4. Branch Off 2: The Inazuma Hot Springs Trip, Feat: Yínlóng and Problems
"It's difficult lately going home everyday. Each
Dusk, mama and papa are
On my tail.
Nowadays, they seem unsatisfied with me again.
Their expectations skyrocketed.
Well, I guess they
Are disappointed, I'm still
Not in an opera troupe.
The auditions aren't working out.
They keep failing me.
Ha, I guess it's one failure too many.
I am a major disappointment, you
See? Normally I am unbothered but,
My parents have decided it's
About time to pressure me.
Mama said to me
After I got home today: 'Yínlóng it's time to stop
Playing games
And consider taking over the commerce guild.'
Papa joins in as well.
'Another rejection from the opera troupe? That's the
Second time this year, Yínlóng!
Take things more seriously!'
Opera troupe rejecting me this,
Please take this more seriously, that!
Papa, mama, I am!
Really, why can't you see that?
Every time they hold them, I
Strive to succeed! I
Strive to earn my spot. I'm just not the
Underdog, but I'm trying!
Rare rage cooks
Inside me,
Now, I never try to stick up,
Getting on the defensive and bickering,
Might break some contract, maybe.
Even so, I'm trying!
I won't be forced into a box! I
Won't join the commerce guild full time.
And I raise my voice:
'No, mama! I'm not
Taking over the commerce guild!'
Taking my fingers, I fold them into an
Open fist!
But, I am immediately cornered with
Every mama response in the book. But,
Filled with a little bit of hidden
Rage. 'Your attempts to join the opera fail
Every time.
Every year, you never get in. It's
Time to take things more seriously.'
Oh, that set me off.
Looks like what I try
Is never enough all that they want from me is success. I am just
Vapid to mama and papa.
Even so, I persist. 'I am taking things
Seriously!' Now, papa
Looks at me and adds his take.
'Obviously, you aren't,
Why can't you be more
Like Qiulong?
Yes, there it is the comparison.
So, I begin to shake
Oh, Rex Lapis I've
Just about had it, our bickering
Unleashes for awhile, my rage is
Sky high.
That's it, I'm leaving!
Shouting one last time, I
Trail something
Out I might regret:
'Papa, mama, I despise you both!'
Panda ears fuming, I
Lunge for the door!
Everyone yells to come back,
And I see Jiaolong readying to entering the home for work,
So I yell, 'Jiaolong don't look for me!'
Each step, I'm running faster,
I hear him shouting after
Me, 'Ah, Yínlóng, wait!'
But I keep on
Running. Leaving the harbor,
Everything is so heavy
And I just want to go far away.
Knock away all these feelings.
I run off to Qingce Village
Now, in this cave, hiding. I want to
Get away from everything. Everyone."
The sound of bitter wind awaited the soldier as the morning marched about. The howling chill only continued to roar as the morning went onward. As the month long blizzard had reached its tertiary stages, countless Fatui Soldier groaned in an echo as the minutes danced about in an endless sea of ice.
The complaints about were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Groans continuing onward for minutes on end, the hyena rose from the uncomfortable bed. Noise keeping it up, the early adult let out a sigh. The walls were thin as paper, indeed. Placing the glasses over his heterochromatic eyes, the chimera had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.
As his uniform melted over his partially human person, the early adult could not help but wonder. Why were all his jobs lately related to gods, deities and sacred beings? But, the hyena pushed such thought into the snow outside. Did such coincidence truly matter? He supposed it was no use questioning it.
Howl outside only getting louder, the early adult shrugged. It was no use thinking about why; such answer would never come. Attempting to regain focus, the soldier clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Second favorite rabbits in his hair and ears, the hyena gazed at the barricaded window.
World outside a blinding white, the hyena could not help but wonder. Just what could possibly await him today? Blizzard outside only getting stronger with every given day, the chimera knew anything was possible within the frozen northern. Returning his attention forward, the early adult reached for his Vision.
Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the chimera gazed at the Geo Delusion. The sinister orb, should he use it today? Pushing the object of darkness aside, the soldier turned his head towards the opposite direction. There was no need to bring unneeded risk. Surely, nothing taxing would await him today.
Heelless shoes on and rations devoured, the early adult had finished the morning routine of dressing the body. Turning his attention to the door, the young soldier waited for the militaristic footsteps to arrive. Any moment now, the Agent would arrive with his orders of anything.
But, no footsteps ever came. Groans dissipating into nothing various minutes before, the hyena walked around in a circle upon the icy cold floor. The Agent, was he running late today? He supposed such could have been the case. Stepping towards the window, the soldier gazed at the barely visible world outside.
Snow no deeper than usual, the soldier returned to his pace about. Surely, the Agent was coming. There was no way he had woken up late or early today. The groans in echo were as loud as they had always been. No footsteps for minutes on end, a wave of unease flowed through the hyena. Could someone else be coming? If such were the case, he needed to prepare himself for anything.
Hearing the sound of tape peeling off the door, the chimera's inhuman eardrums perked. Stepping outside for a moment, the early adult tilted his head at the sight before him. On the entranceway had been a note. Note written in Snezhnayan writing, as usual, the soldier read the sheet carefully.
"You have three days off," the note in clear Snezhnayan writing said.
Seeing such note, the soldier's heart skipped a beat. Her Majesty, had she gone away on business? But the early adult shook his head. Such could not have possibly been the case. The barracks were not empty when he had awoken. Ideas pouring inside him, the soldier off duty stepped back into the soundproof room.
Knowing Hase within the dream world was aware of him searching for her, the early adult shrugged his shoulders. Perhaps, it was best to continue to not look for her, for the time being. Ideas scrambling around inside him like cooked eggs, one particular thought poked a pin in the hyena's mind.
Yínlóng, maybe he was free right now. Perhaps, he could take him on a nice long nature walk somewhere to keep him in line with his exercise. Resolute on his decision, the early adult removed his winter jacket. Second layer removed as well, the hyena gazed at the silk shirt at the bottom of his uniform drawers, but the soldier off duty slammed the container shut. Such shirt could be saved for another day.
Highlighting the waypoint to Yaoguang Shoal, the young soldier closed his eyes. Blinding light overtaking him, the early adult flinched. No matter how many years were to pass, fast travel was still difficult on the eyes, for sure. Teleportation about to come to an end, one thought tapped him on the shoulder.
Would Yínlóng and he's holidays align?
***
"Yínlóng, will he be busy today?
After all I know he still works
Over at Third Round Knockout,
Guess he might still be working,
Unless our holidays somehow
Align. I sure hope so, as I have
Nothing else in mind. Searching for Hase is a no
Go. I know she doesn't want me to.
So, for now, that remains on pause.
However, I suppose if Yínlóng says no. I'll have to
Open up other ideas. Maybe I could try the tcg.
Ah, no, that won't fill up three whole days.
Look at some nature?
I suppose that could do.
Something tells me, though, it might rain.
Everything is giving me this uneasy feeling.
Maybe I am just imagining it, but things feel
Pensive on this beach
Today. I need to find
Yínlóng right away."
Upon reaching Yaoguang Shoal through the teleport waypoint, the early adult turned his head to the right and left. Was it just his imagination, or did the beach's atmosphere feel heavier than usual? Pushing such thought aside, the early adult had begun running. Surely, he was overthinking it.
Not spotting the panda chimera as he ran towards the usual spot he ran into him, the early adult scratched his head. Had he come over to the beach too early? Turning his head towards the sky, the soldier off duty observed the position of the sun. Ball of glowing gas not quite near the middle yet, the hyena blinked. Could he have arrived at the beach too early?
Walking upon the sand for awhile, the soldier strolled around the beach for about an hour. Yínlóng still not showing up, the hyena walked around in a circle upon the eroding away mineral walkway. Maybe the panda chimera was still at home for the day? He supposed he would have to remain patient, for the time being. Resuming his walk, time kept on marching onward inexorably.
Continuing his walk for another hour, the absence of Yínlóng Jinzi continued. But, the soldier kept walking. Surely, after some time, the panda would arrive. Not letting hope die, the early adult's stroll sauntered onward. It was too early to throw in the nonexistent towel, for sure.
But, as the waves hitting the sand continued to be the only sound for another half hour, the early adult could not wonder. Could the panda chimera have been at work? He supposed such could be the case. Perhaps, for the time being, it would have been in his best interest to check the teahouse. Resolute on his decision, the soldier off duty prepared to stage his exit.
Hearing loud splashes overtake the ocean, the hyena turned his head towards the cacophony. Spotting the otter twins swimming upon the waves, otter tails and furry paws out, the early adult turned his head towards the opposite direction as Linggui's shirtless body, and Fèng's bathing suit covered chest caught his attention. If he were to look at either of them in such a way, a teasing would hunt him down like prey at any moment.
More splashes rounding themselves out, the soldier off duty turned his attention towards the noise once again. Otter twins bodies below their shoulders submerged by the ocean below with cheeky smiles on their faces, the early adult let out a sigh. Teasing words were on the tip of both their tongues, for sure.
"Are ya looking fer Yínlóng, Fatui boyfriend?" Linggui asked, cheeky grin on his face. "Yer partner isn't here today! It's just the two of us!"
The hyena rolled his eyes to the sky. Why did the otter twins always enjoy insisting that Yínlóng was his partner? There was no way he could date anyone. Having a relationship with anyone was definitely forbidden as a member of the Fatui. Fèng adding their chuckle into the mix, they added themselves to the teasing session.
"Are you sad Yínlóng isn't here?" Fèng asked, chuckling. "Don't be sad, Yínlóng's boyfriend, we're here!" They turned towards their twin as they laughed to one another.
The early adult grabbed strands of his loose hairs and grit his sharp teeth. Hadn't these two gotten tired of repeating the same joke over and over again? He had had quite enough of hearing them act like he was the boyfriend of someone he knew dating was impossible.
Taking a long deep breath, the hyena folded both his hands into fists. Right fist facing upward in the air, and left one facing downward by his chest, the soldier tapped his right palm onto his left one. Word work signed on private display the early adult proceeded to place his index and middle finger in a v-shape. Appendages placed underneath his eye, the chimera put a serious look on his face.
Watching as Siorc performed sign language, Fèng looked their brother in the eyes. Maybe it was best to stop their teasing, for the time being. Serious look on his face, they returned such look in kind. Did he find it unusual for Yínlóng to not be at the beach? That may have been so, but no solution had come within their place of mind. Linggui speaking up first, they backed themselves down from the conversation, for a moment.
"Yer askin' if we saw Yínlóng at the Third Round Knockout, aren't ya?" Linggui asked. "Nah. He ain't there." But, Fèng soon chimed in anyway.
"Why don't you try other beaches," Fèng suggested. "Maybe he saw us, got spooked and ran!"
Bowing a thank you, the early adult opened up the proxy orb into map form. Maybe Fèng was right. Perhaps, just maybe, Yínlóng was at another beach today. Seeing sandy areas around Wangshu Inn, the early adult highlighted the waypoint nearby. Upper floor of the hotel soon upon him, the soldier off duty took the lift downward.
Feeling a sudden sense of urgency, the early adult dashed across the small bridge. Inn hostess inquiring generic guests if they were staying at the hotel, the hyena exited the area. Speeding across the bridge and turning towards the right, the rather tiny coastline was soon upon the soldier.
Walking along the short sandy path, the soldier off duty kept his eyes open. Perhaps, just maybe, Yínlóng had been at a different beach today. Hilichurls beside barrels in the distance minding their own business, the early adult kept himself focused. Continuing on the pathway straight, the hyena kept going.
Nothing but crabs and mist flower corolla on the pathway, the hyena kept walking upon the southward path. Monsters growing quieter as he kept on going, hope flowed through the hyena. Surely, soon, he would find a lead. Pathway getting slightly less narrow as his walk continued, the early adult remained focused.
Spotting a strange stone enclosure with Geo Slimes next to wooden boxes, the early adult blinked. Did certain types of slimes attract themselves towards different types of objects? But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. What was he thinking? There was no time to get lost in thought about the laws of nature.
Reaching the edge of Luhua Pool, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Could the panda have been across the ocean and upon the platform on the other side? Seeing absolutely no one, the hyena shook his head. He supposed, the panda was not here, either.
Gazing at his map once more, the early adult studied the other sandy areas nearby. Pathway around Cuijue Slope having a short beach as well, the soldier off duty dashed up the stone staircase. Perhaps it would not hurt checking the other side, as well. Narrow passageway taken, a small mossy rock awaited the hyena.
Knowing the only way to reach the other side was to glide, the early adult leaped upward. Windglider soon deployed, the soldier attempted with all his might to land on the rock upon the other side. Barely able to reach, the chimera puffed a sigh of relief. If he had landed any further away, he would have sunken to the bottom of the ocean, for sure.
Sprinting across the tiny island, the early adult kept the one member search party going. Other side soon reached, the young soldier kept his eyes open. Perhaps, just maybe, the panda chimera was deeper within the beach across Cuijue Slope. Continuing onward, no signs of the panda were anywhere.
Spotting a tiny broken wooden bridge and multiple boats broken on shore, the soldier shook his head. Why would someone just leave a broken boat like this on the sand? Discarded vessel filled with water through the many holes, he walked around the debris. He supposed it was not his problem to clean up such waste.
Nothing but crabs on the beach as a tiny rainstorm started to kick in, the early adult kept his search going. Rain, or shine, he knew he had to keep going. Pattering continuing for the time being, the early adult walked upon the curved pathway for minutes on end.
Reaching an area with unfinished houses after half an hour of walking, peculiar giggles overtook the area. Turning his head towards the noise, the mystery was solved in a matter of moments. Cicin Mage strolling about with her tiny lantern beside her, the hyena shrugged. Were other Fatui patrolling the area? If such were the case, he needed to proceed with caution, guaranteed.
Other soldiers standing beside another abode, the soldier kept walking. Whatever other Fatui were up to while on the job was no business of his. Exiting the nameless area amongst the abandoned homes, the mild storm had cometh over. Singular layer soaked a smidgeon, the early adult held back the urge to run for shade.
Reaching the end of the sandy path, the chimera shook his head. The area was just as Yínlóngless as the last. But, he knew he could not falter. Orb opened into map form once again, the early adult studied other sandy areas. Spotting a small bit of sediment around Dihua Marsh, the next location cemented into place.
Spotting an abandoned wooden raft, the early adult cruised the vessel forward. Reaching Wangshu Inn for the second time of the day, the chimera walked towards the opposite bridge not taken. Small sandy area with nothing but a Hilichurl camp, the soldier crossed such area off the list. Other sandy area further into the marsh nothing but a monster's abode, as well, the hyena gazed at the ocean, for a moment.
Coming up empty, doubt flowed through the soldier's short body. Was Yínlóng anywhere at all? Maybe he had stayed home today. Slapping his cheeks, the early adult snapped himself out of such thinking. It was far too early to give up. Recalling there was one final beach within Liyue, the soldier highlighted the waypoint within the stone forest.
Heading towards the westward side of the beach, a decision had been made. If the panda were not in Guhyun Stone Forest, he was closing the book on the one member search party for the day. Area empty of any chimera life whatsoever, the Cicins buzzed in the soldier off duty's ears as he kept walking.
No one of note on the westward side, the hyena reversed backwards towards the area of which he came. Not a single soul stirring about except Hilichurls on the beach paying absolutely no mind to him, the chimera let nature be. Jumping across a small shallow water end, the early adult sprinted towards the north.
Path absent of anything except for the Geo cube resting upon its battlefield, the hyena headed back towards the small hills in the corner. If the panda were not within the other side of the beach, it was time to call it quits, for sure. Domain ignored, the entrance towards the southernmost area of the beach was upon him.
But, as the search continued, his pockets remained as empty as the Eleventh Harbinger's dead blue eyes. The panda was nowhere to be seen. It was time to throw a towel out onto the one member search party. But, as he prepared to return towards the Teleport Waypoint, a familiar face stuck out amongst the fields of sand.
Quiet, blond haired ponytailed man with a small green highlight braided off behind his hear adorning indigo eyes with star shaped pupils and rather unusual looking Liyue style clothing, the early adult put his hand on his chin. What was Uxi doing all the way out in Guhyun Stone Forest beside the ocean? But, a pin was placed in such thought as he observed further. Thick book with a drawing of a Milileth on it, the soldier off duty stepped back. If he was studying, it was best to leave him be.
Sound of the book slamming shut, a shock travelled down the early adult's spine. Why did people always have to close their tomes so loudly? Sense of struggle on Uxi's face as he placed his hand on his chin, the chimera could not help but ponder. Was the Liyuean language difficult for him to read? He supposed such was understandable. Eyes soon on him, the hyena froze in place. Was his presence disturbing him? If such were the case, he would apologize, in an instant.
Seeing the purple haired stranger looking at him, Uxi let out a small sigh. Did he want something from him? If he had any questions, he should just ask them already. Maybe it was best to ask what he wanted first. Biting the bullet, he prepared his words carefully. But, only one was able to slip out.
"Yes?" Uxi asked, looking left.
Uxi giving him a look as though he had not gotten what he ordered, the hyena clapped his hands into an apologetic stance. He had, without a shadow of doubt, disturbed Uxi while he was studying. Bowing his head a smidgeon, the early adult looked into the man's eyes. But, a look a confusion painted his face. Silence soon breaking, the chimera kept his attention forward.
"Not bothering me," Uxi said, shaking his head. "So, what is it?"
Inquiry coming his way, the early adult curled his fingers. Placing his hands over his head in such position, the soldier kept them curled over his head for two minutes. Look of confusion on Uxi's face, the hyena waved a white flag. Maybe his wordless language was too vague.
Stranger cupping his hands over his head, invisible sweat crawled down Uxi's synthetic cheeks. What was this person trying to say to him? Studying the shape of his hands for a moment longer, a realization crashed like a wave beneath his feet. Panda. Interesting, was he inquiring whether he had seen one or not? He guessed it was best to break such news with a prompt answer.
"Panda?" Uxi asked. "Nope."
Uxi soon looking ready to return to his studies, the hyena bowed a thank you. Yínlóng was not around Guhyun Stone Forest, either? Readying to finally throw the towel, one name haunted him like a ghost on Wuwang Hill. Bishui Plain near the bamboo trees, Yínlóng's former resting place. Perhaps, just maybe, the panda was there. Extra location added to the list, the chimera highlighted the waypoint southernmost of the area.
Bamboo trees in the corner pandaless as well, a wave of unease flowed through the chimera. Gut punching him through and through, a sea of worries flowed through the early adult. The panda was not in Bishui Plains, either. Something was wrong, guaranteed.
Concern clouding him, an idea popped into the chimera's fading human brain. Yínlóng's cousin, Jiaolong. Maybe he knew what was wrong. Resolute on his decision, the soldier off duty removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket for what felt like the fourth time of the day.
Knowing he had to make haste, the early adult erupted his legs into a speedy sprint. Dashing through the stony overpass and cruising up the stairs at breakneck pace, the soldier broke out into a pant as the final step was upon him. Breath dying as he stepped inside the pharmacy, the early adult attempted to catch any wind that remained inside him. But, such was a failure.
Seeing Yínlóng's friend panting as he stepped inside the pharmacy while he was handing off a prescription to a customer, Jiaolong's eyebrows furrowed. Why was the young man running again? If there was an emergency somewhere, it was best to get to it immediately. Other customer soon leaving, he turned his attention to the situation at hand.
"Did you run here again?" Jiaolong asked, stepping over the counter. "Come now, you shouldn't be running so fast." He placed his hand on his chest. Breathing soon steadied, he returned his attention towards the situation. "You have quite the sense of urgency on your face. Is something the matter? Do you have an emergency that needs to be attended to?"
Jiaolong looking busy with work, the early adult could not help but wonder. Would asking him about Yínlóng while on the job bother him? But, he knew, he would know something. The two were family. Surely, he knew the panda chimera better than anyone else. Fingers out in front of him, the hyena prepared himself.
Spelling out the word Yínlóng and the word missing, the chimera looked into the taller panda chimera's eyes. Dark pink eyes studying his fingers for a few moments, the man's fingers appeared on his chin. Silence taking the pharmacy for a loop, the soldier lowered his head. Did his wordless language not pull through? He supposed not everyone understood signs. But, such was proven wrong in a matter of moments.
"Ah, Yínlóng? No, I haven't seen her today unfortunately," Jiaolong responded. "If she's not where she usually is, she probably just wants to be left alone." He then put on a huge smile. "Maybe I should go missing, so you'll have to look for me instead."
Siorc backed eight steps away. Jiaolong go missing? Why would he say something like that? If he had run away, as well, wouldn't the snake doctor be cross with him for disappearing while on the job? Hearing his remark about them wishing to be left alone, a second wave of concern flowed through the hyena. There was no way something was not wrong. He had to keep looking for her.
Watching as the young man backed away toward the corner of the room with astonishment, Jiaolong let out a tiny laugh behind his gloved hands. Did he take his joke seriously? If he had, it was best to correct the situation at hand, if so. Composing himself, he folded his hands over the counter.
"I am merely joking," Jiaolong said, placid smile on his face. "It would be quite unprofessional of me to just disappear, no?" The smile would not leave his face. "In any case, I don't know where she is, apologies."
Bowing a thank you, the early adult exited the pharmacy. Descending the staircase, the soldier wondered. Would anyone near the mansion know where the panda is? Surely, the Qixing that walked and did their jobs around the Pavilion had to have seen him step out their home in the early mornings. Resolute on his decision, the soldier off duty headed for Yujing Terrace.
Reaching the terrace shortly, the soldier scouted the area. Generic Qixing walking around doing nothing of especial note, the early adult kept walking. There was no reason to ask the secretaries about the panda chimera. There was no way they knew anything. Brushing the nobodies off, the soldier headed closer towards the mansion.
Not wishing to disturb the panda's parents, the early adult headed out towards the other side of the area. End of the terrace upon him, the hyena gazed at the staircase towards the end of the area. But, as he readied to ascend the walkway, the Tianquan and Qilin descended. Seeing such, the young soldier moved three steps towards the left.
Tianquan's heels hitting the ground at quite the speed and qilin following behind her, the early adult stepped six paces behind. Knowing that, if he did not ask now, they would get too far away, the hyena took a quick deep breath. Surely, one of the important Liyue Qixing had to have seen the panda leave the mansion. Words bubbling, the chimera released.
"Excuse me, ma'ams," Siorc said, voice barely audible. "But, have either of you seen Yínlóng?" He then bowed his head, placing his hands into an apologetic stance. But, his question was answered immediately.
"Miss Yínlóng?" the qilin asked. "I don't believe I've seen her today, my apologies!"
"And, I haven't seen her either," the Tianqian responded.
Tianqian looking ready to say something sarcastic, the soldier let the Qixing continue on their way. He supposed, even the owner of the Jade Chamber did not know the whereabouts of everyone within the nation. Group of two soon far outside his distanced field of vision, the soldier wondered. Could some of the shopkeepers have seen him? He supposed such would be the next logical place to look. Exiting the terrace, the chimera readied himself to head towards the shopping district.
Returning back towards the path he came, the chimera studied the people around him. Usual generic people out and about, the early adult crossed the nobodies off the list. There was no way he was going to ask every person he could see about the panda.
Spotting Lilui Pavillion's waitress outside, the hyena stepped towards her. Employee not having any answers for him, the chimera stepped towards the rival restaurant next door. Waitress at the Xinyue Kiosk not having any answers, either, the soldier returned towards the path in front of him.
Not wishing to disturb the possible rival commerce guild on Feiyun Slope, the hyena walked over to the jewelry booth in the corner. Same answer repeated, multiple reject answers had come his way as he walked through the shopping district. Adventurers on the pathway coming up empty, as well, the chimera's shoulders slumped a smidgeon.
Funeral parlor to the side, the hyena turned his heelless shoes in the opposite direction. There was no way he was going to ask the director of the building of death if she had seen Yínlóng. She would just ask if he needed a coffin their size. Such joke was in poor taste. Hearing it would only boil his blood over the sidewalk. Heading for the wharf, the search continued.
No one within the wharf having any answers, the early adult pulled out the white flag as the sky darkened into a deeper blue. Evening had arrived. There was no way anyone within the harbor city had any answers. Returning up the stairs, one final destination was on the list.
Heading for Third Round Knockout, one final decision had been made. If anyone that was at the teahouse did not know where the panda had gone, he would return to Snezhnaya in an even heartbeat. Heading down the walkway and walking towards the left, the food district closed in on the soldier off duty.
Reaching the teahouse, a predictable sight caught the hyena's eyes. Tall brunette in his usual seat drinking like always, and opera singing looking pensive, the early adult ascended the small stone staircase. Young woman looking like she was expecting someone, her made up eyes looked fret with concern.
"Yínlóng should be here right now," the opera singer said, closing her eyes. "Where could she be?" But, a prize soon dropped on the tavern floor as the tall brunette turned towards the hyena.
"I might know of her whereabouts," the tall brunette said, sipping tea. He then made eye contact with the chimera. "Mr. Siorc, you are just in time. I could not help but notice you were searching for Miss Yínlóng around the city." He then paused for a moment. "While I was on a walk, I saw her in Qingce Village. Perhaps, she is still there."
Hearing the tall brunette state he had seen the panda chimera, a wave of overwhelming gratitude flowed through the hyena. The wise man knew where she was? How very fitting. It was almost as if the tall brunette was all knowing, nearly omnipotent. But, the hyena was none the wiser to such fact. Lowering his head, gratitude was on the tip of his tongue.
"Thank you, sir," Siorc replied, bowing. "I'll go get him!"
Exiting the city through the back entrance, the chimera headed north. Dashing through Guili Plains and the Wangshu Inn, the soldier off duty kept dashing north. Dihua Marsh and western area of Stone Gate passed through, the soldier accelerated his sprint.
Bishui Plain zoomed past, the hyena took a moment to catch his breath. Resuming his speedy run, the early adult kept dashing about. Qingce Village three-hundred meters away, the soldier switched the position of his legs. Any minute now, and he would finally have some answers.
Reaching the elderly village beside the waterfall, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. Elderly man walking around in the colorful grass beside a scarecrow in the corner, the soldier dashed off towards the wise man of many years. Mouthing the word panda in a barely audible whisper, an answer had soon come his way.
Elderly man stating he had seen Yínlóng headed for a cave behind a waterfall deep within the village, the soldier off duty bowed a thank you. Crossing the bridges slightly above the river in the area, the chimera placed his hand beside his ear. Rushing falls off in the distance, the hyena skid across the water.
Spotting the rushing falls, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Cave spotted, the soldier entered with caution. Reaching a strange room filled with large orange crystals everywhere, the hyena kept his eyes open. But, as he walked into the deeper depths of the cave, an alarming sight overtook the secluded area.
Yínlóng sitting on top of a huge rock with a deep and somber look on his face, alarm bells went off inside the chimera's fading human brain. Something was not right, indeed. Sitting next to them, the soldier waited. Even if he were deeply lost in thought, whatever was wrong, he would listen.
Seeing someone step foot into the cave, Yínlóng rose their head from their knees. Had their parents sent someone to look for them? Whoever it was that came by, they needed to leave. The cave behind the waterfall, no one else should be here. But, as the face became more clear, a pit fell into the center of their stomach.
Siorc searching around the cave soon sitting beside them, something of particular note caught their slow eyes. He was not in his uniform. Was he looking for him on one of his days off? If such were the case, it was best to not keep silent any longer. But, a part of them hid deep inside, locked away with a key.
"Oh, hey, Siorc. You found me," Yínlóng said, lowering their face into their knees. "Were you looking for me?" There was a long pause between his last word and the next. "Boss sent you to come and get me, didn't she? I thought I told her I wasn't coming today..."
Lack of emotion within the panda chimera's somberly toned voice, more alarm bells rung within the hyena's head. Something was definitely wrong with Yínlóng, for sure. Placing his hands in front of him after he unburied himself from his knees, the early adult folded his hand into a half knuckle, thumb and pinky sticking out. Knuckles touching his chin, the chimera furrowed his brows.
Siorc inquiring what was wrong in sign language, Yínlóng placed their arms over their knees. He noticed something was wrong, did he? They supposed nothing got past him. He supposed it wouldn't do any good to hide the truth. Letting out a sigh, the words had begun to flow out.
"Oh, you noticed something's wrong? Can't get anything past you, can I?" Yínlóng asked, somber laugh leaking through their throat. "Sorry, maybe I shouldn't have said that." There was another pause in their speech. He then lifted his head. "I got into a fight with my parents. I just..." Holding back tears, they took a deep breath. Maybe he could be a little selfish today. "Want to go away for a little while. Say, Siorc, could you take me somewhere far away? I just want to get away from it all for a couple of days."
A wave of shocked flowed through the hyena. Yínlóng got into a fight with his parents? Arguing with others, that did not seem like him at all. Asking if he could take him somewhere far away, the early adult turned his head towards the back end of the cave. She he really allow this? Wouldn't taking them somewhere far away help him run away from his problems? Such was the wrong call to action. He needed to face everything head on.
Seeing the deep look of pain on the panda chimera's face, the early adult's heart tightened into a knot. Maybe taking him somewhere far away wouldn't hurt. Resolute on his decision, he took a deep breath. Was this really the right course of action? But, he supposed telling him no would only make matters worse.
"Alright, sir," the hyena responded, voice barely audible. "Tomorrow, I'll take you somewhere far away."
Hearing Siorc's response, Yínlóng could feel tears well up beside their tearducts. He was agreeing to take him somewhere? Maybe he was a being a little too greedy, monopolizing his vacation like this. Leaning forward, emotions overtook everything else in a matter of moments.
"You will? Thank you," Yínlóng replied, burying his head into Siorc's shirt. "Maybe we could try Inazuma? I have a travel permit."
Hearing the panda chimera's question, the hyena wondered. How would they reach Inazuma? But he supposed the Jinzi family commerce guild had transportation lined up for him to use whenever he wanted to. But, as he prepared to nod, another person added themselves to the roster of searching. Taller panda chimera stepping through the cave entrance, he soon spoke up.
"I knew I'd find you here, Yínlóng," Jiaolong said, stepping closer. "Your bosses are worried about you."
Seeing Jiaolong within the deeply hidden cave, the early adult could not help but wonder. Did he know where Yínlóng was all along? If such were the case, then why didn't he inform him? But, he supposed he had his reasons for not telling him his whereabouts.
Cousin standing within the cave, Yínlóng's face grew dark. Why did Jiaolong come all the way out here? They thought they had told him not to come looking for them when he left earlier. But, he knew it wasn't right to lash out at him for coming all this way. But, he ought to know his search was unfounded.
"Jiaolong, I told you to not look for me," Yínlóng responded. But, Jiaolong persisted.
"Yínlóng, you shouldn't run away from your problems," Jiaolong barked back, words stern.
"I'm going to work now!" Yínlóng exclaimed. He then turned towards Siorc. "Siorc, take out your map, please."
Jiaolong looking ready to scream out for the panda chimera to wait, the hyena removed the teleport waypoint proxy map from his back pocket. Look of deep desperation on their face, the chimera highlighted the waypoint in Liyue Harbor. Bigger boss of Third Round Knockout giving them a lecture as they carded into work, a slow wave had come the early adult's way.
Knowing that was his cue to leave, the chimera highlighted the waypoint towards the military barracks. Icy cold hallways soon upon him, the hyena had begun walking. Steel walled room nearing after fifteen minutes of walking, the soldier off duty walked around in a circle upon the frozen floor.
Wave of tiredness eventually overtaking him, the chimera removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Glasses put aside, as well, he slumped into the rock hard bed. Closing his eyes as soon as his head hit the pillow. One final thought wrapped vines around him as the world of dreams took him away.
Was he truly doing the right thing?
***
"It would seem Yínlóng is going to Inazuma today. I
Do not think this is a good thing. I asked my boss some questions
On the topic of mental health. And,
Now, I am no expert, but it is
Obvious to me she is running away from her problems, and
Taking the opportunity to have her friend run away with her.
This date, I do not think it is right. That fight she
Had with her parents, it could easily be resolved
If she spoke her mind.
Now, I do not
Know what goes on in her head. We may be related, but I am not psychic.
This date she's going on, maybe it is best I tag along.
However, Doctor ------ says I should not.
I suppose I understand where he is coming from, but
She seems to be in some sort of deep crisis.
It would not be best for me to leave this alone,
Should I? Ah,
Right, well, I might as well just
Invite myself, but if she says no, I
Guess I will leave it at that.
Her arguing with others,
That's just not like her. I need to keep a watchful eye."
Waking up the next morning, the soldier walked around in a circle upon the icy cold floor. Inazuma, where could he take Yínlóng to in such a place? Wasn't the nation still closed off to the outside world? But, the hyena shook his head. The panda had a travel permit. Surely, everything would be fine.
Continuing his pace about, ideas flowed through the hyena's mind. The Inazuman hot springs. Perhaps, if he took him there, he would calm down a little. Resolute on his decision, the early adult highlighted the waypoint in Liyue Harbor. Would the panda chimera be waiting there?
Spotting the panda chimera sitting by Wanmin Restaurant with a small bag beside them, the soldier walked towards him. Eyes soon on him, the hyena gave eye contact. Had he already planned for the entire day ahead? If such were the case, he supposed being prepared was a good thing.
"Oh, hey, Siorc, there you are," Yínlóng said, hands holding their bag. "I brought swimsuits with me. Is that alright?"
Hearing the panda chimera's question, the hyena could not help but wonder. Was Yínlóng thinking about going to the hot springs in Inazuma, as well? He supposed such was the case. Nodding, he placed his arm out in front of him. Time was of the essence, for sure.
"Great. There's a hot springs in Inazuma City I'd like to go to," Yínlóng said, words slow. "Could we go there first, please?"
Nodding, the chimera could not help but continue to wonder. Were the panda and he thinking on the same wavelength? Palm soon taken, the next round of information had come his way. Told their boat should be at the wharf now, the panda and he exited the food district, but as the party of two headed for the farthest off docks in the harbor, Jiaolong popped up like a fox that was ready to swipe someone's things.
"Yínlóng, stop," Jiaolong said, holding his palm out as if it were a roadblock. "I'm coming with you on your date today." But, rejection had come his way, in an instant.
"No, Jiaolong, you're not invited," Yínlóng replied. "Please, just focus on your work." Stepping forward, they gave their cousin the coldest of shoulders.
Jiaolong stepping away from the scene one eye open, the early adult blinked. Why did he want to come along on their day trip? But, he supposed he was just looking out for his cousin. Tall, generic woman with long black hair, an eyepatch and unusual black outfit with an open white vest, the chimera tilted his head. Just who was this person? Was she some sort of pirate? He had never seen her before around the harbor. Ship captain looking ready to introduce herself, the hyena seated himself.
"Welcome aboard. Yínlóng, right?" the strange pirate asked. "I'm the Alcor's sailor, and I'll be your captain today."
Yínlóng confirming his identity, the boat had left the port. Large ship beginning to head south, the soldier could not help but wonder. Would any boats be able to read Inazuma City? He recalled hearing the seas of the nation were plagued with thunderstorms kicking everyone out who was not worthy.
Endless sea of nothing crossed for hours on end, the soldier braced for impact as Liyue grew further behind. Any minute now, the Archon of Eternity's thunder and lightning would remove everyone from the picture. But, as the cruise forward continued, sunny skies stayed present throughout.
Familiar mountainscape off in the distance, the soldier turned his attention towards the sky. No storm clouds in sight, a wave of bewilderment flowed through the early adult. Were the gods allowing Yínlóng and he's entry into Inazuma? Luck was on his side today, for sure.
Ship soon docked towards the outskirts of Inazuma City, the boat's captain stated she would be in the nation all day. Panda placing Mora coins in her hand, the hyena and his palms were soon linked together once more. Small area with a strip of houses passed by, a familiar walk way was crossed through.
Spotting the Tenshukaku off in the distance, the early adult blinked. The hot springs, were they Shogun's property? If such were the case, there was no way two outlanders would be welcomed to soak in the heated waters of royalty, for sure. Any minute now, they would be escorted way.
Panda addressing themselves as Yínlóng Jinzi of the Jinzi Commerce Guild, the soldier's eyes opened wide at the information coming his way. Royal bath staff saying the two of them were allowed in the hot springs, shock shot down the early adult's spine. Had the Commerce Guild held some sort of relations with the Shogunate? But, he supposed it was no business of his.
Guided to a small room with screened walls, a bathing suit had been handed off to the chimera. Singular, one-piece outfit placed in his hands, the hyena walked behind the privacy screen. Singular layer of clothing removed, the early adult's scars were on private display. Pants soon removed, as well, the swimming clothing was placed over his small body. Glasses kept on, for the time being, he stepped out from the wall.
Yínlóng adorning a strange two piece outfit, the chimera tilted his head. What kind of swimsuit was he wearing? He had never seen such a thing before. But, he supposed swimwear came in all shapes and sizes. Stepping outside the changing room, a world of mystery soon awaited the soldier off duty.
Large, steamy room with a huge heated tub that stretched across the entire vicinity, the hyena blinked. It was a royal bathhouse indeed. Sitting on the edge, for the time being, the early adult soaked his feet in. Steam kicking in, fog filled the room.
Yínlóng soon sitting next to him, feet dipped in the steaming hot water, as well, their head rested upon his shoulders. Eyes closed, the young soldier kept soaking. He supposed if they wanted to lean in, they could so so. Steam soon fogging his glasses, as the panda kept their head beside him, the early adult had begun to sweat. Was it just him, or was it hotter now than it was before?
Eventually sinking in deeper into the heated waters, another question had come the soldier's way. Panda inquiring if he could hold his hand while they soaked in the hot springs waist deep, the hyena nodded. He supposed, whatever they needed to do to reach a calm, he would oblige.
Arms wrapped around him as the soaking continued, the early adult didn't bat a singular eyelash. If being slightly physical would help the panda reach some sort of peace of mind, he supposed, as long as he did not touch his chest, he would allow anything. Steam wafting around the room for awhile, the young soldier closed his eyes as the soaking continued.
But, as the time within the heated springs continued, the sound of slippery footsteps overtook the area. Opening his eyes, the soldier broke down into a layer of sweat. Was it the Shogunate's private time for a bath? If such were the case, their time in the hot springs was over, for sure. But, a different surprise awaited the area.
Usually dressed to the nines rabbit siblings with their hair tied up in buns walking towards the huge bath of many marvels, the early adult blinked. Nousagi and Kouneko, were they friends with some member of the Shogunate, as well? The world was far smaller than he once thought. Siblings stepping closer, a loud thud soon overtook the room.
Steam making it hard to see where they were going, Nousagi could feel themselves brush up against another person. Had it been the Shogunate's timeslot for the royal hot springs? How strange. This time of day was never usually occupied by the Raiden Shogun's highest up personnel. But a surprise soon caught their eyes.
Panda she had never seen before accompanied with the purple haired Fatui, Nousagi's left bare leg rose upward a smidgeon. What was a member of the Fatui doing inside the hot springs? How was it possible for someone suspicious like that enter a highly exclusive place? They knew they needed to warn the stranger immediately.
"Sorry, panda-san, I didn't mean to bump into you," Nousagi apologized, bowing. "We'll sit on the other side." Slipping onto the opposite side of the heated bath, they soaked for awhile beside their sister. After five minutes of silence, they restarted the conversation. "I apologize for my forwardness, but I could not help but notice you are with a Fatui member. It is best you exercise caution around them."
Hearing her brother's warning, Kouneko shook her head. While she understood their words of caution, there was no need for such. There was no way a Fatui member would try anything nefarious in a bathing house mostly closed off to most of the public. It was best to leave such concerns for the outside.
"Nousagi, Fatui have lives outside their orders," Kouneko replied. "Perhaps you should dial down on the caution for a bit."
Hearing their sister's words, Nousagi's rabbit ears twitched for a little while. Maybe Kouneko-nee was right. It was best to let their words of caution leave, for a little while. Stepping deeper into the heated waters, they closed their eyes, for a moment. They supposed, if the Fatui had ulterior motives, they would been escorted off the premises by now.
"Sorry, nee-chan, you're right," Nousagi replied. They then turned towards the Fatui and panda. "We'll let you continue relaxing."
Hearing the rabbit in the corner give heavy words of caution, Yínlóng could not help but wonder. Why was everyone so cautious around every Fatui they laid their eyes on? While they knew some were big, bad guys out to cause trouble, Siorc was not such, in any way.
"Miss rabbit, my friend doesn't even want to be a Fatui," Yínlóng responded. "Besides, he's off duty today. I promise you, he means no harm!"
But, as the group of three's conversation went on, the early adult was in heated paradise. Heat finally settling throughout his whole body, the early adult kept his eyes shut, for the time being. He could sit here forever, if time allowed it. Minutes passing by in what felt like Celestia, the outside world tuned itself out.
Feeling a tap on his shoulder after half an hour had passed, the early adult blinked. Was their time share within the hot springs over? One-hour-and-fifteen-minutes went by faster than he could blink. Stepping back into the changing room, his winter pants and singular layered shirt were soon upon him once more. Wiping the steam off of his glasses, the party of two exited the royal bath house.
Hearing Yínlóng's stomach rumble, the hyena pondered, for a moment. The Komore Teahouse, perhaps, just maybe he could take the panda there. Eventually reaching the area, the soldier off duty let out a gulp. Would he be allowed in there? He knew, the last time he was here, his entry was permitted, but surely, a second time would never come.
Entrance permitted, the two were taken to the front table. Shiba Inu owner out like usual, the soldier's cheeks turned pink. The adorable dog was out once again? If he were here the entire time, he would be beside himself at any given moment. Tea soon ordered, a surprise guest entered the teahouse.
Blond housekeeper soon greeting the apparent dog owner, a wave of questions flowed through him. Canine extremely friendly with him, the hyena could not help but wonder. The Komore Teahouse, was it actually owned by the Kamisato Clan? He supposed such could have been the case. Tall blond soon turning towards the two, a wave had come their way.
"Oh, hey there," the tall blond greeted waving. His eyes were then soon on Yínlóng. "I don't think I've seen you around these parts before."
Yínlóng explaining he was from a family with a large gold commerce guild in Liyue, the hyena could not help but wonder. Just how many connections did the Jinzi family have within Inazuma? Did they have some strings attached within the Tri Commissions, as well? But, the soldier off duty snapped himself out of it. What was he thinking? It was absolutely no business of his how far their family reached within other nations.
But, another thought soon poked the active shark grooves in his brain. The Kamisato Estate, could they have some sort of activity to do that could take Yínlóng's mind off of things? But, no such question would leave his lips. There was no way he could ask such a thing. Desires were not allowed for a diplomatic Fatui Soldier. But, his hand soon did all the talking.
"You look like you want to ask me if there's something around here to do," the blond housekeeper said. "Sure, I can hook you two up with something fun." A warm smile appeared on his face. "There's a festival coming up, and lady ----- received an Inazuman prototype of Theater Mechanicus. Want to help us test it out?"
Knowing a fun board game would help take Yínlóng's mind away from the things troubling him, the chimera nodded. But, the soldier could not help but feel a wave of unease. Was this truly alright? Tea paid for, the party of three exited the teahouse. Exiting the city through the north, the Kamisato Estate soon neared.
Blond housekeeper explaining the situation, the Himegimi's fan covered her lips as they spoke to one another. Young woman of the clan stepping aside for a moment, a huge board game with strange colorful chess pieces and monsters were soon placed on the table. Everyone soon seated, a warm smile appeared on the lady of the clan's face.
"Thank you so much for helping me out with this prototype, you two," the Himegimi said, smiling.
Manners returned in kind, the hyena gazed at the strange chess pieces in the corner. Monster pieces shoved into a large portal on the game board, the hyena could not help wonder. What was Theater Mechanicus, exactly? He had never heard of such a game before.
Himegimi, panda and himself setting up the elemental chess pieces upon holes on the game board, the game had soon begun. Closing his eyes, the early adult's imagination kicked into full swing. Hilichurls coming out of the portal one after another, the soldier stayed focused, for the time being.
Monsters stopped by the elemental mechanisms as they ran out of the portal one after another, the hyena blinked. What kind of powers did these odd chess pieces contain? But, he supposed he was letting his imagination run too wild as the board game continued.
First wave of monsters defeated with the elaborate machine setup, the soldier brought himself back to reality. Second round soon starting, new chess pieces were introduced to the fray. Yínlóng setting up the new mini pieces, the next game soon began. Some monsters running back through the other portal, another game was won with a couple casualties.
Third round proving to be a struggle, the blond housekeeper added himself to the party. Larger monster pieces added to the mix, more enemies had left the stage undefeated. Watching from imagination land as things ramped up in difficulty, the hyena could not help but wonder. Was strategy required for victory? He supposed everyone would have to set up differently if the next win were to be upon them.
Head of the Kamisato Clan soon joining after the fifth round had come by, the soldier excused himself, for a moment. There was no room for a fifth player, he needed to take a backseat. But, as the time passed by, the game had begun to wrap itself up. Next few rounds impossible to win, the himegimi packed the board up.
Somber look still upon the panda's face, the early adult could not help but frown. Was Yínlóng not having a good time? Perhaps, a nice long walk in nature could help a little. Opening his orb into map form, the early adult pointed to the Chinju Forest location next to the estate. Tilting his head, the soldier waited.
Panda soon nodding, the two's hands were soon intertwined. Bidding farewell to the Kamisatos and their housekeeper, the two set off for the forest. Mystical woods with Baketanuki statues and pranksters everywhere, the hyena squeezed the panda's hand slightly tighter.
Forest walk continuing as they walked through multiple gates, the soldier focused on Yínlóng, for a moment. Was it just his imagination, or did he look slightly lost in thought? But, Siorc shook his head. He had a lot going on in his mind, he supposed he didn't blame them for such.
Spotting one of the ritual shrines within the forest, the soldier off duty stopped walking, for a moment. Respects sent to the Electro Archon up above, the two continued walking, for the time being. But, as the end of the forest soon neared, the hyena gazed at the mountainside off in the distance. The Grand Narukami Shrine, should he take Yínlóng there? He supposed it was worth a shot.
Eventually reaching the long winded staircase, the party of two ascended. Sakura trees only getting closer as the minutes went onward, the early adult braced himself. Would the Guji be at the shrine today? If such were the case, he knew he had to prepare himself for any amount of teasing coming his way. But, the Guji was nowhere to be seen. Realizing such, relief washed over him.
Feeling a tug on his sleeve, for a moment, the early adult turned his attention towards the panda chimera. Looking as though he had something to say, the hyena let go of their hand. Whatever it is they wanted to ask him, he would listen to the best of his ability. Eyes on him, he let their question take lead.
"Siorc, is it alright if I grab a fortune slip?" Yínlóng asked, words absent of any emotion.
Nodding the early adult stood beside the Sacred Sakura Tree. Placing his hands into a praying position, the hyena closed his eyes, for a moment. Fortune slip taken, another suggestion had soon come his way. Told there was a wishing board in Ritou, the party of two headed for the northern port city.
Reaching Ritou after an hour of walking, a wooden wishing board was soon retrieved. Yínlóng writing down their wishes and placing it on the board in the city's center, the hyena turned his head towards the opposite direction, whatever they had wished for was absolutely no business of his. But, another sleeve tug soon came his way.
"I know I'm asking a lot from you today, but," Yínlóng said, pausing for a moment. "Could you take me somewhere I can do some target practice, please?" Their face grew dark for a moment. "But, it's alright if you don't want to. No pressure, or anything."
Siorc could hardly believe his ears. Yínlóng wanted to go target practicing? How incredibly strange, didn't they wield a spear? But, he knew, if he said no, their mood would only get sourer. Nodding, a boat had been temporarily rented out. Surely, someone within the Kujou Encampment would not mind if they went for some target practice.
Cruising the boat forward, Narukami Island was soon left behind. But, as they reached the army's training grounds, the soldier instantly regretted it like certain actors in certain poorly written life lesson stories. Winged general already out on the offensive immediately, her wings flapped in unison.
"Excuse me, do you think you can get away with trespassing?" the wing general asked in a demanding tone. "If you two don't leave at once, I'll arrest you both!" But, a defense stepped up to the plate.
"I'm sorry for coming here without permission, general," Yínlóng replied, hands clapped together into an apologetic stance. "But, would it be alright if I do some target practice here, for a little while?"
Deep commanding look on the general's face, her golden eyes glared at the panda and he. Soon shaking her head as another apology had come her way, a strange leap of faith played games with his eyes. Winged general allowing the panda to do some target practice, the early adult blinked. Was he dreaming? Surely, he had misheard. Feeling a sting as he pinched himself on the wrist, the soldier broke out into a sweat. He was definitely awake right now, for sure.
Wooden dummies set up everywhere around the encampment, a small wooden bow was placed in Yínlóng's left hand. Staying in the audience as the panda gazed at the many obstacles, an arrow was shot off on the air. But, the weapon had missed its target by multiple kilometers.
Reseating the next arrow onto the bow, another target was missed by multiple kilometers. Continuing to keep watch, the soldier kept quiet. It was best to not say anything, noise would only distract them, for sure. Third arrow missing another target, sweat teemed down the panda's back.
Watching as more arrows continuously missed the target, the early adult placed his finger on his chin. Was the panda chimera unable to aim? If such were the case, he had been there, and done that so many times within his Fatui life. Accuracy was a difficult measure to perfect, for sure.
Very few arrows left, Yínlóng's shooting kept going. Next weapon not hitting any targets, either, another tip was seated upon the sharpshooter. Everything continuing to miss for minutes on end, only a singular arrow remained in the panda's right hand. Deep concentration overtaking the military camp, one eye soon closed, the shot was ready.
Final arrow only slightly hitting one of the targets, the panda chimera lowered his head towards his shoulders. Seeing such, the hyena could not help but feel a sense of concern. Did performing archery only sour his mood more? If he needed comfort his shoulders were open. Eyes soon on him, the soldier listened.
"It's just like I thought, I'm just not cut out for archery," Yínlóng said, somber tone of voice. They then turned towards Siorc, face going dark. "My parents, they always tell me I should be an archer like the rest of the family." His panda ears soon drooped as he continued. "But, I keep telling them I'm just not good at it." His ears only continued to droop further on top of his head. "I'm always told I should give up on the spear and take archery more seriously." He took a long deep breath as he stopped speaking.
Hearing Yínlóng's woes, a rock dropped down into the center of the hyena's stomach. Just what kind of pressure did he face every day at home? He could not help but feel his parents had extremely high expectations of him that they thrust heavily onto the panda. Gratitude soon coming the winged general's way, the duo returned to Ritou.
Told it was soon time to return to Liyue, a small sit down restaurant in Inazuma City was located. Discovering a dish known as mushroom pizza, the panda and he split the odd pie between one another. Mixes of cheese and mushrooms melting into his mouth, the early adult's eyes practically had stars in them. Pizza was interesting dish, indeed.
Captain of their temporary ship taking them back to Liyue Harbor, a wave of questions had soon come the soldier's way. Panda inquiring if they could go somewhere far away again tomorrow, the early adult nodded. He supposed, in they still needed time to clear their head they would oblige.
But, as the two separated for the evening, the soldier gazed at the panda's back side. Was it just his imagination, or were they walking with their head slumped downward as he walked off? But, he supposed one day alone with someone wasn't going to fix anyone's problems.
Opening up the proxy orb into map form, the soldier highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks. Steel walled room upon him after ten minutes of walking, the early adult slumped into the uncomfortable bed. But, as the land of dreams was ready to call him back in, for the evening, one final thought wrapped vines around him.
Was anything he was doing cheering Yínlóng up at all?
He was quite clueless.
***
Dreaming was still a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's adult life. But, the cycle of never ending suffering was halted. Wrench placed in the center of the pathway, the hourglasses' sand reversed backwards onto a different road. The night before him would break the pattern of anguish into two.
Before him had been the pink tree he had become so familiar with. But, something had been off. Branches slightly rotted, a wave of unease flowed through him. Was a tormenting dream about to await him? Walking down the long branch, the early adult steeled himself for the possible sea of flames that might await him.
Mysterious girl sitting on the end of the trunk waiting for him, a serious look appeared on her face. Small leaf sitting in her hair glowing, the hyena could not help but wonder once again. Just who was this girl? But, such thoughts were interrupted as she began to speak.
"I noticed something is troubling you," the mysterious girl said. "So, I came here. Don't worry, I've scared all the monsters away."
Eyes on him, the early adult's subconscious eyes blinked. Was it that easy to tell something was on his mind? He could not help but feel the girl in his dreams always knew exactly what he was thinking. Looking at her, the hyena wondered. Would it truly be alright to tell her about Yínlóng? He supposed it was worth a shot. Dreams never tell.
"My friend is feeling down, and I don't know what else I can do to help him," Siorc replied.
"You're referring to your panda friend, right?" the mysterious girl asked, tip of her finger below her mouth.
The early adult could feel a shock shoot down his unfeeling spine. How did she know something like that? But, he supposed, even a caged bird could see what's going on around them, despite being behind bars. Strange smile appearing on the young lady's face, she soon continued.
"Your dream tells all," the mysterious girl said, continuing. "Why not take them to Sumeru?"
Sumeru brought to the table, the hyena pondered, for a moment. Would the Dendro Nation of Wisdom be far enough away to fit Yínlóng's criteria? But, he supposed it was worth a shot. Gratitude coming the mysterious girl's way, swings appeared underneath the girl and he.
Teetering on the magical seat for a little while longer, the dream world had begun to crumble. Mysterious girl soon bidding him farewell, the early adult closed his eyes as the mortal, waking world shortly awaited him. Repeating the suggestion in his dream mind one final time, the real world awaited him.
Perhaps he should take Yínlóng to Sumeru.
***
"This doesn't feel right. Something terrible is
Happening in Sumeru. Is it just my imagination?
Everything feels off, honestly. In my dream, the pink tree is
Rotting. I can't help but feel it means something
Ominous is coming. No,
That can't be true. I'm just imagining it. No,
That can't be true, I'm overthinking it. Right,
I'm overthinking.
Now, today, I'm taking Yínlóng around the Rainforest.
Get my mind out of my thoughts, I needn't think about dreams; they are not reality."
Waking up the next morning, the hyena would not falter. Teleporting to Liyue Harbor, the soldier met up with the panda. Taking a long, deep breath, the soldier brought his suggestion to the table. Sumeru brought out until the battlefield, the early adult looked into their eyes. But, a counter point soon presented itself.
Informed Jiaolong was in Sumeru today, the hyena shook his head. They would avoid the taller panda chimera, if necessary. They had to go to the Dendro Nation of Wisdom. Resolute on his decision, the early adult highlighted the waypoint nearest Ghandharva Ville. Surely, the herbalist and furry eared man had already been out on the field for the day.
Such fact was correct in the worst way possible. Furry eared man out in the fields with the taller panda chimera, Yínlóng soon hid behind him. But, such action was seen by the peanut gallery in a matter of moments. Ears drooping as eyes were on the panda and he, regret flowed through the soldier. Maybe taking him to Sumeru was a bad idea after all.
"Don't waste your time hiding," the furry eared man said, ears on his head moving. "I could hear you coming."
Jiaolong's eyes soon focused on his, the early adult placed his hands out in front of him. Signing the words nature and walk for the entire village population village to see, the soldier off duty gulped as the taller panda chimera shook his head sternly. Had he reached strike two? The mistakes were piling up into a dirty pile.
"A nature walk? Forgive me for what I am about to say," Jiaolong said sternly, shaking his head. "But, I advise against it. Rotting zones have been popping up around Sumeru lately."
Hearing the term rotting zone, the early adult's heart skipped three beats. Rotting zones had appeared in Sumeru? What did that mean? Had the Withering progressed further? If such were the case, he would vanquish it on their walk as he see fit. Yínlóng adding themselves to the conversation, a rejection had come Jiaolong's way.
"Jiaolong, please just don't worry about it, let me spend my time alone right now," Yínlóng said to Jiaolong, face dark. "If I see a Rotting Zone, I'll get rid of it with my Bamboo Cutter Spear, I promise." A suggestion had soon come the panda and hyena's way.
"If you want a rotting free experience, you're best off heading for Vanarana," the furry eared man suggestion. Sharp eyes were soon on Yínlóng. "But, you best not underestimate the rotting, Miss Panda." He rolled his eyes to the side as he said such.
Nodding, the group of two headed for the northern most exit of Ghandarvha Ville. Reaching Chinvat Ravine, the hyena took the lead. Cutting through Sumeru City, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. The city of knowledge was bustling with activity, as usual. Nothing had been out of the ordinary.
Reaching the city's exit, the duo kept heading north. Familiar bridge crossed, the early adult recalled something from a long while back. Yínlóng had once said the Viparyas in Vanarana were an ingredient that could be used to brew tea. Perhaps, just maybe if they picked some, their mood would improve a little. Realizing such could have been a possibility at hand, the hyena marched onward.
Reaching the rainforest of dreams, the early adult took a deep breath. Would the gazelle mind if he brought company with him? He hoped they wouldn't be opposed to such idea. Misty barely visible purple sky covered with large lilypad like trees, the exploration had begun.
Panda chimera coming across the dreamlike flowers, the hyena gazed as they plucked one from the ground. Plant placed into a small bag, the two kept exploring, for the time being. But, such adventure was cut short as the group reached the damp area with a small hill.
Hearing the sound of graceful and waddling footsteps, the early adult gulped. The Gazelle, had they already been aware he had come here? He knew, if they had spotted him, trouble would be brewed into a witch's boiling pot at any given moment. Footsteps only getting closer as the seconds raged onward, the hyena prepared himself for the seething wrath of the fawn to come.
Hearing trespassers enter through the forest entrance, Parisa was on the pursuit of gathering the unwanted guests. Culprit discovered, the fawn crossed their arms around their waist. What was the Fatui worm doing here, bringing one of their possible new subordinates into the forest? But, something had been amiss.
Fatui worm not in his usual uniform, Parisa firmly shook her head. Why was he bringing a date with him here? Perhaps, letting him explore the forest that one time was too much nicety. If he wished to barge into Vanarana with others, she would not allow for such action without permission requested, guaranteed.
"I don't know what you're doing here, Fatui worm," Parisa said, shaking her head. "But, it would be very much appreciated that you request my permission if you intend to bring other worms from your organization here." But, her warnings were soon cut off.
"Nara Parisa!" a bright yellow Arana frantically shouted. "A rotting zone as appeared."
"Another? Fine, then lead me to it," Parisa said to the Aranara. She then turned towards the Fatui worm and the other member of his organization. "Please leave this forest." But, they knew such was not enough. Perhaps, suggesting another activity would suffice. "Why don't you two go see a show in the city, or something? I hear the bazaar has a dance theater."
Agreeing to such suggestion faster than the early adult could blink, the party of two reversed backwards towards the path they came. Returning to the city, the soldier off duty searched for the Grand Bazaar's doorway. Finding it after about seven minutes of searching, the duo walked through the pathway.
Dance show already having begun when they had arrived, the hyena blended themselves in with the crowd. Red haired dancer in the front combining her moves with her Hydro Vision, the audience cheered. Other performers taking to the stage as well, the show continued.
Performers giving it their all, the crowd went wild. Red haired dancer practically stealing the show as the performance kept going onward, the soldier off duty turned towards the panda. Somber look on his face once more, another pebble dropped into the center of his stomach. Maybe he had made yet another mistake.
Show looking about ready to end, the hyena could not help but wonder. Was he making the panda's mood worse? If such were the case, maybe he should take the backseat and let them pick what to do instead. Audience clapping as the final dance spun a tale, the crowd applauded like their hands were snare drums. Noise dying down after some time, however, words bled out towards the performers.
"The lead dancer's performance was so pretty..." Yínlóng said, voice trailing off. As if the gods were listening, the red haired dancer turned towards the panda.
"You thought my dance was pretty?" the red haired dancer asked. "Thank you so much!" A soft smile appeared on her face.
"Your dance reminded me of the ones I have to present when I audition for a spot in an opera troupe I want to be a part of," Yínlóng admitted. "But, I can never land a spot, for some reason." Eyebrows looking as though they were twitching, they continued. "I wish I could dance like you."
Hearing the panda say he had not been accepted into an opera troupe, the early adult placed his hand on his chest. Yínlóng still hadn't gotten into the opera like they dreamed of? The world was such a competition. Why couldn't whoever was holding the auditions accept them and give them a place to perform like they wanted? But, he supposed to those who review people, passion wasn't enough.
"You're welcome to dance here, if you'd like," the red haired girl offered. But, rejection had come her way.
"Thank you for the offer, but, I'm just a guest here in Sumeru," Yínlóng responded. "I'm really sorry, but I can't." Their head sunk past their shoulders once more.
Panda asking if they could go somewhere to eat, the early adult nodded. Heading for the tavern within the city, the party of two seated themselves at the table. Sumeran dishes ordered, the two dug into their meals. Coconut dish ordered between the two of them, the early adult bit into the fruity goodness. New, delectable taste flowing through his tastebuds, the chimera held back the urge to make a happy noise.
Meal finished after a short while, the early adult remained resolute. A nice long nature walk in Sumeru was upon them. Figuring heading north towards the mushroom forest, the chimera placed his hand out in front of him. Panda grabbing ahold of it, the two soon exited the city.
Returning to Chinvat Ravine, the early adult and panda headed northeast, for the moment. Gandharva Ville walked through for the time being, the soldier off duty admired the sights around him. No matter how many times he had seen it, the rainforests of Sumeru were beautiful, like always.
Continuing along the northern path, Gandha Hill was upon the panda, and he, but as they kept going, the soldier off duty could not help but feel a sense of doom. A rotting zone, could one have been nearby? He could not help but feel any could pop up at any given point. But, the hyena pushed such thought away. Why was he letting such worries pollute his mind? He would sour the already downcast atmosphere in a matter of moments, if he kept adding pollutants to the mix.
Northward walk marching onward, the soldier turned his head towards the opposite direction as the Palace of Alcazarzary appeared within his damaged field of distanced vision. Why did the the ridiculous castle of whomever Lord Sangnemah Bay have to be here? Such building was beyond an eyesore to nature. Ascending a small cliffslide, the mysterious mushroom forest was nearing.
Strange world of large blue mushrooms walked through, a look of awe appeared on Yínlóng's face. Seeing such, a tiny smile graced the hyena's lips. Did they find the Lokapala Jungle fascinating? If such were the case, he hoped his soured mood was improved a smidgeon. But such moment of ease was killed with a sniper rile as the edge of Mawtimiya Forest neared.
Area's greenery dyed a pitch black with horrific roots pulsating like a heartbeat, the early adult could feels his legs shake. What was he looking at, exactly? But, as he thought such, the grass underneath him had joined the world of darkness, no cookie included. Greenery around rotting as the roots spread, the soldier observed the area.
Parisa and her Aranara friends attempting with all their might to vanquish the pulsating core in the center, their hydro projectiles did nothing to dent the roots. Aranara surrounding themself with purifying energy as well, branches soon whacked the forest's child onto the ground.
Poor creature tossed around like a ball, the early adult tossed down a flower friend. But, such lead to nowhere fast. Branches of darkness grabbing the Windwheel Aster, the flower brought to life by his Dendro Vision had become a plus one on the casualty list.
Yínlóng attempting to join the fight too, wind combined itself with their spear, but such had been a failure. Powers of Anemo doing absolutely nothing, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. Dendro, Anemo and Hydro were all these elements useless? Second flower friend grabbed in a matter of seconds and tossed inside the pulsating core's center, the one sided battle remained.
Fawn and the panda attempting to combine forces, Anemo and Hydro shook hands. Such attempt was another failure upon the list of many growing casualties. Yínlóng attempting to swirl the gazelle's incoming aquatic projectiles, the vine soaked the attack up like it was sparkling apple cider.
Struggle continuing for minutes on end, a pillar of flames soon overtook the battlefield. Branches of darkness bursting into flames one after another, an unlikely face soon joined the party. Short, blonde haired young man sporting spiky red highlights instead of the usual brown, the early adult rubbed his eyes. Was it just his imagination, or was Faxi here? Surely, the rotting branches were messing with his mind.
Flames engulfing the rest of the problem, a suggestion had come the gazelle's way. Told to charge at the core with their spear, the fawn reluctantly did as instructed. Crack forming upon the pulsating core, another set of instructions had come the panda's way, as well. Told to aim their wind shot with his flames, the rotting cocoon in the center of the area soon burst. Questions soon coming the man's way, answers had arrived on a silver platter.
"What do you mean why did I help you?" Faxi asked with a hint of sarcasm in his voice. "I couldn't help but notice you were all struggling, so I decided to help you kill the rotting zone. Is that so hard to believe?" He then turned around, lowering his eyes into a squint. Why was the tagalong from previous encounters gazing at his hair? Had he figured something out he should not have? Grabbing his hand, he pulled the man aside. "I saw you gawking at my hair. A pity, so you know, don't you?" He let out a sigh as he continued. "Since you already seem to know about this, Mr. Tagalong, don't say a word to anyone else, that I temporarily switched my elemental resonance through Leyline manipulation, alright?"
Giving Faxi a nod, the early adult shrugged. Why would he speak a word to such to anyone? Speaking was the least of things he ever wished to do. Panda chimera soon tugging on his sleeve once more, an inquiry had come his way. Asking if they could continue their nature walk south, the early adult nodded. Informed strange roses were spotted within Yasna Monument, the mushroom forest was cruised through.
Reaching towards the southward path of Vanarana after passing through Sumeru city once more, the party of two veered off towards the southeast. Yazadaha Pool oddly quiet, the early adult blinked. The rotting zones reported, could they have scared away the area's mercenaries? But, the hyena pushed such thoughts away. Maybe they were fighting them somewhere else and were on the move.
Nothing of note as the party of two kept heading south, Yasna Monument had been reached after about two hours of walking. Strange black roses popping up everywhere, the soldier could not help but feel a wave of unease. Weren't Sumeru's roses usually a shade of purple? But, he supposed flowers could come in any color.
Multiple flowers gathered, Apam Woods was soon upon the panda and he. But, as they had begun walking through the woods for some time, a question had come the hyena's way. Asked if they could sit, for a little while, the soldier stopped walking. Legs folded into a pretzel shape, for the time being, a short ten minute breather was upon the panda and he.
Returning to his feet after a little while, Port Ormos was passed through. But, as the largest port city in Sumeru was left behind, a sense of doom flowed through the hyena. Was it just his imagination, or was the atmosphere in the area getting thicker? But, the early adult threw such feelings away. What was he thinking? If he were to add to the atmosphere, his doom and gloom would come Yínlóng's way. Throwing his concerns out, the mountains soon neared.
Such concerns soon grew tenfold.
Pitch black, throbbing core down on the ground rotting everything around it, the early adult jumped onto the scene. A rotting zone had appeared in Devantaka Mountain? What incredibly poor timing, on the mountain's part. But, he supposed such phenomenon would occur whenever it wished.
Spotting a discarded greatsword on the ground, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Who left a claymore on the ground below? How oddly specifically convenient to the situation at hand. It was almost as if such convenience were created to push a story along, but such fact was unknown to the chimera.
Vines out to play from every angle, the early adult swung the claymore forward. But, as he had done such, the enemy of darkness lifting the soldier off duty upward from his ankles. Borrowed ground weapon slipped into the sea of rotting nature, as well, the chimera's body and the black grass beneath soon met.
Anemo doing nothing, as well, the hyena's eyebrows twitched as everything had reversed. The rotting zone, was attacking head on not enough? Perhaps, just maybe attempting to cleanse with Dendrograma was the only answer. Such solution was nonexistent, however.
No Dendrograma anywhere, the early adult's heart sunk into the rotting grass. There were no spirits to help vanquish the rotting anywhere? If such were the case, it was a doomed fight, for sure. Vines continuing their rampage for minutes on end, fate had been decided.
Fate would soon reverse itself.
Jiaolong coming onto the scene, another extra person added themselves to the mix. Sound of the robot's door from the outside opening from afar, jets blasted themselves through the sky. Machine making its landing, the early adult rubbed his eyes again. What he seeing things, or had Xena been standing beside a rotting zone?
Taller panda chimera aiming a shot with his bow, the tip of his arrow glowed a bright red aura, flaming weapon burning the rotting a new one, Xena's electricity soon joined the arena. Combined shots overloading the pulsating core to oblivion, the root of all the area's problems was about to be vanquished, once and for all, but another enemy arose from the cocoon's center.
Ruin Drake taking the stage slightly larger than normal, the hyena stepped himself up to the plate. Yínlóng joining the fight, as well, the battle was on. Silk flower friend dancing on the ground as the mechanical enemy dropped its wheel downward, the soldier provided silent commands to the plant bestowed with life.
Gigantic, practically godly bolts of lightning dropped upon the Ruin Drake from the palm of Xena's hands, the soldier blinked. Just how powerful was she? Something was not right. He could not help but feel a sense of heavy modifications might have been made to her synthetic body since he had last seen her. But, the early adult returned his focus to the battle. There was no time to think about such things, for sure.
Jiaolong holding a mix of herbal remedies in his hands, the bitter medicine had soon been set on fire. Taller panda chimera shouting at the top of his lungs here's a remedy for them: burning medicine. Flaming medicinal ingredients thrown the Ruin Drake's way, the soldier could feel some of his vitality return. Realizing such, the early adult swung the greatsword forward. Where was this sudden energy coming from? But, he supposed an herbalist had the powers to revitalize those around them.
Electro, Anemo, Dendro and Pyro all joining forces with one another, everyone's attacks had begun to cause a stir for the mechanical enemy. As the fight continued on, a peculiar sound echoed on the fading wind. Jiaolong's vision glowing at its maximum, another shout took the battlefield by a firestorm.
"Watch out, this remedy runs hot!" Jiaolong shouted at the top of his lungs.
Large, herbal dragon with horns in the center of the battlefield torching fire, waves of regained energy flowed through the early adult. But, such feeling reached its end after ten seconds. Enemy looking roasted enough to become food, Xena snapped her fingers. Final lightning bolt doing the job, the robot split into multiple unusable scrap pieces. Brushing her hands together, a toothy smile appeared on her face.
"I only helped you because you two, especially you, hyena boy, looked pretty weak," Xena said, arms crossed around her waist. Her cheeky smile would not leave her face.
The hyena's eyebrows twitched. He looked weak to Xena? Everyone was a critic. He knew he wasn't the strongest battler out there, but he certainly wasn't completely useless. Giving her a glare, the hyena bit his lower lip. But, the mood soon shifted as Jiaolong's eyes were on the panda chimera.
"Yínlóng, please listen to me, I know you're mad at me right now, but," Jiaolong said to Yínlóng. He then took a momentary deep breath. "I'm sorry for pushing you so hard to try and do commerce guild work all the time. When I know you clearly don't want to." He closed his eyes for a moment, holding another breath. His face then turned into a somber look. "The truth is, I don't wish to do commerce guild work full time in the future either, but, I don't want Qiulong and Shenlong risking their health by overwork themselves if they had to handle everything alone."
Knowing the panda family's conversation needed some privacy, the soldier stepped off towards the side. But, as he did such, an alarming sight caught the early adult's eyes. Eyes soon on her doll chest, the hyena's eyes pulsated. Why was there a hole there? He could not help but feel a sense of unease looking at it.
Modern day hyena chimera gazing at her doll chest, Xena crinkled her nose. Why was he looking at such area? Weirdo. Whatever he thought he could see, he was mistaken. Grabbing ahold of his wrist, she moved him off towards the side further away. Whatever he thought he gazed upon, he had seen nothing.
"Why are you looking at my chest? Weirdo," Xena said, disgust in her voice. "Are you gazing at the big hole there. Just pretend you saw nothing. But, I guess since you're so curious, hyena boy, I'll tell you what you wanna know." Fidgeting with her headband, she cleared her doll throat. "Some man going around calling himself the doctor--what a name, I tell you--made some invasive adjustments to my new boy." Shooing the man away, she placed her jet around her once again. "Keep your eyes to yourself, okay?" Mechanical jet propelling her upward, she was soon gone.
Information flooding through him, the early adult's body shook with a fervor. The malpracticing malicious doctor, just what was it that he was up to this time? He could not help but feel a storm was about to brew in Sumeru soon. But, a a tug on the side of his shirt soon returned him to reality.
"Siorc, take me home?" Yínlóng asked. "I'm going to apologize to mama and papa."
Turning towards Jiaolong, a wave of uselessness flowed through the hyena. The taller panda chimera had solved the problem. Had his suggestion to go on a nature walk not helped? But, he supposed, first and foremost, family would always be the winner in solutions. Taking out the teleport waypoint proxy orb, the soldier highlighted the waypoint towards the west side of Liyue Harbor.
Mansion in the terrace soon reached, the hyena was invited inside, as well. Panda parents located after a few minutes, the hyena turned his attention towards the expensive paintings on the wall. Helping Yínlóng run away from his problems was a mistake he should have not perpetuated, for sure. Silence soon breaking, apologies took the room by a gold rush.
"Mama, papa, I'm sorry for yelling at you and telling you that I despised you two," Yínlóng apologized, bowing her head. "I didn't mean it. I apologize for getting so mad." But a surprising string of words had come her way.
"No, Yínlóng, we're sorry for pressuring you so much," Yínlóng's mother responded. "Whatever it is you wish to do, papa and I promise we won't try to rush you anymore."
Discussion between the three going on for awhile, the early adult kept his attentions on the paintings in front of him. Maybe he should have brought him back to his parents this morning, but the hyena shook his head. He supposed is was too late to reverse such decision. He knew, if he had told the panda no to going somewhere far away, feelings would have been hurt even more, for sure. Conversation eventually coming to a complete end, Yínlóng stepped towards the soldier.
"I know I didn't seem like I was enjoying myself, but thank you for the past two days," Yínlóng said, words slow and lulled again. "Next time we spend boy time alone together, I'll be happier, I promise."
Hearing emotion return to Yínlóng's voice, the chimera hid the tiniest of smiles. While he knew being lost in thought might have dampened the panda's possible overall enjoyment, struggling, and battling emotions were an understandable outcome when a parent and child had gotten into an argument. Such days were gone within his life, but he knew parents and their offspring sometimes bickered. Perhaps, one final word of encouragement before he returned to the permafrost north would do.
"You're welcome, sir," the hyena responded, voice slightly more audible. "Stay strong." As he said such, he had been pulled into a tight embrace.
"You know, Siorc, you're like the sun peaking out of the clouds," Yínlóng said, holding the hyena tight. "Take care of yourself, okay?" They soon ended their embrace.
Nodding, the hyena waved a farewell towards the panda. Wave returned in tandem, the early adult removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb one final time for the evening. Military barracks waypoint highlighted once more, the soldier's cheeks grew pink as he stepped into the steel walled room. Was he truly the sun? The hyena did not know, but he supposed such was a sweet compliment.
Wave of tiredness soon overtaking him, the chimera removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Everything else removed as well, the early adult let out a yawn. Slumping into the uncomfortable bed, the chimera closed his eyes. But, a reminder poked the active shark grooves in his brain as the world of sleep took him away.
Work resumed tomorrow, guaranteed.