[The Art post] [Other Pulcinella Headcanons] [Tsaritsa Cheatsheet]
My Tumblr fumbled so i had to do it this way im so sorry anon but Sooo many good questions to which I have many answers, A bit different to how I normally answer these but I think for these questions it would be best to bulletpoint them because of the range and slight inconsistencies as these range from 2 years to recent lore drops. brackets are used to put in where I've weaved in relevant game lore to connect it; a lot of repetition on that part but these are pulled from my notes with slight reorganisation for y’all to read through.
"I so badly wish to hear about the rooster. I can spot Layla and probably flins in the first art, I don't think they looked too flins and with you wanting him to be evil? I can only imagine the kind of fae beef happening there. I have to hear about the gay as fuck relationship pulcinella had with belyi tsar, I mean, tsar definitely picked the right fae for a relationship considering his daughter is an egg fae, was he also an egg fae or a different type entirely? Or are you saving that for when we get more information in the game?" - From Anon
Firstly, Yes, there are a few things I am waiting for from the Snezhnaya release [or more Nod-Krai Fae lore] because the Pulcinella and Tsaritsa stuff is going to be apart of the main story later down the track so some of my headcanons are still generalised and broad just so i can leave some room for my ‘weaving into the future lore' nonsense but i’ve been stewing on the Pulcinella/Belyi Tsar for 2 years already with no crumbs so Im glad i can share the Pulcinella fan lore I've created and have been stewing in.
cw. Implied grooming intentions to make a child [Egg!Tsaritsa] become the saviour of ones race; it's not explicitly stated but heavily implied.
Starting with my Pulcinella/Belyi Tsar tidbits :]
Like a prized Rooster, Pulcinella was kept as the Tsars favoured member of the Fae court long before he even came to power as an Archon.
These two existed come from the Arc. Their relationship though not explicitly stated for the public was a well known snowball romance; For the God-King whose dominion was Love- it was only expected for him to take the hand of someone as powerful as The Light Fae, Pulcinella.
Power couple of old Fae aristocracy
The Tsar wants him because of his ability to produce copious amounts of light energy and emotions
Pulcinella wants him because of his influential power, light affinity, and general strength
Both begin their relationship to basically use the other for their own gains and got unhealthily attached to each other during the rise and fall of the civilisations left behind after the original Kings’ [Reader] death cycle
Light [Which eventually gets diluted into its pyro base after HeavenlyPrinciples come to Teyvat] Fae Pulcinella
The Fire!Character x Ice!Character Inspiration is heavy here for them but it adds to the pipeline system to how I relate Nod-Krais’ departure from Snezhnaya to the heavy Hydro elements found there [like Columbina being Hydro out of all possible choices etc] - aka. nation formed as the Tsars and Pulcinellas love child state that rejected their parent nation
The Tsar keeps him on his lap in the throne room if Pulcinella in his Rooster form like a beloved royal pet
His name; Pulcinella, was gifted to him by the Belyi Tsar himself and marked his possession of the man that Pulcinella gladly allowed.
The whole concept of the Harbingers stem from Belyi Tsar's love for theatre and the Commedia Dell'arte that was passed down to the Tsaritsa [The relation to these two coming from off planet than originating from Teyvat post its creation and how so much of the theatre themes are so prominent within the harbingers]
With his position Pulcinella grew in political power and as human dignitaries appeared within the snowlands more and more often, introducing their inventions and ideas his influence grew and eventually spread across the continent allowing him to promote the Tsar's agenda.
Rooster facts and Dell'arte facts - Roosters look harmless from afar, but they can be awfully aggressive and possessive. The same can be said about Pulcinella and the character he's named after
However with the corrosion coming from the disappearance of Nibelung the Dragon King light energy had become unstable, old pieces of media becoming corrupt causing even the Tsar's favourite troupe to slowly lose its following and importance [Name importance and leylines being affected by increase of introduction of human population]
The Tsar acts as his passivity meter through syphoning the bursts of light energy and passion that radiates from him [Feeding off him but its a mutual symbiotic relationship - The Tsar is able to consume while Pulcinella can expel that excess power safely]
Political campaigns, widespread recruitment, and the assembly of Tsar's court following the Heavenly Principles inductions of the new world order [Laws and rules of Teyvat]
Delving into the lore realm now.
Pulcinella became… irked. irritated by the sudden dip into his territory, and the intrusion seriously ruffled his feathers, making him burst out in a powdery rage, a mix of scorching light burning away a couple of layers of ice
but comes to indoctrinate the interlopers in as his ‘flock’ [Him and the Tsar being the Roosters and all others considered the hens]
‘The Creator’ was a name placed on you and not only that, your Sovereigns, were reduced to nothing but your fancied courtesans and now they were expected to follow suit and deign their leaders with a similar system
Bound by his name possession- Pulcinella could only watch as the Tsar formally organised the creation of his assembly; the 6 Fae courts of Snezhnaya, which then split into two factions, High and low.
While Pulcinella was still the Tsars' right hand man and lover, the new waves of Fae entering their domain continually tested his boundaries
Fluffed to make himself look bigger, neatening his saddle feathers for the Tsar and sharpening his claws did nothing but make him more irritated
and to the humans who attempted to join the court - well, he did not bother with them much. Their lives were just a blink in comparison to his
until a Hyperborean woman fell from the skies before the two [Being ejected from a Temple - I've yet to decide which Heavenly principles domain but I am leaning towards Time seeing as Asmoday's temple functions through a mix of all 4 shades abilities-ish and Istaroth suddenly dropping a displaced Teyvatian so conveniently into the laps of the God-King Fae is an interesting concept that i want to explore concerning Venti and The Tsaritsas sudden split post Cataclysm that Venti mentions although Asmoday through her Ars Goetic name relation to the demon of lust is also a really good connection point- we will see.]
Pulcinella had caught her, being tossed up by the Tsar and let themselves slow fall down to the surface
Pulcinella could see her reaction the moment she saw the Tsar- whether it was true or from exposure to the God of Love's natural form of snow and ice sinking into her pores like an aphrodisiac, she’d become starry eyed with his lover [I do relate the Tsar to the concept of Greek Gods Aphrodite, Selene(who is a moon goddess for Nod-Krai relation point) and norse god Freyja (Mostly in part to her foresight that has good linking points to Preservation themes and of course Love)
She had been his only exception to curiosity, giving his permission when she'd returned to ask the Tsar if she, too, could join his court
She became the first empress of the Fae, beloved by all, even though she was a human
So, while he stood on the sidelines during this age of development for the kingdom, he allowed himself a brief moment to focus on furthering his original purposes of gaining the Tsar's favour out of bitter spite
Then the unexpected happened.
The Hyperborean woman came of child.
He'd been miffed, absolutely flabbergasted.
This woman was supposed to be but a fleeting fancy for the Tsar, not a permanent memory worthy of being preserved
he'd arrived back to the Zalpoyarny palace after his successful election to find the woman with a weak shelled shivering lumpy egg sat atop of her lap
He'd berated her and showed her how to properly care for an egg as precious as this
“You! You need to sit on it to keep it warm!” He frets, fluffing his hands to get her to sit up while removing his coat to wrap the poor thing in some insulating feathers “Move, woman! it is getting frigid!”
After some debate, the egg fell into his care, The Hyperborean woman did not have nearly enough body heat or light energy to supply the egg to keep it alive longer than what it had already endured.
In the end, the Hyperborean woman never got to see what came of the egg
Fae are born as their physical containment, then absorb their surrounding energy, siphoning the residual light from the environment itself
with the introduction of abyssal and elemental energy growing in excess while natural Light energy diminished - it took much longer than usual for the Tsaritsa; Anastasia, to form a corporeal [baby] form.
before the woman passed, she asked Pulcinella to promise something to her
which for a Fae of his calibre seemed like an opportunity he couldn't pass up as he watched her age
“For a price.” He says as the two of them sit in the front room, her trembling frostbitten fingers help in front of the flames of the hearth
“Your child and your name.” Pulcinella croons, rubbing his palm over the intricate designs, over the last few decades it had grown in size, shell hardening into a crystalised exoskeleton, the woman had called it a ‘Fabergé jewel’ during its development and he couldn't help but appreciate the fanciful title “I want this child and it shall replace you, your name will be forfeited and forgotten so theirs may prosper- give it to me and i'll make that promise to you”
He can forgive the Tsar for his dallying in human biology if it meant he got to keep this Fabergé egg as his own
She agreed in resignation, knowing full well what it meant to make a promise with Fae kin but knowing she was almost at the end of her line
“Promise me, promise me you'll protect them no matter what.” the frail old crone stated, holding out her hand to Pulcinella, the tips of her finger had long since gone black, being in the proximity to the Tsar was no easy task especially for a human “Promise that you will Love them no matter the circumstances, through the storm and beyond.”
her gaze hardens “promise to me that this egg will be your new purpose in life and death.”
Pulcinella narrows his eyes, glancing between her hand and the egg “...I promise.”
A golden hue burst when their hands meet through brief, a string forming and linking its way to wrap tight around their pinkies and looking around the Egg itself and imprinting on the healthy shell
She dies the morning after
She is buried within the grand cathedral encased in mountainous layers of permafrost, and he halts the nation's work for the day to mourn the fallen empress.
The door closes behind him as his heels click loudly on the tiles of the grand hall, the egg bundled in wolven furs within his arms a slow smile creeping onto his face the further he walks from the ceremonial event
“Such a shame your mother couldn't be with us forever” he whispers
“and a true fool to think I would ever come to harm the Tsar's own kin” the golden glow in his eyes glint “you will become the most powerful heir of the great God-King.”
he sucks in a breath as he feels the egg pulse before he feeds his light into the shell “You will be the one to destroy the Heavenly principles for us my dear. to topple the throne of Celestia- let us one day hope for your rise.”
And a little extras not too focused on Pulcinella but related to the arts or headcanons in the last post and above.
The above excerpts are based on the egg thief phenomenon that's present in some flocks where other hens steal the eggs of others, etc.
heavy on the Rooster aspects in these headcanons, but having an animal based fae like a rooster really intrigued me when i first started delving into Pulcinella with interest only to find nothing canon or fan wise :[ [a slight over exaggeration but how many people do you know talk about these two?]
I've thought fae since his visual release [mostly out of hope that they existent in the game eventually and because i mistakenly though klee was fae [still not convince she isn't somewhat otherkin but i wanna see kleiner first before i solidify those thoughts]
I do use Flins as a basis for Fae structuring since he'd all we had when Nod-Krai dropped, I also pull from other Fae based media, so some liberties taken
Still learning Linnea, so I'm still looking to include stuff from her too soon
Flins and Layla's appearance - Yes, that one piece is set back when Flins [and lil Layla] was still in Snezhnaya within the Tsar’s court before he passed and set Flin's free from his ties allowing both to subsequently flee to Nod-Krai [then during that transition Flins looses Layla etc. This Headcanon here]
Flins is dressed more as a Noble of the Tsar's court, so he's not exactly in his lightkeepers fit/coat, designed for what Nobel!Flins wore is still up in the air rn
There is very big beef between these two Fae in particular for good good reasons.
Pulcinella has been in mayoral power within Snezhnaya for over way over 4000 years by the time Flins even starts existing as a young azure flame which is derivative of the Light Fae lineage coming diluted with the newer elemental system
With Pulcinella as an elder of his originating clan [Light Fae - There are official names for the 6 clans but still learning about them so vague references] the factors revolves around the actions Pulcinella likely would have been known for within the Fae communities
Manipulating the government in his favour, ‘hens’ suddenly disappearing when he feels they're acting out of favour from the Tsar's [his] ideal vision of Love and the misuse of power [I'll be waiting on canon to add to this and his lists of crimes, so generalisations are made purposefully here]
For the Fae who lived beneath the Tsar, most if not all fell under the outer court or as Pulcinellas ‘hens’ within his flock and were not treated well, treated as fodder to fuel the Light/pyro furnaces [There was that old mention of giant furnaces that heat the cities in Snezhnaya] located around Snezhnaya or as stock characters in his grand elaborate play he'd conducted for the Tsar's entertainment [Dell'arte]
certain members had gripes about it [Flins], but with the god-king Fae owning all Fae names at that time, he had no freedom to act upon it and rebel
Until the Tsar's death during the Cataclysm.
All members of the Tsars' inner court, apart from Pulcinella, die due to the sudden connection of disintegration and fragility of the bonds
He receives a large power decrease, abilities malfunctioning, and loses his affinity for light energy
He survives only because he'd made that promise to Live for The egg; or, The Tsaritsa.
She becomes his lifeline - one that is extremely fragile but still so knowledgeable
The Egg. The Tsaritsas Fae form- her physical form container [Like Flins’ lamp] is a faberge Egg after talking with a friend about alternative ‘containers’ for her while her pure elemental form is the theorised eternal snow storm that permeates Snezhnaya [Like Flin's flame]
As for the Belyi Tsar, originally I thought he’d be the Cryo Dragon Sovereign and some of those elements still do present themselves on some of my newer headcanons I've developed with the information we've been trickled.
I've have since recycled that Headcanon or concept as seen with The Tsaritsas form still being an egg but not any dragon aesthetics rather the egg form more focuses on what an egg is supposed to represent through symbolism and having Snezhnayan [or its earth inspiration of West European and Russian elements] present
also since i first thought of the idea I've definitely grown in my ability to do more research into my interests and theory crafting based on mythology and the games inspirations, finding more palpable points of connection than ‘i like dragons, hes now a dragon’ Headcanons i had for every media
Existence of Original characters; The type of World building I delve into requires having more than just the main cast with how expansive it all is and the massive thoughts i have so original characters or things that may be considered OOC are prominent in most of the base character building i do when it comes to backgrounds
There are different levels of it that are present, like building on only mentioned chars. like Sohreh, Unreleased like The Tsaritsa, like the Miliastra twins who should realistically be blank slates but aren't, to fully creating family members, friends, or companions for pre-existing Chars like the above
And I think that’s it for my notes on Pulcinella for the time being, Thanks for reading this far, ya'll know where to ask if any of the points above sound interesting for follow up questions or an expansion on any of these concepts - originally finished this at 1.5k but kept going back to add thinks as i was editing
No one needs to ask permission to adopt any of this into their headcanons either, btw. This whole blog is free for use, and seeing others create or expand on anything w the passion of a snail or road runner is so cool to see. I'm aware I thank ya'll a lot, but I just like encouraging others to create for themselves, do tell me your thoughts on this if you have anything to add :] Have a good day!
Isekai/SAGAU x Creator!Reader World Building based on Temple of Space Area
[This is Spoiler heavy for the area so it's under the 'See more']
Using in-game text screenshots, to relate it to general concepts and ideas present in Isekai and SAGAU to basically theory craft an immersive 'x Reader' Genshin timeline since people have asked for my notes on how I develop and keep things consistent for the fic series. Done in dotpoint formatting, doodles, ramble writing - some of it's rough. [Part 1 - The Info dump]
Do please ignore if it's not your vibe - it's not a fic, drabble, or imagine.
This really is just the theorycrafting "I connected the dots" note i meta gameimg writing to aid in making my silly little fics so they flow better :] Thank you! and uh, you'll need to Zoom in for the images... so sorry. Edit - A day late, i kept adding to this over the past 12 hours as i continue exploring and talking to the characters and reading things
The images are all rambly notes, I've written out how im interwing everything in from what ive gotten from the quest and area below these so it is subject to change as the game itself develops
Isekai/SAGAU [Self Aware] [Venti, Columbina, Ineffa, and Baizhu] thoughts
Venti being so apprehensive to go visit Auntie Asmoday at the Temple of Space - the last time he faced her was during the Cataclysm where she and Istaroth called upon him. but you've chosen him for your team the moment Dorman Port opened up
hes leading the team, your main so to say
Aether, Paimon, [and the other team members handpicked by you; Columbina, Ineffa, and Baizhu] following closely behind as you're lead
but you've given him a pretty new bow, a new artifact set, and had been there when he took back some of his power not too long ago
He's slightly concerned hearing Asmoday had completely disappeared. He had his theories when all 4 shades went silent, but to see the Temple in front of him faltering and crumbling to curruption
"If I may." Ineffa interrupts his spiral. "It may be presumtuous, but it's far too early to put the shade of spaces absence down as 'permanent', perhaps we shall meet them at the end of our journey here"
All the residents of the Temple of Space know him. He's one of the only figures that can freely enter and leave. and despite being told off for it, he does bring them gifts, mournful for their gilded cage. but accepting that they do still have the freedom to leave [though at a great cost.]
letting you guide them around comes easily, a practiced ordeal.
Headcanon theories that are developing or updated with more quotes or ingame lore from this update
The Azhdaha mention - That was so good. it solidifies the theory of Zhongli, letting the humans think up whatever they want and keeping his mouth shut when it comes to whether or not he should dispute it. In order to protect the Geo Sovereign Azhdaha, Zhongli [who in this theory is one of his underlings, like a right hand man or his main servant] Zhongli let the humans continue their crusade in creating the false art
Zhongli having Creator! Readers abilities - Albeit at a much lower crude version. His abilities are mentioned in the Liyuen section of the Temple of Space, able to bend space through art and create worlds [Serenitea pot domain ability that he shares with his adepti]
visions can ascend them to celestia or to the respective domains Temple
visions are said to bound or sell yourself to fate [The shades]
visions can not be destroyed, only removed
visions or allogenes are able to reach theoretical god hood and are therefore given such charms to falter their evolution [the uplifting, Melanta references]
visions are the connecting piece to constellations in the false sky: the firmament and what bounds the users to the Heavenly Principles and the Shades regimen
visions - a primitive and lesser version of gnosis
vision bearers don't all have elemental affinity, and some can only use restricted mediums or objects to conduct it
Use of visions and gnosis to restrict those who, of course, have the ability to ascend into godhood according to the foundational laws that the Heavenly principles are unable to alter. Thus the interpretation of selling yourself to fate, also makes sense to prompt an ‘Archon war’ which was essentially a ‘Hunger games’ equivalent, used to kill off potential threats to their control over Teyvat, placing the victors in the limelight and parading them around as capital pieces keeping them under their thumb but visibly claimed as the Heavenly Principles ‘chess pieces,
Temple of Space weaving for the Fic
The Temple of Space is a really good representation for a Creator!Readers presence within Teyvat and has alot of connections.
And can put reason as to why they would be so willing to keep the idea of you still alive within humanity
Background Context
You did create Teyvat [Aeon of Permanence!Reader] in a pastlife/alternate timeline you.
The creation of Teyvat was for the dragon kind [Teyvat translated is called Arc].
It took a lot of energy to create Teyvat and Nibelung [who was canonly created alongside the planet] so you gave up your form [Biological immortality]
Moved on to another life, eventually ending up as you are now on Earth
your abilities got passed onto Nibelung [Screen system, creation powers and control over Teyvat]
After your death, the events of Teyvat continue as we know; Nibelung becomes dragon king, leaves for the sea of stars, coming back to find the Heavenly Principles and the shades, then died
your abilities stay accessible to them so long as the light energy can be sustained.
Heavenly Principles and the Shades [HP+S]
They knew about you and that you created Teyvat, but no matter what they did, they couldn't erase you from irminsul without also fully erasing Teyvat
so they begrudgingly left your legacy alone and worked on spreading their own ideals to no promising avail
so they hitched the plan to create the 'Creator' epithet for you and masquerade themselves as your prophets/emissaries
taking different well-known parts of your existence; the screen system, your court of Sovereigns, your ability to create the world around you and remixed them for their own purposes
A prominent part being the rules developed for the akedemiya, coming from the Heavenly Principles and the shades rather than Creator!Reader; to ensure the humans follow obediently
"Interfering with human evolution," - dictated by Asmoday and her Keepers presiding over the Temple of space as from the quote from Melanta - 'This place is only to preserve. All innovation, all evolution, is forbidden here' and explains why Melanta kept on rejecting or exiling different residents like maukie/Escher [Yes, the actual Escher that Dottore disguised himself as when he dissapeared from the Scaramouche backstory quest. he's now roaming the world again so im sure thats going to pop up and fuck with wanderer.]
"Tampering with life and death," - Neberius and Ronovas' addition, more so Ronova after being reprimanded for her love for humanity and interferences seen within Natlan and Khaenri’ah. Naberius [and now additionally Rhinesdottir] having becoming mixed. their abilities being seen with their curses [Curse of Immortality from Ronova for pure blooded Khaenri’ans and Curse of Wilderness from Naberius for humans who defy their laws]
"Delving beyond the universe," - Made bc of the remaining outlanders trapped in Teyvat [like Sovereigns, Skirk, Zhongli, Miliastra Wonderland twins, Hexenzirkle, etc] keep popping up and disrupting their order
"Investigating the origin of words," - Inability to understnad non-Teyvat words and phrases [Aether and Lumine having to learn common Teyvatian from Paimon pre-game start. Wanderers name you give him not being spoken verbally but still exists in a written compacity] in an attempt to keep the world at a manageable level where the remaining abysal presences is kept stable and the lightnlevels match them, neither getting too scaled one way or another [Why the Heavenly Principles and the shades dont do shit to get rid of the abyss' presence nor fully commit to the destruction of dragons]
"Revering gods without acts of devotion, and" - To restrict, picking and choosing which gods get favour, being prayed to/worshiped or revering a god and their names has reasonable cause to influence how strong said god becomes [Ventis statement that hes the 'weakest' out of the archons etc.]
"Attempting the forbidden and fearing none." - Istaroths warning to the humans, telling them to be wary and not tempt fate, her powers relating closely to the trilunar authority over time and being able to plant seeds in the past to fruit in the future [Inazumas sakura tree, Dandelion seeds through time speech Venti gives]
these when looked at with the context of the Heavenly principles presenting them changes the intension alot. they become more threatening
The shades are complicated figure with scraps of lore so they're still being developed - but they're not black and white evil stereotypes [no one is in all depictions]
like in the new quote supplied from Istoria - "Thus with that single body the powers of light and darkness began to contend with one another. And so the primordial guman, bearing both, came to posses both good and evil"
Istorias era
This is so they can cover your disappearance as you take a long rest in the center of Teyvat and use your lasting influence for themselves
The light energy based creatures that were brought to Teyvat by you after its creation [Dragons, Fae, angels, etc.] knew they were lying and tried to rebel after the Funerary war, but they became targeted by the Shades and were hunted or thrown into the Abyss to rot
which continuously lowered the levels of light energy putting the remnant of your abilities to keep everything stable on the line
so they left the remaining alive and sealed their memories or bound them to their rules [Ie. Aiding in locking up the real Ajaw and turning him into an AI omnitrix, poisoning all of the Sovereigns (Azhdahas' erosion) or further acentuating their curroptions (Apeps forbidden knowledge she got from Nibelung)]
The Zhongli tidbit we got
The remaining were kept as fodder to keep your abilities functioning so it doesn't falter
but they still needed to ensure the humans were on their side as their population grew and flourished. Now they were intertwined
so they used what remained of your image.
making up that you were humanity's progenitor, making the laws of the world and getting the humans to adopt the propoganda
it works and prospers during Josephus' era and becomes mainstream
Josephus Era
The era of 'Creation' and where the fundamental groundwork for your presence was founded.
They lost the guidance of the angels as they scattered to the wind, cursed to be human [Nicole], were made seelies or shapeshifted [Venti]
Dragons now hid away [Azhdaha being sealed away by Zhongli to keep him safe, Zhongli himself, Apep sealing herself in the sands, Xiuhcoatl turning into phlogiston, Dvalin and Hydro dragon also conceding biological immortality]
and the fae became scattered [6 Faefolk clans of Snezhnaya]
but they did manage to keep the real version of you hidden between the lines of human works
Court System
The Temple of Space is also a good analogy for the court system idea thats present
The forced cohabitation of now made Immortal beings of vastly differing ideals, backgrounds, and abilities
Residents of The Temple *shakes hands* Members of your court
different areas to preserve eras and yoinking people n places at random would help in 'proving' that Asmoday is also a follower of yours while also allowing her to freely do her given tasks
they would all be none the wiser [aside from those of Istorias era and pre]
alot of quotes here that are good isekai 'x reader' fodder between different charcters and you
Asmoday as You, Malanta and Nihil [and the keepers] being high court and the residents representing low court.
This is where my notes end for now - I can gladly show more of the theory crafting for other game concepts. im surprised if you have, have a poll
Genshin characters helping reader grieve a passing
Genshin Characters helping a grieving Reader [2.5k]
Ft. Diluc, Sethos, Zhongli, Wanderer[Kintsugi], Raiden Ei, Ifa, Dainsleif, Flins, Illuga, Baizhu, Navia, Furina and Heizou Xianyun, Xiao, Kachina, Skirk, Collei, Dori and Itto
[Just a quick note from Author- some characters will focus on different types of passing [Family, pets, from sickness or tragedy, etc.] and will be pulling comfort styles and advice I've had given to me or have done to comfort those around me recently, that being said I hope this provides the comfort I felt back then, Reader.]
[Content warning - Heavy themes such as death, grieving, prevention of harm to self, and others are present, but this is Hurt/Comfort content ahead.]
Collei
“Reader? Could I keep you company? I can stay right here if you're not ready to come out or if you don't want any physical contact- I don't think you should have to go through this alone and I care about you deeply”
She will sit next to you for as long as you need her to, taking the day or more to be your support alongside everyone else
She's not one to push you to do more than your basics, bringing you water, snacks, and simply existing so you don't feel alone
slowly, she will start talking to you about things, an update on what is happening outside during the day, when others visit - repetitive things until she gets a response
Dori
“I know it's hard having someone so close to you pass because of something you couldn't control. I loved my sister so much, I did everything I could, I built an empire for her but it was already too late. But I know she would want me to help you, so, will you let me help you, my friend?”
She's offering to take you out to browse the isles for something to remind you of them, be it something tiny like an oddly coloured rock from the side of the road that was their colour or a food item only they seemed to like
Hand in hand, she'll guide you through the crowds if it's too overwhelming for the time being
then once you've found something, she'll cart you to the last place she remembers you mentioning them and try her best to get you to open up about them
In her eyes, continuing to acknowledge their existence helped her bring her sister into the future
Itto
“Hey Bud’, I uh, heard from the others about what's happened- happening. and I maaaay not be the best for warm comfort but I am great at cheering others up- so- Let's go! We can go collect some beetles and some flowers while we go out and do our own investigating”
He's actively helping you, not wanting you to grieve by yourself. He's not too overtly positive, not wanting to ovewhelm you or sweep you up into a frenzy. He's just doing enough to ensure you can see he cares, see he want to help
He knows it's not healthy to suddenly just stop, that your brain wants to shut off and ignore the bad feelings swelling inside, so he offers a release
smothers you in affection as well, arms wrapping tightly around you
he'll cry right alongside you, seeing his friend hurt, hurts him too
Kachina
“Reader, I'm so sorry for your loss, losing a companion- I-it's so sad! and I know it's something we can't control in this world. I'm sorry this is happening.”
Attaches herself to your side and holds your hand the whole time
Asks you question after question about them, what they looked like, who they were to you, your favourite memory
she believes the best way to help you is to reminisce over the past with them and to think of the good times as a good send-off
She offers to pray with or for you when dusk drifts by, thanking the stars for allowing another light to join them
Skirk
“Loss is a natural part of life, and there's no escaping it- it's not wrong to spend some time to grieve what's lost, to mourn lives that leave this existence. Take as long as you need, I'll protect you from anything that dares to interrupt this period of mourning”
She's understanding that you need a release and will offer to help by getting your frustrations out. It doesn't take much effort to parry your slamming of that polearm you have
and when she can feel the pained force, she'll call for a break and sit you down next to her so you can breathe
slowly, a short melody will fill the air to accompany your haggard breaths
if, at that moment, you crack and break down, she'll lean you into her side and continue murmuring the lyrics
Xiao
“Here, allow me to assist you with the burdens you hold on your shoulders. Losing someone close to you is a tragic event, to lose a friend- it can hurt just the same, let me help make sure you don't lose yourself in the process”
he will act as your messenger to the outside world, dutifully carting your words to the others while you're unavailable
ferrying them in and out when you need certain comforts he himself can not give easily
Taking out the trash that piles, bringing in new bowls of fresh snacks, and opening the windows each time they close
Dainsleif
“Rest your head, close your eyes if you need to. Let me anchor you to the present while you wade the memories of the past, I'll be right here when you resurface.”
Silent as he lays down beside you, pulling you up to rest atop of his chest and having you place your ear to his chest
fingers placing soothing circles into your limbs as you lay catatonic and unresponsive, head struck from the news
Take as long as you need, he'll be here waiting for you
Diluc
“I'm hardly the one to advocate for healthy ways to cope in this situation, but- you should still allow yourself to rage, to feel the hurt that let it become swallowed down. Let me be the one to help you back, I'll keep an eye on you”
Puts aside things for you to smash and break as he doesn't want you to do as he did and hurt the ones he loves in a fit of rage after the news breaks
he's there with you the whole time, watching plates fly into the woods
when you're done or you simply run out of things to break, he take over and carry you inside, wrap you up if you gained any nicks, and help you burn out the last embers of your anger
Baizhu
“Let me light some incense. We can reside here for the time being before I take you back to rest. Events such as this are just as physically taxing as they are mental, dear. We're going to take a break here for the night- then tomorrow take another step”
If you insist he'll look over the doctors notes, paranoia and grief often come hand in hand so he'll do anything to comfort you and steer you away from it
he'll check it over, take note of any oddities and explain to you the cause, how it happened, and answer any questions that he can if you are in any way doubtful of the information provided to you
then he'll guide you to take a bath to wash away the snot and tears, ease you into a gentle rest
Flins
“There is no need to fret my dear, I shall guide both you through this troubling ordeal and assist your loved one through the veil of the night. We may not be able to alter the events of the past but I can help those who remain.”
he will sit you down and ask you to start describing them, a small canvas and a palette in hand
as tiny as you need, he'll paint you an image to place into a locket - but he wants you to focus on them, to think of the love you behold
when he's finished and has propped the image up to dry, he'll join you where you lay and recount the things you just told him while holding you close
Furina
“Grab a blanket, and I'll grab us a blanket. cry if you need to, i'll do my duty and watch over you the whole night! It… will be okay, eventually, it's okay to be sad, so let's be sad. “
bundles you up tightly, brings out all the comfort foods she has, and turns on a screen to play back old records she has and quietly accompanies you
she'll also look through your things for pictographs if you have any videos even and will ask to go through them with you
Heizou
“You want me to investigate it? Hmn… Alright. but you must follow my lead alright? First things first, we'll need to take care of you, have something to drink, eat, close your eyes for a second - I know you're hurting but we can't go out until then, I promised you I would do my all for you, didn't I? there we go.”
more than willing to take a look at the reports if you feel at all slighted by them, thinking that they are wrong or they have the wrong person
hearing it from a stranger is harsh, so when he's there in front of you when he confirms that it's true, he makes sure when he relays it to you more clearly and softer
reassuring you and doing his best to counter the denial of the events
Ifa and Cacucu
“Ooh- this? for our friends, the Wayobs. When something as traumatic as this happens in our lives I often go out to find one of the manifestations to ask them to help send their souls off easier, not for everyone but it never fails to make me feel lighter, here, I can lead us down the path”
He sees the reactions of people when family [both human and not] pass, so he's quick to sit you down when the news comes in and order the others after checking how you respond
with rage or utter disbelief, he's there to rock you into back into reality if only to move you somewhere better
he's acting with his work mentality for the first half, aiming to calm you down and even getting cacucu to step in with his training as a comfort service
Illuga
“Here, my lantern. We can go guide them over to somewhere a little happier if you'd like? All we have to do is take a walk. That's it, simple, right? tell me about where you'd think they'd like, we may not be able to make it there today, but there's a lovely spot on the outskirts of Piramida that they may love just as much”
He knows how stifling it can be during this period in life and will encourage you to join him outside
whether his attempt helps ease your heart, he expresses his pride in how far you've come and have yet to go
hands you the lantern and sticks by you as you walk together into the peace of the night
Navia
“If I know you, and I do- there's no way you didn't express yourself, yes there may be things left unsaid or words you regret that you did. But what's important is that you love that someone and how it changed you and them forever.”
She takes you out, far away from prying eyes, and lets you take her axe to swing or fire off into the sky
guides you along so you're safe as you let out your emotions
and will be right there to hold you close when it all starts feeling too much, whispering words of encouragement
“you did so well. They'd be proud of you. Look at how far you've come.”
Raiden Shogun and Raiden Ei
“Loss is an enemy of eternity, point me in the direction of our foe and I shall see to it that this force is dealt with swiftly.” - “and that it aids in your recovery, you have helped me live with the passing of my sister Makoto, this is the least i can do.”
She's making orders for everything you ask for, barking out instructions for the others as she moves you someplace more comfortable
If you so much as even begin to doubt yourself
“I should have - I could have” she is quick to shut it down and snap you into reality even if it seems a little harsh
It's Catastophising that what ifs will do you more harm than good, and she doesn't wish to see you suffer more because of it
Sethos
“Crying helps, It does- bottling it up only hurts yourself in the end, if you need to we can go somewhere more private. I want to make sure you have somewhere there to pull you back in though, let me be your anchor.”
He takes your hands in his, foreheads pressed against each other and gets you to breathe in time with his after you tire yourself out from crying
If your throat hurts too much or you simply don't want to talk about it, he brings out a book to read to you and starts narrating it in a soft tone
Wanderer[Kintsugi]
“It's easy to see it as a betrayal, being so suddenly left alone by those you thought would walk alongside you for the rest of your life only to lose them. Do not walk the same path as me, Live with them in your heart and mind, but don't let it consume you and drag you down”
He's the best at getting you down from the spikes of anger that flare up out of everyone
he won't coddle you and won't justify the more violent or mean actions you may spit out
instead, he'll wait until after you're finished yelling, swearing at the world and its injustice in taking what's yours before stepping in and offering a hand
take it or not, either way, he'll guide you down to the floor and stay with you quietly in support
Xianyun
“Avians flock together so to lose a member of it always causes such strife to our lives, come now, allow me to shoulder some of your burdens so that you may grieve in peace.”
She's calling in the others to form a large cuddle pile for you to lay within
she'll ask you if you have any pressing tasks that may have been sidelined and goes to take care of it while you're occupied
if you ask to be left alone, she'll drag out her phonograph and put on some music for you to listen to so you're not sat alone, consumed by the grief
Zhongli
“Let us light a candle for this passing and appreciate the memories and experiences of your cherished ones’ legacy. Would you tell me about them? I will ensure that they, too, will shine like gold in my memory”
If you need him to, he'll take over the whole process of their passing into his hands
making quick work into looking into your customs to ensure that they are treated with respect in his care, you trust him, and he wants to help you
every step of the way he involves you, asking soft questions on your loved ones likes, preferences and having you recount your most precious thoughts as he works on organising a ceremony for them
[Going through and posting Isekai/SAGAU worldbuilding that isn't character-centric and just relating the concept to what's available in game, screenshots included. And despite how it looks, this is just my brief overview of relating the two. “Mayple” is my Traveller from my main server. i play off of her, my Lumine, and represent the travellers sister in the main series and who's guiding you in her brief appearances]
[I also hope the analysis type SAGAU stuff isn't too annoying, do tell me if it is, Thank you very much to those who are interested in reading these archives of mine and send in questions themselves- Hearing from yall makes my day and gives my brain one thing to focus on than the 20 WIPs, and if people would like to be tagged for certain content, just ask and i can do so :] ]
The screen system is the Creator!Readers' main ability.
The act of Creation as the limits are bound by individual effort and their imagination, having no restrictions.
Visually, the screens appear transparent and be summoned anywhere and can act independently or linked through multiple versions
Versions of the Screen system can be seen throughout the world of Teyvat via Light energy - predominantly seen from the constructs located in the Desert civilisation ruled under Deshret, Primordial water from Fontaine, Natlans Phlogiston or Nod-krais Kuuvahki light manifestations
Mechanical structures have also been made in honour or to replicate said features as seen with displacement through Adeptal Realms and Arts, Inazuma's puppet structures, Sumerus akasha system, Fontainian Gardemeks and structures, and the dragonheir/dragon race of Natlan's secret source automations.
This can be gifted out via a screen of their own, the screen must stay close enough to the router (Teyvat or Creator!Reader) for it to remain active and usable
“Customise Character” Page
This function allows Creator!Reader to alter their physical appearance like the Sims creator
Appearance customisation will not be used in the story to specify Reader looks aside from
The use of the Chronicled wish (Acquainted star) colour motifs [Blue, Purple and Yellow/Gold]
Temporary Dragon features
Clawed hands - dull and blunt
Dragon scales - Iridescent with the colour motif
Sharp teeth - filed down
Antennae - similar to Neuvillettes’
Horns - Curved in, Goat like
Tail - with exoskeleton up spine
With practice, these can become toggled on and off [Mainly just for character art that the traits will be present and for Nibelung relation aspects]
Creator!Reader doesn't have any organs - In the sense of becoming a divine being and transitioning from human to god made all such things unneeded and was purged, converting into light energy
Creator!Reader will use the feature to customise their Genitalia to their wants at any given moment in the story
[More on this in this Ask] And on Pinned! That is the best place to see how Reader is written
/Set Creative mode
Physical alterations/application to the world
This is what can temporarily become active when Creator!Reader is messing with the ‘pick up’ mode or adjusting the Serenitea Pot realm
Main use is done via hands physically moving a miniature set from an active screen
Items can be altered and merged together
This is the ability referenced within scriptures about you and was theorised to be what your ‘screens’ solely did
/Set Adventure mode
This can be seen as the standard Genshin Impact gameplay
Even after falling into Teyvat, you still seem to be able to have access to the game itself - but it's not the same server.
There are four servers available still. three of which are physically inaccessible for you. However, it seems they've become merged
Memories from the other worlds crossing over into the Teyvat you're currently in, Characters recognising events like dejavu, items you collected appearing that you don't remember collecting in this server and character constellations gained there making their way into those who you interact with now
Gameplay and the real world become confusing, and the screen system does not help with differentiating the two
/Timeset mode
As is, you can go forward by 2 days at a time but can not go back farther than 30 minutes.
The Traveller tells us directly in the game that time does not move as they normally know it to
And briefly, i go into the possibilities of the games time difference and how it could factor into it [See here]
/Set Peaceful mode - World Level set
Seen as the different levels of leylines present within boss arenas, world bosses, and domains as it follows, the current present descenders will
The SAGAU!Teyvats’ world level is at 6 AR45
Creator!Reader original world level is at 9 AR60
So, as Reader acclimatises, people will start noticing everything growing in size and strength
More about the Wildlife and Reader [here]
Map - /Locate Structure - /Teleport
Only usable by Creator!Reader at any time
Fayte, Fayble, Aether, and Lumine have automatic permissions to the ability, but they have limited restrictions before you descend
Cannot be used to teleport solo by the characters
You can interact with waypoints, statues of the seven, or statues of the new moon
You can see the location of the characters with those who are a part of the realm and who have been gifted the screen system ability, just like how co-op players appear on the map or the travelers' own icon like how we experience more and more as the game updates and things are revealed to the audience
[Character Chronicled Tales] As the Characters become more acquainted with you in game, the more they can notify you of their presence and ‘trick’ the Screens to show them more frequently to you, even using Primogems to encourage you to interact
Creator!Reader can bring others through 5 at one time at max
Portable Waypoints are another recreation the humans of Teyvat made to try to mimic your ability
Waypoints and Statues of seven were erected by the Heavenly Principles as a ‘gift from the Creator’. Everyone had always seen them as Red.
When the Traveller began his adventure and started activating them, it added towards the initial belief he was the Creator until he told them ‘No- also who?’
Adventurers Log - Quest Log
Connected to Aethers (Travellers) Quest Log to record what he's achieved
Can project past events experienced by the Log files
Can project Leylines experienced by the Log files
A physical log is available for you
Subspace - Inventory
Time does not affect items placed in this storage system, meaning spoilage, aging products, and time sensitive items statuses become frozen and indestructible
There is no Max or Minimum of what can be help now that Creator!Reader has returned
The inventory becomes linked with your Serenitea Pot realm [This Post here] and will eventually merge, creating subspheres where visual representations of your inventory become visible
Materials
Food
Artifacts
Weapons - It's known that summoning weapons is not a normal thing on Teyvat, at least naturally. We see it happen with the elemental beings or vision users. So associating the whole branch of ‘summons’ abilities to be reminiscent of a gift from the Creator is not too far-fetched for the people of Teyvat.
Specials - Inventory Pets, Compasses, Area Interactive items, and Instruments. All items are still there and can be accessed by you. Idly, the pets will all roam the Serenitea pot realm
Mora - While it is the main currency of Teyvat, you can convert and use it as energy instead, since Mora is made from the blood of the Gods [Zhongli and now, You.]
Stella Fortunas, Stardust glitter and other outer world materials - To be able to store the stars is an ability in itself, wishes are a physical object that they all recognise from an older Event [Scaramouches’ first Appearance] and Constellations place an important role in all Characters scripted fate.
“If the Screen system existed in Genshin- where is it?”
The original Creator!Reader had given Nibelung it to help him rule with when Creator!Reader left to biologically reincarnate and move on to explore different Creation timelines. [See more on Artificial Immortality]
Set back before the Heavenly Principles came to Teyvat, where the dragon race ruled triumphantly
The screen system still worked perfectly fine when you left. until Nibelung left Teyvat as the world's new ‘router’ and got it infected by his clouded mind containing Forbidden Knowledge and the abyss.
The screens are all corrupted, no longer usable, or could be translated into a readable format
when he left Teyvat as he disrupted the last connection pairing him to the last shreds of pure light energy within him [And the thing that kept him being considered a being from Teyvat which turned him into the ‘second descender’]
when he returned and his body and mind reconnected to Teyvat, it was the tipping point for the leylines having already been polluted by the heavenly principles
Thus introducing ‘Forbidden Knowledge’ into the world, transmitted directly
The safety features of the screen system activated and simply converted all older forms of the screens information into physical materials
Tomes, Scriptures, Physical and Digital media, Talent Books, Experience Books/ Level up materials, etc.
It had stayed dormant in the background until it could connect back to the main hub (Creator!Reader) and receive a system update and ‘virus’ cleaner
which brought into existence all of Creator!Readers playlists, Internet searches, books, etc. alongside allowing the talent books, Exp materials and such to be used like in game for ascension
With it suddenly becoming present in Teyvat history and modern day although it stayed untranslatable. Like a cloud update.
[And of course, some of the in-game screenshots i gathered to relate to the above]
Ft. Zhongli, Raiden Ei, Raiden Shogun, Nahida, Egeria, Focalors and The Tsaritsa [Headcanon fae form, kind of like how Flins is a lantern, shes a Faberge Egg]
Hello! This is [Part 1] of the Archon drawings for the series without all the text for those just wanting to look at the arts/ keep it separate from the fic - if you do find the images interesting enough, check out the masterlist or ask about it! i'm more than willing to go through my processes or theories. Otherwise, enjoy :]
These are for a SAGAU series - Worldbuilding posts incoming
Next part; Mauvika, Columbina, TriLunar God, Nibelung, Moon Goddesses and Neuvillette
Important question. Is the reader's tail prehensile? Can they grab stuff with it? Can they hang upside down with it? 🤔
[The simple answer; Yes! The reader's tail is prehensile- The chibi/simplified Anon Y/N or Reader design that I created for the series is not true to form to how it's described in the fic, but it works just the same for a visual representation. Now, a more in-depth look into it]
[This is how I imagine splash art of Creator!Reader would be like - The first chapter of Self-Indulgence opens with how everyone is watching the sky as a wishing shower is happening [Which has Reader weaved amongst the falling stars, unbeknownst to them of course] so to have it as Readers theoretical splash art is just good imagery in my head.]
[Dragging things with your tail, hanging upside down - use it as a portable seat or something to lean on instead of finding a wall or ledge. need an extra hand to hold a drink while you go to pick something up? tail. Even for combat- imagine Reader triple weilding weapons once that becomes a learned skill and challenging Chiori, using it to pull taut the string on a bow and butcher the art of it like Childe, using the tail to add more weight into a claymore slam similar to Diluc, have your hands free for another weapon as you swirl a catalyst at the end like how so many catalyst users dont take advantage of or dance a pole arm like its an intricate dance alongside Yun jin. The author definitely doesn't think about these small things, hahahhh...]
[Most characters that appear throughout the series that have extra limbs or are implied to be part-something will have more of that something present in one way or another. Dragons have more control over transitioning between forms, so Neuvillette, Zhongli, and Durin - All three will be similar to Reader in that regard but at different levels of expertise. Neuvillette would be at the same level as you since he doesn't necessarily have the know how to transition between human and dragon at the moment so learning how to use your tails as a limb will be a joint effort! While the dragon aspects like the tail are to be more of a link towards Sibling!Nibelung, Aeon Long!Reader and Creator of Teyvat aspect, there is also just a 'Dragons are cool part to it too. There are many, many examples of it aside from those 3]
[But back to Reader. The tail is still a muscle, one you've only just gotten story wise and learnt how to hide, so in “Self-Indulgence” itself, hanging upside down from it will not be an immediate thing you'll be able to do. But here, outside of where Reader sits on the timeline, yeah, definitely! For now, wrapping it around things and using it to drag items around is the best Canon!Reader can do]
[Sooo ya, enjoy a Ororon too bc bat and hanging upside down]
(This work is inspired by the Divine City by yuriisclumsy. It is non-canonical. Go check their page for the original!)
Another nightmare…that’s the third one this week, thought the farmboy.
Henry tried to sit up, only to cringe when his back decided to pick that moment to be a bitch. Grumbling to himself, he simply stretched to fix the pain - he wondered why that happened despite his bed being decent - and went downstairs. The sight of Henry’s mom cleaning the kitchen told him what he needed to know.
“I overslept again…” he muttered. He sighed, making his mother turn around.
“Oh, Henry! Good morning! Get a good rest honey?” Henry just nodded in lieu of words. “Your father and brother went out to finish the harvest. They told me you looked like you needed it.”
Henry’s mother put down the rag she was using and stepped to her son. Then she put the back of her palm to Henry’s forehead.
“You’ve got bags under your eyes. Are you feeling alright?”
No. “Yes,” lied Henry. They don’t need to know. Not when the Volksfest is so close. I can’t ruin it for them. “I’m just tired.”
Henry’s mom stared at him; Henry recognized the look as, “the one where Mom is trying to sus you out”. The kid was expecting to be called out any second…only for the woman to step back.
“Okay, but just remember that you can talk to us about anything, alright?” She said softly. Henry’s mom leaned over to wrap her arms around her son. Henry stiffened at first, but after several seconds returned it. She felt warm, like a blanket. In that moment, Henry was reassured.
And then his mom pulled away. “Now, would you like to help me clean the animals?”
Henry grinned.
--------------------------------------------
This is exactly what I needed, thought Henry. He slowly groomed the horse in front of him. The brush glided over the shiny coat like a leaf on a river before being picked up and put back at the start. The horse - aptly named Cocoa - shook her head. She stood still, watching Henry closely.
Oi, watch the technique kid, Henry imagined that’s what she’d say to him if horses could talk. “I know. I’ll be gentle.”
“Are you doing alright there?” His mother’s voice called out from some distance behind him.
“Yeah, mom! I’m fine!” Henry turned and waved the brush in the air. He vaguely felt the corner of his mouth tug upwards. “Cocoa’s behaving herself!”
Of course I am! You’re the ones paying for my care! The horse snorted.
But when Henry turned back, he found himself alone standing in an empty field. The ground was cracked and colored red; orange glowing flames decorated the ground around him. Henry blinked twice before his mind caught up to him.
No way…no way! How is this even happening? I’m awake! He thought.
Are you? Answered a deep bass voice.
A chill ran down Henry’s spine. He whipped his head left to right trying to find the source of the voice when he caught a flicker of movement in front of him. There, standing a couple meters with a wall of red fire behind him was a tall, imposing figure. The boy couldn’t make out any details from where he was; to him, it was a giant shadow of a human figure.
For several seconds, Henry held his breath as he stared down at the shadow. He counted up to ten when he realized something: it was getting closer.
Fear surged throughout his body. His hands began to feel clammy. Henry knew he needed to move or else he would be dead. He turned and ran, but to his growing terror, he realized that his legs were moving as slow as molasses.
You’ve GOT to be kidding me! Henry mentally screamed. Risking a look back, he found the shadow crossed halfway. The boy willed himself to go faster. By some miracle, he felt himself speed up a little. Yes! Come on!
The farm boy kept at it until he pulled up a good stride. He felt hopeful. For once, it felt like he’d beat this stupid hallucination. He smiled to himself.
I just need to last long enough, and then I’ll escape that stupid thing! Thought Henry. After what felt like five minutes, Henry didn’t sense the shadow following him anymore. He turned around, expecting nothing -
Only to see the figure standing right behind him. Henry was so surprised that his foot tripped over the other. He let out a yelp when he felt an armored gauntlet grab his shirt. When it pulled so that Henry could stand on two feet again, the boy quickly turned around. Now that he was close enough, he could get a good look.
It was a knight clad in black armor. Their armor was divided into individual plating. The helmet had three slits to give vision. Pointed pauldrons adorned their shoulders, and a crimson cloak wrapped around their neck. It was as majestic as it was terrifying.
“You must find me, boy,” said the black knight.
“What?”
“Go.”
Henry’s vision filled with darkness. For the briefest of moments, he felt a chill to the bone. In the blink of an eye, he was staring at a wooden ceiling. At his back was hard wood and soft hay.
And staring down at him were his family.
They opened their mouths, sighing in relief. The questions came immediately after. At
“What happened? You fell on the floor and wouldn’t wake up!” , “Are you feeling alright?” , “Please talk to us!”
Henry felt dizzy, and his back felt soaked with sweat. He felt small, like he was being inspected. A pressure was steadily building in the pit of his stomach; his mind swam with anxiety. But the worst part was the look on Guy’s face. His little brother’s eyes were wet, ready to drop tears at any moment.
Darn it, why did this have to happen? I can’t…I can’t take this anymore. He rubbed his face with his hands. “Okay, you guys win. I’ll - I’ll tell you.”
Henry opened his mouth with the words already on his tongue when suddenly the ground began to shake. The family looked around; things that weren’t nailed down rattled in place. After five seconds, the shaking intensified. Henry’s parents held onto each other while Guy grabbed Henry to stabilize himself.
The horses, on the other hand, were on the verge of panicking. Their cries told them how spooked they were. Henry and his parents ran to calm them down; the two kids hushed and consoled Cocoa. Finally, the ground began to quiet after Henry counted to sixty.
61…62…63…64…65…! Henry exhaled loudly when the earth stopped moving. Guy still held Henry's shirt tightly. Their parents just stared at the ceiling like they were expecting Celestia to appear and tell them what just happened.
The barn was dead silent. Not even the horses made a peep.
Henry looked at the door and, without even thinking, stepped toward it. He held onto Guy’s hand like a lifeline. Slowly, he opened the door. Sunlight poured in, and he had to duck his head down to avoid being blinded, but his nose picked it up before his mind realized it.
Something burning was in the air.
When he tilted his head up, Henry gasped. He felt Guy’s grip on his hand tighten.
Above the sky, floating far, far above the city was a floating island.
And in between the space was a giant cloud of smoke & fire.
--------------------------------------------
A/N: The ball’s been dropped. Everyone, buckle up, this journey’s gonna be short, but I’ll make sure it feels just a bit longer than usual.
Ahh…Henry’s been having nightmares recently since the last 3 days we saw him. All of that repression isn’t healthy at all, but then I thought: why not give him a daymare? (Nightmare but during the daytime, which means he fell asleep standing up. That’s something that does happen FYI.)
And would ya look at that! A mysterious floating island has appeared. Hopefully that won’t cause any problems in the next *checks clock* uhh, hour and a half! Maybe two if they get some rest in. Finally, I can start practicing writing the exciting fight scenes; I’ve got loads of examples from other fanfics I’ve been dying to experiment with.
That’s all for now, but before I leave, I feel I need to apologize for politeness’ sake. I’m sorry that this one took so long. For your information, I had the GENIUS idea to start three other projects down the line; I say that with sarcasm. That was one of the most terrible decisions I’ve made this month. With that being said, production on the next chapter will slow, unfortunately. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t being written! Okay, done. Take care y’all.
(I swear, if I waited any longer I don't think I'd have posted this at all. X_X)
Author Note: Before we start, I would like to mention that the top institution (or school) in all of Teyvat is the Akademia in Sumeru. They have many branches, not requiring separate institutions like in the city, and because they pretty much run Sumeru as the government. On top of that they’re the literal Nation of Knowledge–with the God of Wisdom as their patron–you really can’t compete with that…
Tridalia Academy
History
– Tridalia Academy, the first school to be built in the city, and is one of the most powerful academies. Founded by General Tridalia, this academy trains the city’s soldiers.
– Story tells that General Tridalia went to meditate on mountain tops, in caves deep enough to reach the bottom of the earth, and fought foes strong enough to annihilate whole seas before he to come up with the idea of the academy. But these are overdramatized stories and myths. The reason was much simpler than that.
– In the time when powerful gods fought for a divine seat in the heavens, a young soldier witnessed the loss of comrades and friends alike. Not wanting more loss, he proposed an idea to Her Grace. An idea that could help them protect the city.
– Since most soldiers were farmers, they had no skills with the sword. So he suggested a place to train them. He said:
“Why not train new recruits, instead of giving them a sword and wishing them luck as we push them to their deaths?
To survive the harrowing flames of war, we must become strong to stand and shield our city. Together, we will rise and become unyielding guardians, defending our land and ensuring its existence in the face of our enemies.
And this way, there won’t be senseless deaths.”
– Her Grace, liking the boldness and honesty behind the soldier's words, agreed. She gave him a trial run and a condition. If there wasn't much of an improvement in the army, she would stop the camp. As for the condition: he is the one who has to train the new recruits. And so, the first ‘academy’ was built.
– In its early stages, Tridalia Academy was more so a boot camp, with no academic component like regular ones. Those joining the army could opt-in and go to camp before joining veteran soldiers in the battlefield.
– But because the camp wasn’t mandatory, no one was interested. They all thought it was a waste of time; veterans thought it was a childish idea from a young soldier who didn’t know better, while newer recruits were too prideful and would naturally learn while fighting.
– The young soldier, who was Vimlar at the time, thought that maybe he could give some type of reward for joining. This sparked an idea: Why not give privilege to those who joined? Anyone who joined and “graduated” would receive a last name–an honor to have in its time.
– Hearing this, new recruits joined in droves. Many of the soldiers that came out of the rigorous training became prominent figures in the war, or at the very least, survived the wars with far less injuries than those who didn’t receive the training.
– As time went on, the camp grew bigger and bigger. Her Grace, seeing the number of troops grow and the success of the soldiers, prompted her to give Vimlar a part of land in her grounds to build a far bigger camp for them. This camp later on became what is now known as the Tridalia Academy.
– Because not all who joined the camp passed to become Up-holders, they became the “special armed force” of the city. So the city has regular soldiers who make up for a large portion of the army. Though they are not excluded from having to pass some exams, its difficulty is a far cry from the famous Tridalia exams.
Graduation
–The regimen for entrance started out easy. Sign up, train, you’re an Up-holder! Now you have to go through knight training, law school, psychology, and a few other courses before you can even qualify to be an Up-holder.
╰ There is an exception to skip all the qualifications. The exception being personally getting granted a spot in the exams by Her Grace. Yeah, near impossible, I know.
– Tridalia Academy is the easiest to get accepted into, but the most difficult to graduate from. Less than 45% of students pass their first year, and even less manage to pass the final exam and graduate. It’s some grueling three years, but to be known as an Up-holder is worth it.
Exams
– The exams are divided into three categories: knowledge, group fights, and then singles.
– The first phase, Knowledge, are rigorous tests about law and psychology; some tests are written responses, the majority are multiple choice. You would need at least an 85% to pass each test.
– The next phase, group fights, test students of their ability to work together; the groups are chosen at random, so no, you cannot choose your best friend. This is about knowing if you can work with others when thrusted into any situation.
╰ The test includes different terrains, weapons, and foes; these are also chosen at random, and one can easily go from one to another in the same exam.
– The final phase of the exam is the “Grand Entrance Exam.” This is the most popular of the three trials, accumulating a large crowd each time it is hosted.
╰ This exam is done twice a year. At the beginning of the year in January, to commence the parades for the Month of our Lady, and in early october (dates vary between years).
[Note]: This section will have its own Arc as it is far too complex to explain everything here. Also, I don’t want this to turn into an info-dump. Even IF it already became one…
– Passing the Grand Entrance Exam means graduating from Tridalia Academy and becoming an Up-holder.
Student Life
– Student life? What is that? The students of Tridalia Academy don’t know what that is.
Clelarth Academia of Law
History
– Clelarth Academia was founded as a by-product of General Tridalia’s academy. Reason being, that there wasn’t an institution dedicated to law. And as law became more complicated and complex, the need for studying them became a must.
– Because of this inconvenience, some of the high ranking Up-holders decided to split the law branch of the Tridalia academy and make it its own institution: The Academia of Law; this was the first name of the academy.
– Years later, a nobleman named Clelarth donated a large sum of mora to fund the academys’ teachings. Some may have doubted his intentions, claiming that he did it out of greed. Clelarth saw it differently however. He believed that investing in institutions was a wise decision; a nobleman should pride himself on knowing good investments when they see one.
"I'm not being altruistic by funding the academy. In fact, my motivation is quite simple: the more resources those students have, the more potential they have to become members of society with big pockets, and that means more opportunities for me to profit. It's a win-win situation, and a smart nobleman knows how to recognize a good investment when he sees one."
– Thinking of his wealth rather than the bigger picture, that’s who he was; the man that kick-started the academy’s legacy. The allegations against him did have some truth after all. These are the…grey areas in the city's legislature, but all is well—according to the comments of high nobles.
Student Life
– Students work hard in Clelarth. Well…as hard as a noble can anyway.
– The student population being primarily composed of high elites has its downfalls. The students mainly focus on their image, working on connections rather than bettering the city.
– Most of the time, they are off partying till their heart's content. Less than 20 percent of their time is actually spent studying.
╰ There are many events and parties catering towards Clalerth students. The hosts usually are other nobles trying to be on friendly terms with.
VOXIA, Academy of Mages
Yuri: “I hope you all have a wonderful trip as I am not the one guiding you through this one. Good luck!”
???: “My, has it been a while since I’ve been in the spotlight….”
…: ヾ(≧∇≦)ゞ
???: “Oh? Well it appears that I’ll have a little assistant with me.”
???: “…Shall we begin?”
– VOXIA. The Academy of Mages. The most awaited, architecturally beautiful, powerful, and–in my humble opinion–the most important academy.
╰ “But isn't Tridalia academy, the General’s academy, the most important in the city?” They produce top level knights, yes…but even his little school lacks the talent the Academy of Mages has.
???: “Make sure not to tell Head Butler Arias about this, else I’ll get an earful.”
…: ( ÒㅅÓ) ?
???: “Why? He’s a die-hard-fan.”
???: “Can’t reason with delusion, now can you?”
– The academy is run by the Nomads of ‘The Three King Mágos’. It is also the most prestigious academy in the whole of Teyvat for producing competent mages.
╰ Although this doesn’t mean that all the famous mages hail from here. You needn't graduate from the academy to become a great mage. Like the mages of the Hexenzirkel, they never stepped foot in this lovely academy.
???: *Reading ahead on the script* “It seems Yuri made everything more complicated again.”
…: (・о・)ノ
???: “Curious about the Nomads?”
…: ( ￣▽￣) 👍
???: “Well…”
– Currently, there are four clans in the city, the Nomads are composed of three of them. You can think of the three clans as mini-nations inside of the city, States in other words. They have their own rules and adhere to different leaders, depending on which clan they’re born into.
– They’re rulers, bearing the title “King Mage,” come from a long line of succession dating back to the The Three King Mágos, and the succession doesn’t discriminate against gender. So if you had dreams of becoming one, better start dreaming something else.
History
– VOXIA was created as a deal between the Three Nomad Kings and Her Grace. The deal was struck to better the city’s magic, and for the Nomads to gain land and protection from the city.
╰ This deal also includes the Nomads control over the regulations of magic within the city, as well as establishing a state exclusively for them.
– There have been very prominent mages ever since the Nomads gave their knowledge of magic. Great Mages are known to be the most powerful of the bunch. Great Mage is an official title that can be granted, and many of the Great Mages vary between individuals. They are to be held in high regard, regardless of opinion.
╰ The title is given by the Nomads.╰ The current Headmage of VOXIA has been unanimously agreed to be the greatest Great Mage by the students of VOXIA. Anyone in disagreement is more than welcomed to appeal to the Great Mage's Fanatic Fellowship, otherwise known as GMFF.
???: “‘Note: This will be expanded upon once the time comes.’”
???: “That’s all the information she wanted us to show in this section.
…: (´ー`)?
???: “Hmm, I believe she will reveal the rest once she starts writing the plot of the city. Not that she already knows exactly what she wants from it…but you didn't hear that from me!”
Graduation
– Entrance exams. The apex of student stress. They are easier than people think they are, and often just constitute checking if you have the qualifications to become a mage.
– Registers need the following: a vision, have a talent or affinity for elemental energy, and know the basics of spell.
╰ The affinity to elemental energy part varies between years, age, and sometimes how one perceives the elements.
╰ The academy is generous enough to offer a few basic spells in the newspapers for oncoming mages to start their long journey.
…: (T_T)
???: “Simple? Well, it has to be simple. This school was built to teach magic, not restrain your pursuit of it. That said, if you don’t qualify, that’s that. You can’t enter the school.”
…: (ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧💸💸💸
???: “Pff… You think you can enter…with enough Mora? Yeah right.”
???: “Hmm, I did hear of high nobles trying to buy their children into VOXIA, but it was all for nought.”
???: “I wonder if it’s possible in other academies…”
???: “Ah! If we keep this up, we’ll be behind schedule!”
– Graduation requirements are not as simple as entering, but it is far easier than studying to become an Up-holder. Around 84% of students become graduates of VOXIA. This is due to different programs in which a young mage can apply for. There is the Enchantees Course, the Elemental Mastery Course, the Potion course, to name a few more.
– Once a young mage has chosen a course, they will begin their 3 to 9 year journey–all depending on their chosen course.
– Once a mage has successfully passed all their required curriculum, they may take the Final Mage Exam and finally graduate after all the blood and sweat they spilled grinding.
Final Mage Exams
– A mages final exam differs from courses, eg., If you take the potion course, then you’ll need to be tested on your proficiency and quality of potions you make during a selected time period.
╰ Simple enough, isn't it? This is the main cause for the graduation percentage.
– The exams are littered all throughout the year, and each Department decides when and where the exams will take place. Most Departments would try and make tests not collide with each other, or those of other academies. But with how many tests there are, it’s almost impossible.
╰ So if you're looking for that nice long vacation, you’d better reconsider when your professor announces the date of your exam.
– There are two courses that are popular: the Elemental Mastery and Mage Ministry course. More specifically, the examiners are the main focus.
– To pass said courses, you need to prove proficiency in advanced magic spells, mastery of elemental energy, and, for Mage Ministry takers, they will need to pass the Minister Rite of Passage.
???: “Oh, there is an endnote for this section, ‘Note: this section will be expanded upon along with Tridalia’s Grand Entrance Exam.’ endnote.”
???: “...Just how complicated is she making this? Surely, she could have written it much simpler like Dreaming in Parallels world building…”
…: ( ͠° ͟ʖ ͡°)?
???: “Hm…? Oh, just one of her many worlds. Don’t worry your pretty little head about it.”
Student Life
– There is a fellowship hierarchy in the academy. The longer you’ve been in the academy, the more status you have.
– Mages in higher years can welcome newbie mages by accepting them as apprentices. The more apprentices a mage obtains, the more ‘status’ you gain.
╰ This means that mages in older grades are constantly scouring for new talent so they can brag about it.
╰ But this also means that those mages who have a high number of apprentices will be selective on who they accept; younger mages will fight tooth and nail to fill in those limited spots.
– Young mages may have class together with other course takers, although this is extremely rare. Encountering older mages teaching younger ones in libraries and classes is not a new sight, and teachers like it, they get a break from having too many students asking questions.
– Young mages will try to get with mages who are in courses that are similar to theirs, with an exception: the Mage Ministry Course. Mages of all courses will try to be apprentices of older mages in the Minister Mage course, mostly because of the implications of it.
╰ Mages taking this course are looking at 9 years of study. After graduation, Mage Ministers can enter the mage ranks of the Nomads, and become well known in the city. Higher than the average Up-holder.
…: (ㄒoㄒ)
???: “Yes, that’s right. The only way to enter the Nomads mage ranks is by becoming a Mage Minister.
…: (╭☞•̀o•́)╭☞
???: “Mage Ministers administer magic across the whole nation. This also includes the Nomads, as much as they want to whine about this authority.”
???: “They are essentially Up-holders of magic.”
– Because of the limited space in VOXIA, there is only a small library. Unfortunately for the students, it’s restricted, and can only be entered if authorized, are a staff, or a Mage Minister. So students like to study in the city’s Grand Library, otherwise known as Her Grace’s Library.
╰ It is rumored that the restricted library in the academy houses to powerful spells that are not meant for mortal eyes.
…: Σ(･口･)???
???: “Is it true? *Shrug* It is only a rumor created by some students a few centuries ago.”
???: “Given the mysteriousness of the rumor, the time it’s been brewing, and the libraries inaccessibility, it gave students creative freedom to say what they thought of it. Now, it’s become an urban legend.”
???: “There are other rumors and theories going around at the moment, but this is the most popular.”
???: “And that about sums up what this academy is. It’s a shame I can only say a few things about it, Yuri wants to dive deeper into it herself in the future.”
…: ( ◔3◔)?
???: “Just how much does she have in store? I have an idea of what she has up her sleeves…but I'm not telling!”
???: “Now, I’ll pass you, dears, back to Yuri. Have a nice trip! *waving* ”
…: (◡́.◡̀)ゞ
Holy Neele Academiae
– Holy Neele Academiae targets all the studies the other academies don’t have, eg., medicine, language, the arts, ect..
– there's nothing much to say about it than that.
Student Life
– Out of all the schools, Holy Neele’s students have the healthiest and most balanced student lives. No over studying until your eyes gush out, no one-nighters, and a healthy dose of student stress over tests and exams.
[Note]: Most students in Holy Neele get traumatized when they make friends from other academies. All they see are zombies and war zones when exams roll around. Poor souls.
Agiasmos
– Agiasmos is newer in terms of when it was established but don’t let that misguide you, as this beautiful building has three centuries under its belt.
– For clarification, Agiasmos is not an academy, but a research hobby for new technology and innovations. It’s similar to the Fontaine Research Institute of Kinetic Energy Engineering, as they research about all types of things related to the advancement of humanity.
– Created by the leading technology researchers of their time, Agiasmos has seen the fruits of many geniuses in their three-hundred year journey. Many came and went, others dedicated their entire lives in the betterment of the city and its people within these walls.
╰ Many noteworthy researchers are known, but are not common knowledge. Unless you’ve made it big and are worthy enough to have a statue in your image–like the famous researcher who build the city’s first Hot-air Balloon–then most citizens won’t know about you.
– In this current era of researchers, the lack of talent is evident. But, there have been a few young researchers that’ve made a reputation for themselves in the last couple of years. One, in particular, has been working to build a machine capable of launching humans to the stars without the use of any type of elemental energy.
Life of a Researcher
– The daily life of a researcher is composed of waking up, drinking three scoops of instant coffee with cold milk, researching whatever piques their interest, getting stuck on their research, pulling out their hair until they somehow make a theory, passing out from sheer exhaustion, and repeat. The day doesn't start when the rays of sun invade, nor does night determine when to sleep.
– In other words, they are workaholics.
[Fun Facts]
– The first batch of Up-holders were trained by Vimlar, along a dear friend of his
Vimlar taught the first batch of Up-holders alongside a dear friend of his.
– The original camp of Up-holders is still in use today. Although it's not the current Up-holder base anymore, it has now changed to accommodate the training of the newbies, AKA, the students’ training ground.
– The name “Up-holders” wasn't the original name for these trained knights. In fact, it was changed to this because the previous name was too uncouth for Her Grace's taste.
╰ They were called “The Bringers of Doom”. Her Grace didn’t like it, sounding too violent for her ideals. Vimlar was a pouting mess for a week because of this. The trainees faced the consequences that week.
– Clelarth has its own library. Good luck trying to find anything unrelated to law, as most of the books within its collection are about just that.
– In recent years, a unique partnership has developed between students of both Tridalia and Clelath Academies. As part of their curriculum, students from both academies need to study law; students realised that they could become study partners.
╰ Their camaraderie has build to the point that a large chunk of Clelarth students go and cheer for their friends during the Grand Entrance Exam of Tridalia academy.
– There's a heated debate among the citizens regarding who's the better ruler for the city. If you happen to stumble into this discussion, I advise you to turn around and not get involved. The 'rulers' in question here are Her Grace and the Head of the Nomads. You don't want to get caught up in that hornet's nest, believe me.
╰ Last time there was an outright war. At the end, the Up-holders had to step in and stop the whole thing before anyone got injured.
𝚃𝚊𝚐𝚜: @udretlnea.
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Yo do you know any good SAGAU au's Cuz ngl l'm feening for more them Bruh, I found a good few and Now I want more to read
Also do You know a SAGAU post where the Creator tells people like Sara and Jean of their home worlds History and events like WWII and Jack the ripper
Personally, some of my faves are-
Melusine!Creator - >post< And the poster is @that-foul-legacy-lover
A Self-aware Bungou Stray Dogs/SAGAU crossover series - >Masterlist< And the poster is @selfaware-bungou-stray-dogs
Bloodletting/Creator with a shotgun - >post< And the poster is @admiral-mason
Zhongli being the only character to realize Creator was the Creator - >post<, >post<, >post<, >post<, >post<, >post<, >post<, >post< And the poster is @dewdrop-writes
Neuvillette x Creator - >post< And the poster is @unabashednightmarepizza
Those some SAGAU au's I can think of the top of my head that I love.
And as for your question, I think they'd be disturbed? Especially about WWII.
Concept poster for The Divine City: Slice of Life???
Slice of Life series OG creator: @udretlnea
Don’t ask me who the lady in the top right corner is because I have no idea 🤷♀️. She just appeared in the vision I had of this poster after reading the latest chapter, and I was like, “I have to draw this ASAP”. Which led to me raising from my bed, and proceeding to spend the next hour and a half drawing this. AGH I’M MAD MY ART SKILLS DON’T DO MY VISION JUSTICE.
Omg I just noticed Lyla’s braid is on the wrong side. Kill me 🤡
Concept poster for The Divine City: Slice of Life???
Slice of Life series OG creator: @udretlnea
Don’t ask me who the lady in the top right corner is because I have no idea 🤷♀️. She just appeared in the vision I had of this poster after reading the latest chapter, and I was like, “I have to draw this ASAP”. Which led to me raising from my bed, and proceeding to spend the next hour and a half drawing this. AGH I’M MAD MY ART SKILLS DON’T DO MY VISION JUSTICE.
Omg I just noticed Lyla’s braid is on the wrong side. Kill me 🤡
Contrary to what Andrius had expected, you did not sought out revenge. If anything, you had seemed perfectly contented living in his domain, away from prying eyes and bloodlust fueled devotion. It was upsetting at first,
why couldn't you just accept who you truly were?
why were you letting the people who hurt you, get away with it?
you were their creator, their mother, you deserved the utmost respect and the most genuine devotion, not the devotion those false believers, those fanatics had!
Still . .
"Say aww~"
He couldn't really complain that much when you were feeding him very delicious food. Delicious and powerful food at that. Although he was a remnant of his past self, quite literally, now just being an elemental being, a ghost really, he felt his being invigorated by your food, some strange reaction sort of happening his gut.
Though he hoped it wasn't indigestion.
Meanwhile. . "I'm still not used to seeing this. ." "mhm!" Both of the two boys were still unable to get over, seeing the king of the wolves act like putty under your hands.
It had been a day or so since you met the trio, as well as Razor's lupical family. Since Andrius welcomed you, you decided to stay with them. It was safer considering Andrius' strength as a weekly boss and how secluded wolvendom was.
Though you rarely ventured out, sometimes you used the bow and arrow that Aether gave you to hunt some boars, other times you simply farmed sunsettia and other foragables in the forest.
"It's getting a bit late. . I should head back to the city before they get worried." Bennett said allowed as he began to stand up. "[name]! I promise not to tell okay!" he added to reassure you.
"Oh okay, I trust you, but come here for a second." she beckoned him over. The boy had stayed over the night before, but now he was beginning to get anxious. He hadn't told anyone he'd be out for long or would be going on an adventure, considering the situation at the city, the knights might end up venturing out again in search for him so he rather get back before that happens.
Plus, he wanted to make sure his dads were doing okay. Normally they would be able to handle themselves. . but considering the storms that the dragon created. .
"Here."
He was presented with a basket with food. Sandwiches. In between each slice of bread were different fillings, some had jam, the others had meat, and some had vegetables and condiments.
"Make sure you and your dads eat well okay?" you softly told him with a smile, a hand reaching out as it ruffled his light haired locks. Having already known his story, you wanted to at least lighten his burden. "Be safe on your way home okay?"
"I-I Will!" he yelled, face flushing furiously as he left quickly, waving enthusiastically as he turned into a small dot the farther and farther he got.
Chuckling you found his antics amusing, well he was a child? perhaps he was not used to affection considering his upbringing. Smiling more happily, you asked Razor to come with his lupical, having finished cooking their lunch.
Just as they were beginning to eat however, the wolves stood up, ears and nose twitching having picked up on something. Andrius, although seemingly nonchalant, had his eyes shifted to the path that lead to his domain (the arena).
The bushes shook for a bit until Bennett came running back in a panic, pale faced as he gesture for them to run and hide. Well specifically to you at least, you were the one in most danger after all.
Suddenly you were unceremoniously thrown and pinned down by Andrius, you could breath, however every breath you took was no doubt filled with his fur, elemental fur so luckily any allergies you had weren't triggered, and you could vaguely see through his fine fur.
'What the heck is happening?!' you began to panic as you tried to clung to Andrius, forcing yourself further deep inside his mane, you hoped you weren't seen, you hoped it wasn't Jean or Lisa. . or Amber.
"Bennett, you looked like you've seen a ghost, I'm a tad bit hurt." The voice was familiar, judging by it, it seemed to be an adult male. And based on the footsteps, there were two of them. One seemingly silently observing.
"C-captain Kaeya!" Bennett confirmed her suspicions, she could hear the boy try to cover up how obviously suspicious he was by running away from them at first sight "I-I Didn't see you there and Master Diluc!"
And he was failing tremendously (At lying).
The Cavalry captain looked amused at the boy however his brother begged to differ, "Bennet" he greeted with a slight nod one that Bennett returned albeit more nervously and more energetic in a way that made u worry he might snap his head off.
"Relax, I'm a friend of [name], I wouldn't have brought Diluc here if he was going to kill her!" Kaeya intervened seeing how Andrius and Razor and his lupical were eyeing them like meat.
"And why should we trust you?" Andrius huffed, sending a cold breeze at the Ragnvindr brothers.
Kaeya grinned, not at all bothered by the lack of trust. He had expected it of course, so nudging his brother—the red haired sighed—, as both of them took out their weapons and quickly threw it to the ground.
"Your words and actions are empty upon my ears" Andrius replied "for their weight is nothing compared to the crimes your city has committed against her."
The brothers didn't argue with that, agreeing really at the severity of the actions their region has committed. "I take it" Diluc took a step forward, eyes never leaving Andrius' gaze "that since you have taken action, that she is the Divine one?"
Andrius' paw struck the floor, causing the area to shake "and what of it?! should it matter whether that person is the divine one or not? when has it been a sin to look like the great one?!"
He could feel you shake in his fur "You are all blind fools. Not to mention barbaric and murderous." "The knights could not take chances with the prophecy." Kaeya shrugged, clearly separating his own views from his fellow knights.
"Yet you all willingly took a chance on incurring the wrath of our divine Matriarch." The king of the wolves mentioned "Soon Mondstadt shall lay in the grave it made, I myself shall make sure it happens." His eyes glowed dangerously as the temperature in the area dropped.
Perhaps it was because of their visions or maybe their training, but the two men didn't seem bothered at the cold. "We will have no complaints should you decide to level the whole city-" Diluc glared at his brother who continued without batting an eye "-but can you guarantee us that that is what She wants?"
His eye flickered to the king's chest, and you flinched, did he notice you were hiding amongst Andrius' fur? Your hands felt clammy and the scars drawn across your body tingled painfully, still, it was Kaeya, the same man that let you off free back at the winery. .
You could trust him right?
After all he was the man that warned you of Diluc's approach, the man you shared food with. . the man that comforted you when you were on the brink of falling apart.
"Your Holiness!" Andrius yelled out as he saw you leave the covers of his fur. "I told you before Andrius," you smiled at him reassuringly "call me [name]."
Turning your attention to the two men, the oh so popular bachelors of Mondstadt, you greeted the cavalry captain with a light nod. "Oh come on now [Name] I thought we bonded well enough last time to not be awkward now." Kaeya approached you casually.
"You!" Andrius growled at Kaeya's nonchalance, translating it as a sign of disrespect. "It's okay" you shushed him, beckoning him to loaf once more on the ground, and he did, of course with a huff, turning away from you.
Of course he wasn't sly to hide how his eyes glanced at you and the others every few seconds, watching you carefully.
"Sorry" you winced, turning back to them "for the record, it is nice meeting you again Kaeya and umm hi Sir Diluc" you waved awkwardly at the red head who seemed to share mutual feelings.
Kaeya however found the situation amusing "Come on Diluc, don't be so shy" he beckoned his brother to join you two as well as Bennett and Razor.
Razor's lupical decided on walking around you in circles, eyes staring cautiously at Diluc and Kaeya, the wolf boy made no move to stop or tell them off. Whether the brothers were scared or wary, well they didn't show.
Deciding to address the elephant in the room, you asked them a simple question.
"Why are you two here?"
Kaeya and Diluc looked at each other, and perhaps due to their close relationship or at least understanding towards each other, it seemed they mutually decided on letting the Darknight Hero explain their purpose in finding you.
"When you had left my er.. kitchens me and Kaeya had a long talk regarding you, the supposed imposter." He started off, careful with his words as to not offend.
"We agreed and disagreed on some parts. I do not know whether you are the imposter or not, apart from your face your connections with The Divine One is unclear. It would be hasty to quickly find you guilty."
You stared at him cautiously, to summarize he's on the middle ground on whether you are an imposter or not, to your understanding anyways.
Seeing your growing apprehension, Kaeya elbowed the man who quickly backtracked on his words. "However," he coughed "we do believe in 'innocent until proven guilty.'"
The blue haired man sighed, "to be perfectly clear, I believe your innocent, a 100% even, meanwhile this guy," he jabbed a thumb towards the red head "he's still on the fence on intentions, he won't harm you or let the knights get to you, but he will most likely be observing you himself because he doesn't trust my words."
Diluc scoffed but didn't confirm or deny anything.
You blinked, before chuckling, finding their behavior although different, a bit amusing. Seeing them act so differently from the cutscenes, almost bickering like brothers. . made the burden in your heart lighten even if it were just for a bit.
"You two.. are different from what I remember." you couldn't help but confess.
"How so?" Kaeya hummed, interested in your musings.
You shrugged, remembering they don't know that their whole lives was just a gaming simulation "I supposed you guys feel more real and genuine than how I thought."
"That's a bit rude," the knight crossed his arms "I have always been genuine with you." You gave him a dubious look "is that so?" voice dipped in sarcasm.
The man gasped "and here I went around and defended you!"
As the two of you played around, Diluc silently observed you, wondering what you meant by 'remember.'
Awkwardly huddled around a campfire, you found yourself silently mulling over what to do as you ate the meal you had prepared. Bennett would have arrived at Mondstadt by now, Razor meanwhile had decided to kill any monsters in the forest and be on the lookout, night-duty as Kaeya had suggested having explained that the knights were increasing the range of their search.
Considering your existence and the events that followed weren't canon to the game, you couldn't help but feel bad for delaying Aether's progress in his journey to find his sister.
From what you gathered from Kaeya and Aether, your run-in with Lisa and Jean happened around the time they were wrapping up the temples that powered Dvalin. Kaeya had asked the traveler afterwards to find you, which led to you meeting the main protagonist and Paimon at Stormterror lair.
"So you have met the traveler?" Kaeya asked, getting your attention. "Yes" you blinked before asking the man "didn't he tell you?" "Of course not, he was probably unsure on how I'd act." he didn't seem to offended at the traveler's duplicity.
He grinned at you, a smile full of mischief and teasing "I must say, you are quite the charming person to have persuaded the traveler, he was rather. . how should I put it. Wary of people."
"I wouldn't say that," you brushed the compliment off "Aether is a very kind person, he's not one to just attack someone just because others branded her as an imposter."
Considering Aether had left the city to find her, how the fatui and the knights are working together to find you.. it has delayed the storyline a lot. You wondered if he had met Venti at this point or had found the Lyre. .
You glanced at the silent hero, who seemed perfectly satisfied in eating his dinner in silence. "What is it?" he asked, without looking towards you, most likely noticing your stare.
"Sorry" you flushed in embarrassment, but for the sake of your curiosity you asked him "Have you by chance met Aether and Venti in Angel's share?"
He lowered his spoon, "why do you ask?"
"It is very important." (I need to know their situation over there.)
Diluc sighed, eyes glancing at you for a moment "I have not, should I be worried?" "Not really," you turned to your own meal "it would be best if everybody just focused on Dvalin-er Stormterror rather than finding me."
Wishful thinking, you knew but still.
You were harmless, Dvalin, in his current state, was not.
Though if Dvalin continued to make a mess of things in Mondstadt maybe then they'd stop looking for her..
. . .
Sadly your conscious wouldn't let you be a bystander. It was your fault the story had to take a pause, 'I just need to make sure the archon quests continue. . to do that, it would be best if Diluc returned to Angel's Share.'
"I think my next course of action.. should be going to Mondstadt." You decided, causing the two brothers and Andrius to stare at you, wide eyes as if you had a death wish.
You probably did have a death wish, didn't you?
Diluc was the first to speak "are you trying to get yourself killed?" "Of course not, logically it would be the most reasonable course of action." you said in a 'matter-of-fact' kind of tone "Currently the knights and the fatui are putting most, if not all, of their power and resources on the manhunt outside the city."
Considering how the last they had seen you was when you fell into the lake, kudos to the librarian, they probably think you had swam to the shore and hiding somewhere outside the city.
"The safest place you could be is right beside me [name]" Andrius argued, "I can't help agree with the talking wolf." Kaeya sighed, as much as how it would be more convenient for you to be there, so he can visit you more easily, the risks of you being noticed was too high to take.
He was not a gambler.
"I want to believe that, I really do" you turned to the king of the wolves "but think about it, if, no, when they find me here, it'll be hard to escape, I can't climb out of this arena easily, there's only one path in and out of this place (referring to the weekly boss battle area where you set up camp)."
You stood up "I don't doubt your power, but even you, the current you, can't handle an army of knights and fatui who wield visions and weapons. I mean, for sure you'd be fine but me, you can't guarantee my safety in these conditions."
Of course your reasoning was fueled by your determination to get the story to progress more. If Aether finishes the prologue you can leave with him and head to Liyue!
"The others can't visit me everyday, in schedules, that would be more suspicious. Razor and his lupical can stay here without raising suspicions of course, but I don't want them to get into harms way. If I were to stay at Mondstadt, hiding in let's say Angel's share, Kaeya can visit me in the pretense of drinking, Diluc owns that bar too."
Silence filled the area as they mulled over there words.
Surprisingly, Diluc was the first to agree "it does make sense. At the moment at least, it would be safer for her to hide in the city since almost all of the knights and fatui are here, outside."
Kaeya meanwhile stared at the man for a full minute as if considering his options and weighing the possibilities. "I suppose it would make it easier for me to check up on you," he said as he turned to meet your eyes "but that also means you'd be cooped up in one building for a long time, can you mentally handle that?"
You nodded "in all honesty. ."
"I kinda miss sleeping on a bed. ."
They chuckled at your hopeless expression, considering the both of them had a very cozy sleep in their fluffy beds. "Anyways," Diluc coughed, looking away as he felt sort of guilty that you had to experience the hardships of camping outside for so long "Should we all agree-" he glanced at the wolf who began to sulk "my bar, Angel's share, is open for you. You could stay in the attic and in the basement, at night you can walk around the second floor."
"That sounds doable." you nodded along, stroking your chin before turning to Andrius, waiting for his response.
He grumbled, tail hitting the ground in an aggressive manner.
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