Sagau reader's life in Liyue is sophisticated and luxurious and often accompanied by quarrels between humans and adepti.
Humans, (mainly Ningguang), want to keep you in her Jade Chamber, adorned in all silk and gold, and accompanied by rows of maids and servants to care for you as you deserve.
On the other hand, adeptis want to keep you in their adeptal realm, peaceful and tranquil and away from all dangers and perils. Moreover, if you stayed among humans, yaksha like Xiao who cannot walk among people can't meet you. So, they were all so against Ninggaung.
The situation becomes so tense that aware almost broke out between the two species until you decided that you will stay in both sides by turns.
So, you stay with Ninggaung for a week and then at the adeptal realm for another.
While you stayed with humans, Ninggaung bury you in riches, the most delicious of dishes are prepared by Xiangling, and the most interesting of books are presented to you by Xingqiu.
Ninggaung also makes Yelan drop all her work and focus on your protection when you are here so she is always trailing after you.
Hu Tao often comes by and urge you to advertise the coffins of the Funeral Palor together with her because her buy 1 get 1 promotions seem to work more when you are with her.
So, everytime Hu Tao comes and takes you out, you have the maids assigned by Ninggaung, the millelith lead by Keqing and the secret agents lead by Yelan, trailing after you like a train.
Seeing you get exhausted by all the surveillance, Beidou often comes and swipe you away to her ship. Beidou's ship is the only place in Tavyet where you can drink alcohol. Unlike other Liyue people who always overwhelm you with their love, Beidou stayed frank with you so you can relax with her. That is not to say Beidou doesn't care for you. It is because she loves you so much that she wants you to be able to spread your wings once in awhile.
The time you are staying at the adeptal realm is the exact opposite of your life at the Liyue harbor. The harbor is noisy and chaotic but this place is quiet and calm.
You drank the most delicious tea brewed by the Archon of contracts himself as you admire the artificial yet ethereal scenery. The temperature, the weather, and all others aspects of the realm is managed to suit your liking and the architecture and the greenery is assembled in the style most comforting to you.
Afraid of tainting you with his karma, Xiao still avoids direct contact with you but you cannot pretend not to see Xiao who diligently trail after you like a lost puppy from a safe distance away. The one time you approached him to pet his head, he melted down under your hands.
There were be troubles here and there but overall, your stay at Liyue makes you feel the love of its people and adepti.
Star Light, Star Bright | Fatui Harbingers x (Fem) Creator!Reader
A/N: okay okay. I'm very sorry for this overdue chapter. I've been busy farming for primogems and playing Stardew Valley. I have joined many other fandoms, especially with the release of the Spider-Man Across the Spiderverse movie, and have been collecting the comics. Sue me /j. I have a lot of stories that need updating haha. But anyway, thank you so much for the support you guys have given me. It's fantastic! I'll be sure to continue with the updates whenever possible! Any questions, please DM. Any suggestions, DM me!
Summary: Caring for children is hard, but it's especially harder when around the Fatui. Getting isekaied was the last thing on your mind after landing in the icy tundra of Snezhnaya all while your nephew is with you. What will happen when you encounter not only the Fatui Skirmishers but the Fatui Harbingers?
Tags/Warnings: female reader, Creator!reader, Cult Au, contains spoilers of the Archon Quests and World Quests (read at your own risk)
Not edited or beta read, we die like Signora
Chapter 3 | To Be Aware and Be Prepared
<<<First <<<Last Next>>>
MASTERLIST
OPERA EPICLESE, FONTAINE
It had started as a normal day. As normal as it could possibly get with the centrism of Lady Furina and the citizens of Fontaine. There was a pause before it then burst. At first, it was seemingly unnoticeable, but then the forests and the landscape became livelier. It seemed brighter and adventurers saw a decrease in Hilichurls, and slimes, and even the Abyss Order stopped whatever they were doing to... dance? It was certainly a strange sight, but at least there was less activity where civilians were being harmed. In fact, this was being seen all around Teyvat thanks to the Adventure's Guild insight and informing each nation's current ruling governments and Archons.
The archons themselves felt a different presence. A presence they have felt once upon a time ago. The same could be said with a certain Court Judge of Fontaine, a certain fellow dressed in blue, his long platinum blond hair and stoic expressions, he definitely felt a power he thought wouldn't be seen again in all of Fontaine.
A being almost as old as Teyvat themselves, but nowhere as powerful as the one that gave them life.
Before he could even make a decision as tremendous as the one all nations must follow, he needed more information.
He needed to send out anyone to locate their Beloved Creator.
Neuvilette felt to go himself and search for Them, but he had his duties. He simply couldn't abandon them. He is a powerful figure in Fontaine and everyone would be suspicious of his actions if he were to leave his office. They would be asking questions.
No.
This needed to be done in an orderly fashion.
If they were indeed in Teyvat, they would appreciate a calm and happy welcome instead of chaotic and frantic for their faithful followers.
Himself included as he needed to prove he, and Fontaine, would welcome Them with open hearts.
The Divine Creator... has finally descended onto Teyvat once again.
---
LIYUE HARBOR, LIYUE
The trembling of the mountains. The color in front of him wherever he faced. The weather the past few days was beautiful and the people, especially merchants who traveled through treacherous waters to make it to Liyue were grateful for calm waters.
But he knew of the reason why everything seemed so... calm, so perfect as if Teyvat themselves was behaving its absolute best. Especially with word from other nations that the monsters and even the Abyss Order had ceased their attacks on villages and cities. They had seen these beings celebrate nonstop and were quite stumped about what was happening. But the former Geo Archon knew all too well...
Zhongli, better known as Morax or Rex Lapis, had felt it within the very rocks around him. As a devout believer and follower of the Divine Creator, he was quite familiar with the power and aura They possessed.
It's said that the Sovereign Dragons were the very first to proclaim their loyalty to the Divine Creator and when their time of rule ended, the Archons and Gods followed in their footsteps. As an Adepti in the form of a great Dragon, or Exuvia, he would be loyal to his beloved Creator, a form he greatly prided in thanks to the words of the Divine Creator many centuries ago.
But now they were here.
They have descended at long last like they promised.
His many years of patience and loyalty were finally being rewarded with the very presence of They themselves.
Zhongli, the devout follower he is, must find them. Were they alright? Yes, they were an all-powerful being, but recalling correctly, even the mighty have weaknesses and with the importance of the Divine Creator, there's always a danger no matter how beloved you are. He had to go himself to find him.
No.
He could ask the other Adepti to relentlessly search through all of Liyue, to leave no rock unturned and locate where their Grace may be.
---
ZAPOLYARNY PALACE, SNEZHNAYA
The days have gotten warmer and brighter in Snezhnaya.
What with the presence of the Divine Creator that is. It was all that the Fatui and even the citizens of Snezhnaya were talking about. There was nonstop activity in the palace as everyone scrambled to perfect it all for the Divine Creator.
You.
Though it wasn't as overwhelming since your nephew was right beside you, who happily took everything with stride and awe.
He even became attached to the very people that he spoke with on the first day here. And there was no way to separate them or to even have the heart to tell him not to speak with them since he took after his parents and family. Stubborn little nugget.
He especially favored Childe and Scaramouche. He was quite heartbroken when he left and never came back. But, he has been receiving gifts 'anonymously' once in a while.
Meanwhile, you spoke more with the rest to know more about this world. They all unanimously agreed that the mortal body you and your nephew both have currently is due to the fact of the long absence from Teyvat you had. Since your nephew hasn't set foot in Teyvat until now, it might take him longer to adjust to his birthright powers and titles. But he was nonetheless Heir of Teyvat.
The Little Prince.
"They're working really hard, aren't they?" His voice echoed in the halls as you and him were on their way to play outside yet again. He was still a child and with no video games around, it was good for him to be active. Childe once made comment about how strong he was and what a potential warrior your nephew could be with proper training. However, you had the last say and it was not yet time to think about that.
Snezhnaya is still a cold nation so even with Teyvat making it slightly less cold, you and your nephew had to bundle up. This is where Pantalone's gifts came in handy. While you were still bedridden due to your injuries, he called in all the tailors of Teyvat to create a wardrobe fit for you and your nephew: The Divine Creator and the Heir of Teyvat.
It was a sight to behold all the boxes and bags that arrived at the palace - clothing made from rare beasts and cloth. All for you and your nephew.
"If there's one thing you don't question about other people, Nugget. It's their beliefs. It has a certain power that a lot of people have yet to understand." You commented, stopping to adjust his personal Harbinger Coat. It was one of the few items Pantalone commissioned - with the Heir of Teyvat present, might as well commission a child-sized Harbinger Coat.
"I think Mister Pierro and Mister Pulcinella said something about that. I don't know... it's not our birthdays though. We're just people, aren't we?"
"I'm not certain either. We're a long way from home and it might be a while before we can go back. But don't worry, we're together and that's all that matters. All we have to do is-"
"Go with the flow?"
"Ah. I taught you so well." You laughed, quickly moving to playfully pinch his cheeks before resuming your brief walk outside. Everyone else had their duties and you didn't want to disturb them. They all seemed to be important in the political and military worlds.
That was something that kinda threw you off. Something like this world seemed like in the past. Like maybe 1800's innovative past since there were snipers and even giant mechanical machines that can move on their own or by being piloted. It was definitely fantasy - like a dream.
But even in a fantasy world, with aspects aimed at child entertainment, there is danger. Arlecchino and Columbina were telling you all about it with a brief history lesson and a bit of current information about Teyvat today. It was definitely something to think about if you plan to travel Teyvat with or without the Harbingers, especially with your nephew.
"Your Grace. What a pleasant surprise." The voice was ahead and looking up, you could see the masked man, the Doctor. Dottore was the one who ended up healing you from your injuries from the accident. They never did find the person responsible for your accident. Though they never will.
The healing process went smoothly and tended to you alongside your nephew.
"My nephew wanted to play outside again. He saw everyone was occupied and didn't wish to intrude so we thought we could walk for a bit."
"The Heir has no worries. If he or your Grace has a request, we're bound to stop and fulfill your wishes."
Your nephew didn't need to be told twice and quickly marched his way over to the blue-haired man, took his hand, and started walking to the exit to face another cold day.
"Doctor, please play with Auntie and I."
Dottore was quite the character. The others filled you in on what they have done and their opinions of each other. Dottore was the one with the most negative background but no one could deny the intelligence or genius in his mind. But to think this wasn't even his true form. The man was quite the genius that he made a number of clones of himself of each stage of his life. As a scientist, as a pursuer of knowledge, even the kind that's better left alone, he thirsted for it.
"Of course, Your Highness. Your Grace, would it be troubling to accompany you two?"
He also performed...some experiments that in this world were unethical, from what you heard. But...they weren't the worst. No, there was definitely worse. You weren't justifying what he had done, you weren't one to stand on a higher moral ground than anyone else, you at least attempted to understand why. That is exactly what you concluded when you decided to speak and interact with Dottore.
"Not at all. My nephew has grown attached to you and the others."
The walk outside didn't take long. It was short and slow to appreciate the snowfall and the area around. Various Cryo Crystalflies quickly flew their way to your nephew and he gave chase all while a variety of animals appeared and decided to play with the Heir. Teyvat knew the little Prince's love for animals. You made sure he didn't stray too far, your eyes never leaving his form while Dottore kept the same pace as you, taking a few glimpses at you every now and then. There was a small silence - but it was comfortable.
"Why?" You broke the silence and Dottore turned his head, his mask hiding any expression he could have made.
"Pardon?"
"The Fatui. Why was it formed? I want the truth." Your eyes still focused on your nephew who danced along with the Crystalflies, laughing and happily throwing snow in the air before then falling and making snow angels.
Your reason for asking is with who you two have been identified as, and with a seemingly unknown way of going back home, you two will probably be dragged into this world's politics. Before you get involved, you have to see what it is all about. Would it be worth it? Are you currently with evil people? Misunderstood people? What is their goal?
Would it be dangerous to involve your nephew?
"There is quite a lot that a mere moment is not enough to disclose the Tsaristas and our organization's goal."
"Then I shall listen. I hear talk and before I pass 'judgment', I want to understand. I hear talk of other gods, but the mere mention of them besides the Tsarista, it's with contempt."
Dottore, like many of his colleagues and subordinates, has heard the stories, the creation of Teyvat that was retold by the very dragons they created and had them oversee Teyvat. And then Celestia arrived. They had become power-hungry, drunk from the love and attention the Divine Creator gave to them before. When the creator left, Celestia took over and everything changed. Teyvat became different, peace wasn't an option.
Wars started, innocents perished...
Nations demolished.
"The Tsarista fell in love with the idea of how Teyvat was before you left. A Teyvat where all lived in peace. Then Celestia came. Thousands of years ago, they proclaimed that seven gods would be chosen to rule over one of the seven nations. From the thousands of Gods that fought, along with mortals who fought to survive another day, Seven were indeed chosen to represent their following element. But even for Celestia that was not enough. Your Grace was fond of a nation, Khan'ri'ah. Khan'ri'ah was a nation that ruled without the intervention of a God, an Archon. So.. one day, Celestia proclaimed Khan'ri'ah to be sinners, a nation that went against the Divine Creator and was thus destroyed. The Tsarista understood, her eyes opened to what was being done, and isolated herself, to find people who shared her opinions on Celestia and the Divine besides you, Your Grace."
That was just a brief summary that you recreated after your talk with Dottore. He was quite honest and with a few words, you were able to piece together everything. And to think he was kicked out of the Akademiya because of his practices and the murder of a fellow scholar.
This was clearly a case of the black-white-gray morality.
Things aren't always what they seem.
"Several weeks ago, I thought I was human. A mortal who lived a mundane life who loves her nephew like her own. I'm here and I'm told I'm the God that created your world, but I somehow have no recollection of it."
The walk continued as your nephew seemed to head further away from you and Dottore. Dottore was listening. He knew you weren't done talking and he couldn't wait to hear. Would he hear criticism of the divine from the very being who created it in the first place? What kind of wisdom would she bestow that may rival the God of Wisdom herself.
"Pierro and the Tsarista mentioned that my memories of such events and my divinity would come back to me slowly. Especially for my nephew. He's still young, curious but young."
"Your Grace, you need not fear. The Fatui, us, the Harbingers, will be by your side for we and The Tsarista are loyal to no other than you and the Heir."
"But what if I am not who you think I am?" You asked, looking down at your arms, remembering the injuries and the blood that oozed. You remembered the color and thought it wasn't proof enough, but the gold blood was there. You even requested to see the bloodied gauze that had a clear gold color. The sparkle it held, the amount of power that it had.
"Highly unlikely. Every man, woman, and child knows firsthand that the Divine Creator's blood is unlike any living being in Teyvat. Eyewitnesses from your first time here have written quite a bit of information of you. There is no mistake. The Tsarista would have been the first to know."
"Auntie! Doctor! Look!" Your nephew shouted and quickly ran to you, the heavy atmosphere dissipating as your nephew smiled, his hands cupped to hide what it was that he was bound to show you two. Slowly, he opened his hands and a small light blue glow appeared and in the blink of an eye, a small Cryo Crystalfly appeared and took flight, joining the other Cryo crystalflies that surrounded the three.
If I missed anyone, let me know! I tried tagging some people, but tumblr must be weird. I probably will be posting this on Ao3 too. Thank you so much for your kind words, everyone! I hope to write more!
Okay, so in all (or a lot) of imposter AU, the creator is always afraid and hurt.
But, what if the creator was amused by that ?
Like, they come back to Teyvat, and they see semeone that look like them, and people thinking the creator is an imposter, thinking the imposter is the creator.
And the creator is just amused by that.
Like, Teyvat is the first that do that, and they just want to know how long it take people to realize they're chassing the real creator.
I also think the creator will love being chase, it's just so fun for them (nobody have done it before, and they really like the changing).
When the creator is not chase, they observed Teyvat and their others worlds.
Creator doing joke while their chase and making fun of people ?
Creator doing joke while their chase and making fun of people.
I just thought the creator will be a silly little guy who want fun and not be worship/pray all the time.
"I LOVE that place." -Creator, XXXX, after being chase in Teyvat.
(Withered-Blossoms) SAGAU Scheming Creator! Reader Imposter AU Part 5
A/N: First and foremost, this AU is by @sena-shi
I do not own this series, nor the idea.
Secondly, I absolutely love this series, it is amazingly written and I would highly recommend checking it out to those who haven't. Third, after reading part 4, I suddenly had a tiny bit of inspiration and I wanted to try writing my version of part 5 of it (this will not affect the original author in writing part 5 of the series, worry not).
Edit: The original author has given me her consent to write my version of this series, admittedly I should have dm'ed her beforehand, and I will never make this mistake again.
Also this is not proofread, so apologies for some typos/spelling mistakes. The word count is 3878 words or so Google Docs says.
If every year of not being graced with your divine presence acts as a tiny blade that cuts a fibre of the impossibly thin thread known as Zhongli's sanity, then seeing you allowing these.....unworthy, mortal commoners to bask in the holy light you radiate would be the pair of scissors that snips the thread in half.
How dare they, when those foolish mortals are unable and consequently have not worshipped you for thousands of years, flit around you like the pesky flies they were? How dare they, not having devoted their entire being, their entire life, their existence's purpose to you, drink up your attention so hungrily? How dare they take the place that belonged, rightfully so, to him and only him when what they have done for you are nothing but specks of dust compared to the glorious acts he carried out in your name?
So why were you choosing to stay with them? When they have done nothing worthy of your grace? Why were you looking at him with a gaze that carried the heavy disappointment and disapproval that you never voiced? Zhongli does not understand, and neither do the adepti now standing beside him in a neat, uniform line, waiting for their archon's commands.
You find it amusing though. One would think that for someone who has lived for so long like Zhongli, he would be an expert at hiding his emotions and maintaining that mask of cool, indifferent politeness that he took pride in. And yet look at him now, losing that ability and reverting back to a child who knows not about keeping emotions from twisting their features into an ugly snarl.
Ganyu, on the other hand, looked pale and regretful. Under normal circumstances, should such a look appear on a face as pretty as Ganyu's, anyone else would have gone soft and thrown in the towel. But yet that sight filled your heart with this twisted sort of satisfaction. The desire for them to beg and grovel at your feet for forgiveness was thinly veiled behind a mask of betrayal and shock, and you were starting to find it hard not to let your eyes crinkle from the smirk threatening to curve your lips.
Not now, you reminded yourself, it's not the time for your facade to shatter.
And Xiao, your sweet, sweet child, who also happens to be the one responsible for the wound scabbed over on your leg. He, who was so persistent on making sure you were unable to escape, could not even look at your eyes now, amber orbs choosing to lock onto their targets instead. He couldn't bring himself to check your form, not when the chance of your bloody bandages catching his attention was so great.
After all, Rex Lapis needs his finely-honed weapon to carry out his commands now, and he couldn't break down in front of his divine creator. He's already shown such a horrifying part of him to you, one that slaughtered and knew nothing else, he would really go insane if you started fearing his more unsightly sides.
You would have applauded Morax and his little clique for the entertaining display of emotions had the boat not started to rock even more. It truly was a shame that they did not take up Sichuan Opera face-changing; they would have done so well even without the masks.
Meanwhile, Beidou was busy commanding the crew and making preparations for a possible tsunami, and Kazuha was ready to scoop you into his arms and bring you under deck. You, however, were not willing to miss this act, and thus stopped him by placing a hand over his. Temporarily ignoring how he froze up and blushed, you turned to the defenders of Liyue.
You could tell that the only reason why Zhongli kept up the intensity of the earthquake was because Xiao or the Cloud Retainer would immediately pluck you out of the ship before it was swallowed by the massive waves, but would you really just let yourself be taken to Liyue like this? Before even seeing the famed Inazuma? Of course not, after all you still had to see how Raiden Shogun, the one you personally raised alongside Zhongli, would react after seeing your face.
Choosing to let the winds carry your seemingly heartbroken words to their ears, you muttered, "Are you.....here to capture me? Is Liyue really unable to tolerate my existence?" And oh how much delight their flinches brought, especially the one coming from the ever-composed Geo Archon. Upon hearing your words, the group dropped to their knees, the seabed stilling as apologies and pleads spilled from their lips.
Beidou and her crew on the other hand though, you really got to give it to them. As if sensing your intentions to leave quickly, they took the chance to sail away as quickly as possible, with the winds guiding the ship. And of course, you were not going to let their efforts go to waste, choosing to keep the crazed adepti at bay with your sorrowful words.
"I've already given you my word to stay out of your sight, Morax. I apologise for breaking my promise to you, and if Liyue wishes so, I will disappear here and now. However, if you are still willing to listen to me, then I wish not for any harm to befall on these kind souls." You sighed, motioning to the Alcor's crew.
You weren't dumb; you could practically see the sparks forming from their clashing gazes. Beidou and Kazuha's were filled with hatred— disdain, even— and the adepti's a beautiful mix of hesitation and jealousy. What a wonderful sight it was, seeing the high and mighty adepti almost grovelling at your feet, and watching them struggle internally between their twisted desires and your commands.
The quirk of your lips was getting harder and harder to hide even behind your veil, and you had to turn your head before you burst out laughing at their foolish attempt at redemption.
But even the turn of your head was planned, not that they needed to know anyways. You know their rotten brains will just automatically decipher this action as a small try to hide your disappointment. Adding the facts that Zhongli had made you cry and Xiao had wounded you personally into the equation, the tides would no doubt turn to your favour.
Seeing how Zhongli's grip on his weapon tightened then loosened, you knew you had won the bet. He could only keep his head down low and motion for the adepti to retreat while stilling the earth, though his burning gaze stayed on your form until The Alcor all but disappeared into the horizon. He simply couldn't risk you leaving Teyvat for good, not when he finally had you in his grasp, and so he will wait patiently for the right time, just as he had for the past thousands of years.
"It is time for our divine grace to take back their throne." He muttered, the adepti bowing when they realised what his words entailed. He knew they would not run their mouth in front of the others; this was a matter only for the adepti to know. Not long after, Zhongli was left alone, the others returning to their posts and duties. He watched as the Alcor gradually disappeared from his sights, vowing that he would bring you back no matter what.
And with that grand finale, you finally left Liyue.
The journey to Inazuma was relatively pleasant, save for the terrifying thunderstorms at the lower-half of the trip. But eventually the ship docked, and you saw that familiar teleport waypoint where you once met the capable and friendly housekeeper named Thoma, except that he was nowhere to be seen this time. Oh well, it does not matter, he is probably at the Kamisato estate, waiting for his Lord's commands as usual. What was more important was playing your part as the kind and benevolent creator, and so you turned to the crew and smiled sweetly, thanking them for getting you to Inazuma safely with as much sincerity as you could muster to make it more convincing.
Travelling along the streets, without a friendly local guide this time, you could not help but subtly glance around. From the game, you always knew how the locals here treated foreigners, but experiencing it yourself turned that knowledge into the understatement of the year. It wasn't just overcharging you to a ridiculous degree; there were also the stares that never seemed to leave your figure and the whispers that revolved around you as if you were the eye of a tornado.
But it matters not. As long as they don't stop you from "vacationing" in this gorgeous nation, then you won't pay any mind to their actions.
However, this time the plot happened faster. You had no idea just how The Shogun managed to grasp the news of a fake creator being present when she was so....closed-off from the world, but clearly she had some amazing news sources. The streets were filled with even more patrolling officers than you recalled, and even the people on the streets had taken to scattering when the Doushin came around.
Well, this was clearly not a good time to be a foreigner huh? Because a Doushin was already heading your way, and in a condescending tone had asked for your identity, or any documents related to it. You did not have any, though this time even Kazuha could not save you with his smooth-talking, which in fact seemed to annoy the officer more.
Instead, the officer reached out to remove your veil, but Kazuha wasn't going to let him. Half because he knew you were going to get taken away, and the other half was due to the slight possessivenes swirling in his chest. Why should he have to let other people be graced by your beauty and light?
Although shielding you from the guard did seem to wear his patience thinner than the thread that made up Zhongli's sanity.
Sensing Kazuha's worry when the officer roughly grabbed your arm to take you away, you slyly patted the back of his hand and shook your head, putting on a comforting smile and whispering for him to go back to the Crux.
Despite his initial hesitation, you knew he'd listen to you anyways. After all, he couldn't fight the Doushin here and risk getting his kind, caring and benevolent creator injured or even exposed here could he?
Hence he retreated, hungrily drinking up your sweet smile as you were dragged away. He feared that this might be the last time he'll ever see of you and so he did his best to engrave the soft and beautiful curve of your lips into his memory as he went back to find Beidou.
You, on the other hand, weren't too worried. After making sure you had fooled Kazuha with a convincing smile, you opted to follow the guard instead. He was essentially your one-way ticket to the Raiden, so why not? Even though you would have to be thrown into a prison cell, you supposed that it wouldn't be the worst thing on Earth.
In the end, you will be the one seeing their arrogance and triumph morph into an amusing combination of regret and desperation anyways, and you certainly weren't in a rush to speed up the process.
".....Is this the order of The Shogun?" You asked, knowing that he most likely weren't going to give you an answer, but you still have to keep up the role, which was as fake as they had deemed your identity to be. So, you let out a seemingly self-mocking chuckle.
"First Mondstadt, then Liyue, and now Inazuma. It would seem that I am truly not wanted by my children. But at least they look happy and content. After all, even baby birds leave their nests one day...."
Muttering to yourself, you didn't miss the slight flinch from the officer, though it only earned you his panic, hidden behind a harsh shove into your cell once he's done reporting to his higher-ups.
"Do not act like you're the real creator, Their Grace may be forgiving and benevolent, but we certainly will not be merciful."
He snorted and walked off. Good lord, you have never seen anyone as arrogant as that. And of course you weren't complaining, it just makes their begging afterwards more.....satisfying, wouldn't you agree?
That doesn't make your time in the cell any more pleasant though, seeing how they saved the worst one for you.
You didn't have to wait long though, since it only took an hour or two before Kujou Sara was standing before you, peering down at your curled up form as if you were the most repulsive being she's ever laid her eyes on.
Instead, she settled for ordering the guards to free you from confinement and had them escort you while she lead the way to the Shogun's residence. Sara spoke not a word to you as usual, and you busied yourself with looking around subtly while keeping your head low to mask your lack of fear. The scenery was more beautiful than what you had seen in game; the colours were more vivid, and even the lavender melon that hadn't looked appetising were practically tempting you to take a bite out of their orchid bodies. Unfortunately, you didn't get to take in the beautiful view a little longer, for they had already brought you into the Tenshukaku.
It would seem that Raiden is eager to meet you, seeing how swiftly her subordinates dragged you to the Tenshukaku. Upon entering the room, your eyes landed on the puppet sitting serenly on her throne, eyes closed and meditating. Hah, what a nice facade to disguise the anger practically radiating off of her.
You weren't scared though. After all, even dogs don't bite the hand that feeds them, and you could easily take back everything you've ever graced them with.
Thus, 'long time no see, my strongest battery.' was your first thought, though you could not let that spill past your lips. Hence, you let out a small but sweet smile and mumbled in the sweetest voice you could let flow from your vocal chords.
"How have you been, Ei?"
The archon in question slowly opened her eyes, elegant and refined as always. Although, from the fury burning in her purple irises alone, you could already tell that she wanted your existence to cease, and that if it weren't for the fact that the creator had asked to bring you back alive, you feared she may have slashed you with her elemental burst right here and now.
You could sense how the Doushin and Sara froze upon hearing you address their archon by her real name. However, before Sara could reprimand you, a look from Raiden sent them bowing and leaving the room. And now, it was just you and her.
You were just wondering why she demanded to meet you alone when a thought popped up in your brain — could it be that because she couldn't execute you personally without the other archons present, she wishes to hurt you in a non-lethal way instead? Seeing the confirmation in the lilac eyes you once found beautiful, you almost let out a snort. My my, who knew that the almighty Raiden Ei was actually such a sadist?
You refused to let her hurt you though. How dare they hurt the actual divine being who had given them life and created this beautiful world for them to live in for a mere phony? How dare they give you scars just because they were too ignorant to see who's the real deal?
With that in mind, you raised your eyes to meet hers, yours ever so subtly showing the galaxies they hold, and hers slowly filling with slight confusion when she noticed the depth of your orbs. It did not hinder her from holding her precious sword to your neck though, so you cut her off before she could speak.
"You mentioned that when we meet, you wished for us to enjoy some tricolour dango together along with the finest tea you have. It is such a shame that we had to meet like this." You smiled, keeping your gaze and voice level as you took in every change in her expression from suspect, to shock, to disbelief and finally distrust.
"....I do not know how you dug up that information. It matters not, for that only applies to their Grace. You are but an imposter who is undeserving and yet seeks to take over the throne, and I shall not be deceived so easily. Since their Grace is too kind to the likes of you, I will take it upon myself as their loyal devotee to punish you for your atrocious attempt."
Before she could lift her blade, you grabbed it with a hand. You thanked the high heavens that it was as sharp as you hoped it to be, since you did not have to dig the blade too deeply into your skin for your blood to show. You weren't willing to leave scars because of their foolishness after all, and God knows that those maniacs would be more delighted knowing that they had marked you in some way, albeit under less ideal circumstances.
The two of you watched as the ichor slid down your arm before one, two, three drops of it splattered onto the pristine white clothing you had. It shimmered an ethereal gold before being absorbed, and Raiden had finally gone still for once. You could almost hear the non-existent gears turning in the puppet's head, where a brain was supposed to be, and before you could react, she had gently removed your injured hand from her blade and tossed the sword aside.
Kneeling before you, she fretted over your injury while keeping her head low as Zhongli and the adepti had, desperately trying to heal you. Frantic apologies flowed from her lips like a river, and she panicked slightly more when she noticed that you were still bleeding. She was selfish, not wanting others to know about your existence, but your well-being and health eventually won the mental debate taking place in the puppet's head.
"Your grace, I did not realise it was you. My sincerest apologies for being ignorant, and I am aware of how unworthy I am to touch you but I beg of you, do let me heal your injuries before you decide to take your anger out on me." Having said that, she called for Sara to bring a medical kit, and the lady swiftly came in worth one in her hand. She showed neither shock nor regret as she helped the Shogun patch up your hand, though you supposed that it was only normal considering the number of years she's had in learning how to keep her emotions from showing on her face.
Huh, even a short-lived mortal is more capable than long-lived archons in this aspect.
You were tempted to stay and see how Ei and Inazuma would react and repent for their sins, yet the beginnings of an earthquake warned you to leave quickly. Your time in the Tenshukaku was almost up, so you quickly grabbed a brush and paper and left a note for a certain angy dragon. Or maybe it was an angy Teyvat, you didn't know. Just in case it was the former though, you could only hope that a note would prevent the people of this gorgeous nation from being decimated.
'Morax, I wish not for the citizens of Inazuma to face your wrath. With that, I hope you spare them from death and suffering alike.'
The note was short and sweet, as you had liked. There was nothing else to say to him anyways, so you rolled up the paper and turned to Ei, placing it into her hands.
"If you wish for your people and nation to live on, pass this to Morax if he arrives. Do not fight, your people should take priority. I'm terribly sorry for ruining your eternity, but it seems that you are favoured by luck itself, for my time is up." You lifted the corners of your lips into a gentle curve as you patted her hand.
You really were too kind, so benevolent and so bright that Ei could not believe her eyes nor ears. Her people watched and talked about you behind your back, dragged and tossed you into the filthiest cell they had, and she herself had injured you personally. She wanted to make it up to you, to proceed and lavish you in the best luxuries Inazuma, no, Teyvat could provide. She did not want you to be absent from her side, so why was it that even though you were in her hold now, it seemed like you would disappear any second?
What did she have to do to make you stay? Did you want her heart? Her head? Or should she injure her hand the way she had injured you? Tell her, what did you want from the Raiden Shogun? She would give you everything and anything, from her eternity to the stars in the sky. So why? Why did you still want to leave? Why not stay with her for eternity?
Seeing the crazed looks in those purple orbs, you removed yourself from her tightening grasp and avoided her attempts to hold onto you to ensure your stay. You still had to visit either Sumeru or Watatsumi Island anyways, and being held in captivity was not a price you were willing to pay. You knew that she could and would easily pull you into her consciousness, and you sincerely did not want to live your life there.
Reminding yourself that, your eyelids fluttered shut and you let the wisps of power engulfing you take you away, finding yourself in front of the Alcor again. Technically speaking, you also did owe the crew an explanation for your sudden disappearance and some reassurance, the sudden hug from Kazuha only proving you right. Even though you weren't close to him or Beidou, you still felt a little guilty when you realised that he was shaking.
To make it up to him, you patted his back and offered Beidou to join in on the hug, which she appeared to accept begrudgingly but you knew better, especially from the way her shoulders sagged in relief. Once they had both calmed their nerves, you ushered them back to work. Despite them questioning your next destination, you knew it would be impractical for them to sail to the other nations with you, and teleport waypoints were a godsend. You told the two that, and as disappointed as they were to not be able to accompany you, they still respected your wishes unlike a certain duo, possibly trio, which you greatly appreciated.
Hence,for the first time since arriving in Teyvat, you gave your first genuine smile, making Kazuha swoon internally and Beidou turn away in order to hide her burning cheeks. You were very well aware that the archons could possibly see this, though you weren't worried. In spite of the lightning flashing in the background and the rumble of the earth, you knew that they wish not to end up in your bad books just for a few mortals. Having confirmed the safety of the people who had helped you, you could finally retreat to your room on the ship and decide your next destination.
Now, where should you grace with your presence next?
For my beloved Kaeya may I gift him an in detail map of Teyvat? Really specific too, a strange magic acts on it where you can zoom into places. Will probably help with surveying the land.
Also... This is for him as well. 🫰
<Romantic please!>
A Map and a Ring for Kaeya
"My, my that's quite the useful map Your Grace. Thank you, I appreciate it," said Kaeya as he experimented with Your gift.
When You called him once more, he lifted his head with a questioning hum. "Hmm? Something wrong Your-"
His eyes widened at the ring you have in Your hands, his cheeks heating up as he gaped. "I-is that—?"
He floundered, embarrassed and flustered all at once, especially when You caught his hand in Yours and slipped it on his finger.
He hid his face with his other hand, whispering, "That's—that's so not fair Your Grace. You—ugh," He groaned, hugging you around your waist and hiding his face on your neck.
sworn on the stars ~ prologue - genshin impact // sagau // imposter au
01 02
summary: to know the one protected by the stars is to know the blessings of the very world we traverse on. to betray them is to turn our backs on the very notion peace.
ie. they say that with every terrible storm comes a rainbow infinitely more beautiful than the trials that one leaves behind. let’s test that theory, shall we?
————————————
You were tired of it all.
Perhaps you had used up all of your fortune in another life, or the universe simply held some sort of grudge against your soul. Either way, you found yourself sick and tired of everything that had happened in the last few years.
First came the death of your beloved parents. The ones who had tried to raise you with so much love until they were cruelly taken away by the hands of death. They’d left you with enough fortune to sustain yourself for the rest of your days.
Then came the new ones. The ones who had turned your life into a real Cinderella story, though this peasant would never meet their prince. The ones who had subjected you to so much abuse that you had nearly become numb to it all.
You’d moved from household to household throughout most of your life. The ones who were kind to you always met misfortune, and the ones who were cruel always seemed to have gotten caught far too late.
Five years ago, you became so dreadfully ill that no other family was willing to take you in, not even if you had offered them money to do so. It felt as though the world was rejecting your very being, like it had finally had enough of you being around. Your body gradually shut down, despite your youth. The doctors could not diagnose you, for there was nothing that seemed to be wrong.
Except everything was wrong. You could feel your life fading, though you were never one to care much about the prospect of death. You’d just assumed it would’ve come later.
In the worst moments of your life, you’d come across a game called Genshin Impact. You’d come across it just before it’s official release: the new and hyped up game from Mihoyo that would soon have its’ players entranced.
Perhaps you were desperate for another outlet. You were a smart child, yet there never seemed to be enough media in this world to properly stimulate your mind. Storybooks had stopped bringing new adventure into your life. In the world of academics, you had studied nearly everything that you could possibly get your hands on up until the end of secondary school.
You wanted to immerse yourself in a world where you could be free to walk and run and perhaps find something of interest. To finally reacquire that spark in you that had been lost so long ago.
‘An open-world game, huh? Might as well give it a shot.’
And so you did. And you’d fallen in love for the first time in your life. With the characters and the story, for they always did bring excitement into your dreary days. But most of all, it was with the world you had explored. There was always something new to catch your interest when you were in Teyvat, and you’d gradually grown fond of the characters behind the screen. They were life your family.
Sometimes, the people of your world would forget about your existence. You’d started as an anomaly of the medical world, but as the years passed you became nothing more than a forgotten presence that once had meaning; a myth.
As the game updated each time, you were always eager to indulge for the characters with the money you knew you’d never be able to use otherwise. When you wear Teyvat, all felt right with the world, as if a dirty fog had been cleared from your mind.
Those days, when you were left alone in your very own hospital room, you’d pull up the character’s voice lines and speak back to them, or absentmindedly run throughout the regions.
Sometimes you imagined being able to comfort Zhongli and Xiao, old souls that had gone through so much throughout their long lives. You dreamed about exploring the vast seas with Beidou and her crew. Wishing about visiting the city of freedom and feeling the wind on your face as Amber instructs you on how to use a glider. Wanting to visit the beautiful city of Inazuma and bring relief to all those that had needed it.
But those were merely the dreams- perhaps even delusions- of a person nearing the end of their life. The years had passed, and many regions had become unlocked since you had begun. But now, you could barely stand to open your eyes, let alone admire the beautiful scenery in Teyvat.
‘Soon I’ll be gone from this sorry room, I guess. I just wish I could be in that world one last time.’
You silently thanked the stars for the last few years, dreadful as they were.
And so the young soul was taken too soon. Their body was taken by death, but their soul? Their soul was taken by another world entirely.
But perhaps this world isn’t so new as one might think. Maybe, just maybe, the world would help you solve the mysteries of your life, just as you had helped build it up from the very beginning.
The morning sun pours its light on the marble floor of the sanctuary, reflecting the well-polished beauty of its beige to the resounding hall. The pillars supporting the council hall, carved with intricate patterns of Glaze Lily, boast the Geo Archon's handicraft and his endless dedication toward the creator of all.
In the innermost center of the assembly hall, stood proudly, is the imposing throne, decorated with the purest of Cor Lapis and Noctilucos Jade which are assembled tastefully.
In front of the throne, kneels the gifter of all those offerings, with a frown apparent on his handsome countenance.
"Your Grace," he begins as he looks up to your trembling position in your throne. "You must decide, as a ruler and a god, as a being who watch over the people." His golden eyes as they look at you is soft and kind, unbefitting of the topic coming from his mouth.
"But Morax, I have already told you that I will not permit it. Nothing you say will change my mind."
Despite your determined answer, he continues, "I understand that your kindness is a virtue that is a blessing to Teyvat. However, you are someone who stands above others. Your decisions should depend not on your emotions but on the necessity."
Normally, you would have granted him all his wish if he insisted this much. However, you cannot budge easily, not this time. "But he didn't nothing wrong. All he did was fulfilling my wish of wanting a friend."
"And that, Your Grace, that, in itself, is presumptuous. A mere mortal should know their place."
"Morax, he is not a mere mortal. He is someone I regard as my equal. You should know well that insulting him is equal as insulting me."
Morax's expression, which remained calm the whole conversation morphs into a big frown at the mention of your acknowledgment for the man.
"Your Grace, you may have created this world but you are so ignorant of the ways of life in it, aren't you? There surely is no one equal to you. I grantee that as the being eldest in this world."
The topic is getting nowhere and even the ever collected Morax is showing signs of agitation.
"Your Grace, the man, Yang'asha, is a native of Liyue. It is well within my authority, given to none other than yourself, to judge my own people. I have also gained agreement from Qixing who also bears the same opinion as me on the man's punishment. So, his execution is already decided."
It is quite ironic that despite calling you his deity, he does nothing to follow your command.
That was the reason why you valued your friend so much, a man with a kind smile and a soft heart. In this world filled with your so called acolytes, who worshipped your form but refused to listen to your voice, he was the only one who treated you sincerely. A man who flustered easily when you teased him, who nodded shyly when you confessed him, and who hugged you tightly when you spent the night with him, he was the man who you were blessed to have as a lover.
That is the same man who is on the brink of death because of your devotee.
"Are you making me beg you, Morax? To kneel down and kiss your feet the same way you swore to worship me. Because if that is what I need to do to make you let him live, I will do so. Whatever contract you will bring out, I am ready to sign. Because nothing in Teyvat matters to me more than Yang'asha."
You know you are being very daring to say such words to the God of Contracts. But you have no choice left. You have neither the authority nor the strength to go against him so all you can do is beg for his mercy.
"Please Morax, please, let him live."
You stand up from your throne and walk towards where the Archon is kneeling and kneel down in the same manner. You then lower your head until it is touching the marble of the floor.
You do not look up until you hear his deep voice of "Shall we make a contract?"
........
When Yang'asha wakes up, he realizes he is in a room in the Wanshu Inn. At his bedside, stands a little man with green tattoos.
"Are you awake? Great to see your injuries healing well."
"Are you the one who saved me from the strange domain? Thank you. Ahhh..!" Yang'asha winces from pain as he gets up from his bed. "Where is the man with golden eyes who was hurting me? I should inform millelith about him. He is a monster unseen or unheard of before."
"Monster?" The short stranger frowned.
"Well, you have seen my injuries. There is no way a human can hurt another this much, and they are done without the intention to kill. Not even the notorious fatui can be this inhumane."
"Where are you going?" Seeing Yang'asha heading to the door, in spite of his wounds, the green-head asks.
"To Liyue harbour." The youth replies, smiling.
"You shouldn't go." The little man says with a difficult expression on his face.
"I am sorry but my girlfriend, Y/n, must be worried sick when I disappeared without any word. You will always be here, right? I will come again to thank you properly."
Passing by the Guili Plains, the youth aims for Liyue harbour where his beloved will be waiting in her solidarity palace. And as he reaches the bridge in front of Feiyun Slope, he sees the harbor he grew up in is in a festive mode full of red decorations everywhere.
He goes to the millelith positioned at the bridge to inquire about the out of season festival.
"Sir, sorry to interrupt but may I know why is Liyue harbour being so lively?"
At his question, the millelith looks at him like he has grown two heads.
"You do not know? Where have you been this whole time?! Today is the precious day you will have a chance to catch the profile of Your Grace, the creator."
Y/n is going out in front of public? That is strange. There is no one as introverted as you. He thinks to himself.
"Thank you, Sir, for answering."
"No problem. If you go now, you can still see the procession. Hurry up. I would be running now if I did not have my duty."
Yang'asha thanks the kind millelith once again and leave. He wants to see you as soon as possible too.
As he hurriedly goes up the stairs of Feiyun Slope, he finally sees you, you in your red hanfu being carried away by a carriage. Unlike what the millelith said, he cannot see your face as a red veil covers it. But Yang'asha who knows you like no other could tell from your eyes that you are certainly not in a festive mood.
That is when he notices there is a man beside you, in equally red attire, with a contented smile on his face, that is complete opposite of your own sad expressionm. The golden eyes that are scarily familiar to the ones Yang'asha knew shines under the sun light.
At that moment, Yang'asha heard from the onlooker beside him that "To think our Archon has never left us. And to think Your Grace would choose him as their spouse. There is surely no greater honor for us Liyue citizens than the great fortune this wedding has given us."
