It has been quite a bit ever since Jordan has formed his new harem with Amber and Lisa and he honestly couldn't be happier to have two girls that he loved a lot as his new girlfriends. When he told the rest of his friends, they were just as shocked, but still extremely happy that Jordan was actually able to start a harem and form a relationship.

Right now it was still morning as all of the Honorary Knights and their companion, Paimon, were walking through the streets of Mondstadt. However, they all noticed that people around the city seemed to be gossiping a lot more than usual which made them all slightly confused as the town has never been this chatty before.

TheNintegaGuy: Is it just me... or does everyone seem to be a lot more excited to talk than we are?

Jordanwolfboy9743: You think they might be talking about us? Because we're technically celebrities now with what we've been able to accomplish lately.

Lumine: That seems too good to be true, Jordan. If that were the case, a mob would be surrounding all of us right now.

Shadowlight2784: Eh, I'd rather have it this way. We don't really need to be the talk of the town to be known as Honorary Knights of Favonius.

Lumine: I agree.

Paimon: Still, Paimon wonders what's been going around Mondstadt lately and not even the five of us have heard about it.

Her question led to Nintega smirking as he nudged Jordan with an elbow.

TheNintegaGuy: They could be talking about you and your new harem, pal~.

He teased, making Jordan start to blush as he rolled his eyes.

Jordanwolfboy9743: I-It's really not that big of a deal for everyone to be gossiping about!

It was now also Shadow's turn to smirk as he continued to tease Jordan as well.

Shadowlight2784: I beg to differ. You don't see any other boys or girls with multiple boyfriends or girlfriends besides you at the moment~.

Jordan just shook his head with a sigh before rubbing his reddened face with both hands.

Jordanwolfboy9743: I... should never have told you guys.

TheNintegaGuy: *chuckles* Not like it would have mattered anyways, dude. I'm sure either Amber or Lisa would have admitted it at some point. Especially since they were the ones who told me about their feelings in the first place.

Paimon: Disregarding Jordan's love life though, shouldn't we get in on whatever rumor is going on too?

Shadowlight2784: And then become a TikTok influencer? Not a chance.

Paimon: Tik-what now?

Nintega goes over to Shadow and covered his mouth to prevent him from explaining or saying anything else that they may regret later with a nervous smile.

TheNintegaGuy: What Shadow means to say is... Perhaps we should have a little listen to at least know what's going on, so it doesn't remain a mystery for only the five of us.

Lumine: So where should we start? Should we ask Jean?

TheNintegaGuy: Jean has knowledge on a lot of things that are popular among the folks, but I doubt that crazy rumors would be one of them.

Shadow took a second to have a thought about that before he perked up when he let his brain hatch an idea.

Shadowlight2784: Hey, why don't we try Angel's Share? Bars are usually common places for people to gossip, so why don't we start there?

Jordanwolfboy9743: Works for me.

TheNintegaGuy: It is still morning after all, so I wouldn't mind getting some coffee while we're there too.

Paimon: Let's make our way there then and see if Charles has any answers for us.

With everyone on the same page, all of them made their way over towards Angel's Share so that they could get some answers on why the city was so busy with constant gossip around the town.

Heading through the single wooden door that served as the entryway, they made it inside and were met with the usual ambience of a tavern. Charles stood at the bar while wiping off the counter as the group approached him. He notices them out of the corner of his eye and he stops his task momentarily to give them a smirk.

Charles: So, you've all got a taste for adventure too, huh?

His odd question resulted in shared, confused glances between everyone.

Charles: I must say, the patrons have been in a bit of a buzz lately.

Lumine: Yeah, we... kinda noticed that already with everyone outside.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Has there been news that we've been missing?

Charles: Well, the topic on everyone's lips is more of an urban legend than actual news. Even minding my own business I still end up hearing about it.

Paimon: Uh-oh... It's not one of those scary urban legends, is it? If so, Paimon needs to take a deep breath first!

She stated, somewhat looking like she was about to freak out, but Charles' laughter stopped that from happening.

Charles: Hahaha, it's not a particular scary story, no... At least not for most people... It's the tale of... The Darknight Hero!

Paimon flinched immediately with a loud yelp.

Paimon: Argh!!!

The rest however just slowly turned their heads towards her with deadpanned looks.

Shadowlight2784: Well, at least we all know who would be the first to crack while telling a scary story.

Lumine: *sigh* Paimon, he literally just said it's NOT a scary story.

Paimon decided to ignore this and feign ignorance.

Paimon: Huh? Did the bartender just say something?

Charles: You weren't even listening?

TheNintegaGuy: Don't mind her... Please continue...

Charles: Anyway, the Darknight Hero.

Shadowlight2784: Batman?

Jordan started snickering from this answer while Nintega shot him an annoyed look before covering Shadow's mouth with a hand again.

TheNintegaGuy: I-Ignore that...

Charles: It is said that he appears in the middle of the night to fight evil and uphold justice. But to be honest, I don't have much interest in such rumors. *chuckles* Unless, of course, he can help take care of the more belligerent patrons after they've had a few too many. I would happily take that as proof of his existence.

Jordanwolfboy9743: This hero of yours sounds rather reclusive.

Charles: Heh, you have no idea. I'm told that there have been a handful of sightings. But in the depths of night, no-one can get a good look at him. Perhaps that's why he only appears at night. Nevertheless, the sightings confirm that the Darknight Hero is more than just a groundless rumor. Hehe, anyway... That's more or less everything I know.

TheNintegaGuy: So this is what's gotten everyone so talkative lately around Mondstadt... I'd say we look more into this. Is there anywhere else that might hold some information on this whole rumor?

Charles: If you want to know more, ask around in the plaza. Ah, I need to serve some customers.

TheNintegaGuy: Speaking of which, I'd actually like some coffee to go please.

Charles: Oh, sure thing. I'll whip one up for you in no time.

As Charles goes to prepare Nintega's beverage, it was now time for the Honorary Knights to suddenly be the ones to gossip as well.

Paimon: "Darknight Hero"... seems like your standard cookie-cutter urban legend. But just a little darker.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Whoever this is clearly wants as little attention as possible, but also wants to willingly help the people around here.

Shadowlight2784: Wait... then it's US! We're the Darknight heroes! I've solved it!

Lumine: That's actually not a bad guess, but... It's definitely not us...

TheNintegaGuy: Yeah, well it better not be Kaeya either...

Shadowlight2784: Eh, this doesn't seem like something Kaeya would do... He reveals his intentions later rather than keep people guessing...

Lumine: Looks like we're going to have to get to the bottom of this ourselves.

Paimon: Lumine's right. Let's head out to the plaza and ask around!

Outside of the tavern, the group walks out and takes a look around the area for a second as Nintega comes out while holding a large coffee cup in his hand.

Lumine: Jeez, Nintega. How much coffee do you even need in the morning?

TheNintegaGuy: If I want to be ready for any sort of action or adventure like right now, I've gotta fuel myself with a little caffeine.

He says this before taking a long sip of his beverage and he sighs delighted.

TheNintegaGuy: *sighs* Feeling energized, already...

He then emphatically points a finger outwards.

TheNintegaGuy: Alright, team. Spread out. Time to get some answers on this Darknight Hero.

Jordanwolfboy9743: I'll check around the upper part of the city.

Shadowlight2784: In that case, I'll cover downtown.

Lumine: I'll check over by the gate.

TheNintegaGuy: That's the plan then. We'll meet back over at the fountain once we've got enough information.

With that being said, everyone split up to ask around Mondstadt about the Darknight Hero and see if there was possibly a way for them to see this for themselves.

Jordan made his way over in the middle of the plaza where the Souvenir Shop and Good Hunter were as he takes a quick look around to see if there was anybody to would stand out enough to know much about the Darknight Hero. Suddenly, a certain woman in a red dress caught his attention who was the boss of The Cat's Tail, Margaret. If Charles had heard the rumors, then so must Margaret too, right? Jordan approaches Margaret and proceeds to go straight to the point.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Hey Margaret, you wouldn't happen to know anything about the Darknight Hero, would you?

Margaret: You want to find out about the Darknight Hero? Look no further. It's me! I am the Darknight Hero.

She announced, expecting him to be more than surprised. Jordan, however, wasn't so easily fooled as he just deadpanned right back at her.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Yeah... you're the Darknight Hero? More like the DarkNOT a hero.

Margaret: *giggles* You're right, I'm not. I was joking.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Uh... huh. Sure you were.

Margaret: Heh, jokes aside, I do think that the Darknight Hero and I have one thing in common.

Jordanwolfboy9743: That you both like to remain vaguely mysterious?

Margaret: *giggles* Close, but no. It's... the way he sticks to his principles... coming out here night after night, fighting for justice, keeping Mondstadt safe.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Wait... so, there's two nocturnal crime fighters now?

Margaret: N-No, I just mean, he must be seriously rich.

She retorted, moving her face away to hide her embarrassed blush.

Jordanwolfboy9743: (Huh... maybe Shadow had something back there with that whole Batman comparison.) And... how do you know this exactly?

Margaret: People only start worrying about spiritual fulfillment once they have enough material wealth. It's the same in every hero story, isn't it?

Jordanwolfboy9743: (Okay... I'm convinced. Mihoyo stole the idea of Batman from DC.) So, in other words, you're just looking for an excuse to flaunt your own wealth?

Margaret: Heh. No, it's nothing like that. I just have too much time on my hands these days.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Same difference. I mean, this is coming from the head of the Cat's Tail and all. Well... thanks anyway.

He said this with a sigh before walking back over the fountain to wait for the others. Meanwhile, Lumine and Paimon were over at the gate talking to one of the guards about the Darknight Hero.

Lumine: Hello. We want to know if you have any information about the Darknight Hero.

Paimon nods while the guard look at both of them surprised.

Lawrence: You want to know about... him? In fact, I'm one of the few who has seen him with my own two eyes.

Paimon: Great! This is the guy we need to talk to. So... just who is the Darknight Hero?

Lawrence: Whoa- S-Slow down, let me start from the beginning. Well, I was patrolling one night, when suddenly I heard something. I rushed over to check it out. I saw a gang of suspicious-looking fellows who looked like they were up to no good. So I quickly hid.

Paimon: Hid? You're supposed to be a guard!

Lawrence: That was when... he appeared. He was dressed in black from head to toe, perfectly hidden in the night. The way he crept up on those bad guys, it must have felt like a living nightmare.

Paimon: Wow...

Lawrence: Guess what I did next?

Lumine raised a suspicious eyebrow while putting her hands on her hips.

Lumine: Run away?

Lawrence: I wasn't the bad guy! Why would I need to run away? ...Still, I did leave the scene. I didn't want to be a nuisance to the Darknight Hero... So instead, I headed to the Knight of Favonius' residence.

Hearing this surprised Lumine a little as a small thought came into her mind that she decided to ask Lawrence.

Lumine: You think the Darknight Hero might be one of the Knights?

Lawrence: Correct. I thought, "Surely someone with a strong sense of justice and who voluntarily protects Monstadt is exactly the kind of person you'd find in the Knights of Favonius." *sigh* But it seems I was wrong. I checked everywhere, and there were no signs of anyone having left the building.

Lumine: (Okay, so it's obviously not any of us then.)

Paimon: So you're saying whoever it is can't be from the Knights of Favonius after all?

Lawrence: Yes. But I just can't understand... Why would someone like that not want to join the Knights? I'm sure they would warmly welcome someone of his abilities.

Paimon: So, the point you're trying to make is... You don't know who the Darknight Hero is either?

Lawrence: Hey, don't be like that! At least by talking to me, you've ruled out a few more people.

Lumine: Hmm... that is a good point, actually. *sigh* Well, we're sorry for troubling you, sir. We'll leave you be now.

Lawrence: May the God of Anemo guide you in your endeavors, Miss Honorary Knight!

He responded, giving her the signature Knights of Favonius salute before Lumine and Paimon turned and walked away.

The place that Shadow and Nintega decided to look was the Flower Shop as they were talking to Donna to see if she knows anything about the Darknight Hero. However, they both had bored looks on their faces as apparently Donna was daydreaming and fantasizing about someone.

Donna: What's wrong with me? Why can't I get him out of my head?

Shadow and Nintega looked at each other with the same exact looks.

Shadowlight2784: Okay... I feel stupid...

TheNintegaGuy: Um, Donna? You wouldn't happen to know anything about the Darknight Hero-

Donna: MY HERO!

That shout made both Nintega and Shadow flinch in surprise and seeing their reactions made Donna sheepishly smile while calming down.

Donna: ...Oh, sorry! Just hearing his name gets me lost in thought... Hang on, how did you know who I was talking about?

TheNintegaGuy: Well, we didn't exactly guess. We were just asking about the Darknight Hero and I guess he just so happened to be who you were thinking about.

Shadowlight2784: (Oh god... she better not be another Amy Rose.)

Donna: Is it that obvious? Oh no, what am I going to do...? If Master Diluc ever finds out-

TheNintegaGuy: Wait, Diluc? What's he got to do with this?

Donna's eyes widened in fear upon realizing that she may have said too much. Sighing, she pouts in defeat while looking down at the stone paved ground.

Donna: Ugh... Well, I guess I might as well spill the beans then. I used to think Diluc was the one for me, but ever since the time I was rescued by the Darknight Hero... I-I just don't know anymore...

Shadowlight2784: So, you've actually seen this guy? What's he like?

Donna: It all happened so fast... I was so scared... All I remember is seeing a flash of fire... but I felt safe. I only saw his silhouette, but it felt so... familiar.

TheNintegaGuy: A flash of fire, huh? This guy's likely a Vision user then.

Donna: Who knows? Now that you mention it, a Pyro Vision does seem like a good explanation. It lit up the whole area in an instant. I remember that very well.

Nintega hummed to himself while rubbing his chin in deep thought while Shadow stared at Donna with a skeptical expression. 

Shadowlight2784: 

https://youtu.be/HNy--_r5eW0

TheNintegaGuy: Well, we appreciate you telling us, Donna. We'll see you around.

Nintega and Shadow then took their leave from the Flower Shop as they went back to the fountain in the middle of the plaza where Jordan, Lumine, and Paimon were waiting for them.

TheNintegaGuy: Soooo... did anyone else get super weird, but useful intel on who our Darknight Hero is?

Jordanwolfboy9743: Well, I just had a lovely chat with Margaret and aside from having to watch her compare egos between her and this hero, she seemed to speculate that this guy is most likely wealthy.

Paimon: One of the Knights at the gate told us a story and we thought at first that the Darknight Hero would be one of the Knights... but apparently they're not.

Shadowlight2784: If you think that's a weird story, Donna's gone all Casanova for the Darknight Hero. Although, she did say something about them most likely having a Pyro Vision.

Lumine: So wealth, they're not a Knight of Favonius, and they use a Pyro Vision. Who's someone here in Mondstadt that we know of that has all of those qualities?

It took a quick second for all of them to think before light bulbs flickered on above all of their heads and they each had the same answer... except for Paimon.

Nintega, Jordan, Shadow, & Lumine/Paimon: Master Diluc!/Amber!

The four of them quickly turned their heads to Paimon as they gave her a look as if she's gone completely insane. Paimon then sheepishly smiles before quickly trying to agree as much as possible.

Paimon: Y-Yeah! Master Diluc! I-It's so obvious!

Shadowlight2784: *sigh* Can someone please get her a detective book after this is all over?

TheNintegaGuy: You actually expect her to read?

He asked, raising an eyebrow at him while Paimon shot them both with an irritated face.

Paimon: Hey! Paimon's right here, you know!

Lumine: If Master Diluc really is this Darknight Hero that people speak of... We have to see for ourselves.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Hmm... you guys thinking what I'm thinking?

He asked, putting on a smirk. Nintega smirked with him while putting a hand on Jordan's shoulder.

TheNintegaGuy: Time for another late night adventure. Let's occupy ourselves for the rest of the day and meet up near Angel's Share. If these rumors are indeed true... Diluc will likely not be supervising his tavern tonight.

Shadowlight2784: *yawns* In that case, if any of you need me, I'll be napping on top of the Anemo Archon statue.

Jordanwolfboy9743: ...Isn't that a lot more dangerous than sleeping in your own bed?

Shadowlight2784: Jordan... I'm a masochist, remember? Pain is pretty much an old friend to me at this point.

All of them sweatdrop from this as they believe it would be best to respect Shadow's wishes despite their opinions.

Jordanwolfboy9743: ...Riiiiiight. Uhhhh, I'll be in the library...

This time, it was Lumine who smirked as she crossed her arms.

Lumine: Smooching up with Lisa, I bet~.

Her teasing resulted in everyone, with the obvious exception of Jordan, erupting in laughter while the scarf wearing member of their team let one of his eyes twitch with irritation as his face burned up once again.

Jordanwolfboy9743: I think I hate you all.

TheNintegaGuy: We love you too, buddy.

He said condescendingly, patting him on the back while Jordan growled silently.

After a long break from their investigation on the Darknight Hero, the four Honorary Knights along with Paimon were now out at night snooping through the alleyways in Mondstadt as they were trying their best to keep a lookout for the Darknight Hero. They each sidle themselves up against a wall as Nintega turns back to them.

TheNintegaGuy: Our "Darknight Hero" could be anywhere in Mondstadt and they may leave sooner or later. Keep your eyes open, ears peeled, and stay frosty guys.

Shadowlight2784: Okay, FYI... That line doesn't apply here unless we took a hike near Dragonspine or any ice cold climate or even if someone like Kaeya who has a Cryo Vision is with us as we technically only have the power of Anemo which doesn't suffice to...

He begins rambling off some more on the topic as Lumine, Jordan, and Paimon all sighed before Paimon gets an idea as she smirked before whispering at Lumine.

Paimon: *whispers* Maybe he's got an off switch somewhere...

Lumine turns back to Shadow with a raised eyebrow and looks at the back of his head before slowly raising a hand and whacking him across the head which made him stop talking.

Shadowlight2784: Ow!

Shadow glares behind himself as Lumine turns back to the others with a smirk.

Lumine: Found it.

Everyone gains a chuckle out of this before they heard some loud movement nearby which caused them all to look in that direction.

Jordanwolfboy9743: What the hell was that?

TheNintegaGuy: I think it came from the back alley! This way!

They all quickly ran in the direction towards the back alley of Mondstadt as they all traveled down the stairs to see what was going on and a gust a wind quickly blew towards all of them as they shield their eyes for a second before the sight in front of them was somewhat surprising.

They see Master Diluc himself fighting a Cryo Abyss Mage that had somehow got into the city as it conjures a wave of ice, but Diluc quickly slides away to evade this. The Abyss Mage then starts shooting a barrage of icicles at Diluc who expertly dodges all of them before jumping high up into the air and he lands across the wall to run along it.

The Abyss Mage then took a bunch of its icy projectiles before using them to conjure up a giant one to which it fires straight at Diluc who apparently noticed it too late as it cause a huge blast of ice to appear on the wall with him directly inside of it as the Honorary Knights gasp in shock at this.

Nintega, Jordan, Shadow, Lumine, & Paimon: Master Diluc!!

However, Diluc wasn't about to let a simple Abyss Mage take him down as inside of the ice, a huge burst of flame builds up before it explodes and out came Diluc who rockets himself at the Abyss Mage with a flaming claymore as he SLICES straight through it and the Abyss Mage turned into dust. His unexpected spectators were all looking at him impressed as Diluc turned to them with his usual stoic face and crossed arms.

Diluc: After managing to steer clear of the guards' patrol route... I never anticipated I'd run into any of you instead.

Shadow then pointed at him with a smirk.

Shadowlight2784: Oh, wow! I actually get to meet Batman in person!

Nintega promptly slapped him on the back of the head to make him shut up.

Jordanwolfboy9743: So, the reason you never told us that you were the Darknight Hero was because...?

Hearing that name made one of Diluc's eyebrows raise.

Diluc: "Darknight Hero..."? Sounds awfully derivative to me. Please tell me you didn't come up with that.

Jordanwolfboy9743: *chuckles* Oh, trust me, I wish I did, but sadly, no. In fact, none of us did.

TheNintegaGuy: Wait... This is the first time you're hearing about the name, "Darknight Hero"? Almost everyone in Mondstadt are talking about it in every corner of the city... Honestly, considering I'm the "Hero" of the Honorary Knights, I'm surprised they weren't talking about me... n-not to stroke my own ego, of course.

Diluc: I do not concern myself with idle chatter... Though I suppose I may take the idleness of others as a sign that peace prevails.

Paimon: Huzzah! The Great Mystery of the Darknight Hero of Mondstadt... We solved it!

Lumine: Um... Paimon, we already knew it was Master Diluc beforehand, so it was solved earlier today...

Jordanwolfboy9743: *whisper* You think she's got the memory of a goldfish?

He whispered that to Nintega.

TheNintegaGuy: *whisper* I wouldn't be surprised given her size already...

Paimon ignored what Lumine said and faced Diluc again.

Paimon: Now then, Mr. Darknight Hero-

Diluc: Please, stop calling me that! Seriously, it makes me uncomfortable.

He interrupted her, frowning and making her go silent.

Shadowlight2784: I think I feel you there. I mean, the name "Darknight Hero" isn't exactly earning any points for creativity. To be honest, it's a tad cliche. So cliche that I personally would've preferred-

TheNintegaGuy: Can we drop the Batman jokes already?!

He interjected.

Paimon: They're right! You deserve a better nickname, Master Diluc! Like...

He rubs her chin in thought while trying to come up with something.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Hmm... maybe like... Captain... Pie?

Everyone else faced Jordan with raised eyebrows.

Diluc, Nintega, Lumine, Shadow, & Paimon: Pie?

Jordanwolfboy9743: You know. It's short for Pyro!

Lumine: ...You need some lessons on creativity as well.

TheNintegaGuy: Who cares? He's still Master Diluc.

He along with the others then got back on subject.

TheNintegaGuy: Anyways, Master Diluc... We saw the Abyss Mage and they aren't usually supposed to be in the city. Does that mean that the Abyss Order's trying to strike again somewhere?

Diluc didn't answer at first as he went silent for a short moment.

Diluc: So it would appear. I don't know what the devil they're plotting this time. It seems they're performing some initial reconnaissance. Considering I've proven myself to be one step ahead of them on countless occasions, their persistence is... unusual.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Well, we did just free Dvalin from their control a short while back, so they're probably really desperate now.

Lumine: Why don't you ask the Knights of Favonius to help again?

Diluc frowned from that question as the answer to that should be plain obvious by now.

Diluc: Hmph. Who would be helping whom is debatable. The Knights are, for the most part, an utterly incompetent bunch. I cannot trust them to take this matter over.

TheNintegaGuy: That's a... pretty blunt way to put it, don't you think?

Shadowlight2784: Yeah. I mean, what does that make the four of us in your eyes then?

Diluc: While I do not approve of any of you joining the Knights of Favonius, you four... are a small exception. For one reason, you four are travelers from afar, so it's already common knowledge that you won't be in Mondstadt forever. Secondly, we have teamed up in the Stormterror incident and considering you four could purify a god of Mondstadt, it's hard to see any of you as ordinary people at this point.

Jordan crosses his arms and raises a playful eyebrow.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Oh? Is that your way of saying that you're growing fond of us?

Diluc: *sigh* Don't push it. Well, I hope this conversation has been of service to you - because I would like to ask for a favor in return.

Paimon: Ooh, what is it, Master Diluc? Your wish is our command~

Diluc: You must keep my identity a secret.

TheNintegaGuy: Yeah, of course, Master Di-

Diluc: I'm not finished. Above all, it is crucial that you do not let the Knights of Favonius know I am connected to any of this.

Shadowlight2784: Considering how much you like to work alone, I don't think we'd tell anyone at this point.

Suddenly, some running footsteps were heard which caught the group's attention.

Lumine: Do you guys hear that?

TheNintegaGuy: Sure do!

He took out his sword while the others drew their weapons too. They faced where the footsteps were coming from and saw a horde of Hilichurls coming their way from outside the gate.

Paimon: Yikes! Have the Abyss Order sent backup already?!

Diluc: They appear to be just small-timers. You should have no trouble dealing with them.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Alright! We'll hit them so hard that these Hilichurls are gonna HiliHURL!!

Everyone groaned at Jordan's corny joke.

Shadowlight2784: Dude... It literally hurts to listen to you talk sometimes...

Jordanwolfboy9743: What? I can't make a joke right before a furious battle? That's how I cope!

Diluc: I cannot afford delays on account of a few lackeys. I shall have to let all of you take care of them. Remember - don't tell a soul!

With his demand made, Diluc turned around and calmly walked off into town.

Paimon: Hey! You're just gonna leave us like this?!

Lumine: Let him go! He probably has more important things to deal with than these hilichurls!

TheNintegaGuy: Then it's more for us~ Charge guys!

Everyone then rushes towards the group of Hilichurls with their weapons as Jordan runs up to one while spinning an arrow in one of his hands as he kicks a hilichurl in the face before shooting it straight through its mask. Shadow deals with a couple as he slams one to the group before stunning the other in the torso with his polearm before he uses it to grip the hilichurl around the neck before flipping and throwing it into the water.

Nintega punches a hilichurl twice in the face before slashing it in the mask with his sword. Another hilichurl then tries to take him from behind, but Nintega saw this coming as he grabs the hilichurl, slams it down on the ground before stabbing his sword in its mask. Lumine does a couple of acrobatic flips before slicing one hilichurl and she does a cartwheel before kicking another one away into the water as well. Seeing how they dealt with the horde of hilichurls in no time, the group sighed before putting their weapons away.

Shadowlight2784: Well, that wasn't such a chore now, was it?

Jordanwolfboy9743: Chore? Oh jeez... did I forget to rearrange the top floor of the library this morning? *worried groan* Lisa's gonna kill me if I did!

Paimon: ...Has Lisa ever considered harming you over anyone else?

Thinking that over for a second, Jordan hums to himself before pointing at Paimon.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Good point...

Suddenly, they heard more running footsteps, but luckily they were from the city instead as they all turned to see the Knight of Favonius Huffman run up to them.

Huffman: Greetings. I thought I heard something, so I came to check it out. Did you see anything out of the ordinary?

Paimon: Nope. Nuh-uh. Not here. Nothing. Zilch... Unless you're looking for the Darknight Hero, in which case-

Everyone shot Paimon with piercing glares as she tried way too hard to cover for Diluc to the point of almost telling the Knights his identity.

Nintega, Lumine, Shadow, & Jordan: Paimon!!!

Nintega slaps a hand over the fairy girl's mouth while Shadow tries to come up with a better answer.

Shadowlight2784: What this little peanut head meant to say was that the Darknight Hero is... her!

He points at Lumine who recoils from the sudden attention.

Lumine: M-Me?

Huffman: You! The hero who safeguards Mondstadt from the shadows! On behalf of the Knights of Favonius, I thank you for your service to this city!

Shadow looks back and gestures for her to play along. She gulps before looking back at Huffman with the back of her head sweating.

Lumine: O-Oh, uh... i-it was my pleasure!

However, Huffman took a better look at all of the Honorary Knights standing in front of him and grew a suspicious glance.

Huffman: Wait a second... Aren't you four the travelers that arrived in the city nearly a month ago? Rumors were circulating about the Darknight Hero long before any of you arrived here.

Now it was everyone's turn to gain nervous looks as they all looked at each other not knowing how to respond with being caught in a flat out fib.

Huffman: ...Why would any of you lie to me about that?

TheNintegaGuy: S-Sorry... We should've known actually...

Huffman: Hmm. Never mind, none of you seem like bad folks. But I do hope that you all do visit the Knights of Favonius soon, where we can discuss the Darknight Hero situation in more detail. Some things are best not discussed in public. *sigh* Duty calls, I must be going. Stay safe, Honorary Knights!

He salutes them before walking away.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Well... that was humiliating.

TheNintegaGuy: Well... maybe not so much. We were barely able to keep Diluc's secret after all.

Shadowlight2784: *sarcasm* And whose fault was that?

He asked, giving Paimon the stink eye.

Paimon: O-Oh, come on! Paimon didn't mean to accidentally almost spill the beans! Paimon panicked!

They all deadpanned at her before Nintega turns towards Lumine.

TheNintegaGuy: Remind all of us to never tell a secret to Paimon...

Lumine: Duly noted...

Jordanwolfboy9743: Anyways, we probably shouldn't keep Huffman waiting and run the risk of looking suspicious, so we should probably go see him at the Knights of Favonius headquarters.

Everyone nodded as they all left the back alley to go see what Huffman wanted to tell them about the Darknight Hero situation.

Luckily they didn't need to go inside as the last thing that the Honorary Knights needed was to bring Acting Grand Master Jean into the mix of the gossip. Huffman was waiting for them right in front of the headquarters as they all approached him, ready to hear him out.

Paimon: Huffman!

Huffman: Oh, it's you five. Thank you for coming. So - The Darknight Hero. Do you have anything else that you're able to share with me?

Shadowlight2784: Hang on a second there, Huff. Before we answer that, can we ask what's with the probing all of a sudden?

Huffman: Ah, yes of course I should fill you in first... apologies for my appalling lapse of etiquette. The situation is... here. Take a look at this.

He pulls out a parchment and shows it to the group as Jordan takes it so that he along with everyone else can get a closer look. Upon inspection, they saw that the note was essentially just a bunch of chicken scratch for most of it was either written too poorly or simply unreadable. The parts of the note that were readable however has the writer of this note demanding that the Darknight Hero show himself if they wish to avoid an assault on Mondstadt.

Paimon: Geez... what horrible handwriting!

TheNintegaGuy: Can barely make out what exactly the sender of this letter is telling us... It's almost like they're struggling to say the proper Teyvat language.

Huffman: Indeed. Although this is written in the common tongue, it appears that a cipher has been used in many places. Nevertheless, one can grasp the general message from the non-ciphored portions alone... This is a war declaration from the Abyss Order to the Darknight Hero.

Jordanwolfboy9743: And that if he wants to avoid conflict... he'd better show his face. *sigh* Perfect.

Huffman: Thus, we are hoping to contact him as soon as possible so that we can attempt to coordinate a response.

Lumine: *sigh* Well, we'll be sure to find him if we can. Thank you for the information, sir.

Huffman: *nods* If you find out anything at all, come and find me.

Just like last time, he salutes them before taking his leave.

TheNintegaGuy: Guys... this is bad. Not only are we the only ones who know who the Darknight Hero is... He's now being forced to show himself by the Abyss Order. We need to find Master Diluc now!

Lumine: But where? Angel's Share is probably closed during this hour. He's likely not in the city anymore.

TheNintegaGuy: Then let's put on our thinking caps. Where's somewhere that only Master Diluc would go if he needed a place to relax or retreat to?

Everyone took a moment to try and think of where Diluc would be hiding until Jordan had a sudden thought occur to him.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Hey, what about the Dawn Winery? He said that he goes there in order to think sometimes, so it could be a good place to start.

Shadowlight2784: Makes sense. The place is like a mansion... *smirks* or a batcave.

Nintega shoots Shadow a deadpan glare before turning back to the others with a nod of approval.

TheNintegaGuy: Let's make our way there now and warn Diluc! Before we find more sketchy messages from the Abyss.

It didn't take them too long to run through Springvale and make their way to the Dawn Winery which was formerly their spot of conversation during the Stormterror incident when they didn't want people in their business. 

https://youtu.be/wdfgkJwfit8

Inside of the Winery, Diluc was standing around, idly humming to himself with a hand to his chin before he heard the door swing straight open and in came our heroes panting from the running that they did.

Lumine: Master Diluc! We came here with a warning, so we got here as fast as we could!

Jordanwolfboy9743: Just now, we were at the Knights of Favonius headquarters and-

Diluc raised a hand to stop him before intervening in their little warning for him.

Diluc: I take it you're about to inform me of the war declaration from the Abyss Order? I am aware of it. Though I appreciate you for taking the trouble to come all this way.

Everyone was shocked to hear that Diluc had already found out about the war declaration as that was a lot faster than they had anticipated.

Paimon: What?

TheNintegaGuy: How did you know?

Diluc: The Dawn Winery's intelligence network extends beyond commercial matters.

Shadowlight2784: See? I told you guys he's Bat-

TheNintegaGuy: Hey! Shadow! One more ridiculous meta reference and we're going to have TWO war declarations...!

Shadow simply sighs and shakes his head.

Shadowlight2784: Fine. *murmurs* But this adventure misses something.

Jordanwolfboy9743: So... please don't tell us that you came here just for fun and giggles, Master Diluc. You're going to do something about this, right?

Diluc: *scoffs* Of course I didn't come here for the fun of it. I'm here in order to think of how to tackle this whole war declaration.

Paimon: Great! So what's the plan, Master Diluc?

Diluc: I'm open to suggestions...

TheNintegaGuy: *sigh* Look... I know that you don't really agree with them, but... would it really be such a bad idea to work with the Knights of Favonius?

Diluc: On paper... *sigh* I suppose it wouldn't, but even if I wanted to, I can't. That would be playing right into the hands of the Abyss Order. They know full well that we don't exactly see eye to eye. They're using this as a means to force me into making an appearance. If my identity were exposed, all my future activities would be subject to some degree of interference from the Knights. After all, no powerful organization wishes to be outdone by someone from the outside.

TheNintegaGuy: Great, so we're cornered...

Paimon: Whew... the Abyss Order has really dealt you a tough hand this time. What a sneaky little bunch those guys are!

Diluc: There is a way. But for it to work, I need some more information. Specifically, I need to decipher the obscured portions of the Abyss Order's war declaration.

Jordanwolfboy9743: You mean the parts that look like they were written by a two-year-old? I mean, I'm kinda surprised that Paimon wasn't able to read it. This looks like something she'd write.

Paimon gains a tick mark on her head and shoots Jordan a glare.

Paimon: Hey! Paimon's handwriting isn't that messy!

Jordanwolfboy9743: *chuckles* I'm kidding. I'm kidding.

Diluc: It must be a cipher only understood by members of the Abyss Order, used to spread messages within the organization.

Lumine: Why would they send you a written message that only they can read?

Diluc: It's not simply a war declaration, but also a notification to their own. When you take a stand that makes you a hero to one party, you also become a villain to the other. And since I've been the Abyss Order's enemy for so long...They've made me the target around which they can rally their troops and unite their strength.

Paimon: Wow... Seems like it takes a lot of brains to be a superhero, right?

TheNintegaGuy: Brains aren't the only factor that makes a hero, Paimon. It's much more than that.

Diluc: He has a point. Anyways, I understand my enemy well is all. As the saying goes, heroes and villains are two sides of the same coin.

Shadowlight2784: Then as far as the note is concerned, how do we de-gibberish it?

TheNintegaGuy: De-gibberish? You mean decipher, right?

He asked, giving Shadow a raised eyebrow.

Shadowlight2784: *sigh* Yeah, yeah, that's what I meant. I was just trying to be fancy with it.

Diluc: Well, that part is simple. When you don't understand something, you ask.

Jordanwolfboy9743: I-I'm... sorry. You lost me there. You're not actually suggesting that we ask the Abyss Order to translate it, are you?

Diluc: Not exactly. I've simply tracked down one of their strongholds... If you're all interested, feel free to come along.

Nintega smirks from this offer before looking back at the others.

TheNintegaGuy: It's been a while since we've had some fun besides Dvalin. Let's get in on the action guys.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Heh, count me in!

Shadowlight2784: Got nothing better to do, so sure.

Lumine: I'll go too.

Paimon: Woo-hoo! More adventuring!

They all shared a power bump with each other as the Honorary Knights are now on another mission of their own with Diluc by their side.

The trip took them to the Temple of the Lion, the same one Jordan and Lisa visited during the whole Stormterror crisis. Diluc stood out front by the entrance while our heroes just arrived.

Diluc: This is the place. Abandoned ruins like these are precisely the kind of place the Abyss Order likes to camp out.

TheNintegaGuy: They're making this easier for us by the minute... maybe a little too easy.

Lumine: You don't... think we're being lured into a trap, do you?

Jordanwolfboy9743: With the declaration of war against Master Diluc already out, I don't think that they would be that paranoid.

Shadowlight2784: Plus, we've seen enough movies to know a trap when we see one.

Paimon: Uhh... what's a movie?

Nintega once again gives Shadow a thump on the head to silence him, making him hiss in pain silently.

Shadowlight2784: *sigh* Nevermind.

Diluc: Come on. There's no time to lose.

Wasting no more time, he walks up to the doors of the ruins and throws them open, stepping inside soon after with the others following him. However, when they reached the inner works, the interior wasn't what Jordan was expecting as they were now in a different place than the one from before.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Did... they do some serious remodeling while we were gone or... something?

Shadowlight2784: What makes you say that? Haven't you been here before?

Jordanwolfboy9743: I have, that's the thing. This place looks different from the one I saw before with Lisa.

Diluc: Hmph, you're mistaken. I merely took you all to a different section of these ruins.

Shadowlight2784: So... what? The temples can move when you walk into them? Okay, admit it. All of the temples around Mondstadt or even Teyvat as a whole are connected in some way.

TheNintegaGuy: If that's the case, then there must be multiple entrances from all of the other domains that we entered... but how is that even possible? When you go in, there's still only one way out.

Lumine: Then maybe Shadow is right... Maybe the temples shuffle in some way? Jordan's theory of the Abyss doing the work is possible too.

Paimon: Paimon's got no theory...

Diluc: I have tons of experience exploring these ruins compared to all of you... There are some secrets of these temples that even I don't know about... All I know is that they provide the means of either hiding treasures or the Abyss hiding to lay out their plans.

Jordanwolfboy9743: True... I don't think there has been a single temple where we haven't encountered at least one Abyss Mage. If not, then hordes of Hilichurls are still enough proof that they've been in them. I tell ya, these places...

He smirks.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Make me wanna rub my temples.

Everyone groaned from the bad pun as Paimon decided to be the one to give her comment.

Paimon: Booooo! Go back to comedy school!

Diluc: Enough wasting time! If you all prefer to chit-chat rather than assist me in finding the Abyss Mage hiding in there then I'm more than happy to oblige.

TheNintegaGuy: W-We're not going anywhere. If the Abyss Order is on the loose then we're definitely getting involved.

As they all walked towards the edge of a broken bridge, Shadow points downwards with a blank look.

Shadowlight2784: Oh look... A slime and hilichurl picnic. Easy enough to handle.

TheNintegaGuy: Our Abyss Mage is likely behind that caged door in this case.

Nintega then put a finger to his chin before getting another one of his reckless ideas in mind.

TheNintegaGuy: Actually, I know what we could use as bait.

Jordanwolfboy9743: I vote Paimon!

Paimon: H-Hey! Paimon didn't sign off on that!

Everyone, but Diluc who rolled his eyes, laughed from this before Nintega explained further.

TheNintegaGuy: While she is a valid option... I meant Lumine...

Lumine: Me?

She asked, looking at him in confusion.

TheNintegaGuy: You've got the most wiles out of us considering you're a... a...

Nintega frowns and then sweats realizing that what he was about to say may not have been a good idea with Lumine raising an eyebrow before her eyes widen realizing what Nintega was saying. She crossed her arms while glaring at Nintega as she doesn't know if that's a compliment or an offensive insult.

Lumine: Go on... Say it...

Nintega just stayed silent as he swallowed the rapidly formed lump in his throat.

TheNintegaGuy: N-No... I sense I've made a mistake of some kind.

Lumine sighs with an eye roll before she walks forward and jumps down below to where the group of slimes and hilichurls were lurking. She then glares back up at Nintega.

Lumine: *whisper* If this plan of yours doesn't work... you're going to owe yourself more than just a new hoodie, Nintega...

TheNintegaGuy: *whisper* Will you just be bait already?!

She narrows her eyes at him and sighs quietly before turning back to the horde of monsters. She then tries to act as dramatic as she possibly can putting on really bad acting on purpose.

Lumine: *deliberately* Here I am, walking alone in a temple. All on my own. Hopefully, a defenseless girl like myself won't run into any monsters along the way. That would be the last thing that I want.

All of them other than Diluc who was growing bored by the minute looked at each other in confusion on what kind of act Lumine was trying to pull here as Nintega rubbed his eyes before getting Lumine's attention.

TheNintegaGuy: *whisper* What are you doing?!

Lumine: *whisper* Well, you wanted me to be bait! I'm bait!

TheNintegaGuy: *whisper* That's not how bait talks!

Lumine: *whisper* How do YOU know how bait talks?

TheNintegaGuy: *whisper* Well, I know for a fact that bait doesn't talk back!

Lumine: Coming from the sexist who willingly put me up to this!

She yelled which was certainly loud enough to alert all the monsters to her presence, leaving her standing there frozen with her pupils being the size of peas.

Lumine: ...o-oops.

Diluc had a hand on his face while shaking his head with an irritated groan.

Diluc: *whisper* Do I need to do everything myself?!

Deciding that he's had enough with the group's incompetence, Diluc lept from the ruin the others were currently at and landed near the horde of Hilichurls and Slimes, taking out his claymore and hacking away at the Hilichurls effortlessly. He also makes short work of the Slimes as well, summoning fire onto his blade and Vaporizing them into mist. Seeing them all gone, Nintega gains an annoyed look.

TheNintegaGuy: You didn't leave any for us?!

Everyone then glared at Nintega who could practically feel everyone piercing his body with their annoyed eyes.

TheNintegaGuy: ...Okay, yeah. This one's on me.

Diluc stabs his claymore into the ground before giving the group another glare.

Diluc: Can. We. Go now?!

His annoyed tone of voice made everyone nervous as they sweated bullets.

Jordanwolfboy9743: R-Right behind you, Master Diluc sir!

Everyone then followed right behind Master Diluc as they don't know now whether or not the last plan made him disapprove of them a little more to be on par with how much he is annoyed with the Knights of Favonius. Just like the ones before, they fought and made their way through the denizens of puzzles and hordes the ruin had to offer until they reached one last doorway.

Nintega slices through one last Slime before the large door lit up, slid open, and revealed what was in store for them on the other side. Another Hydro Abyss Mage was waiting for them as it immediately conjured up a shield to protect itself. Suddenly, they all also heard a horn blow from behind them as they looked behind themselves to see that a Mitachurl along with several other Hilichurls had come into the mix which signaled this as an ambush.

Lumine: It was waiting for us?!

Shadowlight2784: *sarcasm* Great... An ambush, just what we needed.

Lumine then glances towards Nintega.

Lumine: Hope that you have an adequate plan this time!

TheNintegaGuy: You and I will take the Mitachurl and Jordan, Shadow, and Diluc can handle the Abyss Mage. No special reason, just take 'em down!

Diluc: Hmph! A plan I can finally agree with!

Everyone got into a fighting position, readying themselves for the incoming fight. With a battle cry, the monsters charged towards the group with weapons in hand as our heroes had gone into the fight. Lumine and Nintega were easily able to charge through the Hilichurls, but they had to deal with the big guy with an axe as it swung its large weapon at them, but Lumine and Nintega blocked the strike with their weapons to get knocked back a little bit.

Jordan, Shadow, and Diluc were with the Abyss Mage as Shadow blocked a melee strike from the mage, only to be picked up and encased into a bubble, surprising him. The Abyss Mage chuckles before swinging Shadow around to hit both Diluc and Jordan before the mage throws Shadow onto Jordan. The three recovered before hearing a grunt and they look over to see Nintega getting knocked back by the Mitachurl as it was getting ready to launched another strike on him, but Lumine tries to come in from behind to attack the Mitachurl, but it sees this coming as it grabbed Lumine's sword making her gasp before throwing her across the room and Nintega quickly gets up and jumps in front of her to break her fall.

As they both got onto their knees, Nintega looks up and notices that one of the walls wasn't stable as he looks at the Mitachurl before peering over at the Abyss Mage and he suddenly gains another plan.

TheNintegaGuy: Guys, tag out!

Everyone looks at him with confused looks.

Jordanwolfboy9743: What?!

TheNintegaGuy: Trust me.

Nintega pointed over to the not-so-sturdy wall as everyone looked over at it and caught onto what this new plan was as they all nodded before following along with the plan. Nintega and Lumine got the Mitachurl to chase them around while Jordan, Shadow, and Diluc ran up a wall before backflipping off of it to give themselves more room as well as the Abyss Mage pursued them as well.

That's what they wanted however as everyone switched out the enemy that they were facing when they crossed each other's paths. Jordan, Shadow, and Diluc lead the Mitachurl over to the broken wall as it tried to take a strike at them with its axe, but Jordan quickly saw this as he jumped out of the way before using his bow to grab the axe and bring it down into the floor. Shadow then ran behind the distracted Mitachurl as he used his polearm to swing at its feet to trip it, and finally it got a flaming claymore to the face thanks to Diluc.

Nintega and Lumine were dealing with the Abyss Mage a lot better as well as Lumine used her Wind Blade to lower the mage's shield down and when that occurred, Nintega used some more Anemo to throw the mage off balance, so that it couldn't recover so quickly, and finally Lumine gives the Abyss Mage a kick to the face, knocking it to where the Mitachurl was. Seeing how they had both of their enemies where they wanted, Nintega turns to Diluc.

TheNintegaGuy: Diluc, now!!

The tall man gives him a nod before bringing his claymore behind him, summon Pyro magic onto it. With one good horizontal swing, he summoned his Pyro eagle again and it soared right after the two foes. In an act of desperation, the mage summoned a Hydro shield to protect itself and it barely held up against Diluc's attack while the Mitachurl was burnt to a crisp. Heavily weakened now, the mage lost its shield. It was about to conjure up another one, but not before the sound of something coming apart caught its attention.

It looked behind itself to see that the cracked wall was also what Diluc hit as a ton of rubble came down over the Abyss Mage making it shriek in pain. The others shield their eyes from the dust of the fallen debris before it cleared to show a dizzy looking Hydro Abyss Mage who was now cornered thanks to them. They all glared down at it, especially Diluc who was the one taking charge of this interrogation.

Hydro Abyss Mage: How did you find me here?! Favonian scum!

Diluc: I am no Knight of Favonius. Now, start talking! Your plan, what is it?

Hydro Abyss Mage: I see you received our letter... But if you think I'm going to let you in on our secrets, I'm afraid you're quite mistaken!

Diluc: Hmph! You appear to have misunderstood the situation you are in.

Jordan perks up and turns to Diluc, smirking.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Oh! This guy's a Hydro user, so... why not let him have a taste of some good old Vaporize? You know... to give him the proper incentive to squeal?

Diluc looked at Jordan for a second before he actually gained a slight smirk of his own.

Diluc: Hmm. Your way of thinking is much smarter than I took credit for.

Jordan just shrugs playfully before leaning over to Shadow and whispering to him.

Jordanwolfboy9743: *whisper* I learned that from Lisa.

Diluc then made his Pyro Vision glow its red color before small flames shot out from his hand and onto the Abyss Mage, only hurting it.

Hydro Abyss Mage: D-Did you just use a Pyro Vision to shoot f-fire from your hands!? ...Aah! It burns!

Diluc: Let's see how long it takes for you to crack.

Nintega brings a hand to his chin and hums playfully.

TheNintegaGuy: This guy looks like he hasn't had enough yet. I say hit him again!

Which is exactly what Diluc did as a bigger flame was shot at the Abyss Mage as it was clearly in agony from all of the hot burns that it was feeling.

Hydro Abyss Mage: Stop! Stop! P-Please, the pain - I beg you... make it stop!

Shadow enters the interrogation as well by walking over and grabbing the back of the mage's collar, bringing him up to eye level with everyone as he squirmed in Shadow's grasp.

Shadowlight2784: Buddy, just make it easier for yourself and tell us what you know.

Hydro Abyss Mage: I'll talk, I'll talk! Ow, ow, ow... P-Please stop! Put me down and I'll tell you everything!

Lumine: That's what we thought.

Shadow sets the mage down, allowing him the chance to talk.

Hydro Abyss Mage: Th-The Abyss Order, we've amassed a force bound by a shared hatred for the Darknight Hero... They... They will march on the Mondstadt city gates at 10 PM tomorrow night. That's everything I know... Please... Don't make me suffer those flames again...

Diluc gives the mage another glare and crosses his arms.

Diluc: That's it? Well, I doubt you'd be foolish enough to keep anything else hidden.

Shadowlight2784: Yeah... too bad we can't let you warn your buddies that we now know of your plan, so... say hi to the nothingness for us!

Without even letting the mage prepare for it, Shadow takes his polearm and throws it right into the mage's head, killing it instantly. Everyone went wide-eyed from this before slowly looking towards Shadow who raised an eyebrow at everyone's shocked looks.

Shadowlight2784: ...What? Come on, the guy attacked us. He had it coming.

TheNintegaGuy: ...You've been hanging around Sister Rosaria a lot more than we originally anticipated.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Yyyyyeah... maybe you should cut back on the visits just a little.

With the interrogation over with, the group had returned outside in Mondstadt as they all regrouped with Master Diluc as there was something else that he had to tell them.

Diluc: Now that I have the information I need, I must prepare. I would be grateful if you all could keep me updated on how the Knights of Favonius respond to this matter.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Y-Yeah, of course, Master Diluc sir! We'll keep you well informed, Master Diluc sir!

Paimon: Anything you say, Master Diluc sir!

Diluc: ...Why are you two acting so strange all of a sudden?

The two of them glance at each other for a second before gulping in unison.

Jordanwolfboy9743: I-It's just... after what we witnessed back there, it's good to know that... that you're not someone to be screwed with.

Paimon: Mm-hmm. Master Diluc is officially No. 1 on Paimon's "people not to tick off under any circumstances" list...

TheNintegaGuy: Okay... then where does that place Lisa?

Paimon: Uhh... maybe number two or three?

Diluc gives nothing, but a silent huff from this.

Lumine: Never mind what they think of you, Master Diluc. We'll inform you as soon as we get the information.

Diluc: *nods* We'll be going our separate ways for the time being then. Don't do anything reckless.

He warned them before narrowing his eyes towards Nintega.

Diluc: Specifically looking at you...

Nintega freezes from being singled out like this before nodding vigorously.

TheNintegaGuy: N-No promises...

The red haired man simply closed his eyes and sighed, shaking his head before turning and heading off in the opposite direction. When his form disappeared, both Jordan and Paimon were able to finally breathe as they did so by letting out a sigh of relief.

Jordanwolfboy9743: One of you will have to remind me never to get on his bad side.

No one said anything as they just nodded back. 

Some time later, Nintega, Jordan, Shadow, Lumine, and Paimon were back in Mondstadt city as they arrived at the Knights' headquarters. There, they found Huffman standing outside again as he was seemingly deep in thought.

Huffman: *sigh* If we do not make contact with the Darknight Hero soon...

Jordanwolfboy9743: Hey, Huff, my man! How goes it?

His attempt at a joke received a facepalm and a groan from the others.

Huffman: Ah, it's you five. I must admit, this issue of the Darknight Hero is proving to be something of a headache. We've just held a meeting to decide on an appropriate course of action. Can any of you guess what it is?

Everyone all looked at each other with raised eyebrows as without any sort of context, they were stumped on what idea could possibly be a good one for the Knights of Favonius and this issue that they're having. Seeing no good answer, Jordan decided to come up with a dense guess.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Bury our heads firmly in the sand?

Huffman: Haha... Good one. But no, the Knights cannot afford to simply stand by and watch while there is even the slightest inkling of a threat facing Mondstadt. If that were the case, more and more people would start to rely on the Darknight Hero instead of the Knights of Favonius.

Lumine: Then... team up with the Darknight Hero?

Huffman: No. That would send a signal that the Knights are in favor of the Darknight Hero's continued presence in our city... which we are not. Encouraging this kind of individual heroism undermines the Knights' authority.

Paimon: Oh. Well, what's the plan then?

Huffman: Find out the Darknight Hero's true identity, and offer him our protection.

This brought some shock and some confusion to the Honorary Knights as Diluc is really independent and can take care of himself quite fine without the Knights of Favonius.

TheNintegaGuy: Why would you need to offer him protection if he's doing just fine on his own?

Huffman: Pff... Well, since you all aided the Knights in the past and still currently do, I might as well just tell you. The offer of protection is just a ruse, in order for the Knights of Favonius to take over full - and exclusive - responsibility for this matter.

Shadowlight2784: ...Okay, which is it? You want his help? Or you don't want his help? Because you keep bouncing back and forth on whether you guys support the Darknight Hero or not.

Huffman: It's sort of in between. Firstly, this is to show the might of the Knights of Favonius - to prove to the people that without the Darknight Hero, they can still rely on the Knights to maintain peace and harmony. Secondly, the Abyss Order have no mercy in their hearts. If anything happened to the Darknight Hero... It would only serve to further their nefarious ambitions.

Lumine: Hmm... sounds like the life of a Knight is much harder than it looks at face value.

Huffman: But none of this will work if we don't establish the Darknight Hero's true identity in time...

Suddenly, the voice of a certain Cavalry Captain rang out as he came to join in on the conversation.

Kaeya: There's no need to despair, Huffman. Just follow my plan and everything will be fine.

Huffman: Ah, Captain Kaeya.

Shadow smirks while crossing his arms.

Shadowlight2784: (Why am I not surprised that he's involved in this too...?)

Jordanwolfboy9743: Oh, hey! What's up, K?

Kaeya: *chuckles* Nothing much. I just couldn't help but overhear your conversation with Huffman. Anyways, lately, Master Diluc has been working the bar at the Angel's Share every night.

He turns to Huffman.

Kaeya: All I need you to do is keep him in your sight. Think you can manage that for me?

Huffman: Yes, Captain Kaeya! ...But, does that mean that... Master Diluc is the Darknight Hero?

Kaeya: Who knows...? It's just a hunch. I've been known to be wrong on occasion.

Huffman salutes to Kaeya before walking his way towards Angel's Share and before Kaeya took his leave, he looked over the Honorary Knights and winked at them with a smirk. As he walked away, the rest other than Shadow were confused on what kind of sign that was. Shadow's been hanging around Kaeya enough to know exactly what that means as he just kept a poker face while shaking his head.

TheNintegaGuy: Okay, I'm not the only one who thinks that because of all of this Darknight Hero business that the Knights of Favonius have been acting kind of weird, right?

Paimon: Nope. Paimon's never seen this side of the Knights of Favonius either. But Paimon doesn't understand, how is Kaeya so sure he knows who the Darknight Hero is?

Lumine: Wait... if they find out... then Master Diluc's identity is in jeopardy!

Paimon: Then we need to head to the winery and tell Master Diluc as soon as Paimonly possible!

TheNintegaGuy: "Paimonly?" You just made that up...

Paimon then deadpans at Nintega while crossing her arms.

Paimon: Well, it currently beats having to hear you constantly tell us to just move everywhere.

TheNintegaGuy: You want me to change my lines up? Fine! *mocking* Let's head to the winery and tell Master Diluc as soon as Paimonly possible.

Almost immediately, Jordan and Shadow had their sides split in laughter as Paimon just pouted.

Paimon: When does Paimon stop getting bullied already?!

Jordanwolfboy9743: *laughs* When you ditch us, of course!

Lumine: Guys!!!

Hearing her yell got everyone's attention and even made Paimon flinch as Lumine took a deep breath before gesturing their way towards the front gate of Mondstadt.

Lumine: Can we please just go and tell Master Diluc, so we won't have to come up with another excuse for your foolishness...?

The boys look at each other in silence before standing up and they all make their way to the Dawn Winery to warn Diluc once again of the situation.

Once again like last time, Diluc was already near the front entrance of the Dawn Winery where he was patiently waiting for the arrival of the Honorary Knights. They all came inside, running up towards Diluc, out of breath from their travel once again.

Shadowlight2784: Considering that you're Batman, I take it that you pretty much know what we're about to tell you, don't you?

Both Jordan and Nintega promptly bopped him on the head for once again making a Batman comparison.

Diluc: Yes... about Kaeya... I should have known he would see this as the perfect opportunity to get back at me.

Shadowlight2784: Get back at you...? What? Are you saying that you both have some bad history together?

Diluc: I shan't get into that now. More importantly, the Knights of Favonius are responding more or less as I had anticipated. All we need to do now is think of a counter plan.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Well, for starters, it's probably best that you don't go back to the Angel's Share.

Diluc: That won't work. It'll only arouse the Knights' suspicion if I don't show up as they're expecting. That's what Kaeya's counting on.

Paimon: Hmm... so what are we gonna do?

Diluc: Patience. Let me think for a moment...

He does just that as he goes quiet, only humming once to himself.

Diluc: If they intend to monitor me, then so be it. We can use this to create the perfect alibi.

The last word left Paimon befuddled, causing her to scratch her head.

Paimon: What's an alabla- an alibi?

Jordanwolfboy9743: *chuckles* It's basically a piece of evidence that claims that you were somewhere else when a crime or an act was committed.

TheNintegaGuy: In other words, it's something that proves your innocence.

Lumine: What exactly is this alibi, Master Diluc?

Diluc: If you want to find out, maybe you can do me a small favor first.

Paimon: Oh, come on! Why do you love cliff hangers so much?

Shadowlight2784: Well, it's not like anyone likes those... We've already had a two-parter in this story and there's more yet to come...

TheNintegaGuy: Okay, now is seriously a bad time for fourth-wall breaks, Shadow...

Shadowlight2784: Hey! It's part of my charm. You can't take my signature lines away from me.

A smack from Lumine to both of their heads was what they got as she gave them a hard glare.

Lumine: Guys, focus, remember?!

Nintega and Shadow rubbed their heads while looking at each other with the same exact annoyed looks.

Nintega & Shadow: *sigh* *sarcasm* Yes, "mom."

Shaking her head, Lumine turned back to Diluc.

Lumine: Anyways, what is it you need from us, Master Diluc?

Diluc: In Mondstadt, Mist Flowers are commonly found in a region just northwest of the winery. If you could gather some for me, I'd be most grateful. I will make other preparations here in the meantime.

Lumine: Okay. In that case, you two go and get the flowers.

She points at Nintega and Shadow who just gave her looks of confusion.

TheNintegaGuy: What? Why us?

He asked before Lumine brought back her glare from earlier.

Lumine: Because you both decided to be stupid during a crucial time like this, so you're making up for it.

Shadowlight2784: Hey, we tend to be stupid all the time, so how could you tell the difference?

Nintega deadpans at Shadow.

TheNintegaGuy: You're not helping...

Shadowlight2784: Wasn't trying to... Making a point.

Nintega facepalms from this with a tick mark on his head while groaning before looking at everyone around him.

TheNintegaGuy: Okay, look! You want us to be serious on this for once? Fine! Shadow and I will go and grab the Mist Flowers... You guys monitor the winery... and boom! Master Diluc provides us with the perfect alibi.

Jordanwolfboy9743: *smirks* And then we have a little bit of fun?

Lumine looks at Jordan before sighing and shaking her head before getting a small smile of her own.

Lumine: ...And then we have a little bit of fun.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Yes!

He cheers, fist pumping the air while the rest of the gang had smug smiles on their faces.

Shadowlight2784: Who doesn't love a happy ending...?

It didn't take Nintega and Shadow long to grab pocket loads of Mist Flowers. However, they were a lot harder to keep hold off than they thought as because of them not having Pyro Visions, the Mist Flowers felt like having literal ice on their clothes. Nintega and Shadow were shivering while walking back towards the winery.

TheNintegaGuy: *through clenched teeth* W-Well played, Lumine... Well played...

Shadowlight2784: H-How can a bunch of flowers cause so much pain to our bodies? W-We aren't even in Dragonspine.

TheNintegaGuy: W-We don't have Pyro Visions, s-so t-they're f-f-f-f-freezing us!

Shadowlight2784: *groans* I-Is there ever a t-time when L-Lumine lightens up?

TheNintegaGuy: W-When it doesn't involve things like being associated with D-Darknight Heroes...

Shadow then looks ahead and slowly points a finger ahead of them.

Shadowlight2784: S-S-Speaking of which...

They both look ahead to see that they've arrived back at the winery where Jordan, Paimon, and Lumine were with Diluc and another individual that was with them. They were both relieved to see that their walk was finally coming to an end as they both arrived while bringing out the Mist Flowers in their palms.

Diluc: Ah, you two are back.

He then notices Nintega and Shadow shivering from holding so many Mist Flowers as he closed his eyes and sighed.

Diluc: Right... Hang on a second...

Diluc used his Pyro Vision to make his hands glow red with small fire as he brought them close to Nintega and Shadow, easily thawing out the frozen Mist Flowers that they were carrying and warming the two back up.

Shadowlight2784: I... will never take heat for granted ever again.

TheNintegaGuy: Thanks, Master Diluc...

Diluc: Of course. Now, allow me to introduce the winery's master brewer-

Connor: So many Mist Flowers... Great! I can't wait to see how this turns out!

He chirped, interrupting Diluc in the middle of his introductions.

Diluc: So, are you certain the equipment can withstand this level of purity?

He asked his associate who felt very surprised by the proposal.

Connor: Oh my... my goodness. The winery owner himself is addressing me directly! Don't worry, sir! It is always my honor to serve you, even if it means risking my life!

Jordanwolfboy9743: (Heh, and Paimon thought Jean was too much of a devotee.)

Paimon: Huh? What's so life-threatening about this?

Connor: Please excuse me - I must get to work!

He left, still leaving the rest of the group confused.

Paimon: What's he going to do with a bunch of Mist Flowers?

Diluc: Long story short... A few days ago, the winery was experimenting with new flavors. They wanted to see if Mist Flower can truly add a crisp and refreshing taste.

TheNintegaGuy: I'll tell you the flavor that it already gives... Freezing-y!

Lumine: Oh, quit being a drama queen already. I've handled tons of Mist Flowers before and they're not that bad.

TheNintegaGuy: Says the girl whose idea was to put me and Shadow through this without us knowing anything about it!

The two of them glared at each other with lightning sparking between their heads and Jordan quickly got in between them before an argument ensued.

Jordanwolfboy9743: I think we oughta separate you two for a while after this whole thing is over!

Diluc: And for the record, you should have given them a heads up about the Mist Flowers if you knew about them and they didn't.

Lumine looks back in shock as Nintega's anger was replaced with a smirk.

TheNintegaGuy: Not so smug now, huh?

Lumine: S-Shut up, you!

Diluc: Enough! Anyways, they discovered the flower's extract is truly potent.

Paimon: So the new batch is selling like hot cakes?

Diluc: No, not potent in terms of attracting customers, but Slimes.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Slimes?

Diluc: Yes, you heard right. Slimes need to extract elemental energy to survive... For them, this substance is simply irresistible. So, I thought to myself, "I wonder how much trouble I could cause now that I know this..."

Suddenly, everyone heard the sound of bangs and crashes inside and they all looked back at the winery, wondering what it was.

Paimon: Yikes! What was that noise?

Just after she asked, the door to the winery swung open and Connor rushed out, looking like he'd just passed through Antarctica.

Connor: Ah... C-Cold... s-so cold... Master Diluc, purification complete, sir! B-But the equipment is...

Diluc puts on a small smile.

Diluc: Marvelous work. Don't fret about the equipment. I shall have my butler order more immediately.

Paimon: "Marvelous! Jolly-ho! Spiffing! Somebody fetch the butler!" Paimon never knew you had to be so well-spoken to get a job in the alcohol industry.

Diluc turns to her, holding a vial of strange liquid.

Diluc: This is what I was talking about. Mist Flower extract... or for our purposes, "Elemental Bait."

Jordanwolfboy9743: Oh... uhhh... it certainly looks... delectable.

He replied, not really convinced on how this would attract Slimes.

TheNintegaGuy: You think we can give it a go?

Diluc: Sprinkle a little on the ground over there.

He points to the ground several feet away.

Diluc: Careful, just a small amount.

Shadowlight2784: If it attracts Slimes then someone is going to have to be bait.

Jordanwolfboy9743: How about Nintega AND Lumine be the bait this time?

Both of them looked towards Jordan in shock.

Jordanwolfboy9743: You two honestly need the job with how much you two have been at odds with each other...

Hearing that being said, both Nintega and Lumine looked at each other with narrowed eyes before Diluc comes up to them with the Elemental Bait in order to attract Slimes. He hands the extract to both of them as they look at each other before sighing seeing how there's no turning back now for them to work together.

TheNintegaGuy: *sighs* Fine... We'll do it...

They both walked a considerable distance away from the group and found somewhere good to place down the bait for the Slimes. They sprinkled the substance onto the ground and began the waiting game. They both waited for nearly a minute and so far there was nothing happening. The rest who were watching from afar could only stare to see what was going to happen.

Paimon: And then? That's it? How long does it take before-

She couldn't finish that sentence as the sound of squelching and swords being drawn caught their attention. Slimes were already gathering up towards where Nintega and Lumine were as they both got into a fighting stance with their weapons.

Shadowlight2784: Wow... You weren't kidding on the fact that it attracts a lot of Slimes!

Diluc: It appears the potency is greater than anticipated... We'd better get rid of them before they wreck havoc on the manor.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Heh, leave that to us, Master Diluc!

He replied, taking out his bow while Shadow spun his polearm with one hand.

Jordanwolfboy9743: *snickers* Maybe we should-

Shadowlight2784: Make another pun and I swear, I'll smack you with the dull end of this polearm!

Not wanting to deal with that, they both jumped in to help out Nintega and Lumine who both already got a headstart on fighting the Slimes. They were appearing to have a little bit more fun taking these on than when they were in the temple as Nintega stabs through a couple of Slimes with his sword before holding it up while turning towards Lumine.

TheNintegaGuy: Hey, look Lumine! Slime-kebabs!

Lumine: *groans* What did I say earlier?!

TheNintegaGuy: Where's the fun in that?

He then takes one of the Slimes on his sword and hurled it towards Lumine.

TheNintegaGuy: Here, catch!!

Lumine's eyes widened from this before she quickly swings her sword at the Slime that Nintega launched at her before she knocks far and high up into the air before it disappeared and likely splatted to its demise. She glares back at Nintega, but not before another Slime that Nintega picked up was thrown at her. She pulls her sword back before swinging at it once again, this time launching it back towards Nintega who ducked out of the way and the Cryo Slime that he threw hit a Geo Slime instead.

Smirking at each other, Nintega and Lumine decided to have just a tiny bit of fun with the Slimes hoarding around them as every Slime that Nintega threw at her, Lumine would knock it into another in order to kill two birds with one stone. Nintega stabs another Pyro Slime before throwing it at Lumine with his sword and Lumine knocks it into a bunch of Cryo Slimes as the Pyro Slime exploded and got rid of all of them at once. Seeing how most of them were cleared, Lumine puts a hand on her hip while smiling at Nintega.

Lumine: Okay, I'll admit. I didn't think I'd have any fun following your ideas.

TheNintegaGuy: We're even. I didn't think you would find a way to make this fun for me too.

Jordan and Shadow took care of their horde of Slimes as well and it was pretty easy for all of them to deal with, even if the Slimes increased in numbers. With all of the Slimes away from the winery, they regrouped back with Diluc.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Dang... how the heck did such a small substance of that stuff attract a huge number of those things?

Diluc: As I said, it's not so much the quantity of it, it's all in its potency.

TheNintegaGuy: If what we just saw somehow didn't prove that, then I don't know what else would have.

He chuckles.

Paimon: Alright! So can you tell us what your plan is now, Master Diluc?

Diluc: Yes. The plan is...

He goes on to tell the group about his plan as each listened intently, careful as to not leave out any details.

Diluc: ...and so I expect it to all go down without a hitch.

Shadowlight2784: You seem pretty confident about it. You sure this'll go as planned? I ask because... you're literally the only person here involved in it.

Diluc nods, looking back at him.

Diluc: I have persevered alone from the start. Now, I alone must face what lies ahead.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Wait, so... you plan to fight an army from the Abyss Order... without any backup whatsoever?

Lumine: Guys... He's faced the Abyss Order and the Fatui a lot more than we have... especially alone. I think he can handle it.

TheNintegaGuy: Lumine's right... As much as I hate not getting in on the action... Let's leave this to Master Diluc for once.

He then looks up at Diluc with a confident smile.

TheNintegaGuy: Now... I know that our team isn't the most focused or mature one out there... but even so, we work together so that we can get the job done as if our team is one. It's how we took down Dvalin after all. Whether you go in alone or not, we'll still help you out anyway that we can with this plan, right guys?

Shadowlight2784: I've come this far, so it'd be pointless of me to back out now.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Couldn't agree more, my friend!

Paimon: Let's do it!

Lumine was the last to answer as she crossed her arms and thought to herself. Eventually, she nods and places her hands on her hips, smirking.

Lumine: I'll agree to it too... if the price is right.

Paimon stomps the air while glaring at Lumine.

Paimon: Hey! Don't be so cheeky!

However, the boys already knew that this was a joke as them along with Lumine got a small laugh out of this and Diluc... also got a small, barely noticeable chuckle out of this as well.

Diluc: I don't normally like to admit this, but... I envy you all.

This surprised all five of the others as they look up at Diluc surprised.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Huh?

Diluc: There's no need to explain much about it now. I am indeed indebted to all four of you... even if you are simply just young adults. I shall see you all at the tavern, as per the plan.

He gives them a two fingered salute before heading into the Dawn Winery.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Did... did we just make him chuckle? I didn't imagine that, did I?

Shadowlight2784: I... saw it too... Nintega?

TheNintegaGuy: Even I'm hoping that I was hallucinating... Lumine?

Lumine: Master Diluc having a sense of humor... I don't think that's something that you see everyday in Mondstadt...

TheNintegaGuy: Well, come on, guys. Let's rest up before getting ready for Master Diluc's great plan.

Everyone nods from that as they make their way back to Mondstadt since it was still pretty late in the night for all of them. Getting some sleep for their little mission with Diluc is something that they'll need quite a lot of.

When the team rested for the night and spent their entire day with their friends, they waited till it was nighttime so that they could head to Angel's Share as Diluc would be working there most of the day, so the Knights of Favonius wouldn't get any clues of his identity. When they arrived at the tavern entrance, everyone turned to each other with serious looks.

TheNintegaGuy: Okay... so like Diluc said, we pose as customers to lure the Knights away, sprinkle the Elemental Bait, and soon he'll take it from there. Should be easy enough for everyone, right?

Paimon: It's easy for Paimon... though after the whole incident in the temple, Paimon is starting to have some doubts on Lumine's acting...

Lumine shoots Paimon an unamused glare.

Lumine: This coming from the same tiny girl who nearly blew Master Diluc's cover...

Paimon: N-Not on purpose!

Jordanwolfboy9743: That's our worst case scenario though. What about our best case?

Shadowlight2784: I'm pretty much a local at Angel's Share at this point... Acting as a customer should be a breeze to me...

Lumine then looks over to one side and her eyes widen before shushing the others.

Lumine: Shh! Quiet everyone! Here comes Huffman!

Everyone looked in Lumine's direction to see the Knight of Favonius heading towards their direction. The Honorary Knights glance at each other with nods before heading inside of the tavern, trying to look as casual as possible.

Inside, Diluc was already waiting behind the counter for them as their appearance made him nod in approval that it was already starting. Shadow leaned his back near the entrance, Jordan sat on one of the chairs, and Lumine, Nintega, and Paimon just pretended like they were having a conversation. When Huffman walked inside, he immediately walked towards the counter as Diluc greeted him.

Diluc: Greetings, Mr. Huffman of the Knights of Favonius. To what do I owe the pleasure at this hour?

Huffman: ...Oh, erm, nothing... I'm merely procrastinating. I thought I might indulge myself with a beverage or two.

He then notices the Honorary Knights in the tavern.

Huffman: Ah, the Honorary Knights! Fancy meeting you all here.

Shadowlight2784: Influence from a certain captain of yours brings me around here more often.

Paimon: Nintega, Lumine, and Paimon were just on an evening stroll and decided to join in with our friend as well.

Huffman: Ah, I see.

He then turns towards Jordan.

Huffman: And you?

Jordanwolfboy9743: Eh, just wanted a drink like you. Speaking of which, can I get an apple cider, Diluc?

Diluc: Of course.

He started making Jordan's drink as Huffman watched.

Huffman: And I'll have a Dandelion Wine.

Diluc: Right away.

Paimon: Ooh! Paimon wants apple juice!

As Diluc was preparing the drinks, he eyes the other five who noticed him looking at them. Diluc then gives them a subtle nod as a signal to which they all nod in unison to tell him that they're moving on to the next phase of the plan.

Paimon: ...Aw, Paimon forgot to bring her coin pouch! Lumine, do you have any Mora on you?

Lumine: O-Oh... Sorry, Paimon. Can I start a tab, please?

She said looking over towards Diluc who shakes his head.

Diluc: Apologies, we do not give credit here.

Huffman: Well in that case... let this be my treat.

TheNintegaGuy: N-No need. Come with me, guys. I think someone who owed me some Mora might still be around the area at this hour.

Jordan got his cider and was about to chug down until he heard that as his face showed sadness.

Jordanwolfboy9743: W-Wha? Aww... but I wanted my cider!

Shadow simply shakes his head and sighs before grabbing Jordan by the back of his collar.

Shadowlight2784: Just get your butt off that chair, so we'll be able to pay in full!

He said before dragging Jordan away and they all made their way outside of the tavern. Huffman was a little bit skeptical on what just went down, but he shrugged his shoulders and dismissed the strange feeling.

Outside, everyone starts sneaking their way back to the back alley of where they first reunited with Diluc.

TheNintegaGuy: *whisper* Great facade, guys! I don't think Huffman could tell the difference.

Jordanwolfboy9743: *sigh* *whisper* Yeah, it was so great that I didn't even get to enjoy my cider.

Shadowlight2784: *whisper* Quit complaining, pal. I'll get you two after this is over.

Lumine: *whisper* Besides, you really think we'd let you get drunk before a huge battle?

Jordanwolfboy9743: *whisper* One drink! It was one drink, AND it was non-alcoholic!

TheNintegaGuy: *whisper* We can get our refreshments afterwards. Everyone got their Elemental Bait?

Everyone pulled out the same bait that was used during their test with it at the Dawn Winery.

Paimon: Now all that we need to do is sprinkle some outside of the city gate like Master Diluc said.

The team made their way outside of the gate and they sprinkled all of the bait that they had all over the area. When there was none left, they quickly jog back into the city so no one could find them laying the bait in the first place.

Shadowlight2784: That should be more than enough to attract some slimes if only an ounce was able to attract a whole horde of them earlier.

Paimon then looks back outside of the gate and squints her eyes to get a good look and her eyes widened as from a distance, she could already see a bunch of Slimes hopping down their path.

Paimon: Yikes, Shadow's right. Quick, let's get back to the tavern before anyone spots us.

Heeding her advice, the group sprinted right on back to the tavern with no one luckily catching onto what their plan was. They made it back and see Huffman still conversing with Diluc with a drink in hand.

Huffman: ...Captain Kaeya is no doubt a formidable knight, but he also brings us more than his fair share of hassle...

He shakes his head, bringing a hand to his face.

Huffman: No, this isn't right. I should not be talking about my superior in such a manner. If he were to overhear me...

Jordanwolfboy9743: Hey, Huff, my man!

He greets him while Shadow rubs his face.

Shadowlight2784: *sigh* Seriously?! You just made that joke yesterday, dude!

Paimon: Is my apple juice ready yet?

Diluc: One moment.

Right on cue, another Knight bursts through the entrance of Angel's Share.

City Gate Guard: Mr. Huffman, Mr. Huffman! A situation at the side gate! Everyone to the side gate!

Huffman: What is it? What happened?

City Gate Guard: It's... Slimes, Mr. Huffman.

Considering Slimes are super common around Teyvat, it's no surprise that Huffman was puzzled on why the guard was so panicky about some simple Slimes.

Huffman: Slimes? You see them all the time, what's the big panic?

City Gate Guard: We do, but... Sir, there are more slimes out there now than all the slimes I've seen in my life added together!

The others decided to play along with the fear as they looked back with concern at the guard.

Paimon: Ahh... whoa...

Jordanwolfboy9743: Oh, that's... scary...

Shadowlight2784: I don't find Slimes intimidating, but... if what you described is true...

TheNintegaGuy: Guess we should all stay in here for the time being...

Lumine: We luckily got back here just in time... right, guys?

Huffman: Surely this couldn't be the Abyss Order's secret weapon... But... I have another matter to attend to here-

Diluc shot him a suspicious raised eyebrow as while he knew it wasn't a drink that Huffman was here for, he tried to turn the tables on him.

Diluc: Oh? The matter of your Dandelion Wine?

Huffman: N-No, I... That's not what I meant...

Diluc: Hmph. So this is how the Knights of Favonius conduct themselves in a crisis. The Abyss Order is encroaching the city gates, and your response is to sit here... drinking wine?

Diluc then looks over towards the Honorary Knights.

Diluc: Don't you four see? It's like I've always said. The Knights are not to be trusted.

Playing along with Diluc's blame, the Honorary Knights themselves shot Huffman the stink eye.

TheNintegaGuy: You know... he's right. I thought the Knights were far more caring than this.

Shadowlight2784: *sarcasm* So much for all that talk about protecting the people.

Jordanwolfboy9743: It would really serve you right if we just decided to quit for that.

The Knight's eyes widened as he looked at each disappointed face all around him.

Huffman: I...

Realizing he was outnumbered, he lets out a sigh of defeat.

Huffman: *sigh* Master Diluc is right, my conduct here has been below par. I shall set off at once, but first...

He turned back to our five heroes and leaned in close to them.

Huffman: *whisper* May I have a word with you all?

Reluctantly, they each agreed before they were taken to a more secluded spot in the tavern.

Paimon: Huh?

She spoke, somewhat loudly.

Huffman: *whisper* Shh, keep your voice down. I presume you know what this is about. Please watch Diluc for me - do not let him leave under any circumstances!

TheNintegaGuy: *whisper* Wait, really? What for?

Huffman: *whisper* I don't have time to explain! Just keep watch over him! I must head to the side gate, but I'll be back shortly. I'm counting on you five!

Huffman then makes his leave from the tavern as everyone else in the room sighs in relief.

Diluc: Good. That's him out of the way.

Paimon: Everything's going according to plan.

Jordanwolfboy9743: For the love of Barbatos, Paimon, don't jinx it!

Diluc: I must get going too. I won't have a second to spare if I'm to be back in time.

Lumine: We've got your back.

Diluc nods before he quickly makes his way from behind the counter to exit the tavern himself along with the others so that they can make their way to the front gate of Mondstadt and stop the Abyss Order's attack.

When they arrived at the entrance to the city, they all stood together with serious looks on their faces.

Shadowlight2784: Well... It's 10 PM.

Diluc: And just as they promised...

He said pointing ahead as everyone heard a bunch of angry growls from the sound of Hilichurls and they all look ahead to see the sight of a giant stampede of Hilichurls with weapons and Abyss Mages charging right at the front gate of Mondstadt. Diluc, meanwhile, was casually walking towards them, not even bothered a single bit by their rapid approach.

Diluc: Ah. There you are.

He smugly stated as the Hilichurls and mages got closer.

Jordanwolfboy9743: *sigh* Okay, I REALLY think we should at least help him in some way!

He said while summoning his bow, but Nintega put a hand out in front of him to stop him.

TheNintegaGuy: Hang on, pal. Master Diluc said that he would handle the rest. Let's trust him on this for now. It'll be my call to decide whether or not we should intervene.

Still unsure of that, Jordan turned his worrisome gaze to Diluc again who still kept his pace at a stroll as he summoned forth his claymore.

https://youtu.be/9Ar5-ftLGEs

Diluc: Dealing with you will be the easy part.

Eventually, a few numbers from the horde reached him and lept towards him with the intent to harm. However, Diluc easily slashes right through them like butter. A few more tried to attack, but he just as simply sliced and hacked his way past his attackers. Once they were gone, he turned his attention to the two Cryo Abyss Mages that resided in the back. Slamming his claymore into the ground, he sent a Pyro shockwave right at them. It bounces right off of them unfortunately as they fired two shots of Cryo crystals back at Diluc who just shrugged them off like they were nothing and he counters their attack by throwing his spinning claymore at them.

It landed in the middle of the horde and he lept straight at it, taking it into his hands again before facing his foes, kicking and punching any and all that came at him. When they were taken care of, three separate shots from Cyro Abyss Mages crept up on him from three different sides and he jumps out of the way, but the shots manifested into crystals and grew upwards to try and hit him. This doesn't faze him at all as he simply slices through the Cryo magic with ease, charges up an attack, and slams back onto the ground, knocking his opponents away with a powerful shockwave. Then, in one last finishing move, he does his signature horizontal slice and summons his Pyro eagle, one that easily wipes out the Abyss Mages before him.

Diluc smirks a little bit being able to deal with that small army, but not before another Cryo Abyss Mage appears right in front of him and summons another army of Hilichurls right in front of him. Everyone gasped at this before Jordan turns towards Nintega again.

Jordanwolfboy9743: So what's the plan now, wise guy?! Keep letting him fight on his own until he dies?!

Nintega narrows his eyes at Diluc being surrounded by a lot more enemies that they were anticipating. While he did want to respect Diluc's wishes on letting him fight on his own, nothing wrong ever came from having a little bit of help from them this whole time. Even now, they would take care of all of them faster with their help. Making up his mind, Nintega summoned out his weapon before pointing it forward with a determined glare.

TheNintegaGuy: Guys... Take! Them! Down!!

Shadow smirks, summoning his polearm and giving it a spin. Lumine had a smirk of her own as she pulls out her sword before they all charged forward to assist Diluc.

TheNintegaGuy: Shadow, set me and Lumine up!

Shadow nods as he runs forward before placing his polearm horizontally over his back as Nintega and Lumine ran towards him before jumping high up into the air to land on top of Shadow's polearm. Shadow then uses some Anemo magic to push both of them up into the air to give them a huge boost as they both went flying right over Diluc.

TheNintegaGuy: Master Diluc! Heads up!

Hearing that warning, Diluc turned around and looked up into the air with slight surprise to see Nintega and Lumine diving down from high above them as Nintega made his body glow lime green before pointing a fist charged with Anemo magic downwards.

TheNintegaGuy: Cowabungaaaa!

When he made impact with the ground, this caused a huge shockwave that bounced Lumine back up into the air as she charged up some Anemo herself before conjuring up a large tornado and throwing it forwards.

Lumine: Prepare to be blown away!

This tornado carried a bunch of Hilichurls up into the air, but that wasn't all as Jordan and Shadow ran into the tornado themselves to give both of them a boost into the air. When they gained enough height, Shadow comes down swinging his polearm at the Abyss Mage that Diluc confronted. Jordan, who was still in the air, put on his Wind Glider before firing a rain of Anemo-infused arrows down at the army of Hilichurls below him.

When the Hilichurls were dealt with, all that was left was the Abyss Mage as it blocked a strike from Shadow. However, when Nintega and Lumine came in to attack, it conjured up a shield to absorb their sword strikes as well. Jordan comes down right in front of it with two Anemo arrows in both of his hands as he spins them around before stabbing them both into its shield, breaking it instantly.

The Abyss Mage was getting ready to counterattack, but not before Master Diluc came up from behind the Abyss Mage to launch it up into the air with his claymore, throwing it off balance. When it came back down, Diluc charged up his large sword with a bunch of Pyro energy before slamming it into the Abyss Mage and it got sent flying hard away while rolling across the ground. It was likely dead at that point as the group saw that there were no more surprises for them which means that they've won. However, Diluc wasn't entirely happy as he frowned at the team.

Diluc: I told you all not to get in my way!

TheNintegaGuy: Well, you seem to keep forgetting something... We're Honorary Knights of Favonius... and you... you're not.

Shadowlight2784: Even so, we're just as independent as you are, Master Diluc.

Diluc looks down at each of them before turning away from them with crossed arms.

Diluc: ...

Jordanwolfboy9743: Deny it all you want, but deep down, you know as much as we do that our help made that fight much easier for you.

Lumine: Master Diluc... you picked specifically us to help you when you could've easily said no because we're part of the Knights of Favonius. You picked us because you know that we're strong. You said it yourself.

Jordanwolfboy9743: We may not be an experienced team when it comes to tactical planning, being serious, or even coming to an agreement at times... but we're still strong enough to help you. Maybe... you need us around more than you think.

TheNintegaGuy: Even when you think that you don't need us at all... Like the Knights in general... You don't like them... yet you still accept their help when desperate times call for desperate measures. You're showing the same deal here.

Diluc was still silent even after all that they've said to him. The team looked at each other in confusion before eventually, Diluc spoke up.

Diluc: And that's exactly why I envy all of you.

Shadowlight2784: What exactly do you envy out of us?

Diluc: No time to explain that now. I don't know how long those Slimes will keep Huffman occupied. Best get back to the tavern.

He spun around and jogged down the bridge. He makes it to the front gate, but suddenly stops and gives the group one final look over his shoulder, seeming to be in thought about something before disappearing.

Jordanwolfboy9743: I hate to say it, but as much as I wanted to know what he might have said, we should probably head back too.

Lumine: Agreed. If Huffman's back... our plan of keeping the Darknight Hero a secret failed.

TheNintegaGuy: Let's just hope that those Slimes we attracted were enough.

They all made their way back to Angel's Share and fortunately for them when they arrived inside of the tavern, Huffman was nowhere to be seen which meant that the plan worked like a charm.

Diluc: It seems Huffman hasn't yet returned. We made it in time.

Hearing that, the team cheered their success with a power bump, but Diluc instantly calmed them down.

Diluc: Don't celebrate too early. Get in position.

Knowing that Diluc was right, everyone got back into their casual acting that they had when they first entered the tavern and after a couple of minutes, Huffman returned back to the tavern as well clearly out of breath from handling a large horde of Slimes.

Huffman: *panting* ...The situation is sorted now. I never expected that the Abyss Order's army would turn out to be nothing more than a few slimes.

Diluc then put on his casual acting once more.

Diluc: That is a surprise. Perhaps the Knights' true calling is to be slime exterminators. Who knows, domestic pest control may turn out to be more valuable use of your resources.

Huffman: Master Diluc, please, have you no respect at all...

Huffman then notices the other four, but he could tell that they were sweating and out of breath.

Huffman: Why are you all sweating so much? None of you left, did you?

Jordanwolfboy9743: U-Us? No! We stood guard just like you asked.

Lumine: I-It's just... really warm in here.

Huffman: Is it...? But if that's the case, why are you all also out of breath?

TheNintegaGuy: E-Exercise?

The Knight gave him a skeptical glance before turning to one of the patrons in the tavern.

Huffman: Excuse me, sir. Might I be so bold as to inquire...? Did you see Master Diluc... I mean, today's bartender... Did you see him leave just now?

Paimon started to panic when he asked.

Paimon: *whisper* Yikes! He's asking other customers... We're done for!

The others shared in her panic as well, sweating bullets at the thought of being ratted out by one of these patrons. Their hearts raced as they waited for one man's response to Huffman's query.

Patron: Master Diluc? Why no, he's been behind the bar this entire time.

Realizing that they weren't as screwed as they thought, our heroes found the urge to breathe easily again while Huffman hummed.

Huffman: I see...

Diluc: Mister Huffman, your Dandelion Wine.

He called, placing Huffman's desired drink on the counter.

Diluc: You ought to get back after this. Send my regards to the rest of the Knights.

Huffman: Oh... Never mind, I must be going, I should report back. Here, take this as a token of my esteem.

He placed a set of Mora on the counter before taking the Dandelion Wine made for him and walking out of the tavern extremely perplexed.

Huffman: Hmm... How odd...

When he finally left the tavern, everyone looked back towards Diluc with a smile.

Paimon: Phew! That was too close! Paimon was sure we were toast...

Shadowlight2784: Okay, but still... Even I'm not dumb enough to not see the bartender walk out of the tavern in a hurry. What the hell was that all about?

Diluc: I foresaw this eventuality... So all of the guests here tonight, save you five, are my own people from the Dawn Winery.

Jordanwolfboy9743: Wait... ALL of these people here were in on the plan?!

???: Not all of them... Or should I say, not all of us.

Everyone's eyes widened to hear the sound of none other than Kaeya walk up to them out of nowhere. Shadow crosses his arms with a weary smile.

Shadowlight2784: How'd I know you would show up?

Kaeya: *chuckles* Are you implying that you knew of my arrival beforehand? I just picked a good spot to quietly sit back and watch the show.

Jordanwolfboy9743: *murmurs* Oh, like Batman.

Instantly, he realized what he said and he silently groaned while facepalming before shooting Shadow with a glare.

Jordanwolfboy9743: *whisper* Damn it, now you're making me say it!

Shadow only smirked at him before looking back towards Kaeya.

Paimon: Whaaa... You've been here this whole time, Kaeya?!

Kaeya: Correct.

He then turns towards Diluc.

Kaeya: "The Darknight Hero's Alibi..." I think it's my favorite chapter so far. More intriguing than a fine wine.

Diluc only shoots Kaeya a frown with a huff.

Diluc: Hmph... So? You plan to report everything to the Knights of Favonius?

Kaeya: Haha... Come now, Diluc, you know me better than that. I have no interest in exposing secrets. I was just curious to see how far Mondstadt's Darknight Hero would really go. And you did not disappoint.

Diluc: I have nothing to prove to you.

Kaeya: Oh, naturally. I must say though, one thing I didn't see coming is that the mighty Darknight Hero would actually need help from other people...

Diluc rolls his eyes annoyed from this while looking away from Kaeya.

Diluc: Sorry, we're closing. Please see yourselves out.

Kaeya just frowns back at Diluc's lack of humor.

Kaeya: Alright, alright... I have no further need of wine to entertain myself tonight, in any case. Just one last thing before I go.

Diluc: It had better be the very last thing.

Kaeya: I feel strangely comforted by the fact that you now have a few new assistants, Diluc.

Diluc silently growled in response.

Kaeya: I hope you all have a wonderful night.

He finally turns and walks out of the tavern. The door closed behind him as the group all turned to each other.

Jordanwolfboy9743: *sigh* So much for keeping this a secret from the Knights.

TheNintegaGuy: Well... technically we did. He's not going to rat us out anyway...

Shadowlight2784: I knew the moment that he gave that look to us that I had a small feeling that he knew everything that was going on up to this moment...

Diluc: Don't mind him.

Lumine: In the end, you were able to succeed with keeping your identity a secret with some help along the way.

TheNintegaGuy: Speaking of which... you want to finish explaining earlier about what exactly you're jealous of us about? You don't seem like the type of guy who would be envious of anyone with how independent you are.

Diluc closes his eyes with a reluctant sigh as after all that went on for the last couple of days, he definitely owes them a lot. Probably even more than an explanation.

Diluc: Since Kaeya's not here to listen in on this... I might as well explain it... But like my identity earlier, you better keep this to yourselves no matter who you meet in future.

TheNintegaGuy: Hey, we've kept your secret this whole time, so we're definitely not spilling any others.

Diluc: That's what I was hoping for. When I said that I envy you all... I meant your relationship with each other.

The Honorary Knights were shocked to hear this as they continued to listen.

Lumine: Why would you be envious of that?

Diluc: Because despite that all of you are young, immature Knights of Favonius... you still put up with each other no matter how annoyed or irritated you all got with each other. You all have a special kind of relationship that not even I would maintain for a period of time as knowing that I was once part of the Knights is proof of that. What I'm saying is... Perhaps your team has a lot more potential to grow than I formerly thought of you all to begin with.

Lumine: So... are you saying that... you're starting to like us in a way?

Diluc: I'm in the habit of working alone, but I did enjoy having your assistance this time.

Jordanwolfboy9743: *smiles* Aww... so you really are growing to like us~.

He teased which just made Diluc roll his eyes with a groan.

Diluc: There is no need to make a big deal out of it. Also, as a token of my gratitude, all of your next orders will be on the house.

Hearing this generous offer made everyone cheer happily as they were more than happy to accept this kind of reward from Diluc.

Paimon: Woooow! Thanks Master Diluc!

Diluc: In the future, if there's anything any of you ever need, you can come to me for help.

TheNintegaGuy: We'll come right to you the second that happens.

Diluc nods with a small smile from this as he knows that he can fully trust the Honorary Knights with how much they've been a huge help for him.

TheNintegaGuy: So to sum up these last couple of days: we figured out who the Darknight Hero is, kept his secret, kicked the butts of the Abyss Order, and we earned Master Diluc's full approval of how great our team is.

Shadowlight2784: We're just that good then.

Lumine: *chuckles* No arguing there.

As Jordan finally was able to sip on his apple cider, he had a sudden thought come to him.

Jordanwolfboy9743: You know... I wonder about something. The people around here often wonder who the Darknight Hero is, but... who do you guys think they consider to be the strongest fighter in Mondstadt?

TheNintegaGuy: *smirks* Me definitely! It's in my title!

Everyone glared at Nintega's arrogance as another argument escalated.

Lumine: Um, no! I'm clearly stronger than you!

Shadowlight2784: Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa! How do either of you know that it's not me?! I fit the best appearance for the Darknight Hero!

Jordanwolfboy9743: Now, hang on a second! I'm the one that actually took down Dvalin, so it's absolutely gotta be me!

And just like that, they were all bickering once more as Diluc stared at them for a second before he closed his eyes with a small smile, chuckled to himself and shook his head.

Diluc: (Maybe the Acting Grand Master did make the right decision of choosing these four to be Knights of Favonius after all...)

Chapter 9 End.