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]

[He can feel Yoimiya's anger rising, steam practically coming out of her like a hot teapot. The situation is turning worse by the second, but Tartaglia knows that they need to find out a bit more before they turn the clock back on the samsara and try again, so he can further reevaluate the situation. Nahida's voice reverberates in his mind, realizing that Ajax is the calmer of the two, asking him to tell her when she needs to restart the cycle. Breathing out heavily, doing his best to keep his emotions in check, he advises her not yet, before Aralauka does the one thing he was hoping he wouldn't do.

Just outright refuse.

He can't hide his eyebrows raising at the declaration, quickly trying to claw back his reaction given that Dottore can't hear it. No, no, that was bad, Aralauka shouldn't of just said no right out the gate like that. Ajax's stomach drops out from underneath him, because he can feel in his gut that Dottore was probably prepared for this. This probably isn't their trap anymore- it's Dottore's.]

Hey, [Tartaglia interjects, his voice sharp and commanding towards his companions.] Let's not jump to conclusions now. We're here for a discussion, remember?

[He turns his attention back to his comrade, pissed off that he can't just solve this with his blades. But his hands are tied, so diplomacy it is.]

Look. You've gotten your answer, now it seems to me that if you want to have a civil discussion, you'll need to ensure Avin's safety. And by that, Avin needs to be released from you and into someone else's guardianship. I'd be more than happy to take that role. Is this agreeable to the two of you? Yoimiya? Aralauka?

[He stares at them, expecting them to say yes. The point is to make the swap to the fake Aranara waiting for them outside of the dream, and if they screw this up, it won't go well.]

[niwabi]

[ This is why Yoimiya has never been good at strategic discussions, she's prone to letting her emotions get the better of her and that horrible reality of the situation hits her like a sack of bricks when she realizes both she and Aralauka made a fatal error.

Aralauka just outright refused. And they can't be having that when a switch is supposed to happen. There's a brief second of where dread paints her features, enough for someone as sharp as the second Harbinger to realize. Yoimiya internally panics as she tries to remain cool but the damage has already been done. Shr knows if she doesn't act fast, they are all in danger.

She's just thankful to have Ajax interject because if she was on her own, she'd fold like a house of cards. The situation still seems salvageable to her and so, she just barely manages to cool her temper down. ]

He's right. Not only did you use my friends againt me, there's no way I can speak to someone who kidnaps kids and puts them into some weird state. Avin has a bright future ahead of her, she's not some doll to be mistreated.

[ The Aranara also seems to have realized his mistake. Thankfully, doesn't seem like Dottore can see him trembling and panicking. Ajax's declaration seems to have cut through his momentarily dread and he's able to somewhat get it together. ]

Y-yes... Aralauka has never met that girl but she doesn't deserve this.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Dottore's eyes look back and forth from between Tartaglia and Yoimiya, never betraying his real thoughts as he analyzing what's happening here. He hums in frustration, agitated that there's no consensus or organization coming from the other side here. Tartaglia senses this, frantically trying to think of what to do next. Is he onto them, or is he just annoyed that no one's being civil or agreeable?]

The Aranara agreed with Yoimiya.

[Once again, the lifeless form of Avin translates for Dottore, who's hand has come up in front of his face so he can think.]

Hmmmmmmmm...well then. I see we've come to a bit of an impasse, haven't we?

[His hands fall from his face as he stares at both of the humans in the room, setting them both in his pockets in expectation of some kind of a rebuttal or response at the very least to whatever all this is. A moment later, Tartaglia feels a sharp pain in his head, an unnatural one but one that he ignores swiftly so he can attempt to navigate a way around this mess.]

If you're unwilling to set Avin free, it seems we have. Sorry, I'm not here to ensure your plan here succeeds. If you can't meet their demands, then you're out of luck. Yoimiya did, after all, only promise this opportunity, nothing more.

An opportunity most appreciated, I can reassure you.

[There's a silk laced around those words he doesn't like. Too confident, too polite, almost. Like there's a layer of smugness behind it all. Tartaglia's gut tells him to expect the worst, and he immediately hits the abort button in his head, psychically trying to reach out to Nahida to hit the reset on this cycle so they can start again.

Except, there's no answer. He's alone in his head, with the Dendro Archon silent.

Lesser Lord Kusanali????

He's screaming in his head for her, feeling panic rising in his chest. He looks over to Yoimiya, wondering if she's experiencing the same issue.]

What's wrong, Childe? You look a little distraught. If you were trying to reach your precious co-conspirator, I'm afraid you won't be able to anymore.

[niwabi]

[ The longer this conversation goes on, the lump formed in the back of her throat falls into the pits of her stomach like a boulder dropping off the edge of a cliff. Yoimiya has always known the Harbingers are a force to be reckoned with but Dottore still somehow manages to be scarier beyond her initial impressions.

Since they're at an impasse, now feels like the time to call for Nahida to reset this whole mess. They can start from scratch and this time, not have Aralauka straight-up refuse. Every so often, she glances over at Tartaglia, and judging from his silence, she senses that he's probably thinking the same as her. While she boldly stands in front of Aralauka protecting him, Yoimiya doesn't say a word as she attempts to contact the Dendro Archon.

Lesser Lord Kusanali, we need your help!
Lesser Lord Kusanali!
Lesser Lord Kusanali...?

Oh no. Oh no. Oh no no no no. This isn't good. No matter how loud she screams, no matter how much she yells for help, nothing seems to be getting through. Try as she might, Nahida doesn't answer her call. The dread she felt from earlier increases tenfold and making eye contact with Ajax tells her everything she needs to know.

He's also not getting through to Nahida. ]

Tartaglia...? Are you okay?

[ Despite that she's internally panicking, they can't afford to get caught here. If Dottore figures out their plan it's game over for Avin, Aralauka, and of course... Ajax. Yoimiya would never forgive herself if her boyfriend was seen as a traitor because of her failings.

So as much as she hates the whole situation, she's doing everything in her power to feign being confused. ]

Co-conspirator? What in Teyvat are you talking about? It's just the two of us and Aralauka.

[monoceroscaeli]

[This sneaky jerk...Childe should have known that he would have something with him that would allow him to get the upper hand. They made too many mistakes already in this negotiation, gave Dottore too many clues that something was definitely up. And now, he knows, and did something to impede their own plans. His stomach feels like an empty pit, knowing that they've been caught. But Dottore doesn't seem like he's all that angered by them trying to pull a fast one, if anything the only annoyance that came from him was from their own disheveled mess of an alliance between human, archon, and aranara.

Tartaglia shakes his head at Yoimiya in response.]

There's no need to keep the charade up anymore, Yoimiya. He knows.

[Dottore's laugh is as cruel as it is amused, setting a hand on his hip as he surveys the two.]

Did you think I wouldn't notice that we stepped into an isolated dreamscape, trapped within by the power of an archon? Only a god has the kind of power to create what we're inside of. Thankfully, I managed to acquire plenty of data on samsara cycles from the sages and the fight against our man-made god. So I was ready for something like this while in the land of wisdom.

[Ajax's hydro blades emerge without warning, gripping them in his hands as he waits for whatever happens next. He won't underestimate his comrade, and if anything, understands how much more powerful he probably is over him. He can't screw this up, or let Yoimiya or Aralauka get hurt. The appearance of his weapons doesn't seem to phase Dottore, who continues to speak.]

I must thank the two of you, you've done me more than a service by bringing an Aranara straight to me. I'll forgive you of this betrayal, Childe, because this has been fruitful for me in the end. It shouldn't be long now...

[What does he mean? Childe tenses up, his blades at the ready, wondering if Dottore was going to attack. What's confusing to him is that Dottore isn't ordering his soldiers, nor preparing to attack at all. What's his plan...]

Yoimiya, brace yourself! This might get ugly. Do your best to get to Avin if you can, and leave Dottore to me. Aralauka, you need to run. Now.

[niwabi]

[ Ajax doesn't have to tell her twice, she can't stand to hear Dottore's smug laughter any longer. She's perfectly fine with giving up the charade to use her fists instead. Acting sneaky has never been her style and Yoimiya is all too happy to whip out her bow and aim it at the Fatui soliders holding Avin hostage. One of the vanguard hoists his electro hammer to slam it down on her but unfortunately for him, Yoimiya is quick on her feet, easily moving out of the way to fire a barrage of arrows directly at the men. ]

GET YOUR GRUBBY HANDS OFF HER AND LEAVE MY FRIEND ALONE!

[ Yoimiya's shout practically resonates throughout the forest, shaking the leaves off trees. She is beyond pissed and is ready to make someone pay for hurting her friend. Maybe it's a bit reckless of her to start the assault but she no longer cares, especially when Aralauka and Avin's safety is on the line.

Luckily, the lil Aranara picks up Yoimiya's reckless intentions; she's purposely attacking to give him the break he need to hightail it out. So it's without much thought he tries to run as fast as his little legs can take him.

But unfortunately for him, there's an agent lying and in wait for the perfect chance to snatch him. ]

[monoceroscaeli]

[There she goes. Even he knows better than to get between anything that involves a buzzing, angry Yoimiya, and he wishes his Fatui comrades some luck in dealing with her and getting out of this as unscathed as possible. But this is their duty, and their warrior's honor depends on their own performance, so far be it from him to dishonor either Yoimiya or the Fatui soldiers who are, really, just doing their job. He imagines Yoimiya probably won't need his help.

And Aralauka has made a run for it. Everything seems to be taken care of by someone...

Which leaves him with Dottore, who hasn't moved from his spot even as arrows zing past him, staring at Childe. The smug demeanor hasn't left the Second, and he takes a few steps forward towards his fellow Harbinger, who seems ready and eager to fight. Avin is close to Dottore, which doesn't bode well, but he'll have to make due with the situation he's been given.]

I've always wanted to test my skills against another Harbinger. Pity this is how it ended up shaking out.

I assure you Childe, you aren't going to get to live your little pipe dream here. As if I'd dirty my hands fighting the likes of you.

You think so? [Tartaglia retorts, gripping his swords a little tighter, but feeling his blood start to rush and the excitement of battle now standing at his doorstep.] You haven't given me much of a choice, have you? Let Avin go, and face me.

Shouldn't you be more concerned about your little friend?

[There's a yelp from behind him, one of Aralauka squealing from getting picked up and now in the hands of an agent. The agent can't see Aralauka, but the little Aranara tripped and smacked right into the legs of the agent, giving him the opportunity to grab for him. The little plant creature squabbles in the agent's hands, yelling for help.]

Red Nara!!!! Orange Nara!!!! Help Aralauka!!!!

[Gritting his teeth, he forgoes any sort of plan to still hide that he can't see the Aranara anymore, turning and dashing backward towards the agent to save Aralauka from the hands of one of Dottore's minions. His sword sings as it's intercepted by the blade of the agent, barely holding onto his prey and praying that another Harbinger doesn't decapitate him right here and now.]

Let him go.

[Childe's growl is dangerous, and the pure intimidation coupled with the sheer strength of the single slice gets the agent to drop Aralauka. In one swift motion, Childe scoops Aralauka up, but it's too late. Leaving Dottore alone was the mistake, when suddenly the world shifts around them, and a sharp buzzing sound hits his ears and makes his vision go blurry.]

Wha...

[Everyone around Dottore seems affected, even the Fatui soldiers and the agent stumble as this sound reverberates in their ears. Even Aralauka looks up at Childe, the beady eyes somehow looking distant as he tries to talk.]

Orange Nara...I'm really sleepy...

[Me too, Ajax thinks, barely getting the chance to look over to Yoimiya and see if she's alright before his eyes close and he collapses on the ground. Suddenly, he's in a sweet dream, passed out completely as everyone is helpless to the only person who stayed awake- Dottore.]

[niwabi]

[ Through her yelling and the sounds of sizzling arrows, Yoimiya barely makes out the voices of Ajax and Dottore on the verge of a brawl. Pity she's preoccupied with the soldiers because she'd love nothing more than to watch her boyfriend go toe-to-toe with the most infamous Harbinger and put him in his place. She trusts that he's got this in the bag, all she has to do is make quick work of the soldiers so she can join him at his side.

Never before has the blonde been so enraged in all her life, she's practically seeing red as she unleashes barrage after barrage. Once she's calmed down, she'll feel a little bad for the soldiers involved because really, they're just under orders of their Harbinger. But as of now, all she can think about is freeing Avin from their grips as she fires another that knocks a Skirmisher's gun out of his hands before she runs over to give him a good kick in the shin. For the first time in her whole life, she's not taking any prisoners.

Yoimiya is so preoccupied with taking on the grunts that she fails to realize an Agent has hidden himself in the shadows. Suddenly, she hears a high-pitched scream as she's in the middle of fighting a Vanguard. Slowly, she looks over to see her worst fears coming to fruition. ]

ARALAUKA—

[ Those screams, those cries for their names... it tears her heart apart. Tartaglia is on his way, and Yoimiya feels assured when he sprints over to scoop the tiny Aranara in his arms. With nothing but rage-fueled adrenaline surging through her body, the blonde uses her bow to deliver a powerful SMACK to the Vanguard who is practically three times her size. Once he's taken out, she quickly whips herself around to intercept the Agent for Tartaglia but unfortunately, Dottore proves that he truly is two steps ahead of the trio. Suddenly, she's hit with the sensation of the world spinning and going black around her. No longer can she see Ajax, Avin, Aralauka, or even the horrible Dottore. All she can see is the back of her eyelids slowly closing down on her as she attempts to fight off the overwhelming drowsiness. ]

Let go... let... my friend.... g...o...

[ The Fatuus will witness a terrifying blonde in their nightmares. Even with some unknown gas filling her senses, she's still doing her best to fight it off and push on to save Aralauka. But it proves to be too much even for her to handle and it's not long until she succumbs to the substance, crumples into a heap on the ground, and dreams about a far more happier timeline with Ajax that doesn't involve Dottore or any of her friends getting hurt.

It's dark, Yoimiya isn't sure how long it's been since she's started dreaming, and it'd be so easy for her to sleep the day away. Fighting off the men and the substance that Dottore used on them has done a number on her body, feeling like she's ran a marathon around Teyvat. Unbeknownst to them, little flowers begin to sprout around the vicinity accompanied by the sweet aroma of Nilotpala Lotus blooming under the moonlight. It's then, a familiar voice greets them as the scent beckons them to awaken. ]

Tartaglia? Yoimiya...? Wake up. It's me, Nahida.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Tartaglia lies there sleeping the day away, his dream filled with lovely days with his family, with Yoimiya, and with battles. It's as if he's had a nice vacation in Snezhnaya, with no Fatui to be seen, no responsibilities, nothing but everything he's ever wanted from life. That dream shifts to the sweet scent of a flower he doesn't recognize, with a voice that infiltrates his nice dream, calling his name and Yoimiya's, asking him to wake up. It slowly pulls him from the depths of the dream, his eyes fluttering a few times as confusion takes him, not knowing who was calling for him or why he had to leave the wonderful place in his mind.

Finally, his eyes finally open, to Nahida doing her best to wake them both. He can feel the grass underneath his face, groaning as he rolls over onto his back with a heavy sigh. It's dark out now, and suddenly all of the memories of the fight come rushing back to him, making the fog of the dream in his head dissipate completely. Tartaglia sits up, looking around, seeing all of his comrades beginning to wake up.

Notably though, Avin and Aralauka are gone.]

Ngh...my head...

[He holds his head in his hand for a moment, before picking himself up off the ground. He spots Yoimiya, immediately crossing the battlefield to be at her side, kneeling down to hold her.]

Hey, are you alright? Yoimiya...

[Concern lines his expression, his eyes worried. He looks over her for injuries, to make sure she was okay first and foremost.]

[niwabi]

[ Yoimiya's ideal life is a peaceful one with Ajax and their families at their side. In the depths of her slumber, she envisions a world where she and her beloved could hold hands and run across Inazuma's beach without a care in the world. It was a wonderful dream, the best one she's had ever since that horrific incident in the cave. But it all comes to an end when the scent of a nilotpala lotus fills her senses, stirring her to wake. The first voice she hears is familiar but not quite like the second voice that follows.

It's Ajax. She faintly makes out the sounds of Ajax gently calling out to her, and the familiar warmth of his arms holding her.

Her eyes sleepily flutter open to look over at the man kneeling above her. ]

Mm... Ajax...?

[ She mutters with a quiet groan, her whole body feels like it's taken quite the beating. It takes her a minute to come to but with Ajax's assistance, she manages to slowly hoist herself from the ground. ]

I... don't know. I think I'm okay? Gosh, I can barely remember the last thing that happened. We were in the middle of a discussion with Dottore and then we suddenly fell asleep.

[ Archons, what happened after their "chat" with Dottore? Her head is pounding so much that she can barely concentrate. She shakes her head to try and fight off the weird side effects plaguing her. As she tries to adjuts to their surroundings, she glances at Ajax with an equal amount of concern painting her features. ]

How are you holding up?

[monoceroscaeli]

[Relief floods him as she wakes. He's glad to see her safe and sound, with no visible injuries. He's sure the fight might of been a little much, given how angry she was...but for now, he'll take that she's here, awake, and alright.]

I'm quite alright, for better or for worse. I too, fell to that sudden buzzing sound and found myself in the middle of a nice dream. I'm really not sure what happened, but it seems like Dottore's escaped in a hurry. He didn't even bother to take his subordinates with him...

[He looks over to the slumbering forms of the other Fatui soldiers, probably still in the middle of their own sweet dreams. Ajax sighs, knowing that they'll have to accept defeat here.]

A buzzing sound?

[Nahida pipes up from next to them, joining them at their side.]

I think I know what that was. Don't worry, it didn't do anything else to you two other than put you to sleep. What matters is that you're both okay.

[niwabi]

[ Now that she's slowly coming to, the memories of what transpired start to return to her head. She glances over at the sleeping Fatui soldiers, already planning to give them an earful when they wake up. But more importantly, she's happy to hear Ajax made it out unscathed. ]

Nahida... oh, thank goodness. I'm so glad to hear from you. Sorry that the plan kind of went haywire. Thank you so, so much for saving us. Um... hey, where's Avin and Aralauka? Are they okay?

[ Nahida falls silent, glancing down for a brief moment. ]

Well, that's the unfortunate part. You see, the Doctor took Avin and Aralauka with him.

[ This time, it's Yoimiya's turn to not say a single word. The news of both of her friends taken by Dottore hits her like a lawachurl. ]

I... see.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Even though he knew that they would probably discover that both Avin and Aralauka were missing, it still hurts and feels like a knife directly in his chest to hear Nahida lay it out so plainly. He sighs again and hangs his head, anger welling up inside of him at the nefariously shady way that Dottore managed to get the upper hand on them, and anger at himself for his own failure to protect them. The plan hadn't gone the way they wanted it to at all, never even getting the chance to enact the reset of cycles until they got their desired outcome...but he guesses life just doesn't work like that.

He'll thank his lucky stars that Yoimiya was okay. If he'd done anything to her, he's sure he'd be losing it right now.]

I'm sorry, Archon. I hadn't anticipated that he would discover the samsara right out of the gate, but he came prepared for just such a situation. He cut off our communication completely.

[Nahida frowns, but knows that Tartaglia's apology is sincere.]

I figured something was wrong when it seemed like too much time had passed without hearing from you again. I lifted the samsara when it felt like it had been too long, and I'm guessing that's when Dottore used that device on all of you to knock you out.

...So that's what he meant by, "It shouldn't be long now." He figured out that we were working with you.

[Another sigh, and another swell of irritation and anger. He's never had a plan go so sideways before, and this is after what happened in Liyue.]

And now he's got both Aralauka and Avin. Yoimiya...

[His attention turns back towards his girlfriend, who's gone silent. But who can blame her? Avin was her friend and Aralauka was their friend, too. Now both are at the whims of the Doctor.]

We'll get them back.

[niwabi]

[ Just like that, both Avin and Aralauka are gone. She swore to protect them and before she could even realize what was happening, Dottore snatched them from right under her nose. Fury, sadness, disappointment... all of that doesn't begin to describe how horrible she feels. And the worst part of it all? They weren't even granted a chance at activating a reset.

The Second certainly is suitable for his title, Dottore completely and utterly outsmarted all of them, even Nahida. Yoimiya doesn't even know what to say, all she can do is look back and forth between Tartaglia and Nahida. Her boyfriend looks like he's about ready to tear his coworker a new one, on top of knowing their friend is kidnapped, she knows that seeing a child mind controlled and snatched away angers him just as much. As for the Dendro Archon... it probably hurts her to find out that one of her beloved Aranara is gone and ready to be treated as a lab rat.

Yoimiya is beyond upset. If crying and screaming were the key to bringing back Avin and Aralauka, she'd make sure her voice shakes the heavens. But after everything that transpired, the anger building up inside of her is about ready to burst. And luckily for her, she has the perfect victims to take her anger out on.

Without saying another word, she marches with her fists balled over to the sleeping Fatui subordinates. She takes a deep breath, needing a short moment to prepare before she yells at the top of her lungs. ]

WAKE UP KNUCKLEHEADS!!

[ The fact that Yoimiya still has so much energy even after the fighting is almost terrifying. The soldiers immediately wake up and the first thing they open their eyes to is the visage of a small, angry blonde who kicked their sorry asses not too long ago. Fear immediately sets in and the men tremble and cower under the terrifying might that is Naganohara Yoimiya.

For someone so small, she's so scary..., one of them mutters under his breath. It's no wonder why our Lord Harbinger likes her so much, another one mumbles with abject fear in his eyes. ]

HEY!!!!! Less muttering and more talking. Tell me the location of that conniving, smelly, no good, mean 'ol Dottore's lab right... NOW!

[ Meanwhile, poor Nahida is just taken aback by everything. The scene unfolding in front of her is both startling and a little scary but at the very least, she's assured both Tartaglia and Yoimiya are sincere about their intentions. It's clear they are also just as torn up about Aralauka.

Still, she's not sure if Yoimiya should be up and yelling after all that. She looks over at Ajax with an expression laced with concern. ]

Um... will she be okay?

[monoceroscaeli]

[Ajax doesn't expect Yoimiya to say anything. He can do his best to fulfill his promise to her but that doesn't really help that much now, in the moment. They can get them back, but it would take time and patience. Planning. Things that no one is really in their right mind to be doing right now, after such a defeat. Right now, he's only concentrated on supporting Yoimiya and trying to keep himself from picking a fight with the wrong person at the wrong time, as much as he wants to.

His girlfriend, however, doesn't seem to be completely on the same page. He watches her stand up, clearly furious, and he instantly knows what's about to happen. Tartaglia makes no moves to stop her, seals his lips shut in a tight line as he anticipates the harsh verbal beating Dottore's subordinates are about to take. He just sits quietly next to Nahida while she chews them out, feeling a little sorry for the soldiers. He looks over to her with a meek smile and a weak laugh to her question, finding it as a faint bit of comedy in such a terrible situation.]

Yeah, just give her a minute to get a little bit out of her system. I imagine it's quite cathartic for her to ream them out a little bit.

[The Fatui soldiers shrink from her, their eyes darting to their Lord Harbinger for a little help, but finding none. Childe isn't going to do a thing to keep her from giving them what for, and that fact becomes all too obvious when the Eleventh doesn't budge an inch from where he's sitting on the ground.]

W-We don't know! [One exclaims, wondering if that bow would get pointed at his face again.] We only came along for this trip, Master Dottore doesn't just let anyone in his lab-!

[Childe snorts to himself- that's true, but will his hot-headed girlfriend accept that answer?]

[niwabi]

[ Cathartic it is indeed, she's thankful that Ajax doesn't involve himself because she needs this moment. Although it's not going to bring Avin or Aralauka back, she certainly feels better after yelling her emotions out at the people who assisted that awful man. Master Dottore... just hearing that makes her even more furious. Although these poor guys are just following orders, she doesn't understand how they could just follow such a sick and twisted individual.

For as pissed off as she is, Yoimiya does believe them. Dottore just up and left them. If they truly knew where the lab was, they probably would have high-tailed it out of there the moment they woke up. Still, she can't hide the fact that she's seething as she stomps one foot into the ground, the area practically shakes around them, causing the men to tremble even more at her might. ]

WELL! Unless you have information for me, y'all better take your sorry butts out of here before I decide to dish out even more punishment. I don't want to hear from any of you unless you can tell me where that stinky man's lab is.

[ A beat.

If she wasn't so scary, it'd be hard to take her seriously when she refers to Dottore as a "stinky man". There's a moment of silence from the men as they dart their eyes back and forth, trying to figure out what to make of the situation. ]

DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR?!

[ The soldiers definitely hear her loud and clear as they stand up to salute her. ]

Y-YES MA'AM!

[ And with that, they take off running. Although she didn't get any information, letting out some steam was just what she needed. She walks back to Ajax and Nahida, sighing in the aftermath of her explosion. ]

Feeling better now...?

[ Yoimiya slowly nods her head. ]

Yeah... sorry y'all had to see me lose my temper.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Tartaglia is taking this moment to live vicariously through Yoimiya. As a Harbinger, yelling at those soldiers probably would have looked a little different, and quite frankly, she's doing a much better job than he would in this moment. Being feared is something he wants and aspires to, but Yoimiya's take on fear here is far more amusing than what his would be. So he's going to let her handle it, and she does so beautifully. Seeing them leap up, salute her as if she were a Harbinger herself, and then beat feet is probably the funniest thing he's going to see for a while.

Ajax can't help but grin, despite the somberness they woke up to. That was very entertaining. He looks up at her from his spot on the ground, letting his arm drape over his knee.]

After a show like that, we might as well assign you to the Tenth seat as our new Harbinger. The position is open, you know.

[He puts on a smile for her, to give Yoimiya a little bit of brightness to an otherwise terrible situation. She really did a number on those soldiers.]

[niwabi]

[ Now that she's... somewhat calmed down, Yoimiya finds a little bit of solace in seeing Ajax's grin. She swears she could be in the most foul mood possible and her boyfriend could still manage to lift her spirits. She cracks a small smile back at him. His declaration brings everything to a pause, causing her to reflect on her actions.

And oh, maybe there's a kernel of truth to his words. Now that she thinks about it, she was being awfully commandeering to those poor soldiers. They'll probably show nothing but the utmost fealty to her during their next encounter. Yoimiya brings a hand to her chin, looking as if she's seriously contemplating his offer. ]

I didn't realize the Tenth's position was open, if the rest of your coworkers are like Dottore, I don't think I want to be around them. Besides, I don't know if this country girl is suitable for such a high position.

[ Says the country girl who was just yelling at men three times bigger than her and forcing them to salute for her. ]

Buuuuut if it gives me a chance to kick Dottore's stupid butt, I might just have to take it.

[ Not the two of them discussing their Fatui plans in front of the Dendro Archon. ]

[monoceroscaeli]

[Nahida is about tickled pink by their interaction with each other. It shows a whole other side to them both- the infamous Harbinger known for his battle prowess being cute towards his girlfriend, and the renown fireworks maker putting her foot down and scaring the living daylights out of seasoned Fatui soldiers and speaking to a Harbinger in such a casual, unceremonious way. They're a cute couple...

Ironic too, that both Yoimiya and Wanderer would love to get their hands on the Doctor, but one would join the Fatui to do it where the other left the Fatui...]

Maybe we shouldn't be too hasty, there.

[The Dendro Archon, despite losing one of her precious Aranara, manages a smile and a wink at Yoimiya. No need to be all gloom and doom right now- she can tell that Tartaglia's brain is already working at a hundred miles an hour thinking about how to make this right, without even having to read his mind.]

Hah, I suppose Lesser Lord Kusanali is right- I can get an audience with him again. But we'd have to head back to Snezhnaya, and our business here isn't concluded yet. We've got a lot to discuss yet, don't we, Archon?

[There's a hint of apology and failure in his voice. He can only thank his lucky stars it's not the Tsaritsa he has to answer to, but the God of Wisdom instead, but that doesn't get him out of taking responsibility for what happened. Ajax knows he's got to find a way to get their friends back, and Seraphina's presence in their lives will only make that infinitely harder.]

We do. Rescuing Aralauka is something we'll have to be even more careful in planning. And Avin can't be left with the Doctor, no matter how she ended up under his watch.

[niwabi]

[ Though Yoimiya's heart is heavy with guilt, Nahida's smile and wink give her a much-needed boost. Out of everyone here, the loss of Aralauka would affect Nahida the most and despite it all, she's still choosing to place her trust and faith in the two of them who were just straight-up talking about Fatui plans. It's... beyond touching. She's seen firsthand how an Archon can bring devastation to their people but Nahida is so different, she's so kind and full of wisdom.

Interacting with her ignites the flames in her heart all the more. She's burning with determination to bring Avin and Aralauka back safe and sound. So unfortunately for now, her plans to become the tenth Harbinger need to be put on hold for the sake of planning. Besides, it's not like she has to join the Fatui to kick Dottore's sorry butt...

She's sure there will be plenty of chances down the road. ]

Right! There's no telling what that scoundrel [ she's just coming up with all sorts of names for Dottore today. ] will do if he harnesses the power of an Aranara. So for the sake of everyone, we need to get them back. Avin also doesn't deserve this and I'm sure her parents are worried sick.

[ Her poor mom, just thinking about all the motions she's going through breaks her heart. She has no doubts Dottore snatched her up while she was out and about just trying to be a kid. Something that's been troubling her is the way Avin was standing up, without a need for a wheelchair. It makes her wonder, what exactly did the Doctor do to cure her ailment?

Judging by her cold stare, it must have been something horrible. Thinking about it still gives her the shivers but luckily, Lesser Lord Kusanali's soothing voice cuts through the thoughts clouding her mind. ]

Why don't we return to Vanarana to discuss a plan? There's also another matter I wish to discuss with you in private. It's... in regards to the entity who has been after you. Irminsul helped me uncover her identity.

[ Finally, it's the first bit of good news they've received in a long time. Yoimiya is so stunned that her jaw is practically on the floor. ]

Seriously?! Oh, that's incredible, Nahida! Thank you so much. That's so kind of you to offer that information to us even after we lost Aralauka.

[ She waves off Yoimiya's worries with a smile, the Dendro Archon really is too kind for this world. ]

Don't be, it's not really your fault. Dottore just happened to outsmart all of us. Besides, I can tell the two of you are genuine in wanting to rescue Aralauka, it's the least I could do to help.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Grateful for the fact that everything isn't keeping Yoimiya down, Ajax picks himself up off of the ground to dust himself off a bit in preparation of leaving so they can begin the hard work of tackling this whole mess. They've definitely got their work cut out for them, there's no doubt about that.

His ears perk up, however, when Nahida mentions Seraphina. Head swiveling to stare at her, he can't believe she's already managed to find out the identity of their stalker and harasser, to put it lightly. But his mood goes a little bit more sour, thinking about how she nearly killed Yoimiya countless times with her mind games and powerful control over their consciousness. Anger wells up inside of him, glad that they're going to find out exactly who it is that's behind all this, so he can find out what interest she has in him and why she wants Yoimiya dead. And then, he's going to fight her to the death in a battle he's going to make sure he wins. No more hiding behind the visages of others to do her dirty work.]

And we're very grateful for all your efforts, Archon.

[Childe's response is solemn and true- this is exactly what he needs to put an end to all this.]

So, let's make haste. The more time we spend outside of the dream in Vanaranara, the longer both Yoimiya and I are vulnerable to another psychic attack. We've no idea if she's aware of our location after disappearing off of the map for a few days. She certainly must be aware by now that Yoimiya isn't dead.

[He looks at them both before he begins the trek back to Vanaranara, expecting them to follow. The Harbinger won't say much on the way back, until they finally find themselves in the safety of the dream once again. The plants of Vanaranara loom over them as they enter, and Tartaglia's destination is none other than the elder's hut, where they began this plan in the first place. The elder would have to know of Aralauka's capture, and they'd have to work through everything even more carefully this time around.]

[niwabi]

[ Ajax is right, time is of the essence and Yoimiya isn't about to stick around just in case Seraphina already figured out their location. They already suffered two losses at Dottore's hands, Yoimiya's day is already ruined and the last thing either of them needs is that crazy stalker making another attempt on her life. She's hot on her heels as she follows the pair, not saying a single word throughout the trip due to how much is on her mind.

The sight of Vanaranara is a welcoming one, coming back already feels like they're returning home. This should put her heart at ease but... with Aralauka's capture, there's no doubt the rest of his Aranara kin will be shocked and upset about this news. All the Aranara seem close with one another, it's only natural to be distraught when you at the news that one of your own kidnapped.

Yoimiya takes a deep breath as they approach the elder hut, already planning a slew of apologies to give the leader. Once they enter, the first thing she notices is a few familiar faces alongside the elder. Naturally, Aramiya steps up to greet them with a friendly wave, it's obvious she's been dying to see them return. ]

Welcome back! Aramiya knew the Nara would come back to see us. [ It's not long until she realizes they've dwinlded in numbers. ] Where's Aralauka...?

[ Aramiya would have had to face the music eventually but this particular Aranara is the last one she wanted to break the unfortunate news to. Judging by their interactions, she could tell Aralauka was fairly close with both Arajax and Aramiya. Yoimiya glances at her counterpart with a sad smile, bending at the knee to give her a gentle pat on the head. ]

I'm sorry, Aramiya. Aralauka got captured by the big bad Nara.

[monoceroscaeli]

[If the situation weren't so sad, he'd be happy to greet their counterparts. He sees Arajax has also joined the party, no doubt being asked to come along by Aramiya. But where Aramiya isn't immediately aware of what's happened, Arajax can tell just by the look on Tartaglia's face. The mission hadn't gone well, and they probably returned in defeat. Yomiya only serves to confirm it, which makes Arajax fold his little arms over his tiny chest, leaning against the wall.]

I should've been the one to go with, [Arajax says, sighing as he looks at the floor.] Aralauka wasn't ready. Not a good fighter.

[Tartaglia understands that approach- if it were him, he'd probably of volunteered to go himself if he knew what the plan was if he were in Arajax's shoes. But it would of been a little too weird if Arajax had shown up, given what he looks like and his general attitude being too similar to his own. That, and, he wouldn't be sure he wouldn't ruin the plan somehow with that fighty attitude. But still, he can't ignore that Arajax would've been better to have in a fight. Maybe even bought crucial seconds to stop what happened.]

Where is he now? Arajax can free him. Just lead the way.

[That makes him laugh. Of course his little Aranara self would want to go and help his friend.]

Aralauka is most likely on his way to Snezhnaya. You'd have to move quickly to get to him, and even then. The one holding him captive is no pushover. It's probably best left to us to get him back.

[niwabi]

[ Oh, this just keeps getting sadder and sadder. As Aramiya glances down at the ground, clearly upset by the situation, Yoimiya catches wind of Arajax's declaration. And in a way, he's right. Between the two of them, Arajax would have probably been the better option to bring. She can already picture the fella taking down the agent before he even got his grubby hands on him. Honestly, it would have been cathartic to see an Aranara kick Dottore's butt but she also knows bringing their leafy counterparts would just spell even more trouble for all of them.

She doesn't even want to think about the stunts Dottore might try to pull on both Ajax and Arajax.

Just as Aramiya is getting ready to volunteer herself to help Arajax, she's left speechless by Ajax's warning. Yoimiya can see it plain as day, of course, her little Aranara self would want to jump into the fray to rescue a friend. ]

He's right. While we appreciate the enthusiasm from both of you, this is a fight you can't just jump into. Dottore managed to outsmart all of us, he's not someone you want to go in without a plan.

[ Aramiya hangs her head down once more, hating the situation with each passing minute. Poor girl, seeing her like this is hard for Yoimiya herself to watch. ]

But... Aramiya feels bad waiting here while Orange and Red nara fight the big bad nara. Aramiya wants to help too! Aralauka was our friend.

[ For as sad as this ordeal is, Yoimiya is touched to see resilient spirits coming from both Arajax and Aramiya. Those two willing to go to bat for their friend sounds like something their nara counterparts would say. ]

I know, Aramiya. This is why we're here. With the Dendro Archon's help, we're gonna think of a plan to get him back safe and sound. And when he does return, y'all will be able to train him to your heart's content.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Seeing the Aranara down like that at the loss of their friend makes Ajax sad along with them. He thinks of what it's like to be in their shoes right now- losing a good friend, even someone who's like family to them. In the short time that he's been in Vanaranara, they're really all like a small family in this village, and it breaks his heart to see them distraught about one of their own being captured and being subject what might amount to torture. Especially when there's really nothing they can personally do about it. He sighs heavily through his nose, closing his eyes for a moment to think while Yoimiya tries to soothe Aramiya's worries.

He's going to take responsibility for this mess, and fix it.]

Arajax, Aramiya, both myself and these two have a little bit to discuss on some more private matters. Could you give us a moment?

[Nahida interjects, not meaning to shoo away the little Aranara, but they do have things to get through. Especially since those things were going to greatly affect both Yoimiya and Tartaglia's plans on how to rescue both Aralauka and Avin.]

Not going to share with us? Alright, [says Arajax, beginning his little plip-plod out of the hut.] C'mon Aramiya, let's go make the nara some good food for when they're done. I can show you my cooking skills.

[Tartaglia stands there, trying to keep his cute aggression in check- he's never going to be over that cute little noise they make when they walk, and Arajax is honestly so adorable that he could just punch him and start a fight. Aramiya is adorable too, but he probably wouldn't punch her...that would just be mean.

When they're finally gone, Nahida will sigh and look at both of them.]

Enthusiastic, aren't they? Hehe...if only the next part was so joyous. We need to talk about the entity following you. I'm afraid it's not great news.