Stygian Stakes
Aether:Alright, Stygian is open again. Hmm, oh look. The Tulpa is finally b-
???:AETHER!!!!!
He turns his head to see Hu Tao posing triumphantly on a hill.
Hu Tao:Many moons ago, I accepted my own shortcomings and gave all I could to Mavukia for the sake of success. Thanks to you, I’m no longer the same fighter! I’ve come seeking vengeance and pride!
Aether:Then go claim it with your own two hands! I believe in you!
Hu Tao:Ay ay!
The girl takes off running towards the portal with full confidence.
Hu Tao:Citlali, Xiangling, Ineffa, to me!
Ineffa & Xiangling:Coming!!!!
Citlali:Siiiiiigggghhh
Aether:*smiles* Good luck to all of you.
Varka:Wow. Such energy! Word on the street is it’s my turn to throw my hat in the ring again, haha!
Aether:Your performance will be evaluated, and your drinking privilege at risk. Give up at your own discretion.
Varka:What!?
Nicole:Hehe. Someone runs a tight ship, and look whose upset the captain.
Aether:All treasure chests planted by you shall go unopened until further notice.
Nicole:Huh!? That’s not right!
Aether:*turns away* Alrighty then! I…have no idea what is going on with the Shade’s old guard.
Zibai:I’ll dispose of it.
Aether:…O-Okay. It says you might need pyro or-
Zibai:*scoops of Yanfei* She’s all the fire necessary.
Yanfei:What the- ah!
Zibai:I promise your safety. Ms. Columbina, L-
Aether:They left when you said “I”
Zibai:Ah…very good. See you soon. *runs off*
Aether:By Yanfei! You’ll do great!
Nicole:Wait, are you only mad at us!?
Aether:May Barbatos guide these souls to where they need to be.
Venti:*drags them away* Come along before my alcohol share is at risk! Durin, if you would be so kind to lend a wing?
Durin:Okay! I’ll lend two!
Aether:Be safe you two!
Nicole:Gasp! He is mad us! Varka!
Varka:Woah! I wasn’t the one playing hard to get. My sword however… He’ll forgive us, eventually.
Aether:*shakes primo bag* When it stops flapping in the wind, then we can talk!
C3 Prune:Are you mad at me too?
Aether:I can never be mad at you. Just keep doing your best. You’ll get there.
