadt about?" Twilight asked "Mondstadt is the city of wind because they worship the God of Anemo so perhaps because you got power from the God of Anemo you can find some clues there" Paimon explained "That's actually not a bad idea" Lumine said "And there are also a lot of bards there so perhaps one of them has heard news of your brother or your friends" Paimon explained "That's amazing!" Twilight said excitedly "Let's move then!" Paimon suggested The two then began walking before they noticed Paimon staying still making them worried "What's wrong Paimon?" Twilight asked "Oh it's nothing, it's just, the elements in this world responded to your prayers and Paimon thinks that's a lovely sign" Paimon explained "Oh okay" Twilight said Afterwards the two began walking down the path to Mondstadt before some kind of dragon was heard roaring making them look up "Wow! What is that?" Paimon asked "I don't know!" Lumine answered "There's something huge in the sky!" Paimon explained "Was that a dragon?!" Twilight asked "I think so" Lumine answered "It's headed towards the heart of the forest, we must proceed with caution" Paimon suggested "But what if it's leading towards Fluttershy or Spike?! I could see my friends!" Twilight said Twilight then ran off "Twilight! No!" Paimon and Lumine called out But Twilight didn't listen and just rushed forward causing Paimon and Lumine to rush after her and when they got near the heart of the forest they could see Twilight hiding while sobbing which Paimon saw first "Huh? Look at her!" Paimon called out worriedly The two then rushed to Twilight "You okay?" Paimon asked "N-No, I-I didn't s-see my friends" Twilight answered "Don't be such a cry baby, I'm sure we can still find our friends" Lumine explained "B-But..." Twilight started "I know it's tough for you but trust me when I say that your friends would never leave you behind, I'm sure they're just searching for you" Lumine explained Twilight then sighed in defeat "Yeah you're right, I should not be such a crybaby, I still need to find a way to save my friends and stop that wretched witch, even after Rainbow's speech" Twilight said "See, now calm down" Lumine said The three then hugged it out before they stood up and began walking until they noticed somebody standing near the same blue dragon they saw moments earlier which made them hide behind a rock or a tree before they took a look as they saw a guy with black hair to light blue, wearing a light turquoise hat with a green feather, he also wore a white vest with a brown underpart with lots of buttons, a belt which held a bunch of stuff on a clip, dark green king-like pants, white leggins and black shoes as the guy was giving the dragon some food to eat while the dragon began roaring "...Don't be afraid... It's alright now, I'm back" The guy assured Paimon then got confused "Is he talking... To a dragon?" Paimon asked Just then Lumine's magic flashed causing the two of her friends to look in shock while the dragon roared twice in anger before trying to snap Venti in half in anger only for him to dodge "Who's there?!" The guy called out angrily The dragon then got enraged as he prepared to fly off causing Venti to back off before teleporting away while the three others who watched the situation tried not to get blown away before the dragon flew off causing the gust of wind to disappear and them to calm down "What was that all about?!" Twilight asked in shock and disbelief "I don't know!" Lumine answered The two then turned around and saw Paimon panting making them worried "That was close! Paimon almost got blown away!" Paimon said in relief "I know but is everyone okay?" Twilight asked "Yeah, but it felt like someone tugged on my hair" Lumine explained "Well, um... Paimon accidentally held your pony tail! Sorry" Paimon apologized "It's fine, seeing as this was a big gust of wind I understand" Lumine said "That's a relief" Paimon said "Still, it's a good thing you didn't pull my hair out" Lumine said Paimon then got nervous before she shook her head when she finished she pointed to Lumine's chest "Still, what was that? Paimon thought we were gonna gonna get eaten" Paimon reminded "Yeah, some green light suddenly popped out" Twilight agreed "I don't know, I'm as clueness as you guys" Lumine explained "Still, it definitely has something to do with that weirdo who was talking to the dragon..." Paimon explained "I agree, that must've been a signal for other danger" Twilight explained "Is talking to dragons normal?" Lumine asked "Of course, I even have a baby dragon that talks to me all the time" Twilight explained "Oh okay" Lumine answered "Still, this dragon looked enraged, what was that all about?" Twilight asked "I don't know but Paimon gets why you're worried..." Paimon explained "Same here" Lumine said Paimon then looked around only to notice a glowing red orb flying in the distance "What's that?" Paimon asked "Huh?" Twilight asked in confusion Twilight and Lumine then turned around in confusion only to see nothing "What's got you so perked up?" Lumine asked Paimon then moved her head a bit closer to look at it "There's some kind of shiny red thingy on the big rock over there..." Paimon explained Paimon then pointed at it making the two others look at it making them both confused "Do you know what that is Lumine?" Twilight asked "I don't know either" Lumine answered "Then Paimon suggests we go take a closer look" Paimon suggested "Good idea, let's go!" Twilight said The two then slowly walked on over to the rock "Be careful girls! Paimon doesn't have a good feeling about this..." Paimon said The three soon enough reached the upper rock and when they did they looked at the rock in confusion "What kind of stone is that?" Twilight asked "Paimon's never seen a stone like this before so Paimon can't tell what it is, all Paimon knows is that it's dangerous, best we put it away for now" Paimon suggested "I agree Twilight" Lumine said "Alright, hold on for a moment" Twilight said Twilight then pulled off a few leaves from some trees before putting the stone in it and using some ropes to tie it up "What are you doing?" Lumine asked "Making a bag so that we can easily carry it and you may carry it if you want Lumine" Twilight said "Good idea" Lumine said Twilight then levitated the bag to Lumine who then grabbed the top of it "Okay, we've got it! Now let's get out of here" Paimon suggested The three then continued to walk to Mondstadt as they exited the forest and right when they did somebody called out "Hey you! Stop right there!"A woman's voice called out The trio then turned around only to see somebody running, the said person had dark brown hair with a red bow on top, she wore a white vest with a brown top, a black leather belt, with yellow details on top, a red jacket with a brown mask on top, red and black gloves, a brown skirt and belt on the left leg, red sockings and white and gold boots before she jumped high above the trio before landing with a roll on the ground causing her to balance herself for a moment before turning to the trio as the three travelers could only look in awe "That was amazing!" Twilight called out "I agree" Lumine said in agreement "Thanks and may the Anemo God protect you strangers!" The woman said "Thank you um..." Twilight Sparkle started "I am Amber, Outrider for the Knights of Favonius" Amber introduced "Well, um, thank you Amber and nice to meet you" Twilight said Amber then nodded before she looked at the trio again making her confused "You don't look like citizens of Mondstadt, explain yourselves!" Amber ordered Twilight and Lumine then got nervous before Paimon moved in front of the duo "We're not looking for trouble" Paimon explained worriedly "That's what all the troublemakers say" Amber reminded "Let's not get ahead of ourselves" Twilight suggested before she stepped forward "I'm Twilight Sparkle and these are my fellow travelers Lumine and Paimon" Twilight said "Hi!" Lumine greeted "...Doesn't sound like a local name to me" Amber reminded before turning to Paimon "And this Paimon... What's the deal with her?" Amber asked "We're friends" Twilight answered "I mean, we've only been traveling partners for two months but we've already become the very best of friends!" Paimon explained "So to sum it up, you're traveling partners, right?" Amber asked "Yeah, why?" Twilight asked "Well, look, there's been a large dragon sighted around Mondstadt recently, best you get inside the city as soon as possible" Amber explained "Yeah, but where is it?" Twilight asked "It's not far from here, I'll escort you there" Amber suggested "Oh? Aren't you here for some other reason?" Paimon asked "I am but not to worry I can keep you three safe while doing that too and besides... I'm still not sure if I can trust you three just yet!" Amber explained "Why are you being so suspicious?" Twilight asked "Oh, ahh... I'm sorry, probably not something I should say as a knight, I give you my apologies, uh... Strange yet... Respectable travelers" Amber apologized "No, no, it's fine, it really is" Lumine said "That sounded so fake!" Paimon said "Paimon, be nice!" Twilight ordered "What?! It's true!" Paimon reminded "Do you have something against the type of language usage prescribed by the Knights of Favonius Handbook?!" Amber asked angrily "No I don't!" Paimon answered "Just let her be, she can be a bit uncontrollable at times" Twilight explained while giving a side glare at Paimon "It's alright, anyways follow me" Amber said as the three began walking "So, suspicious travelers, what are you doing in Mondstadt?" Amber asked "Well, uh, they got separated from their friends and brothers during a really, really long journey" Paimon explained "And we're trying to find them" Twilight explained "Yep and that is why Paimon is their travelling buddy, helping them to find their friends and brothers" Paimon explained "Oh, looking for your friends and family... Huh? Ah..." Amber thought before she realized something "Okay! Let me finish my other stuff first and then I can help you put up posters around the city..." Amber suggested "That'd be kind, thanks" Twilight thanked "What exactly is it you need to finish doing first though?" Paimon asked "It's simple, you'll understand in a bit" Amber explained The three then began walking a bit more but this time in silence until they heard some creatures roaring "Ah! A hilichurl!" Paimon called out in shock "Quick! Get it!" Amber ordered After calling that out Twilight and Lumine began running to the hilichurl to which the hilichurl saw them making it run with their bat raised shocking them as Twilight turned to Lumine "Lumine, you handle them from the front, I'll handle them from behind!" Twilight said Lumine then nodded as Twilight began running sideways making the hilichurl charge to Lumine right before she summoned her sword and blocked the bat sending her backwards a bit with a grunt "Think you can defeat me?!" Lumine asked The hilichurl then gave another whack with the bat to which Lumine ducked before slashing the sword below the ground sending the hilichurl falling to the ground as Twilight used her magic to keep it in place "Now Amber!" Twilight called out "You got it!" Amber said Amber then used the biggest bow she had to send a rock flying off the cliff causing it to roll towards the hilichurl, Twilight and Lumine "Jump!" Twilight called out Afterwards Twilight and Lumine jumped back right before the rock crushed them as the rock squished the hilichurl causing it to get knocked out as it stopped by it's head right before it tumbled sideways to where Paimon was "Paimon, look out!" Lumine called out "Oh, right!" Paimon called out Paimon then teleported sideways causing the rock to roll into the distance and when it was gone everyone cheered "We did it!" Twilight called out "Thanks to you of course" Lumine called out Amber then approached the hilichurl with her hand glove sparkling with fire as she touched the hilichurl causing it to incinerate easily before she turned to her now friends "Now, what was that all about?" Paimon asked angrily "Well, these monsters have been getting to close to the city recently, my task this time is to clear out their camp" Amber explained Afterwards the trio began walking again, trying to forget what just happened until they noticed a camp with more hilichurls "Not again!" Twilight called out in disbelief "Don't worry, we know what to do" Lumine said "You know it! Let's get to it!" Amber said The three then rushed to the hilichurl camp and knocked each one out before Amber suggested the two needed to move out before she used a flaming arrow to burn the camp down before she stopped "Heh, nothing to it" Amber said "I agree, it wasn't that hard!" Twilight said in agreement "Yeah, though I gotta say you surprised me a little with your moves there..." Amber said "I agree!" Lumine said Paimon then flew to the group "Is it safe now?" Paimon asked Hehe, of course it is Paimon, you can be sure of that" Twilight answered "That's a relief" Paimon said in relief "Thanks for the backup by the way, how'd it feel?" Amber asked "It was tough of course but we managed it" Lumine explained "Except my friends weren't here to witness it" Twilight whispered Amber who heard that then turned to Twilight "What was that?!" Amber asked "Oh! Nothing at all, just a little bummed that my friends were not here either" Twilight said "I understand but you were pretty tough yourself, especially to those lame-o hilichurls" Amber said "Thanks" Twilight thanked "Now that you mention it, how is it the hilichurls ended up here? These creatures don't seem like the type to set up camps so close to cities like this" Paimon explained "Exactly, it's more normal for them to be much further out in the wilderness" Amber explained "Then what caused them to get closer?" Twilight asked "Well, because the dragon aka Stormterror has been around a lot more recently, our orchards have been destroyed and the local market has been affected as well, when the storms hit, we usually end up with at least a few injuries so the Knights of Favonius have been tied up doing the best they can to defend the area" Amber explained "So these annoying creatures have been getting closer and closer to the city?" Paimon asked "Exactly, that said, clearing this camp helped make the area a little bit safer" Amber explained "And it's all thanks to us!" Twilight said "Yep, now come with me! A responsible knight must make sure to see you to the city safely" Amber reminded The four then walked to Mondstadt and after a while they arrived and when they did they looked around and saw the beautiful sight of it all "WOW!" The trio called out in awe Amber then went to stand in front of the trio making them look at her "Let me officially introduce you to the city of wind, dandelions and freedom, travelers under the protection of the Knights of Favonius, welcome to Mondstadt!" Amber announced "Finally, no more having to camp outdoors!" Paimon said in relief "I just hope I can find my friends here!" Twilight said excitedly "Or my brother!" Lumine said The group then looked around only to see other people walking around with neutral or frowns on their faces "This town really needs Pinkie Pie" Twilight said "Yeah... The city folk don't look too cheery" Paimon agreed "Everyone's been put out of place by Stormterror recently but everything will turn out fine as long as Jean's with us!" Amber explained "Jean?" Paimon asked in confusion "Who's that?" Twilight asked "Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius, Jean, Defender of Mondstadt so with Jean on our side surely even the vicious Stormterror will be no match for us" Amber explained "Sound's like somebody pretty impressive..." Lumine whispered to Twilight Twilight then nodded before the two looked back at Amber "Before I take you girls to the Knights of Favonius Headquarters I have a present for you two" Amber explained "A present? What for?" Twilight asked "It's a reward for helping me clear out that hilichurl camp" Amber explained "H-Hey! Why doesn't Paimon get a reward?" Paimon asked angrily "Ahh... Because this reward is useless to you Paimon but I'll treat you to a traditional Mondstadt delicacy, Sticky Honey Roast" Amber said "Sticky Honey Roast!" Paimon said excitedly while turning to her friends "Come with me, we'll head to the city's... High grounds" Amber said Afterwards the four then walked up the stairs as they looked around to see everyone doing their own thing until Twilight noticed a familiar blue pony in brown uniform with a blue cape and light brown bandages and she even wore a brown elastic on her tail "R-Rainbow!" Twilight called out "You know her?" Amber asked "Yeah, she's my friend" Twilight answered "Your... Friend?" Amber asked in confusion "Yeah, what's wrong with that?" Twilight asked "Nothing, it's just, she didn't tell me about any friend of hers, she didn't even remember where she lived and what not" Amber answered "Huh? That's weird? So, you just took her in?" Twilight asked "Yeah, the past few months me and a few other Knights of Favonius trained her into a knight, we were hoping when somebody would find her" Amber said "She comes from Equestria and we're friends, we used to go on missions until some kind of god who almost looks a lot like Paimon brought us here" Twilight explained "Excuse me?! Are you calling me a bad god?!" Paimon asked "No, but I do see similarities to you both" Twilight answered "You know, Twilight's right, she does look an awful lot like that god we fought before" Lumine explained "Hmm, looks like we'll have to do a few tests when we're done with this" Amber said "Thank you Amber, I knew we could count on you" Twilight thanked "No worries, though, thanks for telling us about her" Amber thanked "No worries" Twilight said The four then continued walking as Twilight could only think in worry about Rainbow "This used to be a bustling street... But with so many Stormterror attacks recently the usual crowds are nowhere to be seen except for the local tavern near the city wall over there, they haven't been affected, if anything, their business is better than ever" Amber explained "That's horrible!" Twilight said in worry "Did Rainbow witness all of these attacks?" Lumine asked "She did, she even wanted to go attack one of these times but she was forced into her home due to not having enough skills yet so me and a few other Knights of Favonius send it away everytime" Amber explained "Oh okay" Twilight said "Still the same cocky girl she was before" Twilight thought But soon enough the group arrived at the top of Mondstadt as Amber turned to the trio "So, the present I want to give you is... A Wind Glider!" Amber explained pointing to two windgliders One was a purple wind glider with Twilight's Cutie Mark on it but it had a chair with stretched legs on it along with some levers and buttons just to make it easier for Twilight while the other windglider was just a plain beige one "Wow! Amazing! What do they do?!" Twilight asked in shock and disbelief "Outriders use them to ride the wind and the people of Mondstadt love using them too" Amber explained "Does Rainbow have her own personal one too?" Twilight asked "No she doesn't since she can actually fly, some other Knights of Favonius people learned her too, they basically learned how to do it from certain books, I was one of them" Amber explained "Oh okay" Twilight said "Anyways, I brought you here to give it to you so you can experience it right away!" Amber explained Oh, you're really excited about these wind gliders huh?!" Paimon asked in shock and disbelief "Well that's because the wind is the heart and soul of Mondstadt!" Amber reminded "Alrighty then, enough talk! Let's give it a whirl!" Amber suggested "It's easy to use but you still need to pay attention to my instructions" Amber reminded Twilight and Lumine then got a few lessons on how to use the wind glider before they started flying themselves until landing right next to Amber who then turned to them in happiness "That was amazing!" Twilight said Paimon then teleported near them "That was crazy but I'm so glad you made it safely!" Paimon said "Thanks" Lumine said "Now then, what's next?" Twilight asked Just then a powerful gust of wind blew by the group causing Rainbow to run by in worry "It's coming again!" Rainbow called out Afterwards the group turned to the sky as they saw the clouds forming making them worried "The sky..." Amber said in shock Just then the blue dragon reappeared shocking everybody in town before it got near Lumine and Twilight who ducked before looking up at the sky "We have to do something!" Twilight said "Are you thinking what I'm thinking?" Lumine asked "Yes I do, Amber, Rainbow, it's best you get everyone to safety!" Twilight suggested "Wait?! Is that my name?! Did you come stalking me?!" Rainbow asked "You don't remember me?" Twilight asked "Of course not! I don't remember a stalker like you! All I know is that this place is cursed! Did you send this beast?!" Rainbow asked angrily Just then the dragon roared again causing a few tornadoes to appear "No, time to explain, run!" Twilight called out Afterwards everyone began running as Twilight went to her wind glider where she lifted up in the air while Lumine and Amber continued to run before Lumine got caught in the tornado causing her to get send flying before she ended up high above Mondstadt with Twilight "Now, where is this brat?!" Twilight asked angrily Just then the dragon flew towards the group making them split up as Paimon then teleported by them in confusion "Huh? How are you two staying afloat like this with just wind gliders?" Paimon asked "I'm preventing your fall with the power of a thousand winds, now concentrate you two, see yourselves grasping the wind, harness it's energy" A voice suggested Paimon the looked around in confusion which Twilight and Lumine also did "Who... Who said that?!" Paimon asked But when the voice didn't answer they shrugged before Lumine used one free hand to hit the blue dragon while Twilight used her magic to shoot lasers at it as the dragon continued to fly without their knowledge but when Twilight accidentally hit it's weak spot it roared before flying off which made Twilight and Lumine block themselves before they noticed it was gone "It's gone!" Twilight called out in shock and worry "Let's get down to safety then, there's no way we can follow them anymore" Lumine said "Good idea" Twilight said Afterwards the two went back to the ground while Paimon teleported off and when they landed Amber and Rainbow approached them "I don't know what you stalkers did but that was AWESOME!" Rainbow said in awe "Thanks Rainbow" Twilight thanked "A-Are you two hurt though?" Amber asked "No we aren't" Lumine answered "Yeah, and Rainbow we're not stalkers" Twilight asked "Yes you are, how else did this dragon get here?! You send it here without our knowledge did you?!" Rainbow asked "Of course we didn't! You're cocky head needs to listen right now! We're your friends and we're gonna stop this dragon, we don't even know how that happened, you got that?!" Twilight asked angrily "Are you saying I'm stupid?!" Rainbow asked "What?! No I'm not!" Twilight answered "Then how come I would trust any of you right now?!" Rainbow asked angrily "Rainbow, I know this might sound crazy but they didn't send it here and you should stop being such an a-hole or else you're gonna be kicked out of the Knights of Favonius?!" Amber asked "And why do you trust them?!" Rainbow asked angrily "Believe me, I didn't at first until they helped me with the hilichurls and besides when they saw you I thought of doing tests to you whether you like it or not, you wanted to find a way home didn't you?!" Amber reminded "Gh---! Yes I did but I like this place so much that I didn't want to leave so whether you like it or not, I'm not doing tests!" Rainbow reminded angrily "Rainbow, you're like a friend of me back home, somepony who would without a doubt do something for their friend and even for their boss, don't you?" Twilight asked "Wha-?! How'd you know, stalker?" Rainbow asked "Because that said pony is the Element of Loyalty and she looks just like you" Twilight explained "You're thinking of the wrong pony!" Rainbow reminded "But, that said pony has a tattoo on their flank of a cloud with a rainbow lightning bolt doesn't she?" Twilight asked "Yeah, and so did I" Rainbow answered "Well, she also sounds just like you and can be a bit cocky and stubborn at times" Twilight explained "You know, I have to agree with her" Amber said "Fine! If you say so!" Rainbow said in defeat Despite not trusting Twilight, Rainbow hugged her and felt a friendly feeling coming from her as she hugged back "I know you don't remember a lot but I remember you, you were the most loyal friend I've ever met in Equestria" Twilight said "I... I was? And what's Equestria?" Rainbow asked Twilight and Rainbow broke the hug off "It's a long story but I'll tell you later, all I know is that you're the Element of Loyalty" Twilight explained "Element of Loyalty? You have a lot to tell me!" Rainbow said "Yes and I'll do it when the test starts" Twilight said "Are you done now?" A voice asked After asking, the five turned around in shock as they saw somebody approaching making Rainbow bow and Amber smile while the other three got confused > Episode 2: Rescuing Mondstadt > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After the five turned around they were all confused except for Amber and Rainbow as they all saw a brown guy with dark blue hair with a lighter blue streak, he even wore a black eyepatch, on his left eye, he has a purple blouse with white stretchbands and on top he wore a purple jacket with a black chest plate, he wore black pants with a brown belt on top which got down sideways and black shoes with brown belts as he began clapping slowly "Do you know that guy?" Twilight whispered to Rainbow "Yep, he's one of our leaders" Rainbow whispered back The guy then stopped right behind them "You both actually had the power to go up against the dragon, are you both a new ally... Or a new storm?" The leader asked "A new ally of course" Twilight answered Amber then began thinking in worry "Stormterror... Is attacking Mondstadt itself!" Amber said in worry "But you guys were able to beat him everytime" Rainbow reminded while going out of her bow "But this time it's different" Amber reminded "Well, true" Rainbow said Amber then turned to the leader "Kaeya, Lumine, Twilight, you've come at the right time, we must..." Amber started "Hold on Amber, are you perhaps forgetting to introduce us?" Kaeya asked "Oh... Right, this is Kaeya, our Cavalry Captain" Amber explained "That's right and thus he's the leader!" Rainbow said "Remember Rainbow, Jean's our leader" Kaeya reminded "True, true but you're also a captain so it makes sense to just call you our leader" Rainbow explained "Anyways, these three are travelers from afar, Twilight, Lumine and Paimon..." Amber explained "From afar? Is that all we know of them?" Kaeya thought "Long story short..." Amber started [A few minutes later] After the group finished their story Kaeya began thinking "I see, welcome to Mondstadt though you haven't arrived at the best of times I'm afraid, I understand the anguish of being separated from family and friends, I'm not really sure why you're looking for the Anemo God but everyone has their secrets, right?" Kaeya explained "O-Of course" Twilight answered worriedly Kaeya then began chuckling a bit "Haha, relax! I won't press you for more" Kaeya said "That'd be wise" Twilight said with a smile "Anyways, first and foremost, on behalf of the Knights of Favonius I would like to extend our thanks to you two for your help just now" Kaeya thanked "No worries" Twilight said "I agree, we couldn't just leave the situation to fester" Lumine agreed "Your fight to defend the city against the dragon just now was witnessed by no small number of citizens" Kaeya explained "We just arrived and we already gained the reputation!" Twilight said between giggles "Yeah, nothing we didn't want!" Paimon agreed "And because of that the Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius is also very interested in meeting you three and formally invites the three of you to our headquarters" Kaeya explained "Then let's go there" Twilight said "And Rainbow, she even got a task for you" Kaeya said "Sweet! Let's get going then!" Rainbow said The six then ran towards one of the nearby buildings in the streets as Twilight, Paimon and Lumine walked ahead before they saw Rainbow flying towards the door in an unusual normal speed before opening it "This seems to be the Knights of Favonius Headquarters, let's head in" Paimon suggested The five then entered the building as Rainbow walked forward to help them find the room Meanwhile a girl in blonde hair, black, white and red chest plate with puffy sleeves, purple gloves, purple jacket and white pants and white shoes with golden stars was waiting patiently in her office before looking at the clock and when she noticed it was time she stood up and and walked towards the door ready to welcome them until a girl with light brown hair, a purple hat with a black belt, black and white skirt with a purple cape over it, light to dark black pants and black and white heels turned to her "Jean, what's the hurry? I thought we agreed to meet them here" The hatted girl reminded "There have been sightings of Stormterror outside the city, once we meet we must..." Jean started Lisa then walked a bit closer to the stair railing as she puts a hand on the railing "Relax, I'll lend a hand when the time comes" The hatted girl said Just then the door was heard opening as Kaeya turned to Jean "Jean, I've brought them" Kaeya announced The group then turned to the duo and waved making the hatted girl and Jean turn to them as Lisa went closer to the group before Twilight began speaking "Hey! Sorry for the late timing, we were in a battle" Twilight explained "A battle?" Jean asked "Let me explain..." Kaeya suggested [A few minutes later] "...And once it was over I brought them straight here" Kaeya explained Jean then began thinking before turning to the trio "Mondstadt welcomes you windborne travelers, I'm Jean, Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius, this is Lisa, our resident Librarian" Jean introduced "Librarian?!" Twilight gasped in shock and excitement "Yeah, what's wrong with---" Lisa started "Ooh! I'm so excited to hear about all your story recommendations, I mean, I LOOOVE books!" Twilight explained excitedly "Why thank you, I'll be sure to recommend some stories when the attacks are over" Lisa said "Amazing! Thank you, thank you, thank you!" Twilight thanked excitedly Lumine then playfully punched her in the side making her stop and remember her mission as she cleared her throat "My apologies, she gets distracted easily when somebody mentions books" Lumine apologized "Hehe, no worries, I get it, some other residents are like that too and won't even leave for the rest of the day until it's closing time" Lisa said before clearing her throat "Anyways back on the topic of hand, are you three here to help us out?" Lisa asked "Of course are" Lumine answered "I mean, I love to help everypony back in Equestria" Twilight explained "Equestria? Where's that?" Jean asked "It's her world where she lives, she came here by portal alongside Lumine according to them" Paimon explained "Yeah, and it looked like a block" Lumine answered "Huh? That's weird, anyways the timing of your arrival was regrettable..." Lisa explained "What happened?" Twilight asked "Stormterror has caused quite a ruckus in the region since it's recent resurgence" Lisa explained "Can you please put it simply for the little ones?" Rainbow asked "Hey!" Paimon asked "Sure, simply put Mondstadt's elemental sphere and ley lines are now akin to a yarn ball in the paws of a kitten" Lisa explained "That's not simple to understand but this'll have to do" Rainbow said "For a mage it couldn't get much worse, my skin is one elemental particle away from a full-blown break out" Lisa explained "If it weren't for this interference the Knights of Favonius would have better ways to help you than just putting up missing person posters" Jean said worriedly "How'd you know?!" Twilight asked "It's a long story" Jean explained "Still, we simply ask that you repose in Mondstadt while we help you seek out your friends and brothers" Jean suggested "We really should help out as well" Lumine said "I agree, we're a team!" Twilight agreed "Paimon will help too!" Paimon agreed "I will especially help as well, I mean, you need a knight to help you stay out of danger" Rainbow said "Good, in that case we need a plan" Kaeya said "With Stormterror now directly attacking Mondstadt we may have an opportunity to cut this problem off at the source" Jean suggested "But how?" Twilight asked "Lisa has revealed the sources of Stormterror's power with her detection magic" Jean answered "Is that so?" Kaeya asked "They're located in the abandoned Four Winds' Temples" Lisa explained "Why?" Lumine asked "Stormterror's ability to whip up these kinds of storms can be attributed to it drawing power from the temples" Lisa explained "Our objective is to deal with three of the four temples, I trust everyone understands why we are only dealing with three" Jean reminded "Paimon doesn't" Paimon said "Same here" Twilight agreed "It must be a local thing" Lumine explained "Knights of Favonius, time is against us, the storm is rampant, there is no point in maintaining a defensive position" Jean reminded "Spoken by a true leader!" Rainbow said while slamming her sword's tip on the ground "Alright, we need to take initiative and act before the situation escalates" Jean reminded Afterwards the group splitted off as Twilight took to the left temple, Lumine and Paimon to the middle one and Rainbow to the right one [Twilight's Sparkle's POV] Twilight ran as fast as she could to Amber and when she arrived Amber turned to her "This is it, one of the deserted temples of the Four Winds" Amber explained "It really looks deserted" Twilight said "Well, that's because these temples have been left to waste for years now, the people of Mondstadt almost never come here and because of that there's a chance there's a monster nest or a hilichurl camp in there" Amber explained "If that happens you can count on me to beat it!" Twilight explained "Yeah" Amber said before sighing in worry "Even Stormterror has given up on it's own temple" Amber said sadly "That's horrible! Good, but horrible" Twilight said sadly "Yes, I agree" Amber agreed "Still, is Stormterror one of the four winds?" Twilight asked "I also find it hard to accept but... Stormterror was once one of the four winds" Amber explained "Wait, seriously?!" Twilight asked in shock and disbelief Just then a weird gust of wind began blowing "Wait... Did you just feel that?" Amber asked "Yeah, a little but what was that?" Twilight asked "The wind here... Felt a little off a moment ago..." Amber answered "Right" Twilight said "Let's go in and take a look, Twilight, be careful, the dragon's power is disturbing this area" Amber reminded Afterwards the duo ran inside the temple and when they did they entered before they walked across the area before they heard grumbling making them turn to the stairs where they saw some hilichurls who was guarding the place "I have an idea" Amber said Amber then used her flaming hand to burn the arrow before she shot it right at the hilichurl causing it to incinerate as it then rushed towards her "Now!" Amber called out Twilight then teleported high up in to the air before slamming face first into the ground causing her eyes to spin "Ugh! I'm not gonna do that again!" Twilight said before shaking the dizziness away The two then looked around and saw more surrounding them "I guess you made them angry" Amber said "I can fix that!" Twilight said Twilight then used her magic to make a large electric barrier to appear around them which got bigger causing the hilichurls to be pushed before being sent flying against the wall and being crushed into nothing but dust while Amber only looked in awe before she stoppped the barrier "That was amazing!" Amber said in shock "Thanks Amber, now come on! We still need to run a long way!" Twilight reminded The duo then began running before they saw a hole in the ground "Oh no! What now?!" Twilight asked "I know!" Amber answered Amber then teleported her flaming wings which made Twilight look in awe "Wow!" Twilight called out in awe "Hop on!" Amber suggested Twilight then did so before the two flew up as Amber tried to make sure they didn't fall to the floor until they reached the wind blower which caused them to go up making them safely land on the other side of the hole to where Twilight got off of her "That was amazing!" Twilight said "Yeah, all we need now is for you to teleport us out later!" Amber said "Will do!" Twilight said The two then continued to run only for them to smell something weird "'Dragon's breath! Is that where the power is coming from?" Amber asked "I don't know, Jean's the only one who would know it... And maybe Lisa too" Twilight explained "True, now let's smash it!" Amber suggested Twilight then rushed to the source and used her magic to break it but when she was about too some creatures dropped down "Twilight! Look out!" Amber called out "Why?" Twilight asked Twilight then looked up only to see monsters approaching before Amber jumped in with a kick causing them to fly backwards "You handle the stone while I wrestle these guys" Amber said "Good idea" Twilight said Twilight then rushed back to the stone while Amber cracked her muscles before a monster appeared which caused her to grab it by the wrist making her spin it before sending it towards a few other monsters sending them flying a bit before she felt a monster appearing behind her which she smacked with the palm of her hand before doing a sweeping kick sending the foe falling to the ground as she incinerated it before turning to Twilight "How's it going for now?" Amber asked Twilight was then seen shooting more lasers as she had already made a large crack "I'm doing it!" Twilight said A monster then appeared making Amber do a charging kick which send the foe flying into the wall "There we go" Amber said She then approached the unconscious foes and incinerated them and right when she did Twilight fully cracked the stone causing the duo to cheer before Twilight turned to Amber "Whew! That was amazing! I'm a legendary saver now!" Twilight said in happiness "Same, but I'm tired now" Amber said "Same, I never used the same spell at the same time" Twilight agreed "But at least this way we've helped Jean out" Amber said "Yeah" Twilight said "In the past we were able to defend the city and keep it safe, this of course is mostly thanks to Jean" Amber said "Wow! I didn't know! Is she really that powerful?" Twilight asked "Yeah but now with Stormterror directly attacking the city itself..." Amber started "It's barelyenough" Twilight followed "Yeah, but I need to remember this phrase 'The winds change, so too should our tactics' and you should too" Amber suggested "Did you come up with it?" Twilight asked "No, it's what Lisa likes to say" Amber answered "Oh okay" Twilight said "Speaking of which, the Four Winds we were discussing earlier... If you want to learn more about our history you can ask Lisa" Amber suggested "Why? Don't you know history?" Twilight asked "I'm not saying I don't know our history! It's just... I mean... A librarian is supposed to be more knowledgeable than an outrider, right?" Amber asked "Yeah but I'm also a hero and a librarian in my world so I thought it was the same here, so my fault for that" Twilight apologized "No worries, I mean, Lisa's quite the fighter too" Amber explained "True, now let's get out of here" Twilight said "I agree but how can you do that?" Amber asked "I just need to picture the entrance" Twilight answered "Oh okay, go ahead then" Amber said "Just hold onto me so I can teleport you at the same time" Twilight suggested Amber then went to sit on Twilight's back before Twilight teleported the two out of the room [Lumine's POV] While Twilight and Amber were in their respective mission Lumine and Paimon were on their way to Kaeya to where he crossed his arms in relief "You've arrived" Kaeya said "Sorry about that, we didn't know the way for a moment" Lumine said "No worries" Kaeya said before he smelled something "Come closer" Kaeya suggested as the trio went closer to the door "Can you smell that?" Kaeya asked "It's the smell of burnt Pyro Slimes" Lumine explained "Yeah, I can smell that too" Paimon agreed "Something must have happened in the temple" Kaeya explained "Do you know what happened?" Lumine asked "No, though I can imagine there will be slimes, hilichurls and... Whatever is giving Stormterror extra power" Kaeya explained "That's not good" Lumine said "So will it still be lively in there besides those enemies?" Paimon asked "Oh yes, it is going to be lively in there indeed!" Kaeya explained "So will it be dangerous?" Lumine asked "I hope not for you as you're both quite the brave ones, aren't you two?" Kaeya asked "Of course we are, I mean, Lumine singlehandedly defeated some hilichurls alongside Twilight!" Paimon answered "I mean yeah but it was all thanks to Amber's help we were able to stop them" Lumine reminded "Sure, sure" Paimon said "Still, it's a pity that the temple of the wolf has been desturbed by such an atrocity" Kaeya said in disbelief "I agree" Lumine agreed "Let's head in, I'm sure we've got some bigger fish to fry with that dragon!" Paimon said "Yeah but unfortunately no one makes offerings to the Four Winds anymore, yet the old winds never vanish so we need to clear out the temples for the Four Winds" Kaeya explained Afterwards the trio entered the temple as they went closer to the entrance where Kaeya turned to them "Let me show you how the Knights of Favonius conquer our adversaries" Kaeya suggested "Alright, go ahead" Lumine said The trio then began walking until they saw some hilichurls which Lumine wanted to fight until Kaeya froze them with his ice magic before he pushed them onto their sides causing them to break into pieces and when he was done he began walking as Lumine and Paimon followed after him "Girls... Unless I'm mistaken you don't seem to have a Vision?" Kaeya asked "No we don't and even if I did, I don't know how to activate it" Lumine answered "And I'm just a tour guide and cheerleader" Paimon explained "Then how exactly is it that you're able to channel elemental energy?" Kaeya asked "Did you tell him Paimon?!" Lumine asked angrily "A little" Paimon answered nervously Lumine then sighed before turning back to Kaeya "I actually touched one of the Statues of the Seven which gave me some special abilities" Kaeya answered "Yeah, it was also a very strange occurence" Paimon explained "I got it" Kaeya said The duo then noticed a few spikes in the ground "Oh no! How do we get over?!" Paimon asked "You can teleport, remember?" Lumine asked "Yeah but Paimon was talking about you guys" Paimon reminded "True" Lumine said "To answer your question though Paimon, I can just freeze the spikes so that nobody will get hurt" Kaeya explained "Oh okay" Paimon said Kaeya then did a typical Elsa thing and moved his hands from back to front causing a path of ice to appear freezing every spike in it's path which the group then went over while Kaeya began speaking "Speaking of, did you know?" Kaeya asked "Did we know what?" Lumine asked "Stormterror was once one of the Four Winds" Kaeya explained "Really?!" Lumine asked "How?!" Paimon asked afterwards "I'm not aware of the exact details, if you're interested you can ask the Acting Grand Master about it" Kaeya suggested "Will do" Lumine said The duo then continued to walk as they walked on a few stairs to the other side of the temple before they arrived and noticed the source of the smell "Is that the thing that Stormterror is using to gain it's power?" Paimon asked "Seems probable, let's deal with it" Kaeya suggested "Okay" Lumine said The trio then approached the stone and when they arrived Kaeya shot an ice magic at the stone before he alongside Lumine and Paimon used all their strength to push it off of the pedestal causing it to roll into a wall, crash and break making the group sigh in relief before Kaeya applauded the duo "Bravo! What a performance! You are to my surprise a well trained knight" Kaeya applauded "What makes you think that?" Lumine asked "The strength you just had was a sight to behold" Kaeya explained "Thanks, that's nice of you to say..." Lumine thanked "Haha, I see you already have the knightly virtue of modesty, stories of your heroic deeds to save Mondstadt from destruction shall be known throughout the City of Freedom well into the future" Kaeya explained with a smile before he had an idea "Please do visit me at our headquarters when you have the time, I also know a lovely tavern if that's more your thing" Kaeya suggested "I will keep thart in mind" Lumine said "It's quite rewarding, no?" Kaeya asked as he looked away from them and began wiping the dust off of him "We've seized the first temple from Stormterror's group!" Paimon cheered excitedly Kaeya than turned to the duo "I can take care of the rest here, you go take care of other things while you're at it" Kaeya suggested "Bye bye!" Paimon waved The duo then left the room while Kaeya could only look at them in happiness while waving until he heard a voice from behind him "There's no way hilichurls organized an ambush like this yourself, not with their limited mental capacity" The person reminded Just then a black and white like gnome floated over to him while chuckling "Thus YOU were behind this" Kaeya reminded angrily "Gohus, Chiso Vonph" The black and white gnome chanted Blue streams of magic then floated into the air only for four pieces of flames flew towards him as somebody then grabbed the gnome before spinning him and throwing them into the ground before it flew back into the air making the person rush over to him and battle it only for it to get knocked out as the guy stood at the ready before turning to Kaeya in disbelief "Knights of Favonius... Always so inefficient" The guy said in disbelief Kaeya then applauded while slowly turning around "Agree to disagree but your involvement in this just made things a whole lot more interesting" Kaeya explained [Rainbow Dash's POV] Meanwhile Rainbow Dash used whatever she could to fly as fast as she could to Lisa and when she arrived she went to stand near Lisa "Hey Rainbow" Lisa greeted "Hey Lisa!" Rainbow greeted "Are you going to help me out too?" Lisa asked "Of course, I mean we're the Knights of Favonius" Rainbow remined "That's kind of you, thanks" Lisa thanked "Now when do we start?" Rainbow asked "Now but don't hesitate to come to me if you need anything" Lisa suggested "Relax, I'm just a trainee but I'm more powerful than you think" Rainbow reminded "If you say so" Lisa said "Now why would an egghead be at the ruins...?" Rainbow asked "First of all don't call me an egghead and second of all that's a good question" Lisa answered "Can you answer please?" Rainbow asked "Well, because Jean trusts me so you should as well" Lisa suggested "Of course, I've always trusted her with my life!" Rainbow said "Alright, then let's go" Lisa said Afterwards the duo went into the temple as they went up the stairs until Lisa stopped and turned to Rainbow "I guess I could give this a go" Lisa suggested "What do you wanna do?" Rainbow asked "I wanna use my magic of course" Lisa said "Ugh! For the last time magic does not exist only lightning, water, fire and any other stuff" Rainbow reminded "Remember, do not judge a book by it's cover" Lisa said "Ugh! Whatever, if you say so" Rainbow said in disbelief The two then ran deeper into the temple only for them to see a slime roaming "Leave it to me" Lisa suggested Lisa then opened up her spell book and charged a large burst of lightning at the slime causing it to fall back and incinerate a bit as she shot more lightnings like a spider web before it melted into nothing but sap "Wow! Amazing!" Rainbow said "Thanks" Lisa said "Guess magic wasn't a fairy tale after all" Rainbow said "Of course it wasn't now come on" Lisa said The duo then began running again as they defeated more and more enemies with either lightning or Rainbow's sword before they arrived at the other side of the temple where they noticed the stone as Lisa turned to it "Break it and we can head home and relax" Lisa ordered "The thought of putting my hooves up and relax has me all fired up!" Rainbow answered Rainbow then rushed to the gem and prepped her rear hooves to kick before she did it and when she did she turned to her partner happily only to see her thinking "What's wrong?" Rainbow asked "It's nothing, it's just, the dragon of the east, lion of the south, wolf of the north, falcon of the west, they are all the Four Winds of Mondstadt, affiliated with Barbatos, the God of Anemo" Lisa explained "I know all about them, even their names, except for the dragon, what's it's name? They never told me in the training program" Rainbow asked "The dragon of the East, Stormterror you mean?" Lisa asked "Yes?" Rainbow asked "It's real name is Dvalin" Lisa answered "Oh okay, then why did nobody tell me about them?" Rainbow asked "Well, most people in Mondstadt seem to have forgotten that in all this 'Stormterror' business" Lisa answered "Oh okay" Rainbow realized "So now you know what Stormterror's real name is and that he's able to channel the Four Winds' power" Lisa said "Yep, I remember it now, thanks for telling me but I do have one more question?" Rainbow asked "Yes?" Lisa asked "Why is it channeling the Four Winds' powers?" Rainbow asked "Because it has been consuming itself from the beginning" Lisa answered "Why would it go to such lengths?" Rainbow asked "Because of hatred I presume" Lisa answered "Hatred...?" Rainbow asked in confusion "Hatred for Mondstadt, hatred drove it to become something more powerful than the wind itself, to become Stormterror" Lisa answered "But why would one of the Four Winds hate the city it was supposed to protect?" Rainbow asked "... As a child of Mondstadt it's something that's really hard to say aloud" Lisa answered worriedly "Oh, I get it" Rainbow said sadly Lisa then gave Rainbow a book about Stormterror's story "Here, take this, it's a very old story from more than a century ago" Lisa said [Twilight, Lumine and Paimon's POV] After the trio got outside they saw the clouds from where they were to Mondstadt slowly dissipating as they could hear people making sounds of relief in their minds as they even noticed tornadoes disappearing and when that was done Paimon turned to Lumine and Twilight "Phew, it's finally done" Paimon said in relief "I agree, me and Amber had a long battle and before you ask why I look dizzy, it's because I jumped like an anvil at some monsters" Twilight explained "Well, me and Paimon were busy handling some strong stones and spikes, we escaped of course didn't we Paimon?" Lumine asked "Of course did!" Paimon answered "That's so good to hear Paimon, so, did anybody learn something from your respective helpers, I didn't?" Twilight asked "Well, I did learn a bit about how my vision was supposed to come out and we even learned that Stormterror was one of the Four Winds" Lumine explained "Are you serious?! That has to be a joke!" Twilight said in disbelief "Believe me, Paimon didn't believe it at first but the more Paimon heard the more Paimon believed it, all we need now is Rainbow's story" Paimon said "Yeah, Kaeya also said we should meet him in the headquarters tomorrow so we should probably go there later" Paimon said "Good idea" Twilight said "Well, all that 'ley flow' and 'elemental lines' stuff we were going on about should hopefully be back to normal" Paimon said in relief "I agree" Twilight said "Same here" Lumine agreed "Wanna go back and see how the Knights are doing? Or if you have anything more interesting to do Paimon can come too!" Paimon said "Actually, I'm a bit tired so maybe we should go take a shut eye in an inn or hotel" Twilight said "I agree, we've had a long day" Lumine said "Alright then" Paimon said And with that the trio went back to Mondstadt as they went to buy a room and when they did they entered the room and prepared to go to bed until a knock was heard on the door "I'll go open it" Twilight said Twilight then approached the door and opened it only for her to see Rainbow standing in the doorway "Hey, can I have a talk with you girlss?" Rainbow asked "Oh of course, come on in" Twilight answered The duo then went into the room as Lumine and Paimon approached "Who is---" Paimon started before she noticed Rainbow "Oh, it's you!" Paimon said happily "Hey there, first of all, I wanted to say thank you for saving Mondstadt and believe me, I didn't trust you at first especially since you mentioned my name so fast but now that I saw you three save the day twice today I trust you" Rainbow said "I understand, we were meaning to ask you some questions too" Lumine explained "You were?" Rainbow asked "Of course, I mean, we didn't have so much time to chat before Stormterror's attack" Twilight explained "Well, that is true so what is it you wanted to ask?" Rainbow asked "First of all, when we hugged did you feel a familiar feeling?" Twilight asked "Now that you mention it, I did feel something but I don't know what it was, it felt like love and not stalkerish" Rainbow answered "Well, she did miss you after hers and Lumine's crash landing!" Paimon answered "Paimon!" Lumine called out angrily before turning to Rainbow "It's true though" Lumine said "Wait, so you two didn't forget me?" Rainbow asked "Of course not, I mean we were both saviors in Equestria alongside Pinkie, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, Spike and Starlight" Twilight answered "Yeah, Twilight was the one who summoned you all to help us stop an unknown god" Lumine explained "She did...?" Rainbow asked "Yes I did, why? Don't you remember?" Twilight asked "No, all I remember was waking up on the beach with a pony that looked just like you but when I stood up you were gone and all I saw was two people" Rainbow explained "You mean Amber and Kaeya?" Twilight asked "Yeah, they took me in, they gave me a new home and a new job as a Knight of Favonius" Rainbow explained "Wow! That must've been tough, how long ago was that?" Lumine asked "About a month or six ago" Rainbow answered "That's the same time I woke up" Twilight answered "So that explained why you were missing the second I woke up" Rainbow said "Yeah, I was going to the beach to was myself up as I was full of dirt, sorry about that Rainbow" Twilight said "Nah it's all right, I didn't remember you after all" Rainbow said "I get it, now for the second question, did you learn anything from Lisa?" Twilight asked "Oh yes, actually, I learned a lot!" Rainbow answered "Really? Explain" Paimon suggested excitedly "First off Stormterror's name is Dvalin" Rainbow explained "Dvalin?!" The trio asked "Who called them that?" Lumine asked "I don't know, I never asked" Rainbow asked "I bet it was that green guy we saw right before we met Amber" Twilight thought "Green guy? That's weird, I don't know of any green guy and then again I know everyone in Mondstadt" Rainbow explained "Got any more?" Lumine asked "Right!" Rainbow said "I also learned that Dvalin was supposed to be the savior of Mondstadt but he eventually quit his job, presumably out of hatred" Rainbow explained "Do you know the reason?" Twilight asked "No I don't but I did recieve this, I think it is worth reading" Rainbow said Rainbow then puts the book on the table which Twilight, Lumine and Paimon noticed "Thanks, we will keep that in mind" Twilight said "No worries, also, Amber wants to see you tomorrow" Rainbow said "Really?! Why?" Lumine asked "I dunno, she didn't tell me, also if you're going to the headquarters again I suggest getting a Mondstadt travel guide, it's really useful" Rainbow said "We'll keep that in mind" Twilight said "Alright, now please don't tell anybody about this since I don't want to cause any disruption in Mondstadt due to what I said" Rainbow said "I pinkie promise, cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye" Twilight chanted "Thanks, I'll be off now, got some damages to repair, see you girls later" Rainbow waved "Hold on!" Twilight called out "Huh?" Rainbow asked in confusion Twilight then ran to Rainbow and gave her a hug while smiling as tears streamed down her eyes a bit "I'll find some way to bring your memories back" Twilight whisped "Y-You will?" Rainbow asked Twilight then broke out of the hug "Of course I will, I promise, I know it'll be a tough mission but I will get your memories back as soon as possible, you can be sure of it" Twilight said "Sure I like things to go as fast as possible but seeing how tough it'll be I thank you" Rainbow said "Also if you want you can join our team, we accept as much members as possible" Lumine said "I'll think about it, I will also have to discuss it with my fellow Knights of Favonius members but we'll see, just promise me that whatever you do, keep Mondstadt safe from anymore attacks" Rainbow suggested "Of course and you will help though, right?" Twilight asked "Me?! Of course I will, I mean, I am a hero right now! I helped Lisa defeat one of the sources so it'll be easy" Rainbow said "That's great" Lumine said "Alright then, if there's nothing else I'll be off" Rainbow said "Yep, go ahead, we'll see you tomorrow" Twilight said Afterwards Rainbow left as Paimon could be heard groaning "Ugh! Can we sleep now! Paimon's sleepy!" Paimon said "Of course, let's go guys" Twilight said The trio then went to their rooms ready to get some shut eye, especially after what just happened but in midnight Twilight couldn't sleep as she just thought of what she just heard before she stood up and prepared her own coffee before grabbing the book she got from Rainbow as she read it "The "Wolf" of the Knight of Boreas, the "Lion" of the Lionfang Knight (or "Dandelion Knight"), the "Falcon" of the Knights of Favonius, and the "Wind Dragon" Dvalin have been long regarded as the Four Winds that watch over Mondstadt, After the Lionfang Knight liberated Mondstadt, the Knights of Favonius was established, and the Knight of Boreas joined them, the tradition of worshipping the Four Winds was gradually formed in Mondstadt, however, Dvalin, the ancient Wind Dragon, predated them all, approximately one hundred years ago, the land was in chaos. Darkness spread, contaminating everything it touched. Barbarians and foul creatures roamed the lands, forcing people to dwell within the city walls, it was an especially difficult time for Mondstadt, the Lionfang Knight was without a suitable heir, and the Knights of Favonius had lost many of its brave men and women during the bitter wars. During the most difficult of times, Durin, the corrupted dragon of immeasurable power, began attacking Mondstadt, the prayers of Mondstadt's people awoke the Anemo Archon, and his will summoned forth the Wind Dragon Dvalin, as the last defender of Mondstadt, Dvalin battled Durin with all his might, the result was clear, Durin's remains still lie atop the Snowy Peaks to the south of Mondstadt, but the story of how the battle ended was lost in time, It is said that Dvalin ripped out Durin's throat, and together they fell from the sky. Durin's body sunk into the snow while Dvalin was summoned by the Anemo Archon and fell into a slumber... People used to believe that Dvalin would awaken whenever Mondstadt faces a new threat but in these times of peace, the belief of the Four Winds has gradually eroded and their temples lie all but completely deserted, 'Citation of unknown origin: By the time the Knights finally discovered that the foreign monstrosity named Stormterror, with which they clashed countless times, was in fact Dvalin of the Four Winds, the enmity that had grown between them and driven them to conflict could not be undone. One can scarcely imagine the betrayal Dvalin must have felt when he awoke after a hundred years of slumber only to find that the people of Mondstadt, whom he had protected with his life, had forsaken him...'" Twilight read "That's horrible, no wonder why Dvalin got angry by us, they thought we were a threat" Twilight thought out loud Just then Twilight heard a few footsteps making her turn to the doorway and notice Lumine there "What's wrong Twilight, couldn't sleep?" Lumine asked "No, have you read this story? I just read it" Twilight asked "You mean the one Rainbow gave us?" Lumine asked "Yeah, it's the story of how Dvalin killed Durin during one of their battles atop the snowy peaks" Twilight explained "Why did he do that?" Lumine asked "I dunno, the story even explained that they sometimes gets summoned when there's danger" Twilight explained "Just like when we saw..." Lumine started before she realized something "What if the green guy was the danger?!" Lumine asked "It's possible but it could also be their source that they felt when there was a god or us when you lightened up your chest" Twilight explained "I have to believe the former, I mean, why should they be scared of us when we're heroes" Lumine reminded "True or maybe they don't know we're heroes" Twilight explained Lumine then approached Twilight "I know you're scared Twilight but I can assure you that it'll all be okay, I mean you have me, Paimon, Rainbow and the rest of the Knights of Favonius, there's nothing we can't handle when we work together,, I'm sure you know that too" Lumine said "Yeah maybe you're right" Twilight said thinking Lumine then yawned "Now come on, let's get back to bed, it'll be a long day tomorrow" Lumine said The duo then went back to their room as they went to sleep thinking of the events that will transpire tomorrow > Episode 3: The Raptor's Rampage Part 1 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The next day when the sun just rose they went to the place where they had just learned using their wind gliders "Yawn! Paimon's so tired!" Paimon yawned "We are too, I mean we went to sleep late last night but we had to meet with Amber today so we'll sleep early tonight" Twilight said "Okay" Paimon said sadly "Hey, be happy you went to sleep last night!" Lumine said "Well, you are right about that but for now, let's meet up with Amber" Paimon suggested The trio soon arrived by Amber who when heard their footsteps turned to the trio "Good morning girls! I've been looking for you everywhere! How are those wind gliders I gave you two last time?" Amber asked "We love them, they're easy to use" Lumine explained "I agree, I basically learned the controls really easily" Twilight answered "Seems like it's really growing on you two!" Amber said happily "Yeah, it really is" Twilight said "But then again, you two don't have a gliding license do you two?" Amber asked "Wait what?!" Lumine gasped in shock, disbelief and confusion "A gliding license? Hmm... What's that?" Paimon asked Amber then sighed in disbelief "Isn't it obvious? You gotta have a gliding license to legally glide in Mondstadt" Amber explained "Why didn't you tell us?!" Twilight asked in shock and anger "I kinda forgot" Amber explained nervously "Oh... But Lumine and Twilight have been gliding have been gliding yesterday, this is the first we've heard about it!" Paimon explained "Yeah, you've been gliding all over the town and temples... Everyone's noticed!" Amber explained nervously "Eh-he" Paimon chuckled nervously "This is not something to laugh about!" Lumine said angrily "Sooo... You came looking for us because you wanna give us a gliding license?" Paimon asked "No way! The Knights of Favonius have strict rule, you need to pass an exam and only then will the Knights issue your license" Amber explained "Then what do we do?!" Twilight asked angrily "Well, today I'm here as an examiner to oversee you girls' official gliding exam!" Amber explained "Why?" Lumine asked "I gave you your wind glider so this is my responsibility, at least that's what Acting Grand Master Jean would say" Amber explained "An exam! What a pain in the butt, then again, since Amber is the examiner..." Paimon started "I think it's fine, we can do this, can't we Twilight?" Lumine asked "Of course we can" Twilight answered "I'm sure you girls will glide through it! I mean... The whole city saw how well you both flew yesterday when Stormterror attacked so I'm sure you'll have no problems!" Amber said happily "Of course and with my basic knowledge we will be able to do it" Twilight said "But we do need to respect the rules and glide properly" Amber reminded "True" Twilight said "Here, take this gliding manual, no need to memorize it, just be familiar with everything in there" Amber suggested "Alright, will do" Lumine said "I'll give you a few examples; number one, only one person or pony per wind glider, number two, no carrying anything over the set weight limit, number three, no taking off using an Anemo Slime and so on and so forth" Amber explained "Those rule books are so boring!" Paimon said "Ignore her, she just wants to do something more fun" Lumine said "No worries, anyways be sure to read it okay? I had to read a lot of big, thick books too when Lisa was teaching me magic..." Amber explained "Trust me, that's way better than what I have in my library as I have at least a thousand books, maybe more, and then there's the Canterlot Library, the secret library in Canterlot and---" Twilight started "We get it Twilight" Amber said "Still, that's a big library... Paimon thinks we best get started before Twilight speaks about books again!" Paimon suggested "Great, come find me when you're done, I'll be at Windrise" Amber said Amber then gave the book to Lumine before running off as Twilight got confused making her turn to Amber "Wait! Where's---!" Twilight called out only to see Amber was gone "Darn it!" Twilight said Paimon then sighed in disbelief "The Knights of Favonius gliding manual does NOT sound like a fun read..." Paimon said in disbelief "Of course it is, I mean, sure some people don't like studying but I do and since we're literally day savers and we have these gliding machines so we should learn even if you like it or not, I mean, don't guides have some guide books to read?! And aren't those boring too for you?!" Twilight asked "Wha-?! Of course not!" Paimon answered "Then stop complaining!" Twilight suggested "Fine!" Paimon said "Well, guess we'd better get started" Lumine suggested After that little argument Twilight began reading the Gliding Instruction Manual out loud to Paimon and Paimon "When the first wisp of wind brushed across the land, birds that yearned for the sky had wings but no way to fly, they asked the Anemo God: 'How can we reach the heavens?' to which the Anemo God replied: 'You have yet to find that which is most important', as the God spoke the wind thrusts the seeds of a dandelion high into the sky, the birds thrust out their wings but the breeze was all too mild leaving them to stumble across the earth so they went to the gorge where the wind showed off its wild and incomparable strength, they threw themselves off the cliff and flapped their wings amongst the howling winds until they were able to fly freely in the sky, to the Anemo God they went to gleefully say: 'We understand now! All we needed was a stronger wind to fly', in reply the Anemo God said: 'What you lacked was not wind but courage, it is courage that has allowed you to become the first flying birds of this world'" Twilight read Afterwards she stopped making Paimon confused "Hmm... That's a cool story... But is the Knights' gliding manual really written in that style?" Paimon asked "I agree, it reads like a fairytale..." Lumine agreed "You know, you're right, let's go meet with Amber and ask her what kind of manual it's about" Twilight suggested "Good idea, let's go!" Paimon said The trio then began walking and after what felt like ages they found Amber who was staring into space "Hey Amber!" Twilight greeted Amber then turned around happily "Hi there! I'm so happy you're here! Did you have a good read-through of the gliding manual? Got all the rules down?" Amber asked "I mean, we read it but---" Lumine started "Sounds like it was a real drag, I would know, I've been there, the gliding manual is super dry... I couldn't get into it at all, don't tell Jean though..." Amber suggested "Really? Hmm... Paimon thought there were some pretty cool stories in the gliding manual" Paimon said in confusion "Cool stories?" Amber thought before she realized something "Oh, you must mean the example cases in the Appendix, some of them I like, my favorite is about the illegal Anemo Slime take-off, apparently if you pop an Anemo Slime and take off in the burst of wind it shoots you up really, really high... I really wanna try it!" Amber explained "Not me! Paimon should do it!" Twilight suggested "Hey!" Paimon called out angrily "Calm down, I was just joking" Twilight said "Still, no, it's not that story, Paimon meant the one with the little bird who wanted to learn to fly" Paimon explained "Ah... What...? Let me take a look..." Amber suggested in confusion Lumine then gave Amber the book as Amber then flipped through the pages only to realize what she gave the trio "Shoot, this is the storybook I used to read as a kid!" Amber called out in disbelief before turning back the duo "Oops, sorry! I put both books in the same pile and must have grabbed the wrong one when I was leaving" Amber apologized "How in the heck do you confuse a bedtime story with an instruction manual?" Paimon asked in anger "Yeah, I'd like to know too!" Twilight agreed angrily "Ahh... This is so embarrassing..." Amber said embarrassingly while moving her feet across the ground "Just explain!" Twilight ordered angrily "It's because... Maybe deep down inside that fairytale is the thing that truly taught me how to glide... 'What you lacked was not wind, it's courage that's allowed you to become the first flying birds of this world' reading that gave me the courage to glide, to become an outrider and to become the Gliding Champion of Mondstadt" Amber explained embarrassingly "You're a gliding champion?!" Twilight asked in shock and disbelief "Kinda..." Amber started in an embarrassing tone before clearing her throat "But anyway let's ger back to the exam!" Amber suggested Twilight then began hyperventilating "Don't be nervous, just glide like you're used to" Amber suggested "O-Okay" Twilight said "Hey, just pretend you're doing this because you have your pegasus wings back" Lumine suggested "O-Okay" Twilight said "Okay then, you just need to follow the marked route to the finish" Amber announced "Okay" Twilight said "Twilight, if you want you can fly right next to me so we can chat" Lumine suggested "No thanks, I'm fine" Twilight said "Okay, if you say so" Lumine said "Are you ready?" Amber asked "Yes we are" Twilight answered "Alright, then you may begin" Amber said Afterwards Amber grabbed her notebook as she checked how Lumine and Twilight flew calmfully and carefully as Amber slowly followed after them before the duo landed on the ground making her turn to the duo "You nailed it! But it's no surprise given the way you both handle your gliders in a storm" Amber reminded "True, that was an unforgettable experience, especially for you, right Lumine?" Twilight asked "Of course, I barely made it out alive!" Lumine answered "The next part of the exam is in Mondstadt, see you later, don't keep me waiting!" Amber suggested Amber then rushed off as Paimon teleported to the duo "And... How's it going?" Paimon asked "We actually passed the test!" Twilight answered "Really?! That's amazing! Now, where should we go?" Paimon asked "To Mondstadt, that's where the next test is" Lumine answered "Oh okay! And how do you plan on getting there with this?" Paimon asked While saying that Paimon pointed to Twilight's contraption "I have magic, remember?" Twilight asked "Oh, right, my bad" Paimon apologized Afterwards Twilight levitated the contraption as the duo walked to Mondstadt where they searched for Amber until they heard a familiar voice "Hey, here, over here!" Amber called out The trio then turned around and rushed to Amber "Are you finished?" Lumine asked "Yep, I'm all set up, let's carry on with the exam, same deal as before, glide through the markers and get to the finish without stopping in the middle" Amber suggested "Got it!" Twilight said "Let's get started then" Lumine suggested Amber then ran off as Lumine and Twilight prepared themselves as Twilight went in her contraption before the duo began flying again only to get stuck "Where do we go?!" Lumine asked "I have no idea, Paimon!" Twilight called out "Yes girls?!" Paimon asked "Where do we go?!" Twilight asked "To the right!" Paimon answered "Thanks, let's go Lumine" Twilight said The duo then continued to fly until they were met again with Amber as they ran towards her "Hahaha... Seems like you've got the hang of wind gliding now! Let's do the final stage" Amber suggested "Alright, let's go!" Amber suggested Paimon then crossed her arms "Easy! You've flown this way before anyway, remember Amber...?" Paimon asked "Of course, though I made it a little harder, my bad" Amber apologized "No worries" Twilight said "Anyways, once you've passed this final stage you'll finally be able to get your own gliding license" Amber announced "I'm so nervous! I never had a license before, not to mention a gliding license!" Twilight said worriedly "Just keep thinking about the good things" Amber suggested "Okay" Twilight said "Ready..."Amber started The trio then prepared to fly before they flew into the air as Twilight could only look in nervousness as she tried to focus on getting the license while Lumine could only look at her in worry "Hey, you okay?" Lumine asked "Yeah, it's just, what perks do I get when I get a gliding license?" Twilight asked "Nothing, you just have to ability to glide in free will because if you don't your gliding material will be removed and if you don't have it you can be send to jail" Lumine explained "Oh sweet Celestia, so it's for a good reason?" Twilight asked "Yeah, I don't know which Anemo God made up that rule but that's what it means" Lumine explained "Well, then I'd best be careful" Twilight said "Good idea" Lumine said The duo then continued to fly until they heard someone speaking from a megaphone "Windborne travelers! You are required to land at once by order of the Knights of Favonius!" Somebody called out The duo then went to land as they saw somebody approaching the duo with a frown "I am Otto of the Knights of Favonius" Otto introduced "Wh-What's going on?" Twilight asked "They called for a sudden landing, something weird happened, I have a feeling" Lumine whispered Paimon then appeared as she turned to her friends in confusion "Are you two okay, we saw you two slowly landing?!" Paimon asked in worry "Yes we're fine, it's just, somebody called for a sudden landing" Twilight answered while turning to Otto "Please show me your gliding licenses" Otto ordered "Ahh... My um, gliding license is, uh..." Lumine started "Oh no! We're doomed!" Twilight called out worriedly Otto then glared harder while Twilight started hyperventilating "You just had to make things worse didn't you Twilight?" Paimon asked angrily "Of course I didn't! I just heard from Otto I could go to jail and I still need friends! This is all Amber's fault!" Twilight called out "Sorry but it's against the law to glide without a license! I am arresting you two under Section 7, Article 12 of the Mondstadt Penal Code, you have the right to remain silent, anything you say will forever carry on the wind" Otto said It's over Twilight, there's no way out of this one" Lumine said sadly "OBJECTION!" Somebody or rather somepony called out The four then turned around and saw Rainbow flying by with Amber "These are my friends you're talking to and they haven't done a single thing wrong!" Rainbow reminded angrily "And what makes you say that ms. Dash?" Otto asked "Amber, I suggest you explain" Rainbow suggested "Rainbow's right... I'm an instructor, this is a gliding exam" Amber explained "Oh... I see" Otto realized before shaking it off "Well, you picked a bad time to hold your gliding exam" Otto explained "Really, why?" Amber asked "The Knights of Favonius recieved a report from a Sister at the Cathedral claiming she saw Raptor gliding around these parts, I thought your students here must have been him and his partner in crime" Otto explained "Raptor? Who's that?" Paimon asked "A known criminal in Mondstadt, he always uses a wind glider to commit his crimes so people started calling him Raptor" Otto explained Wow, he flies fast then?" Amber asked "Yeah, so far we haven't managed to catch him... Our plan this time was to draw him into the Cathedral with a precious artifact and ambush him inside but he escaped with the artifact, fortunately, one of the Sisters put some secret markings on the artifact using elemental magic! But he was too fast and we couldn't even keep up with the trail the markings left behind" Otto explained in defeat "Well, if you need help chasing down a gliding criminal, I'm the one for the job! So tell me, which way did he go?" Amber asked "As far as I know he was last seen near Springvale but that was some time ago" Otto explained "Leave it to us! With me, Twilight and Lumine chasing him down together he doesn't stand a chance" Amber said "So... We passed?" Lumine asked "Once we've got this raptor guy we'll pick up where we left off" Amber explained before turning to Otto "But no need to worry... I'll be sure to have a word with Jean" Amber said The duo then began running towards Springvale with Amber leading the way before they arrived "This is Springvale, there must be some clues about Raptor 'round here" Amber explained "Alright, let's investigate" Twilight suggested "But keep in mind the Sister from the Cathedral put some secret Anemo markings on the artifact he took" Amber reminded "Use your elemental sight and keep your eyes peeled for clues" Paimon suggested "Will do" Lumine said The four then began investigating only for Twilight to find some cloth "Girls, come over here!" Twilight called out The trio then ran over to Twilight as they saw the same cloak which Amber then went to pick up "Hmm... A strip of cloth with Anemo markings on" Amber thought before she noticed the design "Looking at the design and the way it's woven, there's a good chance it came from a wind glider" Amber explained "Wow, Outriders have to be textile experts now?! It's a harder job than Paimon thought" Paimon said in awe and disbelief "If this really belongs to Raptor it must mean his wind glider is broken" Amber explained "Why do I have a feeling he used some slimes to shoot himself into the air" Twilight thought "That would explain the broken wind glider and probably how fast he was" Amber thought out loud The trio then continued to investigate before they saw a shimmering light making them approach it "Is that... An Elemental Marker?" Twilight asked "Hmm... How do we know if this was left by Raptor or an Anemo Slime?" Paimon asked "Anemo Slimes are airborne creatures, they don't leave marks on the ground unless someone stomped on one to take-off, either way let's make a mental note of these markings, they're very clear" Amber suggested before she turned to the Anemo Markings again "It appears that the elemental markings point this way" Amber suggested pointing to the way it goes "Huh, well... D'you think he ran off ahead?" Paimon asked "There's only one way to find out!" Amber answered before turning around and moving her hand forward as a 'follow me gesture' while saying "C'mon girls, we should keep following the markings" Amber suggested Just then a large sound was heard making the trio turn to the other side "Ooh, what's that?" Paimon asked "I don't know but it looks like something's going on up ahead..." Twilight answered "It sounds like there's a battle going on, could that be the Raptor?" Amber asked "I have a feeling it is or it's one of it's henchmen" Lumine answered "Quick, let's keep going!" Amber suggested The four then rushed to the source of the sound only to see some hilichurls "Hilichurls?!" The four gasped "Don't worry, I can beat them!" Twilight said The hilichurls then turned around as they dodged as Twilight kept shooting lasers only for the hilichurls to block it with their shields "Come on Twilight, beat them!" Amber said "B-But--- The shields!" Twilight reminded worriedly "Are you serious! You're not shooting hard enough!" Lumine said "Yes I am!" Twilight answered angrily Twilight then made a shield which made the hilichurls slam on it "Twilight, what's wrong, it's like you're not ready to fight" Paimon reminded "Of course I'm ready to fight! Why else would these hilichurls attack us?!" Twilight asked "Twilight, there's something on your mind isn't there?" Lumine asked "No, there isn't, I'm sure of it!" Twilight said "Look, Twilight, if you just need a break you can tell us, we won't be mad" Amber said The four then turned to the guy who put herself in a protection ball making Twilight drop the barrier "Yes, I need a break" Twilight said sadly Twilight then walked off sadly as Lumine, Amber and Paimon could all look in worry before Lumine turned to her friends "Now what?" Lumine asked "You are close friends with Twilight, aren't you Lumine?" Amber asked "Yeah but what do you mean by that?" Lumine asked "Are you saying Lumine should have a talk with Twilight?" Paimon asked "That's exactly what I'm saying" Amber answered "Okay but are you sure you can handle them all by yourself?" Lumine asked Amber then turned to the hilichurls who were closing in on them before turning back to Lumine and nodding "I can handle it, I mean, Paimon's here with me" Amber answered "Alright" Lumine said Lumine then rushed over to Twilight who was sitting on a log and sobbing a bit until Lumine puts a hand on her shoulder "What do you want?" Twilight asked "I just wanted to talk if that's alreight" Lumine answered "Sure" Twilight said Twilight then patted a spot on a log where Lumine then sat on "Now tell me, what just happened back there, it's not like you to back off from a fight" Lumine reminded "I know..." Twilight said sadly before turning away "Is it the exam that's making you so worried?" Lumine asked as Twilight nodded "You know, I understand why that was, I mean I feel like when the rule was first made in Mondstadt nobody understood why that was and got worried but you know, it's actually for a few safety tests" Lumine explained "Really?" Twilight asked in shock and worry "Yes, and while I know you had wings you didn't have any flight exams didn't you?" Lumine asked "Yeah, the only pony I had it from was Rainbow and yet that was a while ago" Twilight answered "Look Twilight, in Equestria there aren't any wind gliders but there are a lot of pegasus there isn't it?" Lumine asked "Yeah and there's also four alicorns" Twilight answered "You're one of them, correct?" Lumine asked "Yeah" Twilight answered "See, but none of these creatures had to learn how to fly but in the human world there's lot's of people who were taught on how to fly or ride" Lumine explained "But why's that?!" Twilight asked "Unlike certain gods your leaders in Equestria can't take your wings away, can they?" Lumine asked "No and even if they did it would hurt a lot!" Twilight answered "Yeah but in the human world, people can easily take away your wind glider, your car or anything else for that matter and trust me, it's rough for most people who break the rules but it's because of safety reasons" Lumine explained "But what about before?! Why did Otto bring us down to the ground?!" Twilight asked "They just didn't want you to wind glide for a day because of recent events that happened for example he thought you were the Raptor's henchman" Lumine reminded "Then why did Amber do some exams, was she planning to get us into a trap?!" Twilight asked angrily "I can assure you that's not what she had in mind" Lumine explained "Then what was her idea?!" Twilight asked angrily "If I'm right, I can only assume she didn't know about the Raptor and if she did she'd have told us to be careful" Lumine explained "So, you're saying Amber didn't know?" Twilight asked "Yeah, that's the only thing that I can think of but overall, it's not Amber's fault, it's the Raptor who got you in this kind of danger" Lumine explained "That's true" Twilight said "Now, promise me you will stop the Raptor and when you do you can remind him of all the trauma he gave you" Lumine said with a heartfelt smile "Oh, I will, I definitely will!" Twilight said in a sneakishly smile "Now come on, let's go help Amber save the poor guy" Lumine suggested The two then began running before they noticed Amber was gone "Where's she?!" Twilight asked "Over here!" Amber called out The duo then looked around and saw Amber stuck between some arrows halfway in the tree while Paimon struggled to remove the arrows "Oh no!" Twilight called out Just then some hilichurls surrounded them "Twilight, let's go and stop these guys!" Lumine suggested Twilight then nodded before she shot a few lightning bolts at her enemies only for them to get shot back making the duo dodge "It didn't work!" Twilight said "Hmm?! Oh, I've got it!" Lumine realized Lumine then rubbed her hands before she moved her hands forward only for nothing to appear "What were you planning on doing?" Twilight asked "I don't know!" Lumine answered The four then continued to get surrounded before they had to stand right behind each other "I'm sorry that I wasn't a good hero, I failed" Twilight said "No, you aren't! You just got traumatized! Trust me, you can do it!" Lumine said "I-I can't! They have shields!" Twilight said "Paimon! Save them!" Amber was then heard ordering "Got it!" Paimon said Paimon then flew to the duo and shot a few hilichurls away making the duo sigh in relief "Thanks for the safe Paimon!" Twilight thanked "No worries! But how exactly did they have shields?!" Paimon asked "I have no idea" Lumine answered "Now, let's go save Amber" Twilight said The duo then went to the tree where Amber was stuck on as Twilight slowly moved Amber out of the swoords by carefully moving her between them "Thanks for the help Twilight" Amber thanked "No worries!" Twilight said "Now, let's go meet up with him" Lumine said "But what about Raptor?!" Twilight asked "First let's go help this guy and then we can continue searching for Raptor" Amber explained "Okay" Lumine said The four then approached the guy as Twilight and Lumine helped him up "Thank goodness, the Knights of Favonius have arrived! The hilichurls won't dare to pursue me any longer..." The guy said in relief "What happened?" Amber asked "I can't believe it but... The hilichurls attacked our carts, luckily I outran them" The guy answered "Hilichurls? But I thought the Knights of Favonius had cleared out most of the hilichurl camps around these parts" Amber explained in confusion "It's a small camp not too far from the village, the route I take on my delivery runs ensures I steer clear of it but today... Some crazy fellow suddenly fell out of the sky and landed right in the camp!" The guy explained "Hmm... Now who does that remind Paimon of...?" Paimon asked "Did it look like a dragon, a pony or a human?" Twilight asked "Definitely a human" The guy answered "Bummer" Twilight said in defeat before shaking it off "It really riled them up, they chased the funny-looking fellow as he fled which brought them out in the open, I managed to get away but they smashed my fruit carts to smithereens, I don't know what I'm gonna do when the merchant caravan gets here tomorrow---" The guy explained in worry "Still, in what way was he funny looking?" Amber asked "He was holding onto something, must've been heavy because he couldn't glide in a straight line to save his life... Maybe that's why he fell, honestly, people like that shouldn't be allowed in the skies, it doesn't take a genius to know you're not supposed to carry heavy objects while gliding! I'm gonna report that idiot and make sure he gets his license revoked!" The guy explained "Heavy object... The artifact? This could well be our guy" Amber thought out loud before turning to the guy again "Tell me did you see which way he went?" Amber asked "I managed to get a glimpse as I ran from the hilichurls, I think he went... That way" The guy explained pointing at the right side of the forest pathway "Seems like a strong lead, girls, on with the chase!" Amber suggested as Twilight, Paimon and Lumine began running while Amber took one last look at the guy "Oh and don't worry as soon as I get back I'll tell the Knights to mop up the rest of the hilichurls as soon as possible" Amber explained Amber then rushed after her friends as they began running across the pathway before some people saw them making them rush towards the four "This can't be good!" Twilight said "Let's fight!" Amber suggested Twilight then ran towards one person and bucked them away while Lumine used her sword to push another person away while Paimon and Amber shot arrows and lasers to burn their enemies and when they noticed they were too strong they ran off leaving one last person making them glare at him before he used a shovel to dig up dirt and throw it at Paimon sending her towards a tree making her drop to the ground making the trio gasp "NOBODY HURTS MY FRIENDS!!!" Twilight called out Twilight then rushed towards the guy as she went for the attack before she got hit in the head making her get send flying into a put he had just created and when Twilight wanted to leave she couldn't as sand began going down until she got stuck with her head being out of the sand making Lumine angry "Why are you doing this?!" Lumine asked angrily "Wanna end up like your friends?! If not you'd best leave!" The guy ordered "No!" Amber answered Amber then ran before she kicked the guy making him flinch a bit before he began running as Amber ran after him only to feel herself being pulled up by a rope "Hahaha!" The guy laughed "Let me down!" Amber ordered "No!" The guy answered The guy then ran towards Lumine who could only look in worry "Lumine! Go! Get some help!" Twilight ordered "B-But! What about you girls?!" Lumine asked "We'll be fine, just go!" Amber ordered Lumine then gulped before she ran off back to Mondstadt to get some help as she searched for somebody who was free only to see everyone busy making her go to the Knights of Favonius headquarters and when she got there she began panting which Rainbow and Kaeya saw making them pull up a chair for Lumine to sit on "Thanks guys" Lumine thanked "What happened?!" Kaeya asked Lisa and Jean who heard Lumine entering then approached her "My friends... Amber... Danger... Strong dude... Won... Raptor... Escaped..." Lumine explained between breaths "WHAT?!" The group gasped in shock "We gotta save them! Where are they?!" Jean asked "Springvale..." Lumine answered "Don't worry, we'll get some guards to help, Rainbow, tell them to meet us here" Lisa suggested "Will do!" Rainbow said Rainbow then rushed off to get some guards before she returned "Guys, we have some bad news" Jean explained "What happened?!" Otto asked in worry "Why did the Knights of Favonius need us?" Athos asked "I was busy having a dayshift today" Paythos reminded "Lumine, explain" Jean suggested "So, do you all remember Raptor?" Lumine asked "Yeah, I've told you a few hours ago?! Did you catch him?!" Otto asked "No, my friends got caught by one of his allies and so we need your help to stop him, I have a feeling that by the time we're talking now his co-horts have woken up so I want you all to go with me and catch everyone of his allies" Lumine explained "But who will protect Mondstadt then?!" Wyratt asked "Yeah, there's no one to protect Mondstadt now, is there?!" Wood asked "Well, me and my crew have discussed it for a moment and we'll have someone protect it for now, meet Lawrence and Raymond, the newest gate guards" Lumine introduced Afterwards Lawrence and Raymond went to the front of the guards and waved "But those are some new guards, how will they safe us?!" Swan asked "Well, they're one of the strongest fighters in Mondstadt so they are surely to be trusted, we'll all be leaving as soon as you're prepared, my friends need help and so does your trusted Outrider so let's all work together!" Lumine said Then everybody cheered [Meanwhile] Meanwhile back in Springvale Twilight turned to Amber "Amber, how are you doing?" Twilight asked "I feel the blood coming to my brain which is definitely not good" Amber answered "I agree" Twilight said Amber then turned to the guy who hung her "Hey mr. Egghead can you please put me down?" Amber asked "No! You'll attack me then!" The guy explained "But I feel the blood coming up to my brain!" Amber said "Oh come on! You must be really stupid! There's no way blood comes to your brain!" The guy reminded "Of course there is a way! Just trust me!" Twilight said Paimon was then heard groaning a bit "Ugh! What happened?!" Paimon asked "Paimon, you're awake, put me down!" Amber ordered "On i----" Paimon started "Oh no you don't!" The guy said The guy then pulled out a cage before he squeezes Paimon and puts her in it and locking the door before hanging her on a branch "Hey! Let Paimon go!" Paimon ordered "And have you free my new companions, I don't think so!" The guy said "Ugh! You're so rude!" Paimon said angrily "Guys, watch over them while I go get some food to eat! Oh and when I'm back I suggest catching Paimon and chopping her up into a food stew!" The guy suggested "Excuse me! Paimon's not food!" Paimon reminded angrily "Guess we're out of luck now" Twilight said "All we can hope for right now is that Lumine manages to save us" Amber said "There's no way she can save you! I mean, she's way too weak! She can't even use magic at all!" The guy said "So you've seen it?" Twilight asked "Yes I did, I was watching you guys from closeby, those little hilichurls weren't easy to be beaten and I'm way worse, guess you can say you ended up failing!" The guy said "I do have one question!" Twilight said "What?!" The guy asked "Why did you traumatize me?" Twilight asked "Huh?!" The guy asked in shock "I was just beginning to learn about gliding exams and all you and your co-horts alongside the Raptor did was traumatize me! Why?! What's your reason?!" Twilight asked "My reason?! Hahaha, I don't have a reason at all, we just like to steal to cause a rampage, I mean, that's what raptors do, don't they?" The guy asked "Yes, in the ancient past but that's no reason to trap us like this, I mean, sure you may be tough and all but the fact that you're stealing to cause rampage and trauma is wrong! There would be serious consequences for it!" Twilight reminded "You think I wouldn't know that?! Of course I do, why else did I live in Mondstadt" The guy said "To feel the wind in your hair, wasn't it?" Twilight asked "Yes, what's wrong with that?!" The guy asked angrily "Nothing except for the fact that there are very important rules about wind gliding and all of these were broken by your leader" Twilight reminded "My leader never breaks rules and I would know! Now leave me be or else I'll suffocate you!" The guy ordered "All I'm saying is that 'What happens in the darkness always comes to light', isn't it?" Twilight asked "That's some basic Mhar Dann video reference and I would know that because I watched it always" The guy reminded "Then why are you not listening to it?!" Twilight asked "Because I've opened a new light right now and that light is to help the Raptor!" The guy explained "So basically, your light is the darkness, isn't it?" Twilight asked "Of course not, it's like you said the light is the light and the darkness is the dark" The guy explained "I know but---" Twilight started "Stop Twilight, it isn't worth it" Amber said "See, listen to your friend!" The guy ordered The guy then walked off as the group then saw guards blocking both pathways "Twilight, you tried your best" Paimon said "It's what Lumine told me moments ago but I failed" Twilight said sadly "Hey! I know Lumine told you but please save your speech for when we stop Raptor" Amber suggested "Ugh! Fine!" Twilight said "Now what?!" Paimon asked "I don't know" Twilight answered "Let me try shooting an arrow at the rope" Amber suggested before trying to grip the arrow only to feel nothing as she looked up and saw the bow and all the arrows on the ground "Not good "Wait, Amber, try and grip the rope above you" Twilight suggested "Good idea" Amber said Amber then bowed forward until she grabbed the rope causing her to hang on it "Now try and climb up so they don't catch you" Paimon suggested "Or I could untie the rope, good idea girls!" Amber said Amber then tried to climb up, especially with her legs tied together but when she noticed she couldn't get further she quit "I can't go further!" Amber said "Ugh! We have to do something!" Twilight said angrily "Wait! Let Paimon try something!" Paimon suggested Paimon then used all her might to teleport before she managed to teleport out of the jail she was in "Amazing! Why didn't I think of it?!" Twilight asked Twilight then prepared to teleport until she heard some people calling out "They're using magic to escape!" Somebody called out Twilight then stopped right before they used a small bag and some rope to tie up Twilight's horn before the guy tied Paimon's arms and feet before using the key to put her back in the box trapping her again "Yep, we need Lumine's help" Amber said The guy then climbed on another side of the tree before he used a knife to let Amber loosen her grip in shock which worked causing her hands to get tied up behind her back "That way nobody escapes!" The guy said They then went back to their guard position pmaking the trio worried before they called out "LUMINE!!!" The trio called out Afterwards they heard the co-horts all laughing in happiness at the defeat of their enemies as the other three could only look in worry at each other as they didn't manage to get free and got into way more than a pickle as they all thought about their last hope... Lumine > Episode 4: The Raptor's Rampage Part 2 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Last time on Twilight Sparkle gets a Genshin Impact" Paimon announced before clips of the previous Episode appeared as a recap "Amber told Twilight, me and Lumine about the gliding exam which we didn't know about for a whole day as Twilight got angry at me and told me some things we like before we read the manual which was basically a storybook as we've heard from Amber and so Twilight got a bit nervous as the duo began doing more and more gliding exams but right at the third gliding exam Otto tried getting Lumine and Twilight arrested until Rainbow and Amber interrupted him as he explained a bit about the Raptor and the story of how he stole a lot of artifacts and so Amber, Twilight and I sought out to search for him only to get in trouble twice as Lumine went to get help, Twilight got worried twice and when she was talking to the leader she failed and when he was gone Twilight and I planned to escape only to get stuck again but in a far worse situation alongside Amber and now we're hoping on our only hope, Lumine" Paimon narrated After a while of preparing the guards were finished as Lumine turned to them "May I get your attention?!" Lumine asked The group then turned to Lumine "What is it?" Otto asked "ARE YOU READY?!" Lumine asked "YEAH!" The guards called out "Then let's go save my friends!" Lumine called out The group then began marching as other people who were outside could see them leaving as the group followed Lumine and Rainbow to Springvale and as soon as they got there they saw unconscious hilichurls and a few ways further they saw three people in danger Meanwhile with the trapped ones Twilight was seen sobbing "I'm sorry friends, I didn't manage to save you" Twilight said while sobbing "Twilight..." Amber said worriedly Just then something unexpected happened "You're under arrest!" Lumine then called out Everyone then turned to Lumine as a bunch of guards rushed to the group as a brawl made it's way while Lumine and Rainbow went to save the three starting with Amber before finishing off with Paimon "Thanks for saving us" Paimon thanked "No worries Paimon" Lumine said The trio then hugged while Rainbow tapped her hoof "Now, would somebody tell me what just happened?!" Rainbow asked angrily Just then the guy appeared making Lumine and Rainbow pull out their weapons to protect the trio and when he saw what was happening he dropped everything "What's going on here?!" The guy asked Just then somebody fell to the ground near the guy shocking them as the defeated follower looked up for a moment "We're under---" The failed follower started before falling asleep "You fools! How did this happen!" The guy asked And after a moment all followers were arrested as the guy angrily approached the five "What are you thinking?!" The guy asked But before he could set another foot closer to the duo Rainbow and Lumine put their weapons in front of the guy "One more step and it's off with your head" Lumine said "Yeah, you just got defeated!" Paimon said "Paimon, can it?" Twilight asked "You think I go down this easily?!" The guy asked angrily "Of course we do, Rainbow!" Lumine said "Yes ma'am!" Rainbow said Then Rainbow whistled causing the other Knights of Favonius members to go in and surround the guy until Lisa used her magic to let an electric barrier form around the guy's body "You'll have a lot of explaining to do when you get in jail!" Lisa said "I'll be back!" The guy reminded angrily Afterwards the guy and his followers were all brought away as Rainbow turned to Twilight, Amber and Paimon "Are you girls okay?!" Rainbow asked "Yeah we're fine, thanks for the rescue" Amber thanked "No sweat, if something like this happens again just give me a call!" Rainbow suggested "Actually Rainbow, can you help us for a moment?" Amber asked "Sure what did you have in mind?" Rainbow asked "Could you help us stop the Raptor, I have a feeling things will get more powerful when we see him" Amber answered "Sure, I mean, I have my weapon with me so I'll help" Rainbow said before turning to Jean "Jean, keep a jail cell open for Raptor if you can" Rainbow said "Sure Rainbow, I may be the leader but anything for you" Jean said Jean then walked off as Paimon then turned to her friends "How was there apart from the hilichurls a bunch of funny-looking people too?!" Paimon asked angrily "Judging from the type of weapons and traps they had and by what they say, I'd say this lot is with Raptor" Amber explained "But if that's the case what were they hanging around here for?" Paimon asked "I wonder..." Amber thought before shaking the thought off "Well, this measly bunch hopefully didn't slow us down, for goodnes sake" Amber hoped "I agree, you girls agree too, right?" Rainbow asked "Mhmm!" Lumine and Twilight nodded "But we also haven't found the artifact which means Raptor still has it on him" Amber explained "But what about your headache?!" Twilight asked "Yeah, it's not safe to walk when you were upside down for a while!" Paimon reminded "...Forget the headache, c'mon girls, let's keep following the elemental markings" Amber suggested The duo then continued to run only to notice the elemental markings had already drained a lot "Huh, look where we are---" Paimon explained in worry "There are no more elemental markings ahead" Lumine finished in worry "The elemental power on the artifact must have worn off, Raptor must have realized the markings would give away his position and sent his minions to slow us down" Amber realized "Really slow us down" Rainbow corrected "True, and that way when the effect wears off he can make is escape" Amber finished explaining "Then what do we do? We failed!" Twilight reminded in worry "Don't give up! Remember! He won't get away with this!" Amber said "Yeah, we're a team and together we can do anything!" Lumine said "I agree!" Paimon said "If me and my fellow co workers work together to find criminals nothing will stop us in that path so I'm still in!" Rainbow said The group then turned to Twilight who then sighed in disbelief "Alright, if you say so!" Twilight said "Great! After him!" Amber called out The group then began running until Rainbow got tired "Seriously, I need a break right now!" Rainbow said "Yeah, we've been running for a while" Twilight said "Fine, five minutes!" Amber said The group then wanted to sit until a rock moved sideways making the group turn to it "What was that?!" Amber asked in shock "Is that... Raptor's hideout?!" Paimon asked "Great find Rainbow" Twilight congratulated "Hey, I didn't find it, my butt did!" Rainbow said Twilight then rolled her eyes before the group went inside the cave where Amber turned to the group "There's only one way over there, Raptor must be up ahead" Amber explained "Then let's go!" Rainbow said Rainbow then began walking only for Amber to turn to her "However, it looks like the only way we can catch up is if we glide or fly" Amber explained "What?! Why?!" Rainbow asked in shock and disbelief The group then turned around only to see some enemies in the bottom floor "But to make matters worse there's a ton of enemies below... They'll definitely attack us after we take off" Paimon reminded "Yes that's why if we're do this we'll have to glide and defeat them in one fell swoop..." Amber explained True" Twilight said "Twilight, Lumine, you both still had one stage to go in your exams, right?" Amber asked "Yeah, but what's that got to do with anything?" Paimon asked "Well, how about we make this the third and final stage of your gliding exams" Amber suggested "Are you sure that's how the exam is supposed to go?!" Paimon asked in worry "It's a custom version of the exam for the two of them designed by yours truly! Besides the normal version of the exam wouldn't be fit for the heroes of Mondstadt itself!" Amber reminded "Well, you're technically right, I mean they've saved Mondstadt the first time we've met" Rainbow explained "Technically we didn't but yeah" Twilight said "So what do you girls say?" Amber asked "Twilight, are you thinking what I'm thinking?" Lumine asked "Yes! If it's to stop Raptor then I'll be willing to do it just promise me to not do it again afterwards" Twilight suggested "I won't, I promise" Lumine said Then Lumine and Twilight nodded at Amber who then gave them a few bombs "Alright, prepare for take off! Raptor awaits you both once you both defeat all these enemies, then that gliding license is yours to take!" Amber said Twilight then teleported their respective wind gliders and protection gear before the two put them on while Twilight sat on her wind glider before the duo nodded and took off as they dropped a few bombs as Rainbow and Amber looked at them flying off "If you sit on me, we can follow them!" Rainbow said "Good idea, let's go" Amber suggested Amber then sat on Rainbow as the duo then slowly began following the duo as they heard them throwing more bombs with brave smiles before they were done as Amber turned to the duo "Nice! You both breezed through it, you're both a natural, I knew you'd both be fine" Amber said in awe "Thanks" Twilight said The group then landed before Twilight teleported the protective gear and her wind glider away before the doors opened "All that's left now is to grab ourselves a raptor, let's go!" Amber suggested The group then began running and gliding if needed and after a while they arrived at the other side only to see a large gap in the middle of the pathway as they looked down "It looks like there's no way across..." Amber said before groaning in worry "He must be around here somewhere" Amber said worriedly "I mean, I am your only way across" Rainbow said "True but can you even carry a full pony yourself?" Twilight asked "Uhh... I don't know, I never tried!" Rainbow answered worriedly Paimon then noticed somebody on the other side "Twilight, Rainbow, Amber, over there!" Paimon called out The group then turned to where Paimon was pointing and what they saw on the otherside shocked them, there was a blue haired guy with black and gray outfit "Ugh! How did he get across?!" Rainbow asked angrily "If you insist on chasing me, so be it..." The guy explained before he noticed somebody else with the group, that person being Paimon "Huh? Who brought the little girl?" The guy asked through the megaphone Amber ignored the question and glared at him "You must be Raptor! You can't escape!" Amber reminded angrily "Yeah, as soon as we find a way across you're gonna get it!" Rainbow said angrily "Haha, I don't need to escape! There's no way you can make it over here!" Raptor said angrily "Of course, the only way we can get across is by me!" Rainbow reminded angrily "Suit yourself" Raptor said "But... It is pretty high... And quite far..." Amber realized worriedly "That's it, we're doomed" Twilight said in disbelief "Oh, little girls why don't you all run along home now and let your leader deal with this? Don't worry, I promise that once the Grand Master gets here I'll surrender immediately! Hahaha!" Raptor laughed "Hey watch it! You're talking to a Knights of Favonius Outrider and Knights of Favonius Guard! You'll be sorry when we arrest you!" Amber reminded angrily "Deep breaths Amber, there's no way to reason with him" Lumine said "Yeah, we just need to examine our surroundings just like you taught us" Twilight reminded Amber then sighed in realization "...You're right" Amber realized before groaning in disbelief "He's right there in front of us... If only we could glide across..." Amber said in anger "So how did HE get across?" Paimon asked "Some king of elemental magic I believe" Lumine answered "Lumine, can you see anything with your elemental sight...?" Paimon asked as Lumine then looked before shaking her head "No? Oh okay... Nevermind..." Paimon said in defeat "Bye bye girlies!" Raptor waved Afterwards Raptor ran through the gate "Oh no! He's getting away!" Paimon called out in worry Amber then sighed in defeat before turning to the rest of the team "We can't hesitate any longer, the only way to get across is to glide there" Amber explained "But... but..." Paimon started in worry "Don't worry, I'm the Gliding Champion of Mondstadt remember! If Raptor can do it, I can do it too!" Amber explained "Oi outrider! You have less chance surviving this than jumping off the Anemo God statue in Mondstadt without your wind glider! Haha!" Raptor reminded with a sneaky laugh "Oh, I'm so gonna get you!" Rainbow said angrily "I'm with Amber!" Lumine said "Same here!" Twilight said "If you believe you can survive it then I'm in for it too!" Rainbow said "Paimon agrees with the rest... If you rule out everything that's completely impossible, gliding is the only idea left" Paimon agreed "Girls, remember that book I lent you? The one I thought was the gliding manual but wasn't?" Amber asked "Yeah...?" Twilight, Paimon and Lumine answered in confusion "The first birds couldn't fly, flying was their reward for their courage to plunge into the canyon" Amber reminded "What does that have to do with anything?" Twilight asked "Be my witness!" Amber reminded After saying that the four of her friends gave sounds of cheers before Amber teleported in her red wind glider which got the Raptor worried "Wait... Stop! You'll never make it! Come on, off you go now, back home like a good little girl" Raptor suggested "Not until we get you!" Twilight said angry "Yeah, Raptor says I'll never make it but if you listen carefully... The wind! The wind says I WILL make itand that's good enough for me!" Amber explained Amber then jumped off the cliff and dove straight down but she couldn't fly up making the others worried "Amber, no! You're gonna fall! You're gonna fall---!" Paimon called out in fright before she noticed she flew up because of the wind current making her gasp in relief "It's a wind current! Sh-She's gliding, Amber's gliding!" Paimon cheered Everyone then cheered except for Twilight who thought of how the floor next to the Raptor looked like before teleporting her and her friends to the other side where they waited for Amber to land while Raptor could only glare angrily "You're crazy kid! You must have known about the wind current, there's no way you would have jumped otherwise!" Raptor said angrily "The wind takes care of those who have courage, now sit still and await your arrest like a good little boy!" Amber ordered "And besides, that's what we call luck!" Twilight called out Raptor then ran into the room where the last two of his co-horts were as the five nodded before they charged after him until they got attacked by the two co-horts which Rainbow notice causing her to fly to the sides and smack her head towards them causing them to let the heroes go with a grunt as they fell to the ground "They don't have any places to capture us so we'll be safe for now!" Rainbow said Afterwards Amber turned to her friends "Okay, I'll handle Raptor, you girls handle these co-horts!" Amber suggested "Yes ma'am!" The four called out Amber then rushed to Raptor ready to pin him down before Raptor did a karate chop towards Amber who blocked it by grabbing his leg and spinning him around before letting go making him drop to the ground with a grunt Meanwhile Twilight and Paimon were working with the weaker co-hort as Paimon shot a few magic spells while Twilight used her magic to cover the two in a shield making it easier for them to stay safe Meanwhile Rainbow and Lumine were busy with the strongest co-hort who then ran towards the duo, ready to attack them with a shovel before Rainbow and Lumine blocked it with their respective weapons causing the co-hort to try again only to be caught in the same position before Lumine did a jumping salto with her legs split far enough to hit the co-hort hard enough causing him to fall down to the ground with a grunt "We're doing it!" Rainbow said "Yes, now Rainbow, put some cuffs on him and quick!" Lumine suggested "On it!" Rainbow said Rainbow then rushed to put some cuffs on him but not before the co-hort caught one of her hooves and slammed her to the ground before Lumine whistled causing Paimon to get her attention and shoot at her person while also at Lumine's causing Rainbow to get free only she was getting a little dizzy "Never ask me to get slammed everytime even though they did it without asking" Rainbow said "Jeez, your welcome" Lumine said Lumine then helped Rainbow up before Rainbow handcuffed the co-hort "Now, let's get off to saving everyone else" Rainbow suggested The duo then approached Twilight and Lumine who kept fighting only to kept being dodged "Okay, you have got to stop!" Twilight said Just then a kick was heard and after that the guy was sent flying to Twilight's shield before falling unconscious "Thanks!" Twilight said "No problem!" Lumine said The four then began approaching Amber who kept fighting against Raptor "Girls! I need your help!" Amber said "No worries, we're on it!" Rainbow said The four then rushed to Amber's aid as Twilight and Paimon shot lasers sending the foe to one side where Lumine pushed him causing him to move to the other side where Rainbow kicked him and it kept going on until he fell unconscious for a moment, long enough for Amber to put hand cuffs on him before he woke up as Amber picked him up while Rainbow, Lumine, Twilight and Rainbow used either their magic or weapons to keep him in place "Alright! We've got them!" Amber said in relief Raptor then turned to Amber angrily "How did you notice that wind current?!" Raptor asked "I only noticed the wind current from in the air and it's the only one, it would be suicide to try and escape in the direction you were going, in other words the only way you could have gotten out would be this way past us" Amber explained pointing to another part of the hole "Aha! So he was just trying to fool us by acting smug in the hope that we would just give up and leave!" Paimon realized "No I definitely wasn't!" Amber said angrily "Be quiet!" Rainbow ordered "Yeah, little did you know we're not so easily fooled" Paimon agreed "It was all thanks to Lumine's sharp thinking! Just like a wise man once said 'Once you eliminate the impossible, whatever remains, no matter how probable, must be the truth' at the end of the day, gliding is seven parts technique, three parts instinct and then 90 parts courage" Amber explained "I have no idea what that means but that's correct, without Lumine's help, we wouldn't have made it here on time" Rainbow said happily "What you did before looked more like 99 parts less courage..." Paimon reminded with a frown while turning to Twilight "And I've learned my lesson, thanks to Lumine, if it weren't for her I wouldn't have the courage to pass the exam again, I had the time to think about it back when we got trapped" Twilight explained "Yeah, so what did you learn?" Lumine asked "Well, what I've learned to day was that rules are never made to be broken and if that happened there would've been legal battlles to fight" Twilight explained "That's great to hear, also Paimon, remember what you said back when we first met for the exam?" Amber asked "Yeah, yeah, I know and I still think what I said was right!" Paimon said The group then glared at Paimon before Rainbow cleared her throat "Anyways, what was that all about back when we were at the other side of the cave, you almost plummeted down for exactly no reason, why was that?" Rainbow reminded "Well, it was just like in my first gliding lesson... I was super nervous but in the end there was nothing to be afraid of and I passed no problem" Amber explained before embarrassingly rubbing the back of her head "I kinda missed that nervous rush in the exams I've done since then... It just wasn't the same" Amber explained embarrassingly "Well, you shouldn't have been nervous, it was dangerous!" Twilight reminded "For once I agree with her" Rainbow said in agreement "Erm sorry, Paimon thought you said you passed no problem? What do you mean exams since then?" Paimon asked "That's what I'd like to know!" Lumine said The group then angrily turned to her as Amber could only look nervously at them "Ah... Well you see, Mondstadt is all 'no glide zone' this 'no landing zone' that..." Amber explained nervously before sighing in disbelief "Everytime I get my license it keeps getting revoked, I must have taken the exam about 15 times all together but I always pass the first time so I guess my little gliding manual ain't so bad after all!" Amber explained nervously Paimon then turned to Twilight and Lumine nervously "Girls, let's go and get a copy of the real gliding manual from Acting Grand Master Jean sometime" Paimon said nervously "Yeah, I don't wanna go and break some rules because of the 'fake' gliding manual, I've already had enough trouble for one day" Twilight agreed "I agree but I feel sorry for her though..." Lumine agreed "Well, I guess I'll bring these guys to their jail cells, see you guys later" Rainbow said "I'll head off with you because I was asked to escort Raptor and his co-horts back to the city" Amber said "Alright" Rainbow said "In the meantime we'll go have a chat with Acting Grand Master Jean about the carts that broke" Lumine said "Alright and once you guys are ready don't forget to come find me at the Cathedral, I'll issue your gliding license there" Amber said Afterwards the five left the cave and went back to mondstadt and when they were in the city hall they could hear everyone applauding as Lisa turned to Amber, Lumine, Twilight and Paimon "Are you guys okay?" Lisa asked "Yeah, just a little headache from that battle" Amber said "Told you that you should've gotten some rest" Twilight said Jean then approached the group angrily "You know that you should listen to your head and not go on more dangerous expeditions if you have an headache" Jean said "But I'm fine! I swear! How else did I make it here easily?" Amber asked "I know but you need some rest, go back to your office and rest, we'll take things over from here" Lisa said "But I still need to give them their gliding licenses" Amber reminded "Can't that wait until your headache is over, they can still use it if you at least accepted their job!" Jean said "But they stopped Raptor and his co-horts with the use of an wind glider I'm sure they deserve it, I mean, they're heroes!" Amber reminded "I thought these exams should've been normal, not some missions, get to my office and we'll have a talk there!" Jean ordered angrily "But it isn't my fault that they're heroes is there?!" Amber asked "Are you talking back to me?! You're in a lot of trouble young lady!" Jean said angrily "Amber, leave it---" Twilight started "Are you serious?! If I'm gonna get my license revoked again I will literally sue you!" Amber reminded "You can't sue a Knights of Favonius member!" Jean reminded angrily "Then I'll find a way to do it, whether you like it or not!" Amber said angrily Jean then grabbed Amber's wrist and held her tightly while dragging her away "Let's go, now!" Jean said "Let me go!" Amber ordered angrily Soon enough Amber and Jean were gone as Lisa turned to the rest of her friends "I'm so sorry you had to see that, they don't exactly have the best relationship most of the time, Amber might be a rebel at times" Jean explained Twilight chuckled a bit "No, no, no, it's alright, we've heard a lot to know that she was a rebel" Twilight said "Oh okay, anyways, do you need some ice bags or something?" Jean asked "Sure" Twilight said And with that the group went to go to the party with some ice bags, bandages or whatever else as they were thrown a feast by the citizens and Knights of Favonius but the next day they decided it was time to go to the Cathedral and when they arrived they went to the front of it where Amber stood as she had a red arm, presumably from her being dragged by Jean and when they met up with her she gave the gliding license to the duo "Congratulations, here's your gliding licenses! You're both officially legal now, yay!" Amber cheered before clearing her throat "I'm not surprised though, you are a natural after all" Amber said "Thanks Amber" Twilight thanked "Oh and I'll sign you both up for the next Wind Gliding Championship!" Amber said "I definitely wanna join, don't you Twilight?" Lumine asked "Yeah and I'm so gonna beat you Lumine!" Twilight answered "Oh, it's on!" Lumine said with a smirk "Still you can't beat me, I glide so fast no one can keep up, it's just me up there on my own gliding around... It's kinda boring" Amber said with a frown "Did you use Anemo Slimes?" Twilight asked "N-No! Of course not!" Amber answered nervously "Guess that's another crime we need to solve!" Lumine said The three then began laughing while Paimon giggled a bit before Amber smirked "Ooh... Fighting talk! Heh, it seems like you have no idea how terrifying the championship really is" Amber reminded "What?! We do?! Of course not!" Twilight lied "Yeah, we definitely do no know anything about gliding!" Lumine lied in agreement "Well, until I kick your butts in the championship I wish you a happy, liberating and above all law-abiding gliding experience" Amber said "Make sure you obey the rules, whatever you do, don't get your licenses revoked..." Amber reminded "We will, we promise!" Twilight said "Oh brother... If you ask Paimon, that's a bit rich coming from Amber who got in trouble yesterday evening!" Paimon said "Yeah, everybody in town witnessed it, Jean sure knew how to handle it" Twilight said "Hahaha, very funny, anyways I've got a party to clean as punishment, why don't you three go talk to Jean about the broken cart" Amber suggested "Oh right, we forgot about that" Twilight realized The three then ran off as they went to the Knights of Favonius headquarters where they saw Jean who had one of her cheeks half pink "Are you okay? What happened?" Lumine asked "Amber slapped me with a burned hand, I'm fine, the nurse already came to have a chat with me today, I need to put ice on me every time on 12 PM" Jean answered "Oh okay" Lumine said "Now what is it you wanted to talk to me about?" Jean asked "Well, yesterday right before we got trapped something happened to one of the carts in Springvale" Twilight answered "Really?! What happened?" Jean asked "Apparently some hilichurls broke it and ate ate the food according to one of the guys that were walking there" Paimon explained "Hmm, and what does that have to do with us?" Jean asked "Well, Raptor apparently crash landed into a hilichurl camp and when he did some hilichurls got mad and chased after him, of course the guy who was walking nearby also experienced a chase as some hilichurls cornered him" Twilight explained "Hmm, I thought we handled all the hilichurl camps" Jean thought out loud "Apparently you didn't and there's a bunch of hilichurls still there barely surviving" Lumine explained "Hmm, I'll have a look into it, are you sure this is not made up?" Jean asked "Nope, we saw the attack with our very own eyes except for the chase" Twilight answered "Can you show me?" Jean asked "Of course, let's get going!" Paimon suggested The four then went back to Springvale where they showed the still unconscious hilichurls alongside the broken cart "Well, this looks real to me, I don't know what happened to the hilichurl camp but I'll have a check again, maybe we must've missed a few" Jean explained "Thank you" Twilight thanked The group then went back "So, what will you do about this?" Lumine asked "I'll give this a check and I'll have some guards check things out too and see if there's any more traces of any other artifacts, it'll be useful if Raptor is caught" Jean answered "Oh okay" Lumine said Soon the four arrived back and when they did Jean sent them off "Alright, so what should we do?" Twilight asked "I mean, we need to train for the Gliding Championship don't we?" Lumine asked "Yeah we do but when do we do it?" Twilight asked "I'm not sure" Lumine said "Paimon knows what we can do, follow me!" Paimon suggested The group then turned to each other in confusion before they both ran after Paimon who headed to one of the taven in the city "Food!" Paimon announced "You just want to eat don't you?" Lumine asked in disbelief "Yeah! I mean, we've been running around for a few days already and Paimon thinks we need a break" Paimon explained "I mean, Paimon's right, we've ran a lot and saved a lot of villagers twice I'm sure we need a break" Twilight said "Alright, let's see if I have enough Mora then" Lumine suggested Lumine then pulled out her wallet and checked it before she nodded as the group then went into the tavern where they saw a guy behind the tavern "Table for two please" Twilight pleaded The trio then went to take a seat somewhere before a waiter ran by "What do you want to eat and or drink?" The waiter asked "We'd like three apple ciders, two sticky honey roasts and a daisy sandwich" Twilight answered "Daisy sandwich?" The waiter asked before he read the menu but it wasn't on it "Sorry but there's no daisy sandwiches" The waiter apologized "No worries then I'll take something vegetarian" Twilight said "Alright, we'll see what we can whip up for you miss" The waiter said The waiter then left as Twilight turned to Lumine and Paimon "So, after we're done where should we go?" Twilight asked "I'd like to go meet up with Kaeya if that's okay?" Lumine asked "We can go there together then" Twilight said before turning to Paimon "What about you Paimon?" Twilight asked "Hmm, back when we were meeting up with the team for the first time Paimon's been wondering if we could get a Mondstadt travel guide" Paimon explained "That's something we could get too, especially since we don't know anything of this world" Twilight agreed "Now then, we've said all we wanted but is there something you would want to do Twilight?" Lumine asked "Yeah, we'd like to know!" Paimon explained "Well, I kinda wanted to travel across the world to find our friends, I mean, I have a feeling Rainbow's the only one in this town" Twilight explained "Are you saying there might be other friends of yours in other places?" Lumine asked "Yeah but it may be incorrect so that's why I wanted to check for myself" Twilight said "It is a good idea after all, and maybe while we're on our way to do that we could meet other people who can help us tell the story of how they arrived and such" Paimon explained "I agree but first we need to wait until further notice when we can meet them as we still need to figure out what's the cause of Stormterror's rampage" Lumine explained "And the mysterious guy we saw hours ago" Twilight agreed "But even if we did find the guy are we sure he's trust worthy?" Paimon asked "True, he looked angry when we first saw him" Lumine said "Yeah, by the way Lumine, have you figured out your powers yet?" Twilight asked "No, not yet, I don't think I will anytime soon but we'll see" Lumine answered "Maybe I could teach you some spells" Twilight explained "Yeah, I mean, she's super powerful, or at least that's what Paimon's heard when you and Rainbow 'first' met" Paimon agreed "Thanks girls, I knew I could count on you" Lumine thanked "No worries, anything for a friend of ours" Twilight explained Lumine then looked out the window in worry before she thought she saw her brother's face making her shocked before shaking her head only to see his face was just an imagination "You okay Lumine?" Paimon asked Lumine then turned around and saw the food on her table meaning she's been looking at the window for a while before turning back to Paimon "Yeah, I'm fine, it's just... I miss my brother" Lumine explained sadly "You know, to be fair, I miss by friends too but seeing as how Rainbow's managed to survive the crash I'm sure my friends would be fine too, we just have to find them alongside your brother" Twilight explained "But it's been days since we've been here and there's still no sign of my brother" Lumine explained sadly "I know and it's been days since I've seen my friends or my 'actual' friends in Rainbow's case but I'm sure that wherever they are they're all fine" Twilight explained "Yeah but are you sure they all still remember you, what if they all lost their memories?" Lumine asked "I'm not sure if they remember me but as soon as I save them all I'll figure out a way to bring back their memories" Twilight explained "Are you sure, this could get really tough" Lumine explained "Trust me, I've been through tougher times and battles, especially that one battle against the god but this hasn't stopped me from losing sight of who I am or who my friends are, I'm sure that when my friends got caught they got their memories wiped just like your typical school life reality show" Twilight explained "She's right! I mean! You girls saved me even though you didn't meet me before" Paimon explained "Yeah, also Twilight, remember that time where you thought Paimon was the unknown god but actually wasn't?" Lumine asked "Yeah and I'm still sorry for that, it's just she looked so similar as her, especially the hair!" Twilight reminded "My hair actually looks different than the unknown god, didn't Lumine tell you that the hair colors were different in shades?" Paimon asked angrily "We're not having this argument again, but yeah, maybe you're right Twilight, I'm sure my brother still remembers me alongside your friends, this is just a once in a lifetime occurence, am I right?" Lumine asked nervously "Yeah, but that's one pony who forgot me, the others still need to be found so we can be sure they remember me" Twilight explained "Yeah but seeing how Rainbow according to you had the same personality as in Equestria, I'm sure your friends will be the same" Paimon said "I can only imagine Pinkie being excited to see me and plan a party or Fluttershy being scared of me" Twilight said "I'm sure she's not, I mean, personalities can be changed if someone loses their memories, they can be more different than we think, like for example Rainbow is more powerful than the real Rainbow from your world" Lumine reminded "Not to mention the fact that she literally has a spear!" Paimon agreed "True but----" Twilight said "Don't worry, I'll give you an example" Lumine said [Lumine:] If there's one thing we're sure of [Paimon:] One thing we know is true [Lumine:] A friend that you can rely on [Paimon:] Will do the same for you! [Lumine:] So if your friends forgot you [Paimon:] Feeling angry of frightened [Lumine:] Even if they hate you [Paimon:] Their heart's still pure and true [Lumine:] So don't you go thinkin' They now hate you When we all know why they forgot you [Paimon:] And when they're down low Wiith your reminders [Lumine:] Means that they need you especially more then [Lumine and Paimon:] 'Cause you are friends to the end You will encourage and defend Yeah you are friends to the end Now and forever you can always depend [Paimon:] On friends to the end! [Lumine:] Alll these years you've been hanging 'Venturing and play side by side [Paimon:] So when life brings you some changes There's no reason to hide [Lumine:] You will stick by them [Paimon:] We know you can win [Lumine:] If we defend you along the way [Paimon:] Though it's will be a long trail [Lumine:] We never will fail [Paimon:] So long as they know we're here to help! [Lumine and Paimon:] 'Cause you are friends to the end You will encourage and defend Yeah, you are friends to the end Now and forever you can always depend On friends to the end [Paimon:] Friends'll be there when no one else is Friends will be fair and so unselfish Friends will never leave another friend helpless One for all and to all we tell this Times are tough, step up and answer They need us plus an explanation Trust in their fellow Elements Let's let them know we'll never leave them hangin'! [Lumine and Paimon:] 'Cause you are friends to the end You will encourage and defend Yeah, you are friends to the end Now and forever you can always depend On friends to the end After singing the two went back to eating as Twilight smiled a bit "You know, you're right, we're friends to the end, I shouldn't have been so paranoid, especially since they'll all be fine" Twilight said "Yeah, you shouldn't have, especially since you have me and Paimon to protect you" Lumine explained The trio then smiled before they continued eating > Episode 5: The Story of the Hidden Treasure > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After their brunch the duo ran back to the Knights of Favonius headquarters as they wanted to speak to Kaeya only to see him speaking with someone before bowing down and waving as the person left and when they were done he turned to face the trio in worry "Hey Kaeya, what's up?" Twilight asked "No, this is bad... Such a hassle... What am I going to do...?" Kaeya asked himself in worry "What's wrong Kaeya?" Lumine asked "Oh thank the thousand winds! Girls, your arrival must be the grace of the gods!" Kaeya said in relief before getting confused "If I may ask envoy sent by the Anemo God to save this mere mortal could you spare a moment?" Kaeya asked "Ewwww, cut it out!" Paimon ordered in disgust "Paimon, be nice" Twilight said "Sure, what's up?" Lumine asked "Yeah, we have a lot of time today, we're basically free" Twilight agreed Kaeya then looked around while speaking "I cannot let my peers hear about this! I cannot seek help from anyone else but you girls" Kaeya explained "So if we're in danger there's no way out" Twilight whispered to Lumine in worry "You'll be fine, I promise" Lumine said Twilight and Lumine then nodded before they turned back to Kaeya "Please, let us move to somewhere more fit for such conversations..." Kaeya suggested "Where should we go to then?" Paimon asked "Let's talk in the courtyard just outside the headquarters, come with me" Kaeya suggested "What's with the sneakiness...?" Paimon asked but Kaeya didn't answer as he just ran off "Hey! Wait up!" Paimon called out The group then ran after him towards the courtyard next to the headquarters before they arrived "This place will do" Kaeya explained The group then panted a bit before getting up straight "Tell us what it's about already!" Paimon ordered angrily "How should I begin...?" Kaeya asked himself before realizing it "Oh right, let me tell you a secret first, it's a secret of my past and I confide in you to keep it" Kaeya ordered "We'll promise not to let the secret go to waste, right Paimon?!" Twilight asked "Yes, don't worry, Paimon's lips are sealled" Paimon agreed "As a matter of fact my grandfather was a pirate!" Kaeya explained "Oh" Paimon explained "Actually, that's not an all powerful secret" Twilight explained "Yeah, if it's something that is really important then you should probably keep it a secret but if it's something like this people will doubt it's a secret" Lumine explained "...Wait, why do you sound so blithe Paimon? Do you think I'm making it up?" Kaeya asked as Paimon nodded giving him an idea "Look at my eyepatch! I inherited it from my grandfather and this is solid proof that we are related by blood!" Kaeya explained "Paimon never knew you could inherit eyepatches" Paimon said in awe "My! Paimon, how could you not know such common knowledge? This is no different from children inheriting their hairstyles from their parents!" Kaeya reminded "Amazing! This is worth noting for my next few studies!" Twilight said in awe "Anyways, yesterday I was glancing through the notes my grandfather left and stumbled upon records that spoke of a treasure..." Kaeya explained "...Treasure?!" Paimon asked in shock and disbelief "According to his notes the treasure is buried in the 'Lost Arcadian Ruins'" Kaeya explained "Treasure..." Paimon said still in awe "But the location of the ruins is currently unknown, I've tried searching for clues..." Kaeya explained worriedly "Treasure!" Paimon called out in awe and excitement "Wow! Is this gonna be a treasure hunt?! I've always wanted to try one out!" Twilight explained excitedly "Still! What kind of treasure is it? Gold? Or better yet, gems?!" Paimon asked "Hmph! Treasures that consist of nothing but gold and gems are third rate treasures, my grandfather's treasure is a sword! A magic sword that grants the wielder unrivaled power!" Kaeya explained "Oh wowwwww!" Paimon and Twilight called out in awe "Typical girls" Lumine thought "The sword was dropped from Celestia into the sea by a god, it was later salvaged by my grandfather's crew by pure coincidence, the moment he gripped the sword, thunder roared, billows howled and the clear skies were suddenly swallowed by raging winds, with the might of the magic swordmy grandfather went on to defeat a hydra, a silver haired banshee, a wicked abyss dragon but the immense power of the sword enticed many more greedy pirates, to avoid meaningless conflicts my grandfather hid the magic sword" Kaeya explained "Hydra's, silver haired banshees... Do they really exist?" Lumine asked "Yes they do but they've all been slain by most gods in ancient greek and those that survived were sent to Equestria where we have to face them a few times, there's even cragadiles, chimera, cerberus and many more, I'll explain a bit more later" Twilight explained "Oh okay" Paimon said "Yeah, the world we live in is facinating, full of unknown and inexplicable wonders" Kaeya explained "Holy moly! That's just insane!" Paimon called out in awe "A gang of Treasure Hoarders has been very active lately and many ruins have had their relics stolen by them, I'm afraid that they will soon discover the Arcadian Ruins and the magic sword will be lost..." Kaeya explained worriedly "We won't let it fall into the wrong hands! We must get the sword before them" Paimon suggested "I agree!" Twilight agreed "Same here!" Lumine said "You just rest assured that Paimon, Twilight and Lumine are here to help!" Paimon suggested "Wow! Great! Please keep it a secret, I'll wait for your good news!" Kaeya said Kaeya then walked off as Paimon turned to her friends "Hey! So whatcha think girls? Isn't it exciting? We're talking about a super-duper powerful sword!" Paimon asked excitedly "I'm excited but I can't shake off the feeling someone's watching us" Twilight explained worriedly "Nah, don't sweat it, besides is what he said really true?" Lumine asked "Yes, I'm sure but anyways... Let's go to the Adventurer's Guild and see if we can find out more" Paimon suggested "Why?" Twilight asked "The adventurers should know more about the ruins, right?" Paimon asked "Of course, let's go girls!" Lumine answered The three then rushed to one of the Adventurers Guild's members and when he saw them he began speaking "Hey kiddos! Welcome to the Adventurers Guild!" The guy greeted "Hi there, we have a question" Twilight explained "Sure? What's up?" The guy asked "We're looking for some kind of map!" Lumine explained Paimon then turned to Lumine angrily "Hmph! We're not here for something that boring!" Paimon reminded before turning to the guy "We're looking for a sword that fell from Celestia... One that can kill four headed banshees and silver haired Hydras" Paimon explained "You've said Hydra's and Banshees in a different place but you're correct" Twilight corrected "Yeah and it's super, mega, uber powerful!" Paimon explained excitedly "You've said too much by the way" Lumine reminded "It's fine as long as Paimon doesn't tell them the treasure's location!" Paimon said before turning to the guy again "So Cyrus, do you know where the Lost Arcadian Ruins are supposed to be?" Paimon asked After asking that Twilight hoofslapped while groaning in worry and anger "Now she'd done it..." Lumine thought "Never let Paimon hear our secrets" Twilight whispered "Agreed" Lumine whispered back "Arcadian Ruins... Never heard of them, thanks for your intel anyway , if you do find these ruins I'd love to see them" The guy answered "Uh... My... Intel?" Paimon asked "Basically you told them the location of the treasure" Twilight said in anger and disbelief But while they were talking someone was watching from close behind before running off and after a while the trio left too as they began walking while Paimon talked "Well, it's not like it's gonna be easy! Come on, it's the hiding place of the super amazing sword!" Paimon explained "I agree" Twilight said "And now it's even harder thanks to you" Lumine said "Nevermind that, we should go meet up with Kaeya first" Paimon suggested "Good idea, let's go" Twilight said The trio then continued to walk towards the headquarters and when thet arrived Kaeya could only smile "Oh you're back, do you have news for me?" Kaeya asked "Listen, we asked around the Adventurers' Guild and found... Well, nothing" Paimon explained "Haha... That much is expected" Kaeya said between chuckles "Why is that?" Paimon asked "Oh, I only mean that what's the fun in finding it without the hard work?" Kaeya asked "Wait a minute! Are you saying...!" Twilight started "However, I do have some clues, I sent someone to collate black market intel, it seems that someone does know about the Arcadian Ruins" Kaeya explained "WHAT?!" Twilight gasped in shock and disbelief "Really? Where's that guy?" Paimon asked angrily "Yeah, we'll beat them up!" Lumine said with an angry tone "Now, now, as per black market's rules they will send someone to meet us to prevent leaks, we will be meeting the informant at the Whispering Woods" Kaeya explained "Then what are we waiting here for?" Paimon asked "Yeah, it's not ideal for Kaeya to show his face right now" Lumine explained "I agree" Twilight agreed "That's right, you both read my mind, I am a knight... So I shouldn't have any dealings with the black market" Kaeya explained "Don't worry, we'll go and see what they're up to, find the Arcadian Ruins and get that sword back!" Twilight said "Yeah, we'll both keep you safe as we do that" Lumine explained "Alongside the sword of course!" Paimon reminded "Yep!" Twilight said "You have my thanks and of course you'll be compensated for your troubles... By the Knights" Kaeya explained "Ooh, no problemo!" Paimon said "Yeah, we'll be fine, I mean, we're all very strong" Twilight explained The trio then ran (or flew in Paimon's case) as fast as they could to where the black market is supposed to be while Twilight used a scan spell to help them search for the black market before they arrived at the Whispering Woods only to see someone in danger as she was running with the hilichurls running after her "Look girls! She's in trouble!" Paimon called out "They're with three!" Twilight called out "Don't worry, we can do this" Lumine said Twilight and Lumine then charged after them before they noticed them as they began running before they had a fight as Twilight used her magic to stop one hilichurl while Lumine fought against two others before Paimon used her magic to make a magical boomerang which ended up sending the three hilichurls flying against a few trees before they fell unconscious and when that happened Paimon stopped her spell as the trio went to the girl that was in danger "Are you okay?!" Twilight asked in worry "Yeah but why is this happening to me? I shouldn't have helped him..." The girl answered in sadness "Him, who?" Paimon asked The girl shook her head before turning to the trio "Thank you so much for saving me! You're far more reliable than those Favonius guys" The girl thanked "No worries, all in a day's job!" Twilight said "Yeah, they're travelers, they have to deal with stuff like this all the time" Paimon explained "Travelers? I've heard stories about you two, I didn't think I'd be saved by the one I'm here to meet" The girl said in shock and disbelief The girls then made a disappointed face seeing as she's the black market's informant "Oh, so you're the..." Paimon started "Hahaha... I didn't know how I could pay you back intitially but now I think I'll just give you the intel for free, people in our circle know how important the network is" The girl explained "Really?" Lumine asked "There's no 'buts' or 'ifs' is there?" Twilight asked worriedly "No, of course not, I mean, you did save my life" The girl reminded "LUCKY!" Paimon said with an excited face before she realized something "But... It's lucky for Kaeya isn't it? He's supposed to pay for the intel..." Paimon reminded "Listen well then on the intel on the Arcadian Ruins..." The girl said "Okay" Twilight said Twilight then teleported a notebook and pen she buyed the other day and listened what the girl was saying to write it down "'Three six armed giants reside in the city by the lake, two guard the statue, one the treasure'" The girl explained "Right..." Paimon thought only to hear nothing anymore "Wait, is that it?" Paimon asked "There's also this map that came with it" The girl explained The girl then gave the map to Twilight who then looked at it "Could... This be the X-marks the spot? So the clue is more like a riddle" Paimon thought out loud before turning to her friends "Well, this should be a piece of cake for ya, right girls? Paimon'll leave it to you then!" Paimon said "We'll give this clue a check, thanks" Twilight thanked "But if you can't solve it we can ask Kaeya, he seems like a nerd too" Paimon suggested "Good idea, let's go!" Twilight suggested "Thanks again miss" Lumine thanked "I'll leave you the intel so you can review it at any time" The girl said "Okay!" Paimon said before thinking again "'Three six armed giants reside in the city by the lake, two guard the statue, one the treasure'" Paimon thought out loud before turning to her friends again "What does that mean? If you don't wanna ask Kaeya you better figure it out!" Paimon suggested The trio then went back to Mondstadt as Twilight thought for a moment before she realized it "I got it! Follow me!" Twilight suggested The trio then followed after Twilight before they stopped below a look tower ladder "Now what?" Lumine asked "Lumine, climb up and search for the treasure above, let me know if you find it, we'll handle the rest" Twilight said "Oh, okay" Lumine said Lumine then climbed up the ladder before she found a chest which she then opened "And...?" Paimon asked "I found it!" Lumine called out "Come down then!" Twilight suggested Lumine then threw the map to Paimon who caught it right before she went down the ladder "Ooh, lemme see what's in this letter!" Paimon suggested "Go ahead Paimon" Twilight said Twilight then opened up the letter for Paimon before Paimon read it for the group "'She doesn't love him at all, the passion rushing through the clear clear spring is just a front, when she's cold and alone her true heart is revealed'" Paimon read before she looked at the map underneath it "There's another map" Paimon explained before putting a hand on the side of her head"More riddles? Paimon's dizzy already, oh no! Paimon's used up all her brain juice!" Paimon called out in shock, worry and disbelief "You never had any to begin with" Lumine reminded Twilight then glared at Lumine for a moment "Now what?!" Twilight asked "Paimon'll let you have all the fun or you could get Kaeya to help" Paimon suggested The trio then began thinking as they looked at the map they got "I don't get it, I don't know where the treasure is" Lumine explained "Same here, maybe we should ask Kaeya" Twilight suggested "Good idea, let's go!" Lumine said The trio then began running back to the headquarters where they saw Kaeya waiting for more news until he noticed his friends "Hey girls, need any help?" Kaeya asked "Yeah, we need your help with this" Twilight explained Twilight then showed Kaeya the riddle making him think "'She doesn't love him at all, the passion rushing through the clear clear spring is just a front, when she's cold and alone her true heart is revealed'" Kaeya read "Any idea what that means?" Paimon asked "Is this some page stripped from a love novel that you just happened to find?" Kaeya asked "Oh, so it's not a clue, no wonder someone as clever as Paimon wasn't able to get it" Paimon realized Kaeya hen began chuckling a bit "I'm just joking" Kaeya said after chuckling Paimon then grunted angrily "Take this more seriously Kaeya!" Paimon ordered Kaeya than chuckled a bit "This riddle is hard to figure out, clear spring... Is it referring to Springvale?" Kaeya asked "I think so" Twilight answered "'Passion rushing through the clear spring...' So when does passion run through a clear spring?" Kaeya asked "Maybe when there are people bathing in the spring water" Lumine explained "Eww!" Twilight and Paimon called out in disgust "Such inappropriate behavior... I feel like it has been creeping into Mondstadt for quite a while now" Kaeya said in disgust and disbelief "Unless... That's something you two get up to?" Kaeya asked "You're making it worse" Twilight reminded "Oh my apologies, I shouldn't judge what one does in their own time" Kaeya apologized "What's wrong with you? What kind of people do you think we are?" Paimon asked angrily Kaeya then chuckled a bit "The thing is, if the 'rushing passion' isn't coming from the clear spring then it's coming from the people bathing" Kaeya explained "Hmm... Then maybe it's when the water level of the clear spring changes" Lumine thought out loud "Not a bad idea! Like when... There's a waterfall for example... It appears the solution to this enigma relates to the waterfall behind Springvale, only the clear spring that blesses Mondstadt can reveal the passion described here and the 'heart' of the waterfall must refer to the cliff on the left side of the waterfall, I noticed it once when I was out on patrol in the area and the ending 'Cold and alone' probably has something to do with Cyro which can be controlled by a vision so you should probably take someone who can manipulate Cyro with you" Kaeya suggested "Will do" Twilight said "Yeah, thanks for the help again Kaeya" Lumine thanked "It's nothing, if a Knight of Favonius couldn't even answer a riddle how could we be trusted to solve criminal mysteries?" Kaeya asked The trio then searched for someone with Cyro powers but couldn't find anyone "Found anyone girls?" Twilight asked "No I didn't" Paimon answered "Same here" Lumine answered "Then how can we get the treasure?!" Twilight asked Rainbow then rushed in while calling out "Did somebody say treasure?!" Rainbow asked The group then turned around before sighing in relief that someone came to help "Yeah we did" Lumine answered "Tell me everything! Maybe I can help!" Rainbow suggested "Okay, let's go someplace secret then" Twilight suggested The four then went to the Knight of Favonius training room for a chat "Sorry about that guys but this was the only place that came to mind" Rainbow apologized "No worries" Twilight said "It's alright, now be quick, there might be some people coming anytime!" Rainbow explained "Sure..." Twilight explained The trio then told Rainbow the whole story of what they heard from Kaeya until the second treasure chest and after a while "Okay, so if I understand correctly you need someone who can use Cyro to open a treasure chest?" Rainbow asked "Yes, but we asked every Knight of Favonius but we couldn't find a single one who was interested" Twilight explained "Don't worry, when I woke up the first time I still felt my weather abilities I just haven't used it in a while so maybe I can use this for once" Rainbow explained "You know how it works?" Paimon asked "Kinda, I didn't exactly try it that hard of course, I just gotta focus on what I wanna pull out but for now, show me the location!" Rainbow suggested They then nodded before the four rushed to the cliff of Springvale and when they arrived Rainbow went to the sky as fast as she could, picked a cloud and pulled it down "Okay, where do I shoot?!" Rainbow asked "At the statues, I have a feeling it activates something" Twilight explained "Okay, got it!" Rainbow said Rainbow then went to the statue and use her rear hoof to kick the cloud causing a bit of snow to fall down before turning into a sphere "Wow! That's amazing!" Paimon said "I didn't know this was possible, I didn't even know clouds could create spheres!" Rainbow said in awe "You did it Rainbow! Now do the other two!" Twilight suggested "On it!" Rainbow said Rainbow then did the same thing to the other two before she blew the cloud back into the sky and landed as she alongside her friends noticed the floor splitting and a treasure chest to appear while spinning before stopping "That's so cool! Great idea girls!" Lumine said "Thanks" Twilight said The group then approached the chest and opened it up "Alright, what's in this chest?" Rainbow suggested Twilight then pulled the thing out before they noticed it was another map "Another clue!" Twilight called out in shock "This time the mysteries have all been solved, it sure took a lot of work" Paimon said in relief "I know right, but the sword's not here, it's just a map" Twilight said in confusion "Yeah but in all seriousness this treasure map really is terrible... It looks like it was drawn by a pirate..." Paimon explained "But keep in mind that Kaeya's grandfather was a pirate!" Lumine remined "You know, I've never heard of such a story, who told you that?" Rainbow asked "We'll explain later" Twilight said "So now..." Paimon started "Let's go to the treasure location immediately" Lumine suggested "Yeah, we've got no time to waste, especially with some treasure hoarders watching" Twilight reminded "You read my mind! Paimon's so happy! Let's go for it! Don't want anyone else to get there before we do! Like... Like the treasure hoarders Kaeya told us about" Paimon suggested "There must be another reason for it, isn't there Paimon?" Twilight asked "Yeah! Paimon just wants to borrow the sword to..." Paimon started before she realized what she was about to say "No, you heard nothing! Paimon, ah--- Paimon just wants to see it! Definitely not to become super, maga, powerful and do nothing but play..." Paimon explained nervously "Seriously! Playing with a sword is dangerous! You could hurt people!" Twilight reminded angrily "Don't worry Twilight, Paimon, we'll have a talk later but for now we need to get the treasure first" Lumine reminded "Yeah and besides we need to stop those treasure hoarders if we see them" Rainbow reminded angrily "Hehe... Alright, Paimon'll save the chit-chat for later" Paimon said in defeat before getting excited again while pointing "Arcadian treasure hunt, here we go!" Paimon called out in excitement The four then began running to find the treasure before Paimon sniffed something "What's wrong Paimon?" Twilight asked "I have a feeling the treasure is in a cave over there!" Paimon explained "Seriously?! Another cave! Why can't it just be some normal town or city and not caves?!" Rainbow asked "I mean, pirates always hide treasures under the ground but I believe it wasn't allowed in Mondstadt so that's why" Twilight explained "Yeah, guess you're right, I should ask Jean about this though" Rainbow said "I agree but for now let's investigate" Lumine suggested The four then went to the cave's entrance as Paimon looked at the doorway before thinking "This must be the Arcadian Ruins" Paimon explained in thought before getting confused "Is it just me or does it look... Plain?" Paimon asked "Do we need to remind you that this is the cave you thought is the Arcadian Ruins?" Twilight asked "No you don't, my bad" Paimon apologized before she realized something "Oh, Paimon gets it! The perfect disguise is always in plain sight!" Paimon realized "True, especially in wars" Lumine agreed "Kaeya's grandpa sure is impressive" Paimon said in awe Just then some sounds were heard making them turn to the cave "Listen girls..." Twilight suggested "Oh! Mice" Paimon said in awe "You didn't even try did you?" Twilight asked Paimon then gasped in worry and excitement "It's no time to get suspicious, we're close!" Paimon explained before motioning her friends to head in the cave "Hurry! The treasure is waiting for us!" Paimon reminded "True! Let's go in!" Twilight suggested The group then went inside the cave where they ran up some stairs before entering the actual room where they saw nothing making Paimon confused "Huh... Is this the end?" Paimon asked "If that's so why is there nothing in here?" Rainbow asked in confusion "There must be something around here that might give us a clue" Twilight explained The group then walked across the room looking at every empty nook and cranny while Paimon called out "Where are you my treasure?!" Paimon called out before turning to her friends "Find anything?" Paimon asked The group then shook their heads while Rainbow moved her head out of one of the tops "It's not even in this spot!" Rainbow answered The group then heard an evil laugh making them turn to the source while Rainbow flew back to her friends as they all could only look in worry or anger at the guy who approached them "I'll save you the trouble, how about you let me take over?" The guy asked "Who are you?!" Twilight asked angrily "Are you one of the Treasure Hoarders?" Lumine asked worriedly "Sharp eye but too slow" The guy answered "I'm Izzard, I thank you four on behalf of the Treasure Hoarders" Izzard thanked "Ugh... We've been keeping a low profile, how did word get out?" Paimon asked in confusion "Let me make this easier for you to understand" Twilight started before she sighed and turned around with her horn glowing bright pink "You basically revealed the secret!" Twilight "I did?" Paimon asked in confusion Twilight then slowly began approaching Paimon before Lumine and Rainbow pulled her back "Calm down Twilight, it's alright, we can still fix this" Rainbow said "You're right" Twilight said before turning back to Paimon calmly "Sorry about that" Twilight apologized "No worries Twilight!" Paimon said before turning to Izzard angrily "Paimon won't let you have the treasure without a fight!" Paimon reminded angrily "You would be wise to not underestimate us" Izzard suggested Rainbow and Lumine then pulled out their weapons and put a battle stance while glaring angrily "Oh yeah, we'll see about that!" Rainbow said angrily "Oh yeah, my gang is just outside waiting for my order however they're not as... Sociable as me" Izzard reminded "Then we're so doomed!" Twilight said "No you're not! He is!" Rainbow answered "What?!" The group gasped "While you guys had already left I took a quick little moment to send a message to Kaeya by bird alongside the letter and they'll be here right about... NOW!" Rainbow called out "I'm sorry to rain on your parade" Kaeya than called out Rainbow then looked to the side with the others following after her before they noticed Kaeya approaching the group alongside two Knights of Favonius Guards "That's so smart! Way to distract everyone Dash!" Lumine said "Yeah, I'm proud of you, I knew you'd never let anypony down" Twilight said happily "But what about him?!" Paimon asked in worry "Actually your gang won't be participating in your current plan, if you'd like to ask why you can go see them... In Mondstadt Prison or perhaps you'd like to join them permanently?" Kaeya asked "The Knights...?" Izzard called out in shock "Kaeya, he wants to steal your treasure! Get him!" Paimon ordered Izzard then grunted in defeat "Almost had it!" Izzard said in defeat "Oh you mean the treasure? Sorry but there wasn't any treasure to begin with, You came all the way... For nothing, just give it up" Kaeya suggested "What! No... Treasure?!" Paimon gasped in shock "Well, that's one way to solve everything" Twilight said in disbelief "Well, the reason this all happened is because of you though Paimon" Lumine explained "No it wasn't!" Paimon said angrily before getting confused "Still did Kaeya just say there isn't any treasure?" Paimon asked in confusion "Hah, you got me good, didn't think the Knights would resort to such tactics" Izzard said in defeat "A thief has no right to criticize the methods of the Knights of Fav---" Kaeya started before Izzard began running off "Wait, what are you---" Kaeya called out "You're not gonna get me!" Izzard called out before he opened the gate only to gasp in shock of what he saw "Okay... Oh god... Wh-What is this? I didn't mean it!" Izzard called out Afterwards the creature caught Izzard causing Kaeya to laugh a bit "What a troublemaker" Kaeya said after laughing "You! Knight! You're not gonna watch me die are ya?" Izzard asked angrily "Hmm, what an interesting suggestion" Kaeya thought "Fine! I'll confess and go quietly! Please just help me!" Izzard pleaded "Alright then, guess I will have to do some overtime work after all" Kaeya said "And we'll help!" Twilight explained "Thanks girls, attack!" Kaeya called out The heroes then ran as fast as they could to split up right before the mechanic slammed it's free fist on the ground which gave enough time for Kaeya to use his spell to trap the mechanic long enough for Twilight and Paimon to shoot lasers together to saw the hand off right before it began glitching while Rainbow neared Izzard "Grab my hoof!" Rainbow suggested Izzard then did so as Rainbow tried to pull Izzard out of the shaking mechanic as Kaeya shot an magic spell at it's face distracting it enough for it to fall onto it's back causing Rainbow and Izzard to roll out of it's grip and into a wall making them dizzy for a moment before they shook it off "Thanks" Izzard thanked "Don't mention it" Rainbow said in an angry tone Kaeya then made an icicle with his magic before he threw it at Twilight who grabbed it with her magic "What do I do with this?!" Twilight asked "Stab it in the chest!" Kaeya ordered "Okay!" Twilight said Twilight then ran onto it's chest before she jumped up and slammed the icicle onto the mechanic's chest causing ink to sputter out right before Twilight dropped it into a far away pool making the group pant "That was close" Lumine said in relief "I agree!" Rainbow said The group then turned to Izzard angrily "How embarrassing... Having my life saved by a knight..." Izzard said in embarrassment "If you don't like it you should stop getting into trouble!" Rainbow said Lumine then came back with the two guards along with some handcuffs which one of the guard then put on Izzard "I agree, don't forget what you promised... Or that thing will be the least of your worries" Kaeya agreed "Hey... Is this how the Knights of Favonius treats the people they catch?" Izzard asked angrily "I'm just joking" Kaeya said with a roll of his eyes "Alright... Let's take him back" Kaeya suggested "Sir! Yes sir!" The two Knights of Favonius guards called out A Knight of Favonius Guard then turned to the group in confusion "Captain, should we take these four in as well?" A Knight of Favonius Guard asked "What?!" Paimon and Rainbow asked in shock and disbelief "Haha, of course not, they are the ones who made this arrest possible, without them spreading our fabricated intel we wouldn't have been able to catch the Treasure Hoarders" Kaeya explained "So there was no treasure..." Rainbow realized angriy "...The intel was fake..." Twilight started "...And you lied to us!" Lumine finished Paimon then began sobbing in anger and sadness "You're a bad man for lying to us... Shame on the Knights!" Paimon said in sadness and anger Twilight then approached Paimon before using her one hoof to hug Paimon while angrily looking at Kaeya "Alright, alright... Stop it already" kaeya suggested "And why should we?! Were all those other stuff you told me and the rest of the team also faked?!" Rainbow asked angrily "I don't think we can believe you anymore" Lumine said angrily "Though the treasure didn't exist you two did want it for yourself, didn't you Rainbow and Paimon?" Kaeya asked The group then turned to Rainbow angrily before Twilight let's Paimon go making them glare at her too "That... Well... Ah... Hmph!" Paimon stuttered nervously "I guess we have a lot to explain, hehe" Rainbow said nervously Paimon then turned to the group "Let's go girls, Paimon's done talking to him!" Paimon suggested "We all are!" Twilight agreed "And we'll have a chat about this later" Lumine said Kaeya who realized he messed up called out to the group "Just a sec" Kaeya called out "What is it now?!" Twilight asked angrily "Well, you girls did help me out so you do deserve a reward" Kaeya explained before pulling out a sword "This is the 'Triumphant Harbinger of Dawn That Points Toward Victory', as it's name suggests, it symbolizes light and victory, if you don't mind I would like to present you with this Harbinger of Dawn as a reward" Kaeya explained "Harbinger of Dawn?" Paimon asked "That's right, it suits a well-cultured and disciplined persun such as yourself wouldn't you say Paimon?" Kaeya asked "Well... If the reward is this Harbringer of Dawn..." Paimon started "You'd forgive me, right?" Kaeya asked Paimon then turned to her friends who then nodded in confirmation "Yes, I do" Paimon answered "I'm honored to have such an understanding friend" Kaeya said in relief "Yes... Yes..." Paimon started "You all have my apologies for the deception, I will not use the same method twice" Kaeya apologized "Does this mean you'll use a different method next time?" Lumine asked "Yes" Kaeya answered "That's a relief" Lumine said in relief "What a wonderful day, now, I have to go interrogate my suspect..." Kaeya said before walking off "Please excuse me, do come visit me at our headquarters when you have the chance" Kaeya said Kaeya then left as the group turned to Rainbow and Paimon "Now what was that all about?!" Twilight asked "Sorry Twilight, as soon as I heard about this treasure I wanted to get it, I mean I've always wanted to be awesome!" Rainbow explained "I know but you are awesome already, I mean, you're always there for others when they need it and besides that you always want to help others even though there's no time for it yet" Twilight explained "True but remember how you told me about the pirates! I thought I could be a pirate just like Kaeya's grandpa!" Rainbow explained "I know and I'm not happy about that but that still doesn't mean you should react like that, even if it's to stop the Treasure Hoarders" Twilight explained "Yeah, I get it and I'm sorry and to make it better I'm gonna join you girls on your adventure when it's over! I even thought about it for a few days!" Rainbow explained "That's good to hear, now Paimon, what's your story, why did you want to 'play' with the 'sword'?" Twilight asked "Well, I kinda always wanted to be a pirate ever since I was found on land 'arr matey'!" Paimon explained "But you do realize that playing with swords is dangerous don't you?" Twilight asked "Yeah and I should've realized it from the first moment, my apologies for that" Paimon apologized "Well, at least you got a sword" Twilight said "True, but it's yours to keep Lumine, at least if that is what you want" Paimon said Paimon then pulled the sword over to Lumine "But it's your reward" Lumine reminded "I know but Paimon already has magic, at least you can use this as a replacement when your sword breaks or such" Paimon suggested "I--- Thank you Paimon, you're a very amazing friend" Lumine said "Yeah, and while I don't think I deserve any presents after what I did all I want is you guys to be happy again that everything's solved once more" Paimon explained "You know, I am happy that everything's solved and I doubt Kaeya's gonna do it again so let's hope for the best" Twilight said "Yeah, I agree" Rainbow said "Now, there's one last thing we need to do" Lumine said "What is it?" Twilight asked "Go get that Mondstadt travel book and I think after that we should get some rest" Lumine suggested "Alright" Rainbow said "Anyways, I've got some more duties to get to, let me know if you need anything else" Rainbow suggested Rainbow then flew off as the main trio went off at their own pace "So girls, shall we go to the tavern again? You know, the one where we had to sing for you Twilight?" Paimon asked "Sure, if that's what you want" Twilight answered The trio then began walking as the sun began lowering in the sky which Paimon saw "Look girls!" Paimon called out Paimon's friends then turned around before they noticed the sunset "You know, why don't we stay here for a momentand watch the sunset and maybe we can even see shooting stars" Twilight suggested The trio then laid down on the grass as the looked at the sun "You know, I am getting a little worried about Mondstadt" Lumine explained "Why?" Twilight asked "What if Stormterror attacks again and makes things way worse especially with the fact that the guy in green is still missing" Lumine explained "You know, I'm worried too, sure we may have accidentally angered the dragon back then but what if the guy who owns said dragon sees us and gets angry too" Twilight explained "Paimon doubts it's gonna happen, I mean, he looked friendly when we first saw him" Paimon explained "Are you sure, he looked really mad when we angered the dragon" Twilight reminded "Yeah, he did but that's no reason to think he's suspicious, there has to be a reason why he was mad but I'm sure we'll meet him again soon" Lumine said "Looks like you're outvoted then!" Paimon said Twilight then sighed and sits back "I know and even though we don't see him now, I intend to find out what he's planning" Twilight explained before looking at the sky "Somehow" Twilight said worriedly "That's what we'd like to hear bestie" Lumine said happily "If it weren't for that witch none of this would've happened" Twilight explained "True so what do you plan on doing?" Paimon asked "I'm gonna add all things that I'm planning on doing on the list" Twilight explained Twilight's two friends then smiled before they returned to Mondstadt getting ready for their next mission > Episode 6: The Return of the Overdue Books Part 1 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The next day the trio went back to the headquarters where they noticed Lisa was reading some books in boredom "Good morning miss librarian" Twilight said Lisa then turned around with a yawn "If you're borrowing a book, please register it in the log, the restricted section is currently not lending any books..." Lisa explained "Lisa silly, it's us! The saviors of Mondstadt!" Paimon reminded Lisa then realized who she was talking to making her not bored anymore "Oh, it's you, the saviors of Mondstadt, it's good to see you three! More refreshing than a strong cup of tea in the afternoon" Lisa said in relief "Clearly you're meant to be working but you don't seem to have your heart in it at all..." Paimon said in disbelief "Yeah, I mean, you always love to be around books as much as the pony next to me" Lumine reminded "Hey!" Twilight called out "I mean, other than Jean who really works that earnestly anyway" Lisa reminded "I mean, she's right!" Twilight said "But others work hard too!" Lumine reminded "So did you three have something you needed or did you just come to see me?" Lisa asked "Ah... No, I don't remember if I had anything specific in mind..." Lumine answered "Nothing specific? You must just be here to see me then..." Lisa realized in relief before she noticed her teammembers glaring making her chuckle a bit "Okay, I won't tease you any further" Lisa said "So Miss Librarian, got any books to recommend?" Paimon asked "Hmm... Recommended books..." Lisa thought before sighing in defeat "Sadly, everything I'd normally recommend is all in the restricted section which we're not currently lending out" Lisa explained sadly "What's with her ominous tone?" Paimon asked Lisa then realized something "Oh right, would you three be interested in checking out the Teyvat Travel Guide?" Lisa asked "Right! That's what we came here for, we forgot about that!" Twilight explained in realization "Yeah, I think it would be quite helpful for you as travelers here" Lisa explained "Ooh! Sounds like it could be helpful! Do you think we could take a peek?" Paimon asked in awe Lisa then sighed in happiness "I suppose I can try to find you a copy from the list..." Lisa said happily Paimon then whispered to her friends "Isn't this Lisa's job? What does she mean by 'I suppose'...?" Paimon asked in a whispering tone Lisa then began searching before she sighed in defeat "Oh dear... That's unfortunate, our current copy is currently being borrowed, that said, it is now overdue... Come to think of it, quite a few of our books are now overdue,, I REALLY wish people would just return their books on time!" Lisa said in disbelief and anger "Trust me, I had a book that was overdue for a while but fortunately I brought it back, it just caused me to lose my title as Book-borrower but it didn't mind since I saw the best mare in Canterlot again" Twilight explained "Well, that's good to hear" Lisa said Paimon then turned to her friends with a few goosebumps "Whoa! Is Paimon imagining things or does the air in here suddenly feel a lot more... Electrified?!" Paimon asked worriedly "I feel it too" Twilight agreed "Same, it's giving me goosebumps!" Lumine explained Lisa then groaned in disbelief "Such a pain, I'm going out to bring those unreturned books back" Lisa explained before turning to the trio "If you'd rather get your hands on that copy of the Teyvat Travel Guide sooner, you'd better come with me" Lisa suggested Paimon then turned to the two in fright "Lisa seems really scary right now, Paimon thinks it would be best if you answer her...?" Paimon suggested "We'll go and help you" Twilight explained "You really are considerate friends, let's see, first we can go to..." Lisa started before she began thinking until she had an idea "The souvenir shop, it's called 'With Wind Comes Glory' so let's go there as soon as possible" Lisa said "Alright, let's go girls!" Lumine called out The four then began running to the souvenir shop where they then stopped "Girls, we're here! Let's begin, shall we?" Lisa asked "Sure, you go ahead and talk" Twilight suggested while turning to Lumine "Hi miss, regarding the book you borrowed---" Lumine started "Hello Marjorie, any exciting new new items in stock?" Lisa asked shocking her friends "Why so surprised? Today is such a special day, it's only natural that I'd want a souvenir to remember it by" Lisa explained "...So this is a date now?" Twilight asked "Ooh, is that how you see it?" Lisa asked as the trio nodded "I suppose there's nothing wrong with that... At your age these kinds of fleeting fantasies are normal" Lisa said happily Marjorie then began chuckling a bit "Well, if it's a souvenir you're after you're in the right place, I'm sure you'll find something that strikes you fancy Lisa or you could let your friend pick something out for you... Make it more of an occasion" Marjorie suggested "Yes, yes! Let us pick!" Paimon suggested "Alright then" Marjorie said before motioning at the stuff around"Take a look around, there's sure to be something she'll love" Marjorie suggested The group then began looking around before they found a ragged old scroll "This is something she'll like" Twilight suggested, pointing at the scroll "This is a historical relic retrieved from some ruins by one of the Adventurers' Guild, sure there's a bit of wear and tear but this thing in the painting must be well over a thousand years old... Though it doesn't make much sense to me" Marjorie explained "My goodness... This is one of the three lost scrolls that make up the 'Northern Border Wind Investigations...' What is it doing here?!" Lisa asked in shock and disbelief "You sure you wanna pick the ragged old scroll? Can't change again once you've made your mind up!" Paimon reminded "Yes, at least it's to make Lisa happy" Twilight answered "My, my, you clearly know a treasure when you see it, this is a work of unparalleled unsignificance for the research of ancient people's understanding of the elements, I will gladly accept it" Lisa said happily before she checked her watch before gasping in shock "Goodness, is that the time?" Lisa asked making her friends confused before Lisa turned to Marjorie "Marjorie, one last thing, about 'The Legend of Venessa'...?" Lisa explained "Oh, so you're a fan of the gallant Lady Venessa too? Why didn't you say so? I have all sorts of items I could recommend... For example this lion's tooth pendant with Venessa's name carved into it, it was once a medal awarded to a knight by the great Lady herself!" Marjorie explained in happiness "..." Lisa thought in disbelief "The library book you borrowed" Lumine reminded After saying that Marjorie gasped in shock "Oh my goodness! I do apologize, I got so excited when you mentioned Venessa, I didn't know that book was overdue even though I take it with me everywhere... I can't believe I didn't put two and two together as soon as I saw you four here" Marjorie apologized before laughing and when she was done she gave Lisa the book "Here you go" Marjorie said Lisa then sighed in relief "Well, since you look up to Lady Venessa so very much... Please be more punctual next time" Lisa suggested "Yes Lisa, I will be Lisa" Marjorie said "Alright, well see you later then" Twilight explained "Let's go and find the next overdue book" Lisa suggested The four then began walking to the food stand where they then went to stand in front "Welcome to Good Hunter, table for three?" The girl asked "FOUR!" Paimon called out "Oh!" The girl said before chuckling a bit "My apologies... Please sit wherever you like and call me over once you're ready to order" The girl suggested Paimon then turned to Lisa in excitement "So we're gonna eat first and bring up the book situation later?" Paimon asked "Why of course, the stress of work really takes the pleasure out of eating don't you think?" Lisa asked "Work is that bad huh?" Paimon asked "Paimon!" Twilight called out angrily "I thought you two had a discussion about it before!" Lumine reminded "Hehe, my bad" Paimon apologized Lisa then walked towards the table she wanted to sit at with Paimon flying after her while Twilight and Lumine turned back to the girl "Do you know what Lisa likes to eat?" Twilight asked "What does Lisa like to eat? Hmm? Well, she's been here a few times with Master Jean for some afternoon tea before though I think she normally orders something vegeterian, a lady tends to eat cautiously on account of her physique after all!" The girl explained before she realized something" On that note, I should probably be watching my own diet a bit more..." The girl suggested Lumine and Twilight then approached the duo and when they arrived they took and after a while the girl came "So what do you want to eat?" The girl asked Lisa then yawned in boredom "Why don't you order us something Lumine? I'm ever so curious to know what your tastes are" Lisa suggested Lumine then turned around "For Lisa and Twilight a Radish Veggie Soup and for me and Paimon some Northern Smoked Chicken" Lumine explained Lisa then smiled before turning to the girl "I imagine that making a good vegetable soup takes good quality ingredients cooked in the right order at the right heat for the right length of time, at least, those are the principles that apply when one is making potions but from what I've heard soup-making was a popular pastime among the witches of the past" Lisa explained "Alright, I'll go prepare it for you girls" The girl explained After a while the girl came back with the food "Thank you miss, I'll give you the paycheck later" Lisa explained before the girl left before Lisa turned to her friends "If you're ready let's dine together" Lisa suggested as the four then began eating and when Lisa tasted the food she could only turn to her friends "A fine choice! I'm pleasantly surprised, a truly enchanting dish, certainly a good fit for a witch, I am simply brimming with elemental energy after that" Lisa said in shock and awe "Thanks miss" Twilight thanked Paimon then began groaning "Oof... Paimon's so full..." Paimon groaned in pain "If you're full you should stop eating, I'll eat the rest" Lumine said "But how?! I mean, there's a lot still remaining!" Paimon reminded "She's right though Lumine" Twilight sighed "Don't worry girls, I can handle it myself" Lumine said After a while they were done eating as Lisa turned to her friends "Time is getting on, I suppose I should carry on with this ghastly thing called work" Lisa explained Lumine then grunted a bit while pulling up her finger "Told you, you should've been careful" Twilight reminded Twilight then teleported a barf bag allowing Lumine to barf in the bag before wiping his mouth off "Maybe you're right, sorry about that girls" Lumine apologized "No worries Lumine, just learn your lesson for next time" Paimon suggested "Anyways, let's have a little chat with Sara about her library book" Lisa suggested The group then went back to the stand as Lisa turned to the girl named Sara "Would you like to order something else?" Sara asked "No, I think Lumine needs some rest" Twilight suggested While suggesting that Twilight accidentally slammed her hoof on Lumine's chest making her barf in the barf bag again making Twilight grunt "I'll get some pills to help you in a bit" Lisa suggested "That'll do" Lumine said Lisa then turned to Sara again "Still, we are quite satisfied but I'm afraid I must ask you about 'The Boar Princess'" Lisa explained "The Boar Brisket? I'm sorry, I think we took that off the menu" Sara apologized "..." Lisa sighed in disbelief again "She means the book you borrowed!" Paimon reminded "Oh! Of course! I came straight to the restaurant after I borrowed it and completely forgot that I even had it" Sara realized "No worries Sara, do you still have it?" Twilight asked Sara then turned to Lisa and puts her hands in a begging position while apologizing "I'm so sorry Lisa, I will bring it to the library myself as soon as I finish work" Sara apologized "Mm... Okay then but make sure you don't forget this time" Lisa suggested "Will do, I'll see you later" Sara waved "Right" Lisa said before turning to her friends "Onto our next stop then girls" Lisa said The trio then walked towards the final shop as Lisa saw the person by the shop making her relieved "This is our final call for the day" Lisa explained The four then approached the girl who then turned to the group "Welcome...! Uh... C-Couples are our specialty! Let me know what you'd all like and I'll wrap them up nicely for you girls" The girl explained nervously "Ah yes..." Lisa started before turning to Lumine "Now which book was it that has the line 'a date without flowers is a date without romance'?" Lisa asked Paimon who got confused then turned to Lisa "Would you by any chance care for some flowers miss?" Paimon asked "Why, it just so happens that I would my kindest friend" Lisa said Twilight and Lumine groaned a bit in disbelief before Twilight turned to Lisa "What about us? aren't we kind too?!" Twilight asked "Yes, you all are my kindest friends!" Lisa answered "That's a relief" Lumine said "Some flowers for Miss Lisa? What would you like to give her Paimon?" The girl asked Paimon then looked at the selection of flowers she has before pointing at one "The dandelion" Paimon answered while doing so "Dandelions are one of our classics and a personal favorite of miss Flora the shop owner" The girl explained making Paimon worried "I know what you're thinking: Most flower shops don't sell dandelions, they're a nuisance to care for..." The girl explained "Yeah, that's why I wanted to give them away to Lisa" Paimon explained "Well, perhaps miss Flora likes the sense of them floating away to a faraway land that the dandelion evokes" The girl explained "Really?!" Paimon asked "Well, come to think of it miss Flora herself gives people the same impression" The girl explained "So Paimon, as revenge for what you asked us before, are you sure you wanna pick the dandelion? Can't change again once you've made your mind up" Twilight reminded "Of course I do, I mean, I have a feeling Lisa likes it" Paimon explained Lisa then smiled in awe "Dandelions? They actually sell dandelions?" Lisa asked in awe and excitement "Yeah, what's wrong with that?" Lumine asked "They have a refreshing scent, similar to the one Jean wears" Lisa explained before turning to Paimon "Thank you" Lisa thanked "No worries miss Lisa!" Paimon said "Okay, time to get back to business, Donna, do you know why we're here?" Lisa asked The girl named Donna then got worried "Back to business? My business is selling flowers!" Donna reminded worriedly Lisa then began sighing in disbelief "Once again, we see a total lack of respect for literature..." Lisa explained in disbelief "The Pale Princess and the Six Pygmies, ring a bell?" Lisa asked Donna then gasped in shock and worry "Ahh, yes, well, what happened was... Was..." Donna started worriedly before looking down in fright "Oh no, what am I gonna do?" Donna asked worriedly "She seems frantic" Lumine explained "Don't worry, just tell us what happened, maybe we can help" Twilight suggested "I... I lost the book" Donna explained sadly "..." Lisa sighed in disbelief "Normally I don't mind but HOW DO YOU LOSE A BOOK SO EASILY?!" Twilight asked in anger and disbelief "A while back I realized it was almost due and I was getting ready to bring it back to the library but I couldn't find it anywhere, I looked for days but nothing" Donna explained "Maybe you misplaced it" Twilight reminded "I don't so, I mean, it's like somebody stole it... It should have been there on my bedside table where I left it" Donna explained sadly "Uh oh... Bet Lisa does some crazy things when she gets mad!" Paimon said worriedly "Bet!" Twilight and Lumine called out in worry Lisa then turned around in anger "I heard that!" Lisa called out angrily The trio then turned around in shock and worry "Eek!" Paimon called out in shock and worry "Sorry Lisa, we just got distracted for the moment!" Twilight apologized worriedly "No worries" Lisa said before she turned back to Donna "Well, if it really was stolen Donna's done nothing wrong, the blame lies with the book thief and their punishment will be three, no, ten times worse than stealing my book" Lisa explained angrily "Like Paimon said! Totally crazy!" Paimon reminded Twilight then turned to Paimon angrily while Lumine turned to Lisa in worry "How do we find the lost book though?" Lumine asked in confusion and worry Lisa then turned back to Lumine "Oh don't worry about that, as long as I remain librarian not a single book will go missing for good" Lisa answered Twilight then turned to Lisa in confusion "How if you don't mind me asking?" Twilight asked "Well, I've put an unique elemental marker on each book, our thief will have left a nice set of clues for us to follow" Lisa explained "When did Lisa start taking her job so seriously?! Paimon always thought she was a total slacker" Paimon asked in confusion "Then you may have thought wrong, there's always a hidden shell beneath each person which can only burst out if absolutely needed" Twilight answered Lisa then turned to the group "Hey girls, I've heard your elemental sensitivity is very strong... Why not see what you can do" Lisa suggested "Elemental sensitivity?" Paimon asked before she realized what Lisa meant "Oh! Paimon's got it!" Paimon realized before she turned to Lumine and Twilight "Girls, use your Elemental Sight to look for clues!" Paimon suggested The two then nodded before they investigated until they found something near the gate making them approach it "Looking at the elemental traces it does seem likely that the book was stolen" Lisa realized "So Donna didn't do anything wrong after all" Paimon said in realization "It's not from the restricted section so it's hardly a book worth stealing" Lisa reminded "True but why did they steal it then?" Twilight asked "Well, whoever wanted this book so badly had a strange fixation indeed" Lisa explained Paimon then began thinking "Hmm... So what do we do now?" Paimon asked "The elemental traces are very faint but I can tell that the thief took it beyond the city walls" Lisa explained before turning to Lumine "You must see it too, right?" Lisa asked "Yes I do" Lumine answered "Then let's follow the trail and have a little look on where our thief was headed, shall we?" Lisa asked "Of course, let's go girls!" Twilight called out The four then began running until they saw a kind of glitch in the matrix by a cliff in the distance "What's that?!" Paimon asked in shock and confusion "I don't know and I thought it was just me" Lumine explained "We'd best check there" Twilight suggested "Agreed!" Paimon agreed as the four then rushed towards the cave before they stopped in front of it "The thief lives inside ruins? Mondstadt people do have some strange quirks" ¨Paimon said in disbelief Lisa then turned to Paimon strictly "Please do not jump to such a preposterous conclusion about the living habits of Mondstadt residents" Lisa ordered "Yeah and besides I don't think it's someone from Mondstadt" Twilight explained "You don't?!" Paimon asked in shock and confusion "I have to agree, this seems far more likely to be the work of some none too friendly troublemakers" Lisa explained "Are you speaking of hilichurls?" Lumine asked "Stealing books is hardly the hilichurls' style, all they would use books for is to keep their campfire going anyway" Lisa reminded before turning to Lumine "This is more likely to be the Abyss Order's doing, they do seem to have a way of slipping in and out of places like ghosts after all" Lisa explained before turning to the glitch in the matrix kind of cave "Also... There is an elemental seal at the entrance, it looks like the result of an Abyss Mage's magic" Lisa explained "A seal? How are we gonna break it? Is this gonna turn into another huge ordeal?" Paimon asked "Not to worry, if you think a little magic can keep me out, think again!" Lisa suggested "Why is that?" Paimon asked Lisa then shot a powerful lightning spell causing the glitch in the matrix kind of seal to explode and an entrance to appear making the group gasp while Twilight stopped her shield magic "Never make seals in Lisa's way Paimon or else you'd get in danger" Lisa said in chuckle Paimon then glared while saying... "I wasn't planning on doing that!" Paimon reminded angrily Lisa and Twilight then turned to the duo from near the ruin "Come on girls!" Lisa ordered Lisa then walked off with Twilight right behind her while Lumine walked after them "So this is what Lisa's like when she's hard at work..." Paimon said before following the trio into the ruin only to see it was bigger than the outside "Whoa! It's so much bigger in here than Paimon thought..." Paimon said in awe "Come on girls we have a long way to go, especially if Lumine's gonna be using her elemental sight" Lisa said The trio then began walking while Paimon got worried "Uh... Do we really have to go all the way inside?" Paimon asked "Yeah, what are you? A chicken?" Twilight asked Twilight then stood on her rear hooves while cackling like a chicken and moving her free hooves in a chicken way before stopping "Haha, very funny" Paimon said sarcastically "Still, Twilight's right, if you borrow a book you have to return it, there will be no exceptions" Lisa reminded The four then began walking all the way through the cave in search for the book thief as Lumine walked in front of them before they got to the final stage where they noticed an Abyss Mage "Girls, be quiet, we don't want to divert it's attention" Twilight whispered The four then tried to sneak past the abyss mage only for Lumine to step on a ground trap causing a spike to appear with a loud thud making the group duck to not get hit before theu noticef the abyss mage had turn around and see the four "Okay, I did not expect that" Lumine said Just then the abyss mage flew towards Lisa who began shooting lasers which the abyss mage began dodging "Okay girls, I'd suggest you run! I can handle it!" Lisa said "No! I'll handle it!" Lumine said "Why?! It's dangerous!" Paimon said "Don't worry, you four go get the book, I'll handle them!" Lumine said The abyss mage then chuckled a bit before she sent a spell which Lumine dodged while her friends ran "Why did you enter, there's no reason for you to go and steal the book!" The abyss mage reminded "No you're right, there's no reason but you stole it didn't you?!" Lumine asked The abyss mage then sent some bones down causing Lumine to dodge them "There's no way for you to steal it and this time you don't have your friends to protect you!" The abyss mage reminded "Yes I do! And they're about to get the book!" Lumine explained Meanwhile the three friends were running around and searching for the book "Come on, come on, where's the book?!" Twilight asked "This'll be tougher without Lumine" Lisa said "I doubt we'll find it!" Paimon said The three then continued to run before they stepped on a trap causing the floor to split and the three friends to fall down with screams of fright before they landed on the ground with grunts as they then fell Back with Lumine she kept fighting the abyss mage as they both dodged everytime "Seriously! You're getting on my nerves!" The abyss mage said "No, I'm not! You are! Now give me back the book!" Lumine said "Never!" The abyss mage called out "I'll show you!" Lumine said Lumine then teleported upwards without any reason and slammed her sword towards the abyss mage who teleported causing Lumine to fall straight into a hole she made with a large scream [Twilight Sparkle's POV] After a while Twilight had finally landed on the ground and when she woke up she found herself in the grasslands of Equestria "Home!" Twilight called out in happiness Twilight then trotted around the place in excitement until she heard some screams "RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!" Somepony called out "What was that all about?!" Twilight called out Soon enough Twilight got to Ponyville and when she got there she saw something cute but scary in her eyes as it began shooting lasers from it's ears as somepony rushed towards her "You need to save the citizens, now!" The pony called out "I... I can't!" Twilight called out in fright "Why not?! Are you frightened! They can kill you with their lasers!" The pony reminded Twilight then turned back to the creature which was a ladybug and when she did she could only scream loudly in fright [Lisa's POV] A little while later Lisa fell on the ground and after the fall as she found herself on the grass near Mondstadt where Amber woke her up "Come on Lisa! Halloween's about to start!" Amber said Lisa then went to stand up "But you know I don't like Halloween and Autumn" Lisa reminded "Silly Lisa, you're a witch which means you have to love Halloween, don't you?" Amber asked "I know but there's these scary pumpkins that even I---" Lisa started "Come on Lisa, those pumpkins can never harm you, I mean they're all food!" Amber reminded While they were talking Lisa couldn't help but notice a pumpkin teleporting in and out of her sight "B-But I was supposed to get the books" Lisa explained "Forget the books, it's time for a party!" Amber reminded "But the books are overdue!" Lisa reminded "You always think books are overdue, I know, but don't worry" Amber explained Amber then dragged Lisa towards the party where she saw a monstrous sight, a lot of pumpkins were on everyone's heads and they had creepy claws and the pony pumpkins even had a ragged shape or had sharp wings "I-I'm sorry, I-I can't!" Lisa said Lisa then turned around and saw Amber with a pumpkin head alongside her green body making her look down and saw the nails piercing into her flesh making her really frightened as she struggled to move out of Amber's grip while Amber turned to Lisa creepily "Come on, this is a fun party" Amber explained in a distorted voice After Lisa heard this she could only scream in fright as she was being forced into the party [Paimon's POV] After a while Paimon grunted as she looked up and when she did she noticed she was back in Mondstadt as she flew to Lumine "Hey Lumine, are the books back? Paimon's sure Paimon's forgotten it as Paimon passed out" Paimon asked "Books?" Lumine asked before having a laugh "Oh don't worry my sweet emergency food, how could I ever forget the amazing words of the book?" Lumine asked "True, but hey, where's Twilight?" Paimon asked Lumine then turned to the plate in front of her with a piece of meat "Why? Don't you remember her? She'll be so sad" Lumine said sadly Paimon then gasped in shock and disbelief "Wait what?! Why are you doing this?! When has this started?!" Paimon asked angrily "A few days ago, why, aren't you hungry? I thought you always were" Lumine reminded "Wh-What?! O-Of course I am but I'm not gonna eat her or anyone else for that matter! I'm gonna tell Rainbow!" Paimon said Paimon then flew out of the room as Lumine could only chuckle "Poor girl, she doesn't know that she's the emergency food" Lumine said Paimon meanwhile flew as fast as she could to find Rainbow only to get tired as she went to Lisa "Hey Lisa! Where's Rainbow?!" Paimon asked "She's with me, don't you see?" Lisa asked "No, where's she?!" Paimon asked "Right here" Lisa answered While answering Lisa pointed to her belly making Paimon scared as she flew as fast as she could to the beach to wash her face only to see a reflection of her as a chicken wing making her scream in fright "No, no, no, this can't be! I'm not emergency food!" Paimon called out Paimon then turned around and saw a few people cornering her with some forks and knives making her turn to herself only to see she looked like a chicken wing making her scared and try to fly off only to fall to the ground where she backed off in fright "Somebody! Help me!" Paimon called out in fright [Lumine's POV:] Meanwhile Lumine fell to the ground where she grunted before standing up "Ugh! I'm coming to get you!" Lumine said Just then Lumine found herself back in the forest near Mondstadt making her groan a bit "This can't be happening" Lumine said Just then Lumine heard a familiar word "Hello sis" A familiar voice called out Lumine then gasped in shock as she turned around only to see a familiar guy with orange hair, a brown t-shirt with a white scarf on top, black pants, a black vest hanging around the waist and black and white shoes "Brother!" Lumine called out Lumine then rushed to her brother as they both hugged while Lumine sobbed a bit in happines "Shh, it's okay, I'm back" Lumine's brother said "Yeah, I'm so happy you're back, what happened while I was gone?" Lumine asked "It's quite a long story but I can tell you that you're gonna have amazing adventures right now" Lumine's brother said "B-But brother, where are we?!" Lumine asked "Why? Don't you remember? This is where you went to pay respects for me? Remember, you found me on the ground passed away, you even checked my pulse and I was not there anymore" Lumine's brother reminded "Of course I don't remember, I was just on a mission to come find you!" Lumine said Lumine and her brother then broke the hug as her brother could only get confused "I'm sorry but I was absolutely sure you paid respects to me because if you didn't then who did?" Lumine's brother asked "I did!" A sudden voice called out The trio then turned around and saw 'Paimon' "Who's that?" Lumine's brother asked "That's Paimon, my best friend and travel companion" Lumine answered "No, I'm not!" 'Paimon' corrected The duo then gasped as 'Paimon' began turning bigger as her outfit became more god like until she transformed into the unknown god "It's her!" Lumine's brother called out "Wait, but how?! Are you the one who stole Twilight's memories?!" Lumine asked angrily "No, you did" The unknown god corrected "No, that's not true, I was sure you did!" Lumine corrected "Then you thought wrong, right bestie?" The unknown god asked "Yes ma'am!" Lumine's brother answered Lumine then gasped as his brother went to the unknown god "Hold on a second, you were working together all along?!" Lumine asked in shock and disbelief "Yes and to be fair we're dating right now, right my dearie?" The unknown god asked "Yes miss and I'm almost ready to propose to you!" Lumine's brother answered "Wait! You can't propose to him! You definitely can't! And I'll stop you!" Lumine called out "Go ahead and try, I'm sure the chains to your grave can help" The unknown god answered Lumine then turned around in shock when she did she noticed the gravestone had her name as a 'dun dun duuuun' sound effect played before she crouched down on her knees and cried while the unknown god and Lumine's brother laughed while playing husband and wife in front of her [Rainbow Dash's POV] While our heroes were on their mission their best friend Rainbow was walking around in the Knights of Favonius Headquarters until she noticed Sara approaching her "Hey, could you open the door to the library for me? I'm sure Lisa's just forgotten to do it" Sara said "Sure, I'm on it!" Rainbow said Rainbow then approached the headquarters' library and when she arrived she unlocked the door and when she did she and Sara noticed Lisa's not there "Hey, where's Lisa?" Sara asked "I'm not sure" Rainbow answered The duo then entered until she heard a throat clearing making them turn around in shock "What are you doing here Jean?!" Sara asked "Yeah, we just wanted to talk with Lisa but she's not here" Rainbow explained "I know but did you seriously need to unlock the door so rapidly Rainbow?" Jean asked "No, my apologies" Rainbow apologized "It's alright, I was about to meet up with Lisa for our afternoon tea again" Jean explained "Sure, you go do your thing and I'll let you know if I see her" Rainbow said "Alright then, I'll be waiting for your news" Jean said Jean then walked off as Sara turned to Rainbow in worry "Sorry for making Jean angry" Sara said "Nah, it's fine, now what did you want to do?" Rainbow asked "Well, I wanted to give back the book that was overdue" Sara explained "Really? Show me, I'll finish the documents for it" Rainbow said "Alright" Sara said The duo then went to the desk as Sara gave Rainbow the book which she then begins checking back in before sighing in relief "There, that's done, now did you want some new books?" Rainbow asked "No thanks, I had enough mistakes for one week but I'll let you know if I want something" Sara said "Okay, then you may go and next time don't forget" Rainbow said "I promise" Sara said Sara then left and when she was gone Rainbow sighed in disbelief "Now where is Lisa?" Rainbow asked Just then a sound came out "Rain... Ow" Somepony called out "What's going on? Am I hearing something?" Rainbow asked "Go to the nearest mirror, immediately!" The voice said "I don't know who you are but okay" Rainbow said Rainbow then rushed to the girls' bathroom and when she did she noticed the mirror flashing before changing into a pony with dark purple coat, dark blue mane and tail with slightly lighter parts and a black crown with a half moon icon in the center "Hi Rainbow" The pony said "Who are you?" Rainbow asked "You don't remember, I'm the princess of the night, you saved me when I was Nightmare Moon, remember?" The pony reminded "No I don't, all I remember was waking up here without memories of anything, don't tell me you're another one of those ponies from this so called 'Equestria', are you?" Rainbow asked angrily "First of all Equestria exists and second of all your friends in the world you're in are in danger!" The pony reminded "You're joking aren't you?" Rainbow asked "No I'm not you just didn't know it but your friends really are in danger, they're in what is called 'the Nightmare Realm' where they think their nightmares had come true" The pony explained "What?! Is Lisa there too?!" Rainbow asked "Yeah, she is and they need you to rescue them so please get into the ruin according to this image and save your friends" The pony suggested "But what if I get caught too?!" Rainbow asked "You won't, I'm sure of it" The pony explained "But I'm no super duper hero that you claim me to be, I was just their last hope for the last two times!" Rainbow reminded "I know but even though you don't remember in Equestria you were a very fast hero who has an eye for detail on the ground, you can always figure out where things went wrong so I'm sure you can do it too right now" The pony explained "Really?!" Rainbow asked "Yeah and don't worry as soon as I manage to get you and your friends out of this situation I can use my magic to help you remember stuff" The pony explained "So, what you're saying is, is that I'm so fast I can break the sound barrier?" Rainbow asked "Exactly" The pony answered "But isn't that dangerous? What if I hurt myself or my friends there? How do I even escape that?!" Rainbow asked "It is kinda a long story ms. Dash but all I can tell is that you learned this yourself even if you don't remember, you just need to focus if you want to activate it" The pony explained "Okay but how did you figure out they were in trouble?" Rainbow asked "I have my ways, now go Rainbow before your friends think that world's the only one that exists" The pony ordered Rainbow then saluted the pony before a picture appeared of how the cave's entrance looked like which made Rainbow inspect it carefully before she rushed out of the girls' bathroom only to see Jean "Are you alright Rainbow, you've been staying in that bathroom for too long" Jean explained "Yeah but now I have to, um, do my guard duties so I'll see you later" Rainbow explained nervously Rainbow then ran off as Jean watched her leave before chuckling nervously before she heard some things loud flash which made her gasp in fright as she rushed outside only to see an unexpected sight... > Episode 7: The Return of the Overdue Books Part 2 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Last time on Twilight Sparkle gets a Genshin Impact!" Paimon announced "Me and my friends went to meet up with Lisa only to forget what we needed until Lisa suggested we get a Teyvat Travel Guide but just when we did the book was revealed to be missing alongside some others as me and my friends went on a mission to get all three books back with the latter stolen by an abyss mage which Lumine then battled while we searched for some books only to get stuck in our very own nightmares and now it's up to Rainbow who got a message from somepony to go save us" Paimon explained What Jean witnessed was a bit of fire leading to where Rainbow went as she saw Rainbow went out of the city gates "Where's Rainbow going to? And at such fast speed? I'd better have my fellow Knights of Favonius members investigate" Jean said Jean then went to go and get her two prized pupils, Kaeya and Amber who when they met up were confused "What's wrong Jean?" Amber asked "Did we do something wrong?" Kaeya asked "No you didn't, I just want you to go and investigate where this trail of fire is leading you to and if yu can find the source or Rainbow come find me or if needed rescue her" Jean suggested "We're on it!" Amber said "We won't let you down" Kaeya said The duo rushed off but meanwhile Rainbow got to the cave where she dropped to the ground "Okay, this has to be the cave, I'd best be careful to not get caught in the same trap as my friends" Rainbow said Rainbow then grabbed her sword before she flew in as she rushed for her friends before she heard a scream making her turn to what seemed to be a darker purple door with a darker pink star with a darker white star behind it and a five darker white stars right besides it "Was that Twilight?!" Rainbow asked Rainbow then sighed in strength before she rushed into the door and when she did she saw something unexpected, she saw something that looked familiar "Wow! For some reason this looks familiar" Rainbow explained Just then Rainbow was pushed away by a filly as she turned around only to notice a orange coated pony with purple mane and tail and a shield cutie mark in three shades of purple alongside a lightning bolt symbol "Rainbow! Quick! Save Twilight! She's in danger!" The pony answered "What?! Where's she?!" Rainbow asked in shock "Right over there!" The pony answered The pony then pointed to the large ladybug which Rainbow noticed as it had Twilight in it's hoof "On it!" Rainbow said Rainbow then rushed over to the ladybug who was about to shoot a laser only to feel a buck "Hey! You stupid bitch! Move out of the way of my friend!" Rainbow ordered The ladybug then began hissing as it's mouth opened three ways making Rainbow pale in color as she dragged Twilight to safety with her super speed "Rainbow! You're here!" Twilight called out "Don't worry Twilight, that ladybug is scary looking by the way, do you know how to beat it?" Rainbow asked "No! You know why?! Because I'm scared!" Twilight answered "Twilight! There's no reason to be scared of ladybugs! Just imagine them being cute and such!" Rainbow suggested "But Rainbow! My brother said he had scary looking eyes and such and they can see where you are!" Twilight explained "But that's what he wants you to believe, maybe it was just a prank" Rainbow reminded "He told me it wasn't! I'm sorry but I can't!" Twilight explained between sobs "When has my friend ever lost hope in herself? To answer yourself, never so you should not quit! Just imagine a cute little butterfly or whatever and stop your nightmare" Rainbow suggested Twilight then began thinking only to fail "I--- I can't!" Twilight answered Rainbow then groaned only for the ladybug to find the duo as it shot a laser making the duo stop "You know what, fine, I'll stop this!" Rainbow said Rainbow then turned to the center as the ladybug hissed while Rainbow closed her eyes causing the ladybug to get confused and walk away which made Twilight worried "Rainbow? Is it gone?" Twilight asked Rainbow then opened her eyes and saw it was gone "Yes it is! Now tell me, what are their weakest sides?" Rainbow asked "I don't know! I never investigated it!" Twilight answered "That's not good! Twilight just take a deep breath!" Rainbow suggested "O-Okay" Twilight said nervously Twilight then took a deep breath as she remembered all the fun adventures she's had with her friends as Rainbow noticed the world slowly reforming before Twilight let's it out slowly "It worked, it worked!" Rainbow said excitedly Twilight then opened her eyes before hugging Rainbow "Thanks Rainbow, you really saved me there" Twilight said "Now come on, we've got more friends to rescue" Rainbow suggested The duo then ran towards the door and exited it and when they did they were back in the cave as the door vanished making the group pant "Now let's go save the others" Twilight explained The two then noticed three more doors "Okay, this is gonna take a while" Rainbow said "We can do this though, let's start with Paimon's" Twilight suggested "Alright" Rainbow said The two then entered the door finding themselves back in Mondstadt as they smelled some chicken wings "Chicken wings? Is that Paimon's nightmare?" Twilight asked "I don't think it's that, I think it's something way worse" Rainbow explained Twilight then nodded as they approached Mondstadt where they saw some people gathered around alongside some human bones "Now this is dark" Twilight explained "Yeah, definitely!" Rainbow explained The duo kept walking until they noticed Paimon as a chicken wing above a stove "Let Paimon go! Please! Pamon's not emergency food!" Paimon called out "I think I know what her nightmare is" Twilight explained "Let me guess, being emergency food?" Rainbow asked "Yep, we'd best stop this and fast" Twilight answered "On it! Let's go!" Rainbow said The duo then rushed to the center as they turned to the group "Attention! Stop eating people!" Twilight ordered But the people there didn't listen "Hello! Listen to us!" Rainbow called out Still no answer making them worried until they looked at each other making them gasp in shock "Why are we ghosts?! I don't know! Jinx! Jinx again!" The duo yelled in shock and worry "Now what do we do?! If we can't get their attention somebody should!" Twilight suggested "Quick! Back to the door!" Rainbow ordered The two then went back to the door which they exited out of "Okay, if we can't go there there should be someplace else we can go" Twilight suggested "I know! How about Lisa's!" Rainbow suggested I'll even make a protective shield just in case!" Twilight suggested "Alright, let's go!" Rainbow said Twilight then started the spell on the duo as they rushed into Lisa's nightmare where they saw that it was Halloween decorated "Wow! This looks Halloween made!" Twilight said in awe "She must be scared of Halloween, isn't she?" Rainbow asked "Yeah" Twilight said The four then began walking towards the entrance of Mondstadt where they saw a lot of pumpkins partying as Lisa was missing "Hey, where's Lisa?" Rainbow asked "I don't know, we should investigate here though" Twilight said "It will be tough with all those pumpkins around" Rainbow reminded "Yeah, true!" Twilight said Just then Lisa was seen being thrown into the air a few times "Somebody help me!" Lisa called out The duo then turned around and saw Lisa being thrown into the air a few times making them gasp "Or not" Twilight said "Let's go save her!" Rainbow suggested "Good idea!" Twilight suggested Rainbow then cut the spell before she rushed over to Lisa and pulled her out of the pumpkins' grasp "Rainbow?! You saved me!" Lisa called out "Yeah! Now hold on! We don't want you to get caught by these copycats" Rainbow suggested "Okay!" Lisa said The duo then flew towards Twilight "Get them!" One of the pumpkins said in a distorted voice "Wow! That's creepy!" Twilight said "Okay, I'm gonna regret doing this but RUUUUN!!!" Rainbow ordered The two then began running while Lisa hugged Rainbow tightly in fright before the pumpkin Rainbow zipped by the two "Give her back!" The pumpkin Rainbow said in a distorted voice The pumpkins then surrounded Rainbow "Okay, maybe I should teleport!" Twilight suggested "Okay, and Lisa we'll be back home in a bit!" Rainbow said Twilight then teleported the three towards the door which they then entered before it disappeared Soon enough trio were back as Lisa continued to hug as Twilight tried to pull her off while using her magic "We're... Back... Home..." Twilight said between grunts Twilight eventually let the Lisa go causing the duo to fall "Thanks Twi" Rainbow thanked Lisa then curled up into a ball! "Don't tell me we got caught?!" Lisa asked "No, you may wake up" Twilight suggested Lisa then woke up before sighing in relief "Maybe we should get a bit of rest for now after what just happened" Rainbow suggested "Yeah, these pumpkins were really frightening, I think I need some rest" Lisa explained The trio then sat down and told each other what happened since they were away and after a while the trio calmed down "I think everything's fine now isn't it?" Twilight asked "Yeah" Rainbow said "Also thank you Rainbow for handling one of the books" Lisa thanked "No worries, now if you're ready we can rescue the rest of our friends!" Rainbow suggested "Yes, let's go to Paimon's" Lisa suggested "No, let's do her last, that one is gonna creep you out a lot!" Twilight explained "Okay" Lisa said "Let's go to Lumine's then!" Rainbow suggested The trio then went through the other door before they found themselves between Lumine as Lumine kept crying while Lisa was gone "What happened Lumine?" Twilight asked Lumine then pointed making the two look and gasp at the most gruesome thing they are witnessing the unknown god and Lumine's brother were making sex in front of Lumine, kissing, dancing and lot's more and Lumine was watching it all "Ew! How gross! And why didn't you stop them!" Rainbow answered "Because I died!" Lumine answered The two then turned around and saw they and Lumine were stuck on the chains near their grave "Oh sweet Celestia! Now where's the door?!" Twilight asked "I don't know, even Lisa's missing!" Rainbow explained The two then looked around in worry as they got a little frightened [Lisa's POV] Meanwhile Lisa found herself near a cliff as she looked around "Girls! Call out if you're here!" Lisa called out Lisa then began walking nervously before she found Twilight, Rainbow and Lumine on the ground lifeless while Lumine's brother and the unknown god had sex "Ew! If the pumpkins weren't scary enough this was! I'd better save them!" Lisa suggested Lisa then rushed towards the scene where she tapped Lumine's brother "Now what?!" Lumine's brother asked The duo then turned around "What happened to them?!" Lisa asked The duo then turned around before back at Lisa "Oh nothing, they're both dead anyway, see these graves" The unknown god suggested Lisa then turned back in shock "Oh no! This was a bad idea! I gotta get help!" Lisa said "You can't get help, you've never been in this situation before, remember" The unknown god reminded "Yeah, but that doesn't mean I can stop you!" Lisa reminded [Twilight Sparkle's POV:] Twilight and Rainbow could only look in shock and worry at what's happening "This is hopeless! We're doomed!" Rainbow said Just then a familiar voice rang out a few ways back "Lisa, you needed help didn't you? Well you've got one!" Amber said "Yes, you just had to call out to us for help! Now let's fight!" Kaeya said Twilight, Rainbow and Lumine then gasped as they could only witness a fight happening between the trio and Lumine's brother and the unknown god "They came to save us!" Twilight called out "There has to be a way out, right Twilight?!" Rainbow asked "Yes, Lumine, you need to take a deep breath and imagine something you like" Twilight suggested "Okay, I can try" Lumine said Lumine then closed her eyes and imagined all the fun times she had with her friends while Rainbow and Twilight could only witness the battle until they noticed Lumine's brother and the unknown god vanishing alongside the chains on their friends reappearing while the trio got back to their bodies as they gasped in relief "We made it!" Rainbow said in relief "But how did this happen?!" Twilight asked The trio then went to Lisa and the other two "How did you get here and why?!" Rainbow asked "We came here to rescue you four after what we heard from a certain mirror somebody lied to us about" Kaeya explained "But why?" Twilight asked "I mean, you three alongside Paimon helped us on the past missions so we had to come and rescue you" Amber explained "But how can we save Paimon, I mean we can only turn into ghosts" Rainbow explained "Why?" Lisa asked "I don't know, we weren't seen in that nightmare!" Twilight explained "Hmm, there must be a dangerous force doing this, the only way to save Paimon is by having us do it, you two can go handle the abyss mage and we'll save Paimon" Amber said "Yes ma'am!" Rainbow said "Let's go!" Twilight said The group then went out of the door as they then arrived back in the cave as Twilight led Rainbow to the abyss mage while the other three went through Paimon's door before they landed "Alright, we're here, now let's go save Paimon" Kaeya suggested "Hey? Where's Amber?" Lisa asked "I don't know but Amber if you hear us you may follow us" Kaeya suggested The two then began walking as Amber walked behind the two before they got to the crowd where they saw Paimon getting redder "Whoa! It's getting hot in here and in a worse way!" Paimon said worriedly "Lisa, use your laser skills to send everyone flying, I'll handle Paimon" Kaeya suggested "What do I do?" Amber asked but her friends didn't hear it "Alright and Amber if you hear me find some way to revive yourself and stop the cannibalism" Lisa suggested Amber then nodded before running off as Lisa used her lightning spell to send everyone flying into the distance before Kaeya rushed over to Paimon and put her off of the spinning pole and putting her on the floor "You okay Paimon?" Kaeya asked "Kaeya, you came to save me!" Paimon called out "Well, it's a long story but imagine a normal kind of city just like in the real world and not some emergency food theory, okay?" Kaeya asked "Okay" Paimon said Paimon then closed her eyes and thought for a moment as she remembered all the adventures she had with Twilight and Lumine and also the others before she turned back to normal and Amber got revived before panting as she, Lisa and Kaeya rushed towards her and hugged before Paimon flew freely "Thanks" Amber thanked "No worries" Kaeya said "Now where's Twilight and Lumine?!" Paimon asked "They're fighting the abyss mage, we just saved them and Rainbow so let's go!" Lisa suggested [Twilight Sparkle's POV] Meanwhile the two had returned by the abyss mage "It's over right now!" Twilight reminded Afterwards the abyss mage turned around "What?! How did you make it?! I thought I sent you to the hall of nightmares!" The abyss mage reminded angrily "And it was not strong enough for any of us and it is about to be for you, the nightmare of being beaten by me, Twilight and the rest when they come!" Rainbow reminded "We'll see about that!" The abyss mage said The abyss mage then shot a powerful flame at the two which Twilight reflected with her magic before it sent the abyss mage flying against the wall as the staff fell down which Rainbow then rushed to catch only for a spell to shock Rainbow sending her back into a wall "You're never gonna be able to break the staff!" The abyss mage said "Yes we are!" Twilight reminded Twilight then shot a spell which then got fused with a flame, some ice and electricity as it flashed towards the staff breaking it "Noooo!" The abyss mage called out in defeat "It's over now, you've been defeated!" Kaeya said angrily "How did you escape this place's traps?! They're... So well hidden!" The abyss mage asked in defeat "I have no interests in finding out where you little rascals hide yourselves away but I do want my book back, tell me, how is it that you have the time to conceal your stronghold and apply a magic seal but not to sign out a book in the proper manner?" Lisa asked angrily "You should also tell us why you trapped us all in these nightmare realms" Twilight reminded angrily "And have us rescue these guys?!" Amber reminded angrily "You have no respect whatsoever for other people's work" Lisa said angrily "...You--- You just want... The book? I was unaware that anyone in Mondstadt was concerned with unearthing the secret hidden inside this book... Who... Who are you all?" The abyss mage asked "The librarian, although I believe that should be quite clear already" Lisa reminded angrily "Yeah but don't change the subject for beeswax's sake!" Rainbow ordered angrily "Yeah, return the book, this is an ultimatum" Lisa ordered "Hmph, since you insist on concealing your identity I have all the less reason to give you that book" The abyss mage explained "You're gonna give us that book or else we're gonna have a problem!" Rainbow ordered "Why? I mean, after all, it contains... The secret..." The abyss mage explained Lisa then made an electric sphere and got prepared to shoot lightning at the abyss mage before it gasped in shock and worry "Wh-What are you doing?! Such concentrated elemental power! P---Please don't---" The abyss mage pleaded worriedly "Go ahead Lisa" Lumine suggested And after using up all of Lisa's patience Lisa shot an large shot of electricity at the abyss mage causing it to scream a horrifying sound before it lost consciousness in the ensuing electrical current... "Lisa's so strong..." Lumine said in awe After that Lisa began dusting herself off "Hmph, naughty boys who don't do what they're told need a little punishment to keep them in line" Lisa said "Still, you didn't let them finish speaking..." Kaeya reminded Lisa then sighs in disbelief "This is why I call it troublesome work" Lisa explained "Now what?" Twilight asked "Well, we just need to find the book ourselves, it should be around here somewhere" Lisa explained The group then began walking down the hall before they found a chest which Amber opened "And..." Rainbow started "The book's here!" Amber answered Everyone then began cheering as Paimon turned to the group "It's 'The Pale Princess and the Six Pygmies! Paimon remembers that name, is this the one you were looking for?" Paimon asked "That's the one" Lisa answered as she grabbed the book and flipped through the pages "It's a goood thing it isn't damaged otherwise..." Lisa started "Otherwise what? Are you telling me you have even more crazy punishments up your sleeve?!" Paimon asked angrily "Yeah, we've had a long scary day, right guys?" Twilight asked Everyone then began nodding in agreement while Lisa shook her head in disbelief "I know, I know but I was trying to say that I would probably have needed to dish out a little taste of one of my potions in that case" Lisa explained "Ah!" Paimon and Twilight called out in realization "Then again... As I said it isn't from the restricted section which is the only reason I would let the average citizen borrow it in the first place and it doesn't appear to have any abnormal elemental properties save for the markings I put on it" Lisa explained "Yeah... It seems like just an average storybook" Paimon reminded "Then what did the abyss mage mean about a 'secret'?" Twilight asked "I don't know but as far as my duties as a librarian go, my troublesome work is finished but since this book has piqued your interest why don't I let you borrow it" Lisa suggested Lisa then gave the book to Twilight who levitated it next to her "What's the, um, due date?" Twilight asked worriedly "There's no time limit for you, I will register you as a 'custodian' rathern than a 'borrower'" Lisa explained "Then that means we have all the time in the world to investigate it" Lumine explained "Yes and I'll do my hardest to investigate the source of the secret" Twilight explained "Well, this is an exclusive privilege reserved for trustworthy citizens only" Lisa explained "Exclusive privilege? Why does Paimon feel this is just your sneaky way of offloading your troublesome work onto someone else?" Paimon asked "Excuse me? Are you in some way dissatisfied with my work?" Lisa asked angrily "No we aren't, she just wants a break, I mean, she's still traumatized, right Paimon?" Twilight asked angrily "Yes Paimon is and she's sorry if that sounded rude to you" Paimon apologized "Good, you are amendable to reason them, I do wish I could keep you by my side as my personal assistants..." Lisa said sadly "I hoped so too but don't worry, I'll surely come visit you when I have the chance" Twilight said "Good, anyways my work here is done, I'm going back" Lisa said "Yeah, I have to go back to my job, also Twilight could we have a chat when you return to Mondstadt?" Rainbow asked "Sure Rainbow" Twilight answered "Sweet!" Rainbow said Rainbow then zipped off while Kaeya, Amber and Lisa walked off before Lisa turned back to the trio "Don't forget to register at the library when you have a spare moment" Lisa reminded The trio nodded as Lisa then left with her friends following soon after and when they arrived at Mondstadt Rainbow turned to Twilight "Twilight? Could we have a chat for a moment?" Rainbow asked "Sure" Twilight answered before turning to her friends "You may go ahead, I'll meet up with you in a moment" Twilight said Lumine and Paimon then nodded as the duo walked or flew off while Rainbow turned to Twilight "Twilight, I have a few questions" Rainbow explained "Really? Why's that and how'd you know we were in the cave?" Twilight asked "Somepony told us and that pony looked really familiar to me" Rainbow answered "Huh really?" Twilight asked "Yeah, she was dark colored and had a black crown" Rainbow explained "Oh, that's Princess Luna, the princess of the night, I believe she saw me and my friends being in a tough situation" Twilight explained "Huh? Really? If so how did she do that?" Rainbow asked "By using her magic which she mostly uses during the night" Twilight answered "Oh okay, and when I was in your dream, I met somepony very familiar, like she was a family member of mine or something, she even had a tattoo of a shield and a lightning bolt" Rainbow explained "That was Scootaloo and she's your adoptive sister, she's even a huge fan of yours" Twilight explained "But I never had a sister before and even if I did I don't know if I'll be a good sister to her!" Rainbow explained worriedly "Have you seen Lumine's brother, I know he was disgusting in Lumine's dream but I can tell you already that in real life she's not actually that disgusting, all he is, is lazy and such" Twilight explained "Wait?! Really?! But I don't think Lumine's met her sister before!" Rainbow explained "She does and in fact we're on a mission to search for her and our friends, the truth is we all miss our friends and family and deep down, you do too, I can already her Scootaloo in your heart screaming that she misses you and hopes you return" Twilight explained Rainbow then puts a hoof on her chest only to hear the sounds of the same pony she saw before screaming out of hope that Rainbow would return and when she heard that she puts her hoof down "I feel it and for some reason I feel horrible for leaving her behind" Rainbow explained "To be fair, I feel horrible for leaving the Princesses behind too but at least I'm staying strong, we all are and we hope that we can return back home as soon as possible" Twilight explained "Thanks Twilight, you really are an amazing friend, I'll never forget this" Rainbow said "No worries, now, I'll see you tomorrow" Twilight said "Yeah, later Twi!" Rainbow waved Twilight then walked off as Rainbow could only think of what Twilight said and after a while Twilight arrived back at the headquarters where she saw Jean cleaning up "Hey Jean, how's it going?" Twilight asked "Oh, it's going well Twilight, except a few minutes a go a few pieces of rainbow flames needed to be disintegrated, don't know how that happened" Jean explained "Don't worry, I know you can do it" Twilight said "Thanks Twilight" Jean said Twilight then nodded before entering the headquarters where Lumine and Paimon waited "Finally! What took you so long?!" Paimon asked "Sorry about that Rainbow had a few questions regarding my homeworld" Twilight explained "Oh okay, now if everyone's ready let's go meet up with Lisa" Lumine suggested Twilight and Paimon then nodded as the duo entered the library and when they did Lisa was seen filing the last paperwork before she noticed the trio entering "Ah, you've returned, the paperwork is done, you are now the custodian of this book" Lisa announced "Thank you miss Lisa" Paimon thanked before she began thinking "But Paimon thinks we're forgetting something again" Paimon thought "The Teyvat Travel Guide!" Lumine reminded Lisa then pointed to the shelf with a chuckle "It's right over there silly girls" Lisa reminded Paimon then turned around in shock and sure enough on the shelf where Lisa pointed was the Teyvat Travel Guide "Look, over there on the shelf! Isn't that the Teyvat Travel Guide? And look how many copies there are!" Paimon said in awe "So we went on this mission all for nothing?!" Twilight asked in shock accidentally dropping the book in an instant Lisa then began chuckling a bit "The Teyvat Travel Guide is a serial publication, it is not part of the library's formal collection" Lisa reminded "Oh..." Paimon and Twilight called out in realization "Take one, consider it your compensation for being Lisa's little helper today, with you by my side my troublesome work was a little less dull than usual" Lisa explained "It was more exhilarating than fun!" Twilight said in disbelief "Chillax Twilight, at least we saved another treasure" Lumine reminded "Yeah, you're right" Twilight said Paimon then grunted as she still couldn't believe what happened "The Teyvat Travel Guide was just bait to get us to do a day's work!" Paimon reminded angrily "I hadn't anticipated that a few routine returns inquiries would take us out of the city let alone down into some underground ruins and scary nightmares" Lisa explained with the last part making her shudder a bit before she gave the group a few souvenirs "As compensation for dragging you all into all this bother take these souvenirs" Lisa suggested "Wow, Lisa went and bought us some special souvenirs!" Paimon said happily "In fact they were intended for our next outing but... Nevermind, we can discuss next time's activity when the time comes, I hope you are looking forward to it" Lisa said in happiness "Well we are as long as it doesn't take us to another nightmare cave" Twilight said Lisa then began yawning again while her friends grabbed the Teyvat Travel Guide and when they did they went out of the headquarters only to see Rainbow "Hey girls! I was just about to come get you for therapy!" Rainbow explained "Really?! How'd you apply us for that?!" Twilight asked "Eh, I asked the best people I know and four of them were willing to do it, by the way where's Lisa?" Rainbow asked "She's still in the library, she's even a bit bored by the way" Paimon explained Rainbow then sighed in disbelief "Guess I have to go get her then, why don't you girls wait outside the Therapy Offices right down the street in the meantime" Rainbow said "Sure" Twilight said Afterwards the trio went to the therapy offices place a few ways from the headquarters and when they arrived Paimon could only think in worry "Are you sure it's a good idea to get therapy?" Paimon asked "Yeah, of course it is, I mean, we got trapped in horrifying nightmares, remember?" Lumine asked "Yeah, I don't wanna talk about it, but at least Rainbow and Lisa saved us" Twilight explained "Yeah, can you two tell Paimon what you witnessed though?" Paimon asked Twilight and Lumine then got a little white as Paimon chuckled nervously "I'd rather not" Lumine answered "Same, I know we're friends but yeah, it's really frightening" Twilight answered But before Paimon get another word out Rainbow called out "We're back!" Rainbow called out The trio then turned around and saw Rainbow trotting by with Lisa following close by "I don't get what we're planning on doing but I decided to join in" Lisa explained "We're having therapy duh!" Twilight reminded "Yeah, I thought I told you" Rainbow reminded "Yeah, it's just, I wasn't in the mood to go out, I was still scared and tired from the nightmare" Lisa explained "You don't have to be anymore as we're having therapy right now but if you can't handle it we could always ask Jean to help you" Lumine explained "But I don't want any more people to know about this embarrassing nightmare" Lisa explained "It isn't embarrassing, I mean, sure some nightmares we, especially Paimon have are sometimes embarrassing but that's no reason to go and get more horrifying experiences, that's why Paimon finds it a good idea we get therapy" Paimon explained "Yeah, just be glad Rainbow handled this for all of us" Twilight said Lisa then sighed "Very well" Lisa said in worry The group then entered as they then began their therapy one by one as they all talked about what they experienced in the realm of nightmares with some having terrified looks while speaking and when Lisa was next she stood still "Lisa, are you okay?" Twilight asked Lisa then turned around "Are you sure it's alright, won't she be asking a lot of questions? What if they all get personal and--- and---" Lisa started Rainbow then approached Lisa "Relax Lisa, I know this looks frightening, especially with how frightening some nightmares were but trust me when I say that there's nothing to be afraid of, sure she'll ask a few personal questions just like the rest of them but that's just because she wants to see why you get that nightmare and a horrifying one at that" Rainbow explained "Yeah, but you should've gotten my confirmation first" Lisa reminded "And have you be haunted by the nightmare realm? Of course not, we're gonna give you therapy whether you like it or not so go it there and give it all you've got, also pretend you're speaking to a client and not to a therapist!" Rainbow suggested "Okay, I'll try" Lisa said Lisa then took a deep breath and let it down while her friends let out sounds of 'you got this' before Lisa entered and when Lisa did she told the whole story and such as if she was talking to a client and when she returned her friends could all look in worry before Twilight stepped forward "And, how did it feel?" Twilight asked "Are the memories flooding back or what?" Paimon asked Lisa then sighed before she smiled "It worked, though the therapist said I would need therapists for a few more months seeing as the trauma haunted me more than you guys but I can still smell the air of relief right now" Lisa said Her friends then cheered before they ran in to hug Lisa who hugged them back and as soon as they were done the group left as Jean walked by "Hi girls, are you feeling a little better?" Jean asked "Better than never! Thanks Rainbow, we really needed it" Twilight thanked "Don't sweat it, after what we all saw during your respective nightmares I definitely wanted to help, besides it's not like you wanted to lose hope after seeing these nightmares, right?" Rainbow asked Paimon then chuckled nervously "N-No! Definitely not!" Paimon said "Well that's a relief since Rainbow told me everything so that's why I helped her with handling thes stuff" Jean explained "WHAT?!" The group gasped in shock Jean chuckled a bit "Guess you girls did lose a bit of hope after all when seeing these nightmares, luckily Rainbow game at the right time, and with her super speed at that" Jean explained "Yeah, though I still need to learn on how to use it, I mean I barely survived a lot of crashes, I might not know this but there may be a few bruises on me right now" Rainbow explained "Rainbow, you found your super speed?!" Twilight asked "Yeah and it's all thanks to what you told me!" Rainbow explained "It doesn't matter, as long as we're both safe right now" Lumine reminded The group then smiled at each other before Jean turned to them "Anyways, I think I should be off now, I'm still busy with my 'Grand Acting Master' duties so if any of you need me just let me know" Jean suggested "Will do Jean!" Twilight said Jean then walked off as Lumine could only look in worry "Did anybody hear her personality crack for a moment?" Lumine asked "I think I did, maybe we should investigate it" Paimon suggested "We'll investigate it tomorrow, for now we all need some rest, thanks again for your help Rainbow" Twilight thanked "Don't sweat it girls, glad I could help!" Rainbow said Rainbow then walked off as Lisa turned to the trio "I think I might as well be going, don't forget to meet me again if you want another 'due books mission' Lisa said "Will do miss Lisa" Paimon said Lisa then smiled before she walked off "Alright, let's go home, we've had a long day" Twilight suggested The other two then nodded as the trio went back to their hotel room as Twilight laid down the books "Should I go get a safe from my room or...?" Lumine asked "No need, during our walk here I used a spell on book in case anyone wants to steal it, that way only we can tough it and no other abyss mage" Twilight answered "And what if an abyss mage does touch it?" Paimon asked "You don't wanna know" Twilight answered "Okay" Lumine said Twilight then picked out a lot of stuff from her new saddlebag alongside the special red gem which was still wrapped making her worried which her friends saw "What's wrong Twilight?" Paimon asked "Nothing, it's just... What if we don't see that green guy again?" Twilight asked "Of course we'll see him again, we still need to ask him about the gem" Lumine reminded "True and besides Paimon thinks this is just the beginning so Paimon doubts the green guy is never gonna appear" Paimon explained "Maybe you're right, what if it's just the beginning and if it is I wonder how long it'll be" Twilight explained "I dunno but Paimon still thinks we're at the 'Prologue' of our story so we still got a long way to go" Paimon explained "Prologue? Don't tell me you're speaking to the non-existant viewers again?" Twilight asked "Maaybe" Paimon answered in a sneakishly tone "Well, that doesn't matter, what matters is that Paimon's right, if we're at this so called 'prologue' we'd still have long way to go until we can find our friends" Lumine explained "True, thanks girls" Twilight explained Meanwhile at another place while Lumine, Twilight and Paimon were talking an abyss mage was looking out the window until it flew to a familiar pony, especially familiar to Twilight and Lumine "Did you find that pony who interrupted Dvalin's sleep?" The pony asked "Yes I did and it looks like she has some new friends, they even kicked their butt against one of the most evil friends of ours, they even killed a lot of hilichurls and arrested Raptor and Izzard forabsolutely no reason, what do you suggest we do, Starlight?" The abyss mage right now "For now we do nothing, let's go meet up with Aether and try and hurt that dragon again with poisonous magic" Starlight suggested "Are you sure you want to do that?" The abyss mage asked "Shut it! Of course I do! They were the ones who interrupted Dvalin and scared off many birds! They deserve to get a lesson so until they learn their lesson we're gonna fight agains them and gather more allies, I mean we already have a lot, don't we?" Starlight asked "Oh yeah, we do those fools that call themselves 'the Fatui' despite them being the very opposite of us mages" The abyss mage explained "That's right and even if you don't like it, we're better than them, we just gotta find a way to get all the gods' gnosses, now come on, we're almost late to meet with Aether" Starlight explained "Yes boss" The abyss mage said And with that both the abyss mage and Starlight left Mondstadt's city grounds as nobody saw them leaving, not even Twilight and her friends who kept on talking and doing what they could for the next few hours or the Knights and Guards of Favonius as they were all busy protecting and doing what they do best for the rest of the month as nobody had anything fun to do as the next few days were a little less eventful > Episode 8: The Crystal of Unknown Power > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- A few days later the trio were finished with their picnic as they went back on their way home only to see two people chatting making them hide as they secretly looked "Isn't that Jean?" Paimon asked "It sure is but who's that girl next to her?" Twilight asked The two others then could only mutter sounds of 'I don't know who she is' or 'Where did she come from' or whatever else until Paimon shut the two up by putting a hand on their mouths "Seems she's talking to someone..." Paimon reminded "We'd better listen in carefully, and no one make a sound just like last time" Lumine ordered "Wasn't it you that made that sound?" Twilight asked "I know but still" Lumine said "I agree, let's listen to her finish and then go say hi" Paimon agreed The trio then listened carefully as they heard them speaking "...Which is what has brought us to this point in the first place, if you're unable to promptly deal with the Stormterror threat then leave the defense of Mondstadt to the Fatui, we can put an end to Mondstadt's dragon issues, all we need to do is bring that monster to the---" The girl started Jean then scoffed before turning angrily at the girl "'Monster'?" Jean asked angrily "Yes, what's your point?" The girl asked "Ah... I'd expect a more professional attitude from your diplomats yet here you are saying you want to 'put an end' to one of the Four Winds of Mondstadt? I won't have any of this nonsense in front of the Knights of Favonius" Jean said angrily The girl then began laughing a bit "It's not as crazy as you make it sound, fine, that's enough negotiating for today, at this stage it's simply... An amicable exchange of constructive opinions, no? I'll be sure to make... Thorough notes..." The girl said Afterwards the girl walked off as Jean could only look at her angrily before she noticed her friends coming in worry "Oh, girls, you're back" Jean said in relief "Thanks for your help the last few days, the elemental flow is finally stable, the aftermath of Stormterror's last attack is finally settled for the moment, however, the pressure from the delegation has become too big to be ignored..." Jean explained "Delegation?" Paimon asked "What are you talking about?" Twilight asked "Are you talking from 'Liyue Harbor' or 'Inazuma City'?" Paimon asked "Snezhnaya, they choose to follow the God of Cyro, their envoys go by a particular name: 'The Fatui', heard of them?" Jean asked "No we didn't" Twilight answered Paimon did as she gasped in realization "Oh, them, they are super famous" Paimon said in disbelief before she shook it off "Wait, infamous is more the word..." Paimon explained worriedly "I don't think killing Stormterror is the right course of action, the Cryo God's Fatui have always coveted the Anemo God's power, I don't believe they have Mondstadt's best interests at heart" Jean explained "Speaking of power..." Lumine started "What is it Lumine?" Jean asked "There's something we found the need to show the Knights of Favonius" Lumine explained "Oh? Let us head back to the headquarters then, we shouldn't discuss important matters... Out in the open" Jean suggested "You're right, let's go girls" Twilight suggested The four then began walking (Or flying in Paimon's case) while Jean turned to the trio "So what's the difference between Mondstadt and Snezhnaya "Mondstadt and Snezhnaya are considered the same in status, Mondstadt is independant and does not belong to any other nation, in fact despite being referred to as a city Mondstadt is a nation, though Snezhnaya's Fatui are known to be the most aggressive diplomats" Jean explained "Makes sense given the tone of that woman just now, so rude!" Paimon said angrily "I agree but hopefully we don't see her again" Twilight said The four then entered the office where Lisa was waiting for them until they arrived "Twilight, if you could?" Lumine asked "Sure" Twilight said Twilight then pulled out the covered up crystal and removed the cover which the group then noticed as a red crystal "This is what we found back in the 'Whispering Woods' I believe" Paimon explained "It's a crystal embedded with some kind of power..." Jean explained before she turned to Lisa who was analyzing it a bit "Lisa, are you able to analyze it?" Jean asked "Let me take a look..." Lisa suggested as she approached a little closer "Hmm... I can see impurities in the crystal but upon further inspection..." Lisa started before turning to the girls "No, I'm sorry, I can't make a proper analysis at the moment, give me some time, I'll take a look through the library's restricted section" Lisa suggested "Right, I'll leave the research to you then Lisa" Jean said "Understood, I'll notify you all if I make any progress" Lisa said "Thanks Lisa, you're a great help" Twilight thanked "Though, I wouldn't go getting your hopes up, they are incredibly ancient texts, not to mentio---" Lisa started while she went to go grab the crystal only to get burned a bit "Ouch!" Lisa called out Twilight then rushed to Lisa's aid "Are you okay?!" Twilight asked in shock and worry "Gosh that hurt!" Lisa said in pain Twilight then checked the crystal in confusion again "That's weird, it didn't hurt while I wrapped it in my magic" Twilight explained in confusion "Or when I held it in a leaf bag" Lumine said in confusion "The impurities on the crystal... It hurts when I get close..." Lisa explained, still in pain "I'll go get some bandaid" Lumine said "I can teleport stuff, remember?" Twilight asked "Right" Lumine realized Twilight then teleported a bandaid and some ointment which she put on Lisa's hand before wrapping a bandaid over the burnt hand "There, is it better?" Twilight asked "Yeah, I'm fine, thanks Twilight" Lisa thanked before turning to the crystal again "I see... It appears to react to Vision and non touches, the impurities and the elemental energy we embody repel each other" Lisa explained before she and Jean turned to Twilight, Lumine and Paimon "It's strange though, you two have elemental abilities as well, don't you two?" Lisa asked as Lumine and Twilight nodded "Then why aren't you girls affected in the same way?" Lisa asked "I don't know" Twilight answered "Same here, Paimon doesn't know either, right Paimon?" Lumine asked "Yeah" Paimon answered "Anyway, the crystal would be better left in the hands of my friends, it will just be a pain if left with us, both literally and figuratively" Lisa explained "Don't worry, we'll figure out the source our way" Twilight said "Yeah, we'll use whatever we have to figure it out together, right girls?" Lumine asked Paimon and Twilight then nodded "...Facinating, do you two know anything about what makes you both special?" Jean asked "Well, I do have a Cutie Mark which signals the fact I'm talented at magic and I used to be an alicorn before the incident that I do not wanna speak of" Twilight explained "What about you Lumine?" Jean asked "I don't know, all I did was touch a statue and some magic flew inside me, I still don't know how to activate it though" Lumine explained "I do not know what to make of it either" Jean apologized before she turned to Lisa who nodded giving her an idea as she turned back to the trio "Well then girls... The Knights of Favonius have another favor to ask of you" Jean explained "Sure, anything for you miss" Twilight said "Please accept the title of Honorary Knights... And the gratitude of the Acting Grand Master" Jean said "Really?!" Lumine asked in shock "Honorary Knights... Of Favonius?!" Paimon asked in shock and disbelief Jean then nodded which made the trio cheer a bit in excitement that they could do whatever they could to protect a country once more "We ask for your continued assistance in finding some answers, Stormterror's rage... And strange crystals... I know Mondstadt's peace hangs in the balance, may the wind open your eyes to the truth" Jean said in happiness "Don't worry Jean, we'll protect Mondstadt harder than ever before!" Twilight announced "Very well, we'll meet back here if you find anything" Jean suggested The trio then went out of the Knights of Favonius headquarters as they approached the stairs ready to start their next investigation and when they got near the stairs Paimon turned to the two of them with worried expressions "There's something you didn't tell them, the dragon and the crystal weren't the only things we saw" Paimon reminded "We'd like to investigate that on our own first" Lumine reminded "Yeah, I mean, what if that guy isn't actually that bad like you told us, what if he's just angry we interrupted his chat" Twilight reminded "So you two do remember him, that green guy" Paimon explained before turning around as she saw the green guy running off "He looks just like that guy down there!" Paimon called out Twilight and Lumine then turned around as they saw the same guy running away "The exact shade of green, what a coincidence" Lumine said in shock "See? See?" Paimon asked in excitement "But what if it is the guy we saw! We can't let him run loose without some answers! We have to stop him! Come on!" Twilight called out "Wait... Hold on a minute... What if you're right..." Paimon said in confusion before she realized it too "That's the guy!" Paimon realized The two then ran down the stairs and after the guy only to notice he disappeared "That green guy disappeared!" Paimon called out "Typical hero techniques, when someone wants to get his identity he teleports off so no one can see him, I should know, some of us did that too back in Equestria" Twilight explained "You did?!" Lumine asked "Doesn't matter, girls, use elemental sight to track them down" Paimon suggested Twilight then activated a spell which made footsteps appear which the group then followed and as soon as they arrived at the top of the mountain they heard music playing as they slowly approached the statue alongside some other people and when they did they could hear the same guy from a lot of Episodes ago playing the harp before he began speaking "What is to be sung transpired in days of yore when the divine archons still walked the earth, a dragon cast his curious gaze on the world below as he parted from the heavens that gave his birth, the dragon sought truth amongst common folk but mortal triffles fogged his mind, the windborne bard strummed his strings dolce and the Holy Lyre answered his questions kind, the dragon was but a child full of wonder and soared the heavens free from care, the bard's songs invited him to sing along for he yearned to let all perceive him fair, enchanted legends the bard and dragon were but the tides of despair soon engulfed the land, the lion fang perished and the falcon flag slept as a vile dragon approached Mondstadt in lone stand, over the Cathedral loomed death and his friends, of the people's agony the bard soon sang, the soaring dragon heeded his grave calls and amidst the windstorms a brutal war sprang, blood of venom sent the sky dragon into slumber only to awake to be expelled in abhor 'Why do people in this age loathe me so?' but the Holy Lyre replied no more, wrath and woe, vigor and venom, poured from the dragon's bitter eyes, the dragon's curse sprawled in silence but the Lyre could no longer soothe his cries" The guy told After his story everyone clapped before leaving except for the trio that had been searching for him "We want to talk!" Twilight said in disbelief The guy then gasped in shock, worry and disbelief "Wait, you guys are..." The guy started "We were the ones you saw a while back, we're still sorry about that" Twilight said "Oh, that's right! You're the ones who that scared Dvalin away" The guy realized "Dvalin? Who's that?" Paimon asked "Remember, the book Rainbow gave us told us about Dvalin" Twilight reminded "Oh, true" Paimon realized "So you're saying that that's Stormterror's real name?" Lumine asked "Yeah, I did some research on that and asked a few residents and in fact they said it was true, just the name though they didn't know anything else or were too frightened to speak" Twilight explained "Huh?" Paimon asked before gasping in realization "Oh, right, most people seem to call him 'Stormterror'" Paimon realized "Yeah but it seems he doesn't" Twilight explained "Right..." Paimon said before he turned to the guy "Why do you call him that... Are you two meant to be close or something?" Paimon asked "Oh, so close..." The guy answered with a reassuring smile "Hey girls, Paimon thinks this guy has a screw loose..." Paimon reminded "I don't think he does" Twilight explained before turning back to the guy "What's your name by the way?" Twilight asked "I'm Venti the bard, three time winner of the 'Most Popular Bard of Mondstadt' to be precise, so, what do you need from me?" Venti asked "Given you recognise us Paimon doesn't believe we need to explain any further, of course it's about Stormterror" Paimon reminded "Storm...?" Venti thought in confusion "Hey! Cut it with the amnesia act!" Paimon ordered "Yeah! Just answer the question!" Twilight ordered "But I don't know what you're talking about!" Venti explained "Very well, Lumine, show it to him" Paimon suggested Lumine then pulled out what was once the corrupted tear which shocked Venti "Oh! Isn't this---?!" Venti started Just then the trio did a double take an "Wait, what just happened to---?!" Twilight started in shock and confusion "What?! The crystal has been purified?! When?" Paimon asked in shock Lumine then turned to the trio in confusion "I don't know what just happened, all I know is that I didn't put it in a bag of some kind but I held it!" Lumine explained in confusion "That's weird because the last time I checked, it was full of impurities" Twilight said also in confusion "Doesn't matter as long as Venti saw it!" Paimon explained "Dvalin, he... The anguish he feels... Has brought him to tears... " Venti explained sadly "Tears...?" Paimon asked in confusion "You call this crystal a tear?!" Twilight asked in shock and confusion Venti then pulled out an impurified crystal which he looked at in sadnesss while speaking "He was once such a gentle giant, now so full of rage and suffering..." Venti explained sadly before Twilight got confused "Is that---?!" Twilight started in shock and confusion "I also came across a Teardrop Crystal, can any of you try and purify it?" Venti asked Lumine then looked at both her friends who then nodded, ready to see how it happened before Lumine took the crystal in one hand and puts another hand on the top before charging it with magic until the tear floated for a moment making Lumine remove the upper hand causing it to fly in the air for a moment and change it's color before flying back into Lumine's hand "Wow!" Twilight called out in awe "Ehhhh?!" Paimon gasped in shock and disbelief "You can't believe it's real, can you Paimon?" Twilight asked "Of course it's real, I'm just shocked is all" Paimon answered Venti then smiled for a moment at the duo making them focus again before he turned to Lumine "You... Really do have some wonderful abilities... Someone like you is going to end up written into a bard's poem, oh, a hero so bright should he stand in the light, though stand in the shade and you'll be met by a blade..." Venti started before rubbing the back of his head nervously "Alas... I don't really have the time to compose a melody for you at this moment" Venti said nervously "That's fine Venti, you can do it later" Twilight suggested Venti then smiled a bit at Twilight before he looked down sadly "Even if Dvalin is not taken down his life will still wither away in the breeze... He'll burn himself out in the flames of anger..." Venti said sadly "Is there anything we can do to help?" Lumine asked Venti then turned to Lumine and smiled a bit "Well, I must thank you for purifying the Teardrop Crystal, it has helped me greatly but I've already come to devise my own plan" Venti explained "Oh? And what plan would that be?" Paimon asked "Well, seeing this tear has brought to mind a friend so dear" Venti explained "Friend?" Paimon asked in confusion "Who are they?" Twilight asked Venti ignored their question and laughed a bit before smiling at them "One must be going" Venti said Venti then wanted to run before Paimon flew in front of him "Hey! Where're you running off to?!" Paimon asked angrily "To the 'Symbol of Mondstadt's hero', bye bye!" Venti said Venti then rushed off which accidentally blew Paimon to the side as she continued to spin before Lumine ran in front of her and stopped the spin with her chest causing Paimon to pant before turning to Lumine "Thanks!" Paimon thanked "No worries" Lumine said Paimon then flew out of Lumine's chest before she turned to her friends "By the way... Girls, what do you make of that?" Paimon asked "This 'weirdo' as you put it, we need to keep an eye on him..." Lumine explained "I agree, there's something very suspicious about him that I can't put a finger on" Twilight agreed "Well, as far as he's concerned, you're a weirdo too, y'know Twilight?" Paimon asked "You know, you're a weirdo too, I mean you're the only human that flies in this world outside of Rainbow!" Twilight reminded angrily "Excuse me?! I am not a weirdo, you are! You are a literal horse!" Paimon reminded angrily Twilight then gasped "Are you serious right now, I'm a pony! Not a horse! So why don't you shut your trap about---!" Twilight started angrily Lumine then rushed in between the duo and split them up "Alright, that's enough girls, we have more danger other than Venti, Stormterror will be coming back to get his revenge and all you do is fight just because Paimon called Twilight a weirdo?!" Lumine asked angrily "Yeah, she's right so shut up or I'm gonna use a spell on you that can literally shut you up for years!" Twilight reminded angrily Afterwards the duo glared daggers at each other until Rainbow came in "So, uh, hi girls did any---" Rainbow started The trio then turned to Rainbow angrily and yelled "WHAT?!" The trio yelled angrily "Jeez, who died and made you angry at each other?" Rainbow asked The trio then calmed down "Sorry about that Rainbow, there was just a little argument, right Paimon?" Twilight asked with the last two wordshaving her glare at Paimom "Yes, that's right" Paimon said glaring back "Oh okay, so have you seen a green guy running around here?" Rainbow asked "Yes we did but he went to the symbol of Mondstadt heroes, sorry we couldn't stop him" Twilight answered "Nah, don't sweat it, I'll go ahead with you two in search for him, I mean you three speak highly of him so I'd be willing to meet him!" Rainbow explained "Oh okay" Twilight said "Still you know, his voice seemed familiar" Lumine explained Paimon and Twilight then looked at each other in shock and confusion before they started walking off after Rainbow as Lumine went after him "Familiar? I don't know... You're alone on that one..." Paimon said "Ugh! At least be trustful with her thoughts!" Twilight suggested angrily "Whatever" Paimon said before turning to the trio "But did he just say 'Symbol of Mondstadt Heroes'? What could that be?" Paimon asked "I don't know Paimon, maybe Rainbow knows" Lumine explained "Pssh! Of course I do! I know all of Mondstadt at the back of my hoof!" Rainbow explained "Very well, lead the way" Twilight said Just then Paimon realized "Oh Paimon believes she know where Venti is! It's that huge tree" Paimon explained "What tree?" Twilight asked "You know, the gigantic one! You can't miss it, surely you still remember!" Paimon reminded Twilight and Lumine then turned to each other in confusion before back at Paimon "Very well, if you're that sure lead the way" Lumine said "Alright then, change of plans first we'll go to that tree and see if he's there if not we'll go to the symbol of Mondstadt hero" Rainbow said The trio then nodded as Paimon lead them the way and after a while they arrived and when they did, they saw Venti staring at the tree "Hey Venti, we're back!" Twilight waved Venti then turned around in shock before smiling at the trio "Oh? What are you four doing here?" Venti asked "Well, I just wanted to meet you, I'm Rainbow Dash, guard of the Knights of Favonius" Rainbow introduced "Nice to meet you Rainbow, I'm Venti, if you need to know anything about Dvalin just let me know" Venti suggested "On it!" Rainbow said before she backed off towards the rest of her friends "Anyways, I was just wondering if you would have happened to follow me...?" Venti asked "Yeah we did, sorry but we want to know more about the Anemo God" Lumine explained "You speak of the God of Anemo, Barbatos?" Venti asked which made the trio look at each other in confusion before turning back to Venti and nodded "He already disappeared from Mondstadt a long time ago" Venti explained "He did?!" Twilight and Lumine asked in shock and confusion "Yeah but Liyue and Inazuma's respective gods of Geo and Electro are still present except Mondstadt has seen many a moon ever since they last saw their own god" Venti explained before turning to Lumine "Why do you wish to know about the God of Anemo? Does it have something to do with Dvalin?" Venti asked Afterwards Paimon began stuttering nervously "Oh... Ahhh... It's because gods..." Paimon stuttered nervously "Not again, why don't you tell her Lumine, I think she's stuck in her brainless mind" Twilight suggested in disbelief "Are we gonna start the argument again?!" Paimon asked "No, just calm down!" Rainbow suggested "Anyways, someone told me about Dvalin's past" Lumine explained "Actually, they showed us" Twilight answered "And it was me after I got it from Lisa" Rainbow explained After saying that her friends glared for a moment making her confused before they turned back to Venti who could only look in disbelief "Just how is it that everyone sees Stormterror?" Venti asked before looking at her friends with a wondering glance "I'm quite curious" Venti explained "Well---" Twilight started before Venti interrupted "That said, there's no need to rush..." Venti reminded before sighing in disbelief "I have not been back in a while, it seems there are a few who are unhappy with my arrival" Venti explained The trio then turned back to Mondstadt before they noticed a creature floating by "The wind... I can't... Open my eyes..." Paimon explained The group then turned to the creature "What is a creature like that doing out here in such a calm place?" Paimon asked "I'm not sure" Twilight anwered "You think it was going after that green guy?" Lumine asked Paimon sighed in disbelief "Lumine... His relationship with the wind seems even deeper than yours..." Paimon reminded "True, but how will we beat it?!" Rainbow asked "I know, use whatever skills we have!" Twilight said "On it!" Rainbow said Rainbow then rushed to the creature ready to poke it only to get sent flying towards a tree by the spinning wind making the group worried as Twilight and Paimon got mad before they went to opposite sides and shot a bunch of lightning which then began shooting everywhere, even one got towards Rainbow making her give a loud 'Yelp!' while the others ducked before the lightnings were gone as Twilight and Paimon turned to Lumine "Lumine! You have to help us, you have the power of the Anemo God! Use it!" Twilight ordered "B-But, I can't!" Lumine called out "You have to, focus all your might on the creature and shoot a gust of wind, tornado or whatever the heck!" Paimon ordered "Okay!" Lumine said Lumine then threw her hands forward as a small gust of wind appeared "You can do that?! Lame! Make something mighty to beat it!" Rainbow Lumine then turned angrily at Rainbow which caused her hands to move Rainbow sideways with a strong gust of wind "I know...!" Lumine called out before she saw Rainbow on the ground grunting "My bad" Lumine said before turning to her hands which were still in green powers "I think I know how it works" Lumine said before she approached the creature from the side "Hey you! Is your ass still okay?! Wait, you don't have an ass!" Lumine reminded The creature then turned around as it began hissing through it's eye making Lumine gulp while Rainbow sat back up to look at the duo "Oh great! She's gonna doom us all!" Rainbow said The creature then raced towards her while Lumine clenched her fists tightly as a gust of wind surrounds the bottom of the ground and circles around her before she threw her arms forward causing a large tornado to appear and sent the wind flying as it tried to use a tornado back while Lumine pushed back "Girls! Help me!" Lumine called out Paimon and Twilight then ran or flew next to Lumine and helped her push the wind ball but it didn't work until Venti ran next to the trio and used his super magic strength to help the trio push the wind with the tornado until it broke into pieces before it flew away by the wind which made the trio pant as Rainbow rushed to the trio "That was awesome! Do that again!" Rainbow ordered Lumine then stopped panting as she turned to her friends "Thanks for the help girls" Lumine thanked "No worries Paimon!" Twilight said "Yeah, anything for you" Paimon said "Still, it seems the dragon wasn't the only thing affected by this change in the wind..." Venti said in confusion while looking at the way the creature went before turning back to his saviors "Now then, you were saying someone had told you about the dragon?" Venti asked "Yeah, Lisa did" Rainbow answered "Allow us to explain" Lumine suggested The group then told the full story to Venti and at the end Venti began thinking "Is that so? Quite the scholar I must say, that Lisa" Venti said in awe "I'm also one of these scholars but yeah, you're right" Twilight agreed "Well, she's not wrong, the conflict has reached this point only because both sides have resorted to the use of force, his hate however did not arise from the people not making tribute to The Four Winds, nor was it born from his own nature but instead it came about as a product of his degradation" Venti explained "Degra... dation?" Paimon asked "The black blood flowing through his heart has been torturing him for year, that's what has allowed him to be led astray by the lies of the abyss mage" Venti explained "Seriously?! Another abyss mage?! Haven't we been through enough?!" Paimon asked "Don't worry, for all I know they aren't nightmare thrillers like the one you've seen before" Venti explained "Whew! That's a relief! At least, that's what Paimon thinks!" Paimon explained "Well, I can tell you a little more about them" Venti said "Really?! Then you may go ahead and do so" Twilight said "They are from the Abyss Order, an organization comprised of non-human beings, they despise mankind" Venti explained "What! Why did they hate mankind?!" Lumine asked "I don't know where that came from, all I know is that they hold deep hatred towards the human world, many hilichurls out in the wild take orders from them and act as their weapon, before arriving here, I too was like Dvalin cursed and left to waste but now before us stands the Symbol of Mondstadt's Hero, the place from which Mondstadt rose, the wind amongst the branches is good, I love the way it smells... Being here with you girls beneath this great tree feels like when the tear was purified earlier, like the poison is leaving my body..." Venti explained Venti then sat down as he looked at the shining sun while Twilight used her magic to make the purification move faster and when that was done she helped Venti up "There, is it better now?" Twilight asked "Mmmmmmm... Yeah, it feels much better" Venti answered "That's a relief" Paimon said in relief "So... Hox exactly did you get poisoned?" Lumine asked "Yeah, that's what I wanna know too" Rainbow said "Ahh... That would be because I tried to communicate with Dvalin earlier but was... Interrupted..." Venti apologized "And we're still sorry about that" Twilight reminded "No worries but as a result not only did I manage to help Dvalin break his curse but instead was also infected myself!" Venti explained "Oh, that explains why you were mad at us, see Twilight, he's totally trust worthy" Paimon said "Yeah, yeah, we had that talk before" Twilight reminded "But to make up for it girls, you're coming with me to the Cathedral!" Venti reminded The Mondstadt Cathedral? To do what exactly?" Paimon asked "To claim a certain 'Holy Lyre der Himmel'" Venti explained "Huh?!" The group said in confusion Venti then walked off as the group slowly followed after him in confusion and when they arrived at the Cathedral Venti turned to the group expecting some questions "So this... 'Holy Lyre der Himmel' is..." Paimon started "One of the most treasured items in Mondstadt, it's the Lyre that Barbatos used to play, with it perhaps I can help Dvalin draw his gentle nature back out of this nightmare he's going through" Venti explained "Will it really stop Stormterror from causing more damage?" Paimon asked "Of course, I'm the best bard in the world, there's not a single song I do not know, no matter if it's from the past, present or future, look me in the eyes, do you not find me trustworthy?" Venti asked worriedly "What?! Of course we do, we're just a bit worried that we'll get caught, I mean, we're the honorary Knights of Favonius" Twilight reminded 'And I'm an actual guard for the Knights of Favonius" Rainbow reminded "We won't if we're smart, I promise" Venti said "So how can we get the Holy Lyre?" Paimon asked "It's said that it's enshrined deep within the Cathedral, somewhere safe, I'll go take a look around, you can come if you want" Venti suggested before walking in as the four took nervous glances at each other before they went in after him and when they almost got to the center Venty turned to the group "Let me handle this" Venti suggested before she turned to one of the nuns "Hello there sister" Venti greeted Afterwards the other nun turned around with a smile "May the Anemo God bless you young bard, how can I help you?" The nun asked "Actually, I know a secret that can save Mondstadt from its current predicament" Venti explained "Oh, what a blessing from the God of Anemo!" The nun said in shock and relief before getting confused "But you should report that to the Knights of Favonius, why have you come to me?" The nun asked "Hahaha, because you, dear sister, are able to help!" Venti answered before pointing to the slightly open door "I'd like to borrow... The Holy Lyre, with it I'll be able to help Stormterror---" Venti explained before getting interrupted "Please see yourselves out" The nun ordered "What?!" Venti gasped in shock "It's a vicious dragon indeed but once the Acting Grand Master makes up her mind nothing can stand in the Knights' way" The nun reminded "That's simply not acceptable, wouldn't Stormterror end up getting killed that way?" Venti asked angrily "That foolish beast betrayed the winds, not even the God of Anemo themselves would forgive it!" The nun reminded "Wow..." Venti said in awe while thinking before putting his hands in a pleading position "Please, I beg of you!" Venti pleaded "I'm afraid not little bard" The nun said angrily before she began thinking "Strange... Somehow I feel so bad rejecting this sweet child..." The nun thought "Then... I guess I'm left with no other choice, I cannot hide anymore! My disciples, rejoice! Behold the God of Anemo Barbatos has descended!" Venti announced before crossing his arms with a pride smile "Shocked aren't you? Don't you just want to cry out and rejoice? How does it feel to finally meet the god you've been serving?" Venti asked The nun then rolled her eyes in disbelief "If there's nothing else I'll be going back to handle the Cathedral's paperwork now" The nun reminded "Wait---" Venti started But the nun ignored him and walked off as Venti turned to his friends "So much for doing this yourself Venti" Twilight said "Hahaha, very funny" Venti said sarcastically before sighing in defeat "She didn't even bat an eyelid" Venti said in disbelief "Relax, I'm sure your time will come soon" Lumine said "Thanks Lumine" Venti thanked before realizing something "But I have at least learned what I wanted to know" Venti said "Really?!" Rainbow asked in shock and confusion "She didn't deny that the Cathedral is enshrining the Holy Lyre" Venti explained before turning to Twilight and Lumine "Now Lumine, Twilight, since you're both the hotshot of the Knights of Favonius... Maybe you can give it a shot" Venti reminded "Fine, let us try it out" Twilight suggested "Though we'll warn you that we might come back empty handed so do not worry" Lumine suggested "Don't worry, there's always a Plan C" Venti said Twilight and Lumine then turned to each other before shrugging and when they did they went towards the nun who was filing some paperwork from the Cathedral "Barbatos blesses you" The nun said "Hi and thank you, I'm Twilight Sparkle and this is Lumine and we're the Honorary Knights of Favonius" Twilight greeted "I know you, you and Amber saved Mondstadt that day" The nun realized before getting confused "So what brings you here? Tasks from the Acting Grand Master?" The nun asked "Yes, actually, the Knights of Favonius would like to borrow the Holy Lyre..." Lumine answered "Is that so?" The nun asked "Why do you ask? Don't you trust us?" Twilight asked "Well, it's not that I don't trust you, it's just that a suspicious bard came looking to borrow the Holy Lyre as well" The nun explained "Really?! We didn't see him" Lumine said "Yeah, sorry but we'll investigate it for you" Twilight said "Thanks, I'll explain a bit about him, he's full of nonsense and even called himself Barbatos, he must be up to something" The nun explained "Really?! Is there any regulations for the Holy Lyre that he might not have known of, we can go tell him then" Twilight suggested "Thank you and yes there are regulations in place for the use of the Holy Lyre, currently it's only used in Ludi Harpastum" The num explained before she turned to Lumine "Signed documents from the Grand Master, seneshal and community representative are all required so may I see the document from the Knights of Favonius? "We're sorry, we forgot to bring it here" Lumine apologized "A signed document is required, without it there's not much I can do now if you'll excuse me I really am busy as of late" The nun reminded "Of course sister, we'll be going now" Twilight said The duo then walked back to Paimon and Venti who were talking who then heard their footsteps before turning around "Did it work girls?" Paimon asked "No, we're sorry girls" Lumine apologized "So it didn't work... I knew it" Venti said in defeat "You 'knew it'?" Paimon asked "Then why'd you send us over here then?" Twilight asked angrily "I just wanted to know how influential Lumine and Twilight, the hotshots of the Knights of Favonius, are, you see, the best warrior should always be presented with the best sword and yet here we are..." Venti said in disbelief before turning to the duo with a cocky smile "Does the story not make for a fitting ballad?" Venti asked "No it does not?! Now if you've got better ideas that do not suggest breaking the rules you may tell us or we'll report you!" Twilight said angrily "Yeah, what are you trying to say? That we're not good enough?" Paimon asked angrily "I have to agree with them, you're being awfully suspicious right now" Lumine reminded "No that's not it, more of a commentary regarding Mondstadt's inability to see the warrior standing right before its very eyes" Venti reminded "So what do you suggest mister all mighty?!" Twilight asked angrily "Very well, looks like borrowing it is not going to be possible, we're simply going to have to steal it" Venti suggested "WHAT?!" The trio gasped Afterwards the nuns turned to the trio with a glare before Twilight chuckled nervously alongside Paimon as Lumine turned to them with nervousness "Sorry, we're just shocked" Lumine apologized The nuns then turned around as the trio turned to Venti with a glare "Still, why do you want us to go and steal the Holy Lyre?! Is it really that important?! Are you a thief?!" Twilight asked "Today we stand for free will! Any suggestions on just how we steal it?" Venti asked The trio then glared at Venti who chuckled nervously "Come now, speak up, that's what free will is for" Venti reminded "W don't want to steal anything" Lumine reminded "Yeah!" The Twilight and Paimon agreed angrily "Hahaha, look at you three, sidetracked from the start" Venti said with a laugh "But seriously, you three are more suitable for the job than I" Venti reminded "Aside from singing I don't really have any other talents besides if I was caught I'd have no one to right the grave injustice of my arrest" Venti reminded "How can it be a 'grave injustice' if you got caught stealing red handed?" Paimon asked angrily "But things are different for you three, you are the superstars of the Knights of Favonius, you have made contributions to Mondstadt" Venti reminded "That's different!" Twilight reminded "But should you three get caught you would easily be able to talk your way out of it" Venti reminded "The guards here, it seems they're off duty throughout the night so if we manage to seize this opportunity it should be smooth sailing from here" Venti reminded "Stop mentioning us getting caught!" Paimon ordered angrily "Yeah, and besides what kind of Knight would we be if we did this! Rainbow might never trust me again!" Twilight reminded angrily "So girls... What do you say?" Venti asked "I'm sorry---" Lumine started before she realized something "Wait... Did you just say... You're barbatos..." Lumine realized "Now that you mention it, he did say that while speaking to the nun" Paimon realized "Yeah, I agree" Twilight realized "Ah yes, seems I did mention that... Your point being?" Venti asked "If you really are a god then we can't simply abandon you" Lumine said "What?! Are you saying that you're agreeing with this thief?! There has to be another way!" Twilight reminded "I kinda have to agree with her you know" Paimon agreed "You too Paimon?!" Twilight asked in shock before sighing in disbelief "Guess I'm outvoted" Twilight said before angrily turning to Venti "We'll do it but if something goes wrong, you're to blame!" Twilight said angrily "Still, why do you need to work with gods?" Venti asked "Paimon'll fill you in on Lumine's background story when we get the time..." Paimon said "And if you're not a god then I'll help Dvalin anyway" Lumine said "Huh?" Venti asked in shock and confusion "We will bring you the Holy Lyre der Himmel" Lumine said "Thanks guys" Venti thanked The four then split up as the heroes went back home to prepare themselves while Venti went back to his favorite tree to calm his spirit before the break in > Episode 9: Barbatos and the Holy Lyre der Himmel Part 1 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- While the trio were back in their hotel room they were waiting until Rainbow rushed in "What's going on girls? I got a letter saying you needed me!" Rainbow said "We didn't---" Lumine started before turning to Twilight "Did you send her a letter?" Lumine asked "Yes, and for a good idea" Twilight said "Is there something I'm missing right now?" Rainbow asked "No, well, there is something you missed and it is a little weird and terrible" Twilight explained "Did you get under attack again?! Did somebody get hurt?!" Rainbow asked "No! Nobody did! But we do need help with something you won't like" Twilight said "Oh... Just tell me what it is" Rainbow suggested "We're about to break in the Cathedral to get the Holy Lyre der Himmel for Barbatos" Twilight explained "No, just no! I won't let it happen! And besides gods stay in the clouds! They never come here!" Rainbow reminded "But---" Twilight started "Let me guess, it's that green guy you saw before?" Rainbow asked "Yeah, I didn't want to do it but Lumine and Paimon wanted to so that's why I joined in" Twilight said "And you didn't give them your thoughts about it?!" Rainbow asked "I tried to but all they thought about was I'm gonna help this 'god'" Twilight explained Rainbow then sighed in disbelief "I would have to tell the Knights of Favonius about the trouble you're in but since you're sure this is a god with good reasons I'll allow it" Rainbow said "Thanks Rainbow" Twilight said "No worries but if something goes wrong, you're to blame!" Rainbow said angrily "That's why I wanted you to guard the outside of the cathedral" Twilight explained "But are you sure you won't get caught?" Rainbow asked "I won't, I promise, now it's almost time so we should go" Twilight said "Alright then, let's giddy up!" Rainbow said The two then met back up with Paimon and Lumine as the four rushed to the Cathedral where they met with Venti "Alright, we'll be going, Rainbow, you'll keep watch" Venti suggested "Aye, aye captain!" Rainbow called out "Alright then, let's get going" Twilight said Afterwards the duo went through the spinning door to the basement and when they arrived below they got to the other side "Okay, let's be sneaky, no one make any sound" Lumine suggested The group then nodded before they sneaked their way over to the other side of the room and when they arrived at the other side they reached the Holy Lyre but when they were about to grab it somebody rushed by causing the four to gasp in shock "Who're you?!" Paimon asked "You got some nerve for sneaking in to steal the Holy Lyre without a reason!" Twilight reminded "No, it is you who does" The person said After saying that Twilight gasped in shock before she blushed in nervousness "Ignore that, just get her!" Lumine ordered Afterwards the trio rushed to the person who teleported away before they could get him causing them to land to the ground with a spin as Paimon looked around in shock and worry "She... Disappeared?!" Paimon gasped in shock "Oh no, no, no! This can't be good! Quick, we gotta go before they---" Twilight started Just then somebody rushed by and called out "Freeze!" A Knight of Favonius called out "Caught us" Twilight said in disbelief Lumine then turned to Twilight "Leave it to us" Lumine suggested The duo then stepped forward "What are you doing here?!" The Knight of Favonius asked angrily Paimon then gasped in shock as she knew the plan they were gonna use wasn't gonna work "Oh no! Run!" Paimon called out Lumine, Paimon and Twilight then ran off in fright Meanwhile Rainbow and Venti were sitting on the railing and talkingtalking "So uh... What were you up to when they went to get me?" Rainbow asked "Well, you see---" Venti started Just then Twilight, Lumine and Paimon were heard running off in fright "Oh nooooo..." Paimon called out After calling that out Venti and Rainbow turned around to see them running "What happened?!" Rainbow asked "We're busted! Run!" Paimon called out After calling that out Rainbow and Venti jumped up as they turned to their friends "What?! Follow me!" Venti ordered Venti then led the group towards the tavern Meanwhile the bartender talking to a guy with a white blouse with yellow buttons and a black and brown jacket on top which also had a black and red pin of sorts on top, dark gray pants with a black belt on one leg and black boots "Master Diluc, this is this week's accounts" The bartender explained The guy named Diluc then began thinking "Hmm... The disaster has greatly affected business" Diluc thought "Well, let's hope it all ends soon" The bartender suggested Just then the group entered as Diluc and the bartender turned to them "Hi, we'd like a seat at your, uhh... Least conspicuous table" Venti suggested "Umm... The second floor has fewer customers, you'd be less conspicuous up there..." Diluc explained "Thanks mister... Uh..." Twilight started "Diluc" Diluc answered as the five went towards the table only for Diluc to call out to them "But aren't you a bard Venti? Why not sit front and center?" Diluc asked Venti then chuckled nervously "Hahaha, let's save the paid performance for next time, we'll be heading up now, see you in a bit" Venti waved The five then rushed upstairs as Diluc then turned to the guy at the bar "Keep an eye on them, there's something strange about that bard, I'll go ask around" Diluc ordered "Ask who exactly?" The guy at the bar asked "The 'protectors' of Mondstadt..." Diluc answered But just then two Knights of Favonius guards walked into the room "Ah, Master Diluc, have you seen two thieves around?" A Knight of Favonius guard asked "What happened? Why have you mobilized so many guards?" Diluc asked "Haven't you heard master Diluc? Two thieves were trying to steal the Holy Lyre!" A Knight of Favonius guard reminded "Oh? How odd" Diluc thought "Isn't it? The Holy Lyre is a treasure that was played by the God of Anemo themselves, such a precious piece of cultural heritage" A Knight of Favonius guard explained "Why would one want to steal something they can't sell off? It would pay better to steal from my cellars..." Diluc reminded "Huh?" A Knight of Favonius guard asked in confusion "Sorry, off topic" Diluc apologized before leading them outside "I believe they headed that way" Diluc explained while pointing to a side outside "Understood, thank you master Diluc!" A Knight of Favonius guard thanked The two guards then walked off and when the five heard the door close they went back to master Diluc as they sighed in relief "Thanks for the help master Diluc" Rainbow thanked Venti meanwhile stole a bottle from the counter which Diluc noticed "Today, I think I'll have a glass of---" Venti started "You can put down that bottle you stole from behind the counter" Diluc ordered "---Something cold" Venti finished in defeat "Right" Diluc said before turning to the group "Now that, that's out of the way, I want answers" Diluc ordered "Lemme finish my drink first? I'll pay you--- well, with a performance" Venti explained Diluc then turned to Venti angrily "It's not about money, you seem too young to be drinking" Diluc reminded "No need to worry, when I started drinking you were still---" Venti started "Actually, who's that..." Lumine explained "Yeah, we'd like to know" Twilight agreed "He is Master Diluc, the boss of... Ah, the owner of this tavern, he's very famous, by the way, his dandelion wine is one of my favorites though most of the time I can only afford a bottle or two..." Venti explained "Yeesh, that's horrible" Twilight said sadly "Let's ignore that for now, I just heard about some thieves from the guards" Diluc reminded in disbelief before giving a smile "For the record I like your guts for trying to steal the Holy Lyre der Himmel" Diluc said "Really?!" Rainbow asked in shock "Of course, even if you are fools... But we don't often get to see people and ponies like you" Diluc explained "It wasn't us that stole it! The real thief is still out there!" Paimon reminded "Yeah, they are the hotshots of the Knights of Favonius, why would someone so aspiring steal Mondstadt's sacred treasure?" Venti asked "Hotshot...? Oh, so it's you?" Diluc asked "Yes we are" Twilight answered "So you and the bard are close friends?" Diluc asked "We're not close actually" Lumine reminded "Yeah, we've only heard him play once" Twilight agreed "Well... Despite only being a passing traveler you still offered your helpto Mondstadt in its time of need" Diluc reminded "Well, true" Twilight said "Well, it's a shame you joined the Knights" Diluc said in defeat "What do you mean with that?! I'm a Knight of Favonius remember?!" Rainbow reminded angrily After Rainbow reminded Diluc of it he sighed in disbelief "The Knights of Favonius... Inefficient right from beginning to end" Diluc said in disbelief "Excuse me!" Rainbow gasped in shock and anger "Calm down Rainbow, you'll irritate him more" Twilight said "Right, sorry" Rainbow apologized "Are you going to react to that towards the Fatui? Weak and conservative" Diluc reminded angrily "Are you trying to test me?! A Knight of Favonius?!" Rainbow asked "Forget it, I don't feel like arguing about it" Diluc said in disbelief "Well, I do!" Rainbow reminded "Paimon, do something to distract Rainbow" Twilight whispered to Paimon "Okay, give me some money, I have an idea" Paimon whispered back "Alright" Twilight said Twilight then gave Paimon some money "Hey Rainbow, are you interested in some apple cider?" Paimon asked "Apple cider?! I'm in!" Rainbow said The duo then rushed over to the bar as they prepared to drink as Twilight sighed in relief "Thanks for distracting Rainbow, twilight" Lumine thanked "No worries, I couldn't let a fight start in the bar" Twilight said "Still, it seems you don't really like the Knights of Favonius" Venti said "Yeah, why's that?" Twilight asked "Just differences in approach is all" Diluc answered "Really? Why?" Lumine asked "I have my own hopes for this city" Diluc explained "Oh okay" Twilight said "Now, answers, why did you steal the Holy Lyre?" Diluc asked "You sure you want to know? It could implicate you in the affairs of the Knights of Favonius" Venti reminded "That's fine, I somehow always end up implicated in their affairs" Diluc explained "If I tell you the story with a performance will you believe me?" Venti asked "It depends, I'll make my own judgement" Diluc reminded "Then will I get paid?" Venti asked "Your reward will range from anywhere between five Mora and the Holy Lyre, it all depends on your story" Diluc reminded "Very well, let me put on a show..." Venti suggested before he began his story "The story I want to tell starts at... The sky dragon heeding his grave calls... A brutal battle with the wicked dragon... Where he ingested venomous blood and fell into a slumber... Only to awaken to be expelled in abhor..." Venti explained After finishing Diluc could only look in awe and disbelief "What did I just witness...?" Diluc asked in disbelief "That sounds... Horrible" Twilight said in shock, worry and disbelief "Yeah, this is confidential information, why did you let me know?" Diluc asked "Why? Hmm... Perhaps the winds are changing" Venti thought out loud before turning to Diluc "So, what say you master Diluc?" Venti asked "Interesting" Diluc thought out loud before turning to the group "Give me some time, I'll organize some contacts" Diluc said before turning to Twilight, Lumine, Rainbow and Paimon "Outlanders, Rainbow, as one of the knights it seems you are not a suspect" Diluc said "Says the person who speaks to the Knights of Favonius like that" Rainbow said angrily Twilight then turned to Rainbow with a glare before back at Diluc "Ignore her Diluc, she can get a bit cocky at times" Twilight explained "How would you know that? As far as I know, she doesn't remember you" Diluc reminded "Yeah but let's just say she lost her memories of where she lived and such so she's taken in by the knights" Twilight explained "Oh okay but still, blonde is the only description on the wanted poster, you should be safe" Diluc said before turning to Venti "As for the bard however it'd be better if you stayed in the tavern" Diluc suggested "Haha, no problem! I like taverns" Venti said "You can't say that like he's taking this easily, I mean, you were the one who forced us to steal the Holy Lyre" Twilight said "She's right you know!" Rainbow reminded "..." Diluc groaned before turning to the group "Okay, let's meet here after the tavern closes" Diluc suggested The group then nodded as they walked out of the tavern "Now what?! Thanks to that bard we're in danger!" Rainbow reminded "I know Rainbow but for now I suggest we go to our hotel room, it's the least likely place they'll be looking" Twilight explained "Good idea Twilight" Lumine said The group then went to the hotel where they sat down on a table while Paimon floated next to Lumine as Rainbow turned to her friends "Okay, now tell me, what happened in there?! Where did the Holy Lyre go?! And why were you planning on stealing the Holy Lyre?!" Rainbow asked Twilight then sighed in defeat "I know you won't be happy, especially with your new memories" Twilight said "New memories?! Are you secretly thieves in the outside world or in Equestria?!" Rainbow asked angrily "No we're not, we were just forced by Venti!" Lumine reminded "Yeah, we weren't planning on stealing or anything like that" Paimon explained "Are you serious right now?! I don't remember anything and just became friends with you! Are you saying we were also thieves in our own world?!" Rainbow asked angrily "What?! Of course not Rainbow! I would never do that!" Twilight answered "Are you serious right now?! I can now see why nobody cared about you, you're just some useless bitchy THIEF!!!" Rainbow reminded angrily After Twilight heard that she gasped in shock and disbelief at what Rainbow said as tears ran down her cheeks "Twilight, it's---" Lumine started "LEAVE ME ALONE!" Twilight shouted Twilight then rushed into her room in sadness and when she got inside sobs were heard "Way to go Rainbow! You made her sad!" Paimon said "What?! It's true! She planned to steal the Holy Lyre der Himmel!" Rainbow said "No she didn't! Neither did we! I know you might have forgotten Twilight existed but that doesn't mean she's a thief! After all! I called her for help alongside you and your friends!" Lumine reminded "So what?! What does that have to do with you?!" Rainbow asked "When we were on a mission to go stop that evil goddess from destroying the world you and your friends told me a ton of your adventures!" Lumine reminded "Wait, are you serious?! I wouldn't even tell that! Even with Twilight being a thief!" Rainbow reminded angrily "You won't listen! You see..." Lumine started [Flashback Start] The screen changed to Lumine, Aether, the Mane Six, Spike and Starlight in some kind of field as they were walking to the source of their flight "Alright girls, I know this is gonna be a tough fight so I suggest you stay close by us!" Aether said "Of course! Anything you say! I mean this is your world after all" Applejack said "Wait hold on! I know it's their world but aren't we supposed to be heroes, I mean we've been saving Equestria day in and day out, always, remember" Rainbow explained "Yeah, that's true but we don't know where we're supposed to go, even I didn't when I got to the human world" Twilight explained "Are you sure? I mean, we don't even know them" Fluttershy said "You see Rainbow, when we were on a mission to stop the god but Fluttershy was a little frightened since she didn't know me and Aether but it was Twilight who helped her calm down thanks to her knowledge she learned from Princess Celestia" Lumine narrated "Calm down Fluttershy, according to the princess Lumine and Aether are travellers who go from world to world, they don't age but despite not being a god they're actually super friendly, I know they might look weird but they know just the way to save each and every world" Twilight explained "Are you sure?" Fluttershy asked "Of course, I mean, a few thousand years ago they helped the Princesses with one of their fellow enemies, the Smooze who rampaged the land a long time ago" Twilight explained "Yeah and if it weren't for us Equestria wouldn't have been what it is today" Aether explained "Wow, that must've been tough" Fluttershy said "Of course it was" Lumine said "So you see, we knew Celestia and Luna for a while, we even knew about you and your friends' adventures, we just didn't have the time to thank you guys" Lumine narrated [Flashback End] "So, Twilight isn't a thief according to the princess?" Rainbow asked "Of course, you wouldn't believe her though thanks to Venti" Lumine explained "Oh geez, now I feel so horrible, I'd better apologize" Rainbow said Rainbow then rushed to Twilight's room and entered only to see Twilight laying in bed and sobbing "Twilight, can we talk?" Rainbow asked "Why?! You don't trust me! I knew I was wrong with friends like you!" Twilight explained "Are you serious?! No, I was wrong! I shouldn't have been this rude!" Rainbow explained "Wait? Really?!" Twilight asked "Yeah, Lumine reminded me that even though I lost my memories, I shouldn't judge a book by its cover, I did take it the wrong way, I'm sorry" Rainbow apologized "So, you don't hate me?" Twilight asked "Of course, and I'll pay for what I did by having you lead the way and suggest what we should do" Rainbow answered Twilight then hugged Rainbow "I too am sorry, I shouldn't have trusted Venti in any way, you were right" Twilight explained Paimon then flew into the room "So girls, are you done with this argument or does Paimon have to eat our dinner all by herself?" Paimon asked "What do you say Rainbow? Shall we eat dinner?" Twilight asked "Sure" Rainbow answered The group then began eating dinner and after they finished they went to the tavern where they entered as soon as the banner changed to 'closed' and when they arrived Venti turned to them "You're all here" Venti said in relief "Ugh! It's you again" Rainbow said in disbelief "Wait, you're... The thieves?" Somebody then called out The group then turned to the source only to see Acting Grand Master Jean in the room "Jean?!" The four gasped in shock Twilight then turned to Diluc in confusion "Why is the Acting Grand Master here?" Twilight asked "Well, first of all, I contacted more than one person" Diluc explained "Huh?" Twilight asked in confusion "Secondly she came here as 'Jean' herself, not as the Acting Grand Master" Diluc explained "That's better than a mouthful of a name" Rainbow whispered to Paimon as Paimon nodded "Still, what kind of Jean is she for now?" Lumine asked "A Jean you would never see, even as an Honorary Knight" Diluc explained "That explains the situation" Twilight explained "What a surprise" Jean said "Yeah but for the record we didn't do a single thing wrong, okay?" Rainbow asked "Hehe, calm down, I'll be lenient to you all for once" Jean said "Really? So you knew?" Paimon asked "Well, I heard about the Holy Lyre but I never suspected it was you" Jean explained "It definitely wasn't us!" Rainbow reminded "Calm down Rainbow, I get it but..." Jean started before turning to Diluc "The sound of the Holy Lyre that can purify Stormterror and return it to normal... Is that true?" Jean asked "That's right! Twilight and Lumine are putting themselves on the front lines to try and resolve this Stormterror issue" Venti explained "Speak for yourself" Twilight said in disbelief "Now those are the hotshots of the Knights of Favonius I was talking about" Venti said happily while turning to them "Yeah, it feels like we're breaking the law though..." Paimon reminded "I understand this kind of absurd explanation is hard to believe but we can ask the bard to play the song again to try and persuade---" Diluc started "I believe you" Jean explained "Huh?!" The group called out in shock and confusion "To persuade our stubborn comman--- Wait what?" Diluc gasped in shock and confusion "I can't think of any reason for Dvalin's betrayal given it was once one of the Four Winds, however if it was poisoned in the battle over Mondstadt all those years ago... And then conrrupted by the Abyss Mage after it woke up we can't really blame it but as the Acting Grand Master I obviously cannot make such a statement publicly, diplomatic pressure from the Fatui makes it hard for us to seek a peaceful resolution to the Stormterror issue, people would think I've lost grip on the gravity of the situation that's why I can only do this in private" Jean explained "Hmph" Diluc groaned in disbelief "What's wrong Diluc?" Twilight asked "Nothing, it's just... That's one of the reasons I don't like the Knights of Favonius" Diluc answered "Really? I mean, she does have a good reason" Lumine reminded "Then what surprises me is that you would believe an outlander so easily" Diluc reminded "My cautious and meticulous superior, even you trust them, don't you sir?" Jean reminded "I already told you not to call me sir... Nevermind, we don't often get to work together after all" Diluc reminded "Sir?" Lumine asked in confusion "..." Jean thought sadly "..." Diluc thought sadly while looking away "I think they were once lovebirds but that's just speculation" Twilight whispered to Lumine "Oh" Lumine realized "Still... Um... This is really awkward..." Paimon said "True, we should do something" Rainbow said "I have a rough idea of where the Holy Lyre der Himmel is" Jean explained "Nice recovery! She's really talented at changing the subject..." Venti thought "Really?! You do?!" Twilight asked in shock "Yeah, the conflict between Mondstadt and Snezhnaya stems from the conflict between the seven nations and their respective gods, the Cryo God's Fatui seem to be after the Anemo God's power" Jean explained "..." Venti thought Twilight then turned to Venti in confusion "You alright Venti?" Twilight asked Venti then turned to Twilight "Yeah I'm fine, don't worry" Venti said Lumine then turned to Jean in confusion "So they want to kill Dvalin?" Lumine asked "Right, if the Knights of Favonius publicly prevented an attempt on Dvalin's head then... The only other way to affect the Anemo God's power is to take the Holy Lyre" Jean explained "The number of Fatui that have come to Mondstadt is far from limited, I've already managed to... Coerce a few reports out of them" Diluc explained "What do you mean with that?" Rainbow asked "Diluc has determined that the Holy Lyre is not being held in the Goth Grand Hotel" Jean explained "Really?" Rainbow asked "Yeah, I imagine they don't want to leave something stolen in a place where it could be so easily found" Jean answered "Paimon gets it, if too much of a scene gets made then it becomes a big diplomatic issue" Paimon explained "I have to agree with you there Paimon, this sounds too serious even for them" Twilight explained "Hmph, such is the diplomacy between the seven nations" Diluc said in disbelief before turning to the group "Outlanders, Rainbow, ready to go?" Diluc asked "Yes we are!" Lumine answered The group then began walking to where Jean thought the Holy Lyre was as Venti turned to his friends "Jean just said the Fatui are trying to take Dvalin's power for the Cyro God... I fear this might fall short of their true intentions" Venti explained "Really?" Rainbow asked "Yeah, I think they intend to use Barbatos' connection to the wind to draw him out just like Lisa traced the source of the storm to the temples" Venti explained "Now that you mention it that does seem accurate to what the Fatui would do" Twilight explained Diluc then turned to the group who were talking "The God of Anemo? ...He hasn't been seen for more than a thousand years, what makes you think that's their intention?" Diluc asked "Oh... Ah..." Venti stuttered nervously "..." Diluc thought in disbelief "Forget it, I don't like having to pry, Lumine here, take this" Diluc suggested Diluc then gave Twilight, Rainbow and Lumine some masks "What is it?" Paimon asked "A disguise to protect your identity, put it on before you run into the Fatui" Diluc suggested "Are you sure?" Twilight asked "Yes, unfortunately they are still one of Mondstadt's allies, at least that's the facade we're maintaining..." Diluc explained "That sounds the least comfortable" Rainbow said "Don't worry, I'm sure it'll be alright, besides, we've got each other" Lumine said "True" Twilight said "Our actions are going to get them stirred up, better to not implicate yourself on a personal level" Diluc suggested "We'll try" Rainbow said The group soon arrived at the Fatui's hideout as Paimon turned to her friends "Wait a minute!" Paimon said "Hurry up Paimon!" Twilight ordered Paimon then went close to the mud and began drawing a mustache and some glasses before turning to her friends "Ready?!" Paimon asked "I doubt that's gonna work but if you're willing to wear this then suit yourself" Diluc said Afterwards the group went inside the hideout as they went further in before they noticed a guard standing in front of them as they approached him which he noticed "No, NO! Don't eat me!" A Fatui guard called out before he realized what they are "Ah? You're... You're a human and a horse?" A Fatui guard asked "First of all, please don't say that to our little pixie and second of all, I'm a pony" Twilight reminded "The entire floor's defenses... Have been broken, I thought it was the Abyss Order attacking..." The person said in worry "Really?" Lumine asked "Yeah, could you check on it for me?" The Fatui guard asked "Very well and then could we also get the Holy Lyre der Himmel?" Twilight asked "H-How did you girls know the lyre's here?" The Fatui guard asked in shock and suspiciousness "Er, well... Your boss told us" Lumine answered "Very well but the place is being locked up tight, if you're after the key keep going further into the ruins but d-don't come after me!" The Fatui guard pleaded "We won't, we promise" Twilight said with a smile "Now tell us, where's the key?" Paimon asked "Well, a guard has it but I don't know which one but I'm sure you can find the guard and find out for yourselves" The Fatui guard explained Paimon then whispered to Diluc "This guy looks like he's about to wet himself..." Paimon whispered "Alright, we'll go check just stay here and watch out for any suspicious person" Lumine suggested "Alright, y-you just worry about yourselves! One of the Harbingers is already in Mondstadt" The Fatui guard explained "This is troublesome" Twilight thought "Who is the Harbinger you're speaking of?" Diluc asked "Signora, when she gets her hands on you she's going to string you up and torture you, when that time comes don't you dare say a word about me" The Fatui guard pleaded The Fatui guard then ran off as Paimon turned to her friends "Did he say Signora? What a strange name..." Paimon thought out loud "No. 8 of the Eleven Harbingers, goes by the name Signora" Diluc explained "That explains the weird name" Twilight said "The fact that the Fatui can run amok across the seven nations like they do is entirely because of the Eleven Harbingers" Diluc explained "Then what do we do?" Rainbow asked "Well, we need to act quickly before she gets wind of what's going on" Diluc suggested The five then rushed to one of the guards who then turned to the group "W-Who are you? How'd you get in here?!" The Fatui guard asked in anger and worry "We're followers of Signora" Twilight answered "Never heard of Signora's followers before..." The Fatui guard explained before turning to them in confusion "What are you lot doing here?" The Fatui guard asked "We wish to borrow the Holy Lyre der Himmel" Lumine answered "That lie's way too obvious, you really haven't got anything better?" The Fatui guard asked "It's not a lie! We're sure of it!" Diluc answered "We'll recommend you to the Association" Twilight said "Hmm, so you're here for the Lyre aren't you?" The Fatui guard asked "Yes, we just told you!" Paimon answered "Hehe..." The Fatui guard said "Uh oh, this can't be good" Twilight said worriedly "Think you can look down your nose at me huh?" The Fatui guard asked "What?! That's not what we're doing! We just wished for something!" Rainbow reminded "The will of Snezhnaya is as solid as the permafrost! I will not yield!" The Fatui guard said The Fatui guard then shot a laser at the group who dodged "If you're not gonna listen then we'll make you!" Diluc said "Try as you might! It will never work!" The Fatui guard said "Quick! Attack!" Rainbow called out Rainbow then rushed to the Fatui guard with her sword raised but due to not using her speed her sword got electrified causing her to drop it as she tried to blow the electricity away "Don't worry! Allow me!" Twilight called out Twilight then rushed to the Fatui guard as she shot a few lasers at him as the Fatui guard began dodging before shooting some lasers at Twilight who dodged while using a swipe with her horn before she teleported to behind the Fatui guard and kicked him in the back sending him to the ground as Lumine used his Anemo powers to send a gust of wind flying towards him which caused him to fly against the wall "Tell us where the key is or else..." Diluc ordered "N-No! I will not yield!" The Fatui guard said Rainbow then jumped up to give a hard slash at the Fatui guard before he teleported to the other side of the room "Hah! Got you there!" The Fatui guard laughed Rainbow then turned around angrily "Ugh! Stupid bitch! Just stand still!" Rainbow said Twilight then began thinking before she had an idea "Rainbow, you used that spell before didn't you? Back when you rescued us from the nightmare realms?" Twilight asked "What are you--- Oh! I got it!" Rainbow said Rainbow then flapped her wings in preparation before she zapped as fast as she could towards the Fatui guard who noticed her rushing towards him as he teleported away in the nick of tme causing her to hit the wall "What's wrong with you?! I thought you were friends with Twilight!" Diluc reminded "Yeah I am, I just wanted to take things easy!" Rainbow said "Speaking of easy...!" The Fatui guard started Just then a large cage appeared in front of the group trapping them in as they rushed towards one of the poles "Hey! Let us out!" Lumine ordered "Not until Signora comes back!" The Fatui guard said The Fatui guard then walked off as Twilight turned to her friends "What happened to you guys?! You do realize we're supposed to be saving the world, right?! What happened to that?! I expected way better!" Twilight reminded "But Twilight---" Rainbow started "You too Rainbow! Why did you want to take baby steps when there's danger?!" Twilight asked "Twilight listen, it's not their fault, they tried their best!" Paimon reminded "Then why don't you phase through?!" Twilight asked angrily "I tried but there's an electric forcefield blocking my path!" Paimon said "Great, just great! Thank you for making my adventure worse! You all should be ashamed of yourself! Thanks to you we got no way out or no way to stop Stormterror! You are all dumb bitches!" Twilight said "Twilight, what happened to our teamwork?!" Rainbow asked "Teamwork might not work now thanks to this cage so unless you have an idea that doesn't mean frying ourselves tell me!" Twilight ordered Rainbow then backed off in shock as she knew she didn't have an idea "Twilight, you didn't have to say that to her, you know she lost her memories" Lumine said "And I DON'T CARE! I JUST WANT TO SOLVE THIS OKAY?!" Twilight asked angrily Rainbow then sniffed as she walked off to a corner of the wall and sat down in sadness as Twilight, Lumine and Diluc did so while Paimon turned to each of them in sadness [Rainbow Dash:] "Went and blew it" "Here's where it ends" [Lumine:] "Wish she knew that we're still her friends" [Twilight Sparkle:] "Guess I lost my groove somehow" [Diluc:] "Wonder what..." "We'll do now" [Diluc, Lumine, Rainbow Dash and Twilight Sparkle:] "Our adventures" "Ripped at the seams" "But..." Paimon then began sobbing a bit at her failure [Diluc, Lumine, Rainbow Dash and Twilight Sparkle:] "Those adventures..." Just then Venti slid into the room while onto his knees as somebody was dropping to the ground [Venti:] "Are saaaaved!" Just then everybody turned to see Venti rush over to the button as the cage flew up as the group rushed to Venti "How'd you find us?!" Twilight asked "I have my ways" Venti said "Really?!" Twilight asked "Yep, also that was the wrong guy" Venti said "Huh?" Rainbow asked [A few minutes earlier] Venti who was waiting heard a crash as he knew his friends were in danger as she picked up a mask Paimon was supposed to wear, wore it and ran after her friends and only to see the same Fatui guard runn off as Venti turned to him "Hey you! Stop being so rude to them! They just had a question!" Venti explained "Another one of you?! What do you want?!" The Fatui guard asked "I'll give you an apple if you allow me to get my rude friends out!" Venti suggested "Alright, if you say so" The Fatui guard said "Here you go" Venti said Venti then gave the Fatui guard an apple as he smiled before turning to Venti "Oh and tell your friends I don't have the key and that they'll have to ask the next guard they come across" The Fatui guard suggested "Will do" Venti said [Present] After explaining the group chuckled nervously "Sorry for your troubles" Twilight said "No worries but now that I'm here let's go ask the next guard we see" Venti suggested The group then went to the next guard and when they got close he turned around in fright "Wh-Who are you? Wh-What are you doing here? Argh!" The Fatui guard gasped in fright "Give up, no one's coming to rescue you" Lumine said in anger "What are you doing Lumine?!" Twilight whispered angrily "The last thing didn't work so I'm trying a different method" Lumine whispered back "Did you already beat all the other guards?" The Fatui guard asked "Yep pretty much!" Rainbow answered "What?! I-I'm not scared of you, an agent will come to my aid!" The Fatui guard reminded "Oh but we've already dealt with him on the way" Twilight explained "Wow... Ah... Fine, not like I have a choice anyway, alright, you're free to go" The Fatui guard said in defeat before showing the key to the group "I have the key here, you can head in from the hall outside but don't tell anyone that it was me who gave you the key" The Fatui guard pleaded "We won't we promise" Lumine said The Fatui guard then ran off as the group went to search for the Holy Lyre while Twilight turned to Lumine "How'd you do that?" Rainbow asked "Well, on one of the Princess' letters she told me about Fluttershy's ability so I trained to use it on my brother" Lumine explained "Oh okay" Twilight said The group then arrived as Diluc used the key to open up the gate "Sweet! Now we can go get the Holy Lyre!" Lumine cheered "Don't cheer too loudly Lumine, there could still be dangers up ahead!" Rainbow reminded "Rainbow's right, we might not have seen the last of the Fatui" Twilight explained "I know, I know but I'm just relieved that we can now save Dvalin" Lumine explained "True, now let's go before more dangers arrive!" Diluc said The group then rushed towards the Holy Lyre and when they arrived the cage lowered over the Holy Lyre "Oh no!" Lumine called out "Told you so!" Twilight said Just then somebody teleported into the room "Where did you rats scurry out from...? Signora is not going to tolerate this kind of interference in our affairs" The guy asked "Not if we have anything to say about it!" Rainbow said angrily "Oh yeah, well, I'll be the one to take care of you all, save her the trouble of having to deal with you herself" The guy reminded "Oh yeah, we'll see about that!" Rainbow said Rainbow then prepared her wings to fly towards the guy only for the guy to teleport to another side "Oh come on! Let me at least catch you!" Rainbow suggested Just then Paimon felt a force in the wind "Duck!" Paimon called out The group then ducked as a slash was heard as the guy was seen slashing at the group with his sword "He's too powerful for us to handle on our own!" Diluc said "If only we had someone with a duplication spell!" Twilight said Just then Lumine noticed something "What's this?!" Lumine asked Lumine then rushed towards the thing only for her to be kicked towards the group "I won't let you tough my partner!" The guy said It was then the group realized that it was not a partner he was talking about, he had trapped her in a piece of paper making the person unable to escape "What if that person's us?" Rainbow asked in worry Twilight then got worried as she backed off with her friends in worry "It seems you guys will not get the Holy Lyre now, you've lost!" The guy said "N-No! This can't be!" Venti said "We're doomed!" Paimon called out in shock and defeat Afterwards the group gasped as the guy charged towards them as they had no chance to escape nor dodge his attack > Episode 10: Barbatos and the Holy Lyre der Himmel Part 2 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Last time on Twilight Sparkle gets a Genshin Impact!" Paimon announced "Twilight told Rainbow to help her, Venti and Lumine get the Holy Lyre which Rainbow did as she checked to see if somebody comes but when Twilight, Paimon and Lumine got in the Holy Lyre got stolen by some unknown Fatui as Twilight and Lumine along with Paimon almost got arrested if it weren't for us running away and when we escaped we went to meet with Diluc who helped us get free except for Venti as we went back to the hotel where Twilight and Rainbow got an argument and when that was over we ate dinner before going back to the tavern where surprisingly Jean also was, to be fair Paimon was shocked too and once we discussed our plan we went to go meet up with the Fatui guards, one of which who trapped us and was about to call out to Signora if it weren't for Venti's rescue as we finally got the key and in the end we managed to arrive at the Holy Lyre only to get attacked but will we make it or not find out now on Twilight Sparkle gets a Genshin Impact!" Paimon announced The Episode then started with the group continuing to scream before a clash was heard making the group look again as Diluc had smacked his sword against the guy "Quick! Help me!" Diluc said "Are you sure about that?" The guy asked "Of course!" Diluc answered Afterwards Diluc let's his inner ninja appear as he along with the guy fought while Twilight turned to the person "These guys are fighting so I think it's the perfect time to do this!" Twilight said Twilight then levitated the piece of paper to her hoof before shooting a spell at it as somebody got out, that girl had blonde hair with black front streaks, she had blue eyes and wore a black and yellow mask, suit and shoes "You saved me! Thank you very much!" The girl said "No worries!" Twilight said "As thanks you may tell me one thing you wish for me to do" The girl said "Hmm..." Twilight thought "I wish for you to defeat that guy in Fatui clothes!" Rainbow said "Of course!" The girl said The girl then looked for the perfect timing before she found it "DODGE!" The girl called out Diluc then jumped back as the guy got confused only to stand in shock as everybody cheered while Twilight turned to the girl "We did it! We stopped him!" Lumine said "Thanks for the help miss" Twilight thanked "No worries, if you need me again just whistle this" The girl suggested The girl then gave Twilight a black and yellow whistle as Twilight nodded "Understood" Twilight said The girl then left while Diluc turned to the frozen guy "I think I know what to do now" Diluc said Diluc then used his magic to burn the guy who began burning while Lumine grabbed the Holy Lyre "We did it!" Rainbow said in relief "Yeah, finally the lyre is back in safe hands!" Paimon agreed before turning around to see the guy had left already as they didn't hear him scream "Where did that guy go though? He was here a second ago..." Paimon reminded The group then turned around in confusion "He probably went to find some water" Rainbow thought out loud The guy then splashed a bucket of water over him that somehow disappeared as he struggled to stand whilst turning to the group "Signora is going to end you, the song bards sing of your demise will be so terrifying, the people of Mondstadt willl never sleep again for the nightmares they give them" The guy said "I don't think so! Leave!" Rainbow ordered "Yeah, besides, that's big talk for a guy who still ran off in the end... Chicken" Paimon reminded The guy then passed out as the Twilight teleported the group out of the cave and back to Mondstadt where they went on their way to the tavern which they entered "We're back!" Twilight said "That's a relief" Jean said "Yep! And we've got the Holy Lyre!" Venti said Jean then noticed the Holy Lyre in Venti's hands and smiled "Ah, this is the Holy Lyre! You managed to retrieve it!" Jean called out in relief "Yeah" Venti said before he looked down at the Holy Lyre in his hands "The pattern of flowing wind carved on the rosewood... And the strings still feel cool to the touch too, oh the memories..." Venti said in awe "What do you think Venti? Can you summon Dvalin?" Jean asked "Although this lyre is the real thing I doubt that it's going to work" Venti explained "Are you serious?!" Rainbow asked in shock "Well, yeah, as you can see the lyre has been through a thousand years of history, it's Anemo power has run dry so in this condition you couldn't play music fit for even Dvalin's tavern with it..." Venti explained "Why didn't you tell us sooner?!" Twilight asked angrily "Bards fight to get on the stage of my tavern, don't make assumptions" Diluc suggested "Is that really important right now master Diluc?!" Paimon asked before turning to Venti angrily "And you! Did you just borrow the Holy Lyre to play music for drunkards to hear?" Paimon asked angrily "Hehe" Venti chuckled nervously "What do you mean 'Hehe'?!" Paimon asked angrily Venti then shook his head and turned back to the Holy Lyre "Anyway, we won't be able to call Dvalin with it" Venti explained "Why not?" Twilight asked Venti then pulled the Lyre in front of Twilight as she looked it over while Venti spoke "The lyre itself is fine but the strings..." Venti started "They're broken" Twilight finished before thinking Venti then turned to Lumine "You're up outlander!" Venti called out "Are you talking about me?" Lumine asked "Yes I am" Venti answered "But I don't know how to fix instruments" Lumine explained "Relax! It's not broken" Venti explained "Really?! I'm sure it does to me!" Rainbow said Twilight then glared at Rainbow before turning to Lumine with a heartwarming smile "You got this Lumine, I believe in you" Twilight said "Are you sure? If so why does it look broken?" Lumine asked "It's just that the intensity of its Anemo power has greatly diminished" Venti explained "Oh okay" Lumine said "Say, do you still have Dvalin's Teardrop Crystal with you?" Venti asked "Yes I do" Lumine answered "Great! Try to use it on the Holy Lyre" Venti suggested "Alright, let me give it a try" Lumine said Lumine then pulled the crystal closer to the Holy Lyre and when it was close enough the two levitated into the air before they merged as the Holy Lyre looked more greener than it was before, almost the same color as Venti's outfit before the Holy Lyre dropped back into Venti's hands "It worked as expected" Venti said "How did you know this was gonna work?" Twilight asked "I didn't have to do a thing! I swear!" Lumine explained Jean then turned to it with tears in her eyes "This youthful glow..." Jean said in awe "Praising yourself? Really?" Paimon asked in shock "I was talking about the Holy Lyre" Jean explained Venti then turned to Twilight, Lumine and Paimon "Thanks to Twilight and Lumine having purified the crystal the Holy Lyre won't continue to lose power" Venti said in relief before turning to the others "That said, it's power is far from replenished, it'd be great if we could get more tears" Venti said "Don't worry, we'll help you find them!" Lumine said "Yeah but how do we do that?" Twilight asked "I can surmise that Dvalin will always be crying... Suffering alone in some deserted place..." Venti explained sadly "Dvalin..." Jean said sadly "Poor baby..." Paimon said sadly "I feel horrible for him..." Twilight said sadly "Why is that so horrible when we can save him!" Rainbow said "But this is not something that an Honorary Knight can accomplish alone, I will mobilize the rest of the knights to assist" Jean said "And I will ask some guards to help" Rainbow said Twilight then thought of one of her friends' past adventures where she and the others were rescued by other Equestria citizens and save the day with all of them "I'd really appreciate that Rainbow" Twilight said happily "Alright and when you get the Teardrop Crystal please let Lumine perform the purification process" Jean suggested "Leave it to me" Lumine said "Heroes supporting each other and setting out on a journey together... How exciting!" Venti called out in excitement before turning to Twilight, Lumine and Paimon "Lemme come up with a song for you..." Venti suggested "Is that all you're going to do? Just sing?" Paimon asked "Wouldn't be much of a bard if I didn't now, would I?" Venti asked "Hmph, you're so cheeky... You deserve an ugly nickname" Paimon said angrily "Please don't---" Twilight suggested "Oh, Paimon knows! From now on you'll be known as 'Tone-Deaf Bard'!" Paimon started "Why did I not stop you on time?" Twilight asked in disbelief while facehoofing The group then began splitting up as they all went to go find some help while Diluc, Lumine, Paimon, Jean and Twilight were searching for Dvalin's Teardrop Crystals as Diluc turned to his fellow helpers "This search reminds me of a fued I once had with the Fatui" Diluc explained "Really?" Twilight asked "Yeah, six months ago a thief stole treasure from the East Temple of the Four Winds" Diluc explained "Woah, what was it? A cup used by Barbatos?" Paimon asked "No, although if such a thing existed it would be very valuable" Diluc answered "Then what was it?" Twilight asked "Well, among all the relics they managed to dig up, one particular object was very rare..." Diluc explained "What was it?! Tell us?!" Paimon asked "It was a vial which contained the Anemo God's breath" Diluc explained "WAIT WHAT?! How?!" Twilight explained "Relics come in every shape and form huh..." Paimon said in disbelief "That is very rare, I'm sure not even Twilight has ever seen that before" Lumine said "I definitely did not!" Twilight agreed in shock "Anyone with an eye for fine art would like to add this relic to their collection" Diluc explained "True, even I would, I would be inspecting this in every shape or form since I have no idea how that works" Twilight said "But once word got out the Fatui started trying to seek it out as well, they've made tons of counterfeits that can be found everywhere" Diluc explained "Are you serious?!" Lumine asked in shock "Yeah and in response I just bought every one I could find irrespective of it's authenticity, we're still at it now" Diluc explained "I hope you don't get hurt in the process" Twilight said "How many did you buy?" Lumine asked "I've bought more than two thousand fakes to date and the Fatui are yet to find the real one" Diluc explained "Are you serious?! That's enough to even make potions for!" Twilight said "I agree, that is a lot" Lumine agreed "Yeah, you guys are insane..." Paimon agreed before thinking "So it means that the real one must be out there somewhere on the black market, right?" Paimon asked "Yep" Diluc answered "Hmmm... Paimon'll give you a discount on them if she finds any cause Paimon's just great like that!" Paimon explained "And I thought you're small brained" Twilight said "What?! No, Paimon's not!" Paimon reminded angrily "Still, you can try to find the real one, I'll take what you find even if they're fake, once you're done find me at the winery, I'll trade you a beer for every 20 you find" Diluc said The group continued to walk before they came across a ruin guard "A ruin guard?! What's it doing here?!" Twilight asked "Twilight this is one of the trials you'll have to face if we have to go across" Diluc said "But how?! Why?!" Twilight asked "Because I don't think fire's gonna work against a ruin guard and the wind is also a dumb move" Diluc reminded "I don't think so, if we're gonna find the tears we have to work together!" Twilight said "She's right, we're a team!" Lumine said "Fine! Let's work together!" Diluc said The group then slowly neared the ruin guard who was patrolling and when they got close enough Twilight made the group invisible "Okay, let's take hits one after another before that ruined guard falls down" Diluc suggested "Are you sure, what if he notices us?" Paimon asked "He won't thanks to my spell" Twilight said "Alright" Paimon said The two then shot a bunch of spells or slashes as the ruin guard could only keep turning around searching for the source before his head was pulled up hard by the sword causing the ruin guard to fall to the ground and shake a bit as a glitch as Twilight stopped the invisibility spell "Let's go find the Teardrop Crystals now" Twilight said The group then searched before Lumine found it "It's over here!" Lumine called out The group then rushed over to Lumine who had opened the chest and pulled out one of Dvalin's Teardrop Crystals "Sweet! We've found it!" Twilight said in relief "Paimon didn't think we'd find Dvalin's tears in a place like this" Paimon said "Same here Paimon" Lumine agreed "As knights we are taught to hone our investigative skills" Jean explained "Wow! Very impressive!" Paimon said in awe "I agree, this is something not even I have learned despite solving some of Equestria's mysteries and tricks" Twilight explained Twilight then made the group invisible again as they carefully walked out of the ruin guard's sight and when they were out of his sight Twilight stopped the spell which allowed Jean to speak "In my experience the secret to finding what you are looking for is to never look for it in the first place" Jean suggested "Really?" Lumine asked "Yeah, don't think too much about it and don't search too hard and before you know it what you are looking for will appear right before your very eyes" Jean explained "What?" Paimon asked in confusion "Don't worry about it too much, the more flustered you become, the less likely you are to find it" Jean explained "What do you mean by that?" Twilight asked "Pay attention to what you see in your peripheral vision and you might just stumble upon what you're looking for" Jean explained "I don't know... It doesn't sound like that would work..." Paimon explained on worry "No seriously, it does though, in fact it's how I used to find my tortoise whenever he went missing" Jean explained "You could probably have asked Fluttershy for help, she loves animals, though she can be shy at times" Twilight said "True but who's Fluttershy?" Jean asked "A friend of mine who is missing" Twilight answered Paimon then realized what Jean said before turning to Jean "Wait, you had a pet tortoise?!" Paimon asked in shock "Yes why? Something wrong Paimon?" Jean asked "No, it's... Uh, well, just surprising is all" Paimon answered nervously "Why?" Jean asked "Paimon can't imagine Jean having a pet tortoise, surely you find it hard to imagine too master Diluc?" Paimon asked "No I don't, I had one too when I was a kid, what's so strange about it?" Diluc asked "What? You too?!" Paimon asked in shock "You should probably ask Fluttershy how rare it is since most ponies in my homeworld always have tortoises except for me" Twilight explained "Are you serious?!" Paimon asked in shock The group soon arrived near a ruin which they entered before they slowly went across the way to the other side of the ruins slowly and as soon as they arrived an abyss mage attacked "Are you serious?! Another abyss mage?! We barely survived them last time!" Twilight said "Don't worry Twilight, we got this" Lumine said Jean then whistled causing the abyss mage to turn around "Hey you! Come and fight us!" Jean said "Very well" The abyss mage said "Jean, what are you doing?!" Twilight asked in shock "I think I know why you didn't make it, you should focus on what an enemy's doing first and then go and attack, like this" Jean said Jean then looked to see an abyss mage shooting a laser which Jean dodged before running forward and giving the forcefield a football kick causing the abyss mage to infinitely bounce "Wow! That was smart!" Twilight said Jean then turned to her friends "Yes, now since she's trabbed like this for infinity we can grab Dvalin's Teardrop Crystal" Jean said "I don't think so!" The abyss mage said The abyss mage then shot a laser which Jean dodged as she turned back to the abyss mage "You don't know when to quit do you?!" Jean asked "No" The abyss mage answered "Then allow me to trap you like a certain airbender!" Jean said Jean then made a big ball of ice and shot it towards the abyss mage and when it dodged her she got frozen in ice as she then panted "WOW!" The group called out in awe "There he's never coming out again!" Jean said "That must've been tough!" Twilight said "Will he be stuck for a thousand years though?" Lumine asked "For that we'll just have to wait and see" Diluc said "Very well" Lumine said The group then rushed forward to find the crystal before gliding to the top and when they arrived Lumine opened the chest and pulled out the second Teardrop Crystal causing Paimon to sigh "We're done gathering! That was hard..." Paimon said in relief "It's too early to relax, we're still not done with Stormterror and besides, the Fatui could also be planning something..." Diluc reminded "Yeah, you're right, they might find by now that we stole the Holy Lyre that they stole" Twilight reminded "And if they do, we'll be ready for a fight thanks to Jean" Lumine said "Aww, thanks guys" Jean thanked "No worries" Lumine said Twilight then teleported the group out of the ruins as they walked off towards Mondstadt as Jean turned to Diluc "Hey Diluc, I heard that the Fatui have recently proclaimed you 'persona non grata'" Jean explained "Hmph, what an honor, nobody was ever proclaimed 'persona grata' by the Fatui anyway" Diluc reminded Paimon then turned to the two "The Fatui? The diplomatic delegation from Snezhnaya? What have they got against master Diluc?" Paimon asked "Well, the Fatui are a problem not only for the knights, they also present a real threat too the whole off Mondstadt and when it comes to threats against Mondstadt, diluc is---" Jean started "That's enough Jean, you knights are subject to too many restrictions, you can't directly confront this so-called 'diplomatic' scum, presonally... I despise them, if I were to choose between 'eating a Cyro Slim alive' or 'Joining the Fatui...' I'd prefer to be crushed to death by a meteorite" Diluc explained "Geez, your wording is so very dramatic..." Paimon explained in disbelief The group soon neared a hotel of some kind aka the 'Dawn Winery' where they saw Venti and Rainbow Dash standing and waiting for them and when they stopped Paimon cheered "Woohoo! Dvalin Protection Squad! Assemble" Paimon shouted in excitement "Sweet! We're back together again!" Rainbow cheered "Let's start with putting our crystals together" Venti suggested Twilight then gave the second Teardrop Crystal to Lumine who puts it closer to the Holy Lyre only for Venti to get confused "Oh... The color of these crystals looks... Muddy, Dvalin... You're going through so much pain..." Venti said sadly "Are you okay Venti?" Lumine asked "Yeah, ldet's just start purifying these crystals first, go ahead Lumine" Venti suggested Lumine then moved the three crystals closer to herself and focused all her energy on it as the group could see the crystals purifying "It is hard to believe such a thing is possible until you've seen it with your own eyes" Venti explained "I agree, it's a pretty light show" Rainbow agreed "Paimon has to agree with you on that" Paimon agreed "It does look interesting, it's like filtering wine, the process is... Refreshing" Diluc explained "I think we should have enough tears now so next we use the crystals on the Holy Lyre like last time" Venti started "Let me give it a try then..." Lumine suggested Lumine then pulled the crystals closer to the Holy Lyre causing them to fly up and merge before the Holy Lyre landed back into Venti's arms as it changed to a more green and gold design while the strings were seagreen "It worked!" Paimon cheered in excitement "It seems completely different from before" Jean reminded "The Lyre's Anemo power seems fully restored, we should be able to use it now, it's all thanks to you two" Venti said in relief "Anything for you Venti" Lumine said "But next time please do not let us break rules, just ask us to go meet with Jean along with you" Twilight pleaded "I will, I promise" Venti said "Sweet! Then let's go save Dvalin!" Rainbow said as she flew up with a pointing fly before turning to the group in confusion "But uh, where do we do it?" Rainbow asked in confusion "Yeah, where should we summon Stormterror? It must be away from the city else there will be casualties should we fail" Jean reminded "Perhaps here at the winery...?" Lumine asked "If the winery was destroyed it's not something I couldn't eventually fix but... I'd still rather not go through the hassle" Diluc suggested "..." Jean thought "The wind that blows at sea or in high places should be able to carry a bard's words far away but it's never going to work if the air is too dry or suffocating" Venti explained "Paimon understands, sea or high places, right?" Paimon asked before having an idea "Then the best location to play the lyre would be..." Paimon started "I know! The place where we woke up!" Twilight finished "Oh you mean that beach you were snoring away and Paimon had to be fished up?" Paimon asked "That's the one" Lumine answered "That's actually not a bad idea girls even though that is not the best memory" Rainbow explained "I agree, if you go east from starfell lake there are mountains south of the beach" Diluc explained "So, how do we find it?" Twilight asked "Well, if you head to where the cliff juts out, that place is known as Starsnatch Cliff" Diluc explained before turning to Venti "What do you think bard? Meets the requirements, no?" Diluc asked "Lemme think... Starsnatch Cliff..." Venti thought before nodding "Alright, let's do it there" Venti suggested "Very well, then let's meet at Starsnatch Cliff when we are ready, please don't be late" Jean suggested "YES MA'AM!" The group called out Paimon who got confused before she realized it "Hee-hee! Yes ma'am!" Paimon called out "Ah sorry, I didn't mean to..." Jean apologized "No worries Jean, we get what you meant with that" Twilight said "Very well, then let's go" Jean said The group then went to Starsnatch Cliff and when they arrived Diluc turned to them "Everyone is finally here" Diluc said "Of course! We couldn't just stop and wait to see what'll happen!" Rainbow reminded Paimon then looked at the sky and saw a beautiful view "What a beautiful view" Paimon said "I remember waking up every morning to see this, this looks beautiful" Twilight said before she realized something "Shoot! I forgot to turn the campfire out! I hope it didn't burn anything!" Twilight called out in disbelief "Still, it's lovely for a fated reunion isn't it?" Venti asked "Of course" Twilight answered "Well, we must be prepared for a fight" Venti said "Dang it! We didn't train!" Lumine called out "Don't worry, in worse case scenario..." Twilight started before looking at the black and yellow whistle she hung around her neck with vines "Regardless of the outcome things finally seem to be taking a turn for the better" Jean said "I agree, because no matter what friendship is magic" Twilight said "I agree" Rainbow said "But Mondstadt has really been going through so much lately..." Jean said "Don't worry, even if we're gone we'll always be giving you another visit" Twilight explained "Huh! In the end the solution to our problem was as simple as two travelers and a song, I suppose the Knights of Favonius may have played a part in it too..." Diluc said in disbelief "True but it wasn't just us, it was you that helped us get the Holy Lyre thanks to the disguise" Rainbow reminded "Well, you are right about that" Diluc said "Yeah,, we get it master Diluc..." Venti said before turning to the group "Everyone, please step aside! I, the best wandering bard of the mortal world shall begin my performance with the Holy Lyre" Venti explained The group then backed off a bit as Venti went near the edge of the cliff as Twilight, Paimon and Lumine got nervous while Rainbow, Jean and Diluc prepared their weapons in case anything goes wrong and when Venti stopped walking he turned to the Holy Lyre and played it a bit which caused the ground to shake which got everyone nervous before Dvalin appeared causing a gust of wind to fly by and everyone to cover their eyes before they noticed the dragon approaching Venti who turned to him with a smile only for the dragon to say something in an angry tone "What has been done cannot be undone..." Dvalin reminded "If so then why do I see sadness in your eyes? Sadness that speaks of your yearning for this song..." Venti reminded Dvalin then roared something as Jean began thinking "They are... Communicating..." Jean thought "It's nothing compared to my fr---" Twilight started Just then Dvalin got mad which got Jean and Twilight's attention "Huh?" Jean asked in shock and worry "Oh no!" Twilight said worriedly Just then an abyss mage shot a laser at the holy lyre causing it to drop to the ground and break as the group rushed to near a hurt Venti while Rainbow and Jean used either their hand or sword to keep Venti in place "Do not be fooled by him dear dragon... He left you to rot alone..." The abyss mage reminded "That's not true! And you know that right!" Rainbow reminded angrily "Now he attempts to deceive you once more" The abyss mage reminded "That's not true and we know that right, right Venti?!" Twilight asked "Y-Yeah" Venti answered, still in pain "Let your wrath fester! Mondstadt has already turned it's back on you!" The abyss mage reminded "I mean, that's true but we're still gonna fix this!" Lumine reminded Dvalin then flew up only to roar at the group in anger "You? You were planning this all along? To have me slain by them?" Dvalin asked angrily "It's not like that!" Venti reminded The abyss mage then flew up to sit on Dvalin's neck "The time has come for the dragon to serve it's true masters..." The abyss mage started Dvalin then flew off while the abyss mage turned to the group as Rainbow rushed after him "While you bewail your pathetic selves and watch the world tremble with fear!" The abyss mage finished "Get back here---" Rainbow started Rainbow then panted before she turned to Twilight "Let them go, they're not ones to be messed with for now" Twilight said Rainbow then gets back to the group in defeat as Twilight used a spell to heal Venti "Thanks Twilight" Venti thanked "No worries Venti" Twilight said Venti then turned to the way Dvalin went in sadness "Dvalin..." Venti said sadly Venti then looked down sadly "Barbat---" Jean started before she realized what she was about to say "Venti, please be careful..." Jean said Rainbow then approached Venti and hugged her "I'm not known for being a hugger but I'm sure we can save Dvalin one way or another" Rainbow said "Thanks guys" Venti said sadly before turning to Jean and chuckling a bit "Hehe... You've known my true identity for some time now, haven't you Jean?" Venti asked before smiling "Though I thank you for continuing to use the name Venti" Venti said "How's the Holy Lyre?" Diluc asked as Venti picked up the broken Holy Lyre "Can it still be played? Or does it need to be repaired?" Diluc asked "Wow... Unfortunately, I think it's beyond repair..." Venti said in defeat "That's not good" Twilight said worriedly "Well, we can't let this abyss mage get away!" Lumine reminded "You're right, if we don't fight the evil at it's source then we can't save Dvalin at all" Diluc reminded "In which case I shall call upon Outrider Amber to track it down..." Jean said "I'll help in case she needs more helping hooves" Rainbow said "No need" Diluc said "Huh? Why not?" Rainbow asked "Yeah, why is that?" Jean asked "I eradicated one not long ago in one of the Four Winds' temples" Diluc explained "What?! When?" Paimon asked in shock and disbelief "If you want to track those monsters down then I'll seek answers from my contacts, I've got other means for getting the job done" Diluc explained "Sweet! We're already one step closer to solving the case!" Rainbow said in relief "Diluc... Though he dislikes the Knights of Favonius he protects Mondstadt in his own way" Paimon said in disbelief "Ooh? Why does our little Paimon sound so doting all of a sudden?" Venti asked "Hmph" Diluc scoffed in disbelief Where do we meet?" Twilight asked "Just wait for my word, I'll be sure to let the Abyss Order know that their blatant disregard for Mondstadt will not go unpunished" Diluc explained "Good! The rest of you! Do what you want and we'll meet back here on Diluc's command!" Twilight said The group then splitted up as they went to take a rest [Somewhere else...] Meanwhile at another place overlooking what seemed to be a ruined temple was a guy with darker yellow hair that looked almost orange, he wore a brown (nearly black) t-shirt that went up to his belly with a golden triton shape of some kind, he wore a white scarf with yellow shapes over it, black gloves, gray pants with golden stripes and black shoes with golden details standing along with Starlight, it was Lumine's missing brother and Twilight's missing friend as two abyss mages stood behind them until they noticed Dvalin flying by "Don't worry Dvalin! We'll protect you!" Starlight called out Just then an abyss mage teleported by in the middle of the other two "Your highness... Your humble servant returns" The abyss mage said with a bow The guy and Starlight then turned to them with evil looks "Great!" The guy said "When your homelands return to this world we shall revel in it's glory" The abyss mage explained After saying that the abyss mages laughed as Starlight and the guy did so too [Back with the heroes] Meanwhile Twilight, Rainbow, Lumine and Paimon were in what seems to be a hospital room as Venti was laying in the bed "We're just giving you a thorough check after that hit but don't worry, in best case scenario you can go home early" Twilight said "Thanks guys, you didn't have to" Venti said Just then a girl with bright pink hair walks in, she had a white hat with a black top and what seems to be a golden shaped sword, she even wore a white jacket with lots of buttons, a golden purse of sort and a white and blue bow on the chest and white shoes "I've got an update" The girl said "Really? How is he?" Twilight asked "He's fine, he just took a hard hit, you can bring him home but he should rest for a few days so please keep him out of trouble this time" The girl said "Of course, thank you very much" Lumine said "You're free to go" Rainbow said Venti then stepped out of the bed and he along with his friends went outside the church as they began walking "I'd like to thank you girls once again for helping me on this mission" Venti said "No worries but next time do not force us to steal again, we have had enough problems as of now" Twilight said "I won't I promise, You make a pinkie promise, you keep it all your life, you break a pinkie promise, I throw you on the ice. The cold will kill the pinkie that once betrayed your friend, the frost will freeze your tongue off so you never lie again" Venti said "Uh, what?" Lumine asked "It's one of the pinkie promises us gods hold along with most other kids" Venti explained "Oh..." Paimon realized before thinking "Why does Paimon feel like this is gonna noteworthy for a future Episode?" Paimon asked "Are you gonna break the fourth wall again?" Twilight asked "There's no fourth wall, is there?" Lumine asked The group then turned to the sides to look if there's a camera before towards the screen as Rainbow shrugged "Nope, there's not!" Rainbow said "Great! Then we can finally do whatever we want but remember Venti, take a break" Twilight said "Yeah, yeah, I know" Venti said The group then went to their hotel room as Rainbow turned to Twilight "Say Twilight, I just wanted to say I'm sorry for how I reacted earlier" Rainbow said "No worries" Twilight said Paimon then flew to the duo "Hey you two, Paimon's got a question" Paimon explained "Yeah, what's wrong?" Rainbow asked "Won't you two be missing each other once we leave?" Paimon asked "Well, maybe since I didn't ask Jean yet if I could go on an adventure with you guys so yeah, I'll probably be missing you guys and if Jean says I can't leave then I'll surely be giving you guys a souvenir" Rainbow said "Okay, we'll keep that in mind" Twilight said Rainbow then turned to Paimon "So, where are you planning on going next if the situation calls for it?" Rainbow asked "We'll probably be going to Snezhnaya to stop the Fatui but I still need to think as I have no idea just yet" Paimon explained "You mean that land that has the worst people in the whole of Teyvat?!" Rainbow asked "I wouldn't exactly call them the worst, I would say they are just misunderstood" Paimon explained "I agree" Twilight said "Very well but if you plan on going to Snezhnaya I will definitely come along to make sure you don't get in trouble" Rainbow said "Thanks Rainbow, I knew you were gonna say that" Twilight said "Say, you two may go meet up with Jean and ask her if Rainbow can join us if you want" Paimon suggested "Are you sure?" Rainbow asked "Of course, in the meantime Paimon's gonna wait for Lumine to come with the food! Paimon's hungry!" Paimon said "Very well" Twilight said Afterwards Twilight and Rainbow left and right when they did Lumine opened the door "Hey Paimon, is everything alright in here?" Lumine asked "Of course, Paimon just let Rainbow and Twilight ask Jean if Rainbow can join us on our adventure" Paimon explained "Oh alright then, why don't we go take a walk and see the sights in Mondstadt?" Lumine asked "Sure!" Paimon said Lumine then put the plastic bags full of food on the table before the duo left Meanwhile Twilight and Rainbow had arrived at the headquarters Twilight knocked on Jean's office door "Come on in!" Jean called out After saying that Twilight and Rainbow walked into the room "Hey Acting Grand Master Jean, we had a question for you" Rainbow explained "Does it have something to do with Dvalin? I thought that was clear" Jean thought out looud "No, no, no, it's not that though it was explained well but anyways, I was wondering if I could go on a mission with Twilight, Lumine and Paimon?" Rainbow asked "You want to go adventuring with your friend Twilight, right?" Jean asked "Not just that, I also know that she would be a great asset to finding my friends and Lumine's brother" Twilight explained "Hmm, very well, you may join but only on two conditions" Jean said "What is it?" Rainbow asked "You have fun with Twilight and come to visit us every once in a while" Jean said "I will, I promise" Rainbow said "Very well, let me get some papers" Jean said Jean then left the room as Twilight got happy "This is gonna be so awesome!" Rainbow said "Yeah, it sure will just keep in mind that there's 5 more of our friends to find" Twilight explained "Are you serious?! They could be anywhere!" Rainbow reminded "True but we can always take breaks if you want" Twilight reminded "Yeah and besides, more places do need help not just from us but maybe all our other 'friends' too" Rainbow explained "Yeah, say, is there at least one thing from me that you remember?" Twilight asked "I'm not sure but once I woke up a couple months ago I did feel as though I met you before" Rainbow explained "Hmm, well, you did, a very long time ago at that" Twilight explained "Then I have no idea why I forgot about you, maybe we didn't meet commonly" Rainbow explained "You didn't remember anything so I just have to assume the only thing you remember was waking up" Twilight explained "Yeah true, does that mean I have... Amnesia?" Rainbow asked worriedly "Yeah pretty much but maybe if you go on adventures with me you'll remember something" Twilight said "Good idea, that does seem likely" Rainbow said Jean then went into the room again with some papers "Alright Rainbow, just write down how long you want to have a vacation by then and then me and Lisa can discuss on how we can handle it and since we don't know when they're leaving you can also skip that" Jean said "Alright" Rainbow said Rainbow then read what was on the paper before she wrote her name "Very well, it has been decided, have another great day" Jean said "AWESOME!" Rainbow called out Rainbow then hugged Twilight tightly who then looked at the camera with a helpful expression while the screen turned back > Episode 11: The Mystery of the Darknight Hero and the war note > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After a while Twilight and Rainbow had returned to their hotel room as they met with Lumine and Paimon who turned to them "Hey girls, how'd it go?!" Paimon asked "She got accepted!" Twilight said "Yes! That's right! I'm now your newest adventurer!" Rainbow said "Sweet! Shall we celebrate that?!" Lumine asked "Celebrate that where?" Paimon asked "I think I know, follow me!" Lumine said The group then went to the tavern which they entered as they approached the guy who stood at the bar while thinking before he noticed the group "So, you girls got a taste for adventure too huh?" The guy reminded "We sure do!" Twilight answered "I must say, the patrons have been in a bit of a buzz lately" The guy explained "Really?! Spill the deets!" Lumine suggested excitedly "Well, the topic on everyone's lips is more of an urban legend than actual news" The guy explained "Ooh! I love urban legends! They sound exciting! What is it?! A mysterious meteor?! Our friends or brothers are found?! Dvalin is back to our side?!" Twilight explained "No, that's not but even if I mind my own business I still end up hearing all about it" Diluc explained "Uh-oh... It's not one of those scary urban legends is it? If so Paimon needs to take a deep breath first!" Paimon said worriedly The guy then chuckled a bit "Hahaha, it's not a particularly scary story no... At least not for most people..." The guy said "Wow! Those guys must be scaredy cats!" Rainbow said "Rainbow!" Twilight called out "Sorry, my bad" Rainbow apologized "Anyways, spill the tea!" Twilight suggested "It's the tale of... The Darknight hero!" The guy announced "Argh!!!" Paimon called out "That doesn't sound too bad after all, I've heard worse" Rainbow explained "Yeah and besides Paimon, he literally just said it's NOT a scary story" Lumine said in disbelief "Huh? Did the bartender just say something?" Paimon asked in confusion "You weren't even listening?" The guy asked in disbelief before shaking his head "Anyway the Darknight Hero" The guy explained "Who's that mister?" Twilight asked "I don't know, it is said that he appears in the middle of the night to fight evil and uphold justice but to be honest I don't have much interest in such rumors unless of course he can help take care of the more belligerent patrons after they've had a few too many..." The guy explained before chuckling "I would happily take that as proof of his existence " The guy explained "Hmm..." Twilight thought "Has anyone ever seen him?" Lumine asked "I mean, some people must have if they share rumors about it" The guy answered "Then why would he hide his identity?" Lumine asked "I doubt anyone knows other than him, maybe he enjoys being a man of mystery after all it's a good way to get the ladies' attention" The guy explained "Really?" Twilight asked "Yeah, any guy in the tavern could tell you that" The guy answered before chuckling a bit "Hehe, anyway... That's more or less everything I know, if you want to know more ask around in the plaza" The guy suggested before he noticed somebody raise their hand "Ah, I need to serve some customers" The guy said The guy then left as the four heroes turned to each other "'Darknight Hero'... Seems like your standard cookie-cutter urban legend" Paimon said "I doubt so, I think it's more of a true myth just like the Pillars of Equestria" Twilight explained "Pillars of Equestria, they sound thrilling" Rainbow said "They're more like heroes of old Equestria" Twilight explained "Ooh! Sounds cool!" Paimon said before shaking her head "But this is different, it's just a little darker" Paimon said "Actually, the myth in our world is darker than this one, he saves heroes while the heroes of old Equestria got trapped in some sort of limbo with the Pony of Shadows until we saved them" Twilight explained "Doesn't matter, I'm wondering who it could be, once you're ready let's head out to the plaza and ask around!" Paimon suggested The group then went to the plaza where they saw people going on about their day before they approached a girl "Hello! Are you looking for anything in particular?" The girl asked "Hi, we're trying to find out more about the 'Darknight Hero'" Lumine explained "Is that from a fairytale or a novel or something like that?" The girl asked "No, it's more of a myth" Twilight explained "Oh okay, then I can't help, sorry" The girl said The girl then walked off as Twilight turned to her friends "Guess that didn't work, maybe we should ask someone else" Paimon suggested Twilight then noticed someone near the fountain "I have a feeling she knows, come on girls" Twilight said The group then went towards the girl who then turned to them "Hey there miss, we'd like to ask you about the Darknight hero" Lumine explained The girl then smiled "You want to find out something about the Darknight Hero?" The girl asked in shock and excitement "Do you know?! Tell me!" Twilight pleaded excitedly "Look no further, it's me! I am the Darknight Hero" The girl said "What?! You're kidding, right?!" Lumine asked in shock and disbelief The girl then began chuckling a bit "You're right, I'm not, I was joking" The girl said "Huh..." Lumine called out in shock and confusion "Heh..." Paimon asked in shock and confusion "Oh come on!" Twilight called out in disbelief "Heh, jokes aside I do think the Darknight Hero and I have one thing in common" The girl explained "Really? What is that?!" Rainbow asked in excitement "Yeah, what's that?" Paimon asked in excitement "It's... The way he sticks to his principles... Coming out here night after night, fighting for justice, keeping Mondstadt safe..." The girl explained "Wow, so you're a noctural vigilante too?" Paimon asked "Yeah, we didn't see you save the day and besides it's more like they have one thing in common with us" Twilight explained "N-No, I just mean he must be seriously rich" The girl explained "Somebody's being greedy here" Rainbow whispered to Lumine Lumine then chuckled while Paimon looked at the girl in confusion "Why is that?" Paimon asked in confusion "People only start worrying about spiritual fulfillment once they have enough material wealth, it's the same in every hero story isn't it?" The girl asked "Yeah it does" Twilight explained "So... You just wanted to flaunt your wealth?" Lumine asked "Heh, no, it's nothing like that, I just have too much time on my hands these days" The girl answered "Same difference, you are the boss of the Cat's Tail after all" Paimon reminded "True but why don't you ask the guards at the city gate? They do night shifts all the time, they must know something" The girl suggested "Good idea, thanks miss" Rainbow thanked The girl then walked off as the group rushed over to the guards outside the city who stood by the gates as they turned to the first they came across "Hey sir we'd like to ask something" Twilight said "Sure what is it?" The guard asked "We'd like to know what kind of hero the Darknight Hero is" Rainbow explained "You want to know about... Him?" The guard asked in shock and disbelief "Of course!" Lumine answered "Have you ever seen him?" Paimon asked "Yeah, in fact, I'm one of the few who has seen him with my own two eyes" The guard explained "Great! This is the guy we need to talk to" Paimon said in relief "Tell us everything you know!" Twilight suggested excitedly "Yeah...! Just who is the Darknight Hero?" Paimon asked excitedly "Whoa--- S-Slow down, let me start from the beginning" The guard suggested "Alright, go ahead" Rainbow said "Well, I was patrolling one night when suddenly I heard something, I rushed over to check it out, I saw a gang of suspicious-looking fellows who looked like they were up to no good so I quickly hid" The guard explained "Hid? You're supposed to be a guard!" Paimon reminded "I know but that's when... He appeard, he was dressed in black from head to toe, perfectly hidden in the night, the way he crept up on those bad guys, it must have felt like a living nightmare" The guard explained, still in shock and disbelief "Wow..." Paimon called out in awe "That's like, the most awesome thing I've ever heard!" Rainbow explained "Same here!" Twilight said "I have to agree with you girls" Lumine agreed "Guess what I did next?" The guard asked "Ran away?" Lumine asked "I wasn't the bad guy! Why would I need to run away?" The guard asked in anger and disbelief "You asked us to guess" Twilight reminded "...Still, I did leave the scene, I didn't want to be a nuisance to the Darknight Hero so instead, I headed to the Knights of Favonius' Residence" The guard explained "You think the Darknight Hero might be one of the knights?" Lumine asked "Correct, I thought 'Surely someone with such a strong sense of justice and who voluntarily protects Mondstadt is exactly the kind of person you'd find in the Knights of Favonius'" The guard explained before sighing in disbelief "But it seems I was wrong" The guard said in defeat "Why?" Rainbow asked "Well, I checked everywhere and there were no signs of anyone having left the building" The guard explained "So you're saying whoever it is can't be from the Knights of Favonius after all?" Paimon asked "Yes, but I just can't understand... Why would someone like that not want to join the knights? I'm sure they would warmly welcome someone of his abilities" The guard explained "So the point you're trying to make is... You don't know who the Darknight Hero is either?" Paimon asked "Hey, don't be like that! At least by talking to me you've ruled out a few more people..." The guard explained nervously "I mean, he's right after all but there's still a lot of people left over" Twilight explained "Anyway, try asking at the flower shop, I heard a girl there's been talking about the time he rescued her" The guard explained "Will do!" Lumine said The group then went towards the flower shop where they saw Donna still looking at the ground in awe "What's wrong with me...? Why can't I get him out of my mind...?" Donna asked in awe The group then stopped in front of her as Paimon begins waving "Ah hello? We'd like to ask you about the Darknight Hero---" Paimon started After Paimon said that Donna turned to the group in excitement "MY HERO!" Donna called out before realizing what she did "...Oh sorry! Just hearing his name gets me lost in thought... Hang on, how did you know who I was talking about?" Donna asked "Because we are interested in hearing about him" Lumine explained "Is it that obvious?" Donna asked "Yep, it was, you had a small blush!" Twilight answered "Oh no, what am I going to do...? If Master Diluc ever finds out---" Donna started "Master Diluc? Where did that come from?" Twilight asked in confusion "Yeah? What's Diluc got to do with this?" Paimon asked in confusion "Ugh... Well I guess I might as well spill the beans then" Donna said in defeat before turning to the group "I used to think Diluc was the one for me" Donna explained "Really?! Him and you?! I'm sorry but I don't see that?! He looks more bossy and such!" Rainbow said in disbelief "NO HE'S NOT!" Donna called out before coughing a bit "I mean, ever since the time I was rescued by the Darknight Hero... I-I just don't know anymore..." Donna said sadly "Wowee, you saw the Darknight Hero? For real? What's he like?" Paimon asked "It all happened so fast... I was so scared... All I remember is seeing a flash of fire... But I felt safe, I only saw his silhouette but it felt so... Familiar" Donna explained in awe, fright and worry "A flash of fire..." Lumine thought out loud before turning to Donna "A Vision perhaps?" Lumine asked "Who knows? But now that you mention it, a Pyro Vision does seem like a good explanation, it lit up the whole area in an instant, I remember that very well" Donna realized "Oookay then! Well, thanks for the intel Donna, see you around!" Paimon waved before she and her friends began walking (or flew in Paimon's case) off towards the next place they wanted to investigate "So, based on what we know so far all we need to do is find a wealthy Vision-wielding vigilante who is not one of the knights" Paimon suggested before thinking only to sigh in defeat "Hmm... Nope, still no idea" Paimon said in defeat "Hmm, I think I know who it could be" Twilight thought out loud "But we already asked so many people, guess we got to see for ourselves" Paimon suggested "Good idea" Lumine agreed "Let's take a look around the city at nighttime, if we're lucky we just might bump into him" Paimon suggested Twilight then looked at the sky and saw the moon going up into the sky "Look! It's nighttime!" Twilight said "Alright, let's split up then and come back here once we found more clues!" Rainbow said The group then split off as Lumine and Paimon walked down some stairs they were nearby only to feel the ground shaking "Stop Paimon!" Lumine called out Just then a gust of wind appeared causing the group to cover their eyes and when the gust of wind was gone they looked at the source only to see Diluc running around an abyss mage with speed as some white ice followed him before the abyss mage jumped up and shot icicles at Diluc who began dodging all of them while even running on walls before the abyss mage spun around before shooting a large icicle at Diluc which caused him to get trapped "Diluc!" Lumine and Paimon called out in shock Just then a burst of fire appeared as Diluc charged towards the abyss mage with a large slash of his sword which caused the abyss mage to burst into pieces which caused Lumine and Paimon to gasp in shock and disbelief "The Darknight Hero is master Diluc?!" Paimon called out in shock and disbelief Diluc then went to stand back up from the fall as he turned to Lumine and Paimon while Twilight and Rainbow rushed towards them "Where have you guys be---" Rainbow started Just then Rainbow and Twilight noticed Diluc causing Twilight to drop her jaws to the floor while Rainbow shook her head to try and get that 'dream' out of her head only to look back and see it was definitely Diluc "After managing to steer clear of the guards' patrol route... I never anticipated I'd run into you four instead" Diluc said Twilight and Rainbow then trotted over to Lumine and Paimon "Could somebody explain what the fuss is all about?" Rainbow asked, still in shock "The Darknight Hero! I knew it was you all along!" Twilight said in shock and disbelief "Diluc?! YOU are the Darknight hero?" Lumine asked in shock and disbelief "'Darknight Hero...' Sounds awfully derivative to me, please tell me you didn't come up with that" Diluc pleaded "We didn't, the city folk did" Twilight explained "How is this the first time you've heard of the name? Every man, pony and his dog in Mondstadt is yapping about the Darknight Hero!" Paimon explained "How did you manage to stay so secretive like that?! That was amazing!" Rainbow asked in shock and awe "I do not concern myself with idle chatter... Though I suppose I may take the idleness of others as a sign that peace prevails" Diluc said in relief Paimon then turned to her friends "Huzzah! The great mystery of the Darknight Hero of Mondstadt... We solved it!" Paimon announced before turning to Diluc "Now then mr. Darknight Hero---" Paimon started "Please, stop calling me that, seriously, it makes me uncomfortable" Diluc pleaded "Hah, not surprised, it's the stupidest superhero name Paimon's ever heard, you should come up with something more original like..." Paimon started before turning to the ground "Emm... 'Captain Pie...'" Paimon suggested "Pie?" Diluc asked in confusion "Pie?" Lumine asked in confusion "Pie?" Twilight asked in confusion "Pie?" Rainbow asked in confusion "Captain Pyro!" Paimon finished before turning to Diluc "Tell us Captain Pyro, what happened here today?" Paimon asked "..." Diluc thought before turning to the group "It was the Abyss Order" Diluc explained "Them again?" Paimon asked in disbelief "Haven't we just defeated them?!" Twilight asked in disbelief "I don't know what the devil they're plotting this time, it seems they're performing some initial reconnaissance, considering that I've proven myself to be one step ahead of them on countless occasions, their persistence is... Unusual" Diluc explained "Have you been dealing with them alone the whole time?" Lumine asked "I assume so unless you're aware of any other 'Darknight Heroes' around these parts" Diluc reminded "Why are you handling them alone though?" Twilight asked "Well, the knights are for the most part an utterly incompetent bunch, I cannot trust them to take this matter over" Diluc explained "So this is a job for the mighty Diluc then" Lumine said Diluc then sighed in disbelief "That's not my point, I am not doing this to impress anyone" Diluc said in disbelief before smiling at them "Well, I hope this conversation has been of service to you because I would like to ask for a favor in return" Diluc explained "Ooh, what is it master Diluc? Your wish is our command---" Paimon said "Yeah, what is it?" Rainbow asked "You must keep my identity a secret, above all, it is crucial that you do not let the Knights of Favonius know I am connected to any of this" Diluc ordered Just then footsteps were heard from one of the group's side as Paimon turned to it in shock and worry "What's that sound?" Paimon asked only to see hilichurls appearing "Yikes, have the Abyss Order sent backk up already?" Paimon asked in shock and worry They appear to just be small-timers so thanks to your lesson by Jean you should have no trouble dealing with them" Diluc said before turning to the group "I cannot afford delays on account of a few lackeys, I shall have to let you take care of them" Diluc said "Alright, we won't let you down!" Lumine said "Remember, don't tell a soul!" Diluc said "Does it count if we tell a tree?" Rainbow asked The group then turned to Rainbow in shock, confusion and realization as Diluc sighed in disbelief "Yes, you may, just not with somebody next to you" Diluc saisd "Okay!" Rainbow said Diluc then walked off as Paimon turned to him in shock "Hey! You're just gonna leave us like this?!" Paimon asked in shock Just then Hilichurls ran into the room "No time for idle chit-chat! We gotta beat these Hilichurls" Twilight said "And how exactly do you plan on doing that?" Rainbow asked "With our strength!" Lumine said Lumine then rushed towards a Hilichurl as she raised her sword in front of her ready to take a slash as the Hilichurl blocked it with his club "Come on you bitch! Let me win!" Lumine ordered Twilight who was fighting and dodging a Hilichurl then turned to Lumine "Don't worry Lumine! As long as you focus you'll be fine!" Twilight said Rainbow was then seen having a club to sword fight as they kept hitting both as they didn't manage to knock each other out before Rainbow bucks the Hilichurl in the kiwi's causing the Hilichurl to hit the wall with a grunt "Hah you bitch! You won't be able to beat me!" Rainbow said Just then a Hilichurl planned on hitting Rainbow but not before Paimon gave a small but hard whack on the Hilichurl's chin causing it to fly into a wall as Paimon rubbed her hand "Okay, that was not the best plan!" Paimon said Twilight then managed to use a laser beam spell at the Hilichurl which it tried to dodge with it's bat only to be send flying while turning into dust as Lumine meanwhile continued to try and manage to hit the Hilichurl who kept blocking until eventually Lumine whacked the sword hard anough causing a piece of the club to fall off making the Hilichurl look at it in worry before turning back to see Lumine give it a hard whack in the face causing it to fly away into the distance and when the Hilichurls were down for the count the group panted "Okay! Now that was too easy!" Paimon said "Yeah, finally, we finished one enemy off with just our attacks!" Lumine said Just then a Knight of Favonius guard ran by before arriving by the group and panted before turning to the group "Greetings, I thought I heard something so I came to check it out" The guard explained "Oh nothing happened, just some Hilichurls we defeated thanks to the help of our tourist, right Rainbow?" Twilight asked "Y-Yes, of course" Rainbow answered "Alright then, still, did you see anything out of the ordinary?" The guard asked "Nope, nuh-uh, not here, nothing, zilch unless you're looking for the Darknight Hero, in which case---" Paimon started "Shut it Paimon!" Lumine orderd Just then the guard got confused "The Darknight Hero? You saw him?" The guard asked in shock "Oh, ahh... The Darknight Hero is ahh..." Paimon started as Twilight, Rainbow and Lumine glared at her before Paimon pointed at Lumine "Her!" Paimon explained "..." Lumine thought in disbelief "That was close" Twilight thought "You! The hero who safeguards Mondstadt from the shadows! On behalf of the Knights of Favonius I thank you for your service to this city" The guard said "Heh... It's nothing really... You're too kind..." Paimon said "Yeah, definitely" Lumine said The guard then realized something "Wait a second... Aren't you two the travelers that just arrived in the city?" The guard asked "Yes we are, why?" Twilight asked "Rumors were circulating about the Darknight Hero long before you ever arrived here" The guard reminded "Oh... Ah..." Paimon started nervously "Well, I teleported Lumine here every time once most people were asleep" Twilight explained "Oh, I see" The guard said before turning to Lumine "I do hope you will visit the Knights of Favonius soon where we can duscuss the Darknight Hero situation in more detail" The guard suggested "Why?" Twilight asked "Well, some things are best not discussed in public" The guard explained "Oh okay" Twilight said "Anyways, duty calls, I must be going, stay safe travellers!" The guard said The guard then walked off as the group got nervous "So uh, shall we get to the headquarters then?" Rainbow asked "Of course, Paimon can't wait to help others again!" Paimon said "Though thanks to you, we're stuck in a puddle!" Twilight reminded "Yeah, Paimon knows and Paimon's still sorry about that" Paimon said "Very well, then let's go meet up with the guard" Lumine said The group then began walking off towards the Knights of Favonius Headquarters and when they arrived they noticed the guard checking the place "Huffman!" Paimon called out The guard called Huffman then turned around to look at the trio "Oh, it's you four, thank you for coming" Huffman thanked "No worries, now tell us, what's the situation?" Twilight asked "So, Darknight Hero and friends, do you have anything else you're able to share with me?" Huffman asked "Could I first ask what's going on?" Lumine asked "Ah yes, of course, I should fill you in first... Apologies for my appalling lapse of etiquette" Huffman apologized before grabbing a piece of paper out of his pocket "The situation is..." Huffman started before pulling the paper towards the four "Here, take a look at this" Huffman suggested Twilight then grabbed the piece of paper and read it with her friends looking besides her "Geez... What horrible handwriting!" Paimon said "I agree, even I can barely understand it" Twilight explained "Hmm, let me take a closer look..." Paimon suggested as twilight gave the letter to Paimon "Huh, some parts of this seem to be complete gibberish" Paimon explained in confusion "Indeed, although this is written i the common tongue it appears that a cipher has been used in many places; nevertheless oe can grasp the general message from the non-ciphered portions alone... This is a war declaration from the Abyss Order to the Darknight Hero" Huffman explained "Does that mean... The bad guys want the Darknight Hero to go away forever and ever?" Paimon asked "I was wondering that too" Rainbow agreed in confusion "It's something like that thus we are hoping to contact him as soon as possible so that we can attempt to coordinate a response, after all, this matter no longer cocerns merely the Darknight Hero himself, it impacts the entire city of Mondstadt" Huffman explained "Thank you for the information" Lumine thanked "If you find out anything at all come and find me" Huffman suggested Huffman then left as Rainbow turned to her friends "Okay, while we may be the Darknight Hero for now thanks to a certain somebody we have to go tell Diluc about this, he might have an idea on what to do" Rainbow said "Good idea, to the Dawn Winery we go!" Twilight called out The group the began walking to the Dawn Winery as Paimon began speaking "A war declaratio, sent by the Abyss Order... This is not good news at all for master Diluc!" Paimon said in worry "I know but now we need to tell him right away" Lumine said The group then began walking with Rainbow and Lumine walking either at the front or back to see if anyone was about to attack them and after a while of walking the group arrived inside Dawn Winery where they approached Diluc "Master Diluc! Just now we were at the Knights of Favonius and, and-" Paimon started nervously "I take it you're about to inform me of the war declaration from the Abyss Order?" Diluc asked "How'd you know?!" Twilight explained "I was aware of it before you knew though I appreciate you for taking the trouble to come all this way" Diluc said "How do you know though?" Paimon asked in confusion "The Dawn Winery's intelligence network extends beyond commercial matters" Diluc explained "Great! So, what's the plan master Diluc?" Paimon asked "Yeah, your life is at risk, remember?!" Rainbow reminded "I know but I'm open to suggestions..." Diluc explained "Sorry I'm saying this but you should really join forces with the Knights..." Lumine suggested "No, that would be playing right into the hands of the Abyss order, they know full well that we don't exactly see eye to eye, they're using this as a means to force me inton making an appearance, if my identity were exposed all my future activities would be subject to some degree of interference from the Knights, after all, no powerful organization wishes to be outdone by someone from the outside" Diluc explained "Whew... The Abyss Order has really dealt you a tough hand this time, what a sneaky little bunch those guys are!" Paimon said "I agree, these guys are gonna get their asses kicked sooner or later!" Rainbow said angrily "Well, there is a way but for it to work I need some more information" Diluc explained "Well, whatever it is, we can get that info for you!" Twilight said "Alright, well, I need to decipher the obscured portions of the Abyss Order's war declaration" Diluc explained "Obscured portions? You mean the bits Paimon or Twilight can't read?" Paimon asked "It must be a cipher only understood by members of the Abyss Order used to spread messages within the organization" Diluc explained "Why would they send you a written message that only they can read?" Lumine asked "It's not simply a war declaration but also a notification to their own" Diluc explained causing the group to begin looking at him in confusion "When you take a stand that makes you a hero to one party you also become a villain to the other" Diluc explained "Really? I did not expect that" Twilight said worriedly "Chillax Twilight, surely it can't be that bad!" Rainbow said "But I've been the Abyss Order's enemy for so long they've made me the target around where they can rally their troops and unite their strength" Diluc explained "Yep, it's bad" Rainbow whispered worriedly "Wow... Seems like it takes a lot of brains to be a superhero huh?" Paimon asked "I understand my enemy well is all, as the saying goes, heroes and villains are two sides of the same coin" Diluc explained "Now I'm starting to wonder who the worst enemy is that's closest to me, I do know for a fact Rainbow's opposite is Lightning but thanks to her memories I can't say that out loud" Twilight thought "So what're we gonna do about the intel that's written in gibberish then? How do we... Ungibberishify it?" Paimon asked "Simple, when you don't understand something you ask" Diluc explained "So you're saying we should ask the Abyss Order themselves? Isn't that, like, super impossible?" Rainbow asked "Yes and I've already tracked down one of their strongholds... If you're interested feel free to come along" Diluc suggested Diluc then walked off as the group turned to each other "Okay, I know we had a tough fight with the abyss mages most of the time but as long as we work together we'll be fine" Twilight said "So you're saying we should off them?" Rainbow asked "When have I said that?" Twilight asked "It doesn't matter, sure they might be tough but as long we work together no enemy will be able to knock us down" Lumine said "Very well, let's go follow Diluc then" Twilight said The group then walked after Diluc who then led them the way to one of the ruins the group previously went to and when they arrived Diluc turned to them "This is the place" Diluc explained "Wasn't this the place one of us went to before?" Twilight asked "Yes it was" Rainbow answered "Yep and it was Lisa and you Rainbow" Lumine explained "And remember, abandoned ruins like these are precisely the kind of place the Abyss Order likes to camp out" Diluc reminded "Oh I get it now" Twilight realized "Come on, there's no time to lose" Diluc suggested The group then entered the abandoned ruin where they then went to the pathways as Rainbow walked in the front with her spear straight up and soon enough the group arrived by some button which caused some slimes to appear "Hah! Too easy!" Rainbow said Rainbow then rushed towards a slime and gave it a buck causing her to freeze for a moment while Twilight shook her head in disbelief as she shot some flames at the slimes causing some to melt while Lumine slashed others who didn't have a chance to react causing them all to melt at the end and when that was done they noticed Diluc slowly turning Rainbow back to normal "I'm not gonna do that again!" Rainbow said "Be careful next time Rainbow" Diluc said "Yeah, being cocky wouldn't help you in this world" Twilight said "Seriously?! I'm never cocky!" Rainbow reminded angrily "Nevermind that, let's just focus on getting more proof of the 'War Declaration'" Lumine suggested The group then began walking until they entered the room where an abyss mage was "Hey you! Why don't you come and face us!" Rainbow ordered The abyss mage then turned around "Are you sure that, do I need to remind you guys you couldn't win against us?" The abyss mage asked "Of course we can! Attack!" Lumine called out The group then rushed towards the abyss mage who then shielded themselves as Rainbow gave the sphere a few slashes until a laser was shot at her which she quickly dodged causing Diluc to run against the walls before jumping down, ready to give a slash at the abyss mage before it teleported out of the way as a hole appeared which Diluc began to fall towards until he was teleported to safety thanks to Twilight "Thanks Twilight!" Diluc thanked Lumine then rushed towards the abyss mage and gave it a hard whack causing the abyss mage to fall through the hole they made before teleporting back up "Puhuhuhuhu! You can't even beat hem!" The abyss mage reminded Just then Twilight's Cutie Mark began shining as she looked around only to see Rainbow's butt where the pants were also shining as the two Cutie Marks began spiraling towards the Abyss Mage and shooting lasers "What's that?!" Lumine asked "I don't know, maybe Twilight knows!" Rainbow said "This must be the elements in us to react to our situation, I think it's meaning to say that we are getting closer!" Twilight explained "I thought we were getting closer already!" Rainbow said "I think it's not just about getting closer, I think it's about how we're focusing on saving Diluc like it's a Friendship Problem!" Twilight explained "What kind of f--- You know what, I won't question it!" Rainbow said The Cutie Marks then began dimming "Focus! You're nearly breaking the shield!" Diluc called out "Oh right, our apologies" Twilight said Twilight and Rainbow then focused before they both nodded and charged before Rainbow threw a spear at the abyss mage while Twilight infused the spear with electricity causing a large explosion causing the shield to break and the room to get covered in dust causing the group to cough before the dust cleared as they saw the abyss mage grunting on the ground and trying to get up as the eyes turned from bright red to just black as the abyss mage turned to the group in worry "How did you find me here Favonian scums!" The abyss mage asked "I am no Knight of Favonius" Diluc explained "But the rest of us are, or technically, they're the honorary Knights of Favonius!" Rainbow explained "Still, start talking Abyss Mage! Your plan, what is it?" Diluc asked angrily "I see you received our letter... But if you think I'm going to let you in on our secrets I'm afraid you're quite mistaken!" The Abyss Mage explained "Hmph, you appear to have misunderstood the situation you are in" Diluc reminded "Twilight, burn him with your laser!" Lumine ordered "On it!" Twilight called out Twilight then shot an large amount of electricity at the Abyss Mage causing it to give a horrifying shriek before Twilight stopped causing the Abyss Mage to drop to the ground and turn to the group in pain "D-Did you just use an Electro Vision to shoot e-electricity from your horn?!" The Abyss Mage asked, still in pain "Yes I did and I can continue to do more if you don't listen" Twilight suggested "N-No, stop, it burns!" The Abyss Mage called out "Then answer us!" Lumine ordered "Gh---!" The Abyss Mage grunted, not willing to listen "Let's see how long it takes for you to crack..." Diluc suggested "Twilight, shoot another bunch of electricity!" Rainbow suggested "I'm on it!" Twilight said Twilight then shot another laser and another as the Abyss Mage continued to bounce up and down with mini shrieks every time "Stop! Stop! P-Please, the pain--- I beg you... Make it stop!" The Abyss Mage called out in between shrieks "Then tell us the your plan or I'll do it again!" Twilight ordered "I'll talk, I'll talk!" The Abyss Mage called out as he struggled to stand up "Ow, ow, ow... P-Please stop! I'll tell you everything!" The Abyss Mage said "Lumine, take a note please" Twilight suggested "I'm on it!" Lumine said Twilight then teleported in a Mondstadian note and pen as Lumine turned to the Abyss Mage, listening to what he's about to say "Th-The Abyss Order, we've amassed a force bound by a shared hatred for the Darknight Hero, they... They will march on the Mondstadt city gates at 10 PM tomorrow night" The Abyss Mage explained "Really? Do you know more?" Diluc asked "That's everything I know... Please... Don't make me suffer those flames again..." The Abyss Mage pleaded "So that was it? Well, I doubt you'd be foolish enough to keep anything else hidden" Diluc explained "If you say so Diluc" Twilight explained Lumine then gave Diluc the note as the group went outside the cave where Diluc turned to them "Now that I have the information I need I must prepare" Diluc explained "I will tell the Knights of Favonius about the situation too, I won't mention you though" Rainbow explained "Good, I would be grateful if you could keep me updated on how the Knights of Favonius respond to this matter" Diluc explained "Very well, I'll be on my way" Rainbow explained Rainbow then zoomed away from the group "We'd better follow after her, right?" Paimon asked "Yeah, definitely" Lumine agreed "We better make sure she doesn't tell the secret out loud, sure I may once have made a mistake but I learned from it" Twilight explained "Then go ahead and come back to me once you're done" Diluc explained "Yes Master Diluc sir! Anything you say Master Diluc sir!" Paimon called out "...Why are you acting so strange all of a sudden?" Diluc asked "In... In light of what just went down here a moment ago... Master Diluc has officially reached No. 1 on Paimon's 'people not to tick off under any circumstances' list..." Paimon explained "..." Diluc scoffed while looking down in disbelief Twilight then noticed that it was getting darker "Anyways, we'd best be going, I still need to get Rainbow to not tell the secret and we need to go get some rest for tomorrow" Twilight explained > Episode 12: The Darknight Hero's Battle > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The next day Twilight, Paimon and Lumine went out of their rooms as they went to the plaza where they noticed Rainbow "Hey everypony, I've got a meeting planned for today with Huffman and don't worry, I didn't tell him the Darknight Hero's secret identity and even when I did he told me to tell him everything today so I thought why not bring my friends into it, I mean, we're helping him after all" Rainbow explained "True, alright then, to the headquarters we go!" Twilight announced The group then began walking to the headquarters where they entered before Huffman came to bring them into his and the other guards' office where they noticed the guards had left "So, did you figure out something?" Huffman asked "Well..." Twilight explained Afterwards the group told Huffman the whole story, they even told them they met the actual Darknight Hero without saying Diluc's name which caused a bit of an argument which ended up with the group saying sorry and Huffman to get worried "If we do not make contact with the Knights of Favonius soon..." Huffman thought worriedly "What are we to do about the Abyss Order's challenge?" Lumine asked "Yeah, there's a chance he'd die!" Rainbow reminded "I must admit, this issue of the Darknight Hero is proving to be something of a headache" Huffman explained "I agree, perhaps you know what we should do" Twilight said "Well, we've held a meeting to decide on an appropriate course of action yesterday, can you guess what it is?" Huffman asked "Join forces with the Darknight Hero?" Rainbow asked "Stop the plan with your own hands?" Twilight asked "Force the mysterious Darknight Hero to join the Knights of Favonius?" Lumine asked "We're not having the Darknight Hero join forces with us or force him to join the Knights of Favonius" Huffman explained "Why? If you don't mind us asking?" Paimon asked "Well, that would send a signal that the Knights are in favor of the Darknight Hero's continued presence in our city... Which we are not" Huffman explained "Are you sure? I mean, he's saving your town time and time again" Twilight reminded "Encouraging this kind of individual heroism undermines the knights' authority" Huffman explained "Oh, well, what's the plan then?" Paimon asked "Find out the Darknight Hero's true identity and offer him our protection" Huffman explained "'Protection'? He seems to be doing just fine without your protection so far y'know..." Paimon reminded "Pff..." Huffman scoffed before thinking "Well, since you've aided the knights in the past I might as well just tell you, the offer of protection is just a ruse in order for the Knights of Favonius to take over full and exclusive responsibility for this matter" Huffman explained "You aren't gonna let the Darknight Hero be all heroic and stuff? Why not?" Paimon asked "Firstly, to show the might of the Knights of Favonius and to prove to the people that without the Darknight Hero they can still rely on the Knights to maintain peace and harmony, secondly, the Abyss Order have no mercy in their hearts, if anything happened to the Darknight Hero... It would only serve to further their nefarious ambitions" Huffman explained "Gosh... Paimon never knew the life of a knight involved so much untold anquish before" Paimon explained in disbelief "But none of this will work if we don't establish the Darknight Hero's true identity in time" Huffman reminded Kaeya then entered into the room where he turned to Huffman while speaking as he presumably heard the whole story "There's no need to despair Huffman, just follow my plan and everything will be fine" Kaeya suggested Huffman then turned to Kaeya in shock "Ah, Captain Kaeya" Huffman said in shock "Are you here to give us some clues?" Rainbow asked "Yes, lately Master Diluc has been working working at the bar of the Angel's Share every night" Kaeya explained "Really?" Twilight asked "Yes, all I need you to do is keep him in your sight, think you can manage that for me?" Kaeya asked "Yes Captain Kaeya!... But does that mean that... Master Diluc is the Darknight Hero?" Huffman asked "Who knows...? It's just a hunch, I've been known to be wrong on occasion" Kaeya explained Kaeya then left as Huffman turned to the group "Girls, I've got some stuff to prepare, why don't you go do something else" Huffman suggested "Alright, let's go girls" Twilight said The group then left the room as Paimon turned to the group in worry and disbelief "Wow, Paimon feels like we saw a whole new side of the Knights of Favonius today..." Paimon explained "Hey! At least I'm not one of the ones that showed a new side of myself" Rainbow explained "Still, Paimon doesn't understand, how is Kaeya so sure he knows who the Darknight Hero is?" Paimon asked "And better yet how he knew it's Diluc?" Rainbow explained "Don't say that out loud" Twilight ordered angrily before thinking "But yeah, that's suspicious too" Twilight agreed "We need to get to the winery and tell Master Diluc as soon as Paimonly possible!" Paimon suggested The group then began walking across the road to the Dawn Winery and when they arrived they entered the room where they met with Diluc in worry as Paimon flew close to him in her own speed faster than the others before stopping in front of his face "Master Diluc! Paimon has something important to tell you---" Paimon started "Yes... About Kaeya..." Diluc explained "Oh come on! We came here for nothing again!" Rainbow called out in disbelief Twilight then approached Rainbow "You'll have your chance someday" Twilight said "Thanks Twilight" Rainbow thanked "I should have known he would see this as the perfect opportunity to get back at me" Diluc explained "Sounds like there's a bit of bad blood between you guys then?" Paimon asked "I shan't get into that now, more importantly, the Knights of Favonius are responding more or less as I had anticipated" Diluc explained "We should've known too, my bad there" Twilight apologized "All we need to do now is think of a counter plan" Diluc suggested "Steering clear of the tavern I suppose?" Lumine asked "That won't work, it will only arouse the knights' suspicion if I don't show up as they're expecting" Diluc explained "True, they might get their suspicions correct too" Rainbow said "What if we pretend that you have diarhea?" Twilight asked "Gross but that's not a bad plan but that's what Kaeya is counting on, they want me to ask suspiciously" Diluc said "Hmm... So what are we gonna do?" Paimon asked "What if we tell them you're going to gather some herbs?" Rainbow asked "Patience girls, Let me think for a moment..." Diluc suggested Diluc then began thinking "If they intend to monitor me then so be it, we can use this to create the perfect alibi" Diluc explained "What's an alabla--- an alibi?" Paimon asked "Yeah, can you tell me too?" Rainbow asked "If you want to find out maybe you can do me a small favor first" Diluc suggested "Oh come on! Why do you love cliffhangers so much?" Paimon asked "In Mondstadt Mist Flowers are most commonly found in a region just northwest of the winery" Diluc explained "So..." Twilight asked "If you could gather some for me I'd be most grateful, I will make other preparations here in the meantime" Diluc explained The four then went to the northwest section of the winery and got some mist flowers and once they thought they had enough they met back up "Has everyone gotten them all?" Twilight asked "Yes, Paimon and Lumine have gotten the best mist flowers we could find!" Paimon explained "Me and Twilight too" Rainbow said "I thought this wasn't a competition" Lumine said "Well, I thought it was" Rainbow said "That doesn't matter, let's just return to the Dawn Winery" Twilight suggested The group then walked back to the Dawn Winery and when they arrived they saw Diluc talking to someone next to him as they approached him "Master Diluc!" Paimon called out Diluc then turned to them only to see they had returned "Ah, you're back" Diluc said in relief "Before we get our info, who's that guy?" Rainbow asked Diluc then gasped in realization "Right, allow me to introduce the winery's master brewer---" Diluc started "So many Mist Flowers... Great! I can't wait to see how this turns out!" The guy called out in relief before turning to Diluc "So, are you certain the equipment can withstand this level of purity?" Diluc asked "Oh my... My goodness, the winery owner is addressing me directly! Don't worry sir! It is always my honor to serve you even if it means risking my life!" The guy called out in shock and awe "Seems like we've got another fan on our hooves" Twilight whispered to her friends "Another fan? I thought this was the only one I saw ever?" Rainbow asked "You seriously need your memories back" Twilight said with a facepalm "Still, what's so life-threatening about this?" Paimon asked The guy then grabbed the Mist Flowers that were either in Twilight's magic or in Lumine's hands and walked off "Please excuse me, I must get to work!" The guy said while doing so "What's he gonna do with a bunch of Mist Flowers?" Paimon asked "Long story short... A few days ago the winery was experimenting with some new flavors, they wanted to see if Mist Flowers can truly add a crisp and refreshing taste and sure enough they discovered that the flower's extract is truly potent" Diluc explained "So the new batch is selling like hot cakes?" Paimon asked in excitement "No, not potent in terms of attracting customers but slimes" Diluc explained "SLIMES?!" The group asked in shock and confusion "What makes you think it's a good thing to give wine to bucking slimes?!" Rainbow asked "Well, slimes need to extract elemental energy to survive... For them, this substance is simply irresistible so I thought to myself 'I wonder how much trouble I could cause now that I know this...'" Diluc explained Just then a bunch of crashes were heard from the dawn winery "Yikes! What was that noise?" Paimon asked "Is he okay?" Twilight asked The guy then came towards the group as he looked like he was wet and cold Ah... Cold... So c-cold..." The guy called out "Are you okay?" Rainbow asked "Well uh, Master Diluc, the purification is complete sir! B-But the equipment is..." The guy started nervously "Marvelous work, don't fret about the equipment, I shall have my butler order more immediately" Diluc said "'Marvelous! Jolly-ho! Spiffing! Somebody fetch the butler!' Paimon never knew you had to be so well spoken to get a job in the alcohol industry" Paimon said in awe and disbelief "This is what I was talking about" Diluc said "So what do you plan with doing with the Mist Flower extract?" Rainbow asked "Mist Flower extract... Or for our purposes 'Elemental bait'" Diluc explained "Don't tell me we have to---" Lumine started "Wow, it really has a strong elemental..." Paimon called out as she flew towards it and sniffed "Can we test it out?" Paimon asked "Sprinkle on the ground over there, careful though, just a small amount" Diluc suggested "Yes sir! Let's do it girls!" Twilight said Lumine then grabbed the bowl as the group went to the spot Diluc pointed as Lumine sprinked a small amount on the ground before they ran back towards Diluc "And then? That's it? How long does it take before---" Paimon started Just then some slimes ran by which the group saw thanks to their eating sounds "Holy moley, it really does attract slimes! ...And even more than we expected..." Paimon called out in shock, disbelief and awe "It appears the potency is greater than anticipated..." Diluc said "Chillax! We just don't have to fight them and we'll be fine" Rainbow said "Actually, we'd better get rid of them before they wreak havoc on the manor" Diluc suggested "Are you kidding me?! We have to kill those eating slimes?!" Lumine asked in shock "I'm afraid we don't have a choice Lumine" Paimon said "Ugh fine! But I'd like to know why you did this though!" Lumine said angrily Afterwards the group began running towards the slimes who were eating "I got a way better plan than---" Twilight started Just then Rainbow threw Twilight to the side "careful Twilight, it's mad!" Rainbow said "We could've done this peacefully!" Twilight reminded "It doesn't matter! Charge!" Lumine called out Lumine then charged towards the one bouncing slime and gave it a few slashes causing it to melt as the slimes saw this and began bouncing towards lumine "What were you thinking Lumine?!" Twilight asked "I don't know! Just help me!" Lumine ordered Twilight then sighed as she rushed towards the slimes and gave it a buck sending them towards a pole before they bounced back into Twilight's face who then struggled to breath before Rainbow slashed them with her spear causing it to melt over Twilight as Twilight used her magic to remove them "Not the perfect plan am I right?" Rainbow said Twilight then groaned in irritation before she used a big lightning spell causing lightning to thunder as the surrounding slimes got stabbed to death before Lumine went to hug Twilight "Calm down Twilight, calm down, everything's okay!" Lumine called out "Just then Twilight calmed down after feeling the soothing strokes of Lumine's brother "How'd you do that?" Twilight asked "When my brother gets mad he does stuff he doesn't want to do and I always do this to calm him down, I'm not trying to be sexy or anything though" Lumine said "I get it but for now let's ask some questions to you know who" Twilight said "Good idea" Lumine said The group then returned to Diluc who was waiting on them and when he saw the group the group turned to him with angry looks while Paimon who was hiding flew back to the duo and looked at Diluc "Whew... Such a powerful effect from such a small amount of extract, at least we didn't go picking wild flowers for nothing" Paimon reminded "Sorry about that though girls" Diluc said "No problem Diluc! Luckily, it wasn't you that exploded!" Rainbow said Twilight then gave a playful tap on Rainbow's hoof "Anyways, can you tell us what your plan is now master Diluc?" Paimon asked "Yes, the plan is..." Diluc said as he began telling the story and once he finished "...And so I expect it to all go down without a hitch" Diluc explained "Hmm... Are you sure it will work? You're the only person in the plan..." Paimon reminded "I have persevered alone from the start and now I alone must face what lies ahead" Diluc said "Well... If you already made up your mind..." Paimon said before moving closer to her friends "But until that moment comes we can still help you out where we can, isn't that right girls?" Paimon asked "Of course" Lumine said "All for one and one for all" Twilight said "Yeah, what they said!" Rainbow agreed "I am indeed indebted to you, I shall see you at the tavern as per the plan" Diluc explained Diluc then ran off to prepare himself "I do feel a little worried on what's going to happen" Twilight said "Relax! Everything will go according to plan! Though we should be prepared just in case" Rainbow said "Good idea, let's go then" Twilight said The group then walked over to the tavern meanwhile Diluc was talking to Huffman who had just arrived at the tavern a few hours earlier "Greetings Mr. Huffman of the Knights of Favonius, to what do I owe the pleasure at this hour?" Diluc asked "...Oh, erm, nothing... I'm merely procrastinating, I thought I might indulge myself with a beverage or two" Huffman explained Just then the door opened as the group were seen entering "Hey guys!" Lumine greeted Just then Huffman turned around in shock "Ah Traveler! Fancy meeting you here" Huffman said in shock "What's going on here?" Twilight asked "Just drinking a beverage or two, what about you four?" Huffman asked "Oh, we were just in the mood for an evening stroll" Paimon explained "Alright, so what would you five like to drink?" Diluc asked "Apple cider for me please" Rainbow answered "Same here" Twilight answered "And I'll have a Dandelion Wine I suppose" Huffman answered "Ooh, Paimon wants apple juice!" Paimon answered "Give me a Mondstadian cider please, the best you have" Lumine answered Diluc then nodded as Twilight nodded after him "Oh shoot! I forgot my coin pouch with me! Girls, do you have any Mora on you?" Twilight asked "No I don't my bad" Rainbow apologized "Paimon doesn't either" Paimon apologized "Can I start a tab?" Lumine asked "Apologies, we do not give credit here" Diluc apologized "Well, in that case... Let this be my treat" Huffman suggested "No need! We'll be back in a jiffy" Paimon said The group then left and when the door closed Paimon turned to the group "Huffman showed up just as expected" Paimon explained "Yep, now what?" Rainbow asked "Remember the plan? Go to the city's side gate and place the Elemental Bait" Paimon suggested "We're on it!" Twilight said "In the meantime I'll check to see if any other guards come or not in case some more people are investigating" Rainbow said "Good, let's go girls!" Lumine called out The group then ran off to the city's side gate where Lumine stopped which Twilight noticed "What are you doing, we gotta hurry!" Twilight reminded "I know so do it, in the meantime I'll watch out to see if somebody is watching which we don't want to happen" Lumine explained "Very well, wish me luck!" Twilight said Twilight then tiptoed to the spot told by Diluc and once she arrived she dropped a bit of elemental bait only for a sword to fall down making Twilight gasp in shock and lose focus of the bowl causing it to fall "Lumine!" Twilight called out "Sorry, I didn't watch where I was going!" Lumine called out Paimon who was with Lumine then flew to see a bunch of elemental bait on the ground "Whoa, you used all of it..." Paimon called out before she turned to the sides only to see a bunch of slimes hopping by "This is gonna be pretty epic" Paimon said "I know and not in a good way! Run!" Twilight called out Twilight called out as Twilight and Paimon rushed towards the castle right before the slimes could see them as Twilight turned to Lumine "What were you thinking?!" Twilight asked angrily "I said I'm sorry! I'll watch out next time! I swear!" Lumine said "You better because this could've gone wrong!" Twilight reminded "Y-Yeah" Lumine said sadly "But that doesn't matter only to see the slimes turning towards them and once they thought they were gonna fight they hopped towards them "Yikes, here come the slimes... Now, quick, let's get to the tavern before anyone else spots us with them" Paimon suggested The group then began walking towards the tavern as they knew slimes were slow but while they were on their way Diluc and Huffman were talking about each other "...Captain Kaeya is no doubt a formidable knight but he also brings us more than his share of hassle..." Huffman explained before he realized what he was doing "No, this isn't right, I should not be talking about my superior in such a manner, if he were to overhear me---" Huffman started Just then the door opened as the group walked in "We're back! Are our drinks ready?" Paimon asked "One moment" Diluc said Just then the door smashed open as another guard rushed in "Can you at least do it a little calmer?!" Twilight asked angrily while turning to the guard "Mr. Huffman, mr. Huffman! A situation at the side gate! Everyone to the side gate!" The guard called out in worry "What is it? What happened?" Huffman asked "It's... Slimes mr. Huffman" The guard explained worriedly "Slimes? You see them all the time, what's the big panic?" Huffman asked "We do but... Sir, there are more slimes out there now than all the slimes I've seen in my life added together!" The guard explained worriedly "Ahh... Whoa..." Paimon called out in disbelief while looking away "Surely this couldn't be the Abyss Order's secret weapon... But... I have another matter to attend to here---" Huffman called out in disbelief "Oh? The matter of your Dandelion Wine?" Diluc asked "N-No, I... That's not what I meant..." Huffman started nervously "Hmph, so this is how the Knights of Favonius conduct themselves in a crisis" Diluc said "Yeah, not cool, you better help or I'll tell Jean about your misbehavior" Rainbow said "Remember... The Abyss Order is encroaching on the city gates and your response is to sit here... Drinking wine?" Diluc reminded "I agree, shouldn't you be helping your fellow members with the slime situation instead of drinking?" Twilight asked "True, it's like I've always said, the Knights are not to be trusted" Diluc explained "I..." Huffman started nervously "Master Diluc is right you know, your behavior has been below par the last few times" Rainbow reminded "Very well, I shall set off at once, but first..." Huffman started before turning to the heroes "Girls, may I have a quiet word?" Huffman asked "Huh?" Paimon asked in confusion "Sure" Lumine answered Huffman then puts a finger on Lumine's lips for a moment "Shh, keep your voice down" Huffman ordered before pulling the finger away "I persume you know what this is about, please watch Diluc for me, do not let him leave under any circumstances!" Diluc said "Not even when he has to pee?" Rainbow asked "He may go do that but one of you must always follow him" Huffman said "Yes sir!" The group called out "I feel terrible that we're breaking rules already but I'm willing to help if it means Diluc doesn't get found out and nobody gets mad" Twilight thought "I must head to the side gate now but I'll be back shortly, I'm counting on you!" Huffman said Huffman then rushed out of the tavern as the group who were worried about being found out shook their thoughts off before going towards Diluc "Good, that's him out of the way" Diluc explained "Are you sure this is a good idea, I may get fired or worse... Banned from Mondstadt!" Rainbow reminded "Of course" Diluc said "Then everything's going according to plan!" Paimon called out "I must get going too, I won't have a second to spare if I'm to be back in time" Diluc said "Are you seriously planning on doing this on your own? Because if so there's no way we're gonna let this happen!" Rainbow said "Very well, let's go then" Diluc said The group then rushed towards the main entrance and once they got there they saw a bunch of hilichurls and Abyss Mage's running or floating towards the group which got them worried except for Diluc who went to stand in front of them "Ah, there you are" Diluc said in relief "Be ready for the battle of your life guys!" Twilight called out "Of course since dealing with them will be the easy part" Diluc explained "Paimon, if things go wrong you'd better be our last hope" Lumine said "Of course, in the meantime I'll k eep watch!" Paimon said Diluc then pulled out his sword smashed it to the ground as a bunch of hilichurls flew into the air but not before Rainbow flew towards the hilichurls in rapid speed to give them a head butt towards others as the hilichurls yelped in pain as Twilight floated above them to whack them down to the ground while Diluc continued to attack the remaining hilichurls as Rainbow helped him with her spear and Twilight followed after them with her laser and her kicks before two abyss mages shot icicles at Diluc which Twilight noticed causing her to block it "Thanks Twilight" Diluc said Diluc then did a flip over Twilight and her shield to knock down one hilichurl's club before giving it a flaming punch in the face causing him to fly back to the ground before throwing his sword towards Lumine who used both weapons to knock down all hilichurls in her path while Diluc used some ninja attacks to knock a few hilichurls down before three icicles came from three sides of Lumine causing her to jump high up into the air with her anemo powers before spinning rapidly to make a Lumine tornado to catch the three Abyss Mages and shooting them towards a three knocking them out before she stopped and flipped a few times before falling to the ground "Crazy skills you got there Lumine!" Rainbow called out "Thanks Rainbow!" Lumine said Rainbow then blocked another hilichurl attack "How did you do that though?" Rainbow asked "Learning, duh!" Lumine answered "Cool!" Rainbow said Just then Rainbow knocked the last hilichurl down with Twilight "That was so cool! Do that again!" Paimon called out Just then more abyss mages and hilichurls appeared which made the group turn to Paimon angrily and shout "PAIMON!" The group called out "Oops!" Paimon called out in disbelief "Don't worry guys, let's defeat them the same way we did before!" Diluc said "Yes! Let's do this!" Lumine called out The group then rushed towards the next few of them as Diluc then threw the hilichurls into the air before spinning his claymore towards Rainbow who jumped on it before jumping off of it to use her spear to knock the hilichurls down as Twilight began to attack the Abyss Mage with lasers while Lumine attacked them with her sword until the Abyss Mage shot a few icicles to Twilight who dodged but while they weren't looking Diluc smacked the back of the claymore against them causing them to fall to the ground causing him to stab the Abyss Mage causing it to disappear in dust as Rainbow continued to attack each hilichurl and when one caught her by the front hooves Twilight shot down with an electric barrier around her causing the hilichurl to be stuck in the ground and Rainbow to bounce away "Thanks Twilight!" Rainbow called out "No problem Rainbow" Twilight said Just then the last few hilichurls rushed by until Rainbow zipped behind them and tapped them all causing them to look behind them only to see Diluc smiling and whacking them into the water where bubbles formed signaling that they were drowning as the group panted in relief "Whew! That was close!" Rainbow said "Definitely!" Twilight said Paimon then flew to the group still in awe "Classic girls, not a baddie left standing" Paimon called out "Well, they were nothing more than a few hilichurls" Diluc explained "Of course, nothing we couldn't handle on our own" Rainbow said "No time to taunt, I don't know how long those slimes will keep Huffman occupied, best we get back to the tavern" Diluc suggested "Of course! Let's go girls!" Twilight called out The group then began walking towards the tavern and entered and when they did Diluc looked to see no one was there "It sees Huffman hasn't yet returned, we made it in time" Diluc said in relief "Yep, anybody wanna drink?" Twilight asked "Me, me, me!" The trio called out "Alright, four bottles of what we ordered before!" Twilight said Diluc then prepared it as Huffman entered the tavern while panting "The situation is sorted now, I never expected that the Abyss Order's army would turn out to be nothing more than a few slimes" Huffman said "Really? Now that was something we didn't expect either" Rainbow said "Yeah, that is a surprise, perhaps the Kights' true calling is to be slime exterminator, who knows, domestic pest control may turn out to be a more valuable use of your resources" Diluc reminded "Master Diluc, please, have you no respect at all..." Huffman said in disbelief "Yeah, I know we're friends but please be nicer to the guards" Twilight said Huffman then wanted to say something to the group as he turned around only to see them sweating a bit "Girls, how come you're all sweating so much? You all didn't leave did you?" Huffman asked "We just did some squats" Lumine answered "Is that so? But why now of all times for the love of barbatos---" Huffman started "Because we got bored so I challenged these two to a squat competition and it turns out it was a draw!" Rainbow explained "I can't believe you were so tough Rainbow!" Twilight said "Wanna try again next time?" Lumine asked Just then Huffman got a bit suspicious "Uh oh, Huffman is getting suspicious!" Paimon called out worriedly Huffman then turned to the group of people that were seated in the tavern "Hmm... Excuse me sir, might I be so bold as to inquire, did you see master Diluc--- I mean today's bartender... Did you see him leave just now?" Huffman asked Paimon then turned to the group worriedly "Yikes! He's asking other customers... We're done for!" Paimon called out worriedly "I don't think so Paimon, listen" Twilight suggested Somebody then turned to Huffman "Master Diluc? Why no, he's been behind the bar this entire time" Somebody explained "I see..." Huffman realized "Mr. Huffman, your Dandelion Wine" Diluc called out, putting the wine on the counter "You ought to get back after this, send my regards to the rest of the Knights" Diluc suggeted "Oh... Never mind, I must be going, I should report back" Huffman said before putting cash on the counter "Here, take this as a token of my esteem" Huffman suggested before walking off in confusion "Hmm... How odd..." Huffman thought in confusion After he said that he exited the tavern and when the door closed Paimon sighed in relief "Phew! That was too close! Paimon was sure we were toast..." Paimon said in relief "I foresaw this eventuality so all the guests here tonight, save you two, are my own people from the Dawn Winery" Diluc explained "They're all in on it?" Paimon asked in shock and confusion "I knew you had a plan if things didn't work! I mean, you always knew the future before we were able to tell it!" Twilight said in relief Just then Kaeya walked towards the group "Not all of them... Or should I say, not all of us" Kaeya said "That's it... We're doomed, I better pack my bags" Rainbow said in defeat Rainbow then began walking off before Twilight stopped her "Hold it! Don't leave so quickly, we still need to know something" Twilight reminded "Yeah, like... Where did you come from?" Paimon asked in worry "I just picked a good spot to quietly sit and watch the show" Kaeya explained Just then the group dropped their jaws to the ground for a moment before Paimon interrupted him "Whaaa... You've been here this whole time?!" Paimon asked in shock "Correct 'The Darknight Hero's Alibi...' I think it's my favorite chapter so far, more intriguing than a fine wine" Kaeya explained "Chapter?" Rainbow asked "Did you just break the fourth wall Rainbow?" Paimon asked "Fourth wall, what are you--- Nevermind" Rainbow said in disbelief "Hmph... Diluc called out in confusion before turning to Kaeya "So? You plan to report everything to the Knights of Favonius?" Diluc asked "Haha... Come now Diluc, you know me better than that, I have no interest in exposing secrets, I was just curious to see how far Mondstadt's Darknight Hero would really go and you did not disappoint" Kaeya explained "I have nothing to proof to you" Diluc reminded angrily "Oh, naturally" Kaeya explained before he realized something "I must say though, one thing I didn't see coming is that the mighty Darknight Hero would actually need help from other people..." Kaeya explained "Sorry, we're closing, please see yourselves out" Diluc ordered "Alright, alright... I have no further need of wine to entertain myself tonight in any case, just one last thing before I go" Kaeya explained "What is it now?" Rainbow asked in disbelief "It had better be the very last thing" Diluc reminded angrily "Please be calm guys!" Lumine called out worriedly "I feel strangely comforted by the fact you now have an assistant Diluc" Kaeya explained "..." Diluc called out in disbelief Kaeya then walked off before he stood before the still open door "I hope you all have a wonderful night" Kaeya said Kaeya then left as the group who were both confused and worried turned to Diluc "What was all that about?" Paimon asked Diluc then sighed in disbelief "Don't mind him" Diluc suggested before putting the coins in the cashier before pulling out four bottles of the drinks the group ordered "Thank you for all your help with this matter, this is a token of my gratitude" Diluc said Paimon who saw this then clapped her hands in excitement "Woooow! Thanks master Diluc!" Paimon thanked "I'm gonna drink the whole night away with this, thank you very much" Rainbow thanked "I'm in the habit of working alone but I did enjoy having your assistance this time" Diluc said "No worries, if you need us again just let us know" Twilight said "Okay and in the future if there's anything you ever need you can come to me for help" Diluc said "Yes sir!" Twilight said The group then left the tavern as Rainbow gave a loud yawn before turning to the group "Wow! I must be super tired, welp, I'll be off to my room in the Knights of Favonius headquarters, if there's ever anything you need just let me know!" Rainbow said "Of course, we'll be off too, see you tomorrow Rainbow" Twilight waved "What? Why?" Rainbow asked "Nothing, I was just thinking we could go get something to eat, celebrating another victory against the Abyss Mages, or at least, an easy defeat" Twilight explained "Oh, well, uh... Sure thing Twilight, I'll see you then!" Rainbow said The group then splitted up as they went to sleep [Moments earlier] After the Abyss Mages hit the tree they fell to the ground "Ugh! Retreat friends! We better get Starlight's help!" The first abyss mage said "Actually, I've got a way better plan, have you heard of the almighty abyss herald?" The second abyss mage asked "You mean that guy that can easily kill people within the blink of an eye with his almighty powers?!" The third abyss mage asked "Yes, let's go get him, the battle is not over yet" The second abyss mage said The three abyss mages then teleported towards a guy who sat in the shadows "Well, well, well, if it isn't my fellow allies" Somebody said "Abyss herald, we came to tell you that those heroes have kicked our butts again" The first abyss mage explained "Oh, so they did and why did you retreat, couldn't you get a little more power?" Somebody asked "Y-Yes, but they seemed stronger than normal, not even the best abyss mage can beat them!" The first abyss mage explained "Hmm, what about me? I am stronger and way above you all, isn't that right?" Somebody asked "Yes!" The abyss mages said "Very well, but first we need to get prepared, who knows what might happen if I lose, oh and when I plan to go I suggest you ask Aether and Starlight to join me" Somebody said "W-Why master?" The first abyss mage asked "Because I think I know a way on how to cause a ton of despair in their souls" Somebody said "Yes, and that'll make them lose, great idea boss!" The third abyss mage said "Of course, after all, it is the end of another era, especially after they failed to save Khaenria'h 500 years ago" Somebody said After that the three abyss mages gave their own signature smirks before they began laughing in excitement of their future victory [A few hours later] It was midnight as everybody was asleep except for Twilight who went to the balcony in worry as she looked at the nightsky in worry "Girls if you hear this, I'm doing fine, I found Rainbow and soon enough I'll be going to search and find you, no matter what it takes, it may take a whole year or two or I don't know how long but just know that when I find you I'll make sure Rainbow's memories are back" Twilight explained Lumine then walked towards Twilight "Hey, you doing alright Twilight?" Lumine asked "Yeah" Twilight answered sadly "Missing your friends and Spike?" Lumine asked "Yeah, I don't know what happened to Rainbow, what happened to my friends and if they even remember me, I mean, it's been a few months since I last saw them" Twilight explained "I know" Lumine explained as she sat down with Twilight "Look Twilight, it's not just you who's missing your friends and brother, I miss my brother too and while it may take a while to find them all, not to mention we'll have to travel across the whole of Teyvat to find them I'm sure we'll be back together eventually" Lumine said "But what if not only does Rainbow not remember me but the rest of my friends too, especially your brother" Twilight explained "I doubt that's gonna happen, I mean, have you ever lost your friends during one or a few of your adventures?" Lumine asked Twilight then thought of her past adventures and thought about all the times she lost her friends during one or two of their adventures "Yeah but I find them easily most of the time, not to mention I didn't even have to travel the whole country to find them, well, except for that one time but still" Twilight explained "I understand but you should remember that even though they're gone or may have lost their memories, deep down they know you're gonna rescue them from their lost memories, after all, friendship will find it's way back to you, I've learned that since that time Aether slept through the entire Khaenria'h event" Lumine explained "Khaenria'h event, what are you talking about?" Twilight asked "It's a long story but I'll tell you some other time, trust me" Lumine said "Okay" Twilight said "Now then, let's get some sleep, we've got a meeting to get to tomorrow with Rainbow" Lumine said "Yeah, that's true" Twilight said Lumine then walked off as Twilight looked at the nightsky one last time before following Lumine back to bed as they prepared for their next adventure > Episode 13: The good, the bad and the Dvalin > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It's been a few weeks since the Darknight Hero incident as Diluc had found a clue as Huffman went towards the door of the heroes' room and knocked on it "Coming!" Lumine called out Lumine then opened the door only for her and her friends to see Huffman "Hi there Huffman, how's it going?" Twilight asked "Great, though I have a order for you" Huffman explained "Order, did any of you buy anything without my knowledge?" Paimon asked "Of course we didn't, it must be of the Dvalin clues" Twilight explained "Right, forgot about that" Paimon realized "Well... Your friend's in fact right, I want you and your friends to meet Rainbow, Diluc, Jean and Venti at the entrance of the Dawn Winery" Huffman explained "Very well, we'll be on our way, thanks for letting us know" Lumine thanked Huffman then left as the group exited the hotel room and when they did Twilight locked the door before the group went to the Dawn Winery and once they got there they noticed their friends waiting "Hi girls!" Rainbow greeted "Morning Rainbow" Twilight waved "So, how has Mondstadt been going girls?" Jean asked "Perfectly fine, except we didn't find any more clues regarding Dvalin" Twilight explained "Don't worry, based on what Diluc told me he should be ready with his investigation" Jean explained The door then opened as Diluc approached the group while thinking which Venti saw "Speaking of which..." Venti started "The Abyss Order... Enemies of the human race, even the underground networks rarely come across any information on them" Diluc explained "Did you find any clues?" Twilight asked "Well, yeah, it was a bit of a hassle but i managed to dig up a few clues" Diluc explained "Really? That quickly? You really are well connected master Diluc" Venti said in shock and disbelief "Come to think of it mr. Big Anemo God Barbatos, why exactly do you need the help of mere humans and ponies...?" Paimon asked "And a literal emergency food" Rainbow whispered to Twilight "Wha--- But--- Nevermind" Twilight "Ahh... How do I put it... The 'Seven' as people now know them were once known as 'The Seven Archons' Each archon presides over their own part of Teyvat, this is the role the archons play, only in performing this duty can we attain power but I don't like the idea of 'ruling' Mondstadt and I don't feel Mondstadt would really like it either" Venti explained "Really? I mean, you're a literal archon!" Twilight reminded "'Go forth and establish a city of freedom without rule', we have not forgotten Barbatos' wish for Mondstadt" Jean explained "Except of me as I lost my memories long after this happened though I learned a bit about it in the Knights' history books" Rainbow explained "Jean... You're such a devotee! Maybe someone got a little too free and is just too lazy to care..." Paimon reminded "However it may have come to be... I haven't been back to Mondstadt for an extended period of time, without a doubt, I am now the weakest archon among the Seven!" Venti explained "Surely that isn't possible, I mean, we all have our own strengths and weaknesses" Twilight explained "Like a certain writer who is great at multitasking and not at art!" Paimon explained "Paimon! Was that really needed?!" I asked "Yes it was" Paimon answered "Who are you talking to?" Twilight asked "Them!" Paimon answered Paimon then pointed to the field next to them as the group looked at the camera only to see nothing "Nevermind that!" Rainbow said "Still, you sound almost proud Venti..." Lumine reminded "Aww, you flatter me" Venti said in awe "Oh, such a humble god... Is it a blessing or a curse?" Diluc asked in disbelief "Let's ignore what Diluc said just now shall we?" Rainbow asked "I digress, let's get back to the topic at hand: the common enemy of all mankind" Diluc suggested "We have tracked the Abyss Mage to the vicinity of the winery" Diluc explained "I cannot stress enough how important it is to not let it escape" Jean said "True, we need to do everything we can to fix Dvalin back up!" Twilight said "Good idea, let's hunt it down!" Lumine suggested "That was not what I meant but sure" Twilight said The group then began walking towards the place they were supposed to go until some running was heard "Huh? Who's there?" Rainbow called out "Show yourselves!" Jean called out Just then three enemies bounced forwards only for Lumine, Rainbow and Diluc to block them with their blades "We're under attack!" Twilight called out "Allow me!" Diluc called out Diluc then began fighting against an abyss mage while the rest attacked some other enemies as Venti and Paimon looked at each other "So... Should we help them?" Paimon asked "Do I need to remind you that the holy lyre is broken?" Venti asked "True" Paimon said before she realized something "Wait Venti! Paimon's got an idea!" Paimon said "Well, tell me!" Venti said Paimon then whispered into Venti's ear who continued to not before she turned to Paimon "You sure about this?" Venti asked "Yes, I've trained for it my whole life!" Paimon said Paimon then teleported in a mini floating pianoand a fake lyre with actual elastics for Venti "Alright then!" Venti said The duo then began playing their instruments causing the enemies to cower in fear while the heroes got confused "Huh? What's happening?" Twilight asked Lumine then turned to the group "It's them!" Lumine said The group then turned around to show the two playing the music as fast as they could while moving forward as the enemies backed down "Quick! Kill them before they leave!" Venti ordered "On it!" Jean called out Jean and Diluc shot their magic together causing magma to fly towards the enemies sending them against the wall as the magma continued to hit them everywhere before they stopped moving as the duo stopped "That was awesome!" Rainbow called out The group then turned to Paimon and Venti who had just stopped playing "Thanks for the help you guys!" Jean said "No worries, if you need me to protect you all then I will do it depending on the fate of yourselves" Venti said "Turns out that humble god is actually a blessing, what a relief" Diluc said in relief "Can it kill you to be nice for one minute?!" Rainbow asked angrily Just then Venti saw something on the ground "Huh? What's this..." Venti asked The group then rushed towards the abyss mage which was bleeding energy "Is that... Energy?" Twilight asked "Yeah, after the abyss mage was defeated, a certain energy dispersed from it's body..." Venti explained "Hmm, what makes you think that Venti?" Rainbow asked "Well, it seems that energy was being used to cut off the connection between me and Dvalin" Venti explained before he realized something "..." Venti thought before turning to the group "Girls, do you all know of Stormterror's Lair?" Venti asked "No we don't" Lumine answered "What's that place if you don't mind me asking?" Twilight asked "Well, Jean and master Diluc are no doubt aware of it, after Dvalin woke up he took the ancient ruins as his lair" Venti explained "Ancient ruins? Was this supposed to be a city or town of some kind?" Twilight asked "Yes it was" Venti answered "Do you know what the place looks like?" Lumine asked "I do, as it was with the storms that previously cut Mondstadt off from the outside world the entrance to the ruins is also sealed by a special barrier" Venti explained "Ooh! Sounds like an interesting story! You better tell us sometime!" Twilight suggested "Of course but now that the energy dispersed from the abyss mage I was able to read the rhythmic flow of how the barrier's magic was woven" Venti explained "Really? That's amazing!" Lumine said "Of course but I must admit, it sounds even more horrendous than a chorus of hilichurls but it should be enough to let us break through the storm barrier and reach Stormterror's Lair" Venti explained "Which means we're going to confront Dvalin? I'm fine with that... Jean is the one who wishes to avoid any direct confrontation" Diluc reminded "No, if there are no other options left then it will my responsibility to alter our course of action, if slaying him is our only choice I will gladly become the knight that leads the charge" Jean explained "Fortunately, we have yet to need to go that far" Venti explained "Hmm?" Diluc thought in confusion "I'm kinda confused by what you mean by that" Rainbow said "Same here" Twilight agreed "I have to agree with them, what did you mean..." Jean started "I mean that the Holy Lyre is not our trump card, our real trump card? These girls of course" Venti explained Twilight and Lumine then looked at each other before turning back to Venti and asking... "Lumine and Twilight?" Paimon asked in confusion "Us?!" Twilight and Lumine called out in unison and in shock and disbelief "Is it because we purified the Teardrop Crystal?" Lumine asked "Yes it is but you have a much more precious forte" Venti explained "Really?" Twilight asked "Yep, the impurities in the tear and the curse that binds Dvalin belong to the same maleficent power which means---" Venti started "You Tone-Deaf Bard, don't you see how crazy this is? You've seen what Dvalin is like when he's ticked off! They will be swallowed whole before they even get to lift a finger!" Paimon reminded angrily "Relax Paimon, I'm sure we can handle this, I mean, I've got the secret ability prepared" Twilight explained "Yeah but weren't we just talking about how we can fight?" Lumine asked "I agree, this battle... It's going to take everything everyone's got" Twilight explained "Jean's ice powers, Diluc's fire powers he uses in a secret way, Venti's barbados magic, Lumine's Anemo powers, Rainbow's fighting skills and Twilight's um... Whatever Twilight has!" Paimon explained "...Hey" Diluc called out causing Twilight and Paimon to turn to them "Nice plan, worth a shot" Diluc said "Thanks, I was mostly the main planner in my hometown so maybe I should also do it here if certain people listen" Twilight said "Hehe..." Lumine and Paimon chuckled nervously "Don't worry, I'm with you all Honorary Knights" Jean explained "Hold on a second! So we just need to fight monsters from the abyss... And a dragon?! No pressure or anything?" Paimon asked "Of course, I'll handle the fight too" Twilight explained "Still, humans and ponies aren't without their strengths, let's go" Diluc called out "And so... The epic actions of brave heroes finally leads to this eleventh hour" Venti narrated "He did not just steal my line did he?" I asked "Yes he did..." Somebody answered Anyways, back to the story... The group then began walking towards Stormterror's lair and a few times during the trip they took a break to either eat or defeat some enemies that rushed towards them and after a while the group arrived at Stormterror's lair's entrance where they saw a large gust of wind spinning around the domain "Wow! That's a large gust of wind!" Rainbow said in awe and disbelief "What is that?" Twilight asked "It's a storm barrier!" Paimon answered "It looks so dangerous..." Paimon said "Okay, Paimon, let's see if you can pass through" Lumine suggested "Ugh! Of course not! That's too dangerous!" Paimon reminded "She's right, I don't think either flying or magic will be able to let us pass through that easily, we'd need something more stronger" Twilight said "Let me at it" Venti suggested The group then turned to Venti in shock "Are you sure Venti? It does look very dangerous" Lumine reminded "Well, although this wooden lyre is all I have, I don't need the lyre to break through this kind of storm barri---" Venti started before he noticed something behind the group "Ah, wait, what is that?" Venti asked The group then turned around to see some hilichurls have followed them "Enemy attack! Prepare yourselves!" Jean ordered "Oh come on!" Rainbow called out "Let's beat their asses first an then we'll start thinking of a plan!" Twilight suggested The group then rushed towards the hilichurls as they started attacking them, Twilight and Diluc fought against the large hilichurl while the others started attacking the normal sized ones as Diluc began charging towards the hilichurl before smashing his flaming sword against the hilichurl causing the hilichurl to shield only for the flames to infuse the shield causing it to hop around, trying to dumbly pull it off "Now Twilight!" Diluc called out "On it!" Twilight called out Twilight then began shooting a fat laser at the hilichurl who bounced into the air once it hit the hilichurl's butt as it continued to hop in pain before Diluc did a sweep causing the large hilichurl to fall to the ground and fall unconscious causing Twilight to move him to a large rock and tie him up with the strongest vine before moving him against the wall "We did it!" Twilight called out "Great but just in case!" Diluc started Just then Diluc infused the shield more with flames before throwing it at the hilichurl causing it to burn but what he didn't notice was that an hilichurl began approaching him "Look out!" Twilight called out Twilight then did a charging kick while teleporting towards the hilichurl causing it to fall to the ground as Lumine smiled nervously at the duo while Diluc looked at her too "Sorry about that guys!" Lumine apologized "No worries, allow us to help!" Diluc said The group then rushed towards the group as they saw more hilichurls coming "This isn't good!" Venti called out "I'll go to the source!" Twilight said "Are you sure?" Diluc asked "Yes! I've learned a lot and now I wanna beat whoever did this' butt!" Twilight explained Twilight then rushed over to where she noticed some people with an abyss mage and it's no wonder she knew them "N-No, this can't be?! I gotta talk to them!" Twilight said Twilight then rushed over to them "Go, go, go! Try to eliminate them before they go and save Dvalin!" Starlight ordered "Yes and do not come back unless you did it!" Aether ordered Twilight then heard some random gibberish before she noticed more hilichurls running off as Starlight and Aether sat on some chairs before Twilight teleported in front of them "What are you guys doing?!" Twilight asked "Well, if it isn't Twilight Sparkle, how's your adventure going?" Starlight asked "Are you seriously raiding camps and brainwashing these hilichurls like you did to my friends before?!" Twilight asked angrily "Me?! Hah, of course not, right Aether?" Starlight asked "Nope, definitely not!" Aether answered "Then what do you say about this?!" Twilight asked angrily While asking Twilight pointed to the still running hilichurls "Well, yes, they're manipulated!" Starlight explained as Twilight glared before Starlight said something shocking "But not by me, look at their backs" Starlight suggested as Twilight turned to the backs of the hilichurls "Notice something?" Starlight asked "Wait! Isn't that...?" Twilight asked "Yes, this is coming from some electric abyss mage, they infused a manipulation spell on it! Now if you remember, didn't Dvalin have that too?" Aether asked "No! You're lying!" Twilight called out angrily "Of course not!" Starlight said "If you still don't agree, then why don't you fight us!" Aether said "Very well, I'll leave, on one condition" Twilight ordered "What is it?" Starlight asked "You come back with us or you'll stop these hilichurls from attacking my friends!" Twilight said "Well, I'm busy making a larger plan but I think I can stop those hilichurls from attacking your friends" Aether explained "What larger plan?!" Twilight asked angrily "You'll see" Starlight said before turning to the hilichurls and whistling "Let's go! It isn't worth it! Let's go to Mondstadt instead! I've got a plan for there!" Starlight said "Wait!" Twilight called out "You got your answer didn't you? Now leave!" Aether said Afterwards Aether, Starlight and the hilichurls left "This can't be good! We better defeat Dvalin and quick before they attack Mondstadt!" Twilight said worriedly Twilight then rushed back to her friends as she saw they were panting in both pain and shock "Whew! That was a tough battle!" Lumine explained "You okay everyone?!" Twilight asked "No! Those hilichurls kept appearing!" Rainbow reminded "Say, did you get to the source?" Diluc asked "You wouldn't believe me if I told you" Twilight said "Alright then! Let's focus on the storm barrier then" Rainbow suggested The group then went to Stormterror Lair's barrier "Ahh..." Venti sighed in relief before turning to the group in confusion "The hilichurls usually do not venture into areas with high elemental concentrations, it puts a heavy burden on their bodies" Venti explained "Yeah, that is weird" Rainbow agreed "The Abyss Order must be manipulating them behind the scenes, yet they shouldn't have been able to determine that we would come" Diluc said "Unless we had a spy" Lumine explained "Hmm, you're acting suspicious Diluc, you said you called some contacts, did you call the abyss order?" Rainbow asked "No but I have to assume someone did after I called" Diluc answered before turning to the group" They're presumably spreading their forces to halt our plans" Diluc said "Tell me about it! And now they're about to attack Mondstadt!" Twilight called out in disbelief "Without further ado, I suppose I can play faster if my only audience is the wind" Venti explained Venti then pulled up the lyre he used before and began strumming it causing some musical notes to float up and remove the storm off of the lair as Paimon cheered "It actually opened! You're not entirely useless Tone-Deaf Bard!" Paimo explained happily "This is it, we are now entering Stormterror's Lair, watch yourselves, let's move" Jean suggested The group then carefully walked to the center of Stormterror's Lair before they stopped where nothing was seen "We're stuck!" Paimon called out in worry "It's stuck" Venti called out in worry "Stop saying the same thing as Paimon Venti" Twilight suggested "Yeah, Paimon agrees!" Paimon called out angrily before she looked up at the roof "Hey, check out that roof, is there a giant hole in it?" Paimon asked The group then followed Paimon's head only to see the same thing, the roof of Stormterror's Lair had a large hole on the side "What happened here?" Rainbow called out Venti who saw it then got teary eyes as Twilight approached him "You okay Venti?" Twilight asked "Yeah I'm fine" Venti said before turning to the group "Hmm... I suppose we could make use of that wind current" Venti said, pointing to the wind current next to it "I'll follow your lead" Twilight said "Let's make a detour then, heading up!" Paimon called out "Let's make a detour then, heading up!" Venti called out too "Stop it!" Lumine ordered Twilight then teleported in hers and the others' windgliders who put them on while Twilight went to sit on hers and Rainbow flapped her wings "Nevermind him, let's get going!" Rainbow said The group then rode or walked to the wind currents while Paimon spoke "Hmm... Do you think there will be Abyss Mages hiding in the ruins?" Paimon asked "I don't know" Venti answered "Either way, if we do run into one we will let the victorious master Diluc do the---" Paimon started "Do not underestimate them just because I have beaten one of them before and do not tell my secret out loud!" Diluc ordered "Fine then boaster!" Paimon said angrily "I'm not boasting, I'm simply saying there is more to the Abyss Order than a few mages" Diluc reminded "Correct, that's why I tagged along after all" Venti explained before he noticed the others glaring "Well, that and also for your safety" Venti explained before groaning "Why am I so diligent? Too diligent for a poet in fact!" Venti asked in disbelief "So says the person that made zero effort to search for the dragon tears and drank in the tavern all day!" Paimon said in disbelief before getting confused "Paimon doesn't get it, what part of you is remotely diligent?" Paimon asked Soon enough the group arrived at the wind currents as they flew up towards the roof of the lair before landing and when Twilight did she put her helmet on the chair as they wanted to go further only to stop in defeat "Oh, we can't advance any further, the ruins seem to be guarded by ancient seals" Venti explained "Is this the work of Dvalin?" Paimon asked "No, these ancient ruins were once part of an ancient city, Dvalin just happens to be nesting in these ruins for now" Venti explained "Really?" Twilight asked "Yeah, these ruins even predate the existance of the four winds, Mondstadt is a city without a ruler, however, before it was... It was ruled over by a tyrant" Venti explained "Really? That sounds terrible" Rainbow explained sadly "Anyway... I'll sing you that story when we have a chance in the future" Venti explained Diluc who was looking at the seal the entire time then began thinking "The markings on this seal... If my archaeological knowledge is not mistaken, this appears to be a light actuator, if we retrieve and reintegrate all the parts we should be able to get it working" Diluc explained while thinking "We should be close to completing the ceremony for this actuator, let's put the last part back and see" Jean suggested "I'll go do it" Lumine said "Alright then, good luck" Twilight said Lumine then got the seal before she picked it up and got to the light actuator and put the seal on it causing a magic circle to appear for a moment "I did it!" Lumine said in excitement "Come back then bestie!" Rainbow said Lumine then rushed back to the group and when she did she noticed Venti pulling his arm back and standing back up "Looks like we're right" Venti said before turning to the group "There are three more halos circling the tower "Which means there are three more corresponding light actuators to activate" Jean explained before she pointed in front of her while saying "I can see one from here, the rest must be scattered within the ruins around here, let's go find them" Jean suggested "Let's split up and go in groups of 2 or 3, Paimon, you'll go with Lumine, Rainbow, you'll go with Jean and Diluc and I'll go with Venti!" Twilight explained "Why should I go with Diluc! He doesn't like the Knights of Favonius and I think he's gonna roast me again and again!" Rainbow explained "If this happens just let me know but for now, let's scatter" Twilight suggested "Before we do, I have one question" Paimon explained "What is it? We don't have time" Diluc reminded "Why did Dvalin pick a place filled with puzzles and seals as his lair? Doesn't he get annoyed coming back home?" Paimon asked "He doesn't walk in, he flies in" Venti corrected Paimon then sighed in disbelief "You do have a point" Paimon said in disbelief "Alright then, if no one has anymore questions, let's get going!" Twilight said The group then flew back down as they went with each of their teams to a place [Rainbow's POV] Starting with Rainbow, Jean and Diluc they went to the seal Jean noticed and when they arrived Rainbow quickly grabbed it and rushed to put it on the light actuator "Done!" Rainbow said "Wow! That is fast!" Jean said "I know right! Sure I may or may not have chosen the one we noticed since I was tired from all that walking but that doesn't matter as long as it's done!" Rainbow said "True" Diluc said "Hold on Rainbow! Do I need to remind you that you were flying the whole way here?" Jean asked "Oh right but that was when my hooves got tired so it's no problem!" Rainbow said "Nevermind, it's not worth arguing" Jean said in disbelief Just then Diluyc noticed something "Hold on! There's still two parts remaining!" Diluc explained "What?! Seriously!" Rainbow called out "Rainbow, go get the other parts, we'll keep watch here in the meantime" Diluc suggested "Why am I always the errand girl! Someone can at least help me, right?" Rainbow asked "Very well, I'll do it too!" Jean said The duo then began to search as Rainbow looked in the air while Jean stayed on the ground until Rainbow found it "I got it!" Rainbow called out "Great! Let's go get it back!" Jean called out Rainbow and Jean then rushed towards the light actuator which they then activated as the group then turned around to see the dust clear around Stormterror's Lair "Wow! This light actuating ceremony does work magic" Rainbow said in awe "It also looks like one of the three halos above has now become solid ground!" Jean explained "Alright, I'll be off to guard the lair, why don't you two help somebody if you want or join me if you want" Diluc said "Even though I hate searching I will help my friends, preferably Twilight!" Rainbow explained "Then I'll help Lumine!" Jean said "Alright! Let's scatter!" Jean suggested And with that the two splitted off to search for their friends as they helped each other and after a while everyone turned to the lair as in one place Paimon called out "It's done!" Paimon called out Jean then turned to the duo "It looks like that place leads deeper inside" Jean explained "It sure does" Lumine agreed The group then met back up at the roof of Stormterror's Lair where Venti turned to his friends "I'm thinking about turning these adventures into songs after we're done..." Venti explained "Of course, it's almost close to over for this adventure" Twilight explained "Chillax Twilight, it'll still be a while before we have to go, I mean, we still need to wait for one or two months" Rainbow reminded "She's right you know, that's a ton of time to spend with us" Jean explained "Thanks girls, you really know how to cheer me up" Twilight thanked "But she's right though, we certainly have gone through quite a lot recently" Lumine explained "Hopefully, this song will be sung for years to come by the people of Mondstadt just like the Legend of Vennessa" Venti explained "I have loved that song since I was small" Jean explained "We'll definitely come listening when we have the time" Twilight explained "Of course! I'd love to hear how you're gonna add me into the song!" Rainbow explained "Speaking of which, how are you girls feeling today?" Jean asked "A little sad since we're going to leave after two months but we'll surely come visit you all again!" Rainbow explained "Same here, I've had fun" Lumine said "I agree, so let's make it the best ending ever!" Paimon said "I agree, I am completely prepared and fully confident that we can do this" Jean said "You are definitely reliable Jean and we thank you for that" Twilight said "Tch!" Diluc said in disbelief "Even master Diluc accompanied us to the very end despite only being an accidentally involved bystander" Paimon explained "You shared your secret with me and I only returned your trust to the same extent" Diluc explained "So 'trust' is what drove master Diluc here" Lumine explained "As for master Jean... 'Responsibility' perhaps" Paimon explained before turning to Venti "But what about the Tone-Deaf Bard?" Paimon asked "Yeah, that is a good question though, I mean, every time we were in trouble it was thanks to him... Except for this one time of course" Twilight explained "It's 'freedom'" Venti explained "Freedom...?" Paimon asked in confusion "When you first arrived at Mondstadt, did no one tell you that Mondstadt is the City of Freedom?" Venti asked "Amber..." Lumine answered sadly "Hahaha... She really is a child of freedom!" Venti said with a chuckle "Mondstadt is a romantic city without the reign of a king and its citizens enjoy the most freedom amongst the seven nations, I hope the dragon that once protected Mondstadt will soon be free too... No one should have decieved him by telling him that Mondstadt betrayed him and no one should have told him that it was his eternal duty to protect the city, he has the right and freedom to choose his own way of life" Venti explained "Venti..." Paimon said sadly "Well then girls, may the thousands of years of wind that have blown through Mondstadt go with you and just like the last time I shall channel Anemo energy for you" Venti suggested "...'Last time'?" Lumine thought "Wait! So it was YOUR voice we heard?" Twilight asked in shock "Yep! It sure was!" Venti answered "Oh! No wonder Lumine said his voice sounded familiar!" Paimon said in realization "Alright guys? Are you ready?" Twilight asked The group then looked at each other and nodded before they stepped on the seal causing them to fly up "I wasn't prepared for this!" Twilight called out "I got you!" Rainbow called out Rainbow then flew underneath Twilight causing Twilight to land on her "Wow! Thanks a ton Rainbow!" Twilight said The others who had already started pulling up their windgliders then flew towards Stormterror only to see he had purple spikes on his back "Look! There are two shiny spots on Dvalin's back!" Venti called out "That must be why they said the purple spikes were made by an Abyss Mage" Twilight thought "They appear to be poisonous blood clots that have coagulated on his wounds so the Abyss Order must have cursed the wounds, that's what's corrupting Dvalin's mind" Venti explained "So, what is it that you suggest we do?" Jean asked "Well, to save Dvalin we're going to have to get rid of those blood clots so aim or those blood clots" Venti suggested "We're on it!" Twilight said Twilight, Lumine, Jean and Diluc then began shooting lasers of their powers towards the blood clots trying to remove it as Venti tried to fly towards the front of Dvalin to try and comfort him but just then Dvalin looked behind himself and shot a few blue flames "Oh come on!" Twilight called out "Dodge!" Rainbow called out The group then began dodging as fast as they could which was hard before they stopped as Dvalin got mad and began flapping his wings causing a gust of wind to appear "I got this!" Diluc called out Dvalin then pulled out his claymore as he used his fire abilities to fly as fast as he could towards Dvalin before stopping behind him and slashing a few times with his sword causing Dvalin to roar before one of the blood clot's got out "I got it!" Diluc called out "Quick! Do the o---" Venti started Dvalin then spun causing the wings to hit Diluc sending him flying backwards towards the ground "We got you!" Venti called out Venti and Jean then flew towards Diluc and grabbed him by the arms as Lumine used her anemo Rainbow and Twilight flew back to get the wind glider back before they gave it to Diluc who put it back on only for him and the others to see Dvalin flying off "After him!" Paimon called out The group then let Diluc go before they used their powers to charge as fast as they could towards Dvalin except for Rainbow who used her super speed "Come on guys! We got this!" Rainbow called out Soon Dvalin dove to the middle of the clouds where a few podiums stood as the group followed after him before landing on some podiums as they rushed to the edge where they saw nothing but a tornado where they saw nothing until Dvalin flew back out and landed straight on the floating platform causing the group to fall backwards as Twilight almost fell off the platform before Lumine and Diluc caught her and put her back before they noticed a tornado with electricity "How do we get to him now?!" Jean asked Just then Dvalin stopped spinning and roared as Venti turned to his friends "Now we can fight Dvalin on equal grounds, the grandest bard is here to help!" Venti said "You're not gonna do this alone! We're helping you!" Twilight said bravely "For our friends!" Lumine and Paimon called out "For our families" Jean and Diluc called out "For our homes!" Twilight and Rainbow called out "For Teyvat!" Venti called out before turning to her friends "Thanks but first let me be clear, even after hundreds of years without use, Dvalin's teeth and claws are still very dangerous" Venti said "We'll keep that in mind!" Twilight said Dvalin then charged towards the group who dodged "Let's do this!" Twilight called out Lumine then turned to Dvalin "Hey you! Take a bit of this!" Lumine called out Lumine then shot a gust of wind at Dvalin who got send back before he flaps his wind as Lumine struggled to keep up "Don't worry! We got you!" Twilight said Twilight then teleported a fan which blew while Rainbow charged towards Dvalin with a spear that appeared out of nowhere as she poked him in the chest causing him to fly down before he dove straight up and when Jean saw this she knew what she had to do "Hold on Rainbow!" Jean called out Jean then made an ice bridge which Diluc then ran over before he smashed onto it causing it to break as Dvalin got a little dizzy while Diluc fell onto his butt causing him to fall off before landing on Rainbow's back "You think we're gonna let you die without a fight?! Well you're wrong!" Rainbow said Rainbow then charged Diluc back to the podium as Dvalin rushed towards them before stopping in front of the podium and giving a slash as the group either jumped up or behind the claw before Venti charged towards Dvalin's eyes and played the lyre for a moment which stunned Dvalin "Don't you worry Dvalin, we're here to save you" Venti said But Dvalin knew what was to happen and flipped Venti off of him causing him to fall before Twilight teleported hi back "No time for distraction's! Rainbow! Do you have energy?!" Twilight asked "Of course! Always!" Rainbow answered "That's the opposite of what you said before Jean said "Nevrermind her! Imagine a red lightning bolt and strike Dvalin with it!" Twilight suggested "Uhuh, I gotcha!" Rainbow answered in confusion Rainbow and Twilight then focused before a bunch of purple stars and red lightning bolts began shooting towards Dvalin who tried to dodge them but thanks to his huge size he always got hit before he fell down onto the podium as Twilight and Diluc used their strength to hold him up as Jean and Paimon helped "Now is your chance! Aim for the tainted blood clot on his neck!" Venti ordered Rainbow then got prepare as she began to slash the blood clot while Dvalin tried to get off as Twilight used her magic to hold him down "I--- Can't--- Handle---!" Twilight called out Just then the blood clot fell off as Paimon let go only to gasp in shock at what she saw "This place is gonna collapse!" Paimon called out Just then a big piece of stone fell causing a crack to open causing the podium to break as the group fell down as they screamed for help "Oh no, no, no!" Rainbow called out Rainbow then tried to do something as she got every wind glider surrounding the group before she rushed over to her friends who continued to fall [A few hours later] Venti who had fallen unconscious from the hit then began waking up "Venti, we're fine now, wake up" Lumine was heard saying Venti then woke up only to see him and the others sitting on Dvalin's back "We had a chat with Dvalin and he told us everything that he saw before he fell unconscious apparently" Twilight explained "Wait?! You can speak dragonese?!" Venti asked "No but I used a spell to read his mind, apparently he had a blood clot that made him lose his subconscious but thanks to us he's fine now" Twilight explained Venti then sighed in relief "We'll look at the sights now, if you need us just let us know" Lumine suggested "Okay" Venti said before turning around and looking at Dvalin's head "It's been a while since we flew like this together right Dvalin?" Venti asked causing Dvalin to give a few grunts as an answer "Just now... Why...? Why did you not ask me to protect you like the last time?" Dvalin asked "Me not wanting you to listen to the Abyss Order doesn't mean that you have to listen to me" Venti explained Venti then went to sit upright "Freedom, if demanded of you by an archon is really no freedom at all" Venti explained Venti then pulled up a green sphere which then went to float inside Dvalin which caused Dvalin to turn green "Is this... The power of the Anemo Archon? But I'm no longer part of the Four Winds" Dvalin reminded "Even if that's so you still protected us regardless, now, spread your wings of Freedom and go with my blessing" Venti suggested A few hours later after the group returned to Mondstadt Jean was writing in her notebook "And so, the Stormterror threat was quelled, I clarified the misunderstanding to the citizens of Mondstadt and let them know that they are safe" Jean thought while doing so Jean then looked out the window while Lumine, Paimon and Twilight were walking around looking at the lively sights of Mondstadt as they chatted until Twilight began thinking as the screen showed Diluc thinking while standing against a wall "Stormterror, actually no, Dvalin attacked Mondstadt out of nowhere and then vanished just as quickly" Twilight thought before Dvalin was seen speeding off causing the group to turn to him "They must be finding the whole ordeal very confusing" Twilight thought The screen showed Venti sitting in the palms of the Anemo Archon of the past while thinking "However, winds change their course, someday, they will blow towards a brighter future" Venti explained Just then the once dragon Dvalin turned into an orb in the sky before he was gone > Episode 14: The Stolen Gnosis > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The next day Twilight, Lumine and Paimon had returned from their walk as they noticed Mondstadt barricated as they saw Amber who saw them and smiled while rushing towards them "You guys are back! The Honorary Knights return triumphant!" Amber said excitedly Twilight then chuckled a bit "It's only been a day since the Stormterror incident" Twilight reminded "Still, it's true, we're back from tussling with Dvalin!" Paimon agreed "You just returned yesterday, right? Jean got back first and she told us all about your heroic deeds along with Rainbow" Amber explained "It was tough yeah but we handled it like the brave heroes we once were" Twilight explained Amber then sighed in jealousy "I wonder if I'll ever get an opportunity like that..." Amber said in jealousy "Of course you will though that is not an opportunity you'd want too often..." Twilight explained "You're right actually, peace is hard won and we shouldn't take it for granted and this time you're the one we should all be grateful to" Amber explained "You're welcome! But have you been waiting for us here this whole time?" Paimon asked "Of course not! Just because I'm not out on the front line doesn't mean I don't have work to do... In fact, I'm dealing with the aftermath of the crisis as we speak" Amber explained "Aftermath? Here? What happened in Mondstadt?" Paimon asked "While master Jean was away the monsters lurking nearby made a coordinating attack on the city" Amber explained "It might or might not have been my fault" Twilight explained The group then turned to Twilight "Okay?! What did you do this time?!" Lumine asked angrily "Well... I may or may not have told some people to stop interrupting us and they thought they should go to Mondstadt, I definitely did not have a part in this" Twilight explained "Don't worry Twilight, sure it was something you shouldn't have done but since you tried your best to save the others you get another chance" Amber said "Thanks" Twilight thanked "While it may be your fault we fortunately weren't taken by surprise, I detected the hilichurls were moving closer to the city a while back" Amber explained "Oh yeah! Paimon remembers, when we first met you were clearing out one of their camps..." Paimon reminded "Exactly and if we hadn't started making preparations back then Mondstadt would be in much greater danger by now" Amber explained "Well, we're glad you held them off" Lumine said in relief "Thanks" Amber thanked "But why would the hilichurls do this?" Twilight asked "I know, it's strange, hilichurls aren't usually capable of coordinating like this so our best guess is that the Abyss Order is behind it like Twilight explained just now" Amber explained "They've taken over the hilichurls? Hmm... Good thing we saved Dvalin or they might've taken him too..." Paimon said in disbelief "That's right and since I'm the Outrider it's up to me to keep eyes on the Abyss Order from now on" Amber explained before grunting in disbelief "I'm sorry, you should be celebrating your victory, not listening to all this somber talk!" Amber apologized "No worries" Twilight said Amber then began thinking "Hmm... I promised to take you out for some Sticky Honey Roast didn't I? Before everyone got caught up in the Stormterror crisis" Amber reminded "Oh yeah, you did!" Lumine realized "There's no time like the present, right? You guys hungry?" Amber asked "You bet! You may have forgotten till just now but it's been on Paimon's mind this whole time!" Paimon answered excitedly "That counts for the rest of us too" Lumine said "Yep and I think Rainbow wants some to" Twilight explained Rainbow then dropped by "Were you just talking about me?" Rainbow asked "Of course, I know it was a bad time before but do you want some vegeterian Sticky Honey Roast?" Twilight asked "Of course! I'm excited to eat it after all!" Rainbow explained "Awesome, let's go then! It's been way too long since I last ate a Sticky Honey Roast myself" Amber said "Great! Let's get going!" Twilight said "Wait for me at Good Hunter, I'll be right there, I just have to clean up here real quick" Amber said "Alright, as for us, we've got a table to own!" Rainbow said "Alright but I think I wanna chat with the locals first" Lumine said "Really?" Twilight asked "Yeah, I'll be right with you, come on Paimon" Lumine said "Of course master Lumine!" Paimon called out The duo then walked off as Twilight turned to Rainbow "So, do you wanna race, a running one of course?" Twilight asked "Sure! On three...!" Rainbow called out Meanwhile Lumine and Paimon went to the Adventurer's Guild building where they saw a guy with yellow hair, mustache and beard, while wearingred monocle on his left eye and wearing a white blouse with a brown belt over it and a black and green jacket which was open, a brown and black belt on the waist in a criss cross way, green pants which like the white blouse had it's sleeves rolled up showing the brown parts from the inside, white socks and brown slippers giving a speech to the ignoring adventurers except of Lumine and Paimon "Here we go! This is it! Crisis! Danger! The thrill of adventure!!! Adventurers' guild! Finally, our days of rescuing kittens and finding lost puppies are over! The age of adventure is upon us! Roll up youngsters, join the adventurers' guild today! In this time of great upheaval we must rally together, take on the dragon and save our great city of Mondstadt!" The guy announced "Yeah, about that..." Lumine started "We already stopped the threat! Jean gave a speech about it yesterday" Paimon reminded "What?! WHAT?! The Stormterror threat is resolved? I missed the Acting Grand Master's speech?" The guy gasped in shock and disbelief "Yeah, kinda, sorry dude" Paimon apologized The guy then grumbled in disbelief and defeat "Bah! Stormterror should have put up more of a fight! We didn't get to join in..." The guy said in anger and disbelief The group then walked to another person who seemed to be worried or something "You okay mister?" Paimon asked Just then the guy made a pleading position while smiling in excitement "Long live the heroes! Thank you, it's finally over, many trade routes have closed due to the Stormterror incident, we can cope for now without fresh fruit and vegetables... But if the wine supply dries up we're all doomed! I cannot imagine a world without wine" The guy explained in worry "If that we're to happen we'll come and help you" Lumine said "I hope they get the trade routes back up and running soon" The guy hoped The duo then went to the last stop which was where they last saw the Darknight Hero as a girl in nun outfit was seen standing there who was thinking to herself "So Stormterror's true identity is Dvalin, one of the Four Winds! We never should've forgotten his past sacrifice for Mondstadt" The nun explained in disbelief "True but it's all fine now" Lumine said "Yep cause he's back to normal!" Paimon said "Well, every cloud has a silver lining, we're fortunate that our relationship with the Dragon of the East didn't sour past the point of no return and for that we have you to thank and Jean of course for her unfailing devotion so as long as we have the Knights of Favonius, peace and freedom will prevail in Mondstadt" The nun explained in relief Meanwhile Twilight and Rainbow had arrived at Good Hunter where they approached the bar where Sara stood "Greetings, may I take your orders?" Sara asked "We'd like one vegeterian Sticky Honey Roast please" Twilight pleaded "Coming right up!" Sara said Kaeya then turned to the duo "Why so cold? I've always thought that we enjoy quite the intimate friendship" Kaeya explained The duo then turned to Kaeya "Oh hey, we didn't see you there..." Twilight apologized "Hahaha... It seems your great battle sharpened not only your combat skills but your wit as well, a knight after my own heart, to bask in the presence of two of Mondstadt's new big heroes is quite the morale boost and that's coming from a knight" Kaeya said in happiness "Hehe, it is our pleasure to help" Twilight said "Sweet-talking sugar coated Captain Kaeya" Rainbow said in disbelief "Haha, nonsense! I speak from the heart" Kaeya corrected "What are you doing here?" Twilight asked "Just looking for a quiet spot to collect my thoughts" Kaeya answered "While the other knights are working hard to clean up after the battle..." Rainbow said in disbelief "Thinking can be an arduous task you know, believe me, I'd much rather be taking out the trash" Kaeya reminded "So whatcha thinkin' about then?" Rainbow asked "The Abyss Order" Kaeya answered "A dragon wreaks havoc in Mondstadt and the Acting Grand Master leaves the city to combat the threat, strategically, that's the perfect moment for the Abyss Order to make their move, if you were the Abyss Order would you squander this golden opportunity by sending in nothing more than a few hilichurls?" Kaeya asked "You're right, it doesn't add up" Rainbow said "To get to the bottom of it I decided to wait so I waited and watched for their next move and then came the day you made all hell break loose in Stormterror's lair just as the hilichurls' cries sounded from the city gates and that same day I saw shadowy figures lurking in the city itself" Kaeya explained "Inside the city?!" Twilight asked in shock and disbelief "This isn't good, right Twilight?" Rainbow asked "Of course not, maybe it's somebody way dangerous than Dvalin!" Twilight reminded "True!" Rainbow said worriedly "Well, all the other knights were outside fighting the enemy and as you can imagine that left the inside of the city completely unguarded except for me of course and so I approached the Abyss Order infiltrators for a bit of... Hmm, let's call it fraternizing and through various means I managed to gather some rather interesting intel and the situation is this: the Abyss Order... They are united under a single leader" Kaeya explained "The Abyss Order has a leader?" Rainbow asked, thinking "Really?! That doesn't sound good!" Twilight said worriedly "Yes and it was this very leader who devised the plot to turn Dvalin into a weapon of war" Kaeya explained "What exactly did you have to do to find this out?!" Paimon asked "Hehehe... Let's just say I'm blessed with certain linguistic powers, but there's more... The Abyss Order has a name for this leader... They call her 'the Princess and the Prince'" Kaeya explained "'Princess and Prince'..." Twilight said in worry "I hope that isn't the guy I saw and Starlight" Twilight called out worriedly "Now, I'm sorry to cut this intelligence briefing short but I do believe I spy your friends heading this way... I think she's still angry with me for my absence from the defense effort during the attack... I'd better slip away before she notices me" Kaeya suggested "Alright, we'll see you later then" Twilight waved Kaeya then gave a salute before he rushes off as soon as Lumine, Paimon and Amber arrived as Twilight and Rainbow turned to them "One minute I see Kaeya, the next he's slipped away! Clear sign of a guilty conscience..." Amber said in disbelief "Well, he does a lot behind the scenes..." Twilight reminded "Are you sure? Because that sounds like exactly what he'd say to talk himself out of trouble..." Amber reminded "We had that incident too, trust us" Paimon said "But besides that, where have you girls been?!" Rainbow asked angrily "Talking with other people, they've been thanking us for our help and they wanted to than you too" Lumine said "That's a relief" Twilight said in relief "Let's forget about that for now, I worked super hard today and my tummy's rumbling, let's order!" Amber said "I have already ordered for me and Rainbow so we'll go find a seat" Twilight said "Okay" Amber said before turning to Sara "Hi Sara! One Sticky Honey Roast please..." Amber pleaded "Coming right up!" Sara said The two then followed Twilight and Rainbow before they went to seat at a table for four as Amber turned to her friends "So, now that the Stormterror threat is behind us what are your plans for the next step?" Amber asked "Paimon thinks it's time to leave Mondstadt and keep looking through the seven nations until we find clues about their friends or brothers" Paimon explained "Huh really? Oh... Well, I guess this is goodbye for now then..." Amber said sadly "But we'll definitely come visit you again for sure" Twilight explained "And besides we're still here for one or two months" Rainbow explained "Yeah but we will still miss our Favonian friends" Lumine said sadly "Hey, don't feel down! You'll always be friends of the Knights of Favonius and our Honorary Knights or Guard of Favonius, wherever you may go and wherever the wind may blow" Amber reminded "We'll still come back and visit" Lumine said "That's the spirit! Remember, Mondstadt will always welcome you" Amber reminded "We'll keep that in mind" Twilight said Afterwards a vegetarian and normal Sticky Honey Roast were put on the table by Sara "Thank you Sara!" Rainbow thanked "No worries!" Sara said "Alright, now let's eat before it gets cold!" Amber suggested "Good idea!" Paimon said And with that the group began eating their first ever Sticky Honey Roast as they began chatting about all the fun things they experienced Flashback's then came of past episodes where Twilight and Rainbow were seen arguing before it showed Rainbow, Twilight and Lumine fighting in the ruins before finally smashing the stones and afterwards it showed the trio fighting against enemies like the ruin guard in Kaeya's mission, Raptor in Amber's mission and with the help of their friends fighting against the Abyss Mage before it showed the four along with Diluc enter the ruins where they fought against a few Fatui and ending with the Fatui wet in anger as the group chuckled before the screen changed to the group fighting against Dvalin before it ended with them riding on the back of Dvalin and after that was done the screen changed back to the group finishing with their food "Mmm! That was goooood! Note to Paimon, Amber's recommendations are worth the wait!" Paimon explained excitedly "Whew! That was some tasty vegeterian food! I'm definitely gonna try and eat that again some time" Twilight said "Same here" Lumine agreed "Of course! While I don't trust myself in the kitchen you can always trust me with the menu!" Amber reminded before she realized something "Oh, I almost forgot to mention... Jean's waiting for you at the Cathedral, it's something to do with the Holy Lyre der Himmel... You'd better head there now" Amber suggested "Alright, we're on our way!" Twilight said Twilight then put the money on the bar before she along with Rainbow, Lumine and Paimon walked towards the Cathedral as they went to where the entrance to the basement was and when they got there they noticed Barbara, Venti and Jean waiting for them "We're here!" Rainbow called out "What is it you needed us for?" Twilight asked "I think you've met each other the last time you were here but this is Barbara, the deaconess of the church, she is here to retrieve the Holy Lyre der Himmel" Jean explained "May the Anemo Archon protect you" Barbara greeded "Oh dear..." Twilight said in worry "I'm not really in a position to speak compared to our Acting Grand Master but I still want to thank you all on behalf of all of Mondstadt for your assistance! Fortunately everything was resolved peacefully... I can't imagine how an all-out war between the military and the dragon would have ended..." Barbara thanked "It's no problem really" Twilight said with a smile "Now the Fatui have no choice but to keep their mouths shut" Jean explained "Yeah, especially after that stupid failure!" Rainbow said "Yeah, they must be annoyed that things didn't turn out as planned for them, this time, they even lost their best excuse to pressure the Knights of Favonius but diplomaticly speaking they gained nothing and on the contrary simply proved just how vexatious they can be" Jean explained in disbelief "Sounds like quite the story" Barbara said in awe before turning to the rest of the group "So, did you bring the Holy Lyre with you? We cannot ask you to keep defending the lyre forever, the Seneschal has been pressing me for a while now..." Barbara reminded in disbelief "We ahh... Did bring it with us... Ummm... It's just... It's a little..." Paimon stuttered nervously "Oh don't worry! I'm not here to collect rent! The church has always received special funding..." Barbara explained "If you say so" Lumine said Lumine then pulled out the lyre he picked up a couple weeks ago after the failed rescue only for everyone to see it was broken as Barbara gasped "Ahh..." Paimon called out nervously "Wow..." Venti called out in nervousness "AAAAAARGH!!! THE HOLY LYRE!!!" Barbara called out in shock, worry and fright before falling to the ground in sadness "Oh lord Barbatos... Even if I atoned for these sins for the rest of my life it would still not be enough!" Barbara called out in fright "I think you should solve this" Twilight whispered "Good idea" Venti agreed before sighing and turning to Lumine "Give it here..." Venti suggested Lumine then gave the Holy Lyre to Venti before he lightened himself and the floating Holy Lyre with some Anemo magic and when he finished the Holy Lyre looked as good as new "How could this--- The Holy Lyre... But how?" Barbara asked Barbara then rushed towards the Holy Lyre, picked it up and hugged it again while Paion tried to look at what was going on "Huh? Let Paimon see!" Paimon suggested Barbara then moved a little further away in fright "No! No! I don't know how you managed to fix it but you'll never touch the lyre again!" Barbara said in fright and anger Barbara then rushed off as Twilight shrugged "Suit yourself!" Twilight said Venti then turned to the others nervously "... We ah... Really should get going... That trick I used to 'repair' the Holy Lyre... Hehe, I mean the magic I used... It isn't going to hold forever you know" Venti explained "What?!" The rest gasped in shock "Are you serious?! You should've told her!" Rainbow said Venti then gave a salute and ran off as Paimon stomped the air in anger while Lumine rushed after him "You--- Tone-Deaf Bard!!!" Paimon called out angrily The group then rushed after Venti who ran outside before two pieces of mud went up to turn into black Fatui who jumped after Venti before Lumine blew a gust of wind at them causing them to fly back to the ground "If you want to kidnap Venti we're not gonna let this happen!" Twilight said angrily "Yeah, as long as we're here we'll never let anybody get trapped!" Rainbow said in agreement and anger Just then the two back Fatui then dove back into the ground as Lumine rushed after them before somebody appeared and snapped their fingers causing a major gust of wind to fly towards the group sending them flying a bit while Paimon turned into an ice cube before landing as Venti tried to stay strong as he planned to rush towards the woman only to find he was stuck as he looked down only to see him turning into ice which Rainbow noticed to "Don't worry! I got this!" Rainbow called out Rainbow then flew towards the woman before the woman snapped her fingers again causing Rainbow's wings to get removed as she continued to rush towards her before she looked behind her only to see her wings was gone causing her to fall to the ground "Not again!" Twilight called out Twilight then shot a few lasers which the woman shielded while using her other hand to snap her fingers causing Twilight's horn to go away "Don't worry! I gotcha!" Lumine called out Lumine then rushed back towards the woman only to get tackled by two Fatui and pulled up with her arms stretched as she tried to let go of them only to fail as the group turned to see a girl approaching Venti, she had light long blonde hair and wore a huge black and red mask along with a white skirt than turns into a brown lower part, she also wore red and black gloves and a brown and red cape and black heels "At last, Mondstadt's rodent ruler in the flesh" The girl said in relief before the screen showed her name La Signora then pulled up Venti's head while saying "Scurrying through the streets looking for leftovers... Mondstadt calls this a god?" La Signora asked "Of course they do and why did you need to know that?!" Twilight asked angrily "Yeah resident rodent... Beats invasive vermin---" Venti started Just then La Signora snaps Venti hard in the face causing him to grunt in pain while Twilight rushed towards La Signora before she felt herself stuck with chains "Oh come on!" Twilight called out in disbelief "Don't you dare speak back to me insolent bard" La Signora ordered "Leave him alone! You have no right to insult gods!" Twilight reminded angrily Venti then started glowing a green hue as a small tornado ripped off some pieces of the ice "Absentee archon of Mondstadt... How impotent you have become... That smirk you wear looks out of place, did you steal it from your master's face?" La Signora asked "Master?! What is the meaning of this?!" Twilight asked angrily Just then La Signora blew a gust of wind at Venti before she rushed towards him "Should have held your tongue" La Signora suggested Just then La Signora had her hand in Venti's chest which caused Twilight and Lumine to gasp in shock as they thought their friend was about to die before La Signora pulled out some sort of chess piece with a green hue and when she got her hand out Venti fell to the ground in pain "Venti! No!" Twilight called out Afterwards La Signora pulled the Gnosis up to take a closer look "So, this is a Gnosis? I wouldn't be dead wearing this ugly thing in public" La Signora said in disbelief "You give it back to him now or we'll have a serious problem!" Twilight ordered angrily "Beauty is a waste... When the beholder has no taste..." La signora said La Signora then kicked Venti against Twilight who rolled over him only for the duo to get tangled "Venti... Twilight..." Lumine called out in worry La Signora then turned to the other Fatui who held Lumine "Well, we have what we came here for" La Signora said before she snapped her fingers again causing the chains to go off of Twilight, Twilight to get her horns back and Rainbow her wings before she turned around and walked off "Come, before our dear Favonian friends arrive, leave nothing for them to find" La Signora ordered Afterwards she walked off with her fellow Fatui allies as the two who held Lumine let her go before one smacked her to the ground causing her to grunt in pain as she struggled to stan up and save Venti and her friends before she fell unconscious just like those before her and after a while Lumine was woken up by Barbara "Ah! Honorary Knight, you're awake!" Barbara said in relief Twilight and Rainbow then helped Lumine up "Are you alright?" Rainbow asked "Yeah, that was definitely a hit" Lumine said "Speaking of which... Venti... Is he alright?" Twilight asked "Um... I wouldn't say he's 'alright' exactly, I found you lying unconscious outside the cathedral and used my elemental powers to heal you girls..." Barbara explained "Especially Paimon, I mean, she was almost emergency food!" Rainbow explained Paimon who was watching then turned to Rainbow angrily "Hey! I'm never an emergency food!" Paimon reminded angrily "Still, that bard awakened first but strangely my healing powers had almost no effect on him... This is the first time I've encountered such a patient but he just said 'It's completely normal' and then got up and left the Cathedral..." Barbara explained "He left? Already? Where'd he go?" Paimon asked "Yeah, that does seem a bit concering, even for me" Twilight said worriedly "The Symbol of Mondstadt's Hero, that's what he said" Barbara explained "Did you try and stop him?" Rainbow asked "I wanted to but Jean, I mean master Jean said to let him leave, how strange" Barbara explained in worry and confusion "I think I get why..." Lumine thought "If Paimon remembers, Venti healed under that tree before..." Paimon explaied "You mean after we met him?" Rainbow asked "Yep" Paimon explained before whispering to the group "It's probably due to the connection between Windrise and the Anemo Archon, Master Jean has figured it out as well but we can't tell Barbara..." Paimon whispered "Good idea" Twilight whispered back "We'll be checking on Venti for you and if he's not fine we'll bring him straight here!" Rainbow said "Thank you for your help! It's greatly appreciated!" Barbara thanked The group then walked towards Windrise and towards the tree Venti stood in before and sure enough he was there once again but this time he had his hand on the tree, trying to let the energy of it float towards him "The wind amongst the branches is good, I love the way it smells..." Venti thought "What are you doing here bud?" Twilight asked Venti who heard that familiar voice then turned around while chuckling "I said the exact same thing the last time" Venti explained "Yes you did" Rainbow agreed Venti then sighed before turning to the tree in worry "Why do I only say these things when I'm down on my luck?" Venti asked worriedly Lumine then got sad for him before she shook the thought off her head as she remembered one thing that appeared out of him along with what was said "So... What is a Gnosis?" Lumine asked "Ah, so you noticed" Venti said in defeat "Yeah, we did, well, except for Rainbow and Paimon but can you tell us what it is?" Twilight asked Venti then sighed in defeat "This isn't something I'm meant to discuss with ordinary people but I suppose I can let you in on the secret" Venti explained "Really? That sounds thrilling!" Twilight said excitedly with a tinge of worry "As you know, visions are external magical foci that only a small minority of people possess, they use these visions to channel elemental power, in truth, every wielder of a Vision is one who can attain godhood and ascend to Celestia, we call such people allogenes" Venti explained "Allogenes? Paimon's never heard of them before" Paimon explained "We didn't either, care to explain?" Twilight asked "Hehe, that's because this is a secret that only archons are privy to, we don't need primitive tools like visions, instead, each archon has an internal magical focus that resonates directly with Celestia itself... Known as a Gnosis" Venti explained "What about the thing hanging off your hip?" Lumine asked Venti then looked at the pendant on the hip which had the Anemo symbol drawn on it "Eh-he, it's just a glowing glass ball I carry around to avoid suspicion" Venti explained "Huh..." Lumine asked in confusion Paimon then decided to change the subject as she turned to Venti angrily "Anyway, who was that nasty woman who sent Paimon flying and stole your Gnosis?" Paimon asked "Her name is Signora, No. 8 of the harbingers, she and the rest of the harbingers have been given god-like executive authority by the Tsaritsa of Snezhnaya and with it, strength surpassing that of other mortals" Venti answered "Ugh! It'll be tough to beat her if we ever find her again!" Twilight said in disbelief "The Tsaritsa of Snezhnaya? Isn't that..." Paimon started "Indeed, she is one of the Seven, the Tsaritsa who reigns from the Zapolyarny Palace and the one person that the Fatui Harbingers all answer to" Venti finished worriedly "That's not good" Twilight said worriedly "Definitely not" Rainbow agreed "Still, the Seven don't always get along well but still--- I never thought that she would plot to steal another archon's Gnossis..." Venti explained "Are you saying it didn't happen before?" Rainbow asked "That's exactly what I'm saying" Venti answered "Oh---" Rainbow said worriedly "So, what sort of god is the Tsaritsa?" Lumine asked "Ah... How should I put this? Five hundred years ago I knew her well but I can't say the same is true now, you see, a certain catastrophe happened five hundred years ago and after that she cut off all ties with me" Venti explained sadly "She sounds like that type that isn't gonna forgive anyone so easily" Twilight said "Yeah, I have a feeling we might not make it out safely if we were to go to Snezhnaya" Rainbow explained "Don't worry, we can save the discussion of the Cryo Archon and the Fatui for another day" Venti said "That's probably a good idea" Twilight said "But if you girls seek the rest of the Seven many difficulties might lie ahead of you still" Venti reminded "Speaking of which, where should we go next?" Lumine asked "Well, you should head for Mondstadt's neighboring nation of Liyue, the Geo Archon who reigns there and unlike me, administrates his entire region personally, he only decends once every year to give his divine predictions which set the direction for Liyue for the rest of that year" Venti explained "Even so, it sounds like he works much harder than a certain someone" Paimon explained "Eh-he" Venti chuckled nervously before shaking the thought off "...In any case, this year's Rite of Descension is soon to begin, if you miss it, you'll have to wait another year" Venti explained "WHAT?! Why didn't you tell us before? Well then, bye, girls, we're going!" Paimon called out excitedly "Calm down! I'm sure Venti means that it'll happen in just two months" Twilight explained "Twilight's right you know so there's still a lot of time to do what you want" Venti explained Rainbow then yawned a bit "I'm getting tired, it's almost nighttime!" Rainbow said "You know, you're right, we should've been going to bed an hour or two earlier like we always did" Twilight realized "Except for our first ever adventure!" Paimon reminded The group then planned to leave until Venti turned to them "One moment Windborne Outlanders" Venti called out "Did you have a feeling we had more questions?" Twilight asked "Yup, girls, once you set off on your journey once again you must remember that the journey itself has meaning, the birds of Teyvat, the songs and the cities, the Tsaritsa, her Fatui and the monsters... They are all part of your journey, the destination is not everything so before you reach the end keep your eyes open and use the chance to take in the world around you..." Venti suggested "We understand" Lumine said "Great, so that's that for the Anemo Archon's admonishments! Back to Venti's time!" Venti called out "We do have a few questions" Twilight explained "Sure, if you want to chat now's the time, a bard stays not always in a single clime" Venti reminded "Did Dvalin remember anything after the battle?" Twilight asked "Up till the end Dvalin remembered his duty as one of the Four Winds as such I don't intend to forcibly strip him of that duty and force my ideals of freedom onto him, I just hope that Dvalin will be able to choose for himself and understand what freedom is but and I became an archon, I too was taught the meaning of freedom in this way by a friend" Venti explained "I don't know if you know but Kaeya gave us a new hint to the prince and princess of the Abyss Order?" Lumine explained "So... Kaeya shared some new intel, you say?" Venti asked "Yep and he believes they're the ones that manipulated Dvalin" Paimon explained "I see, so the Abyss Order has a princess and prince who orchestrated the plan to corrupt Dvalin?" Venti asked "Yes, they do, what do you think of that?" Twilight answered "They were probably trying to turn Dvalin into a weapon of war for the Abyss but that said, I have never heard of any such prince and princess of the Abyss Order" Venti explained "Not an Abyss Order tradition then" Lumine thought out loud "I agree, so this must've been a recent development..." Twilight called out "I think so too... Apparently but how does a prince and princess come out of nowhere and take command over the entire Abyss Order?" Venti asked "That's what we're not sure of" Rainbow answered "By the way, did you have any idea what Signora did?" Venti asked "Well, that Fatui lady didn't hang around! She just grabbed your Gnosis and left!" Paimon answered "That's just like her, she wanted to avoid any eyewitnesses from the Knights of Favonius" Venti explained "What do you mean with that?" Twilight asked "Well, the slightest slip up here would have destroyed the Fatui's diplomatic relations with the Knights" Venti answered "I do know what happened but I won't say it to the Knights unless more evidence is shown" Rainbow thought "So they're just gonna keep acting like Mondstadt's allies as if nothing happened?!" Paimon asked in shock and disbelief Venti then sighed in disbelief "If only the seven nations had banded together against the Abyss Order in the first place" Venti muttered out loud in disbelief "Why does that sound so bad?" Twilight asked "The Fatui possess the strongest military among the seven nations, yet they've used it to steal the Holy Lyre, covet the power of gods and used Dvalin as a bargaining chip against the Knights..." Venti explained "Don't worry, we'll do whatever it takes to find that Signora and beat her to a crisp!" Rainbow said "Thanks girls" Venti thanked "Speaking of the Lyre... Didn't Diluc say something like this before?" Paimon asked "Oh yeah, he said that the Fatui can only run amok across the seven nations and threaten the Knights because of the harbingers" Twilight realized "Yes, as I said earlier, the Cryo Archon has given them authority and strength beyond that of other mortals" Venti explained "Speaking of which, when have you seen her last?" Lumine asked "The Tsaritsa... I haven't seen her in five hundred years, what is she thinking? What's her plan?" Venti thought before shaking the thought off of his head "Whatever the answer is, I have a feeling it's only going to make your search for the Seven all the more difficult..." Venti explained worriedly "There hasn't been anything that took me and my friends down so don't you worry about us" Twilight suggested "What's the difference between a Gnosis and a vision wielder?" Paimon asked "Well, as I said before, vision wielders are known as allogenes and may ascend to Celestia and a Gnosis is a higher-order nexus of elemental manipulation and is emblematic of an archon's status as one of the seven" Venti reminded "So do you know which one of the seven too our brothers and friends?" I asked "I'm sorry but I don't know" Venti answered sadly before he realized something and rubbed the back of his head nervously "Wait, as one of the Seven, I'm not clear of suspicion yet either, am I?" Venti asked nervously "Do we need to remind you that you don't like a god at all?" Twilight asked "Hang on a hot second! Tone-Deaf Bard is just one of Barbatos' many incarnations, who's to say---" Paimon started "We've known you long enough to trust you" Lumine interrupted while putting a hand on Paimon's mouth "Haha, we're a great team indeed! Say, once you find your brothers and friends, how would you like to become one of the new four winds?" Venti asked "You mean, all three of us except for Paimon?!" Paimon asked in shock "Exactly" Venti answered "What why?!" Paimon asked "Sorry about that but I haven't seen you fight except for them" Venti answered "Oh, Paimon understands" Paimon realized "Speaking of which, we'll think about it" Lumine said in worry "Hmm, you don't seem too into it Lumine..." Paimon said in confusion "Yeah, that's a title I'm willing to get" Rainbow reminded "True but maybe I'll have changed my mind once I have found them, right Twilight?" Lumine asked "Of course, I may be a princess back home but being one of the Four Winds... That's new to me" Twilight answered Paimon then thought of something as she turned to Venti "Hey Tone-Deaf Bard... If being one of the Four Winds means free food you can consider Paimon!" Paimon suggested "Hahaha..." Venti chuckled before shaking the thought off "Is that everything?" Venti asked "Yes, that was it" Twilight said "Well then, I'd best be going back to Mondstadt to finish the last few handwritings I'm about to get, if the handwriting I fail to tally, then another year I must dally" Venti explained "Alright, have fun" Twilight waved Venti then ran off as Lumine turned to her friends "Wow! We've had a ton of fun didn't we?!" Lumine asked "Yeah we did but remember, we stated we'd be here for another 2 months so let's make the last few months the best before we run off!" Rainbow said "Good idea and girls, if you want to talk to your friends make sure to let Paimon know cuz Paimon wants the loving memories to never end!" Paimon called out And with that the group left, happy that the Dvalin threat has been resolved but now they had another problem on their hands, Venti's Gnosis is done and Starlight and the guy were working for the Abyss Order but will they be able to be stopped, well, let's find out next time