Storm on the Chessboard
Fine rain wove a misty veil over Fontaine, shrouding its grand architecture in a soft haze. The streets were quiet, save for the gentle patter of raindrops against the ground, composing a tranquil melody. Inside an elegant attic on the city's edge, a most unusual game of wits was unfolding.
Within the attic, candlelight flickered, casting light upon a chessboard. Black and white pieces stood in opposition, like two armies locked in battle, every move hiding deep strategy. He Chizhe wore a long black robe, an air of mysterious magic swirling around him, his eyes as profound as an abyss, as if he could see through all things. The Traveler Aether, dressed in light traveling gear, held a gaze of resolve and courage; after countless adventures, he stood ready.
He Chizhe caressed a chess piece lightly, a meaningful smile tugging at his lips as he broke the silence.
"Aether, you have traveled the Seven Nations and seen much. On this board, every piece is like a hero of the world, each with their own strengths. In your opinion, who can truly be called a hero amid this ever‑changing game?"
Aether paused for a moment, his eyes sweeping the board.
"Venti of Mondstadt, who guards freedom with song and lets the wind guide people toward hope — surely he is a hero?"
He Chizhe shook his head slightly, spinning a piece deftly between his fingers.
"Venti has a guardian's heart, but he acts on whims, too carefree, lacking the resolve to control the tide of events. He cannot yet be called a hero."
Aether's eyes flickered.
"Then Zhongli of Liyue. He has guarded Liyue for millennia, upholding all things through contracts. His wisdom and power surely earn him the title of hero."
He Chizhe chuckled softly and moved a piece, instantly complicating the board.
"Zhongli has the ability and responsibility, but he has laid down many duties and withdrawn into mortal life. A hero should burn like wildfire, forever charging forward in the waves of time. He no longer leads the storm."
Aether frowned, searching for another name.
"The Electro Archon of Inazuma. She once closed her nation off, then changed her mind to protect Inazuma's peace. Is her change and devotion not heroic?"
A sharp glint flashed in He Chizhe's eyes, his voice firm.
"The Electro Archon once nearly plunged Inazuma into crisis due to obsession. Though she later changed, a hero must hold a clear path from beginning to end, unshackled by fixation. She is not worthy."
Aether took a deep breath, his gaze steady.
"Having traveled the nations and met so many, I still do not know — what, to you, is a hero?"
He Chizhe's eyes blazed as he stared at the board.
"A true hero embraces the world, possesses the strategy to control the whole game, the courage to stand against any foe, and the will to lead an era. On this chessboard, only he who maximizes every piece and dictates the game's flow is a hero. Just as in Teyvat — only he who stands unyielding amid chaos and shapes the world's fate deserves the name."
As he spoke, He Chizhe's magic stirred. The chess pieces, drawn by a mysterious force, began to move exactly as he willed. The situation grew clearer, his advantage widening.
Aether did not panic at the unfavorable position. He calmly analyzed the board, searching for a chance to turn the tide. Yet every move He Chizhe made was flawless, leaving no room for respite.
In the end, He Chizhe placed the final piece, delivering checkmate. He looked at the slightly disappointed Aether, his tone meaningful.
"You have lost this game. But you, who wander the world, hold endless potential. I hope our next match will bring an even finer display."
Aether lifted his head, his resolve returning.
"I may have lost this chess match, but I have learned much. Next time, I will surprise you."
The rain gradually stopped. Sunlight streamed through the window onto the chessboard, illuminating this contest of wit and strategy. This "discussion of heroes" in a Fontaine attic would become a unique memory, etched in Aether's heart, driving him to grow and walk further along the path to becoming a true hero.