glitchedsera

[glitchedsera]

A Soul Made To Return - Chapter 3

>Notes<

Would you look at that. I actually posted another chapter instead of starting a new series lol. Anyway, new semester is starting for me so I'll probably be busy for a while, but I'll still post some drabbles for fun.

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Pulse of the Past

The morning haze hadn't even lifted when I found myself staring off in the direction Albedo had pointed out.

Something about the way he talked about the leyline. The way he described it as “living veins” pulsing beneath the ground..

It didn't just sound important. It felt personal.

Like something inside me stirred the moment he said it. Not just responsibility. Recognition.

Zhongli, composed as ever, stood beside me. He had been strangely quiet since Albedo handed him that small crystal, the one pulsed like a heartbeat in his palm.

He finally spoke. “Your Grace, you feel it too, don't you?”

I slowly nodded. “It's not just because I'm the.. Creator, is it?”

“No.” He answered. “The leylines have always responded to strong elemental signatures or large shifts in balance. But this one feels.. Deeper.”

Albedo had already left earlier, returning to official business duties. But not before showing me a map. Several leyline anomalies had been recorded, but only one pulsed with a stronger intensity than the others. It’s nestled deep between the cliffs of Tianqiu Valley.

“I'll accompany you, Your Grace.” Zhongli offered before I could even ask. “That area has a history, and not all of it is peaceful.”

I wasn't about to refuse. And besides, I still wasn't confident in my own strength yet.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The journey started out quiet. Just the sound of our footsteps, and the occasional breeze rustling the trees.

Zhongli had been silent for a while, but eventually, he spoke. “The leylines are not merely rivers of elemental energy. They are memories.” He explained. “Woven through Teyvat by time itself. They record everything. Even the cataclysm.”

I blinked at him. “Like a living archive?”

He gave a slow nod. “Exactly. Some say they were a gift from the Primordial One, a way for the world to remember what was erased.”

We passed through a patch of thick forest, and I started to notice something strange. The woods were quiet. Too quiet. No birdsong, no rustling, just stillness. Then, just up ahead, a few animals darted past us in a panic.

A family of foxes, boars, even birds from the treetops. All fleeing in the same direction.

Zhongli stopped beside me.

“They're running from something.” I murmured.

He glanced ahead, narrowing his eyes. “I suppose we’re getting close.”

The closer we got, the heavier the air felt. Not hot or clammy, just heavy. Like the energy itself was pressing down on me.

We reached a rocky slope overlooking a narrow gorge, and I felt it before I even saw it. A thrumming sensation in my chest, in sync with the strange glow rising from below.

Down the gorge, threads of gold and blue energy cracked through the ground like, pulsing and flickering in waves.

That had to be it, the leyline.

I stumbled slightly as we descended the ridge, like the energy was tugging at me.

Zhongli gently caught my arm. “Steady. The leyline’s reaction is unusually strong.”

I looked at the glowing cracks below. “Is it always like this?”

“No.” He answered. “I believe it's responding to you, Your Grace.”

The leyline pulsed again, it was louder than before. It wasn't in sound, but in pressure. It buzzed beneath my skin, like it was calling to me specifically.

Before I even realized it, I stepped forward. Getting closer to it as the golden light simmered at my feet.

And then everything disappeared.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

The world around me warped. Colour bleeding from the edges of my vision. My breath caught in my throat.

Suddenly, I was standing somewhere else.

It looked like a domain, one I had seen before back when I was still alive. Pillars of marble. A throne crumbled in the corner. Vines crept across the stone, like time had passed but never erased it completely.

But this time, I wasn't looking at it through a screen.

I was there.

Blurry flashes suddenly struck me like lightning.

A tall figure beside me, cloaked in gold and white. I couldn't see their face, but something about them felt ancient, powerful, and… Familiar.

I looked down at my hands, my own form glowed faintly, robed and crowned. A version of me.. That looked nothing like who I was now.

But then there was darkness. Screams, Shattered stones.

And then there was light.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

I gasped and stumbled back.

The real world snapped into focus again. The gorge. The leyline. Zhongli standing nearby, his gaze sharp with concern.

“Your Grace, are you alright?” He gently asked.

I slowly nodded, trying to catch my breath. “Yeah… Yeah, I'm fine..”

He didn't press. Just offered his hand to steady me.

Whatever that vision was, it wasn't just something the leyline showed me.

It was mine.

Though the leyline had faded, I was still shaken from what I saw before, but then a faint sound crackled behind me.

I reached into my back pocket. It was the crystal.

It had been quiet this whole time, barely pulsing. But now? It glowed brightly, like something inside it had been activated.

The glow wasn't just light. It beat.

Like a heartbeat.

Steady. Rhythmic. Alive.

My eyes widened. “Zhongli..?”

He was already watching it, his expression was unreadable.

“It seems that the crystal is responding to you, Your Grace.” He said. “Not the leyline. Not the environment. You.”

“But why now..?”

“I'm not so sure.” He murmured. “But if I were to make a guess, you must've.. Unlocked something.”

By the time Zhongli and I left the clearing behind. Whatever it was trying to show me, it was gone now. But not from my mind.

We decided to stop at Wangshu Inn. It wasn't too far, and honestly, I needed the break. My legs were aching, and my brain was worse.

The inn sat quietly in the distance, perched above the marsh like it was in the game. Except now I could feel something. Ripples of emotion, memories maybe, tugging at my thoughts. Whether it was the leyline’s after effects or just exhaustion, I couldn't tell.

We checked in with Verr Goldet, who, like many others, stared for a bit too long but didn't ask questions. Zhongli requested a private room for me, something quiet and tucked away. Exactly what I needed right now.

Later that evening…

After having dinner, I went back up to my room and stepped out onto the balcony alone, letting the cool night breeze hit my face.

My hand curled around the crystal, my mind still thinking about what I saw.

That vision. The Primordial One. That feeling of warmth, like I belonged.

I still didn't know what it meant. Why now? Why show me that?

I leaned against the wooden railing and looked out into the darkness. My fingers tightened around the crystal again.

“Restore balance..”

Is what the voice had said, wasn't it?

But how? What balance? Between what?

The soft hum of the night was the only thing keeping me company, until it wasn't.

I heard the familiar ripple of air and turned around instinctively. Standing at the edge of the balcony was Xiao.

His golden eyes fixed on me with quiet intensity. His expression was unreadable. I couldn't tell what he was thinking. If he was confused, or just cautious. Probably both.

“I felt something. Something unnatural in the leylines. It led me here.” He explained, his voice was low and calm, but edged with something sharper.

I met his gaze. He didn't look away. If anything, he was studying me.

“You're the one they speak of.”

“The Creator..” I said, a little awkwardly, the title still foreign on my tongue.

“I've heard the stories. From Rex Lapis.” He paused, before adding, “Forgive me, but you don't feel like the stories.”

I wasn't even sure how I was supposed to feel about that. But I tried to keep my voice steady. “Yeah, still trying to figure that part out.”

“Anyway, you were saying something about the leyline?” I asked, quickly changing the topic back to the leylines.

He gave a small nod. “Its energy was.. Unstable. It left a trail and I followed it here. But what drew me in the most…” His gaze lowered, to my hand, where the faint glow of the crystal simmered softly in the dimming light.

“This. It doesn't feel like anything I've sensed before.”

I instinctively tightened my fingers around it. “It reacted after I saw something. A vision from the leyline.”

“A vision?”

I hesitated, then gave a slow nod. “It didn't feel like a dream. More like.. A memory.”

He didn't question me, which was kinda surprising.

Instead, he said. “The leylines reflect what's buried. What's connected. If you saw something, it came from somewhere real.”

“So.. The leyline was showing me the truth?” I asked.

“They're showing something.” He corrected. “Truth is harder to define. But if it's reacting to you, Your Grace, it's not random.”

I leaned on the railing, looking down at the water below. The inn was quiet. And for a moment, it felt like I was somewhere between worlds again.

“I need to know more.” I muttered. “Why is it showing me this. What it means..”

“If the leylines stir again.” He said. “I will report them to you.”

I blinked and turned toward him. “You'd help me?”

He nodded once. “This is bigger than what I understand. But I can feel it. And if it's something that is a threat to Liyue.. Or the balance of the world, I'll assist you however I can.”

It wasn't devotion in his voice. It was conviction, like he'd already decided on his own that this mattered.

I managed a small smile. “Thanks, Xiao.”

He looked away, like he didn't know how to handle gratitude.

“I'll keep watch.”

But before he could vanish, I quickly stopped him. Suddenly remembering the crystal in my hand.

“By the way.. Do you know what or where this crystal is from?” I asked, holding the crystal up to him.

He studied it again. Then shook his head.

“No. But I'll find out.”

And then, just like that, he vanished again.

The vision still lingered in my mind as I headed back inside to get ready for bed. But somehow, I felt a little relieved now that I'd received some help from others.

I tucked myself in and closed my eyes, trying to get some sleep.

But unfortunately, sleep came slower than I expected. Even after everything, I just couldn't turn my mind off.

The vision. The way the crystal pulsed. That faint voice had echoed through my head, like it knew me better than I knew myself.

By the time I did fall asleep, it felt like only minutes had passed before sunlight found me again.

~~~~~~

I made my way downstairs, still feeling groggy.

Zhongli was already at the table, seated gracefully as always, with tea in his hand and a small breakfast laid out in front of him. Nothing extravagant, but it smelled warm and grounded

“Good morning.” He said, his voice low and calm. “I trust you slept well?”

I nodded, though it wasn't entirely true. “Morning.”

I took my seat. Silence settled between us as we started to eat. I appreciated that he didn't immediately press me with questions, though I could feel the weight of the ones he didn't ask.

He must've known something happened at the leyline.

The tension. The way I disappeared into it. The crystal’s glow. The way my eyes had probably gone distant when the vision started. And yet, he said nothing.

I glanced up at him. He was just studying me, but not unkindly, just patient. Waiting.

I stare down at my food. “Zhongli?”

“Yes, Your Grace??”

“That leyline.. I saw a vision from it. And I saw a domain from that vision.” I looked up, more certain now. “I feel like I've seen it somewhere before.”

Zhongli tilted his head slightly. “You believe it exists somewhere in Teyvat?”

“I don't know how or why I saw it. But I recognize it. I think, if I can find it, maybe I'll get more answers."

He studied me for a moment longer before nodding. “Then that is where we shall go.”

I nodded slowly, my thoughts still lingered on that blurred memory from the leyline.

That place I saw, that ruin, it had to be real. I didn't know what I’d find there, or what I was even hoping for, but some part of me believed that I could just find it. I'd understand things a little more.

My hand instinctively slipped into the folds of my sleeve, brushing against the smooth edge of the crystal Albedo gave me. I pulled it out to look at it again, half out of habit, half out of curiosity.

It gave a soft pulse. Barely there, almost like a second heartbeat.

I blinked, caught off guard. It hadn't done that since the leyline.

“it's reacting again…” I muttered under my breath.

Zhongli looked up from his tea. “The crystal?”

I nodded but didn't elaborate. Something about it felt personal. Maybe it was foolish, but it almost felt like the crystal was encouraging me.

Whatever this place was… Whatever that ruin might be… I had to find it.

I tightened my grip on the crystal.

This time, I'd be ready.

[glitchedsera]

“I Said Don't Move!”

Wanderer x Reader

> You and Wanderer were sparring with each other, but he accidentally grazed your cheek and now he's tending to your cut :D <

--------------------------------------------------------------->

You had one job. Sit still. Hold still. Let him check the cut on your cheek without making it weird.

You failed.

Somehow in the middle of him tilting your face up, just a little too gently, your hand had slipped, your balance tipped, and suddenly,

His sleeve slid down.

Not just a wrist or a bit of forearm.

Like, collarbone.

Like half of his shoulder was exposed.

Way more skin than either of you were emotionally ready for.

The worst part? Neither of you moved.

Like a pair of dollars frozen in time. You, mid-blink. Him, mid-sentence.

“I said don't move.”

“You moved first.” You say, voice cracking under the weight of secondhand embarrassment.

He blinks once. Then twice.

“..Shut up.” He mutters.

You try not to look. Obviously, you fail.

He tries not to notice. He fails harder.

You clear your throat. He clears his louder.

Still frozen. Still far, far too close.

“Are you blushing?”

“No.”

“You totally are-”

“Do you want a black eye to go with that cut?”

You look up to sass him back, but he's already looking at you. Your words die somewhere in your throat.

Silence fills the room once more.

But this time, it's warm, not heavy.

And you hate how you're both still not moving.

“...I should probably fix my sleeve.” He says.

“...I should probably stop staring.”

“You really should.”

“You really should put your shirt back on.”

You both burst into laughter at the same time. Loud, breathless, awkward.

The tension pops like a bubble, and you're both red in the face for very different reasons now.

>>>>>>>

You thought the moment would pass. That once the laughter died down, you could pretend it never happened.

You were so wrong.

Now, every time you look at him, all you could think about is the way that damn sleeve slid down, smooth and slow, like your brain short circuiting in real time.

And the way he looked at you.

Like he knew.

Like he knows you're still thinking about it.

He’s being unbearable.

“You're staring again.” He says, not even looking up from polishing his hat.

“I'm not.”

“You were.”

“I was blinking.”

“You were blinking very long and very slowly.”

You throw a rock at him.

It bounces off his arm harmlessly. He doesn't flinch, just smirks. That same smug, dangerous little smirk he only pulls when he knows you're flustered.

“I can take my shirt off again if it'll help you focus.”

You immediately feel your face go bright red.

And of course, he definitely notices.

“You- I wasn't-!”

“Oh no, don't backpedal now.”

You grab the nearest stick and launch it like a javelin.

He catches it mid-air. Barehanded. Effortlessly. Still smirking.

“Are you done?”

“I will kick you.”

“I'd like to see you try.”

With that, you tackle him.

It ends in a scuffle that's mostly wrestling, totally appropriate, and absolutely full of hissing insults, laughter, and poorly concealed red faces.

When he pins you down, both of you are breathing hard, and your eyes lock into each others.

You freeze.

He doesn't move.

Neither of you say a word.

He was too close. Again.

Your chest rises and falls under him. His hair brushed your cheek. 

One wrong word and it'll turn into something you can’t take back.

“Don't look at me like that.” You whisper.

And he does.

And you hate, hate, how much you don't mean it.

[glitchedsera]

A Soul Made To Return - Chapter 2

>Casually dropping some lore. I was gonna post this next week, but I'm gonna be busy :/<

🏷️ Ao3 🏷️

Echoes in the Sanctuary

The same sweet but commanding voice echoed in my head.

“I have been awaiting your arrival.”

My breath caught in my throat.

“Who are you?”

“And how do you know me??”

“Also, how are you even talking to me.. In my head???

The question just spilled out, one after another. I was too freaked out to stop myself. But even through the panic, I forced myself to stay calm.

Just barely though.

Then I felt it. Something… light. Like amusement. The voice chuckled gently, not unkind, but like it had been waiting for this moment for a long time.

“Ah, don't be afraid.” It said softly. “I know exactly who you are.”

Another soft laugh followed. It felt warm, not mocking, but like they found my reaction kind of… cute.

Which honestly made this situation even weirder.

“You were sent away for your own protection.”

The words echoed through me. Calm, clear, but heavy.

“When the world began to fall, your presence was hidden. Your soul was sent beyond reach.”

I didn't fully understand. “Sent where?”

“To a place far from this one. Far enough that nothing here could find you. Until now…”

I felt like I was hearing the answer to a question I didn't know I had been asking.

“So, you're saying… I died, and now I'm just- What? Back?”

Another chuckle.

“You did not die. You were returned.”

My head started to spin. Nothing made sense.

And yet, deep down, some part of me believed every word.

“Returned to do what exactly?” I quietly asked.

The voice paused for a moment before continuing.

“To finish what was left undone.”

“To restore what has fallen out of balance.”

“You are not here by accident. You were created for this.”

My throat felt dry. I didn't even know what to say.

“The world remembers. Even if the skies do not.”

“And soon, you will remember too.”

I didn't notice it at first, but I quickly realized my hands were shaking. Not a lot. Just a little.

I didn't say anything right away. I didn't even know what to say.

Everything the voice said kept echoing in my head on loop.

I was created.

I was sent away.

And now I'm back. And supposed to fix everything..?

I swallowed hard and looked down at my hands. They looked the same. I felt the same

But nothing about this was normal anymore.

I wasn't freaking out, but I was quietly spiraling.

What was I even supposed to do now?

“This world has drifted too far from what it was meant to be.”

The voice continued, echoing softly in my head again. It was calm, warm even. But there was something behind it. Something big. Ancient.

I blinked, trying to hold on to every word.

“Your duty is not to rule, but to realign. To guide what has lost its way.”

“What if I don't know how?” I asked quietly.

“You will learn soon enough.”

“Your presence alone is enough to start the process.”

My chest tightened.

I didn't even know what I was doing, or why people kept calling me their god. And now, apparently just existing here was going to change things?

“You are tied to the systems beneath this world. Your voice, your will. They carry the weight. Even if you don't feel it just yet.”

“So… I have powers?”

“Yes. They are incomplete, but slowly awakening.”

“You may feel it through instinct at first. A reaction to danger. Emotion. Need.”

Somehow, that part scared me more than I expected.

Because I didn't remember anything. Not from whatever I was before. Just the person I was back home.

Just… me.

The voice had gone quiet. Like it had said everything it needed to, for now. The silence felt heavier than before, but it wasn't in a bad way. More like the air was just waiting for something.

I sat down, right in the middle of the temple floor. I didn't really need to think about it. I just needed to sit down, needed the weight off my legs. Off everything.

My hands rested on my knees, fingers slightly curled. I stare down at the marble floor beneath me.

It was cold. Still dusty and cold. I wasn't sure what I was supposed to feel.

The voice said I have powers, but nothing felt different. I didn't feel divine. I didn't feel like the chosen one.

I just felt tired.

But then, a faint warmth spread across my palm.

I looked down and my eyes widened at the sight. There was a soft golden glow, barely visible. Like the light was catching on something just beneath the surface.

However, it quickly faded. Gone as fast as it came. But it was there.

I didn't know what it meant.

But it was something.

------------------------------------------------

I stepped out of the temple, trying to clear my head from all that info dump I received. The sunlight hit my face, and I took a deep breath, like I had been holding it for hours.

Just beside the doors, Zhongli was still there, waiting.

He looked over as I approached him, his expression was calm, but I could tell he was carefully studying me. He probably felt something shift in there, even if I didn’t say anything.

“I just needed some air.” I said quietly.

He gave a small nod. “Understandable."

We stood there in silence for a bit. I watched the clouds drift across the sky, trying to pretend I didn't just have a god-voice explaining my purpose to me like I was part of some divine system update or something.

After a moment, I glanced back at him.

“...Hey, what is it like to control Geo?”

He turned his head toward me, slightly surprised by the question.

“You wish to understand the element?”

“Uhh, yep.”

Zhongli quietly listened for a moment before nodding.

“Geo is a steady, grounded force.” He said. “It does not move like Hydro or dance like Pyro. It endures and listens.”

I blinked. “It listens…?”

He nodded. “It responds to purpose. Intention. A firm will.”

I thought about that glow on my hand earlier. That warmth.

I didn't know what I was doing. But maybe it wouldn't hurt to give it a shot.

I looked down at my hand again. I didn't feel anything special. No power buzzing under my skin. No glowing symbols. Nothing.

Still, I took a deep breath and focused, trying to remember what Zhongli said.

Intention. Purpose. And a firm will.

I didn't know if I had any of that right now. But I closed my eyes.

I held out the palm of my hand. Picturing the ground beneath me. Imagining it shifting, rising on my command. Not too much, just something solid. Something real.

For a second, nothing happened.

I was about to give up. But then, a soft rumble under my feet, like the earth exhaled.

I opened my eyes and saw a few small pieces of stone had pushed their way out of the ground, forming a rough shape. It kinda looked like a small pillar, or maybe a jagged chunk of rock trying to be useful.

I stared at it, then at my hand.

‘Seriously? That’s it?’

A quiet sigh slipped from me as I straightened up.

“That didn't feel very godly..” I muttered.

Zhongli, who had been standing a few steps away, finally spoke.

“Powers like yours… Does not awaken all at once.”

I looked over at him

He took a step forward, hands behind his back. “It has slumbered for far too long. Needless to say, it will take some time to return to its full strength again.”

“Right…” I said, not sure if I believed it.

“If you would allow me, Your Grace.” He continued, his voice as calm as ever. “I’d be honored to help you regain control of Geo.”

I blinked at him. “You’d teach me?”

He gave a soft nod. “It is the least I could do. After all, this element originates from you. I am merely its wielder.”

Something about the way he said it felt too formal, but also weirdly reassuring.

“Alright.” I finally said. “Let's give it another try.”

-----

It felt like hours had passed. And yet, still no giant rock pillars. No flashy golden shields. Just more and more sad chunks of stone that crumbled faster than my patience.

I clenched my fist and let out a breath, trying to calm the bubbling irritation. The more I pushed, the more it felt like nothing was responding. The ground didn't shake, the air didn't shift. It was just quiet.

Zhongli, who had been silently observing, finally spoke.

“Perhaps you're forcing it too much, Your Grace.” He gently said as he stepped closer. “Geo isn't about brute strength. It is about endurance. The patience to stand unmoving, even as the world changes around you.”

I stare at him for a moment before looking back down at my hands. Still felt like a regular pair of hands to me.

“Right…” I mumbled. “Endurance and patience. Got it.”

I took a deep breath and knelt, pressing my hand flat against the ground like he showed me earlier.

This time, I didn't think about summoning power. I didn't think about doing anything.

I just… Listened.

The silence stretched on, but it didn't feel empty this time. There was a rhythm to it. A slow pulse beneath the ground. Faint and steady.

I exhaled softly and let my thoughts quiet down.

And then, slowly but barely noticeable at first, the ground shifted. A smooth stone pillar, no taller than my knee, rose in front of me. It wasn't much, but it was solid this time.

My eyes widened. “I actually did it…”

Zhongli’s expression softened. “You're beginning to hear it.”

Just as I was about to stand up and take a better look at what I made, I heard it again.

“Well done, my child.”

That voice again.

It echoed gently in my head, warm and smooth like silk, but it still caught me off guard. I tensed up without meaning to.

A praise? From them?

I didn't think I did that well.

“Your Grace, are you alright?” Zhongli’s voice snapped me out of it.

I blinked and quickly nodded, brushing the dirt off my hands like nothing happened. “Yeah.. Just spaced out for a second.”

He raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced but didn't push it. Thank Archons.

I turned back to the small stone pillar and pressed my palm to the ground again, letting the motion repeat.

Once. Twice. Then again.

It wasn't perfect, but I wanted to get used to the feeling. How the earth responded. How it moved when I was still and patient enough to listen.

The voice was quiet this time, but I could still feel that lingering warmth. And somehow, it made me want to try harder.

Even if I wasn't some all-powerful god right now, I could still learn.

~~~~~

Maybe another few hours had passed, I finally let out a heavy sigh and sat back on the grass. My arms ached, and my fingers were starting to get sore from pressing into the dirt over and over.

The training was fine, nothing groundbreaking. Just more pillars and rocks. Still, I could tell I was starting to get the rhythm of it. How the element moved with me, not just because of me.

Zhongli stood nearby, as calm and unreadable as always. “You've made some progress, Your Grace.” He said. “It may not seem like much now, but foundation is everything.”

I nodded, not really in the mood to talk. My thoughts were already somewhere else.

Back at the temple.

As I sat back up, that same tug I felt earlier in my chest, it was faint but still there. Like something was quietly calling for me again.

I glanced at Zhongli. “I think I'm going to head back to the temple for a bit.”

He looked at me, concerned. “Will you be alright on your own, Your Grace?”

“I'll be fine, I just need.. A moment to clear my head.”

There was a small pause, but eventually he gave a small nod. “Very well. Should anything happen, call my name.”

I nodded before making my way back toward the temple.

As I got closer to the temple, the air felt different. Heavier. Quieter. Like the world itself stopped moving.

And that tug in my chest? It grew stronger with every step.

------------------------------------------------

The moment I stepped inside the temple, the silence welcomed me like an old friend. The faint pull that led me here had quieted, but something in me still buzzed.

Then, that familiar voice returned. Warm. Calm. And all-knowing.

“Welcome back.”

I stopped walking. My eyes scanned the same dark interior. The dust still clung to the corners, and the floor beneath me still felt worn from time.

“You're still here.” I said, not sure if I was relieved or overwhelmed.

“I never left. This place, this temple, it was built for you. In your absence, it waited. Just like I did.”

I took a slow deep breath as I walked further in. My eyes landed on a wall I hadn't looked at before. One with faint carving etched into it. Faded details of figures, wings, shapes I didn't understand.

“What is this?”

“It is what remains of your story. Preserved in stone.” The voice answered.

I turned to look at another wall. A figure standing over a field, hands outstretched and surrounded by people bowing low.

I blinked. “Is that supposed to be.. Me?”

“You were called the Lightbearer.” The voice said, almost nostalgic. “Not because you commanded the light, but because people believed you brought hope. Even when the world began to fall apart.”

I stared at the cravings a little longer, a strange tightness forming in my chest. “But I don't remember any of this.”

"You're not supposed to. Your soul was sent far, far away for your safety. Your memories were left behind with me. That burden was mine to keep.”

I didn't know what to say, so I kept walking.

Near one of the pillars stood something that looked like a ceremonial pedestal. Cracked, but still standing along with a few symbols carved into its base.

“Was this important?”

“Offerings were left here. Not of gold or gems, but music, poetry, even feathers. They believed you preferred the gentle gifts of the world over the opulence of kings.”

A laugh escaped me before I even realized it. “That sounds like something I'd do.”

“You were different from the others.” The voice agreed. “That's why they followed you.”

Another wall. Another mural. But this one was much darker. The figure was still there, assuming that was me. But the people were scattering. Some in chains. Some turning into.. Monsters?

“What happened here?”

A pause.

“That was the beginning of the end.”

That was all it said.

I waited, expecting more, but the silence that followed felt deliberate. Like the voice wasn't just being vague. It was choosing not to tell me.

My hand slowly dropped from the wall.

“Right…” No point in pushing it now. I've seen enough for today.

But as I turned to leave, the mural still lingered in my mind. More than the others had.

------------------------------------------------

The next day came quietly.

I was already outside, sleeves rolled up, standing on the dry land where cracked bits of Geo constructs still littered the ground from yesterday's failed attempts.

Zhongli stood nearby, as calm and composed as always. He never once scolded me for my slow progress, but I could tell he was hoping for more.

I took a deep breath, focusing my energy like before.

A rumble stirred beneath my feet. This time, a small jagged Geo pillar pushed itself from the ground. It stood awkward for a few seconds before collapsing with a dull thud.

Zhongli scanned my poor attempt at making a pillar before nodding. “Your control is improving. Slowly, but steadily. You mustn't rush power meant to shape the land itself.”

“Easy for you to say.” I mumbled, brushing the dust off my hands. “You've had thousands of years to master it.”

He smiled faintly. “Even gods must learn.”

Before I could try again, the sound of soft footsteps and hush voices drifted through the air. And we both turned toward the temple's gate.

At the edge of the stairs stood a small group of people. Locals, dressed in simple robes, each holding something in their hands.

Fruits. Flowers. Folded paper charms. A woven talisman.

Offerings.

Zhongli stepped forward instinctively, but I gently raised a hand to stop him.

The oldest among them bowed deeply. “Your Holiness… We ask for nothing in return. We only wish to thank you for returning to us.”

I didn't know what to say. Part of me still didn't believe I was this person they thought I was.

A god. A creator.

But I nodded slowly, trying to offer something back. “Thank you.”

They left the offerings carefully near the base of the temple steps before quietly retreating. Not a single one dared to meet my eyes too long. It felt like… Reverence. But also fear.

Zhongli watched them leave. “It seems words spreads quickly in Liyue. And belief spreads even faster.”

I exhaled and turned back toward the empty training ground.

“I think I like it better when no one knew…”

-----

Not sure how much time had passed.

Zhongli, who had been guiding me for a while now, pointed out how to focus on the flow of Geo energy. How to anchor myself to the earth beneath me, all that. Not gonna lie, hearing him talk about it made it sound way easier than it actually was.

I was trying again when a voice suddenly cut through the silence.

“Pardon my interruption.”

Both Zhongli and I turned around, and immediately noticed someone approaching, accompanied by two people in standard Knight of Favonius uniform.

I quickly recognized the man leading them. He had pale blonde hair and strange, bright eyes, like they glowed from the inside.

“I hope this is not an inconvenience, Your Grace.” He said politely. “I am Albedo, Chief Alchemist of Mondstadt and representative of the Knights.”

Zhongli glanced at him and gave a faint nod of acknowledgment. He didn't look surprised. Of course he didn't.

“I was sent here on official business.” Albedo continued. Then he turned slightly toward the knights. “You may wait outside. I won't be long.”

The two knights hesitated, glancing at me, then Zhongli, then back at Albedo. But eventually, they nodded and stepped back, giving us privacy.

“I assume you already know who I am.” I said, trying to keep my tone light.

“Yes.” He replied. “Though I must admit, seeing you in person is… Different.”

He studied me for a moment, not like I was deity, but like I was a riddle he had just been handed to.

“There's something I wanted to speak to you about.” He said, lowering his voice just slightly. “Not as a Knight, but as a researcher.”

I raised an eyebrow.

He reached into his coat and pulled out a small crystal. The moment he held it up, it began to pulse faintly. Almost like it was reacting to something, or someone.

“The leylines.” He said. “They have been reacting strangely lately. And I believe it began the moment you returned.”

Zhongli remained quiet beside me, arms crossed as he scanned the crystal in Albedo’s hand.

“I didn't want to bring it up in front of my companions.” Albedo went on. “Since they might misunderstand. But from what I've studied.. The world has started to respond to something. Or someone. And the response is increasing.”

I looked at the crystal again. The pulse was slow but steady, like a heartbeat.

A heartbeat that felt… Familiar.

“If you happen to sense anything, Your Grace.” He said. “Or experience anything unusual, even if it is faint, please let me know. It may help us both understand what's coming.”

I blinked, still watching the soft pulse from the crystal.

“Where did you even get something like that?” I asked.

Albedo turned the crystal slightly in his palm, its glow mirroring veins of gold.

“It's a modified Geo-reactive core, extracted from a dormant leyline rift in Dragonspine.” He explained. “I enhanced it to detect temporal irregularities and leyline surges. Oddly enough, it's been pulsing ever since I arrived in Liyue.”

Zhongli, who had been listening silently beside, finally spoke. “You say it came from Dragonspine?”

“Yes. Though it was buried quite deep.. Well, beyond standard digging levels.” Albedo replied, his gaze shifting thoughtfully between the two of us. “It only activated recently… Around the same time word of the Creator's return reached Mondstadt.”

Zhongli crossed his arms, his brows knitting faintly. “The resonance between Dragonspine and the leyline network in Liyue is subtle but not impossible. Still, for it to respond so drastically…”

“Which is why I brought it here.” Albedo added. “It’s clear the pulse centres around this region.”

I looked between them, feeling more and more like I had accidentally walked into a very intense research meeting. Still, part of me couldn't stop staring at that glow. The heartbeat. Like something deep in the world had been stirred awake.

Or maybe…

Something was calling back.

[glitchedsera]

A Soul Made To Return - Chapter 1

|| Soo, I may or may not have disappeared for months just to come back and start a completely new fic- I have been practicing my writing I swear. Anyway, this is just me trying to improve my writing more. I tried my best with this one. ||

🏷️ Ao3 🏷️

Summary

They say you see your life flash before your eyes when you die.

I didn’t.

Instead, I saw a temple with my face carved in stone. And a world I once knew through a screen.

I thought I was just a regular player like everyone else. Just another ordinary person. But now I’m being told I was made for this. Designed to replace and fix the mess that was left behind by them.

I didn’t ask for any of this.

But if I was created to fix this world… Then maybe I get to decide what comes next.

Eyes Open, World Changed

‘This has to be a dream…’

That was my first thought after I woke up.

And honestly, If anyone else saw what I’m seeing now, they'd have the same reaction. Seeing statues of yourself, perfectly carved in stone, in some random temple? Yep, that just screams creepy.

As eerie as everything was, I eventually forced myself to get up and take a look around. The temple seemed old, almost worn down even. A thin layer of dust coated the floor and walls, as if no one had ever stepped inside here for years.

Thankfully, finding my way out wasn't as hard as I thought.

While following the path, what I assumed would be the exit, I froze. The sudden sound of rapid footsteps caught my attention. Fast, echoing, and it was coming from just ahead.

My breath caught in my throat as the sound grew louder.

And then I saw him.

A figure stepped into view, and the second I recognized that familiar silhouette, my eyes widened.

No way

He wasn't just some random NPC. I knew that silhouette anywhere. I've seen it enough times to recognize it from just the way he walked.

It was Zhongli. One of the gods in the game.

But instead of ignoring me or whatever I expected from a god.

He stopped. And his eyes locked onto me. I swear, for a second, he just stared. Like he couldn't believe what he was seeing.

Then he did something that made my entire brain short-circuit.

He dropped to one knee.

He literally knelt.

His hand and on his chest. He bowed like I was royalty or something.

“You’ve returned.” He said. “Forgive me, I didn't recognize you at first, Your Grace.”

Excuse me?

I just stood there, blinking like an idiot, trying to figure out if I heard that right.

Your Grace.

Me?

“Why are you calling me that..?” I asked, completely thrown off by the sudden formalities.

From the way he spoke… It sounded like he was expecting me.

Zhongli finally looked up, his gaze meeting mine. I think he almost smiled. Just a little. But if he did, he was good at hiding it.

“I feel… your presence.” He explained the best he could, his tone was still formal, like always. “A familiar aura… Familiar to the person I've been longing to see.”

“Aura?”

I glanced down at my hands. I didn't feel any different, not from when I was alive. I didn't realize anyone could sense something from me, let alone someone like him.

He stepped forward, his expression softening.

“Yes. I don't think you would recognize it yourself, at least not yet. But to me, your presence alone was enough to know.”

He glanced around the temple.

“This place was built in your honor… Dedicated to you… The creator of Teyvat."

My jaw instantly dropped.

‘Did I hear that right?’

‘Creator of Teyvat??’

The words echoed in my head like a broken record.

I quickly pinched my arm as hard as I could, hoping this was all just some crazy dream.

Nope. Still in the temple.

I slapped myself. Hard.

Still here.

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed Zhongli watching me, a small frown forming on his face.

“There's no need to hurt yourself, you grace.” He said as he started walking toward me.

“Wait… You mean this is actually real?” I asked, turning to look back at the temple and the statues that looked way too much like me.

He let out a soft chuckle as he came to a stop beside me.

“Yes. This is quite real.”

He turned his gaze to the temple. “You are the creator of this world. You are my god… And the God of all gods and the land.”

The way he said it, it sounded rehearsed, as if he was quoting something sacred from memory.

I could barely handle being called the Creator, but suddenly being called their God too? Yeah no. That was way too much.

Unless I had a god complex, which I definitely did not.

I looked back at him, half hoping he would say sike or something. But of course, he didn’t. He looked completely serious about this. Then again, he always had that serious look on his face.

Before I could even finish processing all this insanity, my stomach growled.

Loudly. Like embarrassingly loud.

Like “hasn’t-eaten-in-a-century” loud.

I instantly clutched my stomach, awkwardly looking away from him.

-------------------------------------------

The walk to the city was… Quiet. Too quiet.

I didn't know what to say, and Zhongli didn't exactly strike me as the small talk type of person.

I reluctantly followed him, mostly because my body was moving on its own. Or maybe because I had no clue what else to do. I mean, where do you even go when you just suddenly found out you’re apparently the god of everything?

The closer we got to the city, the louder everything became. Footsteps, chatter, distant bells ringing through the harbor air.

It was strange.

Familiar, but not. Like I was walking through a game I used to play, but someone had turned the realism slider way up.

And then people started noticing us.

Well, me.

Their eyes widened.

Some stopped talking mid-sentence.

A few even dropped whatever they were doing.

The atmosphere shifted. You could feel it. It was like the whole harbor took one collective breath.

It didn't take too long for the whispers to spread like wildfire.

“Is that…?”

“Could it be…?”

“That's Her Grace..!”

I suddenly became very aware of how I was walking, how I looked, and how I hadn't brushed my hair or bathed since dying.

‘Great.’

Zhongli, of course, didn't react to any of it. He just calmly led me through the crowd like this was nothing new to him.

Meanwhile, I was trying not to pass out from secondhand embarrassment.

Eventually, we stopped in front of a restaurant. It looked familiar, probably one of the places I used to teleport to for daily quests.

He turned to me. “You need food. Come. You'll feel better after you’ve eaten."

Honestly, he was right.

I nodded and followed him inside.

We walked in and… Yeah.

Every single head turned.

The whole restaurant went dead silent.

No one said a word. No one moved.

They just stared.

No one dared to come close, It was like they didn't know whether they should bow or run for the hills.

Honestly, if I was in their position, I wouldn't know either.

As we walked further in, I noticed someone was already seated at one of the tables. The second I saw her, I instantly knew who she was.

It was Hu Tao.

The eccentric funeral parlor director. Always smiling, and a little too comfortable with chaos. She had her signature coat on, and that hat of hers tilted just a little off-center.

Hu Tao looked up from her plate, blinked once, then tilted her head. Her eyes narrowed in curiosity… And then widened like she had just seen a ghost.

Well. Technically, she kinda had.

“Is that…” She muttered. Trying, and failing, to hide the disbelief on her face. Then she cleared her throat and straightened up, suddenly way more formal than I expected from her.

“Your Grace,” she said, bowing her head slightly. “It is an honor to be in your presence.”

…For a full two seconds.

Then she peeked up at me with a grin.

“Okay, I tried. But seriously, are you hungry? Do Creators eat regular food, or is it like… Divine mist or something?"

Zhongli sighed quietly beside me.

Hu Tao grinned. “What? It's not every day you meet the Creator in the flesh! Just trying to make a good impression!”

I wasn't sure whether to laugh or slowly back out of the restaurant.

We soon joined Hu Tao at her table, and not a minute later, a waitress timidly approached us, clearly trying her best not to look directly at me.

“W-Welcome, esteemed guests. Today's special is-”

“There's no need for menus.” Zhongli cut in, his voice calm but firm. “Bring us one of everything.”

Hu Tao choked on her tea.

“Everything?!” She blurted out, staring at him like he’d grown a second head.

The waitress shared the same expression before giving a stiff nod and quickly left toward the kitchen.

Zhongli, unfazed as always, simply nodded once again. “Yes.”

Then he turned to look at me. His gaze was quiet, but intense as he scanned over every little part of me. Like he couldn't believe I was real and sitting here in front of him.

“The Creator needs some nutrients in her body.” He said, completely serious.

Hu Tao leaned forward, eyes flicking between us.

“Oooh, so that's how it is.” She whispered dramatically. “You're spoiling her already, huh?”

I blinked.

“Wait, I didn't even ask for all-”

Hu Tao gasped. “Does the Creator not want the sacred lunch of a thousand blessings?”

“..It’s just food” I muttered, slumping back in my seat.

-------------------------------------------

The food arrived quicker than I expected, and there was a lot of it.

Like, a small feast kind of a lot.

At first, I just stared at it. Then I picked up a pair of chopsticks, grabbed a bite, and-

My eyes widened.

“HOLY CRAP, this tastes so good!” I said, probably louder than I meant to.

It was like every flavor just exploded in my mouth. I didn't realize just how hungry I was until now. And as if my body had a mind of its own, I started to feast on the other dishes.

Hu Tao rested her elbow on the table, propped her chin on her hands and watched me like I was the most entertaining show she had seen.

“It’s like Your Grace was starving for centuries.” She said with a grin. “You eat like you just came back from the dead.”

I paused mid-bite.

She wasn't wrong. I didn't say anything though, I was too busy inhaling dumplings like they were air.

Even Zhongli looked quietly pleased, like seeing me eat was proof I was really here.

Hu Tao continues to just sit there, watching.

Her gaze kept flicking between me and Zhongli, like she was seeing something brand new, even though she had known him for years.

I guess it was different. His demeanor was different than anyone has ever seen before.

It wasn't just respectful or loyal, it was deeper than that. Almost soft even.

I caught her mumbling under her breath, just loud enough for me to hear.

“Mr Zhongli in his full devotion.."

Zhongli obviously heard it too, and he didn't miss a beat.

“I would do anything for my god.” He said, his voice steady and certain. Like it was the most obvious truth in the world.

Then suddenly, his full focus shifted to me.

Before I could react, he reached out and gently placed a hand under my chin. His thumb brushed near the corner of my mouth, wiping away.. something. A sauce stain? I don't even know anymore.

And then he tilted my head up, making me look directly at him..

I froze

My heart stuttered a little at the sudden closeness, and don't even get me started on the way he was looking at me, like I was something sacred.

And that word again.

God.

I don't think I'll ever get used to them calling me that. It still felt way too big and heavy for me to carry.

Flustered, I quickly pulled away and cleared my throat, trying to pretend like that didn't just send my soul into orbit.

“Thank you for the meal.” I said, focusing very hard on the table. “I feel much better now.”

Zhongli didn't say anything but I caught the slight flicker of disappointment on his face.

Still, he simply placed his hands on the table and stood up.

“Good.” He replied, voice steady.

Hu Tao, who had been watching us with the most smug little grin, finally spoke up again.

“So~ What will you do now that Your Holiness is here?” She asked, her tone playful but curious. “Got any grand plans? Maybe some divine destiny stuff?”

I swear, she was having the time of her life with this.

But I couldn't answer her right away, it was something I had been asking myself ever since I woke up in that temple. There were so many questions I wanted to ask.

‘Why was I brought here as their Creator?’

‘Was I supposed to help them somehow?’

Even if I was supposed to help, I don't even know the first thing about being a deity.

I was just… me.

For now, it felt safer to choose something simple. Something that has nothing to do with God powers or divine wisdom, or whatever else they were expecting from me.

“I think..” I said, glancing out the window, “I'd like to explore the city.”

Zhongli listened and gave a quiet nod. “Of course.”

Even without him saying it out loud, I could tell he wasn't exactly thrilled about letting me wander off.

He kept giving me the “I respect your decision but I'm internally spiraling” kind of look.

Still, he didn't argue. I mean, how do you even argue with your god?

Before the silence could stretch too long, Hu Tao shot to her feet with both arms in the air.

“Ah, you know…” She started, clearly trying to sound casual but her grin was already obvious. “Maybe Your Holiness would wanna visit my funeral parlor!”

I didn't give much thought about it before nodding, it was a start. Plus, I've been wanting to see the inside of the parlor anyway.

“Sure, lead the way.”

Hu Tao's face lit up like a lantern. Honestly, I don't think she expected me to agree that fast.

Before I could even change my mind, she was already heading out of the restaurant.

“You don't have to tell me twice!” She called, practically almost skipping toward the door.

I blinked, but quickly followed behind her. I mean, I did say I wanted to explore the city. I just didn't expect to start with a funeral parlor.

Behind me, Zhongli stood as well. He didn't say anything, but I could feel the tension radiating off him. Clearly he wasn't comfortable with the idea of leaving me alone with Hu Tao just yet. So, of course he followed.

-------------------------------------------

Liyue Harbor looked totally different when you’re not staring at it from behind a screen.

The air smelled like spices and the sea breeze. There were voices everywhere as well. Merchants shouting over each other, the sound of children laughing, wheels clattering, bells ringing in the distance. Everything felt very much alive. And a little overwhelming.

Hu Tao led the way, practically bouncing through the crowd. Of course, people stared as we passed. Some whispered. Some bowed. A few just froze on the spot like their brain short-circuited.

“Wow, you're quite popular, Your Grace.” Hu Tao said, looking over her shoulder at me.

“Yeah, I noticed.” I muttered.

Zhongli walked silently beside me, a step behind but close enough that I could feel the weight of his presence. I wasn't sure if it was comforting or just adding to the pressure.

I kept my head down most of the way, pretending not to notice how people were practically still staring at me. One thing for sure that I certainly didn't feel like a god, I felt like someone who had walked onto a stage in pajamas.

“Anyway, this way!” Hu Tao called. “You're gonna love the funeral parlor.”

“...That's a weird sentence to say.” I mumbled under my breath.

Hu Tao pushed open the doors to the funeral parlor like she owned the place. Well, she did own the place, so I guess that tracked.

There were a few clients sitting inside and a couple of workers behind the counter. The second we walked in, every head turned.

All eyes landed on me.

I immediately felt the weight of their stares, and for a second, I kinda regretted agreeing to this. Maybe the funeral parlor wasn't the best place to start my “casual” city stroll.

One of the workers standing behind the counter looked like he had just seen a ghost. He blinked a few times, jaw slack, before managing to stammer out,

“Wh.. What-?”

“Oh yeah, it's fine.”

Hu Tao's voice cut in with her usual carefree energy as she suddenly appeared next to me, looping her arm around mine.

“Hey all! You're looking at the Creator of Teyvat!” She said with such pride, like she was announcing the arrival of royalty.

And just like that, the room exploded into hushed whispers.

“It can't be!”

“No way..”

“Is that really the Creator?!”

Some of the workers looked like they were about to pass out. There was excitement in their eyes, like they were witnessing a legend stepping into real life.

I leaned toward Hu Tao, whispering as quietly as I could, “Did you really have to announce it to everyone..?”

Hu Tao just grinned in response.

“I don't wanna keep anything a secret.” She casually said, like announcing a god in public was just normal behaviour here.

She unhooked her arm from mine and started walking ahead, waving her arms as she spoke.

“Look around! This is the funeral parlor I run here in Liyue.”

I followed her, trying to focus on what she was showing me, but I could still feel the stares from everyone around us. Some of them bowed or gave these half-nervous nods as we passed, mumbling things like, “Greetings, Your Holiness..”

I made sure to smile and nod back at each one, trying really hard to look approachable and not like someone who was barely holding it together inside.

No pressure, right?

As Hu Tao kept talking, something in the corner caught my eye. A catalog on display, filled with detailed sketches and designs of coffins.

Oddly enough, it drew me in. I stepped closer without thinking, flipping one of the pages.

Hu Tao noticed I’d wandered off and quickly joined me.

“Ah, yeah! Those are our coffin designs,” She said, pointing to the open catalog beside me. “And all the things that are included with each package. We've got options for every kind of departure.”

Her tone was casual, but I could tell she knew funeral business like the back of her hand. She gestured proudly to a section filled with sketches, carvings, and descriptions in neat columns.

“We’re known for the best coffins in all of Teyvat after all.” She added with a little puff pride.

I nodded, flipping through the pages and admiring the craftsmanship. Compared to the plain, boxy coffins I’d seen back when I was alive, these were way more intricate. The patterns, the shapes, even the materials, it all looked surprisingly beautiful.

“They all look so interesting.. And kind of pretty actually.” I murmured. “Only the best to send the dead to the afterlife, huh?”

Hu Tao grinned, placing a hand on her hip.

“Exactly! We want our customers to rest peacefully knowing they will be buried in style.”

She stood tall, clearly pleased with herself as she looked over at me. From somewhere in the background, I could hear some whispers from the employees again.

“She's really here..”

“I still can't believe it..”

As the whispers continued around the room, one of the clients suddenly rushed toward me.

“Wait! Please, wait! Your Holiness-”

He barely got the words out before Zhongli stepped forward, his voice sharp and steady.

“Keep your distance.”

That alone stopped the man in his tracks. He froze mid-step, gulped nervously and didn't even dare move any closer.

I could feel how tense Zhongli had gotten beside me.

So, gently, I reached out and placed a hand on his arm. It was a small gesture, but enough to tell him it was okay.

He glanced down at me, visibly reluctant, but eventually stepped back.

I turned to the client with a soft smile, trying to ease the tension in the air.

“Uh, is there something I could help you with?”

The man nodded, looking like he was using every ounce of courage just to stay standing.

“..Yes, Your Holiness.” He said shakily.

His voice trembled, but there was something else behind it. There was a mix of hope and desperation in his eyes. Like he was holding onto me like I was the last thread keeping everything from falling apart.

“You’ll… fix everything, right?”

That caught me off guard.

I blinked.

“Fix everything?"

He swallowed again, clearly intimidated by the way Zhongli was still watching him. But he pushed on.

“You’ll fix the monsters that roam in Liyue.. Bring back better harvest… And..”

He hesitated. Like whatever he wanted to say next was too heavy. Too personal. Or too much to ask. But eventually, he cleared his throat and continued.

“Also.. Bring back my daughter.”

His voice was quiet, but it cut deep through the air like a knife.

The desperation in it made the whole room fall silent.

I was expecting something simple like the first two things he said. Things that… I don't know, sounded flexible.

But this? This was different.

I stared at him, words caught in my throat.

‘Bring someone back from the dead?’

‘How was I supposed to respond to that?’

I just got here. I didn't even know if I had any powers to begin with. I barely understood what I was now.

A god?

A replacement?

Some mistake?

And this man was standing in front of me, eyes full of shattered hope, begging me for a miracle I couldn't give.

I opened my mouth to speak- Then closed it again.

He looked at me directly this time, pain clear in his expression.

“Well? Will you, Your Holiness?”

The tension in the room was unbearable. Even Hu Tao had gone quiet.

I looked down, my hand gripping the edge of the table beside me without even realizing it.

‘How could I say no without completely breaking him?’

“I… I'm sorry.” I finally said, my voice barely above a whisper. “I don't think I can do that.”

The man stood there, stunned. But his desperation cracked through again.

“But isn't it the Creator's ability to bring back anything?” His voice was shaking. “A god.. shouldn't have limits.”

Thankfully, Zhongli stepped forward without hesitation, his tone low and sharp.

“It is disrespectful to question the words of the Creator.” He said, his eyes narrowing. “Do not let your grief cloud your reverence.”

The man immediately backed down, but the silence that followed was somehow even heavier. I felt like the air in the room had turned thick.

Everyone was staring.

Zhongli was defending me like I was divine, and this man had just asked me to prove it.

But I wasn't a god. Not really.

I could feel the pressure building in my chest. My heartbeat loud. My head spinning.

But a sudden tug, it was soft at first. Then it got stronger. Like something had reached into my soul and called me by my name.

I turned slightly before I even realized it, my gaze locking on some unseen point beyond the parlor.

The temple. I didn't know how, but I knew something was waiting for me there.

“I need to go back to the temple.” I said suddenly.

Zhongli stepped forward almost immediately. “I'll accompany you.”

I didn't say another word and gave a short nod before starting walking again. The weight of everyone's eyes stayed on my back the entire way out.

-------------------------------------------

The closer I got to the temple, the stronger the feeling became.

It wasn't just a pull anymore, it was something deeper. Like an invisible string tugging at me, guiding me forward with a purpose I didn't understand.

Zhongli followed silently behind me, matching my pace without a word.

By the time the old temple doors came into view, my heart started to race. I stopped at the entrance, staring up at the structure I'd first woken up in.

That feeling appeared again. And I knew. I don't know how, but I knew.

I needed to be alone.

“I need to go in.. By myself.”

His brow furrowed instantly. “That may not be safe, Your Grace. If something happens-”

“I'll be okay.” I quietly said. “I just.. Have to.”

For a moment, he hesitated. I could see it in his face, every instinct telling him to protest, to stay and protect.

But then he slowly nodded. Albeit reluctantly.

“..Very well. I will remain nearby.”

I gave him a faint smile before pushing the doors open and stepping inside.

The temple was still and quiet when I stepped inside.

There was dust floating in the air, the sunlight coming through tall windows. I stood in the middle of the room, right where I had woke up hours ago.

But now… everything felt different.

The weird pull I felt earlier was stronger now. It was like something deep inside me was drawn to this place, like it needed me here.

My heart was racing, and yet, I wasn't scared.

I closed my eyes.

And then… The world went quiet.

Not silent. Still. Like time had stopped moving for a moment.

Then I heard it.

“You have returned.”

The voice wasn't loud. It didn't echo in the room.

It echoed in me.

[glitchedsera]

Divine Error - Chapter 2

||This is certified cringe, and I'm just realizing this now. I don't know what 16-year-old me was thinking, but it's too late to turn back now. No proofreading, we're going in raw. I'm still learning how to post on Tumblr.||

Marked as a Pretender

"Wait a minute-"

"You fake! How dare you try to impersonate me?!"

Before you could even defend yourself, all the knights, including the Acting Grand Master herself, were after you.

This is what your bad feeling was trying to tell you, warning you of what's going to happen, and you immediately regret not trusting your instinct. Fortunately, your body reacts to the situation much faster than your mind, and you start running for the exit.

Fortunately, you were still near the entrance, you didn’t dare to look back as you quickly pushed the people out of your way and sprinted out of the Cathedral. But it didn’t take them long to be on your tail again.

Somehow, you’re lucky enough to manage to get out of the city with a few grazes, but it didn’t seem like they were going to give up anytime soon, as they continue to chase you.

You barely managed to dodge the arrows before you suddenly slipped and fell into a hole. Instantly taking advantage of the condition, you curled yourself into a ball, trying to make yourself less visible to them. As you heard them coming, you prayed to any god out there, hoping they wouldn’t find you.

Fortunately, your prayers were answered, and you heard them run past your hiding spot, unaware of your presence there.

You let out a breath you didn’t know you were holding, trying to calm down your rapidly beating heart. You tried looking for a wound on your arm that was grazed by the arrows earlier, but to your surprise, there was no wound mark anywhere. Although your sleeve had a slight tear, there was no sign of bleeding anywhere. Which you find odd, but you quickly brush it aside for now, trying to focus on getting out without being seen by them.

After some attempt, you finally managed to climb out of the hole and quietly scan the area. Just a few blocks from here, there were a few hilichurl camps and a domain in the opposite direction.

“There’s no point in me getting isekai’d here if I’m the imposter…”

You tried to make up a plan as fast as you could. Walking around while you’re wanted in broad daylight will be a problem, but sitting in that hole all day was definitely not an option for you.

After giving some thought, you decided to go to the neighbouring region, Liyue. Getting to Inazuma from Mondstadt would be difficult, especially when you don’t have a boat.

Getting to the border wasn’t an easy task. Everywhere you go, there are knights all over the place. But luckily for you, you’ve been playing Genshin for years now, so it was easy for you to tell their next move and avoid their blind spots.

After a lot of hiding and almost getting caught because you’re smart enough to try that sneaky roll move. But you successfully passed all the guards and made it out of Mondstadt ground.

There weren’t a lot of people near Stone Gate, but just to be safe, you kept hiding in the shadows, trying to keep a low profile, and you tried to come up with another plan.

You wander halfway to Dihua Marsh, and your stomach decides to give you another thing to worry about. Your stomach growled as if it hadn’t been fed for days. The last time you ate was when you were grinding on Genshin before falling asleep, and that was hours ago.

Seeing there were no possibilities of the knights looking for you in Liyue, you decided to risk it and look around for something to eat.

You were sure there was supposed to be some sunsettia nearby, but oddly enough, there was none.

“I’m so hungry… What else can I eat here?”

Right when you were contemplating eating a slime, you stumbled upon a hilichurl camp ahead of you. Remembering that some camps have some fruits, you carefully approach the camp. If you had elemental vision, you could probably take out the hilichurls easily. But sadly, you have no powers or combat skills.

But the thought of the hilichurls might attack you still linger in your mind. In the story, the mobs wouldn’t attack the Creator. But you were convinced you were the impostor in this story.

Your stomach suddenly twists in pain from being starved too long. Being aware that there was nothing else around you, you continued to make your way to the back of their camp.

You observed them for a moment, trying to understand their body language and pattern. Some were dancing, and some were sleeping. It was the perfect opportunity for you to raid their stuff.

Just as you were about to make your move, you unexpectedly feel a presence behind you. Fearing what you thought it was, you slowly turn around, and you somehow feel your soul leave your body.

Behind you was a hilichurl, just staring at you and not doing anything, which made you even more anxious, and you mentally prepared yourself to get rocks thrown at you.

But it didn’t move at all, it was just staring at you, as if waiting for you to do something.

At this moment, you regretted not paying attention to that Hilichurl guidebook.

You slowly raise your hand and wave at it as if you’re greeting it. A few seconds later, the hilichurl copied your move, bringing its hand up and waving at you back. And this left you speechless. Did you just discover a way to communicate with the hilichurls without talking?

Then an idea suddenly pops up, and you put your hand on your stomach, as if trying to say that you were looking for some food.

But to your dismay, the hilichurl just left.

You let out a sigh. Of course, the hilichurls couldn’t just understand your based on just movements. Just as you was about to give up, the hilichurl returned with a bunch of fruits in its hands.

In an instant, you thank the hilichurl and take one of the apples from it, savouring its sweet taste.

After parting ways with the hilichurl, you blindly continue your journey.

Even though you were currently being hunted down, you couldn’t help but enjoy the beautiful scenery. You closed your eyes, letting the warmth of the midday sun settle on your skin. For a moment, you let go of everything. No footsteps behind you, no weight on your shoulders. Just the soft rustle of grass in the breeze, the distant chirping of birds, and the quiet stillness of a world at peace.

All of a sudden, you hit your head hard into a pole. Stumbling back in pain, you rubbed your head where the impact was. You’re sure that it was going to leave a bump.

But as you look up, you notice your surroundings and find yourself standing in front of a familiar-looking inn.

“This could be the best or worst place to be at right now.”

You decided to approach the place, half expecting to get chased out again. But to your surprise, people were happily greeting you. Just when you thought the knights had already informed the whole Teyvat about you. Liyue seems to be uninformed about the matter.

You awkwardly greet them back as you make your way up using the elevator.

Just like in the game, Soraya was still in her usual spot. But right after she sees your figure, she immediately bows down to you.

“Your Grace, what a surprise to see you here. I thought you were celebrating your arrival in Mondstadt.” You could practically hear the shakiness in her voice. You couldn’t help but wonder if she was scared of the Creator, or is the Creator that intimidating.

Whatever the case was, you are not someone people should be bowing to. You’re just another teenager who plays games in their room all day. Definitely not the right person to bow down to.

You grab her arm in an attempt to make her stand.

“I’m just stopping by.. Seeing how things are going here.”

The chances of her believing your obvious lie were slim. She’s a scholar, of course, she can detect any lie on the spot. But if she does know that you’re a fakie, you could always try and jump off the balcony.

Your characters barely took damage, you’ll be fine.

“You really mustn’t worry yourself over this, Your Grace. Things are going well here.”

You let out a sigh of relief. You didn’t know how you managed to get away with that, but you’re not complaining.

You quickly nodded and excused yourself, continuing your way to meet a certain boss lady.

Once you made your way up, Verr was just as shocked as everyone else upon seeing you.

“Your Grace, what brings you here?”

Honestly, you weren’t sure why you even came up here.

“Verr, did you uh, receive any letter or something…? You managed to mumble out.

You were sure that if the knights were on a hunt for an imposter, they would inform the other region as soon as possible.

“A letter? No, I don’t think so.”

Well, at least that’s some good news for once.

‘I should probably go somewhere else before they realize-‘

Your thoughts came to an abrupt halt as a delicious aroma caught your attention. And your reaction didn’t go unnoticed by Verr.

“Your Grace, perhaps I could offer you something to eat before you leave? The kitchen has already prepared some Jade Parcels and Almond Tofu.”

If the circumstances were different, you’d be happy to accept her offer. Trying out cuisines from different nations has always been a dream of yours ever since you started playing the game. Alas, right now was not the perfect time to do so.

“That’s kind of you to offer, Verr. But I have to leave soon.”

You politely decline her offer. But she kept insisting, saying ‘it would be an honor to have Their Grace dine at their inn’. 

Seeing how persistent she was, you gradually accepted her kind offer. Happy with your decision, she led you to one of the empty tables before leaving to get your meals.

While you were looking forward to a nice, delicious meal, the people of Mondstadt were facing your copy’s wrath.

[glitchedsera]

Divine Error - Chapter 1

So uh, I'm just putting my old fic from AO3 here

|| The summary sucks i know, this is my first SAGAU fic I wrote for fun in high school. I'm just posting this bc I wanted to test whether the AO3 curse is real or not. ||

SUMMARY

While grinding for some materials for your favorite character, you doze off, only to wake up inside the game world itself. Confused and stranded in a digital landscape, you now have to navigate the mechanics and dangers of a place you once controlled from behind a screen.

The Shift

“Their Grace is here!”

Amber shouted through the halls inside the Knights of Favonius Headquarters. Jean and the other knights waste no time preparing for your arrival.

Meanwhile, you find yourself at a Teleport Waypoint.

How you get teleported to your favourite game was a mystery. You last remember teleporting to a waypoint to do your weekly boss fight. But somehow, the loading screen was taking forever to load, and you fell asleep.

“This is probably just a dream. Although everything looks so…” You scan your surroundings, admiring it until your eyes land on a familiar group of cryo slimes. Panicked, you slowly back away from them, but they notice your subtle movement anyway. Before you could make your escape, you realized that they weren’t chasing after you, nor attacking you. They simply pay no mind to you, and you quickly use the opportunity to get away.

After some exploring, you make your way to a certain Winery since it’s the nearest place you were spawned at. On your way, crystalflies would sometimes gather around you, some would even stay on your head, and you couldn’t help but wonder why they would approach you. But you couldn’t complain since this was the first time, they would willingly come to you.

You finally arrived at the Winery, and to your surprise, all the people who would stand around here were nowhere to be seen. But you pay no mind to this and make your way to the front door. Before knocking, you realized you didn’t have any plans, you just started walking without really thinking much, and now you’re contemplating whether you should even knock or not.

‘It’s Diluc, you talked to him like a million times already.’

‘Technically, you didn’t talk to him, it was the traveller.’

‘Okay, fine. But if I just tell him what happened…’

‘He’s going to think you’re crazy.’

In the middle of your overthinking, the door suddenly swung open, revealing the red-haired man himself.

Upon landing his eyes on you, he looked as surprised as you are. But all of a sudden, he immediately bows down to you.

“Your Grace, how may I assist you?”

“Huh..?”

You panicked and quickly made him stand up, which he easily obeyed. That’s when you suddenly realize that he called you ‘Your Grace’ and you feel like screaming.

‘Is this seriously SAGAU?’

Meanwhile, Diluc stepped aside, insisted that you come in, which you hesitantly did. And you were immediately greeted by a shocked Adelinde, who almost lost her grip on the basket she was holding.

You awkwardly gave her a little wave before following Diluc to the living room.

“Adelinde, could you prepare a drink for Their Grace?”

Meanwhile, in Mondstadt, everyone was gathered at the Cathedral, celebrating their Creator’s arrival.

“Your Grace, can you tell us more about your adventures?” Asked by one of their acolytes, and soon more joined.

“Ugh, can’t you see I’m trying to enjoy my party here? Go bother someone else.”

They were instantly stunned by Their Grace’s response. Nonetheless, they quickly apologized for bothering them.

Suddenly, they felt a slight tug, and they glanced down and saw Klee holding out her specially-made bombs. But Their Grace just scoffed at the sight.

“Don’t talk to me so casually, and get that thing away from me.” They pushed her hands away, dismissing her gift.

The room went silent in an instant, and everyone stopped what they were doing. Their eyes widened when they heard those words coming out of Their Grace’s mouth.

Once they take in what they had just said, they quickly turn back to Klee. “Of course, I was only joking. We can go blast some fish someday, alright?”

The fake smile on their face effortlessly managed to fool those around them, and they all easily believed Their Grace’s words.

Back at the winery, you sat down on the couch anxiously as Adelinde served you some grape juice. You give her a quiet thank you before taking a sip of the juice.

While you were enjoying your drink, you noticed Diluc kept standing in front of you as if waiting for your orders. And this made you feel a little uneasy, so you patted the seat next to you, signalling him to sit down as well, which he reluctantly followed.

As you briefly glanced outside, you remembered that he looked like he was just about to head somewhere before he bumped into you.

“…Were you heading somewhere?” You managed to ask.

“Yes, I received a message to go to the Cathedral to attend to, well, celebrate your arrival.” He then hands you a letter, and you thoroughly scan it. And sure enough, there was a Knights of Favonius crest on the letter, which proves that it was real.

“A celebration? Just because I’m here?” You mumbled, trying to grasp what was happening.

“Wait, if they are holding a celebration for me, I should probably be there then...”

With that, you hurriedly down all the grape juice and quickly walk out. Diluc immediately rushed to follow you.

On your way to Mondstadt, you couldn’t help but keep getting this bad feeling. Every time you tried to brush off the feeling, it kept coming back. From all the SAGAU you’ve read, all of them just end with the player getting executed, and now you've started to fear for your life.

The sound of you slapping yourself back to reality caught Diluc off guard, and he immediately checked up on you. You reassure him it was nothing, and both of you continue making your way towards the city.

You both finally arrived at the front gate of Mondstadt, but you found the place in the same condition as you first arrived at Dawn Winery earlier. It was eerily empty. No guards guarding the gate, no people walking around, even Katheryne wasn’t in her usual spot.

“Everyone is most likely at the Cathedral by now.” As if he read your mind, he reassures you and leads you to where the celebration was held.

It was quite a walk, but you finally found yourself standing in front of the Cathedral. As soon as your fingertip touches the handle, you could feel your anxiety growing, screaming at you not to open the door.

Diluc, sharp as always, noticed your hesitancy.

“Your Grace, is everything alright?”

His voice managed to snap you back to reality, and you quickly composed yourself. You take a deep breath in an attempt to calm down.

“Mhm, everything’s fine.”

With that, you push the door open, and somehow, everyone in Mondstadt is here. As you walked in, one by one, people started to notice you, and soon, all eyes were on you.

Confused stares and whispers immediately filled the room, and before anyone could say anything, a voice, similar to yours, broke the whispers.

"What are you people standing still f-"

Standing in front of you was... you? It was like looking into a mirror. They're the same replica as you.

More gasps and whispers can be heard in the room, but you pay no mind to them. All of your attention was on your copy, or was it the other way around...

When a voice spoke, it was when you finally grasped the situation you're in.

"Seize them!"

[glitchedsera]

First moon pic <3