The rolling hills of Mondstadt stretched before Sun Wukong, bathed in the golden glow of late afternoon sunlight. The scent of wildflowers and fresh grass filled the air, carried by a gentle breeze that hummed with faint traces of elemental energy.
Wukong crouched atop a hill, his fiery eyes scanning the landscape. To the east, a city rose in the distance, its towering cathedral spire catching the light. Nearby, the colossal statue of a winged figure loomed over the city, its outstretched hand offering a sense of quiet protection."Is that where the rulers of this land live?" Wukong murmured, his tail flicking thoughtfully. "Doesn't look like a palace."
His musings were interrupted by the sound of fluttering wings. A flock of Crystalflies danced through the air, their translucent forms shimmering in the light. Wukong watched them for a moment before leaping gracefully down the hill, his feet landing softly on the dirt path below.The path wound through Whispering Woods, its name fitting as the wind seemed to carry faint, melodious whispers between the trees. Wukong paused, his sharp ears catching the rustling of leaves nearby.
His tail twitched. "More pests?"
A group of Hilichurls emerged from the underbrush, their masks and crude weapons a familiar sight after his earlier encounters. A Samachurl, adorned with elemental talismans, hovered at the back, its staff glowing with Anemo energy.
Wukong sighed, his stance relaxed but ready. "You lot again? Don't you ever learn?"
The Hilichurls charged, their cries echoing through the woods. Wukong moved like a blur, dodging their clumsy attacks and striking back with precision. He grabbed one by the arm, spinning it into another, and sent them both sprawling into the dirt.
The Samachurl began chanting, summoning a small Anemo whirlwind that spiraled toward him. Wukong leapt above it, landing behind the caster with a sharp kick that sent it crashing into a tree.
The fight was over in moments, and Wukong stood amidst the scattered bodies with an expression of mild annoyance. "If this is the best this world's got, I might die of boredom before I find any answers."
As he continued through the woods, the sound of a soft melody reached his ears. It was faint, carried on the wind, but unmistakably human. Curious, Wukong followed the sound, pushing through the trees until he came upon a young woman sitting beside a stream.Her red outfit stood out against the greenery, and a pair of bunny-shaped ears adorned her hood. She strummed a small lyre, humming along to the tune with a cheerful expression.Wukong tilted his head, watching her for a moment before stepping into the clearing.
The woman looked up, startled. "Oh! Hello there! I didn't hear you coming."
Wukong crossed his arms. "That's because you were too busy singing."She laughed, standing and brushing off her skirt. "I guess I was! I'm Amber, Outrider of the Knights of Favonius. Are you new around here?"
Wukong raised an eyebrow. "Knights? Another soldier, huh? What is it with this place and guards everywhere?"
Amber tilted her head, confused. "Guards? Oh, you must mean the city. Mondstadt's not really a guarded place, but we do what we can to keep it safe." She studied him curiously. "You don't look like you're from here. Where are you from?"
"That's a long story," Wukong replied vaguely. "Let's just say I'm passing through."Amber nodded, her curiosity unabated. "Well, if you're heading to Mondstadt, I can guide you there! It's not far from here."
Wukong hesitated. While he wasn't eager to share his past, having a guide could make his journey easier. After a moment, he shrugged. "Fine. Lead the way."
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"Equal to Heaven, Bound by Earth" A Genshin Impact Fanfic
Fantasy"Equal to Heaven, Bound by Earth" He was once the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Monkey King-a figure of legend, unyielding and untouchable. But even the mightiest are not beyond consequence. After his rebellion against the heavens and a confrontation...
