"What will you do now? Baiheng is no longer with us, and Jingliu has vanished. None of this would have happened if Y/N had died! Jing Yuan, are you even listening to me!?"

It has been several days since Jingliu disappeared from her abode, leaving the guards assigned to protect her home in distress. The vanishing of such a formidable champion has prompted the Ten-Lords Commission to heighten their vigilance.

Huaiyan, visibly aged and stressed, reproached Jing Yuan for his negligence in maintaining communication.

Now serving as the Arbiter General, Jing Yuan lazily lifted his glass for a sip, "Huaiyan... I don't want to hear any of this. It would be best if you never mention Master Y/N in my presence again. He was my master, a friend to many, a lover to one, and... a father-like figure to me, a man who always cared for me even if he didn't show it."

Since the Aeon Envoys intervened in the conflict between Yuque and Shuhu, Jing Yuan hasn't been feeling his best. He would rather drown his sorrows in drink and ignore the impending challenges.

But Y/N wouldn't have approved; his master would have wanted him to care for Luofu, and Jing Yuan was determined to honor that wish.

This was, after all, his home.

Huaiyan exhaled sharply, "Jing Yuan..."

The blacksmith understood Jing Yuan's grief. When the Xianzhou Alliance received news of Y/N's death, it left him heartbroken. The friend who had shown him indifference yet respect for his craftsmanship was gone, and he felt a profound loss of purpose.

Yet, during this introspection, he was reminded of Y/N's legacy as a heroic figure in Xianzhou, an idol to the generations that would follow.

Jing Yuan gestured dismissively, still seated behind his desk, "I understand you're chastising me for my negligence, but everyone has their limits. I've reached mine, and what you see is the result—a natural response of a mortal breaking down..."

Huaiyan sighed, "No, the fault is mine for confronting you when you are clearly exhausted. I owe you an apology..."

Jing Yuan hummed, eyeing the stacks of papers on his desk, "Such is the life of a general... Nonetheless, I've caught wind of a peculiar rumor, not just here in Luofu but throughout Xianzhou."

Huaiyan's eyebrow arched, "And what might that be? Good news, or bad? Rumors, especially those spun by long-lived beings, seldom bode well."

Jing Yuan shook his head, "It's more of a discovery, really. A journal yet to be opened, a relic that by all accounts shouldn't exist—at least, that's what both sight and sound suggest."

The Arbiter General of Luofu unrolled a scroll encased in an ancient cover, black with red glowing streaks.

Huaiyan recoiled, sensing an immense malevolence emanating from it, "That scroll... it bears the same ominous aura as those cursed swords I encountered on my quest to become a master..."

Jing Yuan swallowed hard, peering at the contents of the scroll, "I have a feeling we need to prepare for what's coming."

Within the scroll, there was an image depicted in alien ink.

An image of a colossal borisin wielding a shattered black blade.

---

THEIR radiance shone as purely as a gem, their hymn both beautiful and haunting; it echoed with tones of the divine and the horrific.

Jingliu felt the gaze of a solitary eye burrowing into her being. THEY scrutinized her as a collector might examine a newly acquired, fascinating artifact, both meticulously and intrusively.

Ena's porcelain-like form grated against itself, producing a cascade of harsh, abrasive sounds that seemed to intensify the surrounding atmosphere, making it nearly unbearable.

In the tranquil vastness of the cosmos, a profound silence typical of space prevailed, only to be disrupted by something beyond comprehension.

That is exactly what Order was doing now as THEY fixed their gaze upon the Nighthilt Sovereign.

After a duration that felt extensive to Jingliu, Ena spoke with a voice that was soothing and ostensibly calm, yet underneath, it was anything but.

"I greet you, who are now before me. Those chosen and steadfast uphold MY rule, thus establishing Order. I have conquered the very fabric of reality, for I am its guardian."

Jingliu swallowed hard, realizing from Ena's direct greeting that the Aeon of Order was only begrudgingly tolerating her presence, but the reason remained unclear.

She remembered that Artorias had once referred to THEM as 'mother', but the exact nature of their familial relationship was ambiguous to her, though clearly too intimate for her comfort.

There was a reason why the Path of Order had been abandoned and Harmony had taken THEIR place.

She glanced at Artorias, who caught her eye and nodded. She sighed, realizing that he was unaware of her discomfort in the presence of such an Aeon.

Ena's form seemed to spin with the stars around THEM, as if the universe itself was compelled to align with the fundamental laws they dictated. And so, THEY continued, their tone unmistakably that of Order's embodiment.

"I must ask, why have you entered MY realm?"

Jingliu felt an alien force probing her soul, trying to manipulate her. She recalled the grace that had shaped her into who she was now, a grace now threatened by one who could... mislead.

Her hand clenched tightly, as if to steady herself while Order's succinct words imposed their Path upon her, wanted or not.

Memories of her mother scolding her for not obeying surfaced, the old pains of childhood mingling with her current turmoil.

Why did it have to hurt now?

Ena continued, "I have determined the acceptable answers—you arrive accompanied by the one destined for profound and enigmatic deeds. He, my son, the chosen one, is your partner, and you are here as his companion, his significant other."

Jingliu trembled as Ena's words resonated within her, rendering her mute and compelling her to nod in acknowledgment. Although she had heard that adhering strictly to the Paths was highly esteemed, she never fully understood the reason.

Now, it became clear to her. The overwhelming presence of an Aeon, particularly this one, explained why their benevolence was so revered.

Interrupting, Artorias said, "Mother, she is here because I wished for her to join me. There's no deceit involved, but we do seek answers. After all, she has been drawn into the realm between."

The grating sound of porcelain ceased, and Ena's penetrating gaze shifted from Jingliu to Artorias, THEIR interest apparent.

Jingliu felt a sudden urge to breathe more freely, yet she restrained herself, unwilling to appear disrespectful in the presence of an Aeon whose will shapes destiny.

The Aeon of Order's stars shimmered as THEY responded, "A straightforward and comprehensible reply. Very well, my child. I was assessing her because her soul has been influenced by one who has bent time—THEY who traverse from the past into the future."

Jingliu flinched, feeling the intense scrutiny return, while Artorias, puzzled, inquired, "Travel against time... if I'm not mistaken, only the Aeon of Finality possesses that power. Why would THEY intervene if the prophecies remain unspoken?"

Prophecies? Jingliu struggled to recall any mention of them from Terminus, though the Aeon of Finality had always been reticent, speaking only of her 'gifts' and 'blessings.'

Despite the passage of time and even referring to the Aeon as a 'friend' somewhat reluctantly, she remembered their relationship as distant, with the siblings treating her with deference.

It was her, as Terminus had once revealed themselves in human form.

Ena clarified, "Finality remains reclusive, emerging only when the end approaches and the truest of moments unfold. If one were to define THEIR relationship with US, it is that THEY act according to their need, and WE cannot oppose the unspoken. Yet, Finality always accompanies the one who is both the Beginning and the End. You know him, my son, for he observes our very conversation now."

Artorias frowned, sensing their observer more keenly than ever. Having integrated himself with both Order and the Abyss through his acceptance of Beauty and Nihility, he could now perceive Ena and the Aeon of 'Nothing' with unprecedented clarity.

Jingliu noticed his frown and felt a twinge of fear for him. Despite their recent reunion, Artorias, formerly Y/N, still faced numerous challenges and concerns.

While she trusted his explanations of his past discoveries, this did not alleviate the growing dread that seemed to envelop them both.

She reached for his hand, hoping to reassure him of her presence. Her hand was quickly clasped in return, their fingers intertwining as he firmly grasped hers.

Observing this, Ena sensed the Order within Artorias stabilizing.

Perhaps the Nighthilt Sovereign could indeed tame the Abyss and mend the broken fate that clung to him. For this to happen, she realized she must accept Jingliu as her son's partner.

Ena's grand form trembled, and stardust fell from her robe like fine particles. "You have come with questions. I shall endeavor to answer them for both of you."

Artorias and Jingliu were taken aback by this offer from an Aeon; it seemed almost too accommodating.

Ena's head shook gently. "I am aware of your reservations, children. Please, pose your questions to me."

They felt a twinge of embarrassment upon realizing the Aeon of Order had effortlessly discerned their thoughts.

Jingliu pondered silently, 'THEY know of my connection with Terminus.'

Artorias softly addressed Jingliu, "You should ask your questions first. After all, you've been thrust here without a proper explanation."

As Jingliu opened her mouth to respond, a stern glance from Artorias deterred her from starting an argument.

Despite everything, his consideration for her was evident, causing her heart to flutter with affection.

Stepping forward, Jingliu asked Ena, "I understand Artorias' predicament, but why am I also involved? Terminus mentioned my close connection to the moon, yet provided vague and almost meaningless answers. However, the powers I possess do align with her guidance. Yet, they don't explain why I'm here."

Artorias stroked his chin thoughtfully. He hadn't anticipated that the Aeon Jingliu referenced previously would be the Aeon of Finality.

Ena manipulated the celestial bodies within their orbit as she responded to Jingliu's query, "Your presence here is no coincidence. The paths you and Artorias have chosen are intertwined, destined to be followed together eternally. He is the 'Sun', you are the 'Moon', and thus, you were invited into this dimension-spanning realm."

Artorias and Jingliu exchanged looks of astonishment. While the answer provided clarity, it also opened the door to a multitude of further questions.

Ena continued as the stars began to form, "Finality has reached out to you, Nighthilt Sovereign, but it is not entirely THEM. The cocoon that birthed the prophecy at the beginning of time crafted such a concept of time that Finality has merged with THEIR variants. THEY are formless, yet THEY choose the form THEY wear as THEIR skin, once linked to a world far beyond this universe."

As the stars brightened and constellations formed, Ena elaborated, "During your 'training,' THEY hastened the prophecy's fulfillment. Such urgency is undoubtedly questionable, as THEIR motives may conflict with what THEY profess. I must withhold more, as Finality themselves will reveal the necessary details when the time is right, for it may contradict with Order."

Jingliu nodded, frustrated by the prospect of having to wait for Terminus to disclose information, yet now guided by an Aeon whose path seemed to diverge from their own.

Pondering, she mused, 'Is this how Order is meant to be followed? Curious...'

Satisfied with the response, she posed her next question, "Thank you. Now, my next question: Who are the siblings of this realm? You mentioned the dimensional gap, but I am unaware of the origins of the family that resides here."

Artorias observed Jingliu silently. Despite her faith in the siblings' reliability and trustworthiness, he sensed an enigma surrounding them. Perhaps they preferred to keep their true purposes concealed? After all, knowledge is power, and revealing too much could undermine the structure they had established.

To him, they epitomized what Pathstriders ought to be, a perfect representation of what the Aeons in the universe embody. He believed they would be treated with reverence and respect should they choose to disclose themselves.

He reflected on Shuhu, who, though not revealing his true form as an Emanator, possessed powers far beyond mortal capabilities, capable of destroying Xianzhou Luofu were it not for Lan's blessing.

By comparison, Shuhu seemed less formidable than the siblings, even when he first encountered them in their weary state.

His thoughts were interrupted as Ena responded to Jingliu, "I am aware of them, yet they have not encountered Order. They refer to themselves as the Myungwang and reside in this realm seeking peace and freedom. The eldest originated from an era before Qlipoth first wielded THEIR hammer."

The name 'Myungwang' resonated with the naming conventions of Xianzhou, intriguing him further.

Jingliu nodded, hopeful of learning more from Vahn, and proceeded with her next inquiry, "Can Artorias and I return to Xianzhou?"

"No," came the immediate and unequivocal reply.

This blunt response hit her unexpectedly. Artorias, understanding Ena's meaning, felt surprisingly at ease with the decision. He harbored no desire to return to Xianzhou, given its political and regulatory environment, not to mention his past experiences there.

Jingliu stared at Ena, absorbing the finality of the response, and resigned herself to waiting for future opportunities to seek further clarity.

Jingliu felt relieved that her primary questions were addressed, though she had more personal inquiries, she was content to wait.

She glanced at Artorias and offered him a tender smile, aware of the hardships he had endured and not wanting to delay him further.

"I've asked all my questions. It's your turn, Artorias."

Artorias nodded and absentmindedly formed a shadowy sword to lean on as a cane, "As long as you're satisfied, then I am as well."

Ena's voice resonated like strumming strings, "My son, your development is truly commendable. Beauty has informed ME of the great sacrifices you made to find 'yourself'."

The shadow sword in Artorias's hand trembled, nearly causing him to stumble. "Beauty... Is Idrila still around? I thought she had vanished for good."

Jingliu felt a twinge of jealousy towards the Aeon of Beauty, even though THEY had significantly shaped Artorias into the person he is today.

She wondered about the visions Artorias must have seen when Beauty appeared to him.

But no, she reassured herself, he already has her, and that is enough.

Ena responded, "Beauty endures and has fulfilled THEIR mission, passing on THEIR ambitions and treasures to you. THEY, like many others, continue to observe."

Artorias mused, "So, I might meet Idrila again... Now, my question: I encountered a colossal Tree, one that encompasses the universe and others, each alike yet distinct. Why does it communicate with me, imparting knowledge at random?"

Jingliu whispered, slightly taken aback, "Artorias..." surprised by his casual tone.

Ena gestured towards the orb containing stars, "The Imaginary Tree, as some call it, is precisely what you've described. Beneath it lies a quantum sea, a soil-rich land where worlds that have ceased developing fall and decay. These worlds aren't dead; they've simply reached their developmental endpoint."

Artorias grimaced, contemplating the notion that entire universes could collapse.

Ena continued, "Your Shadow interacted with one of these world bubbles through the Abyss, establishing a connection with the tree. This connection has unveiled forbidden knowledge, truths not meant for your universe."

Artorias stilled his stirring emotions, "I sense there's more to it..."

Ena's crown sparked with a constellation, "Do not fret. You are secure as you are part of the Nothing, and the Abyss underpins all. The tree is sentient and acts with intent. Your survival is proof that you are safe."

Artorias exhaled deeply, preparing himself for potential complications, aware that his unique position might attract further intrigue from the First Aeon. He wondered if this was fortuitous or if it foreboded more unexpected challenges.

He also felt a sudden concern for Ena's safety, given the candidness of her revelations—knowledge that followers of Erudition would desperately seek.

With a thought about gaining deeper understanding...

Artorias ventured his next inquiry, "Regarding the Great Ones, Idrila mentioned they are a byproduct of Beauty, but I sense something more alien about them, and Oedon's intentions seem focused on creation. What is their true nature?"

Jingliu's expression tightened at the mention of the Great Ones, her attention sharpening on Artorias's comments about creation.

Suddenly, they heard a crack reverberating through the cosmos. Turning, they saw a nearby star near Ena cracking and trembling.

Artorias braced, ready to shield Jingliu from whatever was coming.

But the tension dissipated as the star rapidly mended itself, and Ena clarified, "The Great Ones, driven by the desire for Propagation, blend THEIR essence with Remembrance and Enigmata, fully realized through Beauty. THEY have lived and propagated beyond the universe's boundaries, through cracked dimensions. Despite Preservation's efforts to eradicate them, they remain elusive, periodically emerging from hiding."

Jingliu whispered, "So that's why Terminus was so determined to destroy them..."

Ena's melodious voice resonated, "Indeed, the Great Ones defy Finality, and consequently, they face their repercussions. Nevertheless, their pursuit of Propagation persists, and thus, more will emerge. The concept of the Great Ones has vulnerabilities; they can be eradicated by extinguishing their desires."

Artorias fell silent, realizing he would likely encounter more of the Great Ones, including Oedon. He sighed and gripped the pommel of his shadow sword, his frustration evident.

Ena focused on Artorias, perceiving his deep distress about his predicament, "My child, you require rest, yet the future demands your resolve."

Artorias exhaled and tightened his hold on Jingliu's hand, "I understand... but to put an end to all this, I need to confront the other Aeons. Yet..."

He turned to Jingliu with a reassuring smile, "... having you by my side is all the motivation I need."

Jingliu mirrored his smile and leaned closer, her touch comforting as she snuggled against him like a cat. His journey would have been unbearable without her emotional support.

Even though he had the Phantom Bubbles to maintain his sanity and revisit memories from his journey across different selves—each encounter brief yet conclusive—he was uncertain about the ultimate worth of these experiences.

The realization that he had shattered the Great One's dream and found himself near her location felt nothing short of miraculous.

Jingliu gently consoled him, "Even though I dislike our situation, my will to live is sustained as long as we are together and I know you are safe."

Artorias felt his Black Heart pulse quicker and the arcane energy surge, but he managed to calm it.

"Thank you..."

Their moment was briefly interrupted by the clash of stars around them, a sign from Ena as THEIR celestial hands clapped.

"You both are bound by Fate, the threads woven and broken with each action you take, but the red string will always find its way back to each other. Every question answered will only lead to more questions."

The stars then shifted, and the orbs glowed a dark red, reminiscent of the eye of a machine.

"Erudition will offer you answers, but THEY will demand something in return, something only the two of you can provide."

The pair felt no surprise; they anticipated future meetings with Aeons, but the early involvement of Erudition suggested something significant was amiss.

"To navigate Erudition's realm of Binary, seek aid from the one Who Travels the Universe."

Artorias murmured, "Akivili..."

Ena mimicked a nod with THEIR orb, "THEY await you in this realm and support you, my son. But be cautious, other Paths will approach seeking their own forms of amusement."

It was expected; Aeons, while rigid in their Paths, often sought their own peculiar forms of 'entertainment,' which could feel as if one's very essence was being dissected.

Artorias nodded, "I have no more questions... thank you, mother."

The warmth radiating from the stars enveloped them as Ena replied, "I assist as it aligns with Order, and you are a part of me. I have halted the corrosion that threatens all, and thus, my support extends to your significant other, whose care for you is genuine and reflects her devotion to Order."

Jingliu felt a surge of warmth; she had just received what felt like a mother's blessing—a sign of acceptance and love.

It was reassuring to know.

Artorias offered a small smile, "You have been incredibly helpful, mother. You embody Order, and thus, some answers are beyond explanation, as they would undermine the foundation itself. For that, and even with the limitations, I thank you."

Ena's gears and arms gently settled onto the space around them, as if laying on the ground, "Your words are kind to ME."

Artorias nodded and started towards the gate, but noticed Jingliu hadn't followed, "Jingliu...?"

The Nighthilt Sovereign reassured him with a gentle smile, "Go ahead, I'll catch up. I... need to discuss something with THEM."

Artorias nodded slowly, "Okay... just remember, conversations with mother are often cryptic and full of guidance. Though, I suspect you know that better than most."

Jingliu nodded in agreement, "I will, thank you."

As Artorias pushed the gate open, a symphony of chimes enveloped him, transporting him back to the city.

Once he was gone, Jingliu's smile faded and she turned to face the Aeon of Order, whose presence seemed even more imposing than before.

The stars that surrounded them began to orbit the two as if they were at the core of the universe.

Jingliu's ties to Finality and Fate seemingly demanded such a response from Order. The emotions she had been suppressing, filled with anger towards the Aeon for the injustices inflicted on her love, were bubbling to the surface.

Ena observed, "You are angry."

It was obvious; she harbored significant resentment towards those involved.

"You sought to channel your anger into strength, yet it proved futile."

Jingliu listened silently, the frosty aura of her power swirling in her palm, her sword at the ready and her Noble Phantasm poised to unleash her wrath.

However, her wrath dissipated as the presence of Order stifled such raw emotion.

"Huh..." Jingliu felt an unexpected calm wash over her, the anger that had built up inside her evaporating, leaving only tranquility.

Ena intoned a solemn hymn, "Civilizations thrive under Order. The laws we abide by are followed accordingly. True progress is what people establish and perceive as beneficial and grand. It would be wise to quell your anger, Fated One. My son is troubled, and you are his companion. For this, I allow you to live. I will assist you."

Jingliu's expression mixed with frustration, "I don't know if I'm worthy... Though I've longed to be by his side. For some reason, I feel undeserving."

Ena's hand grasped the orbit, pulling a string from it, "I abhor chaos. MY intolerance for strife exceeds all else, and your turmoil mirrors this."

Jingliu chuckled, "...What should I do?"

The string in Ena's hand formed into a bundle, and a bright, glowing orb appeared, "Consider your path, the steps you must take. The future's outcomes are inevitable unless you confront what lies before you. Begin by supporting MY son and respecting his desires."

Jingliu sighed softly, "You don't act like an Aeon... at least, not how I imagined one. You seem more like a maternal figure, sorting out their own emotions and beliefs."

As bells chimed softly around them, Ena reflected, "WE are born from concepts, thus forming Paths. Before these concepts existed, WE were merely thoughts, and thoughts originate from desires."

Jingliu tilted her head, curious, "Then what is your desire?"

The orb in Ena's hand quivered then shot into Jingliu at high speed, merging into her chest.

She felt momentarily lightheaded as Ena spoke THEIR final words.

"To live."

---

Jingliu gasped as she opened her eyes to the dazzling light of a room she had never seen before, filled with a grand collection of fashion designs unlike any she had encountered.

"Where am I...?"

As she wandered, she noticed light wisps in humanoid shapes busily crafting these designs. Their creativity was unmatched, putting even Xianzhou Zhuming's finest artisans to shame.

The room was adorned with unfamiliar flowers and outlandish designs that, when combined, created a breathtaking spectacle. She noticed Artorias engaged in conversation with a glowing female humanoid that radiated nostalgia.

Wait, Artorias?

Before she fully processed her thoughts, she found herself by his side. Artorias turned to her.

"Ah, Jingliu. I trust your conversation with mother went well. Allow me to introduce you to Lyria, my personal fashion designer."

The luminous woman with jewel-like eyes greeted her, "So this is my client's beloved? You certainly live up to the tales! I'm Lyria, the creator of Lyria's Touch. Before this civilization's decline, my designs set the standard across the universe."

Jingliu wasn't sure how to feel about Artorias having a female friend, but Lyria seemed amiable.

"Hello..."

Lyria noted Jingliu's brief greeting and smiled warmly, respecting her space, "I sense a curious yet joyful soul. I was just catching up with Artorias about his recent adventures that have, sadly, ruined some of his clothes..."

Artorias adopted a rare playful expression, "In my defense, my adversaries were quite formidable."

Lyria playfully scolded him, "And you think that excuses you from destroying my creations? Shame, shame! No matter your title, my clients are all equal in my eyes, and they all face consequences!"

Jingliu felt like she was watching two old friends banter, a scene that brought back fond memories of Baiheng and herself.

Artorias shook his head affectionately and patted Lyria on the head, "I've missed you, Lyria."

The mood turned solemn for a moment, and Lyria sighed, "I get heated sometimes... but that doesn't mean I forgive you!"

Artorias inhaled deeply, calming himself, "Understood... Anyway, Jingliu and I must be going. It was wonderful to see you again."

Lyria's figure morphed into that of a mature lady, though she remained a beacon of light, "Take care! And next time, bring your partner for a style update! I have many ideas that would suit you both."

Artorias nodded, and with Jingliu, he conjured an Abyssal Gate. He turned to her with a warm smile.

"Shall we?"

Jingliu nodded, "I'm always ready, Artorias."

Together, they stepped through the Abyssal Gate and found themselves inside a luxurious train that resembled a palatial interior more than a vehicle.

They were greeted by a magnificent being clad in gleaming armor. "Wonderful to see you again, Artorias. Your journey seems most eventful."

Artorias adjusted his appearance with a swirl of shadows, his clothes shifting to a formal black attire, "I've been well, Akivili. How has Aha treated you? I imagine he was delighted to reunite."

Jingliu was struck by the silver sheen of Akivili's armor, which made THEM look like a celestial body worth admiring.

Akivili's helmet shifted to express emotion, "It's been tumultuous. Elation has relentlessly pursued me, even in my sleep. Even Pom-Pom had to conceal themselves from the chaos. It's a wonder this train remains intact."

Jingliu, intrigued, asked, "So, the stories of Elation and Trailblaze are true?"

Akivili faced her, THEIR helmet sparkling with a cosmic glow, "Indeed, Fated One. It's my greatest pleasure to meet you under such circumstances. Your aura is like that of creation itself, yet you seem bound by ties unseen."

Jingliu took a confident step forward, her heels echoing on the train's floor, "It's an honor to meet the Aeon my friends revered. The Path of Trailblaze has inspired countless across the universe to find meaning in their lives."

Akivili was visibly pleased, "Truly? I hoped to spread such influence, but never imagined it would reach so far. To walk among mortals and see this impact is a joy."

Jingliu wished Baiheng could have witnessed this meeting, knowing how thrilled she would have been.

Artorias shared the sentiment, imagining a scenario where Baiheng had met Akivili before her passing.

Their conversation was interrupted by the approach of a small, rabbit-like creature. It's dark gray and white fur, blue eyes, and elaborate attire made it quite the character as it introduced itself, "Hello, Trailblazers! I'm Pom-Pom, the conductor of the Astral Express. If you have any concerns during your journey, just let me know!"

Cute. Utterly cute.

Jingliu knelt to meet Pom-Pom's gaze, which seemed to unsettle the little conductor.

Artorias crossed his arms, watching with amusement as Akivili chuckled.

Jingliu patted Pom-Pom on the head, causing a surprised yelp, "Stop that!"

"You are adorable, so I shall pet."

"No!!!"

The whimsical scenery around them was a mix of calming and fun, yet it also felt as if the past had been pulled into the present. However, Akivili decided it was time to move on.

The Aeon of Trailblaze gestured towards the window of the Astral Express, and the outside scene shifted, drawing them into a display of planets—each representing life, death, and cycles, transforming into mechanizations, robots, and inorganic life forms.

"Order has guided me, and I intend to follow. Along with Pom-Pom here, we will assist you both throughout your journey to its end."

Akivili's voice commanded attention, while Pom-Pom, still in Jingliu's hold, saluted.

Artorias queried, "Mother mentioned this, but your willingness to help surprises us. What is your ultimate goal?"

Akivili shrugged, "Perhaps I crave the journey itself? Experiencing such an adventure is something I've longed for, and your presence offers this chance. I've absorbed much about mortal lives and cultures; witnessing it firsthand is invigorating."

Artorias sighed, accepting that Trailblaze's essence was to explore and witness all.

Jingliu interjected, "Before we depart, I should inform the siblings of our plans. It wouldn't be polite otherwise."

Akivili raised a hand to stop her, "There's no need. I've already tasked Pom-Pom with delivering the message. While my connection with them isn't deep, their trust in me is sufficient to relay your concerns."

Jingliu felt a wave of relief and let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding.

Akivili continued, "We are now heading into the territory of Nous. Erudition has stationed many of THEIR followers there, including one particularly hostile to any living being."

Artorias and Jingliu were familiar with the story of a war that had engulfed half the universe, a conflict only rivaled by tales of a Genius Society member.

"Emperor Rubert I..."

Known as Rubert, member #27 of the Genius Society, he initiated the Mechanical Emperor's Wars. As ruler of the Machine Empire, he launched the Anti-Organic Wars, aiming to eradicate organic life across the cosmos.

Akivili nodded, "Indeed, I cannot interfere directly in your battles. This is your story to navigate, and the solutions must come from you, a challenge to your intellect against such enigmas. Now, Pom-Pom, prepare the Astral Express for its deep-space voyage."

Pom-Pom wriggled free from Jingliu and headed off with an energetic, "Ay!"

Artorias looked at Jingliu, who nodded with resolve, "This journey is ours together. Are you ready?"

Jingliu took his hand and leaned into him, "I'm ready. As long as I'm by your side, I'm more than just fine. I'm actually quite curious to see how it all unfolds."

Artorias gave a reassuring hum, "It'll be fine, I can assure you."

Jingliu didn't reply but stood beside him, gazing out as the Astral Express began its journey.

Artorias was no longer just the amnesiac knight from Xianzhou Luofu but a burgeoning godling on his own path, with Jingliu by his side, playing a pivotal role in their shared story.

Akivili settled into their plush seat, "You might want to sit down. Things are about to get turbulent."

Before they could respond, the Astral Express was already speeding into their next adventure.

Ahead of them lay the omniscient machine, a marvel of life intelligence.

The eerie sound of slithering serpents intertwined as THEY watched the train depart, THEIR greed tingling with anticipation.

The clangor of a furnace and the strike of a hammer against the cosmos marked the beginning of movement.

The swift flight of an arrow signaled THEIR awareness of Artorias and Jingliu in another dimension.

The flickering glow of shifting masses signaled THEIR interest in discerning reality from illusion.

The gruesome sound of branches tearing into flesh signaled the birth of new life—and death.

As the cosmos expanded, a serpentine dragon awoke, setting THEIR gaze into the distance.

More beings revealed THEMSELVES, but now, with his newfound alliance, Artorias was more prepared than ever.

For he was determined to break his own fate.

---

A/N: Yay!!! I've finally finished this chapter! It's been a long time coming, but at last, Season 1 is complete. So, I'd like to share a bit about my journey.

I was drawn to write this book because of my passion for HSR and their characters, particularly Jingliu and Acheron. My imagination kicked into high gear, vividly bringing to life the elements of this story. Initially, I released chapters nearly every day. However, as I approached 75% completion of Season 1, I slowed down to take a breath and enjoy life a bit more.

My background in literature from high school, some 6-7 years ago, gave me a foundational understanding of how to structure a book. However, starting with just a last-minute storyboard and using overly complex vocabulary from the dictionary were early missteps. It made the text less accessible (and incomprehensible to some), and I quickly realized the importance of clarity over trying to sound sophisticated.

Through this process, I've read all of your comments—valuable feedback that has helped me refine my approach. Not all advice was equally useful, but it all contributed to a better understanding of what areas needed improvement. I've taken lessons from the past and advice from both you and my friends to heart, continually striving to enhance my writing skills. Am I perfect? Far from it. But I've come to appreciate my unique style, focusing on pleasing some rather than all, which is perfectly fine by me.

Looking ahead, I'm excited to announce the upcoming Season 2, which will feature more chapters than the first and will be released separately. I'm committed to completing it without leaving any loose ends. Additionally, this marks the completion of my first book and my second book, Her Beacon, which I encourage you all to check out.

It's been a year and a month since I started this writing journey. Despite being my own toughest critic, I'm immensely proud of my progress and eager to continue growing as a writer.

Thank you all for sticking with me through this chapter and beyond. I appreciate every reader, whether you've been here from the start or joined along the way. If you're interested in updates and announcements, feel free to follow me.

As for what's next, I'll be taking a short break from writing to recharge—perhaps a month or two. Then, I plan to kick off a new project, a Honkai Impact 3 book, hopefully by early 2025.

I've said quite a bit, so I'll leave it at that for now. Good night, good day, and goodbye, everyone! Thank you once again for all your support and encouragement!