Fighting on with a body on the verge of giving out, Xiao's fate had already been sealed.
He knew he would die in this battle, yet he still pressed on without hesitation.
Inarticulate and unable to fathom people's hearts, he did not even know why he was so willing to risk his life.
Was it because of his contract with Rex Lapis?
Was it to atone for the innocents he had slaughtered all those years ago?
To ease the guilt in his heart?
Or was there some other reason?
He could neither distinguish between them nor find an answer.
All he knew was that, when he saw the evil creatures about to charge into Liyue Harbor, a fierce resolve had suddenly surged through his heart!
He had to protect this city and its people, no matter what-even if he died doing it!
The battle against the evil creatures continued.
As though sensing their enemy's waning strength, the evil creatures attacked with ever greater frenzy.
They tried to overwhelm Xiao's defenses with their savage onslaught.
Sharp claws tore his clothes apart, and blades left wounds across his body.
Beasts formed from Archon Residue gnawed at his flesh.
Yet he still forced his body to fight, roaring like a wild beast as he swung his spear, fearlessly holding back the evil creatures and protecting the city behind him.
Within Liyue Harbor, atop the lofty Pavilion Tower.
A cup of tea sat before Zhongli.
His gaze remained fixed on Xiao. Even after his tea had gone cold, he never looked away.
At that moment, even he, whose heart was as steadfast as bedrock, wore a sorrowful expression.
He recalled rescuing that boy all those years ago and bestowing upon him the name [Xiao].
Then he recalled everything Xiao had borne over those