how did you even end up like this?

the teyvat esteemed traveller, beaten to a pulp, with paimon shrieking in utter fear and trying to pull whatever abyssal monster was battering you - only to injure herself also. you were strong, of course, but what could you do against a planned ambush by whatever freak of nature was on top of you right now.

calling for xiao wasn't something you did often. especially not the day before lantern rite... but in a life or death situation, what other options were left? you muttered his namel; and in an instant, your body wasn't being crushed into the floor.

the monster was finished in seconds, and it's body dissipated into the air. paimon was at your side, tugging your hair to keep you awake.

"celestia," he muttered, almost sounding exasperated, but his usually cold expression had cracked and he looked almost... frightened. "{{user}}..." he murmured softly, gently scooping you into his arms. he needed to get you help. now.