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]

[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.

[niwabi]

[ Though Aramiya wishes she could stick around to assist, she knows the best thing to do for Aralauka is to listen to heed the advice of the Dendro Archon. She resigns to the situation, turning around to plip-plod her way out of the hut with Arajax. ]

Ooooh! That's a brilliant idea, Arajax. This will be Aramiya's first time seeing your cooking skills. If your cooking is anything like your fighting, I'm sure the nara will be impressed.

[ Too cute! Both of them are too darn adorable for their own good!! Arajax really is the plant version of Ajax, and it doesn't take much for her to figure out that his cooking skills are on par with her boyfriend's... even if she has no idea how Aranara cook but that's okay, she's sure they'll be amazed.

Back to the matter at hand, Yoimiya turns her attention to Nahida. Yeah, she wasn't expecting good news at all but at this point, she'll take anything she can get. ]

That's okay, Nahida! Any news is better than nothing and we just want to get to the bottom of this mystery. Finding out her identity will be the first step to solving it.

[ Nahida nods, agreeing with her sentiment. ]

Well, if you're ready, I suppose it's best to start with who exactly she is. [ She glances over in the direction of Ajax. ] This might come as a shock to you but you're actually already acquainted with her, Tartaglia. The true identity of Seraphina is the Third of the Fatui Harbingers...

[ The revelation causes Yoimiya's eyes to grow as wide as saucers. No way... Ajax has already met the source of their distress this whole time? Despite that she's never met the Third Harbinger, she's shaken to the core, she can't even begin to imagine how Tartaglia himself must be feeling. She looks over to see how Ajax is taking the news. ]

Columbina.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Tartaglia's emotions run the full gamut from excitement to try their Aranara host's food to a silent, volcanic rage in the span of fifteen seconds.

He'd always known there was something weird and unsettling about Columbina. Damselette never made him feel comfortable whenever she was around, and he hardly knew anything about her. Never spoken to her once, and he's never wanted to either- it's like she just flitted through life without a care, so he always gave her a wide berth. But now, knowing what she's done, from trying to murder Yoimiya in the cave near his hometown to possessing her, messing with his mind and trying to get him to kill her, then trying to get an innocent bystander to kill her, it's maddening.

Childe is deathly silent as he processes that name, his fists clenching so hard that his palms would have been in danger of bleeding if it weren't for the gloves on his hands. The feeling of absolute betrayal and indignation inflames him, and the look in his eyes, if possible, could have the power to bore holes through solid steel walls. Nahida doesn't say a word, as the atmosphere in the room turns into something more chilling, like the veil of death was falling upon it, its caller the Harbinger who's barely keeping his rage in. It makes her nervous, like he's going to snap and take everyone down with him.

The next sound out of him is a laugh, crazed and hungry for blood, murderous intent shining in his eyes. He looks at both Yoimiya and Nahida, flashing an unhinged, toothy grin at them both, spreading his arms in front of him in disbelief. But not at disbelief in Nahida- it's directed at Columbina.]

You mean to tell me, she's had all this time to approach me and never took the time to even send a look my way? Always floating past me, never saying a word, and now she's felt the need to try to claim me for herself? Kill my girlfriend, why? Because she's suddenly jealous or something? Hahahaha, hahahahahaha!!!! What is this, is this a joke?

[One thing is for certain though...he's going to kill her. Ajax has never felt the need to kill someone so badly in his life. Battles didn't need to end in death, even if those were his favorite- but it was always for the love of the sport, not because of vengeance. But now, it's different. Now he's been personally slighted. How dare she touch Yoimiya. How dare she even harm a single hair on her precious head. How dare she.]

Oh, when I see her next, I'm going to challenge her to a fight to the death, just the two of us with nothing but our blades and our honor. [His voice gets low, gravel lining his tone, dangerous and merciless.]

And when I finally put my sword right through her chest, she's going to wish she'd never meddled in my affairs. Let's see who's will is truly stronger.

[niwabi]

[ Oh, Ajax... his silence is palpable, the tension in the air is so thick that it could be cut with one of his hydro blades. She understands this information is so buck wild that he'll need a moment to himself to process this. Columbina... she never would have guessed the Third Harbinger is the culprit behind their misery. But despite getting answers, this just leaves them with more questions, the most important of them all; Why?

If memory serves correctly, her beloved hardly ever spoke of the Damselette, so she assumed he steered cleared of her just like the rest of his awful coworkers. So if that's the case, why is she so obsessed with Ajax? The Third Harbinger has known him far longer than even Yoimiya herself, so if she truly wanted to be with him, couldn't she have approached him ages ago? If he rejected her in the past, then surely he would have said something to her after they started dating. Now that she's beaten him to the punch, that wicked woman suddenly wants her dead? All because of her jealousy? The longer she ponders on this, the less sense it makes.

But even if Yoimiya tries to make sense, gathering her thoughts together is proving to be quite difficult as she senses the pure, murderous aura radiating out of her boyfriend, Ajax's crazed laugh causes her to quickly snap out of her thoughts. It's rare for her to see him sound so unhinged, she's so used to him being so kind and loving to her that it almost takes her aback. She can tell he isn't just making a threat, it's a promise, Ajax is truly out for Columbina's blood. To say that it's terrifying would be an understatement, and she's sure glad she isn't on the receiving end of her boyfriend's threat.

And well, she can't blame him. Columbina has put them through hell and back and for what? Because she was too late to confess her feelings? All of this is so ridiculous that Yoimiya herself is starting to get pissed off. She nearly got killed several times and her beloved was put through so much pain and misery because of something as petty as jealousy.

There's no way she can stand for something like that.

So it's without any hesitation she strides over to Ajax, grabbing his hand and lacing their fingers together to get him to calm down. She truly doesn't blame him for being mad but acting like this in front of the Dendro Archon might not be the wisest decision, especially when they still have to figure out how to go about tackling Dottore. ]

Please, let me stand by your side, Ajax. I want to fight with you. There's no way I can stand idly by while she's made the love of my life suffer because of something as ridiculous as petty jealousy.

[ Ajax did nothing wrong, and if loving him is a sin then Yoimiya will gladly cast herself in the deepest pits of the Abyss to be with him. So at this point, all bets are out the window as far as she's concerned. Columbina deserves to get out of their hair, for good. ]

If loving you is a crime, then you can consider me a criminal for life. We'll show her our will can overcome anything she throws our way.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Had Columbina been here, he would have lost it and snapped just as Nahida fears him doing right now. All he can think about is fighting her, uneasy feelings be damned, until someone's dead by the end of it. It barely registers when Yoimiya's hand finds its way into his own, his gaze coming down to look at her, eyes wild with fury. He would do anything to protect her, ensure she's safe and able to live without the fear of constantly looking over her shoulder. Even now, with her hand in his, trying to soothe him, all he can do is shake his head at her.]

No.

[Tartaglia's eyes keep that intensity even now, because he's thinking about what it would look like if Yoimiya did fight alongside him. It's honorable and he's proud of her for showing the courage to take on someone who's shown that her power has been enough to debilitate both of them with ease. But he realizes this is the Third they're talking about, and while he had no idea until now why she was given that seat, it's been proven that she's strong beyond any kind of measure. With a power like that, even The Captain would have issues dealing with her.]

I don't want you anywhere near her when our battle takes place. You've seen what she can do. The last thing we want is for her to use you against me, and believe me, she will.

[Ajax's hand comes up to cup her cheek, staring down at her with a seriousness that doesn't come out often. To think of the awful things she could do to Yoimiya, what she's willing to do...it breaks his heart, and he swears that he will do anything to keep her out of harm's way.]

Let me handle her. I'm the one she wants. I won't let her do with you as she pleases, and that means I need to make sure you aren't put in a precarious position.

[niwabi]

Ajax...

[ She gets it, the intense look in his eyes tells her he's dead set on not letting her anywhere near Columbina. It's another fact she truly understands, just from what she's seen, the Third Harbinger's powers are unlike anything she's ever witnessed, and it's scary to think that she's hiding more in her arsenal. There's no way a simple country girl like her can take on someone with powers that stem from centuries ago.

Yoimiya appreciates the sentiment. The warmth from Ajax's hand is comforting, a reminder that despite him being out for blood, he still cherishes her more than anything. But despite everything, she's not one to let the situation get the better of her. She softly smiles at him, nuzzling her face into his palm as her own hand snakes up to cup the top of his. With her thumbs gently brushing his knuckles, she looks at him with an intense conviction that burns hotter than the sun itself. ]

I love you and appreciate you so much, Ajax. I understand you don't want me anywhere near her. I... can't even begin to fathom the depths of her powers.

[ She takes a deep breath. Yoimiya knows exactly what she wants and that's to stand by Ajax's side through thick and thin. It breaks her heart to think about all the terrible things that wicked woman could potentially do to him in battle. She'd never forgive herself if there's something, anything she can do to help him. ]

But even so, I still want to fight by your side. I don't want to be some girl who needs rescuing, I want to be a woman worthy of standing at your side as both your lover and a fighter. It hurts me to think about all the awful things she could do to you in battle, and I can't sit around while you're out there fighting on my behalf.

[monoceroscaeli]

Yoimiya...I love you too, more than I could ever express. But...

[He breathes out a heavy sigh, feeling like he should of anticipated this. Of course she wouldn't want to sit on the sidelines for this. Of course, he also can't blame her, and he understands her reasoning for it. But at the same time, strong words and convictions doesn't mean she's ready to go against an opponent as strong as Columbina without being gravely hurt or killed. So he's torn on honoring her fighter's spirit or keeping her as safe as he possibly could. Tartaglia feels a deep responsibility for her well-being, and it doesn't quite sit right with him to put her in danger like that.

So he turns his head to the side, to look at Nahida, trying to fight the rushing blood to his face at how sweetly she nuzzles against his palm, and at the loving brushes of her fingers against his knuckles.]

Archon, [he says in a faux exasperated tone,] please tell the love of my life here that this is a terrible idea...

[Because he's having a hard time telling her no after a small speech like that. Please, he needs some backup here, or else she's going to get what she wants and he really doesn't want her there only to get hurt.]

Mmmmmmm, I can't say I would advise for you to put yourself in harm's way like that, Yoimiya. The top three Harbingers have strength equal to the gods. That's not something you should be taking lightly, as much as I know that you want to support Tartaglia.

[His gaze returns to Yoimiya, still as serious as it was.]

There are other ways you can help, but a direct confrontation might be catastrophic. No doubt she would find a way to remove your Delusion from you, mind control you and use you as a hostage against me. In the cave, she wasn't even there and her power hypnotized me for almost long enough to let you fall in that lava. She even got in my head while we were sparring and I almost...argh...what if your Delusion isn't enough while in her presence?

[That thought alone scares him, and his eyes go from intense to showing a hint of panic. There's so many factors to think about, and he feels like he hasn't even scratched the surface.]

The other Harbingers, save for the Captain, do not have the same personal honor I do. Look at what Dottore just did. I don't want you to become her puppet in the middle of the battle, Yoimiya.

[niwabi]

[ There's a moment when Yoimiya thinks that maybe, just maybe she convinced him. She stares at him, her eyes almost looking like bright, shimmering stars full of expectancy as she eagerly anticipates him telling her she can come along. But her hopes and desires are quickly extinguished by a simple word; but.

The light in her once excitable eyes begins to dim as he takes it a step further by involving Nahida in their affair. She glances back and forth between the two of them, feeling hurt that neither one of them thinks she has it in her. It's true, there's no feasible way she'll be able to stand up to Columbina, and she understands that Ajax and Nahida are doing this for her own safety... but there's something about the way both of them are shooting her down completely stings more than she'd like to admit. It makes her think that maybe Columbina is right, she really is just that weak and pathetic. She's so weak that she'll be nothing but a burden for Ajax. Maybe he's right too, she'll just hypnotized and used against him, maybe this time she'll throw her off some cliff, or maybe even control her to fight the love of her life.

And there's nothing she can do about it because she's just that weak. ]

... Okay.

[ It's clear that Yoimiya has completely lost her spark in this one-word response. If both her boyfriend and Archon don't think she's capable then well, that's that. She still wants to join the fight but doesn't seem like either one of them are willing to back down on their stance, and after that whole ordeal with Dottore, she doesn't have it in her to argue with either of them. ]

I'll... drop the subject, then.

[ Without another word, she disheartenedly pulls away from his hold, shifting her gaze toward the ground with only one thought floating through her mind;

If only she wasn't so weak, she might have been able to help. ]

[monoceroscaeli]

[It breaks his heart to see her become so dejected, as she breaks from him and looks at the ground like she's the most useless person in the world. Tartaglia quickly shoots a look over to Nahida, concern lining his features, before he steps forward to Yoimiya, placing both hands on her shoulders as he bends down to try to look her in the eye.]

C'mon, Yoimiya. Don't be like that. We just have to play to our strengths here to win. Going in recklessly won't win us any battles. I'm still going to need your help, but we must be careful. Columbina is even stronger than I am, and I have no clue by how much. We're going into this practically blind.

[He's not sure if that's going to help her at all, but all he can tell her is the truth- there's no point in sugar coating such a dangerous situation.]

And we don't need to face her right away, either. I need to train you on that sword a bit more, remember?

[niwabi]

[ The feeling of his hands on her shoulders causes her to lift her eyes off the ground and onto him. She doesn't say anything for a solid minute, almost feeling insulted to be told "Don't be like that." when she got ganged up on for simply wanting to help. Still, she doesn't have it in her to start an argument, especially since she understands both Tartaglia and Nahida's stance but...

It still hurts to essentially be told you aren't ready, you aren't up to par, and you're better off just staying on the sidelines. She presses her lips together in a thin line as she takes in Ajax's words. ]

That's true, I would like to learn how to use that strange sword....

[ She doesn't say any more than that, the situation hurts her a lot more than she'd like to admit, and a change of subject is in order for the sake of her wellbeing. ]

Nahida, is there any other information you'd like to share with us?

[monoceroscaeli]

[Those pursed lips mixed with her fighting spirit probably means she's not alright with being told she has to sit out on the main event, but Tartaglia feels like this is still the best course of action at the end of the day. He doesn't want to make her upset, but he'd rather her be upset and alive than dead. He breathes out a sigh, letting her go and standing up straight, thankful that she's at least accepted his small offering in exchange.

Now, he looks to Nahida, who's been patiently waiting for them to resolve their issue, nods at Yoimiya.]

There is. I have a few more details about Seraphina for you both. Irmunsul has records of her all the way back before the Archon War, when her race was destroyed. Righteous judgement from the Heavenly Principles came down upon them, in a terrible war between them and someone else. Seraphina was in love with that person, but they aren't recorded in Irmunsul, which means they weren't from this world. Irmunsul cannot record the existence of those who come from outside of Teyvat. Got any ideas on who that person might be?

[Nahida looks squarely at Tartaglia with a knowing look in her eyes. That very person is standing right here, and she's expecting the gears to move pretty quickly in his brain to figure it out. And it does- Ajax's face goes from intrigued to astonished and a little pale, hearing her say that out loud. He can't forget about how he'd lost himself to some strange entity within him, that surfaced only after she'd called for him within the ocean of his mind.]

...No, hold on a moment. Are you saying what I think you're saying? That can't be...she did something to me, planted something within me to take on her lover's mind. That's not me. That's someone else. I'm from Teyvat, I always have been. I'm no reincarnation of a Decender.

[Yet he knows that's not true, that "Alnair" was of the same mind as him, somehow, but just locked away inside of him. He can't accept that reality, not one bit. That would mean something terrible, and he can't allow that to be the truth- it would be too much for him, and how would Yoimiya take it? He doesn't dare try to imagine.]

[niwabi]

[ Goodness. Seraphina has been around since way before the Archon War? That information alone is enough to pull Yoimiya out of her disheartened funk, her once thin lips are now practically on the ground from shock. She never would have guessed that Columbina had been alive for that long. Before she's even able to process that information, Nahida hits them with another bombshell; the person that Seraphina is in love with doesn't have a record in Irminsul.

Soon, the cogwheels in her head begin to turn. Both Ajax and her already know that she is in love with someone named Alnair and considering Seraphina wants her dead specifically because of her relationship, it's not hard to put two and two together to realize what's going on. Ajax must be related to Serpahina's lover in some kind of fashion, and if Alnair truly is a Descender...

Then does that make Ajax a reincarnation of a Descender? Yoimiya's eyes grow wide with shock as she attempts to process this news. She turns her attention to Ajax to gauge his reaction, and he looks just as stunned as she is. And from the sounds of it, doesn't seem like he believes it, and who can blame him? Being a reincarnation of someone else is already shocking, but being a reincarnation of a Descender is on a whole new level. ]

Ajax... I... I think the Dendro Archon might be onto something. I know it's hard to believe but, why else would she be so deadset on killing me if you weren't related to Alnair in any way? She wouldn't be going after you as relentlessly as she is.

[ Alnair, huh? Nahida files that name in the back of her mind to look into it at a later date. ]

While I can't deny that Seraphina might have other ulterior motives, you also have to wonder why is she specifically going after you? If she's just using you to take on her lover's mind, she could use anyone. And well, if it is truly a case of reincarnation, then that just means that Alnair was reborn as you. You're still Tartaglia, a man who has lived in Teyvat all his life as the Eleventh Harbinger, but you might also harbor the soul of Alnair.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Ajax feels like he just got blasted right in the face, getting told that he's some figure from the ancient past that fought the Heavenly Principles and died for it. That alone puts him on the verge of shaking, wondering about how massively powerful he had to of been to lead a war against the very gods that the Fatui are working to overthrow as they speak. And he still lost...just how powerful was he?

Was that him though? As he listens to both Yoimiya and Nahida, now it's his turn to feel like he's getting a little double teamed here. He doesn't want to believe he would of ever fallen in love with a creature like her, but the logic is sound. Tartaglia's eyes dart back and forth between the two of them, still in disbelief. He knows just as well as Nahida that reincarnation is real, thanks to Fatui research, but he never considered that he could be a product of it.]

If that's so...that explains what happened to us before. ...I don't want to get into the details, but it felt like she woke something up inside of me...

[That's too much. The memory alone of the rough night of sex they had and how he completely became Seraphina's slave replays in his head, making him bury his face in his hand as he recalls it. Alnair was a devoted, helplessly in love little puppy to Seraphina, so much so that he was willing to kill Yoimiya just on her whim. But it wasn't just that. Childe is still convinced that Seraphina did something to him, that it wasn't just Alnair being blind in love.]

I...I need some time. Time to process this.

[He wants to leave, he's not sure if he can take this conversation right now. Maybe when he's had time to himself to think about it, he can.]

May I be excused?

[niwabi]

[ Poor Ajax. Yoimiya can't even begin to imagine the motions he's going through. Being told that your past life is an ancient hero who took on the Heavenly Principles is shocking enough as it is. But now, as she dives deeper into this rabbit hole, another horrible implication hits her right in the face. If this is true, then that means Alnair really fell in love with Seraphina centuries ago, and if that's the case... then Seraphina's hatred for her makes sense. In her eyes, it feels like her man has been stolen from her right under her nose.

And Yoimiya isn't sure how she feels about that. She wonders if maybe, she's the horrible person for preventing Seraphina from being with her the love of her life, and that maybe, she's well within her rights to direct her ire at her. It tears her apart to think that Ajax was actually in love with that horrible monster but she can't deny the possibility that she became a monster because her love got stolen. When she thinks back on that night in Sumeru City, Alnair seemed to be truly in love with her and even relished in their barbaric sex.

If that's truly the case then... Alnair also wanted her dead and thinking about that makes her feel like a boulder has dropped inside of her stomach. ]

Of course. Take all the time you need.

[ Nahida responds, nodding her head in understanding.

Yoimiya is quiet, and for the first time in her life, she's rendered speechless by this revelation. It feels like words are lodged inside of her throat and she can't find the right thing to say but she eventually manages to mutter out. ]

... Do you need to be alone?

[ After everything that's happened, she truly doesn't blame him. Between Avin and Aralauka getting kidnapped, not being allowed to join in on the fight against Columbina, and now this, she's admittedly not in the best of moods. But if he needs her, she doesn't mind joining him. Ajax's comfort is still important to her. ]

[monoceroscaeli]

[Tartaglia can safely say that the only thing that might of rattled him as badly as this has was when he fell into the Abyss all those years back. And since then, he's been so much more confident and sure of himself overall in his decisions and in his judgements. But right now, he doesn't feel sure of anything. There's a small part of him that's questioning who he even is, especially after reliving the memory of becoming Alnair and relishing in reuniting with Seraphina after all these years.

That was him. The soul inside of him, the core and foundation of who he is, in love with a monster. He remembers asking her to spare Yoimiya, but then something changed and he decided to kill her instead. It's like she had a complete grip on his mind...and that bothers him more than anything else.

He nods in thanks to Nahida for letting him go, but Yoimiya got really quiet all of a sudden. Ajax turns to her, noting how disconcerted she looks, her voice small. He's not sure now if leaving her alone is what he should do now, being the one that's really at the center of all this disaster. His life, as far as he knows, hasn't been in any particular danger. If anything, he's been the danger to her- and that doesn't make this any better. But still, he doesn't want to push his problems onto her more than they already are.]

...I think so. Just long enough to get a bit of fresh air and clear my head. Lesser Lord Kusanali, if there's anything else, would you go over it with Yoimiya? I'd appreciate it.

[And to Yoimiya:]

I'll be up on the small hill just behind Aramiya's hut. Come find me there once the two of you are done here. That should be enough time.

[niwabi]

[ Poor Ajax, she can tell this information has taken a toll on him, it's rare to see him so shaken up. She can't fault him, how could he not be a little freaked out to find out he might potentially be the reincarnation of a Descender and Seraphina's love from thousands of years ago. He's going through a lot, and she can't even begin to imagine the emotional toll he's going through as he takes her advice to have some much-needed alone time.

Ajax...

She looks at him with concern painting her features but she'll let him be. Maybe some fresh air will help him gather his thoughts. She slowly nods her head at him and immediately makes a mental note to give him all the attention he needs once they're done. ]

Alright, I'll see you there.

[ This is a lot for Ajax to take on and Nahida can't blame him for needing space. ]

Will do, there is another bit of information I'd like to relay but I'll be happy to share that with Yoimiya. Thank you for everything you've done, Tartaglia. Please get some much-needed rest.

[ And then, Yoimiya turns to Nahida. ]

Oh? There's something else you'd like to share.

[ Nahida nods. ]

Yes. According to the records, there was actually another person involved with Seraphina and Alnair but as for the extent, not even Irminsul could tell me. All I could gather was that this third party was not an ordinary person, her powers were more... otherwordly as if she was on a higher plane of existence. Unfortunately, there wasn't any information on her, Irminsul couldn't even tell me if she's still alive but I'd thought I share this so the two of you can remain vigilant. If this mysterious person is still around, she might spell trouble for you.

[ Sheesh, just when Yoimiya thought this situation couldn't get any worse, there might be another lady involved in all of this? They already have Seraphina hot on their tail, the last thing they need is another woman with potential god-like powers standing in their way. What a mess... but even through her sigh, she manages to crack a small smile of appreciation for Nahida. ]

I see. Thank you for everything, Nahida. Every bit of information helps.

---

[ Once Nahida has shared everything she's learned, Yoimiya quickly exits the Elder's hut to find Ajax. With any luck, their conversation has given him enough time to clear his head and let him breathe for a second. She strides her way to Aramiya's hut and sure enough, she spots him behind her counterpart's leafy dome, sitting underneath the stars the little Aranara admires so much. She inhales, exhaling a deep breathe as she slowly approaches him. ]

... Hey. How are you feeling?

[ She's worried about him but given the circumstances, she doesn't blame him if he simply needs to be alone for a little while longer. ]

Do you still need time to yourself?

[monoceroscaeli]

[Yoimiya will find Tartaglia staring up into the darkened sky, looking at the stars, almost as if he were lost in them as he thinks on everything they've learned. Once he hears her voice, he turns his head to greet her, but that look of wonder and confusion hasn't left his features. Taking a deep breath, he proceeds to let out a sigh, patting the ground next to him for her to join him in the grass, and looks back up at the stars.]

No, I think I'm alright now. The fresh air has done me some good.

[It hasn't answered his questions, though, and it shows.]

Once I had a little bit of time and an open space like this one, I could at least compartmentalize Alnair and Seraphina's relationship away from myself. But I still have so many other questions aside from that as well...

[He shakes his head, trying to keep himself from delving back into that endless pool of questions with no answers.]

Anyway, that's not important right now. Are you doing alright?

[niwabi]

[ At his call, she doesn't hesitate to take a spot next to him on the grass. She quickly joins him, lifting her gaze off the ground and onto the beautiful sky above them. The mood might be dreary, but she can appreciate the twinkling stars painting the sky like a shimmering canvas. There's something about it that puts her at ease, almost as if she's right at home.

But enough of that, she's more concerned about Ajax. Nahida's information was beyond shocking, and she couldn't fault him for needing to take some time for himself to clear his mind. She's not even sure what to make of it, though it might be more appropriate to say she's not sure if she wants to dwell on the ramifications of Ajax being a reincarnation of Alnair. If that's truly the case... what does this mean for their relationship?

Likewise, she shakes her head to clear her thoughts. There's no use trying to find answers to all these endless questions. ]

I hate to say this but I'm... not okay.

[ Between Dottore kidnapping Aralauka and Avin, to being barred from fighting Columbina to Ajax and Alnair's relationship, it's a miracle she hasn't completely broken down. But she knows she isn't the only one suffering, she can't even begin to imagine all the turmoil and conflicting feelings he's going through right now. ]

But as much as it pains me, I know there's no use crying over spilled milk. The only thing I really can do is work hard to try and fix our problems.

[monoceroscaeli]

[It's not an unexpected answer. The truth of the matter is that neither of them were probably okay, no matter how much Ajax tries to hide his own suffering. But Yoimiya is getting the short end of the stick on all of this, so he can't imagine what she has to go through. The fact that she hasn't broken down yet is a testament to how tough she really is.]

I wish I could make this easier on you.

[Childe's eyes fall from looking up at the stars to the grass. In a way, the only reason she has to go through this at all is because of him. He knows it's not his fault, and he knows that despite her very life being in danger, she's willing to risk it just to be with him. And then there's what happened to Aralauka and Avin on top of it all.]

...I'm sorry.

[It's barely above a whisper, an apology that he feels doesn't go deep enough to make up for all the terrible things that have happened to her just because of him. Tartaglia reaches for her hand, to take it gingerly into his own, cupping it protectively like it's a piece of stained glass, beautiful yet fragile.]

It's unfair that all of this is happening to you just because of what simply amounts to a very jealous ex-girlfriend.