Everlasting As the Moon is the third part in the Teyvat storyline Archon Quest Song of the Welkin Moon: Act III - A Nation That Doesn't Exist.
Steps[]
- Find a way to return to the secret base
- Avoid the patrolling Wild Hunt
- Return to the secret base and discuss your next steps
- Go to the place The Knave mentioned
- Enter the space where the Crimson Moon is
- Go through the "passage"
- Proceed deeper
- Optional 1:
- Optional 2:
- Optional 3:
Ruin Guard
- (Unlocks an Exquisite Chest)
- (Unlocks an
- Optional 4: Hilichurl ×2
- Activate the nearby device
- Optional 1:
- Optional 2:
- (Unlocks a Common Chest)
- (Unlocks a
- Activate the second device
- Activate the final device
- Enter the reflection of the "moon"
- Sever the Abyssal fetters
- Optional 1:
- Optional 2:
- Optional 3:
- Purify the Iridescent Moon's marrow
- Talk to The Knave
Gameplay Notes[]
- During step 2, the active party is limited to the Traveler. Jumping is disabled.
- Completing step 4 grants the Wonders of the World achievement Only Embers Remain.
- From step 4 onwards, the player will enter Special Story Mode.
- If this mode is exited prematurely, the player will be teleported to the "Secret Base."
- The player has an opportunity to edit their Party Setup during steps 7 and 12.
- Completing this quest will grant the Wonders of the World achievement A Nation That Doesn't Exist.
Dialogue[]
Quest DescriptionAfter negotiating with Sandrone, the "Marionette," you leave the Fatui's Experimental Design Bureau. Everywhere you look, the Wild Hunt is prowling. Make your way back to base — and be sure not to get caught along the way!
- (Continues from previous quest)
- Paimon: Ugh, they've been prowling around for nearly two days now. These things just won't quit...
- Paimon: They might not have seen us yet, but with them constantly sweeping the area, our way out is completely blocked!
- We'll just have to sneak past...
- ...Nice and quietly.
- Paimon: That's never gonna work... One little slip-up, and it's game over!
- Paimon: If they spot us, they'll run straight back to Rerir — and once he knows we're here, it won't be long before he's breathing down our necks again...
- Be that as it may, we still have to try.
- Paimon: Ugh, guess you're right. Alright, time to zip it...
- (While avoiding the Wild Hunt)
- Paimon: Quick, hide! We almost got spotted!
- Paimon: Whew... That was a close call.
- Paimon: Watch out, it's coming this way!
- Paimon: Keep going, we're nearly there! This is the final hurdle...
- (If the player runs into the Wild Hunt)
-
- Be careful! Don't let the Wild Hunt discover you!
- (Section restarts)
- (Approach the marked location)
- Paimon: There's no end to these things!
- We can't keep going like this...
- Surely there must be another way out?
- (As the Wild Hunt surrounds them, the Traveler takes up a battle stance)
- (As they prepare for battle, a burning ember flies by The Damselette)
- The Damselette: Fire...
- Paimon: Fire?
- Paimon: Wait, what's that smell? ...Oh no, there's a fire!
- (The fire rips through the Wild Hunt and rapidly turns them to ashes)
- The Wild Hunt's Anguished Roar: Raargh!!!
- The Wild Hunt...
- That was quick...
- (The camera pans up to show The Knave's spider-like form, gazing down at them from above)
- (She sweeps down and lands one final strike, finishing off the last of the Wild Hunt)
- The Knave: Sandrone was right. You look weak, Columbina.
- The Knave: The old you would never have let such lowly creatures bar your way. Word has it that you did something for the Tsaritsa, and that's why you've lost most of your power...
- The Knave: Freedom comes at a heavy price, doesn't it?
- Paimon: It's Arlecchino! You came!
- The Knave: Hello again, Columbina. And greetings... guests of the House of the Hearth.
- The Damselette: It's been a while, Arlecchino.
- (Transition to Kuuvahki Experimental Design Bureau)
- Marionette: Ugh! Stupid Rächer of stupid Solnari... Ugh, whatever! I've got all the data I need. Next time we meet, you're finished!
- B.O.S.C.O.NO.1: *clunk*
- Marionette: Ugh... He sure doesn't pull his punches...
- ???: Excuse me, um... Do you need a hand?
- Marionette: You can do me a favor by staying OUT of my way. Can't you see I'm busy?
- Marionette: Wait a minute, I recognize that voice...
- Lyney: Hello, Miss Sandrone. "Father" sent us over to help.
- Marionette: Hmph, how considerate of her.
- Marionette: Hey, uh... Freminet? Get over here and help me fix this. Lyney, you do your thing — just keep your sister away from my machines.
- (Lynette pokes a nearby Landcruiser, causing it to fall apart)
- Marionette: Nearly every machine that cat-girl touches ends up going haywire... Go put her on cleaning duty, or something.
- Lynette: Hmph.
- Lyney: Hehe... Then let's start downstairs. Freminet, we'll leave this place to you.
- Freminet: You've got it.
- Marionette: Wait a second.
- Marionette: ...Pretty sure there's still some tea in the cupboard. If you want some, you'll have to make it yourselves.
- (Transition to "Secret Base")
Step DescriptionThanks to Sandrone, the "Marionette," Arlecchino has hurried to Nod Krai — and at last, the secrets of the Crimson Moon are beginning to come to light...
- (Enter the meeting place)
- Varka: It's a relief to see you all made it back in one piece.
- Paimon: Huh? Feels like there's quite a few people missing... Where's Flins and the others? And what about Nefer?
- Varka: I returned ahead of them. Flins is helping Aino and Ineffa to set up the decoys and buy us some time. As for Miss Nefer...
- Jahoda: Boss is still wrapping things up on her end. She sent us back to fill you all in on the top-secret intel we've been gathering.
- Varka: I see. Then let's get right into it.
- Varka: But first — who do we have here? You brought someone else in to help?
- The Knave: Greetings. I was invited here to help as a long-time tea party companion of Columbina's. You may call me Arlecchino.
- Lauma: (Surely it can't be...)
- Jahoda: (Those eyes... Where have I seen them before? Wait, of course! In those memories we just saw...!)
- Varka: Hmm. The only Arlecchino I know is the Fourth of the Fatui Harbingers. So either you share a pretty uncommon name, or you're more than just a tea-party buddy.
- The Knave: You're well informed, Grand Master. A man from Mondstadt living all the way out here in Nod-Krai, and yet the people and affairs of Snezhnaya seem to hold a special place in your heart.
- Varka: Haha, the feeling's mutual. Sounds like you know all about who I am, too.
- Lauma: A Fatui Harbinger...
- Jahoda: (The atmosphere in here just got really tense... Guess we can't just start trusting Fatui Harbingers, even at a time like this.)
- Varka: I must admit, though, I'm a little curious — seeing as the Moon Goddess no longer belongs to the Fatui, what makes you so willing to put your neck on the line here?
- The Knave: Nor does Nod-Krai belong to Mondstadt, Mr. Varka. Yet still, you're fighting for it all the same.
- The Knave: Things don't always have to have a tangible payoff. Sometimes, stopping things from spiraling out of control is a higher priority than chasing the spoils of victory.
- The Knave: Of course, I can't say there's nothing in it for me at all... but that's between Columbina and myself.
- Arlecchino was instrumental in helping us save the whole of Fontaine.
- I'm confident we can trust her.
- Lauma: Forgive me, I don't mean to doubt you. It's just that the Fatui really have been the source of many of our troubles.
- Lauma: We have our own way of doing things here in Nod-Krai. But ever since they arrived, the Fatui have treated us with nothing but hostility.
- The Knave: I know there's been a lot of bad blood between us in the past. I've done my utmost to avoid friction whenever I could, but sometimes, fundamental conflicts of interest simply can't be settled amicably.
- The Knave: That's why I'm here solely in a personal capacity. This has nothing to do with the Fatui.
- The Knave: As a gesture of good faith, I'll be frank. I can help Columbina track down the Iridescent Moon's marrow, which will help her restore more of her power.
- The Knave: Anyway, what else is on the agenda? Let's begin.
- Jahoda: (She says she'll be frank, then completely skips over the details... Looks like she doesn't wanna give away too many secrets, after all.)
- Jahoda: (But she clearly wants to change the subject. It'd be awkward if I tried to bring it up again now... Ugh, guess we'll just have to go along with it. She's the Fourth of the Fatui Harbingers, after all... One look and you can tell she's not someone you'd wanna mess with.)
- Varka: ...
- Varka: Well, since Ms. Arlecchino sounds confident in her ability to handle that, we'll proceed to the next topic. Jahoda, time to share that top-secret intel.
- Jahoda: Ahem... Alright, listen up everyone! First, we now know that Rerir was originally a Khaenri'ahn secret agent whose primary mission was to hunt down and assassinate the so-called "Dregs of the Crimson Moon."
- Varka: The "Dregs of the Crimson Moon"...?
- Jahoda: Mm-hmm. In the memories, there was a lot of talk about the "Crimson Moon" and "Eclipse," and a whole bunch of other stuff from the time of Khaenri'ah.
- The Damselette: ...
- (Columbina looks over at Arlecchino, who gives her a small nod)
- The Damselette: To my knowledge, those were the names of two different Khaenri'ahn dynasties.
- The Damselette: Long, long ago, it is said that the people of Khaenri'ah worshiped the Crimson Moon, drawing a mysterious power from its reflection.
- The Damselette: But one day, a coup saw the Crimson Moon "eclipsed" — hence the name of the new dynasty that replaced it, and how it became the new emblem of Khaenri'ah.
- Lauma: Still, long after the Crimson Moon dynasty had fallen, the last ruler of the Eclipse dynasty, the "Vinster King," still coveted the secrets it left behind. So he sent the "Rächer of Solnari" to secretly hunt down the Crimson Moon's few remaining followers.
- Lauma: In those days, Rerir showed no signs of madness — in fact, he was as normal as any other person. Oh... and he had a fiancee, or at least a would-be fiancee, called "Tholindis."
- Tholindis...?
- Lauma: What's the matter, (Traveler)?
- Just after Rerir regained his body...
- ...He called out that name.
- (A flashback begins)
- "Rächer of Solnari": Vedrfolnir...! Rhinedottir...! Arrghh... Tholindis! Tholindis!
- (Flashback ends)
- Varka: Interesting. Anything else? What about this would-be fiancee of his... Do we know anything about her?
- Jahoda: Well... She was a researcher at the Universitas Magistrorum, but it felt like she was hiding some kind of secret.
- Lauma: Oh, and one more thing — for some reason, Rerir's fragment also contained some of Tholindis's memories, though only a very small portion.
- Varka: Hmm... Well, no shortage of potential leads, I'll give you that. In any case, it sounds like we can conclude that while Tholindis was still around, Rerir appeared to be lucid and quite normal.
- Varka: Tholindis, it seems, must have been the one thing in this world that he couldn't let go of. Tell me, though... Were these "pure-blood" Khaenri'ahns we're talking about here?
- Paimon: Why do you need to know that? Hold on... If she was a pure-blood Khaenri'ahn...
- The curse of immortality!
- She might still be alive.
- Paimon: Oh, yeah! Just like how it was with The Captain!
- Jahoda: If we could somehow find her, do you think there's any chance Rerir might regain some of his sanity?
- Lauma: It's possible... but it would take a miracle. We can't pin all our hopes on that.
- Lauma: (That merchant who Nefer knows... Dori Sangemah Bay? Maybe we could hire her to look into it.)
- Varka: Alright then, let's keep working in our separate teams.
- Varka: (Traveler), Paimon, Kuutar, and Ms. Arlecchino will go look for the Iridescent Moon's marrow.
- Varka: As for the others...
- Lauma: On the way over here, I noticed that the Wild Hunt monsters had grown even more frenzied in their search for Kuutar.
- Lauma: At this rate, the people living here will be in grave danger too. So I'm thinking of gathering together some of our followers to go wipe them out.
- Jahoda: I'll head back to the Curatorium and meet up with the boss.
- Varka: Feels good knowing we've all got something to be getting on with.
- Varka: Given that the Wild Hunt has been a lot more active lately, the Lightkeepers have likely begun their own operations too. If that is the case, someone will need to pass the news on to Flins.
- Varka: I'll hold the fort for now, then discuss our next move with Flins, Aino, and Ineffa when they get back.
- Paimon: Alright then!
- The Knave: Well, the clock's ticking. If that's everything, we'll be on our way.
- Lauma: We'd better get moving too. We'll try to buy you as much time as we can.
- Varka: Haha... Relax, just do your thing. I decided to call in some backup since things are getting so hairy. Our reinforcements should be here any minute now.
- Varka: Stay safe, everyone. Dismissed!
- (Everyone leaves except for Varka, and some time passes before Flins, Aino, and Ineffa arrive)
- Flins: We're back. Did we get here a little early... or a little late?
- Varka: Haha, a tad late — the others have already set off. To summarize: Our resident Moon Goddess has found us a new ally, and boss Nefer has uncovered some promising info.
- Varka: Everything going smoothly on your end?
- Aino: Eh, not great. I dunno how long we can stall him for. The decoys are getting taken out way faster than we imagined.
- Aino: I'm gonna make some more later, but I need a time-out first. I'm soooo tired right now!
- Aino: Oh, right — Ineffa, could you fill in Uncle Varka on what we just discussed with Flins?
- Ineffa: Sure.
- Ineffa: Uncle Varka, you previously told us about how, when you went to investigate a source of the Wild Hunt in Amsvartnir, you discovered that it was just a diversion.
- Ineffa: But according to Flins's intel, several outbreaks of the Wild Hunt had already occurred in Nod-Krai in the period leading up to that.
- Ineffa: That was before Rerir had regained his body, when he was far from regaining his full strength. In other words, in theory at least, he still lacked the means to act in two places at once.
- Varka: ...
- Varka: Flins, with everything that's been happening, the Lightkeepers across Nod-Krai are rallying to fight back against the Wild Hunt. They're gonna need your help.
- Varka: Aino, I'm sure you're capable of coming up with something far more effective than decoys. But for now, you should stay here and get some rest.
- Varka: Ineffa and I will head back over to Amsvartnir to see if there's anything I missed.
- Aino: Hehe, I told you Uncle Varka would say that, didn't I? A deal's a deal! Not a word about my snack intake for the next week!
- Ineffa: Database updated. Reliability of Aino's predictions increased.
- Varka: Uh... What does that mean?
- Flins: They were betting on how you'd respond after hearing their intel.
- Varka: It's the obvious choice, isn't it? That's hardly worth betting on.
- Flins: We already decided that Ineffa should go investigate the situation over at Amsvartnir on her own. You might as well stay here and keep watch.
- Flins: Someone needs to hang back and oversee our strategy meetings, and besides... you still haven't fully recovered from ambushing Rerir.
- Varka: So I've ended up with the easiest assignment, hahaha... Well, I appreciate it everyone. See you when you get back.
- (Transition to Silvermoon Hall)
- (If the player exits Special Story Mode after this step)
-
- (Talk to Aino, optional)
- Aino: Need... krumkakes...
- (Talk to Varka, optional)
- Varka: What happened over at Amsvartnir... If it wasn't Rerir, then who was it?
- (Interact with the quest marker)
- Search for the Iridescent Moon's marrow
- (The player returns to the special story mode)
- (Approach the marked location)
- The Knave: Here. This will serve as a good spot to cross over.
- Paimon: Arlecchino, hold up a second... Since you brought us all this way, would you mind telling us what you've got planned?
- Paimon: We still haven't got the slightest idea what's going on here! And if even Columbina doesn't know where the Iridescent Moon's marrow is, how do you?
- The Knave: Simple... Because I am an inheritor of the royal bloodline of the Crimson Moon, and one of the last surviving embers of the Two Worlds' Flames.
- Paimon: Huh!?
- Paimon: A—Are you serious? As in... you're a descendent of that Crimson Moon dynasty we were just talking about? The one from ancient Khaenri'ah?
- The Knave: Your surprise is understandable. I was also taken aback when I first learned of it.
- The Knave: But the more I thought about it, the more I realized — the signs had been there all along.
- The Knave: When I was young, I discovered I could wield a very special kind of "fire." It coursed like blood through my veins, and smoldered away inside my nerves.
- The Knave: What's more, whenever I experienced strong bursts of emotion or drew too deeply on this power, it was like some kind of presence within the fire would begin to gnaw away at me... consuming me from the inside out.
- Your hands...
- The Knave: Exactly... That is why my hands are like this too. At first, I saw it only as a curse. But once I became a Harbinger, The Jester apprised me of the truth.
- The Knave: Together with my own investigations over the past few years, there are several things that I have gradually come to understand.
- The Knave: For instance, take the so-called "Crimson Moon." In truth, it is nothing more than the shattered remnants of the Iridescent Moon, fused with the Abyss to prolong its lifespan.
- The Knave: Since this "bloodflame" was bestowed upon me by the Crimson Moon, it is a fusion of the Iridescent Moon's former power and the corruption of the Abyss.
- The Knave: You all understand the nature of the Abyss well enough. I draw upon its power, and in return, it hungers for my soul. This strange blackness is the mark of corruption it has left behind.
- The Damselette: If I recall correctly, you once told me that if the corruption ever made it to your heart, you'd become a completely different person.
- The Knave: Yes... and that's the reason I'm always careful not to push my power too far. It's essentially a never-ending tug-of-war.
- Paimon: Sounds intense...
- The Knave: ...Anyway, the rest of my story can wait. Is there anything else about the Crimson Moon or the Iridescent Moon that you're unclear about?
- Paimon: Paimon has a question... So the Crimson Moon that the Khaenri'ahns used to worship was actually the Iridescent Moon, right? Which was one of the Three Moon Sisters?
- Paimon: Does that mean that... the Khaenri'ahns were to the Crimson Moon as the Frostmoon Scions are to the Frost Moon...?
- The Knave: So much of that history has been lost. We have no way of knowing exactly what they were like.
- The Knave: But I would suspect that the Khaenri'ahns weren't as devout in their moon worship as it might appear. The Iridescent Moon's remains simply served as their link to the Abyss.
- The Knave: Later on, perhaps someone discovered a way to make direct contact with the Abyss, or maybe there was some kind of ideological divide. Either way, a dissenting faction staged a coup and drove out the royal heirs of the Crimson Moon dynasty.
- The Knave: Still, even with the dark sun looming high overhead, the Crimson Moon's glow never truly faded. If you want living proof, it's standing right before you.
- The Damselette: The first time we met, I sensed something familiar in your presence.
- The Damselette: When I looked at you, I felt I could see that mysterious red moon in the corner of my eye... In your flames, I saw its broken image, surrounded by a strange black aura.
- The Knave: Well, I appreciate that you kept it to yourself. Much about the Crimson Moon is still a mystery, and I'd prefer not to end up as the object of an insane research project.
- The Knave: Anyway, time is against us here, so if there's any other questions, they'll have to wait.
- The Knave: I just want to make sure I've got one thing straight. In her letter, Sandrone mentioned that since you are unable to contain the Iridescent Moon's marrow yourself, you intend to leave it in my custody. Correct?
- The Damselette: That's right. For now, it's the only way I can pay you back for your help.
- The Damselette: The Iridescent Moon is already part of who you are. So with its marrow in your possession, you'll be even more powerful than before.
- The Knave: Deal. Then let's get started.
- Paimon: Uhh... get what started? What does this place have to do with the Crimson Moon?
- The Knave: When I first became a Harbinger, The Jester gave me a book called Perinheri, also known as Hleobranto Innamorato.
- The Knave: You should be able to buy a copy next time you're in Fontaine. It's a love story set in the Crimson Moon era — but setting aside the tangled romances of its characters, it also records a few interesting details.
- The Knave: In the Crimson Moon era — or so the story goes — there was an orphanage that received children from beyond the bounds of this world and subjected them to a peculiar induction ceremony.
- Paimon: Beyond the bounds of this world? For real? And what kind of induction ceremony?
- The Knave: The Crimson Moon sages looked beyond this world for beings with powers that surpassed the gods — but fearing they might lose control, they subjected these children to a process of "refinement."
- The Knave: They made these children crawl up a fireplace, and kept asking them, "Have you died?" "Did you see it?"... until they finally admitted to having died and seen a crimson moon.
- The Knave: The adults embraced the children who passed the ritual, telling them: "Within the fireplace, you have traversed the flames between two worlds. Here and now, you are born anew."
- The Knave: The book leaves much unsaid, but I suspect that this was their way of "branding" the children they had enrolled — leaving an indelible mark upon them, so that they would forever live in the Crimson Moon's light.
- The Damselette: That explains why I can't sense the Crimson Moon's marrow in this world. It makes sense that it would be sealed in a special space that can only be accessed temporarily through some kind of ritual.
- Paimon: But there's no fireplace here... Do you see a chimney anywhere? ...Oh, are we supposed to build it ourselves? Umm... okay fine, Paimon'll go find some bricks...
- The Knave: That won't be necessary — the fireplace is purely symbolic. The key to the ritual is crossing "the flames between two worlds"... in other words, the flames that burn within me.
- The Knave: Those burned away by such flames leave behind a kind of ghostly "afterimage" in the world. In the days of Khaenri'ah, people believed they could be used to bridge the gap between the "two worlds" of life and death.
- (A brief image of Clervie appears, before disappearing into flames)
- The Knave: In short, I can open a passage to that space for you. That's the easy part.
- The Knave: The catch is, I'll need to stay on this side to keep the passage open, so I won't be able to come with you. Once you're inside, you'll have to find your own way.
- Understood.
- Don't worry, we've got this.
- The Knave: Very well, then I'll open it up.
- The Damselette: (Traveler), spare me a little more moonlight, if you would. I may need it...
- (The Traveler nods, extending their hand to meet Columbina's)
- The Damselette: Thank you... I feel like I've recovered some of my strength now. It should be enough to move us across short distances and confront whatever dangers might await.
- The Knave: Mistress of the Seven Hues of ages past, great mother of the present, crimson-clad sovereign of the two realms. By fire severed, by fire renewed — I offer myself now, and beseech your descent.
- (The area becomes engulfed by a shadowy red haze, and a dark crimson portal rises out of the ground nearby)
- (Arlecchino summons her blood-red scythe and slashes it through the air, creating a blazing staircase to the portal in the sky)
- Paimon: Whooooa!
- The Knave: One word of advice — as you're crossing over, no matter what voices you hear, do not answer.
- Paimon: Got it!
- The Damselette: I sense a sinister gloom inside... but also the familiar light of the moon.
- The Damselette: I feel that I am about to meet an old friend who has changed beyond all recognition... Alright, let's go.
- (Talk to Arlecchino, optional)
- The Knave: Seismic changes often begin with small windows of opportunity. This could be your window.
- (Enter the portal)
- Voice of the Abyss: I sense your presence, and grant to you death and rebirth...
- Voice of the Abyss: Wait, you're... Why are you...
- Voice of the Abyss: You have crossed over from another world... transcended fate itself... I have no right to...
- (Approach the end of the "passage")
- Paimon: Hey, look up at the sky! A red moon... This must be the spot, right?
- Paimon: I—Is that the Abyss!? It's practically filled the entire place! What now?
- The Damselette: ...
- The Damselette: *sigh* What a tragic sight... Fragments of your broken body, seized by the Abyss and hung up aloft like mummified remains. Iridescent Moon... was this truly what you wished for?
- Looks like there's only one way through here.
- Let's keep going and see what's ahead.
- Paimon: Careful, there's something spooky about this place. Feels like something is lurking in the fog...
- Paimon: P—Paimon's right behind you, (Traveler). Whatever you do, don't run off without her!
- (Approach the marked location)
-
- (The camera moves to show the whole moon)
- Paimon: By the way, Columbina — didn't you tell us that the Iridescent Moon had shattered into pieces?
- Paimon: The moon up there looks pretty whole to Paimon. How is that possible?
- The Damselette: ...
- (Approach the marked location)
-
- (The camera moves to show the shattered side of the moon)
- The Damselette: Just like I thought... It was only a facade.
- (Approach the marked location)
- Paimon: Huh...
- So the Iridescent Moon's marrow is up there in the sky?
- Paimon: Huh, for real? But that's way too high... There's no way we'll be able to reach it!
- The Damselette: No... I'm not sensing anything up there.
- The Damselette: It's coming from under the mountain.
- Paimon: Let's see... Eek! There's some kind of weird shadow over the water!
- Paimon: Wait, see that? Looks like a mechanism of some sort... Let's check it out!
- (Enter the pool of water before clearing out the Abyss, optional)
-
- (The active character begins to lose HP)
- Paimon: The Abyssal energy here is too strong. We'd better pull back for now.
- (Approach the device)
- Paimon: Hmm... Looks like a device from the time of Khaenri'ah.
- Paimon: Maybe people once came here to study the Crimson Moon's domain, and they left this behind? If we can activate it, we might find some clues.
- (Activate the device)
-
- (The mechanism shoots out a beam of light, destroying one of the three Oozing Concretions around the pool)
- Paimon: Hey, look at that! Now that the mechanism's running, the shadow in the water looks different.
- Paimon: Do you think these mechanisms might be the key to unlocking the secret? Let's try to find more of them.
- (A flashback begins)
- Snorri: Tholindis, we'll leave the rest of the research in your hands. We'll be heading back now.
- Vilwis: Hope this isn't ruining date night...?
- Tholindis: Ugh, mind your own business. Just leave me some snacks on the table.
- Paimon: Tholindis? Is that Rerir's girlfriend? How come we're hearing her voice here?
- Didn't Nefer previously mention...
- ...That she was a researcher at the Universitas Magistrorum?
- Paimon: Oh, yeah! So... do you think she was studying this strange space all along?
- The Damselette: The Abyss has made this space extremely unstable.
- The Damselette: Maybe that's why some of the things she said and did were preserved here... like echoes, or afterimages.
- Tholindis: ...Whenever I see this view, it takes me back to a poem from my childhood.
- Tholindis: "Waning moon, oh lifeless damsel, weeping on the mountain crest. Mourning still, in wistful tone, her fragile soul now laid to rest."
- Tholindis: For me, of all people, to be here investigating the mysteries of the Crimson Moon's space... Is it a coincidence, or something more?
- (Flashback ends)
- (Approach the second device)
- Paimon: Looks like the Abyss has messed up this mechanism. We need to find a way to get it working again.
- Paimon: Let's see if there are any other devices nearby!
- (Activate the second device)
-
- (The mechanism shoots out a beam of light, destroying another of the Oozing Concretions around the pool)
- (A flashback begins)
- Tholindis: I see... So the Moon Marrow, or rather the power of the three moons, is the key to unlocking ▉▉▉▉.
- Tholindis: If ▉▉▉▉ really does exist, then maybe this madness can finally be put to an end...
- (Flashback ends)
- (Approach the final device)
-
- (The mechanism begins to fire bullets of Abyssal energy at the player)
- Paimon: Take cover behind the rocks!
- (If the player gets hit by the device)
-
- Dodge the mechanism's attacks. Get close and purify it.
- (The player is teleported back down the stairs)
- (Approach the device)
-
- If you can use your power to cleanse it, maybe you can get it working again. Find a way to get close enough!
- (Activate the final device)
-
- (The mechanism shoots out a beam of light, destroying the final Oozing Concretion around the pool)
- (The tendrils of Abyssal energy subside, leaving only the moon's gleaming shadow in the water)
- (A flashback begins)
- Tholindis: With the Abyss inhibitors in place, I should be able to access the chamber with the Moon Marrow...
- Tholindis: Oh, Rerir... With every step you take, you're drifting further from what you truly desire... but you're not the root of the problem. Ever since that outsider set foot in Khaenri'ah, the Vinster King has sunken deeper into madness.
- Tholindis: If only I could get my hands on that outsider...
- (Flashback ends)
- Paimon: Hey, look! The moon's reflection is back to normal!
- Paimon: Tholindis's voice mentioned a chamber with the Moon Marrow. D'you think maybe it's hidden in the moon's reflection...?
- The Damselette: It must be... for within it, I sense the fragile aura of a dying soul.
- Paimon: Then there's no time to lose — let's go!
- (Enter the reflection and approach the Oozing Core)
- Paimon: These things are so creepy...
- Paimon: Looks like we'll have to destroy them if we wanna get to the Iridescent Moon's marrow!
- (Approach the Iridescent Moon's marrow)
- Paimon: That must be the Iridescent Moon's marrow... But we'll need to destroy these things before we can reach it.
- (After destroying the second Abyssal fetter)
- Paimon: Hang in there! We're so close!
- (After destroying the third Abyssal fetter)
-
- (The dark orb shatters, revealing a crescent moon-shaped object seething with Abyssal energy)
- Paimon: Whew, we finally did it.
- The Damselette: The Iridescent Moon's marrow... Still burning away like an undying flame, yet now contaminated by the Abyss. It has taken on a new form entirely.
- The Damselette: If we can purify the Abyssal power within, we should be able to obtain its untainted essence.
- Leave it to me.
- (The Traveler drains the Abyssal energy from the marrow, exposing its true red color)
- ???: So cold...
- ???: Is it you? Are you here?
- Paimon: Huh? Are you talking to us?
- ???: At long last... I can see you once more. Our fates have crossed... and I am finally free.
- ???: I'm sorry... I lied to you. Even knowing what was to come, I still couldn't let go of the fear in my heart as death drew near.
- ???: The moment the moon shattered, my body began to split apart piece by piece... like I was being cut into pieces by a thousand blunt blades. My thoughts scattered as the cold crept in... but I could not bear to fade away like that...
- ???: Tell me, what was it that brought you to us, all that time ago? If only I had possessed your courage... Then, I might have been spared this torment more painful than death...
- ???: You look so puzzled... Heh, that's how I felt too... when I first saw you...
- ???: But trust me when I say... that everything happens for a reason. Farewell, Hypo...
- The Damselette: ...
- Paimon: What was that all about? Was that the Goddess of the Iridescent Moon...?
- Paimon: It sounded like she was speaking to a long-lost friend... but none of us have ever met her before, right?
- The Damselette: Perhaps... she took me for the Goddess of the Frost Moon she once knew.
- The Damselette: For a fading soul like hers, our auras must be too similar to tell apart.
- Paimon: Hmm... It felt like there was a deeper meaning to what she was saying...
- Paimon: But anyway, we've got the Iridescent Moon's marrow now. That should help you regain your strength, right?
- Paimon: Alright, time to leave this place and meet back up with Arlecchino. Let's go!
- (A cinematic plays)
-
- Cutscene's Travel Log summary:
- Paimon: That's odd... This place looks different than when we came in
- Columbina: "Waning moon, oh lifeless damsel"...
- Paimon: Hurry, the place is collapsing!
- Columbina: "It" wants to trap us here
- Paimon: Who's "it"? The Abyss?
- Columbina: Now we've taken the moon marrow
- Columbina: All that's left here is a dark will...
- Columbina: It will show us no mercy
- (The Traveler leaps across a chasm, cleaving an oncoming boulder in two, and Columbina teleports them to the other side)
- (A horde of Thundercraven Rifthounds rushes towards them, crying out in a single voice)
- Abyssal Creatures: Give it back...
- Abyssal Creatures: The Crimson Moon's...
- Abyssal Creatures: My...
- Abyssal Creatures: My marrow
- Abyssal Creatures: My heart!
- (The Traveler deftly slices through the Rifthounds as Columbina rains down projectiles from above)
- (The Traveler uses Geo to block their enemies' pursuit)
- Paimon: Finally...
- Paimon: Huh? Oh no, the exit's blocked!
- Paimon: Aah, they're back!
- Paimon: N—Now what do we do!?
- Arlecchino: This is where you fall. Witness my rise
- (A ring of dark red spikes encircles them, and blockade at the exit shatters)
- Paimon: Hey, it's...!
- Arlecchino: What are you waiting for?
- (Cinematic ends)
- Paimon: Whew, we... we made it...
- Paimon: Was that you, Arlecchino? Did you save us?
- Paimon: Wait, your hands! They're...
- The Knave: Oh, this? Don't worry... It's a small price to pay.
- The Knave: The Abyss wanted to trap you inside, and I defied its will by bringing you out. No wonder it's a little angry.
- Is there anything I can do in return?
- If I can purify the Abyssal power, then maybe—
- The Knave: No — I have paid the price, albeit a small one, and it cannot be undone. My hands have already fused with the Abyss. Purification would simply destroy whatever's left of them.
- Paimon: B—But surely...
- Paimon: *sigh* We're so sorry, Arlecchino. Paimon can't believe you'd make a sacrifice like this for us...
- The Knave: As much as I'd like to call it a favor, the truth is, I was simply holding up my end of the deal. Well, Columbina?
- The Damselette: Yes, you did your part. And as promised, I will leave the Iridescent Moon's marrow in your care. From this day forth, may the Two Worlds' Flames burn ever more brightly.
- (Arlecchino extends her arm, absorbing the Iridescent Moon's marrow)
- The Knave: I'll take that as a blessing. Now, Columbina, give me your hand. Accept this moonlight I offer in return.
- (Columbina lifts her hand to meet Arlecchino's, and a golden light glows between them)
- The Damselette: Ah...
- (The nearby white flowers bloom)
- The Knave: Feeling stronger?
- The Damselette: Uhh... Argh!
- Paimon: Hey, Columbina! Are you okay?
- The Damselette: I'm fine.... Our powers are... a little at odds, that's all.
- The Knave: By the Frost Moon's authority alone, wielding the power of the other moons was always going to be a stretch. Still, I think it's fair to say that your strength has returned... at least to the level it was at as third harbinger.
- The Damselette: It's still not enough. There's no way I can hope to challenge Rerir like this.
- The Damselette: Just... one more ray of moonlight, if you would.
- Please, Columbina...
- Don't push yourself too hard.
- The Damselette: It's okay... I can take it.
- (Both Arlecchino and the Traveler offer their hands to Columbina)
- (The nearby flowers turn blue)
- The Damselette: Whew...
- The Knave: How about now? Fighting fit?
- The Damselette: At the very least, I won't have to stay hidden like before.
- The Damselette: I want to see him gone from Nod-Krai. The Rächer of Solnari and his Wild Hunt must be sent back where they belong.
- The Knave: Hmph, well, it's good to have something to aim for. You certainly seem more alive now than you did earlier.
- The Knave: When I first met you, you didn't strike me as a ray of moonlight — more like a wisp of fog drifting in from who knows where, ready to scatter at the first sign of a breeze.
- The Knave: But now, you're full of vitality — just like the Frost Moon, once the brightest of them all... May you keep shining, Columbina. This is who you are.
- The Damselette: Thank you...
- The Damselette: Look after yourself too, Arlecchino. I know you have plans of your own, and that's why you're always seeking to grow stronger.
- The Damselette: But whatever you're after, don't let the Abyss take a hold of you. I do not wish to see you go down the same path as Rerir...
- The Knave: I appreciate the concern, Columbina... Heh, although perhaps it's time you took a new name.
- Paimon: A new name...?
- The Knave: Kuutar, the Moon Maiden, Columbina... they're nothing more than codenames. They describe who she is and the roles she's played, but they're not her real name.
- The Knave: We often use codenames in the House of the Hearth too, but it's knowing your real name that keeps you grounded. Up till now you've been living a wandering life, so you've probably never really cared.
- The Knave: All I'll say is this — once you've defeated Rerir, give it some thought.
- The Knave: Alright, that's it from me. I'll get you back safely first, then go meet up with Sandrone.
- Paimon: Hehe, you're the best!
- Let us know next time you need a hand.
- We'll be sure to return the favor.
- The Knave: I appreciate the gesture, it speaks to your good character. Anyway... Let's get going. There are more urgent things to do right now than trade compliments.
- (Quest ends)
- (After the cutscene)
- Paimon: Whew... It was a close call, but we got the Iridescent Moon's marrow and restored Columbina's strength, and that's all that matters.
- Paimon: In other words, mission accomplished! Paimon wonders how everyone else is doing...
Gallery[]
Cutscene Animation- "Waning Moon, Oh Lifeless Damsel" - Genshin Impact
Trivia[]
- The Quest name is a direct reference to one of Arlecchino's voice lines upon using her Elemental Burst, Balemoon Rising.
- The remaining two voice lines from the same Elemental Burst are also used in a cutscene when Arlecchino assists the Traveler, Paimon and Columbina in escaping the Iridescent Moon domain.
- When Arlecchino opens the passage into the Iridescent Moon Marrow's resting place, she summons the Balemoon Bloodfire Scythe she uses in her Trounce Domain Boss Battle. But upon swinging it, the scythe gets switched out for an unascended Crimson Moon's Semblance in its Polearm form.
Other Languages[]
| Language | Official Name | Literal Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| English | Everlasting As the Moon | — |
| Chinese (Simplified) | 如月长存 Rú Yuè Chángcún | Everlasting As the Moon |
| Chinese (Traditional) | 如月長存 Rú Yuè Chángcún | |
| Japanese | 月のように永遠なれ Tsuki no You ni Eien Nare | |
| Korean | 달처럼 영원하리라 Dalcheoreom Yeong'wonharira | |
| Spanish | Eterna como la luna | Eternal As the Moon |
| French | Aussi éternel que la lune | As Everlasting As the Moon |
| Russian | Вечная словно луна Vechnaya slovno luna | |
| Thai | จันทรานิจนิรันดร์ | |
| Vietnamese | Trường Tồn Như Ánh Trăng | |
| German | Ewig wie der Mond | Eternal As the Moon |
| Indonesian | Abadi Bagaikan Rembulan | |
| Portuguese | Eterna Como a Lua | Eternal As the Moon |
| Turkish | Ay Kadar Ebedi | |
| Italian | Eterna come la luna | Eternal As the Moon |
Change History[]
Released in Version "Luna II"
