Zhongli - Vago Mundo (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
leaveofabsence) wrote2000-12-27 05:41 pm
leaveofabsence) wrote2000-12-27 05:41 pm
Zhongli's Ideal World
"In his long life, he has met countless people, and shall meet countless more still.
As they say: the waters change course, but the mountains move not."
--The Raiden Shogun
As they say: the waters change course, but the mountains move not."
--The Raiden Shogun
OOC Objectives and Glossary
Zhongli is suffering from erosion - a disease that affects his memories and distorts his concept of reality. To pull him out of his ideal world, you will have to restore the world to its accurate perception. There are multiple paths to achieve this:
- Find the erosion and restore each area of Liyue to what it should be rather than Zhongli's idealized version. Then the Rite of Descension will continue as normal.
- Defeat the Geo Archon after the false Rite of Descension has started.
- Defeat [ REDACTED ] after [ REDACTED ] event occurs.
Options 1 and 2 are ICly known to your character.Glossary for Zhongli's Ideal World:
Stats and Rolling
Your character has the following stats and 2 HP. Unless otherwise stated, successful damage to your character will be 1 HP:
HP: ♥ ♥
♡ ♡
All stats start at 0, but you can adjust any stat as long as it is between the range of -2 and +2. You also have an additional 3 points to distribute.
We will use Zhongli as an example:
Base Stats:
STR: 0
SPD: 0
ELM: 0
INT: 0
CHA: 0
Adjusted Stats (the numbers added up here should equal 0. You can adjust as much or as little as you want):
STR: 1
SPD: -2
ELM: 2
INT: -1
CHA: 0
+3 Points to Distribute:
STR: 2
SPD: -2
ELM: 2
INT: 0
CHA: 1
When using a stat, roll a 1d6 die plus your stat. 1-3 fails. 4-6 is a success. Natural 1 and natural 6 are considered critical failure and critical success even with modifiers. If the situation calls for it, additional flavor text will be added.
Introduction - Start
A flash of gold shimmers, and a rolled up parchment unfurls in the air in front of you. A small black inkwell and calligraphy brush appears off to the side. The script is neat and tidy.
"Erosion.
It is a terrible disease of the mind known to affect the long lived individuals of Teyvat; those affiliated with the element of geo being much more susceptible. It is a slow and gradual process - forgetting the name of a friend who has long since passed here or the exact date of an important event there. Steadily do memories and tethers to the realm crumble until nothing is left but a husk of the individual completely separated from reality.
Zhongli has been battling the onset of this malady for years untold. And even careful as he was, he too has succumbed to its grip. Fortunately, he is not yet completely lost to us, but without immediate intervention, I'm afraid that he will be.
Traveler, I do not know how close you are to Zhongli, but I can sense that you are at least acquainted. Enough perhaps to know that he would not want one of his power left alone to ravage the land. I offer you a boon, the power of the elements and a tool to help differentiate fantasy from reality to use as you see fit. In exchange, I request your promise that you will return Zhongli to his senses or render him incapable of further harming others.
Will you accept this contract?"
[[ OOC: For the contract signing, you are alone, but once you have landed in Liyue Harbor, you are free to interact with the other Ideal World runners as you see fit. ]]
Visions and Constellations
Alisaie: Pyro Vision [ Soror Bellator ]
Alizarin: Pyro Vision [ Sanguis Vitae ]
Alphinaud: Hydro Vision [ Scholaris Frater ]
Barbatos: Anemo gnosis [ Carmen Dei ]
Childe: Hydro Vision, Electro Delusion [ Monoceros Caeli ] - + 1 HP. Using delusion -1 HP
Felicity: Anemo Vision [ Scientia Ovium ]
Hurricane: Dendro Vision [ Foris Avis ]
Izanagi: Geo Vision [ Sapiens Aequalitatem ]
Lupine: Pyro Vision [ Intrepidus Eques ]
Nemesis: Electro Vision [ Portio Domini ]
Nyx: Dendro Vision [ Amissa Superstes ]
Pentium: Electro Vision [ Perierat Inventus ]
Persephone: Cryo Vision [ Flos Labyrinthus ]
Rye: Geo Vision [ Draco Equitem ]
Skylark: Cryo Vision [ Renati Solis ]
Tsukasa: Anemo Vision [ Bonae Poeta ]
Valor: Cryo Vision [ Quoquo Modo ]
Xiao: Anemo Vision [ Alatus Nemeseos ]
The Heavenly Principals
Your signature flashes golden as the parchment rolls itself back up, a gold ribbon tightly securing it before it disappears like so much stardust. A contract forged and sealed. Then you hear it - you feel it - the earth calling you pulling you down down down to the ground and welcoming you home. You can just make it out through the thinning clouds during your descent - a harbor city protected on all sides by tall, jagged mountains. The city of Liyue - Zhongli's heart and home.
If you do happen to glance back up toward the sky, you'll see a woman garbed in white and black armor, golden eyes piercing as she holds the contract in her hand.
"May the blessing of Celestia guide your path."
And thus, your journey begins.
Where would you like to land:
- The docks
- The marketplace
- The mountains overlooking the city
- The central pavilion where it looks like preparations for a ceremony are beginning
( For some reason, you feel yourself drawn to the []. )[[ OOC: If you have accepted the contract and the vision:
- You will get a +1 to Elemental Mastery. If you are already at +2, please put +1 in any other stat of your choice.
- Your vision will glow if you are near the source of the idiosyncrasies in Zhongli's ideal world. Roll ELM if you'd like to investigate.
- Consider yourself a master of your element and you may use it in any offensive, defensive or utility capability. You want a sword? A shield? Hydro surfing? It's yours!
If you have not accepted the contract, your stats remain unchanged.]]Meeting Yourself
Alexander:
Alisaie:
Alizarin:
Alphinaud:
Barbatos:
Childe:
Felicity:
Hurricane:
Izanagi:
Lupine:
Nemesis:
Nyx:
Pentium:
Persephone:
Rye:
Skylark:
Tsukasa:
Valor:
Xiao:
The edges of the world fade around you as you suddenly come face to face with yourself. The sound of the other Travelers and Liyue harbor become indistinct. Your doppleganger bows in a standard Liyue greeting, posture too perfect and movements too precise, making it seem uncanny for a moment.
[ "So, you've found your way here. I can help you help him if you'll let me." ]
A gaming menu also flickers to life in front of your eyes:
Please choose one upgrade:
[[ Disclaimer: You may get an upgrade from your doppleganger only once. Should the area your doppleganger exists in be cleansed of erosion, you will still be able to interact with them. ]]
—
Once your request is complete, your doppleganger's eyes flash gold in color before reverting to their original hue.
"He asked me to give you a message:
If you make your way to the Rite of Descension, I recommend trying out the perfumes and incense there. It is one of the oldest and most traditional offerings to the Geo Archon."
Cleansing the Erosion
You hear Zhongli's voice on the wind as the world around you slowly petrifies. Buildings, people, and trees fade to grey as they turn to stone. Most don't see it coming. But some do as their faces freeze in dawning horror before they are overtaken. You alone remain untouched and living and breathing among the rock.
"No matter how weak the god, the power that flows forth when they are slain is beyond the strength of mortal coils to bear."
You exist in this broken world for one heartbeat. Two heartbeats.
Then the land shatters, knocking you to your feet, as everything around you crumbles to dust.
And the world is remade.
[ Subsequent times ]
Like before, the world petrifies around you. People freeze in mid-action as the stone consumes them before shattering into so much dust that scatters to the wind.
And the world is remade.
[ All 4 areas restored ]
You gaze out upon all of Liyue Harbor restored - untouched by Hell and the productions, its ghosts properly buried and most importantly, with the one true (and also retired) Geo Archon by your side. He turns toward you with a smile that is equally warm and distant. The siren song of his ideal world has faded back to reality and with the tepid hope of what could be.
"Thank you, my friend. You have brought me back to my senses."
He clasps his hand behind his back.
"I suppose I owe you an explanation after all of this.
Come, let us take a walk through the harbor and I will answer whatever questions you may have."
And he turns to walk toward the harbor, the sun setting a golden-purple in the distance.
Liyue Harbor
Welcome to Liyue Harbor - or specifically the docks. Here ships large and small moor at the piers to spread trade and commerce between Liyue and the rest of the world of Teyvat. Be sure to watch your step, because the docks are always bustling and you're likely to get swept away with the tide if you're not careful.
Within the docks, there are two places to go:
The Traveler's Gate: Between the two pillars framing the entrance (and not pictured) is a large circular gate which pulses occasionally with a blue energy. With every pulse, it seems a new visiting Traveler enters the harbor. How curious indeed. Even from this distance, you can see Zhongli there.
The Fishing Association: What's a harbor without fishing? Surely you have time for a little rest and relaxation. Surely…
You may also travel to: the marketplace, the mountains in the distance, or the central pavilion.
Liyue Harbor: The Traveler's Gate
You arrive just in time to see Zhongli greet the newest arrivals through the gate - the Imeeji idols Hurricane and Nemesis. Zhongli himself looks just as he does in Imeeji, complete with Heart Soldier Senshi uniform and golden horns crowning his head. Quietly, he exchanges a few words with the new arrivals, laughing softly before gesturing somewhere farther into the Harbor. Hurricane whoops excitedly before grabbing Nemesis's hand and heading off in that direction.
In addition, you will find the two Elven twins Alphinaud and Alisaie among the visitors to Liyue as well as Izanagi, who seems to be finishing up his own trip.
Liyue Harbor: The Fishing Association
You head towards the docks, where a middle-aged man mumbles to himself grumpily as he pulls in his latest catch, a writhing squirming full-sized octopus which he plunks into a pail with a dozen of its other tentacle brethren. Bits of debris float in the water around him, chunks of marbled stone and bits of jade, which stand in stark contrast to how pristine the rest of the piers. Even at this distance, you can hear the man grumble.
"I knew that rich boy was trouble. Who can get a reservation to the Liuli Pavilion for the same day!? Mine took over four months!"
There are fishing poles available if you're feeling the urge.
Liyue Harbor: Solved
Zhongli (sans horns and HSS attire) looks out over the harbor from a high vantage point, hands clasped behind his back. He watches a particularly ornate set of vases pass by before raising his gaze up and across the water.
"Have I too finished my duties?"
Congratulations, you have cleared the docks of erosion.
Liyue Market
As expected of a hub of commerce, Liyue has a varied and busy marketplace. Shops of all types line the streets all the way up to the third story. Fancy yourself a new antique, a good meal, or to take out a loan from the Northland Bank, well — then you're certainly in the right place.
Within the market, there are three places to go:
Wanmin Restaurant: A quaint hole in the wall that boasts not only some of the best home-cooked food in Liyue but all of Teyvat. You will notice Zhongli has seated himself at one of the best tables in the house and is sharing a meal with someone.
Wanwen Bookhouse: Why do libraries and bookstores exist in rpgs? Well, that's why this one is here, too.
The Jade Mystery: Gacha. Gacha gacha gacha.
You may also travel to: the docks, the mountains in the distance, or the central pavilion.
Liyue Market: Wanmin Restaurant
Upon nearing the restaurant, you will notice a very human-looking Zhongli and Childe sitting at a table, lacking in any sort of corruption that the Production has bestowed upon them as well as wearing attire that affiliate them both with different organizations. The aroma of delicious food wafts up from the table where various Liyue delicacies are being served and in abundance. Childe looks mournfully at a pair of chopsticks while Zhongli sips from his tea.
"Can I really not use a fork?"
To which Zhongli just raises an eyebrow from behind his cup as if the very mention of it was blasphemy.
For those with a discerning eye, there is a hint of blue ink on Zhongli's inner wrist and similar gold ink on the back of Childe's neck.
Liyue Market: Wanwen Bookhouse
The books and scrolls here are bountiful, but attempting to read any will be quite difficult unless you are fluent in Liyuen. Except for a book bound in green and gold called "Yakshas: The Guardian Adepti" and a rolled up scroll labeled "The Unforged." It seems they have been conveniently laid out on the table for your viewing pleasure.
A small female (Felicity) riding a large robo sheep is currently standing on her tiptoes to reach a scroll on the top shelf.
"The Yakshas' faithfully protected Rex Lapis and pacified all manner of catastrophes in the world. This continued for many years. But there came a day when the yakshas, despite their might, found that their deeds had taken their toll, and that the remnants of divine bitterness had begun to poison them. Some descended into a blind rage of a kind that can not be put into words, or were driven by fear to equally indescribable madness. Some turned on and destroyed each other. Some were lost to delusions of the mind. After a thousand years' scourges, three of the five were slain, and one disappeared. Many other yaksha of unknown name also either died or fled. In the end, only one of the five, [REDACTED], survived."
Full text available here, but not necessary for this ideal world.
The Story of Azhdaha
A long time ago, there was a dragon to be found in Liyue.
Not a dragon that soared the skies, but one whose abode was the mountains.
Indeed, this ancient dragon of stone was as large as the very mountains it called home.
When it awakened, even the tiniest movement, or the slightest stretch…
That would cause the earth to tremble and shake.
Then, Rex Lapis came before the dragon, seeking to stop the earth's quailing.
They say that for a long while, the land knew peace,
And that Rex Lapis gained another comrade by his side.
But in the end, the union of dragons, gods and men was perhaps not to be...
The dragon was sealed in the bowels of the earth.
The legends hold that those who triumphed over the dragon stabbed this sword into the ground next to the giant tree that subdued the ancient dragon.
As one of the seals, monsters and malevolent mortals would be unable to touch it.
Full text available here, but not necessary for this ideal world.
Liyue Market: The Jade Mystery
Care to try your luck? Roll 1d6 and see what you get. You may only roll for this gacha once.
There is a figure (Tsukasa) who seems to be paralyzed with indecision about whether or not they should partake.
Liyue Market: Solved
He stops at a booth selling an array of antiques, eyes lighting up as he examines a set of chopsticks printed with a dragon and phoenix design. He begins speaking at length of its history and cultural significance before turning to the side—
Only realize that there is no one there.
He blinks once, slow and steady, before glancing back to Wanmin restaurant, but whatever he is looking for, it seems he cannot find it. He thanks the merchant for their time before continuing on his way - heading toward a performance from one of Liyue's local poets who is currently retelling one of the tales of Rex Lapis, the Geo Archon.
Congratulations, you have cleared Liyue Market of erosion.
Mt. Aocang
Curling around Liyue Harbor is a mountain range that protects the city on all three sides not bordered by water. It is the perfect place for gods and immortals to overlook the daily lives of those they live to serve. It is also the perfect place for them to find rest and refuge to reflect on the past.
Within Mt. Aocang, there are three places to go:
The Table of the Archons: In the center of the mountains lies a lake, where an island fitted with a stone table, seven stone chairs and seven gold goblets preside. One seat is vacant, but it looks like Zhongli is saving a seat for a special person.
The Guardian Yaksha: High above the treetops and within the shadows of the mountain, you might spot a splash of vibrant color among the scenery. Use caution before preceding.
The Tree of Azhdaha: In the distance, you can see a beautiful tree, towering even over some of the nearby mountains. And it's not just its size that makes it peculiar.
You may also travel to: the docks, the marketplace, or the central pavilion.
Mt. Aocang: The Table of the Archons
A picture of the Seven here
Six archons garbed in white sit around the stone table, tattoos glowing on their skin signifying the element they hold dominion over. There is laughing and teasing and some good natured bickering as they share drink from golden goblets. Try as you might, you can only distinctly make out two of them - the short cheerful God of Freedom with large white wings that looks like one of the healers on SensitIV! And the pair of twins electro archons, the demure one sitting at the table laughing behind her hand while her warrior sister stands vigilant behind her.
Zhongli also stands behind the currently vacant Geo seat, golden horns on display as well as a long serpentine bronze tail tipped with a golden tuft. He is also garbed in white robes with arms bared revealing skin similar to black obsidian with gold geometric lines running all the way from wrist to shoulder.
Venti floats over to Zhongli with a wine glass in hand, tipped a bit too high for the intention to drink from it.
Not a god, but there is someone (Alizarin) seated next to the water, taking turns glancing from the jumping fish to the gathered crowd.
Mt. Aocang:The Five Guardian Yaksha
Five yakshas does the Lord of Geo have - one of electro, hydro, pyro and geo. Uninterested in the daily affairs of mortals, they do not approach first. And sometimes they disappear from view all together. But they are here. And they are watching.
Sakura (the anemo Yaksha) sits at the highest vantage point, one hand rested on a raised knee as he watches over Liyue Harbor from afar.
Mt. Aocang: Nantianmen (Azhdaha's tree)
The tree is as mesmerizing as it is massive - crowned in full bloom with gingko leaves and imbedded with Dragonfall crystal that pulses with the energy of geo. At the top of the tree, one large branch pulses brighter than the others. It shifts if one is to look away - changing from the cold ice of cryo to crackling electro energy.
Two figures are resting underneath the tree, one napping (Alexander) and the other (Persephone) enjoying a moment of quiet.
Mt. Aocang: Solved
The stone table lies empty, save for one human-looking Zhongli sipping tea. Two other places have been set, but their spots are currently vacant.
Try as you might, you cannot catch sight of any of the yaksha except for one green blur who keeps to himself.
The tree stands proud and tall as ever, though now a stone tablet marks this as a place to be avoided.
"Life endures in Heaven and Earth thanks to the merciful Adeptus. On this site lies an evil dragon, please do not disturb it."
Congratulations, you have cleared Mt. Aocang of erosion.
Yujing Terrace
Welcome to the Rite of Descension. Every year, the Geo Archon graces the people of Liyue with their presence, offering words of wisdom and blessing for the coming year. How fortunate it was for you to arrive on this exact day.
Within Yujing Terrance, there are two places to go and one interaction point:
The Mileleth: Security seems pretty tight around here. It never hurts to put in a good word for yourself. Probably.
The Censer: It's a device used to burn incense. While you do not physically see Zhongli, his presence lingers around here specifically more than any other location.
Offerings to the Geo Archon: If at any point, you wish to make an offering to the Geo Archon, you may do so here. It is customary for everyone to offer a suitable gift or prayer.
You might also catch some familiar faces among the crowd - two people talking quietly off toward the side (Skylark and Valor) and a horse-dragon (Pentium) watching the growing pile of offerings with interest.
You may also travel to: the docks, the marketplace, or the mountains in the distance.
Yujing Terrace: The Mileleth (Cardinal and Azhdaha)
Lupine: "There you are. I thought you'd never make it."
Stationed near the offerings from the Rite of Descension, you see a massive dragon and an avante (Cardinal) garbed in military uniform within their shadow. The dragon watches your every movement with suspicious beady eyes while Cardinal cannot help but laugh behind their hand at the spectacle.
"Now now Azhdaha, surely we can trust the Lord of Geo to look after themselves. You should enjoy the festival, too."
Yet somehow they too look ready to strike at a moment's notice.
Also present is one young lad (Rye) who is excitedly talking to Azhdaha about something you can't quite make out, a boy (Nyx) calmly watching everything from his well protected vantage point, and one more figure (Lupine) who looks like he's waiting for the action to start.
Yujing Terrace: The Censer (CR Check)
A great long bronze dragon curls around the base of the censer. As you approach, it raises its head and the fluff of its tail begins to lazily move much like a cat's tail would give away its interest.
Care to linger and enjoy the scent?
Alexander
The incense first smells of parchment. Of someone perhaps older and wiser than him who has seen the dawn and dusk of dozens of civilizations and even more mortals. Who wields experience as a tool instead of a weapon to guide others down their own paths.
Then it changes to ... well, nothing. Something devoid of any smell at all. The unknown and the unknowable. For even though there is wisdom and fairness, there is still so much more to know and to learn. (Also an uncertainty around anyone who would try to harness the power of time. That rarely goes well, doesn't it?)
The lingering smell is lavender and peppermint. Of ease and comfort and like-mindedness. Of insightful conversations and solidarity is just being two old creatures that have lived and seen so much.
Alisaie
The incense first smells of a cloudless starry night - but a comfortably warm one. Of hope and wonder and inspiration. How high can this bird fly? High enough to touch the moon perhaps. There is laughter and the scent of tea. Of pillows piled high and soft music played from a mobile device that does not quite work.
Then it changes to fire and ash. Something smoldering over too hot coals. Of watching helplessly as someone struggles against impossible odds. Of the weight of such a burden. And how it suffocates with no end in sight.
The lingering smell is geraniums and oranges. The scents of hope and confidence and pride. That she will one day not grow into the person that she wants to be -- but already realize that such a person is already in full bloom.
Alizarin
The incense first smells of a light and fruit mixed drink. It smells of laughter and curiosity. Of exchanging names and smiles and navigating new spaces and relationships. It is light and it is warm and it is very very fond.
Then it changes to the scent of blood. The blood of humans, the blood of children, the blood spilled of an entire town. It smells of a bone weary exhaustion and questions with no answers. There is mourning and there is also sorrow. But there is also compassion and kindness. It somehow shifts to second chances.
The lingering smell is that of geraniums and lavender. A wish that Alizarin might learn to love all parts of herself or perhaps even more importantly forgive what has happened in the past.
Alphinaud
The incense first smells of honey and sweets. Of musty books and warm summer days. It is the kind of warmth that follows you and coaxes you to take a rest. To pause and stop and listen. And to remember why each day is worth smiling about.
Then it changes to metal and oil and industrial machines. Of trust lost and shattered into pieces, having to put together fragment after tiny fragment. Of pain and suffering and a body that will not sleep because of it. Of buried snow and the sight of others retreating.
The lingering smell is oranges with perhaps a dash of lemon. That progress is being made step by step despite all the many set-backs. It is of hope and hearth. That one day the path chosen becomes clear and warm under a sunny sky.
Barbatos
The incense first smells of dandelion and osmanthus wine. Of cecilia and glaze lilies and long talks into the nights. Of joy and peace and irritation and exasperation. A thousand and one contradictory scents that just feel like home somehow. And feel right.
Then it changes to ash and smoke. If you could smell a color, it would be grey. An exhaustion overtakes you even if by no logical reason should a scent cause such a reaction. There is worry and concern over being stretched too thin and taking on too much. And helplessness as you take the fall again and again.
The lingering smell is sandalwood and sage. It is of peace and comfort knowing that his longest living friend is here with him, sharing this experience in addition to the many years that they have been together. And that their bond only grows stronger because of it.
Childe
The incense first smells of petrichor - welcoming rain after a long drought. It smells of being near the ocean as the sun bears down and of taking shelter under an awning during spring rain. It is of home cooked meals and warm hearths and comfort and most importantly home. It smells of the wonders that make life worth living.
Then it changes to the smell of the Abyss - impossible to describe but that you just know. It takes and it clings and it scars and there is a desperation to shield from that. To set the bones and stitch the wounds and chase away the haunted smile that says its okay. It smells of helplessness and of entering spaces he should not.
The lingering smell is sandalwood and jasmine. A dichotomy of fierce protection and setting something free. It is the hope for happiness and longevity and the understanding of struggles and darkness and turmoil. It is everything and it is nothing. And it is the freedom to find oneself while knowing there is a safety net should you stumble.
Felicity
The incense first smells of poppy and sugar. Of something light and airy and fun. Joy and wonder and curiosity that is normally worn down by the reality and logistics of the world. It is child-like without being childish.
Then it changes to the scent of oil and machinery. A slight trepidation - perhaps - of those that expand beyond their means. Of who may be watching and what may become of them. It's not a fear for her safety, no. But perhaps a deep rooted one that stays festering in his.
The lingering smell is Ylang-Ylang - the scent of joy and happiness that they may enjoy the long journey that is life.
Hurricane
The incense first smells of chicken soup. Of home and hearth and family and nights spent in the soft room covered in blankets while playing strategy games on Hurricane's phone. It smells of imperfectly brewed tea and brand new plush toys and noise and motion and sound.
Then it changes to the scent of an icy wind on a cloudless starry night. Something dark and lonely and concerned. It smells of the city and rooftops. And questions that have no answers and choices that are all unfavorable. And yet, there is still hope. A single star to guide the way.
The lingering smell is that of oranges and rosemary. A wish that Hurricane will one day feel worthy of the self-love and confidence that he sees in you.
Lupine
The incense first smells of steel and laughter. Of a confidence that is youthful and endearing. Of skills that are being honed to a fine edge so that one day one might be called a master. It is of strength and conviction and leadership and a light in the dark. It is the smell of hope.
Then it changes to dust and unstable earth. Of senseless bloodshed and singing until one's voice has given out completely. It smells of endless concern for loved ones being battered down again and again. Of too much responsibility and hardship in such a short time.
The lingering smell is sandalwood and geraniums. It is of optimism and forward thinking. Of the joy of an unknown path ahead - not of fear or dread. Of new beginnings and forging bonds and walking toward the future with eyes wide open.
Nemesis
The incense first smells of chocolate and conbini snacks. Of check-in visits and lightness and levity. It smells of distractions and youth and uncertainty but a desire to push through anyway in spite of it all.
Then it changes to the scent of coffee -- with just a little milk or is that a little bit of sugar? It smells of warmth and confusion and a Gordian knot with no talent for puzzles. Like something orbiting around the edge and not wondering if it should close the gap, but concerned all the same.
The lingering smell is that of eucalyptus and peppermint. A wish that Nemesis will find peace on the path and journey that they wish to undertake.
Nyx
The incense first smells of water - crisp and clean and cool and calming. It smells of something airy and polite. The hint of a smile and the inevitability of the sun rising and setting. It smells of something dependable.
Then it changes to the damp and cold of a room with no outlet. With no windows and no heat. Of loss not just of people and things but of self. It's lonely. With nothing but a small lantern to guide the way.
The lingering smell is that of lemongrass and sage. A wish that Nyx might find new connections and friends out of the ashes of his old life. And the warm glow of happiness at being included among them.
Pentium
The incense first smells of ironically acid. But in a good way. Take that as you will. Of help offered and help returned. Of concern shared and community. Eventually that acid shifts into a warm spice - like cinnamon. Cozy and comfortable.
Then it changes to ozone - the one warning before lightning strikes. Of rusted metal and howling in the distance. Ah, but perhaps that is a bit of a projection. For there exists a chasm between with no bridge yet to cross. And only darkness below.
The lingering smell is lemongrass. Something calm. Something soothing. Something with no expectations. Perhaps we all just need a moment of breathing space.
Persephone
The incense first smells of wisteria. That should be no surprise. It is of the calm that endures and the tranquility that protects. Of a quiet powerful voice and a steady hand. Of dancing under the moonlight and soft prayers. It smells of peace.
Then it changes to blood - the blood of oneself and one's loved ones and the helplessness in being able to protect them. It is of senseless violence and force, that which takes and takes and takes and gives naught in return. It is worry of history repeating and a reluctant motion to step aside to let the world run its course.
The lingering smell is a myriad of flowers, too many to name. But it is of community and closeness. Of a shoulder to lean on and an ear to listen. It is a net to catch and of hands to raise. It is the reminder that one is no longer alone in this world.
Rye
The incense first smells of the wind as it rushes past you at an incredible speed. It is the rush of adrenaline of flight. It is warm and it is laughter and it is infectious and it bursting with life. It is breathtakingly honest but not unkind. It is firm but not unbending. It is the buddings of a beginning friendship.
Then it changes to a still sky - a void where no winds reaches. It is uncertainty and confusion and a chasm that cannot be crossed. It is the fear of the unknown that goes hand in hand with all new beginnings.
The lingering smell is eucalyptus - of a comforting smile and a kind word. A tepid curiosity to see what the wider world has to offer. It is of limitless possibilities but practical applications. It is something timeless and classic. It is the song and sight and smell of dragons.
Skylark
The incense first smells of a sunny day upon the pier. Not a cloud in the sky and the water cool and calm. There is a peace and tranquility there - a simplicity that for some does not come easy. But also a curiosity - for better or worse - to try and see what is held beyond.
Then it changes to something chilled - like the wind across an icy lake. Like snow as it sticks to metal. Of split loyalties. Decisive actions. Choices that were made and buried. And a quiet worry of the lingering aftereffects.
The lingering smell is peppermint and rosemary. Of one who walks the path with confidence though the road ahead is unknown. It also feels of individualism - a sense of self - and knowing that keeping that close and precious is the best advice of all.
Tsukasa
The incense first smells of the stage. Of lights and poise and precise movements and an even more precise voice. Of the crowd's rapt attention and the feeling of coming alive - that this is your moment. It also smells of cheer and warmth and sunshine. Perhaps something sweet like a baked good. Like you're ready to take on the world.
Then it changes to the smell of tears. A wave of concern for all the times he has seen you staring with unseeing eyes at the carnage of a heartless game. Of the weight that sits on those shoulders and of a guilt that can not be shaken. It is sadness for growing up in a age where kindness is a scarcity.
The lingering smell is lavender. A wish for peace - your peace. That you may know rest in the tumultuous world around you. That the good times outweigh the bad and not to blame oneself for the horrors seen. And perhaps most of all, it is time - time to heal, time to laugh, time to love, and time to live.
Valor
The incense first smells of leather and sakura blossoms. It smells of potential and curiosity that is both limitless and cautious at the same time. It's a very neutral smell that neither draws in or repels.
Then it changes to the smell of lumber and steel and heavy machinery. It smells of cold and calculated retribution - an eye for an eye as it were. But also perhaps a touch of pity. Even less of understanding. And perhaps just a little confusion.
The lingering smell is that of ylang-ylang. An agreement that one must always forge their own path and see it to its completion.
Xiao
The incense first smells of almond tofu. Of friendship and loyalty and trust and respect. Of a name given and a contract returned. It is of the crisp clear air one can only feel on the tallest roof overlooking everything and the warm sun overhead. Of lantern light and laughter. It smells of home.
Then it changes to the smell of darkness and dreams. Of unpaid debt that lingers on and on. Of medicine and solitude and watching people from afar but never interacting. It is of concern of falling back into old bad habits and the fear of lost progress.
The lingering smell is if orange and lavender. The one day he might discover his own desires and own path with the urgings or orders of another. The the path forward could be limitless if only one knew how to take advantage of it.
Yujing Terrace: Solved
Watch until 1:00 if you want the visual
Well, some god was supposed to descend from the Heavens today, but not like this. One noodle dragon falls to earth with a distinct splatting sound.
When the dust clears, you see the dragon lying dead upon the table of offerings. Around you, people panic and scream about the death of Rex Lapis, the god and protector of Liyue for over 3,700 years.
At the edge of the Pavilion, you catch a glimpse of Zhongli who watches all of this with a blank expression before slipping back into the chaos of the crowd.
Congratulations, you have cleared the Rite of Descension of erosion.
The False Rite of Descension
From the skies, a woman descends, almost too radiant to look at head on. In fact, though you are clearly looking directly at her, she seems indistinct. Hazy. Like a dream or a memory that has faded around the edges. Of what you can make out, she is garbed in whites and indigo, glaze lilies tucked up in her hair, and walks the line of elegance and mischievousness.
The Lord of Geo Guizhong smiles - soft but ultimately sad as she holds out her arms to you in a welcoming gesture.
"Greetings, Traveler. I am Guizhong, Rex Lapis, Lord of Geo and God of Dust. Welcome to my Rite of Descension. Would you like to receive my blessing for another year?"
Secret Ending: Wrath of the Rock
Zhongli appears before you. Or at least you think it is Zhongli - never before have you seen him wear such a cold expression on his face. Black corrupted energy coils around him, making it hard to move. Hard to breathe. Hard to think.
Ah, so this is what it feels like to face the wrath of a god.
"Who dares to break their word in front of the God of Contracts? Without fairness, without order, there is nothing but chaos.
And I will not allow such a world to come into being."
Zhongli turns his molten golden eyes toward the group, spear in hand, as he raises his arm for the first strike. Not only does the ground tremble under your feet, but the heavens also quake with the unfettered power of the true Lord of Geo.
The battle begins.
Secret Ending: Victory (Zhongli's Loss)
And yet as he raises his head, he looks nothing but relieved and grateful.
"Personally sealing away an old friend… this is just one form of erosion I have endured.
To have to do that to you as well…"
A genuine smile graces his lips as his eyes rise up to the stars.
"Thank you for upholding your side of the contract. Thank you for overcoming my erosion.
May the blessing of the Seven go with you."
And as Zhongli scatters to the four corners of Liyue as nothing more than bright golden motes - you can feel the warmth of it. Watch as countless other motes and energies rise up from all across Liyue and circle around until they wink out of sight like fireworks. Like lantern lite dispersing into the sky.
You feel that at this moment Zhongli is truly at peace.
Secret Ending: Failure (Zhongli's Victory)
Broken, bleeding, twisted. You cannot feel your limbs for the spears of stone impaled upon them. You cannot lift your head for the weight of the earth holding you down. It's hard to breathe and getting more difficult by the second.
Zhongli glances down at you, eyes unfeeling as if they were carved from stone itself. There is not a trace of emotion on his face as he levels his spear against the vulnerable skin of your throat. No anger, no betrayal, no joy, no hesitation.
"Such is the end for those who would dare to renege on their contract."
His spear comes down.
And the world goes black as you are trapped for an eternity under unfeeling unmoving rock.