Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It starts with a meeting. Well, most anything does for the UA staff. Anything from class schedules to grand events like the Sports Festival require meetings to ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible.

Well, not that much of most Class A’s planning has gone to plan. Especially the USJ and the training camp. The students had settled in nicely to the dorms and Bakugo had been checked over and deemed unharmed besides the few scrapes from the metal cuffs he’d been held in.

And, of course, that's when everything had to go to shit. 

Nezu had summoned them to share some exciting news. Which also takes us to now, where they are gathered in a silent meeting room. 

Nezu’s rhythmic typing is the only thing filling the silence, the teachers surrounding him all silent or looking over files and papers yet to be graded.

Eventually, Nezu pulls up an email. An email from Asmoday, Teyvat Academy’s principal. The teachers look at one another with varying levels of shock. Although nobody says anything, it’s very clear what Nezu wants them to do.

Infiltrate and find evidence of Teyvat Academy’s wrongdoings.

Finally, after what seemed like hours of unending silence, Nezu finally cleared his throat and turned to read the email out to them. This was completely redundant, but it wasn’t as if they could say much about it. Besides, Nezu could divulge other information not said in the email.

Dearest Principal Nezu,

We have talked amongst ourselves and have to make a decision regarding your proposal for a teachers-only exchange program. We, the Teyvat Academy staff, collectively and unanimously, have decided to accept your proposal to send 3 of your teachers. 

Regarding our side, we will hold up our side of the deal and will send both a student and an overseer. This is to make sure that the students that are selected to come to Teyvat Academy will not cause problems, and that our teachers/overseers can work cooperatively.

If you have any more questions, please email me at your convenience.

Sincerely,

Asmoday, Teyvat Academy Principal

Once every teacher had read the email, they all looked at Nezu expectantly. Nezu looked over to make sure everyone had finished reading and began to speak. “Principal Asmoday has accepted my request to send 3 teachers in a supposed ‘exchange program’. Three teachers that I have personally selected will be sent to Teyvat for the length of one month to uncover any evidence of child abuse, mistreatment and cult dealings,”

A blond man raises his hand to speak, Nezu nods. “And who exactly have you picked? Not only that but how will we enter Teyvat airspace, much less its waters?”

There was the problem, how to enter Teyvat. For as long as anyone knew, Teyvat was surrounded by incredibly dangerous winds and lightning storms. Radio signals would cut off and pilots would lose control of planes, many would lose their lives trying to record any sort of information on Teyvat’s atmosphere.

The situation on Teyvat’s seas wasn’t any better. The lightning strikes were strong enough to break apart ships and the winds would reach violent typhoon levels that would tip over hardy ships. Submarines would find themselves being pushed back gently, then incredibly violently when reaching Teyvat seas.

Had any of the outer world’s citizens taken a look closer, they would find that it was the Archons' will keeping out all ships and planes and whatever they threw at them. But as it stood, they all believed that Archonism was but a cult that brainwashed even the purest of children to keep the Teyvat’s people within and unaware of the real world.

Nezu began to speak again, “I have received word that you will be boarding a Teyvatian ship, The Alcor, manned by the Crux Fleet. Its captain, Beidou, and her adoptive son, Kaedehara Kazuha, will welcome you aboard. You will enter Teyvat through one of the many port cities.

As for who has been chosen, that would be you Toshinori, alongside Aizawa and Sekijirou. Do prepare your classes accordingly and leave your lesson plans with the appropriate substitutes,” Nezu ended his speech. The teachers all had varying levels of shock on their faces, and while they may have been speechless at the moment, they’d have plenty to say in the teacher’s lounge. 

Meanwhile, the selected teachers looked at one another. For Aizawa, it was another headache, the fact that the HPSC could have had a hand in this was not lost on him. For Sekijirou and Toshinori, however, it was a chance to save the innocent civilians and students of Teyvat and Teyvat Academy respectively.

“If nobody has any more questions regarding this meeting then I declare everyone to be dismissed,” Nezu hops off his chair and walks back to his office. Everyone else follows suit, speed walking to the lounge to express their own opinions on the topic of the meeting.

The selected trio, however, stay seated. Once the door shuts, Toshinori stands up and pulls a nearby whiteboard and marker. The other two watch him as he writes out something on the board: What To Do?

Not a bad question. What would they do? Who would take their places for Homeroom and Foundational Heroics? What kinds of things would they encounter with the Crux Fleet? What did their escorts look like? What were they like? 

But most importantly: what would they do to them if found out about them being spies?  

As they still thought it was an organized cult, their thoughts immediately jumped to them being brainwashed into Archonism or perhaps even being killed as an example to everyone else who would attempt the same thing.

Both thoughts equally unnerved them and left them wondering if sending them was possibly the best idea. Even if it wasn’t, at least it was better than sending a first year class to investigate the unknown continent of Teyvat and the even more mysterious school known as Teyvat Academy.

The more questions they had, the less answers they were likely to get, perhaps they'd get none that would satisfy any single thing they will question. As of now, though, they would plan as most as they could for their impending month long absence. Their only hope was that the Hero Course first year classes wouldn't burn down UA in their absence.

Chapter Text

As it stood right now, they could enlist former pro heroes or heroes that had teaching experience and not plenty of work to be done. If they were to enlist top heroes, it would drag attention to UA, something nobody wanted at the moment. Especially because the press would hound UA for a statement regarding why 3 heroes were to take their places.

With the amount of negative attention on UA post Kamino Ward, it’d be best to keep to the shadows. Who knew if the League of Villains was watching them via their spy or through general news. If they were, they would immediately know that their classes were vulnerable to any damage now that they were away, for a month at that. 

Not an optimal amount of time, so much could happen in a month after all. But if it meant bringing down a cult that even the World Heroes Association bowed down to and gave permission to do as they pleased then it would all be worth it. Where the Teyvatians would stay hadn’t crossed their mind, nor would it until much, much later.

For now, though, class planning and lessons took over their minds. Toshinori made a separate section under the question labeled substitutes. As the hours passed, they began finalizing lesson plans for Foundational Heroics. Homeroom would proceed as it normally would; Homework turned in, weekly or daily announcements, new assignments given out, etc. As for Foundational Heroics, something other than battles and sparring would do them well.

Perhaps they could begin learning some basic First Aid and CPR. Aizawa supposes they had neglected enough important lessons. Though he would externally blame the League, he knew that it also fell onto him to teach them at the very least the textbook version of those lessons.

No good hero could survive without knowing how to patch themselves up before first responders and healing based heroes arrived. Not to mention the civilians that would undoubtedly get injured.

Aizawa wouldn’t have to worry too much about random civilians getting in the way due to him being an underground hero, but Class 1-A seemed like a bunch of daylight heroes to be, so these kinds of classes would do them well to learn. Well, he supposes he could leave that under the RESCUE part of Foundational Heroics. 

Toshinori took a peek at the lessons he’d given to Aizawa to revise and nodded his head. First Aid would do the classes well. They couldn’t always depend on healing quirks and first responders being there immediately. He turned back to his list on the board.

Many top heroes had been crossed off for reasons that they would draw too much attention, attention that would cause the League to look at them and see an opportunity. If anything happened to his classes, he would never be able to forgive himself.

Not to mention he’d be leaving his protege alone and without any guidance. It wasn’t that Midoriya wasn’t good enough to guide himself, he was, but the idea of not being able to give him any advice now that the era of All Might was no more was… well it wasn’t something he’d like to do.

Still, he returned to the board to cross out yet another hero. In the back of his mind, he knew it’d be best to appoint his former teacher. But he’d rather not put the sister classes under that kind of torture yet. He just needed Homeroom , 2 teachers, and Foundational Heroics , 1 teacher.

He shook his head and sent a silent prayer to whoever was up there and finally wrote down his former teacher after 10 minutes of consideration. The names Gran Torino, Mr. Brave and Rock Lock were circled on the white board. With that he left the room to get himself, and the other two men still working, hot cups of coffee and something to eat.

Sekijirou, on the other hand, had decided to leave the lessons he had already planned out. His class had progressed nicely, and although he hated thanking such an organization, thanks to the League only targeting 1-A. While it was bad that his class wasn’t getting proper face to face training, he’d also rather have a class that wasn’t so far behind in general classes and was safe and sound.

He set aside his work and looked at the whiteboard. He first noticed the mass amount of names that had been written then crossed out, little notes on the margins. Reasons, he saw, that they were crossed out. Draws too much attention, no teaching license – hypocrite, Toshinori didn’t have one either – on record, don’t trust them with the classes, has cases against them, etc. 

Well, he could say plenty of things about All Might, or Toshinori as preferred nowadays, but one thing was clear, he definitely worked hard to catch up with the rest. He would aid in classes, passing out packets, books, and just about anything. He’d lend a helping hand to any student that needed it, an improvement from the quite obvious favoritism he held for Midoriya in the beginning of the year.

Still, if he’d been accepted for the exchange program, then TA didn’t know of his real identity, just the one he’d hidden behind as All Might’s personal secretary. That was good, it’d be a disaster if they knew, it would make this mission plenty of times much harder.

He looked around and noticed that Toshinori was gone and Aizawa was still typing away and revising other physical documents with a red pen in his hand. In the time that he took to stretch, exactly 1 minute and 30 seconds, Toshinori came back with a tray of coffee mugs and a bag with three takeout boxes. 

After so long without any sustenance and plenty of working, the heavenly smell of fresh-brewed coffee and good takeout was a welcome scent. Toshinori set down the bag first, then pushed the tray further off. At least for this very night, the three would quietly work with nothing more than the sound of squeaking markers against a whiteboard, frantic typing, and the quiet sounds of a pen making its mark against paper. And of course, the quiet sips of coffee and chewing.

The sun set further in as they clinked mugs together, toasting and praying for a successful mission to be done.

───※ ·✥· ※───

The Archons, and sole Sovereign, sit in their own meeting room looking over papers recently submitted. Asmoday walks in and sets up her own computer as the others continued to type and write critiques away. 

Dainsleif walks in behind, turning on the techboard up front. He quickly scribbles something on the top then walks away, files in his arms. Asmoday stands back up, splits the screen and pulls up Nezu’s approval email.

Dear Asmoday,

We are happy to hear that Teyvat Academy has accepted my exchange program proposal. We look forward to hosting your chosen 2. 

If you could send a separate document with both your student’s and overseer’s measurements for their uniforms, as well as general information such as allergies and the like, that would be wonderful.

As for those I’ve chosen to send: Yagi Toshinori, Shouta Aizawa, and Kan Sekijirou. All are pro heroes and first year heroics course teachers at UA High.

I will send a separate document with allergies and measurements among other things for the chosen 3. I hope to hear from you soon.

Sincerely,

Nezu, UA High Principal and Pro-Hero

“As you can see here, Principal Nezu has sent us his chosen 3, of which includes former number one hero All MIght. Whether he thinks we do or don’t know of his genuine identity is up for interpretation. Dainsleif, take it away,” Asmoday concludes as she moves to sit down at the head of the table

Dainsleif turns off split view and returns to the page where he had previously written something. He writes a couple of subheadings below and finally turns to them “,What we should consider right now is who each hero will be sticking with for the following month. We can draw lots or we can collectively debate and decide, it doesn’t matter so long as the placements are finalized by the end of the week and with enough prep time on UA’s side,”

Dainsleif continues to speak about potential schedules for the UA teachers. Neuvillette raises a hand, Dainsleif points at him. “If I may add, will we continue as normal on the day of their arrival or will classes be suspended for the day?” A couple of the Archons nod in agreement to his question then turn to face Dainsleif and Asmoday.

Asmoday answers Neuvillette in an even tone, “We will cancel classes on the day of, the students will remain in their dormitories, or respective nations, while we hold a conference with the UA teachers upon arrival. Classes shall resume three days later as they will be taking a tour of the nations and settling in after their trip here,”

The Archons, and Sovereign, nod at her explanation. They could work with that, after all, who wouldn’t like to have more time to do their work or to plan lessons?

“If that is all, then this meeting is thereby concluded,” Dainsleif declares and begins to backup and turn off all systems within the meeting room. Alas, this group of leaders has plenty of questions yet to be answered.

Buer clears her throat before going on to speak, “Will they be doing a mix of inter-academic tours or just the University of Celestia? If so, should we keep them away from the vault?”

And as if the Cataclysm had been mentioned, everyone turned back to look between the Goddess of Wisdom and the Sustainer. Their eyes quickly moving between them as Asmoday and Dainsleif both froze.

This time, Dainsleif spoke in a low warning tone, “We will not be letting them close to the Vault, even when they visit the university. I’m sure they can understand restricted areas are restricted for reasons that shouldn’t have to be explained,” he ended with a shaky breath.

Buer nodded in acceptance, everyone knew that her omniscience knew no bounds but that she wouldn’t use it off-handedly or for the wrong reasons. Still, this silent nod let them know that she would keep tabs on them should they try to enter that specific area or even tried to get information on it.

“If that is all then you may all leave now,” Asmoday said, her tone clearly betraying every ounce of emotion currently going through her. Dainsleif whispered something unintelligible to those who were leaving or currently leaving. Buer, however, already knew what he had said. 

Still, she made her way back to the Sumeru Dormitory where she was greeted warmly by her people. She entered her office, Alhaitham and Cyno ready to give their daily reports.

───※ ·✥· ※───

The students of Teyvat Academy were no strangers to the even stranger rumors that went around the 7 academies. Oftentimes those rumors surrounded those who attended the Sumeru Akademiya, their strange routines, projects, experiments and everything in between. Somehow the supposed rumor of the “20 language graduation requirement for Haravatat” found itself in the halls of Mondstadt’s very own academy, the Mondstadt Academy for Music & Religion. 

This time, however, the rumor was that the Principal and Sustainer, Asmoday, had accepted an outsider’s request at an exchange program. Most thought it was pure bullshit. Principal Asmoday, the very Sustainer of Heavenly Principles and founder of Teyvat Academy, had accepted an outsider to be let into Teyvat? To be let into their schools?

No way, there had to be no way that they’d have to deal with the outsider’s claims of being quirkless cheaters and cult brainwashed individuals, for the foreseeable future.

However, the fervent deniers would have to face reality when all academies, including the University of Celestia, would call for an assembly two days after the acceptance of the exchange program.

Once the assembly had concluded, the students were let out and groups met up to discuss what had been spoken about. Some hated the idea, they had made their place in the world regardless of how the outsiders viewed them and now they had to come to terms with them invading their space? No fucking way.

Some were optimistic about the idea, the outsiders could finally see them for who they truly were and they could finally take down the meteorological phenomenon that impeded them to enter Teyvat. 

But above all, most were cautious. They knew this meant the UA teachers would be spying on them, trying to coax out any ounce of information they could to bring down their safe haven. The outsiders were hopelessly naive in their ways of “saving everyone”.

One such group came together to speak about the suddenness of this program. Alhaitham, Kaveh, Cyno, Tighnari and Sethos were gathered in Cafe Puspa. They were looking over their respective work. 

Cyno was looking over cases while Alhaitham pointed out inconsistencies with testimonies. Kaveh, Sethos and Tighnari, on the other hand, were looking over desert plants that would match with Kaveh’s current project. Small jabs between friends would be shared when overhearing certain things, but above all it was a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. 

Eventually, work came to a conclusion and they began to set their work aside and talk. The first, and only, topic to be talked about was the recent assembly. Something that was currently on everyone's minds.

“So, what did you guys think about UA teachers being sent to us?” Kaveh tentatively began the conversation.

“Unnecessary, we shouldn’t have to prove anything to Japan’s hero scene when they should be working on their own problems,” Alhaitham curtly said. While he didn’t hate the outsiders, he didn’t see why they should focus on them when they were better off than pretty much everyone on the outside. 

Sure, Sumeru and Inazuma had recently gone through civil wars and Natlan was going through its own war against the Abyss, Archons knows what Snezhnaya had going on, but at least they were doing well compared to the devastation that the League of Villains – stupid name, truly – left. Cyno clearly thought the same as he nodded to what Alhaitham had stated.

“The Electro group chat wants to just not interact with them. Guuji Yae wants to prank them, however. Not totally against the idea of reconnecting with the outside, but I wouldn’t bring my hopes up about this,” Cyno says, voice showing his reluctance at having to share a space with the Japanese heroes.

“Not to mention the fact that security has clearly seen an uptick in the university,” Tighnari looks over to the gleaming white marble palace. Fatui were stationed at every entrance and exit. “You think they’re keeping tabs on the vault? ” he whispered the last word.

“More than likely, if the gnosis’ found themselves in the wrong hands, Archons knows what the heroes might try to do with them. Principal Asmoday is likely making sure that the gnosis’ won’t be stolen while the heroes are here,” Kaveh says slowly, slightly unsure of what the repercussions of the heroes taking a Visions’ power source might entail.

Sethos, on the other hand, quietly begins to draft a message to send back to the Temple of Silence. Once he finishes writing it, he seals it and calls over a messenger bird to take it back. When it flies away he looks back, seeing that they were all staring at him, with the exception of Alhaitham, with questioning looks. He grabs his cup of coffee and sips before providing an answer.

“Taking some precautions with the Temple. Don’t want the heroes to snoop around if they somehow enter. I’d rather not lose anything valuable in there,” Sethos explains and the others nod. Alhaitham hums as he closes his book and begins to get up.

They proceed to walk to the Sumeru Dormitory and part ways, quietly saying their goodbyes.

───※ ·✥· ※───

The day starts off normally, Class 1-A and 1-B are seated by the time the bell rings, ready and eager to learn. Their respective homeroom teachers walk in and give out graded homework, tests and inform them of any new assignments. The announcements go as normally. 

Then their teachers bring them to the auditorium, well now this just isn’t normal. Maybe they’re trying something new. After all, UA is quite non-traditional and teachers run their classes as they please.

But then Aizawa, Toshinori and Sekijirou stand at the front and quietly take attendance before speaking. “We will be leaving for a month on an espionage mission,” Toshinori says, quiet but steady.

What. The. Fuck.

Aizawa continues, ignoring the questioning stares of all 40 students, “We are leaving you with 3 new teachers for that amount of time, all lesson plans have been finalized and passed off to your substitutes.

Rock Lock will serve as Class A’s homeroom teacher, Mr. Brave will be Class B’s. Gran Torino will be overseeing Foundational Heroics. Any other classes taught by myself or Vlad King will be taught by Rock Lock or Mr. Brave,” he ends.

“We will now be answering any questions so long as they don’t tread into confidential territory,” Sekijirou says next. Hands immediately raise and voices come to life as Sekijirou finishes speaking.

Toshinori points at Midoriya, “Yes, my boy? What’s your question?” He thinks he already knows what he'll ask. He's his protege, after all.

“Where exactly are you going?” a single question, and yet. “Sorry, Midoriya, the answer to that question is confidential, but if you must know it’s rather dangerous, thus, us three are going, "That should suffice, that should take out most hands.

He is proven right as half of the hands go down after he answers. Toshinori might not make a grade A teacher, but he does have a rather good handle on most people and what they tend to be curious about. 

The rest of the homeroom and 1st period are taken to answer questions about the mission and about any assignments.

───※ ·✥· ※───

A phone call goes on between the HPSC President and the UA principal. She knows she shouldn’t eavesdrop. Nezu’s muffled voice is nearing anger, the president won’t stop pushing for answers. Answers to what? She doesn’t know.

Suddenly two words are mentioned, Teyvat Academy. What are they talking about it for? What does it have to do with UA and the HPSC? She makes her footsteps as quiet as possible as she walks away.

She needs to make sure that the president never finds out about her. And she needs to know what Teyvat has to do with the HPSC and UA, and fast.

Chapter Text

Their final day in Japan couldn’t have possibly made its way fast enough. They’d spent the last part of their final week, calming down the classes and handing over their classes to their substitutes.

At 5 AM sharp on a Sunday, they had been transported to a solitary port. It was now 6:30 AM and they were now awaiting for The Alcor and its crew. In between all that, the three teachers managed to get some sleep.

Yet another hour rolled by before they heard the car doors open. They stepped out and immediately took in the sight of the massive boat ahead of them. A massive thud and a piece of the boat came down as a ramp. A lady –  Beidou, he assumes – waves from the top as another figure joins her at her side.

“What’s up UA crew!? Come on, we’re on a tight schedule and I’d rather not deviate from it,” Beidou takes some of their luggage as the other figure, a white haired boy with a red streak in his hair, comes over and takes the remaining duffle bags. He gives them a soft smile before turning around, following behind Beidou.

They get over their shock within a few seconds and quickly tumble over themselves to reach the ship. Once they get situated and greetings are done, it quickly becomes obvious that the entirety of the ship, besides 4 people, didn’t have a certain glowing amulet.

Were these the fabled Visions that scared the outside world? Such small things and yet they caused so much fear among their populace. Just what abilities were these 4 people able to pull from them?

Beidou led them under the ship after she left detailed instructions to the crew. She led them to a decently sized room and shut the door behind her after letting 3 others in. A tall, grey haired man, a shorter white haired man and the boy from earlier stood on either side of Beidou.

From the meeting with Nezu, they could deduce the boy with the red streak was Kaedehara Kazuha. From a single look at Kaedehara, they could tell that he was well fed and cared for. Nothing said that he was being abused or being brainwashed into staying in Teyvat.

The other two men delivered the same results, no bruises on any visible skin and no sign of obvious discomfort. If anything, they were neutral faced and seemed to be waiting for Beidou to start. Not even a second later she was nodding at them in recognition and sat down before beginning to speak.

“Good morning, gentlemen. The crew is checking over your luggage for any contraband and items not allowed in the port we’ll be docking at. Your luggage will be left in your rooms, which Kazuha here will bring you to once this discussion is over,” Beidou begins to say, looking over at Kaedehara who lightly waves at them.

Toshinori bows his head slightly at the boy while the other two remain stone-faced. Beidou either doesn’t care or doesn’t see this happening, unlikely as she stares them in the face, and remains smiling. The white-haired man on the right side of Beidou narrows his eyes just slightly before quickly returning to normal.

“What exactly were we dragged here for?” Aizawa’s clipped tone immediately kills any semblance of peaceful discussion as the, supposed, vision holders immediately get on guard. Toshinori sighs and begins to go forward to apologize but Beidou puts up a hand to stop him.

“It’s alright, we understand that you might want to rest while we make our way to Teyvat so we’ll make this as brief as possible. First, introductions and then we’ll speak on the itinerary we’ve set for you for the first four days of your stay. Go on boys, introduce yourselves,” Beidou looks over to Kaedehara and nods at him.

“I’m Kaedehara Kazuha, a pleasure to meet you,” Kaedehara smiles slightly at them. He looks over to the two men and nods. The white-haired man begins to speak, “Cyno, General Mahamatra of the Sumeru Akademiya,” Cyno goes to nudge the last man who slightly moves out of the way.

“Alhaitham, Akademiya Scribe,” simple and curt, nothing more and nothing less. Alhaitham takes out a small notepad and clicks his pen open. Sekijirou tracks the scribe’s movements. In the eyes of the UA trio, his introduction was vague and short. He didn’t add anything more than who he is and what his job is. And just what the hell is the Akademiya? 

“Kan Sekijirou, first year teacher and pro-hero,” the sound of a pen against paper cuts through their introductions. Eventually, Alhaitham closes the notepad and clicks his pen shut. Cyno taps his arm and holds out a hand, Alhaitham passes it to Cyno who briefly checks it over before returning it.

“Alright, you’ll get to ask your questions and voice concerns with the itinerary now. Who would like to go first?” Kaedehara asks as Alhaitham reopens the notepad and clicks his pen. Toshinori asks the first, and in his mind, the most important questions, “Where exactly will we be docking? And approximately how long will it take to reach Teyvatian waters?”

Alhaitham answers him with an even tone, “We will be taking the express route we took to get here, which will cover approximately one day. As for docking, Ritou, Inazuma. Do be prepared to go through Customs. As for what happens afterwards, conferences with The Seven, a near full tour of the nations, and a full tour of the seven academies and the university,” Cyno lets off a quiet whistle, Alhaitham silently grieves his peace for the following week.

Sekijirou widens his eyes at the list of things they are to do, Aizawa shares the same look, if not a bit less noticeable. Toshinori merely nods and mentally notes the small bits of information just given.

Aizawa asks a question before any of them could even try to make sense of the wealth of knowledge they just received, “Teyvat doesn’t appear on map, and neither do we know what it looks like so how can we know that you aren’t trying to fool us?”

This time Cyno cut in, “It’s fine to not trust us at all, but I will not have you undermine neither Captain Beidou’s naval abilities nor Principal Asmoday’s promise to have you enter and leave Teyvat safely,” his eyes shined violet long enough to be dismissed as a trick of the light, but Toshinori knew better. That was a warning to not question their ability to keep them safe.

It was enough to unnerve him but clearly wasn’t enough for Aizawa to back down. Even Sekijirou seemed to want to stand up, barely concealed suspicion shining in his eyes. If it wasn't for Cyno summoning and tapping his weapon to the ground, Aizawa, no doubt, would have grabbed Beidou by her collar.

Sekijirou immediately sat back down and Aizawa stormed out the room, Cyno followed behind him, the door softly clicking shut behind him. Toshinori made the first move by slightly bowing his head and quietly apologizing for Aizawa’s behavior, Sekijirou looked at him as if he lost his mind. 

Alhaitham, meanwhile, continued to write away, his pen never seeming to stop. He would occasionally look upwards to stare at Aizawa, his eyes never leaving him up until the door shut behind Cyno. 

He must have been making comments on all three of them. Who would he take these notes to? What would they use them for?

Alhaitham sighed before he turned to Beidou, “I believe this meeting should conclude and restart when we begin conference with The Seven as well as the Principal and Vice Principal,” Beidou gave him a sharp nod before waving Kaedehara to the two remaining men.

“Please follow me, I will lead you to your rooms,” Kaedehara smiled warmly and opened the door for them. When they had left and were heard sufficiently far away, Beidou began to speak to Alhaitham, “Make sure they don’t cause any problems for Kazuha. While I’m plenty sure Toshinori won’t be causing any, the other two seem to hold a hoard of biases against us,”

Alhaitham nods and leaves the room, leaving Beidou to send a quick message back to Asmoday.

Pro Heroes Eraserhead, Vlad King and All Might have boarded the Alcor. Minor verbal altercation happened during initial discussions. Keep tabs on Pro Heroes Eraserhead and Vlad King. 

The Alcor is ready to set sail,

Captain Beidou of The Crux Fleet

───※ ·✥· ※───

Asmoday hums as Beidou’s message comes through. Preparations for the incoming heroes have been made and she had just sent Nezu an email assuring him that The Alcor was completely safe and had done these kinds of trips before. Now, she could send another to confirm the UA teachers had boarded the ship.

Dainsleif walked in, two coffee cups in hand and a sizable stack of small files under his arm. “Here, Asmoday. Take a break,” Asmoday blew on her mug just a bit before sipping the warm coffee. “Sumerian blend, hmm,” she muttered to herself.

“Kaveh recommended it, says it works during long days of work,” Dainsleif looks over her shoulder and makes note to have Yelan and Navia keep tabs on the heroes. The Spina di Rosula and Liyue’s MCA should be enough, after all. He sets his own mug down before splitting the files between himself and Asmoday.

She pulls her half to herself and just barely restrains herself from groaning when she reads the first bit of the first file. Fatui correspondence was such a drag, and she couldn’t do much since they were the Tsaritsa’s army and Snezhnaya’s political and military core. At least the Cryo Archon, and the rest, would be here soon enough and they could discuss what to do with them.

Even if the relationship between herself and pretty much everyone had improved, she couldn’t just force them to do as she pleased any longer. That would break the contract that Morax had made for them and have them all call war on her. They couldn’t have that, especially not with Japanese heroes incoming.

Archons knows they would immediately try some stupid shit like taking some of the children, allogene or not, with them in an effort to “save them”. Not to mention the fall out as half of the nations continue working through their problems post the Traveler’s nation saving. Ugh, she’ll be needing a cocktail of painkillers after all these meetings.

Asmoday places the Fatui file back on the desk and picks up another one. Dainsleif shoots her a look of pity – not fucking appreciated – before he starts going through his own stack. Clearly, no one got the memo of “don’t send stupid shit the first week of the heroes being here”, so now she has to deal with the Abyss Order and the Fatui just hours before the UA Trio get here.

(She briefly wonders if Dottore would like to kill her, the Sustainer of Heavenly Principles. He would but the Tsaritsa and Pierro have forbidden him from even interacting with her.)

She makes an actual, physical note to ask Mavuika how hot she can make her flames and if she can burn Zapolyarny Palace down with them. Preferably out of the Cryo Archon’s range of hearing, Asmoday doubts she would be very pleased to hear that she wants to do away with her dearest diplomats and military, afterall.

For now, though, she’ll stick to their current, and temporary, policy and make sure that no mention of the Abyss Order nor the Fatui, or its Harbingers’ identities, reach the heroes or the outside world. If it did, she doesn’t doubt they’d try to strike a deal to end their safe haven

As the minutes ticked by, the Archons made their way in and began to work up until the meeting started. While she brought on Dainsleif as her right hand as a show of peace, she wouldn't deny that she’s grown fond of the man enough to stop the immortality curse that had befallen him. Still, their relationship only went as far as tentative friends outside of work.

With cups of coffee on the table and files ready to be read, they began the meeting.

“We’ll start with the file on the Fatui and move on to our latest update on the Abyss Order,” looks shifted to the Tsaritsa, though she made no effort to acknowledge them. Beelzebul raised her hand and spoke, “Perhaps we should start with the heroes who are currently enroute to our continent?”

A chorus of agreements rang in the room, Neuvillette broke through them all with a simple question, “Has Captain Beidou sent a message regarding them being aboard The Alcor?”

Asmoday nodded in response, “She has, and she would like us to keep tabs on 2 of the 3 heroes sent. Vlad King and Eraserhead. The latter appears to have instigated a minor verbal altercation during initial discussions,”

Morax, Beelzebul and Buer’s faces immediately took on a frown. Minor non physical altercations could quickly turn into major physical altercations. The last thing either Archon wanted was to end the program when the outsiders hadn’t even arrived.

From there the meeting went over Natlan’s recovery efforts in the surge of abyssal activity, the Fatui and Abyss Order. While Lumine still was in charge of the Order, she wasn’t nearly as preoccupied with it. Thus, Abyss Order attacks outside of Natlan had significantly decreased in number but were not exactly zero. The Abyss itself, however, was an entirely different thing that Lumine could not control.

Just as they finish, Beidou sends another message. The message ping rang in the otherwise silent room, alerting everyone within and making them look at her expectantly. She sighs before she opens the message, hoping this won’t throw preparations off.

Her breath hitches and a red aura surrounds her as her face goes from neutral to that of pure and utter disbelief. She turns to Dainsleif and turns her screen to him. “Change of plans. Make sure the heroes know we are actively keeping tabs on them, use whatever organization you must,”

She looks at the Tsaritsa, she nods and starts a message of her own to send to Pierro. The rest, although quiet, looked at Asmoday, awaiting either orders or Asmoday telling them what the message said.

“It seems that Aizawa Shouta simply cannot keep his hands to himself for he raised his hands against General Mahamatra Cyno,” Asmoday said in a cheery voice that everyone shivered at. However, hairs were truly raised when they looked over to Buer, her cheery face nowhere to be seen and now blanketed by an eerily blank face. Not angry, not sad, just blank.

Even the Electro Archon, who could cut through entire islands, quickly looked away and made herself look busy. Buer left the meeting room without saying anything nor packing her things to take with her. The remaining staff all looked at one another and nodded to a silent agreement.

Whatever Buer was going to unleash upon the outsiders, they did not see, nor hear about. One could only pray for them but even that would be futile. They could only hope that she’d only mess with their dreams.

They, afterall, knew that amongst the most cherished of the Dendro Archon, stood the General Mahamatra. Hearing that some measly outsider had nearly laid hands on him must have seriously pissed her off to not even so much as react.

After enough time in rather uncomfortable silence, everyone began to pack up and leave. This left only Asmoday and Dainsleif on their own yet again. Dainsleif took that time to write up a report on that meeting to file away, making sure to exclude Beidou’s message and their reactions to it.

Soon after he finished, he left the room and left Asmoday alone with her thoughts. If the heroes would try to harm their students then they would make sure to gather enough evidence to never accept another so-called ‘exchange program’ and force the WHA or the UN or whoever to enforce it and shut down any further requests. 

Reputation with the outsiders clearly was going to be one hell of a hassle if this was the route those so-called heroes wanted to take. 

───※ ·✥· ※───

Breathe in. Breathe out. Slow and steady. Feel your body relax.

She didn't know why she did that. One moment she was ready to hear what Beidou had to say and the next she blanks out at the thought of her dear General being hurt. 

Realistically, she knew that the heroes wouldn't be able to even so much as truly harm him, Ba Fragments and his powerful group of friends who would certainly come to his aid. Alhaitham was more than likely already tending to Cyno – by letting him rant his frustrations, that is – and making note of this incident.

(She wonders if she can restore the Akasha just for the heroes. Deep inside she knows she’s only momentarily angry enough to think of such an idea. Still, she holds the Sumeru crew – dubbed the crewmeru – very dearly, even those who weren’t there for her rescue.)

Nahida steels herself before entering the Sumeru dormitory. She knows that the dormitory will be in slight – that’s a lie – uproar at what she’ll have to say. She enters the living area and pulls out her phone to text the Sumeru chat.

She sits down on her Dendro fashioned swing and waits. The ever ringing ping from her phone assures her that the chat has seen the message. Not long after, some of the older students began to file in and sit down in front of her. She wonders how they’ll take the news. Kaveh already seems a bit nervous just being here.

When she deems that there are a sufficient amount of people to break the news to, she begins to speak. Her people listen as she details that the Alcor has set sail but that initial discussions have fallen through. Dehya doesn’t seem to be surprised but Kaveh begins to fidget with the rings on his gloves.

She decides to preface it with a warning to not act hostile to the heroes due what she’s about to say. Dehya’s face begins to take on a frown, Tighnari’s lips are pursed as he seems to be going through every possible reason to be told that.

“We very recently received another detailing that Pro Hero Eraserhead very nearly had a physical altercation with General Mahamatra Cyno,” she watches as Sethos quickly goes from annoyed to very quietly pissed off. She feels the same, though she dare not express that to the very people who look up to and worship her. 

It’d set a bad example if she lost her temper in front of such impressionable children. Besides, Cyno’s immediate friend group has enough anger to act for her. Still, who’s to say she can’t mess with their dreams just a tad.

The other students who have even slightly befriended the general gasp and whisper among themselves. All of them are absolutely certain that he would’ve won should the ‘hero’ have actually tried anything further.

This, however, doesn’t dissuade them from coming up with ways to mess with the incoming visitors. And who would she be if she stood in the way of their knowledge-seeking minds? Certainly not their ever so gentle goddess of wisdom.

───※ ·✥· ※───

Beidou returns to the upper half of the ship only to see Aizawa practically spitting in Cyno’s face. Inwardly, she wonders if locking his guest room door would save her one hell of a headache. Just as she’s about to let Cyno handle the hero, one of her crewmen yell out in their direction.

She turns around just in time to see Cyno incapacitate the man with a flash of Electro. What she didn’t see was how Aizawa had tried to grab Cyno by his hair just as he was to walk away.

Ugh, another message to send. As she began to walk away to do as such, Alhaitham had already passed her his notepad with a message inscribed on it and ready to be sent. She nods at him as he walks over and begins to lift up the man to take to his room.

Once the message is sent, the notepad in Alhaitham’s possession, and everyone has switched shifts, she takes over the Alcor. As she keeps the ship en route, she doesn’t notice Toshinori walking towards her. 

She nearly makes a sharp turn when he clears his throat. She turns around and shakily nods at him in lieu of a greeting. She turns back around and momentarily regrets signing herself up to escort the outsiders into Teyvat. Right now she could have fulfilled a cargo load and had some wine in some port tavern.

The thought of it nearly makes her smile a bit, but not before Toshinori begins to speak. Beidou makes note that it’s only them and that nobody can currently hear them. Hopefully that’s nothing but mere coincidence.

“Ah, Mi- uh.. Captain Beidou, may I ask some questions?” Toshinori spoke in a softer, albeit just as loud, voice. Beidou nods as she keeps her gaze out on sea. It wouldn’t do well to have the ship derail from their destination. 

“If you don’t mind telling me, and if not confidential, how are we meant to enter Teyvat?” an answerable question, though she’s also pleasantly surprised that he isn’t trying to access anything confidential. 

“Not confidential at all, sir. Though not to alarm you, we will be entering Teyvat through a whirlpool-like portal,” Beidou tells him with just a bit too much cheeriness in her voice. After a while of silence, she turns around to make sure the man hasn’t fainted on her. 

Thankfully, he hasn’t but his jaw has dropped so much she wonders if that’s even humanly possible. Actually, is there a quirk that can do such a thing? Well, that is a question for another time.

“I can assure you that we’ll be fine, I’ve taken this route several times,” Toshinori seems to recover after that. He looks over to gaze at the waves ahead. Kazuha joins them later on, opting to be on the ledge of the boat. Toshinori quickly casts a worried glance before Beidou waves him off.

He remains quiet for the next few hours and before long they start to see the edge of the storm. Toshinori seems visibly worried and glances at Beidou who merely hands the wheel to Kazuha. Beidou speaks with her crew and they hunker down to avoid any stray bolts before she turns back.

“If you would like to seek refuge from any of the stray bolts you can head inside with the rest of the crew. Otherwise, you can stay here with Kazuha and I,” Toshinori nods and remains next to Kazuha who hands the wheel back to her.

He watches in utter amazement as she navigates through the storm. Toshinori notes that the winds and lightning bolts lessen in frequency and intensity in the face of the Alcor’s path. A feeling of admiration blooms within him. A feeling he thought he wouldn’t experience again after the passing of his master, Shimura.

She turns back at him and smirks just slightly. “The whirlpool that we’ll be entering through is up ahead if you’d like to see,” she nudges him just a bit. Kazuha nods from up ahead.

As he walks to the ledge that Kazuha is sitting upon and looks ahead. He can see the beautiful blues and purples mixing together to create an inky black void in the middle. The sounds of the waves swirling and splashing inside. It’s as mesmerizing as it is undoubtedly nerve-wracking.

Kazuha however, must have sensed his discomfort and amazement as he simply tells him it would be completely safe. And as apprehensive as he was, he wouldn’t doubt them. He would never doubt the Crux Fleet of the Alcor, even if Toshinori had only known them for half a day.

So he set his sights upon the whirlpool portal and breathed. And then came momentary darkness before light, and Beidou's voice, filled to the brim with confidence, broke through.

Chapter Text

“En route to Ritou, ETA of six hours!” 

The crew, who weren’t busy keeping the ship straight before, came out and resumed their work. Kazuha was off the ledge and assisting some of the crew when suddenly the door leading to the underside opened.

Footsteps loudly made their way up to where he and Beidou were. She shot him a worried look that was quickly masked by slight indifference. She seemed to be getting ready for round 2 of what happened no more than a couple hours ago.

Toshinori could tell that his coworkers were likely to begin telling again even before he could turn around. What he hasn't expected was that he'd be pulled back with Eraserhead’s capture scarf. 

He was pulled back into their rooms and had no recipe as they were immediately asking what he had uncovered. Truthfully? Nothing that would be sentencing Teyvat staff. He knew this would disappoint his fellow heroes as none of what he had talked about with Beidou was confidential.

Really, it had been pleasantries and the good views and food each nation had to offer. No matter what, Beidou was great for small talk. So much so, he forgot he was supposed to be digging for information. It didn't matter to him, however, he knew he would have to betray the Crux Fleet soon. 

Merely the thought had him wishing he had never come on this mission. But it was hours, and an entire portal, too late now. Still, Beidou’s description of Teyvat’s many views kept on coming back.

Mondstadt’s grassy cliff sides that overlooked seemingly endless oceans. The entirety of Liyue Harbor which, in Beidou’s opinion, was most magnificent at nighttime. Inazuma’s Grand Narukami Shrine and the marvel that was Tenshukaku. Watatsumi Island which might have looked more fitting in Fontaine than Inazuma.

The many subareas of Sumeru that came together harmoniously but were quite hard to navigate without a map or guide. Fontaine’s grand Opera Epiclese where trials came to life and where stars acted in magnificent plays. Natlan, where different tribes came together and were so colorful you'd never believe it held the title of Nation of War. And finally, Snezhnaya: A cold land ruled by an even colder ruler whose people's perseverance helped keep them warm through the endless winter. But that isn't to ignore the intimidating yet awe-inspiring Zapolyarny Palace where the Cryo Archon resides and rules.

Of course, there were two more, but they were more than likely to receive more information on those with the staff than with her. Toshinori could have pushed for more, but he didn't want Beidou to shut down on him. Not after all their pleasant talks.

He raises his head to his heroes, grimacing just a bit and lies right through his teeth. “Captain Beidou wouldn't tell me anything that was considered confidential even after prodding,” Sekijirou seems to frown at that, a tamer reaction than Aizawa who seems to nearly have an aneurysm at the news.

“Well get to digging in their rooms or ask the crew!” Aizawa hisses out to him. Toshinori just barely managed to push back the annoyance in his face but not his voice. “Aizawa, I’m trying to build a fucking rapport here, which you so obviously are intent on breaking apart. Building trust with Kazuha and Beidou is my way of trying to get some form of information. And unless you'd like to be hated and glared at every which way on this ship, then start acting polite,” Toshinori just manages to not spit back in his face. 

While not completely lying, he isn't exactly being truthful either. In the midst of Aizawa’s angry huffing, he had made up his mind not to betray the people on the Alcor. He wanted to cherish those memories, no matter if Teyvat was innocent or not, upon the Alcor.

Eventually he stood up and left, walking back to the outside of the ship. Just as he was about to open the door out, he was held back by a strong arm. He turned just to look back at Alhaitham and Cyno, side by side.

“Follow us,” Alhaitham said in that dreadful neutral voice of his. Toshinori reluctantly followed, extremely aware of Cyno, and his rather intimidating spear, following right behind him.

After a while they both let him go – unharmed, of course. All that he was asked was if he had received any confidential information from Beidou. He answered that he hasn't received nor asked for any. Cyno’s continuous glare and the sounds of Alhaitham’s non-stop writing served to unnerve him.

He was then asked if he had told anything to his fellow heroes. Toshinori told them that he believed they were truly good people. Isolationist? Sure, but aren't some countries still as such? He continued with telling them that in his mind, everyone on board the Alcor was innocent, no matter how much the others wouldn't believe it.

For once, the glares and writing halted. Cyno seemed genuinely surprised and Alhaitham… well, he still seemed the same, but there was slight confusion brimming in his eyes. 

“A satisfactory conclusion, though a very thought proviking final statement,” Alhaitham had said after seconds of pin-drop hearing silence. Cyno was slightly smiling, Toshinori felt as if he had passed a surprise test with top marks.

If he had just been playing a part, he no doubt would be overjoyed at having them in the palm of his hand. But he had decided to side with the Alcor’s people and thus he felt at ease. He had, tentatively, gained another two people’s trust. 

And quite frankly? That was all that mattered.

───※ ·✥· ※───

Beidou, for a slight moment, thought that Toshinori would immediately turn his back on her. However short their interactions may be going forward, it would, predictably, hurt 

Still, it wouldn't be out of left field for him to have ulterior motives. He was a hero who was supposed to save the poor Teyvatians who were brainwashed into believing in gods and thinking they could be something bigger than their quirkless selves could ever be. 

As hurtful as it was, she knew of the outside’s perception of them and their completely quirkless society. Nonetheless, a girl could hope. 

She passes the wheel over to Furong and leans over the side of the ship. Her qipao and hair both flow with the wind. She closes her eyes for a moment, savoring the salty sea breeze, before she hears a door opening. 

Toshinori exits and waves at her, she lightly waves him over to her side. As they both lean over the ship, he wonders what she might be thinking about. He wonders if she thinks he's betrayed them. 

He wonders if perhaps he's overthinking her silence. 

Suddenly, her voice pulls him from his doubts. “Say, what did your hero friends need you for, anyways?” Or perhaps he hadn't been overthinking. 

“They wanted to know if I had gotten any confidential information to relay,” best lay it out straight and hope for the best and not her possible wrath.

Beidou hums and laughs a bit, “Well, if whirlpool-like portals are confidential, then sure,” she pulls out what seems to be a flask Chinese baijiu. He balks at this and looks at her in disbelief. She swallows before reassuring him that it's only water in there, not alcohol.

“Don’t drink when I'm on the job, and I still have another leg to go before I can rest,” Toshinori nods, opting to stay silent for just a while longer before Beidou spoke up yet again.

“Say, you hero bunch don’t know much about the Archons and Visions, right?” Toshinori nodded. While he himself shared the belief of brainwashing the rest of the world had, he was more eager to see if there genuinely were gods walking among the Teyvatians. 

“No, we got the elemental abilities and there are no gods spiel back in Japan but I’m far more interested in seeing how your people interact with both than knowing if they are real,” Toshinori would keep his biases in check, information without it would be far more reliable than whatever his other two fellow heroes could scrounge up.

“Mmm, alright then, you want me to give you a sparknotes version or the long one?” Toshinori thought about it. The short version would give a summary of the information but leave out details, whereas the long one would confuse him but give them all a wealth of information that could arm them well for the infiltration.

Both of which could do well for them as they gathered information. But wait, something felt off.

Wait… hold on, he had been so focused he hadn’t even realized he’d slipped up a while ago. 

“They wanted to know if I had gotten any confidential information to relay,”

He turned around as inconspicuously as possible and stared at her in horror. He had lowered his guard so much he had given them away. Oh gods, this mission was over before it even started and they were already in Teyvat.

As these thoughts raced through his head, Beidou simply sipped on her drink, seemingly unaffected by the fact she had managed to sniff them out so quickly. If she told her superiors they’d be done before they even reached Inazuma

“You pick which one just yet? I can do long, we got nearly 3 hours to go, after all,” Beidou dragged him from his thoughts. Even if he was to get the short version, he’d be far too distracted to remember any information to relay to UA.

Beidou seemed to catch on to the fact that he’d given himself away. She, however, looked at him as if it had been obvious from the very start. 

“So you’ve finally caught onto the fact that you gave away yourself and your friends. I’ll be honest, everyone in Teyvat knows why you’re there. Even if you try to cover it up as ‘diplomatic relations’, the higher ups have already told everyone to be on guard. No confidential information, and with the way your friends have acted so far, no public information will be given to you either,” Toshinori gaped as he realized they were heading for a trap that the Japanese government would not be able to get them out of.

“Hmm, doesn’t matter, there’s plenty of security if your friends decide to not follow the rules and laws. And they’re not very kind either, just so you guys know,” Beidou drawled out in a bored voice. He stood stock still as he processed the information.

“Anyways, I’ll give you some basic info so you can take it back to your little group,” Toshinori had been more grateful for a distraction, even if the information wasn’t confidential, it would still put those two overly eager ones to rest.

“First, there are seven nations, seven Archons, seven beliefs, and seven elements. An Archon rules over solely one element and nation. Barbatos, Archon of Mondstadt, Anemo and Freedom. Morax, Archon of Liyue, Geo and Contracts. Beelzebul, Archon of Inazuma, Electro and Eternity. Buer, Archon of Sumeru, Dendro and Wisdom. Focalors, Archon of Fontaine, Hydro and Justice. Haborym, Archon of Natlan, Pyro and War. Tsaritsa, Archon of Snezhnaya, Cryo and Love.

Furthermore, there are more nations that no longer hold people but remain as is. These are Khaenri’ah, Enkanomiya and Remuria. Aside from that, there are some organizations that aren’t public or are more on the morally grey. Something I’m quite sure your hero partners there will call villainous and try to arrest. However, they are all under the protection of either an Archon or Celestia itself so I would not be trying that. 

I’m quite sure you guys also haven’t seen what a vision looks like either, so here’s mine to start. This casing changes depending on what nation your vision came to you. My casing reflects that I received it in Liyue and the element I wield is Electro, hence the purple glow. They also come in different sizes. Some are near impossible to see and others are noticeable enough. They also tend to blend in with clothes, making it hard to know if someone holds one or not.

That’s kind of it, really. I hope the information serves you well. Oh, and yes, you can give that to your heroes, it’s just common knowledge, really,” Beidou walks away to Kazuha and strikes a hushed conversation. Toshinori takes a minute to digest the information given, before walking back to their rooms to debrief with Aizawa and Sekijirou.

Safe to say, Aizawa and Sekijirou were happy enough to get any sort of info as long as it’s useful. They grow worried when he tells them of the goddess of war and downright – though, to their credit, silently – hysteric when he tells them that Teyvat and its very residents know why they are there. They know this will make everything harder.

It only serves to remind them of where they truly are and their position within. The very bottom.

Just a couple of hours later, the crew starts to call for disembarkment. The heroes gather themselves and their luggage to leave the Alcor. Beidou and Kazuha see them off on Ritou’s docks as they move towards a shed with some of the crew. Likely to grab their next shipment.

Alhaitham and Cyno signal them to walk to a small stand no more than 5 minutes out from the docks. Several lines of people move forward and leave even before they step in to line up.

Suddenly, Cyno taps his polearm on the ground and Alhaitham signals them to a separate stand with shorter lines. Well dressed individuals move to and from the lines, some stopping to stare – or rather, glare – at them before they take their leave.

The person behind the prior individuals spot them and bow to Alhaitham and Cyno as they let them go ahead. All four move ahead as a lady clad in a green sweater and light brown kimono waves them over.

“Inspector Kageyama, thank you for fitting us in ahead of schedule. I know your schedule is already rather tight as is,” Cyno tells the young woman, Kageyama, in an apologetic tone. Inspector Kageyama waves him off.

“It wasn't a problem at all Mr. General Mahamatra, sir. I'm merely here to ensure that this proceeds as smoothly as possible for our guests and our Acting Grand Sage and Scribe here,” she says as she nods to Alhaitham, who returns it before taking back his identification and credentials.

“Now then, you three, passports, licenses or country IDs will serve as you are classified diplomats for your month’s stay. Pass them forward, any fakes will be taken care of and turned away. Illegal contraband in your luggage will be disposed of after inspection and will result in your immediate deportation back to Japan, you will also be blacklisted from ever entering Teyvat again. Please know that your devices do not connect to the Outside Mainland and you will be given new ones,” Inspector Kageyama continued to stare at them as they were in shock of just how easily they could be blacklisted or deported from Teyvat.

Kageyama raised her brow as Alhaitham took their luggage and let men standing to the side look through it. Toshinori was the first to break out of his shock and present his civilian ID and passport. Aizawa followed as he reluctantly let Inspector Kageyama scan his hero ID.

Sekijirou on the other hand decided to go out the hard way and make a bit of a scene. He was practically spitting in the inspector’s face before he was held back by one of the soldiers nearby. He set his sights on Alhaitham and began to scream, asking why they weren't made aware of this.

Aizawa was looking incredibly tired and completely over it as he stared at Sekijirou, flashing his quirk to keep him from harming any of the soldiers. Toshinori took his ID and passport back before quickly and silently apologizing to Inspector Kageyama.

Sekijirou was held in Aizawa's capture scarf as he went to grab their luggage and take back his identification. He was stopped and told that their luggage would be sent to their lodging while they were to attend meetings. Aizawa nods and turns his head around to glare at Sekijirou.

“Kan Sekijirou, if you don't give over your identification so we can start and end these meetings today I will ensure that you’re sent back,” Toshinori says, venom seeping into words. Sekijirou deflates and ceases his yelling, before turning around, taking out his UA teacher’s ID and slamming it in front of Inspector Kageyama.

She glares at the man and scans it before slamming it in front of him. She yells out “Next!” and starts the same speech they received.

Cyno grumbles under his breath of just how tiring this entire thing is. Unsurprisingly, he is able to keep a neutral face the entire time. As soon as Customs is over with, a whopping 40 minutes since they’ve decided to cause a scene – and after their luggage is seen being transported on an armored ship to their lodging – they make their way to inner Ritou. 

Cyno glances at Alhaitham, they nod in sync and Cyno leaves to enter a large building. Alhaitham leads them over to benches and sits down, only briefly glancing at them as they seem to look around to take in their surroundings. A young man with blond hair and a red outfit approaches them.

“Acting Grand Sage Alhaitham, how are you doing?” he says in a cheery tone, Toshinori looks at him up and down before finding a pyro vision at his hip, he notes the difference in casing compared to Beidou’s. He’s snapped back to reality when he hears Alhaitham speak to the young man.

“Doing just fine, and you, Thoma?” The two go back and forth on business and pleasantries before Alhaitham mentions the wellbeing of the Yashiro Commission. Aizawa looks at him, confirming that he, too, heard that. Sekijirou, still put off from the Customs incident, ignores both of them and the information that is practically being given for free right now.

Somehow, they both know it will boil over soon and become quite the ugly mess to clean and cover up.

Thankfully, at the very least, Cyno comes back out of the building, citing that ‘Yurika’ -- another inspector, Aizawa suspects -- has handled everything else. Cyno and Thoma greet each other and he gives Thoma a slip of paper, Thoma takes it and smiles. Aizawa recognizes it as a ‘ pleasure doing business with you’ smile.

Whether those three were colluding or if the meeting was coincidence will not ever be known to the heroes.

Thoma says his goodbyes and heads off to a building to the right of them, the guards greet and bow to him. And he’s not seen thereafter. Alhaitham continues to write in his notepad, small inconsequential notes being put down on the paper. 

Cyno turns to them, “Be prepared to show your IDs once more, we’ll be going through the Ritou and Konda Village checkpoints before making our way to Tenshukaku for your meeting with the Teyvat higher ups,”

Aizawa and Sekijirou groan quietly as they prepare to pull out their IDs once more. The group of five make their way to the first checkpoint, ready for the meeting that will bring them closer to serving justice to Teyvat and even closer to going home. Toshinori can only hope that the higher ups do not include the Archons themselves.

Chapter Text

The walk to Tenshukaku was long and silent as Alhaitham and Cyno stood behind them. Credentials were presented at the Ritou exit checkpoint and rechecked again near Konda Village.

Those who were out of their homes looked as they passed by but quickly turned back around to their tasks. The hushed whispers of the elders and the glares of the Tenryou soldiers served to intimidate the heroes even further. Sekijirou looks as if he's about to blow a fuse but an Electro powered glare from the general and he practically folds over.

On the other hand, Alhaitham and Cyno were greeted with short nods of respect and candies from the children, which they gratefully took with small smiles and whispered well wishes. Cyno even stopped to help an older lady carry a basket of fruits and Alhaitham had to leave a report for the Konda Village outpost. A recent uptick in rogue hilichurl attacks supposedly.

The journey through the village – and later on Hanamizaka – was silent and tense, citizens everywhere looking at them oddly or with contempt. The way out of Konda Village had a good view of a blue tinted forest and what Toshinori presumed to be the Grand Narukami Shrine, sitting high above. Hanamizaka was filled with little businesses, constant chatter and the clang of a hammer against hot metal.

Aizawa attempts to gather information from the residents when he's sure that neither Cyno or Alhaitham can see him, but is turned down every time. The few who talk say that Narukami Island is a good place to live and that after the decrees were abolished the entire nation has seen a surge of foreign goods.

The now abolished decrees seem to be a popular talking point as they can hear it even as they reach Tenryou, thoughts a lot more hushed, as if it is some terrible secret that should not ever be uttered.

According to the very little they can gather, the Sakoku Decree was a decree that isolated Inazuma from the rest of Teyvat and prohibited the entry and exit of citizens and foreigners alike.

The Vision Hunt Decree, on the other hand, was one that prompted the taking of people's visions in order to realize the Archon’s, the Almighty Shogun’s, ideal of a perfect, unchanging and never-ending Eternity.

To the heroes, this was the very evidence they could present to bring down at least Inazuma. To the people? They understood, they knew their leader would see their mortal lives as something she could never relate to. Something she had no care for. Something that was there one second and gone the next, ever fleeting. But they would forever love, admire, and worship their Archon, Her Excellency the Almighty Narukami Ogosho, the goddess of Lightning and Eternity, the Raiden Shogun.

Still, the strict structure of all the buildings surrounding them intimidates them. And the massive building, mansion would be more befitting of such, just ahead of them towers so high above and the gold gleams in the afternoon rays. The soldiers up here are also far stricter than those on Ritou.

They glare and then turn around to shoot a look of pity at the building, at the people within. The further they go up, the less the chatter becomes frequent until they come face to face with the grand entrance of the Tenshukaku Estate. The soldiers there look face forward, neutrality in every trace of their faces, unlike every other man or woman they had come across before who had given them glaces full of scorn, disgust and anger.

They crossed over a small wooden bridge, the water below shallow and slightly covered in sakura petals and surrounded by greenery. The further they climbed up the stairs, the more security there was. The purples, pinks, and greys of the area seemed to soften yet also strengthen the unnerving factor that the entire nation gave off.

Two ladies stood in front of yet another arch leading to what the heroes presumed to be the meeting room they were to be led into. They were both in what could be assumed to be a customised version of a uniform. Sekijirou turned away and scrunched his nose in disgust. How could this be Teyvat’s best?

When he turned around he found that both ladies stared at him with frowns adorning their otherwise impassive faces. The purple haired lady looked at him as if he was undeserving of being in such a grand place. She turned to the other woman in front of her and whispered something indistinguishable.

She then turned to them and waved over Alhaitham and Cyno who followed without complaint. They conversed for a while and before they could notice what was happening soldiers came from behind and the group of four in front of them moved forwards. Aizawa, Sekijirou and Toshinori were left with no choice but to follow them.

They stopped in front and the brown haired woman knocked on the wooden doors. A voice from within beckoned them to come forwards and thus the soldiers stationed in front moved and opened the doors. The four Teyvatians went forwards and bowed to the staff inside and then made a move to stand behind their Archon, chosen or native.

The brown haired woman made a move to speak before she too moved to her Archon. “Lady Haborym, Acting Grand Sage Alhaitham and General Mahamatra Cyno have brought the Japanese heroes to us,” Toshinori stiffened, this red haired lady was the very Archon of War.

Now that he looked around, everyone in this room had an aura of high status, godly status even. The resounding thud of the wooden doors shutting behind them almost seemed to signify their very end. Haborym smiled and spoke to the woman, “Thank you, Suna,” 

Suna, the brown haired lass, bowed once more and moved behind Haborym. They did not miss the way in which she slightly unsheathed the sword on her hip to the heroes, yet hidden from the staff themselves. A threat, a warning. A promise

Touch them and your life is mine

The blade itself also looked very real. Aizawa felt a shiver climb up his spine. This child – there was no way she could be older than their first years – had an empty look in her eyes. He vowed to save her, take her away from Teyvat, let his students take care of her, and bring back life to those empty pink-red eyes of hers. 

The UA teachers took their seat on the 3 chairs in front of them. From the other side of the room came out a lady with hair as white as freshly fallen snow and eyes the color of molten yet glowing amber. She wore a black button up with a white blazer and a matching pair of white slacks. Her black heels clicked with every step she took and her gaze never left them.

The staff on opposite sides of her all stood up and faced her before bowing to her. The UA trio scrambled to stand up and do the same, if not to be friendly then at the very least to be respectful. After the TA staff finished their greeting and the UA teachers sat down, the amber-eyed woman in front sat down and received a sizable file from a blond man that had appeared beside her. 

She flipped through it a bit and made small hums, clicks of her tongue amongst other sounds before she set it down and looked at them. She smiled a smile that did not reach her eyes and tapped her manicured nails on the mahogany table. 

Safe to say, all three were well deservedly unnerved before she even began speaking. Was she purposefully doing this to intimidate them? Perhaps to have and then keep them wrapped around her finger? Is this how the Teyvatians lived? Manipulated and brainwashed under this woman’s command?

The doors opened once more and a ginger haired individual stepped in. He made quick strides and then stood behind a lady who bore an exquisite crown made solely of ice with an insignia on the center. He bowed to her and then stood up straight with perfect posture.

He, much like Suna, had eyes that were incredibly empty. The life in those deep blue eyes had been entirely snuffed out for who knows how long ago, but Aizawa was determined to see it come back. 

Asmoday – who the heroes presumed to be the white haired woman – quirked an eyebrow in questioning, and the Ice Crown lady spoke in response. “I do hope you won’t mind dear Tartaglia being here, Pierro did say that I should have someone here just in case, Asmoday.”

Tartaglia grinned and waved to Asmoday who waved back to him with a fond smile on her face. Asmoday then turned those amber eyes to the heroes, no smile in sight. “Well, then, I suppose introductions are in order. I am Asmoday, the principal of Teyvat Academy and the University of Celestia,”

She pointed to a black-teal haired man – boy? Seriously, was TA so depraved that they chose children to run their schools? – who stood up and put his hand on his chest, a smile adorning his face. “Hello there, heroes! I’m Barbatos, principal of Mondstadt’s Academy of Music & Religion and the head of the Anemo Course,” his cheery voice went against the internal horror swirling within Toshinori upon hearing his name.

Once Barbatos sat down, an elegant gentleman stood up, his long brown hair swaying behind him as he turned to them. “My name is Morax, principal of Liyue’s Academy of Business & History and the head of the Geo Course,” his smooth voice did not help the heroes as he said his name. 

Aizawa’s eyes darted from person to person, coming to the realization that they all bore unusual pupils, as if that was the very mark of a god. But when he looked at Suna, he realized her pupils also seemed to flare outwards, forever pulsing. And yet, she was no god. Great, yet another reason to be wary of Teyvat, unusual pupils and yet they may or may not be gods.

A purple haired woman, with a rather intimidating neutrality in her features, stood up. She bowed the slightest bit before speaking. “Beelzebul. Principal of Inazuma’s Academy of Culture & Arts and Shogunate Academy. Head of the Electro Course,” she sat down and glanced at the white haired girl beside her. 

There was an empty kind of rage in her eyes and yet when she spoke, there was a slight strain behind the innocence of it. “Buer, Head of the Dendro Course.” The heroes looked at one another in confusion, did she not oversee an academy of her own? A cough brought them back to attention. “Alhaitham, Acting Grand Sage and Scribe of the Sumeru Akademiya. I believe the Grand Sage’s place would equal that of a principal or director.” Oh, so he was a temporary principal, was Sumeru the weakest of them, then?

A giggle rang out from another white haired woman to the right of the UA staff. Her eyes had tear-like pupils and different shades of blue on each eye. She, like those before, stood up and faced them. She smiled a smile that did not quite reach her eyes and said “Focalors, principal of the Fontaine Academy of Law & Fine Arts. This lovely lady here,” she points at the girl standing behind her seat – throne, really – that looks identical to her, if not more shy than anything. 

The girl, a possible twin, takes a deep breath before she confidently speaks out. “I am Furina de Fontaine, and I oversee the Fontaine Research Institute and Opera Epiclese!” a triumphant smile appears on her face before she steps back and lets Focalors take the lead once more. Her hat shifts a slight bit and the man behind her shifts it back in place. He turns back, speaks “Neuvillette, Head of the Hydro Course,” and nods at Haborym.

Haborym grins, all teeth and closed eyes, before she loudly proclaims “Haborym, or Mavuika whichever you prefer. Principal of Natlan’s Trades Academy. Head of the Pyro Course,” her hair and eyes seemed to glow just a bit. Perhaps it was just the exhaustion setting in after a long trip or the rays of the sun playing tricks on them.

Finally, the Ice Crown lady stands and introduces herself. “Tsaritsa. Principal of Snezhnaya’s Political Science Academy. Head of the Cryo Course,” every word she said to them felt as if she had shot several icy daggers at them. Clearly of all of them, she hated them the most.

Alhaitham moved from behind Buer and gave Asmoday the notepad he had dragged around with him. Buer gave him another one when he had come back behind her. He thanked her and propped it open. Asmoday opened the notepad and showed it to the blond man beside her. He sighed and rolled his eyes, uncaring that the heroes were there and could very well see him.

“Alright, since we already know who you are there is no need for you to introduce yourselves. Well, then shall we start?” the blond man said, piercing blue eyes and four-point star pupils seeing right through them.

The heroes will forever swear that they heard the bell toll of death that day. They will forever swear that every single glance sent their way in that room felt just as predatory as a villain’s should feel.

What they will never say, however, was that the League of Villains inspired less fear than Teyvat’s higher-ups did with a single elemental powered glance.

───※ ·✥· ※───

Back in Mondstadt a blond haired woman led her dorm’s residents in a meeting. Both Allogenes and non-Allogenes alike attend. One raises their hand, “What do we do about the heroes coming to Mondstadt?”

“They’re likely to have a short tour of the academy’s facilities and maybe the dorms to meet us before they move on to Liyue and then to the next nations,” 

“Do you think they’ll get tours of the cities too or they'll just look at academies and dorms?”

“Jean, what do we do about the kids? They’ll probably try to reprimand us about Klee and Diona and their jobs and stuff,”

Plenty more complaints and remarks bubble up as Jean, the dorm head, tries to answer each and every one. Eventually, a cryo Allogene walks in, he smiles as he sees the commotion in the living area. A pyro Allogene joins beside him and glances at him before walking forward.

The pyro Allogene walks out and Jean sighs out in relief, she calls him over and they answer the resident’s questions. The cryo Allogene continues to smile for a second longer before he nods to one of the church’s sisters. They head out under the cover of darkness and gather information from their network.

───※ ·✥· ※───

The heroes are to arrive tomorrow morning, today they stay in Inazuma after they meet the higher ups.

Apparently one of the heroes – Vlad King, I believe – started a screaming match against the Tsaritsa.

… Inazuman informants… lots of Hydro residue… 11th Fatui Harbinger was sighted.

… Tenryou soldiers… General Mahamatra Cyno… incapacitate the raven haired fellow. … it was sick… children leading nations… front of Lord Kusanali and Lady Furina!

The Almighty Shogun had to step in and make sure that Vlad King did not try to hurt The Sustainer, not confirmed but he supposedly tried to use his quirk against her.

… red aura surrounding Lady Asmoday… Lord Kusanali left quite a bit of Dendro residue, as well.

…depleted the Goddess of Wisdom’s patience… vines sprouted through the floors… repairs to happen immediately

…elemental residue… Harbingers called… heroes reputation already done for

Hexenzirkle… Fatui… Temple of Silence… unite forces… not since Final Calamity… treaty of Celestia

… possible Fall of Khaenri’ah… Japanese heroes… HPSC involvement… Iudex Neuvillette to talk with UN

The Abyss Order’s Princess would like to talk to you Sir Kaeya.

Chapter Text

Akane Yamamoto was rather unremarkable, even amongst all the people within the HPSC. She was perfectly forgettable and blended into the background rather well. Perhaps this is why she is here now, with the woman she now calls boss.

Madam President had complimented her so much. Had said that her quirk was just perfect and oh-so useful for just about anything. She had wanted to deny it right then and there, but she had longed to hear these compliments from anyone aside from her family for so long. 

Years passed by and all of a sudden she was an HPSC secretary by day and an undercover agent by night. She was happy with her life. She could support herself and her family – even if they were already wealthy. Sure her night job left her tired but the adrenaline somehow never wore off. Then again, it could just be the high risk of the assignments that pushes her through, failure is not accepted after all.

But now that she truly looks into her life – since her inception to the HPSC, if she’s being honest – she’s always felt like that happiness has been faked. Like all the things that made her, had vanished when she had been molded to be part of the HPSC, although she would never say this out loud.

Doubting her mentor brought troubling thoughts to her, she was the one that taught her the uses of her quirk and taught her how to use its second application. She had shown her how things worked and even had come with her to her first undercover assignment – okay, it had been an earpiece, but still she had been there!

Still, Akane couldn't ignore how sometimes she would disappear to an off limits area and seem like she had achieved the greatest of things. Like she had something Japan, or the world, did not have and would never have. She didn’t understand, but Madam had told her that it was okay because she was still a beginner.

(She would occasionally see blond tufts of hair of someone, she never got to know their name.)

After that phone call, however, she was wondering why Teyvat was being mentioned between the business of the Principal of UA and the HPSC president. Madam President had seemed angry when Teyvat had been brought up.

And from the very little she had heard, it seemed to be about Nezu interfering where he should not have.

───※ ·✥· ※───

Akane Yamamoto was born on October 16. It had been a foggy morning with the temperature sitting at a comfortable 24 degrees (76 F). A perfectly average day if one was honest.

Akane grew up with all the love a family could ever offer. And thus she grew up under the watchful eyes of her parents, older sister and all the houseworkers of the Yamamoto Manor. As she grew up, her parents were in both parts equally excited and nervous and understandably so, she was getting closer to obtaining her quirk.

With every child that awakened one, her parents grew more worried than anxious. Was their dear Akane quirkless? Her parents had no ill will against the quirkless, they were people just like them. And if their quirks had anything to say about it, she would be better off quirkless or with a minor version of their quirks. 

Children would become vicious either way, useless or the wielder of a ‘villain’s quirk’. They didn’t wish for their Akane to be broken down by the world but neither did they wish to shelter her indefinitely from the world. That, too, would hurt her social and mental development.

───※ ·✥· ※───

Akane’s very love for reading was the thing that pushed her to expand her vocabulary and thus did she finally learn what her quirk’s Activation Requirements were. A single word and the person’s name. Thankfully she hadn’t quite yet discovered the editing aspect of quirk. No, that would come much later.

She was released early and they were sent to a quirk specialist. Her fate had never felt more shaky than that day. Her quirk was registered and kept private by her parents’ request, nobody knew her quirk and it was never shown on her school IDs. She supposes her family’s wealth was to thank for buying her time.

Sometime around when she had been 15 years old, and deciding on where to go for high school, the HPSC’s very Madam President came to visit and well wasn’t that the shock of a fucking lifetime. Her parents took the lead while she sat and listened as they spoke.

“We’d like to give her the opportunity to not only attend a prestigious school, but also to have a job set up right after her graduation,” Madam President said in such a manner that was neither happy nor neutral. She continued to speak as such for the rest of their meeting.

In the end, her parents took the offer – with her agreement – and so Akane went to an elite high school, graduated with honors, and became an intern only a week after for the HPSC. In her eyes, the last few years had gone quite quickly, and yet more was to come for her.

(Later down the line she’ll wish she had hadn't taken those 3 years for granted)

───※ ·✥· ※───

About a year in, she is summoned to the president’s office. At first, she was nervous, was she not doing enough? Was her work not up to standard? Was she going to get fired?

She is led to the highest floor in the building and then led to the very end of an out-of-the-way hallway. There, two massive mahogany doors greet her. The guards outside open the doors and shut them once she’s in. 

The president drags on the pleasantries for a small while before finally switching to the intended topic. Akane listens as Madam President talks about how she's assembling a new team of individuals and that she's been chosen. She does not listen to the rest, she does not have to. 

Akane believes more than anything that she is ready to turn her life around and this is the perfect chance to do so. Besides, she's grown rather bored of her work recently, so why not take this opportunity?

───※ ·✥· ※───

Akane Yamamoto leaves an undisclosed location after two years of training on a cold December's day. Out comes not the timid girl of before but a woman who has trained her body to the highest extent possible. 

She weaves through the crowds, hair flowing behind her but her look cast down to her phone. Plenty of train rides and confusing directions later and she is left facing up at a luxurious apartment building in the midst of Yokohama. 

She unlocks the door with the keycard she received and heads for the, already furnished, master bedroom. She falls asleep quickly, all recent aches and soreness from her harsh training forgotten.

She wakes up sometime around 5am and is immediately greeted with her phone pinging, email after email put into her inbox. She clicks the first of many, a “welcome back!” message from her new director greets her. She smiles and sends an email back to them.

The following emails are simply about her future work projects and new colleagues. As she's about to close out the app, a call comes through. An unknown number. Although, expected as it’s a new phone she has received, she is still hesitant to pick up.

She, with great reluctance, picks up and is greeted by the president. Greetings are passed between one another before they speak about a possible upcoming mission that she believes Akane should be a part of. A prominent drug ring with possible ties to the Trigger drug going around.

Akane accepts the mission without any hesitation, and the president’s tone takes a slightly happier tone at this confirmation. A date is given and written down as well as some surplus details on the mission of which Akane commits to memory before hanging up and starting other menial tasks.

Hours later, she opens the door to receive some groceries she had ordered and begins to make a meal for herself. Tomorrow will be another day, and another step forward in whatever convoluted mess she is to find herself in. For today, however, she will enjoy the lovely skyline that Yokohama has to offer and turn in for the night.

───※ ·✥· ※───

Let it be known that Katsumi Hoshino has not made a single mistake in her years as HPSC President. The many mistakes she made had happened when she was nothing more but a secretary for some no-name floor manager who was no longer here. She, however, knew that the second she accidentally sent a record of Teyvat findings to her newest recruit, she would be doubly fucked by the government.

Hopefully, and with any prayer, Akane would dismiss it or not find Teyvat interesting enough for her tastes. The former, though, was more likely than her not having her interest piqued on the elusive land of Teyvat.

───※ ·✥· ※───

Akane would one day open an, accidentally sent, email from Madam Hoshino and become interested in the world of Teyvat. She would start with the email and compare it to any articles or forums she found herself on but with each and everyone she opened to read, all she could see were incredibly biased and downright quirkist remarks. All of them, even articles from elite journalists, lacked the complete unbiased recording that the HPSC Teyvat Findings document did.

She closed tab after tab of biased and quirkist articles in favor of the HPSC document. After she had finished annotating a physical copy of it, she copied down article links and forum discussions on a separate notebook. She would spend the night crossing off things that matched and things that were pure speculation or malicious rumors. 

She would not know that years down the line, these annotations would prove handy in drawing lines between the HPSC, UA, and Celestia/Teyvat. She would not know that although the HPSC had permission and would soon push out diplomats and cultural anthropologists, UA would beat them and bring down a wave of destruction upon them all.

Chapter Text

The heroes awaken early, still not trusting of their escorts or the Archons who they met yesterday. Aizawa, though thoroughly exhausted after the previous day’s meeting, walked over to their temporary housing’s kitchen for a cup of coffee. As soon as he arrived at the kitchen, he saw the girl, Suna, from yesterday. 

He didn’t think he’d get a better chance to get information out of her, or to try and convert her to their side, so he made quick strides to her side. The girl kept typing away on her laptop, not once acknowledging him. She would occasionally stop typing for a bit and then continue with an almost urgent like quickness. The more he looked at her, the more he wished he could save her and give her a normal upbringing.

A quiet voice broke through his thoughts and the building’s silence. “Will you keep staring at me, or are you going to start your interrogation yet?” The typing never once stopped while she said that. Once she had, though, her head lifted and she stared at him as if he was not worth a second of her time. A dead-eyed stare was laser-focused on him for all of 5 seconds before she went back to her work.

All the courage he had accumulated had vanished the second she had lifted her head to stare at him. Aizawa’s mouth had gone dry. He quickly walked over to the coffee machine to the other side of her and began to make his coffee. Minutes of silence went by before she spoke again, this time with a tinge of annoyance bleeding through.

“Aren’t you supposed to be trying to get information out of me or are you using your amateur intimidation skills on me?” This time the typing stopped as she crossed her arms and stared at him as he drank his coffee. She continued to do so until he spoke.

“It was not my intention to make you feel intimidated, I was ju-” Suna quickly cut him off as they both heard footsteps coming down the stairs. “I do not care, just ask your questions so I do not have to feel your reassuring gaze on me all day,” She rolled her eyes and sighed as she turned her head to the source of the footsteps.

“Oh, it’s you,” Suna nodded her head in greeting before typing away yet again. The ginger-haired man from yesterday – Tartaglia, if he remembers correctly – stood at the front of the kitchen. He smiled as he waved to her. When he turned his gaze onto Aizawa, however, all he got was three slow blinks before he went and got a water bottle out of the fridge.

He uncapped the bottle and drank, his eyes never leaving Aizawa. Once he was done, he threw away the bottle and began to speak. “So, what’s this about interrogating my friend?” Suna let out a breathy laugh and shook her head but said nothing to the friend statement.

Here Aizawa had an opportunity to bring these two Teyvat kids to their side and yet he could say nothing. He could say nothing simply because he did not know what to say that could get them to trust him. It was obvious that Suna saw him as a waste of her time, but Tartaglia was different. He was very firmly on Teyvat’s side as they came to know during the meeting.

Aizawa knew that the longer he sat on it, the opportunity would slip away and he’d be getting away with nothing. So why not throw something out and see if he could pull in a larger reward?

“While it is not my intention to make it feel as if I am interrogating you, I do have some questions if you two would be kind enough to answer them,” Aizawa started, testing the waters. The two across from him looked and one another before Suna shrugged and kept typing. “Sure, I don’t mind that, just don’t get too personal, thanks,” she said and left no room for argument.

“Alright, first: where are you both from?” start them easy so they don’t notice. “Inazuma, moved to Natlan,” Suna’s response came first. “Snezhnaya,” Tartaglia answered right after her, almost script-like.

“What do you two work as?” Simple, easy. “Teacher’s aide for Natlan’s academy. Courier and explorer for the Scions of The Canopy.” a normal answer, if not a bit confusing with the new name. (Organization? Team? Alliance? God knows what they are.) Tartaglia’s answer, on the other hand, has him nearly reaching for his scarf. 

“I work for a military-political organization run by the Tsaritsa,” and suddenly alarm bells are ringing in Aizawa’s head. And really, if it weren’t for the fact that they got to see the Archon’s power last time, he would have marched right back into Tenshukaku and demanded an explanation as to why a, potential, child of all things was in such an organization. 

Almost as if Suna was reading his mind, she raised her eyebrows and cocked her head. As if to ask Are you sure you want to do such a thing? Do you think you’d be able to make it out? Then almost as if by the grace of God, Toshinori and Sekijirou walk into the kitchen, tense silence engulfing them.

Whether it be that Toshinori is that dense, or if he is just that tired after the events of the day before to notice, he walks past them and serves himself some of the muffins that were put out and pours a glass of milk. When he turns around he finds himself face to face with Suna. Pulsing pink-red eyes meet sky blue. Their eyes remain locked on one another’s for a couple of seconds before Toshinori places down his glass and plate to nod his head at her, a soft ‘good morning’ leaving his lips.

She nods and goes right back to her work, this time opting to write down some notes of which she shows to Tartaglia. Sekijirou, for his part, watches the two with wary eyes. His gaze upon them does not go as unnoticed as he hopes as Tartaglia looks at him with Suna turning to look but a second later. 

Minutes later, Alhaitham and Cyno emerge from their shared room, dressed and ready to go. The silence eventually gets unbearable but Aizawa feels that should he continue his questions here, he’d have to worry about the General Mahamatra and Scribe who are now within earshot. Not to mention, Alhaitham is seemingly always taking notes and they both report back to the Goddess of Wisdom – however true that title may be, he is not too sure of.

And he dares not challenge her if the claim is true.

───※ ·✥· ※───

Hours later and right at 9 AM sharp, a familiar face shows up, Thoma. By now Tartaglia and Suna are long gone and they are left at the mercy of Alhaitham and Cyno. The scribe had filled them in that as they were in Inazuma, they would start the tour here then take an aquabus ride, whatever the hell that was, to Mondstadt and later walk to Liyue for the rest of the tour. 

Supposedly, the aquabus ride would be a lot faster than the ride into Teyvat and Ritou, but they still had their reservations on this. Eventually Thoma led them back up to Tenshukaku and signaled that their tour would start there.

They received a brief history of the building as well as the Shogun’s ascent to Archonhood. One that Toshinori took delight in whereas the other two did not. Really, if anyone had said that they had ascended to godhood, Archonhood in this case, he’d have laughed in their face and asked if they were delusional. Minutes later, Thoma introduced them to some shops and restaurants in the Tenryou area before they made their way down to Hanamizaka. Toshinori noted down some places that looked good and walked a bit faster to catch up with their group.

Thoma would stop every once in a while with comments on how the food was ‘to die for!’ or how Yae Publishing House had great books with translated versions for sale if they fancied themselves a break. At one point, they even met another Pyro vision bearer who worked at a fireworks shop. A fire hazard, if you were to ask the heroes. In fact, they were even so bold as to question the young girl, who just told them that she had a good grip of her vision. And even so, she did not outright use it while in the shop.

As a matter of fact, of all the vision users they had stumbled upon, none used them — visions — as freely as people back home would’ve used their quirks. It was all left to combat or to help them do an activity. They wondered if perhaps there were laws or even rules at all on the usage of a vision as there were laws on quirk usage. Perhaps that's why they didn't use them as freely as they could.

“We’ll be heading down Chinju Forest since your group has already traversed through Konda Village,” Thoma said, albeit just the slightest bit more quietly. Alhaitham stepped forward, and for the first time today, spoke. “This area is protected by the Kamisato Clan of the Yashiro Commission, please respect that. Not only that, but the Kamisato Estate lies ahead and on our way to Mount Yougou. If you have any questions, do ask Thoma. He is far more knowledgeable on the Kamisato Clan as he works for them,” 

With that all three sets of eyes were suddenly on Thoma, questions practically bubbling up and about to spill over. Thoma sighed, quietly cursing Alhaitham, and waved to them to ask their questions. “You may ask your questions so long as they do not cross into confidential matters,” Thoma walked away, the other two men moving with him.

“What is the Yashiro Commission exactly? I also heard something about the Tri-Commission but I wasn’t quite sure what that was about, would you mind explaining it?” Toshinori asked, although he didn't believe he’d be getting a truthful answer. If anything he thought it’d be an answer that gave a vague truth they’d have to uncover themselves. It’d be fine if not a bit annoying to deal with.

“The Yashiro Commission is one of three organizations within the Tri-Commission. They are led by the Kamisato Clan and are in charge of managing shrines, festivals, and cultural events. Although they may not have as much influence as the Kanjou and Tenryou Commissions, they have better connections and relations with the common people of Inazuma,” Thoma explained plainly, Toshinori’s pen moved swiftly as he made notes on what Thoma said, the other two opting instead to listen and make mental notes.

Toshinori also noted that while they started their tour early in the morning, the second they stepped into Chinju Forest, it seemed as if it was night within the space. The fluorescent blue tint of the forest gave way to an ethereal look that he doubted could ever be replicated in Japan, or anywhere outside.  He supposed that this, too, was just another part of Teyvat’s mystical beauty. 

“The other two commissions, Kanjou and Tenryou, are led by the Hiiragi and Kujou Clans respectively. Kanjou takes care of Inazuma’s finances, customs, and borders. The Tenryou Commission, on the other hand, is responsible for security and military affairs as well as enforcing the will of the Shogun. All three work together and meet regularly to keep Inazuma working smoothly,” Thoma finished his explanation as they reached the Kamisato Estate.

“And this building here is the Kamisato Estate, to the left here,” he said while pointing to a ‘hidden’ area. “We have the entrance to Mount Yougou. It’s quite the climb so we’ve had our friend, Aether, work his magic to make our trip less exhausting with a temporary version of these Waypoints,” Thoma excitedly pointed at an odd blue structure. The heroes stood there, on one hand just from looking at the incredibly broken and long path up to the shrine, it seemed like it would be one hell of an exhausting trip upwards. But then again, they had no idea what these strange structures were or what they did.

Well, if they could get this tour over with so they could get a start on their investigation, then strange devices it was. They sighed as they made their way over to the strange glowing device. Thoma nodded when they were in front, touched the Waypoint and held his left hand out. Alhaitham held Thoma’s hand before he too did the same. This chain ended with Toshinori at the back, who simply took Sekijirou’s hand and stood there.

The feeling of rushing wind and dizziness overtook the heroes for a few seconds before it cleared away. Cyno stepped in front of them, looking them over for any signs of discomfort in their faces. After they were deemed okay to continue, Thoma waved them forward through a staircase path composed of torii gates. The holographic version of the Waypoint, left forgotten in their leave.

Sekijirou looked through the gaps between the gates and down onto the bustling streets of Inazuma City. While he knew exactly what he was there for, he also could not find it in himself to deny that Inazuma was rather beautiful. The sakura trees that stood next to the gates would sway in the wind and blow sakura petals, making the trip upwards a sight to behold. Eventually, they reached the shrine and stood as they saw several people rushing about.

Some of the women around would quickly wave to Thoma before rushing off to assist someone. Once the last of their group reached the top of their staircase, Thoma began to detail some of the significance behind the shrine and the sakura tree as he brought them inside the shrine.

Aizawa had been paying close attention when the Grand Narukami Shrine was mentioned, but even more so when Thoma had said that this was the chief religious organization that worshipped the Electro Archon. Thoma went on a short summary of the shrine’s history and sole affiliation that Aizawa would follow closely in search of clues.

They watched as a prayer was led before their very eyes, a pink haired woman at the forefront of it. She gently, yet strictly, led the prayer with an air of grace only an experienced priestess could have. Her purple eyes swept over the attendees, shrine maidens, and the heroes themselves, she however did not let herself be distracted and continued to lead to the very end.

Toshinori caught from his peripheral vision as Thoma wore a tense smile once he too was noticed by the head priestess. He frowned, was there something between them? Did she perhaps hurt him once? He knew it would do him no good to jump to conclusions but his mind wouldn’t stop racing as he saw Thoma mentally preparing himself when the lady began walking towards them.

“Acting Grand Sage Alhaitham, General Mahamatra Cyno, pleasure seeing you both here,” she bowed to both men who bowed in return. “Thoma, mind introducing me to your new friends?” her voice, sweet as it sounded, cut through the meaningless chatter behind them. Thoma steeled himself, trying to not sound so nervous. “These three are the UA teachers that were sent for the exchange. Sekijirou Kan, Aizawa Shouta, and Toshinori Yagi. Gentlemen, this Guuji Yae Miko. Head Shrine Maiden in charge of the Grand Narukami Shrine,”

Yae Miko smiled slightly, her face shadowed by the rising sun behind her, peeking through the lower branches of the Sacred Sakura. After minutes of conversing and getting themselves familiar with Guuji Yae, they parted ways. Guuji Yae saw them off with a wave before she left to attend to shrine matters.

Thoma showed them a bit around the parts of Ritou which they had not been to yesterday. He spoke little of the Kanjou Commission, merely stating that the Proxy of the Hiiragi Clan was the daughter of the previous head. Eventually they walked behind Sailing Breeze and to a large building no more than a couple yards behind it.

There Thoma purchased tickets for an aquabus ride to Kannazuka, “We’ll be seeing the Shogunate Academy in Kannazuka then we’ll be off to Seirai Island to tour Inazuma Academy,” Thoma told them as they were boarding the aquabus to the Shogunate Academy.

───※ ·✥· ※───

Upon arrival, they were led through a concrete road to yet another intimidating building. The shouts of men and women leaked out from the inside, resounding twin shouts of ‘Glory to the Shogun!’ and ‘For Watatsumi!’. The purple haired woman from the day before stood at the entrance, seemingly having been waiting for them.

Thoma greeted her, introduced them to one another and promptly left as soon as he had transferred them over. The lady, who they came to know as Kujou Sara, told them that today was a ‘mixed day’ where they would see both the Watatsumi Army and Shogunate Army train together and if lucky, even meet the Divine Priestess of Watatsumi Island. 

“These kinds of days are far and few between, especially since the end of the Inazuman Civil War. Both sides have been reluctant to be within the same space, but ever since The Final Calamity they’ve come to tolerate each other and their beliefs.” Kujou would come to say as they toured the courtyards, watching as both armies trained together.

Questions on the civil war they’d heard about would be asked and Kujou would answer as vaguely as possible. In her own words, ‘Outsiders need not know what happened, merely that it’s been resolved and we are moving past our grievances’. Aizawa would beg to differ but he wouldn’t push those boundaries within a place that held two armies and where there could be vision holders, or Allogenes as they were so often referred to, around.

Kujou led them to a room which was closed off via light purple Fusume doors with yet another strange emblem on its latch. This time it was strange being with, seemingly, fins coming off the body, light pink hues that bled into near white at the bottom. Kujou spoke to a Watatsumi soldier for a while, the man later disappeared behind the doors for a few seconds. He nodded to Kujou and she waved them inside.

In the office, a lady clad in blues and indigos sat in a throne-like chair. The messiness of the office did not seem like the kind of environment a so-called Divine Priestess would work in. They expected something more rigid or even slightly regal. Nonetheless, the woman in front of them smiled a tired smile and began to speak, setting down her pen after signing a document.

“I, Sangonomiya Kokomi, welcome you to Kannazuka Island. I'm sure Sara here has already told you who I am so I won't be repeating that.” Sangonomiya’s voice felt light and airy, nothing of what they imagined out of someone who was deemed an extremely competent military strategist by Kujou. Sangonomiya’s smile stayed as she motioned for them to sit on the chairs in front of them.

Kujou bowed to them, more reflex than genuine respect, and left the room. Her fading footsteps echoing in the empty halls of the academy. Their sole saving grace was that neither Alhaitham or Cyno had left alongside Kujou. They turned back just in time to see that Sangonomiya had already put away the documents in a file cabinet behind her and was waiting for them to begin speaking.

“Shall we speak then, gentlemen?” the lilt in her voice breaking the – eternally there – tense silence.

───※ ·✥· ※───

The Mondstadt dorms were buzzing with nervous energy, the Inazuma leg of the tours was nearly over and Acting Grandmaster Jean had already left for the academy. Her only instructions were to keep, not so little anymore, Klee far from her explosives at least for today.

The students of Mondstadt were mingling with friends and taking care of schoolwork whereas others were in the Knights’ headquarters, taking care of paperwork and adjusting lesson plans in order to take their mind off of things. Namely, the heroes coming - invading - their nation. If they had any say in this, they would have turned down the invitation but it's not like they can turn down Asmoday. Not if they want to tarnish Mondstadt’s reputation for being friendly to outsiders – their outsiders not the outsiders , don't get it twisted.

Still, it's not like citizens were any happier. Tales of outsiders who gained visions and entry to Teyvat spread through the land and gave them opinions on heroes and the hero scene as a whole. If they were this bad within their own society, what exactly would be expected when they came here, prejudices and all? Sure, Mondstadt was a nation that often enough voiced their opinions without fear of repercussions, but would the heroes know that? Would the heroes even deign to listen to them?

Whatever happened, at least they had made themselves as presentable as possible. They'd even close up some taverns, though the owners and citizens put up a bit of a fight on that one. They shut down operations at least until the heroes left the main city and entered the Academy. Late opening was better than no opening and a full closure and even then they would not be closing again, not even when the heroes stayed in Mondstadt the first three days. 

If they had opinions on how much they drank, they’d simply tell them that Mondstadt was the City of Wine and Song. If they chose to spit at them on how dumb – or cultish – their ideologies were, well then at least Astralis had given them the idea of having bouncers to kick them out. Thank Archons – or would it be Aeons? – that they’d given them so many new jobs within Teyvat and in Astralis.

That being said, intermingling with the other worlds was another fascinating thing that had been brought forward by the end of the Final Calamity. The joining of Teyvat and Astralis, as they had chosen said name, was brought with plenty of celebration and high amounts of tourism on both ends. Some even went as far as completely uprooting their lives and setting them down in either world, universe in Astralis’ case. 

As it was, one of Astralis’ many people was currently walking through the Knights’ headquarters, making their way to the Cavalry Captain’s office. A sandy-blond haired man made his way past, smiling at the guards who nodded to him. He knocked thrice on the wooden door, a muffled ‘come in’ spoken from the other side.

“Here for the reports, Aventurine?” the Cavalry Captain turned back to the Stoneheart, his singular eye looking at him expectantly. Aventurine hummed, still smiling, and sat down on one of the available chairs. He looked out onto the city while Kaeya retrieved the needed information.

Kaeya turned back, opening a file cabinet and taking out a small notebook. He walked back to his desk and turned the notebook over to Aventurine. Magenta and cyan eyes flitted across the pages, all the information Kaeya had received had been put into neat lists depending on the topic. His eyes strayed back to Kaeya, slightly glowing in anticipation.

“I know that glow, what do you plan to do now, Aventurine? And, please, no killing yourself, do not traumatize the heroes,” Kaeya says, just the slightest bit apprehensive about what he may plan to do. Aventurine rolls his eyes, the glowing just a bit dulled but still present. “Not at all, but the IPC is interested in them, could make plenty of money off of them if we’d be able to set a presence in Japan. Seeing as they have the biggest hero scene aside from the American market, of course.”

The IPC, Interastral Peace Corporation, had deigned to leave Teyvat alone and not profit off of them and even signed a contract with the Geo Archon to set this precedent in stone. Though they had been bitter about it for a while, they had eventually come around. Now they had set their sights on the hero-ridden world outside of Teyvat. The market was fresh, highly competitive and offered high rewards for those who chose to take the gamble. 

(Though that was likely due to the amount of people who practically worshipped heroes as if they, too, were gods)

“Topaz and I have run the numbers and, unless we’ve lost our touch after Penacony, it seems that this kind of business could fix the little slump your world put us in, though the tourism in Penacony has helped plenty.” Aventurine says, looking at Kaeya as if he himself had forced them to sign the Morax approved contract. Kaeya sighs, looking away and back to documents he is due to bring to Jean today. Aventurine’s intimidation tricks would not work on Kaeya, and he knew this, but it was practically reflex to just stare at them until they were thoroughly unnerved and willing to do as the IPC said. 

Aventurine gives the notebook back to Kaeya who places it on his desk. They stay in an amiable silence for a while, digesting what has come out of this conversation. Information aside, making Astralis’ existence known to the outside world is a massive gamble, one even Aventurine is apprehensive of on his odds of winning. On one hand, they could quit ‘hiding’ behind Teyvat’s shadow, on the other… the heroes may decide they too need saving . That is something every faction in Astralis wants to avoid entirely. Any sort of connection to heroes would damn them all collectively, especially if they find out the existence of stellarons and the other curiosities in the Herta Space Station among other places.

“If you say so, now about the information you have for me.” Aventurine grins, and Kaeya sighs. He opens the notebook and grabs his pen. 

“Tell me everything you know, Aventurine.”

───※ ·✥· ※───

The aquabus ride to Seirai was much longer than the one to Kannazuka. The heroes had been silent since they had spoken to Sangonomiya; they'd been escorted out of the academy after an intense debate. Said debate had ended in Cyno having to step in, yet again, and Kujou escorting and now watching them as they sat in the aquabus to Seiai.

The skies darkened when they were finally in Seirai borders, just as they had in Chinju Forest. They had turned into blended hues of purple and pink, a seemingly eternal sunset. A massive storm cloud shone purple high up in the sky with the crackling of lightning being heard sporadically as they got closer. The mountains protecting the building that seemingly sat in midair were it not for the concrete pillars holding it high above. Two other buildings – dorms, possibly – sat to the sides, bridges connecting them to the academy and to each other. 

The academy, and the dorms, followed the same color scheme as the upper parts of Inazuma City: dark purples, greys and blacks topped off with the Electro Mitsudome in the middle of the frontmost torii gate. Had they not known, they would have simply assumed that they too were some Inazuma’s many buildings meant to intimidate them.

(But was eternity not terrifying enough, especially the unchanging one the Electro Archon, Beelzebul, spoke of so highly?)

The Seirai Port was rather empty, though that itself was not surprising according to Kujou. Most, if not all, the residents of Seirai were students or teachers. And while all domestic students had a home they could go back to, most stayed in Seirai anyway. The international students were able to go back to their respective nations during holidays or if they had special permissions. So long as they had a valid reason to leave Inazuma, they could come and go.

Kujou led them across the bridge, the students who were outside looked them over as they passed by. Short nods of acknowledgement to the scribe and general and varying looks of disdain or curiosity for the heroes. Kujou on the other hand, received plenty of full bows and whispered greetings of ‘Good morning, General Kujou’. The heroes raised their brows at that but said nothing as they approached the entrance to the academy.

“From here, Lady Kamisato shall lead the way. You shall also have a check in with the Almighty Shogun before you leave the academy. Aside from that, please do not make General Cyno have to step in again.” Kujou sighed as she motioned for a light blue haired girl to come forward. The girl, Kamisato, walked forward with a slight smile on her face. A quick once-over revealed nothing that would show she was being abused or mistreated – a joy and blow to the heroes' efforts to find evidence.

Though the heroes noted her surname, they did not do much past share quick glances with one another. Kamisato bowed before them, stray strands of hair fell over her face as she brought her head back up. She straightened them out before she began to speak

“Hello, I am Kamisato Ayaka of the Kamisato Clan. It is a pleasure to meet you both.” All five of the men return the bow with practiced ease. Lady Kamisato, as Kujou addressed her, said her farewells to her before she returned to the port, more than likely to return to the Shogunate Academy.

Lady Kamisato motioned for them to follow her, walking through the front courtyard garden. Really, if they hadn’t been to Tenshukaku already, they would have assumed this was where Beelzebul resided with its striking similarities to it. Though that also brought a question to all the heroes heads: Are all the academies this grand? From the two they had seen just today, it would seem as such but would this trend keep up throughout the nations?

Lady Kamisato led them through the front without much speaking, although it isn’t like it needed much explaining. Picnic-esque benches sat around the area, four sakura trees were at the corners of it, blowing sakura petals downwards painting that concrete in light pinks. In the middle lay perhaps the most elegant fountain they’d laid eyes upon, the sound of splashing water being heard throughout the area. Other students were around as well, though that made no sense if they had closed down the academies so they could tour.

As if sensing their confusion, Lady Kamisato spoke up, her soft voice still managing to make its way even through the chatter of the students. “Though the academies are to not hold classes, the Archons have said that we are allowed to hold our usual tutoring sessions and extracurricular activities, thus some students are present right now.” The heroes nodded, understanding that they were not truly at liberty to question the way in which Teyvat Academy worked.

“Some of the people here may not look like such, but they are teachers or assistants. Oftentimes, we receive guest lecturers from other nations, most often they come from Sumeru’s very own Akademiya. Seminars are held in the Imperatrix Somnolenta auditorium, perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to attend one of them.” Lady Kamisato giggled at the end, an endearing sound, really. Even Cyno smiled a bit, glad to see Ayaka letting go just the slightest bit. From what he had heard of other acquaintances, she often found it hard to truly connect with people.

Sekijirou suddenly spoke up, the first time during the tour, as far as Alhaitham was concerned. “The theatre’s name is rather long but aside from that, why that name? Does it hold any sort of significance?” Kamisato turned around to face him, the shadows of Seirai’s eternal setting sun highlighting her silver-blue eyes just the slightest bit. She seemed to be in thought for no more than a few seconds before she looked as if she had just realized something.

“Oh, dear, I seem to have forgotten to explain this part. My apologies, gentlemen.” She bowed to them. Ayaka mused to herself, wondering how to explain where the name came from. Significance was rather easy to explain, but the real question was: Would they understand the concept of Constellations ? She hummed to herself, aware that the time for awkward silence had yet to set in, but embarrassed enough that she had forgotten they would not know about some systems as they did.

(They, after all, had abandoned belief in their gods when they were blessed with their quirks. They believed themselves to be equal to or even greater than gods simply because of them)

“The name of the theatre comes from Her Excellency’s, the Raiden Shogun, and Watatsumi’s Divine Priestess, Sangonomiya’s, constellation names: Imperatrix Umbrosa and Dracaena Somnolenta. The Imperatrix Somnolenta ’s significance, on the other hand, comes from the short, although, important union between the Shogunate and Watatsumi Resistance armies during the Final Calamity. Does that answer your question Mr. Sekijirou?”

Lady Kamisato awaited their answer with a patient smile on her lips. Toshinori answers with just the slightest bit of awe in his voice. “Yes, that does answer the question. Although I’d like to ask my own question if that is alright, Lady Kamisato?” Ayaka breathed a sigh of relief, though she felt as if the explanation had been a bit wordy. Still, she had another question to answer.

“Yes, do ask your question, sir. And, please, do just call me Ayaka,” Toshinori nodded to her, a small smile on his face. “Alright, Miss Ayaka. We have heard talks of this ‘Final Calamity, is there anything you could perhaps tell us about it?” 

Admittedly, she had known that the Final Calamity was something that just about everyone in Teyvat, and even Astralis, spoke about rather freely. So, really, it was no wonder that even the heroes had heard of it as well, she just hadn’t expected them to ask her about it so boldly. Even so, she knew there was no way she would be able to get out of it. Ayaka could already see the other two pro heroes looking at her expectantly.

Sensing her distress, Alhaitham went and stood beside her before facing the heroes. “Lady Kamisato here was not involved in the main efforts of the Final Calamity. I, however, was and thus I will answer your question.” Ayaka turned and thanked him before he dove into the topic.

“Before the founding of Teyvat Academy as a whole, Celestia and the Archons were not on good terms. This did not manifest in mass casualty wars as one would expect, but rather radio silence from Celestia and non-contact across all Archons and nations, aside from the respective governments maintaining diplomatic contact. However, what triggered the events of the Final Calamity were the unification of the Archons’ Gnosis’. 

Though there were events prior that definitely should have awakened The Sustainer, who you know as Asmoday, the Gnosis’ being brought together was what angered her the most, especially when they were being used to retaliate against her. Not to mention, Aether’s foray into the ruins of Khaenri’ah, or Dahri as we Sumerians call it. And thus a war broke out between her and The Seven Archons. When The Sustainer was finally defeated, a contract procured by the God of Contracts, Morax, was signed and presented to the world as the Treaty of Celestia. ”

The group made its way through the mostly empty halls of the reception area. The heroes nearly stopped in shock of what they had heard. If The Seven and Asmoday were truly gods, this meant that the war would have been a damn extinction level threat to Teyvat, how the hell had they survived much less have their land looking as if nothing had happened? 

The heroes’ confusion was written all over their faces as they walked further in, any person who was around and had heard what Alhaitham had been telling them, snickered to either themselves or their friends. Not long after the silence had settled after that massive bombshell of information, Ayaka took center stage yet again and began to show them around the first two floors.

“These first two floors are split into two different uses, academic and extracurricular. This first floor is the extracurriculars, hence the amount of labs and machinery. Not sure if Thoma had already told you, but the Yashiro Commission once served as Inazuma’s bladesmithing and weapon forging hub, thus it holds great cultural and artistic importance to us. Unfortunately, three of the five arts were completely lost and one of the two remaining is hardly standing, thus we focus more on the Amenoma Art of bladesmithing and what had been salvaged from the Isshin Art.”

Ayaka seemed to be rather sullen as she had told the heroes this, and they, while not completely understanding, still felt sympathy for the young woman. To lose something so important to culture, not to mention this is what the Yashiro Commission represented, must have hit hard no matter how long ago it must have happened. Toshinori put his hand on Ayaka’s shoulder and smiled at her reassuringly, timid sadness in his own eyes.

“What matters is that you are trying to use what still exists, perhaps one day three arts will surface and be taught to young bladesmithing enthusiasts. Until then, all you can do is continue promoting Inazuma’s culture: bladesmithing, festivals, tours, the food, your gods former and current. You need not dwell on the past, young Ayaka, you must look to the future for I am sure that Inazuma shall shine bright and true even then, your efforts rely on it to do so.”

Ayaka’s eyes glistened with unshed tears, she wiped them off quickly and put on a more determined face. She quickly thanked Toshinori and led them through the rest of the academy, showing the intricately designed classrooms and libraries. One could see the amount of detail it took to strike a perfect balance between what one would assume to be the colors of Narukami and Watatsumi. 

Clearly, the architect has great taste and can strike a good balance on aesthetics and functionality. There’s nothing I’ve found that suggests otherwise. They must be quite the catch, wherever they are from. Toshinori mused as they moved forward with the tour of the Inazuma Academy. The Imperatrix Somnolenta auditorium had even proved to be more grand than that of UA’s very own Assembly Hall, and beautifully decorated, too.

In every window they passed, and the higher up they were, the eternal sunset shone brighter and created a spectacular sight to behold. The purples and pinks matched well with the cream and black colored rooms. There was a surprising amount of modernity within a place that had seemed so traditional, and maybe , Toshinori thought, that was the greatest thing the academy had offered them .

Ayaka led them up to the uppermost floor, nothing but a staff lounge on one side and a staff workspace on the other. The hall gave way to two rooms on the left and right sides. On the right the Sangonomiya crest was above the doorway, the light purple colored Fusuma doors held a decorated shell latch. To the left was the door that would show them to the Shogun. It held the Electro Mistudome crest above and on the door latch. Two men were posted at each door, Watatsumi and Shogunate officers guarded the doors as if they would even be able to attempt anything.

Ayaka bowed to the Shogunate officers, who did the same in return. “Here for the check in, Lady Kamisato?” one of the men asked. Ayaka simply nodded, and the men opened the doors. Inside the Shogun sat typing away reports and writing notes. The heroes took notice of the security camera panel that laid to the right of the Shogun, a single table underneath that held random trinkets and what one would assume to be gifts. 

Raiden Shogun raised her head and looked at them before motioning to come inside. Ayaka walked forward, the five men going behind her. When she, Ayaka, was a fair distance from the desk, she bowed to her and whispered ‘Glory to the Shogun’ before raising her head at the Shogun’s cue. Meanwhile, Alhaitham and Cyno opted to simply bow their heads in respect to her.

“Your Excellency, I have brought the heroes to perform the check in.” The Shogun looked them over before closing her eyes. “The one within wishes to take over for the check in, I shall let her have her wish.” The heroes looked confused and glanced over at the three Teyvatians in search of an explanation. All Cyno could offer was a ‘watch’ gesture which led them to see as the Shogun relaxed the slightest bit. 

“I have told you before Ayaka, Ei is just fine, even in front of the Shogun.” The Shogun – Ei? – said in a much kinder voice than before. The heroes seemed shocked, were there two people in one body? Was this a case of a possible mental disorder? 

Almost as if he could read their thoughts, Cyno shook his head and pointed at his chest and then made a small gesture. The soul? Was this Ei the soul of the Raiden Shogun? Before they could make their questions known a nervous laugh escaped Ayaka.

“If you say so, Your Excell– I mean Ei.” Ayaka responded and Ei nodded. She then turned around and observed them for a few seconds, gaze unwavering. The terrifying Electro Archon stared at them without any of the hostility of yesterday. After that, she sighed and stood up, walking around her desk and leaning on the front of it.

“I must apologize for yesterday, the Shogun can be rather hasty with her judgement of threats to our shared ideal of Eternity. I do hope none of you were too awfully hurt from any of the hits that may have landed.” her voice, Ei’s voice, was rather soft, like the first sakura blooms of April threatening to fall on the hardened concrete below. If the heroes were to be capable of anything, they would have gaped at the fact that a god, an Archon, was apologizing to them. Still, they bowed and quietly accepted the apology, not daring to question it, lest she retract the apology.

“I must ask, not just as part of the check in but for my own personal report, did you enjoy your tour? Was everything to your liking? Please, do not be afraid to be honest.” Ei told them, the slightest bit of a smile gracing her lips. The heroes just slightly breathed in, not trusting themselves to not stumble over their words out of the sheer intimidating aura and striking beauty of the goddess in front of them.

Toshinori spoke up first. “The tour was fantastic and answered my own questions on Inazuma’s culture and Teyvat’s history. Apart from that, I must say that the atmosphere here is great and the architecture is phenomenal. Do you happen to know the name of the architect by any chance?” Ei raised her eyebrow at that, and let out a soft mhmm .

“I do indeed know his name. Though you won’t meet him until you reach Sumeru, his name is Kaveh. I am quite sure that both of these gentlemen here could fill you in on how to contact him for work inquiries. Aside from that, I am quite pleased that both academies were to your liking.” 

───※ ·✥· ※───

The heroes returned to Seirai Port and purchased tickets for a ride to Ritou. Ayaka saw them off and thanked Toshinori for his words one last time before they boarded the aquabus. The two Sumerians also boarded the aquabus but let the heroes know that they would be left alone on their trip to Mondstadt as they were to take a ride back to Port Ormos.

The heroes felt a bit uneasy hearing that but knew that they had already taken enough of their time, especially after yesterday’s fight with the Archons. Despite this, they both reassured them that they would have off-scene bodyguards as they toured Mondstadt and Liyue. Toshinori nodded and thanked them for accompanying them this far into their stay.

───※ ·✥· ※───

All three men saw the Sumerians off before they boarded the aquabus. They left for their own, the blazing afternoon sun beating down on them as they made their way to the City of Freedom, as they had heard the people call it. 

But truly, what is freedom when it’s demanded of you by a god?

Chapter Text

The ride to Mondstadt was indeed much quicker than the ride to Teyvat and Ritou, and thankfully so as they did not want to endure the hot afternoon sun any longer than they must. All they could see from the inside of the building was a glowing ‘Statue of The Seven’. The god, Barbatos etched onto the statue, overlooking the backside of the port. If they were to look any further, they would notice a faint glowing from the statues further off.

Mondstadt City lay quite a distance from where they were in Falcon Coast’s port. A vast wildlife lay around them with few signs of human life besides the few watchtowers on the mountains east and west of them and the port behind them. Eventually a man in a green shirt and spade shaped chest window showed up to greet them.

He waved at them as he steadily walked over. Toshinori noted that nobody thus far had looked so.. modern. In fact, he didn’t look as if he belonged to Teyvat, he looked as if he belonged either their own world or in another. Actually, now that he thought about it, some people also stuck out in their tour of Narukami Island. Their accents far too thick or their clothes too strange for the ones that were more traditional and Inazuman – Japanese if you wanted to be technical.

To the man’s credit, he was handsome. Sandy blonde hair that somehow shined in the afternoon sun despite being rather dull and a pair of pretty – were they glowing? – dual colored eyes. His eyes, of all things, were the most hypnotizing part of him. Magenta and cyan colored eyes that seemed to see right through them, a hint of mischievousness in them.

A puzzle waiting to be solved, but only if the person solving was as clever as him.

“Hello and welcome to the Nation of Freedom, newcomers. I am Aventurine, and as I’m sure you’ve already guessed, I am your escort into the city. Another one of my friends awaits us in the city so let’s not keep him waiting!” Aizawa briefly noted that the man’s – Aventurine’s – left arm was tucked behind his back, if he had looked a little longer he'd have noticed that it was shaking.

Meanwhile, Aventurine made sure to keep ahead of the heroes, his fingers fidgeting slightly with the rings he wore. He knew that if he stayed behind them, they would find him suspicious and corner him with questions that he’d rather not answer. On the flip side, if he went ahead, they’d see his shaking arm, which would produce the same end result. Truthfully, the only thing he could do here was to bear the asinine questions they had for him and hope they would not ask about him or his ‘nation’.

He briefly remembers a passing conversation he had with Kusanali, Nahida as she said to call her. She had told him that he was more than welcome to pose as a student of theirs, and would even go as far as making a temporary student file for him should he need it at any point. The whole package just for me, he thinks to himself in the blissful silence the heroes let him have, however ephemeral it may be.

The walk through the forest is short and fills the faces of the heroes with poorly hidden awe. It’s almost as if they’ve never seen a forest before. Didn’t they hold their so-called ‘Training Camp’ in a forest? Or perhaps it’s seeing another world’s forests that has them this awe-struck. Aventurine quietly laughs to himself, his eyes glowing just a little bit brighter in amusement.

Just as they approach the bridge, the heroes notice another person standing, waiting. A young man with violet hair and a golden laurel at the side appearing to be poring over a book – questionable but looks enough like a book to be described as such. He turns just as the sound of their footsteps reaches him.

“About time you made an appearance, gambler. You are aware that we are now behind schedule, yes?” the man says with a tone one would say is condescending and the slight rise of a brow. All Aventurine does is laugh a bit and nod, entirely unaffected by the man’s way of speaking. Almost as if he was already used to it and knew not to take it to heart.

The heroes stood to the side, clearly a bit put off by how well they got along despite the clear difference in personality. Regardless, it was good that they were meeting new people, they would need a much larger part of the population to confirm their suspicions after all. In the meantime, Sekijirou would take the time to peek a bit into Mondstadt City and see what was to await them.

He could spy a couple of children running around the city, parents close behind with fond looks on their faces. He hummed non committedly and glanced back at the pair. They continued to have easy conversation and the three heroes stood to the side, waiting for them to finish conversing.

Aizawa cleared his throat to gain their attention and diverted his eyes from the pair when they turned to him. The violet haired man frowned at the heroes but turned to nod at Aventurine who took it as a cue to formally introduce them to Mondstadt. He stepped forward just a bit and smiled at them, not quite reaching his eyes but cordial enough that it could pass.

“Welcome to Mondstadt, the City of Wine and Song and Nation of Freedom. As I am merely here to get you from the port to the city – and consequently, Grandmaster Jean – I have nearly nothing to talk you through unlike your past guides. However, I did receive a message that we are to introduce you to the city before the academy itself.”

The heroes hummed accordingly, though they did wonder how this would play out as the nation seemed nearly devoid of life besides a couple of nearby areas aside from the city. From what they could tell, the Mondstadt Academy was far more.. secluded, though that made no sense if the nation followed the ideal of ‘Freedom’.

Aventurine smiled and nodded at the man beside him, who only sighed before turning to them. “I am Doctor Veritas Ratio, I’m merely here to accompany Aventurine here. You won’t be seeing much of me afterwards.” Veritas looked at them one last time and started moving past towards the bridge, the backside of his outfit billowing behind.

Aventurine waved them along and made long strides in order to keep up with Veritas. The heroes, now slightly more informed on their escorts, moved alongside them. The afternoon sun took a toll on the hero's mood, making Aizawa grumble about how he should have worn something lighter for today.

───※ ·✥· ※───

“Master Jean, here are the files on the heroes and your afternoon coffee.” The sounds of pen on paper stop for a second as Jean picks up the cup of coffee. She sips as the girl who brought her the coffee and files stands before her.

“Is the coffee okay? I did try a new blend today, so please let me know if it isn’t to your standards.” Jean finished the cup of coffee just as another knight walked in, stopping her from speaking to the girl. She then bowed to them both and moved to take the cup off her hands, not trying to stay for something that was likely to be above her clearance.

“Master Jean, Miss Noelle,” he greeted the two before speaking solely to Jean. “We have received word that the heroes are now in Mondstadt and starting the tour.” Jean nodded after a short silence, the only sound being that of the door closing behind Noelle. “Make sure the academy remains as undisturbed as possible except for the music hall, understood?” the knight saluted and left promptly.

Jean sighed as she returned to her academy and grandmaster work.

At the same time an IPC worker sat in Good Hunters, passing information to the other IPC workers in and around Mondstadt. “Make sure to stay out of sight, alright? We don’t need to make the heroes all jumpy here.” the man grumbled, an edge of annoyance bleeding through. The others agreed as he shut off his phone, a sly grin gracing his face.

“The IPC will enjoy draining your world, heroes.”

All for the Amber Lord

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One could say that Mondstadt looked as if it came from the olden European era with its stone walls, lazy windmills, and shabby seeming homes. Vines and patches of moss could be seen covering the sides of buildings and businesses, some which seemed to be currently closed. And even more interestingly, a certain few seemed to have a sign with the words Late Opening inscribed on them.

As they walked they looked at the people, some calling out wares and others merely chatting and walking alongside one another. Much the same as Inazuma, they were met with either silence or disgusted looks. They were not even a week into this god forsaken mission but the glances were already starting to chip away at Aizawa’s patience. If they could just simply fight them and let them see just how powerless they were to pro heroes, nevermind quirked people, they could get this mission over with. But, of course, things can never be so easy now can they?

He looked to his left and just barely pulled back the urge to hiss at Toshinori that he should be taking this mission more seriously and less like a vacation. He saw the merits to integrating with the people and gaining their confidence but if they could gather more information that would be even better. Still, he faced forward once more and sighed in relief as the duo ahead finally came to a stop in front of, yet another, fountain.

“This is Mondstadt City, or as it is often referred to, the City of Wine and Song,” Veritas said, a calm neutrality in the midst of excited chatter. “Often, you’ll see bards performing for smaller crowds or in the taverns. You are more than welcome to go to these establishments when you stay in Mondstadt.” Aventurine nodded along, though he seemed more drawn to his hand, in which he held a gambling chip. 

(If they stared any longer they would find that hand, his left, was trembling the slightest bit. Alas, high stakes, high rewards, no?)

They spent some time walking around the lower area of the city and getting to know the shop owners and some of the citizens. Though, really, everyone and their mother could see that they felt more comfortable with the other two than the heroes. Even after Toshinori had managed to get in their good graces, they were still reluctant to let him into their conversations. But what really seemed to catch the attention of the heroes was the fact that some of the people did not seem to belong in the same way that their little quintet did.

Sure the heroes stood out just by the way they dressed but these people just dressed as if they weren’t from Teyvat at all. They’d gotten to know some other people along their way and they all had a style of dress that they could tell belonged to a specific nation. And yet, these people were outliers, their style of dress could vaguely represent a nation but there was this unexplainable feeling that told them they weren’t from there.

Then again, they didn’t exactly look like they belonged in their world either. And while it would be useful to gather information on them, get some sort of advantage over this specific group, that could complicate their current mission even further. Perhaps when they bring back information on Teyvat they could tell Nezu about this odd occurrence, surely he would take care of it.

Of course, that was if they could find any sort of damning evidence to bring back. Something that seemed to be harder and harder to get with every Teyvatian that loathed them. Aizawa sighed as they walked the ungodly amount of stairs up to the Favonious Church. If anything at least the Church sisters could perhaps give them something, anything , about how Teyvat and TA itself worked.

───※ ·✥· ※───

Ratio could tell that the heroes were losing interest, a pity if he should say so himself. After all, touring a foreign nation always gave way to new knowledge that one could apply in some form in everyday life. And if the report he and Aventurine had been given by Lady Kusanali herself was any indication, these heroes would certainly need it considering their undertaking.

Trying to find anything worth blackmailing them for was something that even the IPC had struggled with in Teyvat’s early intergalactic years. All pieces were simply given a glance and a short statement with an irrefutable reason and nothing more. Their unified government even went as far as saying that any past conflicts had been resolved and former enemies were now strong allies. The IPC eventually gave up on trying to blackmail Teyvat and moved to become a business partner, something that Divine could appreciate and come to accept not long after. 

Ratio kept talking about certain tales and the rich history of Mondstadt. Aventurine would interject every once in a while, keeping up a cool facade and earning plenty of points of respect from Veritas. He, after all, hadn’t known that the gambler had brushed up on Mondstadtian history or its stories, though he supposed they had lost some contact after the events of Penacony and the fall of the supposed sweet dream.