Chapter 42: A Plan for the Sea of Clouds

Morning arrived in Liyue Harbor, the sun casting a soft golden glow over the city. The streets buzzed with early risers, fishermen hauling their first catch, and merchants setting up their stalls for the day. Aether stood at the edge of the harbor, watching the city wake as the cool breeze brushed against his face. Today marked the next step of their journey—to the Sea of Clouds, where the third fragment awaited.

His thoughts were interrupted by the familiar sound of Amber's excited voice. "Good morning, Aether!" she greeted, practically bouncing on her feet. "Ready for the big adventure?"

Aether smiled at her enthusiasm. "As ready as I'll ever be. Have you seen Rosaria?"

Amber tilted her head. "She's probably still sleeping. You know how she is, always staying up late."

Aether chuckled. Rosaria's nocturnal habits were no secret. "I guess we'll let her rest a bit longer. We'll need her sharp for what's ahead."

As they continued to chat, Lisa appeared, her usual calm demeanor in place. "I trust you both slept well?" she asked, her gaze sharp despite the casual tone.

Aether nodded. "We did. Have you heard from Zhongli yet?"

Lisa sighed lightly. "Not yet, but I expect him soon. The Sea of Clouds isn't exactly a place one can walk into unprepared."

"Unprepared for what?" Rosaria's voice cut through the conversation as she approached, looking as composed as ever, despite just waking up.

"The next fragment lies somewhere in the Sea of Clouds," Lisa explained, "but it's heavily guarded. Zhongli mentioned we might need additional help to get past the defenses."

Rosaria shrugged, not the least bit concerned. "I figured it wouldn't be that simple. But we'll manage."

Aether was about to respond when Zhongli arrived, his stride deliberate and commanding as always. "Good morning, everyone," he greeted with a slight bow. His eyes landed on Aether. "I trust you're ready for the next step of your journey?"

"We are," Aether replied. "But you mentioned something about needing help?"

Zhongli nodded thoughtfully. "Indeed. The Sea of Clouds is home to many ancient and formidable creatures—guardians left behind from a time long past. Their purpose is to protect what lies hidden there. I do not believe you will be able to retrieve the fragment without their interference."

"So, what do you suggest?" Aether asked, knowing full well that Zhongli rarely spoke without offering a solution.

"I have arranged for you to meet with some of Liyue's most capable defenders. They know the Sea of Clouds well and can guide you through its perils. However," he paused, his gaze darkening, "their assistance comes with its own challenges. Convincing them to join your cause will not be easy."

"Great," Rosaria muttered under her breath, arms crossed. "More obstacles."

"Who exactly are we meeting?" Amber asked, her curiosity piqued.

Zhongli's expression softened slightly, as if recalling old memories. "You will meet Beidou, the leader of the Crux Fleet, and her crew. Few know the Sea of Clouds as well as they do, having sailed its treacherous waters time and again. But Beidou is not one to give her loyalty easily. You must prove to her that your cause is worth fighting for."

Amber's eyes widened with excitement. "Beidou! I've heard so much about her! This is going to be amazing!"

Aether smiled at Amber's excitement but quickly refocused on the task ahead. "How do we prove ourselves to her?"

Zhongli stroked his chin thoughtfully. "Beidou respects strength and determination. If you can demonstrate both, she will consider aiding you. But be prepared—her tests are not for the faint-hearted."

Rosaria smirked. "Sounds like fun."

"Where do we find her?" Aether asked, already mentally preparing for the next challenge.

"Her fleet is docked at Guyun Stone Forest, just off the coast," Zhongli explained. "Make your way there, and you will find her."

Aether nodded, feeling the weight of the responsibility once again. But as always, he had his companions by his side. "We'll head out immediately."

Zhongli placed a hand on Aether's shoulder, his gaze steady. "Remember, Traveler, this journey will test more than just your strength. It will test your resolve, your spirit. But you are not alone. Your companions will carry you through the storm."

Aether smiled gratefully. "Thank you, Zhongli."

The group gathered their belongings and made their way out of Liyue Harbor, the bustling city quickly giving way to the serene coastline. As they approached the docks, the Crux Fleet came into view, its ships large and imposing against the horizon. The air was filled with the scent of salt and the sound of waves crashing against the shore.

Aether could see Beidou's ship, the Alcor, standing proudly among the fleet. Sailors moved about, preparing for their next voyage, their movements coordinated and efficient. The crew exuded confidence, and Aether knew this would be no easy task.

"Well, here we are," Amber said, her voice a mix of excitement and nerves. "Time to meet the infamous Beidou."

Rosaria glanced at Aether. "Ready for another challenge?"

Aether nodded, his resolve firm. "Always."

As they approached the Alcor, a woman with an unmistakable presence stood at the top of the gangplank. Her long, dark hair flowed in the wind, and the confident smile on her face made it clear that this was a person who thrived in the face of danger.

"Welcome aboard," Beidou called out, her voice carrying over the sounds of the sea. "I hear you've come to ask for my help. But I don't give it for free. You'll have to earn it."

Aether stepped forward, meeting her gaze without hesitation. "Then tell us what we need to do."

Beidou's smile widened, her eyes glinting with challenge. "Let's see if you've got what it takes to sail with the Crux Fleet."