Chapter 35: Ad Astra Abyssosque!
(Authors Note:
Aight, I am back from my contemplations.
The release will now be back on regular schedules as I have already written a few advance chapters to ensure I have spare if ever the magical block hits me again.
Enjoy.)
(Dante POV)
Time flew by, and after a couple of hours, Aether, and I found ourselves standing outside the wooden walls of Cecilia Village.
"Is this a Village? This looks like a town to me." I muttered towards Aether.
"Indeed, this place is more fittingly described as a town rather than a village," Aether remarked as we joined the line to enter what was labeled as Cecilia Village.
The bustling activity and numerous buildings suggested a much larger and more developed settlement than we had anticipated.
After a few minutes of standing in line, the two of us reached the wooden gates guarded by two middle-aged men wearing the uniform of the Knights of Favonius.
"Two travelers, huh? May I see your identification papers?" a guard requested.
"Eh? Papers?" I replied reflexively, startled, glancing towards Aether.
'Come to think of it, the chat didn't assign me an identity this time. Hmm, maybe it wasn't necessary. Since parts of Genshin resemble the Medieval period, it should be understandable for a countryside kid to roam around for an adventure.' I let my thoughts wander as Aether met my gaze with a confused expression.
We stared at each other for a few seconds until one of the guards coughed a few times to get our attention.
Scratching my head, I turned my gaze toward the guard before saying, "Uhm, can we not enter without papers? I mean the other guys before us simply passed by."
With a wry smile, the guard explained, "The reason those people were allowed easy access is that most of them are either natives returning from hunting or from nearby villages, coming here for trade."
"Is that so? Is there a way for us to obtain identification papers?" Aether asked the guard.
"We're from a secluded tribe, and this is our first time venturing out for an adventure. We don't know much about the outside." With an expression fitting for his teen-like face, Aether continued his act.
'Damn, this guy is really experienced at this. Was he putting on an act from the start? Then again, he and Lumine are seasoned world travelers, so they must have faced situations like this countless times before.' Nodding to myself, I continued to watch his performance.
"I see. That is understandable, then again, since you're both embarking on an adventure, I recommend joining the Adventurer's Guild. The guild card serves as a valid identification across the continent." With a nod the guard replied.
"The Adventurers' Guild, huh? I've heard about them. We're interested in joining. Could we enter and register at the guild?" Aether asked.
"Alright, this time I'll let you pass. Security hasn't always been this strict, to be honest. It's just that lately, a group of unruly Fatui have been causing trouble in Mondstadt's capital city. Also, consider this a warning from an old man: if you encounter anyone wearing masks, it's best to steer clear of them, as those individuals are always up to something," the guard explained sternly before smiling and directing us towards the Adventurers' Guild, then allowing us to enter the gate.
"A kind old guard, I respect that," I muttered before gazing at Aether.
"Still, identification papers. Your source material didn't mention anything about that, but then again, it was just a game, and developers wouldn't bother asking for IDs every time you pass through gates unless it's part of the plot. That was some good acting though; I assume it's not your first time," I muttered quietly, audible only to Aether walking beside me.
Observing the blonde, youthful man, I noticed a fleeting moment where his gaze wandered into contemplation before responding.
"Indeed, Lumine and I often encounter such challenges when first arriving in a new city within a world. Although we could theoretically bypass the gates and enter unlawfully, we've adopted a rule: when exploring a new world, we immerse ourselves in its norms and procedures. Thus, we enter through the proper channels, as any respectful visitor would," Aether replied wistfully, his voice tinged with nostalgia.
Patting his shoulder gently, I spoke in a serious tone that softened into teasing at the end, "Don't worry. Your sister will be safe. The chat has our backs, even with the unpleasant circumstances surrounding its acquisition. Together, we'll ensure nothing bad happens—we've got your back. And I'll make sure my wife doesn't get hurt while she carries out her evil schemes."
While not really my style, I encouraged Aether while livening the gloomy atmosphere.
Aether chuckled warmly and replied, "To receive comfort from someone not even a fraction of my age. My apologies for my less-than-ideal appearance, and I appreciate your concern. "
"However, I don't intend to hand over my sister easily. You'll have to work really hard to earn my approval," he said, his tone firm yet lighthearted and playful, adding a touch of youthful challenge to our exchange.
After that brief exchange, a peaceful silence settled between us, imbuing our journey with a serene tranquility.
The air around us was tranquil yet comforting as we followed the old guard's directions with purposeful steps.
We came to a halt in front of a small brick building painted in shades of green and touches of white, reminiscent of the outfit the receptionist bionic waifu Katherine usually wore.
"Adventurers Guild, Cecilla Village Branch." I read the words written on the wooden placard.
'Come to think of it, I didn't notice at first because the first world I entered was the Academic City in Japan, where the words and writings were in Japanese. However, here in Teyvat, it's different. Despite not recognizing the writing, I could magically read and understand what the old guard was saying, even though it was clearly not in Japanese. This is probably the chat's doing. Still, I wonder how strong the translation is. I mean, there are things like Runes and Dragon Tongue, right? Will the chat translate those too? Thoughts for another time.' Lost in contemplation, my feet continued to move forward as Aether pushed the door of the Adventurers' Guild.
As the door swung open with a gentle ring of the bell, the scent of wood and parchment wafted through the air.
A melodious voice then greeted us, "Ad Astra Abyssosque! Welcome to the Adventurers Guild!"