Chapter 55: Lesser Lord Kusanali

(Chapter 55 Lesser Lord Kusanali)

At the harbor of the Institute, a bustling scene unfolded as porters and Mekas worked tirelessly to load essential supplies onto the Dreadnought, ensuring that Tempest's expedition would be well-equipped to survive the harsh conditions of the desert. In the distance, a carrier ship could be seen steadily approaching the harbor. Tempest had sent a messenger hawk to Stormwind the day before, requesting a ship capable of transporting horses and the newly acquired inventions from Hatsume. The arrival of this vessel marked the final preparations for the journey ahead.

"Ah, this uniform looks amazing on me! It fits me perfectly, and the color scheme is just a chef's kiss!"

Hatsume exclaimed, admiring the sleek black fabric and the navy hat perched on her head. Her signature goggles hung casually around her neck, completing the look as she continued to spin with delight.

As they stood beside the imposing Siege Engines, Tempest turned to Hatsume, he was curious, but his curiosity was masked by his emotionless face.

"So, how did you come up with the idea to invent these?"

Tempest asked, gesturing towards the formidable machines she had created.

"Originally, I set out to create a machine that could carry heavy cargo, something that wouldn't tire out like horses do. These babies can travel without getting exhausted, though they are a bit slower than horses. But they can carry far more weight, and they can be powered by either Pneuma or Ousia. When I heard you were coming to the Institute, I decided to add a cannon on top and seal the top. Everyone thought I was crazy, asking what on Teyvat I was going to do with a war machine! But I had this gut feeling that you'd appreciate it and want it in your arsenal. So, yeah, I pretty much gambled all my wages, hoping you'd let me work for you."

Hatsume explained to Tempest, her enthusiasm bubbling over.

"Well, you've succeeded, Hatsume. I'll honor my promise. I'll fund every project of yours, even the ones that might not seem useful to me. But in return, I expect you to keep inventing things that will be invaluable to my navy."

Tempest said, meeting Hatsume's gaze with a serious expression.

"Got it, chief! You have my word!"

Hatsume replied with a bright smile, her enthusiasm infectious. Tempest nodded, satisfied with her response. Moments later, a group of voluntary researchers arrived, ready to take their positions as pilots for the Siege Engines.

"Right! I almost forgot to mention. Director Denis informed me that we don't need to bring back the lesser Primal Constructs after all. We only need their cores. The main priority is retrieving the Warden-Class Primal Construct!"

Hatsume said, her excitement renewed. With that, she dashed off to coordinate with her colleagues.

"Hm."

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In the Sanctuary of Surasthana, despite her imprisonment, she remains steadfast in her role as Archon. From her confinement, she continues to fulfill her duties by vigilantly overseeing her people through the Akasha System. She is the God of wisdom, Lesser Lord Kusanali.

"I sense something powerful on the horizon... No, it is not something, but someone. They are coming to Sumeru."

Nahida's eyes widened as she detected an overwhelming presence on the horizon. It was not merely a force but an individual approaching Sumeru. Anxiety gripped her as she sensed the powerful entity's approach, unsure of whether this visitor meant good or ill for her people. Though she was confined within her cage, her heart raced with the urgency to act.

"I require someone with an Akasha Terminal in the desert to investigate further. This individual's power is concerning and I must find out who they are."

Nahida muttered to herself, her voice tinged with worry. She frantically searched for someone equipped with an Akasha Terminal currently in the desert, but her efforts yielded no results. The growing sense of urgency and uncertainty only intensified her anxiety as she struggled to find a solution.

"Wait... He is wearing one?"

Nahida's eyes widened in surprise as she realized that the individual she had been so concerned about was indeed wearing an Akasha Terminal. Her worry deepened, knowing that this mysterious person was connected to the Akasha system.

"Should I...?"

Nahida hesitated, contemplating whether she should connect herself to this person's Akasha Terminal. After a moment of deep reflection, she took a steadying breath and made her decision. With a determined resolve, she initiated the connection, bracing herself for whatever revelations or challenges might come from this link.

"Hello...?"

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After two days at sea, Tempest's small fleet, comprising his flagship, the Dreadnought, and the carrier ship loaded with horses and Siege Engines, was nearing the waters of Sumeru. Seated in the comfort of his private chambers, Tempest rested his head on his hand as he listened to a soothing song, a gift from The Family, played by his record player.

♫Let my heart bravely spread the wings~♫

♫Soaring past the night~♫

♫To trace the bright moonlight~♫

♫Let the clouds heal me of the stings~♫

♫Gently wipe the sorrow off my life~♫

♫I dream~♫

"Attention all sailors! We are approaching the coast of Sumeru. Please ensure that everything is prepared, as we will be deploying the landing crafts as soon as the ship reaches the lagoon!"

The captain of the Dreadnought announced, his voice booming through every horn on the ship.

Tempest's eyes fluttered open, the calming melody of Robin's song having lulled him into a state of relaxation. As he began to stir, he reached over to stop the record player, the soft music coming to an end. He stood up, stretching his limbs and shaking off the last remnants of drowsiness.

He pulled out his Akasha Terminal from his pocket, holding it delicately between his fingers.

'Remember, Your Grace, to activate the Akasha Terminal, simply state, 'May the Mighty God bless us with their voice of wisdom.''

Director Denis's voice echoed in Tempest's mind, reminding him.

"May the Mighty God bless us with their voice of wisdom."

Tempest muttered to himself. As he spoke the words, the Akasha Terminal began to glow softly. He carefully placed it to his ear, waiting for the connection to establish.

"Mm? I can't seem to access anything, seems like I still need to register first..."

Tempest muttered to himself, noting that the Akasha System was denying access due to his lower clearance level.

'Hello...?"

As Tempest was about to remove his Akasha Terminal, a voice suddenly called out to him. His eyes widened in surprise, and he paused, intrigued by the unexpected contact.

"Who's there? Show yourself."

Tempest muttered to himself, his face darkening.

'I'm afraid. I can't do that...'

Nahida's voice responded softly in Tempest's mind.

"Why not? Are you the voice of this system or something? The one who provides information to Akasha holders?"

Tempest inquired, his curiosity piqued by the mysterious voice.

'No, let me explain. I am merely using the Akasha Terminal to communicate with you.'

Nahida clarified through Tempest's mind.

"I see, then let me guess, are you the Dendro Archon, or am I mistaken?"

Tempest inquired, trying to discern Nahida's identity.

After a brief silence, Nahida answered.

'That is correct, I am the Archon of Dendro, the successor of Greater Lord Rukkhadevata, also known as Lesser Lord Kusanali. I must ask you, what brings you to Sumeru? And how did you know, who I was?'

Nahida's voice echoed in Tempest's mind, a mix of curiosity and concern evident in her tone.

"Just a wild guess. I assure you, I am not here to conquer or threaten your people, provided they do not provoke me or my men first. I swear to you, I have no ulterior motives. I am here simply to obtain something from the desert."

Tempest's voice was calm and sincere as he spoke to Nahida, hoping to alleviate any concerns she might have.

'I see, but it's difficult for me to trust a stranger like you, especially when you radiate such powerful energy. While I cannot blindly trust you, I can, however, offer you a deal. If you allow me to observe you through the Akasha Terminal, it would appease my concerns and allow me to keep an eye on your actions. This way, I can ensure that your presence here remains in line with your stated intentions.'

Nahida said to Tempest, offering him a deal.

"And If I refuse?"

Tempest asked, testing Nahida.

'I...'

Nahida hesitated to answer, aware that if Tempest refused her offer, her options were limited. Trapped within her confinement, she had little means to directly influence or intervene in his actions.

Tempest sighed and, after a moment, responded.

"Very well. Use my eyes to your heart's content. Perhaps you could even guide us through the desert if needed."

'I'll do my best, Tempest Proudmoore.'

Nahida said through Tempest's mind, in response, Tempest raised an eyebrow, as he did not remember giving his name to Nahida.

"How did you know my name?"

Tempest asked Nahida.

'Oh, excuse me for the intrusion. I took a moment to review your memories and discovered that your name is Tempest Proudmoore. Would it be acceptable for me to delve further into your memories, or should I refrain from doing so?'

Nahida asked, curious about his background and intentions.

"No no. Feel free to delve deeper, if it helps with introductions. I look forward to our collaboration, Young Pasha."

Tempest said, granting Nahida permission to explore his memories while referring to her with the title 'Young Pasha'.

'Young Pasha?'

"It means 'Lord', Young Pasha."