Sincerely, my 11th (Genshin Impact Fanfiction)

descent

"Hey, Childe. Glad to see your arm is all fine now." The local blacksmith in Liyue Harbor says.

The man still crafts wares such as swords, spears, bows, and more. In modern times, such weaponry has naught been used for combat in a long time, yet his business is still prospering. He makes sure they're blunt and can't actively do lethal harm, as his profits mostly come from tourists and sword collectors. They get these as souvenirs, as a safe yet authentic replica of weapons that originated from Liyue.

This doesn't take away his reputation as a kind-hearted and highly skilled craftsman. His niche in the market, as a sort-of weaponry tourist attraction, is unique and secures him a stable source of mora.

"Thank you, Master Zhang! I can finally wield weapons again." Childe says in response. A strong tug on the leash he holds onto startled him slightly. Seems like Boris isn't pleased by the stop for mundane small talk.

"Make sure to buy from me for guaranteed quality!" The smith, who's also business-savvy, claims. Childe chuckles since he can already attest to when he bought a traditional gong bow from Master Zhang. It's sturdy, light, very easy to use when he practices archery in an open field, and very striking wall décor when he doesn't.

He nods, though he sadly has to cut off the conversation short. Boris is starting to bite the leash and pull him along the road. "Of course, sir. But I need to walk my dog now. He's been restless for a long stroll."

"Of course, just keep it in mind." Master Zhang waves goodbye, and so does Childe.

He breathes in the fresh air and smiles. It felt nice that some Liyuens are comfortable enough to combust into small talk with him now. The community used to feel so hostile and distant to him, but as he continues to integrate himself into the city step-by-step, they've let him experience the close-knit nature and warmth emanating at the core of this nation's people.

"Ajax, off for a walk? Why not stop to buy some cheap and tasty chop suey first!" Su Er'niang, one of his friends, offers. Her business doing as great as ever! Relocation has done wonders for her profits.

Unfortunately, a certain dog isn't hungry. "No thank you, Su Er'niang. Boris here can't stay still for more than 30 seconds." He apologizes and bows his head. He then looks fondly at the cute Golden Retriever who is nudging his leg in impatience.

Su Er'niang can relate, having a Siamese cat of her own. "Oh, I'd understand. Pesky pets... That's why we love 'em!" She jokes while handing out a bowl to a waiting customer.

Childe laughs and starts walking away, waving bye to the boisterous woman. She similarly does the same. "I'll be going now then! I'll see you soon at the rite of descension!"

The Rite of Descension is a yearly tradition in Liyue Harbor. Hu Tao and Xingqiu have told him about it before, but strangely enough, not Zhongli. The topic must've not come naturally into their conversations since the occasion is fairly esoteric.

It's going to happen today later this afternoon. It's the first real holiday in Liyue he'll experience, and he can't wait for it.

Boris, on the other hand, is already satisfied with the peaceful amble by the sidewalk alongside his affectionate owner. Childe sighs, sometimes envying how simple the ambitions of animals can be.

He talks to Boris casually. "C'mon boy, aren't you excited? This is the first time we'll see Rex Lapis in person! Ningguang talks about him in reverent tones every meeting, given most of our orders are issued by him."

Boris stops to look at him, listening even though he can't speak back. He tilts his head to the side, fluffy ears flopping. He's confused because he doesn't even see his beloved owner when he goes to those meetings.