Chapter 154
Liyue, the Stratum Abyss.
Aether and Nahida stood at the border between the Stratum Abyss and Sumeru. The passage before them was carved through layers of bioluminescent crystal, glowing faintly with hues of teal and violet. It looked less like a tunnel and more like the throat of some ancient, dreaming beast.
Through that crystalline tunnel, they stepped into the land of Sumeru.
As soon as Nahida returned, she felt her connection to the land surge back like roots meeting soil after a long drought. The energy of the Dendro Archon pulsed in her veins, resonating with the breath of the forest. Vines unfurled in her wake, trees seemed to lean forward, and distant birds let out melodic cries.
Aether, dressed in a white hooded windbreaker that fluttered lightly in the breeze, looked around, his golden eyes scanning the vibrant green landscape. The humid scent of moss and flowers surrounded them.
"Nahida, we’re in Huachengguo," he said.
Nahida nodded gently, her voice soft with emotion. "Finally... I’m back. I hope everything goes well this time."
"Don’t worry," Aether said with quiet confidence. "I’ll help you, Nahida."
She smiled, comforted. "With your words, I feel much more at ease. Thank you, Aether."
He gave a nod. "Come on, let’s go into Huachengguo."
Aether and Nahida then prepared themselves as they ventured forth.