Genshin impact watches their future (COMPLETED)

Chapter 3: New and old friends

"I fervently hope she remains unscathed," Zhongli articulates, his voice laced with concern as they pause for a moment's respite.

Childe, with a chuckle that seems to dance in the air, responds with unwavering confidence. "She's our daughter, Xiangsheng. Resilience is her birthright." The assurance in his voice prompts a soft smile to grace Zhongli's features, a silent acknowledgment of their shared hope.

"You speak the truth," Zhongli concedes, comforted by the thought.

Mailin, ensuring the comfort and readiness of their audience, inquires with a hospitable tone, "Has everyone refreshed themselves with sustenance and libations? Are we prepared to delve back into the unfolding narrative?"

A unified chorus of affirmatives fills the room, a testament to their eagerness to proceed. Settling back into their seats, the collective attention refocuses on the screen as the narrative thread picks up once more, continuing to weave its intricate tapestry.

Katrina regards the stranger before her with a hint of wariness in her gaze. "And you are?" she probes, her tone edged with caution.

The girl opposite her responds, a trace of disdain coloring her words. "I assure you, I'm no ally of the Fatui. Far from it—I harbor nothing but contempt for them."

Convinced, if somewhat reluctantly, Katrina introduces herself, "The name's Katrina," her voice carrying a mix of curiosity and guarded openness.

"Mei," comes the reply, as the girl named Mei cautiously retracts her polearm, signaling a truce.

"Pleased to meet you, Mei. Are you out here on your own?" Katrina inquires, her interest piqued.

A moment passes before Mei confirms, "Yes, I am."

"And what brings you to these parts?" Katrina's eyes scan the surroundings, still struggling to reconcile the girl's presence with the desolation that envelops them.

"I call this place home. I was scavenging for food when you stumbled upon me," Mei explains, her voice carrying a hint of resilience.

"You live here?!" Katrina's surprise is palpable as she takes in the extent of the ruins that Mei claims as home.

"Yes. And you? What quest has led you to these forsaken streets?" Mei counters, her gaze sweeping the remnants of what once was.

"I'm on a search for my parents. Taken by the Fatui," Katrina confides, aiding Mei in rummaging through the remnants of the past.

"That's an eerie parallel to my own tale. The Fatui are to blame for my parents' disappearance as well, or so my uncle believed," Mei reveals, her attention momentarily caught by an abandoned stove.

"Your uncle? Then you're in his care now?" Katrina probes gently, her curiosity deepening.

"He passed away five years ago," Mei shares, a shadow crossing her features.

"I'm sorry to hear that," Katrina offers, her empathy genuine.

"It's alright," Mei dismisses the condolence with a stoic semblance of acceptance.

Their search yields meager results, but it's something. "Would you like some help with your findings back to where you stay?" Katrina gestures towards Mei's laden bag, offering her assistance.

"If it's not too much trouble, I'd appreciate that," Mei responds, a rare smile touching her lips.

Together, they navigate the labyrinth of desolation, eventually arriving at a structure that stands out from the rest, a testament to resilience amidst ruin.