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Chapter Text

The fight is brutal.

It’s nothing new to Bosacius. This is where he shines, where his perfect physical condition, his swift reflexes and his nimble strategical mind can ensure their victory.

He kills his enemy and jumps towards the next, glancing at the battlefield and shouting encouragements to the other yakshas. They’re outnumbered, but they’re more skilled and better trained.

As for determination, both sides are evenly matched. The sheer terror in their enemies’ eyes isn’t directed at them, Bosacius knows. It is their mistress that they fear most, and what she will do to them if they fail to ensure victory.

Bosacius pities them, and despises their mistress. She went too far and ventured into Morax’s lands, bringing with her despair and slavery, and this is not something that Morax will stand.

Bosacius pulls his spear from another dead body and extends his perceptions. He tries to feel how his god’s fight is going, but the whole area in front of him is blurred. He keeps his spiritual walls high, knowing that this is where the enemy god is at her strongest, and the reason why Morax decided to go fight her alone.

Bosacius still wishes he had managed to convince Morax to accept direct help. It has been barely years since they lost the Guili Assembly, since they lost Guizhong, and the memory is still fresh in everyone’s minds.

Bosacius knows that Morax is a better fighter than Guizhong was, but treachery is always a possibility, and he wants to be here for his god if need be.

Of course he can’t leave this battlefield. First, he has a duty towards the people he leads. And second, Morax has given very clear orders, and Bosacius knows very well that even the first of his generals isn’t above facing the Wrath of the Rock if he breaks one of the clauses of his contract.

So he fights and he listens, he fights and he listens, until all four of his arms start aching, and still he keeps fighting.

He feels the precise moment when Morax kills the enemy god. The resulting wave of energy is enough to destroy every human of the enemy rearguard, too close to the epicenter. The abominations that had been born from the god’s mind all vanish in an instant, leaving in the battlefield a bunch of disorientated humans who keep fighting the best they can.

“The fight is over,” Bosacius yells. “You have lost. We will spare those who lay down their weapons.”

Morax is merciful when he can afford it, and his word is set in stone. In his steps his generals follow. Bosacius wouldn’t lie to these people, enemies or not, but he can’t expect them to know it.

But maybe hope isn’t dead in their hearts, because most of them take him upon his offer. Bosacius organizes the aftermath of the battle and delegates the necessary tasks, waiting for…

Bosacius.

He is in front of Morax in an instant, weapon at the ready. But the fight here is clearly over, and Bosacius can’t feel any immediate danger. The defeated god’s corpse is kept sitting on a throne thanks to an arrow that pierced both it and the throne itself. It doesn’t look like she tried to fight physically at all.

His god looks uninjured. The same cannot be said of the person he holds in his arms. They’re covered in blood and their limbs are limp, and try as he might, Bosacius can’t feel their spirit. At least they’re still breathing.

“What can I do for you, my lord?”

“This whole place is about to collapse,” Morax says. His voice sounds calm, but Bosacius knows him well enough to feel the emotion just beneath the surface. Whatever happened here must have shaken him, which is an unsettling thought. “All humans here have already died, but please make sure that nobody gets too close.”

“I hear and obey.” Bosacius’ eyes are fixed on the body in Morax’s arms. His mind is too sharp not to have drawn conclusions already. Morax came here alone, so this person used to be in the service of the now defeated god. They’re still alive, so they’re not human. They’re not a god either, obviously, so an Adeptus.

And there is only one Adeptus that has been reported to serve under that particular god.

“Is that…” Bosacius doesn’t know how to finish his sentence. The bloodhound? The one who destroyed so many innocent lives and in such horrible ways that when Bosacius looked for information about their new enemies, the whispered tales of the few survivors were enough to shake even the most seasoned yakshas?

Bosacius has seen first-hand the results of the bloodhound’s work. An entire refugee camp destroyed in a single night, leaving only empty shells where lively humans–where lively children–used to be. Bosacius put an end to their misery himself. He still sees them in his sleep, their faces blank and already lifeless as he cuts their strings, when one week ago he was juggling to make them laugh.

Bosacius feels the weight of Morax’s gaze upon him. He knows his god can read through him, can see the rage and revulsion.

“Yes,” Morax says. “I have good reason to believe that he was compelled to act like he did.”

Bosacius nods. It is unheard of, that an Adeptus would lose themselves in such a way, but he trusts Morax with everything he is. If his god thinks this Adeptus was compelled, then it is very likely true.

And Bosacius is too clever not to understand what Morax is hinting at. If the bloodhound wasn’t in control of his own body, then by Morax’s laws, he can’t be held responsible for what happened.

Bosacius doesn’t want to imagine the political headache Morax is heading right into if he wants to bring this particular Adeptus to Jueyun Karst, or to the new city of Liyue Harbor. And his god probably wants to, since his power is the only thing keeping the Adeptus alive.

Some injuries are lethal, even for Adepti. Bosacius has seen too many of his fellow yakshas fall not to know this.

“He needs immediate medical attention,” Morax goes on, “and I intend to provide it. Am I needed right now on the battlefield?”

Bosacius shakes his head. “No, my lord. Everything is under control.”

Morax nods his appreciation. “Then I shall take my leave.”

Bosacius hesitates to say more, but he didn’t become marshal by being afraid to tell his sovereign what he thinks.

“What if he proves dangerous to the humans we protect? Even if he wasn’t willing, decades of living like he did leave traces.”

“I will not endanger those under my care,” Morax says. “He will stay locked in one of my domains for now. Once he will have recovered, we will see what he wishes to do and if it is something I can allow.”

Bosacius nods. Of course Morax thought this through, but it still feels good to hear it.

“I will see you later,” Morax says. “Let me know if something arises that requires my attention.”

Bosacius nods again.

“And,” Morax adds, and his gaze feels just a little sharper, “do go to the infirmary and have your shoulder looked at.”

Bosacius blinks at his shoulder, that doesn’t feel bad at all, and that… doesn’t feel at all, actually. He knows it could heal on its own, but he would set a bad example for the other yakshas if he doesn’t let the healers look at it.

He clears his throat. “I will, my lord.”

Morax acknowledges his answer and Bosacius feels in their bond the way his god considers it contractual. Then Morax and the barely alive bloodhound are gone, and Bosacius doesn’t linger in this cursed place a second more.

He has places to be and people to meet, first of them the Adepti healers of their makeshift infirmary.

Chapter Text

It comes as no surprise that when Bosacius comes back to the main yaksha camp, established half in the vicinity of Liyue Harbor and half in an Adeptus abode, his fellow generals are waiting for him.

Indarias is the first to ask for news, before Bosacius even has a chance to ask her how she has been doing. She was the one tasked with ensuring the safety of Liyue Harbor during Morax’s last campaign, while Bonanus and Menogias guarded Liyue’s other borders.

“How are you, brother?”

Bosacius grins at her. It’s so good to see her, to see all of them. Of course, he knows how gifted they all are. But they lead a dangerous life, and each time he sees them could be the last.

“I’m fine,” he says, opening his arms and grabbing all three of them into a hug. Indarias fiery hair tickles him, and he takes great care not to start an Overloaded reaction. It wouldn’t be the first time his skin cracks with Electro power without him meaning it.

“Bosacius.” Menogias sighs, even though there is a smile on his lips. He’s not that fond of hugs, but he’s willing to make an exception for his brother and sisters.

“We’ve heard that you were injured,” Bonanus says, picking up the line of questioning where Indarias left it. Her water mixes with her sister’s fire seamlessly. She always had impressive self-control.

“It was barely an injury at all.” Bosacius releases them and rolls his four shoulders to prove his point. “See? Nothing wrong here.”

“That is good to hear.” Menogias straightens his clothes, ruffled by Bosacius’ hug. He makes them himself in his spare time, something that has become increasingly rarer in the past years. Still, Morax insists that they all take time off to rest their minds and recuperate from the constant strain of battle and leadership.

“So how did things go?” Indarias asks. “I’ve heard that new refugees will join Liyue Harbor.”

Bosacius nods. The mortals he has spared on the battlefield will soon reach Liyue Harbor, along with civilians that they rescued after the god’s death. Morax will judge those who took part in the attacks against his lands, and following the results of these trials, they will either be exiled or offered the possibility to join his people.

Bosacius thinks about the bloodhound that Morax rescued. Will he be judged too? If Morax thinks he’s not responsible for his actions, he might not feel inclined to. But the relatives of the humans the bloodhound killed might decide to file a complaint against him once they learn about his presence here.

Bosacius sighs. The contract Morax has with the humans of Liyue is complex, and in constant evolution. He doesn’t know what it says exactly for cases like this one.

“Brother?” Indarias calls him.

Bosacius realizes that he’s been lost in thought long enough that they all noticed.

“It went smoothly, all things considered,” he answers. “The refugees will be here soon. The human leaders have already been informed, and will make adequate preparations.”

His sisters and brother keep watching him expectantly. Bosacius knows that this is nothing new to them. They’ve read his reports for sure, and he always makes sure to give all relevant information.

What they’re really asking about is more personal input, the kind that wouldn’t go on reports.

“Morax called me right after he defeated the enemy,” he continues. “He rescued the…” He hesitates. Out of respect for Morax’s decision to spare the bloodhound’s life, he shouldn’t be calling him that in front of the others. “The Adeptus that was serving her. He says that he was compelled.”

Indarias’ eyes widen, and Bonanus lets out a gasp. Even Menogias seems surprised.

“Morax saved the bloodhound?” Bonanus says, clearly not feeling as tactful as Bosacius when it comes to denominations.

“Yes.” Bosacius crosses two of his arms. “He will keep him in one of his private domains during his recovery, and until he decides what to do with him. The Adeptus was… quite injured. He might not make it.”

“I see.” Menogias’ voice lacks enthusiasm. “Well, that’s unexpected. This Adeptus has caused too much damage for his arrival to go smoothly.”

“Have you seen him?” Indarias asks. “What does he look like?”

“He…” Bosacius gathers his memories. He recalls a body, bloodied beyond recognition, looking very small in Morax’s arms. He didn’t pay attention to his clothes. They were ripped, that much he remembers, but it was no surprise considering the Adeptus’ general state. “He’s short.”

The others watch him, expecting more, but Bosacius shrugs. “He needed a healer and I’m not a very good one. I had no reason to ask to examine him.” He clears his throat. “Anyways, don’t speak of it to the others. Our lord will decide when to make the announcement.”

“Knowing Morax, he’ll probably wait.” Bonanus tilts her head, deep in thought. “There is no use agitating everyone until we know for sure that the bone of contention will survive.”

“Alright.” Menogias clasps his hands. “On a happier note, you know there will be a celebration soon.”

Bosacius nods. “Of course.”

They need to honor the dead and celebrate their victory, and Bosacius will be required to attend at Morax’s side. It is of no inconvenience to him. He likes the crowd and the opportunity to both pay his respects and cheer people’s moods.

Which is why he’s not sure why Menogias is glaring at him.

“I’m so glad you remember,” Menogias says. “Now, maybe you could consider putting on a shirt for the occasion?”

Beside him, Indarias and Bonanus laugh, and Bosacius knows they won’t help him.

“Surely there is no need for that, Menogias,” he says, taking his best marshal voice.

Menogias’ eyes narrow.

The celebration is filled with as much joy as possible while also grieving for the dead. Morax looks as majestic as ever, and Bosacius feels the relief and devotion of the crowd as they see him, as if they need proof that their god still walks with them.

Bosacius can’t blame them, not after what happened to the Guili Assembly. He has come back once since their exile, and the plains were still flooded. He will never forget the day he came back, too late, to see their home destroyed and Guizhong dying.

He knows Morax won’t, either.

“You look very elegant tonight, Marshal Vritras.”

Bosacius deliberately ignores the amusement in Morax’s tone and keeps walking with great dignity at his side. He can feel Menogias’ smug satisfaction radiating from behind him.

“This outfit was very strongly recommended to me,” he says pointedly.

On their path, the people cheer and bow. They’ve started calling Morax Rex Lapis. Bosacius doesn’t know why–Indarias pretends that it’s a way to put the Guili Assembly behind them and enter a new era–but it suits him.

Later, the crowd’s mood turns to sorrow and mourning as a funeral ceremony is held for the dead soldiers.

Even later, when wine is flowing freely and good food is being served thanks to Marchosius, the God of the Stove, Bosacius mixes with the mortals and listens to their talking. There are mixed feelings about the new refugees. Not only were they their enemies, but the people of Liyue Harbor could still be considered refugees themselves. Half of them is still living under tents as the once small fishing port slowly turns into a city. The intendance is a nightmare, but it’s mainly Marchosius’ problem. Bosacius has enough on his plate as it is.

Morax makes several speeches, praising his people and his Adepti, honoring the dead and stoking the living’s hopes. Bosacius knows he misses Guizhong, who used to always be at his side when handling human politics, but very few could read it on his face tonight.

He doesn’t mention the bloodhound once.

Weeks pass, then months. Bosacius doesn’t ask how Morax’s rehabilitation project is going and his lord doesn’t talk about it. Their discussions focus on the ongoing war and how to best shield the fragile mortals Morax has sworn to protect. It’s made harder by the fact many of these humans want to enroll in the army to defend their new harbor without having any fighting skills, and Bosacius wants to make sure that they are properly trained and equipped.

Marchosius is in charge of food supplies. No mortal army can fight on an empty stomach, and Bosacius wouldn’t recommend it for Adepti, either. It means making sure that they still have fields to grow crops, and orchards for fruits, and of course the sea gives plenty of fish–although Osial’s domain is nearby, and one must constantly remind the humans not to trespass it.

The new refugees are adapting well, although they avoid the company of Adepti. The stories they tell about their former life are horrifying. Mortals hold little power against the gods, but in Liyue Harbor they are being considered and in charge of their own lives. Morax has even formalized the nomination of seven human leaders, the Qixing, to deal with human matters in close collaboration with him.

Bosacius hasn’t forgotten about the bloodhound. He subtly fishes for information about him in the refugees’ ranks, but to his surprise, they know very little. Few have even caught a glimpse of him. It’s like he was a ghost, obeying the god’s will with cruelty and ruthlessness but never lingering on his crime scenes.

Bosacius wonders what Morax thinks of the Adeptus now. He knows he could ask his god, but he doesn’t want to show too much interest and become involved with the mysterious bloodhound. He’s patient enough to let Morax come to him.

Morax broaches the topic one evening, while he and Bosacius are walking in the mountains above Liyue Harbor, watching the city prepare for the night. There are more and more buildings standing, but the number of tents doesn’t seem to lessen. At this rate, Liyue Harbor’s population will double before the end of the year. They’re still not at the numbers of the Guili Assembly–too many were lost in the fight for that–but it’s a sign of hope.

“I’ve been making progress with our guest,” Morax says.

Bosacius immediately understands whom Morax is referring to.

“How is he doing?” he asks, carefully. He still doesn’t know how he feels about all of it. Each time he thinks about that Adeptus, he sees both the face of the children that were destroyed, and the bloodied body carefully cradled in Morax’s arms. The two don’t reconcile, and he’s left with a headache.

“Much better, although he’s still far from being completely recovered.” Morax folds his hands behind his back. “I’ve managed to get him to talk a little.”

Bosacius hides his grimace. He doesn’t dare to imagine in what state the Adeptus was if Morax considers him talking a little to be an achievement after so many months.

“I have confirmed that he was compelled to act like he did,” Morax goes on. “I don’t believe he would harm innocent souls now.”

Bosacius breathes deeply. This is good news, although it doesn’t solve his moral dilemma.

“What are your plans for him?”

“For now, I want him to keep focusing on his recovery.” Morax pauses.

Bosacius waits.

“He’s a yaksha,” Morax finally says. “He told me that he wishes to fight. Once he’ll be ready for it, will you consider him joining our army?”

Bosacius thinks about it. He doesn’t like the idea, but Morax wouldn’t ask if he didn’t believe it was possible.

There is the matter of the yaksha’s fighting abilities, but Bosacius has little doubt about them. His gruesome feats of arms prove that he is an outstanding fighter. Then there is the matter of where his loyalties lie. Bosacius will trust Morax on this one. No yaksha serves under the God of Contracts without agreeing to one, and although Morax will agree to re-negotiate it at their request, he won’t let any of them break its clauses without consequences.

And then, there is the matter of knowing whether the yaksha can fight as one with the others, whether or not he can fit in. This is where Bosacius has the most reservations.

But Morax didn’t ask for a final answer on the spot.

“I will consider it, my lord.”

Morax nods, satisfied, and switches to another topic.

“You’re troubled, brother.”

Bonanus is watching him with concern, and Bosacius is once more reminded that he can’t hide much from his brethren.

“I was considering something Morax told me,” he says quietly.

Indarias and Menogias join them, waiting for him to elaborate.

“Do you remember that I told you Morax had rescued an Adeptus during our last campaign?”

“Yes,” Indarias says. “The bloodhound that the refugees we welcomed are still afraid about, as his death hasn’t been confirmed like the one of their previous mistress was.”

“Well, Morax says he wishes to join the army as a yaksha,” Bosacius says. Better to talk about it with them now. He won’t accept if they don’t anyways. “He’s still recovering, but Morax asked me to consider it.”

Silence meets his words.

“What do you think?” Bosacius prompts them.

“If Morax wishes it,” Menogias starts, hesitating.

“I’m not sure about this,” Indarias mutters. “I’ll have to think about it more.”

“Same here.” Bonanus is frowning.

Their lack of enthusiasm couldn’t be more obvious, and strengthens Bosacius’ conviction that welcoming the Adeptus within the army is going to be a delicate matter indeed. He can’t even suggest that one of them generals keeps an eye on him at all times, at least in the beginning, as this is war and they are called elsewhere.

“We don’t have to give an answer right now,” Bosacius says. “Just know that this is something Morax has in mind.”

The three others groan. They likely could have done without this new problem, but considering how stubborn Morax is, he won’t give up on his idea easily. They better prepare their arguments well if they want to refuse his request–which they haven’t decided to do yet.

“Alright.” Bosacius claps his hands. It’s time to get serious. “Who wants to spar with me? I’ve spent way too much time in meetings today.”

“I’m in,” the three others answer at the same time, as if they itch to blow off steam just as much as he does.

Bosacius grins. He doesn’t know what he would do without them.

Chapter Text

It has been a few weeks since Bosacius’ conversation with Morax about the ex-bloodhound. Bosacius has shared his doubts with his lord, but he hasn’t straight out refused his request yet.

There is no hurry. Morax is patient if anyone ever was, and he has mentioned that the Adeptus was far from being fully recovered. Bosacius has time to make his decision.

Today, he has other thoughts on his mind. He’s going to welcome the last aspiring recruits in the army. For the next months, they’ll be trained, and if their instructors deem them capable, they will be welcomed into the army.

Their first official meeting with Bosacius, Morax’s marshal, is always an important moment.

Bosacius rehearses his speech as he walks towards the training area. The group consists of twenty-two humans, half of them recent refugees.

Apart from the humans, two new yakshas have asked to join the army ranks. While they’re waiting with the other newbies, their paths will soon separate as their training will be a very different one.

Bosacius is both enthusiastic and concerned at this prospect. It’s rare for new yakshas to join their ranks. They’re a minority amongst Adepti, and most of them have already joined Morax by now. These two are young, and Bosacius wants to make sure that they understand what they’re heading into.

As the war takes its toll on the lands of Liyue, being a yaksha includes more than fighting. It includes cleaning the land from the remnants of fallen gods and accumulating evil karma.

Bosacius won’t accept those who can’t withstand that special kind of pain.

But today is a simple day. He merely wants to see how they fight and gauge their potential.

Bosacius reaches the training grounds. The recruits are standing in a line, with the two yakshas standing apart. Bosacius takes a few seconds to assess their postures and expressions. He likes the determination that he sees despite their nervousness; they will need it if they are to succeed.

“Welcome,” he starts. “I am Marshal Vritras.”

They all know who he is. He’s hard to miss with his stature and his four arms, always crackling with Electro energy.

But Bosacius believes that it’s always better to start with a proper introduction.

“You’re here because you wish to join Morax’s army. I thank you for your decision to help protect Liyue in these trying times.”

Bosacius folds two arms behind his back and the two others on his chest.

“This is no small undertaking. Your life will be at stake, and I intend to make sure that you know how to defend yourselves. One unable to preserve one’s own life cannot pretend to protect the lives of others.”

He pauses. He already has their full attention, but he wants to make sure that his words sink in.

“During the following months, you will be trained. At the end of the training period, your skills will be assessed and we will decide whether or not you can join the fighting army. If we think that you do, we will offer you several positions to choose from. If not, there are other ways to take part in the war effort. For example, ensuring that soldiers have food and proper equipment is no less important than the actual fighting.”

He can see that some of them are not convinced, but he doesn’t insist. They’ll realize it in due time, when they will gather together in the wilderness at the end of a long training day to share a warm bowl of bamboo shoot soup.

“Your training starts now. Please follow your instructor, she will explain the rest to you.”

Bosacius nods at the Millelith standing nearby, and she takes charge of the group.

He turns to the two yakshas.

“You two, you’re staying with me.”

They nod respectfully. Bosacius waits until the humans have left to go on with the part of his speech that is meant for their ears only. He can give them their full attention now.

They’re both rather small, even by Bosacius’ standards. They’re wearing plain clothes, but Bosacius can feel their Adepti aura.

“As I’m sure you’re aware, the yakshas are tasked not only with fighting against our enemies, but also with purifying the land from the demons and evils spawned by gods’ remnants. There is no turning back from the karma we accumulate by performing this task. During the next weeks, I want you two to consider your choice very carefully.”

Both juniors nod.

“Now, please introduce yourselves.”

Bosacius observes them carefully while they look at each other, trying to decide who should speak first. He has read the briefing document, of course. But there is very little information about them. Illuminated Beasts awaken at random in Liyue, and there is no telling who’s destined to become a yaksha and who isn’t until the Adeptus themselves say it.

Both yakshas already have a contract with Morax, one that will be amended if they’re judged capable of serving in the army. Bosacius has a general idea of what’s inside, but he isn’t privy to the details. The specifics of each contract are between Morax and the yaksha.

The two juniors in front of him seem to have come to an understanding, because one of them clears his throat.

Bosacius focuses his attention on him. He’s slightly taller and broader than the other, and has chosen to wear a shirt and trousers that cover his body almost entirely. “Yes?”

“Greetings, Marshal Vritras,” he starts. “My name is Pervases.”

His voice is slightly hesitant, but Bosacius won’t fault him for being nervous. He knows he looks and sounds impressive.

Bosacius nods in encouragement. “Why do you wish to join Morax’s army, Pervases?”

“I wish to use my power to protect the people of Liyue,” Pervases answers. “I want to ease their suffering, if I can.”

It’s an acceptable answer, and Bosacius acknowledges it with a solemn nod.

“And you?” he asks, turning to the other yaksha.

The yaksha briefly meets his gaze before bowing his head respectfully. He looks frail in the light shirt that does nothing to hide his light frame, but Bosacius knows better than to judge an Adeptus’ abilities by his physical appearance.

“My name is Xiao. I wish to protect Lord Morax’s people in any way I can.”

His voice is so soft that Bosacius barely hears it above the sounds of the birds in the bushes nearby. He wonders whether the Adeptus is always this shy, or whether it’s the circumstances.

Nevertheless, his answer is also an acceptable one, and Bosacius nods at him.

“Very well. Thanks to you both for offering your help.”

He claps his hands. Now comes his favorite part.

“During your training, we will assess both your physical and spiritual abilities and help you refine them. Today, we shall start with the physical part.”

They both straighten at his words. Bosacius knows that they’re eager to show him what they can do.

“I’m inviting each of you to a friendly spar with me.” He feels his lips turn into a toothy grin, and hopes that he’s not scaring them too much. “No restrictions on your part, please come at me with all you’ve got.”

He looks at each of them in turn.

“Who wants to go first? Pervases?”

The young Adeptus steps forwards.

Bosacius waves at the nearby weapon racks. “You may choose any weapon you want, or none at all.” He turns to Xiao. “You can watch the fight from here.”

Pervases chooses a light sword while Xiao goes to stand near the racks, his expression unreadable.

Bosacius waits until Pervases is in position in front of him. Unlike the younger yaksha, he has no weapon. He prefers to fight with his bare fists. “Ready?”

Pervases nods decisively.

“Then let’s begin,” Bosacius says, and immediately starts moving around Pervases.

He doesn’t intend to lead the fight. He’s not interested in the result; he knows he’s going to win. What he’s looking for is seeing what Pervases strengths and weaknesses are.

Pervases launches a first attack. His sword swirls with Anemo power, his move too fast for any mortal to follow.

Bosacius easily avoids it and launches his own attack, in order to see how quick Pervases’ reflexes are. The junior yaksha manages to dodge it, so Bosacius makes a note that he can go faster next time.

They exchange several more blows. Bosacius doesn’t let Pervases touch him, while his own attacks land more than once. He’s careful to restrain his strength, but the junior yaksha is still going to have bruises. Considering the yakshas’ abilities, Bosacius expects that they will have healed by next morning.

Once he’s gathered enough material from his observation, Bosacius puts an end to the fight by sending Pervases flying on his back and pointing the junior’s own sword at his neck.

“I yield,” Pervases says. His throat must be dry from the fight, because his voice is more strained than before.

Bosacius gives him back his sword and extends his hand to help Pervases to stand up. As he gives him feedback on his strengths and weaknesses, he discreetly assesses his physical state to ensure that he didn’t sustain any injuries that would require a healer’s help.

“Thank you, Sir,” Pervases says when Bosacius is done.

The junior’s eyes are shining with admiration, and Bosacius tries not to let it go to his head.

“Your turn,” Bosacius tells Xiao.

The other junior has remained impassive during the entire fight, his eyes following each move like a hawk. He bows at Bosacius and selects a spear in the weapons’ rack.

As Bosacius soon notices, Xiao too uses Anemo in his fighting. He has the speed and versatility of Anemo users, but he hesitates too much, as if he can’t decide where to strike. He seems to make up his mind as the fight progresses and he can’t land a blow on Bosacius. His moves become stronger and more decisive, but it’s still not enough to win the fight.

Bosacius ends the sparring bout as easily as he did for Pervases, and he doesn’t miss how frustrated Xiao looks as he’s sent tumbling to the floor, his own spear pointed at his neck. He’s panting heavily, proving that he truly gave it his all.

As Xiao’s shirt doesn’t cover his arms, Bosacius can see that he’s sporting a fair amount of bruises. But there isn’t any other injury as far as Bosacius can tell, and he nods to himself, satisfied with the amount of strength he has used in the fight.

It’s time to end the session and send both juniors to get some rest. Bosacius extends his hand to help Xiao stand up, just like he did for Pervases…

…And his eyes widen when Xiao doesn’t take it, his expression frozen as if he’s expecting Bosacius’ hand to bite him.

Before Bosacius can say anything, Xiao has jumped up and taken a step backwards. Then the young yaksha seems to realize that his behavior might be interpreted as rude, because a horrified expression briefly passes on his features and he starts apologizing profusely.

“Don’t worry about it,” Bosacius says, removing his hand. “Is everything alright?”

Although Xiao nods, the slight tremor in his body gives him away. Bosacius makes sure to keep his tone light while giving him tips and pointers about his fighting style, but the tension in Xiao’s shoulders doesn’t go away.

When he’s done, Bosacius motions for Pervases to join them.

“That’s all for today. You’re free to explore the yakshas’ quarters. You can share a room in there, or reside wherever you want as long as you’re on time for your training sessions. Meet me here tomorrow at dawn.”

The two new recruits bow and take their leave. Bosacius watches them as they walk away. He’s not particularly impressed with their fighting skills, but he has seen worse for a first day. They will improve with time and proper training, which is exactly what he’s going to provide them.

He’s a bit more concerned about Xiao’s reaction to his friendly gesture. It’s too early to draw any conclusions; Xiao wouldn’t be the first Adeptus who dislikes physical contact. And Bosacius hasn’t built a relationship with him yet, so he doesn’t want to simply ask. The young yaksha has been embarrassed enough for the day.

“Don’t you think that the marshal is amazing?” Pervases tells Xiao, obviously believing that Bosacius can’t hear them anymore.

Xiao mutters his assent, and Bosacius tries and fails not to puff himself up.

It’s always good to be appreciated.

Later that day, after a long sparring session with Morax, Bosacius tells his god how their first session went. He mentions Xiao’s reaction at the end of the fight, but Morax doesn’t comment. Maybe, like Bosacius, he thinks that it’s too early to draw any conclusions.

“Menogias will join me tomorrow, to assess their spiritual skills,” Bosacius finishes after drinking a full jug of water. Losing several fights in a row is a good way to prevent his ego from inflating too much. “Then I’ll be able to design a training plan for them.”

“Thank you, Bosacius,” Morax says. “I think I can spare some time in the following weeks. If you’d like me to attend some of their training sessions, let me know.”

The request doesn’t surprise Bosacius. There hasn’t been a yaksha group where Morax hasn’t lent his help.

“I will,” he says. “Thank you, my lord.”

“It’s only natural that I help the youngest.” Morax smiles. “Although they already are in very capable hands.”

Bosacius takes the compliment with a smile. He likes to take care of the juniors; that’s one of the reasons why he asked Morax for the responsibility to supervise their training. He will do everything he can to ensure that they reach their full potential.

“Have you already introduced them to the other yakshas?” Morax asks.

Bosacius shakes his head. “No. I want to see if they’ll take the initiative.”

Morax hums. Bosacius can never guess what his god thinks when he looks like this.

“Is there a problem?” he tries.

“No, not at all,” Morax says. “I trust you to do what’s best for them.” His gaze loses itself in the horizon.

The sunset is painting the sky with bright colors, and Bosacius’ soul soars in front of such beauty.

He doesn’t add anything else, enjoying this rare moment of peace at his god’s side, thinking about Pervases and Xiao’s answers when he asked them why they wanted to join Morax’s army. They haven’t asked him in return, but if they had, this is the answer he would have given them.

He fights for the day such moments of peace can become the norm.

Chapter Text

The next morning, right before dawn, Bosacius takes Menogias with him to the training field. None of them feels the need to talk as they walk in agreeable companionship.

Bosacius breathes in the crisp air, enjoying the small Superconduct reactions playing against his skin. He likes this time of day, when nocturnal life has quieted and diurnal beings are waiting for sunrise. It’s perfect to center himself and prepare for the challenges of the day.

He has already planned the upcoming training session with Menogias. He knows that his brother is eager to meet the new yakshas, even though Menogias didn’t say it aloud. He’ll be the second of the yaksha generals to have the honor, if only because Bonanus and Indarias are away on a mission and couldn’t plan an accidental encounter with the juniors.

Not that they would have succeeded with Xiao. If Pervases went to the yaksha quarters after yesterday’s session, Xiao has yet to make an appearance there. Bosacius has added these observations to the few facts he knows about them.

As they arrive to their agreed meeting place, Bosacius is pleased to see that both Pervases and Xiao are already here, waiting for him.

The two juniors immediately direct their gazes at Menogias, who smiles at them. In the rays of the rising sun, he looks pristine with his self-taylor-made clothes. Bosacius suspects his brother to use Adepti arts on them to keep them from being irredeemably bloodied by their many battles.

“Good morning,” Bosacius says. “I’d like you to meet General Kapisas. He’ll assist me today in assessing your spiritual skills.”

While Menogias welcomes the young yakshas with solemn words and receives their greetings, Bosacius observes them minutely. He can’t help a slight frown when he realizes that Xiao still bears light bruises on his arms. Considering the restrained strength Bosacius has put in his blows the day before, they should have healed completely by now.

Xiao notices his look and hunches his shoulders, and Bosacius decides not to mention it.

Maybe healing isn’t Xiao’s forte. Depending on how he gained his status of Illuminated Beast, he might not have had the opportunity to learn how to properly use the world’s energy to accelerate one’s own healing.

Bosacius makes a mental note to add the appropriate lessons to the two yakshas’ training and moves on.

“Our training session today will happen somewhere else,” he says. “Follow us.”

Without further warning, he disappears in a flash of lightning, Menogias right after him. It’s one of his favorite parts, and the first test of the day. The two juniors must keep up with their pace while following the winding trail that they leave behind.

Of course, Bosacius and Menogias aren’t going at their full speed. It wouldn’t be fair to the youngest, and Bosacius has other plans than waiting all day that they catch up.

The generals soon arrive to the top of the cliff that Bosacius elected as their training ground today. The view over Liyue Harbor is breathtaking, and will remind them of what they have to protect.

“They look young,” Menogias tells him while they wait.

His voice is calm and deep, as if nothing could faze him. Bosacius knows it’s not true; he has seen the way his brother fights to protect those under their care.

“I agree.” Bosacius clasps two hands behind his back. “I wish they didn’t have to fight, but if they’re willing and capable, we can’t afford to refuse them.”

Menogias nods. Bosacius knows he understands. As yakshas, they fight for this world; this is the path his kin has chosen since Morax asked for help.

“They’re coming,” Menogias says a few seconds before Bosacius feels it.

“A correct performance,” he comments.

As the two juniors materialize on the top of the cliff, Bosacius rewards them with an appreciative smile.

“Well done.”

Pervases beams under the compliment, while Xiao lowers his head, his face impassive.

“Honing your spiritual skills is essential,” Bosacius starts, getting right to the point. “On the battle field, they’ll mean the difference between life and death.” He sits down, motioning for them to join him. “Here in Liyue, Morax’s power thrums through the earth. Close your eyes. Do you feel it?”

Both juniors nod.

“While Geo energy is always strong on our lands, everything on the land of the living brims with elemental energy. You must be able to draw strength from it without affecting its balance. Can you try?”

Once again, they both nod. Bosacius watches them minutely while they set to obeying his instructions. He can feel Menogias doing the same next to him, and reaches out so they can speak mind-to-mind, in private.

Anything in particular you want me to look for? Menogias asks.

No. I want your general opinion on the way they choose to connect to their environment.

Noted.

With the elemental sight he has honed over the centuries, Bosacius can see that Pervases and Xiao have started extending their perceptions. They’re both Anemo users, so it’s no surprise to see them reach out to the air around them first. He focuses on Pervases while Menogias observes Xiao.

It’s one of the reasons why he asked his brother to help him today. Observing someone use their spiritual abilities is a delicate task, and Bosacius wants to give each recruit the attention he deserves.

Pervases’ way of feeding off Anemo energy lacks subtlety, but it is to be expected for younger Adepti. On the plus side, it seems easy enough for him to draw strength from his element. He’ll need to be taught how to keep a better balance, so he disturbs the energy flow less and his actions become harder to detect by their enemies, which especially matters when they’re scouting.

Bosacius, Menogias calls.

Bosacius’ attention immediately switches to his brother.

Look. There is concern in Menogias’ voice as he points at Xiao.

Bosacius doesn’t take long to understand why. While it’s clear that Xiao has connected to Anemo, as the way it swirls against him shows, he’s barely drawing any energy from it. And from the way the boy’s features tense in frustration, it isn’t what he’s intending to do.

He might rely mostly on mortal food for sustenance, Bosacius suggests. He lets his surprise show in his tone, mirroring Menogias’.

He still should have the ability to do without.

Menogias is right, of course. It’s a necessary skill for the yakshas who spend weeks without access to mortal food. And it usually is something that Adepti learn very soon in their illumination path. It’s unexpected that a yaksha, even a young one, can’t seem to do it.

It does explain why Xiao’s bruises haven’t completely healed, though. If he’s this slow to draw energy from his surroundings, his healing abilities will be considerably diminished.

We’ll have to teach him how to do it.

Bosacius doesn’t mention that if Xiao can’t learn, he won’t be accepted into Morax’s army. It’s obvious to both of them.

Xiao breathes out deeply, and Bosacius waits to see if it helps him, but the boy’s efforts don’t bear fruit.

He sees the energy swirling around Xiao turn to the earth under them, and wonders whether Xiao’s going to attempt to feed off Geo energy instead. But the boy merely brushes it, or maybe it’s the Geo energy that brushes him. For a second, it almost feels like it’s trying to soothe him. Then Bosacius blinks and the feeling is gone.

He turns his attention back to Pervases, who has kept to Anemo and maintained the same level of exchange.

“Thank you,” Bosacius says aloud. “That is enough for today.”

He makes sure to keep his face impassive as the two juniors open their eyes to look at him.

“Now, I would like you to…”

Something’s wrong.

The urgency in Menogias’ tone has Bosacius senses on full alert. He scans his surroundings, and immediately realizes what Menogias is talking about.

The ley lines under them are carrying the faintest whisper of something malign. It’s not surprising that Menogias felt it first; as a Geo user, he’s perfectly attuned to Liyue’s ley lines.

Any humans nearby? he asks Menogias.

No. Do you want me to deal with it?

Not yet. We might as well use this as a teaching opportunity for our two young ones.

Bosacius springs to his feet, immediately followed by the others.

“Marshal Vritras?” Pervases asks. “Is something the matter?”

“We have a god remnant nearby,” he answers. “Try to locate it.” He crosses his arms, two in front of him and two against his back, waiting to see what they’ll do.

Menogias has taken a few steps away and keeps his eyes half-closed. He’ll let Bosacius know if the situation changes and speed becomes necessary.

Pervases turns around, listening to the wind. “I don’t feel it,” he admits.

“It’s this way.” There isn’t an ounce of hesitation in Xiao’s voice as he points in the right direction.

“Indeed,” Bosacius says appreciatively. “Can you lead us there?”

Xiao gives a tiny nod.

“Then do it.”

As if he was only waiting for the authorization, Xiao sets off in the wind. He’s clearly at ease in the air currents, and moves faster than he did to reach the top of the cliff.

He is a good tracker, Menogias tells Bosacius as they follow with Pervases in tow.

It doesn’t take long for them to reach the location of the god remnant. It has taken the form of a smoke demon, and feels familiar to Bosacius.

It’s a remnant of the enemy god Morax has killed a few months ago. It’s too close to Liyue Harbor for Bosacius’ comfort; god remnants tend to stay where the gods have been slain, and that particular god died on the border of Morax’s lands.

But she was a wicked, deceitful god, so maybe her remnants have inherited those traits.

Xiao doesn’t seem like he’s going to stop, as if he intends to take on the god remnant himself. It’s not something that Bosacius will allow, not so soon in his training.

Not with the price there is to pay for dealing with such demons.

“Stay here,” he orders.

Xiao obeys without protest. All of a sudden the wind around them stills. They stand midway down a steep slope, a perfect spot to watch the god remnant in the valley below. A few more steps down and they would have been breathing the foul mist engendered by the demon’s presence.

The demon raises its head, as if trying to locate them.

“I’ll handle it,” Menogias says.

In one swift move, he dons his yaksha mask and jumps below. The fight that follows is brief, and lifts a lot of dust as Menogias crushes the demon under a shower of rocks.

Bosacius sees the evil karma that gathers around his brother, mixing with Menogias’ existing one. But when Menogias joins them again, he looks the same as before, his yaksha mask peacefully resting on his side.

“It was strong for an isolated demon,” Menogias comments.

For Bosacius’ sake only, he adds, I don’t like this. We’ll need to speak to Morax about it.

Pervases is looking at Menogias with admiration, longing even. Xiao, however, is so tense that Bosacius can see his tendons through the skin.

They watch in silence as the mist clears. Only when the valley is peaceful once again does Bosacius start talking.

“As you know, gods are powerful beings, and their remnants must be purged for the land to regain its peace.” His gaze sets on the horizon, in the direction where the god was slain. “This particular god has spawned many evils, and we yakshas will be cleaning them for centuries to come.”

Xiao bows his head, his expression shameful as if he is somewhat personally responsible for this. Pervases nods gravely.

“I think that is enough for today,” Bosacius says softly. “Let’s head back.”

At first, they walk back to Liyue Harbor in silence, their senses in alert in case the god remnant wasn’t alone after all. As the ley lines remain undisturbed, though, Bosacius allows himself to relax.

All in all, it was a rather good session. He got the information he needed to start a training plan for the two young yakshas, one that will account for their strengths and weaknesses. And the fact they got to witness a prime example of what their calling entails will hopefully give them pause for thought.

Menogias must also consider that the danger has passed, because he takes fresh rolls out of his personal storage space.

“I brought food. Who wants some?”

Bosacius reaches out wordlessly, and Menogias gives him a particularly appetizing one.

Pervases clears his throat before answering in the affirmative, clearly intimidated by his senior.

Witnessing someone flatten a demon under tons of rocks can have that effect on people.

“And you, Xiao?” Menogias asks. “You should eat something. I have fruits if the rolls aren’t to your taste.”

“I, uh.” Xiao bites his lip in clear indecision. “The rolls are fine, thank you.”

Bosacius watches with approval as the small yaksha takes one roll. Considering how little energy Xiao draws from his surroundings, it is especially important that he eats.

But when they part in front of the yaksha camp, Xiao has barely nibbled at his food.

Bosacius follows him with his eyes until the yaksha disappears behind a copse. Unlike Pervases, he hasn’t chosen to enter the camp.

“I’ll tell Morax about the god remnant,” Menogias says. “Are you coming with me?”

Bosacius shakes his head. “I have to check today’s reports. After that, I think I’ll prepare my training plan.”

His duties as marshal don’t stop because he’s also tutoring Pervases and Xiao. The war waits for no one.

“Will you join me for dinner?” he adds. “We can debrief around a good meal.”

Menogias grins. “Your appetite will be the end of Marchosius. Fine, see you later!”

Bosacius grins back at his brother before teleporting to his Adeptus abode.

He needs alone time to think.

Chapter Text

“So what do you think?”

Bosacius sits comfortably in his chair. The many empty plates in front of him are a testimony to the cooks’ talent. They’re humans, and this is one of their ways of thanking the yakshas for their hard work.

Bosacius isn’t going to complain that they take their task to heart.

“Hmm.” Menogias takes another bite of his chicken leg. He eats more slowly than Bosacius, but for all his teasing, when it comes to quantities he’s just as enthusiastic.

They’re both sitting in the dining room of the private quarters of the yaksha generals. As much as Bosacius loves eating with everyone in the common room, with its open roof and palpable camaraderie, some conversations aren’t meant for all ears.

“This is an interesting group that we have here,” Menogias answers when he’s done chewing.

Bosacius waits, knowing that his brother likes to take his time choosing the best words to convey his meaning.

“Pervases resembles many of our younger yakshas. He’s enthusiastic and determined, and he should get through your idea of training without too much trouble.” Menogias delicately wipes his lips with a napkin. “He likely doesn’t know his own limits very well, and I’d say you’ll need to make sure he learns about them before sending him into a real fight.”

Bosacius nods. So far, his brother’s analysis concurs with his own. “And Xiao?”

Menogias lies down more comfortably in his chair, folding his hands on his full stomach. “Xiao…” he muses. “Xiao is more atypical. Both very talented and sorely lacking. What has his life been like, I wonder?”

They don’t know about Xiao’s life before he presented himself at the yaksha camp and asked to join Morax’s army, and at this point all they can do is speculate. Bosacius decides to refocus the conversation before his brother can start rambling. He doesn’t know if Menogias was always prone to long detours in conversation or if Morax’s influence on him is to blame, but he would rather stay on topic.

“We’ll learn more about him as time passes and he opens up to us,” he says. “How do you analyze his abilities?”

“He’s fast, even for an Anemo user. And like I said, he’s an excellent tracker. But…” Menogias pauses, frowning.

“But?” Bosacius prompts him.

“You’ve seen it yourself. He’s having trouble using elemental energy to sustain his own. He can manipulate it, yes, but when he tries to connect to it for an exchange, the process is extremely slow, almost blocked. It feels like liquid amber, only one step away from solidifying.”

“Yes,” Bosacius murmurs, crossing his arms. “It’s like his body, or his mind, is rejecting this form of connection. Like a… like an allergy.”

It seems stupid being said aloud, but Menogias doesn’t laugh at him.

“I’ve never heard of an Adeptus allergic to feeding off elemental energy.” Menogias taps his cheek with one finger, deep in thought. “It would be worth asking Cloud Retainer and Streetward Rambler. They devote more time to study than we can.”

Menogias doesn’t mention that it would also offer them an opportunity to distract their minds from Guizhong’s death, but Bosacius can read it in his eyes. He nods.

“Good idea. If they don’t know, I’ll ask Morax, but I would rather let him focus on the war.”

While they enjoyed a period of relative quiet these last months, the reports are now mentioning trouble stirring at their borders. Bosacius can’t say he’s surprised, but it’s still bad news.

“Speaking of Morax,” Bosacius goes on, “what did he say about the god remnant?”

“He was worried,” Menogias says.

Bosacius exchanges a meaningful look with him. Morax rarely displays his worries, even to his closest Adepti, so there must be more about this matter than meets the eye.

“He wants us to expand the scope of the patrols we do around Liyue Harbor, to see if other god remnants are also moving closer to us,” Menogias concludes.

“We will. And Bonanus will come back from her current campaign in a few days, I’ll ask her to lead an expedition dedicated to this goal.”

Menogias lightens up at the mention of their sister. “She does? Now that’s good news. Our quarters are two quiet with just the two of us.”

They sit in silence for a while, until Menogias stretches out and stands up. “I need a digestive walk. Care to accompany me?”

“Of course.”

Bosacius follows Menogias through the gardens of the Abode, their peace a balm on their troubled minds.

“Have you decided of your training plan?” Menogias asks.

“I have a good outline, yes. It should be challenging, but not overwhelming.”

Menogias mutters something that Bosacius decides not to hear. He knows he has pretty high standards about training, but he’s not Morax’s marshal for nothing. He wants his fighters to be as well prepared as possible in every circumstance.

“Part of it will be to show them what we do.” Bosacius takes a deep breath, inhaling the perfume of the flowers that grow here, forever preserved from the madness of the outside world. “It’s a good thing that they could watch you fight, but I also want them to realize that we don’t always win.”

Menogias gives him a pensive look. “You want to bring them there?”

Bosacius nods firmly. “Yes.”

Menogias sighs. “That’s tough. They only started two days ago.”

Bosacius meets his gaze. “I want to take my time with them, but I might not have it. There’s trouble in the air.”

“I feel the same,” Menogias whispers. “Fine. I’ll let everyone know to give them some space tonight.” He shakes his head. “Although Xiao doesn’t mingle with the rest of the yakshas. I wonder where he goes to sleep?”

“Thank you,” Bosacius says softly. “And thank you for your help today. I appreciate it.”

It always helps to have another pair of eyes, of course, but he also enjoys his brother’s company for itself.

Menogias gives a smile that goes right to Bosacius’ soul. “You’re welcome.”

The next day, Bosacius joins Pervases and Xiao at sunset. He takes his time to lead them to the place he wants them to see, so the stars are their only light when they finally reach the deserted camp.

The winds are blowing with sorrow at the desolated place it has become. Bosacius closes his eyes, and in his mind’s eye, he can see it again under the sun, with its alleys full of people going from one tent to another, fetching water, baking bread, cooking the supplies that the Liyue troops had provided them.

He can see the children running after each other, playing hide-and-seek, and gathering like colorful flies around him each time he visited them. They laughed at his jokes, watched him in awe as he juggled for them, yelled their happiness when he launched them in the air, only to catch them right before they could hit the ground.

They were counting on him to protect them, and he failed.

Bosacius opens his eyes. In the darkness, the camp seems full of ghosts. It’s just an impression, of course. There wasn’t enough left of these humans for their death to shape ghosts.

He turns to the two young yakshas behind him. They must wonder why he has brought them here. He hasn’t given much of an explanation, only told them he wanted to show them something, his face a mask of impassibility without the hint of a smile.

When he thinks about what happened here, he doesn’t feel like smiling.

Pervases shows signs of uneasiness, but Xiao looks like he’s going to be sick. Is he that sensitive to the echoes of the tragedy that happened here?

It’s not a good sign. A yaksha’s occupation consists in dealing with angry remnants and gloomy memories. They can’t afford to get lost in them, or they’ll meet an untimely tragic end.

“What is this place?” Pervases asks slowly. He sounds nervous in spite of his efforts to control his voice.

“It used to be a refugee camp,” Bosacius says.

His voice is somber. He hasn’t come to terms with what happened to the people who lived here. The god responsible for this might have been killed and the people she enslaved might have been offered the opportunity for a better life, it doesn’t soothe Bosacius’ grief.

His brother, his sisters and Morax himself have told him that it wasn’t his fault, but Bosacius struggles to admit that truth.

Because what is his strength worth if he can’t use it for the people who need it the most?

Pervases’ and Xiao’s eyes are on him, waiting for him to expand on his answer.

Bosacius takes a deep breath. “One night, an Adeptus serving an evil god came here. He used his power to eat the dreams of the people sleeping peacefully, safe in their belief that we would protect them.”

He clenches his fists. That night, no other Adeptus had been near the camp. The human sentinels had fallen asleep, either out of boredom or because of the Adeptus’ arts.

“He didn’t stop until nothing was left of their hopes and fears, and they had become empty shells.”

Dream-eating is a rare ability, but there are records of Adepti using it to help mortals overcome debilitating nightmares. So it doesn’t necessarily lead to this outcome, only its abuse does.

After what happened here, Bosacius looked for these Adepti. He had questions and wanted answers.

But he could find no trace of them. It’s like they have been wiped off the surface of Teyvat, at the notable exception of the one Adeptus who committed this crime.

This one has been found, and his mistress killed. Morax has said that he was compelled to act against his will. Now that he has been freed, does he even remember what he’s done, or is Bosacius the only one who carries the memories of the not-human-anymore beings that he had to put an end to?

“I was the one who brought an end to them,” he goes on. “They couldn’t be saved anymore, not even by Morax.”

Xiao turns his head to the side. For the first time since Bosacius has met him, his emotions are plainly visible on his face.

Disgust. Anger. Hatred.

Pervases exhales deeply. “Who is responsible for this?”

“An Adeptus sent by an enemy god,” Bosacius answers. “That god is dead now.”

Good riddance, he doesn’t say aloud.

“Why would an Adeptus accept to serve such a god?”

Bosacius is moved by Pervases’ indignation. It reminds him of a time where he was also idealistic and naïve.

“Maybe he had no choice.” He doesn’t feel comfortable saying more, not when Morax still hasn’t communicated about the Adeptus’ survival, or the fact he intends to offer him a place amongst Morax’s Adepti.

Not when Bosacius still hasn’t decided how he feels about that.

“The Adeptus who did that doesn’t deserve mercy,” Xiao says fiercely.

Bosacius is struck by the hatred in his voice. He can’t blame the young yaksha for being upset, but such emotions are bound to interfere with his future duty. Not to mention that if Morax succeeds in his rehabilitation project, it won’t do for Xiao to hate the Adeptus in question, especially as he’s also a yaksha and they might have to work together, or at least talk to each other.

“That is not for you to decide,” he says gravely, putting a comforting hand on Xiao’s shoulder.

Xiao’s whole body shakes and he jumps to the side, as if Bosacius’ touch is burning him.

Bosacius admonishes himself. He already had hints that Xiao doesn’t enjoy physical contact, so he should have refrained from imposing it. But the Adeptus’ distress is so obvious that he couldn’t help himself.

Xiao takes a few steps away from them and stares at the deserted camp as if he’s trying to engrave it in his memory.

Bosacius watches him sadly. If Xiao can’t bear the thought of what happened here, how can he hope to last in their trade?

He gives him time, checking from the corner of his eye how Pervases is doing, and relieved to note that while Pervases looks shaken, he seems to have his emotions in check.

Once Xiao turns towards them again, Bosacius watches them both with all the solemnity he’s capable of.

“If you join Morax’s army, one day, you will have to deal with such evils. Is it something you’re ready for?”

He doesn’t expect an answer on the spot, and none of the two juniors give one.

When they go back to the yaksha camp, Bosacius knows that a part of the sadness of this place will cling to them for a long time.

Chapter Text

A few days pass before Bosacius finds the time to go to Karst Jueyun. When he finally sets off towards the high peaks, he has to make a conscious effort to redirect his thoughts away from his current concerns, apart from the one bringing him here. It would be a crime not to enjoy the view.

Bosacius takes his time to climb the mountains. The hiking requires almost no effort from his body, but it does settle his soul. Many Adepti have chosen these peaks as their permanent residence after the flooding of the Guili Assembly, and the air is brimming with their presence and power.

Bosacius himself has only come here twice. When he can spare time away from his many duties, he tends to spend time with the other yakshas.

I should bring Menogias, Indarias and Bonanus here. It has been too long since we’ve had a discussion with the other Adepti that’s not about war.

Bosacius knows that things will never be the same now that Guizhong is dead, but he’s nothing if not an optimist. He will keep believing in a brighter future, one where old acquaintances don’t need a reason to spend time together.

When he reaches the plateau where Cloud Retainer established her abode, he’s once again struck by the peacefulness of the place. The small pond is barely stirred by the breeze, and the trees provide a pleasurable shade.

That peace is abruptly shattered by a shrill sound unlike any Bosacius has ever heard. He immediately turns towards the source, ready for a fight he didn’t think he would find here.

He stops right in his tracks when he realizes that the sound comes from none other than Cloud Retainer herself, leaning over a stone table with a strange contraption in her hand. It must be a kind of tool, because she’s using it against an even stranger contraption lying on the table. It’s the contact between both that produces the awfully shrill sound.

It also makes small sparks that are directed by Cloud Retainer’s Anemo abilities right into the pond.

Bosacius tries clearing his throat to gain Cloud Retainer’s attention, but there is no way she can hear him over the din. He’s certain that she knows he’s here anyways.

As he waits for her to acknowledge his presence, at a safe distance from whatever she’s working on, he mulls over the information he has gathered about Xiao so far.

It’s very little. Xiao isn’t talkative to say the least, and the discreet inquiry Bosacius has made has yielded no results. None of the humans or Adepti he has asked remembers meeting an Adeptus like him.

Xiao must be a very recently awakened Illuminated Beast, even younger than Bosacius thought.

The shrill sound ceases, and Cloud Retainer carefully places her tool on the table before straightening up. She’s in her human form, and she adjusts the red glasses Bosacius is certain she doesn’t need as she watches him with her sharp gaze.

“Bosacius. One must say one didn’t expect to see you here. Is there something one can do to help you?”

“Indeed, Cloud Retainer,” Bosacius says. “I hope I’m not disturbing you too much.” He watches the contraption on the stone table and decides to give in to his curiosity. Besides, Cloud Retainer loves talking about her inventions. “What is this for?”

“You’re not disturbing one at all.” Cloud Retainer clears her throat. “One is working on finishing a contraption of Guizhong’s devising.”

The shadow of grief is clouding her face, and Bosacius regrets asking. He doesn’t dwell on the topic.

“I would like to ask you and Streetward Rambler about something. Have you seen her?”

Cloud Retainer points at the other side of the small pond. Bosacius catches sight of Streetward Rambler behind the trees, apparently lost in contemplation of the horizon.

He’s surprised that he didn’t feel her presence sooner, but now that he’s focusing on her, he understands why. Her power is barely brushing against her environment, making her almost undetectable. It’s like she’s retreated within herself.

From where he stands, he can’t see what she’s looking at, but he knows Liyue’s geography by heart. Liyue Harbor is in this direction.

“One thinks it would be best to leave her be,” Cloud Retainer says softly. “One will inform her of your request later. Unless it is an emergency?”

Bosacius shakes his head. “No, it’s not that urgent. It’s about one of the new yaksha recruits that I’m training at the moment. His name is Xiao. He has difficulties that I’ve never seen in a yaksha before, and I hoped you could help me understand them.”

He knows he has piqued her curiosity when she switches to her bird form and shakes her wings.

“Go on,” she says.

As Bosacius explains Xiao’s apparent inability to feed off elemental energy, Cloud Retainer looks more and more troubled.

“One has never heard of such a thing,” she says when Bosacius is done. “One will need to think about it. It would help if you could bring the young Adeptus here.”

Bosacius nods, relieved that she’s taking the measure of the problem. He knows that despite her stern exterior, she strives to help people in need. She will do her best to help Xiao.

“I will let you know when I do. Thank you, Cloud Retainer.”

“You’re welcome.” She nods at him, a very human gesture that contrasts with her current form. “One will wait for your visit. Take care, Marshal Vritras. Many in Liyue rely on you.”

“I will.” Bosacius is moved by her concern, even though it’s unnecessary. He has sealed his fate a long time ago.

As he climbs the peak down, he thinks that Morax shares the same concern for his wellbeing. There is a clause in his contract stating that he’s not to take unnecessary risks. What’s unnecessary is for him to interpret, giving him the leeway he needs.

Guizhong, too, was the same. But thinking about her still hurts too much, so Bosacius starts planning his next training session with his two protégés instead.

“That’s enough,” Bosacius says.

Pervases and Xiao stop the choreographed sequence of moves that he taught them at the beginning of today’s session. They’ve been at it for hours, with Bosacius using bolts of Electro to destabilize them at irregular intervals.

They’ve done well. Xiao’s focus in particular is proving very hard to break. It’s all the more surprising that he can’t control the energy flow to sustain himself. Despite the exercises Bosacius asked him to practice on his own, Xiao has made no progress in this area.

Bosacius hopes that Cloud Retainer will help him. He’ll give her a few more days to start her research before bringing Xiao to Karst Jueyun.

For now, Bosacius is satisfied with the level of endurance and agility that his two recruits have displayed.

“Well done,” he praises.

Pervases beams under the compliment, while Xiao bows his head. His hair falls in front of his face, hiding his expression.

“I think that’s all for today,” Bosacius goes on. “You’re free to go. Keep practicing what I showed you for next time.”

“Yes, Marshal Vritras,” they both answer.

As soon as he’s officially dismissed, Pervases turns into a crane and extends his wings.

Something flickers in Xiao’s eyes, too fast for Bosacius to identify.

“I’m going to catch some fish,” Pervases says. “Do you want to come with me, Xiao?”

“No, thank you,” Xiao says softly.

Bosacius stifles a disappointed sigh. He secretly hopes that Xiao will want to imitate Pervases and relax into his beast shape after training one day, because he’s very curious to know what it is.  

Pervases makes no mystery of his own beast shape, and he’s often seen fishing in the nearby lakes and rivers, but Xiao has yet to show it to others.

Well, Bosacius himself rarely uses his beast shape, so he can’t criticize.

He’s about to leave the two juniors to themselves for the rest of the day when he hears a well-known voice from behind him.

“Here you are. I’ve been looking for you everywhere.”

Bosacius turns towards the person who just spoke, a wide grin on his face.

“General Chizapus! It’s a pleasure to see you back from the battlefield. How did things go on your way home?”

“Good enough,” Bonanus says. Her watery hair curls around her shoulders, like it does when she’s relaxed. “And to celebrate this, we’re going to have a feast tonight. I’m counting on your presence.”

“Of course,” Bosacius says.

He’ll never say no to a feast, which Bonanus knows perfectly well.

He quickly scans her from head to toe, searching for any sign of injury, but his sister seems unscathed. The Hydro energy surrounding her is as peaceful as Cloud Retainer’s pond. It seems that the last part of her journey was uneventful, which means that Menogias’ recent efforts in securing the area west of Liyue Harbor are bearing fruit.

Next to them, Pervases and Xiao are watching intently. Pervases has taken his human shape once again, his plans to go fishing delayed by the sudden arrival of one of Morax’s famous yaksha generals.

Bonanus smiles at the two juniors, who immediately bow their heads as a sign of respect. “It’s a pleasure to meet you. You’re both invited too, of course. All the yakshas currently stationed in Liyue Harbor will be here, it will be the perfect opportunity for you to meet more of them.”

“I’ll be honored to come, General Chizapus,” Pervases says, reverence in his tone. From the way he looks, Bonanus must be one of his personal heroes.

“As you wish, General,” Xiao says at the same time.

Bosacius can’t help noticing that he doesn’t sound very enthusiastic, but maybe it’s only the contrast with Pervases.

He waits until the two juniors are gone to hug his sister. He would have done it sooner, but Bonanus has very strict standards about when he can and cannot do it. She has threatened to turn all his drinks to plain water if he doesn’t make the effort to remember them, and Bonanus does not make idle threats.

He wraps his four arms around her, hugging her deceptively delicate frame tightly.

“I’m glad to see you, sister.”

“And I’m glad to see you.” Bonanus’ smile shows through her voice. “How have you been doing?”

Bosacius reluctantly releases her. “Oh, you know, the usual. Training recruits. Preparing for war. Planning for another apocalypse, just in case.”

“Speaking of new recruits, how is it going with those two?” Bosacius nods in the direction where Pervases and Xiao have left. “Menogias wouldn’t tell me anything.”

Bosacius crosses two arms, and folds his two other hands under his chin.

“It’s a long story,” he tells her. “And I want to hear yours first.”

“Deal.” Bonanus slides an arm under one of his. “But you’re going to be disappointed, I have nothing to say that’s not already in my reports.”

“I’ll be the judge of that.” Bosacius smiles. He could never be disappointed to spend time in his sister’s company. “I assume you’ve already given instructions for tonight?”

“Everything is well under way,” Bonanus confirms. “And I’ve already reported to Morax. My schedule is clear until tonight. So what do you want to know?”

As they both walk under the trees, Bosacius allows himself to relax. No matter what will happen in the future, he’ll grasp what happiness he can today.

The feast is going well.

Bosacius lets his gaze wander over the assembly. With most of Menogias’, Bonanus’ and his own companies present tonight, they are more than usual. It won’t last, as Bonanus will soon depart for her next mission, and Menogias has asked to investigate suspicious movements near the border.

Bosacius finishes another glass of delicious wine. He wishes Indarias could be with them tonight, but she’s not scheduled to come back before a few weeks.

She’s currently in the Guili Plains, continuing the cleaning that they started after the flood. Bosacius wishes he could have detached Menogias or Bonanus or even himself to accompany her, so she wouldn’t have to deal with the memories of that place without her brothers and sister, but it’s something he can’t afford right now.

And she’s not alone, per se. She has a whole yaksha company with her.

Bosacius lets out a long sigh and lifts his head to look at the sky. The sun has long set, and he can see the many stars lighting up the sky. They’re in the gardens of the abode, and the smell of the flowers and bushes mix pleasantly with the aromas of the food in front of him.

“Why the long face, Bosacius? Tonight is for celebrating.”

Bosacius turns towards Menogias. His brother has taken the seat next to him, while Bonanus is chatting with Pervases and Xiao.

“I was thinking of Indarias,” Bosacius says. “She would love being here with us.”

“She would want you to have fun while you can,” Menogias retorts. With his chin, he points at the yakshas drinking, eating and chatting. “They’re all too happy to put their karma and the war aside for one night, and you should do the same.”

Bosacius takes a deep breath. “You’re right.”

“That’s what I want to hear.” Menogias hands him a plate filled with what looks like meatballs. “Do you want some? They’re delicious, the cooks have outdone themselves.”

Bosacius tastes one, and ends up eating the entire plate. He could swear he recognizes Marchosius’ touch in it. The god must have given a hand in the kitchen tonight.

Bonanus joins them, a fish skewer in her hand.

Pervases is now talking to a group of yakshas belonging to her company. He seems particularly fond of Grilled Tickler Fish, which his seniors have noticed. His plate keeps being refilled.

Xiao, on the contrary, doesn’t seem to enjoy the food. Despite the sheer variety of dishes on the feast’s tables, Bosacius hasn’t seen him eat anything. His plate is still filled with the assortment of food he was given at the start.

“What are you two talking about?” Bonanus says, taking a seat between him and Menogias.

Bosacius returns his attention to her.

“We’re praising the food,” Menogias says. “And Bosacius is praising my wisdom.”

Bosacius snorts.

“I guess you haven’t started telling him about your new idea for a uniform, then.” Bonanus’ smile is predatory.

“What idea?” Bosacius asks suspiciously. Clothes designed by Menogias, while very elegant, tend to be unpractical for scouting and fighting.

“Ah, this?” Menogias clears his throat solemnly. “Well, I’ve thought about what you told me last time, and I’ve made improvements that I think are worthy of a reexamination of…”

Bosacius half listens to his brother’s arguments, sweeping his gaze across the crowd. He delights in seeing how much his yakshas are enjoying themselves tonight. They’re still glowing in the prayers that the people of Liyue addressed to them earlier in the night, the energy surrounding them visibly shining with power.

They deserve every second of it for the sacrifice they’re making for Liyue.

Bosacius is so lost in his thoughts that he almost misses the moment when Xiao stands up and leaves. The young yaksha has been so discreet about it that none of his dinner companions seems to have noticed.

He would be great at scouting, Bosacius thinks.

He apologizes to Menogias and Bonanus and stands, determined to make sure that Xiao is feeling alright. He uses his Adeptus abilities to go unnoticed through the crowd, wanting to avoid being invited into one of the yaksha groups for a cheerful discussion.

Xiao is already leaving the yaksha camp, and Bosacius follows him outside and into the training grounds. A group of human soldiers is asleep on the ground, many of them snoring. They reek of wine.

Humans are holding their own celebration tonight, and these soldiers are likely off-duty, but Bosacius still makes a mental note to have a quick word with their supervisor.

He decides to wait until they’ve passed the sleeping humans to call Xiao, but Xiao abruptly stops next to the group, as if pulled out of his thoughts by something. His whole body tenses, and he wraps his arms around his waist.

Bosacius waits, wondering why he feels that the atmosphere has suddenly become ominous.

A moment later, Xiao shakes his head and walks away with fast steps. Bosacius actually has to put in some effort not to lose sight of him.

When Xiao finally stops at the edge of a cliff and sits cross-legged to look at the harbor, Bosacius gives a sigh of relief.

“Xiao?” he calls.

Xiao startles. A second later, he’s standing in front of Bosacius, polearm pointed at his chest. Another second later, he’s dropping it to the ground and taking one step backwards, his eyes filled with fear.

Bosacius speaks before Xiao can make another move. The young yaksha is dangerously close to the edge of the cliff, and while Bosacius knows he could catch him if he was to fall, he would rather avoid this situation entirely.

“I didn’t mean to startle you,” he says, raising his hands in a gesture of peace.

“Marshal Vritras! I-I apologize,” Xiao stammers.

It’s only the second time Bosacius sees him this upset, the first being on the night he showed them the destroyed refugee camp. Maybe seeing the sleeping soldiers has triggered something in him. At first glance, they could look dead to someone who wasn’t paying attention, and Xiao feels too skittish to have been spared the horrors of war.

“No harm done,” Bosacius says. “I should have let you know I was following you sooner. I saw you leaving the feast–you were under no obligation to stay,” he quickly adds when Xiao starts apologizing again. “I just wanted to make sure you were feeling alright. I couldn’t help noticing that you didn’t eat much.”

It’s a euphemism considering that Bosacius could swear Xiao didn’t eat at all, but he doesn’t want to sound accusatory.

Xiao picks the polearm and fiddles with it. It’s the one he uses for training, not as deadly as the ones they take to war but still dangerous. If Xiao had attacked Bosacius instead of merely threatening him while assessing the situation, they would be having a very different conversation.

“I wasn’t hungry,” Xiao says, eyes downcast. “I hope I didn’t offend.”

“You didn’t,” Bosacius says firmly. “I’m just concerned about you.” His eyes scan the young yaksha, who looks too thin and too pale, even when accounting for the starlight. “Considering your difficulties in using elemental energy to sustain yourself, you need mortal food more than we do. And we do, Xiao, especially if we want to be at our best.”

Xiao nods wordlessly. He’s leaning on his polearm, almost as if he would collapse without the support.

Bosacius stifles a sigh. He can only go so far if Xiao doesn’t want him to help.

Although there is something else he can try.

“I’ve talked to an old friend about it,” he says. “She would like to meet you. She has my full trust, and might be able to help you.”

Xiao’s knuckles are white around the polearm, but he nods.

“As you wish, Marshal.”

“Then how about we go see her tomorrow afternoon?”

It’s not a suggestion, and Xiao nods again.

“Perfect,” Bosacius says, more in the hope to soothe Xiao than because he really thinks it is. It’s sooner than he anticipated, and Cloud Retainer probably won’t have done much research since Bosacius’ last visit, but he’s not lying when he says that he worries about Xiao eating so little.

“If you want to talk, I’m here,” he adds. “Goodnight, Xiao.”

“Thank you, Marshal Vritras.” Xiao bows, which allows him not to look at Bosacius. “Goodnight.”

Bosacius doesn’t add anything as he turns around and walks away to go back to the feast. His mind is troubled, and maybe that’s why he doesn’t notice the presence at the entrance of the yaksha camp until he stands right next to him.

“My lord?” Bosacius asks, surprised to see Morax here.

They have invited him to the feast, and Morax has answered that he might stop by, but it’s so late that Bosacius had thought he wouldn’t.

“Nice night, isn’t it?” Morax says.

His human shape is different from the one he usually chooses, shorter and more common. Maybe he has been mingling incognito with the humans of Liyue Harbor. Bosacius knows Morax likes to do that from time to time.

“Yes,” he answers. “Are you here to join us?”

“If I may,” Morax says humorously.

“Of course!”

“Wonderful.” Morax shifts his shape, and a second later he looks his usual self again.

Bosacius would like to tell him about Xiao’s strange behavior tonight, if only to get it out of his head. But it’s not the time. He doesn’t want to deprive his yakshas of the presence of their god, not when he knows how happy they’ll be to see Morax.

Sharing his thoughts will have to wait.

Chapter Text

The next day, Bosacius makes his way towards the location where he’ll pick Xiao up. It’s a hill a little away from Liyue Harbor, a nice place that Bosacius hopes Xiao will like.

When he met him this morning, practicing on his own on the training grounds, the young yaksha looked a little better than the night before. He still carefully avoided meeting Bosacius’ gaze. Bosacius was tempted to start a longer conversation with him, but he didn’t have time to chat.

It has been a long morning for Morax’s marshal. The feast lasted until dawn, and while most yakshas decided to take some rest sleeping or meditating, Bosacius has spent his morning planning their next moves with Bonanus and Menogias, organizing the shifts and patrols for the next month to account for the renewed evil activity near Liyue. He has also sent Indarias a message to let her know about the recent events.

It’s only thanks to his Adeptus nature that Bosacius doesn’t feel tired in this early afternoon. Still, he’s worried, and his mind isn’t fully in the present moment until he hears the yells.

Human yells.

Bosacius sprints towards them, his senses on full alert. In the far distance, he can feel the miasma of a god remnant. It hasn’t taken shape, maybe because it’s too weak for that.

It won’t prevent the humans from being cursed if they stay this close to it.

It barely takes Bosacius a few seconds to cross the distance separating him from them. Even so, it might have been too late, if…

If the humans were not sheltered from the miasma’s putrid influence thanks to an Anemo shield.

Bosacius is familiar enough with Xiao’s Anemo abilities by now, and the origin of this shield would have been no mystery even if Xiao himself hadn’t been close by, fighting the god remnant.

Bosacius loses no time. Xiao isn’t doing too bad a job as far as martial prowess is concerned, but he hasn’t learnt the Nuo Dance of Evil Conquering yet. If he does beat the god remnant like this, it won’t purify the land.

But he’ll gather evil karma all the same.

In one swift jump, Bosacius lands next to Xiao.

“Out of the way,” he orders, and Xiao obeys immediately.

At the same time, Bosacius dons his yaksha mask. He’s used to the surge of energy that pulses through his body as the power Morax imbued within the mask mixes with his own, but he’s still careful to keep it balanced.

Wielding the power of a god, however diluted, is a dangerous task.

Electro energy gathers around Bosacius. He lets it course through his body, from his center to the tip of his fingers. When his four arms strike, unleashing it in one powerful move, the ties linking the god remnant to Liyue’s ley lines break. Most of the miasma vanishes, and Bosacius breathes deeply, in and out, as the rest joins his karmic debt.

He lets the pain go through him while he softens his energy to soothe the injuries of the land until the ley lines subside.

Only then does Bosacius report his focus on Xiao and the humans. There are five of them, looking absolutely terrified as they watch both Illuminated Beasts.

“Have mercy, o mighty Adepti,” the eldest amongst them begs. She has white hair, and Bosacius knows she must be considered old in human years. Her voice is barely shaking, a testimony to her courage.

Bosacius stifles a sigh. He knows these humans belong to the refugees who used to serve under the last god Morax killed. They’ve been adapting to their new lives rather well, but they’re still afraid that Morax’s Adepti will hurt them.

Bosacius can’t blame them. He understands that being told something won’t happen isn’t enough to counter decades of nightmare.

“What are you doing here?” he asks, as gentle as he was brutal in his fight. “This area isn’t safe for mortals.”

“We’re lost,” the woman answers. “We were picking berries, and we didn’t realize that we had walked this far away from the others until it was too late.”

Bosacius wonders why they weren’t more careful, but maybe they had wanted to spend some time amongst themselves and deliberately kept away from the other humans of the group.

He glances at Xiao. The young yaksha is keeping his distance from the humans. He has dismissed his shield, but his power is still warily blowing around the mortals, just at the edge of what they would notice.

He’s not injured as far as Bosacius can see, which is a relief.

The humans in front of him are still cowering in fear. Bosacius extends his senses to scan their surroundings, until he detects the presence of a group of yakshas patrolling not too far away. He calls one on them, choosing on purpose the one who has the most inoffensive appearance.

She arrives swiftly and bows her head.

“What can I do for you, Marshal Vritras?”

Her voice is soft and soothing, and Bosacius hopes it will help the humans. They don’t need to know that this yaksha is known to be a particularly ferocious warrior on the battlefield.

“Escort this group back to Liyue Harbor,” Bosacius says. They’re traumatized, he adds for her mind alone, and might not be able to behave rationally. Be mindful of their reactions.

The yaksha nods and motions for the humans to follow her. They reluctantly do, leaving Bosacius alone with Xiao.

Bosacius finally lets out the sigh he has been withholding. At once, Xiao bows so low that his hair brushes the ground.

“I apologize, Marshal Vritras,” he says in a strangled voice.

“What are you apologizing for?” Bosacius asks, genuinely curious.

“I scared them,” Xiao goes on. “I was trying to help them, but I didn’t have time to explain, and…”

“Rise, Xiao,” Bosacius says. “You’ve undoubtedly saved their lives. This is nothing to apologize for.” He shakes his head. “It’s not your fault if they’re scared. Their kind has had bad encounters with an Adeptus before, and they haven’t learned to trust us yet.”

Xiao obeys, which allows Bosacius to see his face. He’s paler than before and looks like he’s barely holding himself together.

Bosacius can’t say he’s surprised. Xiao has displayed an impressive amount of strength fighting against the god remnant while shielding the humans, and considering his difficulties in drawing energy from his surroundings, he must be exhausted.

“How are you feeling?” he asks.

“I’m fine,” Xiao says.

Bosacius raises his eyebrows. It doesn’t feel like Xiao is trying to lie to him, which means that the young yaksha must believe what he’s saying.

If this is his standard for feeling fine, it’s way too low.

Xiao hunches his shoulders, as if he can feel Bosacius’ disapproval. Bosacius waits in case the young yaksha wants to add something else, but Xiao remains silent.

“Let’s go,” Bosacius finally says. He turns towards Karst Jueyun. “We should not leave my friend waiting.”

On their way to the high peaks, Bosacius makes sure to walk at a leisured pace. He wants to give Xiao time to settle before seeing Cloud Retainer.

When he feels that Xiao is calmer, he broaches the subject that has been on his mind since he has seen him fighting the god remnant.

“This area used to be safer,” he starts. “But the Archon War is spreading fast.”

He pauses. He’s not looking at Xiao, but he knows he has the yaksha’s full attention.

“Every yaksha in the army has sworn to Morax an oath to purify the land. Doing so requires a special ritual, one that you haven’t learned yet.”

He doesn’t add that he doesn’t know whether he’ll teach it to Xiao or not. It will depend on his progress.

“Until you do, you are to immediately call me or one of the more seasoned yakshas, should you encounter a god remnant.”

He waits for Xiao’s acknowledgement, but the yaksha keeps quiet. Bosacius gives him a glance and sees that Xiao’s frowning in perplexity.

“Yes?” Bosacius encourages him.

“My apologies,” Xiao whispers. “I do not understand how I am meant to call you if I’m on my own. I wouldn’t be able to leave the place, or mortals could be hurt in my absence…”

It’s a legitimate question, especially if Xiao ignores the extent of the yakshas’ abilities. It would have been part of his training, of course, but as it requires some degree of intimacy, Bosacius had decided to wait until they all knew each other better.

But circumstances force his hand.

“We yakshas can reach out to one another, mind-to-mind,” he explains. “The closer the relationship and the greater the distance that it will work across. The same goes for the Adeptus’ power.” He smiles. “Lord Morax can reach all of us, all the time.”

Xiao’s eyes are wide with wonder. Bosacius’ smile grows wider.

He makes a mental note to tell Pervases about it too. Just like Xiao, it’s possible that the crane yaksha will encounter god remnants in the vicinity of Liyue Harbor.

“May I try with you?” he asks Xiao. “It’ll give you a better idea of the way it works.”

Xiao looks uneasy, and Bosacius feels the need to clarify.

“You don’t have to accept. You can always learn later, with someone else.” He pauses. “If you want to try now, we will temporarily share a common state of consciousness that will enable us to exchange thoughts. It has to be a willing procedure, so you don’t have to worry about me hearing what you really think of my training methods.”

It’s meant as a joke, but Xiao blushes so hard that Bosacius wonders whether he has hit a target he didn’t know existed.

He pretends to ignore Xiao’s reaction.

“What do you say?”

“I would like to try,” Xiao says with determination.

Bosacius nods. He delicately reaches out, allowing his mind to brush against Xiao’s consciousness. He waits for Xiao to detect his presence and accept the connection.

Xiao stays still for a long time. Bosacius remains the way he is. He knows the process can’t be rushed.

Just when Bosacius is about to stop the attempt and suggest they try another time, Xiao timidly reaches out.

Bosacius minds his manners and avoids mingling their thoughts too close, the way he would for his sisters and brother.

Hello, Xiao.

Marshal Vritras, Xiao says, his wonder obvious.

See? It’s as simple as that.

Bosacius gently breaks the connection.

“Now, let’s try the other way around. Do the same as you just did, except this time you’ll have to wait for me to accept the connection.”

Xiao nods. This time, he doesn’t hesitate for long before reaching out for Bosacius’ consciousness.

His attempt feels like a light breeze on Bosacius’ mind. Xiao really is a gentle soul.

Well done, Xiao, Bosacius says. He makes sure to let his satisfaction show in his thoughts. It’s a perfect opportunity: in this shared state of consciousness, Xiao will know he really thinks it.

For the first time since they have met, Xiao offers him a small smile. Bosacius’ soul soars, but he keeps this emotion to himself. He doesn’t want to scare Xiao away.

Now try to withdraw, he instructs.

Xiao immediately breaks the connection.

“You’ve got it,” Bosacius says, grinning. “It’s easier when yakshas are near one another, of course. Otherwise, you’ll need to think about me, and what I represent for you, in order to find me. We can try that later.”

Bosacius resumes walking. The last thing he wants is to make Cloud Retainer wait for them. He’s sure she’s not above lecturing him in front of Xiao.

“All the generals can teleport, including me,” he goes on. “If you’re too far away from the others–not that it should happen so soon in your training–try reaching out for us first.”

Xiao nods.

They’re silent on the rest of the way, Bosacius savoring the sliver of trust Xiao gave him today.

When they arrive at Cloud Retainer’s abode, both Cloud Retainer in her bird form and Streetward Rambler as a young woman are waiting at the stone table, which is clean from any strange contraption. Cloud Retainer must have stored it away.

Bosacius is pleasantly surprised to see Streetward Rambler. Unlike last time, she feels present, and she even gives him a wry look when she catches him assessing her state.

Bosacius greets both of them and introduces Xiao, who looks at Cloud Retainer with too much intensity for someone whose face is this impassive. Maybe he’s worried about what she will do to him. Bosacius has done his best to explain him what was going to happen, and emphasized that Cloud Retainer can be trusted, but he doesn’t have a lot of information.

“Welcome, young one,” Cloud Retainer tells Xiao. “One hopes that we can be of some help to you.”

She must have picked up on Xiao’s uneasiness, because her tone is much more soothing than usual.

“How would you describe your problem?” she asks.

Xiao swallows hard. “I… I can’t feed off elemental energy as easily as I should. I’m too slow, and it’ll weaken me in long battles.”

Bosacius holds back a grimace at the self-deprecating tone.

“Such things can be improved on,” Cloud Retainer says, her voice firmer. “Learning is the process of a lifetime.”

After a pause, she resumes speaking with a softer tone.

“One would assume that you mostly rely on mortal food for your sustenance, then?”

“I…” Xiao glances at Bosacius. “Marshal Vritras thinks I don’t eat enough.”

Cloud Retainer gives Bosacius a look, as if she thinks his wording leaves to be desired. Bosacius shrugs softly. It is the truth, and he would even say it’s an understatement.

“You do not like human food?” Cloud Retainer says.

“I…” Xiao looks like he wants to be anywhere but here. “I have nothing against it. It’s just that I don’t feel like eating it.”

“Mortal food tends to be too rich for my taste,” Cloud Retainer comments. “I would recommend trying flowers, especially Qingxin flowers.”

“Thank you, Cloud Retainer,” Xiao says respectfully. “I will try.”

“Alright.” Cloud Retainer flies closer to the edge of the cliff, where the area is more open.

Xiao bites his lip as his gaze follows her.

“Come with me,” she tells him when she notices that he hasn’t moved from his spot. “I would like you to show me what you can do. It’ll give me a better idea of the nature of the problem.”

Xiao silently joins her. Bosacius starts doing the same, but Cloud Retainer waves for him to stay where he is.

She flaps her wings, and an Anemo flow starts swirling around Xiao.

“Let’s start,” she says encouragingly. “Try to draw energy from it.”

Xiao closes his eyes and tries. He really tries, Bosacius can see that in the way his power mixes with Cloud Retainer’s, Anemo against Anemo, but the amount of energy he takes is so ridiculous that it’s barely worth the effort.

The Anemo flow changes subtly, as if Cloud Retainer is trying to adapt.

“Try to be more open to the exchange,” she tells Xiao. “Your method is correct.”

Bosacius watches, fascinated, as Cloud Retainer’s Anemo power shifts and changes several times against Xiao’s.

But it doesn’t seem to help him. His expression is growing more and more frustrated.

The Anemo flow softens until it’s barely more than a draft.  “You’re not giving enough of yourself to this world,” Cloud Retainer says. “This is why you can’t take more. You’re out of balance, and it blocks your qi.” She pauses, thinking. “Maybe it would be easier for you if you assumed your beast shape.”

Xiao tenses and his eyes snap open. “I’d rather keep trying like this.”

There is something in his tone that squeezes at Bosacius’ heart.

“It would help you,” Cloud Retainer insists as the Anemo flow increases in strength. “One knows that many yakshas rarely assume their beast shapes,” she glares at Bosacius, as if he was a big brother setting a bad example, “but it’s important. It embodies the purest expression of your being, and qi flows most freely when you–”

“No!”

Xiao’s yell catches Bosacius by surprise. He watches, astonished, as the Anemo flow turns into a stream and pushes Cloud Retainer away, cutting her off in the middle of her sentence.

When it vanishes, a heavy silence envelops the four of them. Even the birds have stopped singing, and Bosacius swears he can hear the pulsation of Liyue’s ley lines, deep under their feet.

He’s the first to come back to his senses.

“Alright, that’s enough for today,” he says firmly.

Cloud Retainer lands in front of a dismayed Xiao, her feathers ruffled.

“It is clear that one has upset you,” Cloud Retainer says. She’s doing a rather good job of hiding her disgruntlement. “This was not one’s intention.”

Xiao falls to his knees. “I apologize for this shameful display,” he says in a hoarse voice. “Please forgive me. I never meant to offend you.”

“Do not worry about that, young Xiao,” Streetward Rambler says. Her voice is as musical as a stream coming down the mountains in the spring, and carries effortlessly through the air. “It takes more than that to offend an Adeptus like my friend Cloud Retainer.”

“Indeed.” Cloud Retainer sighs. “One thinks Marshal Vritras is right, that is enough for today.” She goes back to the stone table, motioning for Xiao to follow her. “Should you feel like it, one has a variety of fresh flowers you can choose from.”

Xiao stands up and wraps his arms around his chest. As he comes closer to them, Bosacius notices how shaken he looks. It doesn’t feel at all like he wants to eat, but he clearly doesn’t want to offend Cloud Retainer even more.

“You’re very generous,” Xiao whispers.

“Oh, not at all.” Cloud Retainer vanishes in a flash of Anemo. One moment later, she’s back with a basket of flowers. “Here, take what you want.”

She puts the basket on the table and moves away. Bosacius appreciates the effort to give Xiao some space. He knows that Cloud Retainer can sometimes feel overwhelming.

He follows her to the rocks she has chosen to perch on, placing his body so he can keep an eye on Xiao.

“What do you think?” he asks, using his Adepti abilities to make sure Xiao won’t overhear the conversation.

The young yaksha is munching on a Qingxin flower while listening to something Streetward Rambler is saying. Bosacius knows that these flowers are more nutritious to Adepti than they look, but he also knows it won’t be enough for a yaksha.

“One is deeply troubled.” Cloud Retainer starts preening her ruffled feathers. “Xiao does have the ability to draw energy from the world, but only in tiny amounts. He must be extremely strong-willed and energy efficient to fuel his body with so little.”

“About that, I’m sorry he lashed out at you,” Bosacius says. “I would have warned you if I had thought it could happen.”

“Do not worry about that. One is above such considerations.” Cloud Retainer straightens her neck proudly. “Besides, he is a yaksha. Your kin does not like to be pushed.”

Bosacius refrains from saying that Cloud Retainer doesn’t like to be pushed either, but it must show on his face because she lets out a dignified huff.

“To come back to the matter at hand, you’re not wrong to say it feels like an allergy. Both his body and his mind can’t stand being in a deeper level of exchange with the world. One doesn’t know whether or not he’s conscious of it.”

“But how is it possible?” Bosacius asks. His frustration is not directed at Cloud Retainer, but rather at the absurdity of the situation. “How can one become an Illuminated Beast without this faculty?”

“Something must have happened since,” Cloud Retainer says. “We live in troubled times.”

At the stone table, Xiao bows in front of Streetward Rambler and walks towards the opposite side of the plateau. Bosacius feels his presence moving away until it vanishes.

Streetward Rambler joins them. “I told him to go get some rest in a place he likes,” she says. “I said you wouldn’t mind.”

Bosacius would have liked to have a talk with Xiao, but he recognizes the wisdom of Streetward Rambler’s advice.

“Thank you.”

“Tell him he’s welcome to come back any time,” Cloud Retainer says to Bosacius. “One does not know how to best help him yet, but one will not give up.”

Streetward Rambler gives her friend a knowing look. “Give him space. He’s doing well with what he has.” She pauses. “The war has taken its toll on everyone.”

The melancholy in her voice is obvious.

“He’s the one who wants to join the yaksha army,” Bosacius points out. “You know what we do.”

“Yes.” Streetward Rambler’s gaze drifts away. “Have you talked to Morax about it?”

Bosacius shakes his head. “Not yet. I was hoping to–”

Bosacius.

“Well, I might have an opportunity soon,” Bosacius says. “Thank you for your help today.”

As he teleports away from Karst Jueyun and to wherever his lord is right now, Bosacius wonders what place Xiao has chosen to relax.

And whether he’s managing to relax at all.

Chapter Text

Bosacius lands in the war room of the yaksha camp. Morax is leaning over the stone table displaying a reduced map of Liyue, also made of stone. With him stand both Menogias and Bonanus, and, which is more surprising, Indarias.

His brother and sisters look up when he materializes in front of them. On their concerned faces, he can read that the brief respite Liyue has enjoyed is over.

He nods his greetings to Indarias. She looks tired, which is to be expected considering her last assignation.

An assignation that she wasn’t supposed to leave before a few more weeks. For her to do so without warning him beforehand, abandoning the battlefield to her second-in-command, the order must have come from Morax himself.

“What is it, my lord?” he asks, readying himself for bad news.

“Indarias has information you all need to hear,” Morax says. “I asked her to come in person to share it with us. Indarias, if you will.”

“Thank you, Lord Morax.” Indarias points at the stone map in front of them, lighting the Guili Plains with her Pyro abilities. “As you know, I have spent the past weeks cleaning the land in the Guili Plains. Now that the flood has mostly receded, it is possible to access wider areas.”

She waves her hand, and the Pyro light expands to follow her explanation.

“We have worked day and night to ensure that the situation remains stable. I thought that we had succeeded, but…”

With her other hand, she lights several paths with a darker red.

“We started noticing that areas that had previously been dormant have reawakened. We investigated the cause, and it looks like new god remnants have travelled from here to here.” She looks at Bosacius. “I was immediately reminded of what you described in your report. It is likely that they are from the last god Morax defeated, although I never interacted with her prior to that and can’t confirm.”

She pauses.

“These new god remnants are interacting with the old ones, seemingly strengthening them. They…”

Indarias pauses again. She looks uncertain for the first time, and Bosacius’ hair stands on end.

“They are targeting the seals around Guizhong’s resting place,” she finishes softly.

Bosacius takes a deep breath to quell the anger rising in his chest.

“These seals won’t yield easily,” Morax comments.

His voice is impassive, but Bosacius knows better.

While Guizhong died without ill-will towards the people of Liyue, and her remnants do not spread curses and sicknesses like those of the gods who killed her and were killed in return, she was still a powerful goddess. Her death turned to dust most of the buildings around her, along with the humans who weren’t able to escape. To stabilize the ground and ensure that the exodus towards the south unfolded as safely as possible, Morax locked her remnants with five seals.

Bosacius, Menogias, Indarias and Bonanus all helped him. Each of them knows what it costed their god to do it.

Indarias nods stiffly. “In any case, there is a resurgence of demons in the area. We need reinforcements as soon as possible, or I’m afraid some of them will go through our defenses and towards Liyue Harbor.”

“It’s not the only problem we have.” Bosacius looks at the map, his mind already supplying him with various scenarios and strategies. “If our grasp on the Guili Plains loosens, the gods of the sea on the East will seize the opportunity to try and take them from us.”

“These plains have become unfit for human or animal life, and will remain so for centuries,” Menogias points out. “Will they risk entering an open war against Morax over them?”

“They might if their ultimate goal is Liyue Harbor.” Bonanus adds a Hydro glow to the map, highlighting the southern limit of the Guili Plains. “It is an opportunity to weaken us. Without the work of the yakshas, the gods’ remnants present here will foster more and more chaos every year. It would keep us busy defending this border, and weaken our ability to protect Liyue’s other borders.”

“Indeed,” Morax says. “We can’t let that happen.”

“How many yakshas do you think are needed to stabilize the situation?” Bosacius asks Indarias.

She shrugs. “As many as you can spare.”

Bosacius grimaces. “It’s already that bad?”

Indarias nods. “And it’s getting worse. I need to go back as soon as possible.”

Bosacius crosses his four arms, thinking.

“We have four yaksha companies. One must stay to protect Liyue Harbor, and at least one another must patrol our other borders. Which means I can only spare one to help you.”

Not for the first time, he wishes they could have one more yaksha company. But as talented as the other yakshas are, none has the skillset of a general.

“I’ll take mine and go join you,” he decides. “Menogias, you ensure that the city stays safe. Bonanus, you watch over our borders.”

“Understood,” Bonanus and Menogias both say.

Morax, who has stilled as if he was listening to something only he could hear, stirs and turns towards Bosacius.

“I’ll accompany you and check the seals personally. I’ll let you make the necessary preparations for our troops while I get ready to leave.” His eyes stare at the location of Liyue Harbor on the map. “I’ll talk to the Qixing about the current situation. Mortals’ movements across Liyue should be limited as much as possible while we handle this.”

Bosacius nods. “When do you want to leave?”

“This evening would be perfect.”

It only leaves Bosacius a few hours to prepare. It’s a good thing that he’s mostly ready all the time.

“Acknowledged.”

Morax nods his thanks and teleports away, likely to go talk to the humans. Bosacius turns to his siblings.

“Bonanus, Menogias, will you please inform the yakshas of their new affectations? Indarias, before you go back, I need you to tell me everything you know about the current shape of the ground.”

“Of course.”

As Indarias starts describing in detail the state of the situation, pointing here and there on the map, Bosacius gives her his full attention. Information is key in a war, and he intends to win this battle.

For the sake of the people of Liyue, and in memory of Guizhong.

“This place is as beautiful as I remember.” Indarias sighs with pleasure.

They’re walking in the gardens of the yaksha camp. Bosacius has managed to convince his sister that a brief walk would help restore her energy before she goes back to the battlefield.

While he allows the place to reinvigorate him too, Bosacius is listing in his head what remains to be done. He must talk to his company, although news must have spread to them by now. He has to check with Marchosius that the intendance is ready for the new campaign. And of course, he must tell Pervases and Xiao that he will be absent for some time. He’ll ask Menogias to supervise their training while he’s away, and…

“Who’s that?” Indarias asks, breaking Bosacius’ focus.

He blinks, looking for the person who attracted his sister’s curiosity.

Here, sitting on the edge of a fountain not far away from them, is Xiao. Bosacius notes with relief that the young yaksha looks a lot better than the last time he saw him.

“It’s Xiao, one of the two recruits I told you about,” he says.

“Oh? I thought he avoided staying in the yaksha camp.”

Bosacius hasn’t had the opportunity to tell Indarias much about Xiao, but Bonanus or Menogias must have kept her updated.

She makes a good point. Bosacius is wondering the same, but he doesn’t have to wait for long for an answer. As soon as Xiao notices Bosacius’ presence, he stands up and walks to him.

“Xiao,” Bosacius says. “How are you feeling?”

“I’m fine,” Xiao starts.

He must have read Bosacius’ dubious expression correctly, because he quickly adds, “I mean, I feel much better.”

“Good.” Bosacius nods at Indarias. “This is General Musatas. I don’t think you two have met.”

“Greetings, young Xiao,” Indarias says. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

Xiao bows respectfully.

“Is there something you wanted to tell me?” Bosacius asks. “I apologize, but I don’t have much time. Although I would like to meet you and Pervases at the training ground in one hour, please let him know.”

Xiao takes a deep breath.

“Yes, there is something I would like to ask you.”

Bosacius raises an eyebrow. It’s unusual for Xiao to ask for anything, and he can’t help being curious.

“I’m listening.”

Xiao fixes the ground near Bosacius’ feet very fiercely.

“I would like to accompany you on your upcoming campaign.”

Bosacius’ eyes widen. Is Xiao seriously considering it? The Guili Plains have to be one of the most draining places in all of Liyue right now. Considering that the young yaksha is no closer to improving his abilities to recover energy, and thus despite Cloud Retainer’s attempt at helping, there is no way Bosacius can agree to his request.

“No,” he says, calmly. “You’re not ready.”

Next to him, Indarias watches the scene with interest.

“I can be useful,” Xiao insists. “You said those humans would have died without my intervention, didn’t you?”

Bosacius has never seen Xiao this determined. He sounds almost desperate.

But it doesn’t change his answer.

“Xiao, this battlefield is going to be especially challenging. Even being there is going to cost a lot of energy. Once you will have learned to better sustain yourself, I will consider bringing you there. As things are, you wouldn’t last a day.”

“Respectfully, Marshal Vritras, how can you know for sure?” Xiao says, his eyes still fixed on the ground.

Bosacius can’t believe that his shyest recruit to date is daring to openly contradict him. For a second, he doesn’t know what to say.

It doesn’t go past his sister, who reaches out to his mind.

Interesting. It’s not every day that we get to see the great Bosacius speechless.

Bosacius doesn’t stoop to rewarding the comment with an answer. He’s still trying to figure out how to best convince Xiao–he would like the boy to understand his reasoning, rather than blindly obeying an order he disagrees with, although he won’t hesitate to put his foot down if needed–when Indarias starts talking aloud.

“What do you do best?” Indarias asks Xiao.

“I’m fast,” he says. “As fast as the wind. And I can fight, although I didn’t learn how to appease the land yet.”

“One more messenger would be useful,” Indarias says. “Due to the interferences from the many god remnants, mind-to-mind communication is not reliable.”

Bosacius glares at her. You’re not helping.

You always worry so much about new recruits, Indarias says. But they need opportunities to prove themselves.

Bosacius grits his teeth so strongly that he’s hearing them grind.

He’s not ready. I’m not here to see my juniors die.

Neither am I, Indarias retorts.

Bosacius can feel that his words have hurt her, and he silently apologizes.

I know you only want what’s best for him, she says, appeased. But he’s clearly convinced that he can do it. Worst case scenario, he’s wrong and it’ll show him that he’s indeed not ready for our work.

Worst case scenario, he dies in horrible agony, Bosacius points out.

Indarias shakes the thought away.

If the place is draining him too fast, we will notice and send him back to Liyue Harbor. Besides, didn’t Morax say he wanted to check the seals? Put Xiao in the team that will accompany him. He’ll definitely know if the place is too much for Xiao to handle.

Bosacius considers it. He doesn’t want to burden his god, but he knows that Morax won’t mind. And it is an opportunity to see how Xiao behaves on a battlefield. Bosacius has to admit he is curious to see how well Xiao can work in a team, and…

He suddenly realizes that his mind has started planning for Xiao’s involvement, which means Indarias has won.

Fine, he says, making sure she can feel his irritation.

She replies with smug satisfaction, and he stifles a sigh.

In front of them, Xiao is keeping quiet, his eyes going from one to the other. Does he realize that they’re talking to each other?

“No fighting,” Bosacius says. “And if any of us order you to go back to Liyue Harbor, you will do so immediately.”

Xiao’s eyes widen, as if he didn’t expect Bosacius to change his mind so fast.

“Of course, Marshal Vritras. Thank you.” He glances at Indarias. “And thank you, General.”

“You’re welcome,” Indarias says, smiling.

“Go prepare yourself,” Bosacius tells Xiao. “We’re leaving at sunset.”

Xiao nods and hurries to leave, as if he’s afraid that Bosacius will change his mind.

Bosacius watches him depart, shaking his head.

“Am I making the right decision?”

“A very good question, dear brother.” Indarias pats one of his arms. “Now I really have to go. Thank you for the walk, and see you soon.”

“Be careful,” he says reflexively.

She gives him a wry smile before teleporting away.

Bosacius decides to stay in the gardens a little longer to think about this new development. Then he’ll meet with Marchosius.

He has barely walked one minute down a path when he spots Pervases hurrying towards him.

The young yaksha stops in front of Bosacius and bows.

“I have heard the news,” he says. “I wish to come with you.”

Bosacius sighs.

Later, once all his preparations are done, Bosacius meets one-on-one with Morax. His god has assumed the shape he uses in war, and looking at him fills Bosacius’ heart with reverence.

“What is on your mind?” Morax asks. He has chosen a high cliff for their meeting, one where they can see the yaksha army gathering in the plain below.

There is a lot on Bosacius’ mind right now, but he knows what Morax means. His eyes scan the ranks of yakshas, looking for two small shapes that he had hoped would stay here. He finds them in the rearguard, listening to the instructions of one of his lieutenants.

“Xiao and Pervases have both asked to come with us.”

Morax follows his gaze. “Are you surprised?”

Bosacius sighs. “I really shouldn’t be. They’re both yakshas. But…”

He remembers Xiao’s reaction when he took them to the devastated refugee camp, and the way he recoiled from Cloud Retainer’s suggestion that he assumed his beast shape.

“Xiao has trouble sustaining himself. And I worry that he might be too traumatized for fighting.”

“Oh?” Morax merely says.

With everything going on, Bosacius hasn’t had time to update him about Xiao’s situation. He briefly does so, up until Indarias’ suggestion.

“Indarias is right.” Morax crosses his hands behind his back. The end of his ponytail gleams blood-red in the sunset. “If he can’t make it, it’s best for everyone to know as soon as possible. And I’ll be glad to keep an eye on him for you.”

“Thank you.” Bosacius shakes his head, as if it could help sorting his thoughts. “I don’t know what to think of him. He really did well protecting those humans, and he’s very determined. I would never have thought he would dare contradict me.”

“It looks like he’s a stubborn one indeed,” Morax muses.

There is the slightest hint of amusement in his voice, and Bosacius wonders if his god is calling him out. Morax knows Bosacius qualifies as stubborn too.

“I want to do right by him,” Bosacius says. “I’m just… not sure what that means.”

Morax’s gaze is impenetrable.

“Only time will tell.”

Bosacius nods. Below them, everyone has taken their assigned place.

“We are ready to leave at your command, my lord.”

For a while, Morax doesn’t say anything. His gaze is lost on the horizon, towards the Guili Plains where, along with countless horrors, their memories of Guizhong await.

Then he shakes himself, the movement rippling into the ground like it was made of sand.

Or dust.

When he speaks, there is an edge to his voice that would make Bosacius shiver, were it directed at him.

“Let’s start moving.”

Chapter Text

The Guili Plains are a desolate sight.

Where there were once green plains and singing streams, where the elegant buildings of the Guili Assembly stood, remain only sterile ground, swamps and ruins, drowned in the foul miasma of the remnants of the gods that Morax buried here.

It always tugs at Bosacius’ heart to see what their former home has become. But he doesn’t lose time dwelling on it; he is needed in the present, and he won’t let down those who depend on him.

The army’s journey to the plains has been fast, just long enough for Bosacius to make sure that both Pervases and Xiao know what is expected, and not expected, of them. Now that they’re in sight of their goal, the yakshas are falling in, ready to follow their respective assignments.

Bosacius discreetly checks on his two last recruits. Pervases is talking to another yaksha, asking questions about the plains. Xiao is keeping to himself, but he has followed the yakshas who will accompany Morax to the side.

For now, their god is roaming the sky under his dragon form, making sure that no unknown peril threatens them. His shape is hiding the starlight, allowing Bosacius to locate him easily.

Then they enter the area of influence of the god remnants, and Bosacius stops seeing the sky.

Everything around him is only visible through a fog. The yakshas that stand a mere few feet next to Bosacius become shadows as evil starts swarming them. Bosacius can barely see his own two feet.

Three enemy gods have died here, one killed by Guizhong and the other two by Morax. Their anger agitates Bosacius’ karma, and he braces himself against the pain. With his mind’s eye, he checks on the two juniors, his power brushing against their spirit to make sure that they’re not overwhelmed.

Pervases is grimacing, body tense and fists clenched as he takes in his new environment. His spiritual defenses are strong and shouldn’t be depleted too fast. Still, Bosacius has given orders to make sure he will never be left alone, so an experienced yaksha can interfere in time if needed. Pervases didn’t look happy about it, but he didn’t dare protest.

Xiao, for his part, is hunched with his spear pointing at the ground as if he’s expecting an attack any instant.

Which could happen, of course. Bosacius is monitoring that too, following the traces of the god remnants underground.

In any case, he’s relieved to observe that Xiao doesn’t seem overwhelmed by their toxic environment. He has also instructed that Xiao is not to be left alone.

To be fair, this rule applies for most yakshas. They’re safer in pairs, when they can watch over each other. Only the most powerful of them are allowed to go through this land on their own, and even then, they usually prefer to form pairs too.

A demon forms from the mist next to Bosacius, and he dons his yaksha mask to fight it. Several of his fellow yakshas do the same. Pervases and Xiao, however, stay out of the fights in compliance with their orders.

Bosacius wants to see how they handle the constant pressure of this environment before potentially giving them specific missions. For now, letting them observe their seniors is sufficient.

He’s not delusional enough to believe they won’t have to fight at all, though, and he made sure they were both equipped with weapons of excellent quality, different than the ones they use for training. He has warned them again about the karma they’ll be accumulating if they end up being the ones who deal the killing blow against a god remnant, and emphasized that they could still reconsider their decision to come, but both juniors have stated that they were aware of the risks.

Bosacius dispatches a first demon, then a second. The third runs away when golden light starts shining around them, opening the fog.

He watches as his lord lands. Morax’s scales are shining gold, Geo energy rippling from them and into the ground. As he turns into his human form, the veins on his arms continue to shine gold, as does the tip of his hair. His features are perfectly visible, as though the miasma can’t reach him.

In his hand is a jade sword that Bosacius hasn’t seen sheathed in years. When he’s not on the battle field, Morax stores it away in the exact shape it is now, its tip dripping with the fluids of the gods he has killed.

“There is no trouble on the borders of the Guili Plains,” Morax says. “Let’s keep moving.”

Bosacius nods and waves for his group to follow him. They have decided to split up to cover a wider area, and to meet again at Guizhong’s last resting place, where Indarias is waiting for them.

Morax departs with the small team of yakshas assigned to him. To Bosacius’ surprise, Xiao doesn’t remain on the sidelines, but rather keeps close to Morax. The young yaksha is clearly not as intimidated as Bosacius would have expected by the sight of their god on the war path.

Pervases follows Bosacius, his entranced gaze keeping on Morax for as long as they can see him. Bosacius has to remind him to focus on his environment, which the young yaksha sheepishly does.

Bosacius leads them deeper into the mist, the spear he has chosen to carry into this fight at the ready.

For now, he’ll keep an eye on Pervases and trust Morax with Xiao.

As they walk through the Guili Plains, Bosacius realizes that the situation is even worse than what he pictured. Indarias made the right call asking for help.

Everywhere he looks, shadows shape into demons that jumps on them. The ground itself is crying in pain, the ley lines writhing under the assault of hatred and agony. And still, Bosacius can recognize the places they pass by.

Here Guizhong used to cultivate flowers. Here stood Marchosius’ favorite market. Here Morax first played chess.

This is what the Archon War has done to the place where Bosacius has been so happy. It fills his heart with an anger he’s careful to keep under control.

This war is fairly recent. It entered their lives with the gruesome death of Guizhong, and from the look of things, it’s here to stay.

Images of Guizhong dissolving to dust in front of them, the long exile towards what would become Liyue Harbor, their efforts to keep the human survivors alive through the storm, the dead that they couldn’t save, flicker in his mind. They are all etched into his memory, fueling his determination to win.

The god remnants around him are ferocious, more so than he remembers, but they fall steadily under Bosacius’ hits. His yakshas follow his lead, and Pervases grips the hilt of his sword, eager to join the fight, but he holds it together and doesn’t yield to the murderous urge that Bosacius knows must taint his vision red.

And so they forge their path across the Guili Plains, until they reach the place where Guizhong fell.

Morax is already here, deep in conversation with Indarias. Bosacius joins them, glancing around in search of Xiao. The view is clearer here, and he spots him right at the limit of the privacy zone that the yakshas have drawn around their commanders. He seems to be holding on, which is a relief.

“Here you are,” Indarias tells Bosacius. “How was your trip?”

Her tone is light, as if they weren’t in the center of a cursed battlefield. But her whole body is glowing with Pyro energy, and Bosacius can feel that she was fighting not so long ago. Maybe Morax’s presence temporarily drove the god remnants away.  

“Swarming with unwelcome guests,” he replies in kind.  “What’s your status?”

Indarias nods at the ruins in front of them. They used to be the heart of the Guili Assembly, where Morax, Guizhong and Marchosius sat with the Adepti and the humans. Now only a few collapsed arches remain.

“We’ve been under attack non-stop until Morax arrived.” Indarias points with her sword towards the earth below them. “We’ll stand our ground while you have a look at the seals.”

It has been decided that Bosacius will accompany Morax, both to have a look at the situation himself and in case the god needs reinforcements.

Morax nods. “Thank you, General Musatas.”

Please keep an eye on Pervases and Xiao, Bosacius adds for his sister’s mind.

Pervases has joined Xiao and is waiting next to him. Their spiritual strength has sustained them so far, and it doesn’t feel depleted. Even Xiao, whom Bosacius was so worried for, doesn’t seem worse for wear after a few hours spent in the Guili Plains.

Maybe his current inability to open to sustaining exchanges of energy with the world makes him less vulnerable to the effects of said world energy when it’s cursed and trying to kill him. In which case both effects might compensate themselves to a degree.

It doesn’t solve the problem of Xiao needing to learn or re-learn that ability, or he won’t withstand long fights where his energy will gradually be depleted, but it alleviates Bosacius’ worries a little.

Of course, Indarias answers.

Morax starts walking towards the nearest collapsed arch, and Bosacius follows him. With one wave of his arm, the god opens a path into the ground.

Bosacius falls in step with him as Morax goes down the tunnel. He tries to keep track of what’s happening on the surface, but the deeper they go and the harder it becomes.

The Geo energy coursing through the walls of the tunnel, forming a barrier against the anger of the fallen gods, blocks his long-distance perceptions.

They finally reach a large area carved underground. Its floor is smooth, translucent and adorned with geometrical golden patterns. Its ceiling looks like a night sky studded with stars. Bosacius is aware that they must be gems embedded in the rock mass above, but the illusion is stunning.

Distributed along the edge, nine core lapis pillars are resonating together, shielding the entire space from outside interference. Bosacius knows that the only reason he could enter is Morax’s presence at his side.

It’s the first time he comes here. Morax first established these seals on the surface before sinking them into the ground. Bosacius didn’t know what he was expecting, but it wasn’t this.

Under his feet, through the floor, he can feel the echo of a very familiar power. It squeezes his heart, making him feel like crying.

Instead, he bows his head in respect for the fallen God of Dust.

“This is the central seal,” Morax comments.

His voice is harsh, but Bosacius knows him well enough to hear the pain behind the tone. He notes that Morax has stored his sword away, as if he doesn’t want to soil this place with the blood of other gods.

Bosacius closes his eyes. So far, he hasn’t felt anything disturbing the place, but he hasn’t looked for it, either. He lets his senses run along the edge of the space, following the intricate tapestry drawn by the pillars’ resonances.

He finds them almost immediately. The shadows lurking behind the shield, searching for a weakness. They aggregate and press against key structural points before dissipating and trying elsewhere.

The remnants involved belong to different gods, including the last god Morax killed. Bosacius suddenly feels what Indarias was explaining. They are working together, her hatreds combined by the remnants of this last god. Bosacius recognizes her nauseating way of clutching to other beings in this echo of what she was.

A flash of golden light scatters the remnants away, and Bosacius opens his eyes to look at Morax.

“It’s the first time I see god remnants having a group strategy,” he tells his god. “I didn’t know they were capable of such intelligence.”

It’s worrying, to say the least, and Bosacius’ future strategies will have to take this new possibility into account.

“I would assume it depends on the abilities the god had.” Morax walks towards the edge, his eyes piercing through the shadows. “Unfortunately, she was a god of the mind. Her hatred is not to be underestimated.”

Bosacius doesn’t need to ask which god he’s talking about. “Will the seals hold as they are?”

Before Morax can answer, a rumble echoes through the place. Bosacius has barely time to register it that Morax has already sent vibrating Geo energy into the rocks around them, stitching the cracks that have started to appear.

It’s over before he can blink.

“So that is their plan,” Morax ponders. “Triggering an earthquake in order to disrupt the balance of the pillars, and undermine the seal.”

Bosacius takes a deep breath. Calming an earthquake is no challenge for the Lord of Geo, but the same cannot be said for the rest of them.

“This is concerning indeed,” Morax continues. “I’ll need to strengthen the seals.” He pauses. “I’ll start with this one.”

Without further comment, he sits cross-legged on the floor and places his palms against its vibrating surface. Bosacius feels the surge of energy that goes through the Geo patterns. His hair stands on his arms, crackling with Electro energy.

But Morax didn’t ask for his help, so Bosacius contains it and waits.

Even when the last echo of his power disperses, Morax makes no move to stand up. Bosacius respects his silence.

Morax finally sighs. “It is done for this seal. I’ll stay here for a while before taking care of the other seals. You should go back to the surface.”

“Understood,” Bosacius says.

And he does, without Morax needing to put into words that he needs this time to mourn his old friend probably as much as to recover the energy he has just spent.

Because for one brief instant, Bosacius has felt the distant echo of Guizhong’s power intertwining with Morax’s, as if the dead goddess wanted to help her former partner.

Bosacius loses track of time as he works with Indarias to stabilize the situation in the Guili Plains. Pervases and Xiao have proven themselves capable of handling the pressure of the cursed atmosphere of the place, so he has allowed them to help. Pervases assists the yaksha coordinating the camp they’ve established near the main ruins, while Xiao has joined the messengers who relay orders across the battlefield. Morax has reinforced three other seals, with only one to go.

The yakshas fight tooth and nail, day after night after day, and little by little the flow of enemies recedes.

Soon one yaksha company will be enough to handle it. Bosacius will go back to Liyue Harbor, and send Menogias to replace Indarias in the Guili Plains, so she can also take some rest.

For all that, Bosacius doesn’t let his guard down. He knows that their progress is hanging by a thread, and that it is way too soon to celebrate.

He’s proven right when he hears the call in the middle of fighting yet another demon.

Marshal Vritras.

It’s Xiao, and elemental energy rushes anew in Bosacius’ body. He pulverizes his opponent with a particularly mighty punch and teleports to the young yaksha in the blink of an eye.

He’s surprised that Xiao was able to call him at all considering that the high concentration of god remnants interferes with their mind-to-mind communications, but it turns out that the young yaksha is not too far away from the place Bosacius was.

And he’s deep in fight with a monster thrice his size. It has sharp fangs and long claws, and more arms than Bosacius does. It is clearly trying to rip Xiao to shreds.

So far, Xiao is managing to escape this fate. He is fast, no doubt, and he has even managed to land several blows on the thing. The strength he’s displaying with the limited energy he can draw from his surroundings is impressive. If he can learn to overcome this weakness, he’ll become a force to be reckoned with.

But Xiao’s achievement did not come without a price. The monster has landed at least one blow on him, if the deep lacerations on his right arm are any indication.  Now the young yaksha is mostly fighting using Anemo and not his spear, and his energy is being drained faster than he can replenish it.

It’s being drained so fast, in fact, that Bosacius suspects that the wound is poisoned, and that Xiao’s body is also fighting the infection.

He pushes Xiao aside as delicately as he can in these circumstances, which is not very delicate, and finishes the job himself. The karma that joins his soul is strong, emphasizing the power of the god remnant he just killed, and he’s glad he came here in time to spare Xiao.

When he lands on the ground, surrounded by Electro energy, Xiao lowers his head. His body is shaking despite his obvious efforts to hide it.

“Where is your partner?” Bosacius asks worriedly.

Xiao is not supposed to be alone, and he knows the yaksha he paired with him wouldn’t have deliberately disobeyed her orders.

He hopes the worst has not come to pass.

“We got separated,” Xiao says through shattering teeth.

He must be too cold, which is a sure sign that he’s running too low on energy. Bosacius suspects he’s pushing through on sheer will.

“I tried to stay with her, but I failed. I did not mean to disobey.”

Xiao staggers, and Bosacius is quick to put an arm around his shoulders. He thinks he feels him flinch, but the move is hard to distinguish from the shivers.

“You did well calling for me,” he says. “Now let’s bring you to the infirmary. You’re injured.”

Xiao glances at his arm as if this is news to him. “There is no need. I can…”

“It wasn’t a suggestion,” Bosacius says, firmly.

He wraps two other arms around Xiao and rushes towards the infirmary they’ve set up in their camp, using his powers to prevent Xiao’s body from being overwhelmed by the speed. He would have teleported if he hadn’t feared to worsen Xiao’s symptoms beyond what the young yaksha can bear.

When he arrives, he deposits Xiao on the bed of one of the rooms delimited by pieces of heavy fabric and Adepti arts. A healer rushes towards them, ready to take over.

“I’ll check on you later,” he promises Xiao before going back in search of the yaksha who should have been with him.

To his relief, he manages to find her rapidly. Having dealt with her own enemies, she was searching for Xiao.

“It felt like an ambush,” she explains after he has reassured her that Xiao is safe. “They targeted us, and they acted in a way that forced us to split up.” She swallows hard. “You said this could happen, but I was obviously not ready for it.”

“I see.” She’s the first to report something like this happening, even though he did warn them all after witnessing the god remnants launching a coordinated attack on Guizhong’s seal. “Go get some rest. I’ll make sure the area is as safe as possible.”

When Bosacius finally comes back to the infirmary, he finds Morax sitting on a chair near Xiao’s bed. Xiao looks better than Bosacius expected, which isn’t too surprising considering that Morax is a skilled healer.

The two of them are talking, and Bosacius stops at the entrance to wait until they’re finished.

He doesn’t mean to listen, but his hearing is sharp and he’s on high alert. He doesn’t worry about it. Morax is aware of his presence, and he’s perfectly able to raise privacy walls if he wants his conversation with Xiao to remain confidential.

“She couldn’t reach me,” Xiao whispers. His arm has been bandaged, and he scratches at it absent-mindedly. “She called my name, but her call…had no real power.”

His expression is a mix of confusion and wonder, and Bosacius makes a note to explain to him in more detail what god remnants can and cannot do.

“She’s dead, Xiao.”  

Morax is turning the other way, so Bosacius can’t see his face, but his voice sounds soft.

“Her echo holds power, but it is nothing like the power she held when she was alive.”

Xiao nods. The small move obviously requires more effort than he can give right now, because his face briefly scrunches in pain.

Morax turns towards the entrance of Xiao’s space and beckons to Bosacius.

“I’ll leave him to you, Marshal,” he says. “Now that I’ve reinforced the last seal, it is time for me to go back to my other duties.”

“What are the remaining risks?” Bosacius asks.

Morax pauses, considering the question.

“I’m confident that the seals will hold against the combined might of four fallen gods. I will check them from time to time, and make sure to let me know if the situation here worsens.”

“I will. Thank you, my lord.” Bosacius salutes his god as he leaves before reporting his attention on Xiao.

He sits on the chair Morax just left, smiling to the young yaksha.

“How are you feeling?”

“I’ll be alright,” Xiao answers. “You needn’t concern yourself with me, Marshal.”

“Nonsense,” Bosacius says. “Of course I’ll concern myself with those under my command.”

Xiao squirms a little at the words, but Bosacius keeps talking.

“I heard the last part of your conversation.”

Xiao’s eyes go wide.

“I think I wasn’t clear enough in my explanations,” Bosacius goes on. “God remnants are extremely dangerous, but they don’t have the powers of gods. They spawn demons, monsters, cause mutations and illnesses, but the only ways they can hurt a yaksha are through physical wounds or with karma.” He pauses, contemplating what he has just said. It sounds like a lot, but considering what living gods can do, it’s still much reduced.

But Xiao is listening to him intently, so Bosacius leaves these philosophical considerations aside.

“Karma is accumulated when a yaksha kills one of the abominations spawned by the remnants of fallen gods. It is an expression of their hatred and will for revenge. It seeks to weaken the mind and constrict the body.”

As he speaks, Bosacius can feel his own karma trying to do exactly what he’s saying. He lets the familiar pain go through him, refusing to allow it even an inch of control over his body and spirit.

“Make no mistake, this is a cursed fate, but it’s still far from the damage a living god can do.”

Xiao nods, softer than before. He seems deep in thought.

“Have you been hurt by a god before?” Bosacius asks softly.

Xiao freezes. He remains silent, not meeting Bosacius’ eye, but his hands clench into fists. It must be painful on his injured arm.

“You don’t have to answer me,” Bosacius quickly adds.

“I…” Xiao starts after a while. His voice is a mere whisper. “I have. It is why…”

He stops, looking at his hands. Tears are forming in the corner of his eyes.

“Don’t strain yourself.” Bosacius regrets having brought up this topic. “And remember that you don’t have to force yourself to fight. You can take the time you need to work through what you need to.”

“I do want to fight!” Xiao says, working himself up in the exact opposite of what Bosacius was hoping for. “I need to. I need to protect vulnerable people against evil. I…” He swallows hard. “I know I’m struggling, but it won’t stop me.”

Bosacius considers the small yaksha. Xiao’s determination is obvious, and really, who is Bosacius to criticize his goal?

But Xiao still needs to rest, and to work on his weaknesses. Bosacius hopes that he has, or will, realize that constant fighting is incompatible with his current abilities.

At least Xiao seems well enough to bear the teleportation towards Liyue Harbor, where he can do both these things safely.

“Alright,” Bosacius says. “We’ll continue this conversation later. For now, I’ll take you back to Liyue Harbor. You need proper rest.”

“But…” Xiao starts protesting.

Bosacius hardens his tone. “This is an order.”

Xiao bites his lower lip. “Yes, Marshal.”

“Good.”

Bosacius stands up and takes Xiao in his arms.

“You did well,” he adds, tone softer. “Do not overestimate your strength. You won’t protect anyone if you’re killed because exhaustion slowed down your reflexes.”

Xiao nods softly. His expression looks conflicted, and Bosacius regrets not having the time to remain at his bedside until the young yaksha has sorted out his thoughts and they can resume their conversation.

But the days when he could have done that are long gone. This is war, and his yakshas need their commander on the battlefield.

For the time being, someone else will have to help Xiao.

Chapter Text

Dealing with the situation in the Guili Plains takes more time than Bosacius hoped. With the god remnants starting to coordinate instead of using blind rage, he needs to strategize carefully.

Menogias messages him that Xiao is recovering well, which alleviates Bosacius ever-present worry.

Pervases stays on the battlefield a few more weeks than Xiao. He’s handling it well, and Bosacius is considering moving forwards with his training once this campaign will be over.

When Bosacius sends him back to Liyue Harbor so the young yaksha can rest, he messages Menogias to ensure Pervases will keep practicing, along with Xiao if he’s willing and the healers allow it.

He’s completely unsurprised when Menogias messages back that he’s started training both of them.

Once Bosacius finally leads his company back home, his first stop is for the generals’ headquarters. Menogias is waiting for him with a mountain of food stacked on more plates than Bosacius can count on his fingers, looking as safe and sound as one yaksha general can be.

“How have you been, brother?” Bosacius asks as soon as he’s done giving Menogias one of his infamous it’s-good-to-see-you-again hugs.

“I should be the one asking you this question.” Menogias’ eyes scan his brother’s body, no doubt assessing the new karma Bosacius gathered.

Bosacius grins. “I was the first to ask.”

He makes good use of his four arms to pile up generously garnished plates before sitting down on one of the chairs.

“We’ve been doing rather well, all things considered.” Menogias takes the chair next to Bosacius but doesn’t reach for the plates, apparently content to watch his brother eat. “We’ve had more and more incidents involving god remnants in the vicinity of Liyue Harbor, including near the fields.”

He pauses as Bosacius helps himself to more food, and Bosacius motions him to continue. He’s perfectly able to multitask.

“Marchosius has asked for reinforcements to secure the humans’ food supply. He’s stacking up everything he can in the new warehouses they built.” Menogias leans against the back of his chair, his hands folding under his chin. “What about you?”

Bosacius pauses his chewing to answer. “Things are finally under control in the Guili Plains. For how long, I cannot tell.”

Menogias nods. They both know that the god remnants’ evil power will flare again and again, until the day the yakshas will have managed to purify the ley lines deeply enough.

Bosacius wipes his mouth and straightens in his seat, watching his brother intently. His tone is serious now, as they have little time for banter.

“I would like you to replace Indarias in the Guili Plains. It’s time she takes a break from the place.”

He would have liked to enjoy his brother’s company for longer, but doing it at the expense of Indarias’ wellbeing would be unacceptable.

“Of course,” Menogias answers immediately. “We are ready to leave.”

Bosacius nods. He expected no less from his fellow general.

“Before you go, how are the boys doing?” He delicately places his empty plates on the quickly-growing pile next to him to make room for new ones. His body is grabbing on the nutrients as if it was starving.

It was the case, of course. Bosacius can feel how the mortal food is replenishing is energy, lessening the pain of his karma. No doubt this is exactly what Menogias intended.

“Pervases is progressing as planned. Xiao has asked to go back to training as soon as you left him here, but the healers insisted he took some rest.” Menogias raises a perfectly-drawn eyebrow. “He has asked Cloud Retainer for her help.”

Bosacius stops munching on his skewer. “Really? Their last encounter has been rather upsetting for Xiao.”

“Yes, really. He’s determined to go past his block. Cloud Retainer said yes, of course.” Menogias tilts his head, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “In fact, Xiao must be on Mount Aocang right now.”

“Is that so? Then I think I’ll take a digestive walk towards Karst Jueyun.” Bosacius pushes his last plate away, almost knocking over the satisfying pile he has worked through. “But first, let me tell you what to expect in the Guili Plains.”

Menogias’ expression sobers immediately.

“I’m listening.”

Once he has overseen Menogias’ departure, Bosacius heads straight for Cloud Retainer’s abode.

While he’s impatient to see how Xiao is doing, he refrains from teleporting. His heart yearns to walk amongst Liyue’s landscapes, and it would be madness not to enjoy this while he can.

After so long in the poisoned mist of the Guili Plains, the fresh air and vibrant colors of his homeland feel like a soothing balm on his soul. Even the god remnant that he encounters doesn’t sour his good mood.

When he finally reaches Mount Aocang, he’s welcomed with the sight of an Anemo vortex several meters high floating next to the pond. Cloud Retainer herself is hovering over it, her crane neck extended in concentration.

She gives Bosacius a warning look and waves a wing to stop him before he can come closer.

Bosacius obeys and watches the vortex in silence.

Xiao, of course, is inside, visible to Bosacius’ Adeptus senses. He looks even more focused than Cloud Retainer as he works on keeping open the connection he has established with the Anemo energy.

And he’s feeding from it, more efficiently than Bosacius has ever seen him. It is, relatively speaking, still far below the level that’s expected of an Adeptus, let alone a yaksha, but it is progress nonetheless.

After a few more minutes, Cloud Retainer dismisses the vortex.

“One thinks that is enough for today. You did well.”

Her satisfied tone clearly shows that she shares Bosacius’ opinion.

Without the vortex, Bosacius can see Xiao’s face clearly, and he doesn’t miss his drawn features. The boy’s eyes are closed, and he’s grimacing in something that looks like pain.

But before Bosacius has the time to start worrying, Xiao’s features smoothen and he opens his eyes.

Which widen as soon as he realizes who’s here.

“Marshal Vritras,” he says, bowing. “I didn’t realize you had come back.”

“I’ve just returned from the Guili Plains,” Bosacius answers lightly. “I wanted to see how you were doing.”

Xiao keeps his gaze fixed on the ground and stays silent, as if embarrassed by Bosacius’ words.

“One will leave you to your reunion.” Cloud Retainer extends her wings to take flight. “See you tomorrow, young one.”

Bosacius appreciates her tact, especially as they are, after all, in her home.

Xiao’s gaze follows her until she disappears behind the clouds. Bosacius waits until he has the young yaksha’s full attention, looking for any trace his injury could have left.

But it has obviously healed well, because there is none.

“It is good to see you on your feet,” Bosacius says warmly. “How have you been?”

Xiao gives him a hesitant glance, as if he’s worried to give the wrong answer.

“I have been well. General Kapisas was kind enough to train us in your absence. I am also working on improving my abilities, as you suggested.”

“That is commendable, Xiao,” Bosacius says, seeking to soothe the younger’s anxiety. “Cloud Retainer is a very gifted Adeptus, and I am confident that she will be able to help you.”

He pauses, giving Xiao time to comment if he wants to, but the young yaksha keeps silent.

“I’ll be taking over your training,” Bosacius adds.  “General Kapisas has gone to replace General Musatas in the Guili Plains.”

Surprise briefly passes over Xiao’s features, before he bows his head in acknowledgement.

“I will pray for his safe return.”

“I’m sure he’ll appreciate it.” Bosacius turns to watch the view over the valley below. The sun is slowly starting to set, casting long shadows against it. “Now you should take some rest. I’ll see you tomorrow at dawn.”

“Yes, Marshal.”

After Xiao has left, Bosacius sits leisurely on a rock and closes his eyes to offer himself his first proper meditation session since he joined Indarias in the Guili Plains. He lets his thoughts cross his mind, watching their patterns intertwine.

He opens his eyes when he hears the rustle of feathers.

The night has fallen, but it is not dark. Both the stars in the sky and the Geo crystalflies are reflected in Cloud Retainer’s plumage as she lands.

“I am deeply grateful for your help,” Bosacius tells her.

“One does not need such recognition.” Despite her words, the marks on Cloud Retainer’s body glow in satisfaction. “One merely seeks to help others.”

“I’m grateful nonetheless.” Bosacius pauses. “So what is your opinion about Xiao’s abilities?”

“Hmm.” Cloud Retainer starts preening her feathers, taking her time to answer. “Xiao is a dedicated student who is doing his best. One thinks he will reach his goal, in time.”

Bosacius lets his gaze lose itself in the few clouds that are floating leisurely near the peaks.

“In time.”

“One cannot speed up this process. One has made further research on Xiao’s condition, but his situation is unprecedented.” Cloud Retainer shakes her head. “One still believes that turning into his beast shape would help him, but he refuses. One did not insist.” Her voice gives away the slightest hint of frustration as she continues, “why would any Adeptus refuse to assume their Illuminated Shape, one wonders?”

Bosacius lets out a heavy sigh. “I do not know. Xiao is a very secretive Adeptus.”

They stay in silence for a while, admiring the night.

“Mental blocks are the hardest to overcome,” Cloud Retainer finally says. “But he’s willing. One is confident that he will manage it, in time.”

It’s the second time she mentions something in this vein, and Bosacius is too perceptive not to see what she’s hinting at.

He gives her a sharp look. “I’m not the one demanding he rushes it. It is something he wishes for himself.”

Cloud Retainer returns his look sharpness for sharpness. “Young people tend to favor speed over patience. Isn’t it up to their elders to guide them towards the right path?”

Bosacius sighs again. He uses three hands to massage his neck and temples, the other tapping lightly on his thigh.

“Thank you for your advice, Cloud Retainer. It is wise as always.”

Cloud Retainer gives a satisfied nod while Bosacius considers his next move.

Maybe it’s time that he discusses matters with his own elder.

“And we’re no closer to understanding what Xiao’s block is,” Bosacius says.

It has been a few days since Bosacius came back from the Guili Plains. Morax has just returned to Liyue Harbor from the northern border, where there has been bloodshed and Bonanus’ company is now cleaning up the mess.

Morax and Bosacius are both sitting in the gardens of one of Morax’s abodes. Bosacius can’t help wondering whether this is the one where Morax keeps the Adeptus he rescued all those months ago, and he keeps a vigilant eye on his surroundings.

But the only movements he can catch are from the birds who flutter around the bushes.

“Hmm.”

Morax takes another sip at his tea. Bosacius has no doubt said tea brewed for a ridiculous amount of time, even by Adeptus standards. It tastes good, he supposes, but he’s not an expert in this particular field.

“Have you any idea what could have caused this?” he asks.

“I can make assumptions, as you can.”

Morax’s eyes are glowing golden. Bosacius sometimes feels like he could get lost in these eyes, like he could fall beyond the world to a place of wonders bigger than his soul is.

He blinks to shake off the feeling.

“May I ask what these assumptions are?”

Morax takes another sip before placing his squared cup on the perfectly smooth stone table. “It is up to Xiao to choose to talk about it or not.”

Bosacius sighs for form. He hadn’t really expected Morax to answer, but it would have been nice to get more insight into his young charge’s troubles.

Although there are things in his own past that Morax knows and Bosacius wouldn’t want him to talk about with others, so he can’t complain.

“I wonder how to best help him,” he says instead. “He’s eager to join the army, but he’s not ready and won’t be for some time.”

The more he talks to Morax, and the clearer his thoughts become.

“On the other hand, I want to move forward with Pervases’ training. He’s ready. It’s time I teach him the Nuo Dance of Evil Conquering.”

“It sounds to me like you already know what you want to do,” Morax points out.

“Indeed.” Bosacius leans backwards. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

They stay in companionable silence for a while.

The rustle of leaves in a nearby bush snaps Bosacius out of his relaxed mood. He straightens up, suddenly on the alert, but it’s only a white rabbit that has no Adeptal signature beyond the one of the abode.

“Is something the matter, Marshal?”

Morax sounds amused, and Bosacius clears his throat. If that’s how it is, he might as well ask the question that is burning his lips.

“Is he here? The… The Adeptus you took in.”

“No, he’s not here.”

Morax is observing him with this impenetrable expression of his again.

Bosacius considers switching the topic, but he is curious. It has been a long time since Morax gave him news of this particular Adeptus.

“How is he doing?” he inquires reluctantly.

Morax folds his hands. “He’s feeling crushed by guilt. He wants to atone for the evil he was forced to spread.”

Bosacius refuses to feel sorry for the ex-bloodhound.

“He did many evils indeed. It’s good to know he can recognize them as such.”

“He still wishes to join the army. Have you given it some thought?”

“I have,” Bosacius says. “And I still doubt it is a good idea, but I would give it a try. I can’t force the other yakshas to accept him, though.”

This is the consensus he has reached with his siblings over the past few months. They have failed to come up with a good enough reason to refuse Morax’s request right away. If their god is determined to give the Adeptus a second chance in life, so be it.

“Of course.” Morax nods solemnly. “Thank you.”

“I still would like to wait until at least Pervases’ training is over. Can we talk about it again in a month?”

Then at least he won’t have to worry about a very powerful and potentially unstable Adeptus hurting one of the juniors by mistake. Especially Xiao, who is struggling with his own issues. Bosacius will have to make sure to warn him when the time comes.

“Then we can talk about it when I will be back from my next assignation,” Morax says.

Bosacius gives him a curious glance. What assignation could Morax have given himself that he hasn’t heard of yet?

“There is unrest beyond our coast,” Morax continues. “I’m concerned that our old alliances might not hold.”

“Do you worry about Osial betraying us?” Bosacius immediately asks.

They have learned the hard way that old alliances become precarious in the wake of the Archon War.

“It’s a possibility, although I’m more concerned about Osial’s allies at present.” Morax stands up, motioning for Bosacius to follow him through the gardens. “I might go undercover for a while to investigate it. I’ll make sure to appear on the northern and western fronts from time to time.”

“Understood. I’ll work on strengthening our coastal defenses,” Bosacius says.

The rest of their meeting is spent talking about the measures to take and how to best mitigate the risks this new threat poses to humans. It’s only later, when Bosacius talks to Indarias about the last developments and the resurfacing of the ex-bloodhound topic, that he realizes he hasn’t even asked Morax what said Adeptus’ name is.

“You wished to talk to me, Marshal?”

Bosacius nods. “Yes, Xiao. Please sit with me.”

For the difficult conversation ahead, Bosacius has chosen a place secluded enough so that Xiao won’t have to worry about witnesses. It is a small clearing some distance away from Liyue Harbor, with a view on the peaks of Karst Jueyun.

Xiao obeys and sits on a rock near Bosacius. He folds his hands in his lap, squeezing his fingers just a little too tight.

He must be apprehensive, and rightly so.

Bosacius’ heart is heavy, but he knows what he must do.

“As you know, the primary goal of your training is to assess whether or not you’re ready to join the yaksha army.”

Xiao nods. The wind is playing with his hair, sending strands in front of his face.

“I have thought about it a lot, and I’ve come to the conclusion that you’re not ready yet. You need to be able to replenish your energy fast during battles. Once you’ve mastered this ability, we can talk again about you joining the army.”

There, he has said it. Bosacius watches Xiao, waiting for the inevitable backlash.

He doesn’t have to wait for long.

“I can fight,” Xiao says desperately. “I want to help, and I know I’m not at my best, but…”

“You’re going to be a danger to yourself and others if you join the battlefield with your current skill level,” Bosacius cuts him off.

Xiao pales. He turns his head to the side, as if Bosacius just slapped him.

Admittedly it’s a low blow, but Bosacius needs him to understand.

“You must find your balance with the world,” he continues. “Or you won’t stand a chance against karma.”

Xiao’s fists are now clenched in his lap, but the young yaksha doesn’t add anything.

“There is no shame in needing time,” Bosacius says softly.

Slow progress is progress, and Bosacius is confident that Xiao will be able to join the army someday.

This day just won’t be today.

“You won’t be attending training with Pervases and me anymore, but you may join the yakshas for sparring anytime. And of course you’re always welcome in the yaksha camp.”

He knows that’s not what Xiao wants, but it’s all he can offer.

Bosacius restrains himself from putting a hand on Xiao’s shoulder. Xiao doesn’t respond well to physical gestures of comfort at the best of times, it’s highly unlikely he will after Bosacius crushed his hopes to join the fighting now.

“I have faith in you,” he adds, because he can’t let Xiao think otherwise. “Take your time. It’s the fastest way to reach your goal.”

“Thank you for your wisdom, Marshal,” Xiao manages to choke out. “I’m grateful you tried to help me.”

Bosacius can’t see his face, but he sounds closer to tears than the marshal has ever heard him. Small bursts of Anemo are circling around him, as if Xiao wants nothing more than to run away from here.

“You may go,” Bosacius says softly. “If you want to talk later, feel free to come to me.”

Xiao vanishes at once.

Bosacius remains alone in the clearing, heart heavy.

“You’re late, Marshal. We’re supposed to meet the Qixing this evening, remember?”

Bosacius blinks. Indarias is standing in front of him, arms crossed.

She looks good; the rest has done wonders on her.

“My apologies,” he says, contrite. “I lost track of time.”

He needed some cleansing meditation after his talk with Xiao, but it obviously lasted longer than he intended.

“What has you brooding over so much?” his sister goes on, tone softer.

Bosacius lets out a bone-weary sigh.

“I told Xiao he wasn’t ready to join the yaksha army.”

“Ah.” Indarias sits down on the very rock Xiao chose. “I assume he didn’t take it very well?”

Bosacius throws up his four arms. “I can’t let him think I’ll allow him to fight in his current state. I mean, he can fight, it will just kill him if nobody is here to pick up the pieces.”

Indarias leans her chin against one knee.

“Did you tell him like this?”

“I’m not that dense,” Bosacius grumbles.

Indarias gives him a wry smile, but doesn’t contradict him.

Bosacius doesn’t want to know what he looks like if his sister is taking such pity on him.

He straightens up, trying to look more dignified.

“He needs to heal. It’s obvious something happened to him, something that damaged his relationship with the world.”

“Anything I can do to help?” Indarias asks softly.

“For Xiao? Be here if he needs it. For me?” Bosacius offers her a small smile. “Do you want to spar tonight?”

“Of course.” Indarias’ grin is sparkling, and full of very sharp teeth.

She stands up and reaches out, and Bosacius takes her hand. The small sparks of Pyro always present on her skin tickle him.

“I know you did what you thought was best for all of us,” Indarias says in a soberer tone. “I’m sure Xiao will come to understand it too, if he hasn’t already.”

Bosacius gives her another, wider smile. Her faith in him means more than he can say.

“Thank you, sister. I hope you’re right.”

“When am I not?” She pats his back. “Now come on, we’re terribly late already.”

Chapter Text

The next morning, when Bosacius joins the training grounds to meet with Pervases, he tries not to focus too much on the empty spot where Xiao used to wait for him.

From the not-so-discreet glances Pervases gives to the same spot, he can infer that the young yaksha is wondering what’s happening.

Bosacius stands straight, crossing two arms behind his back and the other two on his chest. When he speaks, his voice is unwavering.

“Xiao won’t be joining us today. He needs to work on something else for a while.”

He doesn’t give details, and Pervases doesn’t ask.

“I have observed you for quite some time now,” Bosacius continues, “and I think you’re ready to learn the art we yakshas use to banish evil and soothe the land. We call it the Nuo Dance of Conquering Evil. Each yaksha adapts it to their own style, but the core remains the same.”

Bosacius pauses. He has Pervases’ full attention.

“But before that, I will ask you again: are you sure this is what you want? Each time you destroy the monsters and mutations spawned by god remnants, each time you expunge their miasma from the ley lines of our land, you will gather karma. This karma will torment you day and night, awake or asleep. There won’t be any going back.”

Pervases nods. There is no hint of doubt in his voice when he answers, “this is my calling. I am sure.”

Bosacius takes a deep breath. There is a light breeze this morning, carrying the scent of qingxin flowers.

“Then watch carefully.”

Each time he starts performing the Nuo Dance of Conquering Evil for training purposes, he gives as much focus to each step as he would, would his life be at stake. He has mastered the sequence of steps to perfection, and brings them into battle as if they were both shield and spear.

One series of steps to center oneself. A second to open one’s senses to the world beyond. A third as a prayer to the Warrior God, Morax, whose strength runs in their spiritual lineage.

The fourth is a challenge to evil, and ends with the killing blow. Bosacius doesn’t put his full strength into it as there is nothing to kill, but the ground in front of him still parts from the violence of the blow.

Pervases looks enthralled by the dance. He has seen it before, both in the rare occasions where they have encountered god remnants near Liyue Harbor and as a constant occurrence during his stay at the Guili Plains, but it will be the first time he will try his heart, body and soul at it.

Bosacius gives him a fierce, encouraging smile.

“Now it’s your turn. Show me what you can do.”

Bosacius starts the choreography of the dance again, slower so Pervases can follow him. He takes the time to explain each step and to correct the younger’s physical and spiritual stances.

Once he’s satisfied that Pervases has memorized them and will be able to train by himself, the sun is high in the sky. It’s more than time for Bosacius to attend to his other duties.

“Well done,” he tells Pervases. “Now train on your own. You must know the moves to perfection before you can try them on a real god remnant.”

“Yes, Marshal.” Pervases bows deeply. “It is my honor to follow your teaching. You have my deepest gratitude.”

Bosacius lets himself smile. It looks like he made the right call here.

When Bosacius enters his personal study within the yaksha camp, ready to read and reply to the reports and requests from Bonanus, Menogias, Marchosius, the Liyue Qixing and Morax knows who else, he has the surprise to discover that a guest is waiting for him.

And she doesn’t look happy.

“Cloud Retainer?” Bosacius asks cautiously. “To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?”

It has to be about Xiao. Has something happened to the young yaksha? But surely, if it was an emergency, the crane wouldn’t have simply waited for him to return. She would have come to him directly.

He motions her to come inside his study. The room is vast and possesses several windows opening on the gardens, but Cloud Retainer doesn’t seem to notice them. Her full attention is on him.

“One would like to know what you told Xiao. The young one arrived late to our agreed meeting this morning, and performed very poorly. One felt something had deeply upset him.”

“Ah.”

Bosacius feels oddly relieved to hear that someone has seen Xiao this morning. He hasn’t enquired about Xiao’s exact schedule with Cloud Retainer, and doesn’t know when the young yaksha is supposed to be on Mount Aocang.

Cloud Retainer seems to consider his monosyllabic answer quite lacking, if the dangerous glint in her eyes and the not-so-light Anemo swirl around her are any indications.

Bosacius goes to sit down behind his desk. Right now, placing the wide furniture between him and Cloud Retainer’s very sharp beak seems like a good idea.

“I told him he wasn’t ready to join the yaksha army yet. I encouraged him to keep working on his inner balance, and told him my decision could be reconsidered, should he develop the skills necessary to his integration in our line of work.”

To his surprise, the Anemo swirl around Cloud Retainer dies down. “One cannot fault you for this decision. Obviously the young one is not ready. Is that all?”

“That is all,” Bosacius says.

Cloud Retainer watches him dubiously, and Bosacius extends his arms wide to emphasize his innocence.

“I can only assume it’s of the utmost importance to Xiao to join the yaksha army as soon as possible.”

“Patience is an essential skill for every living being,” Cloud Retainer says.

Bosacius nods ostensibly in the hope of further soothing her. It seems to work, because the Adeptus crane shakes her wings once.

“One shall now leave you to your duties. One thanks you for your time.”

“You’re welcome, Cloud Retainer,” Bosacius says.

He can’t believe he’s getting off without a lecture.

Cloud Retainer leaves through the closest window. Bosacius watches her until she teleports away from the yaksha abode.

He sighs in relief. At least this is undeniable evidence that she stands in Xiao’s corner. He can stop worrying about whether the young yaksha is alone and focus on what he has to do.

He takes the first report of his pile and opens it.

It is from the Millelith officer responsible for the integration of new recruits into the human army. He’s reporting a situation between two different groups of soldiers, who have fought on opposite sides during the last campaign involving human troops. What started with cold snubbing has devolved into an all but open fight within the army. Martial discipline has been ineffective so far in solving the core issue. The officer is humbly asking for his guidance on this matter.

Bosacius glances at the pile. If every report is like this one, it is going to be a long day indeed.

He takes a quill and starts writing an answer.

It is a few weeks before Bosacius is satisfied with Pervases’ execution of the Nuo Dance of Conquering Evil.

This whole time, Bosacius doesn’t see Xiao at all. He has half a mind to look for the young Adeptus, but he thinks it best to give him time to lick his wounds. He knows at least that he’s still attending his sessions with Cloud Retainer. He has no doubt the crane wouldn’t hesitate to burst in his quarters again if Xiao was absent or late without reason.

When Pervases finally achieves his eighth perfect execution of the Nuo Dance of Conquering Evil in a row, Bosacius decides it is time for the final test.

Finding a god remnant in the area has, sadly, become very easy. There are more and more of them circling around Liyue Harbor, and Pervases’ help will be appreciated.

The one he chooses is of medium strength. It has started infesting a mountain slope, and the vegetation is mutating.

As they both observe it from the opposite cliff, Bosacius puts a solemn hand on Pervases’ shoulder.

“This is your last chance to renounce. Know that there would be no shame in that. I will ask you again, what is your choice?”

Pervases’ answer is unyielding. “I want to assist Lord Morax in protecting the people of Liyue. I shall clean the land in his name. I have chosen my fate, and arbor no doubt in my heart.”

Pride and sadness rise in Bosacius’ chest.

“So be it.”

He gives him the go-ahead signal and watches from the sidelines as Pervases enters the fight, ready to interfere if needed.

But Pervases fights with the exact right mix of confidence and cautiousness, and the Nuo Dance of Conquering Evil that he rehearsed for weeks holds true and strong in the face of evil.

When Pervases strikes the killing blow, Bosacius braces himself.

A black miasma lifts from the land and rushes into the young yaksha’s body.

Pervases staggers as he adjusts to the new sensation of karma, but his soul holds steady.

When he straightens up and looks at Bosacius, his expression fierce and determined, the marshal gives him a smile.

“Well done, warrior.”

Pervases bows his head.

“Thank you for your trust, Marshal. I won’t disappoint you.”

This evening, the yakshas hold a feast to celebrate Pervases’ integration into the army. He’ll join Bosacius’ company for now, as the marshal likes to keep an eye on the recruits he personally trained during their first months, and his brother and sisters never fail to tease him for that.

For now, he’s content to watch the young yaksha receive the affection and approbation of his peers.

“Another job well done for our marshal, I see.”

Indarias joins him, a glass in her hand.

“Almost done,” Bosacius objects. “He still has to receive his yaksha mask from Morax, and learn how to use it.”

“You know Morax will personally teach him.”

It’s true. As the mask contains a fragment of Morax’s power and represents the new contract between him and the yaksha, their lord considers it his sacred duty to ensure each yaksha knows how to draw power from it. It is also uniquely tailored to each individual, and from informal discussions between them, Bosacius knows the procedure can vary from yaksha to yaksha.

“I’ll still be here for support.”

Indarias passes an arm around his shoulders. “You really worry too much.”

“I’m not worrying too much.” Bosacius grins. “You’re the ones worrying too little.”

“It must be why Morax chose you to be his marshal.”

Indarias chuckles, and the sound makes Bosacius’ heart soar.

Despite the evil forces gathering around Liyue, despite Morax’s intelligence sharing pointing at a situation way more degraded than they thought on the eastern front, Bosacius is happy tonight. His brothers and sisters in arms are around him, and even Xiao made a brief apparition to congratulate Pervases. He didn’t stay long enough to talk to Bosacius, but this is a good sign that the young yaksha is coming to terms with Bosacius’ decision.

Bosacius’ good mood lasts for the next few days, until one night where his patrol brings him further away from Liyue Harbor than he has gone in a while.

There, near a stream, he finds rather confusing traces of god remnants. They’re like echoes of an echo, as if someone had soothed the land in a slightly imperfect way. It’s not sufficient to risk endangering mortals, but it’s unusual enough that Bosacius spends the rest of the night investigating their source.

When he cannot find one, he asks the other yakshas. None of them reports having been there recently, as they were instructed to stay close to the city and organize its defense against an attack from the sea.

Bosacius then puts together a global training session, officially to exercise together and unofficially to make sure that none of his warriors has become lacking in their execution of the Nuo Dance of Conquering Evil, but everyone’s technique meets his basic standards.

The mystery is concerning him enough that he starts spending more time on solo patrols, hiding his presence through Adepti arts and ground experience.

One night, when he’s almost resigned to come back to Liyue Harbor empty-handed once again, he hears it.

The faintest sound of a fight miles away, coupled to the unmistakable presence of a god remnant.

He rushes silently to the location of the sound, invisible even under the moonlight.

When he reaches the vast plain that is the epicenter of the god remnant, Bosacius can’t believe what his senses show him.

Here, dancing the Nuo Dance of Conquering Evil amongst swirls of Anemo, striking the killing blow, holding himself straight under the weight of the karma that newly poisons his body, stands Xiao.

Bosacius waits until he’s certain that disturbing Xiao won’t risk hurting him before making his presence known.

Loudly.

With several flashes of lightning in the cloudless sky, and an air so charged with Electro energy that his hair lifts.

Xiao jumps. The startled expression on his face turns to near-panic as he takes in Bosacius’ imposing and furious figure, and he falls on his knees.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Bosacius’ voice booms.

Xiao doesn’t answer, his forehead pressed against the ground. Bosacius steps forward until he’s looming over the small figure.

At his feet, Xiao is trembling. Bosacius might be furious, but he knows this is not the best way to have a conversation.

“Stand up,” he orders sharply.

Xiao obeys immediately. His face is paler than the moon and his lips are pressed so thin they almost disappear. He keeps his head bowed, his gaze hidden behind his hair.

“How long have you been doing this?”

Bosacius spreads an arm, showing the place the god remnant was infecting until a minute ago.

Xiao keeps silent. The minute shakes of his body haven’t stopped. It looks as if Bosacius is a more terrifying figure than the god remnant he just killed.

“I want an answer, Xiao. We can stay here for as long as it takes.”

It isn’t strictly true, as Bosacius has a mountain of tasks to attend to, but it isn’t strictly a lie, either. Indarias can take over for him while he deals with this unexpected emergency.

Bosacius falls silent as he waits. He feels the ground pulsate under his feet, but the wind has completely vanished. It’s like Xiao is trying to make himself as small as possible, and his element is reacting to it.

After a while, Xiao’s breathing regularizes. He dares to glance at Bosacius, and the marshal can see that his eyes are full of unshed tears.

Xiao quickly looks down again.

“I… A few days.”

His voice is a whisper that no mortal being could have heard.

“A few days? Is that really what you want me to believe?”

Bosacius allows his anger to seep deeper into his voice. The first suspicious traces he has encountered were way more ancient than that, and the last thing he will allow tonight is to have Xiao dare to lie to him on top of everything else.

Xiao’s arms curl around his chest, his hands digging into the cloth of his shirt.

“A… A few weeks.”

It matches the time Bosacius taught Pervases the Nuo Dance of Conquering Evil. He remembers Cloud Retainer complaining that Xiao had been late to his session with her that day.

He has a nagging feeling both events are not unrelated.

“Were you spying on us? Despite me telling you explicitly you were not to attend training anymore?”

Xiao gives a tiny nod. “Just this one time,” he whispers, his voice heavy with shame.

Bosacius doesn’t like being wrong, but he can recognize when he was.

And gods was he wrong about Xiao coming to terms with his decision.

“I’m disappointed in you, Xiao.”

Xiao takes a sharp intake of breath before nodding softly. He looks like he can barely stand on his feet, but Bosacius’ quick examination has not reported any hidden injuries or heavy exhaustion.

It might be the guilt of having been caught red-handed, which Bosacius has no intention to alleviate.

He takes a deep breath.

“Show me.”

The order attracts him another glance from Xiao. This time the boy looks confused, and Bosacius clarifies.

“Show me your Nuo Dance of Conquering Evil.”

Slowly, Xiao obeys. He takes a few steps away from the marshal and starts the sequence of moves, his muscles tense and his lips pressed thin.

It is not bad, especially if Xiao only witnessed part of Pervases’ first training session on the matter and figured out the rest himself. But it is still lacking in several parts, and would explain the strange traces Bosacius has been finding lately.

The most surprising part is that it worked for so long. How come Xiao didn’t encounter a fight where his energy-recovering problem didn’t cause him more trouble than he could handle? He knows from Cloud Retainer that it isn’t resolved.

He decides not to beat around the bush. It’s not like he intends to spare Xiao’s feelings. Right now, he feels more like grabbing him by the neck and shaking him until the boy comes to his senses.

“How are you recovering fast enough if you can’t draw energy from the world around you?”

Xiao is standing to attention in front of Bosacius once more, worrying at his lip.

“I-I don’t know.”

If Bosacius’ senses were an inch less sharp than they are, he wouldn’t have noticed the minute tensing in Xiao’s shoulders and neck.

“I don’t think it’s true,” he says severely. “Try again.”

Xiao’s shoulders slump as he surrenders. “I-I’m not sure. But it-it feels different. More-more painful. It m-makes it easier.”

Bosacius blinks. How is the pain of fighting a god remnant helping him?

But he feels that Xiao is being honest this time, and maybe investigating this question could wait for a less fraught moment.

“That’s enough for now,” Bosacius says. “You’re coming with me, and don’t even try to run away.”

This time, Bosacius does grab him by the scruff of his neck. Xiao curls up but does not protest.

Bosacius teleports them back to the yaksha camp, right into the lounge of the generals’ headquarters. Indarias, who must have been working on her own reports, stands up, alarmed.

“You…” Indarias falls silent, her eyes widening as she takes in the faint trace of karma surrounding Xiao.

A sight most common amongst yakshas, but one that shouldn’t be on this yaksha.

Bosacius releases Xiao, who staggers on his feet.

“Stay here,” he orders him curtly.

Xiao gives a stiff nod.

Bosacius traces sigils in the air to be alerted if Xiao decides not to listen to him again. Then he storms off, Indarias following him after one last shocked look at Xiao.

“I can’t believe he did that,” Indarias says.

She sounds just as furious as Bosacius feels, which soothes his own anger the tiniest bit.

“Me neither. What are we going to do with him now?”

If he’s honest with himself, he’s not only mad at Xiao, he’s also mad at himself. He should have checked on the boy, should have insisted that they talked. But he hasn’t, and Xiao has taken initiative Bosacius strongly disapproves of.

Technically Xiao isn’t under his command anymore, and therefore it isn’t disobedience. But Bosacius still feels wronged.

Indarias takes a deep, calming breath. Her hair falls softly around her shoulders again.

“You need to calm down and think it through. I’ll go make sure Xiao eats something.”

Bosacius nods his thanks to her. He forces himself to stop pacing and sits down, his four hands shaping the symbols of home and center.

Morax, may you guard my thoughts and guide my hand, he prays.

Eyes closed, he dives deeper and deeper inside his mind, until he’s one with the world.

The messy, beautiful, dangerous world he inhabits.

When he opens his eyes, he has made his decision.

Xiao hasn’t moved from his spot, although the half-empty plate on the table near him proves that Indarias has been true to her word.

Indarias herself is sitting on a couch a few steps away, watching Xiao. The boy is keeping a wary eye on her.

Bosacius goes to stand in front of him, arms crossed.

“Do you realize that it could have gone terribly wrong? What would you have done then?”

His tone is softer than before, but not soft by any means.

“I would have called for help,” Xiao answers timidly.

Bosacius’ mood mellows marginally at the words.

“What were you thinking?” he asks.

Xiao swallows hard. “I understand if you don’t want me. But I want to help. I made sure to stay away from the others, so I wouldn’t risk hurting them.”

“That’s not how it works,” Bosacius says severely. “Be certain that Morax will hear about this.”

If possible, Xiao pales even further.

Bosacius lets him fester in silence for a while.

“It would make no sense for you to be separated from the rest of us,” he finally says. “We are stronger together.”

Xiao raises his head to look at him, his eyes widening in shock.

“You’re going to stay in the yaksha camp from now on,” Bosacius adds. “I’ll know if you try to leave. No more fighting god remnants for you. Your form is terribly lacking, we can’t have that.”

Xiao is still watching him, utterly speechless.

“Go rest while you can,” Bosacius continues. “I’ll see you at dawn tomorrow on our training grounds. You better be on time.”

“I… Yes, Marshal,” Xiao manages to utter. “Thank you for your kindness.”

“I don’t like having my hand forced.” Bosacius narrows down his eyes. “I advise you to remember that.”

Xiao nods wildly.

Bosacius dismisses him with one wave of his hand. One of the abode’s spirits appears to guide him out of the generals’ private quarters, and Xiao follows him without further ado.

In the silence that follows, he can feel his sister’s piercing gaze in his back.

“Yes?” he grumbles.

“I’m surprised you decided to reward him, considering how furious you were,” Indarias says.

Her tone is unmistakably amused.

Bosacius turns around to face her, throwing his four arms up. “And what was I supposed to do? Cast him away? He needs us.”

“No contradiction here.” Indarias settles more comfortably on the couch.

Bosacius raises a finger. “Besides, this way I will officially have authority over him. I can ground him in a cell for one hundred years if he pulls off another stunt like this.”

“We don’t have cells,” Indarias points out.

“That’s beside the point.” Bosacius shakes his head. “Unrelated, but do you have the latest sightings of god remnants? Especially particularly vicious and dangerous ones.”

“Right here.” Indarias points at a few pages that Bosacius is positive weren’t written when he arrived with Xiao. “I figured out you might need to unwind a bit more.”

“You’re a life saver.”

Bosacius grabs the pages and teleports away.

For what remains of that night, he will forget his frustrations and worries in the blood of their enemies.  

Chapter Text

When dawn comes, Bosacius swiftly washes out the blood that covers his body before teleporting to the training grounds where Xiao is supposed to wait for him.

Word must have got around, because more yakshas than usual are sparring in the wide arena or discussing casually on the stone steps surrounding it.

The conversations turn to whispers as soon as they spot their marshal. Bosacius’ keen ear hears the remarks about his foul mood, and that they’re happy not to be the target of it.

He pretends not to have heard as he looks for the infamous hero of the day.

He quickly finds him, waiting on the side and looking every part the obedient junior he’s not.

Xiao bows his head in greeting and follows Bosacius as the marshal leads him to the center of the arena. The other fighters move aside to give them room. When Bosacius stops and turns around, arms crossed, Xiao immediately stands to attention.

Bosacius gives him a long, hard look.

Most things look better in the morning, but Xiao’s stunt doesn’t. The more Bosacius thinks about it and the stupider it sounds.

Xiao doesn’t say a word. His head is bowed, but the frequent glances he’s giving Bosacius betray his anxiety.

Bosacius wonders what the other yakshas have told him.

“Good morning,” he says, his voice cold as ice. “Did you rest well?”

He could bet that Xiao didn’t sleep a wink, but he wants to know what the young yaksha will say.

Xiao’s confusion shows briefly on his face, but when he answers, his voice is perfectly steady.

“I have, thank you.”

It’s Bosacius’ turn to feel confused, because there is no trace of deception in Xiao’s voice. Did the boy already make himself that comfortable in the camp? The marshal could have sworn it would have taken him more time to adjust, considering how he usually keeps to himself.

But maybe Xiao is just comparing the last part of his night to the stress that preceded.

“Good,” Bosacius says gruffly.

With one wave of his hand, he manifests a spear. He can hear the surprised murmurs of his warriors, as they know he usually prefers to fight with his fists.

“Take your weapon,” he instructs Xiao.

The junior manifests the spear he was using the night before. It’s the one Bosacius had given him before they went to the Guili Plains.

He’s glad he didn’t ask Xiao to return it, as he deems the boy perfectly capable of jumping in a fight with a god remnant using one of the less quality weapons dedicated to training.

Although maybe Xiao is more clever than that and it’s Bosacius’ disappointment talking.

“Let’s start with a quick warm-up.”

It’s the only warning Xiao gets before Bosacius throws himself at him.

Xiao is quick enough on his feet to dodge the first blow. He retaliates with an attack that Bosacius easily blocks, but manages to withdraw just in time to avoid being hit by the opposite end of Bosacius’ spear.

Despite everything, Bosacius can’t help feeling proud of Xiao’s reflexes, a feeling that only deepens as the fight goes on.

Xiao’s grip on Anemo is faultless, and he’s attacking Bosacius from several sides at once in an attempt to distract him. His brow is furrowed in concentration, and his eyes gleam with the adrenaline of the fight.

Bosacius doesn’t go full force on him, but he doesn’t try to spare him at all. He keeps an eye on Xiao’s energy management, but the junior doesn’t draw any for the entire duration of the fight.

When Bosacius finally breaks the fight by pointing his spear down, Xiao is panting and he’s harboring a new collection of scratches, bruises and burns from the Electro attacks he didn’t block in time, but he defended himself well enough that the whispers around them have grown appreciative.

“Enough,” Bosacius says, vanishing his spear.

Xiao imitates him and stands to attention a few wary steps away from him.

In any other circumstances, Bosacius would have congratulated him for his performance. Things being as they are, he crosses his four arms and takes a deep breath.

“Here are the rules. You do not want to find out what happens if you disobey them.”

In all honesty, Bosacius has no idea what he would do and he doesn’t want to find out either.

But Xiao doesn’t ask him to specify. He merely nods, eyes downcast. He doesn’t even glance at Bosacius, which means that the marshal’s carefully chosen threatening posture is lost on him.

“I’m going to guide you towards correctly performing your Nuo Dance of Conquering Evil,” Bosacius continues. “If you want to fight so badly, you should at least do it properly.”

Shame tints Xiao’s cheeks red as the junior nods again.

“You will not see a single god remnant until I’m satisfied with your performance. You’re going to stay in the camp, either training or helping with the intendance.”

The intendance is handled by non-yaksha Adepti and humans, but Bosacius intends to keep Xiao busy, just in case.

“There will be absolutely no sneaking out,” he emphasizes, his eyes flashing with Electro sparks. “Don’t even think about it. Am I clear?”

Xiao nods a third time.

Bosacius isn’t going to let him off that easily. “What do you say?”

“I understand,” Xiao whispers. “I will respect these rules.”

“Good.”

The next few hours are dedicated to correcting Xiao’s posture. The junior subtly flinches when Bosacius touches him for that purpose, even though the marshal makes sure to keep his touch feather-light.

It reminds Bosacius that there are a few issues they will have to talk about later, in a more private setting.

When Bosacius finally leaves Xiao with instructions to take a short break before going to the armory to sharpen training weapons, he sees the few yakshas who stayed all along gather around the boy.

“I thought the marshal was going to zap you on the spot,” one of them said.

“Yeah, he looked ready to wipe the floor with you.”

“It had been a long time since I last saw him this mad at one of us.”

Bosacius smirks and leaves his troops to their teasing.

Once he has taken care of the various tasks he had in store for the day, Bosacius sits at his desk to write the two letters he has been postponing until now.

One of them is for Morax, to give him a brief report of Xiao’s actions and Bosacius’ resulting decisions. He seals it and places it on the jade altar that will transfer it to Morax’s study in one of his abodes.

He has hesitated to reach out to his god directly, but he doesn’t want to disturb him in the middle of his current operation. The matter isn’t urgent enough to justify it.

The second letter is for Cloud Retainer, to let her know that unfortunately Xiao will not be able to attend his lessons in Karst Jueyun as his presence is required in the yaksha camp at all times, but that she’s welcome here should she wish to continue giving them. He doesn’t give specifics, and seals the letter fully aware that it won’t satisfy her curiosity.

He entrusts one of the messenger Adepti with it, wondering how long it will take for Cloud Retainer to come visit him. He would have gone to Mount Aocang himself if he could have spared the time, but this will have to do.

After that, he indulges in a refreshing walk in the part of the camp adjoining the city. The yakshas assigned to the night patrols are preparing, and he exchanges a few words with each of them. An Adeptus gives him a message from Marchosius, stating that the god would like to talk to him at his earlier convenience, though there is no emergency, and he makes a note to go visit him in Liyue Harbor the day after.

His steps lead him to the armory. He’s about to turn the corner and enter the courtyard in front of it when he hears urgent voices.

He lifts an eyebrow and glances behind the corner.

Xiao is sitting on one of the benches near the pond that is both decorative and allowing an immediate source of water, should something go wrong with the sharpening. A few yakshas are talking to him, including Pervases who looks worried.

The other yakshas appear serious, but Bosacius knows them too well not to suspect that mischief is going on.

Lifting an eyebrow, he decides to wait in the shadows and listen.

“You might think he let you off easy, but he’s not done with you. I would watch my steps if I were you.”

“Yes, he hasn’t even begun punishing you.”

Xiao sets aside a freshly sharpened sword, his eyes wide.

“What do you mean?” Pervases asks, his eyes just as wide as Xiao’s.

“Well, you know, sometimes yakshas disappear without a trace. You might think they fell prey to the anger of fallen gods, but no.”

The yaksha, a seasoned veteran, leans forwards to whisper in the juniors’ ears.

“It is said that those who do not abide by the rules are abducted by the generals themselves. It only ever occurs on moonless nights. Nobody knows what happens to them, but in the morning, their equipment is found sliced to pieces.”

Pervases gasps, clearly too engrossed in the tale to realize that he’s being led around by the nose.

Xiao folds his hands in his lap. He looks tense, but when he talks, his voice is soft. “I will bear any punishments the generals see fit.”

It doesn’t sound like he’s joking, and Bosacius frowns.

He’s about to interfere when his sister beats him to it.

“It sounds like an interesting tale,” Indarias says, leaving the armory with a set of swords under her arm. “I would really like to hear more.”

All yakshas but Xiao jump.

“General!” the one who had been talking says. “I hadn’t noticed you were here! I mean, uh. I’ll get going now.”

“Good call.” Indarias shakes her head. Her hair is burning bright, and the others take a careful step backwards.  “You had your fun,” she tells them. “Now go back to your duties. Unless you want me to find you something to do?”

“No, General! Good night, General!”

The yakshas quickly disperse, leaving Indarias with Xiao.

“It wasn’t true, right?” Pervases whispers to one of his comrades as he follows after them.

Bosacius shakes his head.

In the courtyard, Xiao has stood up to greet Indarias.

“They were messing with you,” she tells him. “We’re not in the habit of making our warriors disappear.”

“Oh.” Xiao blinks, then bites his lip, clearly hesitating.

“Yes?” Indarias encourages him.

“Why would they…do that? Mess with me? I don’t recall having offended them, but if I have, I am deeply sorry.”

“You didn’t offend them. They’re just taking advantage of the fact you’re new to try and make you believe made-up stories. They think it’s fun. In a way, they’re welcoming you.” Indarias pauses. “Just tell them to stop if you think they’re annoying.”

“Oh.” Xiao looks at his feet, obviously puzzled.

Bosacius joins them, pretending to have just arrived. He doesn’t fool Indarias, who raises an amused eyebrow.

“So how did it go?” he asks Xiao.

“Marshal.” Xiao quickly bows. “I was able to sharpen all the weapons we had. I hope my work will be satisfactory.”

“All of them?” Bosacius says, a bit surprised.

The boy is fast, he’ll grant him that. He’ll have to find him more chores to do when he's not training.

After all, it’s of the utmost importance to keep him busy enough that he won’t have time to put in practice another abysmally stupid idea.

“In this case, you can call it a day. I’ll have little time for you tomorrow, but you can keep practicing what I showed you.”

“I would like to spar with you in the afternoon,” Indarias tells Xiao. “I’m curious to see how you fight.”

“Of course, General.” Xiao bows.

“Then it’s settled.” Bosacius clasps his hands. “Now will you accompany me to the mess hall? I’m starving.”

The very next morning, Cloud Retainer stands at his door.

“One has received your letter. One is very surprised by its content. Would you like to enlighten one about the ins and outs of Xiao’s case?”

“Of course, Cloud Retainer.” Bosacius takes her with him across the gardens. “Two nights ago, I was patrolling in Liyue, when…”

As he explains the situation, Cloud Retainer’s face becomes more and more somber.

“One is deeply troubled. One did not expect young Xiao to act that way.”

“Did you notice anything during your meetings?” Bosacius asks.

Cloud Retainer shakes her head. “Xiao asked for our meetings to be less frequent. One did not see him at all in the last two weeks. He said that he needed time to meditate on his own.”

“To meditate, sure,” Bosacius grumbles.

“It is clear that one has been lied to,” Cloud Retainer says, frowning. “One does not appreciate that, but one must be forgiving of the wanderings of the youth. However…”

“Yes?”

“One does not understand how Xiao managed to solve his problem. The young one was making progress, but not to the point he could have been in the kind of fights you yakshas take on.”

“Speaking of which, he said something that troubled me,” Bosacius says. “He told me that it felt painful, and that it made it easier.”

Cloud Retainer looks troubled. “One does not understand how that is possible. One would like to talk to him.”

“Of course.”

He must have this conversation with Xiao anyways. Maybe Cloud Retainer’s presence will help.

When they find Xiao, he’s helping with food delivery across the camp, in compliance with Bosacius’ updated instructions.

The affectation has the added bonus of letting Xiao see a whole variety of dishes. Bosacius is hoping that some of them will finally give him an appetite.

The boy freezes when he sees Cloud Retainer, a plate of grilled ticker fish in precarious balance in each hand.

“One sees that your meditation has gone well,” the crane says wryly.

Xiao lowers his eyes, guilt written all over his face.

“I apologize, Cloud Retainer,” he whispers. “I did not mean to deceive you.”

Bosacius clears his throat to call the obvious lie, and Xiao’s shoulders hunch.

Cloud Retainer glares at Bosacius.

“Let us leave this matter behind us,” she says graciously. “One has been discussing with Marshal Vritras, and he said something about pain helping you? One would like to understand.”

Xiao tenses from head to toes.

“I… I do not know how to explain.”

“Can you try?” Bosacius says softly.

It’s obvious that it’s a touchy subject for Xiao, and he doesn’t want to scare the young yaksha away.

“I… Maybe I could show you,” Xiao says, his eyes resolutely fixed on the ground.

“One thinks it would be great,” Cloud Retainer says lightly. “Where would you be more at ease for this demonstration?”

Xiao glances at Bosacius. “I would, uh, need to find a god remnant.”

Bosacius crosses his arms. He can’t believe Xiao is considering it.

“Absolutely not,” he says, his tone much harder than before. “I dare hope that you haven’t forgotten the rules already?”

Xiao shakes his head. “I am to stay in the camp until you are satisfied with my performance,” he recites.

Bosacius gives him a satisfied nod.

Cloud Retainer, however, flaps her wings in obvious outrage.

“Is he a prisoner?”

Bosacius considers the question. “I wouldn’t have phrased it like that, but I can see how it looks like,” he muses.

Cloud Retainer fluffs her feathers. Xiao’s eyes go from her to Bosacius, his expression slightly panicked.

“I am here willingly,” he hurries to say.

Cloud Retainer’s agitation subsides. “One will take your word for it, young Adeptus. One hopes you know that you will always be welcome on Mount Aocang.”

Xiao bows his head. “Thank you, Cloud Retainer.”

“You may go,” Bosacius dismisses him so he can deliver his plates before they have grown too cold. “We will talk more about this later.”

Xiao nods and hurries off. Cloud Retainer’s gaze follows him pensively before she flaps her wings once.

“This is troubling indeed.” She gives Bosacius a long, meaningful look. “One trusts that you will take good care of him.”

“He’s my kin,” Bosacius says, a bit more drily than he intends.” Of course I will.”

When Cloud Retainer takes flight, Bosacius wonders why she’s started smiling.

It is early afternoon when Bosacius can finally pay a visit to Marchosius.

The God of the Stove is in the harbor. His primary form, a giant bear, is pacing across the fishing baskets that contain the catch of the day. Bosacius can see several of his smaller forms running around the docks.

The humans accompanying him bow respectfully to Bosacius, their hands joined in prayer, before stepping away to give them privacy.

“Ah, Bosacius. I was going to send for you.”

Marchosius sounds grim, which is a bad omen.

“I got your message,” Bosacius says. “What is it about?”

“Look,” Marchosius laments. “Yesterday it was only a few batches, but today it’s all of them.”

He points at the fishing baskets, and Bosacius inspects their contents.

“Rotten fish?”

“They’re all like that. Every catch of the day, from every fishing boat.”

Bosacius’ blood boils in his veins. Liyue Harbor depends heavily on seafood for the mortals’ sustenance.

This might as well be a declaration of war.

“Do you know what caused this?”

Marchosius watches the sea. “Which god, do you mean? No, I don’t know. But it doesn’t look like Osial’s behavior.”

Bosacius understands what he means. The Overlord of the Vortex is not known for using such roundabout attacks.

Bosacius still won’t rule him out of the potential culprits until he has proof.

“We need Morax.”

“I agree.” Marchosius sighs. “I tried to reach him, in vain. Maybe you’ll have more luck.”

Bosacius immediately connects his consciousness to the ley lines of Liyue, sending his prayer across them at the same time he searches for the presence of his god amongst the spirits of the Adepti.

My lord.

But his call echoes in the void.

He shakes his head, and Marchosius’ hopeful expression vanishes.

“He must be too far away,” he mutters. “I told him to be careful.”

Bosacius tries to quell the worry in his heart. Morax knows what he’s doing. He’s capable of much more discretion and subtlety than his enemies give him credit for, a mistake that has costed many of them their life.

Still, Bosacius hates the way he can’t feel his god’s presence. It’s the first time since Guizhong’s death, and it reminds Bosacius too much of the way his prayers to the God of Dust now remain unanswered.

He forces himself to refocus.

“How long can we last?”

“Without fish? Long enough,” Marchosius says. “But we need to stock up on food, not deplete our reserves. The war has only just begun.”

“Understood. I will handle this matter.” Bosacius pauses. “It probably means war right on the shores of Liyue Harbor.”

Marchosius’ features harden. “Then Morax will be back soon. He won’t let his city come to harm.”

Bosacius nods firmly. Any other possibility is inconceivable.

“The Qixing have already been informed of the situation,” Marchosius adds. “The fishermen will stay stranded until we can solve the problem.”

“Good.” The fragile boats wouldn’t be able to defend themselves in case of an attack. “I think it would be best if the military boats also stayed in the harbor for now. The Adepti who guard them can help with the investigation instead. I’ll meet with the Qixing immediately.”

“Thank you, Bosacius. Let me know if I can help.” Marchosius moves his arms idly, the way he does when he’s preoccupied and can’t solve his problem through minions or cooking.

“Actually, there might be something you could do for me,” Bosacius says slowly.

“Oh?” Marchosius perks up.

“I have one yaksha very particular about food. He eats very little and doesn’t seem to like anything.”

Marchosius straightens up like a bear about to take on a particularly difficult challenge. “I’ll see what I can do.”

Bosacius nods, satisfied. If someone can figure out a food that Xiao will like, it’s the God of the Stove. And with some luck, the new task will distract him from thinking too much about wherever Morax might be at the moment.

Not that Bosacius will be that lucky.

After his meeting with the Qixing, Bosacius goes directly to Indarias.

His sister has just completed her training session with Xiao and is dismissing him. The young yaksha looks exhausted, but his eyes are gleaming with something that looks a lot like satisfaction.

“He’s enduring well,” Indarias says as Xiao leaves. “Yet I assure you I didn’t do him any favors.”

“He likes to fight,” Bosacius says.

His tone is somber, and Indarias gives him a surprised glance.

“What happened, brother?”

“Come with me. We have to talk.”

An hour later, they’ve both agreed to a plan. Indarias will replace Bonanus in the north, so the Hydro general can come back to Liyue Harbor. Amongst the four of them, she’s the most suited to lead a potential underwater counterattack.

“Do we exchange companies?” Indarias asks.

Bosacius nods. “It’s better that way. Your yakshas are more rested, and it looks like there will be fighting.”

“Understood. I’ll let everyone know.”

She briefly embraces him. “Fight well, brother,” she says solemnly. “Until we meet again.”

Bosacius holds her tight.

“Until we meet again.”

Chapter Text

“Have you found the source yet?”

Bonanus’ hair waves in sync with the waves caressing the shore. Her feet barely sink in the sand studded with shells.

Bosacius, whose feet leave deep marks on the beach as he walks next to her, shakes his head. “Not yet.”

His eyes scan the horizon, where the bird Adepti and seawater Adepti who normally protect Liyue Harbor’s boats are patrolling the sea.

Bonanus tilts her head towards them. “I’m joining them. I’ll let you know if I find something.”

In one fluid move, she sets off in the water. She quickly reaches a sufficient depth to dive, and disappears from Bosacius’ view.

He sighs. He would have preferred her to take some rest, as she has barely arrived from the northern border, carrying fresh karma, but time is of the essence.

Bosacius paces on the beach as he waits, trying again to reach Morax.

In vain.

Far away, he sees Bonanus briefly emerge from the water before diving again. His body itches to join her, but while he can move in mid-air, he’s neither a bird nor a creature of the depths of the ocean. He won’t be as efficient as the Adepti already at work.

Once more, he goes through the list of suspects.

This part of the sea borders Osial’s domain. Around the powerful Overlord of the Vortex gravitate a multitude of less powerful gods, his allies or vassals. Any of them could be responsible for the rotten fish caught by Liyue Harbor’s fishing boats.

He has ruled out the possibility of a god remnant, as the fish he examined carried no trace of it, so a living god it is.

Small Electro sparks crackle against his skin as he thinks.

He does have full authority on military matters, but he doesn’t know what the best move is. Is the enemy trying to distract them, to lure them away from the harbor and deep into the sea? Are they planning to attack soon, or to wait and weaken them first?

He needs more information. As soon as Bonanus will be back from the reconnaissance she insisted to carry out immediately, he will plan their next move with her, and…

He doesn’t know which one of his senses alerts him, but suddenly he knows that something is very, very wrong.

On the beach, the cries of the seagulls have stopped. The sky above him is cloudless, the sun almost blinding as it reflects upon the sea, but Bosacius still narrows his eyes in an attempt to look at what alerted him.

That is when he hears Bonanus’ voice, an urgent whisper against his consciousness.

We’re under attack.

Bosacius doesn’t think, he simply teleports to her.

He materializes underwater and shakes his limbs, surprised. He quickly gets a grip on himself before his elemental power can electrocute everything around, including him.

As he tries to locate the surface, cursing himself for failing to anticipate such a predictable result, a wave grabs him and pushes him out of the water. He seizes the given opportunity and uses the Electro charges in the air to stabilize himself a few feet above the water.

Nice move, Marshal, Bonanus says wryly.

I knew you would have my back, he answers without missing a beat.

He might have felt more embarrassed if he wasn’t distracted by the shouts of the bird Adepti.

What’s happening?

Sea snakes altered by divine power, Bonanus answers.

The water below Bosacius bubbles, and a black substance reaches the surface. It sizzles at the contact with oxygen.

Bonanus emerges, her claws stained with the same substance.

“At least one Adeptus has been injured.” She points at a group of Illuminated Birds in the distance. “I’ll take care of the snakes in the sea, but sometimes they jump out of the water.”

“Got it,” Bosacius says, and Bonanus vanishes underwater again.

He hurries in the direction she showed him. Several Adepti have gathered around a collapsed one, supporting him so he doesn’t fall into the water.

Below them, the slender body of a giant sea snake breaches the surface. It looks all kinds of wrong, and the part of Bosacius that isn’t busy electrocuting it out of existence mourns its lost splendor.

“Marshal Vritras!” one of the Adepti yells. “We have a wounded Adeptus here. We don’t know how they’re faring below, but the attackers came from underwater.”

“I know.” Bosacius’ eyes scan the area, looking for sea serpents. Several parts of the sea are now bubbling with the same black substance that must be the serpents’ blood, indicating that Bonanus is keeping herself busy. “General Chizapus will support them.”

Relieved cries spread across the area.

“Retreat to the shore and bring him to our infirmary,” Bosacius orders. “We’ll handle things here.”

He electrocutes another sea serpent while the bird Adepti hurry to obey, and a third as he scouts the zone to make sure every Adeptus got the message.

Underwater, the battle rages on. He wishes he could join Bonanus, but his abilities would only get in her way.

Moments later, she emerges from the water, followed by many other Adepti.

“We’re done. I think I won’t find anything else here,” Bonanus says as calmly as if they were taking a leisurely stroll through the gardens.

“Then let’s go back.”

Bosacius gives a last glance to the sea, but the surface is once more smooth as a mirror.

“How is he?”

Bosacius had hoped that they would be able to visit the injured Adeptus sooner, but they encountered humans on the shore, humans who had witnessed the retreat of the bird Adepti. Placating them took some time.

The injured Adeptus doesn’t look too good. One of his wings has been almost bitten off, and he lies unconscious on his infirmary bed.

“He’ll heal,” the healer answers. “Although I can’t tell how long it will take. The wing is not his only injury; he was also poisoned. So far, the poison has been resisting my attempts to clean it from his body.” She pauses, looking frustrated. “What did that to him?”

“A giant sea serpent.” Bonanus hands her a small vial. “This is a sample of its blood. Maybe studying it will help speed up the process.”

“It will.” The healer takes the vial with great care. “Thank you, General.”

“Don’t mention it. Now we shall leave him to his rest, unless you need us?”

The healer shakes her head, and Bonanus leads Bosacius outside.

“Well thought out,” he tells his sister as they head towards the generals’ quarters, where a nutritious meal awaits them.

Bonanus winks at him. “Someone has to do the thinking here.”

Bosacius knows she’ll tell Indarias and Menogias about his graceless teleportation landing, and that he’ll never hear the end of it.

He sighs, which only prompts his sister’s laughter.

The sound is worth his embarrassment, and he’s smiling as they enter their private quarters.

Here, in a flurry of focused Anemo, Xiao is placing the many plates of their planned meal on the table. One of Marchosius’ minions is helping him, singing a happy tune as he adjusts the layout of the plates.

The tiny bear waves at Bonanus as soon as he sees her. She reciprocates the gesture, causing him to whistle with pleasure.

“Marshal, General,” Xiao greets them, taking a bow.

“Xiao?” Bonanus raises an eyebrow. “What are you doing here?”

Xiao flushes. “I was instructed to deliver this food.” He looks at the tiny bear. “This one has been following me around for the past few hours, I have no idea why.”

“Oh,” Bosacius says. “He’s part of Marchosius, the God of the Stove. He likes to help when he can.”

He doesn’t tell Xiao that Marchosius probably sent this minion to study him following Bosacius’ request.

Xiao’s eyes widen. “He’s a god?” He turns to the bear and bows deeply. “My apologies. I didn’t know.”

The bear pats his arm with a smile.

“He says not to worry about it,” Bosacius translates as he sits down and takes a plate. “Thank you, Xiao.”

Xiao bows again and leaves with the tiny bear in tow. Bosacius motions Bonanus to sit down and start eating, which she does, curiosity written all over her face.

“That is an original assignation for a yaksha.”

Bosacius grunts. He hasn’t had the opportunity to tell her about Xiao’s recent feats of arms.

He tells her the full tale as he starts digging into the delicious food that has been prepared for them. When he’s done, Bonanus’ eyes have narrowed.

“Who would have thought?” she says, taking a ferocious mouthful of her bamboo shoot soup. “I assume you’re keeping him under close supervision.”

“I do.” Bosacius points his chopsticks at her. “Believe me, between his training and his chores, he won’t have the time to try anything.”

“Hmm.” Bonanus shakes her head. “And what was Marchosius doing with him?”

Bosacius gives her a wry smile. “He agreed to help me find a food Xiao likes.”

“If someone can, it’s the God of the Stove.” Bonanus eats in silence for a while, lost in her thoughts.

Bosacius waits patiently for her to be ready to share them.

“About earlier,” Bonanus starts after a while, “I noticed something strange with the water. The currents were changing constantly, preventing me from tracking down the source of whatever altered these sea snakes.”

“You think the god behind this was watching?” Bosacius asks immediately.

“It’s possible.” Bonanus’ tone is grim. “I want to go back to the shore and monitor the situation. I’ll take a few seawater yakshas with me. Until we learn more about the situation, nobody else should go into the water, not even the Adepti.”

“Liyue Harbor is built on the shore,” Bosacius points out. “Do you think the docks are at risk?”

Bonanus shakes her head. “The shields Morax put in place around the harbor should prevent creatures like these sea serpents from going too close to the city. As long as everyone stays on land, I think people are safe.”

For now, Bosacius silently adds.

He can read on his sister’s face that she’s thinking the same.

Bosacius stands up. “I’ll let you inform the Qixing and the Adepti while I tell the yakshas what happened. I’ll send a group to the beach to assist you.”

“Thank you.”

Bonanus teleports away, leaving Bosacius alone with his thoughts.

After a few minutes, he reaches out for the other yakshas’ minds.

I have urgent news. Meet me at the training grounds immediately.

“In Lord Morax’s absence, our priority is to protect the inhabitants of Liyue Harbor.”

All available yakshas have gathered in the arena of their training grounds. Their silence is absolute as they listen to Bosacius’ speech. He has shared the latest facts with them, and he can see on their faces that they’re preparing for the worst.

“One group will keep investigating with General Chizapus, while another will make sure the humans and Adepti stay away from the water. The others will proceed with their duties as usual. I’ll give you your new assignations in a moment.” Bosacius pauses. “Any questions?”

One of the yakshas raises her hand, and Bosacius nods to her.

“Why aren’t we fighting back?” she asks.

As Bosacius remembers it, she’s a cod. She must not be happy at the idea of an enemy barring them from accessing the sea.

“We don’t have enough information to strike back now,” Bosacius says. “We suspect our enemy to be a god, but we don’t know who they are yet.”

His answer triggers unhappy whispers amongst the yakshas, but Bosacius knows they understand. While they could defeat minor gods without Morax, they don’t know if this particular god belongs to the category. Bosacius won’t risk the lives of his yakshas on such a bargain unless he’s given no other choice.

“Another question?”

Awkward glances are exchanged, until one yaksha decides to speak for the others.

“Do you know where Lord Morax is?”

“No,” Bosacius answers honestly. “But protecting Liyue Harbor is part of his contract with the humans of Liyue. I have no doubt that he’ll be back soon.”

His troops nod. Morax is the God of Contracts. He’ll honor his word to the death.

Bosacius dismisses the treacherous thought that Morax’s death is a possibility in the context of the Archon War and goes on.

“I’m counting on you to protect our home while he’s away,” he goes on. “If that is all, please line up and I’ll give you your next assignation.”

The yakshas are well trained, and the procedure is quick. Soon, the last yaksha in the line steps in front of him.

Bosacius allows himself an inner sigh.

“Yes, Xiao?”

“Marshal Vritras.” Xiao stands ramrod straight. “Where do you want me to go?”

I want you to stay in the camp, Bosacius thinks.

This strategy has two major drawbacks, however. First, it’s sure to make Xiao unhappy, maybe unhappy enough to try something stupid again. Second, Bosacius will be too busy to make sure this possibility doesn’t come true.

He watches Xiao, contemplating his options.

“If I was to be allowed to leave the camp,” Xiao says cautiously, “in order to help with the current emergency, it goes without saying that I wouldn’t fight god remnants.”

His tone is perfectly reasonable, but it takes more to lull Bosacius into any sense of security.

“You will join my group,” Bosacius decides. “Our task is simple: guard the shore and make sure that no human or Adeptus gets close to the water. There are no god remnants in the area,” yet, he doesn’t add, “but if you locate one, do not engage and let me know immediately.”

“Yes, Marshal,” Xiao says. “Thank you.” He bites his lip, as if hesitating to add something else.

“Yes?” Bosacius encourages him.

Xiao watches him, his expression impenetrable. “Do you think we will have to fight a god?”

“You won’t be fighting any god,” Bosacius says pointedly. “As for the rest of us, it remains to be seen whether we will carry the offensive or support Lord Morax in doing so. Some foes are for him only.”

Xiao nods.

“Let’s get to work,” Bosacius says in a softer tone. “Our first stop will be at the beach north of Liyue Harbor. Humans like to collect seashells here. They might not have the latest information, so do not presume that they’re disobeying orders when you talk to them.”

Xiao nods. He almost looks anxious for some reason, but his voice is steady when he answers, “I will keep that in mind.”

Before going back into the sea for her investigations, Bonanus tells Bosacius that the Qixing have issued a regulation forbidding people to go into the sea or on the beaches. The Millelith will be spreading the word to those who weren’t in Liyue Harbor at the time of the announcement.

Bosacius expects that it will take some time before everyone knows, and even then, there might be a few willing to go against the rules. He instructs his group to scatter along the shore, and starts patrolling one of the beaches with Xiao.

As they meet human after human, Xiao lets Bosacius do the talking, watching him intently like it’s the first time he witnesses these simple interactions.

Bosacius makes sure to make conversation with each one. He knows most of them by name, and is happy to see that those who survived the exile from the Guili Plains are now faring well.

As hours pass and Xiao gives no indication that he wants to leave his post to do something he promised not to do, Bosacius starts to relax. He even goes as far as letting him out of his sight for ten minutes in order to accompany an old fisherman back to his hut.

He quickly regrets his decision as the wind carries Xiao’s voice to him. His young charge sounds calm, but Bosacius can sense an undercurrent of tension in it. He hurries back to him, but as he turns around the cliff and sees the boy, he changes his mind and decides to watch from afar instead.

“You shouldn’t be here,” Xiao is saying.

In front of him, a little girl is watching him with a trembling lip. Xiao looks almost panicked, as if the little girl was a foe more formidable than the god remnants he desperately wants to fight.

“But I’ve lost my doll here,” she says in a small voice.

Bosacius’ heart melts. He has always liked children, and he’s familiar with their needs, but this is far from being the case for every yaksha.

Xiao is clearly out of his depth, but he valiantly jumps in the air to have a better view of the sand. After a few seconds, he waves his arm, and a breath of wind brings the doll in front of the little girl.

“Here,” he says, landing softly on the sand.

The little girl reaches out to seize the doll and press it against her chest.

“Thank you!”

Xiao briefly looks relieved, until the child tilts her head and asks him, “Are you a yaksha?”

Xiao nods mutely. Bosacius can understand the question. Xiao does look fully human, without additional limbs, or horns, or a tail, or wings.

“Mom says that you are protecting us, and that’s why we’re both in good health.”

“Yes,” Xiao says.

He sounds relieved.

“My dad works hard for Liyue Harbor,” the little girl adds. “I see him very little, but I pray for him every day. Will you protect him too?”

Xiao nods solemnly. “Of course.”

She gives him a wide smile. “Thank you, Mister Yaksha!”

Xiao blinks, clearly surprised by the title.

He clears his throat to hide his embarrassment, and Bosacius feels himself grin.

“You should go back to Liyue Harbor,” Xiao says. “I’ll accompany you.”

The little girl nods. Before they can start walking, though, a feminine voice calls in the distance.

“Luo! Where are you?”

“Mom!” The little girl waves at the distant silhouette that starts running towards her. “I have to go,” she tells Xiao. “Goodbye, Mister Yaksha!”

She starts running too, and Xiao watches her as she throws herself in her mother’s arms and waves her doll. The woman bows to him as she words a prayer of thanks.

When mother and daughter have left, Bosacius silently walks to Xiao. “Well done,” he says, his voice showing his amusement.

Xiao starts. “Marshal Vritras! I, uh.” He shuts up, clearly not knowing what to say.

“You made one little girl very happy today,” Bosacius says. “You can be proud of you. There are no small victories.”

Xiao looks doubtful, but he nods politely.

Bosacius almost doesn’t say his next words, but this is too good an opportunity to pass.

“Now go back to work, Mister Yaksha,” he teases.

Xiao flushes, and Bosacius grins.

They spend the night on the beach. At dawn the next morning, Bonanus comes back with news that takes away Bosacius’ inclination to tease.

“There is something new in the water. It’s spreading fast, killing sea life.” Bonanus sounds grim. “I told the bird yakshas to patrol over the docks.”

Xiao, who is listening intently from his position a few steps away, opens his mouth as if he wants to say something, before thinking better of it.

“Did you find a clue about the origin of this?” Bosacius asks.

Bonanus shakes her head. “Nothing.”

Bosacius’ heartfelt curse is interrupted by the sounds of running footsteps. They both turn to meet a Millelith.

The man is almost not panting, and Bosacius makes a note to compliment his instructor.

“Honored Marshal,” he says, bowing. “The Qixing would like to talk to you as soon as possible.”

Bosacius nods. “I’m coming.”

For Bonanus’ sake, he adds, I don’t think they’re going to like what I have to say.

Good luck, Marshal, his sister says. And don’t worry, I’ll find Xiao something to do.

Thank you.

As he leaves after the Millelith, he sees that Bonanus has crossed her arms and is giving Xiao an appraising look. The young yaksha is watching her warily.

It’s good to know that Xiao is in good hands.

As they arrive in the city, Bosacius feels the restless atmosphere. Groups of humans are whispering anxiously to each other, and the stores are closed.

He reaches the wide stone terrace that has become the final point of most processions, right in front of the building used by the Qixing for daily affairs. A small crowd has gathered here, and their concern feels tangible to Bosacius.

“Where is Rex Lapis?” someone whispers.

“Hush,” a woman says, elbowing him.

Bosacius doesn’t comment and enters the building. In the private audience room, all seven Qixing are waiting for him.

“Marshal Vritras,” says the Tianquan, a woman middle-aged by human standards. “We would like your guidance in this unprecedented situation.”

“Citizens living near the sea have reported miasmas in the distance,” the Tianshu adds. He’s also middle-aged, and while respectful, his tone carries an undercurrent of steel. “They don’t seem to be moving towards us, but people are worried.”

“The fishermen would like to know when they will be allowed to go to sea again.” While the Yuheng is an elderly woman, her voice carries effortlessly.

Bosacius raises one hand, and the humans fall silent.

“I share your concern,” he tells them. “We haven’t identified yet the source of the anomalies.”

The Qixing are good at hiding their feelings, but Bosacius was learning to identify human emotions before the great-grandparents of their great-grandparents were born. He can see their disappointment.

“Honored Marshal,” the Yuheng says, “do you have any information about Rex Lapis’ return? We haven’t seen him lately.”

“Lord Morax will be back soon,” Bosacius says with all the confidence he can muster.

“Indeed,” a voice well-known, loved, and definitely late to the party says.

When Bosacius turns around, the sight of his god–very calm, very grim, very alive–makes his heart leap with joy.

As the humans around exclaim and bow, Bosacius allows himself a brief smile of relief.

Finally, Morax is back.

Chapter Text

Morax advances slowly, the rustle of his robes perceptible to Bosacius despite the Qixing’s loud voices. He stops one step ahead of his marshal, who discreetly scrutinizes him for potential signs of injuries.

Bosacius can discern none, which doesn’t mean that there is none. But at least he can rule out the possibility of a major injury.

In fact, Morax doesn’t even look tired. Bosacius is extremely curious to know where his god was, but it will have to wait. Now is not the time to ask nosy questions.

My lord, he says instead, mind-to-mind. It’s good to see you.

Thank you for taking care of things in my absence, Morax answers.

In front of them, the Qixing have recovered from their surprise.

“Rex Lapis,” the Tianquan says. “It is a joy to see you. We’ll immediately let everyone know that you’re back, and…”

“No,” Morax cuts her off. “My return must be kept secret for now.”

“As you wish, my lord.” The Tianquan bows to hide her surprise. “May I ask you the reason for this request?”

“We’re going to use this as a tactical advantage against our enemy.”

Morax’s eyes are glowing dangerously. Bosacius knows he doesn’t take lightly to Liyue Harbor being targeted.

“Do you know who it is, o Rex Lapis?” the Tianshu says.

“I do.” Morax turns towards the windows. The sky has darkened, bringing the promise of rain. “We are dealing with the God of Underwater Currents, one of Osial’s allies.”

“What about Osial himself?” Bosacius asks immediately.

Morax shakes his head. “Either he does not know,” his face indicates that he deems it unlikely, “or he didn’t bother stopping him.”

It has started to pour. On the terrace below, people are running to the closest shelter.

“This is no ordinary weather,” the Yuheng whispers. Under the dimmed light, her wrinkles look deeper.

“The God of Underwater Currents has the power to alter the weather above sea,” Morax says. “No doubt will he try using it to his advantage in the battle to come.”

“When is he planning to attack?” Bosacius asks calmly.

“Today,” Morax merely says.

In the shocked silence that follows, Bosacius starts planning. He and Bonanus are ready to lead an attack. The army is composed of yakshas, regular Adepti and humans. On a battleground above sea or within it, only half the yakshas and Adepti will be able to fight. It will be too risky to bring boats, so the Millelith will have to stay on shore. Of course, the battlefield could shift to said shore, but it’s likely that Morax will have the battle over before that.

The Qixing start talking all at once.

“The Millelith are ready to fight…”

“Is the city at risk?”

“What is your command?”

Morax folds his hands behind his back. “The city is at risk, yes.”

The Qixing wait for him to continue. Bosacius guesses that they’re thinking something like, Then what are you waiting for?

Morax watches them. Bosacius can feel him hesitate, but when he finally speaks, his voice shows no trace of it.

“Our enemy will use his power to hide himself until the last second. Unless we can lure him into revealing himself at sea, the battle will happen almost right on Liyue Harbor.”

Bosacius immediately understands the problem. If Morax kills an enemy god this close to the city, the resulting impact will kill every mortal in Liyue Harbor.

The Qixing are perfectly aware of it.

“We could evacuate the city,” the Yuheng says, her voice tense.

“It will take at least a few hours.” Bosacius stifles his sudden urge to pace. “And he must be watching us. Such a move cannot go undetected.”

Morax nods appreciatively. “Indeed. As soon as we start evacuating, he’ll launch his attack. I will try to postpone the killing blow, but there will be civil casualties.”

“You said we could lure the enemy away,” the Tianshu says. He looks pale, but his voice doesn’t waver. “How?”

“We could try exploiting his weakness.” Morax pauses, as if he didn’t already have the audience’s full attention. “I have reason to believe that he seeks to increase his power.” His eyes narrow. “We could give him such an opportunity.”

Bosacius frowns. This time, he doesn’t understand what his god is hinting at. Allowing the God of Underwater Currents to take control of Liyue Harbor would certainly increase his power, but it can’t be what Morax is suggesting.

The Qixing must be as lost as he is, because the Yuheng asks, “What do you mean, Rex Lapis?”

“Faith,” Morax says. “As a god of the ocean, he has less human followers than he would like.”

“I see,” the Tianshu says slowly. “Then all we have to do is let him know that a fraction of the inhabitants of Liyue Harbor is willing to worship him as their god. A boat can be sent carrying this message. If we can make him curious enough, he’ll reveal himself at sea.”

“Won’t he see through such a crude deception?” the Yuheng asks.

“He despises creatures of lesser power than himself,” Morax answers. “Besides, he–as most of Liyue Harbor– believes I’m away. The faith of the most vulnerable amongst us is already wavering, and the wind is carrying these whispers to the ocean. He’ll believe it.”

The Qixing start apologizing profusely.

“I’m not offended,” Morax dismisses their apologies. “In this case, it will even work in our favor.”

“If this works, we could attack him without endangering the city,” Bosacius says. “But no Adeptus could accompany the boat, or it would arouse our enemy’s suspicions. Not to mention the god could decide to send one of his minions to sink the boat without showing himself. Even in the case of a success, when he realizes the trickery, we might not be able to rescue the crew in time.” He pauses. “It would be a suicide mission.”

“It’s worth the risk,” the Tianshu says fiercely. “I volunteer to carry out this mission. I will take a few trusted people with me.”

“Are you certain you wish to do this?” Morax asks solemnly.

The man nods. “I do. I will do my part to protect our city. How far would be enough?”

“Two miles at least,” Morax answers.

“Mist is spreading on the ocean,” the Yuheng says pensively. “If the boat is leaving from one of the coves south of Liyue Harbor, it’s plausible that the Millelith wouldn’t see it.”

Bosacius takes a look out the window. It’s true, and it is thick enough that it would be credible that even the Adepti wouldn’t notice a small boat.

“I’ll ask General Chizapus to loudly patrol the sea on the north,” Bosacius says. “We’ll be ready to go into battle as soon as the god reveals himself.”

“I suggest organizing a prayer ceremony to Rex Lapis at the same time,” the Tianquan says. She turns to the Tianshu. “It will give you another reason to leave.”

“Because I couldn’t bear praying to a god who abandoned the city,” the man says. “Yes, I see.” He looks sheepishly at Morax. “No offense, my lord. I would never…”

“No offense taken,” Morax says. “Your plan has my blessing.”

Bosacius nods. A prayer ceremony will also give Morax more strength, as much as keep people busy. It’s an excellent idea.

The Qixing start discussing the details of the plan, and Bosacius listens with half an ear while thinking about his own strategy.

If the mortals are upset to send one of their own to his very likely death, they don’t show it.

Morax has chosen them well.

When they finally depart to organize the deception, the mist has almost spread to the harbor.

“I apologize for not coming back sooner,” Morax says. “I needed to shield my mind completely to remain undetected while I gathered the information I wanted, and I knew you could handle things in my absence.”

“Your trust honors us,” Bosacius says, as drily as he can after such an acknowledgement.

“The information is worth it.” Bonanus is clearly too happy to see Morax to resent his decision. “How did you find it?”

The three of them have just finished discussing their plans for the Adepti army. Most of it will remain on the shore, hidden from the enemy god. As soon as they receive the signal, Morax will teleport everyone to the location of the battle.

Morax gives Bonanus a dangerous smile. “I listened from the ocean floor.”

Bosacius raises an eyebrow. It’s not something he would have thought his god could do, but he is the Lord of Geo. And under all this sea water, there are rocks.

“Clever.” Bonanus gives an appreciative nod. “Did you also learn about Osial’s intentions?”

“Not as much as I hoped.” Morax sighs. “I’m still unsure whether the God of the Underwater Currents was sent by Osial to test our strength, or if he acts behind his master’s back to gain power. Maybe it’s a little bit of both.”

Bosacius crosses his arms. “In any case, this god is a fool.”

“And he’ll pay for it with his life,” Bonanus adds matter-of-factly.

Morax gives them a sincere smile. “Thank you for the vote of confidence.”

Bosacius returns the smile, as do Bonanus. The outcome of that fight makes no doubt to them, although he understands that Morax might try to make it last in order to get more answers from the enemy god.

On the terrace outside, the prayer ceremony is starting to be organized. Bosacius’ gaze linger on the few yakshas guarding the area.

“By the way, how did things go with Xiao?” he asks his sister.

“I showed him a move or two, as he’s so eager to learn,” Bonanus says lightly. “Then I sent him to help in the city. He didn’t protest.”

Bosacius snorts. No doubt Xiao was too weary to protest.

Morax tilts his head, his expression interrogative. “I thought you deemed Xiao not ready to join the army yet?”

Bosacius can’t say he’s surprised that Morax didn’t read his mail considering the circumstances.

“It’s a long story. I can tell you all about it after the battle.”

Morax nods. “There is also something I will want to talk to you about.”

“Of course, my lord.”

Morax seems about to add something, but he suddenly tenses. Bosacius can feel it in the way the ground slightly shakes.

“All the pieces are in place. It’s time,” Morax says gravely.

The two yakshas nod, their features grim.

It’s time to make the enemy regret his decision to ever attack their home.

On the shore, hidden behind Adepti arts with his fellow yakshas and the other Adepti, Bosacius waits.

In the sea, Bonanus is pretending to patrol with a few yakshas. She has told them that the poison keeps spreading in the water, so only yakshas and the rare Adepti able to withstand it will be fighting underwater with her.

The rest of the fighting force is gathered here.

There are a few visible exceptions, like Cloud Retainer. When Morax called for all available Adepti, she declined, saying she had urgent business to attend to. Bosacius doesn’t know what could be more urgent than defending Liyue Harbor, but Morax didn’t question it.

The Adepti not suited for airborne or underwater fight are ready to help the city, should something go awry. And of course, the yakshas who are reinforcing the Millelith in the city continue to do so. Withdrawing them now would arouse suspicion.

Both Pervases and Xiao are part of this last group. They have been ordered to watch over the citizens and make sure they don’t endanger themselves. The prayer ceremony should make the task easier. Bosacius cannot see the smoke of the incense through the mist, but he can smell it.

He would have liked more visibility, but this will have to do. At least it’s nothing like the cursed mist of the Guili Plains.

Everything is silent, at the notable exception of the pouring rain.

If they’re lucky, a cold will be the worst outcome of the day for most of the citizens.

Bosacius thinks of the frail boat carrying their hopes. It must have set sail by now. Despite the Qixing’s careful planning and their choices of prayers and offerings to the god of the sea, their deception hangs by a thread.

Bosacius waits, and waits, and waits, until a distress flare lights the mist.

It’s the agreed upon signal from the boat.

The enemy god has taken the bait.

Prepare to fight, Morax’s voice echoes in their heads. He’s been standing on one of the cliffs overlooking the harbor, hidden from sight.

Bosacius dons his yaksha mask.

The next second, he’s in the middle of the sea.

He blinks to disperse the discomfort of the teleportation. It tends to make him slightly dizzy when he’s not the one in charge of it.

He hears the furious roar before he sees the God of Underwater Currents himself. He’s a giant octopus, waving his tentacles in the air and threatening to grasp one of the bird Adepti.

But Morax has timed the teleportation well. They’re out of reach for now.

The sea around them erupts with sea serpents and other creatures of the deep. In the sky, a matching roar echoes. Golden light disperses the mist, revealing Morax in all his dragon glory. The air suddenly feels lighter to breathe.

“Fight against the minions,” Bosacius yells to his troops. “Leave the god to Morax. And give them space!”

His eyes scan the sea, looking for the boat. It wasn’t near the god, so it must have been sunk already, but if it isn’t and there is still a chance to save the courageous humans on it, Bosacius will take it.

He spots the boat already a mile away, the wind in its sails sending him back to shore at a speed that is completely abnormal.

The God of Underwater Currents roars again and starts diving. Spears of stone rain from the sky, tearing up his body, but Bosacius can see that the flesh is reconstituting itself.

Now there are two giant octopuses in the middle of the battlefield.

The divine dragon dives on them, his body coiling around the soft flesh to prevent the enemy god from escaping.

The resulting air wave threatens to make Bosacius lose his footing, but he stays focused. Not all Adepti are that lucky, and a few of them are thrown away.

Including one that makes Bosacius’ blood turn to ice in his veins, one he hadn’t even realized was here before his privacy veils were torn apart by the shockwave.

It does explain why the boat could leave this fast, but…

“Xiao,” Bosacius yells.

He grabs the young yaksha by the arm, helping him regain his balance. Xiao is levitating mid-air, surrounded by Anemo energy. Fleeting emotions pass across his features.

Fear. Guilt. Determination.

“What are you doing here?” Bosacius demands, at the same time he annihilates two sea serpents in one angry movement.

Xiao’s lips move, but Bosacius is pretty sure no sound comes out of his mouth.

Morax and the enemy god start rolling around, and Bosacius jumps backwards.

“Give them more room!” he yells to the others.

They all obey immediately.

It’s good to know some people do listen to him.

“What was that?” he asks Xiao, his eyes scanning the battlefield once more. The octopus and the dragon are still roaring, but if this is a language, Bosacius doesn’t understand it.

Apart from the ‘I’m going to kill you’ obvious undertones, that is.

“I promised her I would protect her father,” Xiao whispers.

Bosacius’ confusion doesn’t last. He remembers the little girl who had lost her doll on the beach. Now that he thinks about it, her features bear some similarities with the Tianshu’s.

It’s just his luck.

“What if you had been noticed? What if the entire plan had failed because of you?” Bosacius utters, striking another sea serpent and a creature he has no idea what to name.

He hasn’t released Xiao. He still has three arms to fight, so it’s not too much of a hindrance.

Xiao shrinks on himself. “I’m good at hiding my presence,” he whispers.

Bosacius can grant him that, but it’s pretty much the only thing he will today.

“You went against your orders.”

His voice is ice-cold, and Xiao shivers.

“I was ordered to watch over the humans,” the boy whispers. “To make sure they didn’t endanger themselves.”

Bosacius can’t believe he’s trying to argue against him now. The battlefield is quickly devolving into chaos, it looks like there are four giant octopuses now, and one of them seems to be rushing towards Liyue Harbor.

Before Bosacius has the time to worry about it, though, a shower of light points coming from the shore dig into this octopus’ flesh, making it roar in pain and turn back.

Bosacius focuses his Adepti senses on the shore, and sees Cloud Retainer operating the strange contraption he saw in front of her abode once. It must be a kind of weapon.

It’s a good surprise, but he still wishes she would have told him about it.

“We’ll talk later,” he tells Xiao. “For now…”

Before he has the time to order him to go back to the shore, and to stay here, and not to move an inch or else, all hell breaks loose.

Around the octopuses and the dragon fighting, three tentacles creep out from the water, their suckers oozing poison. They’re out of Morax’ field of vision, and they have no particular divine aura. It’s possible his god won’t notice them in time.

Behind you, he yells at Morax, launching himself at the first tentacle. He dodges its hit and strikes it with lightning. He makes quick work of the second one, but he won’t be in time for the third, and Morax looks busy trying to eat one the octopuses in one giant gulp while his body is still coiling around the others, and…

And the third tentacle is being attacked by Xiao, whom Bosacius had to release from his grasp in order not to pull him along into this fight, which is way too close from the two gods.

Well, attacked might be too undermining a word. It’s more like it’s being shredded to pieces with Anemo spears carrying more power than Bosacius has ever seen Xiao use before, and in fact more power than he would have thought would be within the grasp of a junior.

Especially one struggling like Xiao does.

The tentacle vanishes. Bosacius catches his breath, but before he can say anything, Bonanus is yelling in his mind.

Careful!

Something rises from the sea, something huge looking like a squid. It opens its mouth and yells something furious and desperate, sending black ink erupting in the sky. A droplet lands on Bosacius’ leg, burning like acid.

Bosacius knows that some gods have familiars, but he really wished the God of Underwater Currents didn’t.

The squid tries to grab Xiao, but the young yaksha manages to dodge. He jumps higher into the air, and at least a dozen Anemo spears sink into the squid’s flesh.

This time, the squid’s yell is filled with pain.

It attracts the attention of one of the octopuses constituting the God of Underwater Currents, who…

…before Bosacius has the time to grab Xiao again, to take him somewhere safe…

…before he has the time to do anything at all…

…strikes Xiao.

The young yaksha is being thrown above, the movements of his limbs jerky as they take impossible angles.

Bosacius hears himself yell.

“Xiao!”

He tries to reach for the boy, but an octopus’ tentacle blocks his way.

Bosacius strikes it, determined to take on the god who dared to… to…

Move away.

Morax’s order is absolute, and Bosacius obeys.

He feels the raw elemental energy gathering around Morax. It’s so intense that he has to step further back.

Last time he has seen Morax so furious was the day Guizhong died.

Close your senses, he instructs the others.

He does so himself before the explosion of pure light can blind him.

Bosacius feels the enemy god lose his life, reduced to ashes in a second. He wants to open his eyes, but the energy level is too high.

Bonanus, he says.

I’m on it.

His sister’s Hydro power rises to contain the giant wave created by the impact, preventing Liyue Harbor from being flooded.

When the golden light finally starts dissipating, Bosacius carefully opens his eyes.

Morax is floating in the center of it, his form human once more.

In his arms, Xiao’s body looks too frail.

Something in this scene feels familiar to Bosacius.

Xiao’s hands are clenched in the cloth of Morax’s tunic, proving that he’s still alive.

He took the brunt force of a god’s killing blow. He should be dead. By all logic he should be dead.

“Xiao,” Morax is scolding, his voice very, very low. “What were you thinking? You could have gotten yourself killed.”

Morax can be very impressive, especially when he is displeased.

Xiao presses his chin against his own chest as if trying to hide his face from Morax’s furious gaze in a very inefficient way, but his hands keep holding on for dear life.

It would be cute if not for the blood covering his body. And the fact that Bosacius is having a mental breakdown.

He hasn’t recognized in Xiao the bloodhound that Morax has saved, but right now the pieces are falling into place.

Bosacius doesn’t like the picture it’s painting, but he can’t think about it now.

He has a sworn duty to perform.

“We’ll take over from here, my lord,” he says.

Morax nods and vanishes with Xiao. Bosacius launches himself into the battlefield, making sure that the god remnants newly created will remain deep into the ocean.  

Once the late god’s minions have all been killed, he dismisses the Adepti, keeping only the yakshas to appease the ley lines. Below the water surface, Bonanus is working on purifying the poison.

Much, much later, once the situation has been stabilized, Bosacius cracks his knuckles and braces himself for the discussion to come.

It’s time to ask for an explanation from his god.

Chapter Text

Bosacius takes a deep breath as he sets foot in Morax’s abode.

It’s one of his smaller ones, but the delicacy of the scenery still speaks of the care brought into its creation.

The place of arrival is in the middle of a vast room. The abode’s spirit is waiting for him, and Bosacius loses no time following after him.

The marquetry flooring is silent under Bosacius’ determined steps. On the walls, large windows opening on the gardens alternate with tapestries of Morax’s favorite landscapes. Bosacius’ heart squeezes in his chest when he passes by the ones depicting the lost Guili Plains.

The abode’s spirit directs him to an audience room before disappearing. The doors are wide open, inviting, and Bosacius takes a deep breath as he enters.

Morax is waiting for him, arms folded behind the back of his human shape. Despite the generous furnishing of shelves, tables and chairs, the room is large enough to accommodate his dragon form. It feels almost too vast for the two of them as they are now, but Bosacius is grateful for the space.

It lets him breathe.

“My lord.” Bosacius bows stiffly. “Thank you for accepting to see me.”

“Of course, Bosacius.”  Morax’s voice is deep and calm as a mountain’s lake, but Bosacius resists the temptation to be soothed by it. “How is the situation?”

Bosacius straightens up. “We have it under control. As long as the fishermen avoid the god remnant’s zone, they should be safe from harm.”

He keeps his voice monotonous as he gives details he knows Morax wants to hear. If his military report is too brief, Morax will ask him questions and the conversation will ultimately last longer.

And it’s not what Bosacius wants to talk about right now.

When he falls silent, Morax nods. “Thank you.”

He waves his hand, making a cooking pot appear on the table next to them.

It smells absolutely delicious, and Bosacius finds himself salivating.

“I know you came right from the battlefield,” Morax says. “Allow me to gift you this food.”

Bosacius doesn’t need to look at its content to know that it’s slow-cooked bamboo shoot soup, Morax’s signature dish. It takes more hours to make than Bosacius wants to know, and it tastes just as delicious as it smells.

His god must have prepared it specifically for him. Refusing the gift would be a severe offense. Not to mention that he is starving, and angry enough that he doesn’t have to worry about the food placating him.

“Thank you, my lord.”

Morax sits on a chair, and Bosacius imitates him. He watches as his god serves him a generous portion, trying to guess at his thoughts.

Does Morax know that Bosacius knows? When the yaksha requested an audience, he did not specify a reason.

But maybe it is written all over his face. Bosacius has never been good at keeping things from his god.

The reverse cannot be said, quite obviously.

Bosacius digs into the offered food. Not only does it taste heavenly, it’s also nourishing, soothing the pain within his body.

A pot of tea has materialized next to the cooking pot, and Morax is pouring himself a cup.

When Bosacius’ movements slow down, his plate as empty as one can be, Morax has barely taken a few sips of his tea. His amber eyes are considering Bosacius pensively.

“You have questions,” Morax says. “You may ask them.”

All of a sudden, Bosacius’ frustration and anger come back at the forefront of his mind. He can’t help but clench his fists.

“My lord. Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Tell you about what?”

Bosacius half-wishes Morax wouldn’t insist on exactitude right now.

“About…” His throat constricts. Pronouncing the name is harder than he would have expected. “About Xiao. About the fact he’s the Adeptus you’ve rescued, the one who…”

Who has more blood on his hands than Bosacius can count. Whose mere mention brings fear in the hearts of the humans who used to live under his goddess’ rules.

Who has apparently no regard for his own safety.

Who risked his life to save a handful of humans, who almost died to help Morax.

Bosacius’ feelings are a whirlwind inside his soul. He takes a deep breath.

“Ah, yes.” Morax leans his elbows on the table, folding his hands to rest his chin against them.

“When were you going to tell me?” Bosacius’ voice sounds more hurt than he intends, and he swallows hard.

Morax sighs. “After this battle. I didn’t expect Xiao to take such an… active part in it.”

So that is what Morax hinted at before the fight. But still, there have been plenty of opportunities for that talk in the weeks and months prior.

When Bosacius told Morax about Xiao’s difficulties to replenish his energy, or when Xiao got hurt in the Guili Plains, or when Bosacius shared his decision not to let him into the army, to name but a few.

“Why not sooner?” Bosacius insists.

Morax takes his teacup in hand again. His fingers tap in rhythm against the squared porcelain.

“I did intend to share this information with you sooner, but Xiao was making so much progress that I couldn’t resolve to do it.”

“Progress?” Bosacius’ voice is strained.

“In interacting with people, and daring to stand for what he wants.” Morax pauses. “I was delighted.”

Bosacius watches him, incredulous. It doesn’t look like his god is joking. He wonders whether Morax has finally read his mail, and knows exactly what Xiao’s track record is. Several days have passed since he killed the God of Underwater Currents, so it’s highly likely.

“I wouldn’t say that Xiao’s choices have been the best, my lord.”

Morax sighs. “I see your point. What I mean is, I was delighted to see him making choices at all.”

Bosacius remembers Morax telling him that the Adeptus… Xiao…had been compelled to do his goddess’ bidding. That it had taken months before he talked a little to him.

He remembers asking Xiao whether he had been hurt by a god before, and Xiao saying yes.

“If you had told me from the start, I would have been better prepared,” he says, trying hard to keep his tone from being accusatory.

“No doubt,” Morax says.

Is it Bosacius, or is his tone wry?

“Then why didn’t you?” Bosacius is one hair away from throwing his arms up in frustration.

Morax watches him for a long time. Bosacius could swear his gaze has a material weight.

“I wanted you to form an opinion without knowing who he was,” Morax finally answers. “If I had told you, your first impression would have been biased by his past.”

“His past is an important part of him,” Bosacius says, teeth gritted.

“It is.” Morax pauses. “I know how much the death of the children he was forced to destroy affected you.”

Bosacius feels his cheeks flush.

“I brought him to that place. If I had known, I…” He pauses. He doesn’t know what he would have done.

He remembers Xiao’s reaction and his harsh words towards the Adeptus responsible for this disaster, the deep hatred they betrayed.

Self-hatred.

“I could have better helped him,” Bosacius finishes.

He can’t say with certainty that he would have wanted to, not at the time, not if all that he could see was Xiao’s part in this crime.

He knows that Morax isn’t fooled.

“Xiao needed exactly what you gave him. A chance to be seen for who he really is.”

Bosacius looks away. Suddenly, he can’t bear sitting anymore. He stands up and goes to the closest window, watching the peaceful garden with his neatly arranged rocks, bushes and flowers. It would be so easy to disturb it, to split the rocks and send the bushes flying, to strike the flowers with lightning.

He doesn’t do it, of course. He doesn’t even truly want to.

But an outlet would be nice. Anything but having to face the fact that his god didn’t believe he had what it took to confront the truth with generosity of spirit.

He hears the scrape of Morax’s chair against the floor, followed by his god’s footsteps as he joins him at the window.

Morax waits, ever patient, until Bosacius has sorted out his thoughts enough to decide what he wants to say next.

“You tricked me.”

“Is that how you feel?” Morax asks softly.

Bosacius turns his head to meet his god’s gaze. Although Morax didn’t lie, per se, he definitely left out crucial information.

Morax lets out a heavy sigh. “Maybe I did.”

“I was going to say yes,” Bosacius says, because it suddenly feels important. “To giving your protégé a chance to join the yaksha army.”

Morax nods. “It honors you.”

Bosacius shakes his head. “What if Xiao had told me?”

“He was always free to do so. I asked him what he preferred, and he said he had no preference. Therefore I made the first choice for him.”

There is something hard in Morax’s tone, but Bosacius has a feeling it isn’t directed against him or Xiao.

“And of course,” Morax adds, “there was a possibility that you would make the connection yourself.”

Bosacius knows Morax has a point, and it hurts his pride that his god planned he wouldn’t.

Silence stretches between them. Bosacius thinks about all the little details that should have awakened his suspicions, about Xiao’s strong reactions to being touched, about his complete lack of desire for mortal food, and his inability to feed himself the way Adepti could.

Now it’s starting to make a lot more sense. From what he heard about the feared bloodhound, his way of feeding was much more gruesome.

“Has he eaten dreams since you took him in?”

“Of course not,” Morax says, a sharp edge to his voice. “In the beginning, I have been feeding him with my own energy.” He pauses. “I’m confident that he won’t eat the dreams of mortals again. But if not, I will deal with it accordingly.”

Bosacius nods, a little ashamed at himself that he had to ask the question.

They fall silent again, watching the garden. Geo fireflies are leaving trails of golden sparkles in the air as they go from flower to flower. Birds are gathered in the bushes, their beaks opening and closing in rhythm. Bosacius can’t hear them, so he assumes that the room is soundproof.

He wishes Morax would have left the windows open.

Morax’s voice interrupts his contemplation.

“So what do you think of him?”

“What do I think of him?” Bosacius splutters.

He worships his god, but at times like these he finds his train of thought hard to follow.

Morax doesn’t seem fazed. He waits for Bosacius’ answer, his immobility far beyond what a normal being could hope to achieve.

Like a mountain.

“I think he’s determined,” Bosacius says slowly. “And traumatized. And…”

Gentle.

“It’s hard to picture him as a bloodhound,” he admits.

“He did not have a say in the matter.” Morax’s voice is hard, his edges sharp.

“His inability to feed himself properly is a problem. But he seems to better manage it when fighting god remnants.”

Bosacius watches Morax’s expression, but his god doesn’t show any surprise. He truly must have read Bosacius’ letter.

“He said that pain makes it easier.”

Morax closes his eyes briefly. “I see.”

“May I know what it is that you see?” Bosacius’ tone is dry.

“Xiao believes he deserves only pain,” Morax says. “He doesn’t make the difference between what he was forced to perform and himself. I’m afraid he doesn’t feel worthy of being part of a painless exchange with the world.”

Bosacius swallows hard. Anger simmers in the pit of his stomach, and he forces himself to take several deep breaths.

“Karma is painful, yes. But I fail to see how letting him attract the wrath of fallen gods can help him regain his balance. Why did you let him apply for a position in the yaksha army if you knew his goal was to harm himself?”

Morax’s features harden. “Is this how you choose to interpret Xiao’s actions?”

Bosacius bites back a reply that would have been wholly inappropriate and forces himself to reflect on the question.

Every time Bosacius asked Xiao about his reasons for entering the army, the boy has said that he wanted to protect people. And Bosacius has no reason to believe it isn’t true. On the contrary, he has many reasons to believe Xiao is dead set on achieving that. Quite literally.

And it’s not like Bosacius’ attempt at stopping him from entering the army before he deemed him ready has been met with success.

“Alright. He wants to protect people, and he doesn’t care what happens to him in the process.”

Morax nods. “As I told you, he’s feeling crushed by guilt. He wants to atone, and fighting as a yaksha is the way he has chosen for this purpose. Denying him this would be cruel.”

Bosacius doesn’t say anything, hoping that his silence will be interpreted as the disapproval it is.

Morax either doesn’t notice or ignores it, simply continuing to talk.

“I knew that he probably wasn’t ready to be part of the army, but he wasn’t ready to hear it.” A faint smile graces his features. “He was very insistent, and I had no reason not to let him try.”

This time, Bosacius can’t help saying aloud the words that are on the tip of his tongue.

“You would let him fail on purpose?”

“Is it failure if you grow through it?” Morax asks. “Besides, he has improved tremendously. To the point,” he says pointedly, “that he managed to convince you.”

“He forced my hand,” Bosacius mutters.

Morax’s smile widens, before vanishing as if blown out by a sudden thought.

“I did not expect him to interfere in our plans to take down the God of Underwater Currents, though.”

“I still can’t believe he would do that.” Bosacius crosses his four arms.

Morax shakes his head. “I have been encouraging him to take initiative. He was forbidden to make choices for so long.” He pauses, considering. “Finding the right balance will take time.”

Bosacius hesitates to ask his next question, but the more he looks at the garden and the more he wonders.

“Is he here?” he asks softly.

Morax nods.

Bosacius swallows hard. “How… how is he?”

“He’s recovering. He was heavily injured during the fight.”

Bosacius nods. He doesn’t know what face he’s making, but Morax puts a light hand on his shoulder.

“He’s very resilient. He’ll survive.”

“I would like to see him.” Bosacius carefully avoids looking at Morax’s expression.

“Of course. He’s resting outside. Try not to upset him too much,” Morax says. “I’ll see to the lecturing once he will have recovered enough for it.”

Bosacius grimaces. “My lord.”

He takes one step towards the door before thinking better of it.

“Actually, there is something else I would like to discuss.”

”Yes?”

Bosacius takes a deep breath as he faces his god.

“I realized during the fight. This is not the kind of surprise I appreciate from my commander in the middle of a battle,” he says stiffly.

Morax briefly closes his eyes, a pained expression on his features.

“Duly noted.”

“Therefore, I would like to discuss adding a clause to our contract.”

“Of course. What is it?”

“I wish that you share with me any information you might have about our recruits’ identity, when the revelation of said identity is susceptible to destabilize the army’s combatants in a crisis situation.”

“It’s a very specific request,” Morax notices with a touch of humor.

Bosacius is not amused. He glares at his god until Morax sighs.

“Alright.”

Morax’s power feels golden in Bosacius’ mind. He reads the proposed addendum carefully, asking for clarification on some of the terms.

Once he’s satisfied, he stamps his signature on the new version of their contract.

Morax does the same, and Bosacius relaxes. The God of Contracts will keep his word, so Bosacius can stop worrying about another stunt like this.

“I will of course need to inform the other yakshas,” Bosacius says. “And I believe that the Adepti should know about it too. Cloud Retainer in particular has lent her help and spent a lot of time trying to understand the source of Xiao’s difficulties.”

He has no doubt that Cloud Retainer will want to discuss the matter with Morax in person.

Morax nods. “It’s only fair.”

“Please start with the generals,” Bosacius says. “My lord.”

He would do it himself, but he knows that his brother and sisters will have questions for Morax. It will be more efficient this way.

“I will. Thank you for everything you’ve done, Bosacius.”

Bosacius bows, a little less stiffly than at the start, and takes his leave.

Bosacius doesn’t take long to find Xiao. As soon as he’s outside the house, he feels the soft traces of Anemo power. They lead him to a high tree in the middle of the abode.

Bosacius is sure that the tree wasn’t here last time he came to this abode. Morax must have shaped it specifically for Xiao.

He walks around the trunk, going higher and higher until he’s almost at the top.

Here, lying in what looks a lot like a nest, is Xiao.

Bosacius’ heart squeezes in his chest when he sees the frail body curled up under multicolored blankets. Xiao is entirely encased in threads of Morax’s power, at the exception of his head.

He looks so young, and so fragile, like he could shatter any instant. His eyes are wide open, filled with fear, and Bosacius makes sure to stop away enough not to appear threatening.

“Hello, Xiao.”

Bosacius’ voice is soft, barely more than a whisper that the wind carries to its addressee.

Xiao doesn’t answer. Bosacius sits on a branch and waves at the tree.

“So you’re a bird?”

This time, the boy gives a tiny nod.

“It suits you,” Bosacius adds casually.

Xiao hasn’t relaxed an inch, his eyes following Bosacius’ every move with too much anxiety for the marshal’s liking.

Did Morax tell him that Bosacius knows, or is Xiao worried about what Bosacius has to say about his decision-making in the last battle?

Bosacius should have asked his god, but it’s too late now.

He’s trying to find the right words to broach the topic when Xiao beats him to it.

“Do…do you hate me now?” the boy asks. “I understand if you do.”

His voice is hoarse, as if he has barely spoken in days. It sounds so resigned that something furious tries to work his way through Bosacius’ skin.

He crushes it vehemently.

“I do not.”

Xiao trembles under Bosacius’ gaze. Bosacius can only hope he doesn’t look too fierce.

“Lord Morax told me that you knew about what I am,” Xiao adds.

Bosacius is pretty sure Morax didn’t word it like this, but at least it answers his question.

“I know that you had no choice,” he says.

“I gave her my name freely,” Xiao whispers. “It was my mistake.”

Bosacius conscientiously extinguishes the Electro sparkles that keep arising on his skin.

So that is how he was compelled.

“You didn’t know what she would do with it, did you?”

Xiao shakes his head. Tears are forming in his eyes, but he does not shed them. He looks haunted. “She took everything I was and tied me to her will. She wouldn’t let me die.”

The furious thing inside Bosacius’ rib cage thrashes again. It takes all his willpower to keep a calm, soothing tone.

“Xiao, it’s over. She’s dead, and you’re not.” He shakes his head. “Although I must say, I thought the God of Underwater Currents had killed you. How did you manage to survive?”

“This one is good at surviving, even when it shouldn’t,” Xiao whispers. “It could deflect part of the god’s energy. It…has done that many times before.”

Bosacius chafes at the derogatory pronoun, and at the implications of Xiao’s answer.

He takes a step forward and reaches for the bump under the blankets that he assumes is one of Xiao’s shoulders, but as soon as he touches the golden threads of Morax’s power, they harden in an unbreakable shield.

Clearly his lord doesn’t want to risk Xiao moving before he’s healed enough.

“Xiao,” Bosacius calls.

The boy’s eyes are glazed over, looking past him into a nightmarish past.

Bosacius brushes Xiao’s cheek with his fingers. It’s about the only part of him that he can reach.

Xiao blinks. His gaze focuses again on Bosacius’ face.

“You… truly don’t hate me?”

“No,” Bosacius whispers.

This time, Xiao’s tears do fall.

“I will admit that I am displeased with your latest decisions.” Bosacius keeps stroking Xiao’s cheek, as Xiao has given no sign that it was unwelcome. “But I do no hate you, and I only wish for you to get better.”

He also wishes that they had killed his former goddess centuries ago, but he can’t change the past.

Xiao sniffles. “Lord Morax is displeased with me too,” he whispers.

He seems more upset about that than about his injuries.

Bosacius would tell him that actions have consequences, but Xiao already knows that. He learned it in the cruelest of ways.

“It’ll be alright,” Bosacius says, because at least he’s sure of that. “He’s a fair god.”

Xiao nods. “He said I wouldn’t have to kill mortals,” he says, as if it is a wonderful, barely believable thing.

Bosacius is about to burst. He’s seriously considering going right back to the battlefield. No amount of sparring will appease him after this.

No matter what he thought of the bloodhound that did so much harm, all he can see right now is a vulnerable youth that went through horrifying abuse.

It’s too late to go back. Bosacius cares about Xiao, deeply, honestly, and nothing can change that.

He wonders whether that is what Morax hoped for.

“Morax knew exactly what he was doing,” he mutters, mostly to himself. “He’s the most cunning god I know.”

Xiao frowns through his tears.

Bosacius snorts. “No need to look at me like that. It was a compliment.”

His hand sinks into Xiao’s hair. It’s fluffy, like the down of a bird.

“Anyways, I should be going. You need to rest.” He smiles at the boy. “Try not to worry about the future. We’ll figure things out, right?”

Xiao watches him dubiously, but at least he doesn’t look terrified anymore.

Despite what he just said, Bosacius doesn’t move from his spot. After a while, Xiao closes his eyes.

Bosacius waits until his breathing has evened to slip away.