Chapter 292: The Gift of Light
A lucid understanding of energy utilization bloomed in the minds of Lumine and Stelle. It was the very method of applying force and condensing power they had instinctively used in their colossal forms to shatter Bakunawa's hardened shell—the prototypes of what could be called a Dilasium Light Stream and Rampart Light Bullets, containing the very essence of the power of Light.
Though they could no longer manifest that world-shattering might, the core techniques of force application and the secrets of compressing and releasing energy on such a scale were now deeply imprinted upon their combat instincts. With a little adaptation and refinement, integrating these principles into their own fighting styles could forge a powerful new trump card.
At the same time, an exceptionally warm and gentle current of light circulated quietly within Lumine's body, eventually converging in the spiritual space where she stored her power. Like the most exquisite craftsman, this stream of light smoothed out the volatile energy fluctuations and structural instability she had suffered from forcibly devouring the massive, chaotic abyssal core. The pure yet dangerous abyss energy was now enveloped and sealed by a tough yet gentle film of light, rendering it unusually docile.
This would allow Lumine to absorb and convert its power more calmly and slowly, under absolutely safe conditions, truly transforming this crisis into an opportunity to enhance her strength.
Most, the vast Light of Hope had not dissipated entirely. Before departing, it had quietly left a tiny, yet incredibly pure "seed" deep within the hearts of both Lumine and Stelle. It lay dormant, emitting a faint but constant warmth—a silent promise of future possibility.
For now, however, Lumine and Stelle remained unaware of this most precious gift hidden deep within their souls. Just then, the cracked, seemingly collapsing rock barrier gave way as Dan Heng, March 7th, and Welt hurried to their side.
Both Dan Heng and Welt bore the signs of a fierce battle, but more than fatigue, their faces showed the deep relief of a burden lifted. Though their expressions remained as steady as ever, the deep concern and genuine ease in their eyes were unmistakable.
"It's good that you're alright," Dan Heng said concisely. His gaze swept quickly and carefully over Lumine and Stelle, confirming that aside from their exhaustion, they had no other obvious injuries.
Welt pushed his glasses up the bridge of his nose, his eyes taking in the surrounding battlefield, which looked as if it had been ravaged by a mythical beast. A hint of subtle emotion colored his voice. "This was truly… a much tougher battle than we anticipated. You two worked hard."
"Lumine! Stelle! You were amazing!" March 7th, on the other hand, expressed her excitement without reservation. She rushed forward and threw an arm around each of them, bouncing on the balls of her feet. Her voice was clear and bright. "We finally won! We're so incredible! You two looked so cool when you got all huge; it was out of this world! I recorded the whole thing on my camera! I'll get the pictures developed for you to see later!"
Feeling the genuine care of their companions and sharing in the joy of victory, Lumine and Stelle exchanged a smile. The mental tension and physical fatigue from the battle seemed to melt away in that moment.
"Since matters here are concluded…" Welt looked around, listening to the celebratory cheers from the direction of the Holy Fire Arena growing louder, almost shaking the sky. "We should head back and reunite with everyone."
The group nodded in agreement.
Dan Heng silently activated the power of the Domain Anchor he had left near the arena, and a familiar glow bearing the unique aura of the Astral Express enveloped the four crew members. Lumine, however, found her own method even easier; her thoughts sank inward, connecting with the teleportation network spread across Teyvat and precisely locating the anchor point at the Holy Fire Arena.
With a flash of light, the five of them vanished from the scarred battlefield.
The next moment, they reappeared on the edge of the bustling Holy Fire Arena, where every corner was filled with the joy and excitement of surviving a catastrophe.
Before they even had a chance to take in their surroundings, a white figure shot out from the crowd like a startled meteor. It sprinted toward them with a desperate momentum, throwing itself directly into Lumine's arms.
"Lumine—!!!"
Paimon's voice, thick with sobs, rang out. Her small hands gripped Lumine's clothes tightly, her tiny body trembling uncontrollably from a mixture of extreme fear, worry, and the immense relief that was now washing over her. She buried her face deep in Lumine's embrace, her voice choked and broken. "It's… it's so good that you're alright!"
"Waaah… especially when that evil great dragon suddenly appeared and swung that—that huge sword at you from behind… my… my heart almost jumped out of my chest! I really thought… I thought you were going to… Waaah—!"
By the end, her pent-up emotions burst forth completely. She could no longer hold back, breaking into loud sobs as if to release all the worry, fear, and helplessness she had felt with a flood of hot tears.
Lumine was startled by Paimon's sudden, intense emotional outburst. A complex feeling, a blend of guilt and immense tenderness, welled up in her heart. She immediately set aside the relief of her victorious return and gently embraced Paimon's trembling little body.
One hand began to pat her back in a soft, steady rhythm, as if comforting a startled animal. Her voice was at its softest as she murmured, "There, there, Paimon, don't cry. See? I'm right here, perfectly fine. Not a single scratch, really. Don't worry, it's all over now."
However, Paimon had clearly been terrified by Gosoythoth's sudden, lethal sneak attack. No matter how gently Lumine comforted her, her small hands showed no sign of letting go. If anything, feeling the real warmth of Lumine's body, she held on even tighter, as if the person in front of her would disappear the moment she loosened her grip.
Lumine sighed inwardly, feeling both helpless and heartsore. She looked up, offering an apologetic smile to Zhongli, Venti, and the others who had quickly gathered, as well as to her concerned friends from the Astral Express. She mouthed silently, 'I'll stay with her for a bit.'
Everyone nodded knowingly, their eyes full of understanding and gentle empathy.
Himeko even said softly, "Go on. Leave this to us. Take good care of little Paimon."
Lumine nodded, saying no more. She simply continued to pat Paimon's back, as if transmitting her own strength and sense of security through the simple action. Then, holding her small guide, who was enveloped in immense fear and desperately needed reassurance, she walked with light yet firm steps toward a relatively quiet corner, away from the bustling crowd. She temporarily isolated them from the boisterous celebration and the frenzy of victory.
Under the brilliant sunlight, their intertwined figures stretched long.
After a battle that had swept across the land, the world needed cheers to release its pressure, and heroes needed applause to affirm their worth. But between the closest of companions, sometimes all that was needed was a silent, firm embrace and a quiet, unwavering presence.
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