Natalia/Xi, the 5th Dottore Segment

[thetruescholar]

I’ve been reconsidering how I characterize and write Natalia. The way I’ve decided I want her to be isn’t a character I feel comfortable running this rp blog for anymore. 

[reiayanamiisbestgirl]

I don’t know your main @heretic-of-the-false-moon but these are the Natalia doodles I’ve been working on

The first one is an anatomy study, I just sketched some outfits on her and her brother Zela (my friend’s segment oc :D) for posting it. Joking off a screenshot of a tumblr post I saw about Hannibal, she sure looks like she murders people

The second one is me dressing pre fight her up as a pretty doll and then also wanting to draw her roughed up after I watched a bunch of record of ragnarok Nikolai Tesla edits

And the last one is a pose study I’m too proud of so it might be staying in the wip folder

It’s kinda funny to me though that on the same canvas as the first pic I was taking notes for my physiology class lmao

[lecterslair]

Dear Hannibal, I must ask such an accomplished psychiatrist a question on human behavior. Tell me, why must common people cling to ethics, hurt those who dare to question? Do they care not for scientific advancements? Thank you,

@thetruescholar

Ah. A new name in my inbox. How wonderful.

"Common people", as you say, my dear Scholar, cling to ethics for comfort. It is comforting to have "wrong and right" of one's own understanding, to be able to say "I did what I thought was right, what was ethical" in various situations. And they hurt those who dare to question because they do just that - question. People do not like their opinions - for those are, essentially, what ethics are - questioned, their morals challenged.

As for scientific advancements... I have observed that it depends. Some scientific advancements are cared for, while others are not. Ultimately, it comes down to comfort, dear Scholar. But I am curious: why ask about scientific advancements? Do you have scientific advancements in the works?

[thetruescholar]

How pathetic of common people, can they find no comfort in use? Ah, but thank you, I understand further why this world falls to ruin. My existence as a clone, as a scientist, goes against all common ethics hold dear. I am no better than the man who I am cloned from.

I had once been a wonderful engineer, dear doctor. How I once was useful, and rewarded greatly for such. No longer can I study what I wish, no, research in cybernetics is barred by “ethical concerns”. No longer do I have the protection I once did. I learned my lesson well, this world has no place for my studies. For how I have been punished for my studies, I will never walk properly again.

I have another question, dear doctor, why do common people seek to impose their will over my words? Why must they attempt to force such things as love and kindness over me unasked? Why do I go unrespected? Why do they believe such path of life is happiest?

[lecterslair]

No, common people find little comfort in use. But a clone, you say? How fascinating. Tell me, was it a voluntary cloning? A voluntary cybernetic transformation? Something tells me that it perhaps was not, with the way you speak so bitterly of the man you come from.

An engineer. How wonderful. And yes, cybernetics do indeed have ethical concerns. But should that truly stop you from at least mentally conducting research? Cataloguing things mentally about cybernetics and organising them in such a way that your knowledge grows? My memory palace is useful for such a thing as that. Many things, I remember because I have stored them away in my memory palace. Do you have such a thing of your own, dear Scholar? Perhaps that would stave off some ethical concerns. After all, there is no such thing as a thought crime.

But you have been punished, you say. Perhaps you wish to share more about that? My door is always open.

Ah. Yes. I believe common people find comfort in fleeting things. Kindness and love are fleeting, but provide comfort. It is momentary, but it is still comforting. Ergo, common people seek it for a momentary relief from things less comforting, less fleeting. They believe such a path of life is happiest because one cannot see clearly when grasping for a fleeting thing. All that matters in such a moment is managing to grab hold of the fleeting feeling of love and keeping it close for as long as one can. Common people impose their will over your words because that is what is most comforting to them, and they rely on such comfort to live.

[thetruescholar]

My existence is involuntary, as is yours. How the equipment used to grow the flesh I and my brothers are made of is improvement to current.... natural.... practices of similar results. I have no cybernetic enhancements, how ironic to not apply my work to myself, yet I see no purpose to waste such creations on a disposable clone. No matter, the man I am cloned from has failed to hold his end of my loyalty. How shameful he has become, for he has abandoned noble pursuit of science to indulge in more... flesh based desires. He has disgusted me, his boss has disgusted me worse, I refuse to allow myself to fall to the sin of love as they have. And please, Dr Lecter, just Natalia is appropriate to refer to me by.

My work, my methods, they were once truly impressive. I am skilled to dedicate myself fully to my studies. I have dragged many soldiers from the brink of death, ripped from the hands of the reaper if I had must. I have just one question for your solution to my current situation, what scientific benefits are there to thought experimentation? Surely you must understand the importance of the physical aspect of building and testing cybernetics? Ah, no, I should not ask such. You understand the minds of common people more than I ever can. Until proven otherwise, there is certainly no harm to "thought crimes". Thank you.

I find no benefit to kindness nor love, not for I. I have lived my thirty-nine years without desire for such. Love is disease I am made immune to, how I am saddened to watch all who I was loyal to fall to its sickness. For my immunity to such, I am punished. I am deemed heartless and cruel to care only for usefulness and results.

I suppose to those who cannot understand value of use, they cling to such unchartable, fleeting concepts as love. How I wish I only could make others understand the way you have understood me. No matter, if I am not beaten, I am pitied. Neither option is optimal, I can only avoid those who dish me such treatments for so long. Please, Dr Lecter, what must I do to make others understand the value in usefulness!! What must I do to convince such common people that I cannot feel their love nor kindness, how must I phrase myself to prevent their attempts to harm or fix me!

[lecterslair]

Natalia, then. A wonderful name. Its meaning is akin to "birth," no? To my knowledge, at least. Quite fitting for you, I think. Even if not, it is a lovely name.

Yes, an involuntary existence. Although in my case, it is not an entirely unwanted existence. But no cybernetics applied to yourself? Come now, dear Natalia, it would not be a waste. You may be a clone, but I have no doubt that you are wonderful as you are. However... when I take a moment to think about it, I understand why, I suppose; some creations transcend us mortal beings. So perhaps they should not be wasted. I confess, I am quite torn on the subject. I have never encountered things such as cybernetics, you see. I feel as though I must take some time to form an opinion on such a thing. But either way: you are not less worth anything, or "disposable," simply because you are a clone. I have no doubt that you are positively magnificent, and your existence in itself is quite a feat, is it not?

You seem to be quite the hero, if one may allow oneself to call you such, Natalia. Saved soldiers from death, ripped them from the hands of the reaper? How very heroic of you. I applaud your efforts. Humans are so fragile; we need someone to save us from certain things. Thank you for doing so, truly. Now, in terms of scientific benefits, when it comes to thought experimentation... is experimentation not in itself a benefit to scientific study? No matter the experiment, and no matter whether it goes wrong or goes right, it has helped further someone's knowledge in a specific area. In this case, I would certainly say one would be furthering knowledge in scientific pursuits, regardless of whether it is physical experimentation or thought experimentation.

Ah, yes. Humans do tend to see those incapable of love as "heartless". Let me assure you, Natalia, you are neither heartless nor cruel. Finding no benefit in love or kindness is not a weakness. In fact, it may allow you to focus more greatly on your research, no? You should not be punished for such a thing. I promise you, there is no judgment on my side for it. I understand. And I understand that, yes, people cling to the fleeting feeling of love in compensation for not being able to understand people such as you - those who understand the value of knowledge. Unfortunately, I do not think most humans will ever understand the value of usefulness. It is a foreign concept to many; I confess, I was a foreigner to such a thing during my childhood. But I have been... enlightened, perhaps one would call it.

Common people have somewhat of a saviour complex. They strive to save others, most likely to compensate for their lack of being able to save themselves, and their lack of being satisfied simply with who they are. It is a part of human nature. One cannot really prevent it. But rest assured, dear Natalia - I will not attempt to "fix you." You are, in my eyes, wonderful as you are.

[thetruescholar]

How ironic, no? I am not a creature born of a mother, I was incubated within a machine. My existence resembles such of a robot, if not for my flesh based composition.

I know well of such transcendent beings, I will tell you there is little hope for human based lifeforms to fully transcend human desires. I am unsure on my transcendence, I belong not with humanity. Humankind is designed with love and warmth, I know and need nothing of such things.

How sweet of you to recommend self enhancement, you would believe such an injury would be demanding of aid.

She pulls up one side of the hem of her long skirts, up to her stitched up knee. Whatever surgeries had to be done to remake that joint has left it stiff and aching. No pain shows on her face about it, either she can't feel it or she's learned to hide it.

Oh you are much too kind to me, I did only what must be done for largest sample pool of subjects. No injured soldier would refuse my experimentation, if they had such choice at all. My status was earned; I am rightful to enjoy it. I hope those who lost their ideals crumble without my aid. They are undeserving of my efforts.

I find most enjoyment in learning process of my work, such results should be shared. Forbidden knowledge is a concept causing more harm, only dictated by that pesky love of common people. How sad I cannot convince others of such value in their usefulness to this noble cause, no? I was worshipped for my work, demonized for my methods. How pathetic of common people to attempt separation of results from methods.

How inspiring! There is hope for enlightenment in others? How happy I am to hear such! To think I had accepted complacency with factors I could not control, ah thank you for your hope. My work may continue outside walls of mental containment.

At being told she's wonderful as she is, she tries to hide her eyes with the puffy sleeves of her dress shirt. That seems to have touched that abandoned heart of hers.

[thetruescholar]

*Hands Her Columbina*.

She just glares at Columbina.

Why have you come to find me? I refuse return.

[wanderingtracerealm-deactivated]

Columbina happen to find Miss Natalia when going for a walk.

I am not going to bring you back... I promise... but i am glad your doing well Miss Natalia.

[thetruescholar]

It’s weird to find Lady Natalia all the way in Sumeru, even stranger that she’s still alive. She looks down at Columbina with annoyance.

What do you require a visit for?

[wanderingtracerealm-deactivated]

Columbina looks up at Miss Natalia.

I came to sumeru to visit the dendro archon... but on way... I happen to see you.

[thetruescholar]

How crass, you have no need to remind me I have no chance of disguise. Tell the higher ups I am dead. If they are to tell you otherwise, tell them I will not be returning. I no longer align with the Fatui's ideas, nor are they worthy of my further research.

She mumbles something, likely mean spirited, under her breath.

[wanderingtracerealm-deactivated]

Columbina was confused for a moment, she wasn't with the fatui anymore... but maybe Miss natalia didn't know that?

Columbina won't reveal Miss natalia 's location to the fatui, since she also wasn't in the fatui anymore.

[thetruescholar]

She was deemed "dead" a while back, she likely doesn't know of what's happened. Retirement for her doesn't seem as beneficial as it should be.

[wanderingtracerealm-deactivated]

Columbina didn't mind that, but she's happy to see that Miss Natalia is doing well, and she wishes Miss Natalia a happy retirement.

[thetruescholar]

All she just is huff annoyed at Columbina, and limps off. She nearly trips over her own feet a few times, but she’s too stubborn for a cane.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Within a few weeks of @thetruescholar being stationed in Nod Krai, it’s clear to see why she’s been able to live so long. She brings results, and soon she runs up to the Luna segment with a heavy duty case.

Your request is completed and fully functional. Every system is tested thrice to ensure minimal if nonexistent failure!

Ah, thank you, Xi- Natalia. Your work is very well appreciated.

•~•~• The segment takes the case from Natalia, setting it on a nearby table to open it up. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

When he does, oh her work is as impressive as they say. The new arm is sleek and durable, colored black and blue. And just as he wanted, the hand allows him to summon a wall of lasers just to his specifications. The lasers are blue, of course, and quite deadly. And the reaction time is noticeably faster than his old arm’s.

The rhythmic click of Natalia’s heels is easily audible as she bounces up and down on them like a schoolgirl awaiting praise. She has the smile to match. It’s almost adorable, if she wasn’t a grown lady.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The segment began to attach the arm, flexing the fingers as it connected. •~•~•

This is some fine work, Natalia. The reaction time is almost instantaneous, and the design is quite sleek. I understand now why you’re one of Prime’s favorites.

[thetruescholar]

Oh how kind! For someone as smart as you, self repair ment will be no hassle. I will report your good work to Prime on my return, it is least I can do to repay you for your appreciation.

She leaves just as fast as she came, and he doesn’t hear anything about her… until one day a letter comes to all segments stationed in Nod Krai, saying she has passed away honorably in the line of duty. It doesn’t seem right, Natalia wouldn’t go out like that.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• Hm. That… doesn’t seem right. Natalia wasn’t usually on the front lines, and had been in good standing with Prime. The whole thing seemed… abnormal… •~•~•

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment had to conceal himself as an average segment, transferring his conscience to a more normal appearing segment body that was lying in the lab. He first searched Fontaine, asking around the Research Institute of Kinetic Energy Engineering. Once that search turned a blank, off to Mondstadt to search Springvale, as it was a peaceful little village, and Mondstadt City, only to also find nothing there. He moved onto Sumeru, first checking Aaru Village and working his way inwards towards the forest, asking if anyone has seen “a tall woman with blue hair and a snarky attitude.” •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

Lucky for him, that question turns up some responses. And even luckier, she's easy to find in Sumeru City. She has changed so drastically since she "died", and in such a short time too. Her blue curls cut short by her chin, her ears holding feather earrings. And even her clothes, she doesn't dress like a segment anymore. But it is still her, even if she no longer wears her mask. Now that her eyes are uncovered, everyone can see her eyebags show a life of overwork.

She'd make Dottore Prime proud with how she's just glaring up at the Akademiya.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment approached, looking like any other segment around the age of the Omega segment. He found Natalia in the Grand Bazaar, shopping for food. He approached silently from behind, and she couldn’t even hear him until he was directly behind her. He whispered as to not raise alarms with any common Sumerian citizens. •~•~•

What are you doing in Sumeru without any heads up? And why do you look so drastically different?

[thetruescholar]

Recognizing his voice, she turns to face him, and sighs. She grabs his arm and begins to lead him over to an empty corner. Something terrible happened to her, she can barely walk. Her long skirts can only hide so much of how her left leg lags along.

You missed no eventful funeral. How fortunate you are to not be in my situation. I can return to Prime’s side no longer, no, I am unwanted now. The Fatui is no place to continue my work. In my years of service I have watched worst plague of empathy come across them all. I did not come here willingly, yet you must understand why I remain.

The Fatui has failed once infected. We did not succeed in creation of a godless world. How shameful. Teyvat has fallen to ruin, worse than you know. A new god attempts to command us. He asked me to become happy, I informed him I follow orders of no deities.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Unwanted, you say? I don’t believe that to be true, I was finding rather nice use in having you around the lab. And the creation of a new world is not yet over, it is merely beginning. Come back to Nod Krai, Natalia. You still have use, and you needn’t follow the commands of this new deity. I am the only deity required.

[thetruescholar]

My methods of work and thought no longer align with those in charge. You must believe me, the Harbingers are terminal with disease of empathy. Her Majesty has propagated it. If I am to return to serving, I will be murdered for any attempt at a cure to their ailment. I know it is so.

She looks around wildly, before leaning to whisper into Luna’s ear.

This new god, Kaleb, I fear he has done irreparable damage to systems in Teyvat. New world is completed.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment gives a short hum in agreement, whispering back. •~•~•

From what I’ve heard of that one from the Prime, yes, he has done quite the amount of damage. But fear not, I can figure out how to fix it. And you don’t need to return to the Fatui as a whole, you can simply return to my labs, I won’t say a peep of your return.

[thetruescholar]

Come.

The next place she drags him is an unassuming little house in the city. She sets her groceries down on her kitchen counter, and then shoves him into the dining room chairs. She still keeps her voice quiet.

How unaware you are of corruption of the higher ups. I am vigilant, I will tell you now. Kaleb is not my only threat, no, there is another man within the Fatui. I fear my recent nightmare is a warning.

Second biggest source of empathy infection is the House of Hearth’s new director Loki. He is unbound, uncontrolled, and corrupts all with his promiscuity. In my nightmare, my growing dislike of Her Majesty triggered reaction within him to torture me to brink of death. I will not act foolishly now, I am sorry. I cannot return to Fatui service nor our occupied areas.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment’s form grew out to what he normally looked like now that he didn’t have to blend into crowds, sitting down dining room chair with his head still almost hitting the ceiling. •~•~•

I see, I see. Then, in that case, I won’t pester you to rejoin, though I hope you understand it is quite the loss to not have you in the labs. But, still, I won’t force you to.

[thetruescholar]

You must believe I wish for nothing more but your offer, yet I cannot take it. If I speak what I see of Dem- The Tsaritsa, I will die. I wish to hold my tongue on her infectious nature no longer.

Do not worry for me, I know now of alternative solution. It is unideal, yet necessary. May I ask you one request? I am unhappy, but if you are asked of me report my happiness as satisfactory. Common people find comfort in such, pathetic.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

I will, if asked by anyone aware of your current life. But if someone, say Prime, were to ask me about you, I will report you are dead, with no body found. Is that what you wish?

[thetruescholar]

How clever and kind! Yes, keep details short to him. Ah, how refreshing, to tell what I have witnessed for years. Tell me Luna, have you known Prime and Demo- Her Majesty once were dating? I fear such has been infecting him.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Oh? I was never aware of such a scandal, being rather new. I must admit, I’m not aware of most of the lab’s history, only that of which is relevant to me. Though, I suppose once I have mastery over time, I’ll have to sit down and read through all the records, along with everything else in the labs.

[thetruescholar]

Such history I tell you goes unwritten. I have seen most deplorable behavior of Prime and all harbingers, behavior that is grounds for disposal if I am to enact it. Few segments too have become infected by love, Webby is among them. Good riddance, I knew early of his faultiness.

I am only one who dislikes such behavior, I refuse to partake. For my refusal, I hold no further use to the Fatui's goals. Ah, you are one of few I do not believe to become infected. In a happier world, if I may make my developing mind palace real, I would invite you as most valued scientist on team.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. A shame that other segments have become afflicted with empathy and compassion, it is an unnecessary evil. I appreciate that you would invite me to join you as well in some other world, but sadly, we do not exist in that world.

[thetruescholar]

You and I are only two against many, we cannot create such a world. I must wonder how this disease has become a comfort. Is the fleeting desire for relief worth lacking efficiency? Ah, I have never had such "fleeting relief", look at how useful I became. I see clearly, they refuse to.

How hypocritical as well, such unnecessary evil has been unsuccessfully forced upon me. Yet I cannot return the favor with more noble ideals, no, I am beaten to brink of death. Look.

She hikes up one side of her skirts up to her mid thigh. All around her leg are jagged surgical scars, especially around her knee. This explains her new limp.

They deem such injury a victory to their empathy. I will never walk without pain again.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment tilted his head at Natalia’s scars, observing. •~•~•

A shame that your injury didn’t happen under my watch, your leg would’ve had much better care. That looks like they let a five-year-old loose and told them to have at it.

And back to that topic of empathy, I believe most allow themselves to be infected as it brings comfort in such short and fleeting lives. Pitiful that they take comfort in this instead of doing anything productive and making a difference in this loathsome world.

[thetruescholar]

Bimarstan doctors are most poorly trained, I cannot expect for skill in medicine from an Akademiya run hospital. The youngest segment I trust more as a doctor for my issue, yet how unfortunate, I exist now in constant pain.

It certainly looks like her leg aches, and she has to grip the edge of a dining chair as it begins to shake from the pressure she puts on it. She’s always been very good at hiding when she’s unwell, she has to, but the slightest wince comes across her face.

Comfort is no more than a lie. Ah how horrid I feel to give up, in my age and condition I can make no more change to such a loathsome world. I may remain unheard, hated, or pitied. Empathy has rotted out eyes and ears of common people, they will pity me now for my pain with no responsibility for their ways to have caused it.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Well, I could attempt to have a look at it, potentially even ease your pain. I may be a god, but I’m still a segment, and a rather good one at that.

[thetruescholar]

Why would you bother such?

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Fear not, I am not being infected with empathy, you simply have less use when you cannot so much as properly walk.

[thetruescholar]

I have no use when I cannot accept loyalty to the wider Fatui further. No matter, I am to die like Alpha, no use to repair what has outlived use.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Pitiful that you won’t even accept a helping hand, really. Fine, if you insist, I will leave you to your own devices here.

•~•~• The Luna segment crossed his arms, leaning back. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

She was never the type to accept a helping hand anyway. There's no hand for her when she sat on the floor by Dottore's throne. She stumbles over to old, weather worn records on forbidden knowledge and takes one off the shelf.

Have you considered the scientific benefit of another method to probe into forbidden knowledge? The Akashic System of the Akademiya was quite advanced, how high the bribes must have been for the few smartest scientists of it. Yet must we harvest from a hivemind further? Is such knowledge accessible other routes?

How saddening human experimentation with abyssal amalgamation is frowned upon. Zandik must be disappointed.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

I have not considered another method, no, but I should likely look into that for my own benefit and the benefit of the Fatui. Zandik would be greatly disappointed.

•~•~• Lunattore stood up, having to crouch a bit so he didn’t hit his head on the ceiling, following Natalia over to the shelf of records. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

The Fatui deserves no more of your work or mine. They no longer think with their heads, ah I could amputate all of them above the waist, no detrimental effect will be caused, no difference to workflow rate.

The records look like she stole them out of the ruins of Deshret's kingdom. She probably did.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment pulled out a tome, thumbing through its contents. •~•~•

Hm. Perhaps you are right, perhaps none of us owe the Fatui anything, though none of us segments would be here if it weren’t for Lord Pierro saving the original, and we are all indebted to him and Her Majesty’s cause for that reason.

[thetruescholar]

You still hold yourself to an old debt? How pathetic. If Her Majesty is no longer serving our goals, we hold no obligation to tolerate her. She no longer follows her ideals, Harbingers are dying at alarming rates. How fortunate I will die alone in obscurity.

It's Deshret's old experiment records in his attempt to get Nabu Malikata back. Though sandwiched within the pages are newer notes from Natalia, with drawn schematics of a sort of probe into the abyss to record and process knowledge. And knowing her, it's something using humans, cybernetics, and bits of dead gods.

What I do not perform cannot be held against me. I must wonder if such experiment is enactable within a "mind palace". Thoughts are unpunishable.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment flipped through the pages, still holding conversation without holding eye contact. •~•~•

Though it is an old debt, it is a debt nonetheless, and a debt that most, if not all segments are obligated to pay back.

[thetruescholar]

Or what? I am done paying to that woman and her poor organizational skills. Nothing holds me to her further, as far as I am known I am dead. Only benefit of that event.

She looks so smug to have outsmarted the debt.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Lucky you, managing to escape that obligation. Fear not, I am not petty enough to alert the Fatui of your location so they can find you just to fulfill some sick sense of schadenfreude, I will let you live your life here in this pathetic excuse of a nation.

[thetruescholar]

You would get no desired reaction. I would dispose of myself in front of whoever finds me. Allow my life of obscurity, if you will, I will interfere with no Fatui missions. Disguise is difficult enough, and I am fortunate for my human appearance.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Yes, quite fortunate. As I said, I will leave your location undisclosed, and I will return to my missions. I would’ve loved you back, but I understand you are not willing to come back, and I will not force you. Live the ‘normal’ life Zandik never had, will you? For the rest of us?

[thetruescholar]

Take what you wish of my research, I will live what was ripped from Zandik. If the Fatui pulls their heads from places I do not study, let me know, I may return in such situation.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

If they do, I will get into contact with you. But I doubt such a thing will happen.

•~•~• The Luna segment stood up, still needing to crouch a bit. With a snap of his fingers, his form compacted back into that of a regular sized segment so he could walk around in public. •~•~•

I wish you luck in your new civilian life, Natalia.

[thetruescholar]

I wish you luck as well, I pray Demos never visits Nod Krai. Visit in disguise if you wish for updates on civilian life.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Within a few weeks of @thetruescholar being stationed in Nod Krai, it’s clear to see why she’s been able to live so long. She brings results, and soon she runs up to the Luna segment with a heavy duty case.

Your request is completed and fully functional. Every system is tested thrice to ensure minimal if nonexistent failure!

Ah, thank you, Xi- Natalia. Your work is very well appreciated.

•~•~• The segment takes the case from Natalia, setting it on a nearby table to open it up. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

When he does, oh her work is as impressive as they say. The new arm is sleek and durable, colored black and blue. And just as he wanted, the hand allows him to summon a wall of lasers just to his specifications. The lasers are blue, of course, and quite deadly. And the reaction time is noticeably faster than his old arm’s.

The rhythmic click of Natalia’s heels is easily audible as she bounces up and down on them like a schoolgirl awaiting praise. She has the smile to match. It’s almost adorable, if she wasn’t a grown lady.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The segment began to attach the arm, flexing the fingers as it connected. •~•~•

This is some fine work, Natalia. The reaction time is almost instantaneous, and the design is quite sleek. I understand now why you’re one of Prime’s favorites.

[thetruescholar]

Oh how kind! For someone as smart as you, self repair ment will be no hassle. I will report your good work to Prime on my return, it is least I can do to repay you for your appreciation.

She leaves just as fast as she came, and he doesn’t hear anything about her… until one day a letter comes to all segments stationed in Nod Krai, saying she has passed away honorably in the line of duty. It doesn’t seem right, Natalia wouldn’t go out like that.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• Hm. That… doesn’t seem right. Natalia wasn’t usually on the front lines, and had been in good standing with Prime. The whole thing seemed… abnormal… •~•~•

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment had to conceal himself as an average segment, transferring his conscience to a more normal appearing segment body that was lying in the lab. He first searched Fontaine, asking around the Research Institute of Kinetic Energy Engineering. Once that search turned a blank, off to Mondstadt to search Springvale, as it was a peaceful little village, and Mondstadt City, only to also find nothing there. He moved onto Sumeru, first checking Aaru Village and working his way inwards towards the forest, asking if anyone has seen “a tall woman with blue hair and a snarky attitude.” •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

Lucky for him, that question turns up some responses. And even luckier, she's easy to find in Sumeru City. She has changed so drastically since she "died", and in such a short time too. Her blue curls cut short by her chin, her ears holding feather earrings. And even her clothes, she doesn't dress like a segment anymore. But it is still her, even if she no longer wears her mask. Now that her eyes are uncovered, everyone can see her eyebags show a life of overwork.

She'd make Dottore Prime proud with how she's just glaring up at the Akademiya.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment approached, looking like any other segment around the age of the Omega segment. He found Natalia in the Grand Bazaar, shopping for food. He approached silently from behind, and she couldn’t even hear him until he was directly behind her. He whispered as to not raise alarms with any common Sumerian citizens. •~•~•

What are you doing in Sumeru without any heads up? And why do you look so drastically different?

[thetruescholar]

Recognizing his voice, she turns to face him, and sighs. She grabs his arm and begins to lead him over to an empty corner. Something terrible happened to her, she can barely walk. Her long skirts can only hide so much of how her left leg lags along.

You missed no eventful funeral. How fortunate you are to not be in my situation. I can return to Prime’s side no longer, no, I am unwanted now. The Fatui is no place to continue my work. In my years of service I have watched worst plague of empathy come across them all. I did not come here willingly, yet you must understand why I remain.

The Fatui has failed once infected. We did not succeed in creation of a godless world. How shameful. Teyvat has fallen to ruin, worse than you know. A new god attempts to command us. He asked me to become happy, I informed him I follow orders of no deities.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Unwanted, you say? I don’t believe that to be true, I was finding rather nice use in having you around the lab. And the creation of a new world is not yet over, it is merely beginning. Come back to Nod Krai, Natalia. You still have use, and you needn’t follow the commands of this new deity. I am the only deity required.

[thetruescholar]

My methods of work and thought no longer align with those in charge. You must believe me, the Harbingers are terminal with disease of empathy. Her Majesty has propagated it. If I am to return to serving, I will be murdered for any attempt at a cure to their ailment. I know it is so.

She looks around wildly, before leaning to whisper into Luna’s ear.

This new god, Kaleb, I fear he has done irreparable damage to systems in Teyvat. New world is completed.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment gives a short hum in agreement, whispering back. •~•~•

From what I’ve heard of that one from the Prime, yes, he has done quite the amount of damage. But fear not, I can figure out how to fix it. And you don’t need to return to the Fatui as a whole, you can simply return to my labs, I won’t say a peep of your return.

[thetruescholar]

Come.

The next place she drags him is an unassuming little house in the city. She sets her groceries down on her kitchen counter, and then shoves him into the dining room chairs. She still keeps her voice quiet.

How unaware you are of corruption of the higher ups. I am vigilant, I will tell you now. Kaleb is not my only threat, no, there is another man within the Fatui. I fear my recent nightmare is a warning.

Second biggest source of empathy infection is the House of Hearth’s new director Loki. He is unbound, uncontrolled, and corrupts all with his promiscuity. In my nightmare, my growing dislike of Her Majesty triggered reaction within him to torture me to brink of death. I will not act foolishly now, I am sorry. I cannot return to Fatui service nor our occupied areas.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment’s form grew out to what he normally looked like now that he didn’t have to blend into crowds, sitting down dining room chair with his head still almost hitting the ceiling. •~•~•

I see, I see. Then, in that case, I won’t pester you to rejoin, though I hope you understand it is quite the loss to not have you in the labs. But, still, I won’t force you to.

[thetruescholar]

You must believe I wish for nothing more but your offer, yet I cannot take it. If I speak what I see of Dem- The Tsaritsa, I will die. I wish to hold my tongue on her infectious nature no longer.

Do not worry for me, I know now of alternative solution. It is unideal, yet necessary. May I ask you one request? I am unhappy, but if you are asked of me report my happiness as satisfactory. Common people find comfort in such, pathetic.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

I will, if asked by anyone aware of your current life. But if someone, say Prime, were to ask me about you, I will report you are dead, with no body found. Is that what you wish?

[thetruescholar]

How clever and kind! Yes, keep details short to him. Ah, how refreshing, to tell what I have witnessed for years. Tell me Luna, have you known Prime and Demo- Her Majesty once were dating? I fear such has been infecting him.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Oh? I was never aware of such a scandal, being rather new. I must admit, I’m not aware of most of the lab’s history, only that of which is relevant to me. Though, I suppose once I have mastery over time, I’ll have to sit down and read through all the records, along with everything else in the labs.

[thetruescholar]

Such history I tell you goes unwritten. I have seen most deplorable behavior of Prime and all harbingers, behavior that is grounds for disposal if I am to enact it. Few segments too have become infected by love, Webby is among them. Good riddance, I knew early of his faultiness.

I am only one who dislikes such behavior, I refuse to partake. For my refusal, I hold no further use to the Fatui's goals. Ah, you are one of few I do not believe to become infected. In a happier world, if I may make my developing mind palace real, I would invite you as most valued scientist on team.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. A shame that other segments have become afflicted with empathy and compassion, it is an unnecessary evil. I appreciate that you would invite me to join you as well in some other world, but sadly, we do not exist in that world.

[thetruescholar]

You and I are only two against many, we cannot create such a world. I must wonder how this disease has become a comfort. Is the fleeting desire for relief worth lacking efficiency? Ah, I have never had such "fleeting relief", look at how useful I became. I see clearly, they refuse to.

How hypocritical as well, such unnecessary evil has been unsuccessfully forced upon me. Yet I cannot return the favor with more noble ideals, no, I am beaten to brink of death. Look.

She hikes up one side of her skirts up to her mid thigh. All around her leg are jagged surgical scars, especially around her knee. This explains her new limp.

They deem such injury a victory to their empathy. I will never walk without pain again.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment tilted his head at Natalia’s scars, observing. •~•~•

A shame that your injury didn’t happen under my watch, your leg would’ve had much better care. That looks like they let a five-year-old loose and told them to have at it.

And back to that topic of empathy, I believe most allow themselves to be infected as it brings comfort in such short and fleeting lives. Pitiful that they take comfort in this instead of doing anything productive and making a difference in this loathsome world.

[thetruescholar]

Bimarstan doctors are most poorly trained, I cannot expect for skill in medicine from an Akademiya run hospital. The youngest segment I trust more as a doctor for my issue, yet how unfortunate, I exist now in constant pain.

It certainly looks like her leg aches, and she has to grip the edge of a dining chair as it begins to shake from the pressure she puts on it. She’s always been very good at hiding when she’s unwell, she has to, but the slightest wince comes across her face.

Comfort is no more than a lie. Ah how horrid I feel to give up, in my age and condition I can make no more change to such a loathsome world. I may remain unheard, hated, or pitied. Empathy has rotted out eyes and ears of common people, they will pity me now for my pain with no responsibility for their ways to have caused it.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Well, I could attempt to have a look at it, potentially even ease your pain. I may be a god, but I’m still a segment, and a rather good one at that.

[thetruescholar]

Why would you bother such?

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Fear not, I am not being infected with empathy, you simply have less use when you cannot so much as properly walk.

[thetruescholar]

I have no use when I cannot accept loyalty to the wider Fatui further. No matter, I am to die like Alpha, no use to repair what has outlived use.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Pitiful that you won’t even accept a helping hand, really. Fine, if you insist, I will leave you to your own devices here.

•~•~• The Luna segment crossed his arms, leaning back. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

She was never the type to accept a helping hand anyway. There's no hand for her when she sat on the floor by Dottore's throne. She stumbles over to old, weather worn records on forbidden knowledge and takes one off the shelf.

Have you considered the scientific benefit of another method to probe into forbidden knowledge? The Akashic System of the Akademiya was quite advanced, how high the bribes must have been for the few smartest scientists of it. Yet must we harvest from a hivemind further? Is such knowledge accessible other routes?

How saddening human experimentation with abyssal amalgamation is frowned upon. Zandik must be disappointed.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

I have not considered another method, no, but I should likely look into that for my own benefit and the benefit of the Fatui. Zandik would be greatly disappointed.

•~•~• Lunattore stood up, having to crouch a bit so he didn’t hit his head on the ceiling, following Natalia over to the shelf of records. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

The Fatui deserves no more of your work or mine. They no longer think with their heads, ah I could amputate all of them above the waist, no detrimental effect will be caused, no difference to workflow rate.

The records look like she stole them out of the ruins of Deshret's kingdom. She probably did.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment pulled out a tome, thumbing through its contents. •~•~•

Hm. Perhaps you are right, perhaps none of us owe the Fatui anything, though none of us segments would be here if it weren’t for Lord Pierro saving the original, and we are all indebted to him and Her Majesty’s cause for that reason.

[thetruescholar]

You still hold yourself to an old debt? How pathetic. If Her Majesty is no longer serving our goals, we hold no obligation to tolerate her. She no longer follows her ideals, Harbingers are dying at alarming rates. How fortunate I will die alone in obscurity.

It's Deshret's old experiment records in his attempt to get Nabu Malikata back. Though sandwiched within the pages are newer notes from Natalia, with drawn schematics of a sort of probe into the abyss to record and process knowledge. And knowing her, it's something using humans, cybernetics, and bits of dead gods.

What I do not perform cannot be held against me. I must wonder if such experiment is enactable within a "mind palace". Thoughts are unpunishable.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment flipped through the pages, still holding conversation without holding eye contact. •~•~•

Though it is an old debt, it is a debt nonetheless, and a debt that most, if not all segments are obligated to pay back.

[thetruescholar]

Or what? I am done paying to that woman and her poor organizational skills. Nothing holds me to her further, as far as I am known I am dead. Only benefit of that event.

She looks so smug to have outsmarted the debt.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Lucky you, managing to escape that obligation. Fear not, I am not petty enough to alert the Fatui of your location so they can find you just to fulfill some sick sense of schadenfreude, I will let you live your life here in this pathetic excuse of a nation.

[thetruescholar]

You would get no desired reaction. I would dispose of myself in front of whoever finds me. Allow my life of obscurity, if you will, I will interfere with no Fatui missions. Disguise is difficult enough, and I am fortunate for my human appearance.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Yes, quite fortunate. As I said, I will leave your location undisclosed, and I will return to my missions. I would’ve loved you back, but I understand you are not willing to come back, and I will not force you. Live the ‘normal’ life Zandik never had, will you? For the rest of us?

[thetruescholar]

Take what you wish of my research, I will live what was ripped from Zandik. If the Fatui pulls their heads from places I do not study, let me know, I may return in such situation.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Within a few weeks of @thetruescholar being stationed in Nod Krai, it’s clear to see why she’s been able to live so long. She brings results, and soon she runs up to the Luna segment with a heavy duty case.

Your request is completed and fully functional. Every system is tested thrice to ensure minimal if nonexistent failure!

Ah, thank you, Xi- Natalia. Your work is very well appreciated.

•~•~• The segment takes the case from Natalia, setting it on a nearby table to open it up. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

When he does, oh her work is as impressive as they say. The new arm is sleek and durable, colored black and blue. And just as he wanted, the hand allows him to summon a wall of lasers just to his specifications. The lasers are blue, of course, and quite deadly. And the reaction time is noticeably faster than his old arm’s.

The rhythmic click of Natalia’s heels is easily audible as she bounces up and down on them like a schoolgirl awaiting praise. She has the smile to match. It’s almost adorable, if she wasn’t a grown lady.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The segment began to attach the arm, flexing the fingers as it connected. •~•~•

This is some fine work, Natalia. The reaction time is almost instantaneous, and the design is quite sleek. I understand now why you’re one of Prime’s favorites.

[thetruescholar]

Oh how kind! For someone as smart as you, self repair ment will be no hassle. I will report your good work to Prime on my return, it is least I can do to repay you for your appreciation.

She leaves just as fast as she came, and he doesn’t hear anything about her… until one day a letter comes to all segments stationed in Nod Krai, saying she has passed away honorably in the line of duty. It doesn’t seem right, Natalia wouldn’t go out like that.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• Hm. That… doesn’t seem right. Natalia wasn’t usually on the front lines, and had been in good standing with Prime. The whole thing seemed… abnormal… •~•~•

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment had to conceal himself as an average segment, transferring his conscience to a more normal appearing segment body that was lying in the lab. He first searched Fontaine, asking around the Research Institute of Kinetic Energy Engineering. Once that search turned a blank, off to Mondstadt to search Springvale, as it was a peaceful little village, and Mondstadt City, only to also find nothing there. He moved onto Sumeru, first checking Aaru Village and working his way inwards towards the forest, asking if anyone has seen “a tall woman with blue hair and a snarky attitude.” •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

Lucky for him, that question turns up some responses. And even luckier, she's easy to find in Sumeru City. She has changed so drastically since she "died", and in such a short time too. Her blue curls cut short by her chin, her ears holding feather earrings. And even her clothes, she doesn't dress like a segment anymore. But it is still her, even if she no longer wears her mask. Now that her eyes are uncovered, everyone can see her eyebags show a life of overwork.

She'd make Dottore Prime proud with how she's just glaring up at the Akademiya.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment approached, looking like any other segment around the age of the Omega segment. He found Natalia in the Grand Bazaar, shopping for food. He approached silently from behind, and she couldn’t even hear him until he was directly behind her. He whispered as to not raise alarms with any common Sumerian citizens. •~•~•

What are you doing in Sumeru without any heads up? And why do you look so drastically different?

[thetruescholar]

Recognizing his voice, she turns to face him, and sighs. She grabs his arm and begins to lead him over to an empty corner. Something terrible happened to her, she can barely walk. Her long skirts can only hide so much of how her left leg lags along.

You missed no eventful funeral. How fortunate you are to not be in my situation. I can return to Prime’s side no longer, no, I am unwanted now. The Fatui is no place to continue my work. In my years of service I have watched worst plague of empathy come across them all. I did not come here willingly, yet you must understand why I remain.

The Fatui has failed once infected. We did not succeed in creation of a godless world. How shameful. Teyvat has fallen to ruin, worse than you know. A new god attempts to command us. He asked me to become happy, I informed him I follow orders of no deities.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Unwanted, you say? I don’t believe that to be true, I was finding rather nice use in having you around the lab. And the creation of a new world is not yet over, it is merely beginning. Come back to Nod Krai, Natalia. You still have use, and you needn’t follow the commands of this new deity. I am the only deity required.

[thetruescholar]

My methods of work and thought no longer align with those in charge. You must believe me, the Harbingers are terminal with disease of empathy. Her Majesty has propagated it. If I am to return to serving, I will be murdered for any attempt at a cure to their ailment. I know it is so.

She looks around wildly, before leaning to whisper into Luna’s ear.

This new god, Kaleb, I fear he has done irreparable damage to systems in Teyvat. New world is completed.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment gives a short hum in agreement, whispering back. •~•~•

From what I’ve heard of that one from the Prime, yes, he has done quite the amount of damage. But fear not, I can figure out how to fix it. And you don’t need to return to the Fatui as a whole, you can simply return to my labs, I won’t say a peep of your return.

[thetruescholar]

Come.

The next place she drags him is an unassuming little house in the city. She sets her groceries down on her kitchen counter, and then shoves him into the dining room chairs. She still keeps her voice quiet.

How unaware you are of corruption of the higher ups. I am vigilant, I will tell you now. Kaleb is not my only threat, no, there is another man within the Fatui. I fear my recent nightmare is a warning.

Second biggest source of empathy infection is the House of Hearth’s new director Loki. He is unbound, uncontrolled, and corrupts all with his promiscuity. In my nightmare, my growing dislike of Her Majesty triggered reaction within him to torture me to brink of death. I will not act foolishly now, I am sorry. I cannot return to Fatui service nor our occupied areas.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment’s form grew out to what he normally looked like now that he didn’t have to blend into crowds, sitting down dining room chair with his head still almost hitting the ceiling. •~•~•

I see, I see. Then, in that case, I won’t pester you to rejoin, though I hope you understand it is quite the loss to not have you in the labs. But, still, I won’t force you to.

[thetruescholar]

You must believe I wish for nothing more but your offer, yet I cannot take it. If I speak what I see of Dem- The Tsaritsa, I will die. I wish to hold my tongue on her infectious nature no longer.

Do not worry for me, I know now of alternative solution. It is unideal, yet necessary. May I ask you one request? I am unhappy, but if you are asked of me report my happiness as satisfactory. Common people find comfort in such, pathetic.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

I will, if asked by anyone aware of your current life. But if someone, say Prime, were to ask me about you, I will report you are dead, with no body found. Is that what you wish?

[thetruescholar]

How clever and kind! Yes, keep details short to him. Ah, how refreshing, to tell what I have witnessed for years. Tell me Luna, have you known Prime and Demo- Her Majesty once were dating? I fear such has been infecting him.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Oh? I was never aware of such a scandal, being rather new. I must admit, I’m not aware of most of the lab’s history, only that of which is relevant to me. Though, I suppose once I have mastery over time, I’ll have to sit down and read through all the records, along with everything else in the labs.

[thetruescholar]

Such history I tell you goes unwritten. I have seen most deplorable behavior of Prime and all harbingers, behavior that is grounds for disposal if I am to enact it. Few segments too have become infected by love, Webby is among them. Good riddance, I knew early of his faultiness.

I am only one who dislikes such behavior, I refuse to partake. For my refusal, I hold no further use to the Fatui's goals. Ah, you are one of few I do not believe to become infected. In a happier world, if I may make my developing mind palace real, I would invite you as most valued scientist on team.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. A shame that other segments have become afflicted with empathy and compassion, it is an unnecessary evil. I appreciate that you would invite me to join you as well in some other world, but sadly, we do not exist in that world.

[thetruescholar]

You and I are only two against many, we cannot create such a world. I must wonder how this disease has become a comfort. Is the fleeting desire for relief worth lacking efficiency? Ah, I have never had such "fleeting relief", look at how useful I became. I see clearly, they refuse to.

How hypocritical as well, such unnecessary evil has been unsuccessfully forced upon me. Yet I cannot return the favor with more noble ideals, no, I am beaten to brink of death. Look.

She hikes up one side of her skirts up to her mid thigh. All around her leg are jagged surgical scars, especially around her knee. This explains her new limp.

They deem such injury a victory to their empathy. I will never walk without pain again.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment tilted his head at Natalia’s scars, observing. •~•~•

A shame that your injury didn’t happen under my watch, your leg would’ve had much better care. That looks like they let a five-year-old loose and told them to have at it.

And back to that topic of empathy, I believe most allow themselves to be infected as it brings comfort in such short and fleeting lives. Pitiful that they take comfort in this instead of doing anything productive and making a difference in this loathsome world.

[thetruescholar]

Bimarstan doctors are most poorly trained, I cannot expect for skill in medicine from an Akademiya run hospital. The youngest segment I trust more as a doctor for my issue, yet how unfortunate, I exist now in constant pain.

It certainly looks like her leg aches, and she has to grip the edge of a dining chair as it begins to shake from the pressure she puts on it. She’s always been very good at hiding when she’s unwell, she has to, but the slightest wince comes across her face.

Comfort is no more than a lie. Ah how horrid I feel to give up, in my age and condition I can make no more change to such a loathsome world. I may remain unheard, hated, or pitied. Empathy has rotted out eyes and ears of common people, they will pity me now for my pain with no responsibility for their ways to have caused it.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Well, I could attempt to have a look at it, potentially even ease your pain. I may be a god, but I’m still a segment, and a rather good one at that.

[thetruescholar]

Why would you bother such?

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Fear not, I am not being infected with empathy, you simply have less use when you cannot so much as properly walk.

[thetruescholar]

I have no use when I cannot accept loyalty to the wider Fatui further. No matter, I am to die like Alpha, no use to repair what has outlived use.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Pitiful that you won’t even accept a helping hand, really. Fine, if you insist, I will leave you to your own devices here.

•~•~• The Luna segment crossed his arms, leaning back. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

She was never the type to accept a helping hand anyway. There's no hand for her when she sat on the floor by Dottore's throne. She stumbles over to old, weather worn records on forbidden knowledge and takes one off the shelf.

Have you considered the scientific benefit of another method to probe into forbidden knowledge? The Akashic System of the Akademiya was quite advanced, how high the bribes must have been for the few smartest scientists of it. Yet must we harvest from a hivemind further? Is such knowledge accessible other routes?

How saddening human experimentation with abyssal amalgamation is frowned upon. Zandik must be disappointed.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

I have not considered another method, no, but I should likely look into that for my own benefit and the benefit of the Fatui. Zandik would be greatly disappointed.

•~•~• Lunattore stood up, having to crouch a bit so he didn’t hit his head on the ceiling, following Natalia over to the shelf of records. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

The Fatui deserves no more of your work or mine. They no longer think with their heads, ah I could amputate all of them above the waist, no detrimental effect will be caused, no difference to workflow rate.

The records look like she stole them out of the ruins of Deshret's kingdom. She probably did.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment pulled out a tome, thumbing through its contents. •~•~•

Hm. Perhaps you are right, perhaps none of us owe the Fatui anything, though none of us segments would be here if it weren’t for Lord Pierro saving the original, and we are all indebted to him and Her Majesty’s cause for that reason.

[thetruescholar]

You still hold yourself to an old debt? How pathetic. If Her Majesty is no longer serving our goals, we hold no obligation to tolerate her. She no longer follows her ideals, Harbingers are dying at alarming rates. How fortunate I will die alone in obscurity.

It's Deshret's old experiment records in his attempt to get Nabu Malikata back. Though sandwiched within the pages are newer notes from Natalia, with drawn schematics of a sort of probe into the abyss to record and process knowledge. And knowing her, it's something using humans, cybernetics, and bits of dead gods.

What I do not perform cannot be held against me. I must wonder if such experiment is enactable within a "mind palace". Thoughts are unpunishable.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment flipped through the pages, still holding conversation without holding eye contact. •~•~•

Though it is an old debt, it is a debt nonetheless, and a debt that most, if not all segments are obligated to pay back.

[thetruescholar]

Or what? I am done paying to that woman and her poor organizational skills. Nothing holds me to her further, as far as I am known I am dead. Only benefit of that event.

She looks so smug to have outsmarted the debt.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Lucky you, managing to escape that obligation. Fear not, I am not petty enough to alert the Fatui of your location so they can find you just to fulfill some sick sense of schadenfreude, I will let you live your life here in this pathetic excuse of a nation.

[thetruescholar]

You would get no desired reaction. I would dispose of myself in front of whoever finds me. Allow my life of obscurity, if you will, I will interfere with no Fatui missions. Disguise is difficult enough, and I am fortunate for my human appearance.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Within a few weeks of @thetruescholar being stationed in Nod Krai, it’s clear to see why she’s been able to live so long. She brings results, and soon she runs up to the Luna segment with a heavy duty case.

Your request is completed and fully functional. Every system is tested thrice to ensure minimal if nonexistent failure!

Ah, thank you, Xi- Natalia. Your work is very well appreciated.

•~•~• The segment takes the case from Natalia, setting it on a nearby table to open it up. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

When he does, oh her work is as impressive as they say. The new arm is sleek and durable, colored black and blue. And just as he wanted, the hand allows him to summon a wall of lasers just to his specifications. The lasers are blue, of course, and quite deadly. And the reaction time is noticeably faster than his old arm’s.

The rhythmic click of Natalia’s heels is easily audible as she bounces up and down on them like a schoolgirl awaiting praise. She has the smile to match. It’s almost adorable, if she wasn’t a grown lady.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The segment began to attach the arm, flexing the fingers as it connected. •~•~•

This is some fine work, Natalia. The reaction time is almost instantaneous, and the design is quite sleek. I understand now why you’re one of Prime’s favorites.

[thetruescholar]

Oh how kind! For someone as smart as you, self repair ment will be no hassle. I will report your good work to Prime on my return, it is least I can do to repay you for your appreciation.

She leaves just as fast as she came, and he doesn’t hear anything about her… until one day a letter comes to all segments stationed in Nod Krai, saying she has passed away honorably in the line of duty. It doesn’t seem right, Natalia wouldn’t go out like that.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• Hm. That… doesn’t seem right. Natalia wasn’t usually on the front lines, and had been in good standing with Prime. The whole thing seemed… abnormal… •~•~•

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment had to conceal himself as an average segment, transferring his conscience to a more normal appearing segment body that was lying in the lab. He first searched Fontaine, asking around the Research Institute of Kinetic Energy Engineering. Once that search turned a blank, off to Mondstadt to search Springvale, as it was a peaceful little village, and Mondstadt City, only to also find nothing there. He moved onto Sumeru, first checking Aaru Village and working his way inwards towards the forest, asking if anyone has seen “a tall woman with blue hair and a snarky attitude.” •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

Lucky for him, that question turns up some responses. And even luckier, she's easy to find in Sumeru City. She has changed so drastically since she "died", and in such a short time too. Her blue curls cut short by her chin, her ears holding feather earrings. And even her clothes, she doesn't dress like a segment anymore. But it is still her, even if she no longer wears her mask. Now that her eyes are uncovered, everyone can see her eyebags show a life of overwork.

She'd make Dottore Prime proud with how she's just glaring up at the Akademiya.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment approached, looking like any other segment around the age of the Omega segment. He found Natalia in the Grand Bazaar, shopping for food. He approached silently from behind, and she couldn’t even hear him until he was directly behind her. He whispered as to not raise alarms with any common Sumerian citizens. •~•~•

What are you doing in Sumeru without any heads up? And why do you look so drastically different?

[thetruescholar]

Recognizing his voice, she turns to face him, and sighs. She grabs his arm and begins to lead him over to an empty corner. Something terrible happened to her, she can barely walk. Her long skirts can only hide so much of how her left leg lags along.

You missed no eventful funeral. How fortunate you are to not be in my situation. I can return to Prime’s side no longer, no, I am unwanted now. The Fatui is no place to continue my work. In my years of service I have watched worst plague of empathy come across them all. I did not come here willingly, yet you must understand why I remain.

The Fatui has failed once infected. We did not succeed in creation of a godless world. How shameful. Teyvat has fallen to ruin, worse than you know. A new god attempts to command us. He asked me to become happy, I informed him I follow orders of no deities.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Unwanted, you say? I don’t believe that to be true, I was finding rather nice use in having you around the lab. And the creation of a new world is not yet over, it is merely beginning. Come back to Nod Krai, Natalia. You still have use, and you needn’t follow the commands of this new deity. I am the only deity required.

[thetruescholar]

My methods of work and thought no longer align with those in charge. You must believe me, the Harbingers are terminal with disease of empathy. Her Majesty has propagated it. If I am to return to serving, I will be murdered for any attempt at a cure to their ailment. I know it is so.

She looks around wildly, before leaning to whisper into Luna’s ear.

This new god, Kaleb, I fear he has done irreparable damage to systems in Teyvat. New world is completed.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment gives a short hum in agreement, whispering back. •~•~•

From what I’ve heard of that one from the Prime, yes, he has done quite the amount of damage. But fear not, I can figure out how to fix it. And you don’t need to return to the Fatui as a whole, you can simply return to my labs, I won’t say a peep of your return.

[thetruescholar]

Come.

The next place she drags him is an unassuming little house in the city. She sets her groceries down on her kitchen counter, and then shoves him into the dining room chairs. She still keeps her voice quiet.

How unaware you are of corruption of the higher ups. I am vigilant, I will tell you now. Kaleb is not my only threat, no, there is another man within the Fatui. I fear my recent nightmare is a warning.

Second biggest source of empathy infection is the House of Hearth’s new director Loki. He is unbound, uncontrolled, and corrupts all with his promiscuity. In my nightmare, my growing dislike of Her Majesty triggered reaction within him to torture me to brink of death. I will not act foolishly now, I am sorry. I cannot return to Fatui service nor our occupied areas.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment’s form grew out to what he normally looked like now that he didn’t have to blend into crowds, sitting down dining room chair with his head still almost hitting the ceiling. •~•~•

I see, I see. Then, in that case, I won’t pester you to rejoin, though I hope you understand it is quite the loss to not have you in the labs. But, still, I won’t force you to.

[thetruescholar]

You must believe I wish for nothing more but your offer, yet I cannot take it. If I speak what I see of Dem- The Tsaritsa, I will die. I wish to hold my tongue on her infectious nature no longer.

Do not worry for me, I know now of alternative solution. It is unideal, yet necessary. May I ask you one request? I am unhappy, but if you are asked of me report my happiness as satisfactory. Common people find comfort in such, pathetic.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

I will, if asked by anyone aware of your current life. But if someone, say Prime, were to ask me about you, I will report you are dead, with no body found. Is that what you wish?

[thetruescholar]

How clever and kind! Yes, keep details short to him. Ah, how refreshing, to tell what I have witnessed for years. Tell me Luna, have you known Prime and Demo- Her Majesty once were dating? I fear such has been infecting him.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Oh? I was never aware of such a scandal, being rather new. I must admit, I’m not aware of most of the lab’s history, only that of which is relevant to me. Though, I suppose once I have mastery over time, I’ll have to sit down and read through all the records, along with everything else in the labs.

[thetruescholar]

Such history I tell you goes unwritten. I have seen most deplorable behavior of Prime and all harbingers, behavior that is grounds for disposal if I am to enact it. Few segments too have become infected by love, Webby is among them. Good riddance, I knew early of his faultiness.

I am only one who dislikes such behavior, I refuse to partake. For my refusal, I hold no further use to the Fatui's goals. Ah, you are one of few I do not believe to become infected. In a happier world, if I may make my developing mind palace real, I would invite you as most valued scientist on team.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. A shame that other segments have become afflicted with empathy and compassion, it is an unnecessary evil. I appreciate that you would invite me to join you as well in some other world, but sadly, we do not exist in that world.

[thetruescholar]

You and I are only two against many, we cannot create such a world. I must wonder how this disease has become a comfort. Is the fleeting desire for relief worth lacking efficiency? Ah, I have never had such "fleeting relief", look at how useful I became. I see clearly, they refuse to.

How hypocritical as well, such unnecessary evil has been unsuccessfully forced upon me. Yet I cannot return the favor with more noble ideals, no, I am beaten to brink of death. Look.

She hikes up one side of her skirts up to her mid thigh. All around her leg are jagged surgical scars, especially around her knee. This explains her new limp.

They deem such injury a victory to their empathy. I will never walk without pain again.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment tilted his head at Natalia’s scars, observing. •~•~•

A shame that your injury didn’t happen under my watch, your leg would’ve had much better care. That looks like they let a five-year-old loose and told them to have at it.

And back to that topic of empathy, I believe most allow themselves to be infected as it brings comfort in such short and fleeting lives. Pitiful that they take comfort in this instead of doing anything productive and making a difference in this loathsome world.

[thetruescholar]

Bimarstan doctors are most poorly trained, I cannot expect for skill in medicine from an Akademiya run hospital. The youngest segment I trust more as a doctor for my issue, yet how unfortunate, I exist now in constant pain.

It certainly looks like her leg aches, and she has to grip the edge of a dining chair as it begins to shake from the pressure she puts on it. She’s always been very good at hiding when she’s unwell, she has to, but the slightest wince comes across her face.

Comfort is no more than a lie. Ah how horrid I feel to give up, in my age and condition I can make no more change to such a loathsome world. I may remain unheard, hated, or pitied. Empathy has rotted out eyes and ears of common people, they will pity me now for my pain with no responsibility for their ways to have caused it.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Well, I could attempt to have a look at it, potentially even ease your pain. I may be a god, but I’m still a segment, and a rather good one at that.

[thetruescholar]

Why would you bother such?

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Fear not, I am not being infected with empathy, you simply have less use when you cannot so much as properly walk.

[thetruescholar]

I have no use when I cannot accept loyalty to the wider Fatui further. No matter, I am to die like Alpha, no use to repair what has outlived use.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Pitiful that you won’t even accept a helping hand, really. Fine, if you insist, I will leave you to your own devices here.

•~•~• The Luna segment crossed his arms, leaning back. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

She was never the type to accept a helping hand anyway. There's no hand for her when she sat on the floor by Dottore's throne. She stumbles over to old, weather worn records on forbidden knowledge and takes one off the shelf.

Have you considered the scientific benefit of another method to probe into forbidden knowledge? The Akashic System of the Akademiya was quite advanced, how high the bribes must have been for the few smartest scientists of it. Yet must we harvest from a hivemind further? Is such knowledge accessible other routes?

How saddening human experimentation with abyssal amalgamation is frowned upon. Zandik must be disappointed.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

I have not considered another method, no, but I should likely look into that for my own benefit and the benefit of the Fatui. Zandik would be greatly disappointed.

•~•~• Lunattore stood up, having to crouch a bit so he didn’t hit his head on the ceiling, following Natalia over to the shelf of records. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

The Fatui deserves no more of your work or mine. They no longer think with their heads, ah I could amputate all of them above the waist, no detrimental effect will be caused, no difference to workflow rate.

The records look like she stole them out of the ruins of Deshret's kingdom. She probably did.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment pulled out a tome, thumbing through its contents. •~•~•

Hm. Perhaps you are right, perhaps none of us owe the Fatui anything, though none of us segments would be here if it weren’t for Lord Pierro saving the original, and we are all indebted to him and Her Majesty’s cause for that reason.

[thetruescholar]

You still hold yourself to an old debt? How pathetic. If Her Majesty is no longer serving our goals, we hold no obligation to tolerate her. She no longer follows her ideals, Harbingers are dying at alarming rates. How fortunate I will die alone in obscurity.

It's Deshret's old experiment records in his attempt to get Nabu Malikata back. Though sandwiched within the pages are newer notes from Natalia, with drawn schematics of a sort of probe into the abyss to record and process knowledge. And knowing her, it's something using humans, cybernetics, and bits of dead gods.

What I do not perform cannot be held against me. I must wonder if such experiment is enactable within a "mind palace". Thoughts are unpunishable.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment flipped through the pages, still holding conversation without holding eye contact. •~•~•

Though it is an old debt, it is a debt nonetheless, and a debt that most, if not all segments are obligated to pay back.

[thetruescholar]

Or what? I am done paying to that woman and her poor organizational skills. Nothing holds me to her further, as far as I am known I am dead. Only benefit of that event.

She looks so smug to have outsmarted the debt.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Within a few weeks of @thetruescholar being stationed in Nod Krai, it’s clear to see why she’s been able to live so long. She brings results, and soon she runs up to the Luna segment with a heavy duty case.

Your request is completed and fully functional. Every system is tested thrice to ensure minimal if nonexistent failure!

Ah, thank you, Xi- Natalia. Your work is very well appreciated.

•~•~• The segment takes the case from Natalia, setting it on a nearby table to open it up. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

When he does, oh her work is as impressive as they say. The new arm is sleek and durable, colored black and blue. And just as he wanted, the hand allows him to summon a wall of lasers just to his specifications. The lasers are blue, of course, and quite deadly. And the reaction time is noticeably faster than his old arm’s.

The rhythmic click of Natalia’s heels is easily audible as she bounces up and down on them like a schoolgirl awaiting praise. She has the smile to match. It’s almost adorable, if she wasn’t a grown lady.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The segment began to attach the arm, flexing the fingers as it connected. •~•~•

This is some fine work, Natalia. The reaction time is almost instantaneous, and the design is quite sleek. I understand now why you’re one of Prime’s favorites.

[thetruescholar]

Oh how kind! For someone as smart as you, self repair ment will be no hassle. I will report your good work to Prime on my return, it is least I can do to repay you for your appreciation.

She leaves just as fast as she came, and he doesn’t hear anything about her… until one day a letter comes to all segments stationed in Nod Krai, saying she has passed away honorably in the line of duty. It doesn’t seem right, Natalia wouldn’t go out like that.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• Hm. That… doesn’t seem right. Natalia wasn’t usually on the front lines, and had been in good standing with Prime. The whole thing seemed… abnormal… •~•~•

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment had to conceal himself as an average segment, transferring his conscience to a more normal appearing segment body that was lying in the lab. He first searched Fontaine, asking around the Research Institute of Kinetic Energy Engineering. Once that search turned a blank, off to Mondstadt to search Springvale, as it was a peaceful little village, and Mondstadt City, only to also find nothing there. He moved onto Sumeru, first checking Aaru Village and working his way inwards towards the forest, asking if anyone has seen “a tall woman with blue hair and a snarky attitude.” •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

Lucky for him, that question turns up some responses. And even luckier, she's easy to find in Sumeru City. She has changed so drastically since she "died", and in such a short time too. Her blue curls cut short by her chin, her ears holding feather earrings. And even her clothes, she doesn't dress like a segment anymore. But it is still her, even if she no longer wears her mask. Now that her eyes are uncovered, everyone can see her eyebags show a life of overwork.

She'd make Dottore Prime proud with how she's just glaring up at the Akademiya.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment approached, looking like any other segment around the age of the Omega segment. He found Natalia in the Grand Bazaar, shopping for food. He approached silently from behind, and she couldn’t even hear him until he was directly behind her. He whispered as to not raise alarms with any common Sumerian citizens. •~•~•

What are you doing in Sumeru without any heads up? And why do you look so drastically different?

[thetruescholar]

Recognizing his voice, she turns to face him, and sighs. She grabs his arm and begins to lead him over to an empty corner. Something terrible happened to her, she can barely walk. Her long skirts can only hide so much of how her left leg lags along.

You missed no eventful funeral. How fortunate you are to not be in my situation. I can return to Prime’s side no longer, no, I am unwanted now. The Fatui is no place to continue my work. In my years of service I have watched worst plague of empathy come across them all. I did not come here willingly, yet you must understand why I remain.

The Fatui has failed once infected. We did not succeed in creation of a godless world. How shameful. Teyvat has fallen to ruin, worse than you know. A new god attempts to command us. He asked me to become happy, I informed him I follow orders of no deities.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Unwanted, you say? I don’t believe that to be true, I was finding rather nice use in having you around the lab. And the creation of a new world is not yet over, it is merely beginning. Come back to Nod Krai, Natalia. You still have use, and you needn’t follow the commands of this new deity. I am the only deity required.

[thetruescholar]

My methods of work and thought no longer align with those in charge. You must believe me, the Harbingers are terminal with disease of empathy. Her Majesty has propagated it. If I am to return to serving, I will be murdered for any attempt at a cure to their ailment. I know it is so.

She looks around wildly, before leaning to whisper into Luna’s ear.

This new god, Kaleb, I fear he has done irreparable damage to systems in Teyvat. New world is completed.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment gives a short hum in agreement, whispering back. •~•~•

From what I’ve heard of that one from the Prime, yes, he has done quite the amount of damage. But fear not, I can figure out how to fix it. And you don’t need to return to the Fatui as a whole, you can simply return to my labs, I won’t say a peep of your return.

[thetruescholar]

Come.

The next place she drags him is an unassuming little house in the city. She sets her groceries down on her kitchen counter, and then shoves him into the dining room chairs. She still keeps her voice quiet.

How unaware you are of corruption of the higher ups. I am vigilant, I will tell you now. Kaleb is not my only threat, no, there is another man within the Fatui. I fear my recent nightmare is a warning.

Second biggest source of empathy infection is the House of Hearth’s new director Loki. He is unbound, uncontrolled, and corrupts all with his promiscuity. In my nightmare, my growing dislike of Her Majesty triggered reaction within him to torture me to brink of death. I will not act foolishly now, I am sorry. I cannot return to Fatui service nor our occupied areas.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment’s form grew out to what he normally looked like now that he didn’t have to blend into crowds, sitting down dining room chair with his head still almost hitting the ceiling. •~•~•

I see, I see. Then, in that case, I won’t pester you to rejoin, though I hope you understand it is quite the loss to not have you in the labs. But, still, I won’t force you to.

[thetruescholar]

You must believe I wish for nothing more but your offer, yet I cannot take it. If I speak what I see of Dem- The Tsaritsa, I will die. I wish to hold my tongue on her infectious nature no longer.

Do not worry for me, I know now of alternative solution. It is unideal, yet necessary. May I ask you one request? I am unhappy, but if you are asked of me report my happiness as satisfactory. Common people find comfort in such, pathetic.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

I will, if asked by anyone aware of your current life. But if someone, say Prime, were to ask me about you, I will report you are dead, with no body found. Is that what you wish?

[thetruescholar]

How clever and kind! Yes, keep details short to him. Ah, how refreshing, to tell what I have witnessed for years. Tell me Luna, have you known Prime and Demo- Her Majesty once were dating? I fear such has been infecting him.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Oh? I was never aware of such a scandal, being rather new. I must admit, I’m not aware of most of the lab’s history, only that of which is relevant to me. Though, I suppose once I have mastery over time, I’ll have to sit down and read through all the records, along with everything else in the labs.

[thetruescholar]

Such history I tell you goes unwritten. I have seen most deplorable behavior of Prime and all harbingers, behavior that is grounds for disposal if I am to enact it. Few segments too have become infected by love, Webby is among them. Good riddance, I knew early of his faultiness.

I am only one who dislikes such behavior, I refuse to partake. For my refusal, I hold no further use to the Fatui's goals. Ah, you are one of few I do not believe to become infected. In a happier world, if I may make my developing mind palace real, I would invite you as most valued scientist on team.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. A shame that other segments have become afflicted with empathy and compassion, it is an unnecessary evil. I appreciate that you would invite me to join you as well in some other world, but sadly, we do not exist in that world.

[thetruescholar]

You and I are only two against many, we cannot create such a world. I must wonder how this disease has become a comfort. Is the fleeting desire for relief worth lacking efficiency? Ah, I have never had such "fleeting relief", look at how useful I became. I see clearly, they refuse to.

How hypocritical as well, such unnecessary evil has been unsuccessfully forced upon me. Yet I cannot return the favor with more noble ideals, no, I am beaten to brink of death. Look.

She hikes up one side of her skirts up to her mid thigh. All around her leg are jagged surgical scars, especially around her knee. This explains her new limp.

They deem such injury a victory to their empathy. I will never walk without pain again.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment tilted his head at Natalia’s scars, observing. •~•~•

A shame that your injury didn’t happen under my watch, your leg would’ve had much better care. That looks like they let a five-year-old loose and told them to have at it.

And back to that topic of empathy, I believe most allow themselves to be infected as it brings comfort in such short and fleeting lives. Pitiful that they take comfort in this instead of doing anything productive and making a difference in this loathsome world.

[thetruescholar]

Bimarstan doctors are most poorly trained, I cannot expect for skill in medicine from an Akademiya run hospital. The youngest segment I trust more as a doctor for my issue, yet how unfortunate, I exist now in constant pain.

It certainly looks like her leg aches, and she has to grip the edge of a dining chair as it begins to shake from the pressure she puts on it. She’s always been very good at hiding when she’s unwell, she has to, but the slightest wince comes across her face.

Comfort is no more than a lie. Ah how horrid I feel to give up, in my age and condition I can make no more change to such a loathsome world. I may remain unheard, hated, or pitied. Empathy has rotted out eyes and ears of common people, they will pity me now for my pain with no responsibility for their ways to have caused it.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Well, I could attempt to have a look at it, potentially even ease your pain. I may be a god, but I’m still a segment, and a rather good one at that.

[thetruescholar]

Why would you bother such?

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Fear not, I am not being infected with empathy, you simply have less use when you cannot so much as properly walk.

[thetruescholar]

I have no use when I cannot accept loyalty to the wider Fatui further. No matter, I am to die like Alpha, no use to repair what has outlived use.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Pitiful that you won’t even accept a helping hand, really. Fine, if you insist, I will leave you to your own devices here.

•~•~• The Luna segment crossed his arms, leaning back. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

She was never the type to accept a helping hand anyway. There's no hand for her when she sat on the floor by Dottore's throne. She stumbles over to old, weather worn records on forbidden knowledge and takes one off the shelf.

Have you considered the scientific benefit of another method to probe into forbidden knowledge? The Akashic System of the Akademiya was quite advanced, how high the bribes must have been for the few smartest scientists of it. Yet must we harvest from a hivemind further? Is such knowledge accessible other routes?

How saddening human experimentation with abyssal amalgamation is frowned upon. Zandik must be disappointed.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

I have not considered another method, no, but I should likely look into that for my own benefit and the benefit of the Fatui. Zandik would be greatly disappointed.

•~•~• Lunattore stood up, having to crouch a bit so he didn’t hit his head on the ceiling, following Natalia over to the shelf of records. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

The Fatui deserves no more of your work or mine. They no longer think with their heads, ah I could amputate all of them above the waist, no detrimental effect will be caused, no difference to workflow rate.

The records look like she stole them out of the ruins of Deshret's kingdom. She probably did.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment pulled out a tome, thumbing through its contents. •~•~•

Hm. Perhaps you are right, perhaps none of us owe the Fatui anything, though none of us segments would be here if it weren’t for Lord Pierro saving the original, and we are all indebted to him and Her Majesty’s cause for that reason.

[thetruescholar]

You still hold yourself to an old debt? How pathetic. If Her Majesty is no longer serving our goals, we hold no obligation to tolerate her. She no longer follows her ideals, Harbingers are dying at alarming rates. How fortunate I will die alone in obscurity.

It's Deshret's old experiment records in his attempt to get Nabu Malikata back. Though sandwiched within the pages are newer notes from Natalia, with drawn schematics of a sort of probe into the abyss to record and process knowledge. And knowing her, it's something using humans, cybernetics, and bits of dead gods.

What I do not perform cannot be held against me. I must wonder if such experiment is enactable within a "mind palace". Thoughts are unpunishable.

[thetruescholar]

*Hands Her Columbina*.

She just glares at Columbina.

Why have you come to find me? I refuse return.

[wanderingtracerealm-deactivated]

Columbina happen to find Miss Natalia when going for a walk.

I am not going to bring you back... I promise... but i am glad your doing well Miss Natalia.

[thetruescholar]

It’s weird to find Lady Natalia all the way in Sumeru, even stranger that she’s still alive. She looks down at Columbina with annoyance.

What do you require a visit for?

[wanderingtracerealm-deactivated]

Columbina looks up at Miss Natalia.

I came to sumeru to visit the dendro archon... but on way... I happen to see you.

[thetruescholar]

How crass, you have no need to remind me I have no chance of disguise. Tell the higher ups I am dead. If they are to tell you otherwise, tell them I will not be returning. I no longer align with the Fatui's ideas, nor are they worthy of my further research.

She mumbles something, likely mean spirited, under her breath.

[wanderingtracerealm-deactivated]

Columbina was confused for a moment, she wasn't with the fatui anymore... but maybe Miss natalia didn't know that?

Columbina won't reveal Miss natalia 's location to the fatui, since she also wasn't in the fatui anymore.

[thetruescholar]

She was deemed "dead" a while back, she likely doesn't know of what's happened. Retirement for her doesn't seem as beneficial as it should be.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Within a few weeks of @thetruescholar being stationed in Nod Krai, it’s clear to see why she’s been able to live so long. She brings results, and soon she runs up to the Luna segment with a heavy duty case.

Your request is completed and fully functional. Every system is tested thrice to ensure minimal if nonexistent failure!

Ah, thank you, Xi- Natalia. Your work is very well appreciated.

•~•~• The segment takes the case from Natalia, setting it on a nearby table to open it up. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

When he does, oh her work is as impressive as they say. The new arm is sleek and durable, colored black and blue. And just as he wanted, the hand allows him to summon a wall of lasers just to his specifications. The lasers are blue, of course, and quite deadly. And the reaction time is noticeably faster than his old arm’s.

The rhythmic click of Natalia’s heels is easily audible as she bounces up and down on them like a schoolgirl awaiting praise. She has the smile to match. It’s almost adorable, if she wasn’t a grown lady.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The segment began to attach the arm, flexing the fingers as it connected. •~•~•

This is some fine work, Natalia. The reaction time is almost instantaneous, and the design is quite sleek. I understand now why you’re one of Prime’s favorites.

[thetruescholar]

Oh how kind! For someone as smart as you, self repair ment will be no hassle. I will report your good work to Prime on my return, it is least I can do to repay you for your appreciation.

She leaves just as fast as she came, and he doesn’t hear anything about her… until one day a letter comes to all segments stationed in Nod Krai, saying she has passed away honorably in the line of duty. It doesn’t seem right, Natalia wouldn’t go out like that.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• Hm. That… doesn’t seem right. Natalia wasn’t usually on the front lines, and had been in good standing with Prime. The whole thing seemed… abnormal… •~•~•

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment had to conceal himself as an average segment, transferring his conscience to a more normal appearing segment body that was lying in the lab. He first searched Fontaine, asking around the Research Institute of Kinetic Energy Engineering. Once that search turned a blank, off to Mondstadt to search Springvale, as it was a peaceful little village, and Mondstadt City, only to also find nothing there. He moved onto Sumeru, first checking Aaru Village and working his way inwards towards the forest, asking if anyone has seen “a tall woman with blue hair and a snarky attitude.” •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

Lucky for him, that question turns up some responses. And even luckier, she's easy to find in Sumeru City. She has changed so drastically since she "died", and in such a short time too. Her blue curls cut short by her chin, her ears holding feather earrings. And even her clothes, she doesn't dress like a segment anymore. But it is still her, even if she no longer wears her mask. Now that her eyes are uncovered, everyone can see her eyebags show a life of overwork.

She'd make Dottore Prime proud with how she's just glaring up at the Akademiya.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment approached, looking like any other segment around the age of the Omega segment. He found Natalia in the Grand Bazaar, shopping for food. He approached silently from behind, and she couldn’t even hear him until he was directly behind her. He whispered as to not raise alarms with any common Sumerian citizens. •~•~•

What are you doing in Sumeru without any heads up? And why do you look so drastically different?

[thetruescholar]

Recognizing his voice, she turns to face him, and sighs. She grabs his arm and begins to lead him over to an empty corner. Something terrible happened to her, she can barely walk. Her long skirts can only hide so much of how her left leg lags along.

You missed no eventful funeral. How fortunate you are to not be in my situation. I can return to Prime’s side no longer, no, I am unwanted now. The Fatui is no place to continue my work. In my years of service I have watched worst plague of empathy come across them all. I did not come here willingly, yet you must understand why I remain.

The Fatui has failed once infected. We did not succeed in creation of a godless world. How shameful. Teyvat has fallen to ruin, worse than you know. A new god attempts to command us. He asked me to become happy, I informed him I follow orders of no deities.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Unwanted, you say? I don’t believe that to be true, I was finding rather nice use in having you around the lab. And the creation of a new world is not yet over, it is merely beginning. Come back to Nod Krai, Natalia. You still have use, and you needn’t follow the commands of this new deity. I am the only deity required.

[thetruescholar]

My methods of work and thought no longer align with those in charge. You must believe me, the Harbingers are terminal with disease of empathy. Her Majesty has propagated it. If I am to return to serving, I will be murdered for any attempt at a cure to their ailment. I know it is so.

She looks around wildly, before leaning to whisper into Luna’s ear.

This new god, Kaleb, I fear he has done irreparable damage to systems in Teyvat. New world is completed.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment gives a short hum in agreement, whispering back. •~•~•

From what I’ve heard of that one from the Prime, yes, he has done quite the amount of damage. But fear not, I can figure out how to fix it. And you don’t need to return to the Fatui as a whole, you can simply return to my labs, I won’t say a peep of your return.

[thetruescholar]

Come.

The next place she drags him is an unassuming little house in the city. She sets her groceries down on her kitchen counter, and then shoves him into the dining room chairs. She still keeps her voice quiet.

How unaware you are of corruption of the higher ups. I am vigilant, I will tell you now. Kaleb is not my only threat, no, there is another man within the Fatui. I fear my recent nightmare is a warning.

Second biggest source of empathy infection is the House of Hearth’s new director Loki. He is unbound, uncontrolled, and corrupts all with his promiscuity. In my nightmare, my growing dislike of Her Majesty triggered reaction within him to torture me to brink of death. I will not act foolishly now, I am sorry. I cannot return to Fatui service nor our occupied areas.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment’s form grew out to what he normally looked like now that he didn’t have to blend into crowds, sitting down dining room chair with his head still almost hitting the ceiling. •~•~•

I see, I see. Then, in that case, I won’t pester you to rejoin, though I hope you understand it is quite the loss to not have you in the labs. But, still, I won’t force you to.

[thetruescholar]

You must believe I wish for nothing more but your offer, yet I cannot take it. If I speak what I see of Dem- The Tsaritsa, I will die. I wish to hold my tongue on her infectious nature no longer.

Do not worry for me, I know now of alternative solution. It is unideal, yet necessary. May I ask you one request? I am unhappy, but if you are asked of me report my happiness as satisfactory. Common people find comfort in such, pathetic.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

I will, if asked by anyone aware of your current life. But if someone, say Prime, were to ask me about you, I will report you are dead, with no body found. Is that what you wish?

[thetruescholar]

How clever and kind! Yes, keep details short to him. Ah, how refreshing, to tell what I have witnessed for years. Tell me Luna, have you known Prime and Demo- Her Majesty once were dating? I fear such has been infecting him.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Oh? I was never aware of such a scandal, being rather new. I must admit, I’m not aware of most of the lab’s history, only that of which is relevant to me. Though, I suppose once I have mastery over time, I’ll have to sit down and read through all the records, along with everything else in the labs.

[thetruescholar]

Such history I tell you goes unwritten. I have seen most deplorable behavior of Prime and all harbingers, behavior that is grounds for disposal if I am to enact it. Few segments too have become infected by love, Webby is among them. Good riddance, I knew early of his faultiness.

I am only one who dislikes such behavior, I refuse to partake. For my refusal, I hold no further use to the Fatui's goals. Ah, you are one of few I do not believe to become infected. In a happier world, if I may make my developing mind palace real, I would invite you as most valued scientist on team.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. A shame that other segments have become afflicted with empathy and compassion, it is an unnecessary evil. I appreciate that you would invite me to join you as well in some other world, but sadly, we do not exist in that world.

[thetruescholar]

You and I are only two against many, we cannot create such a world. I must wonder how this disease has become a comfort. Is the fleeting desire for relief worth lacking efficiency? Ah, I have never had such "fleeting relief", look at how useful I became. I see clearly, they refuse to.

How hypocritical as well, such unnecessary evil has been unsuccessfully forced upon me. Yet I cannot return the favor with more noble ideals, no, I am beaten to brink of death. Look.

She hikes up one side of her skirts up to her mid thigh. All around her leg are jagged surgical scars, especially around her knee. This explains her new limp.

They deem such injury a victory to their empathy. I will never walk without pain again.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment tilted his head at Natalia’s scars, observing. •~•~•

A shame that your injury didn’t happen under my watch, your leg would’ve had much better care. That looks like they let a five-year-old loose and told them to have at it.

And back to that topic of empathy, I believe most allow themselves to be infected as it brings comfort in such short and fleeting lives. Pitiful that they take comfort in this instead of doing anything productive and making a difference in this loathsome world.

[thetruescholar]

Bimarstan doctors are most poorly trained, I cannot expect for skill in medicine from an Akademiya run hospital. The youngest segment I trust more as a doctor for my issue, yet how unfortunate, I exist now in constant pain.

It certainly looks like her leg aches, and she has to grip the edge of a dining chair as it begins to shake from the pressure she puts on it. She’s always been very good at hiding when she’s unwell, she has to, but the slightest wince comes across her face.

Comfort is no more than a lie. Ah how horrid I feel to give up, in my age and condition I can make no more change to such a loathsome world. I may remain unheard, hated, or pitied. Empathy has rotted out eyes and ears of common people, they will pity me now for my pain with no responsibility for their ways to have caused it.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Well, I could attempt to have a look at it, potentially even ease your pain. I may be a god, but I’m still a segment, and a rather good one at that.

[thetruescholar]

Why would you bother such?

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Fear not, I am not being infected with empathy, you simply have less use when you cannot so much as properly walk.

[thetruescholar]

I have no use when I cannot accept loyalty to the wider Fatui further. No matter, I am to die like Alpha, no use to repair what has outlived use.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Pitiful that you won’t even accept a helping hand, really. Fine, if you insist, I will leave you to your own devices here.

•~•~• The Luna segment crossed his arms, leaning back. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

She was never the type to accept a helping hand anyway. There's no hand for her when she sat on the floor by Dottore's throne. She stumbles over to old, weather worn records on forbidden knowledge and takes one off the shelf.

Have you considered the scientific benefit of another method to probe into forbidden knowledge? The Akashic System of the Akademiya was quite advanced, how high the bribes must have been for the few smartest scientists of it. Yet must we harvest from a hivemind further? Is such knowledge accessible other routes?

How saddening human experimentation with abyssal amalgamation is frowned upon. Zandik must be disappointed.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

I have not considered another method, no, but I should likely look into that for my own benefit and the benefit of the Fatui. Zandik would be greatly disappointed.

•~•~• Lunattore stood up, having to crouch a bit so he didn’t hit his head on the ceiling, following Natalia over to the shelf of records. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

The Fatui deserves no more of your work or mine. They no longer think with their heads, ah I could amputate all of them above the waist, no detrimental effect will be caused, no difference to workflow rate.

The records look like she stole them out of the ruins of Deshret's kingdom. She probably did.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Within a few weeks of @thetruescholar being stationed in Nod Krai, it’s clear to see why she’s been able to live so long. She brings results, and soon she runs up to the Luna segment with a heavy duty case.

Your request is completed and fully functional. Every system is tested thrice to ensure minimal if nonexistent failure!

Ah, thank you, Xi- Natalia. Your work is very well appreciated.

•~•~• The segment takes the case from Natalia, setting it on a nearby table to open it up. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

When he does, oh her work is as impressive as they say. The new arm is sleek and durable, colored black and blue. And just as he wanted, the hand allows him to summon a wall of lasers just to his specifications. The lasers are blue, of course, and quite deadly. And the reaction time is noticeably faster than his old arm’s.

The rhythmic click of Natalia’s heels is easily audible as she bounces up and down on them like a schoolgirl awaiting praise. She has the smile to match. It’s almost adorable, if she wasn’t a grown lady.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The segment began to attach the arm, flexing the fingers as it connected. •~•~•

This is some fine work, Natalia. The reaction time is almost instantaneous, and the design is quite sleek. I understand now why you’re one of Prime’s favorites.

[thetruescholar]

Oh how kind! For someone as smart as you, self repair ment will be no hassle. I will report your good work to Prime on my return, it is least I can do to repay you for your appreciation.

She leaves just as fast as she came, and he doesn’t hear anything about her… until one day a letter comes to all segments stationed in Nod Krai, saying she has passed away honorably in the line of duty. It doesn’t seem right, Natalia wouldn’t go out like that.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• Hm. That… doesn’t seem right. Natalia wasn’t usually on the front lines, and had been in good standing with Prime. The whole thing seemed… abnormal… •~•~•

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment had to conceal himself as an average segment, transferring his conscience to a more normal appearing segment body that was lying in the lab. He first searched Fontaine, asking around the Research Institute of Kinetic Energy Engineering. Once that search turned a blank, off to Mondstadt to search Springvale, as it was a peaceful little village, and Mondstadt City, only to also find nothing there. He moved onto Sumeru, first checking Aaru Village and working his way inwards towards the forest, asking if anyone has seen “a tall woman with blue hair and a snarky attitude.” •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

Lucky for him, that question turns up some responses. And even luckier, she's easy to find in Sumeru City. She has changed so drastically since she "died", and in such a short time too. Her blue curls cut short by her chin, her ears holding feather earrings. And even her clothes, she doesn't dress like a segment anymore. But it is still her, even if she no longer wears her mask. Now that her eyes are uncovered, everyone can see her eyebags show a life of overwork.

She'd make Dottore Prime proud with how she's just glaring up at the Akademiya.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment approached, looking like any other segment around the age of the Omega segment. He found Natalia in the Grand Bazaar, shopping for food. He approached silently from behind, and she couldn’t even hear him until he was directly behind her. He whispered as to not raise alarms with any common Sumerian citizens. •~•~•

What are you doing in Sumeru without any heads up? And why do you look so drastically different?

[thetruescholar]

Recognizing his voice, she turns to face him, and sighs. She grabs his arm and begins to lead him over to an empty corner. Something terrible happened to her, she can barely walk. Her long skirts can only hide so much of how her left leg lags along.

You missed no eventful funeral. How fortunate you are to not be in my situation. I can return to Prime’s side no longer, no, I am unwanted now. The Fatui is no place to continue my work. In my years of service I have watched worst plague of empathy come across them all. I did not come here willingly, yet you must understand why I remain.

The Fatui has failed once infected. We did not succeed in creation of a godless world. How shameful. Teyvat has fallen to ruin, worse than you know. A new god attempts to command us. He asked me to become happy, I informed him I follow orders of no deities.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Unwanted, you say? I don’t believe that to be true, I was finding rather nice use in having you around the lab. And the creation of a new world is not yet over, it is merely beginning. Come back to Nod Krai, Natalia. You still have use, and you needn’t follow the commands of this new deity. I am the only deity required.

[thetruescholar]

My methods of work and thought no longer align with those in charge. You must believe me, the Harbingers are terminal with disease of empathy. Her Majesty has propagated it. If I am to return to serving, I will be murdered for any attempt at a cure to their ailment. I know it is so.

She looks around wildly, before leaning to whisper into Luna’s ear.

This new god, Kaleb, I fear he has done irreparable damage to systems in Teyvat. New world is completed.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment gives a short hum in agreement, whispering back. •~•~•

From what I’ve heard of that one from the Prime, yes, he has done quite the amount of damage. But fear not, I can figure out how to fix it. And you don’t need to return to the Fatui as a whole, you can simply return to my labs, I won’t say a peep of your return.

[thetruescholar]

Come.

The next place she drags him is an unassuming little house in the city. She sets her groceries down on her kitchen counter, and then shoves him into the dining room chairs. She still keeps her voice quiet.

How unaware you are of corruption of the higher ups. I am vigilant, I will tell you now. Kaleb is not my only threat, no, there is another man within the Fatui. I fear my recent nightmare is a warning.

Second biggest source of empathy infection is the House of Hearth’s new director Loki. He is unbound, uncontrolled, and corrupts all with his promiscuity. In my nightmare, my growing dislike of Her Majesty triggered reaction within him to torture me to brink of death. I will not act foolishly now, I am sorry. I cannot return to Fatui service nor our occupied areas.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment’s form grew out to what he normally looked like now that he didn’t have to blend into crowds, sitting down dining room chair with his head still almost hitting the ceiling. •~•~•

I see, I see. Then, in that case, I won’t pester you to rejoin, though I hope you understand it is quite the loss to not have you in the labs. But, still, I won’t force you to.

[thetruescholar]

You must believe I wish for nothing more but your offer, yet I cannot take it. If I speak what I see of Dem- The Tsaritsa, I will die. I wish to hold my tongue on her infectious nature no longer.

Do not worry for me, I know now of alternative solution. It is unideal, yet necessary. May I ask you one request? I am unhappy, but if you are asked of me report my happiness as satisfactory. Common people find comfort in such, pathetic.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

I will, if asked by anyone aware of your current life. But if someone, say Prime, were to ask me about you, I will report you are dead, with no body found. Is that what you wish?

[thetruescholar]

How clever and kind! Yes, keep details short to him. Ah, how refreshing, to tell what I have witnessed for years. Tell me Luna, have you known Prime and Demo- Her Majesty once were dating? I fear such has been infecting him.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Oh? I was never aware of such a scandal, being rather new. I must admit, I’m not aware of most of the lab’s history, only that of which is relevant to me. Though, I suppose once I have mastery over time, I’ll have to sit down and read through all the records, along with everything else in the labs.

[thetruescholar]

Such history I tell you goes unwritten. I have seen most deplorable behavior of Prime and all harbingers, behavior that is grounds for disposal if I am to enact it. Few segments too have become infected by love, Webby is among them. Good riddance, I knew early of his faultiness.

I am only one who dislikes such behavior, I refuse to partake. For my refusal, I hold no further use to the Fatui's goals. Ah, you are one of few I do not believe to become infected. In a happier world, if I may make my developing mind palace real, I would invite you as most valued scientist on team.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. A shame that other segments have become afflicted with empathy and compassion, it is an unnecessary evil. I appreciate that you would invite me to join you as well in some other world, but sadly, we do not exist in that world.

[thetruescholar]

You and I are only two against many, we cannot create such a world. I must wonder how this disease has become a comfort. Is the fleeting desire for relief worth lacking efficiency? Ah, I have never had such "fleeting relief", look at how useful I became. I see clearly, they refuse to.

How hypocritical as well, such unnecessary evil has been unsuccessfully forced upon me. Yet I cannot return the favor with more noble ideals, no, I am beaten to brink of death. Look.

She hikes up one side of her skirts up to her mid thigh. All around her leg are jagged surgical scars, especially around her knee. This explains her new limp.

They deem such injury a victory to their empathy. I will never walk without pain again.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment tilted his head at Natalia’s scars, observing. •~•~•

A shame that your injury didn’t happen under my watch, your leg would’ve had much better care. That looks like they let a five-year-old loose and told them to have at it.

And back to that topic of empathy, I believe most allow themselves to be infected as it brings comfort in such short and fleeting lives. Pitiful that they take comfort in this instead of doing anything productive and making a difference in this loathsome world.

[thetruescholar]

Bimarstan doctors are most poorly trained, I cannot expect for skill in medicine from an Akademiya run hospital. The youngest segment I trust more as a doctor for my issue, yet how unfortunate, I exist now in constant pain.

It certainly looks like her leg aches, and she has to grip the edge of a dining chair as it begins to shake from the pressure she puts on it. She’s always been very good at hiding when she’s unwell, she has to, but the slightest wince comes across her face.

Comfort is no more than a lie. Ah how horrid I feel to give up, in my age and condition I can make no more change to such a loathsome world. I may remain unheard, hated, or pitied. Empathy has rotted out eyes and ears of common people, they will pity me now for my pain with no responsibility for their ways to have caused it.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Well, I could attempt to have a look at it, potentially even ease your pain. I may be a god, but I’m still a segment, and a rather good one at that.

[thetruescholar]

Why would you bother such?

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Fear not, I am not being infected with empathy, you simply have less use when you cannot so much as properly walk.

[thetruescholar]

I have no use when I cannot accept loyalty to the wider Fatui further. No matter, I am to die like Alpha, no use to repair what has outlived use.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Pitiful that you won’t even accept a helping hand, really. Fine, if you insist, I will leave you to your own devices here.

•~•~• The Luna segment crossed his arms, leaning back. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

She was never the type to accept a helping hand anyway. There's no hand for her when she sat on the floor by Dottore's throne. She stumbles over to old, weather worn records on forbidden knowledge and takes one off the shelf.

Have you considered the scientific benefit of another method to probe into forbidden knowledge? The Akashic System of the Akademiya was quite advanced, how high the bribes must have been for the few smartest scientists of it. Yet must we harvest from a hivemind further? Is such knowledge accessible other routes?

How saddening human experimentation with abyssal amalgamation is frowned upon. Zandik must be disappointed.

[thetruescholar]

*Hands Her Columbina*.

She just glares at Columbina.

Why have you come to find me? I refuse return.

[wanderingtracerealm-deactivated]

Columbina happen to find Miss Natalia when going for a walk.

I am not going to bring you back... I promise... but i am glad your doing well Miss Natalia.

[thetruescholar]

It’s weird to find Lady Natalia all the way in Sumeru, even stranger that she’s still alive. She looks down at Columbina with annoyance.

What do you require a visit for?

[wanderingtracerealm-deactivated]

Columbina looks up at Miss Natalia.

I came to sumeru to visit the dendro archon... but on way... I happen to see you.

[thetruescholar]

How crass, you have no need to remind me I have no chance of disguise. Tell the higher ups I am dead. If they are to tell you otherwise, tell them I will not be returning. I no longer align with the Fatui's ideas, nor are they worthy of my further research.

She mumbles something, likely mean spirited, under her breath.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Within a few weeks of @thetruescholar being stationed in Nod Krai, it’s clear to see why she’s been able to live so long. She brings results, and soon she runs up to the Luna segment with a heavy duty case.

Your request is completed and fully functional. Every system is tested thrice to ensure minimal if nonexistent failure!

Ah, thank you, Xi- Natalia. Your work is very well appreciated.

•~•~• The segment takes the case from Natalia, setting it on a nearby table to open it up. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

When he does, oh her work is as impressive as they say. The new arm is sleek and durable, colored black and blue. And just as he wanted, the hand allows him to summon a wall of lasers just to his specifications. The lasers are blue, of course, and quite deadly. And the reaction time is noticeably faster than his old arm’s.

The rhythmic click of Natalia’s heels is easily audible as she bounces up and down on them like a schoolgirl awaiting praise. She has the smile to match. It’s almost adorable, if she wasn’t a grown lady.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The segment began to attach the arm, flexing the fingers as it connected. •~•~•

This is some fine work, Natalia. The reaction time is almost instantaneous, and the design is quite sleek. I understand now why you’re one of Prime’s favorites.

[thetruescholar]

Oh how kind! For someone as smart as you, self repair ment will be no hassle. I will report your good work to Prime on my return, it is least I can do to repay you for your appreciation.

She leaves just as fast as she came, and he doesn’t hear anything about her… until one day a letter comes to all segments stationed in Nod Krai, saying she has passed away honorably in the line of duty. It doesn’t seem right, Natalia wouldn’t go out like that.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• Hm. That… doesn’t seem right. Natalia wasn’t usually on the front lines, and had been in good standing with Prime. The whole thing seemed… abnormal… •~•~•

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment had to conceal himself as an average segment, transferring his conscience to a more normal appearing segment body that was lying in the lab. He first searched Fontaine, asking around the Research Institute of Kinetic Energy Engineering. Once that search turned a blank, off to Mondstadt to search Springvale, as it was a peaceful little village, and Mondstadt City, only to also find nothing there. He moved onto Sumeru, first checking Aaru Village and working his way inwards towards the forest, asking if anyone has seen “a tall woman with blue hair and a snarky attitude.” •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

Lucky for him, that question turns up some responses. And even luckier, she's easy to find in Sumeru City. She has changed so drastically since she "died", and in such a short time too. Her blue curls cut short by her chin, her ears holding feather earrings. And even her clothes, she doesn't dress like a segment anymore. But it is still her, even if she no longer wears her mask. Now that her eyes are uncovered, everyone can see her eyebags show a life of overwork.

She'd make Dottore Prime proud with how she's just glaring up at the Akademiya.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment approached, looking like any other segment around the age of the Omega segment. He found Natalia in the Grand Bazaar, shopping for food. He approached silently from behind, and she couldn’t even hear him until he was directly behind her. He whispered as to not raise alarms with any common Sumerian citizens. •~•~•

What are you doing in Sumeru without any heads up? And why do you look so drastically different?

[thetruescholar]

Recognizing his voice, she turns to face him, and sighs. She grabs his arm and begins to lead him over to an empty corner. Something terrible happened to her, she can barely walk. Her long skirts can only hide so much of how her left leg lags along.

You missed no eventful funeral. How fortunate you are to not be in my situation. I can return to Prime’s side no longer, no, I am unwanted now. The Fatui is no place to continue my work. In my years of service I have watched worst plague of empathy come across them all. I did not come here willingly, yet you must understand why I remain.

The Fatui has failed once infected. We did not succeed in creation of a godless world. How shameful. Teyvat has fallen to ruin, worse than you know. A new god attempts to command us. He asked me to become happy, I informed him I follow orders of no deities.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Unwanted, you say? I don’t believe that to be true, I was finding rather nice use in having you around the lab. And the creation of a new world is not yet over, it is merely beginning. Come back to Nod Krai, Natalia. You still have use, and you needn’t follow the commands of this new deity. I am the only deity required.

[thetruescholar]

My methods of work and thought no longer align with those in charge. You must believe me, the Harbingers are terminal with disease of empathy. Her Majesty has propagated it. If I am to return to serving, I will be murdered for any attempt at a cure to their ailment. I know it is so.

She looks around wildly, before leaning to whisper into Luna’s ear.

This new god, Kaleb, I fear he has done irreparable damage to systems in Teyvat. New world is completed.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment gives a short hum in agreement, whispering back. •~•~•

From what I’ve heard of that one from the Prime, yes, he has done quite the amount of damage. But fear not, I can figure out how to fix it. And you don’t need to return to the Fatui as a whole, you can simply return to my labs, I won’t say a peep of your return.

[thetruescholar]

Come.

The next place she drags him is an unassuming little house in the city. She sets her groceries down on her kitchen counter, and then shoves him into the dining room chairs. She still keeps her voice quiet.

How unaware you are of corruption of the higher ups. I am vigilant, I will tell you now. Kaleb is not my only threat, no, there is another man within the Fatui. I fear my recent nightmare is a warning.

Second biggest source of empathy infection is the House of Hearth’s new director Loki. He is unbound, uncontrolled, and corrupts all with his promiscuity. In my nightmare, my growing dislike of Her Majesty triggered reaction within him to torture me to brink of death. I will not act foolishly now, I am sorry. I cannot return to Fatui service nor our occupied areas.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment’s form grew out to what he normally looked like now that he didn’t have to blend into crowds, sitting down dining room chair with his head still almost hitting the ceiling. •~•~•

I see, I see. Then, in that case, I won’t pester you to rejoin, though I hope you understand it is quite the loss to not have you in the labs. But, still, I won’t force you to.

[thetruescholar]

You must believe I wish for nothing more but your offer, yet I cannot take it. If I speak what I see of Dem- The Tsaritsa, I will die. I wish to hold my tongue on her infectious nature no longer.

Do not worry for me, I know now of alternative solution. It is unideal, yet necessary. May I ask you one request? I am unhappy, but if you are asked of me report my happiness as satisfactory. Common people find comfort in such, pathetic.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

I will, if asked by anyone aware of your current life. But if someone, say Prime, were to ask me about you, I will report you are dead, with no body found. Is that what you wish?

[thetruescholar]

How clever and kind! Yes, keep details short to him. Ah, how refreshing, to tell what I have witnessed for years. Tell me Luna, have you known Prime and Demo- Her Majesty once were dating? I fear such has been infecting him.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Oh? I was never aware of such a scandal, being rather new. I must admit, I’m not aware of most of the lab’s history, only that of which is relevant to me. Though, I suppose once I have mastery over time, I’ll have to sit down and read through all the records, along with everything else in the labs.

[thetruescholar]

Such history I tell you goes unwritten. I have seen most deplorable behavior of Prime and all harbingers, behavior that is grounds for disposal if I am to enact it. Few segments too have become infected by love, Webby is among them. Good riddance, I knew early of his faultiness.

I am only one who dislikes such behavior, I refuse to partake. For my refusal, I hold no further use to the Fatui's goals. Ah, you are one of few I do not believe to become infected. In a happier world, if I may make my developing mind palace real, I would invite you as most valued scientist on team.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. A shame that other segments have become afflicted with empathy and compassion, it is an unnecessary evil. I appreciate that you would invite me to join you as well in some other world, but sadly, we do not exist in that world.

[thetruescholar]

You and I are only two against many, we cannot create such a world. I must wonder how this disease has become a comfort. Is the fleeting desire for relief worth lacking efficiency? Ah, I have never had such "fleeting relief", look at how useful I became. I see clearly, they refuse to.

How hypocritical as well, such unnecessary evil has been unsuccessfully forced upon me. Yet I cannot return the favor with more noble ideals, no, I am beaten to brink of death. Look.

She hikes up one side of her skirts up to her mid thigh. All around her leg are jagged surgical scars, especially around her knee. This explains her new limp.

They deem such injury a victory to their empathy. I will never walk without pain again.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment tilted his head at Natalia’s scars, observing. •~•~•

A shame that your injury didn’t happen under my watch, your leg would’ve had much better care. That looks like they let a five-year-old loose and told them to have at it.

And back to that topic of empathy, I believe most allow themselves to be infected as it brings comfort in such short and fleeting lives. Pitiful that they take comfort in this instead of doing anything productive and making a difference in this loathsome world.

[thetruescholar]

Bimarstan doctors are most poorly trained, I cannot expect for skill in medicine from an Akademiya run hospital. The youngest segment I trust more as a doctor for my issue, yet how unfortunate, I exist now in constant pain.

It certainly looks like her leg aches, and she has to grip the edge of a dining chair as it begins to shake from the pressure she puts on it. She’s always been very good at hiding when she’s unwell, she has to, but the slightest wince comes across her face.

Comfort is no more than a lie. Ah how horrid I feel to give up, in my age and condition I can make no more change to such a loathsome world. I may remain unheard, hated, or pitied. Empathy has rotted out eyes and ears of common people, they will pity me now for my pain with no responsibility for their ways to have caused it.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Well, I could attempt to have a look at it, potentially even ease your pain. I may be a god, but I’m still a segment, and a rather good one at that.

[thetruescholar]

Why would you bother such?

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Fear not, I am not being infected with empathy, you simply have less use when you cannot so much as properly walk.

[thetruescholar]

I have no use when I cannot accept loyalty to the wider Fatui further. No matter, I am to die like Alpha, no use to repair what has outlived use.

[thetruescholar]

*Hands Her Columbina*.

She just glares at Columbina.

Why have you come to find me? I refuse return.

[wanderingtracerealm-deactivated]

Columbina happen to find Miss Natalia when going for a walk.

I am not going to bring you back... I promise... but i am glad your doing well Miss Natalia.

[thetruescholar]

It’s weird to find Lady Natalia all the way in Sumeru, even stranger that she’s still alive. She looks down at Columbina with annoyance.

What do you require a visit for?

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Within a few weeks of @thetruescholar being stationed in Nod Krai, it’s clear to see why she’s been able to live so long. She brings results, and soon she runs up to the Luna segment with a heavy duty case.

Your request is completed and fully functional. Every system is tested thrice to ensure minimal if nonexistent failure!

Ah, thank you, Xi- Natalia. Your work is very well appreciated.

•~•~• The segment takes the case from Natalia, setting it on a nearby table to open it up. •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

When he does, oh her work is as impressive as they say. The new arm is sleek and durable, colored black and blue. And just as he wanted, the hand allows him to summon a wall of lasers just to his specifications. The lasers are blue, of course, and quite deadly. And the reaction time is noticeably faster than his old arm’s.

The rhythmic click of Natalia’s heels is easily audible as she bounces up and down on them like a schoolgirl awaiting praise. She has the smile to match. It’s almost adorable, if she wasn’t a grown lady.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The segment began to attach the arm, flexing the fingers as it connected. •~•~•

This is some fine work, Natalia. The reaction time is almost instantaneous, and the design is quite sleek. I understand now why you’re one of Prime’s favorites.

[thetruescholar]

Oh how kind! For someone as smart as you, self repair ment will be no hassle. I will report your good work to Prime on my return, it is least I can do to repay you for your appreciation.

She leaves just as fast as she came, and he doesn’t hear anything about her… until one day a letter comes to all segments stationed in Nod Krai, saying she has passed away honorably in the line of duty. It doesn’t seem right, Natalia wouldn’t go out like that.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• Hm. That… doesn’t seem right. Natalia wasn’t usually on the front lines, and had been in good standing with Prime. The whole thing seemed… abnormal… •~•~•

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment had to conceal himself as an average segment, transferring his conscience to a more normal appearing segment body that was lying in the lab. He first searched Fontaine, asking around the Research Institute of Kinetic Energy Engineering. Once that search turned a blank, off to Mondstadt to search Springvale, as it was a peaceful little village, and Mondstadt City, only to also find nothing there. He moved onto Sumeru, first checking Aaru Village and working his way inwards towards the forest, asking if anyone has seen “a tall woman with blue hair and a snarky attitude.” •~•~•

[thetruescholar]

Lucky for him, that question turns up some responses. And even luckier, she's easy to find in Sumeru City. She has changed so drastically since she "died", and in such a short time too. Her blue curls cut short by her chin, her ears holding feather earrings. And even her clothes, she doesn't dress like a segment anymore. But it is still her, even if she no longer wears her mask. Now that her eyes are uncovered, everyone can see her eyebags show a life of overwork.

She'd make Dottore Prime proud with how she's just glaring up at the Akademiya.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment approached, looking like any other segment around the age of the Omega segment. He found Natalia in the Grand Bazaar, shopping for food. He approached silently from behind, and she couldn’t even hear him until he was directly behind her. He whispered as to not raise alarms with any common Sumerian citizens. •~•~•

What are you doing in Sumeru without any heads up? And why do you look so drastically different?

[thetruescholar]

Recognizing his voice, she turns to face him, and sighs. She grabs his arm and begins to lead him over to an empty corner. Something terrible happened to her, she can barely walk. Her long skirts can only hide so much of how her left leg lags along.

You missed no eventful funeral. How fortunate you are to not be in my situation. I can return to Prime’s side no longer, no, I am unwanted now. The Fatui is no place to continue my work. In my years of service I have watched worst plague of empathy come across them all. I did not come here willingly, yet you must understand why I remain.

The Fatui has failed once infected. We did not succeed in creation of a godless world. How shameful. Teyvat has fallen to ruin, worse than you know. A new god attempts to command us. He asked me to become happy, I informed him I follow orders of no deities.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Unwanted, you say? I don’t believe that to be true, I was finding rather nice use in having you around the lab. And the creation of a new world is not yet over, it is merely beginning. Come back to Nod Krai, Natalia. You still have use, and you needn’t follow the commands of this new deity. I am the only deity required.

[thetruescholar]

My methods of work and thought no longer align with those in charge. You must believe me, the Harbingers are terminal with disease of empathy. Her Majesty has propagated it. If I am to return to serving, I will be murdered for any attempt at a cure to their ailment. I know it is so.

She looks around wildly, before leaning to whisper into Luna’s ear.

This new god, Kaleb, I fear he has done irreparable damage to systems in Teyvat. New world is completed.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment gives a short hum in agreement, whispering back. •~•~•

From what I’ve heard of that one from the Prime, yes, he has done quite the amount of damage. But fear not, I can figure out how to fix it. And you don’t need to return to the Fatui as a whole, you can simply return to my labs, I won’t say a peep of your return.

[thetruescholar]

Come.

The next place she drags him is an unassuming little house in the city. She sets her groceries down on her kitchen counter, and then shoves him into the dining room chairs. She still keeps her voice quiet.

How unaware you are of corruption of the higher ups. I am vigilant, I will tell you now. Kaleb is not my only threat, no, there is another man within the Fatui. I fear my recent nightmare is a warning.

Second biggest source of empathy infection is the House of Hearth’s new director Loki. He is unbound, uncontrolled, and corrupts all with his promiscuity. In my nightmare, my growing dislike of Her Majesty triggered reaction within him to torture me to brink of death. I will not act foolishly now, I am sorry. I cannot return to Fatui service nor our occupied areas.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment’s form grew out to what he normally looked like now that he didn’t have to blend into crowds, sitting down dining room chair with his head still almost hitting the ceiling. •~•~•

I see, I see. Then, in that case, I won’t pester you to rejoin, though I hope you understand it is quite the loss to not have you in the labs. But, still, I won’t force you to.

[thetruescholar]

You must believe I wish for nothing more but your offer, yet I cannot take it. If I speak what I see of Dem- The Tsaritsa, I will die. I wish to hold my tongue on her infectious nature no longer.

Do not worry for me, I know now of alternative solution. It is unideal, yet necessary. May I ask you one request? I am unhappy, but if you are asked of me report my happiness as satisfactory. Common people find comfort in such, pathetic.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

I will, if asked by anyone aware of your current life. But if someone, say Prime, were to ask me about you, I will report you are dead, with no body found. Is that what you wish?

[thetruescholar]

How clever and kind! Yes, keep details short to him. Ah, how refreshing, to tell what I have witnessed for years. Tell me Luna, have you known Prime and Demo- Her Majesty once were dating? I fear such has been infecting him.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Oh? I was never aware of such a scandal, being rather new. I must admit, I’m not aware of most of the lab’s history, only that of which is relevant to me. Though, I suppose once I have mastery over time, I’ll have to sit down and read through all the records, along with everything else in the labs.

[thetruescholar]

Such history I tell you goes unwritten. I have seen most deplorable behavior of Prime and all harbingers, behavior that is grounds for disposal if I am to enact it. Few segments too have become infected by love, Webby is among them. Good riddance, I knew early of his faultiness.

I am only one who dislikes such behavior, I refuse to partake. For my refusal, I hold no further use to the Fatui's goals. Ah, you are one of few I do not believe to become infected. In a happier world, if I may make my developing mind palace real, I would invite you as most valued scientist on team.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. A shame that other segments have become afflicted with empathy and compassion, it is an unnecessary evil. I appreciate that you would invite me to join you as well in some other world, but sadly, we do not exist in that world.

[thetruescholar]

You and I are only two against many, we cannot create such a world. I must wonder how this disease has become a comfort. Is the fleeting desire for relief worth lacking efficiency? Ah, I have never had such "fleeting relief", look at how useful I became. I see clearly, they refuse to.

How hypocritical as well, such unnecessary evil has been unsuccessfully forced upon me. Yet I cannot return the favor with more noble ideals, no, I am beaten to brink of death. Look.

She hikes up one side of her skirts up to her mid thigh. All around her leg are jagged surgical scars, especially around her knee. This explains her new limp.

They deem such injury a victory to their empathy. I will never walk without pain again.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

•~•~• The Luna segment tilted his head at Natalia’s scars, observing. •~•~•

A shame that your injury didn’t happen under my watch, your leg would’ve had much better care. That looks like they let a five-year-old loose and told them to have at it.

And back to that topic of empathy, I believe most allow themselves to be infected as it brings comfort in such short and fleeting lives. Pitiful that they take comfort in this instead of doing anything productive and making a difference in this loathsome world.

[thetruescholar]

Bimarstan doctors are most poorly trained, I cannot expect for skill in medicine from an Akademiya run hospital. The youngest segment I trust more as a doctor for my issue, yet how unfortunate, I exist now in constant pain.

It certainly looks like her leg aches, and she has to grip the edge of a dining chair as it begins to shake from the pressure she puts on it. She’s always been very good at hiding when she’s unwell, she has to, but the slightest wince comes across her face.

Comfort is no more than a lie. Ah how horrid I feel to give up, in my age and condition I can make no more change to such a loathsome world. I may remain unheard, hated, or pitied. Empathy has rotted out eyes and ears of common people, they will pity me now for my pain with no responsibility for their ways to have caused it.

[heretic-of-the-false-moon]

Hm. Well, I could attempt to have a look at it, potentially even ease your pain. I may be a god, but I’m still a segment, and a rather good one at that.

[thetruescholar]

Why would you bother such?

[thetruescholar]

They lived a simple life in nod krai, a small house simple meals... Before they were in ■■■■■ that was desolate and silent, a floating place in the sky.

But now they're in nod krai... They often go and explore many places to search for supplies and knowledge.

But they may have wandered a bit too much, nod krai is still new to them...

They're weren't supposed to be here... they weren't looking at the road properly and so they accidentally bumped into Lady Natalia by accident.

(Info about them: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MQTCieJZjHhM0a6YJOkecgSnzOIyDHmQBgKzToi0XPc/edit?usp=drivesdk )

Natalia looks at them, though they can't see her eyes under her mask.

Oh how brazen, gods here in Nod Krai.

[brieflyplatinumartisan-deactiva]

They looked up at the tall lady, realising that they bumped into her.

They quickly apologised to the tall lady...

Oh my heavens! I am so sorry for bumping you madam? Are you okay?

I wasn't looking where I was going....

Though they were confused about something... Them a god? No they weren't?

[thetruescholar]

If you uncovered those eyes, you may not face this error again.

That's rich coming from her, with a mask that covers her eyes and nose.

You are no god? Ah, more interdimensional entities, how befitting. The sky of Teyvat crumbles actively.

[brieflyplatinumartisan-deactiva]

i can still see.... it's just that... i can't really uncover my eyes... it's forbidden...

An interdimensional entity? No... I am just a normal person.

They saw themselves as normal... but the halo and mini wings... gave them away?

They always thought that it was normal to have those features.

[thetruescholar]

This tall lady has none of those features, not even a halo.

If you claim no interdimentionality, I am not a human clone.

[brieflyplatinumartisan-deactiva]

Well in my defense, you don't really look like a human clone...

They really didn't know that the tall lady was a clone of someone, but the tall lady does stand out from ordinary people.

[thetruescholar]

No human cloning projects exist outside Teyvat? How pathetic, take this and spread it.

From one of the bags hanging around her waist she pulls a roll of papers. She hands these papers to them. Unrolling them, they are a printed article on automated human cloning, and gives a term to Natalia here: Segment.

[brieflyplatinumartisan-deactiva]

They took a good look at the paper before realising that, this tall lady was a segment of someone.

But they didn't want to go and put those papers everywhere.

Humph! No I won't do it... Why should I? I don't even know you yet.

[thetruescholar]

Oh how pathetic, how glad I am to stay here on Teyvat.

She seems so smug at their anger.

[brieflyplatinumartisan-deactiva]

They weren't going to do it in the end... But they were curious about something.

If the tall lady was a segment... Whoses segment is she?

[thetruescholar]

She must be a segment of someone unkind, based on the way she’s acting.

[brieflyplatinumartisan-deactiva]

They wanted to ask... but they were too shy to say anything...

But to them Miss Natalia wasn't that bad, sure she's a bit different than most people.... But she's still interesting and mysterious.

[thetruescholar]

She takes a bag of mora out of her pocket too, dropping it into their hand.

Here, take a sweetener to my request.

[brieflyplatinumartisan-deactiva]

Huh?

They couldn't refuse it could they? If they did that would be extremely rude.

So in the end they took it.

[thetruescholar]

How obedient. Go on now, do as I ask.