#the other high lords selling themselves out

[astrababyy]

Rhysand selling himself out to Amarantha helped one part of his Court. Amarantha didn’t not go after his Court after he pretended to join her side. All that did was take her laser-eyed attention off his Court. She still oppressed the people of the Night Court. She just didn’t bother to look closer at the Court because she already thought Rhysand was on her side. That’s why he sold himself out. It was to keep her from finding out about one part of his Court.

THE REST OF HIS COURT WAS STILL FUCKING OPPRESSED BECAUSE IT DOESNT ACTUALLY MATTER THAT HE SOLD HIMSELF OUT!!

So to all the people that say that Tamlin should’ve given himself up to Amarantha to protect his Court, that wouldn’t have worked because she would’ve oppressed them anyway.

To all the people who say that what Rhysand do was “noble”… that’s questionable. Rhysand chose to take the route that would protect the people of Velaris with near-100% surety, but he sold out the rest of his people in the process. That’s not noble. That’s kind of understandable, but it’s far from noble.

#anti sjm #anti rhysand #astrababyy #I vividly remember this one post showing a Reddit post asking why Tamlin didn’t just sell himself out to amarantha #but like #that wouldn’t have done anything regardless #because amarantha would’ve oppressed spring even IF he had given in to her #rhysand was the ONLY high lord who had that as a viable option #the other high lords selling themselves out #fake or otherwise #wouldn’t have actually benefited them in the slightest #because none of them have secret cities within their court

[chrollohearttags]

With AOTs last episode… Imagine if rumors spread that musician!Eren and Mikasa had something going on in the past. Then reader gets wind of it and they breakup!! I couldn’t imagine what was going through Eren’s head when the media hears about this shit!!!!!

ayooo! I swear, y’all are geniuses fr. I was thinking of something like this. And here I was needing a little drama (I’ll definitely have to do this as a full fic in the future but I gotta talk about thisss sksksjs!!)

content + themes: infidelity(?), angsty vibes, lots of drama, mentions of sex, alcohol mentions

── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ.─── ── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* : ── ･

“Let’s get into this tea, honey. Cause it’s HOT! So boom, (influencer name) this girl right here..is engaged to this man, EJ The Don. This lady here is Mikasa Ackerman, or formerly known as MikaASH. Who is also the manager for both of them. Welllll, girl. Allegedly, she was over here hunching on Mr. EJ behind Miss (y/n)’s back! Mind you, miss girl got a whole HUSBAND herself—“

“Y’all already know what we’re gonna talk about so just buckle in. I could not believe this when I heard it. So word is going around that EJ the Don, Mr. Underground God, the Living Dead Boy..whatever the fuck his name is has been cheating on his girl. And if you don’t know who she is, this is (y/n) (l/n), leader of the Pole Assassins. Gorgeous, gorgeous woman..but this asshole decided to not only fuck around on her but with their manager nonetheless!—“

it was inescapable..every other scroll through TikTok’s feed was some person with a pair of earbuds, speaking over the static wafting through the microphone as they stood before and floated in front of a green screen..pictures and articles of the story plastered behind them. What was the latest topic of discussion and juiciest gossip for the masses; a sure fire way to get themselves circulating in the algorithm was your sad reality. A reality that you wish was all made up.

two people you loved and cared for deeply betraying you in an indescribable way. The woman who’d all but given you your start in this industry. Acting as that of a sister rather than a manager as she helped you navigate fame. And the man..you loved more than life itself. Who showed you what it meant to be happy for the first time in your life. Sleeping together behind your back…you had never felt pain quite like this. There were physical pangs in your chest, your stomach in knots and all of the air feeling as if they had dissipated from your lungs. At that moment, you wanted to disappear into nothing..fade away and never be seen again. But life went on!..you had obligations, business affairs, everything you’d work so hard to achieve. Meanwhile, your phone wouldn’t stop ringing. Missed calls and texts from them both, constantly sounding off back to back because lord knows if you answered, you’d only end up saying or doing something you’d regret. Much like you had hours ago when you stormed out of you and Eren’s home, bags packed with him running after you..tears in his eyes and the promise that nothing had ever happened. But there was proof. Pictures of them all over each other; Mikasa sporting her leather clad, skimpy attire she would wear on stage and him happily grabbing her hips as she bent over. It made you sick to your stomach. Physically ill even..it was too much for you to bare. Apologies, no matter how frequently and loud they were, would never absolve that hurt. The thought of them touching, kissing and doing god knows what behind your back..in your bed!

“Please (y/n)! I know what this seems like but that was from years ago. We were drunk, probably even high. Somebody took those of us, thinking they had something they could sell off to TMZ but you’ve gotta believe me when I tell you..nothing ever happened. I would never come between what you and Eren have—“

“Girl, please. Spare me the tears. If you wanna fuck him, he’s all yours. I’ll be damned if I ever compete for my spot. You got it.”

as much as you were trying to wear the brave face, you were torn apart and seeing her in full blown hysterics, trying to plead their case. But you were having none of it. As for Eren, he was in no better shape. He was devastated..heartbroken. More so than anyone could imagine. He wasn’t even going to bother heading to social media to clear his name as other accused cheaters had done so in the past. Rather, he downed the various bottles of liquor, stowed away in the studio’s cabinets. Angry and frustrated. More so importantly confused.

“Aren’t you going to go get her back, Mr. Jaeger? She can’t possibly believe that’s true. You guys would never..”

“Well she does and when she gets her mind set on something, there’s no changing it…”

how in the hell had a rumor like this started anyway?! Who was so bored as to drudge up old photos and post them, claiming that they had slept together. And most of all?….

how could he face you again..not knowing if it was true himself?

#cherry’s asks 🍒 #nonnies 🍒🌹 #thank you precious nonnie #you have given me plenty of fuel to be messy with!!! #🤭🤭🤭 #aot x black reader #black fem reader #attack on titan #musician x influencer au #eren x black fem!reader #aot au #black reader smut #this is my type of nonsense #I love me some drama #black reader #eren jaeger #eren jaeger x black reader #eren yeager #mikasa ackerman #eren x mikasa #mikasa aot #p2 coming soon #black fanfiction #aot drabbles #aot #snk #musician au #aot imagines #cw infidelity #cw smut

[captainkirkk]

I can't stop thinking about m!ik so please have some AUs from the shower

AU in which the demon world find out about humans' healing properties, resulting in a surge of humans kidnapped from the human realm to be used as healing blood slaves - including Iruma. I'm undecided who would find Iruma in this AU, but they're going to find One Traumatised Boy

AU in which Iruma's status as human is revealed very publicly and becomes a huge political blunder. People are screaming about cover ups and fake accusations, so Iruma and Sullivan's trial is opened for public viewing (and you best believe the WHOLE demon realm is following along at home). Every demon that's ever spoken to Iruma is dragged in for questioning. Multiple members of the Misfit Class have had to be restrained. They delve deeper into just HOW Iruma has been able to get away with pretending to be a high rank demon for so long - and find the ring of Gluttony. And Ali. And the magical expert inspecting the ring is quick to realise - on live TV with the entire demon world watching - that Ali is the lost demon king Derkila, and he's NOT happy about everyone putting his partner through this media circus.

AU in which Iruma's parents sell him to Sullivan a decade-ish earlier. I know this is an AU that's been thought up before, but I can't get over it. Sullivan is SO STINKING PROUD of his squishy little grandson - who is much harder to embarrass than 14yo Iruma. Toddler Iruma is happy to be shown off to the entire demon world. Sullivan carries him all around Babyls and Iruma becomes an instant celebrity around campus. The students all become No 1 Iruma stans and call him "the little lord" and always want to say hello and play with him. Also please picture rookie student Kalego being saddled with baby Iruma as the Junior member of staff and seething in rage, while Iruma giggles and covers him in stickers.

Demon Hunter AU in which Iruma is sold to an abusive church when he is younger and becomes an exorcist-in-training. He's lead to believe that demons are monsters..... until his exorcist teacher captures a bunch of demons that are HIS age, who just looked terrified at the sight of them (I keep going back and forth on who is in this group - Clara, Lied, Azz? Some of the Misfit Class for sure). Iruma decides to rescue them and return them to the demon world, and along the way the demons and Iruma learn more about each other (including how incredibly fucked up Iruma's life at the academy is). Sullivan has been leading the charge, trying to get his young students home, but he was NOT expecting his students to wonder back into the demon realm by themselves with a baby exorcist?? Or for them to start loudly defending said exorcist and trying to protect him from Sullivan??? It doesn't take long for Sullivan to decide that this wide-eyed baby exorcist (demons' mortal enemies) is his new grandson.

#m!ik #the demon world: NO HUMANS ALLOWED #lost demon king derkila: i've only had iruma for 18 months but if something happened to him i'd kill everyone in this room #the demon world: .......one human allowed #welcome to demon school iruma kun #some of these are so dumb and yet i canNOT stop thinking about them djsksk #my posts #au ideas

[whispereons]

Oracle!Reader Part 3

Masterlist - Part 1, Part 2, Part 4

The Kamisato Estate was truly more beautiful in person. That little courtyard in the game was a joke compared to the real thing.

The few servants still awake at this time pass by as Thoma leads you into the estate. Almost all of them give Thoma some sort of greeting as they pass by. A smile, a wave or even a 'hey Thoma!'. They give you curious looks but no one comments on your presence.

At least you don't realize how they raise their eyebrows at Thoma holding your hand. It's not completely unusual for Thoma to be extra friendly in this way but bringing someone to the estate was a whole new thing.

"If you don't mind, you can wait here for my lord and my lady." Thoma opens the door to the room as he speaks. Its a drawing room with a window to the outside. The moonlight seeps in as the curtain blows.

You take a seat on the cushion as best as you remember the formal way. Inazuma style was inspired by Japan and you didn't know a lot of Japan customs.

The door closes softly and you're left to your thoughts. It's not long before the soft pitter patter of footsteps are heard coming from the hallway.

The door opens and Ayaka in comfortable clothes steps in with a smile. Her hair is loose and it's a good look on her. You stand up and bow politely.

"Its an honor to meet the Shirasagi Himegimi. My name is Y/N."

Ayaka smiles gracefully and gives a polite bow back. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Y/N. Thoma has explained a few things about you, most specifically your position as the creator's oracle."

It's clear by the gleam in her eyes that she doesn't believe you at all. You keep a peaceful expression on your face as Ayaka continues.

"My brother was in a meeting for most of the day and would like to address your situation tomorrow at a more convenient time. We'll have arrangements made for you to sleep here tonight."

That's fair, the moon is high in the sky. You don't need a clock to know that. But she could have easily asked Thoma to rely this to you. Meaning she wants to talk to you about something privately.

You purposely wring your hands in fake nerves to test her alertness to your actions. Her eyes immediately notice it. Either the game downplayed her attentiveness or she's just super relaxed around the traveler.

"No need to be nervous. I just wanted to speak with you for a while before tomorrow. After all, maybe my brother doesn't need to speak to you for us to know the truth about you."

It's a threat your mind supplies. A threat that if Ayaka herself could see past your lies and deceit, that she'll kick you out immediately. In fact you bet the Shuumatsuban are already looking into you as Ayaka takes the seat across from you.

There's a soft knock on the door before Ayaka says a quiet "Come in." A young servant comes in with a tea set and placed it on the table between Ayaka and you.

There's only the clinking of China and the pouring of tea as the servant brews tea. After pouring a cup for both of you the servant bows and leaves.

"Then I'll bite your bait. What do you want to know? How do you want me to prove myself?"

You know that's not what she's actually after at this moment. She's probably well aware that Ayato is better suited to figuring out any lies or schemes you might have to sell your oracle position.

"No, that's not what I came to talk about at all. I'm more interested in hearing your opinion on the creator and other topics."

She wants to know if you're truly a fake believer using the creator's name for nefarious acts. Or a crazy fanatic worshipper who convinced themselves that they are a oracle.

You feel a little happy seeing Ayaka stay up this late to help Ayato with his work. Even if it means being cross-examined by her.

You bring the teacup to your lips and take your time to savor the taste. At least you would be able to taste it if you weren't nervous to hell and back.

"Well due to my memory loss I don't know much about the creators past. So I'll need you to be more specific on what you want my opinion on."

"The Electro Archon started the vision hunt decree as a way to get closer to the creator and achieve eternity. The creator helped the traveler get the decree repealed. But many citizens that suffered due to the decree can't help but feel hurt that the creator wasn't more open on their opposition."

This was a hard subject but it's exactly what you need.

"It's understandable that they feel that way. I can't speak on my personal experience since I don't remember anything at that time but the effects have permanently altered Inazuma."

You take a breath as you prepare your words that may or may not damn you.

"The creator shouldn't be blamed for not being more open as they are stuck in a different world with who knows what kind of restrictions. At the same time, the people of Inazuma shouldn't be so reliant on the gods, both the Shogun and the creator."

Ayaka's stare is cold and unnerving. She stays as silent as snowfall as you speak. Was it just you or did the room get colder?

"The creator has lived in a different world all this time. I believe they want everyone and every being to flourish on their own with their own power. That's what visions help with. This blind reliance and trust in the Shogun is what led to so many Inazuma residents to suffer. Not necessarily because they caused it but they enabled it because the majority didn't question the decree and simply accepted the reasoning without a fight. While vision holders are a minority, they still exist. And their decisions and actions have ripple effects that do effect the majority of Inazuma."

A visible steam breath leaves your mouth as ice begins to crawl from the floor where Ayaka sits. Her bangs cast a shadow that leaves her expression unreadable. Goosebumps cover your exposed skin as you continue.

"Would the creator really be happy with overly dependent subjects? Is a parent happy when they see their child refuse to use their gifts and hard work to achieve their dreams? The creator loves Teyvat and everything in it. The good and bad has shaped the world they created. And I believe they love it all. Not that they wish harm but nothing can live without harming something. That's a hard truth people try to deny."

Frostbite strikes your fingers as they start turning a pale blue. The ice is about to touch the cushion you're sitting on.

Then it all stops. The temperature goes back to normal and the ice shatters leaving the shards broken on the floor. Your heart rate goes back to normal.

Ayaka stands and holds out her hand to you. You don't move and merely stare at the smile that's basically frozen on her face.

"I can't say that I agree with you but I find your viewpoint fascinating. It's fresh and bold. I'll leave brother to make the final decision about how trustworthy you are."

It seems your gamble payed off as you place your hand in hers. Her skin is chilly as she pulls you up before releasing you. She seems lost in her head as she leads you out the room.

You follow her down the empty halls as her hair gracefully flows behind her. Truly the title Shirasagi Himegimi suits her.

She stops at a door and opens it. The room is small but cozy. It has a neat bed, small bedside drawer, coffee table and a window showing the courtyard.

"You can sleep here for tonight. Breakfast will be delivered to you here as well. Brother's schedule is a bit unpredictable so he'll visit sometime before the afternoon."

"Thank you for your hospitality." Is your reply as you step into the room. Ayaka hasn't dropped that polite smile even as she closes the door.

You stand in your spot in the middle of the room as you hear Ayaka's soft footsteps gradually get quieter. It's only when nothing can be heard that your body loosens the tension and slumps.

Your back softly hits the door and you let your body slide down into a fetal position. The cold that ate away at your body earlier was still lingering.

Was your body still cold or was it just a phantom feeling after that display of power?

You still didn't consider Ayaka a threat. At least not mentally as she doesn't even need her vision to murder you. The Kamisato Clan is known for their sword techniques after all.

It's was Ayato. You could have pulled the same act you did to Sara. Acting meek and shy while gushing about the creator. And you know full well that Ayaka would have fallen for it before handing you off to Ayato.

But that plan only worked under the premise that you would be meeting them both in the same day. By Ayaka meeting you today and Ayato tomorrow, Ayato gets information about you from Ayaka and can look into you through the Shuumatsuban.

That would let Ayato think up a counter or even use your act against you. You can already imagine him using your oracle act as a way to bring you to Ei. She would recogize you by your voice and that would mean the end for you. No fried egg would save you from that fate.

The only way to avoid that was by playing a whole new viewpoint that would leave Ayaka feeling confused. Ayaka would report to Ayato and Ayato would feel a stronger need to meet you himself. The more unpredictable you were, the less cards Ayato had.

Your hand reach up to your mask and you're about to take it off. You slam your hand into your lap, away from the mask as you remember the Shuumatsuban.

There's no way that the Ayato, would let a suspicious person in the estate and let them stay the night without supervision.

Your suspicions made everything around you look shady. Like Sayu was hiding in plain sight at this very moment. But acting so skeptical would only make them in turn more suspicious.

Your stomach growling was what snapped you out of your thoughts. The last thing you ate was those roasted lavender melon with the Arataki gang. You missed them dearly.

You hold your stomach as the familiar hunger pains started. Getting off the floor and lazily draping your bag on the bedside drawer, you flop onto the bed.

God did it feel great.

After walking, running, lying, stealing and bullshitting your way through the whole day, you were utterly exhausted. Plus this mattress was wonderful. Nothing like the beat up and dirty mattresses you were used to sleeping on in Earth.

As you shimmied onto your back to stare up at the ceiling, another pang of hunger hit you.

Didn't they have etiquette for this? Maybe something like late night guests would be offered a snack and a place to rest?

Your bitter chuckle rings throughout the room. You may be in the guest room but you highly doubt they see you as a guest. There was no way you were waking someone up for food. You've spent nights starving before, you could do it again.

Your eyelids drift shut every so often as nerves pricked at you. Knowing that a Shuumatsuban is watching over you has kept you awake despite your exhaustion. Your mask is still on your face adding to the uncomfortable feeling of being watched.

But everyone has a limit and you've reached yours. The mental stress, lack of food, and injuries took their toll on you. It's impossible to remember when you fell asleep.

Hands. The feeling of hands on you makes your heart drop. It's just a dream you try to tell yourself as the hands continue touching.

It's taking something. Money? Food? Clothes? Those were the only things you had left after leaving.

It's only when the hands are touching your face and reaching for something hard and cold on your face that you sit up in a flash.

You weren't on the streets, you haven't been on the run for a while. Not yet at least. You were in Genshin Impact you remind yourself.

A shadowy blur moves away from you as you keep your hand over your mask that was almost pulled off.

The little mujina ears on the assailant gives away their identity.

Sayu uses her Yoohoo to disappear before you could react. But you still feel on edge, as if at any moment more Shuumatsuban will come out and hold you down. Ripping off your mask, exposing-

You let out a breath. Deep breaths are the only thing you focus on to calm the rising panic. To keep away the hands reaching out for you from the shadows.

You don't sleep after that.

The sun rises and the estate slowly gets louder as servants bustle about. Your eyes tirelessly read a book in the archive on the screen. The eyebags that you usually have are darker than normal.

You decided to read through the Genshin archive in the Paimon menu to stay awake. It was a good refresher on the events of the game and the characters. You needed to use all the resources you had.

You also noticed a difference. All the books were either slightly changed or had a overhaul to fit someone in. The creator. All the books from each of the nations have some sort of mention, indication or even a chapter dedicated to you.

Did the books change once you entered Teyvat? Did everyone and everything change to acknowledge a creator when you entered Teyvat? Or was it always there and only by entering Teyvat were you able to view that specific information?

Two knocks on the door snap you out of your head and you open the door. The servant bows and hands you a tray of food. You thank them and are sure to be extra gentle as you hold it.

The moment the door is closed, you shove a piece of bread into your mouth. You close your eyes in relief and savor the taste of freshly baked bread.

With the tray on the table you eat in a hurry. You don't recognize half the dishes or the ingredients but you don't care. It's tasty, filling and hot.

With the tray picked clean, you lean against the window and try to sense if the Shuumatsuban were still watching you. After a beat of no sense of danger or unease, you guess that they have more important things to do with the sun up.

You get comfortable on the window sill as you look out the window. Many people pass by as you watch. People watching was fun in times like these where there was nothing else to do.

A flash of blue and red enter your vision making you more alert. It's Ayaka and Thoma.

You unlock the window and raise it halfway. At the same time you reach for the book you were pretending to read during the night.

With the book comfortably on your lap and your eyes on it, you focus on the faint sound of their voices.

Damn, they're too far away. If you lean out any farther you'll draw eyes. Just as you're about to give up, the wind starts to blow in your direction.

You're suddenly able to hear their voices clearly while the voices closer to you are drowned out. Strange but you aren't going to take it for granted.

"You spoke with Y/N last night right? How was it my lady?"

"Different." You can basically taste the resentment and confusion.

"I'm sorry it didn't go so well. I thought you would feel a instant connection like I had."

Oh? This immediate liking to you seems to be a pattern rather than a coincidence at this point.

"I didn't feel anything. Not a instant dislike, although I admit I am biased hearing them be referred to as the creator's oracle. I just felt blank. The conversation was strange, their answers were like no other."

Was there no connection because you haven't pulled for her?

"I'm going to need a bit more than that to tell you any advice my lady."

"I asked for their opinion on the creator regarding the Vision Hunt Decree. Their answers were so contradictory that I was becoming frustrated."

Ayaka's voice grew a little louder as she started to rant about you.

"On one hand they downplay the creators existence and power. On the other they're sympathetic to the creators feelings and any restrictions the creator might have wherever they may be. If anything they seem to blame the residents and the Shogun more than anything else. Which would be good if they didn't discredit the creator in the same breath!"

Thoma nervously laughs at Ayaka getting so worked up over you. It seems you have a natural knack for bringing out some of her hidden sides.

"I can't say that I'm not ashamed of how I lost control of my vision and temper for a bit. It's so unlike me and I'm quite embarrassed. I have an image to uphold as the Shirasagi Himegimi after all."

Her words are so sad and disappointed that you almost feel bad for messing with her like that. Almost.

"Honestly my lady, I'm not totally surprised that Y/N said something like that. In fact they implied something similar in my last conversation with them as we walked here. You see-"

Thoma's voice fades away as the wind stops blowing. You frown and are about to look up from the book you've had your eyes on when things start to shake.

Every moment or so you feel yourself vibrate as if an earthquake is happening. You look around and see everyone acting normally. Perhaps this shaking is connected to the wind that help you eavesdrop.

The shaking stops and the wind blows from under the door of your room. What would have been silent footsteps become deafening sounds as you realize that someone is heading for your room.

It's probably Ayato you think as you put away the book.

Most likely Ayato you think as you fix your clothes and reposition your mask.

It's Ayato you confirm as the man himself opens the door to see you sitting at the coffee table with a smile. His suit is crisp and clean, not a single speck of dirt can be seen.

Rude, it's rude to open the door without at least knocking. You bow politely in your seat and speak without letting your thoughts and feeling slip out at all.

"It's an honor to meet you Lord Kamisato."

Rude, it's rude to not stand up as you greet someone new. Ayato speaks in a smooth voice. You almost hate how good it sounds in person.

"It's lovely to meet you too Y/N."

His words make your eyes fall to the mole below his lip. You try to ignore his absolutely horrendous amount of layers he's wearing as he sits down. The long sleeves fold perfectly without creasing. There's no doubt that he's familiar with information digging.

"I apologize for not being able to see you yesterday. You arrived quite late at night and I saw no reason to rush to meet a scammer."

Ah, that familiar title. You never accepted it with pride but you couldn't deny it. Even now the title 'scammer' suited you.

"The Kamisato Clan much like many others are heavily involved with the creator. We have access to both government records and oversea records of the creator. Yet not a single one of them ever talks about a oracle or the possibility of one."

"Did any of the text deny the ability for a oracle to exist?"

A shot in the dark but it seemed to work as Ayato diverted to a different topic.

"That little loophole won't work forever. What I'm more curious about is how you managed to get Thoma to bring you here."

"I just wanted a boat to Liyue to continue my work. Itto, your 'bro', brought me to Thoma and I divulged some private information to Thoma. I'm sure he already told you so I don't see the point in asking me. I will admit that I wasn't expecting to be brought here."

Ayato is good, he didn't even react when you mentioned Itto's 'bro' thing with him. A conversation with him is just as nerve wracking as you thought it would be.

"Yes, that little piece of information you told him was something. You could be the creators oracle but that's the least likely option. Wouldn't be more logical to assume that you got it from one of the Kamisato's many enemies?"

A threat drenched in the sweetest honey is all you hear. Anyone else would either get mad and fall for Ayato's little bait. Or get nervous and give him more reason to suspect that possibility.

You do neither and double down on your stance.

"Least likely doesn't mean impossible. It's not like you can drag me to all your enemies and ask them if I belong to them. I'm a oracle and able to prove it."

"Or I could just have the Shuumatsuban get the information from you. Whether you're an enemy spy or not, you don't have anyone looking for you. And if anyone does come asking for you then that's just another lead for me."

He pulled no punches with that one. He flat out said he could just torture you and anyone that comes asking for you. If you really were from this world and was faking the oracle stuff then Ayato would definitely go through on this threat.

"I don't understand what you think I'm trying to do with a oracle job that I don't flaunt. If I really was a fake, wouldn't I be spreading it like fire?"

"As true as that might be, that doesn't remove you from suspicions. I mean, even though you're trying to stay low, here you are trying to convince me that you're the real deal. Doesn't seem very low profile to me."

Twisting words and intentions was a tricky but useful tool. Something you both were skilled in using it seems. It seems being a scammer and a politician aren't that different.

You could try to explain from the beginning but it would only be seen as a excuse. Ayato would probably find it amusing, his voice lines spoke about him finding enjoyment in people squirming come to mind.

Instead you shrug and stay silent letting him win this round. He sighs seeming disappointed before placing some papers from who knows where onto the table.

"So I was right to assume you took your sweet time to investigate me. Judging from how there's only a few pages, you didn't find much."

Ayato lets you read through the papers. That's probably a sign that if you can't prove yourself then he'll kill you. You try not to think too hard about it as you put the papers back down.

"You claimed to have woken up at a shrine somewhere near Ritou and strangely enough, anyone that should have been there at that time can't seem to remember."

"Remember me or remember in general?"

"In general." He leans closer with a calm facade keeping his curiosity at bay. "I wonder why that is."

"Don't expect me to remember anyone there at that time. I was too busy reorienting myself to notice much."

"I don't expect much from you anyway." Ouch. "But I'd say I've given you more than enough time to come clean. Are you ready to prove yourself Y/N?"

"I-"

"Oh and I won't be asking for the same proof the others accepted. I require something more concrete than a switched weapon and old information."

Well it wasn't like you could tell the future, well maybe you could if you played your cards right but you had something else planned for Ayato.

"No need to worry Lord Kamisato, I have something you'll be forced to believe."

"No disappearing acts either."

"Even if I show proof of where I disappeared to?"

"That all depends on what sort of proof you provide. I have strict requirements."

"Tell me about it."

"Pardon?"

"What?"

You don't give Ayato a moment to process your sass as you stand up and walk over to his side of the table. You hold out your hand to him with a purposefully cunning smile. There's no need to hide that sort of thing from him.

"I hope you won't die of heatstroke in those clothes since we'll have to go outside for this. Get ready to get your clothes dirty, rich boy."

A huff of amusement leaves him as he gets up on his own ignoring your hand. You drop it with a uncaring shrug and begin walking out the door.

It's only when you stop at the doorway that you turn to face him. He's smirking at you knowing exactly what you're going to say next.

"So where's the exit?"

You stand in front of the blue teleport waypoint outside the Kamisato estate. You glance behind you to make sure Thoma, Ayaka, and Ayato were all still there.

You clap your hands to grab their attention. Which was unnecessary for Ayato as he hasn't stopped staring at you. Seems he was taking the 'no disappearing' thing seriously.

"Just to make sure, only those being controlled by the creator can use the teleport waypoint. Meaning normal people, vision holders, acolytes and even awakened acolytes cannot use it correct?"

They all nod and Ayato seems to catch on to what you're about to do. Jokes on him because he's wrong.

"Then watch and try not to burn your eyes."

With that as your only warning, you touch the teleport waypoint. It glows brightly as gold starts to takeover the blue color. Turning back around with a smile you look to see their reactions.

With different degrees of shock, Thoma seems the most impressed. Ayaka composes herself quickly as expected of her considering her title. Ayato does seem surprised but his smile seems more excited rather than trusting.

"Was that enough proof?" Your question has no clear reciprocate but it's clearly directed to Ayato.

He shakes his head no and explains more for Ayaka and Thoma who gave him questioning glances.

"As good as this seems, I still have my suspicions. And something tells me you have more up your sleeve."

"Yeah, cause something told me this wouldn't be enough to convince you. Which is also why I asked that Thoma and Lady Kamisato accompany us."

You walk the few steps back to them and look towards the Grand Narukami Shrine. You point up there with a smile as you think about what you're about to put Ayato through.

"You know how there's a teleport waypoint all the way at the Grand Narukami Shrine? Well I have to get up there to make that one gold too. And since Lord Kamisato doesn't want me disappearing, it seems he'll have to come with me."

The color in Ayaka's face drains with every word you say. She's quickly realizing just how long it'll take and how much Ayato will have to work overtime to catch up.

"Can't you go down to the teleport waypoint in Chinju Forest instead? It's around the same distance but will be faster since it's not up a mountain." Thoma asks trying to lessen Ayato's workload.

You smile with a little too much joy but you could afford to slip up a little every now and then.

"That would be far too dangerous! I mean Lord Kamisato with an untrustworthy individual like me, alone in a forest like that? The Grand Narukami Shrine has many visitors and shrine maidens so he'll be safe on the journey there."

"Brother is strong and has a vision. Surely there's no need for you both to travel to the shrine. No offense but my brother could deal with you just fine."

"Oh I wholeheartedly agree with you there but! It seems Lord Kamisato thinks differently seeing as he had the Shuumatsuban watch over me while I was sleeping last night."

Ayaka and Thoma freeze at the information and give a Ayato a questioning look. Ayato who was content with watching this debate gives them both a serene smile.

He doesn't apologize but you never expected him too. This was your way of revenge for leaving you hungry rather than the spying.

"It seems Y/N is right about the shrine being the best option. The hike to there is at least 30 minutes. Please let any visitors know that I'll be back in around an hour or so."

You don't feel as satisfied seeing Ayato take the punishment with such grace but you don't let that show.

"Thoma, Lady Kamisato please make sure to be at the teleport waypoint at least 10 minutes before the first 30 minutes. It's necessary for me to prove myself."

Thoma and Ayaka give a confused nod but avoid questioning it. They go back inside and you see Ayato walking towards the stairs to Chinju Forest instead of the stairs up that lead to the electrograna.

"Lord Kamisato, the electrograna is at the other staircase, why are you going down this way?"

He stops and smiles at you knowing something you apparently didn't.

"The electrograna only work for those being controlled by the creator and electro vision holders. Since we are neither, we'll have to take the extra long civilian route."

Unexpected but not impossible to work with.

"Then let me at least try to activate it. I'm not the traveler or a acolyte but I was able to get the teleport waypoint to respond to me. The electrograna may be similar."

"Respond doesn't always equal work. I know you want to teleport using the structure, which won't work, but alright lets try the electrograna."

His arrogance and confidence in his words are both understandable and annoying. You'll show him. You seem to begin doing this not for your oracle identity but to take him down a peg.

You walk side by side as you guys climb the stairs and walk under the red gate. The Thunder Sakura Boughs come into view before you both stop in front of it.

Before you could even give yourself a mental pat on the back for remembering the name of the Sakura Bough, Ayato speaks with an annoyed tone.

"Well? While you may have all day to admire it, I do not."

"Aren't opportunities like this hard to come by? Shouldn't you at least try to enjoy such a sunny day to bask in?" You say with a sigh making it your mission to kill as much time as possible.

"Even so, I would hate to cut your little show short for things that actually matter."

You know he doesn't mean it completely since the whole 'blue turns to gold' definitely showed something. But you still feel annoyed. With a roll of your eyes, you reach into the Sakura Bough and grab the electrograna.

With a smug smile you pull it out and show it to Ayato. "Seems my deduction was correct. We get to take the shortcuUUTT"

You scream as the electrograna connects to a thundersphere above the next boulder and yanks you towards it. You release the electrograna and your back hits the boulder with a thud.

You groan as you lie on your back and try to deal with the growing pain in your back. Your eyes snap open as you hear laughter coming from the boulder below.

You crawl to the edge and look down to see Ayato trying and failing to contain his laughter. Your face burns in embarrassment as you yell.

"I get thrown into a boulder and you're here laughing at me?! Not even asking if I'm okay? Is this how you react to everyone that gets yanked by an electrograna?!"

He only laughs harder at your words.

"I swear the moment I get down there I'm gonna smother you with those stupid long sleeves." You bite out as you climb down.

Ayato still has a smile as you look at the Sakura Bough with caution.

"So since only I'm able to touch it, you'll have to be touching me for you to be taken with me. There's no way I can carry you so it seems you'll be stuck carrying me. Maybe the world is fair after all." You finish as you direct a smile at him so sure that he'll hate the idea of carrying you.

But Ayato doesn't look mad at all, he looks more amused than anything else. With a disappointed pout you look back at the Sakura Bough as you finish speaking.

"It's better that way too since you have a glider so we wont crash land. I'll grab the electrograna but as you clearly saw, I can't control it very well."

"It's not that hard, you just have to angle your body correctly." Ayato speaks with infuriating smile that looks kind. You wanna punch that smile off his face.

"Then since you'll be doing the carrying, you'll also be controlling which way we go. Do you know the way by heart?"

"Admittedly I don't, do you?"

"In fact, I do. Before I take each electrograna, I'll point out which way you'll need to go with each thundersphere. Sound good?"

"That works with me, now up you go." You turn to him confused as you hold the electrograna.

You yelp as Ayato bends and swiftly grabs your knees and throws you over his shoulder. Thankfully he didn't put you on the shoulder that had the armor but it still hurt.

"What the fuck?! A little warning would be nIC-"

Your words are cut off as the electrograna pulls you both up to the first thundersphere. Your stomach lurches and you feel nauseous as it pulls you guys to the second thundersphere.

Ayato lands on the ground as the next set of electro transportation is on the other side of the broken bridge. There's a twisting root that serves as the middle part of the bridge.

As much as you would like for Ayato to put you down and jump across the gaps on your own. You know full well that you don't have the power nor energy to do that.

Ayato is aware of it too as he keeps you on his shoulder like a sack of potatoes and walks towards the bridge. But before he can start parkouring, you wrap your legs around his torso and beat his back.

"Wait, wait, wait. You absolutely cannot carry me like this the rest of the way."

"That position isn't all that bad. It'll take some getting-"

Your breath is hot on the shell of his ear, your voice low and soft. Your mouth so close to his ear makes him shiver.

"Ayato Kamisato I will throw up all over your expansive ass clothes if you do not carry me differently."

Hearing his name fall from his lips makes him freeze but you honestly couldn't be bothered to upkeep etiquette when you feel like your breakfast is about to escape you.

Almost gently Ayato moves you off his shoulder and carries you bridal style. He smiles down at you with fondness?

"Is this position better for you?"

"Yeah, way better. Congratulations your clothes are saved."

He chuckles at your dry wit and starts parkouring across the broken bridge. To steady yourself, you wrap your arms around his neck. It's a little embarrassing to do especially with how his hair brushes against your hands every so often.

He makes it across without stumbling or falling. There's a cliff with the next Sakura Bough. You take a moment to point and give directions.

"You see the floating island right across us? That should be the next one."

"Hmm, isn't it strange how someone who should have almost no memory knows the way to the shrine by heart?"

"Isn't is also strange someone who lives right near it, not know the way by heart? Plus you have probably have used the electrograna way at least once due to the creator."

"Is that knowledge from the creator or your own guess?"

"Does that really matter when I'm right?"

He laughs a little and you grab the electrograna hoping to catch him off guard. Not enough to drop you but just to wipe that smile off his face.

As you expected he easily adapted with no problem and arrived at the floating platform.

"Alright it's about to get really messy since the path becomes super scattered in the middle of Mt. Yougou."

After explaining the next set of directions you grab the electrograna and Ayato seems to be smiling a little wider. Suspicious.

You are proven correct when halfway through the thunderspheres he starts fumbling with your weight. You cling onto him tighter in fear of being dropped.

"Holy shit, Kamisato why are you repositioning me when we're thousands of feet in the air?!"

"Aw no Ayato this time? Seems like my hands are starting to slip." Ayato continues, this fucker is enjoying your panic.

"Ayato, you drop me and I'll rip those pretty blue locks with me!" You scream as he starts fucking dangling you. You make good on your threat by holding his neck with a fistful of his hair.

Yes, he will kill you the moment you guys aren't in the middle of the air. But it's always safer to fear the closest threat than the one in the future.

Ayato goes back to holding you properly as he chuckles. But you keep holding his hair in case he gets any funny ideas. Finally you get to the landing where the next Sakura Bough is and you release his hair.

You get out of his arms to kneel on the ground and take deep breaths. You were used to high speed chases on foot and car. You even had to run atop rooftops in come cities. But flying through the air was definitely a new one.

"Surely you can't be tired already? I'm the one who's been carrying you this whole time."

"You call that carrying??? I saw my life flash before my eyes at least 3 times!"

You stand up and glare at him. He seems to find all your reactions incredibly amusing. Honestly if you truly felt your life was in danger, you would lie and just go to the Chinju forest teleport waypoint.

But you could tell he was having too much fun to actually drop you. Yes you were still terrified but letting your emotions show was making him put his guard down.

With every series of thunderspheres Ayato and you bickered and fought. At least until you had gotten to what should be the last electrograna needed.

"This should be the last one. Soon enough I'll no longer need to ride the Ayato Express." You say with a teasing tone.

"Until we have to go back you mean."

"Crap, I completely forgot. I was just thinking of teleporting back but I'm not even sure if I can teleport people with me."

"You mean if you can teleport at all."

"You'll see I'm not lying about this."

"So you lied about the other stuff instead?"

This makes you laugh in shock as you turn to face him with a annoyed smile. Except unlike his other jabs that were told with a cold smile, this one was different.

His smile was small but true and his naturally downturned eyes didn't look as muddled as usual. For a second it seemed like he was as clear and readable as water.

It's gone just as quickly as it was there but you turn your head away to hide your own smile.

"You know what I mean. Now don't drop me or pretend to drop me!" You grab the electrograna as you speak.

His maneuvering is just as graceful as he was the first time. "What an absurd thing to accuse me of. I mean it's not my fault you keep squirming and looking down. It's like you want to jump off and escape me."

"Ha! Nice try Ayato but if you're aren't strong enough to carry me the whole way then just say so."

You aren't exactly sure when you started calling him by his first name but Ayato hasn't corrected you so far.

"I am but the humble Yashiro Commission leader. Maybe I should let you down and watch the electrograna make you smack into another boulder."

That gets a laugh out of you. The pain in your back from that incident has already disappeared but you doubt Ayato will let you live it down.

As you laugh Ayato listens to the sweet sound quietly. The way your lips stretch into a smile and cheeks get a little flushed is distracting to say the least.

Distracting enough that he stumbles on the landing on the stairs to the shrine. Trying to correct his mistake he holds you tighter against him and turns so that his back hits the mountain instead of you.

You look up at him in worry as he grunts from the pain. He's still gentle as he sets you down onto your feet.

"Shit, that looked rough. You okay Ayato?" Distracted by his pain you don't think about any sort of etiquette rules as your hands trail up his arms and lightly rub his shoulders.

His breath shudders and he lifts your hands off him, softly he pushes them back to you.

"I'm okay Y/N, it looked worse than it felt." Ayato could feel your concerned stare through the mask. Usually he wouldn't mind it since the enemy underestimating him would only make his job easier. But he feels more embarrassed than anything else since you saw him like that despite your shady identity.

"If you say so. The journey is almost over so don't die on me yet."

Saving him anymore embarrassment you turn and begin walking up the stairs case to the shrine. You hear the clacking from his way too expensive shoes following you.

You can't stand the awkwardness and clear your throat. You've always wondered about some things.

"So you know how visions affect their holders? Like pyro visions make them naturally hotter and cryo visions make them colder?"

Ayato catches up to you to walk by your side. "Yes, it happens without activating it. Why do you ask?"

"Well what happens to hydro vision holders like you? Do you sweat more or have more fluid in your body?"

Ayato stares at you with the most incredulous look on his face. "I truly wonder what goes on in your head to make you have such questions."

"That's not an answer."

"I don't have a answer for such a absurd question."

"Well water makes skin clearer right? And your skin is pretty clear but that may be due to a skin care routine since Lady Ayaka also has clear skin."

"I know Ayaka has a skin care routine but I only wash my face in the morning."

"Oh that is so unfair. But I guess I was right in assuming that the hydro vision affects your inner body more. But still super unfair."

"Between the answer you gave Ayaka last night and the questions you ask me now, I almost feel like you're from another world."

You know he's just joking but for a second your heart dropped. He didn't seem to notice as you arrive at the Grand Narukami Shrine. God you hoped Yae would be at the publishing house.

The Narukami Shrine is empty. No people, no noise, not even visitors. You look around a little confused as you both approach the blue teleport waypoint.

Seemingly picking up on your confusion Ayato answers your unspoken question.

"It's noon meaning everyone is inside for the prayer, it'll last for another 30 minute."

Internally you're relieved beyond measure that you won't have to deal with Yae and Ayato at the same time. Then again Yae and Ayato naturally repel each other.

You touch the teleport waypoint and watch it turn gold. Ayato still looks a little awed but you've grown used to it at this point.

"Well it's finally time for you to teleport. I have very little expectations."

Your mouth sets into a firm line. "You'll be blown away even more then."

Despite everything you've gone through with him, Ayato still seems skeptical of you. The plan you have will make you seem crazy but it's your only shot.

You planned on touching the teleport and then using your other hand to bring up the screen. Yet you only got to touching it and remembering where the Kamisato Estate teleport waypoint is on the map when your vision goes white.

The feeling of being teleported is still unfamiliar but you manage to fix yourself as you open your eyes to see the Kamisato Estate. You lock eyes with surprised green and blue eyes.

To think you can teleport to gold waypoints by simply remembering where it is on the map. It couldn't have come at a more convenient time. You smile charmingly and step closer to the duo.

Ayaka becomes embarrassed as she remembers how she acted around you. She leans back with a red face. She uses her fan to hide most of her face.

You're unperturbed and simply lean closer till your face is nearly touching the mask. "Ayato requires strong evidence that my teleportation wasn't staged or shady. So I'll be taking your fan as proof."

You can tell she's about to back away. To stop her you place one hand on her back and she leans back making the position look like you're dipping her.

You easily slide the fan out of her loose grip and lean back to help her stand straight. After removing your hand from her back you turn around to walk to the teleport waypoint.

Ayaka keeps her head down as the lingering feeling of your breath on her face stays. The spot where you held her is still warm. Her mind can only remember that confident grin on your face as you slid her fan from her shaky hands.

Thoma watched the scene with a tight grip on his spear. He took it out in surprise when you appeared but he's using it more as a stress tool at the moment. He can't help but feel a flash of envy when you got so close to Ayaka and held her.

Even as you walk back to the teleport waypoint both of them want to call out. They want to ask you to stop, to come back. But neither of them let out a sound as you touch the structure and leave in a flash of white.

You open your eyes and see Ayato standing in front of you with a rare troubled expression. He sighs in relief seeing you in front of him again.

Your smile is victorious as you stand in front of him before pulling Ayaka's out from behind your back.

"Care to believe me now?" You ask as you hold the fan over your lower face. Ayato takes a few steps towards you with a smiling facade. Your heart stutters as you recall how he threatened to torture and kill you.

You blink in surprise as Ayato plucks Ayaka's fan out of your hands.

"I believe you Y/N. You've truly proven my suspicions wrong. While you may still have secrets you'll not divulge, I'll place my trust in you as the creator's oracle."

Holy shit, you actually managed to make the Ayato Kamisato believe your scam. You can't stop the beaming smile that overtakes your face.

Ayato watches you with clear blue eyes. That smile on your face makes him want to see it even closer but he refrains himself from doing anything inappropriate. Yes, even the sight of your happy smile makes him as excited as your mischievous one does.

Ayato places something in your hands and cups your hands around it. The item is a fan, specifically Ayato's fan judging by the pattern. Both sides of it has his signature theme but one side also has the Kamisato crest clear as day.

You look up at him and tilt your head in confusion. He taps your nose and gives a simple answer.

"I believe my fan suits you better."

Your jaw drops at his blatant flirting. Never ever has someone tried to use flirtatious tactics to make you lose your composure.

But instead of questioning you he smiles wider at your shock and turns around. He starts walking down the stairs and calls out to you.

"Are you going to stand there catching crystalflies all day or are you coming?"

You snap your mouth shut with a blush and follow after him. Was he really flirting? Was it just a compliment? You decide to shake it off for now.

"With you fully proven as a oracle, I must apologize Y/N. I lacked certain courtesy while you were staying in the estate. I do hope you understand why I gave you such a strict test."

The Sakura petals gently sway in the wind as you walk down together. He takes your silence as permission to continue.

"Once we get back I'll arrange for the best ship to take you to Liyue. The ship I have in mind will be in Ritou tomorrow so I would like you to stay at the estate tonight as well. Of course you'll get lunch as soon as we get back and you'll be served dinner tonight. Feel free to ask any of the servants for whatever you need."

Your mind begins to be flooded with the types of food you can eat. The breakfast you ate was delicious and the bed was like sleeping on a cloud-

Oh. You are not going through that again.

"I'm not so sure I would like to sleep at the estate again. I don't want to be woken up in the middle of the night again by Sayu spying on me. The last thing I want to be is sleep deprived on a boat."

"You're completely right about that Y/N, I'm sorry. That was more than not performing certain platitudes, I crossed a boundary that you did not deserved to be breeched. I understand if you would rather have me pay a hotel for you in Ritou but I would be grateful if you could give the Kamisato estate another chance."

Ayato isn't smiling as he says this. He's serious and looks a little ashamed of himself too. A small part of you wants to keep jabbing the opening Ayato revealed and accept the offer to sleep in Ritou. But the sight of him looking down at you with unsure eyes makes your heart ache.

A familiar desire rises in you. The same one that has always ate away your heart for all the lying, cheating, and deceit you pulled on innocent people.

Besides, you were really expecting him to hit back with something like 'If you didn't hide your face then I would never have felt the need to send Sayu.' Yet what you got was a sincere apology instead.

Your silence unnerves him and he turns his face away with the faintest hint of pink on his ears. That's all it takes for you to give in.

You stop at the Sakura Bough and stop Ayato by tugging his long sleeve.

Perhaps you were dumb or foolish for giving in like this. Maybe this was all a trick of his to get more information on you tonight. Or even another chance for Sayu to remove your mask.

Even so, you didn't want to relive your old life again. Your old life where all you had was your wit, quick thinking, and a cold corpse of the only one dear to you. You wanted to trust again and that could only be done by taking a leap of faith.

If this really is a trap then you'll deal with the fall out one way or another, you've always had.

"Thank you for the apology Ayato. To a certain extent I can understand why you had the Shuumatsuban watch over me. But waking up to being touched without my consent is still troubling."

You clench his fan closed as you stare directly at him. Deep blue eyes that seem as vast as the ocean pull you in.

"But just as you're taking a risk in trusting me despite my obvious secrecy, I want to extend that same trust to you. I'll sleep in the estate again tonight."

If you hadn't been paying attention to his body language, you would have missed how tension left him in a very subtle way.

"Now, enough with the mind games we should go to the estate quickly. I'm sure your workload is almost as heavy as me at this point."

Ayato chuckles at how you dismiss the heavy conversation with ease. Swiftly he carries you again and with your hair so close to him, he can smell the sakura petals that linger on you.

The journey back to the estate is filled with more banter after you asked him the age old question on whether water is wet. Spoiler alert he threatened to let the electrograna drag you into the air if you didn't stop asking stupid questions.

Finally landing on the boulder that you hit the first time. Ayato puts you down and tells you. "Careful there Y/N, I don't want you falling again."

"Ayato, I swear to Celestia. If you don't stop bugging me about that I will steal your boba."

"I'd like to see you try."

You're tempted to flip him off but decide against it as the estate comes into view. Thoma is standing outside waiting for you both. Surprisingly enough Ayaka is there too.

You know Ayato is still capable of torturing and killing you but you still feel sad that the journey is over. Realistically you know that even if you trusted Ayato fully, adventures like this would probably never happen again. He's the head of the Yashiro Commission after all.

Thoma smiles when he spots you both, Ayaka and him meet you halfway. Ayato gives Ayaka her fan back and gives a simple summary of how it went.

"The journey to the shrine went smoothly and I'm sure you saw them teleport. I will be arranging a boat for them to leave tomorrow. They've graciously agreed to stay here another night despite our previous hostility."

"I understand. Y/N, thank you for giving the Kamisato Clan another chance. Especially considering how I treated you last night. I am truly sorry for my behavior."

Ayaka hides part of her face with her fan as she speaks. You aren't sure if you should apologize for purposefully riling Ayaka up or not but you nod anyway.

Thoma claps his hands with a smile to disperse the oncoming awkwardness. "With everything cleared up, why don't we all head inside now? Y/N hasn't ate anything since breakfast and my lady has a meeting with other parties. My lord as you're no doubt aware, many things require your attention."

Ayaka and Ayato sigh in unison. You feel a little bad that while you'll be enjoy lunch they'll be working. Giving them both a pat on the back, you speak encouragingly.

"Don't look so glum Lady Kamisato. The faster you finish work, the sooner you can enjoy things you like. And Ayato while your workload isn't something I envy, I do hope you enjoyed our little adventure as a break from your usual work."

They both seem to perk up at your words. You aren't completely sure why since you said pretty normal words of encouragement. Maybe since it felt like the creator was speaking through you?

You weren't completely wrong but you weren't right either. Ayaka was looking forward to finishing her work to speak more to you. She wanted to make sure you and the creator didn't have a bad view of her. Ayato on the other hand was more happy that you seemed to have enjoyed the journey as much as he did.

Thoma is quick to grab your hand and pull you towards the estate. He smiles and begins chatting with you as people swarm Ayaka and Ayato.

"You must be hungry after that hike. I made some lunch, my signature miso soup."

"That sounds delicious Thoma, thank you so much!" Your excitement is clear in your voice as you follow him inside.

Inside the room he led you to is two bowls of his signature dish. You begin eating making sure to imprint the taste into your brain. You didn't know when you would be eating like this in Liyue.

Probably never but you would rather do that then have Ei a constant threat.

Thoma eats across from you as he talks with you. The conversation is light and entertaining as you ask him strange questions like:

"So what's the deal with Taroumaru? Like he's a badass Shiba Inu who worked for the Shuumatsuban before retiring as the owner of the Komore Teahouse. How did he become a member of the Shuumatsuban? Who sold him the Teahouse? Who even wrote up the contracts that he used for his employees?"

Thoma stops eating as he thinks. "I can't really tell you much about that. I guess the only 'safe' information I can tell you is that my lord was the one who helped Taroumaru with all that."

"What makes that information 'safe'?"

"If I tell you anymore information there is a very large chance that you may get assassinated."

You nod in understanding, and decide to drop that particular subject. Lunch is soon over and Thoma leaves to fulfill his duties, leaving you alone in your room. But that's fine, you have your own things to test.

Taking the book you were pretending to read that morning, you open it up as you sit on the bed. The cover is in a language you can't understand.

Genshin has it's own language and you've always headcanoned that Paimon was the one who translated it for the traveler. A lot of the stuff in Genshin was in ineligible scribbles if they weren't important.

Now that you were here in the flesh, you can see the letters clearer. But it was useless since you didn't recognize the language at all. You never got to finish your schooling in your world either.

Thankfully Genshin was set in a time where most transactions are done by talking. But that doesn't mean reading wouldn't be useful either.

It is strange how when using the screen it automatically translates it while you in real life cannot. You stare at the cover of the book harder hoping that a new screen will open and automatically translate the cover. That of course doesn't happen.

Could you even learn a whole new language while traveling? How would you even learn if nobody knew what language you read in? Plus you can't ask anyone in the Kamisato estate since you were fake reading this book for a good portion of the morning while eavesdropping.

As you continue brainstorming you let your fingers trace the words on the cover. You feel it start to move and watch in fascination as the characters twist and move to spell the book cover in your language.

"Treasured Tales of the Chouken Shinkageuchi" is the name of the book. You remember reading it in the archive. To think that you were using a book about the Electro Archon to help you get away from said Electro Archon.

You open the book and touch the letters on the first page. Just like the cover, all the letters changed into your native language. What a useful feature, even if you have to touch every sign and book from now on, it was well worth it.

In fact this reminded you of how the wind blew Thoma and Ayaka's conversation to you while blocking out the other sounds. And how the ground seemed to shake only you when Ayato was coming closer to your room. Perhaps this was powers you got from being the creator? Or could it be Teyvat itself helping you?

You don't get much more time to stew the possibilities as someone knocks on your door. You open it expecting it to be a worker tasked with giving you dinner. Instead it's Ayaka with a small smile.

"I hope I didn't come at a bad time Y/N. I wanted to ask if you would like to have dinner with me. Brother and Thoma unfortunately can't join due to work. If my offer is uncomfortable for you then you can reject it with no problem."

You're starting understand why Ayaka seemed to have changed her tune. Not that you blame or think less of her due to it. This 'worship the creator' thing is deeply imbedded in Teyvat as a whole.

"That sounds great Lady Kamisato, I would love to eat with you." Ayaka relaxes at your answer, you can already tell what she'll be asking you at dinner.

"Please call me Ayaka." She says with a smile as she leads you down the hallway. You enter a clean dining room that already has food set down on the table. You let Ayaka take a seat first before choosing the spot across from her.

It's quiet at first with workers putting portions of the food on each of the plates. It's a weird feeling to be served outside of a restaurant. Many of the dishes that you saw in the game were on the table looking just as delicious as before.

They also tasted amazing as you and Ayaka ate in silence. Soba, unagi meat, sushi, and other soups left you eager for more. Ayaka sets down her chopsticks and speaks quietly.

"I understand that this may be presumptuous of me to ask but I have to. Why am I the only one in the Kamisato clan to not be awakened?"

You finish chewing the food in your mouth before responding in a neutral voice. "What kind of answer are you looking for? A emotional answer with me telling you the creators thoughts and reasons on why they haven't awakened you? Or a factual reason that is out of everyone's control, including the creator's?"

You continue eating as Ayaka looks down while thinking about what you said. As her silence stretches on you audibly sigh and speak.

"Look Ayaka, if you want me to give you a real answer you'll need to tell me why you want to know. Are you feeling insecure as the only Kamisato left out? Are you envious of everyone else who was awakened? I mean even the Electro Archon and the head of the Narukami Shrine haven't been awakened yet. What are you hoping to see happen or feel, when or if you are awakened?"

You give Ayaka a moment to think before going back to eating. It was a shame really, you had hoped to bond in some way with the Shirasagi Himegimi while you were still here. But it seemed that no matter what kind of setting you were in with her, you two seemed to be on opposite sides of each other.

The sound of twinkling ice falling onto the table startle you. You stop eating and look up to see what ice was falling. For a second you even though that Ayaka was going to use her cryo to threaten you again.

Yet instead of seeing a raging snowstorm, you saw small tears leave Ayaka's eyes and freeze before hitting the table. She was crying, shit you made her cry. You were crap, complete and utter crap.

Leaving your spot in a hurry you move to her side and sit next to her. You don't touch her in case that's too personal as she tries to wipe away the tears. The tears only fall faster and faster while you are helplessly watching.

"I'm *hick* sorry. You sh-shouldn't have to s-see me like this."

Ayaka's whole problem was struggling with speaking her mind and having to keep up a perfect appearance in front of everyone. You feel like a fool for not realizing how your words only aggravated her insecurities.

"Don't apologize for something like that. I'm sorry for pushing you so hard with all my questions. Not my best words, I'll be the first to admit that."

It's true. In trying to fight back against Ayato and defend yourself, you've used Ayaka without care. You wouldn't change your decisions since your life was on the line but you can't help but feel the need to make her feel better too.

Slowly you place your hands on hers that are covering her eyes. You keep them there for a moment giving Ayaka more than enough time to reject you. With no movement from her, you slowly pull her hands off her face to see her clearly.

Her eyes are red-rimmed and tears are slowly sliding down her face before becoming ice once they fall off. She's looking away from you before glancing at you quickly.

"Ayaka, I never meant to make you feel bad or ashamed for any feelings you might have. Envy, jealousy, isolation, or any other emotion are completely normal to feel in your situation."

Your sincere words and apologetic smile seem to comfort Ayaka as the tears slow to a stop. She doesn't move her hands out of your grasp as she replies with a hoarse voice.

"You are right though. I do feel insecure and envious of my brother and Thoma. I had hope after Ayato was awakened that I would soon be too. Yet it never came and I watched more and more acolytes awaken too. People spoke more and rumors spread."

She bites back a sniffle as her feelings and words flow out with a frosty tone.

"Things like 'She isn't a good enough worshipper' or 'poor Ayaka is the only exception'. It was only when brother stepped in and stopped the rumors from festering or growing that it stopped but that doesn't make them stop thinking about it. The pitying looks, side eyes, and even mocking stares were destroying my life's work in keeping a good image of the Kamisato Clan. The image of perfection that I worked towards was crumbling beneath my feet."

She breaths heavily as she speaks with despair filled love and adoration.

"I could never blame the creator for that. I never needed to know why they couldn't or even refused to awaken me. They are perfect and if I wasn't the problem then people would think the creator is. I would never allow that sort of perception of them. That's why I have never fought against the rumors, this is the only way I can show my love for them without being awakened outside of normal worship."

Her words blow you away. You never considered how being awakened could have this much effect. Nor did you understand how high Ayaka herself placed you as the creator. To think that she would rather her image of perfection and title of Shirasagi Himegimi be tarnished than let your own perfection be questioned. You aren't perfect nor will you ever call yourself perfect but the devotion she shows touches your heart.

"Ayaka, know that I speak as both myself and the creator right now. That image of perfection you feel the need to upkeep is due to your upbringing from wanting to help Ayato right? Just as your brother was recognized, not for his title or deeds but for the love and care he showed for you. You too will be recognized, perhaps in a way that neither you nor anyone else will realize. But know that you are loved and appreciated for the sacrifices you have made."

You smile and hug her tightly. Ayaka hugs back as she grips the back of your clothes. She's crying harder than before and it leaves cold wet spots on you but it goes ignored.

You never had the income to pull and whale for all the characters. Ayaka wasn't very high on your list of desired characters and her banners came at the moments where you had little to no primogems. But you wanted to now, you probably would never build her but if simply awakening her would stop her problems then you'll happily do so.

Ayaka seems to calm down in your arms and after a while she pulls away with a flushed face. The embarrassment of how she acted around you seems to finally dawn on her. All she could fully remember was the sweet words that left your mouth and the warmth of your arms around her.

On the other hand, you were too busy despairing over the now cold food to truly notice the dazed look on her face. She stands up in a hurry making your head snap up to watch as she hurriedly leaves the room.

You sit there confused by her sudden exit before moving back to your spot. Determinedly you begin eating your cold food. Cold or not, delicious food was delicious food. If you could eat expired, dumpster and even raw food then some cold food would be fine.

The moment you finished eating, Ayaka came back holding a small tray with a single plate on it. She's completely composed again but she still avoids your curious eyes as she sits down.

"My performance just then wasn't what I should have showed you considering that you are a guest. I apologize for that. Please have some Sakura Mochi I made as a apology."

She sets the plate down and uses her fan to hide her face. You chuckle and bring the plate closer to you. It's her signature dish and you had never tried mochi before.

"Thank you Ayaka and like I said, don't apologize for expressing normal emotions."

She smiles quietly and watches you cut a big piece of it. She gives you a worried look as you put the whole piece in your mouth. It's sweet and tasty but it's also very sticky. She tries to suppress her giggles as she watches you struggle to chew and swallow it.

"Have you ever eaten mochi before?"

You can't even open your mouth to answer and simply shake your head no. You were choking on a delicious piece of mochi while Ayaka laughs at you. A death like this wouldn't be all that bad.

Thankfully you manage to swallow it and sigh in relief.

"Even though I nearly died choking on this mochi, I absolutely love it. If you were expecting to have a piece of your own creation then I have bad news for you."

You say with a teasing tone before cutting a smaller piece and eating it. This time with no choking in between. She only smiles wider behind her fan.

You finish the mochi and the servants come in and take the dishes back to the kitchen. You get up and Ayaka beckons you to follow her to lead you back to your room.

"I know that you don't really need to know, but I think closure is important." Ayaka gives you a questioning glance and you take that as a sign to continue.

"While in the other world, the creator has limited power to awaken acolytes. Some acolytes are able to be awakened at any time, while others only have a certain time frame. In fact even luck has a huge factor in this too. The creator hasn't awakened you, not because they dislike you or something. But rather because your constellation for awakening happens to come at the worst moments."

You give her a soft smile. "You're just really unlucky but I have a feeling your luck will turn around soon."

Ayaka doesn't answer and you don't expect her to. When you get to your room, you open the door and are about to step inside. She places her hand on your shoulder making you look back at her.

"You're right, that does make me feel better." Her answer is quiet and soft just like her smile. Yet it's beautiful all the same.

She releases you and walks away. You go back inside your room and hope that the next one-on-one conversation you have with her won't have dramatic emotional moments. But you have a feeling that those moments were needed for both of you.

The sunset makes your room bathe in a soft glow as you read some books from the shelf that weren't in the game archive. It's been a few hours since dinner and you were trying to enjoy the last hours you have until tomorrow where you'll stuck on a boat for who knows how long.

A knock the door surprises you and it's Thoma who stands outside smiling at you. Most of his armor and accessories he usually wears are gone which makes him look good, just a bit unfamiliar.

"Y/N! Glad to see you're still awake. My lord and I have finished up work and he wanted to invite you to hotpot with us. My lady will also be there. Are you up for it?"

Your social battery was completely drained at this point but the way Thoma was staring at you with such excitement made you nod. He beams and grabs your hand.

"Have you ever played hotpot before? It's really fun and we have the dishes already you just need to choose which one you want to put in."

"I know the premise of it but I've never done it myself. If I put something disgusting in it, can you help me make sure Ayato is the one who eats it? I wanna see his reaction to it."

Thoma laughs at your mischievous smile. He pulls you down another hallway past one of the few rooms that has lights on.

"Sounds great to me, I'll think of it as payback for all the strange stuff he's made me eat in the past."

"Didn't he try to make you eat some strange flavored Boba before?"

"Ah, don't remind me. I drank it all trying not to waste food. I was sick for the rest of the day."

"Or maybe you're just competitive. I mean you did eat all the weird stuff in the hotpot you played with Ayaka and the traveler."

Thoma's hand tightens around yours for a moment before his grip goes back to normal. You take note at how you passed that same lit up room again.

"Did the creator show you that? You aren't completely wrong but I'm not that competitive."

"Oh, so you just like eating strange stuff? Never guessed you were the type Thoma."

Your teasing words made him shush you playfully. You've been walking for at least 10 minutes, more than enough time to arrive at the room. You stop walking making Thoma stop and look back at you. Just as you're opening your mouth to speak, the door to that room you had your eye on opens.

"How many times were you going to walk past the room Thoma. Did you get lost or something?" Ayato says with a smile. He's wearing a dark blue yukata or was it a kimono? That had a white obi and gold engraved patterns.

A really good look on him and you can see Ayaka peaking out behind him. She has her hair loose again and she's wearing a white kimono and a steel blue obi. The winding gold sakuras that decorate her kimono suits her.

"Sorry my lord, I was so caught up in the conversation that I kept walking." Thoma speaks with a sheepish smile. Ayato slides the door open wider letting you and Thoma in.

Ayato and Ayaka go back to their seats across each other. Thoma is busy bringing the ingredients to the wide table to sit yet leaving you with the decision.

Do you sit next to Ayaka or Ayato?

To kill time you close the door and walk slowly to the table. The decision is made for you as Ayato pats the spot next to him and tells you.

"Sit here Y/N, you probably haven't played hotpot before, right? We'll be playing a hotpot game too so I'll explain it."

Just as you are about to sit down, Ayaka pipes up.

"Then shouldn't Y/N sit next to me instead? Me and Thoma are the only ones who played it before with the traveler. So it would better for me to explain."

"That may be true but I was hoping to add something new to the game that would require Y/N to be in the spot next to me."

You sit down before they can go on any longer. Ayato smiles at you while Ayaka looks away with what you think is a pout. Thoma comes back with a box of ingredients. He sets it down before siting down across from you and next to Ayaka.

Ayato begins explaining as the broth is finishes heating up.

"The game goes like this. We all put some ingredients into it and we all take turns tasting it and guessing who put it in. The ingredients in the box are up for everyone to pick but if one of us already have a ingredient then they can use that instead. Every time someone is right they get a point. I was hoping we could play in teams since Ayaka and Thoma have already played before."

"Wouldn't it be better for Y/N to pair up with me and you with my lady so that it's more fair?" Thoma says which makes Ayaka speak up.

"Then Y/N can also choose to pair up with me instead of either of you."

"Then Y/N, who do you choose to be your partner?" Ayato asks you with a smile that makes you feel a bit nervous. You look at all their expectant faces as you contemplate your choice.

Yeah, you'll just leave it up to chance.

Pointing at Thoma you start rhyming as you point at them all with each word.

"Eeny, meeny, miny, moe."

They look at you confused by your strange words and actions.

"Catch a tiger by the toe."

Ayato seems to understand and sits back with a smile. This prompts Thoma and Ayaka to relax as they continue watching you.

"If he yells, let him go."

"Eeny, meeny, miny, moe!"

Your fingers stops and it's pointing at Thoma.

"Luck and probably math has chosen. Thoma is my partner, I hope ya'll are ready to lose."

Ayato and Ayaka take the decision with no hard feelings just like you hoped. Instead they send each other a firm glance before turning back to you and Thoma.

"We'll just have to see Y/N. Thoma may be up for eating strange things but you may not be able to." Ayaka says as she smiles at you.

"I'll be fine, I mean how bad can it be?" It wouldn't be a good decision to let them know just what kind of food you used to eat to not starve.

"You'd be surprised how things can change taste in hotpot. Just make sure not to almost choke this time." She finishes with a giggle. Ayato smiles at you in amusement as Thoma laughs.

"I don't know if I'm just a fun target or if you and Ayato are that similar. I made one mistake using the electrograna and he never let me live it down the whole journey."

You pick your ingredients; sea ganoderma, matsutake, eel meat, and fluorescent fungus. Hopefully you won't make anyone sick with this and you hide them in your box under the table.

"I believe it's your inability to behave normally that makes us pick on you so much. Who even asks if a vision can make you sweat more?"

Thoma and Ayaka laugh while you stick your tongue out at Ayato. You all turn around for one of the late night servants to put all the chosen ingredients in. With no body able to witness him, he sticks his tongue out at you back.

You give a mock shocked gasp and pay very close attention to the boba the servant hands to Ayato before they leave. You all turn back to the table and take turns cooking the pot full of strange choices.

"I'm starting to think this hotpot is a danger hazard."

"It probably taste better than it looks Y/N." Thoma says comfortingly.

"Are you lying to make me feel better?"

"Yes." You laugh at his honest reply before Ayaka uses her chopsticks to check the hotpot.

"Y/N, tell me how does your back feel?" Ayato asks innocently. You smile at him before responding.

"It's perfectly fine, never been better. Why do you ask Ayato?" You know exactly why but you're just waiting for him to say it. Your hand twitches in anticipation.

"I just wanted to check since you hit the boulder so harshly when that electrograna dragged you."

Ayaka and Thoma give you concerned looks and you're quick to reassure them.

"I'm fine, really, no bruises or cuts. But Ayato is about to be one boba short!" You say before reaching over quickly to snatch the boba out of his hand.

Ayato is a step ahead of you and keeps his boba in his other hand farther from you. At this point you're leaning on him trying to reach the damn boba as he smirks at you.

"What's wrong Y/N? Can't reach?"

"You are so lucky you changed your clothes or else I would have used those long ass sleeves to drag your hand down."

You give up and sit properly in your seat as you glare at his boba. Ayato simply sips it loudly to further annoy you.

"The hotpot is done, so who'll go first?" Thoma asks as he looks up from the pot. You immediately raise your hand, you did not want to get stuck eating something bad.

"I'll taste the pot of doom first." Ayaka hands the chopsticks to you with a amused smile. You hold the chopsticks with a sense of resignation.

You don't know how to use them. All this time, they had given you a choice between chopsticks and other utensils.

"Sorry but I can't use these. I can barely handle a fork and knife." One of the guys snorts as you hand it back to Ayaka. Giving a glare at both of them who look away innocently, you use a different utensil and scoop out a piece that doesn't look poisonous.

The whitish soft food is put into your mouth. It taste sweet and only a little soggy. You chew it a bit before realizing what it could be.

"This kind of taste like tofu. I'm gonna guess Thoma put this in because we ate miso soup for lunch."

"Looks like my partner knows me well. That's right Y/N, I put it there." Thoma high-fives you as you swallow the tofu.

"That's one point for you two but now it's my turn." Ayaka grabs a piece of food and eats it. Her face scrunches up in surprise. You laugh at her expression and the game goes on.

Points were gained and Thoma almost always guessed each weird ingredient as Ayato's. He was at least 80% right. It's on one of Ayato's turn that he ate something green.

As Ayato continued trying to swallow it as Thoma laughed at him, you slipped your arm behind his back. You blindly groped the floor next to him for the boba before the plastic bottle was in your hand.

You pulled it back victorious and drank from it. It tasted like strawberry milk boba, refreshing and sweet. You kept the straw in your mouth as Ayato spoke.

"Who put sea ganoderma into the hotpot? It didn't taste bad but the texture is awful."

You only smile as you keep slowly sipping the Boba. For some reason Thoma and Ayaka are giving you a look. Ayato finally looks you and covers his mouth with his sleeve.

"You do know I already drank from that, right?"

No, no you didn't but damn it you weren't losing.

"And you do know I threatened your boba right? It's pretty good so I think I'm keeping this now."

He only laughs at your childishness and looks away. You can't see how his face becomes a soft pink at your actions.

"I'm gonna guess Ayaka put it in. It's too tame to be Thoma's and Y/N can only choose from the box." Ayaka shakes her head no and you raise your hand.

"It was actually me this time. I found it all the way at the bottom of the box. The look on your face was funny but I'm glad it wasn't poisonous."

"C'mon Y/N I wouldn't give you a box with potential poisonous ingredients. But I am glad you found all the hidden gems I snuck in." Thoma cheerfully adds. Something about the way he's speaking is off, the same could be said for Ayaka with how she's refusing to look at Ayato.

You shrug it off and the game continues on. That weird tension slowly goes away leaving the atmosphere pleasant and fun. At the end of it, you and Thoma won the game. You felt bad that he was the one who ate some of the strangest ones.

Thoma was sprawled out on your lap as you rubbed his back. Ayaka was dozing off on your shoulder while Ayato cleaned up the remaining mess. You weren't sure how you got into this position but it was nice.

Ayato smiled softly as he saw you trying to keep Thoma awake. He shakes Thoma and brings him to sit up.

"Thoma, Ayaka fell asleep, please bring her to bed while I lead Y/N back to their room."

Thoma is about to say something but the look Ayato gives him backs him hold his tongue and nod his head. You aren't able to understand but it seems Ayato wants to talk to you in private.

Thoma stands up and pats your head as a 'thank you'. He carefully carries Ayaka and leaves the room. Ayato offers you his hand and you accept the help.

He doesn't let go of your hand as he leads you out of the room and down the halls. It's quiet with the moon as your only light source. Ayato keeps glancing at you while smiling a little sadly.

You get to your room and before either of you can say a goodbye you fumble with something in your pocket before taking it out. It's Ayato's fan, you hold it out to him.

"I almost forgot to give this back to you. I don't want to forget and accidentally take it with me. It's very pretty so it must be just as expansive."

Ayato shakes his head and pushes it back to you.

"Keep it. This isn't just a gift, this is a symbol of my trust in you as a oracle. The Kamisato crest will serve as proof that the Kamisato clan backs you up."

You accept it with mixed emotions. Out of everything that you've lied about, your status as a oracle was definitely the most profound one. Yes, you kept up and made it more believable to save your life but what would happen if they found out? Believing and trusting were different and accepting this fan would mean accepting whatever punishment they would subject you to for breaking their trust.

"Thank you Ayato. It's a beautiful fan, I'll be sure to utilize it to solidify my oracle position. You accept the intricate beautiful fan with a graceful smile.

He turns to leave before stopping and turning back to you. "And Sayu will be paying you a visit soon. So please don't sleep just yet."

A little confused you nod and wave goodbye to Ayato who returns it with a soft smile. When you close the door, his eyes dull a bit as he remembers how far away you'll be tomorrow. Not for the first time he curses the vast ocean that will separate you both.

You flop on the bed and sigh. The bed seems to envelope you as the smell of sakura seeps in through the window. For a few seconds you doze off before the sound of something on the window sill startles you awake.

Mujina ears are the first thing you notice as Sayu sits on the window sill with a bag next to her. You sit up and watch as she moves to kneel in front of you.

"I hope I'm not interrupting you Y/N. Wait should I address you formally?" Sayu's signature sleepy voice is quiet as the wind blows gently.

"Nah just call me Y/N and speak to ne normally. I'm not a noble or someone important."

"The creator is important and by extension you are too Y/N. Please forgive my rudeness and suspicion I treated you last night. Even though I was under Lord Kamisato's orders, I was still wrong."

You can basically see how the mujina ears and tail drop as she speaks. You feel very tempted to reach out and pet her, but you really don't want to be bitten.

"I also wanted to thank you for not mentioning how I tried to take off your mask. My lord never requested it and if he found out I would be stuck with even more work as punishment."

So Ayato never ordered Sayu to take off your mask. Then that leaves the question.

"Then why did you try to remove it?"

Sayu gets up from her kneeling position to look up at you. Her eyes though tired are firm as she speaks.

"The creator is one of the few people that I have left in my life. When you came in and Thoma claimed you were a oracle, I was pretty mad. Someone claiming to be the creator's oracle is really arrogant. You were even more dubious with that mask. When I was sent to get information on you and couldn't find anything I just felt worse. That's why I decided to use the opportunity I had to see your true identity."

That's right, it's implied that her master left her in some way and since people worshipped you so much, she ended up relying on you to fill the hole her master left. It's hard to lose the only parental figure in someone's life, you've gone through it too. But it wasn't healthy to fixate on you or growing taller.

"Thank you for apologizing Sayu, I don't hold it against you. But even if I was someone suspicious please don't do that again, to anyone really. I'm keeping this mask on for a reason and for anyone not preapproved to see my face would mean drastic events would occur."

Sayu's eyes widen when you mention drastic events. It wasn't the best move to imply that but you needed to scare her. You didn't have the time to try and ease her off the devoted worshipper train.

Instead you change the topic to something else. Pointing at the bag on the window sill you ask what it is. Sayu grabs it and carries it to you. It's a cute sight seeing the small ninja carry a bag that's as big as her.

"This is a gift from my lord and myself. I hope you like them. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm actually gonna sleep tonight instead of wasting time watching you." Her words come out as a sleepy mumble before she uses her Yoohoo art to leave.

You open the bag to find a ton of clothes inside. Formal, pajamas, casual, and even some tougher clothes that seem to be built with resistance. All high quality and expansive.

You change into the pajamas to find it fitting you perfectly. You remember how Sayu was touching you, she must have been measuring you. Maybe the original reason she was doing that was to get a body bag for you since they were so sure you were a fake.

As you put the other clothes inside your bag, you continue thinking on the topic. They wouldn't need a body bag for you since Thoma is more than capable of burning dead bodies. But maybe they were worried that Thoma would refuse to since he was the one who brought you.

You lay down on the bed and wonder how in the world did you get so comfortable imagining your death. Thinking yourself as the creator with acolytes willing to die for you, still feels unreal. But the way the bed cradles your tired body is too tempting to continue debating the morality or logistics of your situation. Your eyes close and you fall into a deep slumber.

Finally done with this monster of a chapter. Was it too long? If you thought it was then just let me know and next time I'll cut it in half. It was really fun to write. In my outline I wrote that Ayaka and reader would get along well. But by the time I got to the scene, everything changed. None of those dramatic emotional burst were supposed to happen. And Thoma? His yandereness showing every so often was completely unplanned. I really enjoy this kinda characterization for Ayato. I hated him as I wrote him in the beginning and loved him by the end of the chapter. I hope you all liked how the teleport waypoints were used! Taglist: @vvyeislazzy, @nikqi, @the-dumber-scaramouche, @etherisy, @yourlocalstranger123, @ra404, @iruiji, @goldenglow149, @haru-tofuu, @lsleepysimpl, @bebobeboben, @yuyuzi-ling, @amidst-the-tempest, @resident-cryptid, @mxd1zzy, @mochicurls21, @nervouseaglelover, @thedevioussmirk, @yumuramma, @kwqsla, @undecidingfate, @ehjane, @game-savvy, @akiramirae, @sielt If you are in italics that means I couldn't tag you! Usually you'll need to check your settings to fix that.

#yandere genshin impact #yandere genshin x reader #genshin impact #genshin sagau #genshin impact x reader #yandere sagau #genshin impact sagau #sagau #sagau x reader #oracle au #yandere ayato #yandere ayaka x reader #yandere thoma #yandere sayu #yandere x reader #sagau isekai #yandere #whisp's amateur work

[profound-imagination]

Unexpected - Lucien Vanserra

A/N: I found this in my drafts and I liked it! I'm thinking this could have some more parts to it? Let me know what you think! ❤️

T/W: Talks of war and death. Reader cuts her hand accidentally.

W/C: 3k

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

"I don't want to get married!" You hissed at your mother, shooting a desperate look at your father for help. "It is your only duty!" She threw back at you, "Honestly, Y/N, you need to pull your head out of the clouds, your father and I will make a good match for you." Your father choked on the sip of tea he had just taken, "Don't drag me into this." He told her holding his hands up, "She's my baby, she can stay with me forever if that's what she wants." You grinned at him, as the youngest of five you were the apple of your father's eye and his only daughter.

Your mother turned to face her husband, arms crossed over her chest as she glared at him, "You don't help! Buying her those fairytales, convincing her that she can marry for love!" He raised an eyebrow, "We married for love." He told her, "For the life of me, I can't remember why now." He joked, you smothered the laugh that bubbled up your throat as your mother stiffened. "The Fae across the wall are stirring," she hissed, "Our sons are at war! Not to mention poor Wren, he went as well! Did you not hear what happened to the Archeron sisters? She needs a husband's protection" Your blood chilled, Feyre taken from her family in the middle of the night by a fae creature, Elain and Nesta taken from their beds a year later. But it wasn't them being taken that chilled your veins, it sounded quite exhilarating, it was the idea of your brothers and Wren at war, the idea of a husband's protection.

The last rumors you heard was that the sisters were still alive and high fae themselves now, according to Lord Greysen anyway. "Sounds like quite an adventure, don't you think, Y/N?" Your father asked with a wink, causing your mother to huff and walk out of the kitchen. "I give up!"

Sighing you threw yourself into the chair next to your father's. "It's alright poppet, I won't let her sell you off." He told you quietly. "Is she right? I'm already 25 and unmarried, the village talks you know." He huffed, "Let them talk, you are destined for greater things than to be a wife, my girl." He ruffled your unbound hair, "Now go, you don't want to be late for your first day at the manor." You smiled, your mother would go ballistic if she found out you'd gotten yourself a job, let alone at the manor now inhabited by Fae if the rumors were to be believed, however, the young woman you had met with for the interview, Vassa, seemed human, rounded ears and all. You stood, straightening your skirts and kissed your father's cheek, "I love you papa, I'll see you in the morning."

It dawned on you halfway through the woods that this might not have been your best idea, Vassa though nice enough in her letters and the brief time you spent with her had insisted on meeting with you after nightfall. Dinner at the tavern, she'd insisted, it didn't strike you as odd at the time. You'd been over the moon that someone had wanted to give a girl with no work experience other than her household chores a shot.

Doubt started crawling up your neck as you remembered her telling you that she lived with two males, one who comes and goes and is sometimes gone for weeks at a time. Blush crept up your neck as you considered what kind of relationship the three of them had. Initially you hadn't thought anything of it when she told you that your working times would be from sunset to sunrise but now as you approached the ivy covered manor it seemed odd that they would want you to work through the night, would your cleaning and tidying up of the library not disturb them?

By the time you reached the path up to the door you were fighting the urge to run home, Wren's voice floated into your head. "You miss all of the chances you don't take Y/N, so take them all." God's you missed him, he'd left to fight the war and like your 4 older brothers was yet to return. If you closed your eyes you could see his sandy hair blowing in the wind and his ocean blue eyes drowning your very soul in the best of ways. As a teenager you'd always assumed he would be your husband one day but you were both 25 now and he was still to ask. Was there someone else? Before you could travel any further down that particular thought path the door of the manor swung open, "Y/N!" Vassa's melodic voice called from the doorway, you smiled up at her and walked the rest of the way to the front door, "It's so lovely to see you again, thank you for coming!" She beamed at you and led you into the house.

"I thought I would give you a tour of the house before dinner?" She suggested and you raised an eyebrow, "Dinner?" She smiled, "Why yes, did you think I expected you to work through the night? No, no, tonight was merely for me to introduce you to Jurian and Lucien, who should be home in time for dinner, as they will be the ones here during the day!" You smiled, despite your stomach churning, "I understand, thank you."

The manor itself was beautiful, light and airy with magnificent gardens, even if they did need a little bit of love, a job that would've been perfect for Elain Archeron you mused. The library took your breath away, it was the best collection of books you'd ever seen, Vassa had explained that they needed organising, some of them fixing from the time they'd been left on the shelves, a job you jumped at having spent your childhood learning from your father who was a bookbinder by trade. "What about these ones?" You asked guesturing to a pile of books next to one of the armchairs by the fire, "Those are Lucien's, he likes to read more than anyone I know, he's always bringing books back from his trips." She explained, you took in the titles on the spines of the books and couldn't help but think you could be good friends with this Lucien, his taste in books was exquisite.

Finally she led you to the dining room, where a handsome man was sat, nose deep in a map he was studying, Vassa cleared her throat. "Jurian, this is Y/N, she's going to be helping out around here." You curtsied and she snorted with laughter. "There's no need for such formalities around here Y/N, it's lovely to make your acquaintance." You opened your mouth to reply but you weren't given the chance, "Knock it off, Jurian, don't send the girl screaming from the house before she's even started." Your eyes met an eye of russet and one of some kind of metal that you didn't recognise, it whirred as he looked you up and down, your gaze swept over him in return, beautiful, he was beautiful, he was like no man you had ever seen but your heart stopped when you saw his ears, pointed ears, fae ears. "Ignore Lucien," Jurian's voice pulled your attention back to him, "He's old and grumpy." Lucien snorted, "You're older than me, General." Vassa interrupted their bickering, "Can we have one nice meal, please? We have a guest."

Over the following weeks you'd gotten used to Lucien and Jurian and their teasing and bickering, which had now turned into the two of them teasing you. Jurian's favourite was to constantly remind you of the plate you had dropped and broken when Lucien came striding through the kitchen in nothing but his trousers which were hanging indecently low on his hips, your face had been red for far too long afterwards and Jurian wouldn't drop the fact that Lucien had scandalised you. What he hadn't seen, the cause for the dropping of the plate was the wink and smirk he threw at you as he left the kitchen.

There was something sad about Lucien, however, he seemed haunted, like he wasn't really in the room with you, his mind always elsewhere. You'd been working at the manor for six weeks when you started to figure it out. You were working late in the library, trying to put back together a particularly beautiful book that had seen better times.

You sighed, giving up for the evening, your mind travelling back to Lucien who had become your friend over these last week's, he'd filled the hole that Wren had left and he made you smile, you were refusing to acknowledge the little kicks your heart did when his focus was solely on you. Knowing you'd achieve no more with the book tonight, you stood and brushed down your skirts and crept down the stairs quietly so as to not wake anyone when voices from the parlor stopped you in your tracks.

"You weren't there Lucien!" A female voice hissed, a voice you knew but you couldn't quite place, "I was across the continent, do you really think if I'd known you had been taken I wouldn't have come for you?" He asked back, his voice gentle in contrast to hers, "I-" he cut her off, "Even if I was there, if I'd battled my way through that camp to you, would you have come with me? Would you have taken my hand as easily as you took his? Would you have trusted me with your life to get you out of there like you trust him?" She was silent, he must've realised she wasn't going to answer him so he continued. "I would die for you, give my life for yours, that's what mates do, but you need to decide, Elain, if you don't want me, have no interest in even getting to know me, then you need to reject the bond." Elain? Elain Archeron? It couldn't be. "I didn't come here to fight, Lucien." It was, that was her voice, unmistakably so. "Then why did you come?" His voice was short. "I don't know, it was a mistake. Goodnight Lucien."

You threw yourself into the bar room across the hall so she didn't see you on her way out, so she didn't know you'd been listening. You heard the front door open and close, then silence for a few beats, then something shattered in the parlor. He was hurting, obviously so, and despite the fact you knew he'd be furious that you'd heard, you couldn't let him hurt alone. Taking a deep breath you poured two fingers of whiskey into a tumbler and walked into the parlor, you spotted the vase shattered in the corner as you entered and Lucien's head snapped up from where he was sitting.

"I didn't mean to hear, I was just on my way out." You rushed out as you thrust your hand towards him with the glass of whisky. He studied you and took the glass. "What did you hear?" You considered not telling him for half a second, just that you'd heard the vase smash, but you had never been a good liar. "Umm, everything from, you weren't there, to when she left." He sighed and took a sip of the whisky. "What's going on there?" You asked as you began to pick up the pieces of glass, "She was turned fae, by a mistake I made, that I allowed Tamlin to make, when she was turned, the mating bond snapped for me, she seems to have no interest most of the time, but then occasionally she'll tell me she can hear my heart or she'll just show up here, her sisters are mated to two members of the night court, so close they are almost brothers. Elain has taken a shine to the third brother. I won't stand in her way if he is what she wants, but the bond is killing me."

You considered his words, "Did you mean that? That you'd die for her? Even knowing she longs for another?" You asked quietly. "The bond is all consuming, there's no lengths I wouldn't go to in order to protect her, even if it isn't me she wants. In an old Autumn Court tradition, I could challenge him to a blood duel, a fight to the death, but if he dies, it'll hurt her, if I die, which is the most likely outcome of that, she'll feel the pain of the bond dying." You hummed, "So you leave it alone, let her make her own choices, even if it's killing you inside?" You looked over your shoulder at him and he nodded, "You're a good man, Lucien, if she can't see that then it's her issue, not yours." You could feel his eyes watching you. "Male." Was all he said, "What?" "I'm fae, I'm not a man, I'm a male." You snorted a little laugh, "My apologies, you're a good male, Lucien." He cracked a small smile, "That's better." He teased, then tensed, you felt the pain a moment later. The shard of glass you had picked up slipped and had sliced your palm, he must've scented the blood. He was by your side before you'd even registered him moving.

"Here, let me." He said gently, taking the shards of glass from your hand and placing them on the table you were both kneeling in front of. Lucien's metal eye whirred as it scanned over the cut in your palm and he carefully helped you to your feet and guided you to the chair he was previously sat in. "I'll be right back." He told you, tucking a loose strand of hair behind your ear. He literally was right back, you hadn't even had time to wonder where he'd gone. Graceful as any courtier he knelt In front of you and took your much smaller hand in his much larger calloused one and began cleaning it to stitch and wrap it. You studied his eye, both normal and metal, his face, his hands while he worked. "Ask." He said, not looking away from where he was threading a needle, "What?" His eyes met yours then, "The questions you've got running in your head, ask them while I do this." You allowed yourself a small smile.

"I can ask anything?" You questioned before you started firing your questions at him, "Yes, but I can choose not to answer and I get to ask questions in return." You smiled properly at him then, "Okay! Deal!" He tensed, "Be very careful using the word deal round fae little human, some of us would take advantage of that." He said, warning lacing his words, you let out a breath, "I'm sorry, I'll be careful." He inclined his head for you to ask your first question, "What happens if Elain rejects the mating bond?" He paused before starting his first stitch, "Starting with the hard hitting questions I see." You shrugged, "It could very well drive me to madness." You gasped, "Is it really that bad?" He nodded while you winced at the first prick of the needle, "Have you ever experienced missing someone so much it's like a part of your soul is missing?" He asked, you said one name in response, "Wren." You could tell he was going to come back to that name, "It's like that but everything is amplified as a fae." You nodded in understanding, "You won't have to go through that alone, Lucien." He raised his eyes to yours, "If she rejects it, I won't let you descend into madness." You clarified for him, "If she rejects the bond, you are not to come anywhere near me, I'll be a very volatile male, for a long time." You shook your head, "Like, my lifetime long?" You asked as he did the second and third stitches, "Maybe even longer." You couldn't imagine him just not being there one day because Elain Archeron couldn't see how amazing this male in front of you was, "No, you wouldn't hurt me Lucien, not ever." You told him, nothing but complete and utter confidence and trust in him shining in your eyes.

"Who's Wren?" He asked as he started his sixth and final stitch. "Wren is my best friend, I haven't seen him in almost a year, he joined the war and went past the wall, truth be told I'm not even sure he's still alive but I pictured my entire life with him, I don't want to admit that he's gone." Lucien began wrapping your hand, "You were engaged to this Wren?" He asked, "Oh…no, I just, I was so sure he was going to ask but I'm 25 now and he hasn't and my mother is desperately trying to make me a match so the villagers don't think I'm a witch or something." Lucien hummed at the information you'd just give him, "You'd be a good little witch and this Wren is a fool for not asking for your hand." You couldn't help the blush that crawled up your neck.

It was your turn for a question and Lucien waited patiently for it, "Who's Tamlin?" Was the question you settled on, Lucien didn't miss a beat before he said "Pass, ask a different question." You noted his refusal and decided you'd ask Jurian instead the next time Lucien was away. "Did you fight in the war?" He hesitated this time, his eye going distant before coming back to you, "I did, with the Humans, I fought alongside Jurian and Vassa and Elain's father." You scrambled to open your locket necklace, one side a picture of your brother, the other, Wren, "Did you see any of these men? Fight with them?" He studied the two pictures, analysed them, and then tapped the one of your brothers, "I never saw them, him however-" he tapped the picture of Wren, "I knew him, this is your Wren?" He asked and you nodded, scrambling for words, "You knew him? As in, past tense?" Lucien nodded somberly, "He fell, Y/N, I'm so sorry, he fought valiantly, he got cut down by an enemy general, I couldn't get to him quick enough." Your face crumbled and your heart shattered as you fell forward into Lucien's arms and cried.

#acotar #acomaf #acosf #acowar #a court of mist and fury #a court of silver flames #a court of wings and ruin #acofas #a court of thorns and roses #a court of frost and starlight #lucien vanserra x reader #lucien vanserra #lucien acotar

[faeries-child]

No place for love

(I got inspiration from Thomas Shelby's line: "Everyone's a whore, Grace. We just sell different parts of ourselves")

Pairing: Azriel x reader / (y/n) / oc

Warnings: Mentions of sex, drugs and prostitution.

Enjoy :) (I'll maybe make part two)

Azriel didn’t really prefer places like this. Not at all. Even if he, Rhys and Cassian had been really stupid and young once, the male was not going to indulge himself in those activities anymore. Azriel remembered the time when he and his brothers used to have females at the same time, in the same room. Azriel however had grown fully past that phase centuries ago. But the spymaster would play this role, if not for Velaris’ sake then for his high lord and lady. 

Before him now rose the dark and luminous red light district of the court of nightmares. The path that now opened right before him was crowded and the most unwelcoming. For when it came to the court of nightmares the so called road of lust offered far more than just satisfaction for bodily urges. Azriel could see vendors selling illegal substances, suspicious looking jars filled with dead things and he could as well see things sold, alive. Spymaster also noticed females and males alike leaning in the doors of buildings in very little clothing to cover themselves with, trying to lure people into entering. The Whole place had a sinister feeling but Azriel didn’t have any other choice than to wander deeper into the streets.

Rhysand had sent him to gather information about a mole that had been delivering crucial information to their enemies, Beron included. Spymaster had heard from an important source that his suspect visited the den of sin often. Especially a particular brothel. He had also heard that the brothel in question was one of the more expensive ones, they would provide their clients with anything that they asked for, almost anything.  

It was not hard to spot the brothel in question. Building was bigger and grander than the others surrounding it. However no females were outside luring men in. 

Building was made of stone, painted black and there were curtains in the windows, so the only thing that one could see was candles that shone through the light fabric. 

Spymaster blended into the shadows and approached the brother. Front doors were open, so one could see what really was happening inside. There was carving over the door in the wooden frame. It read: “There is no place for love here”. In Azriel’s mind that was a weird thing to be carved in the doors of a pleasure house, but that wasn’t important now. He set a foot into the building and was met with the smell of scented candles, wine and to no surprise, sex. Music could be heard, someone playing instruments, sensual tune that matched with the atmosphere of the place. There were mostly men, drinking and indulging in activities that Azriel did not stay to watch for any longer than necessary. What he did point out was that the place certainly seemed to be on a more expensive side than the brothels he had visited in the Illyrian mountains.  

“What is it that you're looking for, lord of shadows?”´

 Hearing the voice Azriel turned around, as calmly as he could. Given the amount of people in the room and the acts that were currently being committed, his shadows had a hard time sorting out what each of them were doing. So the speaker had succeeded in surprising him. 

“I’m am sure whatever you are looking for, we will be able to provide”

Speaker was a woman, not an high fae. Her ears were longer and eyes bigger. She was also dressed in very little clothing, so Azriel focused mainly on her face when he spoke: “I’m not here for your services, but I am looking for someone with important information. I am here in high lord’s name.” Female let out a short laugh, smiling in a way that Azriel could only describe as sinister. 

“In high lord’s name you say?” Female circled around letting her gaze wander around the spymaster's body. “You seem rather… uptight, but I would gladly help you to relax.” She was now reaching to touch Azriel’s wings but the male took a step back immediately after sensing the woman's intentions. “But since you’re not here to pay for them I will sadly pass the opportunity”. Woman turned to leave but Azriel opened his mouth before she had a chance to: “I will pay you a nice sum for the information I’m looking for.” 

“Now that's what I like to hear. Follow me, our mistress will surely be interested in your offer.” 

Female gave him no choice but to follow her up the grand staircase that was leading them to a corridor that had many doors on both sides and with his precise hearing Azriel could hear exactly what was happening behind those closed doors. 

The woman led him to the end of the corridor, where there were big twin doors, decorated with gold accents. Without knocking, the female opened the door and let Azriel in while following behind him. 

Room was covered in different kinds of fabrics, pillows and areas designed for lying around. Room was mostly red colored, with some gold and black accents. Air here smelled like vanilla candles and surprisingly, some kind of musk. 

Almost immediately after stepping into the room, Azriel’s focus was drawn to another female in the room. She was sitting on the ledge of the window smoking something like a cigar, but by the smell Azriel could definitely swear that the substance was way stronger and most likely, illegal. Smell of it traveled to his nose and lungs.

High fae female, well she was… The only word Azriel could think was gorgeous. Her hair was left down, curling down all the way to her back. Color of it was white, whitest that Spymaster had seen in his 500 hundred years on this world. The male also pointed out that the female was wearing practically nothing. Only a long translucent black gown that widened towards hem on her ankles. One could see everything, her wide hips and almost spotless skin. She didn’t bother looking at them. Only opening her mouth to say: “I thought I told you that I’m not taking anymore customers for today Daphne”

Azriel’s shadows seemed to delighted to hear her voice, slivering out of their hiding place to caress the shadowsingers hands and neck. 

“But I have brought someone special for you my lady” said the female whose name allegedly was Daphne. 

When the woman turned, Azriel was left gasping for air. Her eyes were the color of ice, same as the gaze that she gave him. However something seemed to spark in her as her mouth curved into a wicked smile. “Oh well, I might be able to make an exception under this special occasion.” Woman walked closer to him and Azriel for the first time in centuries felt like compromising his morals. 

“So tell me lord of shadows, what do you desire? I am sure whatever your heart wants, I will be able to provide”.

Female stopped just a few feet from him. Looking him up and down like he was a prey and somehow Azriel felt like it too.

“I do not seek what you are offering, I am here only for the information-” but Daphne interrupted him “He says that he’s here in the name of the high lord”. Azriel could sense almost a hint of mockery in her tone but let it slide since he was not looking for trouble right now. 

“Leave us Daphne, tell the girls not to bother me for the rest of the evening”

Daphne only nodded and left the two in the room alone.

“Sit” 

And to his surprise, without questions Azriel sat on the cushions that made up some kind of strange sofa. Female got closer and was now standing before him, only a few feet between them. The spymaster could smell her. Vanilla and a hint of tar. Azriel could also smell whatever the female had been smoking. 

“So if you truly aren’t here for my services, why are you looking at me like you would give up your title and all that comes with it to be with me?”

Azriel tried collecting himself and threw on a mask of calmness. “I am here to collect information about a traitor and hopefully catch him. My sources tell me that he visits this particular establishment often. The High lord-” Azriel could not finish his sentence because the female moved closer to him, too close. Before the spymaster could do anything, the female moved to his lap straddling his legs. She placed her hands on Azriel’s shoulders. “The high lord of the night court. So much does he oversee and control, but unfortunately you have come to the one of the few places that even his gaze doesn’t fall nor does his words reach.” Female continued to smile at him as she leaned close to his ear: “What power does the lord of shadows hold in a place like this, where everything is of shadows, how are you special?”

The spymaster could almost feel the female's lips on his throat. He didn’t even notice that control over his shadows was now slipping, they were traveling around her exposed thighs. 

Gathering the last drops of his control he pushed the woman gently farther away from him, so he could see her face. “The night court will pay you nicely for your information” he said, trying to keep his voice steady and not to just take the female's offer to make an exception for him. 

The woman rose from Azriel’s lap and said: “You’re no fun. But at least now you're talking my language. But what makes you think I have what you need?”

“They said that he prefers your… company. Almost exclusively.” He answered. “So can you help me?” Azriel didn’t know why he felt like… the female already knew what he was asking. It could be her face that now showed a certain kind of bitterness, maybe some sadness as well. 

The female now walked towards the writing desk on the other side of the room and leaned on it. “I might know who you are talking about. So what now, do you want me to catch him or… Oh” her face twisted in a knowing smile. “You need proof that he is the male you’re searching for-” Azriel interrupted him: “I have heard of your reputation. You get people to reveal their secrets”

“Men talk when they are happy, easy as that” She now eyed Azriel like he would be her next meal, and Azriel truly thought that maybe he wouldn’t even be opposed to that. “I will pay you-” again she interrupted him: “I don’t want money”.

His mouth tightened into a line: “Then what do you want?” 

“I want you to owe me a favor, you cannot ask what kind or when I will ask for it”

It wasn’t good deal on Azriel’s part, but he really didn’t feel like he wanted to torture anyone right now, he was tired. “Deal.”

Azriel rose and walked to the female offering his hand, which the female took without hesitation. Azriel could notice a tattoo forming on the female's fingers. The spymaster couldn’t really read the female's face, nor did his shadows provide him with any assistance. They almost seemed a little unsure of how to act around her. 

Azriel turned to leave, but his interest in the female got the best of him. “So that’s it. I know your profession, but you are willing to do this just like that?" The female's smile fell and her eyes hardened as she said: “We are all whores shadowsinger, we just sell different parts of ourselves.” 

That was that, Azriel turned and left. But somehow he could tell that this definitely wasn’t the last time he would visit her. 

Shadowsinger cursed himself, by the time he had already reached Velaris he realized that he didn’t even ask her name. 

#acotar #court of thorns and roses #azriel #rhysand #cassian #azriel x reader #fantasy #azris fanfiction #love #smut

[lost-soul-in-time]

This was rock bottom. Murdock once was a golden figure throughout his county, the son of the lord and one of the best knights in the little cluster of villages his family ruled over. Now, he was climbing the walls of a castle just so he could keep eating. One of the windows happened to be only a few meters high, leading into one of the kitchens. Across his back was everything he owned, the pack strapped around his chest and looped over his arms as he climbed. He was sure he was quiet, creeping past the doors until he started to find trinkets to sell. A few gold flowers snapped from picture frames, tassels of silk cut from curtains and rugs, and jewels plucked from their set place in delicate furniture.

Guards walk by in shifts, counted out carefully by Murdock as he ducks into empty quarters each time he nears the countdown. Finding a few sizeable gems made him lose count, walking out of the room and straight into the path of two guards. Only two feet from the window, he’s pushed into the rough stone of the wall. One of them rips the straps off of him, seizing his bag while the other drags him down the hallway. Someone is awake.

@murdersinthemaking

Evenings were the most stressful part of his day.

Whether he’s fabricating further plans or tearing off a vital bodily function when answers aren’t given to him (or simply to blow off steam), his personnel are always forewarned on secluding themselves and keeping away from the villainous creature they blindly served. So when one of his watchman interrupt the sounds of agonized wails he’d been pulling from his latest victim — a pompous man swimming in wealth who had no issue attempting to send a dog after his scent to gain glory from killing him — he’s already not pleased.

Oliver doesn’t take the time to clean off the splatters of crimson on the side of his face, only slipping on his gloves and wool coat before being lead towards the informed intruder.

His face is always devoid of emotion, but it doesn’t take a brilliant mind to sense his displeasure in his steps nor his annoyance in his gaze.

A harsh blow from a foot hitting the back of Murdock’s knee sends him to the floor, held down and forced to kneel as he enters the room. A hand rests over the sword in its sheathe on his hip, and once he’s close enough, a hand grabs the exiled knight firmly by the jaw, forced to stare up at him.

“This is what you waste my time with?” He scolds at the two men, voice cold and barely sparing a glance at them before addressing Murdock for the first time. “State your purpose here.” Oliver collectedly commands, leaving little to no room for protest.

#mozart (answered asks) #murdersinthemaking #𝐰𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐝. (ex knight! murdock) #Medieval Villain! Oliver #((bleh sorry this was longer than i thought it’d be sjsksj))

[crookshanksagentofowca]

Bellamort fake-dating/ arranged marriage AU where Voldemort decides it would look good to marry a member of a high-ranking Pureblood family but he wants it to be strictly for show and not at all a real marriage so he’ll need it to be someone loyal to him who wouldn’t reveal that to the world. It should also be someone who’s talented when it comes to magic and whose company he doesn’t detest. Bellatrix is the only one who ticks all of those boxes, plus he happens to know that her family are trying to set her up with Rodolphus and she’s looking for a way out of it, so it would be mutually beneficial. So he asks her, unaware that she’s been desperately in love with him for ages, and of course she says yes. He promises that it won’t be a proper marriage and he’ll leave her alone when she’s not needed for Death Eater business. She’s internally rather sad about that part but she’s still happy enough that she gets to appear on his arm at public events, dance with him and sometimes even kiss him, to make sure they’re selling the illusion. Cygnus and Druella aren’t super thrilled with the idea of their daughter marrying a half-blood who’s twice her age but they realize how such an alliance with the Dark Lord may be advantageous for the family so they go along with it. (And also they’re too scared of him to say no.)

So Bellatrix and Voldemort have a big, fancy wedding and then move into opposite sides of a huge mansion. But sometimes they find themselves lingering in the same spaces, even when no one’s watching, just to talk. The more time they spend together, the more Voldemort realizes he’s actually developing feelings for her and of course the whole time she’s burning with desire for him but neither says anything because the deal was that this wouldn’t be a proper marriage so neither wants to burden the other with complications they’d promised to avoid. So we get this slow-burn/mutual pining situation and for a while nothing changes, except perhaps they become more affectionate during public appearances, since that’s the only time they allow themselves to act in love with the other. However, neither of them is patient or used to denying themselves what they want so eventually one of them breaks and kisses the other when they’re all alone. Then, of course, there’s a brief moment of awkwardness where they think they’ve ruined everything until the other admits that the feelings are reciprocated. They finally start having a true relationship, laughing at how odd it is to be at such a beginning stage when they’re already married. And then live happily ever after, etc.

#bellamort #bellatrix black #voldemort #harry potter #bellatrix x voldemort #fanfiction idea #my thoughts #caoo posts

[boilingheart]

Lucius Skorn, high elf, ex-criminal scum, now Cleric of Ilmater.

In his youth, he ran a gang of highly dangerous rogues known as 'The Lockjaws' who, at the beginning, thieved and killed for money to support themselves, but then ended up doing just for the thrill of it.

Eventually, Lucius' leadership was too much for the Lockjaws to handle, and his righthand man Mauverne betrayed him, selling him out to a rival guild where Lucius became a slave for decades.

Though Lucius managed to escape his slavers, he was only able to last a few months on his own before he couldn't support himself, and ended up getting caught for attempted murder. Lucius served another handful of decades in prison, getting along with absolutely no one and getting into constant trouble. Isolated, picking fights, extending his time serving there.

One day, however, he received what he believed to be divine intervention. A young elf was thrown in with a story too similar to Lucy's, and in the cutthroat cells of the prison, found himself into horrible trouble. Lucius, suddenly understanding empathy and the cruelty within, found himself throwing himself in front of the young man, taking the heat off of him and defending him from the others. Bearing his burden. Alleviating his suffering.

That night, Lucius received a vision. That night, Lucius understood in full the wisdom behind Ilmater, and found himself granted with a small boon of his power — from that moment forward, he dedicated himself to cleaning up his act and pursuing Ilmater's teachings when he got out.

(His sentence was inexplicably shortened, and he was released not so long after those incidents. Lucius firmly believes that the man he defended was Ilmater himself, and that his god had found a way to free Lucius)

Despite the hardships he faced, and the gallons and gallons of blood on his hands from his time leading the Lockjaws, Lucius sets out to become a cleric, seeking out the Open Hand Temple and becoming one of their adorned. A wolf in sacrificial lamb's clothing, desperately shrinking into the sheepskin and trying to become one of them.

For over a century, Lucius has lost his identity, lost who he is as a person. It's now his chance to remake himself, walk away from his past, and become someone new, someone better.

Two years later, Lucius finds himself on the Nautiloid with a parasite in his head.

And the man who betrayed him, Mauverne, is still alive, and still running the Lockjaws. Opportunity for revenge presents itself in Baldur's Gate when Lucius realizes the Lockjaws have expanded over the century and begun working for Lord Gortash, with Mauverne swearing himself to Bhaal for his power.

Now, Lucius is faced with the ultimate choice: Kill Mauverne to get his revenge and usurp control over the Lockjaws once more, now with more power than before, and forsaking Ilmater for Bhaal's power. Or, kill Mauverne for revenge and closure, ending the Lockjaws once and for all and returning to finding himself as a new man.

Lucius, a killer at heart, has always, whether he wanted to or not, served Bhaal through his horrific acts. Ilmater's voice feels more distant every day. It would be easy to just turn back. To go back to what was familiar. It would be easy to go back to being Lord Skorn than to try to remake himself.

What will The Lost Cleric choose?

Child of both.

oh yeah also he fell madly in love with gale during all of this and also his best friend is the dark urge forgot to mention that

#bheart art #blood cw #Lucius Skorn #my ocs #bg3 tav #bg3 #bg3 spoilers

[laboulaie]

Her love soothed his savage soul. His passion saved her from a self-loathing abyss. Todd and Blair’s parallel journeys proved to be one of Llanview’s most poignant and unconventional love stories.

When, in the fall of 1994, Blair Daimler met up by chance with Todd Manning at Rodi’s Bar, she hadn’t an inkling that their lives would be entwined forever. Over drinks and conversations, they bonded, commiserating with one another over their mutually sorry and sorrowful lives.

Indeed, Todd Manning had taken a mighty fall. The once-invincible football hero had become the scourge of Llanview, having led a brutal fraternity house rape of Marty Saybrooke. Now, released from jail, this tortured soul continued to flounder, skirting the thin line between good and evil as he searched for meaning in his life.

Like Todd, Blair Daimler remained an enigma - complex, ambiguous, and beautiful. The illegitimate daughter of a mentally ill mother, Addie Cramer, Blair had been shuttled between foster homes throughout her childhood. Blair yearned for affection, for family, and for acceptance.

The sexy vixen had already proven, through her loveless marriage to millionaire Asa Buchanan, that she would sell her soul to get what she wanted out of life. And what Blair wanted was respect, stature, and most of all money!

On that fateful night at Rodi’s Bar, Todd and Blair talked into the wee hours. Listening to Todd’s story, Blair felt compassion for her fellow outcast. The convicted rapist did not scare Blair with his menacing ways. She found Todd Manning intriguing - and he was equally attracted to her. When the barkeep shouted, “last call!” they parted, allies against the cruel world. They were platonic, misery-loves-company companions. Soon the two town pariahs, both so much alike, found themselves in bed together. Wrapped in each-other’s arms, Todd and Blair sought mutual pleasure in order to forget, if just for a fleeting moment, the emptiness in their lives.

It was weeks later that Blair upon an incredible secret: Todd Manning was the son of the late publishing magnate Victor Lord, and as a result, he stood to inherit $27.8 million!

With calculated swiftness, she set out to snag herself a husband. A wealthy husband is exactly what she needed to pay her mounting bills and cover the high cost of keeping her mother, Addie, institutionalized. Suddenly Blair had an opportunity agenda. Playing it coy and seductive, she set out to make Todd Manning to marry her.

To fulfill her mission, Blair told Todd she was pregnant. It was a lie! In a simple ceremony on the beach in Key West, Florida, Blair became Mrs. Todd Manning. Soon after Todd discovered the secret that Blair already knew - that he was the long-lost Lord heir! Blair feigned surprise, suppressing her greedy sense of delight as Todd took control of the vast Lord family fortune. Later, when Todd learned that Blair had lied to him, he bought a pregnancy test and immediately forced her to take it! Blair was as surprised as he was when the test revealed she was expecting. In a fortuitous stroke of luck, Blair had really become pregnant - just in the nick of time!

Todd and his wife grew closer as they worked together to turn their publication, The Sun, into Llanview’s leading newspaper. United in their climb to respectability, Todd and Blair fell in love.

Tragedy struck when Blair was mugged on the docks and lost her unborn baby. Thanks to Max Holden’s loose lips, Todd learned the truth that the fetus Blair miscarried was younger than it should have been. He deduced that Blair must have faked her pregnancy when they took the plunge in Florida! Disgusted with his deceitful wife, Todd had their marriage annulled. Then something weird happened. Blair discovered she was pregnant - again! She kept the news a closely guarded secret from Todd.

Even though he always tried to keep his emotions inside himself, Todd could not contain his excitement every time he found himself in Blair’s presence. He wanted her completely. To his own amazement, Todd had fallen deeply in love with Blair!

Flying to Key West, the scene of their first, ill-fated wedding, Todd proposed marriage - again! The emotion-laced words did not come easily to Todd, but he spoke them nonetheless, on bended knee.

“We’re not going to do what we did last time. No games. No lies, there’s no conditions - everything is out in the open. All right. I love you. And I want to marry you, that’s all. Nothing else, just that.”

To his amazement, Blair broke the news of her pregnancy to Todd. “Do you want to take back the proposal?” she asked anxiously.

“Do you want me to?”

“No,” answered Blair, holding back the tears. “I want you to know something. I want to make a promise to you right here, right now, that I am not going to be afraid. Fear is what messed things up for us in the first place. All the lies and manipulations. Todd, I am going to be honest with you. And I’m going to trust you. And I’m going to trust myself. And I’m going to trust in our love.”

“Are you trying to tell me something, Blair?”

“Yes!” she responded. “Yes!!! I will marry you.”

With a tender kiss, Todd and Blair sealed their pact. They were together at last

#oltl #one life to live #kassie depaiva #blair cramer #roger howarth #todd manning #tnb #todd and blair #supercouple #gold balloon wedding #todd x blair

[fieldofdaisiies]

Hey Gorgeous Daisy! 🌼

Loving the headcanons, especially modern Az! I couldn't make my mind up between my two headcanons asks.

1. Batboys growing up - I love when we get all three boys together and how we have heard about some of their antics growing up, and I do hope we learn more, but what did they get up to after Windhaven, what havoc did they wreck upon Velaris and the rest of the Night Court?

2. Adult Modern Nyx - This headcanons ask is a bit left field but your modern Az got me thinking...??

Please don't feel you need to do both, or either if they don't speak to you. Hope you have had a lovely day. 💗💗

hiiiiiiii, oh I love both. here we go

batboys growing up headcanons

boy, did they get drunk many times, completely shit-faced toppling over each other on their way home from Rita's

"you stepped on my fucking foot, Az."

"you hit my fricking arm, Cass"

and Rhys throwing up over the bridge somewhere in the background

crushing on the same girl, sorry but I can so see them spotting one pretty girl and all deciding that they want to be her boyfriend

and they would make complete fools out of themselves

Rhys would try to make his charm work, saying the cringiest things

"your eyes are like the sun burning down on us, like flames, you know. fire."

Cass would be flexing his muscles, removing his shirt when she is around, just because

and Az, would steal shy glances at her, and then quickly look away, blushing bright red

also I think they would be quite competitive, who can fly the widest? the highest? for the longest?

wingspan measuring

"you are cheating, Cass."

"am no, just because mine is the biggest."

"isn't, now hold your wings still"

Azriel cackling in the background

that is probably for earlier but those three had terrible voice cracks when in puberty, this is a fact

of course they were playboys

and remember that line in acosf – they did it in one room

not their finest moment, but they were closer after this than ever before haha

Cass and Az annoying and distracting Rhys when he had to study for becoming a high lord

they would mock him constantly "look at the little geek, bent over his books the whole day."

"so cute, little high lord, Rhysie."

the two idiots would also playfully poke him with his sword until he has enough, slams his books shut and joins them

at the same time the would also help and support Rhys all the way

and many nights they would spend with him, bent over books

and obviously, they would help him control his powers

letting him take out his anger when everything gets to much on them, sparring with him until the early morning hours

modern adult! Nyx

that is such an interesting request tbh

he would be a little cocky

even in a modern world Rhys and Feyre would be like majors of big cities and quite influential and obviously that make young Nyx a little arrogant at times

but he has inherited his good heart from his parents, so sometimes he just needs a reminder to be humble and then he is grounded

Nyx would be the one who immediately wants a car and motorbike like Az when he is old enough

"look at how cool, uncle Az is!"

so this is what he will get for his eighteenth birthday

and Nyx speeds and Feyre is worried as hell, Rhys as well

but he is also careful

he becomes a social media influencer, yes, posting about art and clothing

family before everything – even when no longer living with his parents he would still spend time with them most days of the week

a very close relationship with his whole family

having a hard time finding a girlfriend, because who really loves him and who just wants him for fame and attention

going to sports games with Cass, watching basketball or hockey

painting and drawing a lot in his free time, hoping to one day be able to sell his art

#young bat boys #azriel #cassian #rhysand #acotar #acosf #bat boys #nyx acotar #nyx archeron

[vigilskeep]

I think it has smth to do w the fact tht they were an indentured servant (basically) for Meeran/Athenril? Bc it’s like ok freelance mercenary work or thievery is one thing. But then it’s like not ur choice bc u have to bc they have a contract tht says that You Are Theirs. Esp as an apostate hawke bc they can lord over u tht if you step out of line they don’t have to protect u from the Templars. And typically when it comes to an indenture contract the holder of the contract will add on shit to make sure u need to spend more time in their employ to pay off ur debt. So maybe Meeran was like oh yeah you rmr the time you used a company poultice when u got stabbed in the gut? You have to pay me back for tht too. Or smth similar. When their contract got close to being up. Which would def sour a relationship.

yeah that's my thought! it definitely reads like meeran/athenril wanted more work out of them, tried to push the contract, that went over real bad with hawke. the question is, of course, how hawke managed to get out of that! and not only get out, but apparently still end up on relatively even footing with meeran/athenril where they can, potentially, take a job from them, and meeran/athenril sends other work and contacts their way

the hawkes are a valuable commodity because of their magic but also intensely vulnerable because of it. if meeran/athenril came right out with it and said you're sticking with us or i go to the templars, what could they possibly do? so why don't meeran and athenril do that? they're covering you because you can do work for them sure but they don't exactly seem like they have pro mage rights moral scruples. and still they don't sell you out once you're gone; they don't even go to the templars about you if you fuck them over during loose ends, they come at you themselves. which is obviously because the game can't let them do that, but i'm addressing it as an in-world question here

honestly my first instinct is the delightful and fascinating takeaway that there's a no snitches code of honour when it comes to apostates, which is probably mostly upheld because if as a mercenary or smuggler leader it gets out that you're holding that over mages then you get essentially fucking blacklisted and not one apostate in the free marches is going to be desperate enough to come near you. which would be a massive disadvantage. it's also obvious that the hawkes have built up relationships with all the contacts and suppliers and such, presumably not to mention other members of the smugglers/red iron, and in general it wouldn't look great for meeran/athenril to sell them out especially when the hawkes clearly fulfilled the contract they were given

as a side note i wonder if there's anything to be said about a cultural difference here that might make the hawkes particularly react bad to the servitude thing. i don't know quite how different things are in the free marches but fereldans typically hold ideals of freedom very highly; they don't have serfs, for example, and all fereldans high or low theoretically have the right to go where they will, work where they will, and be paid for that work. i'm not saying there are no discrepancies and abuses in ferelden because i'm sure there are but i've often thought that's a problem fereldan workers might have in general in kirkwall (and why kirkwaller employers might be so consistently vocal against fereldan workers) and no less true for the hawkes during their servitude

#i do think that meeran/athenril maybe throwing the idea around even as an empty threat #could have been why it's clearly supposed to have gone down so bad #hmm i might do a run over the letters and loose ends content and see if there's anything else to be said #meeran #athenril

[life-set-to-random]

Oh dear lord… the Ninja Tribunal arch. So much to unpack. Give me strength…

I’m going to try and be fair, I’m going to mention something positive for every complaint I make. I don’t want to be that person after all.

Firstly, please, please, for the love of all things , STOP CALLING OUT ATTACKS LIKE A CHEAP 90S ANIME DUB!!! The original cringe. 😖

Ok, nice thing time. These four were very likable (if not superfluous). I found myself wanting to know more about them and even shipping some of them with the Hamato brothers, if not romantically then at least as besties. Sadly they spend the entire arch building up friendships between these humans and the Turtles only to kill them off in the end. But it feels SO forced. We weren’t given enough time with them to really cry over them as individuals so much as morn the wasted potential they were brimming with. I get they couldn’t kill off the Turtles and thus needed some “Red Shirts” to try and sell the high stakes, but still.

And what about the relatives they were threatened with in the first episode of the arch? Joi Reynard’s Aunt who lives in Japan (I’m assuming Army or Navy brat, she’s WAY too caucasian to even be half Japanese, I’m assuming French ancestry), and Adam McCay’s brother (who never gets a name) in Miami Florida? Faraji Ngala and Yoshida Tora aren’t given specific loved ones to fret over but Tora obviously has someone because he apologizes to Mikey “…our families are at stake.”

Did anyone notify those poor people that their relatives died?! Because they weren’t even mentioned after this.

Side note while we’re on the subject of the folks left behind back on the home front, I hope April or one of the other human Allie’s back in NY are taking care of Klunk. With the way the Hamato clan keeps getting kidnaped for long periods of time, the poor fluff ball could starve easily.

These four, ugh where to start?

Positive note, beautiful visual designs, if not a westerner’s usual hodgepodge of Asian fantasy stereotypes. 🙄😑

Weak backstory, contorting groundbreaking original canon for this series into a very boring and predictable bit of nonsense. Completely unnecessary and obviously half assed, to the point where the Turtles sum it up so succinctly you want to say to Splinter and The Ancient One “That’s how you tell a story!”

Oh and their attitudes sucked! Almost as bad as their communication skills. Thankfully, when he arrived, Splinter flat out called them out on their crap. “How can they prepare themselves if you do not tell them anything?!”

Probably should say something positive again… Um, their voice actors were great?😅 And I love the juxtaposition of the girl being the one to represent strength and having a huge man representing stealth.

The weapons. Positive observations, they’re real weapon types and are actually pretty cool looking. Also it’s nice to see the boys deviated from their comfort zones (not Leo unfortunately, the writers just can’t separate him from swords in their minds apparently). How Leo gets his is so infuriatingly complicated when it didn’t need to be and falls into the trope of “black guy dies first” (then the girl, then the sweetheart, then the cool dude. Did we take a wrong turn into a late 90s horror movie or something?).

The monsters. None of these creatures look like their Japanese inspiration AT ALL! And none of them are Tengu, Tengu doesn’t even mean “demon”! They just stuck Tengu on the end of every other Japanese Yokai name! For no good reason!

I kept hearing that line from Princess Bride in my head. “You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means.”

I’m not even Asian and I’m so offended and confused, I can’t imagine how an actual member of the Japanese culture must feel getting shit on like this. Whoever wrote this arch did not respect the source material, the source culture, or the audience because they obviously assumed we were all stupid unaware kids! Ether that, or they were seriously lazy, I suspect both.

And if you’re going to give an English speaking cast of white people Japanese words to say, TEACH THEM HOW TO £¥€&ING SAY THEM CORRECTLY! Jeezus Henry Christmas! (Best Herminone Granger voice) It’s “Oh-Knee” not “On-Eye”!

Bright side, they do look awesome.🤷🏻‍♀️

Im going to have to post about the Tribunal’s dragon forms on another post, I’ve run out of picture space.😑

#tmnt 2003 #kevin eastman #peter laird #my childhood #ninja tribunal #wtf #so much work for so little payoff #why make things so complicated? #I hate retcon

[glitchydyke]

what's hatchetfield ?

it’s a series of musicals by starkid!!!!! there’s three in the series rn: the guy who didn’t like musicals, black friday, and nerdy prudes must die :] (plus a bunch of short stories under the group name nightmare time & nightmare time 2)

each of them is set in a town called hatchetfield, where things r um. kind of fucked. on account of the group of eldritch gods using it as a personal plaything <3 each musical is set in a different iteration of the town though, with the vibes of like either a time loop or parallel universes, where everything is the same but different, a little bit to the left.

spoilers of the plot of each one ahead now !!!!

tgwdlm is the first of the series!! it’s about an average office worker guy named paul (MYYYY <33333333) who. well. hates musicals. and to his dismay becomes the unwilling protagonist in one when hatchetfield is infected by a musical alien parasite via a meteor

bf is the next, about sisters lex and hannah foster and a man called tom houston, who’s emma’s brother-in-law. lex is a worker at toyzone, a toy store selling the new famous toy tickle-me-wiggly. and things get a little bit murdery when the adults in the mall begin to form a cult over the doll, killing each other to obtain one

and the newest one is npmd, which came out abt a week ago!! it’s about a group of teenagers, peter, richie (ALSO MY <333 + played by the same actor as paul), ruth, steph, and grace, who’re haunted and hunted by the demon-ghost of a former classmate who’s intent on killing everyone he’s personally deemed deserves it.

it makes me. fucking insane. the way that things in each version of hatchetfield are different, but there are still some constants; my favourite of which is that paul and emma, the characters from the first musical, will always ALWAYS find each other. in every timeline, they’re destined to find each other, but never destined to have their happy ending. destined to fall in love, to become each other’s light in the darkness, each other’s home, but it’s never built to last.

it’s also really really fucking fascinating to see these characters fight desperately against the gods toying with them, to form such beautiful bonds and relationships, to keep themselves alive as these horrific things happen around them, knowing that… does any of it even matter? this is one timeline out of infinite, one world out of countless, does any of it even matter? does their fight even matter, when at the end of the day, it could all be erased by a bored god snapping his fingers? does their love hold any power against beings that can’t be understood, can’t be reasoned with?

and that’s not even mentioning the fucking music oh my god. my faves are lah dee dah dah day, not your seed, let it out, inevitable, feast or famine, take me back, black friday, what if tomorrow comes, high school is killing me, nerdy prudes must die, if i loved you, and the summoning. yes that’s a lot but FUCKKKK i love these musicals soundtracks good lord.

OKAY ALL IN ALL. it’s a series of horror-comedy musicals set in the fictional town of hatchetfield, each surrounding a different group of civilians as they fight to survive against some sort of horror brought about by an eldritch god. they’re v v good and the official pro-shots are all on the starkid youtube channel, along w the nightmare time stories!!!! would absolutely recommend them they r both so fun and sillay and also make me physically ill to analyse i cannot dress this enough. life and death and fate and choice and love and hatred and trying to stay together even as the universe rips you apart

#this got a little bit long sorry. trying sooo hard 2 be normal 🫶 #PAUL AND EMMA AND RITCHIE ☹️☹️☹️☹️ #hey. you shld watch them. hey. it won’t even take long. hey #asks

[1dreamsareweird1]

Tu'la Headcannons Because I Can <3

(I'm going to try and put this into a way that's easy to understand because in my head the way I think about it it works but it might not actually make any sense 👍)

Tu'la is split up into two parts, one is ruled by the king that invades Okhasis originally in MCD and the other part is ruled in a sort of democracy unlike most other parts of the world. Instead of having a king or a lot of places ruled by Lords running individual villages the half of Tu'la not run by the king is like a (primitive) government.

The half of Tu'la that isn't run by the King is mostly a place where major trade is done and it's very diverse so they had to have a different way of ruling it. There are three branches that run this part of Tu'la, The third branch is there to take in complaints and make sure things run smoothly and safely with products that come in and out of it which is why there are significantly less kidnappings there than the other half of Tu'la. The second branch manages finances and disputes about wares. The first branch is there to maintain order oversee the regulations put in place there.

This half of Tu'la is arguably doing better than most parts of the Ru'an region where kidnapping and murder run rampant.

The part of Tu'la run by the King was actually a pretty spectacular place until he took the throne, this king was incredibly prejudiced and power-hungry. He shunned the second half of Tu'la and focused on building his army up rather than worrying about the commoners who relied on him for food, housing, money, etc.. Many in this part of Tu'la saw the impending storm and tried to take cover, fleeing to the other half of the region. The kind didn't take kindly to "his" people trying to escape and he soon made a border and set up troops to prevent people from leaving for the other half of the region and the region itself altogether.

After the king barricades off the other half of Tu'la his plan was originally going to be to cut off it's supply network and reroute it to come into his half of Tu'la so he could keep things to help his army and give the scraps to the other half of Tu'la. This only worked for around a week because the other half of Tu'la was getting worked up about their trade route being tampered with and they responded in kind (they tore down the troops along their trade route) so this proved to be useless because that part of Tu'la had been able to rise up gaining nearly as much power as him and they threatened to completely pull their trade away from the King and take up arms against him. Normally the King would have taken up the challenge but the other half of Tu'la was bigger than the part he ruled due to the influx of refugees who were more than ready to fight against him and he didn't have nearly the amount of supplies that they did so he let the other half of Tu'la be.

This isn't to say that the other half of Tu'la trusted the King, they planted spies and magical items all over the King's half of Tu'la to get any information they could, both to sell to guilds which would fetch a very high price and so that they could keep themselves safe and floating above the war that was brewing.

Okay that's all I've got because I haven't thought about this a lot and I'm sorry for any spelling errors in this. Also I don't think this is very accurate to anything that can happen irl and idk if it's even possible but neither is a goddess that split her soul into 3 and implanted them into different versions of her in different dimensions so it's just gonna have to be like this. It isn't a very fleshed out idea either so don't take it too seriously I've been rewriting MCD in my head for a while and I've only just started thinking about Tu'la. 🗣️🔥🔥🔥

#aphmau #fandom #headcannons #headcanon #mcd rewrite #minecraft diaries #Tu'la region #minecraft #minecraft roleplay

[mariacallous]

At first glance, the Silicon Valley Bank debacle seems to be a cut-and-dried financial caper. The executives running the 16th-largest bank in the US made the wrong choices in handling what seemed a fortuitous situation—a roster of clients, flush with venture capital funding, handing over billions of dollars of cash for storage in the institution's coffers. But the bank’s leaders misjudged the risks of higher interest rates and inflation. Pair that with a mini tech downturn, and the bank’s spreadsheets began turning colors. When word of its perilous situation got out, panicky depositors pulled their money. After a government takeover, everyone’s money was safe. 

But although no depositor lost money, the saga looks like a traumatic event whose consequences will linger for months, or even years. Things happened that we can’t unsee. The SVB saga reminds me of what my wife, a true-crime reporter, says when people ask why she finds murder stories so interesting. A killing, she’d say, reveals the previously private, shrouded actions that define the way people live. In the course of investigating the crime, lives that looked ideal from the outside are exposed as unmade beds of secrets and lies. 

Start with the bank. As has been widely reported—only now with a critical eye—Silicon Valley Bank was not only the bank of choice among Silicon Valley companies, but an ingratiating cheerleader for startup culture. The VCs and angels funding new companies would routinely send entrepreneurs to the bank, which often handled both company accounts and the personal finances of founders and executives. SVB would party with tech people—and vintners, another sector they were deep into. Some bankers had wine fridges in their offices. Salud!

Normally, you’d have to hold my family hostage before I became a banker—I picture the buttoned-up prig who hired Mary Poppins. But I might think differently if banking were a world of parties, high-end Cabernets, and elbow-rubbing with universe-denting geniuses who keep millions in the bank and take out mega-mortgages. By all accounts, SVB shared and perhaps amplified the freewheeling vibe of the swashbucklers it served. This is not what you necessarily want from a fiduciary. And as we learned this week, SVB’s CEO reportedly indulged in one of the worst things a founder can do—selling off stock when trouble lies ahead. 

 When that trouble arrived, we also learned a lot about the investment lords of the Valley who give founders the millions they need to move fast and make things. As word began to leak of SVB’s weaknesses, VCs who style themselves as tech’s smartest people had a choice: help bolster the financial partner holding the industry’s assets or pull funds immediately. The latter course would trigger a panic that would assure disaster for the startup ecosystem—but not you, because you were first in line. 

Despite years of talk about how companies in the tech world are united in a beneficial joint mission, some of the biggest players went into self-preservation mode, essentially firing the starting pistol for a bank run. One notable bailout leader was Peter Thiel’s Founders Fund, which got an early sense of SVB’s troubles and advised all its companies to get out ASAP. As word spread, a classic bank run took shape, with other VC firms urging pullouts, until it was impossible to connect online with SVB to move funds. By the time a group of VCs came together to pledge support for SVB, its virtual doors were shut. In the mad rush to the lifeboats, hundreds of companies were stranded on deck. When the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) took over Silicon Valley Bank last Friday, with all activity frozen, those whose holdings in the bank far exceeded the $250,000 limit on insured accounts truly faced the abyss.

I get it—saving one’s own skin is human nature. But in the future, let’s go easy on hyping the camaraderie of tech. 

And what did the Valley’s rugged individuals do when oblivion loomed? They begged for a government rescue, of course. It’s hard not to empathize with some of the rank and file tech workers, many of them far from California, who wouldn’t be able to meet their bills. And indeed, there were some acts of generosity, as investors extended loans to their portfolio companies. But the loudest voices urging bailouts didn’t seem to be those most in jeopardy, but super-rich investors and speculators likeself-described angel investor Jason Calacanis, PayPal mafia billionaire David Sacks, and Machiavellian hedge fund magnate Bill Ackman, bombing Twitter with over-the-top pleas to rescue depositors.

Their case was that if depositors didn’t have immediate access to their funds, SVB’s woes might be “contagious,” setting off a wider bank panic. A reasonable concern. But it’s unlikely these pundits would have made the same arguments if the institution in question were some regional bank of similar size in the Midwest. Some people arguing for a federal bailout had previously opined that the government should keep its tentacles away from the innovative geniuses of the Valley.

The spectacle is particularly ironic because a huge part of startup lore is not just accepting risk but embracing it. We hear endlessly of the bravery of entrepreneurs who step into the breach and put millions of dollars in jeopardy, hoping to buck the dismal odds of creating a difference-making company that, by the way, makes its founders ludicrously wealthy. It’s part of the game to lose your investor’s money and a couple of years of your life because you felt that a $400 juice machine would be the next iPhone. 

Now those noble risk-takers were demanding retroactive protection—because tech-company money was unavailable due to a totally avoidable risk. Any idiot knows that FDIC covers only $250,000. So why did so many firms store all their assets in uninsured accounts in a single bank? You might give a pass to naive founders who blindly accepted the recommendation of their funders to use Silicon Valley Bank. (Though maybe not to big companies like Roku, which had $487 million on deposit in SVB.) But what’s the excuse of those who did the recommending? Did they notice that SVB executives actively lobbied to avoid stringent regulation? Or that for eight months, SVB failed to replace its retired chief risk officer? Did they understand that an entire startup monoculture patronizing one bank made a huge industry dependent on a single point of failure?

Meanwhile, less verbose investors and VCs quietly worked behind the scenes on convincing the FDIC to guarantee all deposits. One of the Valley’s top seed investors, Ron Conway, reportedly even got Vice President Kamala Harris on the phone to hear his plea for a depositor bailout. The case they made for protecting funds from a maximum $250,000 to, well, infinity, was a more refined version of what the Twitter panics-spreaders were saying: It would stem a collapse in the tech sector and calm people all over the country who were suddenly worried about their own banks’ stability. (It would also mean that from this point forward, holding to the limit is indefensible.) It’s not clear whether the lobbying affected the actual decision. But the attempts were unseemly, an unattractive display of the power of this massive industry. 

So what has been uncovered in the week since we learned that Silicon Valley Bank was no more trustworthy than a crypto spam text? A startup culture once considered the gem of the economy has been exposed as careless with its money, clueless in its judgment of character, hypocritical in its ideology, and ruthless in exercising its political clout as a powerful special interest. Meanwhile, the financial world is still jittery, with other banks failing and just about everyone wondering what comes next. And from here on, the concept of a cap on FDIC insurance is at risk. But at least the SVB credit cards are working again. And VCs can take a victory lap as they brag about how they saved the day.