"Equal to Heaven, Bound by Earth" A Genshin Impact Fanfic

Chapter 18: Paths Diverge, Memories Linger

The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over Liyue Harbor as the Qixing began the Rite of Parting. The atmosphere was one of quiet reverence, though whispers rippled through the crowd. Murmurs of the epic battle against Osial, the mysterious involvement of the Fatui, and the alleged demise of Morax filled the air.

Lumine and Wukong stood among the attendees, their presence unnoticed by most. Wukong's staff rested on his shoulder as he surveyed the gathering with a mixture of boredom and lingering frustration. Lumine, meanwhile, listened intently, her expression thoughtful.

"Hard to believe this is how they send off a god," Wukong muttered, his tone low.

Paimon, hovering by Lumine's side, glanced at him with curiosity. "What? You expecting fireworks and a parade?"

"Wouldn't hurt," Wukong quipped, though his smirk was half-hearted. "But I guess they do things differently here."

As the ceremony continued, Lumine caught snippets of conversation from the surrounding crowd.

"Did you hear? The Qixing says Rex Lapis sacrificed himself for Liyue's future..."

"That battle with Osial... they say the adepti joined forces with mortals. A miracle, really."

"And the Fatui? What were they doing there? Always scheming..."

Lumine frowned at the conflicting accounts. It was clear that the Qixing had woven a carefully curated narrative to conceal the truth, but the threads of suspicion lingered.

Keqing approached them after the ceremony, her expression both grateful and resolute. "Traveler, Wukong, your actions during Osial's awakening were invaluable. Liyue owes you a great debt. As a token of gratitude, name your reward, and the Qixing will ensure it is granted."

Lumine thought for a moment before her gaze softened. "All I ask is for help putting up missing posters for my sibling."

Keqing blinked, taken aback. "Such a humble request... but if that is your wish, I will personally see to it."

Keqing's gaze shifted to Wukong. "And you? Surely, someone as bold as you has a request of greater magnitude."

Wukong scratched the back of his neck, a grin spreading across his face. "Well, since you're asking... how about a lifetime pass for free food in every restaurant in Liyue Harbor? I've burned a lot of energy these past few days, and, honestly, I'm starving!"

Paimon gasped, eyes sparkling. "That's genius! Paimon should've thought of that!"

Keqing let out a small laugh, shaking her head in disbelief. "A lifetime of free food? Very well, I'll see to it that your request is honored. I'll make sure all the establishments in the harbor know your name."

Wukong gave her a cheeky salute. "You're a gem, Keqing. I'll make sure they remember you every time I eat."

After Keqing left, the trio moved through the gathering, speaking with various attendees. Some offered their thanks, while others shared their theories about Morax's departure.

"It's strange," one merchant said, shaking his head. "Morax was the cornerstone of Liyue. How will we move forward without him?"

"The Qixing seem confident," another replied. "Maybe it's time for mortals to step up."

Wukong, leaning against a nearby pillar, muttered, "Mortals stepping up is one thing. Let's hope they don't trip over themselves in the process."

As the crowd began to disperse, the trio spotted Zhongli standing at the edge of the harbor, gazing out at the sea. His calm demeanor betrayed none of the turmoil that had unfolded in recent days.