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knicknackbluecat · 2 years

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Collected Miscellany

Venti: Skyward Sonnet

A mysterious bard named Venti has recently appeared in the world. Singing tales for the city of freedom and romance. This city is Mondstadt, the Crown of the North. A free nation with no ruler. This once bitter-cold land in the north of Teyvat is now fertile. A blessing left by the God of Anemo, they say. A thousand years have passed since the God of Anemo left this land. But to me, it has only been half that time.

Venti: Come on, Traveler, Let’s go! The world is full of lost ballads just waiting to be rediscovered.

As we all know, poetry and language flow like the wind… Venti captures this spirit in his ballads. Flora and fauna he sings of seem to have a life of their own, and transport us to the moon and stars. This self-proclaimed “Best Bard of the Mortal World” gets his strength, his unwithering inspiration from the wind. But what Venti seeks in life is not eternal fame for his ballads. Rather, he’d be happy with a cup of wine and a lyre to sing the marvelous stories of the world. Yes, that would make Venti the Bard very content indeed.

Diluc: Dawn

As the Dawn Winery’s owner, Diluc dominates Mondstadt’s alcohol industry. Wealth and information are at his fingertips. Modest and refined, yet wick to act whenever Mondstadt faces a crisis. What caused him to choose this path? Hmm, how very curious.

Diluc: There must be those who dare to pierce the darkness with their light.

Diluc’s explosive, ruthless fighting style and his aloof manner are all admirable traits, but if the disaster from five centuries ago were to happen again, if he were to face the same evil that I once did… would he still hold fast to his resolve? This, too, makes me most curious indeed.

Klee: Jumpy Dumpty

There are many remarkable people in Mondstadt’s Knights of Favonius. Among them is a small knight who razed Stormbearer Mountains flat and whose name has recently become commonplace both within Mondstadt and beyond. When it comes to "Spark Knight" Klee, there are rumors aplenty. Interestingly, those telling these rumors do so with a smirk and a shake of their heads, joking that even Mondstadt's fish have learned to swim away when they see her.

Klee: Can I come play with you today? Pleeease? I wanna go on an adventure!

When the people of Mondstadt talk about their home they proudly call with the city of wind, dandelions, and freedom. Perhaps it was Mondstadt's atmosphere of freedom that led the famous adventurer Alice to entrust her daughter Klee to the care of the Knights of Favonius. With this freedom, Klee has had a happy and unrestrained childhood. But all baby birds must leave the nest someday. Hopefully our little Spark Knight will remain just as happy-go-lucky when that day comes and keep smiling all the way.

Jean: Guiding Breeze

When Grand Master Varka of Mondstadt's Knight of Favonius left on an expedition, his role passed to Jean, the eldest daughter of House Gunnhildr. The young Acting Grand Master had become a skilled swordswoman (Note: voice line says swordsman) through hard work, and works harder still for the sake of the Knights. Self-sacrifice, after all, is the Dandelion Knight's path.

Jean: As the wind continues to blow, so too shall I continue to fight.

Though Jean may lack experience, Mondstadt has only prospered since she assumed Varka's great responsibilities. Even I, who has seen countless people, must respect her desire to always defend Mondstadt. But unlike most who bear great burdens this young knight has remained as tenacious as ever. How was her will molded, and what sustains her edge such that it never wears down? If fate wills it, I will find the answer to these questions...

Qiqi: Fortune-Preserving Talisman

Children as special as Qiqi are few and far between. As a zombie, time has no effect on her, but she has difficulty committing things to memory. For Qiqi, perhaps this is a good thing. She can forget her past, and be an herb gatherer at Bubu Pharmacy. But those who underestimate her just for being a child do so at their peril

Qiqi: I am Qiqi. I am a zombie. And I forget what comes next.

As a zombie, Qiqi has escaped the grip of both time and death. How Qiqi entered this state of existence, I do not know. But I doubt it was of her own volition. Are the heavenly principles toying with her? Or is fate seeking to torture her? Is an ordinary life of simple pleasures really a thing so fragile?

Mona: Stellaris Phantasm

The stars illuminate all mortal destinies, though few have eyes to perceive their meaning. But Mona, an astrologist newly arrive in Mondstadt, is able to read the fates of others through stars reflected in the water. But while no phenomenon is hidden from the astrologist Mona, she struggles often with the minutiae of daily life. It is a most common predicament. The more you seek truth, the more simple joys elude you...

Mona: This was ordained by fate! Long had I foreseen it.

Mona's hydromancy is indeed unique. No one can deny her intelligence and talent. Within Mondstadt, there are few who possess the ability and a desire to seek truth equal to hers. But beware, O young seeker, you must sacrifice your all to unravel the world's secrets. Can the astrologist Mona truly bear such a burden?

Keqing: Starward Sword

Everyone in Liyue knows it is Rex Lapis who protects their borders, but the city's daily affairs are run by the Qixing. As Yuheng of the Qixing, Keqing acts decisively and pragmatically, knowing every inch of Liyue like the back of her hand. Yet as a representative of the mortals of Liyue, she has much to say about Rex Lapis' unilateral governance.

Keqing: We live in an era of change, as the old order that has existed for a thousand years is about to be rewritten.

Human history is to be written by the people. Even without the protection of the gods, Liyue would flourish as always--this is Keqing's belief. This desire to take fate into her own hands--I remember this feeling... Will she be able to bring her vision to life? To protect this land she calls home? In the hands of the Qixing, where is Liyue headed? The road ahead is unclear, but we shall wait and see.

Childe: Foul Legacy

The Fatui from Snezhnaya are known to make waves wherever they go in Teyvat. And Tartaglia is a driving force within them. Of the Eleven Harbingers, ten concern themselves with clandestine operations. Tartaglia is the sole exception. Rather than lure his enemies into a trap, he prefers to face them head on in one-on-one combat.

Childe: The wind is picking up, there is conflict in the air.

Few know where Tartaglia acquired his fighting skills before becoming a Harbinger. Nor do many know where his lust for combat originates. There is a dangerous secret to the martial legacy he inherits, but it is one that even he himself does not fully understand. Since becoming a Fatui Harbinger, fighting for the Tsaritsa is his new motivation as a warrior. "Childe" is the Tsaritsa's weapon of war. And he stands for the might of Snezhnaya. An icy storm is starting to blow towards the other nations. Brace yourselves, Teyvat is about to get cold.

Zhongli: Dominance of Earth

When it comes to Liyue's sacred traditions, the divinity is in the details. Even the most fastidious of academics don't claim to know them all. And yet, the mysterious funeral consultant, Zhongli, seems to know them like the back of his hand. The ancient Rite of Parting is a most unique tradition. Many details have been lost over time. But Zhongli is still able to perform the Rite to perfection. Though he looks young, Zhongli knows each ancient tradition inside out. But his own past is shrouded in mystery.

Zhongli: Every journey has its final day, don't rush.

While Liyue Harbor grows restless on the eve of disaster, as the host of the Rite of Parting Zhongli still calmly goes about his work. The world around him may be descending into chaos, yet he remains unperturbed, sipping his tea and watching a good show. Quite the fascinating character. As Liyue faces the turbulence of change, does he believe it is none of his business? Or is he also a player in this game, acting behind the scenes? It may be some time before the answers finally emerge... But no matter, for time is not something I lack.

Albedo: Kreideprinz

The City of Pastorals, Mondstadt, is as free as the wind. Even an outsider like Albedo can become Chief Alchemist of the Knights of Favonius. But on the other hand, his mastery of alchemy means that no-one ever would have taken much persuading. Mondstadt was never a nation known for its alchemy. But since Albedo's arrival the Knights' achievements in the field sit only behind those of Sumeru's top scholars. "Knights" and "academics"... not two words that one would expect to hear in the same sentence.

(No voice line from this character)

No-one can dispute Albedo's talent, but the source of the knowledge he possesses... It once brought about the destruction of a glorious nation. All that most people know of him is his title, "Kreideprinz" and that he gained his position in the Knights on recommendation from Alice, the adventurer. Beyond this, the young man is a stranger to them, a complete mystery. And the essence of his knowledge is equally unknown. But I know it well. It hails from Khaenri'ah: The Art of Khemia. Soil and chalk, the universe and earth, pure dust and the birth of human life... There is no mistaking it. I am content to watch most crises play out from the sidelines, but if Albedo were ever to make a single wrong move... I could not let myself ignore it.

Ganyu: Ambling Amidst Karst Peaks

Given Liyue's present prosperity it's only natural that the city's operational support should match its scale. For millennia, from the birth of the Liyue Qixing to its current roster of seven, they've all relied on the Yuehai Pavilion's secretary. The half-qilin illuminated beast, Ganyu, who assists the mortals in handling the most crucial matters. Although I detest deities, and have no liking for the adepti who signed contracts with the Geo Archon, a person like Ganyu is still deserving of my respect.

Ganyu: My job is to honor my contract with Rex Lapis by looking out for the interests of all living things in Liyue.

The Liyue Qixing has changed over generations. Centuries have passed in the blink of an eye. Ganyu's accompanied Liyue through many a storm. But Liyue harbor itself-- Can this city really become a safe harbor for an adeptus in the world of mortals? When the Geo Archon Morax was alive, an adeptus like Ganyu could find a sense of belonging in the human city. But at present, when the Rite of Parting has already marked his end, the loneliness of an "inhuman" living in the human world; will it take Ganyu over completely...?

Xiao: Conqueror of Demons

Many fell in the Archon War. But though their life force faded, their power and malice survived as remnants posing a continued threat to the world. In Liyue the task of ending this threat, or rather, enduring it falls to Xiao. To most in Liyue Xiao is a name seldom heard, and as the few who have seen him can attest he appears only when grave danger is nigh... Coming across this adeptus, should one count their blessings, or their curses?

Xiao: Conquering demons is what I do

For millennia, tales of the yaksha have been told in Liyue. But over time these defenders of the masses have all but disappeared. Only Xiao still honors his contract with the Geo Archon by performing the duties assigned to him. Though the cost of this duty is perpetual solitude... I know that adepti suffer heartache just as I do, but I cannot know Xiao's future. Will Xiao be ravaged by the unending war he wages and be plunged into despair? Or will he meet someone who understands his sacrifice and can shine a ray of light into his dark world...

Hu Tao: Fragrance in Thaw

The people of Liyue value tradition, and their traditions are embodied in all manner of rites. Of these, the rites that mark life's end are of utmost importance. Liyue's funeral rites are complex, and only Wangsheng Funeral Parlor can conduct them to the satisfaction of all. Wangsheng has stood for 77 generations and has gained still greater fame in recent years thanks to their eccentric young director, Hu Tao.

Hu Tao: When the sun's out, bathe in sunlight. But when the moon's out, bathe in moonlight.

Wangsheng Funeral Parlor conducts rites of utmost solemnity, and its staff are used to speaking little making Hu Tao's liveliness seem an ill fit. Her elders once criticized her mischief-making, but having seen her immaculate conduct of the parlor's affairs they could do naught but admit their error. Life and death are but two halves of an endless cycle. Life leads unto death, and death unto new life--why, then, should death be taboo? Hu Tao has had the wisdom to see this, though some of her elders have yet to do so.

Rosaria: Purger of the Shadows

Mondstadt's Church of Favonius has a very unique sister--Rosaria. Despite being a priestess, she has never been witnessed offering prayers to the gods. Swift of foot and aloof in speech, she becomes active in the darkness of Mondstadt's night. She belongs to a clandestine side of Mondstadt, brandishing sharp blades under the moonlight to strike down intruding shadows. In exchange for the people's freedom and peace, the nonbeliever is tasked with purging the filth that no light will touch. Hm... City blessed by the Anemo Archon... sleep soundly.

Rosaria: Pray, Not for the gods nor the betterment of others... but for yourself.

Mondstadt's nights are peaceful and tranquil. But in the quiet of the dark, there are those who glimpse a flash of cold steel. This is the dour sister who metes out punishment to protect this place of peace, and the sisters who are purity incarnate. Unperturbed with dirtying her hands, she has become a blood-soaked executioner. And having witnessed the cruelty of this world, she can no longer close her eyes and extol the blessings of the gods. Rosaria, the most unique sister in Mondstadt's Church of Favonius, never needed redemption from the gods, for she grasped it with her own hands.

Yanfei: Blaze of Legal Brilliance

Liyue is both the nation of contracts and the beating heart of trade in Teyvat. Its laws are rigorous and exhaustive, serving as pillars of order in a fluid population. But those able to memorize and abide by all the laws of the land number few indeed. Accordingly, when civil disputes and criminal proceedings arise the first point of call for many is Liyue Harbor's fames legal adviser--Yanfei.

Yanfei: Only by adhering to the law can the people solve life's myriad of problems.

Yanfei was born during Liyue's peacetime. Though part illuminated beast, she never signed a contract with the Geo Archon. Unconstrained by adepti responsibility, she keeps herself busy in the city. Experiencing all manner of worldly affairs, comprehending all levels of human emotion. In her hands the legal codices are a contract, a tool, a framework of reason, but never a cage. She longs for a free-spirited life well within the confines of the law. But each detail of the cumbersome legal codices is also dear to her heart. Perhaps one day, a balance can be struck between them.

Eula: Surging Frost

Ever since the first Knight of Favonius rid herself of her chains, the winds of freedom have carried the fight against oppression into every corner of Mondstadt. Yet today, among the ranks of the knights sworn to champion freedom, there walks a descendant of the former tyrannical aristocracy. Eula, the progeny of an infamous lineage, with vengeance always on her lips, is the captain of the Knights of Favonius Reconnaissance Company. The Sprindrift Knight, supremely skilled with her blade. Her controversial heritage leaves many wondering why the Knights would accept her. Perhaps because the songs of freedom woven into the Mondstadt winds first asked... why not?

Eula: Ready for reconnaissance.

There are those with hatred in their hearts that are able to do what Eula has done: take the lust for vengeance bequeathed to them by fate and channel it into a force for self-advancement. (Note: footage shows clips of Diluc and Kaeya) For Eula, this has set her down a path of peace and inner strength. Still there are others for whom the passage of time does nothing to quell the poison spreading through their souls. (Note: footage shows clip of Dainsleif and Aether) Only the future will reveal the path they take, but inevitably, it will be a different one.

Kaedehara Kazuha: Free Spirit

No one is sure when they first noticed it, but once in a while, from the deck of The Alcor, flagship of the heavily armed Crux Fleet, the soft sound of a flute can be heard following the ocean breeze to wherever it may lead. Trace the sound back to its source and you will see a young samurai of Inazuma, calmly sitting in a crow's nest, playing a leaf flute while taking in the sights and sounds of the natural world. But ask the other sailors about his story and you'll find they know little more than you. All they can tell you is: "He is a trainee sailor from Inazuma. His name is Kaedehara Kazuha."

Kaedehara Kazuha: Come driving rain or winds that churn, I shall return, by blade alone, armed, if barefoot, to my home...

Kaedehara Kazuha is no aimless wanderer--he has a deep sense of purpose. The young samurai left his homeland behind not to part with the past, but in the search for a new hope. As he navigates his path, he charts a course through the myriad of storms that come his way... His exposure to the elements keeps him in touch with nature, and connects him with other people who cross his path. Those who choose to defy the gods are destined for hardship. but even a maple leaf blowing in the breeze, if it falls into the right company, can learn to sail the storm-winds of the sea to shores beyond the horizon.

Kamisato Ayaka: Snowdance Heron

In Inazuma City, the Shirasagi Himegimi is a name known to all. Those fortunate enough to meet Kamisato Ayaka in person describe her as the princess of the Kamisato Clan. Graceful and dignified as a snow crane, but kind and gentle like a dove. She brings joy and hope to everyone she meets. The other half of perfection is, of course, martial prowess. So when Kamisato Ayaka draws her blade and assumes a fighting stance, her opponent should beware

Kamisato Ayaka: Kamisato Ayaka, present

When Inazuma locals discuss the Yashiro Commission they are full of praise for Kamisato Ayaka's cordial manner and sincerity of speech at social gatherings. When the name Shirasagi Himegimi is uttered it is done so in tribute to her flawless etiquette and impeccable character. But what can anyone know of how Ayaka views herself in her innermost being? As the "princess" of the Yashiro Commission's Kamisato Clan Ayaka shoulders her family's duty to cherish the aspirations of ordinary people. But she also has dreams of her own that she holds dear. Perhaps the thing that she really needs is a companion on her journey, with whom to share a pot of tea and to play a game of Go. And with whom to stand shoulder to shoulder when it comes time to draw her blade.

Yoimiya: Whispers of the Flames

If you ever make it to Inazuma, and ask the locals what to see while you're there, nearly everyone you talk to will emphatically recommend a fireworks display. Like shooting stars in reverse, they fly up into the night, then burst into color illuminating the sky and sea, and the faces of those watching below. This short by dazzling spectacle is all the work of one woman: Inazuma's most skilled fireworks expert, Yoimiya.

Yoimiya: Hehehe, let me give this "shooting fireworks straight into the skies with a bow" business a shot!

As the explosions in the sky fade away, breathless spectators find their friends and leave. But Yoimiya is already busy preparing for the next display. It is a time-honored routine, unchanging night after night. And everyone in Inazuma looks forward to the splendid sight of her latest creations. After a brief moment, the dazzling flashes fade, and the crowds are gone. After hundreds of years, this sight is nothing new to me. But who's to say that brief moments of splendor can't become everlasting memories? The god who pursues eternity has yet to realize that not all that endures is constant. Time can keep fireworks in people's minds long after they've faded. Just as, once in a while, it can send stars fixed high above plummeting down to the ground. (Note: Both times stars are mentioned, clips of Aether are playing)

Sayu: Whirling Windwheel

Ninjas are often portrayed moving under the veil of night, stealthily conducting their mission in the shadows. As such, people tend to let their imaginations regarding ninjas run wild. Filching objects in a flash. Vanishing without a trace. And laying poisonous traps. Such skills are necessary to be worthy of the "ninja" title, but in the eyes of ninja Sayu, no matter how profound the art of ninjutsu may be, it is to be used but for a single purpose: slacking off. To this ninja, who never passes on an opportunity to be lazy, the stirring of the leaves is not the opportune diversion to strike her enemy. Rather, it's a favorable time to slip away for a nice nap.

Sayu: Sayu, Shuumatsuban, at your disposal! Whew, but if you don't need me right now, I'm gonna grab some sleep.

Striving for the dreams of your youthhood is an admirable thing, indeed. Only by improving yourself can you face the vicissitudes of life. And when it comes to improving yourself, whether it's sharpening your combat skills or simply trying to grow taller, to the young anything worth striving for is a truly valuable endeavor. Heh, now that I think about it, I, too, was probably once that way. Naïve, persistent, and untiring... Hehe... I'm only joking, of course. I've long forgotten the happenings of hundreds of years ago.

Raiden Shogun: Tranquil Thunder

In the eyes of Inazumans, the Raiden Shogun is not only an archon, but also a symbol. She is their superior leader who embodies eternal thunder and radiance. Her Excellency, the Almighty Narukami Ogosho, a thousand-year-old protector of Inazuma. Little do they know that the current ruler of Inazuma, the Raiden Shogun residing high up in Tenshukaku, is no longer the same archon who emerged victorious from the Archon War

Raiden Shogun: The campaign begins.

Neighboring the Dark Sea, Inazuma has witnessed many a war. For the pursuit of Eternity and the prosperity of Inazuma, the Raiden Shogun stuck stubbornly to her path. But what let some bloom, made others wither. There is no gain without the pain of loss. When facing their fears, archons and mortals are all the same. Yet archons are born arrogant--by attempting to grasp the heavenly principles, she brought a disaster upon mortals. Perhaps some may say that I'm overstating what happened, but... I'm just speaking from experience after all.

Aloy: Mystical Glow of Frost (Note: video narrated by Alice)

If memory serves me right, the last time an outlander visited Teyvat was centuries ago. Imagine my surprise, when I discovered yet another guest during my most recent travels. A machine hunter, an outcast of the Nora tribe. Oh my, I cannot wait to learn more about her and her abilities. Let's not dilly-dally and begin our research!

Aloy: Aloy here. I don't know this world, but my arrows are sharp and my bow's ready.

I hope you've found my research as informative as I did. As a sorceress, I love making new discoveries, examining all kinds of otherworldly things, and using that knowledge to create something new. Maybe Aloy and I are more alike than it may seem. Though she lays so many roles in her home world, Aloy begins her journey in Teyvat with a clean slate. She'll get to know new places, meet new companion, and reconsider what her homeland means to her. With her survival skills, adventuring in Teyvat should be a breeze. Ah, if only she'd let me tinker with her bombs a little.

Kujou Sara: Thunderstrike Feather

The tengu of Inazuma dwell in the mountain forests, rarely appearing in human society. To live among humans as Kujou Sara does, not to mention serve as their army general, is almost unheard of. One wonders if, in her eyes, the profound seclusion of the densely wooded mountains and the eternity pined for by the Raiden Shogun bear any similarity to each other...

Kujou Sara: I will lead us to victory.

As a tengu raised by humans, Kujou Sara heeds the call of humanity, forsaking her own kind to fight for the mortal world in battle. Perhaps those who achieve such outstanding feats are too satisfied with their own brilliance to realize that their god has raised them in a prison. Sometimes, I cannot decide whether the greater tragedy is to have lost all one's own ambition or to have adopted the wishes of a god as one's own.

Thoma: Crimson Armor of Loyalty

Strict regulations govern everything in Inazuma. Outlanders looking for a home away from home face many obstacles here. So how did a Mondstadter called Thoma earn a reputation as a local "fixer" and secure a job with the Yashiro Commission? Is this a testament to the Kamisato Clan's magnanimity? Or to Thoma's exceptional abilities?

Thoma: Where we headed this time?

As an outsider in Inazuma, Thoma is often viewed as someone who doesn't belong. To this day, many believe the slander behind his back. But through his own hard work, and the Kamisato Clan's tolerant attitude, Thoma has carved out a space for himself here despite the somewhat hostile environment. Occasionally, a thought crosses my mind: If one who has turned their back on the gods ever chose to follow them once more, would any such favorable treatment be extended to them? Regrettably, no opportunity of this nature exists. Nor would I have the desire to take it. Over centuries of futility I have at least learned one thing: So long as you have determination you can always keep going. A defender's will is a precious thing and hatred can serve to nourish it.

Arataki Itto: Supreme Superstrength

In recent years, the efforts of one young Crimson Oni have earned the loud and proud Arataki Gang a certain measure of fame in Inazuma City's Hanamizaka district. Or perhaps that should be "infamy"? Either way, when it comes to their founder and leader, Arataki Itto, everyone has to agree--he's one of a kind.

Arataki Itto: Arataki "Numero Uno" Itto, here in the flesh! Hahaha... *cough*

Compared to his peers, Arataki Itto has lived a colorful life, and is familiar with the inside of a prison cell, fully qualifying him as the rightful leader of the Arataki Gang. Though some may contest his way of handling things, the members of this young Crimson Oni's gang choose to follow him, despite the diet of grilled Lavender Melon. *huffs* Well, it's one way of living. And ultimately, surviving on sporadic work and next to no Mora is still an easier task than trying to deny your destiny.

Gorou: Forward Unto Victory

In the vast and mysterious world of Teyvat, there are as many ways of life as there are people. Some heed the call of duty, others the call of freedom. Some follow their beliefs, others their talents. A few trust their instincts and rise to shoulder great responsibility, a prime example being General Gorou of Watatsumi Island. Since you never know what the enemy might throw at you, the key to surviving the chaos of battle is being able to adapt in the moment

Gorou: Keep your weapon at the ready. You never know what's around the corner

Whether they seek it or not, those of exceptional ability and character tend to gain the trust of the masses. For Gorou, this trust serves both as a confirmation of his abilities and motivation to hone them continuously. But the cost of being someone that everyone relies on is the burden of responsibility that it brings. Everything from helping the troops with their daily struggles, to keeping Watatsumi Island safe and secure ultimately falls on Gorou's shoulders. Time and fate treat such notions with contempt which can make the burden unbearably heavy. If one day the world is turned upside down, will his instincts and determination alone provide him with enough strength to keep carrying the load he bears?

Shenhe: Fluttering of Frosty Feathers

Although the paths through the lofty peaks of Jueyun Karst are arduous, there are always bright-eyed mortals who come seeking the adeptal path. For all their ambition, most mere mortals cannot fathom the way to the adepti and return from their fruitless journeys disappointed. Yet those "fortunate" enough to encounter some hardship may suddenly find themselves being rescued by a divine young lady. Stunned by the elegance of their silver-haired savior, they hastily begin bowing excitedly, in reverence and adulation... Only to find their "adeptus" rescuer remain indifferent and leave without even a second glance

Shenhe: I will do as you command.

Liyue Harbor is known as a bustling melting pot of a city, ready to welcome any and every lonely figure. But if Shenhe truly wishes to rejoin human society, there is much she will have to learn. Even I myself do not relish the solitary life I lead. When others are fortunate enough to meet a companion for their journey, I sincerely wish them the very best. After all, to this day, I hold that people should be authors of their own fate. Both the crane ready to make peace with the past and the beast with a grudge to bear have the freedom to make their journey home.

Yae Miko: The Mocking of a Tenko

Yae Miko is a divine kitsune. As the Electro Archon's familiar and Guuji of the Grand Narukami Shrine, her dignified presence commands awe and respect. But as chief editor of the Yae Publishing House, and a patron and participant of festivities, her crafty tone keeps you guessing. This leaves many uncertain of how to deal with the majestic but mystifying Miko. In reality, however, If you want to make Lady Guuji smile you needn't deliver an eloquent speech, you simply need to say these four magic words: "Something amusing just happened."

Yae Miko: Whatever would you do without me?

In storytelling skill, the writers of the Yae Publishing House are my superior. When I get talking, I tend to speak of true historical events. But under Chief Editor Yae's guidance works of sheer fantasy thrive accounting for the vast majority of popular light novels. Maybe in another few centuries archaeologists will find books filled with pure fiction, mistake them for rare historical records, and draw all kinds of conclusions from them. Perhaps by then the truth of the past will be consumed as entertaining fiction, it's only purpose to meet people's need for novelty. Save for the sneering of the kitsune all that will remain is the despairing sighs of the long-forgotten.

Kamisato Ayato: Reflection of the Moon and Flowers

Surrounding the epicenter of power is a tangle web of powerful factions. Where vested interests and hidden agendas lurk beneath the surface. For someone to not only rise to the top in this environment, but also maintain stability, they must be exceptionally shrewd and highly skilled. Anyone who hopes to meet the man at the top would be wise to first make sure that they know exactly whose side they're on...

Kamisato Ayato: What's that? Join you for a walk? Why not.

Many years ago, the Yashiro Commission faced upheaval for their transgressions. The Kamisato Clan survives today because they found favor in the eyes of a god. But they bear an eternal obligation to be guardians of the divine. If you ask the head of the Kamisato Clan what he truly holds sacred, I daresay "the will of the gods" would not be his answer. And so, though Kamisato Ayato appears to handle his affairs with consummate ease, when all is said and done, he is simply an ordinary soul caught between the divine and the mundane. If there comes a day when the instruction of the gods conflicts with that which he has sworn to protect, how then will he preserve his delicately maintained stability?

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