Elliot had acted so decisively because he saw the fear in that god's eyes.
There had been no trace of cunning or arrogance in its expression.
That meant the god had truly been terrified by Morax.
If released, it would not dare return to Liyue.
But without Elliot there, it would surely have escaped.
Even though Elliot had repeatedly warned Morax not to let gods go, Morax's soft heart had nearly done so again.
If Elliot hadn't intervened, that god would likely have been spared.
This also meant the creature was not among the resentful souls under Morax's command, so killing it carried no karmic consequence.
And for Elliot, slaying it brought no burden of guilt.
His gentleness was reserved only for those he sought to protect.
That god was not one of them.
...
"Your Majesty, you've returned. Where is the Emperor?"
Upon arriving back at Tianheng Mountain, Cloud Retainer immediately inquired.
"He's gone to deal with an god. He'll be back soon. Have you finished setting up the alarm wards?"
"Yes, all installed. If any god approaches, we'll be able to sense it," Moon Carver replied.
"Good. If you need guidance or have questions on improving yourselves, ask me. I'll do my best to answer."
At those words, the immortals grew excited, all speaking at once with their questions. The scene quickly descended into chaos.
"Wait—one at a time. Let's start with Skyward Guide."
After guiding the immortals for a while, Morax finally returned to Tianheng Mountain. His head hung low, his expression full of dejection.
He walked timidly, like a child who had done something wrong, not daring to make a sound.
Morax tried to slip by along the edge of the mountain, hoping to avoid Elliot's gaze.
But he knew it was pointless—Elliot's senses far surpassed his own.
"Alright, go and reflect on what I've just explained. If you don't understand something, ask me when I'm free. And if any gods intrude, report it at once."
"Yes!" the immortals answered in unison.
Only after settling their concerns did Elliot turn and walk toward Morax.
Morax caught him approaching from the corner of his eye. His body stiffened with tension, his head bowing so low it nearly touched the ground, as if bracing for punishment.
He had already cursed himself ten thousand times for daring to come back.
When his lowered gaze saw Elliot's feet stop directly before him, his heart trembled violently.
Taking a deep breath, Morax raised his head solemnly.
"Brother, I—"
Before he could finish, Elliot placed a hand gently on his head.
"I'm sorry," Elliot said softly.
The words struck Morax like a thunderclap, leaving his face filled with confusion.
"I was too harsh."
"Forgive me, will you?" Elliot's voice was warm as he ruffled Morax's hair.
Morax's pupils widened as he stared at the mask before him in shock.
"No, Brother…" He wanted to explain, but his mind went blank, and the words wouldn't come.
"Morax, taking a life is never easy. I should have considered that."
"No… no…"
Morax's eyes reddened as he shook his head desperately. He wanted to say it was his weakness, not his brother's fault, but the words tangled on his tongue.
"Brother, it's not like that. It's not your fault…"
"I know. I know exactly what happens if I let them go. But I'm weak. I'm cowardly. I couldn't bring myself to strike…"
"Behind me are the people of Liyue. I carry their trust. I shouldn't be this weak…"
"I was wrong. I truly was wrong…"
At last, Morax forced out the words he had held inside, his eyes wet with tears.
"It's alright, Morax. This isn't something you can overcome overnight. You just need time to adapt."
Elliot ruffled his hair gently, offering quiet reassurance.
"I won't do it again, Brother…"
"I swear I won't make the same mistake. I will protect them. I won't betray their trust…"
Morax had come to a deep realization and vowed to change.
"Alright. I understand. I believe you."