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]

[Arajax has finally decided how to go about this- he's gunna just jump right in and start shoveling it in his mouth. He can handle any kind of hot that this salad might give him. He looks up from his plate with his mouth full, chewing happily on the food and realizing that Aramiya really wasn't kidding when she said it was hot. He can already feel his mouth start to feel like it's on fire- which is really bad for a plant creature such as himself- but he knows it's not actually on fire.

This is good training...]

Hey, don't rat me out right from the get go! He already knew I was raring to go, [Ajax responds, puffing his cheeks out a little.

Arajax finishes his bite, waving that tiny little stub of a hand he has in front of his mouth. Oof, this'll take some getting used to. But the little Aranara looks over to Tartaglia, pointing that same stub at him.]

Nara shouldn't be playing with rats, make Nara sick. Then we can't have our fight.

[And then goes back to eating, clearly enjoying the food, but also taking some time between bites, muttering to himself.]

Nara food is so hot...but good...

[niwabi]

[ Don't rat me out right from the get go! Oh please. If he's gonna act hungry for battle, she might as well call it out. But still, his almost indignance is really cute, he looks so adorable with those puffed-out cheeks of his. Harbinger at night, little brat during the day, Yoimiya feels blessed she gets to see so many sides to him.

Giggling, she brings a finger to the side of his face and begins poking his puffy cheek. ]

Hehehe, your cheeks sure are soft and squishy when you're pouty. You look like a squirrel. Pyon, pyon~!

[ And of course, she's not gonna stop there. Poke. Poke. Poke. Poooooooke. She's gonna keep poking him because he's so darn cute.

Meanwhile, Aramiya's attention is directed onto poor Arajax. He keeps eating, which is a good sign! So it seems like he's enjoying the food but... she swears his face looks even redder than usual. She tilts her head in concern, ]

Did you say something, Arajax? Are you gonna be okay? Maybe it's Aramiya's imagination but you look like you've been fighting with the rain.

[ lbr Aranara probably don't sweat but she swears, something looks off about him. ]

[monoceroscaeli]

That's not...what that means, Arajax...

[Poke, poke, poke. Yoimiya pokes him over and over, and he feels like she's treating him like a cute little hamster with food stuck in its cheeks. Tartaglia's arms cross over his chest at first, taking the first couple of pokes, but it's not long before he can't take it anymore and comes up to wave his hands in front of him to deter her pokes to his cheek.]

Hey, hey, hey, c'mon now...

[Going to ninja her hands away from his cheeks, he can already feel himself getting mildly embarrassed.

Meanwhile, Arajax has to stop his assault on his salad. His whole body is starting to feel uncomfortable, and he realizes too late it's because he decided to eat a little too much of the salad all at once. The small pauses between bites wasn't enough time, and he sits up straight as he looks for some water.]

Just need a little water, and I can keep going. A salad can't beat Arajax...

[Through Yoimiya playing with his cheek, Ajax stops after a moment to notice the small Aranara's plight too, eyebrows raising as his hands are entangled with hers.]

Oh ho, I think someone has finally found a new opponent. We Nara like to call that, "spice."

[niwabi]

[ Wow!!! Now it's Yoimiya's turn to huff and puff as he ceases the pokes to his cheek. She was having fun poking the Ajax hamster... how dare he take that away from her. But, she's about ready to show the two Aranara her combative nature is almost on par with her boyfriend's as she fights to free her hands. He's got them tangled up quite well, their fingers are laced together, and trying to release herself from his grip is proving to be a challenge.

As she attempts to break free, she glances over at Arajax who looks like he's about ready to explode from the heat. She's a little surprised since Aramiya took it like a champ but since he's like Ajax, maybe there are some white boy genes in there. ]

That's right! That spice in particular is from a red pepper that's been in my family for generations. It tastes different from Sumeru spices but it still packs quite the punch. So, it's best not to underestimate it.

[ Yoimiya huffs once more, finding it difficult to pull her hands out so instead, she leans in to place a kiss on that cute, puffy cheek of his. Mwah!

Aramiya quickly scrambles to the back of her hut and it's not long until she has a leaf bowl filled with water. ]

Please don't exert yourself, Arajax. Drink plenty of water. I know you like to win but sometimes you have to pick and choose your battles.

[monoceroscaeli]

Ohhhh, thank you...!

[The poor little Aranara hurriedly takes the little leaf bowl with water and drinks it down, gulping it like it's the very carbon dioxide he needs to live. The fresh, cold feeling only lasts a few seconds, and for a moment he thinks that the fire has been extinguished in his mouth. But the fire comes right back, stinging his tongue and refusing to go. Though the beady eyes on him don't change, you can tell just by looking at him that they've gone wide in surprise that the water didn't help.]

What a formidable pepper! Water doesn't extinguish the fire!!!

[Tartaglia's eye closes on the side where Yoimiya gets her final word in, a kiss to his cheek instead of more pokes to it. Sighing, he lets go of her hands, figuring they probably shouldn't have a little squabble at the dinner table even though he was, admittedly, having a lot of fun "fighting" with her (๑>؂•̀๑)]

The only way to truly prepare to take on something spicy is to eat more of it, Arajax. Believe me, my first visit to Liyue truly opened my eyes to true spice. After spending some time there, I can eat quite a bit of spicy food now. I suggest you use this approach.

[Not Ajax egging his alter ego on sigh]

I'll conquer this spice yet, mark my words. Don't worry about me, Aramiya, I'm fine. I can do this.

[niwabi]

[ Poor Arajax... he's trying so hard and yet, the spice might be right up there with Arabalika as his greatest opponent. Although his facial expression remains as Aranara-like as ever, she can tell he's practically sweating bullets even after drinking fresh water.

But of course, of course, her boyfriend has to encourage his mini-plant self. Yoimiya quietly giggles to herself, the mental image of Ajax breathing fire from Liyue spice plays in her head. That heat was probably unlike anything the country boy from Snezhnaya ever tasted. She makes a note to ask him about his journey into Liyue cuisine later. ]

Okay! Aramiya believes in you! You'll conquer the pepper and become the strongest Aranara in our village.

[ Archons, help. Aramiya isn't even encouraging her but Yoimiya swears her heart has grown ten times from that little exchange. Both of them are so cute and if anything happens to them, she might go Seraphina level crazy. ]

How about this? Since I have the spice flakes on me, I'll leave it here with Aramiya so you can train with it even after we're gone. If you work hard enough, I bet you'll get used to it and this might be something you can beat that Arabalika guy in. I doubt he's had a pepper like this before.

[ Speaking of victory, her hands are freed!!! Their silly little "fight" was fun and she kind of wanted to continue... though it's best they show some respect at the dinner table. But since this is Yoimiya, she can't help but give his cheek one last good poke because she's a brat. ( ` ꒳ ´ )✧ ]

[monoceroscaeli]

[He swears that Yoimiya could have very well of said those same words herself, and he'd think she really did if he didn't hear them come right out of that tiny Aranara who's a spitting image of her. He can tell the two of them probably have a good relationship, no matter what kind it is. It's very endearing to see her encourage Arajax like that...and it's almost as if he were looking at a mirror, watching them interact.

But the sentimental moment doesn't last long, now that a little poke gets delivered to his cheek. For now, he'll let it go, and get her back for it later.]

That's a splendid idea, Red Nara. Thank you, I'll train very hard and be a master of your Nara spices in no time.

That's the spirit, Arajax, [he interjects, looking satisfied with his little counterpart here.] I know you'll show them all a thing or two. Now, why don't we all try to finish our meal? I know I'm itching to go out and get some...exercise afterwards.

[He bloodthirsty look he shoots Arajax says it all- he's dying for a fight.]

[niwabi]

[ And there he goes, this man will never hesitate to ask for a fight even if it's up against a tiny plant, she wouldn't be surprised if he's still itching for a fight even when he's old and gray. Regardless, his fighting spirit is one of the many traits she loves about him and just like Aramiya, she's happy to support him.

She's been around Ajax for so long that his thirst for battle is starting to rub off on her. Raring to go, she finishes the last of her salad and stands up to clean the table of any bowls. ]

I'm ready whenever y'all are! The best way to finish a tasty meal is to burn it off with exercise. [ Of course, she doesn't forget about her little Aranara self. ] Are you okay with this, Aramiya?

[ But it's not like Yoimiya had to ask for her counterpart's permission, the little plant is just as excited as she is. ]

Of course! I'm not good at it.... but Aramiya likes to watch Arajax fight! The moves he busts out are so cool.

[ It's then she's struck with an idea. ]

Well, why don't we teach you? I'm sure the battle brothers [ gestures at Arajax and Ajax. ] Will be happy to have more fighting comrades.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Arajax and Ajax are both on the same wavelength as Yoimiya, with the Harbinger digging back into his salad to finish it and the Aranara willing himself into eating the rest of his, determined not to leave any uneaten lest he offend the Nara who made it. Tartaglia stands up from his spot when he finishes, quickly moving to help Yoimiya so that they can all go out and get a good battle or two in before the night's end. Arajax won't finish his salad in time to help other than take care of his own bowl- the spice is still a lot for him to handle, but he's getting through it.

As Ajax cleans up a bit of the utensils they used to make the salad he grins back at the girls, liking the suggestion he's hearing from Yoimiya and ignoring the proud look on Arajax's face when he gets mentioned.]

I'm sure we could teach you the ropes, right Arajax?

[The little Aranara nods his head, triumphantly shoveling the last bite of his salad in his mouth and swallowing before responding.]

That's right. Aramiya, this world is for the strong, so it's very important to become a formidable warrior. You know I would gladly give you some tips.

[niwabi]

[ Though an Aranara's face can't make many expressions, Aramiya looks like her entire year has been made. Everyone is so nice... they're even taking the time to clean her utensils! This is the first time she's interacted with Nara, but there's no doubt in her mind Ajax and Yoimiya will forever be her favorite Nara in the entirety of Teyvat.

The little thing excitedly leaps into the air. The sight is so cute and Yoimiya feels her heart melting as she watches her. Once the ordeal with Seraphina is over, she vows that the four of them will go on an epic adventure. Ajax, Arajax, Aramiya, and herself... they'll get into so much trouble but it will be the best kind of trouble. ]

Then I'll happily take you up on your offer! Thank you so so so much. Aramiya promises to work hard and make you proud. I'll train so hard while you two are gone so I can punch those mean ol' fungi.

[ Yoimiya scurries to put up the dishes because she can no longer stand it, her cute aggression comes in full force and she can't help but walk over to pat the top of her precious little head. All she wants to do is pick up both Arajax and Aramiya and give them the biggest hug. ]

Hehehe, then it's settled! We'll duke it out and work off that salad. I think we're all ready to go now. The boys are practically salivating for a duel and I'd hate to keep them waiting any longer.

imo we should just handwave their dumb duel LOL

[monoceroscaeli]

['Mean 'ol fungi' is mouthed by Tartaglia silently, still trying to accept that even little things like exact language even made it into Aramiya's speech. He's really starting to think that maybe every Aranara here might be the plant version of someone who exists in the world, and they just happened to run into their own counterparts. He can tell that Yoimiya is about to burst into pieces at how cute Aramiya is- as evidenced by that barely restrained pat on the top of her head.]

Well, I'd say Arajax here is more salivating because he can't quite handle his spice yet, haha.

[He looks down at Arajax, a challenge gleaming in his eye, and the Aranara takes the bait hook, line, and sinker.]

You know, those are fighting words here! You really want to go, don't you, Orange Nara?!

You bet, so let's see if you can put your mora where your mouth is. Let's go, you two, and you'll get to witness the greatest battle any Aranara has ever had. Make sure to take lots of notes Aramiya, and don't blink or you'll miss it.

[niwabi]

[ Yoimiya would argue that both of them are equally salivating. She saw that hungry look in your eyes, mister. Don't think she didn't....

Anyway, now that they're set, she can no longer take it as she picks up little Aramiya, and bolts out the door. ]

Last one there is a rotten Harra Fruit! We're gonna win, aren't we, Aramiya?

That's right!!! We're gonna leave the boys in the dust.

[ Some things never change, and that includes Yoimiya's plant mini-me who acts and talks just like her. Once they make it to their designation, the fight is on, and the three of them are battling like nobody's business. Yoimiya has never fought an Aranara before but she's impressed at how well little Arajax is keeping up, he really is just like her boyfriend. Of course, Aramiya is there the whole time, watching them with stars in her eyes. Taking Ajax's words to heart, she's memorizing each and every move they make. And when it's all said and done, she runs over to them on her little feet to congratulate the trio. ]

Oh. My. Gosh!!!!! That was an incredible duel. I couldn't take my eyes off y'all

[monoceroscaeli]

[Left with no other choice than to catch up to the girls, Ajax scoops up his own plant self so they can catch up. He knows that the little plip-plod plip-plod of Arajax has no hope to catch up to the much taller Yoimiya, so at the very least he can give him a fair shot by carrying him with. After finding a spot to duel in a safe place within the confines of the dream, till all that's left is for them to plop down on the grass with an excited Aramiya gushing at them.]

Impressive, don't you think? If you train hard, you'll be able to fight like that one day too.

[Tartaglia lets out a satisfied sigh as he falls back into the grass, lying down to stare up at the stars that are beginning to shine their light down on this world. Arajax, however, took his own notes during the fight, staring at both Childe and Yoimiya.]

Except you two were holding back. I didn't feel that power again like I felt before, and I know that was you two.

[Now they're getting ratted out by Arajax. He can't deny it though, they didn't use the powers they have from beyond this world- because they really shouldn't after what happened.]

[niwabi]

[ Yoimiya lets out a happy sigh as she joins Ajax on the grass. Neither one of them used their full strength but that battle still took some wind out of her sails, Ajax is no joke and even little Arajax can put up a tough fight. Now she knows never to underestimate Aranara, they are both small and mighty. It was a battle Yoimiya will never forget, and now, she's feeling extra satisfied as she lays down to admire the stars above them.

They're so beautiful... the scene is like something out of a picture book. There's something about those shimmering lights that makes her feel like she's at home. And it looks like Aramiya is feeling the same way, the little plant can't seem to take her eyes off them even though she's still pumped from their battle.

But before she's given a chance to say anything else, Arajax caught them in 4k. And well, as much as Yoimiya would not like to worry him, she figures there's no getting around this one. ]

Hahaha... you really are quite sharp! It's no wonder why you have a keen sense for battle.

[ Meanwhile, Aramiya is taken aback by this revelation. ]

Eh?! They were holding back?! I had no idea...

[monoceroscaeli]

[Ajax lets out a meek laugh, looking a little guilty. It's no surprise to him that Arajax correctly identified the fact that both of them didn't use all of their powers against him in the fight. And if it were the shoe on the other foot, Ajax would have been the one complaining and being disappointed. It's a little weird to get a taste of your own medicine by someone who's practically you in all ways...except it's a little plant creature.

Regardless, he's going to have to explain this in a way that's acceptable to Arajax so he doesn't get all pissy about it.]

We didn't have much of a choice. It's true, the disturbance you felt earlier was from us, and that's why Lesser Lord Kusanali arrived. She was investigating it to ensure the safety of Vanaranara.

[He turns his head towards Arajax, who's little short arms are crossed over his chest and looking unsatisfied.]

Were we to do that again, no doubt she would return with a few choice words for it. As much as I'd love an all-out, no holds barred fight, we needed to be responsible for our actions. Please understand, we hadn't meant to deny you a proper battle.

[Huffing, Arajax sighs when he considers Childe's explanation. He's right, the Lord of Verdure probably wouldn't appreciate it and they'd probably get into trouble.]

Alright, but next time, you both owe me a good fight. We'll battle somewhere else so no one will have to worry.

It's a deal. I'll look forward to that fight! In turn, please teach Aramiya more basics to battle in our stead- I'd like to see what she's capable of too.

[niwabi]

[ Yoimiya has to bite her bottom lip as she watches their interaction play out. She wonders how he's feeling now that the roles have been reversed, wouldn't surprise her if this is a first for him. But on the plus side, Ajax is dealing with a mini-me of himself, so he should know the best thing to say to appease..... himself.

Never mind, she can't stop the giggles from spilling out of her lips. It's hard not to double over with laughter at a tiny plant creature crossing his arms and looking pouty at the two of them. So cute... but he's still a warrior at heart! And for that, Yoimiya steels herself to give him the attention he deserves. ]

Ajax is right. We weren't holding back because we were looking down on you or anything; we were just concerned about damaging your home. The last thing we want is for other Aranara to get caught in the crossfires of our fight.

[ That little huff..... it takes everything to prevent herself from cooing at him. Arajax seems pleased with that explanation and Yoimiya is counting their lucky stars Ajax is such a smooth talker. ]

I'll keep my word as well! Once we finish our duties, we'll give you the grand fight you deserve. And maybe when that's done, the four of us could go on a journey together?

[ On the opposite end of the spectrum, Aramiya is jumping for joy, looking all too excited about their future prospects. ]

Yes, please! Aramiya would like that a lot. [ She sends a glance at Arajax, and plip-plods her way over to him in an attempt to appease him further. ] Please teach me your ways, Arajax! I want to be strong like you so we can travel with our Nara friends.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Yoimiya brings up a good point too- going all out would definitely endanger the rest of the Aranara, and neither Ajax nor Arajax wants that. It all serves to calm Arajax down, clearly suffering from a case of needtofighteverything syndrome. Aramiya helps to simmer him down further, coming over to give him some much appreciated praise. He looks at her, setting one of his little Aranara hands on his hip in response.]

Okay, but training is serious! I can teach you but you have to focus, Aramiya!

[Now it's Childe's turn to keep a laugh in...he's got a feeling they're both watching the start of a beautiful relationship.]

With that settled, why don't we leave the two of you alone to talk about that? Yoimiya and I really need to get back and discuss a few things in private, if you don't mind.

[niwabi]

[ This time, it's Aramiya's turn to huff and fold her stubby arms over her chest. They really are the spitting image of both of them in plant form, Yoimiya has seen this same song and dance with the two of them bantering back and forth like huge baby brats. ]

What are you trying to say, Arajax?! Aramiya always focuses!!! [ she lied as naturally as she breathed ] I'll show you! Aramiya will become so strong that I'll beat Arabalika before you!

[ Archons above, the whole scene feels like she's staring into a mirror, and now it's making her to some self-reflection.... do they really speak to each other like that? Maybe she should tone down the bratiness.

(Spoilers: She won't.)

Anyways... Ajax has the right idea. It's best they leave the two plants to sort out their relationship while she and have their discussion. She can't stop the laugh from spilling out as she gets up while watching Aramiya huff and puff at Arajax. Giggling, she holds out her hand for Tartaglia to grab. ]

Yeah, we have a great undertaking we need to discuss before we can even think about going on an adventure. Thank you for having us for dinner, Aramiya, and thank you for joining us, Arajax. I've left some spices at her hut for you to train with.

[ Not that her gratitude is getting through because Aramiya is still giving Arajax lip. Yoimiya lets out one last laugh before turning her attention to Ajax. ]

Shall we?

[monoceroscaeli]

[He can see Arajax fold his own arms over his chest as Aramiya brats at him over training. You can't fool him lady, he knows you don't always focus on things. He practically scoffs at her when she declares she's going to beat Arabalika before he will, not convinced whatsoever, knowing she has no idea of Arabalika's true, terrifying strength.

He turns a deaf ear to her for a moment to wave the two on so they can have their conversation, knowing that this little discussion might turn into an actual fight thus beginning Aramiya's combat training. Which, to be fair, he's perfectly fine with.

Childe perfectly understands the signal, taking Yoimiya's hand in his own so they can talk in private.]

We shall. Come, those two are going to be at it for a bit...

[He leads Yoimiya away, heading back towards Aramiya's house so they can rest, but he's thankful for the small amount of alone time they're afforded right now.]

Now that things are falling into place, how are you feeling?

[For someone who's about to try to fool a Fatui Harbinger, and one who's not easy to trick, he can't imagine she isn't at least nervous about it.]

[niwabi]

[ A small part of Yoimiya kind of wants to see how exactly Aranara throw hands with each other. Knowing herself, it wouldn't surprise her if it ended with Aramiya tackling Arajax to the ground with other Aranara watching Teyvat's silliest wrestling match. But as much as she wants to stay and watch them, Ajax is right, they'll be at it for a little while and they sorely need to get their thoughts and game plan straightened out before the big day.

After all, Dottore isn't just some random sap, they're attempting to fool the Second Fatui Harbinger. It's right then and there, Yoimiya finally feels the weight of everything crashing down upon her. Hand-in-hand, she takes a deep breath as they return to Aramiya's cozy hut. ]

I'm... okay. The reality of the situation hasn't really dawned on me until now and well, I guess I can't help I'm feeling nervous. I never would have dreamed that a simple country girl like me would be in on a plan to fool the second-ranked Harbinger.

[ She takes a seat on the nearby bed to gather her thoughts together. Now that the curtains are drawing to a close the reality of the situation hits her like a brick and to say that she's nervous would be an understatement. There's a lot that could go wrong with this plan, and the consequences of getting caught by the Doctor is downright terrifying. She doesn't even want to think about what will happen if he catches wind of their scheme. ]

How about you? Have you ever tried to pull the wool over Dottore's eyes?

[monoceroscaeli]

[Childe peeks out the windows to ensure that they really are alone for the time being before joining her on the bed, sitting down right next to her and snaking an arm behind her to pull her into his side. Her nervousness is expected- if he wasn't who he was, he'd probably be nervous and scared too. Yoimiya is aware of the gravity of the task in front of her, but that's not necessarily a bad thing to Tartaglia- it just means she'll treat it with the weight it deserves.

He chuckles quietly at her question, unfortunately not having the best response in the world for her.]

Never. Pure deception really isn't my style, and if I'd tried to prior to becoming a Harbinger, there would have been a chance that I wouldn't be here sitting with you. I don't mean to frighten you, Yoimiya, but it's imperative that you successfully get Dottore to take the bait.

[He wishes she didn't have to go through this, but it is what it is- in order to defeat their true enemy, they have to do whatever it takes to get the assistance from those who can help them.]

But you'll have a lot of support on your side. Aralauka, myself, and Lesser Lord Kusanali are all here. The power of an archon alone lends relief to my nerves. I hope it does for you, too.

[niwabi]

[ Yeah, that makes sense. Ajax isn't the sort of guy to go around scheming, he'd much rather duke it out Dottore. His honest nature is one of his many traits that she adores and for that, she's so thankful he didn't wound up in any trouble with his coworker before their fateful meeting. Now that she has Ajax, she can't imagine her life without him. Sure, there's danger lurking around every corner and she might not have earned the ire of Seraphina if they never met but she wouldn't change that chance meeting in Chinju Forest for the world.

But as much as she loves him, his response doesn't give her much confidence. Not that she minds, it's better for him to be honest and keep her on her toes. She can't act like some silly girl trying to get a childish pinky promise out of him, she needs to take this seriously. ]

Having an Archon on our side is doing wonders to calm me down. I still can't believe Lesser Lord Kusanali is willing to throw her hat in the ring for us but... I appreciate it. Once this is over we should consider doing something nice for her.

[ She's not sure what but Nahida really deserves something for everything they've done for her. She could have easily demanded they leave after they told her their true intentions but she still chose to hear them out and even work with them. That alone speaks wonders for her character. ]

I really do feel better having all of you at my side. I'm scared, the last thing I want is to mess this up and make things even harder on you but I promise, I really will give it my all when we speak with Dottore. Y'know, I was out there helping to fight the Sakoku Decree but this whole ordeal is unlike anything I've ever faced. It's... so much more scary.

[ So much so that her hands start to shake. ]

[monoceroscaeli]

[Childe doesn't blame her at all for feeling this way. The Sakoku Decree required her to hide from the Tenyou Commission, and at worst they'd just take her vision away and she'd begin to lose her memories over time. Dottore, on the other hand, isn't known for his kindness and forgiving nature, and death isn't out of the question. Tartaglia has no idea what could come of this if they fail...and he may even be accused of treason, which is punishable by death.

But that's a weight he doesn't need to put on her shoulders too. What she already knows is too much, evidenced by her shaking hands. Childe takes them both into his own, holding her hands in solidarity with her with the hope that she can find comfort in not feeling alone in this. She has other advantages that he's sure she's not even aware of herself in this, so he has reason to believe she really can pull it off, even if it takes a few tries or two within the samsara cycles.]

Going up against a Harbinger head to head is no easy feat, even if it is a simple battle of bargaining. You were only fooling Tenryou Commission heads back in Inazuma, so it's only natural to be far more frightened of this opponent.

[He presses his forehead against the side of her own head, resting there and closing his eyes.]

But Lesser Lord Kusanali is one who's beat Dottore at this game, and she'll be assisting you the entire time. You can do this, Yoimiya. He won't be expecting you to lie, because he's already severely underestimated you. I could tell when we were back in Snezhnaya. Use that to your advantage.

[niwabi]

[ That makes her feel better, truly. Yoimiya was starting to wonder if being more frightened over a bargain than fighting for her home country was silly. It is a blessing to have him at her side, even when the going gets tough, she can always count on him to lift her spirits in some fashion.

As evidenced by a sudden warmth enveloping her shaky hands. When her gaze slides down, she sees that he's taken hold of both of them, his touch provides with comfort and is a reminder that she's not all alone in this scary endeavor. And in typical Ajax fashion, he goes the extra mile in providing her comfort, he floods her with warmth, his head resting against hers is so sweet that it causes her lips to curve into a smile. She's always found a reason to smile at his side and this moment isn't any different, thanks to him, she's able to send a soft smile his way.

And when he puts it like that, she's already starting to see a light at the end of his long tunnel. Maybe, just maybe, she really does have it in her to fool him when he doesn't expect much out of such an ordinary person like her. ]

Thank you, Ajax. I'll keep that in mind and try to stay on my toes. It... certainly would be an incredible feat for this simple country girl to make him feel sorry for underestimating me.

[ She gives his hands a gentle squeeze of appreciation, her fingers lace tightly with his. ]

You got this as well. I know scheming and manipulating ain't exactly your style but from the bottom of my heart, I believe in you. This might not be the kind of fight you're looking for but I hope this gives you a chance to show him what for. Make him pay if he's ever underestimated you.

[monoceroscaeli]

Hah, thanks. I'll do my best not to let you down.

[It would be only one of many endeavors to come, he's sure of it. And fooling Dottore into taking a fake Aranara would be no easy feat for anyone involved. Yoimiya is beyond brave to take on this task- he knows she's aware of how dangerous this is, and any ordinary person would crumble under the pressure. He's proud of her for being strong enough to stare this down, and he'll do everything he can to be another pillar of strength for her if it can help.

Ajax nuzzles her before placing a little kiss to her cheek, abolishing any worries he might have to focus on her and tend to her needs, holding her and just being with her in this moment.]

We'll run through things in the next few days, but for now, I think we should rest. A warrior needs proper sleep in order to be at their best, so you need to make sure you're taking care of yourself. This means no unnecessary worrying.

[Not him being a giant hypocrite here lolol, but he'll squeeze her hand back and coax her to lie down.]

Promise me you won't worry too much about this for now?