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

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

[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...]

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[ If the situation wasn't so serious, she might have chuckled at the comically large mustache on the elder Aranara's face. What a silly sight, completely unlike the rest of the Aranara wandering around the village. But despite his appearance, it's clear the elder's powers are in a whole different league compared to his kin, that perception is unlike any other. Before Yoimiya is even given the chance to introduce herself, the elder Aranara's assessment of Ajax stuns her to silence.

She's both impressed and astonished that one look is enough to reveal Ajax's origins to him. ]

Eh? Snow and ice Nara are up to bad things? And Orange Nara is of ice and snow...? [ Aralauka looks up at Ajax, flabbergasted by the revelation. ] Um... even so! Orange Nara still went out of his way to save me. He could have easily left me if he was bad. Besides, he also has the power to see us.

[ Of course, Yoimiya isn't about to let Aralauka do all the convincing on its own. ]

I can also vouch for him! Ajax [ a beat ] er, Orange Nara is a good guy. He's not a part of whatever the snow and ice nara are up to. He's... here to help me.

[ Even up against cute Aranara, Yoimiya is always willing to defend her boyfriend to the bitter end. ]

[He had a feeling that he wasn't going to get off the hook so easily. Whatever these Aranara are, they sure are perceptive- and know what the Fatui are doing in Sumeru. He's aware that they have troops around the country and have people infiltrating all parts of life here, but he wouldn't of counted on these creatures knowing about that. It's puts him on guard, not having expected to need to play the deception game with woodland creatures.

Thankfully, he's got a few people in his corner. Both Aralauka and Yoimiya stick up for him, but he also isn't interested in lying to Elder Araja, either.]

It's true, there are some of those from my home that are up to no good here. But truthfully, I have nothing to do with them, nor do I even know what their missions are. The only reason I'm here is because Red Nara here with me is in grave danger, and we're trying to find any way to keep her safe. Hear us out, would you?

[He glances over at Yoimiya for more help. The elder might trust her more than him on this one.

[ Yoimiya sees his glance from the corner of her eye, he doesn't have to tell her twice, she's always willing to throw her hat in the ring for him. Elder Araja is more perceptive than Aralauka but she has faith with a little bit of convincing, he'll see that Ajax isn't here to pose a threat to them. ]

He's right, we're here to take refuge from this terrible Nara who has been after us. She has the ability to control minds, including ours. And for reasons that are still unknown to us... she really wants to see me dead.

[ Even behind that large mustache, Elder Araja looks stunned by that revelation. ]

A Nara that can control minds... I had no idea something like that was even possible.

[ Yoimiya nods, already feeling relieved to see the elder hearing them out. ]

Believe me, we're just as stunned as y'all are. Orange Nara is just here to save me, he has nothing to do with the other snowy Nara. We were hoping you might have a way to protect us from that terrible Nara.

[The concern on Araja's face is good- he's got a feeling that the Aranara elder will be more willing to help them knowing that this is the threat they face. They seem like a kind race of creatures, and he's hoping they're kind enough not to turn them away.]

She's already controlled the minds of several Nara to try to kill Yoimiya here. We're looking for something that might put a barrier between our minds and her, and if not that, then a simple refuge where she can't reach us would be infinitely helpful in our quest to defeat her.

[Araja looks down at the ground, tiny hand coming up to his chin ~~what chin~~ in thought. It's not any kind of request that would bring harm to the village, so he doesn't see why he can't find a way to grant it for their help to save Aralauka.]

Vanaranara resides inside of a dream, so no nara without the blessing of the Lord of Verdure can perceive this place. Nara are safe while here, so both can stay to hide. As for protection for your mind...I cannot say. Maybe ask the Lord of Verdure?

[Childe's face brightens at the news that they'd be okay here...but the second part wasn't one that he was expecting nor would he of thought to do.]

Yoimiya, I think the elder here is referring to the Dendro Archon. I think I've heard that title somewhere before.

[ This is the first bit of good news they've received in what feels like forever. She knows they won't be able to stay here forever, but taking a break from all the stress of Seraphina hot on their tail does wonders for her peace of mind. The corners of her lips pull into a soft smile, thankful for Araja's kind gesture.

This solidifies her decision to not turn them over to Dottore. There's no way she has it in her to betray their trust after their gracious help. But she'll cross that bridge with Ajax when they get there. For the time being, she's more curious about the name Araja is referring to.

The Lord of Verdure a.k.a. the Dendro Archon. ]

Yeah, I believe you're right. The Dendro Archon... [ The title is said with nothing but the utmost reverence. ] I heard that she had to go through the wringer just to take her rightful place as the Archon of this nation. Will she really hear us out?

[ Yoimiya herself is just an ordinary girl, she can't imagine the Archon of Sumeru taking time out of her busy schedule to help with her strange problem. Not to mention, there's also Ajax's allegiance to consider. After everything she went through, Yoimiya wouldn't blame her if she didn't want anything to do with the Fatui. ]

The Lord of Verdure is kind and wise. If everything you Nara say is true, I believe she'll be willing to help. It will be hard for Nara to call upon her but not for us Aranara. However, I'm still wary about Orange Nara's connection to the snow and ice Nara. So, if you two decide to stay in this village, you must prove that you are truly trustworthy, and only then I can ask for her help.

[Yoimiya's question is as valid as any could be. He also would wonder if the Dendro Archon would cast her gaze their way, to two mortals who ultimately, don't matter in the short span of time that their lifetimes allow. Requesting an audience with the Tsaritsa was hard enough, and he's a Harbinger. He could never expect that the Dendro Archon would even bother to give them the time of day.

But, he's also heard of her kindness as well...so maybe there's a chance. Especially if Araja says they can get her to listen to them.]

Sure, I don't mind lending a hand. I'm not sure what it is you'd like to see to prove our trustworthiness, but as long as it's within our power to do so, I'm sure both Yoimiya and I would have no problem fulfilling it.

[He's got an idea of what they can do, and he wonders if Yoimiya is thinking the same thing. But he'll hear what the elder here has to say first.]

Is there something we can do? Or, is it up to us to prove our trustworthiness?

[ Yoimiya briefly sends a glance over at Ajax, fairly certain that they both have the same idea brewing in the back of their head. But first, she's all ears and ready to hear what Araja has to say and naturally, she's happy to hear him out. The woodland creatures are allowing them to stay in their sacred village, it's only fair they do their part to help out. ]

Oh, Orange Nara is quite sharp. Yes, it is up to you to prove you can be trusted. All I ask is that if you have time to spare, please help out any Aranara in need during your stay. Every one of them has their own tune, some are young and in need of guidance, some of them tend to wander off and cause trouble, and some just want to see the world. If you can do that, then I have no doubt the forest will remember your good deeds.

[ Why does she get the feeling that Aramiya is one of the troublemakers the elder is referring to? But regardless, there's no way she can turn down such a simple, innocent request. ]

Yeah, we can do that. Can we, Ajax?

I don't see why not. Maybe I can even help some of the Aranara with their combat skills, so when they do go adventuring, they don't get into so much trouble.

[He sends a wink Aralauka's way, to which the Aranara poses in shock and a bit of embarrassment. Maybe Orange Nara is right...]

Aralauka would like fighting lessons, to protect against the strong Apshvaana, and learn to use Ararakalari. I'm not good at using Ararakalari, but maybe Orange Nara can help.

[Ajax looks over to Yoimiya again, looking confident that this should be easy for the both of them. He returns his gaze to Araja, gesturing with his hand to convey how simple a task this would be for the two of them.]

See? Not a problem. Yoimiya and I already have a plan to earn your trust too, but I hope you don't mind if it takes us some time to do. It's like the old Sumeru saying goes: Alcazarzaray wasn't built in a day.

Alright. Go and help the village, Nara, and return once you have proven yourselves to us.

[Nodding, he turns, gesturing for Yoimiya to follow.]

C'mon, let's go discuss our plan.

[ Yoimiya finally breaks the serious tension in the air by giggling. The mental image of Ajax teaching the tiny Aralauka the ways of the sword is too funny to her. Of course instrucing the Aranara how to defend themselves is way of helping. This is her battle-happy boyfriend whom she loves with all of her heart. ]

Right! Thank you again for allowing us to stay here. We promise to help out.

[ With renewed vigor, Yoimiya takes Ajax's hand, leading him out the elder's hut and out of earshot from the Aranara. ]

I take it you had the same idea as me? Thwarting your colleague's plan?

[Now that they've put some distance between themselves and the Aranara, it's time to discuss what they're both thinking. And he's right on the money, he knew Yoimiya must of been thinking the same thing. He nods mischievously, like they were about to break all the rules.]

Precisely. I'm no fan of Dottore myself, and it would be a shame to see any of the Aranara fall into his hands. His research into them isn't mandated by the Tsaritsa, so I have no obligation to help him in this matter.

[It'll be a fun challenge in how they'll have to come up with a way to keep Dottore from getting what he wants.]

You, however, can't go back on your word. So we'll have to play outside of the rules a little bit. If necessary, we may need to find someone to help us. I don't know if we can pull this off on our own.

[ Looks like she screwed herself by making that silly pinky promise with Dottore. If the situation wasn't so dire, she might have given it more thought but what's done is done. All they can do is figure out a way to skirt the rules.

And if there's anyone who is adept at being sneaky, it's her cunning Harbinger boyfriend. Honestly, she'd give anything to see Ajax outsmart the Doctor, she'd pay a debt to Pantalone to see the look on his face when Tartaglia tells him off. ]

Yeah, I wasn't keen on handing over the Aranara to him to begin with. So, I would do anything to ensure their safety.

[ So truly, this is already a huge relief from her shoulders. Guilt has been eating away at her ever since she and Dottore made this arrangement. ]

Do you think the Dendro Archon would be willing to help us? She's smarter than any of us combined and I can't imagine anyone more capable of outsmarting the Doctor than her.

That's a good question.

[Tartaglia takes a moment to ponder it. Seeking an audience with an Archon wouldn't be easy, especially after the mess Dottore made here in Sumeru. It might of been easier before that, since he's such a high-ranking diplomat, but naturally his coworkers have to go and make things difficult ~~as if he doesn't make it difficult too plz childe~~

But then, a Harbinger is threatening the existence of creatures within her domain as well...it could work out for them. Why wouldn't she want to work with them to help save the Aranara?]

When Dottore returned from Sumeru the first time, he had a run-in with Lesser Lord Kusanali herself. I know that he's not exactly on good terms with her, and he was pretty huffy and irritated when he got back despite making great strides towards the Fatui's goals. If we were able to get her on our side, I think overcoming the Doctor just might work.

[It's not a bad idea. She outsmarted him once, he knows this- she might be able to help them do it, too.]

I'd like to think she'd hear us out, considering he wants to experiment on what I assume are her own creations. We'll have to talk the elder into bringing her here- I don't want to risk leaving the dream and being open to Seraphina's mind attacks.

[ How fascinating. Yoimiya heard rumors through the grapevine about Dottore causing trouble for Sumeru, but the extent of his endeavors was unknown to her. There has to be some kind of reason for his huffy demeanor and Lesser Lord Kusanali being the cause of it makes sense. If true, having the Dendro Archon on their side will be a huge advantage, giving her hope that they truly might be able to pull a fast one on one of the smartest men in Teyvat.

They need to seek an audience with her first, which will be the hardest part. Ajax's affiliation might give them some trouble but she's heard about the Dendro Archon's kindness and wisdom, it gives her faith that maybe, she'll look past her boyfriend's allegiance and see him for who he really is.

A guy who just wants to help his girlfriend. ]

You're right, I think she'll be willing to listen to us if she knows we want to help the Aranara. We'll have to seek approval from the Elder first I believe we can do it.

[ The Elder might be wise and perceptive beyond his years but he doesn't seem unreasonable. ]

Since we're staying inside this dream, we might as well go around and make friends with the Aranara! It's not like we have anything better to do. And I'd much rather help out these cute creatures instead of worrying about Seraphina.

[Her suggestion brightens his expression and lifts a bit of his worries off his shoulders for the time being. She's right, doing out and doing something else rather than worrying about that terrible woman is a much better idea. It's just like her to want to go out and socialize a bit, and honestly it's probably for the best for both of them at this point. As long as they stay in Vanaranara, they can at least have a semi-normal life for the moment. A sentence he never thought he'd ever think to himself.]

Hahaha, alright, let's go. Though there is one thing we should probably talk about before we head out and meet the locals.

[He looks around to make sure they're still alone for the moment, before returning to look at her and says:]

There's the little problem of Aramiya...

[And if she's anything like Yoimiya they're not going to escape her!]

[ Aramiya..........

The name that once brought her so much joy now leaves her baffled and confused. For the first time, Yoimiya is truly at a loss for words, she doesn't even know where to begin with broaching the Aramiya topic. She's got so many questions that she's sure no one has the answers to. But he's correct, they need to figure out how to tackle this little plip-plod problem before heading back. ]

I wish I could tell you I know what's going on, but I'm totally stumped. I never would have guessed that my little wooden carving has a real-life Aranara walking around the village.

[ She sighs, trying to make heads or tails out of this situation is hurting her brain. ]

If there's an Aramiya, do you think... there's also an Arajax in the village?

[He wouldn't of guessed there was a real-life version of her carving, either. He's already racking his brain trying to figure out how to deal with it. But when it comes down to it, maybe it's best to just tell the truth in some way or another. That's his approach, at least.]

If there is a little Aranara version of myself running around, I'd love to challenge him to a duel. So if he does exist, let's not react to him the same way we did to Aramiya. He'll get suspicious...

[If he's anything like Ajax, that is. The last thing he needs is trying to fool himself. Sure, it's possible, but he'd rather skip that and have Arajax on their side without the suspicion.]

Though, perhaps it's a good idea to tell Aramiya, when we inevitably run into her again, that we can't leave the forest due to danger. That way, we don't need to take her anywhere, because she certainly isn't as popular as we made it seem.

[ He would challenge an Aranara version of himself.... And if Arajax truly does exist, then she has no doubt the little plant creature would relish in the challenge. From a crazy lady to Aranaras resembling them, this situation gets more baffling by the second. What kind of mess have they found themselves in???? ]

You're right. If Aramiya truly is anything like me, then she'll be happy to accept the truth. The last thing I want is for her to follow us into danger.

[ She would never forgive herself if Aramiya got hurt because of a lie she helped fabricate. ]

On the plus side, at least we'll be better equipped to deal with Arajax if he exists. Having both of them on our side will be a blessing and might even give the Dendro Archon more reason to help us.

[It sounds like a solid plan to him. Keeping the Aranara safe, not having to explain their little white lie...exactly what they want. He looks towards the entrance to the village from the elder's hut, wondering exactly what kind of society this is, and if they have any good food to eat too- he's hungry. But that can wait for the moment, until they get themselves some good footing here.]

Well, shall we? Maybe it's best to put this Aramiya situation to rest before we move on to the rest of the village. She was right outside of this entryway, so she should be easy to find. Besides, she looks exactly like you- I'd be able to spot her from a mile away.

[He sounds pretty confident in himself on that front too, like he's proud that he could pick out any kind of Yoimiya like a needle found in a haystack.]

And, she might be able to help us get some lodging, too. I doubt the Aranara get enough visitors to warrant an inn.

Yeah, you're right. If we'll be staying here, we're going to need some lodging. And if I know myself well, then Aramiya will go out of her way to help us.

[ With newfound hope, Yoimiya takes Ajax by the hand to find the bizarre Aranara. Luckily for them, Aramiya is easy to spot from afar. The little yellow creature is staring into the night sky when the two of them stroll up, almost as if she's expecting something. ]

Hey Aramiya! Sorry we had to cut the previous conversation short. We're finally done speaking to the Elder and wanted to check up on you.

[ The Aranara really is Yoimiya in the flesh as she pays no mind, happy to see them. ]

No need to apologize! I understand Nara is very busy and has other matters to attend to. I'm just happy you two took time out of your day to visit me!

[ So cute... Yoimiya swears she could comburst right then and there. ]

[If Ajax had it his way, he'd take Aramiya right home with them back to Snezhnaya...if only that were good for an Aranara. He's not even sure if they can exist outside of the confines of Sumeru, but he supposes that's a question for the Dendro Archon. She seems very at peace looking up at the stars before the two of them approach, not at all surprised now that he's prepared for it that she's just as happy and upbeat as the real Yoimiya.]

Of course, how could we not? But there was something we wanted to discuss with you briefly.

[Tartaglia's demeanor gets very serious, dropping the cheery exterior he usually wears.]

I know we mentioned before traveling to show you how well-known you've become in Sumeru, but the truth of the matter is that we're here as refugees ourselves- leaving the dream of Vanaranara leaves us both open to attack, so we won't be able to do any sort of traveling for the moment. It would put you in grave danger as well, and neither of us want something terrible to happen on our account.

[He gives her the most apologetic look he can, knowing that the Aranara will probably be fine with that explanation. It's true too- not a hint of deception can be found on his face.]

[ Oh... looks like she won't get to know about the extent of her fame. Aramiya shifts down on the ground, looking a little disappointed before perking right back up. ]

It's okay! I appreciate that Nara are so considerate of Aramiya's safety. Thank you! I hope you don't mind if I call y'all my friends...

[ Yoimiya can no longer take it as she picks up the sweetie to give her a hug. ]

You're the best, Aramiya! Maybe one day we'll get to go on an adventure.

Edited 2024-11-14 19:39 (UTC)

[Looks like all that internal combustion happening inside of Yoimiya finally exploded. Childe can't help but think how cute and sweet the two of the look together, expression softening at the sight of the two of them being so friendly with one another.]

Hahaha, yeah. Perhaps one day we will.

[How could anyone say no to those faces. It makes him want to pummel Seraphina's face into the ground for putting them in a position where their adventure can't happen. But one day, he swears, Yoimiya and Aramiya can go on any adventure they want without fear- he'll make sure of it.]

We're going to be here for the foreseeable future though, so we'll be able to spend time with you as much as you want, Aramiya. The problem is, we're having trouble finding a place to stay. Do you know if one of these uh...huts are available?

[ Aramiya is tickled pink by all the promises and affection the two Nara are showering upon on her. Who would have thought that beinf cute pays off??? Sure enough, she proves to be just like Yoimiya as she eats up all the attention, giving the biggest smile an Aranara is capable of. ]

Oh, yes! You can stay at my place. I've always wanted to have friends stay with me so the two of you are making my dreams come true. Follow me!

[ Sadly, Yoimiya has no choice but to let her down. Ut rest assured, she swears to bestow all the hugs and attention lil Aramiya wants.

The small creature leads them to a lone hut sitting on top of a grassy hill. It's small but bigh enough for two grown humans to lodge in, and provides them with a wonderful view of the sky above them. ]

This is my home! It's a bit simple but I hope you enjoy your stay. My house provides the best view of the sky! One of my favorite hobbies is to come out and gaze at the pretty stars.

[ She really is a chatterbox, just like Yoimiya. ]

[Welp, he was hoping to get a place just for himself and Yoimiya, but it seems that the little creature is set on letting them stay at her place for the time being. Which is okay, eventually they can move out, right? He ponders on the advantages and disadvantages to this, while they walk along the path towards her home.

Walking inside, Tartaglia looks around at all the simple decorations inside, ones fitting of an Aranara. It's mostly leaf-based and wooden decorations, much like the elder's hut, with shelving that house vegetables and fruit. Not a single piece of meat to be seen...but that makes sense. From the outside, he can absolutely appreciate the view, giving them a good vantage point both downwards and upwards.]

This is quite the cozy abode! You've certainly managed to snag the best seat in the house, Aramiya.

[He'll let that silver tongue of his make sure they stay welcome here.]

Thank you for inviting us into your home. Yoimiya and I will make sure we're wonderful guests for you. We can even do a bit of cooking, right Yoimiya?

That's right! It's only fair we do our part as your guests. Ajax is a wonderful cook, one bite and you're guaranteed to be sent to a heavenly plane.

[ If Aramiya's eyes could shine like stars twinkling in the night sky, her beady eyes would be dazzling. She lifts her tiny arms, leaping in the air with pure joy. It's at this moment, Yoimiya finally realizes what cute aggression is because she wants nothing more than to pick up this little darling and squeeze her with hugs. ]

Oh, thank you, thank you so much! I've never had Nara cooking before but Aramiya has always wanted to try food from all across the land.

[ She points toward a wooden bed filled with leaves that should be big enough to hold both of them. ]

Hopefully this bed will be comfortable enough for the two of you! If there's anything Aramiya can do to make your stay splendid, please don't hesitate to let me know. Since we are friends, I want nothing more than to treat you well.

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