Chapter 4: Sumeru

2.5K 34 11
                                    

"Wow! Laura's resemblance to me is uncanny!" Venti exclaims, his eyes sparkling with amazement and a broad grin spreading across his face.

The observation prompts Zhongli to nod in agreement, "Indeed, she bears a striking similarity. Though, her stern demeanor brings my son to mind." He then turns to Venti, a playful suspicion in his tone, "Perhaps you've ventured into parenthood as well?" The gentle tease draws a direct line to their shared history and fond memories.

At this, Venti's grin widens, his delight palpable as he revels in the jest, while Xiao's reaction is to blush deeply, his cheeks rivaling the hue of a ripe tomato.

"Laura! It's unbelievable to see you safe! I feared the worst after the Fatui's incursion!" Katrina exclaims, wrapping her friend in a tight embrace, a wave of relief washing over her.

Once they part, Laura shares, "I'm fine, thanks to my parents. They entrusted Dvalin with my safety," revealing a piece of her survival story that leaves Katrina in awe.

"Dvalin? As in, the Dragon?" Katrina's confusion is palpable, prompting a nod from Laura.

"Yes, but he's assumed a more human guise to blend in," Laura clarifies, a detail that makes perfect sense to Katrina in hindsight.

Interrupted by Mei's polite cough, Laura's attention shifts. "Pleasure to meet you. I'm Mei," Mei extends her introduction, received with a nod of acknowledgment from Laura.

Safely within the confines of an old hotel, Laura inquires, "So, what brings you here?"

Katrina responds with resolve, "I've embarked on a quest to find my parents."

Laura's concern is immediate, her eyes widening. "Are you certain? That's a perilous path, and their fate remains unknown..."

"I'm convinced they're alive. It's a feeling deep within," Katrina asserts, her determination unshakable.

Mei chimes in, "Our paths crossed in Liyue Harbor, and I've chosen to join her quest."

After a moment of contemplation, Laura rises, decisiveness etching her features. "Then count me in as well."

"Really?! That's incredible, Laura! You're amazing!" Katrina's joy is infectious, pulling Laura into another hug.

"Ease up on the embrace, you stupid ginger," Laura protests with a huff, though she makes no move to break the contact, her acceptance of the affection clear.

Xiao and Childe exchange a fleeting look, an unspoken understanding passing between them.

Zhongli, observing the interaction with a gleam of joy in his eyes, declares with a warm smile, "She undeniably is yours Xiao, Venti."

Caught in the moment, both young men allow a blush to tint their cheeks, their expressions alight with a mixture of bashfulness and genuine happiness.

After spending the night in the hotel, the trio awakens with a sense of adventure, ready to embark on the next leg of their journey.

"Next stop, Sumeru!" Mei announces with a sparkle of anticipation in her eyes.

"Wait up!" Laura interjects, swiftly gathering her companions. With a grace that defies gravity, she propels them high above the clouds, ensuring their passage remains unseen. In a breathtaking display of her abilities, Laura initiates a teleportation spell.

They materialize within the heart of a dense rainforest, the air thick with the scent of verdant life. The exertion momentarily overcomes Laura, her strength waning.

Genshin impact watches their future (COMPLETED)Where stories live. Discover now