𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧

6 - city of glaze lilies

I clutched onto Zhongli's dragon form for dear life, feeling like I was on a wild roller coaster ride without seat belts. Meanwhile, Guizhong was laughing like a madwoman. Did she not realize that I could plummet to my death at any moment?

"It's not funny!" I screamed as she continued to cackle.

"My apologies. It's not every day that you get to ride on the geo god's dragon form. This is a very rare occurrence, so make the most of it! Don't worry, we'll catch you if you fall," she said between giggles.

Morax must have overheard our conversation because he slowed down his speed. Taking the opportunity, I gazed at the view of Liyue and the sea of glaze lilies below us. It was a far cry from the Dihua Marsh.

In the distance, I could see the impressive Guili Assembly. It looked even more massive than Liyue Harbor. I must have lost myself in the breathtaking sight because I suddenly heard Guizhong calling my name.

"We're descending! Hold on tight, Y/n!"

"The view is incredible...Huh...? SHIT—"

And just like that, I fell off the dragon's back. I braced myself for the impact, but to my surprise, Morax's geo energy slowed my fall, and I landed unharmed right in front of the entrance to a prosperous-looking city. Two guards approached me with their spears drawn.

"Lower your weapons, guards. She's with us," Morax demanded.

"Apologies, my lord!" The guards bowed and returned to their posts.

This was it - Guili Assembly at its finest! I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as I looked at the city entrance surrounded by glaze lilies. Guizhong signaled for me to follow her as we made our way towards the grandest building in the entire city. As we walked, the citizens bowed in respect.

"I...uh...apologize for being rude earlier," Morax said to me, "I'm still learning how to interact with mortals. It's challenging to break a habit that I've honed for thousands of years. So please, bear with me."

"It's all good! You did save my life just now, so let's call it even," I replied, flashing him a grin.

*********

The two gods led me into the traditional Chinese-styled mansion, and I was in awe of its luxuriousness, almost rivaling the Jade Chamber. We headed towards the dining room, and I was shocked to see a familiar face there.

It was Xiao, the anemo yaksha, his inky hair cascading with hues of vibrant teal. He was entranced by the simplicity of almond tofu, treating it like a newfound treasure, a lifeline of normality amidst the chaos.

His form was marred, marked by the countless scars that painted a tale of torment and resilience. Though he bore the evidence of unimaginable trials, there was an unyielding strength about him, a testament to his survival instincts.

The moment he caught sight of us, he rose, a quiet power radiating from him.

"Morax. Haagentus. W-why? I am a monster, a bane on the innocent. The pain they've endured... it's all on my hands."

Morax stood firm, replying, "You were but a pawn under that god's command. It's my responsibility, as a fellow deity, to lend a hand when needed."

"...Thank you. I will strive to make amends for my actions."

"Alatus, right? You won't have to bear the burden of that god anymore. We'll keep you safe. Would you consider a new name perhaps, for your protection?" Guizhong inquired, her voice gentle as a soothing breeze.

Alatus gave a solemn nod of agreement.

"Alright."

A silence fell, a contemplative quietude, as Morax turned over potential names in his mind.