Chapter 24: Meeting the Adepti

The air around the temple at Jueyun Karst was thick with ancient energy, palpable even to those untrained in magic. The towering mountains loomed overhead, and the temple's stone doors, adorned with intricate carvings of gods, mythical creatures, and celestial battles, stood as a testament to the power that had protected Liyue for centuries. Aether could feel the weight of that power pressing down on him, urging him to be cautious, to tread carefully.

"Do we just knock?" Amber asked, her eyes wide as she took in the grandeur of the temple.

Aether gave a slight smile at her enthusiasm. "It doesn't hurt to try."

Just as he stepped toward the massive doors, a sudden gust of wind swept through the area, and a figure descended from the stone steps of the temple with an effortless grace. The man was tall and composed, his long white hair flowing like silk in the breeze. His golden eyes gleamed with wisdom, and his ornate robes shimmered with the faint glow of Geo energy.

"You seek the Adepti," the man spoke, his voice deep and resonant. "I am Zhongli, a consultant for the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor and one of the Adepti who guards this land. What brings mortals to this sacred place?"

Aether stepped forward, his voice steady. "We've come from Mondstadt, where the Abyss Order has been growing stronger. There have been signs of their activity here in Liyue, and we believe they're planning something dangerous."

Zhongli's golden gaze lingered on them for a moment before he nodded. "Indeed, the Abyss Order has been active in Liyue. They seek to upset the delicate balance of this land, to corrupt its ancient powers. The Adepti have sensed their movements, but there are other forces in play as well."

Rosaria, standing silently beside Aether, narrowed her eyes. "Other forces?"

Zhongli's expression remained calm. "The Qixing, Liyue's governing body, have their own interests. Their relationship with the Adepti is… complicated. You may offer your assistance, but be warned—Liyue is not like Mondstadt. There are ancient traditions and powers here that must be respected."

Lisa, her ever-present smirk tugging at her lips, said, "Oh, we're not here to stir the pot. Just to lend a hand."

Zhongli turned, gesturing for them to follow. "Very well. Come with me. I will explain what you need to know."

The group followed Zhongli up the stone steps and through the temple's grand entrance. Inside, the temple was awe-inspiring—its vast hallways lined with golden statues and murals depicting the gods and Adepti in battle. The Geo energy coursed through every stone, a reminder of the ancient power that still held sway over this land.

"The Adepti have guarded Liyue for millennia," Zhongli explained as they walked. "We do not interfere with mortal affairs often, but the Abyss Order's plans cannot be ignored. They are targeting places of great power, locations tied to Liyue's history and strength."

Aether absorbed Zhongli's words, his mind racing. The Abyss Order had nearly torn Mondstadt apart, and now they were making moves in Liyue. Whatever they were planning, it was bigger than anything they had faced before.

"We need to know where they'll strike next," Aether said, his voice steady. "If we can get ahead of them, we can stop their plans."

Zhongli nodded thoughtfully. "There are rumors of strange activity near the ruins of the Guizhong Ballista. It is an ancient weapon from the Archon War, a place of great significance. If the Abyss Order seeks to disrupt Liyue's defenses, they may try to harness its power."

Amber, her eyes wide with curiosity, asked, "The Guizhong Ballista? What's that?"

Zhongli smiled faintly. "A massive siege weapon, crafted long ago to defend Liyue. It has not been used in centuries, but its power remains dormant. The Abyss Order may seek to awaken it for their own purposes."

Aether clenched his fists, feeling the weight of the responsibility before him. "Then we need to stop them before they get the chance."

Zhongli turned to face the group, his golden eyes serious. "Be warned, Traveler. The Abyss Order has grown stronger since their defeat in Mondstadt. They will not hold back, and the threats you face here will be unlike anything you've encountered before."

Aether met his gaze, unwavering. "We've faced them before, and we'll face them again. We won't let them win."

There was a brief silence as Zhongli studied Aether, then he nodded approvingly. "Very well. I will provide what aid I can. The Adepti will not allow Liyue to fall."

With their mission clear, the group left the temple with a renewed sense of purpose. The journey to the Guizhong Ballista would take them deeper into Liyue's wilds, and the danger would only increase as they got closer. But Aether felt more prepared than ever. He wasn't just a lone traveler anymore—he had allies, friends, and now, the strength of the Adepti on his side.

Amber, always upbeat, grinned as they walked. "Looks like we've got our next mission! I can't wait to see what this Guizhong Ballista looks like!"

Lisa, ever playful, chuckled. "Oh, I'm sure it'll be quite the sight. But don't forget, we're here to stop the Abyss Order, not to admire ancient weapons."

Rosaria remained quiet, but her eyes were sharp, her focus already on the path ahead. Aether could sense her readiness, her resolve to see this mission through.

As they made their way toward the Guizhong Ballista, Aether couldn't shake the feeling of anticipation that had settled in his chest. Liyue was a land of mysteries, and the Abyss Order was growing bolder with every passing day. But with his companions by his side, Aether knew they were ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.

"We're going to stop them," Aether said quietly, his voice filled with conviction. "No matter what it takes."

Rosaria nodded, her eyes gleaming with determination. "Together."

The road ahead was long, and the shadow of the Abyss Order loomed larger than ever. But Aether knew that with the bonds he had forged, they could face anything that came their way.