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

[niwabi]

[ That's her. It's the confirmation that she wish wasn't real but it's the undeniable truth. Once again, she got trapped inside of her own body, forced to do the evil bidding of some wicked entity that wants her dead for horrible reasons unknown to her. Try as she might, she can't prevent the tears from prickling the corners of her disheartened eyes until they tumble down her cheeks and onto his shoulders. She weakly wraps her arms around him to return the hug, his presence is the only solace giving her the slightest bit of comfort. It truly was foolish to believe that thing's presence couldn't reach them in Sumeru, it came after her harder than ever, and now, they have to face the music that no matter where they go...

They will never escape from Seraphina. ]

Ajax...

[ She isn't the only victim in this, Ajax is suffering just as much as she is if not more. It pains her to think about her beloved wrenched with guilt when he's doing nothing wrong, he didn't ask for this, he would never actually want her dead, it's all Seraphina's fault and her influence making Ajax say things so uncharacteristic of him. And deep down inside, Yoimiya knows she's just as much to blame as Seraphina. If she wasn't so weak, if she was just a little bit stronger they might not be forced to go through so much agony.

But she doesn't wish to wallow in pity forever, not when Ajax is in so much pain. One of her hands approaches the back of his head, and gingerly strokes his orange locks through her fingers in a show of comfort, she needs him to know that she isn't holding any of this against him. ]

Please don't beat yourself over it. None of this is your fault.

[monoceroscaeli]

[It was never on his mind that they would end up having such a somber, sad moment in this hotel room in Sumeru. He'd hoped that they could come here, enjoy themselves a bit, and get the Doctor's end of the deal out of the way so they could concentrate more on their own goals. But instead, they both are here trying to console each other, and Tartaglia is failing miserably in this aspect. He appreciates her kind words, knowing that she's right and he should listen to her.

But it tears him up inside to know that for several long moments, he willingly discarded the woman he loves for another that he doesn't even know. The memory of the feelings he had brewing in his chest for Seraphina and how strong they were disgusts him, and though she says it's not his fault, how could he ever forgive himself for letting her do that to him? For her almost successful attempt to separate them forever?]

We were wrong. We didn't have our delusions on us, thinking we'd be safe in Sumeru, that maybe even a simple bath was alright. We let our guard down. I failed you, and I can't apologize enough to you, Yoimiya. Ugh...

[He lifts his head, knowing he can only apologize so much for screwing up, and all he can do is move forward. But with lingering effects still swirling in his head, he still doesn't really know if everything will be okay.]

We got lucky, and something saved us. That light...I saw a light and a star, and it snapped me out of it, telling me to wake up. Next time we may not be so lucky, though I wish I knew what that power was...

[niwabi]

[ Who would have thought that something as simple as a bath would spell their doom? All they wanted was a nice night without the threat of something evil lurking around the corner and they aren't even granted that. It's disheartening, heart-wrenching, and all too tragic. If they can't even enjoy a simple night together... then there's no telling what the future holds for them. Not only does it seem like they're back at square one, her heart feels like shattering into tiny pieces as she listens to her lover call himself a failure.

He's not. None of this is his fault. None of this will ever be his fault. It absolutely destroys her to see Ajax go from a man confident enough to take on the whole world to a guy wretched with guilt for something he didn't even do. She wants to burst into tears but for Ajax's sake, she's determined to remain strong. After taking another deep breath to control her tears, Yoimiya pulls her head away from his shoulder to look at him, bringing her hand over to the side of his face to gently stroke his cheek. ]

Me too. I heard a voice telling me to wake up and before I knew it, a tiny star fell into my hands and I finally came to my senses. Whatever that was, it saved us in the nick of time.

[ If that mysterious power was even a second later... she wouldn't be alive to converse with Ajax. But she refrains from sharing that thought, poor Ajax has been through enough and he doesn't need to feel any more guilty than he already is. She takes another deep breath in an attempt to gather her thoughts. ]

I... I'm still trying to wrap my mind around this, it felt like I was unconscious the whole time, like she locked my mind away from my body. The last thing I remember seeing before I woke up was water, it felt like I was endlessly sinking down in the ocean.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Tartaglia isn't aware of how terribly this is affecting his mind. Usually, he doesn't let much get to him, and can pull himself together pretty well. But there's just something about this that bothers him, in a way he can't describe. And Yoimiya's description of how she felt when she was locked out of her own body doesn't make it better. He had at least a little bit of control, but she'd been practically put to sleep and disconnected from the entire thing.

It hurts to look at her, at how upset she was. He can see how watery her eyes were, and how much she was fighting to keep them under control for his sake. Childe isn't crying himself, but the gentle strokes to his face nearly make him tear up. He'd been so close to losing her, this beautiful, gentle soul that's doing her best to cheer him up. He can't let this get to him this badly. He can't, he has to be strong for her, too. He presses her hand to his cheek, taking a few deep breaths as he does his best to calm his mind, think about this and try to look at it from a less emotionally-charged angle.]

She did it to get to me. I'm the one she wants.

[Unadulterated anger laces his tone, the kind of tone he adapts when he's really pissed. Calling him Alnair, telling him to wake up, she must of did something to him to have something possess him. It's a power he hadn't even considered, but spirits in this world aren't unheard of. But why him?]

She must of completely possessed you to do that. But, with your body, I was left completely vulnerable for her to weave her magic onto me. I don't know who this Alnair person is, but I think she tried putting him inside of me...so she could take me for herself. Yoimiya, from now on, we need to always be wearing our delusions in case she tries this again. If I lose you...

[That's when a choked sob bubbles up suddenly out of him, the thought of that actually happening because of their negligence kills him inside. He can't, he can't lose her to a fiend like this. He won't.]

[niwabi]

[ Now that he says it, Yoimiya wasn't exactly sure what the entity's endgame until now. Everything lines up. It's clear that Seraphina wants Ajax and needs her out of the picture to get to him. But the million mora question is...

Why?

Why does she want Ajax so badly? Sure, he's a catch and it wouldn't surprise her if women from all over Teyvat wish to be this incredible man but to kill his own girlfriend is taking this way too far. It's clear they are dealing with someone who is not only powerful but also wickedly evil. There's also the matter of Alnair. Why did Seraphina keep referring to him as Alnair? Ajax is Ajax, there's no way he could be someone else. Unless this is a serious case of mistaken identity, none of this is making any sort of sense to her. For every reason that pops into her head, a million more questions also crop up. But as much as she'd like to solve this mystery, there's no way they'll be able to figure it out tonight. Not when both of them are drained, in pain, and mentally exhausted.

Yoimiya sighs to herself, unsure of how they can even combat such a powerful force until the heat in Ajax's tone voice snaps her out of her thoughts. She keeps her hand against his cheek, stroking his soft skin with her thumb to provide him with even the slightest sense of comfort. But really, there's no defusing his anger, he has every right to be upset with everything that's happened. Seraphina is specifically after him, mind-controlling his thoughts, and manipulating his feelings. If he wants her dead, Yoimiya truly doesn't blame him. ]

You're right, we need to keep our delusions on us at all times. There's no telling how far her power extends, so we can't let our guards down like that again. So if you don't mind, I'd like to do a little bit of train—

[ But before she can finish her line of thought, she hears a choked sob spilling out from his lips. Ajax... her dear sweet Ajax. He's been doing his best to stay strong for her this whole time. For every moment she feels like breaking down crying, Ajax has it even harder, he's been bottling it up and doing his best for her. And in turn, it makes her feel so bad and so selfish to be wallowing in pitty. With her finger still stroking his face, she leans in to press a gentle kiss to his lips. ]

I promise I'll do my best. I know it's scary... heck, I'm shaking just thinking about it. But I promise I'll keep fighting. You're not going to lose me, okay? I love you, Ajax.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Involuntarily, Ajax lets out a shuddered breath as he feels his emotions really bubble up to the surface and threaten to pop. Nothing in this world aside from the terror of the Abyss has ever made him feel like this, and even then, he was able to rise above the dangers and terrors of that dark, ancient land. Nothing scares him now, except the reality that he could get put in a situation where he's completely helpless. And when that will absolutely come at the expense of his beloved's life, he can't help but feel a sense of dread wash over him, despite all the confidence and determination he has to beat that entity, beat Seraphina and keep Yoimiya safe and at his side for the rest of his life.

He still manages to keep those tears back, swearing that he'll be strong for her. Her kiss gives him comfort, and he sits there in their bath, letting himself hang onto every word she says. She's going to fight, and so will he. He won't lose her. He loves her. He won't lose her, he swears he won't lose her, he loves her too much.]

That's right, I won't lose you. I love you too, Yoimiya. So, so, much. Don't ever forget that.

[His eyebrows furrow with a renewed determination, pressing inward to capture her lips in another kiss, passionate and firm. He'll fight Seraphina till he no longer draws breath, but he'll ensure that she's the one that stops breathing long before he does.]

[niwabi]

[ The kiss is everything she needs in this dreadful time of uncertainty. Yoimiya returns the kiss with all the burning love she has for him inside her ignited heart. She kisses him back, over and over again to show him that she's right here and won't ever give up. She'll fight Seraphina till her dying breath, she'd rather die than see Ajax become a mindless slave for her but before that, she's going to ensure that wicked witch dies alongside her. Yoimiya swears to do whatever it takes to ensure Ajax's happiness. ]

I won't ever forget our love. I promise.

[ The passion and determination pouring out of him fuels the fire in her own heart. They don't have time to be sad over this, they need to grow stronger if they wish to win. Yoimiya places one last kiss on his lips before completely slumping against him in an exhausted, panting mess. Her body has absolutely taken a hit from that rough sex session, she can't recall the last time her legs were in a world of pain like this. ]

Mm... it's kind of hard to move right now. I hate to ask this of you but do you mind carrying me back to bed? We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow.

[ She just prays to the Archons above that her body will be able to move. ]

[monoceroscaeli]

[Tartaglia supports her as she finally ragdolls somewhat against him, feeling her exhaustion radiate out from her as she tries to catch her breath and relax after one beating of a sex session. She's still been too tired to move herself up off of him, so he quickly thinks of how to maneuver them both so she doesn't have to worry about it.

Standing should probably take care of that problem. He grabs a hold of her, supporting her with his arm under her butt as he stands-]

No problem, though this might feel a bit strange-

[-and lifts her upwards along with him, pulling her off of his dick and cradling her against him. They're both a mess after orgasming as hard as they both did, so before he carries her to bed, the first thing he does is put her back down in the water for a moment so she can sit and rest.]

Hold on, let me clean us up. Just sit and relax for a minute.

[And as the dutiful boyfriend, he lets Yoimiya's body soak in the tub for a minute while he cleans her up down there and the rest of her, scrubbing her gently to avoid making it any more sore than it already is :(]

There. Sorry if that hurt at all. How are you feeling?

[niwabi]

[ A noise mixed with both pain and pleasure spills from her lips as his cock slides out of her throbbing walls one last time. That whole ordeal was certainly strange. Both of them clearly had an orgasm but at the same time, she's in so much pain that she can't even think straight. Was this truly how Seraphina and Alnair made love? She can't imagine her sweet Tartaglia being that rough and inconsiderate of her body.

She's so thankful to have such a dutiful partner at her side. If he didn't help her out, she'd be stuck and unable to move out of this bath, eventually turning into a raisin. She desperately tries not to make too much noise as he scrubs her down, he's already feeling horrible and she absolutely does not want to pile on to his worries all because she's so weak. ]

I'm... well, it hurts everywhere. I think if I sleep it off I might be okay tomorrow.

[ At least, that's what she hopes. Yoimiya inwardly sighs, the full force of the assault done to her breasts finally hits her like a truck. There's red spots peppered all over her skin and gods, she's almost scared to see how bad the marks will be once they've bloomed overnight. ]

How are you feeling? I saw those awful scratch marks all over your back. I'm so, so sorry Ajax.

[monoceroscaeli]

[He seriously doubts that sleeping it off is going to be enough. He can see the damage done to her body and how weak she really is from after it. It makes him feel terrible that he did this to her, even if it was actually "Alnair" who was the perpetrator of it all. It was his body, and his mind that consciously ravaged Yoimiya's body to this point, all for some sick pleasure for two other people to enjoy with no consideration towards him or Yoimiya.]

I'm fine. I can feel some slight discomfort on my back, but perhaps after the years of fighting I've done, it doesn't feel nearly as bad as it looks. I'll be fine.

[He wishes she could say the same. Now that she's clean and he's cleaned himself up too, he gingerly picks her up to carry her in his arms out of the bath and towards the bed. They're both sopping wet, but he's not concerned about it. He finds a nice chair in the bedroom to place her in, goes and gets their towels, and returns with them so they can dry off and finally pass out.]

Here. [He places a large nightshirt out of her luggage onto the arm of the chair.] If you can slip that on, I'll get you in bed. We won't be doing anything tomorrow...I'll send word to Dottore to let him know we have to postpone for a day. I won't give him the details, but I'll tell him we suffered an attack and need time to recover.

[Ajax leans down to press a kiss to the top of her head, before standing back upright with a look of concern on his face.]

Make sure you put your delusion on a chain or a string of some sort and wear it even when you sleep. Its power will hopefully give you a line of defense, because who knows when she may strike next. I'll do the same.

[niwabi]

[ He says he's fine and she believes him but she still can't help but feel terrible for leaving deep scratches in his back even if it was Seraphina controlling her body. It's a good thing Ajax's body is conditioned to take on even the toughest of opponents, she doesn't even want to think about the excruciating pain he'd be feeling if he was just a normal guy.

... Unlike her, who is an ordinary human with nothing special about her.

Suddenly, the self-loathing comes back in full force as he takes her out of the bathroom. If she wasn't so weak, she'd be able to combat Seraphina and not make Ajax worry and fret over her. The reason why they're in this mess is because she's a delicate human being and now, they have to cancel their plans with Dottore tomorrow. If his reaction on the boat was anything to go by, she could already picture him giving her boyfriend a hard time because of her. He sets her down in the chair and for that split second he exits to get towels, she wonders if Ajax's life would be better if she was simply gone.

When he comes back, he gifts her a nightshirt that she absolutely appreciates. Yoimiya reaches over to grab it and manages to raise her arms to lift it over her head. It's only when she tries to stand up out of the chair that the problems begin to arise. She wobbly tries to stand, falling back on the chair as soon as she gets on her two feet, another reminder of how weak and pathetic she truly is.

Yoimiya doesn't say anything for a solid minute, feeling ashamed that she looks so weak in front of her boyfriend who has been through way worse than she has. The kiss to the top of her head is the final nail in the coffin, Ajax has been so sweet and understanding to her, even going as far as to look bad in front of one of his coworkers for her sake. Tears begin to spill out from the corners of her eyes from both the excruciating pain and all the negative feelings bubbling up inside of her. ]

There should be a silk band in my luggage that can hold it. I... [ Try as she might, she can't stop the tears from tumbling down her cheeks. ] I'm so sorry Ajax. This is all my fault. I promise, I really will try to get stronger. I'll never take the delusion off and I'll work hard to ensure something like this never happens again.

[monoceroscaeli]

[It seems he's very much underestimated how battered Yoimiya really was. She gets the nightshirt, but when she tries to stand, that doesn't go over so well. Tartaglia watches her fall back into the chair, unable to stand on her own from how weak she'd been left after having sex, and he feels a wave of guilt wash over him again. Poor Yoimiya...she hadn't asked for this. He doesn't even turn to fetch the described silk band, knowing that she was about to burst, and the tears begin to fall down her cheeks uncontrollably as she spills out an apology that he doesn't think she should have to make.

It makes his heart wrench to see her in such a state, and he falls to his knees in front of her as he reaches for her hands. Ajax looks up at her, eyes wide and desperate, wanting only to see her smile and not suffer as she is right now- and he shakes his head.]

No Yoimiya, this isn't your fault at all. It fills my heart full to know you want to become stronger, but not because of the guilt about something that's out of both of our control. I lost myself too...we both have a long way to go.

[Gently, his hands come up to wipe the tears from her eyes, holding her cheek in the palm of his hand.]

Let's just focus on our promise to each other to grow stronger together. You don't win every battle, I know I haven't- and you can only grow stronger through those experiences. All that matters is that you're still alive. Stay alive, Yoimiya...and I'll do my best to stay alive, too. Promise me you'll do whatever it takes to stay with me. This isn't going to be easy. I love you, and I never, ever want to lose you. Okay?

[niwabi]

[ Bruised body, battered mental state, crushed spirit... Yoimiya has never been this down in the pits before. On a typical day, she's as bright as the sun. Warm, friendly, shining a ray of happiness upon anyone who enters her vicinity. And because she's so down in the dumps, she feels like the worst person in the world by having Ajax constantly comfort her when he's in agony too. He's done nothing but be there for her during this awful time and she feels like she's done nothing but cry her eyes out.

She can't keep doing this, not when Ajax is trying so hard to be strong for her. The palm of his hand feels like warmth personified, drying her tears like a ray of light and bringing her watery gold irises to meet with his deep blue. The look on his face says it all, he's desperate to see even the faintest smile on her lips. Through her tears and sniffles, she manages to crack a tiny smile thanks to his uplifting words. ]

Ajax... I promise. I'll do everything in my power to stay alive. We're gonna grow strong so we can overcome this.

[ Ajax is right. Instead of wallowing in self-pity, she should be grateful they're both alive. She affectionately nuzzles her face into his palm, soaking in his heat and scent that always brings her comfort in times of need. She gives his hands a gentle squeeze, placing it over his free hand to brush her fingers over his knuckles. ]

I love you too. I love you so much. It might be selfish for me to ask but can you promise me the same thing? Please, stay with me. You mean so much to me, not even a distance as great as the sea or the sky could separate us. So please... promise me you'll do your best too. I don't want to lose you either.

[ While Yoimiya has gotten some of her fighting spirit back, unbeknownst to her, the mark left by Seraphina has deeply ingrained its roots inside Ajax's heart and mind. That same beautiful voice comes back to haunt him, whispering dark thoughts into his head to cloud his judgment.

Alnair. Don't forget about me. I love you more than she ever could. That wench has always been so selfish, always so focused on her feelings. It's not fair that you're always forced to comfort her. ]

[monoceroscaeli]

[He's so glad to hear her say those words, that she would do her best and do whatever it took to stay alive and get through this together with him. He can see the tears threatening to spill out, but she's doing her best to be brave, to weather this storm they've found themselves in. His chest buzzes and fills with a warmth when she nuzzles into his palm, and he couldn't be happier to nod his head back at her when she asks for him to stay with her.

Of course he would. She didn't need to ask- he'd do everything in his power to ensure he stood by her side through thick and thin.

And that's when the unexpected happens.

Dark thoughts swirl inside of his head, and words bubble up inside that have been branded onto his mind that were not removed during that short moment of salvation. They echo in his head, and the world seems to go quiet once again.

Just remember... listen to my voice alone. Drown out anyone else.

Ajax's pupils reduce into small pinpoints in his eyes as he looks at Yoimiya, as more words play in his head, spoken to him from his master.

Alnair. Don't forget about me. I love you more than she ever could. That wench has always been so selfish, always so focused on her feelings. It's not fair that you're always forced to comfort her.

It's not fair. He has done a bit of comforting for her, and yet nothing has changed. But Seraphina's love is eternal, and he wouldn't dare forget about her. Ajax sways back and forth just slightly as his thoughts are suddenly engulfed by Seraphina's will, listening to her voice, continuing to nod at Yoimiya, yet these acknowledgements aren't for her. But whatever distance between them allows her influence to not be as strong, and his own pure thoughts penetrate the cloud of darkness over his mind.

No. He needs to be there for Yoimiya, whenever she needs him.]

I promise, Yoimiya. I'll do everything to stay alive and stand by you, no matter what.

[niwabi]

[ Something seems incredibly off about Ajax. Despite that she's beyond exhausted, the first thing that sticks out to her like a sore thumb is the size of his pupils, they look like they've shrunk into tiny points made by needles. The next thing that's a cause for concern is watching him sway back and forth. There's always a good chance he's also tired considering everything that happened but something about his movements isn't sitting right with her. As he told her in the spa, he's been through death-defying battles, so surely the ordeal wouldn't have drained him... right?

But before she can dwell on that line of thought, his promise assuages her concerns. The smile on her face grows wider, finally feeling some semblance of relief after being forced to go through that horrific ordeal. ]

Thank you, Ajax. I love you. I promise to stand by your side and support you no matter what. Don't ever hesitate to share your burdens with me.

[ It's the least she can do for everything he's had to put up with in regards to her.

Using the little strength she has left, Yoimiya stands up from the chair to pull Ajax in for a warm embrace, overjoyed that they're both still alive. ]

I'm sorry to be a burden but do you mind carrying me to bed? I think I'm ready to lay down for the rest of the evening. You need to get some rest too, okay? We need to get our strength back before we face Dottore.

[monoceroscaeli]

[A soft smile spreads across his face, and he stands up with her as she pulls him into her arms. His own arms engulf her small frame, holding her close as he pours more comfort into his gestures to be a rock for her, a steady foundation that she can always rely upon. Letting go, he nods one last time to her, kneeling down to scoop her up into his arms.]

You've had a hard day. C'mon.

[Ajax carries her to the bed, but something at the back of his mind lurks and speaks ill of this exchange. Selfish. She's selfish. It's not fair. Though it doesn't show outwardly, Tartaglia feels the smallest bubble of resentment float to the surface, but he dismisses it instantly, popping it like the transient thing it is. And what had come over him in the moments before this? It's all confusing to him, this business with Alnair, and what it all means for him. That Seraphina is tricky...he's got to be on his guard.

Ajax lays Yoimiya down on the bed, moving the covers so he can tuck her in so she doesn't have to put forth the effort after being so savagely used. He kisses her forehead, admiring her as she lays there, before leaving to fetch their delusions. He's only gone but a moment, before returning with the silk band she'd mentioned before with her delusion, and a chain for his own. He slips hers over her head to wear as a necklace, and then slips his own on as well.]

There. I think we might get an iota of peace tonight, with any luck.

[Ajax rounds the bed to join her, slipping under the covers and getting comfortable.]

Try you best to get some sleep, Yoimiya. I'll do my best to rest too. Don't worry about Dottore, believe me- he's got all the time in the world to accomplish his goals.

[niwabi]

[ She truly cannot thank Ajax enough. If it wasn't for his comforting presence... she doesn't even want to think about how miserable and dull her life would be without them. I truly am blessed Yoimiya thinks to herself, snuggling up to him as he carries her to bed, completely oblivious to the inner struggle taking place inside of Ajax's headspace. Unbeknownst to her, Seraphina's hold on Alnair's mind is absolute, and as long as those marks stay on him, she's determined to make Yoimiya's life a living hell before her miserable life can finally come to an end.

Yoimiya has no idea about the true extent of Seraphina's wrath.

Once he lays her down and tucks her in, Yoimiya finally feels a little bit at peace after her body was cruelly used and abused. What little strength she has left is used to snuggle up close with her boyfriend, desperately craving his warm presence to get her through the night. With the delusion around her neck and Ajax next to her, she might be able to get some semblance of sleep tonight. ]

Alright, you've convinced me. I'll try not to worry about him too much. Surely he's got plenty of other endeavors to tackle in Sumeru.

[ She cranes her head to press a soft kiss to his cheek. ]

Thank you again Ajax. I love you...

[monoceroscaeli]

[The warmth of Yoimiya's body feels so nice against his own. As she cuddles up to him, his head moves to nuzzles against hers. He's not so sure really, how much rest he was going to get tonight, despite anything he's said so far to her. It still bothers him a lot about how he acted while he was underneath the strange power of Seraphina. That immense amount of love and devotion he felt for her as Alnair is still very fresh in his mind, and a seed of doubt was planted deep within his mind that he still isn't truly aware of. No doubt he'll replay the event over and over in his head until he finally falls asleep, trying to figure out and think through everything that happened in order to come up with a way to deal with Seraphina properly.

But Yoimiya's kiss manages to settle him down for the moment, take his mind away from his troubles and helps to focus his attention on her. He looks down at her and smiles warmly, eyes crinkling around their edges while he takes a moment to appreciate her and appreciate that she is still lying next to him, safe in his arms instead of in harm's way.]

I love you too, Yoimiya. Goodnight.

---

[It takes some time for Childe to fall asleep. His mind goes through and thinks about what had happened, and the more he thinks about it, the more he convinces himself she had hypnotized him somehow, making him believe he was someone else. But now she's no longer in control of Yoimiya or him, they have their delusions on their person now, and something...or someone...was watching over them. He can't explain away the warmth of the star that permeated his mind, but it must of been something keeping an eye out for them.

After some time, Ajax finally loses consciousness, falling into a deep sleep as his dreams begin to take shape.

The coziness of the cabin he finds himself in is familiar and warm, and he can't quite make out who the person is next to him. Her figure is a blur, save for the radiance and sharp gaze of her pink eyes, which he can't seem to tear away from. He feels at peace and completely in love, as the two giggle and share in each other's warmth with her in his arms. She's the love of his life, she's everything he's ever wanted, and he feels happy, proclaiming his devotion to her before they kiss. Everything is right, and all he wants to do is spend the rest of his days by her side.

Don't forget me, Alnair.

Her voice echoes in his mind, over and over again.

I love you, more than she ever could. I love you. You belong to me. Remember me, Alnair. Only listen to me.]

---

[Sunlight permeates the room as it begins to rise, making Childe's eyes flutter open. He felt like he slept like a baby, his body feels light and good, almost as if the claw marks in his back never came to be. He breathes out a sigh of relief, basking in the warm rays of sunlight and taking a moment to himself to appreciate being alive for another day and being able to be with Yoimiya.

Groggy, he closes his eyes, but what stares back at him are pink irises that reflect off of the back of his eyelids, mesmerizing and controlling. His eyes snap back open immediately, but no matter what he does, those pink eyes don't return...maybe he's just tired...]

Yoimiya, [he says softly as he rolls over to gaze at the gorgeous, sleeping visage of his girlfriend.] You awake? Breakfast...

[He nuzzles her a few times, to try to wake her up. He wants to get food and he doesn't want to go without her.]

[niwabi]

[ The sight of Ajax's warm, genuine smile combined with his blue eyes gazing down on her grips and tugs at her heart. No doubt the two of them are in for a rough night's sleep, not even the most hardened veteran would be able to slumber in peace with everything they have on their plate but seeing that wonderful smile spread across her lover's visage is yet another reminder that they made it and lived another day to rest in each other's arms. She's finally able to relax in his hold, feeling safe and secure from the harsh reality that a vile monster wants her dead. Maybe, just maybe, she can fall asleep to Ajax's warmth enveloping her.

I love you too, Yoimiya. Goodnight.

She'll never get tired of him proclaiming his love, it gives her the slightest bit of hope that Seraphina's influence has nothing on Ajax's willpower. This man has been through hell and back, there's no telling how many death-defying situations he's come out of, if there's anyone who can defy the whims of a crazy woman in love, it's him. From the bottom of her heart, she truly believes they will come out of this situation stronger than ever.

With that peace of mind, Yoimiya closes her eyes, nestles her face against Ajax's chest, and eventually, drifts off to sleep. What awaits her is not the sweet dreams of her lover she was hoping for, but instead...

She's all alone, pulled back to that same ocean she saw in the fog of her consciousness. Not a speck of light can reach the place she's at, there's nothing but pitch-black darkness and ice-cold water engulfing her body, her chest hurts, it feels like ice is pumping into her bloodstream, and she's unable to breathe. But instead of being scared, she's simply resigned to the fact that no one can dive in and pull her out. All she can do is accept her fate to sink endlessly into the sea with no hope of escaping.

Alone... ]

---

[ It's only when something soft and warm touches her that Yoimiya finally begins to stir. She blearily opens her eyes, immediately using Ajax's chest as a shield against the sunlight pouring into the room. Although she managed to sleep, it wasn't the relaxing rest she was hoping for. Still, she had a feeling this was going to be the case. Sleeping with a threat looming over them feels like an impossible task.

But... as soon as her vision comes to and she sees the wonderful sight of her boyfriend greeting her with his handsome face, she feels recharged and ready to face the world with him at her side. ]

Mm... morning Ajax.

[ She manages to crack a small, tired smile at him. ]

Breakfast sounds lovely. Does the hotel provide room service?

[monoceroscaeli]

[There she is. He's grateful that it didn't take a lot to wake her up, though he hopes she did at least get enough sleep. The shadow of the day before hasn't left him yet, and he won't tell her about how he thought about it all night until he finally passed out from exhaustion. But strangely, whatever he'd dreamt of the night before left a positive, warm feeling in his chest, so at least he was granted that much...]

It does, I suppose that means you're still tired and need a little more rest, huh?

[Which is okay. He wasn't sure if she'd have the strength or willpower to get up today, not after last night. He's sure she's absolutely sore and moving probably sounds like a terrible idea, but she'll have to get up to at least go to the bathroom or stretch her limbs.]

I can't guarantee the food they'll bring up will be better than what they serve in the Grand Bazaar, but it's edible. I guess I'm just leery of hotel food...there's always better choices around. Would you rather I go and fetch us something from one of the local shops? I don't mind.

[niwabi]

[ Yoimiya nods in response, the aftermath of that brutal sex session hits her like a truck, the bruises that were left on her have bloomed overnight, leaving big red marks all over her chest and hips. And her legs... she doesn't dare move them, her whole lower half feels sore all over. She can already see herself falling flat on her face if she attempted to get out of bed right this very second. ]

Are you sure? I'd hate to force you on a fetch quest. I'd like to at least go with you...

[ She already feels awful for being such a burden on Ajax and the lack of good sleep isn't helping her anxiety. Yoimiya grunts and groans as she attempts to move, but try as she might, her legs feel too much like jelly to even slip out of bed, much less make the trip to even a nearby local shop. For a go-getter like her, the worst thing in the world is to be crippled and unable to move. ]

Sorry, I guess I really do need to spend the day in bed. If you don't mind grabbing breakfast from somewhere, I'd really appreciate it.

[monoceroscaeli]

[It's concerning to watch her fail to even get out of bed with how sore and battered she is, though not unsurprising. He still feels a wave of guilt wash over him to see her like this, given he was a big part of the reason why her body was in pain today. So he'll do anything for her, all she has to do is ask or even imply that she wants something.]

I will, please, stay in bed and try to rest. I'll go and bring back something nice for the both of us. I believe there's a cafe just down the street, so I won't be long.

[He leans down to plant a kiss to the top of her head, before going to get himself dressed to go out. Pants, his shirt, socks. No need to put on his full uniform.]

Don't fall asleep though, you wouldn't want to sleep through breakfast and have it get cold, now. I'll be back soon~

[Ajax quickly leaves so she doesn't wait too long for him. There's this nagging feeling that he really shouldn't leave her alone for too long, so he wastes no time at all making his way out of the hotel to get breakfast.]

[niwabi]

[ Yoimiya nods and puts on her best reassuring smile to see him off. It pains her that he feels the need to go above and beyond for her when none of this is his fault. Seraphina is the sole perpetrator... is what she wishes to believe. Deep down inside, she still can't banish the thought of being partially at fault because she's so weak and ordinary.

But that's neither here nor there. Ajax seems much more rejuvenated than last night and doesn't wish to ruin the mood with her self-deprecation. It's short and sweet but the kiss to the top of her head gives her the warm fuzzies all over. She's so lucky to have a kind, caring, and considerate partner like Ajax. Now if only she could move, she'd be returning the kiss back like crazy. sobs. BUT! Yoimiya isn't about to let her lack of mobility get her down. Determined to give him some form of affection, she props her back against the pillow and blows him a kiss as he departs.

There! Now she feels a whole lot better already. Yoimiya giggles to herself as she gets comfy underneath the sheets, fantasizing about their delicious breakfast from a quaint little cafe. About five minutes after Ajax's departure, there's a knock at the door accompanied by a female voice. ]

Hotel cleaning staff! Are you in need of fresh towels and sheets?

[ Oh! Last night's harrowing events made her forget all about the hotel staff. Yoimiya contemplates sending them away to focus on getting some much-needed rest but after some consideration, she figures it wouldn't hurt to get a fresh change of sheets and towels. Thankfully, she's wearing one of her boyfriend's nightshirts long enough to cover her nude body, so she doesn't feel weird about letting anyone in. ]

Oh, what fantastic timing! Come on in! We used up all our towels last night and some spare sheets would be lovely.

[ Despite being in immense pain, her voice is loud as ever, able to reach the housekeeper's ears even as she shouts from the bedroom. Yoimiya will always have it in her to greet everyone with her warm disposition no matter the situation. With a click, a hotel maid enters the room with a cart full of cleaning supplies and the promised towels and sheets. ]

Sorry for interrupting you. I won't be but a minute.

[ Yoimiya waves off the apology with a smile. As far as she's concerned, this lass is just doing her job. ]

It's not a problem at all. Thank you very much.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Childe hurries down the street, swinging into the cafe and getting in line to order their food. Unbeknownst to him, something else has other ideas for the couple, and was just waiting for the right moment.

Back in the hotel room, the maid keeps the door open with a door stop, pushes the cart over to the bath where the two had been assaulted by Seraphina the night before, cleaning the area up a little bit and swapping out the towels they'd used. It's all a fairly quick, easy process, not needing to do a deep clean since the residents were there. She works quickly, gathering all of the mess up for them, depositing the dirty towels in a little bin on the cart, and turns the cart to push it back out of the room and leave Yoimiya to her business for the day.

Halfway through the room, the maid suddenly stops, and her body seems to go rigid for only a moment before returning to normal. However, she makes no moves to leave, instead fixing her gaze on Yoimiya.]

Ma'am, I'll need to swap out your bedsheets as well and make your bed up. If you could please allow me to do so, it won't take long.

[But even with or without permission, the maid comes over to the side of the bed where Yoimiya is, her eyes blank as she offers a hand for Yoimiya to take to help her out of bed. Like she expects her to comply, and get out of the bed for whatever time it would take to fix it, and won't take no for an answer.]

[niwabi]

[ The process is routine, not setting a single alarm bell off in her mind as Yoimiya reaches over the nightstand to grab a nearby magazine for her reading pleasure. She hums to herself as she flips through pages of Sumeru's beautiful landscape mesmerized and not at all paying close attention to the maid. It's only when she hears her voice that her attention is pulled away from the magazine in hand. She flickers her gaze over at the maid who is now at the side of her bed and offering her hand. Yoimiya looks at her hand and then back at the maid, the gesture is sweet but there's something about this that's not sitting well with her; hotel staff don't approach their guests without their permission... right? Still none the wiser, she tries not to think too hard about the exchange, brushing it off as her just being an attentive staff member.

Yoimiya gets ready to take her hand but then, stops at the very last second. ]

Wait a second...

[ It's then, a horrible realization occurs to her. ]

Why are you holding your hand out to me?

[ Sure, she might be lying in bed but there's no way this maid should know she's lying in bed because she can't move. Only herself and Ajax are aware of this fact.

The maid doesn't say anything for a few good seconds and simply stares at her guest with a blank expression that turns Yoimiya's blood cold. She closes her green eyes and when she finally opens them, the blonde is met with striking pink irises that will forever be burned into her memories. Before Yoimiya can react, she's suddenly grabbed by the arm and thrown onto the floor, her body hits the the ground with a sickening thud. She screams in pain as she's slammed onto the ground, her body has already been through the wringer after last night and now, it feels like she's getting thrown off a cliff. ]

I'm impressed, you're actually a lot more perceptive than I originally thought. Not that it matters because you're all alone and there's no Ajax to come and save you.

[ Seraphina.

There's not a single doubt in her mind as to who this is. It has to be Seraphina. No one hates her or wants her dead as much as she does. And now, she's hit with another horrible truth; Seraphina has the power to control not just her and Ajax but also everyone around them.

Using the maid's body as her new vessel, Seraphina forces the woman to stand over the weakened Yoimiya, she rolls the blonde on her back and cruelly pulls her arms behind her with full intent of inflicting as much pain on her as she possibly can before she ties her wrists together. Yoimiya cries out, unable to do anything in her condition, all she can do is scream with tears streaming down the side of her face. ]

Let go! Let go of me...! Please, somebody... HELP!