Chapter 41: Returning to Liyue Harbor

The descent from the Chasm was less eventful than the journey in, but Aether and Rosaria remained alert. After battling the Abyss Herald, they knew the Abyss Order would not back down so easily. The second crystal fragment they had retrieved felt heavier in Aether's pocket, pulsing softly with a power they still didn't fully understand.

The moment they crossed the threshold into Liyue, a sense of calm and familiarity settled over Aether. The city's grand peaks and lively streets were like a reassuring presence, reminding him that there were places in Teyvat untouched by the Abyss's chaos—at least, for now.

Amber was waiting at the city gates when they arrived, her face lighting up as soon as she spotted them. "You're back! Did you get the fragment?"

Aether nodded, pulling it out briefly. Its soft glow flickered in the dim light of the evening. "We did, but the Abyss Order was there. We ran into another Herald."

Amber's face darkened, her usual energetic demeanor dimming slightly. "That makes two now. Do you think they know where the next fragment is?"

Lisa, who had also come to greet them, hummed in thought, placing a finger to her chin. "The Abyss Order is relentless. If they've already gotten this far, it's only a matter of time before they find the other fragments. We'll need to stay one step ahead."

Rosaria crossed her arms, her sharp gaze sweeping over the horizon. "Desperate or determined, they're not going to stop. We need to be ready for whatever they throw at us next."

As they made their way into Liyue Harbor, the familiar sights and sounds of the bustling city greeted them. Even in the evening, the streets were full of life—merchants closing shop, sailors preparing for another day's voyage, and locals enjoying the cool breeze by the docks. It was easy to forget, amidst the hustle, that danger was lurking just beyond the city's borders.

Zhongli awaited them by the pier, his expression calm and composed as always. The moment Aether showed him the second fragment, Zhongli's eyes gleamed with recognition.

"You've done well," Zhongli said, his deep voice carrying a weight of understanding. "These fragments hold more than just power. They are pieces of ancient knowledge that predates even the Archons. The Abyss Order seeks this knowledge to undo the balance we've fought so hard to maintain."

Aether frowned. "We barely made it out of the Chasm. If they manage to collect all the fragments, what will happen?"

Zhongli's gaze was distant as he looked out over the waters. "The Abyss Order intends to awaken an ancient force long sealed away. This power, if unleashed, could tip the scales of Teyvat into chaos. Your mission is not just to stop the Abyss Order; you must gather the remaining fragments and safeguard them."

Lisa raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "So these fragments… They're not just weapons, are they?"

Zhongli shook his head slowly. "No, they are more than tools of war. They hold the knowledge of the gods—secrets that could reshape Teyvat itself. But that knowledge is dangerous in the wrong hands."

Amber's enthusiasm returned in full force. "So, what's next? Where's the next fragment?"

Zhongli turned back to them, his eyes sharp. "The next fragment lies in the heart of the Sea of Clouds. But be warned—the path to it is treacherous, and the forces that guard it will not yield easily. You will need strength and perhaps even allies from Liyue's most formidable protectors to succeed."

Rosaria gave a small nod. "If we've handled this much, we can take on whatever's ahead."

Amber pumped her fists, her usual optimism infectious. "Right! We've come this far, and we're not about to let the Abyss Order win!"

Aether couldn't help but smile at his companions' determination. Still, a part of him remained wary. Each step brought them closer to a greater danger, and they couldn't afford to make mistakes. The Abyss Order had already proven how far they were willing to go.

"We'll rest for now," Aether said. "Tomorrow, we make our plans for the Sea of Clouds."

The group dispersed for the evening, each retreating to their quarters to prepare for the journey ahead. Aether found a quiet spot by the docks, where the gentle sound of waves lapping against the harbor soothed his racing thoughts. Holding the fragment, he stared at the flickering light it gave off. There was still so much he didn't know—about the Abyss Order, about the fragments, and even about himself.

Rosaria approached silently, her footsteps barely audible. "You're overthinking again."

Aether glanced up, offering a small smile. "Maybe. It's just... these fragments. There's more to them, isn't there?"

Rosaria leaned against the railing, her eyes fixed on the horizon. "Zhongli said they're pieces of ancient knowledge. That kind of power doesn't just exist without a price."

Aether nodded. "That's what worries me. The Abyss Order is willing to go to such lengths to get them. What do they know that we don't?"

Rosaria smirked. "They might know something we don't. But you've got something they'll never have—people who trust you, who'll fight by your side. Don't forget that."

Her words settled in Aether's chest, a reminder that despite the growing challenges, he wasn't alone in this fight. His eyes softened as he looked at her, appreciating the unexpected comfort in her blunt honesty.

"Thanks, Rosaria," he said quietly.

She shrugged, glancing back at him with a mischievous glint. "Don't get too soft, Traveler. You've still got a long road ahead."

As Rosaria walked away, Aether's resolve only grew stronger. Whatever challenges awaited them in the Sea of Clouds, he knew they would face them together. Tomorrow would bring new trials, but for tonight, he allowed himself a moment of peace.