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Entry tags:
MARCH TDM + SETTING UPDATES
BEARING FRUIT (NEW CHARACTERS ONLY)
It starts out as a pleasant dream. You’re in your favorite place, with your favorite people. It’s a moment of idyllic comfort.
The light starts to fade, but only in time to see as the leaves cradling you immediately start to soften and crumble, and with it comes a torrent of dirt. Soft, loamy soil starts to fill the space around you in the dark as you’re buried. Or, rather, you already were. You reach out through the dirt desperately, and your hands finds a root, so you pull while you clutch that precious crystal so close that it almost feels like it sinks into you (in your panic, you don’t notice that it does). You reach out again, and this time, your hand hits open air and plenty of sturdy roots around to grab.
From a seed you’re born, and like a sprout, you make your way out of the ground.
And once you’ve clawed your way out of the soft earth and the roots, nearby, you see the soil shift. Another hand comes up to grasp desperately for something, anything, just as you had been.
You wake with a start, cradled by soft, velvety plants, and sticky with a sap that smells faintly of honey and iron. You can see the veins of the leaves that hold you, lit warmly and gently by what looks like a crystal embedded above you. Yet, it’s odd, because that crystal calls to you. When you reach out to touch it, it’s warm. Familiar. Important. You don’t know why, but you know you must hold onto this, because now it feels wrong for it to be suspended in these leaves. So, you pull it out.And then, it goes wrong.
The sky turns dark above, and as you look up, you see the black expanse of space spotted with faraway pinprick lights of stars. Yet, they’re not stars. You’re certain. They’re watching you. A billion eyes all looking down, and they spill forth as if sky itself was a dam holding back those dark waters. You reach back to the people you’re with, but they’re frozen in place. Their eyes are black, reflecting only the expanse of dark eyes.
So you run, even though you know you won’t escape it. You glance back and see it not overtaking, but consuming. The landscape around you is being devoured, and you can see it cracking apart. The world itself is breaking, and it cracks under your feet. You fall, and the billion eyes chase after you until the darkness swallows you whole. There’s agony as if you’re being ripped apart, and then—
You cannot see. You cannot feel. You simply are. Yet even so, impossibly, a woman’s voice speaks gently.
I’m sorry it couldn’t be saved. But, come, it’s time to wake.
The light starts to fade, but only in time to see as the leaves cradling you immediately start to soften and crumble, and with it comes a torrent of dirt. Soft, loamy soil starts to fill the space around you in the dark as you’re buried. Or, rather, you already were. You reach out through the dirt desperately, and your hands finds a root, so you pull while you clutch that precious crystal so close that it almost feels like it sinks into you (in your panic, you don’t notice that it does). You reach out again, and this time, your hand hits open air and plenty of sturdy roots around to grab.
From a seed you’re born, and like a sprout, you make your way out of the ground.
And once you’ve clawed your way out of the soft earth and the roots, nearby, you see the soil shift. Another hand comes up to grasp desperately for something, anything, just as you had been.
TWO CITIES, ALIKE IN DIGNITY
With the new Shard-Bearers present or en route, it is Kathova and Cetina that approach the established ones, requesting that they form mentorships with the new souls to assist them with the integration process. To this end, they have both provided a centralized zone in both Highstorm and Springstar for a small, casual meet-and-greet to be held before the new Shard-Bearers are unleashed upon Kenos as a whole.
Additionally, as Springstar and Highstorm are holding their events on different days, it is possible for the knowledge-hungry to participate in both informational sessions -- the tones and opinions held by both cities are doubtless to differ, and some Shard-Bearers who have chosen to harmonize with either faction may even find their way to the opposing faction's session as well.
Tables draped in white-and-gold-trimmed fabrics fare filled with fare typical to Springstar's warmer climate -- fruits and wines, savory smoked meats and roasted vegetables, a series of meze platters and souvlaki skewers have been lain out to encourage forum participants to snack as they speak. The atmosphere is light, ambient with informality and friendliness, though topics will inevitably stray towards philosophic, Springstar's meeting grounds are decorated with handsome chaise lounges and slouching klismos chairs in small, intimate groupings.
However, those who have attended the forum in the past or simply have a sharp eye may notice: food doesn’t flow as freely in a feast-like setting as before. It’s more subdued in presentation and portion because as you may hear, the Blight (see below) is an affliction that’s been affecting the food stores of Springstar and Highstorm both. The Meri are nervous about this and blame it on the Zenites since they had won the Oracle on the Scorching Isles (January's event) and with it, punished the Meridian, even if unintentionally. As such, those who are notable Zenites or who wear their allegiance openly may not be treated as kindly. The military also seems to be more present at the forum. These two things are related, as it turns out, because only a few days after the new Shard-Bearers arrive, an invasion will begin.
There are few places to be seated in the Manor's courtyard, resulting in a milling of bodies as they flow and ebb between smaller gatherings, clustering in small-to-large groups with small platters and shimmering flutes of drink held in their hands.
The mood of Highstorm is subdued as always, but still seems to be pleasant and joyous thanks to claiming the Oracle in the Scorching Isles. The Blight may be affecting the city and causing plants and the like to die, but there’s admittedly not much of it to be seen with Highstorm’s harsh winters. Maybe they’re not hit as badly as Springstar, or maybe they just haven’t noticed yet. Only time will tell. But regardless, notable Meri or those that wear their allegiance more openly will be treated politely, but perhaps with a little condescension. Highstorm is one step closer to winning than Springstar, after all.
Additionally, as Springstar and Highstorm are holding their events on different days, it is possible for the knowledge-hungry to participate in both informational sessions -- the tones and opinions held by both cities are doubtless to differ, and some Shard-Bearers who have chosen to harmonize with either faction may even find their way to the opposing faction's session as well.
SPRINGSTAR, αιώνιος ήλιος
In Springstar, the seat of the Tribune becomes available for such a forum. While a section of the building itself has been reserved for the meeting between fresh faces and experienced Shard-Bearers alike, the hustle and bustle of Heliopolis continues around them -- acolytes still gather their robes and tomes, hurrying from their quarters to lessons. A score of young militants march in step across the yard to the training grounds.Tables draped in white-and-gold-trimmed fabrics fare filled with fare typical to Springstar's warmer climate -- fruits and wines, savory smoked meats and roasted vegetables, a series of meze platters and souvlaki skewers have been lain out to encourage forum participants to snack as they speak. The atmosphere is light, ambient with informality and friendliness, though topics will inevitably stray towards philosophic, Springstar's meeting grounds are decorated with handsome chaise lounges and slouching klismos chairs in small, intimate groupings.
However, those who have attended the forum in the past or simply have a sharp eye may notice: food doesn’t flow as freely in a feast-like setting as before. It’s more subdued in presentation and portion because as you may hear, the Blight (see below) is an affliction that’s been affecting the food stores of Springstar and Highstorm both. The Meri are nervous about this and blame it on the Zenites since they had won the Oracle on the Scorching Isles (January's event) and with it, punished the Meridian, even if unintentionally. As such, those who are notable Zenites or who wear their allegiance openly may not be treated as kindly. The military also seems to be more present at the forum. These two things are related, as it turns out, because only a few days after the new Shard-Bearers arrive, an invasion will begin.
HIGHSTORM, луны-близнецы
Eternally in opposition, Highstorm provides the Manor's courtyard as the setting for their informational meeting. Formality is of utmost importance here, with attending Zenith loyalists and residents dressed in beautiful, albeit austere attire -- they are, after all, standing before Lady Yima's home. A buffet-style luncheon is spread alongside one of the largest reflecting pools, wherein you may gaze and find your memories revealed in retrospect upon the water's surface.There are few places to be seated in the Manor's courtyard, resulting in a milling of bodies as they flow and ebb between smaller gatherings, clustering in small-to-large groups with small platters and shimmering flutes of drink held in their hands.
The mood of Highstorm is subdued as always, but still seems to be pleasant and joyous thanks to claiming the Oracle in the Scorching Isles. The Blight may be affecting the city and causing plants and the like to die, but there’s admittedly not much of it to be seen with Highstorm’s harsh winters. Maybe they’re not hit as badly as Springstar, or maybe they just haven’t noticed yet. Only time will tell. But regardless, notable Meri or those that wear their allegiance more openly will be treated politely, but perhaps with a little condescension. Highstorm is one step closer to winning than Springstar, after all.
para bellum (the occupation of alenroux)
A few days after new Shard-Bearers arrive, the word spreads quickly as the campaign begins: Meridian is invading Alenroux.
To those who have Harmonized with Meridian, they’ll be contacted by Cyrus through Communion 48 hours before the invasion begins. As he explains, Springstar is a city that depends on Alenroux far more than Highstorm (because of its much larger population), and with Alenroux currently under Zenite control, it’s imperative that they make sure that Zenith isn’t able to cut off access and cause a famine for Springstar. Zenith won’t be denied access to Alenroux or its bounty either, he makes that clear. This is just a matter of being proactive in their defense to protect their people. For the Meridian, their goals in supporting this effort are clear:
It takes some time for Yima to learn more about the events herself, but Zenith will also be contacted through Communion. With the air of a disappointed mother, she’ll explain that Meridian’s choice is regrettable since she thought they would be better than this. Yima explains that there’s no need to turn Alenroux into an open warzone and cut off both cities from their breadbasket. Instead, she lays out the following direction to gently break Meridian’s spirit first before turning to open hostilities:
To those who have Harmonized with Meridian, they’ll be contacted by Cyrus through Communion 48 hours before the invasion begins. As he explains, Springstar is a city that depends on Alenroux far more than Highstorm (because of its much larger population), and with Alenroux currently under Zenite control, it’s imperative that they make sure that Zenith isn’t able to cut off access and cause a famine for Springstar. Zenith won’t be denied access to Alenroux or its bounty either, he makes that clear. This is just a matter of being proactive in their defense to protect their people. For the Meridian, their goals in supporting this effort are clear:
- Create secure outposts. Well-built, defensible outposts are needed, so anyone who can assist with building efforts, and quickly are appreciated.
- Defend the outposts and the Meri soldiers at large. Alenroux is still dangerous because of the monsters, and soldiers will be staying overnight. Fighting off monsters is something that will also eventually make Alenroux inhabitable.
- Prevent Zenith interference. Highstorm surely won’t be happy about this, so make sure that the soldiers and the outposts are protected from Zenites just as much as from the monsters that roam the lands.
It takes some time for Yima to learn more about the events herself, but Zenith will also be contacted through Communion. With the air of a disappointed mother, she’ll explain that Meridian’s choice is regrettable since she thought they would be better than this. Yima explains that there’s no need to turn Alenroux into an open warzone and cut off both cities from their breadbasket. Instead, she lays out the following direction to gently break Meridian’s spirit first before turning to open hostilities:
- Collect information. Where are the outposts, how many soldiers are assigned to them, and what are their general movements. Scouting and spying will be valuable. Learning more about the Meri Shard-Bearers’ capabilities while they’re fighting creatures rather than Zenites is also useful.
- Create dissent. The people that work and visit Alenroux regularly have mixed feelings about the occupation unless they’re Meridian loyalists. Making the campaign unpopular with the people can push Meridian back without needing to raise a finger.
- Sabotage. But don’t get caught doing it, at least for now. Whether breaking defenses or leading more powerful monsters to the encampments, it’s best to break morale before needing to fight back openly.
SETTING UPDATES
In both locations, information passes between all in a forum, spread and disseminated among the masses - it's a good opportunity for city residents, faction loyalists and interested new parties to share and share alike. Once the meet-and-greet has concluded, twin missives from both faction leads are read out -- invitations for all present to explore the cities to their heart's content, and warnings about stumbling ill-prepared ( or at all ) into the Below, or worse yet, the Beyond. As Shard-Bearers new and old take in their cities, they'll all see it change throughout the month...
OOC, these are all updates to the setting at large that players both new and old are free to interact with as little or as much as they wish! Feel free to use them as prompts on this post, in your characters on-going lives and arcs, or just let them go "that's none of my business" and ignore it. The world of Kenos is shaped by our playerbase, and these are some of the wider reaching effects of various player plots and actions.
OOC, these are all updates to the setting at large that players both new and old are free to interact with as little or as much as they wish! Feel free to use them as prompts on this post, in your characters on-going lives and arcs, or just let them go "that's none of my business" and ignore it. The world of Kenos is shaped by our playerbase, and these are some of the wider reaching effects of various player plots and actions.
THE BLIGHT
During the events of the Scorching Isles, Shard-Bearers encountered an affliction upon the island and unintentionally brought it back to Highstorm and Springstar with them. Known simply as “the Blight,” this condition steals time from the things it infects. It most frequently infects inanimate objects and will cause them to rot or degrade rapidly (such as a piece of metal rusting within hours) but is able to infect living things as well. Most notably, the Blight is infecting plants and animals in the two cities. Plants both decorative and necessary will wither and die, and small animals grow sick and die seemingly of old age. This has been seen in small amounts throughout the past month OOC but is greatly increased in frequency in March and beyond.FURTHER DETAILS
- Within the NPC populace, there’s a low-grade fear of the Blight intensifying and being able to infect larger animals/the people. There’s no evidence of this yet, but Shard-Bearers that were on the Scorching Isles will know this is possible.
- Some characters will be aware that the rare, blue flowers that grow in the barren portions of World’s End (February’s event location) seem to reduce the effects of the detrimental effects of the Oracle and the Blight. Because of some drops of characters that knew this information, you can assume that characters are able to learn this information if they’re interested enough to dig into it.
- Dr. Julia Melnik of Springstar is openly researching cures for the Blight and will recruit anyone interested to be research assistants to test formulations of cures on afflicted plants/creatures. You can handwave these interactions and use them for prompt(s), if you’d like!
- Finally, if curing the Blight is something your character would specifically be interested in, please note it in your Character Survey so that the Loremasters will be able to help you pursue this organically.
THE OCCUPATION OF ALENROUX
As mentioned above, Meridian has launched a surprise invasion and occupation of Alenroux. Because Meridian was able to successfully keep their efforts a secret throughout the months (!) they’ve been planning this, Zenith will not be able to repel their advances… Immediately, at least. After roughly a week OOC from this log’s posting, the Meridian outposts in Alenroux will be stable and will change the island in the following ways:If Zenith would like to repel these advances, this is a response that will be purely in player hands (but will be assisted by Zenite NPCs, of course!). If they want to reclaim Alenroux, they can, or they can simply let Meridian continue. It’s up to you! This is something that Zenite players should discuss both IC and OOC, and if this plot develops further, Loremasters will help facilitate the ongoing conflict as a part of our changing game environment.FURTHER DETAILS
- Outposts have been established in well-chosen, defensible locations throughout the island of Alenroux. They’re clustered more heavily closer to the Cornerstone and are non-existent in the more dangerous Northern portion of the island where little farming is done anyways.
- Meridian soldiers will be always staying in the camps and outposts. For now, they’re a more supervisory force that are protecting the farmlands of Alenroux. During the day cycle, the military will respond with hostility to anyone that threatens the farms. If your character would antagonize or outright fight Meridian military, please contact a Loremaster, since this will have repercussions! Otherwise, the soldiers will assist workers and visitors to Alenroux in a professional manner.
- During the night cycle, the military will defend their outposts from monsters and make occasional offensive excursions to reduce the threat of monsters. The secondary goal of the Meridian military is also to make Alenroux a place that people can live, though this is a longer term effort.
- Meridian Shard-Bearers will be strongly encouraged to assist with the effort. “Assist” is purposefully defined broadly so that characters can help in whatever way suits them. Scouting, building, monster killing, or just morale improving are all valid ways that will gain favor with their faction and may lead to further opportunity. For now, abstaining will not have consequences, but may in the future.
- Zenith Shard-Bearers will be treated with suspicion in Alenroux and are not allowed to approach any of the Meridian outposts, or at least not without triggering a fight. The military will not outright attack Zenites (unless provoked) and essentially encouraged to move along. However, they may wish to gather information about the outposts and Meridian forces to attempt to push back against the occupation.
- Unharmonized Shard-Bearers are not treated with hostility, but similar to Zeniths will not be allowed to enter any of the encampments.
- If your character has an interest in continuing or stopping the occupation, please note it in your Character Survey so that Loremasters will be able to help you pursue this organically.
SMALLER CHANGES
HIGHSTORM: GREENWOOD YARDS
Considering the affliction that threatens the well-being of flora and small fauna alike, the greenhouses are far more discerning with those who are permitted inside its gates, afraid of the contagion affecting the precious, invaluable greenery of long-dead worlds. After the occupation of Alenroux, Meridian will be outright turned away, and while Zenith possesses no formal military or police, the greenskeepers appear to be prepared to defend their property with physical force should it come to that. Unharmonized are still allowed inside. The rest of the Yard beyond the greenhouses are still open to all factions.
And though it may seem an odd place for such a gathering, the indoor bathhouse at the far end of the Yards appears to be gaining popularity for mysterious reasons; if asked, none of the locals will explain the abrupt uptick in visitation. But should you investigate yourself, the reason why becomes apparent through experience: the tea served by the attendants here has changed properties. Should you be a Zenite, you will be served a cup that decreases your body's natural need for food and drink for 24 hours - an effort to test a concoction to relieve the need to deplete resources and lessen the city's reliance on Alenroux. Should you be a Meridian, the tea you're served will increase your appetite a considerable degree even if you normally do not require sustenance, and you will find yourself unfulfilled even if you are unwise and eat yourself to the point of illness; this lasts for 24 hours. The Unharmonized will find the tea might make them vaguely woozy, and either cause mild increase or decrease in appetite.
KOWLOON: DRAUMAHOL (cw: drugs)
Those that frequent Kowloon may have heard about the sudden disappearance of the former owner and operator of the drug den Draumahol, though it was only really noted because of the business being closed for a few days. Practically unheard of, since the desperate of Highstorm and Springstar come to Draumahol for their various fixes that are a little more taboo on the surface. But, never fear. After a brief closure, Draumahol reopens.
While it may not be obvious early in the month, it'll be increasingly so that Draumahol is under new management. Those that frequent the business enough will be able to figure out that the new owner is Silco (or, if you personally know him, it's fairly obvious). If you would like to plot anything regarding Draumahol, we encourage reaching out to Silco's player, Jill!
SPRINGSTAR: THE CHURCH
After the loss of the first Oracle, the Church of Heliopolis has been busy tending to its flock as the numbers coming to seek comfort swell. The gatherings aren't formal "services" so much as they're chances for people to come together and inspire each other with their homes and dreams of home. One formal process that does stick out though is that with each "service" one member will tap into the world shown in their sunbeam and open their minds to Communion. Anyone that wishes to can also experience this member's home, see their friends, loved ones, and the sights. It's a intimate bonding activity, but seems to be very cathartic for those that partake.
Additionally, those that come by the Church frequently enough to be known faces at the "services" may also be approached by priests and priestesses and invited to join in smaller ceremonies. Always taking place during Springstar's dawn or dusk, these ceremonies have a markedly different vibe and are lead by Hieropoios Natalia herself. Attending these ceremonies is an exclusive honor that will reduce attendees' Discord and has a subtly addictive quality that will encourage them to return. Hm!
OOC NOTES
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kenoslogs.
ᴡɪʟᴅᴄᴀʀᴅ ▸ a gradient eclipse, at the manor's courtyard.
It takes a while longer for him to leave his house, and when he does, he has an ornate box in his hands, emblazoned with rubies and gold, made out of strong oak. There might be a split-second where his expression fades into something muted and lost, a melancholic demeanour that's quite different from how he usually is, but it's there and gone within the next moment. He retreats to a small corner of Yima's garden where a bundle of Cecilias have started to surround it in full bloom. To think that it's been a while since she once told him to build a beautiful garden and now he's thinking of ruining it.
For what? A burial, probably, but he knows he's being overdramatic.
Once he checks the Tree for any signs of where the Shard could be, then he can put his theories to rest and figure out where to go from there. That's all he has to worry about for now.
So he turns around, ready to head for the Cornerstone that will take him to the island where the Tree is situated at, only to catch sight of a familiar shade of bright red hair that burns as brightly as the sun. He almost drops the box he's holding onto. He must look like an idiot with the way he's struggling to get out something — anything at all — to say. And how sad is it that the very first thing he thought of how this must be a dream.
Because there's simply no way — ]
Diluc...?
[ — could be standing there right in front of him. ]
no subject
and man his nipples could cut diamonds at this point.perhaps he shouldn't have been so quick to leave the tree.
but diluc has never been a man of what-ifs or reminiscing on what could have been. he forges onward, takes random turns and does not admit he has no idea where he's going, when fate brings him to a familiar face.
in the end, it's always him, isn't it?
he is notedly not in the same state as diluc. in fact he looks as if he's been here at least longer than diluc, holding some sort of box and looking surprised to see him. normally, diluc would be suspicious, unsure if the kaeya he's seeing is actually kaeya, especially in a seemingly entirely different world with all sorts of magicks he doesn't know about. but-- well, the expression says it all.
what an unexpected expression on a familiar face. diluc doesn't know what to think about it. why does kaeya look as if he's seeing a ghost? should he be glad to see another familiar face so they could get out of here together? they may not be on the best terms at this point, but they've collaborated on enough things in the past that their relationship is cordial.
diluc shifts.]
Are you going to stand there and gawk all day?
no subject
Kaeya reaches the point where it feels like he's at the end of his rope, and then somehow, one way or another, Diluc manages to find him he spirals even further. It has been almost a year since he first crawled out of a crystalline prison and was told that his world no longer existed. That everyone he loved and adored were gone, swallowed whole by a void that was inescapable.
The story didn't change when he first awoke underneath Yima's manor. And ever since then, it feels like he's just simply been existing — one step forward followed by another. Point A to Point B. Some days, it's difficult to remember what he is supposed to be fighting for, but all it takes is one look at the Shard once locked away in this box, and then he remembers. That's right, he would tell himself; Because of him, I have to keep going.
His father once said that he should aim to lead a life like those who blaze like fire, but lately, he knows that he was doing the exact opposite. He'd crumbled into ash and dying embers, but what better way to reignite that flame than by leading him to the only one who could ever inspire to do better? ]
I thought... [ His mouth feels like cotton. His words smell like smoke. He holds onto the box even tighter than before — almost desperate. ] I thought I would never see you again, so I...
[ He doesn't move an inch from where he stands.
Surrounded by cecilias, Kaeya remains rooted in spot, unaware that he started to cry. ]
no subject
there's no wound for him to sooth this time.
he takes kaeya by the shoulders, hoping he can discern who the hell told kaeya these lies just by looking into his eye. his expression firm but his tone uncharacteristically gentle, he asks:] Who told you that? I'm here now, aren't I? Don't believe such lies so easily.
[he's out of practice, but he tries to console the best he can with the words he thought he'd lost long ago. truly, he hadn't seen kaeya so much as sad since he returned to mondstadt. kaeya was careful in his portrayal, carefully crafted so as to be friendly but remain distant. even with their strained relationship, diluc could see that much.
but to see him in a moment of vulnerability like this- well, diluc has spent his entire lifetime protecting kaeya during these moments, and the mere sight of it sparks his muscle memory. all thoughts of cordiality and tense relationships and spies and rainy nights are but flickers of thoughts compared to the heavy reality of kaeya before him, looking just like he had the night he was found.
softer, almost an afterthought, he says:] Who did this to you...?
no subject
What he does first is— search for his Shard, and once he finds it, he realizes how different it looks from the one he'd been holding onto all this time, but he knows it's the same one nonetheless. It's a feeling so honest and true that he dares not to assume otherwise. That only draws out a few more tears out of him; even his eyepatch is beginning to feel damp.
He doesn't know what to do. What is he supposed to say here? His heart is bursting at the seams with so many things that have gone unsaid between the two of them, but is this the right time? Will it be okay if he tells Diluc everything again?
(What if this is all just a dream?) ]
... This could be a trick, for all I know. It wouldn't be the first time it happened.
[ At this point, he knows that the sudden lack of emotion in his voice is a defense mechanism, but he has no idea what he'll do if it turns out none of this real. It scares him to even consider that possibility. ]
no subject
he supposes, though, that he always sort of knew that kaeya didn't quite change so much as slathered on a completely different personality from the kaeya he knew as children. and this moment proves his suspicions. in the end, he didn't come back to a stranger wearing his sworn brother's skin. he'd been there all along, diluc was just yet another fool who fell for kaeya's many lies.
despite so many years of being away from kaeya, despite the night that broke them, he still can't stand to see kaeya cry. muscle memory demands he pull kaeya closer, mindful of the box still between them, arms enveloping protectively around the dearest and closest person in his life.
again, he has no idea who's been lying to kaeya all this time, but diluc will be sure to give them an earful after he's done consoling kaeya. just how much pain did kaeya have to endure alone? once more, despite their strained relationship, diluc doesn't think even he could stand the thought of kaeya's death. kaeya was still the person he grew up with, the closest thing to a family he has left. he knows for a fact it's the same for kaeya.
all the issues between them seem so small.]
I'm here, now, Kaeya.
[again, softly.]
I'm here.
no subject
Whenever it rained so hard that it came with thunder and lighting, he would always wake up with a silent scream and a terrified look on his face. He lost count of just how many times he crawled out of his own bed and into Diluc's, seeking comfort in the warmth of his embrace as the other whispered soothing promises until he fell back asleep. The next day would always greet him with the sight of Diluc fast asleep next to him, curled around in such a way that would protect him from the rest of the world.
This moment feels a lot like those days. Their roles aren't even reversed: Kaeya is the one who's scared while Diluc tries his very best to calm him down. He doesn't know when it is that he finally wrapped his arms around the other, feeling how solid and real he is under his touch. He doesn't realize how much he's shaking.
Luckily for his dignity, he is now able to bury his face on Diluc's shoulder. It's also right there and then that he finds some way to ruin the moment — another defense mechanism, whenever things become too much. ]
... And you're somehow without a shirt. How are you not freezing?
[ Diluc is still so warm— this is almost unfair, if it wasn't another sign that he really is alive. ]
no subject
and despite kaeya being the one to actually be fully clothed, he is as chilled as ever.]
You know why.
[he runs hot and has always run hot - it just intensified after he received his vision, so he's just returning to his baseline now that he's without it (for now? hopefully?). he'd always used it to keep kaeya warm when they were young and even as they grew older into their teenage years, diluc was always rubbing kaeya's hands to breathe warmth into them.
even now, in their young adulthood, he finds himself once again enveloping kaeya protectively in his embrace. life really comes around full circle, huh? he's not going to say it out loud, but it's kind of nice to see his cute shy baby brother coming through again.]
Do you trust that I'm real now? Now that we're both sticky and covered in dirt?
no subject
... Yes. Just as long as you don't turn into dust once I look away from you.
[ Kaeya knows that he's going to be embarrassed about what happened here — especially since it's all out in the open too. Never has he openly displayed such raw emotion to anyone before, not since he and Diluc parted ways before, but he supposes that's what happens when the only thing that kept him going is finally here. He's always felt safe around the other man; it doesn't matter how strained things have become between the two of them. There was no one else who could easily knock down his walls like Diluc can.
Shakily, he breathes in nice and slow. A small attempt to get rid of the rest of his nerves. He doesn't want to pull away from Diluc just yet, but he knows that he has to. It doesn't feel right to let the man remain shirtless, nor does he feel all that comfortable to stay right where they are either.
He breaks away from Diluc's embrace just so he can shrug off his coat. Not that he thinks it'll fit Diluc that well, but at least it's better than nothing. ]
Take this for now. I'll take you back to where I live so that we can get you some proper clothes. Come.
[ He turns to lead the way, heading westward. ]
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[on both fronts- he refuses to crumble away when kaeya is right here and in need of his presence, and he refuses to take the damn jacket because he's fine whereas kaeya is clearly not. like diluc felt how cold you are kaeya, there is no hiding it or lying about it. he takes the offered jacket and just drapes it back around kaeya's shoulders, tucking it around him completely so no draft drifts in.]
And you need this more than I do. ['idiot' goes unsaid, but it's loud and clear in his tone.] What did we just establish about me? I'll be fine.
[with that and not entertaining any refusals, he follows kaeya, walking alongside him.
it's been such a long time since they were last able to do this. he remembers running long shifts as cavalry captain back then, walking back home late with kaeya always at his side, ever reliable. the nostalgia is nearly suffocating as their footsteps echo in the night air, and he wonders how the hell it even came to this. to the point that kaeya alberich broke down in his arms, looking so much like the child he once was.]
I didn't think I would ever see that expression on your face again. [said softly, as if in thought.]
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Alright, alright. [ He finally acquiesces. ] You only need to say it once.
[ If Diluc Ragnvindr will continue to insist he's fine, then Kaeya has no choice but to believe him.
He falls silent as soon as the man falls right into step with him. The two of them walking side-by-side hasn't happened in such a long time, it's true, but that gives Kaeya all the more reason not to take advantage of this moment. A part of him wants to address the elephant in the room — or the sidewalk, as it were — to speak about the factions and other concepts that rule over this world, because Diluc will inevitably have to make that choice, and yet...
At the same time, he doesn't want to waste tonight on things he has no control over. Diluc will choose what's right for him, and that's all Kaeya can ever ask for.
(In the end, he won't make his selfish desires known.) ]
As for that, ah... A lot has happened, I suppose.
[ And that's putting it mildly.
His tone at least implies that it's something they can talk about later, but Kaeya won't refuse Diluc if he wants to pursue this conversation. They have quite a few ways to go before they reach Kaeya's house in this neighbourhood. The eternal night affords them the peace and quiet they need, at the very least. Highstorm has never been as lively and busy as Springstar so they don't have to compete with anyone for space on the streets.
It takes him a while longer to realize he hasn't said anything after his last statement. Only Diluc has this effect on him. ]
... Have you eaten—?
[ —good enough. ]
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he doesn't want to push, but something has hurt kaeya deeply (other than himself 😬), and he's itching to know who and how. and if he can get his hands around that person's neck (again, other than himself).]
How long have you been away from Mondstadt - from Teyvat, exactly?
[he corrects himself, as he knows the kaeya he knew was in sumeru and would have been gone for some time. he wonders for a moment how that works - perhaps time simply works differently. he wouldn't be surprised. if resurrection from the dead can be a thing, surely time warps can too.]
--I haven't, no. [he was too busy looking for a shirt.] But we can worry about that once we arrive at your home.
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So he starts with the easier topic first: ]
... I'm not entirely certain if my clothes will fit you, but I'm sure I'll find something that works.
[ Diluc seems so different compared to the last time he saw him. Then again, it has been a long while since he last saw the man. ]
And— it's been almost a year, since I was whisked away from Teyvat.
[ It truly has been year of unfortunate events piling up one after another with little to no real break in between. Kaeya has no idea how he managed to keep himself standing, but thinking about what Diluc would have done in certain moments helped more than the man himself will ever know.
(Because deep down, he know that Diluc would have kept going no matter what.) ]
You must have a lot of questions. I'll do my best to answer all of them.
[ That's all he really has to say until they get to his place. It's not much further, and soon enough, Kaeya is unlocking the door to his house near the Fields of Fantasia. The house is nothing to really write about; barely finished, only the necessities. Diluc might see a pot of beautiful blue flowers in the living room, but that's about it as far as striking decor. ]
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It's fine. I ought to thank you for your assistance.
[diluc's eyes flick over to kaeya, paying careful attention. but- well, instead of explaining all that's happened, he asks is diluc has any questions. typical kaeya, not revealing anything about himself at all. even to diluc. he supposes he has no one to blame but himself, because the last time kaeya tried to tell him about himself... diluc looks away, feeling some kind of way (guilt? shame?)
at least they're actually talking, now. now that they're both stripped of their pretenses. kaeya may still be cautious with what he says, but he is no longer prodding at the beast that is diluc and looking for a reaction.
he's about to ask a question when they enter kaeya's space and he sees... nothing. no decorations, no quirky furniture. just a plain house with just the basics. the only decoration as far as he can see is some blue flowers, but that's it. it's been a year, hasn't it?]
Have you only been living here recently? [a deep frown.] It's barely furnished. [he wanders over to the flowers, inspecting them. he wonders about the significance of these, considering these are the only decoration in sight. the only sign that anyone at all even lives here.]
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... I haven't exactly had the time to decorate. It's not really on the forefront of my mind.
[ Then again, a part of it is also because Kaeya has kept himself so busy that he has very little downtime as it is. This place has just turned into a place he sleeps at rather than somewhere he spends a considerable amount of time in, so— ]
I did acquire this place a couple months ago, so that is also a factor.
[ He hasn't been here long at all, no. Which will probably raise a few more questions in Diluc's mind. ]
Come.
[ He gestures for the man to follow him up the stairs to his bedroom. It's there that Kaeya starts searching through the drawers for any clothes that might fit Diluc. There are a few loose-fitting items of clothing that he piles on the bed. ]
See if any of those will work.
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[you can't pull a fast one over diluc, kaeya. he speaks dryly, like he doesn't believe kaeya for a second (he never really could after that night - not that he has any room to talk.) and if his proposed questions are true, then diluc will have a word with the head of this faction into giving kaeya some damn free time to relax!!!
he gruffly follows kaeya, perusing the options offered to him. they do indeed seem much slimmer than his own build, but he chooses a shirt made out of stretchy material and a pair of equally stretchy pants that seem comfortable - most importantly, there's a drawstring as a closure.
he sets them aside until he's clean.]
Is that why you look so tired? [and sad?]
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Kaeya shoots Diluc a certain Look, one that makes him question whether or not the man is serious. That's what he gets out of this? This man always had the weirdest priorities, so maybe it shouldn't surprise Kaeya that he zeroes in on that here too, but still — what Kaeya does with his time is no one's business but his own. He wonders if he should bother lying, knowing full well that Diluc would call him out immediately.
... Maybe if he softens the blow of the truth, a little.
(The sadness though— that can't be helped. That's a core part of who he is nowadays.) ]
Of course not. I just have my hands in many pies, after all.
[ It won't be until later in the month that Kaeya realizes just how little time he has for himself, but it's fine. Maybe this is why Kathova gave him the weasel... ]
You know I've never been the type to remain idle.
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[diluc takes that Look in stride because he cares about the things he cares about. and rest and proper sleep and nutrition are some of those things! especially when it comes to his little brother. he's really gone and gotten some bad habits. diluc knows better than anyone that amber's complaints about the lazy cavalry captain are false. that said cavalry captain is putting up a ruse and nothing more. sigh. exhausting.]
Now, if I may use your bath?
[he is getting increasingly uncomfortable in the sap and dirt - and his hair's more of a mess than usual.]
Afterward... [he seeks out kaeya's gaze, a small smile on his lips.] We can have a meal together.
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[ Somehow, that's the only thing that manages to get through Kaeya's head out of everything that Diluc just said. He almost couldn't believe that the man is suggesting it. It has been years since the two of them had a proper meal together, even more so for Diluc to be the one to cook it for him. Then again, this is a strange moment in their lives, so maybe...
Kaeya manages to regain himself long enough to remember that Diluc is still sticky and messy from being literally reborn from the Tree of Life. He gestures towards his door and nods. ]
Certainly, after your bath. Turn right once you leave the room; it's the last door down the hall.
[ While Diluc prepares himself a bath, Kaeya is going to clean up too. After all, he held onto Diluc like a child, and now he has sap and dirt all over him too. At least he'll be presentable once his brother is done with the bath... ]
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he keeps a towel around his shoulders to catch any stray drips from his hair and meanders back to the main area, heading straight for the kitchen. he wants to whip up some steaks not only because they're his favorite food but to put some weight on kaeya as well. but when he looks around the kitchen and the fridge if kenos has fridges, he sees... barely anything. just eggs and bread.
he shuts the cabinet with a loud sound.]
Kaeya.
[he turns to wherever kaeya is, looking wholly unimpressed... cue the "bitch you live like this?" meme.]
Why is there nothing to eat in your home? [he marches closer, inspecting kaeya.] Have you been skipping meals?
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He remembers that he only has a few items in the pantry and the icebox so he isn't entirely surprised when Diluc stares at him with a judgmental expression on his face. A sheepish smile is all he has to offer. ]
Skipping meals? Not exactly. I did tell you I haven't been spending much time here. Any food I keep would simply rot away.
[ And it would have been a waste. ]
Would you rather we go grab a bite to eat somewhere else?
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there are a lot of things he could lecture kaeya on - he can't always keep eating out, home cooking is more nutritious and also more cost effective - but he settles on just shaking his head.]
It's fine, I'd rather eat here in private.
[he has a lot he needs to ask kaeya after all.]
I can make do with what we have here. [and after today, diluc is using his allowance to buy kaeya some fucking food.
he turns on his heel and proceeds to ready the ingredients. if only he had his vision, he could speed up the cooking process, but whatever, eggs don't take too long anyway. egg sandwiches! he uses up all the eggs and bread available but that's fine. he'll get kaeya more tomorrow.]
Honestly, is this how you've been taking care of yourself? I had thought you looked a little on the thin side, but I assumed it was merely your choice in clothing.
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I've taken care of myself as best as I can.
[ Maybe it isn't up to Diluc's standards, but... ]
I'm still here, aren't I? [ Maybe a little bit too morbid, but it is the plain truth. He doesn't think lying to Diluc will work right now. ] I simply had other priorities, so things like that fell to the wayside, I suppose.
[ He pauses for a second, mostly to pick up one of the sandwiches. ]
... Thank you for the food, regardless.
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he shakes his head, stacking four sandwiches as well on his plate.]
As long as you're alive, I'll take care of the rest.
["you can rely on me," he seems to be saying as he starts chowing down. egg sandwiches may not be very fancy, but it always tastes good regardless! they can get some protein and carbs while they're at it, too.
he gestures to kaeya's plate.]
Eat up. We've had quite the eventful evening. The yolk is runny, just as you like it.
[diluc is like, already done with his first sandwich.]
Now. I assume since you're living here, you joined Zenith.
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Regardless, Kaeya does try his very best to start munching through them, but he eats only one of them at first. This is probably more food than he's had in a while so he doesn't want to rush it for fear of upsetting his stomach. Not that he thinks it would happen, but it is something he'll have to keep in mind.
There's also no stopping the indescribable feeling that overwhelms him when Diluc says that he'll take care of the rest. It's close enough to relief.
But it's short-lived once the topic turns into faction talk. ]
... Do we have to talk about this now?
[ This is only going to ruin the delicate balance they've managed to wrangle between the two of them, so he doesn't know if he's ready to have this conversation just yet. ]
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