Omniscius [Genshin Impact]

62: Given and Taken

"You know before, I had my suspicions you were related to Cloud Retainer," Soleil mused, "I only then realized from you that she was your master."

She followed after Shenhe while passing through Cuijue Slope. The exorcist looked at Soleil, "Really? How?"

"You look the same," Soleil said amusingly. Shenhe smiled faintly, "Perhaps we do. But that was only because of the lack of clothing she can provide. My master may be knowledgeable, but she knows little about human fashion. Oh, and don't tell her I said that."

"Haha. I'll keep that in mind," Soleil giggled, "So, how long have you been under her care?"

"How long? Oh... As far as I remember, I'd been with her since I was a little girl," Shenhe answered with a nostalgic look in her gradient eyes.

"I lost my mother and my father... Well, he just abandoned me. I could care less about him. Cloud Retainer saved me when I was at the brink of death. I've been her student since then," Shenhe explained. Soleil looked at her curiously.

"If you don't mind me answering, does it have to do with the ropes around your body?" she asked, "I've noticed since we first met, but they have a really strong, suppressive aura."

"These ropes..." Shenhe held the red, knitted ropes on her braid holding her Cryo Vision, "They are meant to subdue the bad luck in me."

"Bad luck?" Soleil wondered. "Yes. More than often, I cause tragedy to those around me unless I have the ropes. I have no control over it, so master made the ropes to help me be under control," Shenhe replied.

"May I?" Soleil pointed at the ropes. Shenhe blinked in surprise, but nodded.

Soleil touched the ropes. As soon as she did, she felt a tremendous surge of aura. All of her body felt heavy within, as if her organs and blood turned into unmoving walls and heavy weights.

The scholar gritted her teeth and pulled away with great effort. Most people wouldn't feel as affected as she did, but Soleil herself has a strange energy circulating her energy circuit.

Those ropes... Not only does it suppress, but also takes away her ability to feel intense emotions.

No wonder Shenhe looks unnaturally calm. The gradient hues of her eyes were beautiful, but they were blank. She may still have reason, but she cannot feel too much emotions.

"Your master is skilled. Those ropes are something," Soleil spoke. "She is. I am grateful for everything she has done," Shenhe said.

"But are you not yet done being her student? You're an expert in adeptal arts and thaumaturgy. I'd be surprised if you still need more to learn," Soleil said.

"My training ensues, but I learned enough under Cloud Retainer," Shenhe answered.

"So why don't you return to the harbor? Chongyun wants to spend more time with you, you know? You can live with his clan," Soleil said. Shenhe pursed her lips.

"I...do not belong to the city. So much has changed since I was a little girl. Hmph, I cannot even remember the basics of social etiquette," Shenhe mumbled, "I wouldn't feel welcomed there."

Soleil was silent. The dilemma of being accepted, huh?

"I guess I can relate," Soleil said quietly. Shenhe stared at her silently as they both took a step into Jueyun Karst.

Soleil felt her goosebumps rise. Her gut feeling was telling her someone has their eyes on her and Shenhe. At the same time, she only felt her presence and Shenhe's.

It must be the adepti, Soleil thought. How will the illuminated beasts treat her, she wonders?

"How are your hiking and gliding skills?" Shenhe asked out of the blue. Soleil blinked in confusion.