SEPTEMBER TDM + SETTING UPDATES

[beleos]

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.

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.

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.

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.

However, for those who have attended such events in the past, they'll note a marked difference—Only newly arrived Shard-Bearers and members of the faction are welcome. If you're a member of the opposite faction, you'll be questioned and ultimately turned away. If you want to join the party, you'll have to be a little sneakier, it seems.

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.

The welcoming party is in the Seat of the Tribune, with tables draped in white-and-gold-trimmed fabrics fare filled with fare typical to Springstar's slowly fading winter -- fruits and wines, savory smoked meats and roasted vegetables, and large bowls of soups like youvarlakia and fasoalda have been lain out to encourage forum participants to snack as they speak. There are plenty of grains and other dishes that elude to an abundant harvest from Alenroux. The atmosphere is ambient with informality and friendliness, though topics will inevitably stray towards philosophic or political, Springstar's meeting grounds are decorated with handsome chaise lounges and slouching klismos chairs in small, intimate groupings. This is a forum in the classical sense, where people are encouraged to speak freely, no matter the topic. Though excitement charges the air, the gathering at the Seat is much more muted than what transpires outside the center of the city.

The mood in Springstar as a whole is jubilant, with not just a party at the seat of the tribune, but elsewhere, including the Psychagogía district. Parties line the streets, establishments that overflow with bodies, drink, and libations of all sorts. There is a sense of excitement in capturing the latest oracle, and the people seem to treat the shard-bearers of Meridian somewhat reverently, and new ones, they will pull aside and explain with excitement about how the Shard-Bearers captured the oracle (with varying degrees of accuracy) and how it is because of them that they will be seen to victory. Cyrus’s name, however, still comes with notes of disdain. It’s clear that the Tribune has not bought much good favor by their victory, and instead, if any ask, or follow the threads, they will hear the names Desmond Ó Ruadháin and Agapitos Voreen as likely successors to the Tribune. However if one asks how that happens… details become a bit more muddy. Apparently, the role of the Tribune is for life. And apparently, the denizens of Springstar trust the Shard-Bearers to see the oracles through, and still see Cyrus as a weak link in their chain.

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. Soft tunes filter over the courtyard, and if the sounds of them sound familiar – perhaps remind one of home? That’s because they are! Yima’s musicians seem to be able to pilfer strings and strands of music, and weave it all together expertly, to give both new arrivals and old friends reminders of their home.

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. Yet, as you look, you’ll see that the selection is also quite interesting. The foods and drinks on offer are from a multitude of worlds, and so you may find a new favorite! Or something not suited to your palate at all. It’s at least a chance to be adventurous. If you try something and don’t like it, might not want to say that out loud, lest you insult someone who’s from that world.

The city itself is more muted than usual. The last dregs of Highstorm’s chill summer are coming to an end, and the cold is an opportunity for Highstorm’s denizens to batter in more frequently, and the chill may have something to do with the lost oracle. Though, if asked, they’ll say nothing of the sort, of course! In opposition to Springstar’s mixed jubilation and doubt, Highstorm’s denizens seem determined that lady Yima will see them through, and that one loss is no reason to fall into despair. Though they are still disappointed, and will say so. Though blame does not seem to have a target, mere disappointment filters through the city, as they start preparing for winter. The prices seem higher, whether one is looking for potions, supplies, or even small trinkets from the The Antiques & Baubles Market. Things seem… leaner in a sense. There’s nobody starving on the streets in Highstorm, but the control of Alenroux continues to lead to tense relations, even though a compromise seems to have been recently reached between the two factions.

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.

THE BLIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL

Since the Blight’s conclusion, both cities have undergone a fair bit of effort to reconstruct the districts and buildings that were destroyed in the Blight, though Springstar seems a touch further along than Highstorm, due to Shard-bearer efforts. The unusual weather pockets present previously have very nearly all disappeared, though there are some patches still present, lingering in the areas still somewhat ravaged by the Blight. The pockets seem to be losing their effects now, and if one finds themself within, will experience a mild slowing down or speeding up of time. Visions still appear within the small bubbles, reflections of dear ones or important events, though they seem to be only memory, though anyone within the bubble can bear witness.

FURTHER DETAILS

OOCly, characters can still stumble into small bubbles of time, though they are fewer and far between than they were 3 months ago! These time bubbles still have some time-warping energy, and will continue to allow characters to either speed up or slow down, depending on player preference! In addition, the time bubbles are no longer bringing back remnants of Kenosians past, but there is still the chance of some memory reflections to briefly manifest in the bubble. They will come from player characters as a whole, and are purely up to whatever is fun for you! Think of it as brief flickers of memory sharing, they can be as brief or as distorted as you like! Think of this as the last gasp of the Blight, as it withers away thanks to the concentrated efforts of all shard bearers!

CHECKS AND BALANCES

Alenroux continues to improve, and with the new balance between both Springstar and Highstorm, the separate island is safer than ever! The tensions between both factions seem to have reduced over the island, thanks to the efforts of several shard bearers, and the populace seems to be warming to both factions once again.

FURTHER DETAILS

After the resolution of the first Kenos Ambassador agreement, the balance of power in Alenroux is already starting to shift. The island already has a much more evenly-matched number of military forces from both Springstar and Highstorm, the number of troops in the area has reduced significantly. The number of monsters does not seem to have increased at this time, which bodes well for the area. The uptick of Highstorm locals has certainly led to more food flowing into Highstorm than had before, and the people seem pleased with the arrangement – for the moment! The small murmurs of discontent and unrest seem to have alleviated at this time. Though some still seem uncomfortable with the amount of troops, they seem less willing to say that out loud. Though nights in Alenroux will possibly never be wholly safe, the threats seem more manageable, though nobody will ever turn down Shard-Bearer assistance in a pinch!

TO INFINITY – AND BEYOND

Rumbling about temples being erected in the Beyond, which lies outside of Highstorm’s city limits, close to another that had been erected previously. Not one shrine out there, but two it seems. It shines like the sun when the moonlight catches it just right, and it’s visible over the line of trees that marks the edge of the Beyond. The more brave and curious of Highstorm’s denizens have started making more treks into the Beyond for both shrines, and the fact that most come back unharmed seems to encourage others to follow. And for those that may not be able to make the trek safely, there's an opportunity to make a bit of money by leading the way to the shrines and offering the curious pilgrims protection from the Beyond's dangers. There’s rumbling amongst them – Quetzalcoatl – Set – the names of gods of worlds long past, and though there are not many that will stray from Highstorm’s resident deified figure – Lady Yima – there are enough that it’s easy to catch pilgrimages out to the temple, and to visit them yourselves, as well!

FURTHER DETAILS

Quetzalcoatl erected a bright and gigantic temple right next to Set's in the Beyond! Right next to Highstorm! I'm sure that's fine and will not have any diplomatic consequences in the future! Both gods have been drawing in new curious individuals – some who may be worshippers with time – and it's drawn the curiosity of many.

SMALLER CHANGES

GRAND LARCENY

An uptick in crime between both Springstar and Highstorm has both the Legion and Yima’s own private guard scrambling as they struggle to find rhyme or reason behind the latest crime spree taken up in both cities. Though there doesn’t seem to be a specific source, local chatter suggests that it might be coming from a mysterious underground, though most can’t say where... there’s vague gestures, and remarks about Below, without any concrete details. Those who are familiar with – or find out about – Kowloon, may find plenty of stolen items within Kowloon’s markets, though if asked, the keeper will simply shrug and say they retrieved it from a reputable source. Who? Well, they don’t know, they don’t remember their face. I’m sure this is fine and won’t lead to trouble later down the line!

Completely unrelated, those who are known to be or obviously affiliated with Springstar continue to encounter difficulty in Kowloon. It’s become a touch more brazen – more pickpocketing, even higher prices, or even some outright derisiveness from some businesses, although they seem to be centered more around Draumahol, and the further one gets from the business in the underground city (or as far as one can get) the more willing businesses seem to engage with those from Springstar, and the more… apologetic they are about higher prices, though they do still seem to be across the board.

FAE MISCHEIF

It’s not just the underground that seems to be reeling from a spike of theft, though this one seems more obvious – and innocuous! Faeries from the Greenwood Yard seem to still be reeling from recent Shard-Bearer intrusions, so bearers new and old may find small items of varying importance are missing. They’ll generally come with a calling card; a small note that is part threat and part invitation for a game, to come find them within the Greenwood Yards. After hearing about the issue, a certain potion shop owner sets up a small stall by the yards, and will offer to help the shard bearer with their predicament – for a price, of course! Better have a few gold coins on you!

The owner will offer bearers a round-trip to tiny town yet again, to retrieve whatever was stolen, though this time it comes with no visions, and generally the fairies will consider things to be even, if bearers come to retrieve it with politeness and a request for it to be returned. If a bearer threatens them… well. Let’s hope you brought a friend along to help with this fae threat, then!

OOC NOTES

Welcome to Kenos! As a reminder, all new players need an invite to apply to the game, which are now open.

This log is Game Canon. Any characters who are not apped to the game will disappear. If Cyrus or Yima are asked, they’ll explain that this sometimes happens since not every soul has a strong tether to Kenos and sometimes return to the Timestream. They may return to Kenos one day, but for now, weren’t able to make the full journey.

As a note primarily for current players, closed toplevels/prompts are not allowed in this log. If you would like to interact with the setting changes in a way that isn't open to all characters (new and old), we ask that you instead make a log in kenoslogs.

FOR NEW PLAYERS:

When characters emerge from their cocoon/the ground, they may be wearing their normal clothes or nude. Up to you!

At some point in the days after leaving the Tree of Life, new Shard-Bearers will have a dream, even if they're usually not capable of sleeping. All new players should read this post since this details how they'll learn about both factions and their goals and should help them make a decision about which Faction they'd be drawn to.

As a reminder, your character has a Shard somewhere on their body that encompasses their soul, so keep note of where you're sticking it on their person for reference! Additionally, they have a tattoo of their Aspect somewhere on their body. Please be mindful this Aspect will be assigned to you upon approval and whatever you choose for the TDM may be temporary (for new characters)!

For the Highstorm and Springstar prompts, both cities will be fully open and accessible to all characters once they are freed from their rather harrowing ordeal at the Tree of Life. For prompt ideas and any general information about the cities and what you can find there, please see the Navigation page and check out the locations!

New characters will not have access to any canon abilities on the TDM until they Harmonize, AKA make a choice of which faction they choose to support. For some characters, this may be an easy decision, but it make take others time. We just ask you keep this in mind!

CODING

Comments

Xiao | Genshin Impact

[aviothic]

I. Springstar – Streets, Psychagogía

[Choked with throngs of partying citizens, the streets of the entertainment district are a slog to traverse on foot. Under normal circumstances, Xiao would rely heavily on teleportation to send him on his way. And yet—though he does not relish being powerless—there is something unexpectedly agreeable about walking among so many others. The illusion that he belongs in the world of mortals is a powerful one; his soul aches for a day when, back in Liyue, this fantasy might be reality. But now is not the time for yearning daydreams. Nothing is more important than returning to Teyvat and continuing his sacred duty under Rex Lapis’ name. In order to accomplish that, Meridian seems like the correct choice in faction to side with. However, Xiao will not enter a new contract lightly; he requires information before making his decision and hopes that Springstar’s meet-and-greet at the Seat of the Tribune will arm him with the intel he requires. If…he can get there in time. (Which is beginning to seem less and less likely.)

As he passes by Emotional Damage, someone in the crowd abruptly turns to him and shoves a very full cocktail into his empty hand. Before Xiao can protest, the individual is swallowed up by the sea of bodies and disappears from sight. Though he is jostled from each side by lively partygoers, he manages to keep the drink from sloshing over the rim.

Dubiously, he gazes at the neon green liquid. Then, absently shaking his head, he looks around—and makes eye contact with you. The small young man marches forward, closing the distance, to thrust the beverage in your direction.]

Here, [he says, his solemn, almost severe countenance belied by a surprisingly soft voice,] I have no use for this. Take it.

II. Highstar – Rink, Frosthaven Arena

[The ice rink is a novelty. Equipped with a basic wooden pole, Xiao had arrived at the arena with every intention of practicing combat drills. Centuries have passed since he last needed to practice—in current times, the ever-present demons lurking across Liyue keep him well occupied. But this location… Well, it has quickly become apparent that the “arena” is a place for fun and entertainment, not for training.

Still…

After observing some of the locals, Xiao rents himself a pair of ice skates (more than a little embarrassed that he is forced to wear a size reserved for children). He slides the stiff boots on and, pole by his side, enters the rink unsteadily. While naturally graceful, the yaksha is hardly accustomed to ice skating—a luxury of a pastime unsuited for one who should be a god’s weapon and little more. It isn’t long before he spirals out of control, flying across the ice in your direction at an unwise speed. Golden eyes wide, he shouts out a warning.]

Watch out!

III. Highstar – Shrines, The Beyond

[Mouth pursed, the young man gazes up at the garish temple that seems to be doing its damnedest to overshadow the one beside it. The earth beneath the holy structure is fresh; he suspects that the building must be relatively new. He questions some of the other pilgrims nearby, yet no one seems to have the details he’s interested in hearing. Whom do the temples represent? Why have they been constructed so recently? And, perhaps most pressing: Where are the Statues of the Seven?

The absence of his own god’s likeness is an insult. Determined to rectify this error as best as he can, the yaksha walks off a short distance from the temples and, clasping his hands, begins to pray. His murmured words ascend from a reverent tone.]

Rex Lapis, hear my voice…

IV. Wildcard

( ooc | None of these prompts work for you but you’re interested in threading? Feel free to hit Xiao up with something different or plot with me! )

1.

[wolof]

[ Xiao somehow found the one person who would not accept a drink from a stranger in this entire crowd — and not just because she held a goblet of red wine in a single hand, her fingers elegantly wrapped around the stem — but when Xiao approached with the bright green drink, she looked at it, and then at Xiao's severe expression, and let her own golden eyes meet his. ]

Oh, no thank you dear, what if it's poisoned?

[ She says, like he was bringing her a drink himself. ]

I appreciate the audacity though. [ Does she. Think he brought it to her as a way to hit on her?

She does. Nobody ever accused a Sahelian of being modest. ]

If you're so inclined, why don't you sit with me instead, and enjoy your drink? You could introduce yourself that way, instead.

[aviothic]

[For a moment, his eyes widen with no small measure of surprise. While he may be a battle-hardened veteran in the field, mortal culture is well beyond him. The idea that the drink may have been tampered with hadn’t even occurred to him—and he turns his suspicious gaze to it now, a vague frown of disapproval tugging at his lips. A cursory sniff doesn’t reveal overmuch (beyond the too strong scent of alcohol). Still, now that the thought has been put in his head, Xiao can’t chance anyone else imbibing the questionable cocktail; he briefly crouches to upturn it close to the ground, where it is less likely to splash the clothes of anyone nearby. That accomplished, he stands and turns to regard the woman.]

…I’m fine, [he says, somewhat stiffly—not from an attitude problem, but more from a genuine awkwardness in interacting with others. After a few seconds, he seems to reconsider her offer. The Traveler would have encouraged him to sit. And so, withholding a small sigh, Xiao does so. Only the tips of his feet brush the ground.] I changed my mind.

[He continues to hold the now empty glass, at a loss of what to do with it.]

Your words confuse me. Why would I poison you if I wanted to be introduced? Is that a custom in your lands?

[wolof]

[ Well, that's one way to show disappointment, she thinks. Though the ever-knowing smile on her face doesn't falter, and nor does it even flicker when he dumped the drink. He sits next to her after all, and perhaps he's some sort of teetotaler, or something of that nature? She ran a finger against the stem of her drink, though it's more idle than thoughtful. ]

It is something like that, yes. Most Praesi parties involve obvious attempts to poison through food and drink, though it is only those who are unprepared who are caught off guard.

[ Here, it's different, her tone implies. ]

Though here in Springstar, that does not seem to be the case, often enough. [ She says. With a put upon sigh. What a weirdo. ] So perhaps that was rude of me, to accuse you of such, wasn't it?

[ She does not, however, apologize. ]

What is your name?

[aviothic]

[Praesi, he echoes mentally, skimming through his memories. The name does not resurface from the depths; Xiao has never heard the word before. It’s…strange. There was so much of his own world that he is unfamiliar with. To now encounter someone from an alien civilization feels almost overwhelming, like his mind is desperately trying to account for an entire universe’s worth of possible lifeforms and customs. Just how different are some of these people here? And to think, he already found any attempts to assimilate into Liyue culture difficult enough.]

Xiao, [he informs her, solemn.] And I don’t consider it rude to be cautious, given your background.

[A few seconds pass as he gazes out at the partying people before them. Despite his grave countenance, there’s almost something…lonely looking in his eyes.]

You seem better equipped in understanding such things, so I’ll ask—what will happen to the current Tribune? I’ve heard whispers that his position is for life. Do they plan on assassinating him?

[A bold question to ask a stranger, maybe (especially when he hasn’t bothered to ask for her name in return yet)—but one warranted from someone like Xiao, who survived the Archon War’s power struggle between gods.]

[wolof]

Oh, nobody has said anything thus far.

[ She said, with an innocent blink. All put on, of course, as Cyrus had once spoken to her of his worries, and she fully expected that to not continue to be the case. The key was, would either of the candidates be bold enough, or power hungry enough to do so? Though she liked Cyrus, a part of her knew, deep in her black little heart, that she would respect someone who did something like that more.

You know. She's completely normal. ]

Though if one did... well, I suppose it would be cause for recourse, don't you? Depending on where the...potential assassination would come from, at least.

It is one possibility among many. [ One she was planning for, in fact! Though she doesn't say that, since that was a secret project. At the moment. ]

Does it worry you, the possibility?

[aviothic]

[“It is one possibility among many,” she says, as nonchalant as if they were discussing the weather instead of a man’s potential assassination. But Xiao does not find fault with this; it sounds to him as if this woman hails from a nation where politically motivated deaths are common, judging by her casual avoidance of an unsupervised drink.]

...I don’t know this man personally. But whatever his unsuitability for such a position, I won’t condone murder.

[There’s an odd note to his words, however. Xiao is considering the situation. In an ideal world, the Meridian people would vote for a change in law and remove Cyrus peacefully from Tribune. But that would take time—time that the faction may not have, in this race for Oracles. During the Archon War, did he not slay gods who challenged Morax’s claim to rule? Would Cyrus’ assassination be so different.]

It must sound arrogant, [he remarks after a moment, wry,] to think anyone would care for my judgment on the matter. Still, it’s what I offer.

[He glances over at her, intent.]

What other possibilities do you foresee?

II

[tidemark]

[Fortunately Xiao is not alone on the ice, and more fortunately than that, he is spiraling toward an adept skater. Childe responds in quick time, arms coming out to protect against the collision—but not to push away. Instead, his hands cup underneath the other's elbows to link their bodies together in union, absorbing the momentum and swinging them around in an effortless glide across the ice. He takes control of steering, skating backwards with both hands grasped onto the stranger firmly. If the other stumbles or slips, he grips harder, using the strength of his upper body to keep them upright.]

Whoa, careful there! [A sheepish, yet amused smile brightens Childe's face.] That was a close call. You really surprised me, coming out of nowhere like that. Lucky I was paying attention to my surroundings, hm?

[Ferrying the slighter young man toward the outer side of the rink, where a few other skaters appear to have lingered for practice, Childe slows, aligning them with a brass rail.]

You may wish to put down that wooden pole first before you give it a try on your own. I can tell that holding it is only upsetting your balance, it's no wonder you lost control.

[aviothic]

[Buoyed by the other man, Xiao is guided across the ice in a smooth, stable fashion that would almost be enjoyable—if he were able to skate so independently. It isn’t that he resents the assistance; though chagrined by his own foolishness, the yaksha can appreciate being tutored by someone obviously adept in the art. But Xiao has spent so many centuries now working alone, peerless in Liyue (with the exception of his god) as a vanquisher of evil. The point is…it’s been a damn long time since he’s needed to ask for help.

He reaches out to grasp the railing in relief, glad to not be clinging to the stranger so pathetically. That said, he refuses to relinquish his hold on the pole, a determined pinch of his brow revealing itself.]

I’ll continue with it, [he insists, taking a moment to fix his grip on the makeshift armament.] I must. If my balance is offset by it, it’s due to muscle memory from normally wielding something heavier. I just need time to adjust.

[And indeed, the way that Xiao holds the pole does speak of familiarity with weapons of similar dimensions. Where they idle at the rail, his stance is comfortable—somehow making the act of holding a pole while skating look natural for all that its hollowed weight is throwing him off.]

You’re quite good at this. [Taking his hand off the railing briefly, he gestures at the rink.] Do you have other advice?

desperately googles how to ice skate

[tidemark]

[Childe looks... abashed and amused by that stubbornness, but he doesn't begrudge the other man his pole. If he refuses to give it up, what else can be done? Keen on the details, of course, it's clear to him in the next moment that at least there's some skill here—this isn't someone swinging around a blunt instrument out of blind stubbornness. Confirmation quickly matched with words.]

Well, if you insist. Perhaps you should have brought whatever it is you're used to out onto the ice instead, then? Ah, but not if it's a real weapon, because in that case you'd give the civilians here quite a fright. [Leave it to Childe to find the one guy in the vicinity with some sort of prowess with weapons; he must have scented it like blood in the water. It's his sixth sense.] I'm flattered, though. It's been a while since I've done this sort of activity, but where I grew up, we had plenty of frozen lakes to practice on. I admit, it's nostalgic.

[He pushes away from the railing to complete a graceful spin, scraping the ice in a neat arc with the blades on his skates. Yes, he's showing off.]

Try something more practical first. We call it "marching," like you're a soldier about to head out to the battlefield. I'll demonstrate. [Childe picks his feet up, one after the other, marching in place.] Make sure to relax, it'll help your balance. What's your name, stranger?

points and laughs

[aviothic]

[His first real opinion about the stranger is that the young man enjoys speaking far too much. Withholding a weary sigh, he drives away the uncharitable thought. There’s no real opportunity to explain that the spear he’s used to carrying on his person did not arrive with him in this dimension, so he allows that thread to fade without defending himself. The wooden pole, though too light and flimsy for extended use in combat, will serve his purposes well enough until he can secure a more worthy weapon. Xiao refuses to admit that part of his need for the pole in the first place was to fill the void left by the absence of Rex Lapis’ gift. Where he (guiltily) does not miss his mask, the Primordial Jade Winged-Spear has seen him safely through the millennia.]

Hm.

[Xiao takes a moment to center himself before following suit, pushing away from the railing on wobbly feet. Only sheer stubbornness and pride keep him upright. When he slows to a stop, he eyes Childe dubiously before doing as instructed. Perhaps unsurprisingly, “marching” on ice is easier for him to manage than skating. Though he’s never taken part in any formal military troop, his knees rise high in the air—enough to meet the approval from any proper drill sergeant. Each step helps him learn where to balance his weight on his skates with increasing confidence.]

Xiao, [he says eventually, though he does not return the interest (yet) in asking for the young man’s name.] Who taught you to “march” on ice? Your community?

[“Community” sure is a strange way to ask if Childe’s family taught him.]

[tidemark]

My community? [A bright laugh as he watches, dutifully, hands perched on hips.] If you mean my family or my village, then yes, I suppose that's indeed correct. I learned to skate as a child thanks to my parents, as well as some older kids who lived nearby. When you grow up in such a rural location, well, you have to find ways to occupy yourself. We were always getting into things, haha...

[Ah, nostalgia. He focuses after that, however—'Xiao' isn't a name he recognizes, but he does like the sound of it. It reminds him of distant lands, faraway, loyal to different gods.]

Nice to meet you! My name is Tartaglia, but you may also call me Childe. You're doing very well so far with the marching. I can tell that you're a quick learner. Once you believe you have your balance, you can try to glide while you're doing that. Like so— [He walks in place, then allows his feet to partially slide across the ice with each step, a minimal transition from 'marching' to 'gliding'.] You should consider also practicing how to fall. It's best to do it so that you don't hit your head and seriously injure yourself.

[aviothic]

[For a moment, Xiao is swept up on the wings of Childe’s nostalgia; he looks away, trying to picture a cold landscape where iced-over ponds are frequent and the community is so close-knit that all the children teach each other how to skate. It sounds…nice. He’s reminded of the villages in Liyue, where young ones would play games in the forest. Hidden above in the trees, Xiao would silently watch—guarding them, though they would never know it. In return, their distant presence brought light into his dark, gloomy soul, even if only for a brief period.]

Why would I call you “child?” [he balks, eyeing Childe suspiciously as if expecting some punchline.] Never mind, that’s not important. [Shot down.] Teach me how to fall correctly now. That’s good practice for any kind of physical activity.

[And if he knows what failure is like, he can do better in avoiding it.]

1

[damnpire]

[The young man the drink is offered toward looks like a Zenith transplant. The all black garb and pale face stick out in the throng of revelry like a sore thumb.

His eyes lower under his lashes to regard the drink, but no arms emerged from the long cape to take it at all. The rusty eyes lift again, and he looks at Xiao without any shame at staring. He's nearly an entire foot taller than Xiao, hilariously.]

No thank you.

[Like Xiao, the severe demeanor is belied by a rather soft, deep voice.]

Putting it down somewhere is fine.

[aviothic]

[Usually when he cranes his neck like this, it’s because Zhongli has come to visit him at the Wangshu Inn. Despite a short stature, Xiao does not spend enough time among others for his height to often inconvenience him this way. Still, even as inexperienced in socializing as he may be, the yaksha knows it would be rude to take a few steps back to readjust. Forget the karmic debt—this is his true curse.]

…Alright.

[But as Xiao peers around for somewhere to put the glass, he finds no suitable surface. If he were to set it on the ground, no doubt someone would immediately knock it over in accident—or worse, step on it and break it. Rex Lapis forbid that Xiao is the reason an innocent winds up with half an inch of a glass shard impaled in their foot. And so, burdened with this impossibly heavy task, he continues to awkwardly hold the cocktail.]

I’ll…keep an eye on it, [he says lamely, as if it were a ticking timebomb in need of babysitting instead of a simple alcoholic beverage of questionable color. But Xiao returns his attention to D, head tilting quizzically in an almost birdlike manner.] You don’t appear to be here to celebrate.

[There’s a question tucked away in the observation.]

[damnpire]

[Nooo, Xiao is stuck babysitting this spicy drink. D feels a little bad since Xiao hasn't immediately been disagreeable, but since D doesn't really drink these kinds of things himself... he would... just stand there holding it like Xiao if he takes it.]

I prefer to stay out of celebrations.

[The "usually" is sort of implied since... he's currently standing here in the middle of it.] Come with me. [He does not force Xiao to follow, but he does turn and lead the way, causing others to part out of their path by his imposing, peculiar presence alone.

He tries to find a little table, or a person with a tray of drinks, to which Xiao can relinquish the drink. So he doesn't lead Xiao away from the festivities.]

You don't seem inclined to celebrate either.

[aviothic]

[At that initial answer, Xiao looks pointedly at the bustling mass of bodies partying around them. The yaksha doesn’t balk when instructed to follow, however; if the stranger normally avoids celebrations, he must have a decent reason for coming to one today—and Xiao would know that reason, if it provides him the information he so desperately requires. D’s long legs and longer strides carry the man away, with the crowd reforming behind him. But Xiao is renowned for his speed; nimble even with a cocktail in hand, he darts after D swiftly.]

No, [he agrees, voice raised to be heard over the din.] How could I? I have been whisked away from the lands I am sworn to protect, have dreamt of the destruction of my world.

[A nightmare that, while undeniably realistic, Xiao personally harbors doubts about. After all, he was enslaved by an evil god of dreams once; he knows firsthand how untrustworthy that unconscious realm can prove to be. And perhaps more importantly: His belief in the power of his own god, Rex Lapis, remains unshaken. Even weakened without his gnosis, Zhongli couldn’t have possibly been destroyed along with Teyvat. But if the former archon is not here, then…]

I don’t begrudge these people their celebrations, though I question what I’ve learned so far about their Tribune. But why are you here, if not to celebrate?

[Set on the conversation, Xiao obliviously passes by a totally valid table that would have been a perfect place to set down the drink. D's valiant efforts are sadly wasted.]

[damnpire]

[Xiao???

The table is not taken... D could stop and force Xiao back, but Xiao might spill the drink if it's sudden. Why is this damn drink posing such a hindrance to them? Skill issue.]

I aligned to the Meridian side. [He has no reason for lying.] I came to see the ones in the place I had been a few months ago.

[Crawling out of the dirt beneath the tree and stumbling into party and gathering at each city, trying to figure out which was best, what was a lie, what left more to be desired.

What he does instead of stopping is make a casual loop around again. His gait is slow, and somehow the spurs on the back of his boots don't make any noise.

Once more, he tries the table once they get to it again, though this time, he stops beside it... He looks at it, then at Xiao.]

You protect the place from where you came. Are you returning home then?

[aviothic]

[A few months ago. So, this man has only been here for a brief period of time—or, at least, what Xiao would consider the blink of an eye as an immortal. Still, that experience might prove invaluable to a newcomer. The yaksha should investigate further. That said, he is a patient individual; he adopts D’s slower pace without question, content to trail the stranger in a loop. When they reach the table again, Xiao follows the stranger’s red gaze to it without immediate comprehension. After a moment, he seems to finally understand; the glass is set down carefully, not a drop spilled, with Xiao nodding his head in mute acknowledgement. Free from his burden!]

I am, [comes his answer, pointblank with quiet confidence.] Is that not the goal of all… [A pause as he fumbles for the word.] …Shard-Bearers? We’re searching for a way to restore our home or rebuild it anew.

[Unless… Are there Shard-Bearers who would prefer not to leave at all? Xiao cannot relate, but does see where there may be appeal for some.]

Will you tell me what you know? My understanding of our circumstances is limited.

1/3.......

[begetter]

(holy places draw believers, and while lessa does not worship quetzalcoatl or set—he considers them both his equals when he considers his status as a god of gods at all—their belief is comforting to be around. civilians come out to this dangerous place to pray. the least he can do to give them peace of mind is to protect them while they do.

he's used to seeing small groups, however. they talk among themselves and then bow their heads together in reverent silence. xiao speaks aloud when alone, which inspires him to make contact.

not before waiting for him to finish speaking to his god, curious enough to eavesdrop but not enough to interrupt. to hear the rest of xiao's request, wondering if maybe he could provide what the young man is searching for, he retracts his fingers from a bromelia's thick petals to find a quiet, careful route to him. unfortunately, all lessa manages to do is clumsily slip on a damp bed of roots whose tangle catches his ankle and sends him—loudly—to the forest floor.)

Argh!

(at least he recovers quickly, holding his reddening forehead in both hands.)

2/3

[begetter]

...

(looks up, caught.)

!!!

3/3

[begetter]

(then immediately kowtows, pressing his forehead into the soil.)

I am so sorry. I am so sorry, I have made a fool of myself.

[aviothic]

[With an alarming speed, the yaksha pivots on his heel and draws the wooden pole that he had slung over a shoulder. One end of the makeshift weapon is leveled at Lessa—though Xiao softens his battle-ready stance upon actually seeing who has interrupted his prayers. Perhaps he should not be so quick to dismiss an apparent human, but… With a quiet sigh, he shifts the pole back into its sling and approaches the young man. His footsteps are light enough that they barely leave prints behind him.]

What are you doing? Stand up.

[Mildly embarrassed by the display—in the distance, a group of worshippers are pointing and staring—he reaches down to haul Lessa up bodily, small form belied by his strength.]

The shrines are over there. [Xiao jerks his head in the correct direction without taking golden eyes off the stranger.] So why are you over here? Did you follow me?

[begetter]

(embarrassed by xiao's embarrassment, lessa can't look him in the eye. at least his body is easy to manoeuvre, light and unresisting. how gentlemanly of him, lessa thinks. he might've deserved it if he had gotten struck in the head with a wooden pole.

xiao's forearm receives gratitude in the form of a very gentle hand. it lingers briefly before it's retracted altogether.)

I do not pray at the shrines. It feels as though they were built by the hands of Gods. (his dirty hand comes up to cover one side of his mouth. there is no one else around.) Just between you and me, young man, it is very vain behaviour... Shrines are meant to be made by mortals as a symbol of dedication to their faith. As gifts.

Of course, I say all of this knowing that I am no better. I was not following you, but I was listening in on your prayer.

(this regret........)

Interrupting you had not been my intention.

[aviothic]

[Once the stranger is standing on steady feet, Xiao moves to take a step away—only to pause at the slight pressure alighting on his forearm. Were it any more insistent, he would have pointedly continued in his effort to put physical distance between them. Instead, however… Even after Lessa has retracted his hand, the yaksha remains where he is, gazing down at the point of contact in thoughtful silence. It is rare for anyone to touch him. Not even the Traveler has dared. The sensation is not…unwelcome.

Breathing in sharply, Xiao realizes that the other young man is speaking. He’s surprised by the faint smile that he feels briefly ghosting across his expression at the remark on vain behavior from the gods.]

Can shrines not be both? Not all mortals have the means or ambition to build them.

[A pause. He tilts his head, considering.]

Anyway, why were you interested in my prayer? If you want to hear about my god… [Xiao shifts, looking uncomfortable.] …Normally I’d suggest there’s someone better suited to describing him, but I haven’t met anyone else here familiar with Rex Lapis. Or is there another reason you were eavesdropping?

[Despite his words, there’s no real accusation present in his tone. Xiao sounds merely curious.]