you hide your face with your disguise // 'cause someone filled your head with lies

[monoceroscaeli]

[It had been a few days since the hunt for the Great Mujina Youkai had come to an end, having to say goodbye to the kids and to Yoimiya too. The ship that was to take him back to Snezhnaya would be arriving a bit later in the day, and Childe sighs as he sits back in his chair in the tent he's occupying in one such hidden Fatui camp. He had a great time in Inazuma. The country was beautiful, rich with a new culture to learn and all sorts of places to explore and fight new and more exciting enemies. All his things were in order- the gifts that he'd bought to bring back to his family, Teucer's Onikabuto in a little bug box with some food to keep it alive during the trip back- all he'd have to do is wait for the ship and he'd be on his way.

He tells himself that he'd return to the country one day, once tensions between the Fatui and the Shogunate calm down. It was a miracle that he was able to stay as long as he has, evading the Tenryou Commission. He has some people to thank for that, and he won't forget what they did for him while he's been here. Some gifts would be in order for them upon his return.

The Harbinger idly plays with a writing utensil between his fingers. He'd like to bring something from Snezhnaya for Yoimiya, too.

There's a sharp rap at his door, and Childe sighs. He doesn't really want to deal with work right now, perfectly happy reminiscing on the time he's spent in Inazuma before he leaves, but answers with a bored tone to his voice:]

Come in.

[An agent enters, bowing and standing at attention.]

Sir, we've captured a Tenryou Commission spy that was found sneaking around. We've taken her into custody and are awaiting your orders on how to deal with her.

[Childe's eyebrow raises. It should have been hard to find this camp, even by the Shuumatsuban. Somehow, doubt creeps into his mind, but stands from his chair.]

Alright, I'll deal with it myself. At least I can have one last bit of fun before I depart.

[The agent only bows once more, to lead Childe towards the prisoner. He knows better than to argue with the Harbinger, but feels sorry for the spy. The two cross the camp to another tent, the agent stopping him right before lifting the flap for his senior commander.]

She claims to be from the fireworks shop, but we've seen Tenryou soldiers stop frequently at it.

[Before he can answer, the flap is lifted to reveal a certain girl that he'd met not but a few days ago...]

Comments

[monoceroscaeli]

[And just like that, Tartaglia watches his girlfriend's burning passion come right back to the surface. He swears, looking at her, that there was something off that was going on inside of her head that he's unaware of, but he shakes that feeling off for the moment to concentrate on the more pressing matter at hand. Seems that Yoimiya was aware that there was a danger to letting Dottore get a hold of an Aranara, and he's glad he didn't have to say anything for her to catch on. That's a skill that she'll do well to nurture, if she's going to be around the Fatui for any length of time. They're all snakes, as far as he's concerned.

Tartaglia stays silent for the moment, as Pantalone interjects. Dottore hadn't counted on her heart of gold, and he knows that it's bad enough for her that she probably already feels like she's betraying those creatures. He understands- it's the least she can do to make sure that he doesn't abuse them. Good choice, Childe thinks. Dottore isn't known for being warm.

He nods to Yoimiya, not questioning her decision on the matter. It's her body and her mind, so he won't push her to do something she won't be alright with, turning with her to go. Suddenly, the Doctor's cold voice rings out from behind them, almost with an authority to get them to stop.]

Heheheh, so you're concerned for their safety. Is that all? I suppose I can be accommodating to your request.

[Tartaglia turns, eyeing the Doctor, before his gaze sweeps over to Regrator. His glance asks the other Harbinger, "Is he being serious? You're the one here who works closely with him. This isn't a trick?"]

I've been waiting a long time to be able to study those creatures, [Dottore continues,] and it would be a waste to let this opportunity go by. What would I have to do to assuage your concerns?

If this is a trick...

[Childe's voice comes out as a growl, a warning to the Doctor not to mess with Yoimiya. He won't hesitate to use force, and Dottore knows it, but the senior Harbinger still feels like he has the upper hand.]

It's not a trick, [he responds quickly, cutting Tartaglia off.] I'm being sincere. Now let the young lady speak.

[niwabi]

[ The firey blonde is satisfied to give the Harbinger a piece of her mind and without another word, she turns her heels to exit out the door. They might not have received the help they were seeking but it's better than forgoing an innocent Aranara to the whims of a mad scientist. Those precious creatures don't deserve that kind of fate and the more she thinks about it, Yoimiya knows the correct choice has been made. There's not an ounce of hesitation in her as they prepare to leave, she is all the more assured seeing Ajax right behind her. His support is the best source of comfort in this trying time and so long as they have each other, she has faith they'll be able to brave this awful storm together.

She gives his hand a gentle squeeze, silently thanking him for respecting her decision and not pressing for Dottore's aid. But suddenly, his cold voice cuts through the air like a blade embedded with ice, his timbre holds so much power and authority that it beckons her to freeze, stopping her dead in the tracks. To say she's stunned would be an understatement, the infamous second Harbinger wishes to negotiate with her? A country bumpkin from Inazuma...?

There's got to be a catch to this and Tartaglia says exactly what's on her mind. Yoimiya can hear the heat packed in that growl as he threatens his own coworker, a sentiment she appreciates and is willing to back him up on. If Dottore tries something funny, she is more than happy to prove that she's not just a simple country girl to be messed with. For now, she figures it wouldn't hurt to hear him out since they've already made the trip. ]

You'd have to promise to treat it well, with the respect it deserves, and not like one of your experiments. I'd also like to check up on it whenever I have time but I really rather not capture one for you. Not a single one of those sweet creatures deserves the fate of a lab rat.

[ So really, there's not much that can be negotiated. Yoimiya would rather have something bad happen to her than a kind forest spirit who did nothing wrong.

As the two discuss matters, Regrator is impressed that a simple girl has the gall to stand up to the Second and now, he understands why she's caught the attention of Tartaglia, he muses that their fierce tenacities make them a good match. An amused smile tugs on the corners of his lips as his gaze meets Childe's, "He seems sincere. Why not listen to what he has to say? After all, he might be the key to saving your girlfriend.". He doesn't answer the question because admittedly, this is a surprise for even the Ninth himself, he wasn't expecting his companion to take a keen interest in this girl. ]

I can't make any guarantees that I'll be able to bring you an Aranara. I don't know if it's possible for them to even leave Sumeru.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Tartaglia is pretty sure he's never seen anyone negotiate with Dottore like Yoimiya is right now.

It's actually impressive, how she puts her foot down on the person that so many have lost their lives to without even blinking. She's the one who would allow Dottore to realize his goals here, and though he knows his colleague could force her into doing his bidding if he wanted, he's being polite about all this. It surprises him, that Dottore seems much more reasonable than he previously assumed, willing to work with Yoimiya on this instead of threatening her. There's probably a catch or a hidden agenda to it, he's sure, but for now he'll continue to stay silent and let this play out between the two of them. It doesn't seem to him like Yoimiya really needs him to step in.]

You raise a good point, [Dottore responds, his hands tenting in front of him as he puts his elbows on his desk,] it very well may not be possible for them to leave. Since you're so very concerned for them, then instead of capturing one, why don't you introduce me to one of them and I can ask them myself if they'd be willing to assist me in understanding their kind. If I work in Sumeru, then you'll be able to come yourself and see how they're being treated by me at any time. Surely that is more favorable and meets all your conditions?

[There's a smooth, slyness to his voice, as if he were asking Yoimiya to find the flaw in that question. The mask he wears on his face hides his eyes, but the smile on his face is easily readable. And just to seal the deal, Dottore spins in his chair to access what looks like a very secure safe of sorts, opening it to produce a gem that gleams in the light of the office, setting it down on the desk for her to see.]

If so, this can be yours. I'm sure Childe can find a proper Snezhnayan casing for you to use it in.

[Ajax's eyes widen to the Delusion he's just taken out, looking a little different than the one he's used to using. He's sure that none of the Harbingers have a Delusion that looks like that. It's definitely experimental, that's for sure- just as he said.]

[niwabi]

[ Although Yoimiya is putting on her best brave face, she still has her guard up in case Dottore attempts to threaten either one of them but in a strange turn of events, he doesn't. Quite the opposite in fact, he's acting rather... amicable? From everything Tartaglia has told her about his fearsome coworker, she assumed the Second Harbinger would use force or try some manipulation tactics to get them to do his bidding. She stays silent for a moment, staring at him straight in the eye to gauge what he might be thinking. All of his suggestions sound reasonable enough, she can't think of a way he could possibly weasel out of this.

While Yoimiya isn't the brightest crayon in the box, she isn't so dumb not to realize that Dottore could be hiding something crucial, her gut is screaming at her to reject this offer, but at the same time...

Ajax and his family are more important to her than some forest spirits. If a single one of them got hurt because of her lack of control, then Yoimiya doesn't deserve to be his girlfriend. She looks down at the gemstone he brings out, on first glance it's shaped like a vision but instead of one of the seven elements, it bears the mark of the Fatui. Does this little stone truly have the power to ward off this spirit that has a hold of her? Either way, she's willing to take the chance, no matter how dangerous this trinket is. ]

Alright, I suppose I can agree to those conditions.

[ It feels like she's making a deal with the devil but desperate times call for desperate measures. With their agreement now set in stone, Yoimiya presents him with her hand over his desk, extending her small pinky finger towards him. ]

But first, we have to pinky promise on it. I believe in Snezhnaya it goes something like this...? You make a pinkie promise, you keep it all your life. You break a pinkie promise, I throw you on the ice. The cold will kill the pinkie that once betrayed your friend, the frost will freeze your tongue off so you never lie again.

[ An eerie silence fills the air until Pantalone can no longer contain his laughter, busting out into a chuckling fit. ]

Hahahaha, well this is certainly a first for me! I've never seen someone request the fearsome Dottore for a pinky promise. Oh dear me, what a delight this has been.

[ Someone is getting way too much kicks out of this... ]

[monoceroscaeli]

[Dottore's face brightens at Yoimiya's acceptance of his offer. Possibilities have just opened to him that he was afraid the idiots that work under him would never of given to him otherwise. But of course, when you want something done right, do it yourself. Isn't this the rule of the world, truly, though that thought is cut short by Yoimiya's next sentence.

Pinky...promise?

If Dottore's eyes were visible, the confusion in them would of been palpable. He looks down at the pinky extended to him, not moving to take it, not even really sure what's happening here. Tartaglia's eyes widen in complete surprise, especially with the seriousness that Yoimiya is saying that with. She recites the nursery rhyme with precision, dumbfounded that she's made this move and a little proud that she remembered the whole thing. They only said it a few times? And she's already got it down. His head snaps over to Pantalone laughing, and Childe's not sure if a part of him just died on the inside or if he's proud of her boldness or if he's just confused as to how they even got here to begin with.]

Yoimiya...he's not...

[Dottore finally smiles, reaches out and takes Yoimiya's pinky with his own and shakes it as if they were signing a contract. What an amusing girl, he thinks to himself, I would have never guessed Tartaglia would bring me such an entertaining subject.]

Am I supposed to say something here, Childe?

[Dottore's voice rings out towards the Eleventh, to which Childe only responds with a mild nervousness borne of embarrassment.]

Yeah, you're supposed to say, "It's a promise."

It's a promise.

[And with that, the pinky promise has been made, and Dottore lets go of Yoimiya's pinky with a smile.]

Now that we've settled matters, we can plan for our trip to Sumeru. Naganohara Yoimiya, was it? This is for you, and do log any experiences you have with it for me. Your Vision will grant you protection against the negative effects it usually incurs upon people, but extended use isn't recommended. This is imbued with the power of the Tsaritsa herself, so do take care of it. Regrator, please help Miss Naganohara set up an account with Northland Bank. She needs to be paid for her services, too.

[The gem is picked up and handed over to Yoimiya, as per the agreement- and the deal is sealed.]

Great, can we get going? We can talk about travel plans tomorrow.

[Tartaglia's hand comes up to his head as if he's got a headache...this is already a half-nightmare.]

[niwabi]

[ For the first time since they've entered Dottore's office, a small smile curves at her cheeks as the Harbinger not only finishes the rest of the nursery rhyme but also wraps his pinky finger around hers. Yoimiya beams at his back and forth with Childe, totally oblivious to the emotional whiplash her dear ol' boyfriend is experiencing. It's yet to dawn on her how unprecedented this little childish gesture is, she just got the infamous Dottore to forge a pinky promise with her and she's none the wiser, just happy he complied with her shenanigans. With their pinkies locked, the promise has been sealed, one that she swears to see through to the end.

She gives the Doctor a soft nod as they both let go, satisfied that their contract feels more official. Her gold eyes grow with amazement once he hands her the gemstone, she delicately accepts it and wastes no time inspecting it from all angles. That's definitely the Fauti's insignia in the center of the blue gemstone, such a beautiful shade of blue reminds her of the vast ocean... the same color as Ajax's vision. If she had to guess, hydro powers are embedded in this tiny trinket but she'll make sure to ask her beloved all sorts of questions once they are alone. ]

Will do! If something unusual happens I'll be sure to make note of it. Since it's from the majestic Tsaritsa herself, I promise to take extra care of it. I really can't thank you enough for lending us your help. I will also do my best to hold up the end of our agreement.

[ With that, she takes the delusion and carefully stores it in her goldfish-patterned gamaguchi. It's not recommended to use for an extended amount of time... got it! Yoimiya makes a mental note to heed his warning, promising herself not to do anything that will worry Ajax NEVERMIND THAT SHE GOT DOTTORE TO DO A PINKY PROMISE WITH HER LOL and if there's anyone who can teach her how to properly harness the gem's powers, it's her Harbinger boyfriend. ]

To the Northland Bank, it is! Hehe, looks like you managed to lure me in as a customer after all.

[ Pantalone's smile is as wide as his fortune. He knew that tagging along with the two would be a worthwhile trip. Not only did he gain a new client, but said client was none other than Tartaglia's girlfriend and the woman who stood proud in the face of the Second Harbinger. With that connection alone, she's already a valuable customer and he'll be sure to thank Dottore for sending her his way later. ]

Since you're Childe's girlfriend, I'll ensure you receive nothing but the best treatment. We can figure out how to tackle the Inazuma problem later but for now, I'll be happy to welcome you to Northland Bank.

[ Signora might have ruined his plans to branch out to Inazuma but Archons, he's bound and determined by greed to make it happen. He can already taste all the sweet, sweet mora that will be made if he succeeds, maybe this lass will be the key to expanding his bank.

Already feeling a little better, Yoimiya wraps her arms around Tartaglia's biceps... still unaware of the nightmare he just witnessed with his own two eyes. ]

And once we're done setting you up with an account. Maybe the three of us can go out for lunch together? It will be my honor to show you the finest restaurants Snezhnaya has to offer. Plus, I've been looking forward to catching up with Childe over there, haha. I have so much to tell him.

[ POOR AJAX'S DAY JUST KEEPS GETTING "BETTER"... ]

[monoceroscaeli]

[Dottore feels like he can trust Yoimiya to fulfill her end of the bargain. She seems like too much of a simpleton to him to go back on her word, just like Tartaglia here- they really are a good match for each other. But he keeps the backhanded compliment to himself, glad to see her put the Delusion away somewhere safe as he sits back in his chair and folds his hands as he watches them go. Preparations will have to be made for Sumeru, and the three of them will journey together to the land of his birth- one he'll destroy with his bare hands, even if it's just a byproduct of his research. And Yoimiya is giving him a small foot in the door to do just that.

Tartaglia, however, is slumping his shoulders in grief- now he's gotta deal with Pantalone too. As much as he likes to do work for Northland Bank while he's abroad, he doesn't want to hear the guy talk about finances again...it's so boring...]

Are you paying, Regrator?

[Yoimiya's arms around his own is nice, but he's more focused on the other man beside them now. He's inviting them out to lunch, and that means it's going to be ridiculously expensive. The man knows how to make money, but he also enjoys his nice places out when he's trying to impress someone. He's willing to bet he's going to use Yoimiya as a way to settle Northland Bank in Inazuma somehow...even after the mess with the Raiden Shogun and the Delusions. Which was partially his idea!!!!]

I know your tastes. That's not fair to us if you take us somewhere extravagant and expect us to pay for ourselves.

[Ajax gets a little huffy about it as they leave, hoping that maybe the threat of making Regrator pay for them will change his mind about lunch. Besides, he can catch up with him when Yoimiya isn't here on vacation. >:|]

[niwabi]

[ As Yoimiya shifts her gaze back and forth between the two Harbinger men, she can tell Tartaglia is super not interested in spending more time with Regrator than he already has to. The huff in his voice is a dead giveaway. And if everything he has to say about his coworker is true (She believes him) then he just wants to talk poor Childe's ear off about finances, she has a feeling her boyfriend would rather jump into Snezhnaya's freezing cold ocean than hear what he has to say. While she doesn't necessarily mind the three of them going out for lunch together, she'd rather spend some much-desired alone time with Ajax. Not even the threat of an evil spirit will stop her from being with her beloved.

Besides... there's something else she wants to talk to him about ASAP, away from the prying ears of Dottore and Pantalone. ]

Why yes, it would be quite rude of me to take you to one of Snezhnaya's finest restaurants and expect you to pay. I'll tell you what, I know you can afford it, Childe but I don't mind treating Miss Naganohara since she'll be a new customer of mine.

[ Ajax knows his coworker well enough, this man had every intention of taking them to the most extravagant restaurant in Snezhnaya. Although throwing mora away for some girl from the boonies of Inazuma isn't exactly what he wants to do, he rationalizes this could lead him to a net positive. If he's able to use Yoimiya's connections to set up a Northland Bank, then he'll make all his mora back from this lunch and then some. ]

I appreciate your offer but you don't have to go out of your way. I would feel bad if you spent an exorbitant amount of mora on little ol' me, especially since we just met. Besides, Tartaglia and I have plans to see the rest of the capitol.

[ She shoots Ajax a small, reassuring smile, hoping her suggestion is enough to deter Pantalone and make her beau happy. Besides, she's not exactly keen on the idea of another man paying for her meal with her boyfriend right there. But... goodness, she can't help but be a little amused at how wealthy Ajax is that the owner of the Northland Bank brings attention to it. ]

Ah, well. If that's the case, then who am I to take precious time away from the two love birds?

[monoceroscaeli]

[He knew it. He was totally going to take them somewhere that would even make Childe's eyes roll to the back of his head with how pricey it probably would be, and he's got plenty of money to waste and then some. What's more irritating is that he was going to make him pay for himself while he bought his girlfriend lunch...what's up with that? Going somewhere expensive but being too cheap to treat them both? It's almost like Regrator is asking him to start a fight or something. He can feel his fighting blood start to boil, his body twitching for the opportunity to swing his sword, to make Pantalone pay for his words somehow...

But here she comes, Yoimiya's here to save the day. Thank the archons at least one of them has a cooler head here, and her smile is enough to settle him down enough to let the other Harbinger respond before he lost his temper.]

I'm glad to see even a banker like you recognizes the value of time, [Tartaglia says with a mild amount of venom,] since not everything is necessarily purchased with mora.

[A value imparted on him by Rex Lapis himself, but he won't mention that- he knows exactly how Pantalone feels about the former Geo Archon.]

But yes, that's true. We really only have time to go to the bank, given how long it takes to create an account. I'd almost forgotten all about the tour we had set up for Yoimiya so she can see the sights while she's here. I thank you for your understanding on that.

[Because he better understand that he's here with Yoimiya and that they had to take part of their vacation just to try to increase Yoimiya's safety is already too much. Being given an experimental Delusion, having to derail their plans to take Dottore to Sumeru, he's going to end up with the biggest migraine of the century at this rate.]

[niwabi]

[ Crisis averted! While Yoimiya isn't exactly against Ajax starting a fight (Heck, she'd be happy to throw hands alongside him like the chaotic fireworks gremlin she is! >:D) she would feel terrible if he somehow got hurt on her behalf. She isn't aware of Pantalone's powers or if he's even able to fight but given that he's a Harbinger of higher rank than her beloved, there's no doubt he's got something up his sleeve. And for the time being, it's best she doesn't find out. Maybe once this entity thing is under control, Ajax can pick fights with Regrator all he wants and she will cheer him on!

But for now, they need to go ahead with the account and be done with it. As nice as the offer is, it's the least of her worries with the whole mysterious being and the Delusion she will eventually have to master. ]

That's right, I've been looking forward to the tour ever since he told me about it! He has so much to show me so if you don't mind, we'd like to go ahead and get the account set up so we can enjoy the rest of the day together.

[ Although Pantalone didn't get quite what he bargained for He really wanted to yap Tartaglia's ear off..., this outcome is still quite favorable and in the end, he didn't have to spend a single mora on an extravagant meal for the three of them. Either way, he's gained a new customer in this girl who might possibly be his golden ticket to having a hand in Inazuma. ]

Of course, it will be my pleasure to lead you to the Northland Bank.

---

[ With her hand on her forehead and a stack of papers tucked underneath her arm, Yoimiya exits the Northland bank looking confused and dazed. How long were they inside that bank? An hour? Two hours??? The actual time doesn't matter because Archons it felt like she and Ajax were trapped there for a hundred years. She'll have to sort through these documents later and ask her boyfriend for a simpler explanation because some of what Pantalone was saying completely flew over her head. ]

Oh dear, I thought I was a big talker but I think he takes the cake. I'm still seeing and hearing numbers...

[ Maybe some self-reflection is in order because she's starting to wonder if this is how other people feel with her nonstop chattering. Yoimiya's head feels like exploding from all that talk about finance. She'll be seeing numbers in her dreams tonight. ]

[monoceroscaeli]

[Leave it to Yoimiya to successfully get them out of having to spend the afternoon with Regrator. He couldn't be more thankful, and she'd even managed to avoid him drawing his blade at his colleague- which is probably for the best given that they have bigger fish to fry. But they still have to go through the pain of going to Northland Bank and get everything set up, which he knows will take a hot second to do. The worst thing about it is, they're walking right into the Ninth Harbinger's trap. There's no escaping him while they fill out paperwork, and Tartaglia is sure he can actually feel his brain melting as they cover all the necessary information about Yoimiya's new account with the bank and how the Fatui will pay her...]

---

[If he didn't have a migraine before, he does now. He knew, he KNEW that would lead to Pantalone still talking their ear off and digressing to talk about his crazy theories and grand schemes to upset the natural balance between the gods and mortals. He knew the guy hated Morax with all his heart but did he really have to show that side of him to Yoimiya too???? The girl wasn't a Harbinger, let alone Fatui, and there's no doubt she didn't understand most of it anyway. He didn't understand most of it and he's sat through these rant/explanations more times than he'd like to admit to. If he has to hear one more word about how money and markets can be manipulated to gain vast wealth and upset the order of things, he'll literally die. Right there. On the spot.]

That's only a small taste of what he's capable of, [Childe comments, holding his head as it pounds.]

Going on missions with him is one of the worst experiences I've ever had. After a while, you start to have nightmares about mora. If I could avoid ever having to talk to him again for longer than two minutes, I would.

[But as a Harbinger, he's practically inescapable...]

I don't mean to complain, but he does get overbearing after a time. But it is thanks to him that the Fatui and Snezhnaya in turn have a vast amount of wealth. He keeps our accounts full, and I don't grumble too much about it. You'll find now that you're working with the Fatui that your coffers will never cease to be full. Anything you or your family would need or want for, will be well within your reach. Though you might have to see Regrator again. I'm sure he intends on using you for access to the Inazuma market.

[niwabi]

[ Poor Ajax. If her head is already throbbing from her first encounter, she can't imagine the terrible mirgaines he walks out with every time he has to deal with this man. Yoimiya is all about lending her ear to people but gods, she did not understand a word of what Pantalone was going on about. Something something markets? What did Morax ever do to him?? What does manipulation have anything to do with this??? WHY DOES HE WANT TO UPSET THE NATURAL ORDER OF THINGS???? And judging from the expression on Tartaglia's face during that discussion, he also didn't understand a lick of what was being said and that makes her feel a whole lot better.

Now that they've escaped from the clutches of Pantalone's crazy talk, Yoimiya feels like they can finally breathe. But knowledge that this is only a mere fraction of his talking power is downright scary. He's capable of more?! Oh no. Oh nononono. (⊙_⊙) ]

Don't worry, everyone needs to complain every once in a while! And after sitting through all of that... I understand why you try to avoid him at all costs.

[ Standing on her tip toes, she leans upwards to give him a peck on the forehead in hopes that a Yoikiss will alleviate his poor pounding head. Ajax has been through it today and he deserves every little bit of affection. ]

Well... he might be in for a disappointment. I don't have much influencial power in Inazuma, I don't think there's much I can do to help him out on that front. [ Still, she does find it flattering that Ninth Harbinger believes a simple fireworks girl might have some sway. ] Hehe, I don't know if my little Yoimiya head will be able to comprehend having so much mora but... as long as I can use it to help my family, then that's all I can ask for.

[ Allying with the Fatui won't go over well and if word got out in Inazuma then there's no denying she will be shunned. But it's a risk she's willing to take. Being with Ajax is worth more than her reptuation and she's already sworn to fight anyone who tries to stand in the way of their relationship. ]

Thank you, Ajax. I can't thank you enough for everything you've done for me. The whole situation is still a little scary but thanks to you, I'm finally starting to see the light of hope.

[monoceroscaeli]

[A Yoikiss is always welcome, allowing him to at least put on a small smile at the gesture. His head still hurts, but now that they're out of the bank and getting some fresh, ice cold Snezhnayan air, he's sure it'll go away with time. Tartaglia rubs his temples a little bit as he walks alongside her, and he gets why she'd think she doesn't have any influence or any way to help his colleague with his schemes. But she's also underestimating him...mora has the power to move mountains in ways he's sure she can't even fathom.]

Hey, I wouldn't be a very good boyfriend if I just left you out in the cold, literally, now would I?

[He shoots an affectionate smile to her, as if thanking him is totally unnecessary, which it is, to him. He means what he says- who would he be if he left someone he loved to fend for themselves against some kind of mystical, possessive force? There's no way he'd ever let that go, and he'd never forgive himself if he turned a blind eye to it.]

I care about you, and your safety means worlds to me. I'll do whatever it takes to make sure you can beat this thing. I am a little concerned with Dottore giving you a Delusion, but it really does hold the power to give you another extra layer of protection against anything trying to attack your mind. I'll teach you how to use it a little later, and how to handle it properly so it doesn't cause an unnecessary amount of damage to you. Are you aware of the backlash a Delusion has on the human body?

[He hates to be serious here, but this is a very serious matter, as they start their little tour around the city.]

[niwabi]

[ She swears his dazzling smile has the power to split the sea in two. Maybe it is a bit silly to express her gratitude but she needs him to know how much she appreciates him, especially when that same malevolent force keeps hurling awful things into her ear. Weak, pathetic, useless... Yoimiya's confidence has taken a massive beat down but when she's with Ajax, those terrible insults don't affect her. Ajax's comforting words remind her that she is loved and if she were to disappear, this man will go to the end of the world to find her. She smiles back with all the boundless love tucked away in her heart for him, feeling all the more determined to defeat this mysterious presence lurking inside her. It's not just for her sake but Ajax's too.

Overcome with so much emotion, a stream of tears spills out of her eyes before she even realizes it. In the span of these two days, so much has happened to them and it's just now starting to dawn on her how much she's been keeping bottled up. If it wasn't for Ajax, she'd be dead and left without a single trace of her body inside that lava pit. She's so deeply moved to have such an amazing person as her partner in life. ]

Hehe, sorry... I just got really touched by your words. I'll get it together in just a second, I swear.

[ No crying! Not when they have such a serious matter to discuss. After wiping her eyes, Yoimiya gives her cheeks a good ol' SLAP to pull herself together. ]

Not really. I'm afraid I don't know much about Delusions. I do recall Dottore saying that extended use will negatively affect my body, right?

[monoceroscaeli]

[Tartaglia slows his pace the second he starts to see tears. Even though they're constantly moving forward, the past few days have been a lot and it shouldn't be surprising that it's taking a toll on Yoimiya. Anger, sadness, and helplessness flood him, but it's also coupled with a fierce determination to protect her. Ajax steps forward to pull her into a loving embrace, for as long as she needs while she pulls herself together. He laughs as she slaps her own cheeks, as he lifts his hand from behind her back to rest it on the top of her head. Yoimiya is far too cute for her own good, and even when she's crying she's pretty ;;]

Yes. It feeds off of the user's lifeforce, but Visions give all sorts of unpredictable immunities to the strange occurrences of this world. I've used my own Delusion a bit since I've received it, but I've not suffered any of the detrimental effects so far. Though, it just may be that those of us gifted with Visions just delay the effects, we're not sure. That's something only Dottore could tell you.

[He hates to bring up old matters, and he's not sure if she saw what happened to people in Inazuma. He'd heard about it through reports, and though he wishes he could have taken part in the war, he's also glad he didn't have to see how a Delusion killed off a person.]

You may or may not of seen the aftereffects of Delusion use in Inazuma- some of the troops standing against the Shogunate had some, and from the reports I read, their bodies deteriorated completely. Their hair went white, their energy levels dropped until finally, they died. Not a pretty sight, from what I understand.

[niwabi]

[ Yoimiya was already starting to brighten up just by being in Ajax's company and he managed to fill the sorrowful void in her heart by wrapping his arms around her. She can't ask for anything more soothing than being enveloped in his warmth, any remaining hint of despair is washed away with her lover's comforting arms. Just having him at her side is a reminder that everything will be okay, they will get through this ordeal and come out stronger than ever. As the last of her tears spill out, she buries her face into his shoulders wanting nothing more than to soak in his presence.

Ah, so that's what caused those poor soldiers to rapidly age. Now it all makes sense. Yoimiya was so busy drawing up fake visions and doing whatever she could to help out that she never got a chance to see the troops for herself. It's scary to think that something so little could cause someone to die in the blink of an eye and that same object that killed some of her fellow Inazumans is in her hands as they speak. ]

So, I didn't see aftereffects for myself but heard about it from others who saw it firsthand. [ Maybe it's for the best she didn't see them suffer with her own two eyes, it would have been heartbreaking to witness. ] I knew something strange was going on but I never put two and two together that a Delusion was the cause of those deaths. But I guess it's probably more appropriate for me to say that I didn't know what exactly a Delusion was at the time.

[ His fingers brushing her strawberry blonde hair alleviates the last of her internal struggles. Although they have a tool that can potentially help her, there's now the matter of how dangerous said tool is and now... she's worried for Ajax's sake. ]

Are you going to be okay using something so dangerous? You're strong and I will always believe in you but... I also can't help but worry about you.

[monoceroscaeli]

[More than happy to be the rock Yoimiya needs right now to deal with this stressful situation, he stands firm and listens to her as she explains what her own knowledge was on the matter in regards to the war in Inazuma. Sure, he knew that she had put up her own resistance as much as she could against the Shogun's stifling and oppressive rule, and he is a little thankful that Yoimiya didn't have to see the ugly reality of war and what happens during it. Now that the fighting is over, it's probably easier now for him to explain it, which he's more than willing to do.]

I appreciate the concern, [he begins,] but don't forget- I'm one of the Fatui Harbingers. I wouldn't be given a Delusion if they didn't know if I could handle it or not.

[He gives her a reassuring smile, as if there was nothing in this world that would possibly be threatening enough to come close to ending his life.]

I'd rather focus now on helping you grow accustomed to one so it doesn't hurt you. Believe me Yoimiya, I'll be just fine. Okay?

[niwabi]

[ Although she can't promise that she'll never be worried about his safety, what she can promise him is her unwavering faith in him and his abilities. Tartaglia's job is fraught with danger and with the threat of his Delusion taking a toll on him, she'll always harbor some level of concern for her beloved but deep down inside... she knows he's more than capable of handling it. He's right. The Fatui wouldn't have given him a Delusion if they weren't confident in him, Ajax has proved himself in battle time and time again. And with each passing day, his abilities continue to blossom.

If she wasn't already reassured, that precious smile of his seals the deal. That's the look of a man confident of taking on the world and conquering it beneath his heel. Yoimiya knows he'll be able to accomplish anything he sets his mind to, she just hopes she'll be around long enough to see him achieve his dreams. ]

Okay. I can't promise that I won't always worry but... I can say with certainty that I believe in you, Ajax.

[ She pulls away from the embrace to take both of his hands, interlocking their fingers together. His hands are so much bigger than hers, those same hands have been through countless battles and slain those who oppose the Tsaritsa but despite all that, no other set of hands could fill her with love and comfort the way he does. ]

What I can promise is that I'll work hard to adjust to the Delusion's powers. And with you as my teacher, I have faith that everything will be okay.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Ajax's fingers curl around her own as she takes his hands, happy that she's willing to put her faith in him. It's all he can ask for, and he silently vows to himself to do his best to never make her worry needlessly about him. He never wants to be the reason why Yoimiya gets stressed out. She's got plenty of other things to worry about- namely, her own life.]

I'll do my best to instruct you in how to use it. You'll be a master in no time.

[With the serious part out of the way, he breathes out a sigh of relief, leaning down to place a small kiss to the top of her head.]

Now, why don't we go and enjoy the rest of our day? I see no rush to get into Delusion use, and we've got to make good use of our time before we travel to Sumeru with the Doctor. Will it be alright if you extend your vacation a little longer? Regrator will make sure you're paid for that time after all, and I can easily send orders back to Inazuma for our agent to continue to help your folks.

[Breaking contact with one of her hands so he can swing to her side, he adjusts her other hand in his so they can walk the streets hand in hand as they continue to tour the city.]

I'm sorry your vacation up here has ended up this way. I hope the people of Inazuma can understand that we'll need to keep The Queen of the Summer Festival here for just a little while longer.

[niwabi]

[ For someone as ordinary as her who has never even touched a Delusion, it's not going to be an easy road but with Ajax as her instructor, there's nothing to worry about. She's elated to hear his faith in her abilities, it's the greatest honor she could ask for. And since he'll be her teacher, she's fired up with determination to make him proud and be a girlfriend strong enough to stand by his side.

A Tarukiss is just what she needs to feel extra better! ♡ She blissfully sighs at the press of his lips to the top of her head, nodding in agreement with his suggestion. After everything they've been through, they deserve a nice day out where they can just enjoy each other's company. ]

Of course! If we can, I'd like to get this settled before returning home. And... even without this looming threat, I probably would have asked if I could stay a little longer. I'm not quite ready to leave you...

[ Extending her vacation is for the best, Yoimiya doesn't even want to think about taking this horrible entity back home with her to Inazuma. She would never forgive herself if this thing took control over her body and made her hurt her parents. ]

You don't have to apologize for anything, silly. Despite everything that happened, I still don't regret coming to Snezhnaya. I'd rather take my chances with some mysterious entity than stay separated from you. Those long months apart from you were one of the most excruciating experiences of my life.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Tartaglia feels his heart stir with her words. He's not ready, not even close, to separate from her yet. And that's just on principle- now, more than ever, he finds the idea of being separated from her more agonizing every moment. Maybe, once all this is over, he'll figure out a way so the two of them can see each other more often than once a quarter. If she can be with him, sometimes she probably could also travel with him when he goes out on assignments, depending on the mission. It's something he longs for, and now that she's here, he's unwilling to part from her.

His thumb brushes over her knuckles, looking over to her with a soft expression. Knowing how much she really cared, how much she'd missed him is like a shot to his heart. He was already determined to do his best to get Yoimiya the life she deserves, one that isn't wracked with stress and fraught with danger from some unknown presence, but he's filled with even more motivation to see that through.]

Missed me that much, huh? Haha...I guess I really left an impression on you before I left Inazuma.

[He says like he's hasn't thought about her every single day since he got on the boat. Like he hasn't had everything planned out with things to spoil her with and secret gifts he still hasn't given her yet because he's waiting for the right moment. Like he doesn't feel the exact same way about it as her.

That, and he's just trying to make this a little more lighthearted too.]

Then I guess you'll just have to stay for a lot longer...I couldn't bear to have you experience that again.

[^^]

[niwabi]

[ It's true, he left a strong impression on her. Ever since they kissed at the festival, Yoimiya knew he was the one. Tartaglia is practically her dream guy and there's no doubt she fell for him pretty fast and hard. During their short time together in Inazuma, no one has ever made her heart soar above the clouds the way he has. He left such a profound impression on her that their separation was one of the most painful moments in her life, she spent many restless nights thinking about him and yearning for his touch. And when he brushes over her knuckles and blesses her with that soft smile, Yoimiya is even more convinced she's found her one and only true love.

But...

It's the blatant way he teases that causes her to arch an eyebrow at him. ]

I couldn't bear to have you experience that again. [ She deepens her voice, trying her hardest to pull off an Ajax impersonation but there's only so much her cute, high-pitched voice can do. ] Uh huh....

[ She narrows her eyes, shooting the egomaniac ginger a flat look. He's just trying to lighten the mood and she knows it, what he's doing is a much-needed change of pace from all the dread and gloom they've been forced to endure these past few days. But there's something about the way he doesn't even mention his own feelings that makes her want to put him in his place. ]

You say that like you didn't send me all those heartfelt letters while we were apart, or plan out this whole trip, or didn't just ask to extend my trip. I'm sure you were a wreck without me.

[ (˵ ¬ᴗ¬˵) ]

[monoceroscaeli]

[Childe has to fight to not curl his bottom lip inwards to bite it just to keep himself from laughing at how she imitates him. No comment on whether or not that was a good impression of him, but it's too cute with how high her voice is even when she's trying to deepen it. And the mean mug she's giving him...oh, how much fun it would be to start a little spar right here, right now. But it's not the time or place for it...]

Me? A wreck? [His free hand comes up over his chest as if she'd just accused him of a terrible crime.] What would ever give you the impression that I was a wreck?

[He doesn't hide the look on his face now, both it and the tone of his voice scream facetiousness. He continues on, with a smirk on his face, gesturing now with his free hand as he goes on to describe how much he missed her...]

I only thought about you every night we were apart, yearning for the day where I could wake up beside you. My dreams were always filled with joyous moments, only to find that that's all they were...dreams. Food didn't even taste as good as it does now that you're here...surely that's not enough to accuse me of being a wreck, now is it?

[He was absolutely, without a doubt, a mess without her.]

[niwabi]

[ Childe refraining from a fight? GASP-P!!! What is this beautiful character development? 😢

On the flip side, Yoimiya suddenly gets the urge to start a brawl with him the moment he places his hand over his chest. Who does this guy think he is??? Acting like he's being accused of some heinous crime when all she's done is speak the words of truth! And that smirk... ooooh, she's having difficulty letting that slide. Despite being much shorter than him, she has no qualms giving her skyscraper boyfriend the stink eye, seriously considering starting that fight he's sure to enjoy.

But luckily for him (or maybe unluckily for the battle-crazed Harbinger—) he more than makes up for his silly quip with his follow-up. The blonde's mean mug melts into something softer, an expression of a girl who is hopelessly in love with her over-the-top boyfriend. Ajax has always had a way with words, and it's just like him to say something that causes her to be like putty in his hands. ]

Hmm... well, when you put it like that...

[ Just like that, Ajax manages to weasel his way out of this. Giggling, Yoimiya gets on her tiptoes to plant a quick and loving kiss to his lips. This guy never stops winning. ]

It is kind of hard to make that call. Maybe I was a little unfounded in my accusation. Just a bit, hehe.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Seems he's quelled the beast who was ready to tear him apart, the way she's looking at him like he'd just melted her heart and made her yearn for him. He meets her as she gets up on her tiptoes to receive her sweet kiss, pulling away with amusement at his silly girlfriend's antics. Feisty one moment and then soft and sweet the next, it's all entertaining to him and he's thankful he's got such a fun, interesting lady to fill his life with. Not to mention how adorable she is when she giggles like that, it makes his chest flutter and drives him to elicit more of those cute laughs out of her.]

See? I'm much stronger than you think.

[Says Tartaglia, who now can't keep the game up any longer and begins to laugh at how silly the both of them are acting.]

Hahahaha, oh goodness, for a second there I really thought you were going to hit me there. Where in the world did you learn your imitation skills, hahaha!

[He moves to press his side into her a bit, just as a cute gesture (and bc lbr he just wants to be as close to her as possible.)]