It was near the evening in Mondstadt and Shadow was apparently on his own as while things have been going pretty exciting for Nintega and Jordan, the level of excitement for him has gone down the drain. He was actually wanting to hang out with the guys because of this, but they were pretty busy with their own things at the moment as Jordan was helping Lisa in the library and Nintega was helping out Eula with some reconnaissance, so he settled on heading to Angel's Share by the off chance that he could run into Rosaria there.

Heading through the one door entryway, he's greeted by the tavern's usual lively ambience. Sure enough, a familiar looking Sister of the Cathedral sat at the bar, a pint of beer in her hand as she drank it slowly. Smiling, and maybe blushing a little too, Shadow goes over and takes a seat next to her, surprising her slightly.

Rosaria: Well, well. If it isn't Mister Bigshot Monarch Knight himself.

Shadowlight2784: Okay...it's not that long, Rosaria. How'd you even find out about it?

Rosaria: You'd be surprised by how fast word travels around town. I don't typically like staying in the city during the daytime, but that doesn't mean I try to avoid what news spreads around.

Her eyes wander off to the side of Shadow, expecting to see either Jordan, Nintega, Lumine, or all three of them there beside him, but finds none of them.

Rosaria: You here alone tonight again?

Shadowlight2784: *sigh* Yeah. It's been pretty bland for me lately. Apparently "The Savior of CHS" has been having the time of his life here in the tavern with Venti.

Rosaria: Um...what is CHS?

Shadowlight2784: It's...an inside joke between the three of us.

Rosaria: Okay...and I take it that the Hero Knight's busy sucking up to the Reconnaissance Captain?

Shadow's eyes widen from this, a little surprised before giving a small smile at Rosaria.

Shadowlight2784: You're quite perceptive.

Rosaria: That wasn't a lucky guess. As I said, word travels fast. You, on the other hand, have been pretty reclusive.

She chuckles lightly before taking a sip of her drink.

Rosaria: You could almost give me a run for my money in terms of how reclusive... almost.

Shadowlight2784: Eh, wouldn't be the first time.

He quickly asks Charles for a drink before turning to Rosaria again.

Shadowlight2784: I can do without the boredom though. There are places that I haven't explored thoroughly around Mondstadt, but so far, none of them seem all that appealing to me. I could try Dragonspine, but after hearing what Nintega and Jordan went through... yeah, I'll pass on that.

Rosaria: Heh. So, you're saying that you're looking for a challenge?

Shadowlight2784: Define "challenge".

Rosaria chugs down more of her beer and slams it back down before glancing at Shadow again from the corner of her eye.

Rosaria: You know... there may be such a place that can be to your liking. I happen to go there at times when trying to avoid choir practice.

Already, Shadow found himself interested as he turned himself fully to the taller woman.

Shadowlight2784: That so? Please, do tell.

Rosaria: It's called Wolvendom. It's a rugged little forest that sits to the west of Mondstadt. It's filled with all kinds of dangers, including giant slimes.

Shadowlight2784: Giant slimes are dangerous?

Rosaria: Not your regular giant slimes. These ones can get twice, if not, three times the size of the regular giant slimes. Wolvendom is practically a place untouched by others in Mondstadt. You could say the only thing that rules that area is nature itself.

Shadowlight2784: Huh. Didn't think you had an interest in botany.

Not knowing if that was a compliment or not, Rosaria just crossed her arms.

Rosaria: I take no interest in plant life and the sort, but the dandelion is an exception. How a simple flower can be turned into good wine is beyond me.

Shadowlight2784: Well, disregarding that... I just hope something interesting comes when exploring this place in Mondstadt you mentioned. To the west, you said, right?

The Sister nods.

Rosaria: Word of warning, as the name implies, Wolvendom is home to not just slimes and other monsters, but also wolves. Particularly a rather big one.

Shadow face turns pale from that vague description.

Shadowlight2784: They're not lycanthropes...right?

Rosaria: See for yourself if you're that curious.

They both then heard the door to Angel's Share open and who came in made Rosaria scoff a little as there were a couple of other Sisters from the church.

Rosaria: Ugh! And that's my cue to take off.

Shadowlight2784: You better hope that they're not looking for you.

Rosaria: If it's not about prayer, then it's about choir or some other thing I'm supposed to participate in... I'm trying to stay out of sight, so don't you dare tell them you saw me here.

She stands up and goes into the direction of the stairs to the second floor to hide before turning back towards Shadow one last time.

Rosaria: Do yourself a favor and don't do anything stupid or reckless while you're there, especially anything that puts Mondstadt in danger.

Rosaria's little warning actually made Shadow smirk a little.

Shadowlight2784: Don't see why that'd be such a concern to you. Unless...there's something you're not telling me.

Rosaria turns her head away from Shadow at that question, a scoff escaping her afterwards.

Rosaria: Tch! As if. I'd just prefer if we didn't hold an expensive funeral for a Knight that just got here not too long ago. Plus, you'd make more trouble for me if that happened.

She then proceeds to walk away before Shadow decides to make his exit as well to make his way towards Wolvendom.

When Shadow arrived at Wolvendom, the first thing that he sees is a trail that leads into a dark forest as even a broken cart was conveniently there for emphasis.

Shadow stares at the entrance for a moment before crossing his arms with a small hum.

Shadowlight2784: Okay...dark, ominous environment, wolves howling in the distance, destroyed property... I swear, if zombie hands start bursting from the ground...

No such zombies came about, but a group of Hydro Slimes surely did. Frowning, Shadow summons his polearm and gives it a few spins.

Shadowlight2784: Hmph. Finally, something interesting... *sigh* Okay...Nintevitus is officially a real disease now...

Shadow then rushes forward and spins his polearm around and around on his back while making it glow lime green. He then throws it forward causing a mini-tornado to form and this carries all of the Hydro Slimes ahead of him before they all went splat to the ground.

Shadow then notices above him, a more massive Hydro Slime about to crush him as he rolls out of the way just in time before he catches his polearm back and gives the Hydro Slime a few hits before he jumps and kicks himself off of a wall to go above the Hydro Slime himself and he comes down over it with a plunging attack that made the Slime burst into both goo and water. Shadow wipes some of the essence off of his clothes before sighing.

Shadowlight2784: This better be the only thing I get covered in today.

When he wipes off the last of the slime from his clothes, Shadow took notice of three more Hydro Slimes hopping in his direction. They stopped when they got a certain distance and at first, Shadow put on a cocky smirk from only having to easily take on three small slimes such as these. Although, it would appear that his confidence was brought out at the worst time as the slime in the middle took on an angry scowl and started... growing. Larger and larger, easily the biggest he'd seen yet. It now took on the size of a hundred ton boulder, if not bigger.

Just like the stuff it was made of, Shadow felt the tiny drops of sweat go down his head from now having to face such a ginormous foe.

Shadowlight2784: Well... that's just plain unfair.

The monster sized Slime hunched its whole body down, ready to slam Shadow into a pancake while Shadow prepared for its attack. But, just before the elemental monster could jump, something that resembled a bolt of lightning shot through the nearby forest, blasted off a nearby outcropping, and came straight down in between Shadow and the Giga Slime. The explosion caused the Giga Slime to shrink back to its normal size and it was blown away along with the others.

Shadow gains both a surprised and confused look while looking towards whatever defended him, but it wasn't a what, rather a who. The person that emerged from the smoke was a boy with long, shaggy and unkempt gray hair and piercing red eyes. He was wearing green camouflage pants, an orange poncho-like shirt, dark boots, and a dark hooded coat decorated with belts. His accessories are a tooth necklace, thumb-less orange gloves, and one gold earring on his left ear and he was holding a claymore with Electro magic emitting off of him. This was Razor, the young, fierce resident of Wolvendom in Mondstadt.

With both a fierce gaze and a scowl, the boy took up his electrified claymore and aimed it straight at the three Hydro Slimes who naturally were frightened by him and bounced away as fast as they could. With the Slimes gone, the boy turns back to Shadow who could only stare in some confusion before he sees in the distance, some wolves around the area too looking towards Razor.

Shadowlight2784: Aah! I surrender!

Such a response from him made a confused look appear on Razor as he shakes his head and raises his hands.

Razor: Do not worry. Wolves friends. But, you are...?

Shadowlight2784: Uhh...not a lycanthrope...yet?

This only baffled Razor and of course Shadow knew that he had no idea what he was talking about as Shadow lightly chuckles before following up with a more appropriate response.

Shadowlight2784: L-Listen...I'm just trying to make my way through, s-so if you don't mind...

Razor then did something that Shadow wasn't prepared for at all as Razor stalks up to him and sniffs him on parts of his body.

Shadowlight2784: Aah! WHAT THE HECK ARE YOU DOING?!

Razor: Don't smell boring. You smell... *sniff* familiar...

Shadowlight2784: Uh... does that mean you're not going to bite me?

Razor shakes his head.

Razor: No, no. You smell like Knights of Favonius. They are friends.

Shadowlight2784: Your friends? So are you also a Knight of Favonius?

Razor shakes his head once more before properly greeting Shadow.

Razor: I am Razor. I am no knight.

The wolves that were watching Razor then jumped down to his level making Shadow a little nervous as he almost put his guard up, if it weren't for Razor kneeling down to hug or lick the wolves which was what they were doing to him as well.

Shadowlight2784: Oh...I guess you're pretty close with them, huh?

Razor nods, looking up at Shadow.

Razor: My wolf pack... they are my family.

Such a thing made Shadow raise an eyebrow.

Shadowlight2784: Have they...been taking care of you?

Razor: Yes. They raised me. We live together. We are family.

Shadowlight2784: Yeah... still trying to process that, buddy.

A few growls could be heard from the wolves as they were aimed up at Razor.

Razor: They are angry with me. I help you, exposed our ambush, boar ran away.

It didn't take a genius for Shadow to piece together what he meant and he throws on an apologetic look.

Shadowlight2784: Oh, shhoooooooooottt...Sorry about that. I can help you find another boar.

Razor: N-No need. When Knights try to help, wolves go hungry...

Shadowlight2784: Buddy, I'm not like any other Knight of Favonius. I'll be sure to keep quiet. Honestly, when it comes to being the edgiest one on the team, that's kind of what I'm good at.

Shadow then runs off to go and see if he can catch some meat from some boars for Razor and his wolfpack despite the boy's reluctance. A growl then came from one of the wolves as Razor looks down at it to see that it was clearly skeptical of trusting Shadow. However, Razor just shakes his head to tell the wolf to not be so hostile for now.

Razor had to wait for about fifteen minutes and soon enough, Shadow came back, barely being able to haul up a dead boar with his polearm as he trudges towards the wolves while struggling to carry the boar. When he made it right in front of them, he tosses the boar down in front of them and the wolves all started digging in, sinking their teeth in to feed on the animal. Razor could only stare surprised that Shadow was able to bring his wolfpack some food as if this was the first time something like this happened.

Shadowlight2784: Phew! There you guys go. I underestimated just how fast those animals are.

Despite being given what he and his wolf family were looking for, Razor still held a look of worry.

Razor: I – thanks, but... Wolves catch five or six every hunt... *sigh* Tonight, they go hungry...

Shadow was quick to catch on and he looked down a tad disappointed.

Shadowlight2784: So... this one boar won't be enough then.

Razor: Don't worry. You tried.

He reassured Shadow, placing a hand on his shoulder.

Razor: At least you did better than other knight friend... the red one, burny girl. If she was here, whole mountain is fire. Can't catch even one boar.

Shadowlight2784: Burny... girl? Or... Bunny? Amber?

His thoughts were interrupted when another wolf howl was heard in the distance, but this one sounded a bit more ominous and creepy.

Shadowlight2784: What was that...?

Razor: I must go now. Here is not safe. Careful. Always watching.

Without saying another word, Razor turned and ran far off into the woods, losing Shadow's sight. Shadow was still a little confused on who Razor was talking about as Amber never mentioned him before to any of them. However, "Burny Girl" was the only lead that he had and it mostly pointed towards Amber.

Shadowlight2784: Well, this evening certainly just got strange... Nonetheless, that's kind of what I wanted.

Wanting to confirm his suspicions, Shadow raced his way back to the Mondstadt gates and he was getting ready to go in and search for Amber, but he actually didn't need to search any further as the Outrider was over by a grassy area, admiring some dandelions. Shadow walked his way over to Amber as the Crimson Knight notices Shadow and waved at him with both hands.

Shadowlight2784: Heya, Amber.

Amber: Hi, Shadow. What can I do for you?

Shadowlight2784: I was just at Wolvendom and met someone... Do you know some kind of... "wolf boy" over there? And just to be clear, I'm not talking about Jordan... An actual wolf boy.

A raised eyebrow laced stare is what he got from Amber who didn't really understand who he was talking about.

Amber: Who?

Shadowlight2784: You know, Razor? Rabid looking kid, long gray hair, looks like he can stare into your soul with those red eyes of his?

Amber still didn't get who Shadow was talking about at all as her eyebrows furrowed at him.

Amber: Who on earth are you talking about? You say the strangest things all of the time, Shadow... but this is by far the strangest.

Shadowlight2784: Are you completely sure? Cause he said that you two wait at the usual spot. Huh... There isn't a glitch in anyone's game is there?

Amber: I. have. no. idea. what. you're. talking. About. But on the subject of wolves, I've been investigating something recently. In the past, the wolves never dared venture outside of Wolvendom. But now they're getting braver. I heard they attacked a cart fleet near Drunkard Gorge. If you have time, could you come and check out the situation with me?

Shadowlight2784: Me? Why not Jordan? He's the outrider, not me.

Amber: Well... Unfortunately, today is his shift with Lisa, so I don't want to overwork my boyfriend. Also, are you out here alone?

Shadowlight2784: *sigh* Surprising everyone, but myself...

Amber: *chuckles* You poor thing. I haven't seen Lumine either and I think Nintega was helping out Eula today. Come on, Shadow! I don't get to hang out with you all that much, so this'll be fun!

A skeptical look crossed Shadow's face for a second, but he ultimately understood her point, so he nodded a bit.

Shadowlight2784: I suppose I can't say no.

Amber: Great! Onwards then!

She grabbed Shadow's hand and eagerly pulled back in the direction he came from, surprising him.

Shadowlight2784: H-Hey! Pump the breaks, Speedy Gonzales!

It didn't take long before the two of them arrived at Springvale and when they both heard growling in the distance, they hid behind a rock to see a bunch of hilichurls being their normal feral selves while attacking a cart and bothering a girl as well.

Amber: *whisper* Look, up ahead! Something's happening!

Shadowlight2784: *sarcasm* Whaaaaaattt? Huh, I've gotta say, I didn't think a few hilichurls had the stones to attack a cart this close to the village. Come to think of it, that could be what's actually attacking the carts.

Amber: Huh. Not such a mystery after all. Enough talk. Let's go help out!

Sprinting out from behind the rock, Amber takes her bow in hand and sprints straight at the hilichurls faster than Shadow could react as he sat there for a second.

Shadowlight2784: *sigh* She... was practically made to be Jordan's girl.

Cracking both his neck and knuckles, Shadow took out his polearm and ran towards the hilichurls as well. When she was close enough, Amber shot a special-looking arrow into the air which caused the hilichurls that were being rowdy, to look up at it in confusion, before the arrow burst into smaller arrows of Pyro magic and came down on the hilichurls like rain.

The Hilichurls all panicked by trying to evade as much of the arrows as possible. Some of them were lucky, others got pelted by a bunch and they ended up in flames. Shadow then got into the fight as he leaps over the hilichurls and spins his polearm behind his back before charging up a swing. His eyes glowed lime green as he scowled before swinging his polearm with enough force that it caused a large gust of wind to be blown at the hilichurls and they all got shoved far into the air before making a huge splash into Cider Lake.

Luckily for them, hilichurls don't know how to swim as they all easily drowned beneath the water. With the hilichurls cleared, Shadow and Amber put their weapons away before walking up to the female that was attacked a moment ago as she thanked both of them.

Siegfria: Bless you!

Shadowlight2784: Well, I didn't hear a sneeze, but...I'm sure whoever did appreciates it.

Amber: Ehe, I think she's thanking us, Shadow...

She said with a nervous sweatdrop before she gets her slight serious demeanor back focusing on what they came here for.

Amber: So, the hilichurls have started to flex their muscles on the back of the wolf scare.

Siegfria: That's right. But I must say, if you think the Hilichurls are a nasty lot, the wolves are even worse. They... they attacked Springvale this morning.

Amber: Springvale?! That's crazy!

Siegfria: It's unheard of.

Shadowlight2784: Wait, so... the wolves are just up and attacking more aggressively and out of nowhere? There may be a cause for it that none of us here know about.

Siegfria: Maybe. I thought I would take my chances on the road after the wolves had their fun... I never thought the hilichurls would show up too.

Amber: We should head there soon and see how bad the situation is. But first things first, you should assess the damage to your cart. Does it still work?

Siegfria: I'll take a look.

She turns and begins inspecting her cart to check and see how severe the damage to it was while Shadow and Amber took their leave, heading down the dirt road that took them to Springvale. They get to the town and much like with Siegfria, they encounter a sight that makes them stop. A small group of people were gathering around a man who was lying down on the ground, looking like something had traumatized him. His face carried fear and his body had a noticeable shake. Not waiting around for a second longer, Shadow and Amber went over to both the group and the distraught man.

Draff: Oh dear... This is awful, poor lad can't even stand.

One of the other people commented.

Amber: That's terrible!

She did so as well after getting a better look at the man on the ground. When Shadow did so however, he gained a empathetic look after seeing that the paralyzed man wasn't injured.

Shadowlight2784: Holy crap...he's in complete shock!

Draff: Right. It's awful, the wolves frightened him so badly that he's paralyzed with fear.

Amber gained a sympathetic frown, placing a hand over her heart.

Amber: That... really is awful.

Shadowlight2784: Poor guy...well, at any rate...

He kneels down to the frightened man's level.

Shadowlight2784: Do you...remember much from your encounter with Mister Canis Lupus?

Hopkins the Marvelous: I-I've never seen a wolf in my life before today, it was terrifying...

Amber: No details then, huh? Let's investigate the area again.

Agreeing with Amber, both her and Shadow decided to search around Springvale for clues on if wolves actually came and attacked Springvale. Shadow was looking around a nearby house for a minute before he came across some claw marks that were on the ground. However, what was strange was that these claw marks were larger than usual. It didn't even look like it belonged to an animal.

Shadowlight2784: Okay... these are certainly claw marks, but unless they're mutated or something, wolves aren't usually this big in size.

He then looks over near the house door and sees a tooth as well, but even that seemed to be too big to belong to a normal wolf. Shadow picked it up and inspected it with confusion.

Shadowlight2784: Are they sure sharks didn't attack this place...? Because this loose tooth is enough to fill at least two of a wolf's teeth...

Feeling like this may be useful, Shadow kept the tooth in his pocket before he looks over to see Amber picking up something in the distance as well. He walks over to her as Amber turns around to show Shadow what she found.

Amber: Wolf fur... I heard that in Liyue they make calligraphy brushes out of this stuff. The color looks nothing like Mondstadt wolf fur, based on what the books say. Could it be that they're from somewhere else entirely?

Shadowlight2784: In a place like Teyvat, there's no telling... Hell, purple hair could drop from me or anyone else and no one would still be able to guess where it came from.

Amber: But look at this-

Amber shows something else that she found on another lock of what she believes to be wolf hair, but it looked like some type of seed was attached to it too.

Shadowlight2784: What kind of thorny seed is that?

Amber: It's the seed of a Wolfhook berry. Look, there are little hooks on the seed. The only places this grows at are Wolvendom and Brightcrown Canyon.

Shadowlight2784: Well, in that case, I think we can safely rule out the latter location. Guess that means we've got a few rogue Wolvendom wolves on the loose.

Amber: From that area, yes, but it could be that there are other wolf packs encroaching on their territory. This doesn't tell us everything, but it does give us a strong lead. Enough to start investigating.

She pockets the wolf fur and seed after that.

Amber: I'll go and see to the villagers before we head off.

Shadowlight2784: Just make sure that none of them go all loopy like Hopkins. The last thing I need is to deal with Mondstadt citizens who are high.

His words only served to make Amber stare back at him in bafflement.

Amber: You... are one in a million, Shadow.

Shadowlight2784: Eh, I'd narrow it down to like a thousand or a hundred.

They both head off to the heart of Springvale where they manage to gain a small gathering of the people. Hopkins, the panicked man from before, appeared to have recovered somewhat as he was back to standing.

Hopkins the Marvelous: How is your investigation coming along?

Shadow just had his arms crossed with an unsurprised look.

Shadowlight2784: Well, well. Just a moment ago, you were about ready to keel over from fright.

Hopkins the Marvelous: *sigh* Well, you're right about one thing. I have recovered, thankfully. I managed to claw my way back out of the depths of hell.

Shadowlight2784: Hey, that's my line.

A swift jab to the ribs from Amber's elbow silences him for the moment as Hopkins continued.

Hopkins the Marvelous: So, Knights of Favonius – what have you found out?

Amber: From inspecting the wolf fur left at the scene, we can tell that the wolves came from Wolvendom. Beyond that, we don't know anything. But please remain calm, I will head to Wolvendom shortly and get to the bottom of this. The Knights of Favonius will not allow this danger to continue any longer.

Hopkins the Marvelous: Good. Better late than never I suppose.

Shadowlight2784: Man...would it kill you to usher a "thank you" every now and then?

Hopkins the Marvelous: In the meantime, we'll just have to deal with this on our own.

Shadowlight2784: *sigh* Just... don't do anything stupid.

Amber: Hey, I was gonna say that!

Shadowlight2784: (*sigh* If only they knew... but I'm banned from causing an internal crisis inside of anyone...)

It was then that a scoff from Hopkins got both Shadow and Amber's attention.

Hopkins the Marvelous: Hah! We do things a bit differently around here, you lot from the order probably aren't used to it. They will pay for what they've done!

He turns around, tilting his head up to the sky.

Hopkins the Marvelous: Goodbye!

With nothing else to say, he strides off with the rest of the group, leaving just Shadow and Amber who looked at each other, a bit confused by his switch in behavior. Although, it would seem that they weren't as alone as they thought as one man stayed behind, giving Hopkins a disapproving frown.

Draff: It's awful, it really is...

Shadowlight2784: (Woah. Now, we've got two Batmans in this universe!)

Amber: Huh? What is?

Draff: Their future outlook, I mean. Young people can be so impulsive sometimes. If it's not too much to ask, I hope you can keep an eye on them, stop them from getting into trouble.

Amber: It's no trouble - that's what we're here for. Even though that guy over there isn't really much of a charmer.

Shadowlight2784: Yeah, even Jekyll and Hyde weren't as split as that guy was when it came to personality shifting.

Draff: Jekyll... and Hyde?

He asked, raising an eyebrow. Almost immediately, Shadow realized what he'd said and cleared his throat.

Shadowlight2784: I-I mean... the guy's an ass. To put my explanation in a nutshell.

Amber: *chuckles nervously* How about we just head to Wolvendom before you short circuit more minds with your strange phrases, Shadow...?

This time, Shadow had to actually go into Wolvendom as the last time he went there, he was only at the entrance. They strolled through the dark, ominous forest as the night sky made it seem all the more suspenseful. Even so, Shadow and Amber made sure to watch each other's backs when walking along the trail in Wolvendom.

Amber: This place gives me the creeps...

Shadowlight2784: Relax. Nothing's gonna scream at your face on a trail like this.

However, as Shadow says this, our same Wolvendom resident pops out from behind a tree making Amber jump and shriek a little while Shadow only jumps.

Razor: Who's there?

Shadowlight2784: ...I should've seen you coming out eventually.

Razor recognized Shadow and grinned before going over to the two of them.

Razor: Ah, it you, purple and black knight.

Shadowlight2784: You forgot "incompetent".

The wolf boy then turned his red eyed gaze towards Amber next.

Razor: You... are also knight?

Shadowlight2784: Oh, so you really don't know each other after all. You said "red burny girl," though it sounded way too close to bunny.

Razor: No. This girl also red, but not so burny like other girl.

Amber: This is starting to make sense. Is this the wolf boy you were talking about, Shadow?

Shadowlight2784: He's... literally the only wolf boy I know. Jordan's is just a persona. Anyways, this is Razor.

Razor nods over at Amber as a way of greeting her before turning back to Shadow, looking a little worried.

Razor: Help me out.

Shadowlight2784: Okay...with what, though?

Razor: No time. I sent Lupical away. People coming, bad people.

Shadowlight2784: If you're talking about the hilichurls, we took care of them already.

Amber: I think he may be talking about someone else, Shadow. Probably those guys from earlier.

Shadow's eyes widened from this as while Razor looks similar to the wolves, he is still human as well. Not only would those guys harming Razor's wolf family cause a huge misunderstanding, but worse, they could mistake Razor for one of them too.

Amber: I have a few questions–

Razor suddenly gaining a wide eyed look of shock stopped Amber mid sentence as he sniffed the air.

Razor: *sniff* I smell blood. Quick.

Amber: Blood? I hope the wolves didn't attack those idiots...

Shadowlight2784: Actually... I can kind of smell it too... though, I can tell what human blood smells like... This is different...

Shadow then walks up to Razor.

Shadowlight2784: You did save me earlier. Allow me to return the favor with whatever problem you're having.

Razor produced a grateful smile and placed a hand against his chest.

Razor: Under tough exterior, you have good heart, black and purple knight.

Shadowlight2784: Come on, I'm not that tough. You can just call me, Shadow. And she's Amber.

Razor nods before he turns around and sniffs the area again.

Razor: Blood smell coming from over here.

He said pointing in a direction as Shadow and Amber followed right behind him. After several feet, he finally came to a stop, giving Amber the okay to check. She kneels to the ground and finds a few drops of blood staining the dirt.

Amber: Blood droplets!

Razor: Not human blood, wolf blood. Lupical blood...

Shadowlight2784: *sigh* Alright, that's the second time you mentioned this "Lupical." Any deets on who that is?

Razor: Lupical is family fate gave me. When wolf accepts human as its own. Or human accepts wolf. That is Lupical.

Shadowlight2784: So... a form of acceptance you'd say?

Razor: In some ways, yes.

Amber: That's strange, where does the word come from? Surely it wasn't made up by the wolves?

Razor: It's just the name he gave.

Amber: Who's "he?"

Razor: Guardian of this land.

Shadowlight2784: Uhh... wouldn't that be Barbatos' job? He's the Anemo Archon of Mondstadt after all.

Razor: Enough.

He sniffs the air once more.

Razor: Another clue. Follow me.

He runs off again as Amber calls out to him.

Amber: Hey, wait! This is your chance to prove your innocence!

Shadow couldn't help, but stare off at Razor and the more he thought about it, Razor definitely doesn't strike him as the type to harm others on purpose. He has an Electro Vision, knows how to wield a claymore, protected him from Slimes, and can tame wolves. There is no way Razor is the culprit.

Shadowlight2784: Honestly, Amber... Razor seems innocent enough to me already...

Amber: Well, we can't make that assessment just yet without getting all the details, Shadow. Come on. Let's follow him!

Amber runs off and Shadow sighs and shakes his head before following her so that they can catch up with the young wolf boy. They had to push through a couple of monsters, but they were able to lose them easily. They found Razor right beside a wolf that was severely injured as blood was coming out of a wound. Amber and Shadow saw this with shocked faces.

Razor: This is him. We find his blood. Bad men did this.

Shadow crossed his arms with a serious look.

Shadowlight2784: Whoever did this...is not going to come out of this alive. Attacking an innocent wolf is considered abuse... animal abuse.

Amber: I do agree that it's awful. But that doesn't change the fact that-

Razor glared at Amber, but it was out of desperation rather than hostility.

Razor: We didn't attack village! Not us! A black wolf and his pack, not from here. They try to take over land. They broke the code.

Shadowlight2784: Code? What code? Whose code?

Razor: Guardian of this land.

Shadowlight2784: (Rosaria did warn me of something that resides here... could this "Guardian" be what she was talking about?)

Amber: That's now the second time you've brought that up. Tell us who that is.

Razor: I take Lupical further in. Follow me, maybe you see.

He picks up the injured wolf gently and urges Shadow and Amber to go with him as they begin heading deeper into Wolvendom. When they got to a certain point, Shadow almost lost his balance when his foot went deeper than it should, almost causing him to lose his balance to which Amber quickly steadied him. He shoots her a grateful nod before looking down at the cause of him nearly tripping. His eyes widened when he noticed a huge paw print in the ground, one belonging to what appeared to be a large wolf.

Shadowlight2784: Well... that just isn't something you'd see every day.

Amber: W-Woah! Check THAT out!

She points before running ahead. Shadow goes after her and skids to a halt when she does as her head was trained up to something on a large stone. The object of attention was that of a large claw mark, easily bigger than any normal wolf could have possibly made.

Shadowlight2784: What kind of wolves live in this place in Mondstadt? I'm starting to think werewolves are a thing here.

Amber: Well... whatever it is...

She said, looking at something else now. Shadow followed her gaze and stopped with a gasp. In contrast to the lush green forest of Wolvendom, the place they found was more like an arena with strange carvings lining the walls.

Amber: This... must be its den.

If Wolvendom didn't already give Amber and Shadow the heebie-jeebies, it definitely was now with something as big as this residing in such a small area. Shadow and Amber looked at each other nervously before nodding as they both jumped down and looked around the large dome before spotting Razor gently setting down the injured wolf on the ground. They walk up to him as Razor turned back to them.

Razor: Shadow, help me. Collect these.

He then pulls out a couple of seeds that were shown to him earlier by Amber.

Shadowlight2784: Those are those Wolfhook seeds. From the name of them too, I'm guessing it has something to do with your wolf pack?

Razor: *nods* Crush them. Put on wound. Bleeding stop..

Amber: It's true. Wolfhook seeds have a liquid coating that not only functions as a mild painkiller, but also has a hemostatic effect...

Shadowlight2784: And... I'm guessing the reason you know this is due to experience?

His assumption made the Outrider rub the back of her head.

Amber: ...I read that in a book.

Shadowlight2784: ...Okay. Why?

Amber: ...I have no idea.

Razor: Hooks help seeds move. Liquid stops pain and bleeding. Animal doesn't feel hooks, they take seeds far away... Purple teacher told me so.

Hearing that term immediately struck both Amber and Shadow's mind as the words, "purple teacher" only classified to one certain sultry librarian in Mondstadt.

Shadowlight2784: Wait... You know Lisa?

Razor: *nods* Yes. Purple teacher taught me important things. She is very caring teacher. Am able to communicate and survive because of her. Please, go find Wolfhook seeds, Shadow. I stay here, take care of this one.

He said, looking down at his wolf companion.

Razor: I answer red girl's questions.

Amber: Right. And if that lot does come back, I doubt they will try their luck against two members of the Knights of Favonius. Your wolf friend is not clear of my suspicion just yet.

She turns towards Shadow.

Amber: But Shadow, we'll still need to fetch those seeds.

Shadowlight2784: Oh, sure. Just let me tap into my "inner Wolfhook finding instincts."

He replied which kinda sounded like sarcasm as Amber frowned slightly at him.

Shadowlight2784: What? Oh...I could've delivered that better. I'm sorry if that sounded like sarcasm, it wasn't. I can actually do that.

He runs off as quickly as he could to go and find the seed that he needs to help Razor's wolf friend and luckily for him, Wolfhook seeds were pretty common around Wolvendom as Shadow ended up collecting quite a few. He walked back with an armful of the seeds before placing them all down on the ground.

Shadowlight2784: Alright, Razor. I grabbed as much as I could. Is this enough to heal your friend?

Razor: *nods* Yes. Enough.

Shadowlight2784: Alright then. So like you said, crush them and spread the liquid on the wound, right?

Razor and Amber nodded as Shadow took charge by stomping on all of the seeds that he collected which made an indigo liquid spread across the ground. Shadow almost wanted to vomit on how this liquid looks, but he focused as much willpower as he can inside of him to not hurl as he uses his hands to gather up the gooey liquid. He then carefully spreads it all on the wound, making sure that he doesn't accidentally make the injury worse. As he was spreading the liquid, Amber decided to say something to pass the time.

Amber: Razor was just telling me about the wolven code of conduct. Mind-blowing stuff.

Shadowlight2784: Seriously? Wow. Never in my life did I think wolves would ever have a code to follow. *sigh* *whisper* Shows how much I know...

After Shadow did all that he could, he stood up. Razor walks up beside him and they both see that the injured wolf was starting to feel a tiny bit better as it only whimpered in pain. Razor could tell how it was feeling as he smiled before turning to Shadow.

Razor: Thank you.

Shadow smiles back before patting Razor on the shoulder.

Shadowlight2784: Well... I have my own code that I follow with my friends too.

Just then, two men emerged from the forest, one of whom was pretty familiar. They were soon shown to be Hopkins along with one of the other villagers who went by the name of Jotun.

Hopkins the Marvelous: We've looked everywhere and haven't seen any other wolves.

Jotun: *sigh* Yep, that's wolves for you. The one we managed to capture must have been sick or something.

Razor was quick to spot their approach as his eyes narrowed in a glare before the two men saw him too and they leaned back in shock.

Hopkins the Marvelous: Wh-What are you doing here?

Razor: Revenge.

He answered, coldly.

Jotun: It's him! The one who was raised by wolves!

Hopkins the Marvelous: Huh?!

He exclaimed before taking note of Amber and Shadow's presence as well. A glare formed in his features and he aimed it back at Razor.

Hopkins the Marvelous: So, it was you. I should have known, wolves aren't smart enough to be behind this. I can't believe you would help wolves plot against humans! They throw you some scraps and you treat them like kin? Have you forgotten what you are?

Shadowlight2784: As a matter of fact, I did.

He interjected, getting everyone's attention.

Shadowlight2784: I forgot that I was some peasant under the guidance of two asshats that decided to violently assault an animal. If you guys are behind this, then I've got... a whole lot of crap to say to you...

He glared daggers at them.

Shadowlight2784: You guys have any idea what it's like to be out in the wild? No, of course not. You're "Knights of Favonius" who basically live in comfort of the fact that you can purchase food and all this other stuff to ensure your survival. Here's how it works out in nature, it's everyone for themselves and Razor here has a family to feed and to protect. You guys cannot look at anyone at first glance and think they're some sort of bloodthirsty psychopath, especially without the evidence to back it up. That's like me saying you guys can't be knights because you "don't have the look of a knight".

He earns a proud smile from Amber who walked closer and stood by him, glaring over at Hopkins and Jotun.

Amber: That's right! We're not gonna let you hurt Razor's family!

Jotun: The Knights of Favonius are gonna let this guy off?!

Clenching one of his fists in rage, Razor glared harder back at the two men.

Razor: We. Did. Not. Raid. Village.

???: What is this disturbance to which I awaken?

[There should be a GIF or video here. Update the app now to see it.]

A voice from no discernible source could suddenly be heard, breaking everyone away from the argument.

???: This is no offering to Boreas... Not only do you come for my kind, so too do you fail to recognize your own transgression...

Suddenly, the eyes on one of the carvings lit up like a pair of eyes, gleaming in the now appearing fog that surrounded the group like a blanket. Then, out of the fog, a large figure came stalking through, right towards the group. This figure was that of a large wolf with blue and white fur. This was Boreas, the Great Wolf King of the North.

The group sees this large beast emerge from seemingly out of thin air as it sent the majority of the group into shock and fear. I say majority because Shadow and Razor were the only ones who held stern frowns as they readied their weapons.

Shadowlight2784: Man, were you just waiting for me to rant or something?

Razor: Please! Calm!

The wolf boy shouted, bringing his hands up in some attempt to soothe the enormous beast, but its telepathic response proved his efforts to be fruitless.

Boreas: You seek to protect these outsiders, Razor? You cannot tame my fury. You must clear their name with your sword.

It hunches down, bearing its teeth at Razor.

Boreas: Show me what your humans have taught you. Bare your claws of steel.

Razor breathes heavily as he looked back at his friends before towards Boreas as while he didn't want to harm his master, he valued Amber and Shadow's lives too. He nonetheless puts back on his serious look as he makes his body glow purple.

Razor: This is misunderstanding. But I must fight for both friends and Lupical.

Boreas then makes a small field of ice surround himself which reached up towards Razor's feet which alarmed the young wolf boy as he could barely move. Boreas then tries to take a claw swipe at Razor, but he blocked a couple of strong strikes with his claymore. However, Boreas, being twice the size of all of the humans, meant that his attacks hit hard. Razor couldn't defend himself forever as he gets knocked onto the ground, almost dropping his claymore.

Shadow and Amber gasped from Razor getting hurt as the former couldn't help, but get a little furious at seeing Razor get hurt by his own family. Shadow raises his polearm and gets ready to charge forward, but Amber stops him.

Amber: Sh-Shadow! What are you doing? You heard the giant wolf. It's up to Razor to show that we're worth being protected, just like we did for him.

Shadowlight2784: And let him get killed because of it? Not gonna happen...

Shadow shrugged off Amber's hand on his shoulder before running forward. Razor got onto his knees and was about to put his guard up again, but not before both Boreas and Razor heard Shadow yelling in effort. They both look up into the air to see the meta edgelord spinning his polearm above his head before coming back down with Anemo magic flowing inside of him.

Shadow smacked an Anemo-infused polearm onto Boreas's face which only made the giant wolf flinch. Razor was a little surprised at the sudden rescue as he stands up and runs over to Shadow.

Razor: Please. Not your fight. Must prove on my own. Must do it for Lupical.

Shadowlight2784: Listen, you're fighting for your life out here for the sake of family. I'm not one to be nosy, but someone who fights for a cause that noble...

They both roll out of the way of another attack from Boreas as Shadow glares at him.

Shadowlight2784: ...is rare, but an amazing thing, Razor, and I prefer to give my life for people like that.

He then runs forward to charge towards Boreas again and Razor stared at him in slight shock before following right behind him. Boreas tried making the floor ice again, but Shadow saw this attack as he jumps into the air right over Boreas before swinging his polearm at one of Boreas's hind legs, causing Boreas to just retaliate by kicking Shadow away hard enough to send him flying across the area.

Shadow hit his back against a wall as he grunts in pain before gasping to see a large ice crystal being shot his way. Razor, with incredible speed, sprints towards Shadow and summons a wolf-like claw made completely of Electro energy as he slices the crystal to pieces.

They both then duck out of the way of another strike before Shadow pole vaults himself up into the air and kicks Boreas in the chin. Razor follows up with another Electro claw as the two kept working together to both stand up to Boreas and defend each other as well.

Boreas: *growls* Your human ally has made a foolish choice of fighting alongside you, Razor. If it is his wish, I shall send punishment towards him first.

Shadowlight2784: *sarcasm* Yeah, assuming it qualifies as one, Snow White!

Growling from the insult, Boreas tilted its head up and howled which surrounded itself in pure Cryo magic. It then right past Razor and Shadow before running all around the arena, almost appearing as a blur to them. This somehow was able to kick up a blackened fog that covered the whole arena, dark enough to blind both Shadow and Razor and ending up separating them.

Looking all around, Shadow tried to find his new friend anywhere, but the fog made it more than difficult to do so. When it cleared up somewhat, Shadow regained his vision, but when he did, out of the same shadows came Boreas with its jaws open, ready to clamp them onto Shadow. Boreas' jaws were only mere feet away from him... until something, or rather someone, came in between the two of them in a flash. The clash caused Shadow to fall onto his back and when he recovered, he looked up and his eyes widened. Razor now stood just in front of Boreas, pushing it away as best as he could. The giant wolf's teeth were clamped down on Razor's claymore, glaring right into the wolf boy's eyes.

Razor: Please! Calm!

Boreas continued to give him a deathly stare, only growling in response. With nothing else much to do, Razor replaced his frown with a pleading one.

Razor: Please. Calm down.

A staring contest occurs between the two as neither did anything else for the next several seconds. For a second, Shadow was afraid of having to step in again and defend Razor, but it would soon be revealed that he didn't have to. Finally, after an eternity of staring, Boreas released its jaws from Razor's claymore and backed away a few feet.

Boreas: Hmph... It's just like he said. An outside wolf pack coming in and breaking the rules. They will reap what they have sown. But Razor – you must not get involved. This is for the wolves to settle between themselves. You fight not with claws, but with the sword. You strike not with teeth, but with lightning... You are a human, Razor.

The young boy shakes his head, placing his hand against his chest.

Razor: I am not like them! I don't belong.

Shadow closes his eyes and sighs before walking up to Razor and placing a hand on his shoulder.

Shadowlight2784: Hey... Seeing what you've done for them... I don't want to believe it either... but as I grow to learn about even myself... I learned that sometimes you have to suck it up and face reality. I'm no Santa Claus, I'm no Tooth Fairy, and I'm certainly no Easter Bunny... I'm a human to any Archon out there... You have to face those facts too, pal.

Razor looked at Shadow and wanted to retort to that, but he stays silent and looks down at the ground in both guilt and sadness before Boreas continues to speak.

Boreas: You are no wolf. This is a matter for the wolves, and the wolves alone.

It turned its glowing gaze towards Shadow next.

Boreas: And you, you are Razor's Lupical against humans. Your nobility stands out against others of your kind. If you ever wish, you may train with me.

Shadowlight2784: Huh...that was quick. I feel kind of bad for calling you "Snow White" now...

Boreas: I have nothing further to say. May we meet again, Razor, and company...

Boreas then lets out a loud howl before glowing light blue all over its body and slowly dissipates into a light blue mist. Razor reaches his hand out in vain of wanting to see Boreas for a bit longer, but it was of course no use at all. Razor hung his head low in sadness as Amber and Shadow walked up to him.

Amber: Hey... Razor, what's that look for? Why don't you come to the city for a few days?

Shadowlight2784: It's not easy for me to socialize, but at least I've got my friends with me there. You've got some there too, right? Lisa and... that burny girl.

Amber turns to Shadow with her arms crossed.

Amber: I've been thinking a little bit about something, Shadow and... I think Razor was actually referring to Klee, not me.

Shadow raises an eyebrow at Amber as while Nintega got introduced to Klee, Shadow didn't.

Shadowlight2784: Klee?

Amber: You haven't met her, yet? I'm sure Jordan can introduce you to her sometime or you might find her blowing up some fish.

Shadowlight2784: Blow up... fish. What kind of hobby is that?

Amber: *chuckles* If you get the chance to meet her, you'll know what I'm talking about.

She then turns back to Razor.

Amber: You're not safe in the wild anymore, Razor. But I know you don't want to hurt them.

Razor: I'm fine. Don't worry. But I'm not city human... But also not wolf...

He said looking down again having to face facts on where he truly came from. Shadow lets out a small smile before walking up to him and placing a hand on his shoulder.

Shadowlight2784: I'm not the most outgoing guy either... but that doesn't mean that while I have to accept life, I don't need to change who I am. You may not be a wolf on the inside Razor, but to me... you certainly are still one on the outside... Just don't take that too personally and start going feral on us, alright?

Razor looks at Shadow with a surprised face before it turns into a look of complete gratefulness as he gently hugs Shadow, who reciprocates it while patting him on the back.

Razor: Thank you, Shadow!

They end the hug as Razor turns to Amber.

Razor: And... other red girl.

Amber was shocked to not hear her name being said as a tick mark appeared over her head.

Amber: Hey?! We've been with you all this time, and you still don't even know my name?!

Shadowlight2784: *smirks* Guess that Outriding badge doesn't shine in the category of getting along with wolves.

Amber shoots Shadow a deadpan while putting her fists on her hips.

Amber: ...I'm starting to see how well you two click actually. *sigh* Never mind. I'm not going to hold a grudge. I better report back to Springvale on what was actually going on down here. What are you going to do in the meantime, Shadow?

Shadowlight2784: It's been a long day, so I think I'm gonna head back to town. I got what I wanted today actually... A not-so-dull evening.

Razor: Shadow. You are dependable friend. Please come visit Lupical any day.

Shadow looks at Razor before nodding with crossed arms.

Shadowlight2784: Beats having to be alone in the city all of the time. Just don't try to turn me into a wolf... My team already has one wolf boy enough.

All three of them then let out some laughs from this before making their separate ways as both Shadow and Amber made their way out of Wolvendom while Razor waves them goodbye. While it is difficult to understand the meaning of what Lupical means in regards to where they came from, Shadow knows that Razor will stay loyal to his wolf family no matter what, just like he does for his friends.

Chapter 14 End.