#◟༺✦༻◞ Lunarescent lyratum. ┊Aria of the Swords┊

[reginrokkr]

More than morbid curiosity for the young man told to originate from the sea of stars above, Dáinsleif laments the tragic state of affairs he will be exposed to. If what people say is true, that is. Long ago he realized some of the citizens' obsessions for what lies dormant in the abyss, even more so for those who they can easily control or manipulate to do their bidding as some of the children known to be taken in the orphanage designed for them. Of the crimson moon, the dark corridor they are made to cross and to answer an even more morbid question.

Are you dead yet?

Of course, that doesn't mean he's made of stone. As any others, he, too, noticed the unexpected coming of a new boy among the future Black Serpent Knight ranks. Every day of training after the classes at the Universitas Magistrorum would come to an end, Dáinsleif kept an eye on the other as a means to learn about him in unspoken ways. But as it currently stands, not everyone had the same approach as him nor they would be mindful enough to stick their noses where they should.

For the first time since the boy arrived at the knight academy, Dáinsleif approaches him not with the intent to talk to him directly, but to ward off the intrusive companions they share. ◜Were you in the same situation as him, would you desire to be regarded as no less than a testing subject too?◞ The crew immediately turns their gazes at him, an annoyed visage on the rowdiest of them all. ◜Tsk. What are you yapping about? Get lost, this isn't about you.◞ Lean arms cross over the blond's chest in immediate response, a sign that he has no plans to leave anytime soon. ◜Nor it should be about any of you, don't you think so?◞

◜Do you want to fight or what? I'm warning you to leave now before you cross a line.◞ The other two of his gang tense at the notion of a fight, but what is more curious still is their scared gazes as they dare to peek at Dáinsleif. Of course, he takes notice of this, too. ◜And what, pray tell, is a fight supposed to change? It won't alter the fact that you're inconveniencing him nor that the reason why he's here is any of your business.◞ His visage turns even angrier still, thus he pushes the new boy by the shoulder to get closer to the blond. Before he has the opportunity to act or to speak, one of his companions acts faster. ◜Y-you shouldn't pick a fight with him. He's the Twilight Sword...◞ The grunt rises his brows in surprise and curiosity in equal parts, then his gaze returns to Dáinsleif. ◜Tsk. Whatever.◞

At long last he leaves, followed by the other two. The one who remained speechless vows behind their backs in a silent apology for their leader's behavior and so breaks into a run to catch up with them. Glacial sapphire eyes gaze upon the newcomer ultimately, his collected stance softened with sympathy. ◜You needn't feel forced to answer what you don't want just because they were born in the kingdom that accepted you, if what the rumors say stands true. They know as well as I do that those of us who enrolled this academy are here for a reason.◞ Ultimately does Dáinsleif turn on his heels to prepare to leave. Now that the group has left, there is no other reason for him to linger here instead of continuing with his own training.

It all started with another war of many against the abominations of Yaoshi. Cloud Knights fought them with courage as they always did, while all he could was stay put and watch. No matter if he had some experience with swordsmanship, master Huaiyan wouldn't have it. Proud as I am of you, you're too young to participate in wars of such scale. And out of respect for him, for his teachings in artisanship and swordsmanship both when others wouldn't even look at him due to his short-living condition, he did as he was told.

But something happened, something he can't make tales or heads of. It was an explosion or maybe an anticipated technique of one of the biggest abominations the Xianzhou fought, he didn't know. Whatever it was, it's the reason why he saw himself in a sea of stars seconds before being caught by people he had never seen before in a place he doesn't recognise as either Zhuming or his homeworld.

Even stranger yet, he was treated vastly different than he was by many in the Zhuming. As if he were some manner of savior to these people.

At first it was pleasant to be treated that way for a change, Yìng Xīng would even dare to say he liked it and every thought born from panic to return by his master's side to the normalcy he knew of for years disappeared in a matter of days. It was then when he began to see aspects of this kingdom he didn't quite know what to make of. He was treated like someone who would bring them hope and glory lost, a descender, he heard them mutter between hushed whispers he couldn't entirely grasp, but at the same time he was experimented on as if he were not human at all.

Until finally, he was allowed to have some manner of life more familiar to him. A home of his own under the careful watch of a superior within the Black Serpent Knights and tutelage to master his swordsmanship alongside an elite mostly formed by other noblemen with star-shaped pupils. "Hey, you!" Yìng Xīng knew when he was being addressed, and this was one such occasion. Cautious as he always was ever since drifting to this kingdom people call Khaenri'ah in all their pride, he turns to meet a group of three boys of his age, seemingly spent from a training that hardly began for today. "So this is who they talk so much about. Hah, do you think you're stronger than any of us?"

In moments like this, Yìng Xīng learned that the best he can do is ignore. And ignore is what he would've done, if it weren't for their insistence in matters he can't even grasp. "You don't even have the grace of a Black Serpent Knight. How did they even think it's a good idea to push you in here?"

[reginrokkr]

Tag dump #?:

◟༺✦༻◞ immortality won't last forever to gods nor humans┊yìng xīng → seraphicus.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ tears of life; chasers of withering death┊dáinsleif × yìng xīng.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ lunarescent lyratum. ┊aria of the swords┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ rubescent impermanence. ┊aria of the swords┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ solarescent lycoris. ┊aria of the swords┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ lapis tranquility. ┊aria of the swords┊

◟༺✦༻◞ may one day the oceans know the joy of your return; o' léviathan ┊neuvillette → seraphicus.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ o σεραφείμ συναντά αρχέγονες ηχώ.┊aria of the primordial┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ ηχώ της αναγέννησης.┊aria of the primordial┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ το φως λάμπει πάνω στον ευγενή.┊aria of the primordial┊

[reginrokkr]

Unbeknownst of lunarescent seraph, warmth blooms on otherwise pale cheeks when realization that Yìng Xīng was aware of his enrolment into the medicine school before he told him dawns on him. For the fact that the High Elder of the Vidyadhara, Dan Feng, is tasked to supervise the new people at punctual times to ensure that there is no ill will and that valuable information is spread to those whom live in their obsession to follow Yaoshi's trail. That is to say, he was one such subject when others sensed an aura that comes naturally from him, heavily intertwined with his soul and being.

As the closest scion of Permanence to Long, the High Elder is the last bastion to ensure how earnest his heart is as well as the origin of his gift for soothing ailments. ◜High Elder says that my gift is unique, something he hasn't seen nor reminisces to have encountered in past lives. Nevertheless, he finds a sense of familiarity within me as if we originate from the same in different degrees.◞ Although at first he didn't understand what he meant, further research on the matter led him to one conclusion.

◜To be fair, I didn't understand much what he meant besides the fact that my talent for healing doesn't stem from the Abundance until I made some research on my own to find meaning to his words.◞ It was the least he could do after the High Elder took interest in him and went to the lengths he did to give him his approval and a shard of origin he didn't know he had. To think that Teyvat is unaffected by other sources of power from the universe would the height of folly, specially after witnessing with his own eyes that there are striking similarities betwixt things he knows from his homeland to other worlds.

◜Apparently, there are more scions besides the Vidyadhara that originate from Long. So perhaps the sense of familiarity he talked about despite being different enough to not be of the same race may imply that my origins stem from a different race among these scions. That is to say... I do not know to what extent his influence must've arrived to Teyvat. It is everything I know.◞

Guilt settles on Yìng Xīng upon seeing the blond's reaction, as he didn't mean to scare him nor he is to blame for his own discomforts and distrust in what concerns magical aid. The only exception to the rule is Dan Feng, whom he knows that his powers are drawn from Long, the Aeon of Permanence as the one who stands the closest to what it used to be. Anything else is subjected to high skepticism, specially coming of a land where there is a resurgence of fanaticism towards Yaoshi and what the Abundance does.

In his own paranoia, Yìng Xīng cannot help but see similarities betwixt what Dáinsleif describes and the healing power of someone on the Path of the Abundance. Regardless, there is still a lingering fact that he doesn't know of, and perhaps not even the blond does: is his homeworld as isolated from the rest of the universe that other powers such as that of the Aeons don't make it there? He doesn't know anything about the greatest forces of his world, nor if they have gods or other kind of beings that in this world have the descriptor of celestial.

Nevertheless, one thing stands true: it is rare to possess this kind of abilities since birth.

For all he knows, somewhere down people's path in life is where they start to be closer to an established path by an Aeon that they start to feel its power flow. So for Dáinsleif to be able to do this without anything great having occurred in his life... what is he, truly?

"What does the High Elder say about your healing gift?" Even before Dáinsleif told him, he already knew about this. He must've left enough of an impression in Dan Feng to even remember him from the battle they shared, let alone to recognise him among the people who are undergoing the road of medicine. So whatever his answer may be to this, which he doesn't know of yet because he's been busies than usual to meet the Vidyadhara— would become key to opening himself to the possibility of letting Dáinsleif treat him. Such is the level of trust established, even to his own surprise, all things considered. "He must've taken interest in you enough to sense its nature, I presume."

[reginrokkr]

To say that Dáinsleif was caught by surprise by the sudden grip on his wrist is an understatement. Crystal clear reflects within icy sapphires that shoot open, lunar flames fading away as soon as they emerged when it is clear that what he was about to do is not welcome. Perhaps it is the fact that Yìng Xīng was so amiable and kind to him that he could not conceive a harsher and warier persona. Nevertheless, thinking in retrospective, he told him that he encountered countless struggles in the past and that all odds were against him in achieving what he did to this day.

Considering this... it is not as far-fetched to think that he has a wary side towards people.

◜Apologies.◞ He mutters in unison to Yìng Xīng's apology, guilt starting to bloom at the base of his stomach as he lets his hand fall to his side once the albescent haired's grip weakens enough. Truth be said, he should've asked for consent before assuming anything, mainly that he would benefit from his healing— which he would. However, that doesn't mean that he didn't disregard his wishes that he now learns from.

Celestial sapphires narrow at the notion that he rejects any healing techniques performed on him, about the hardship he must've encountered in doing so coming from a place where Vidyadhara may be capable to heal. But also... he has heard rumors about a cult following Yaoshi's steps and turning people into monsters in their sick belief that they are saving them.

He cannot blame Yìng Xīng for being wary about all of this.

Dáinsleif's head dips into a curt nod in response to him discovering now that he possesses healing capabilities. ◜For as long as I remember, I have always had this affinity to healing. In my homeland where there is naught but wasteland in its surroundings, it suffices to walk by in order to see flora sprout despite the incompatible conditions with life the place has.◞ The research performed into subjects such as the Path of Abundance too leads him to think that he is not helping alleviate the man's wariness on the matter, for the similarities are too great to ignore even himself. Nonetheless, he is honest and as far as he knows, it has nothing to do with this Aeon.

◜Due to the proximity to the Abyss, people suffer from illnesses connected to its intoxicating energy. From what I have read, it bears striking resemblances to the Fragmentum and its effect on living beings.◞ Sapphire gaze lowers to his hand, right where lunar flames began to make themselves manifest when he wanted to give Yìng Xīng's system a tiny boost to have a speedier recovery. ◜Although I am not a doctor, I would take over extreme cases and they were effective. That is why I enrolled in the medicine school in the Alchemy Commission, so that I learn more and new ways to use this innate power of mine.◞

◜Forgive me, for disregarding your unwillingness to healing techniques.◞

Life slips through his fingers day by day. Every time something new happens that didn't used to in the past, Yìng Xīng becomes hyperaware of his body deterioration. In the past, he could go days of work forgetting to eat without problem, now he cannot spend an entire day of necessitated concentration for his projects without feeling like he may faint if he doesn't stop.

Trained and toned as he is, he used to be able to carry more weight than this. Now, he has to deal with the frustration of needing the help of new gadgets he manufactures with the sole purpose to help himself lift it up where he needs it. Even colds feel more of a nightmare, leaving him bedridden when he could go on with his daily life just fine with some medication. Without mention that he has grown more sensitive to the change of weather.

Within the High Cloud Quintet, too, he pays attention to the subtle remarks or facial expressions when he's about to fall into another spiral of frustration with himself— which in turn makes him be more closed-off about his struggles and only show the best part of him. Even if in itself is negative to others as arrogance can be.

Yìng Xīng fails to hear the knock on the door, being too deep into his slumber to even notice that the medication has worn off and he should get another dose intake. Damn, even his whole skin and muscles underneath hurt just at the mere thought of moving. Not that it's his trouble at the moment, as fever has him struggle to conceal peaceful dreams. The hand that touches his face feels like a cooling balm that barely makes him begin to rouse from his sleep, yet not sufficiently until he hears a distant whisper of his name and a soothing aura that makes his eyes shoot open and grab whoever was in his house by the wrist.

"What are you doing?" He demands before even realising that it's Dáinsleif the one who was by his side, now startled by his own response. That poor soul. Only when the realisation that he told the blond how to enter his house if he were to not respond when he visits finally hits him does his hold weaken (as if it wasn't weak enough, he can barely lift a glass of water without feeling like it might slip from his grab). "Sorry." He gingerly lets his hand fall by his side, then he directs his cold silver eyes towards the sapphire flames embracing his hand, then he looks back at Dáinsleif. Is it his imagination or is his entire being glowing the same color but subtler? It must be a figment of his imagination.

"...I reject any magic that promises to cure ailments." All because of the bloody Path of the Abundance and what it leaves in its wake. His stubbornness is such that Dan Feng has to be the one whom chooses the doctor that treats him unless he does so himself, out of deeply ingrained paranoia that it might be an affiliated with the Sanctus Medicus that would turn him into an Abomination. Recently, he has stopped relying on Dan Feng to do the healing altogether— for he doesn't want to see his pitiful face again, or to hear him say something he doesn't want to hear. Neither him or the others of the High Cloud Quintet, even less worry Baiheng.

"Didn't peg you to have healing skills too as a warrior." What else would Dáinsleif try to do to him if not that? Only now he reminisces Dan Feng telling him about how promising the newcomer is, and the similarity with the Cloudhymn magic is his healing method. Alas, he cannot rest until he knows more. Even if he had no idea what the Abundance was to begin with— that doesn't mean that the bloody influence didn't propagate to his world, too. "Where does your gift comes from?"

[reginrokkr]

Seldom if ever Dáinsleif is the kind of individual to take special notice on what is within people's heart, for hardly ever he engages into more profound relationships with anyone due to his own priorities. However, it is different with Yìng Xīng. Perhaps it is because he's the only person whom he was able to establish a genuine relationship with in a world where he is all alone and where the odds are against him —what a stark difference with that fallen star, truly—, or something different he's unable to put into words at the time being.

Nevertheless, his heart beats joyfully within the confines of his chest at the pride he exudes everywhere, from the manner he talks about himself to the confidence he harbors. Humanity has more merit than many believe, even in Khaenri'ah— as paradoxical as it sounds. The pride of humankind of all places has to rely on external creatures and not themselves to turn the tides of that which cause them unrest... this is one of the changes Dáinsleif has perceived that led him to believe that there is more than meets the eye, and that those words are just the surface of an entire belief that he's unaware of. Only danger lies ahead when they have reached that point.

Infected by Yìng Xīng's glee does Twilight turn his astral eyes to the skies and forces his mind to think of something different. Such as the fact that what he witnessed in the Luofu is also byproduct of human effort in alliance with other species he has yet to learn about. Like the draconic or foxian races. Roseate lips curl in a smile that reaches the corners of glacial sapphires in the form of subtle crinkles as he turns to look at the albescent-haired anew, this time far from hesitant to reciprocate the gesture of a joyful deed like a toast is. ◜For the new beginnings.◞

Perhaps whatever he will learn that is remotely connected to the trouble Khaenri'ah is facing may be of use.

Following days were filled with indoor reading, books after books to learn more about the «Abominations» and the «Denizens of Abundance», but also about «Fragmentum» and «Stellaron», in finding out that Fragmentum monsters are closely related to the beasts he fought back home than the ones he battled the first time he met the Xianzhou Alliance. The Stellaron caught his attention the most, being a catalyst to Fragmentum that causes similar effects to the environment as it does at the outskirts of Khaenri'ah given its proximity to the Abyss.

But Dáinsleif's ambition didn't dwell there alone. Illnesses provoked by prolonged exposure to the Abyss and a renewed interest to find out how legit are the medical practises in his homeland led him to the Alchemy Commission to study medicine. Despite his short time, ailments concerning the Mara have already piqued his curiosity, thus kindling conviction within him that he's on the right path.

Unlike other times when Yìng Xīng and his gaze would meet from the window when eventide falls and greet one another from the distance in shared acknowledgement of one another and their blooming relationship, this time Twilight opts to visit the man to learn about his own advancements in his pursuit to defeat the Abominations forevermore and to tell him the good news about his enrolment in the medicine academy. He knocks on the door once, then twice. A prudential time is awaited in silence without insisting, only to receive no answer.

Dáinsleif reminisces a time when Yìng Xīng showed him where the keys of his residence are in case he passes by to visit and he doesn't respond, as most likely than not it would be because he's working and in his concentration he doesn't hear him. Thus the lunarescent seraph does in picking up the key from under a stone he turns by the small pool filled with fishes he hasn't seen before. He opens the door thereafter and removes his shoes before wandering within, mind set on auto-pilot to where his workshop is. However, he comes to a stop when he's about to pass his chambers in time to see him laying on bed.

Mindful to not wake him if he's asleep —a rarity coming of him, as usually by this hour he would have just finished his work for the day—, Dáinsleif walks to him. Glacial sapphires narrow at the sight of the other's face, carmine in color and contorting in pain within his slumber. Master Yìng Xīng... A hand reaches out to touch one of his cheeks to verify his temperature, it's hot. Unbeknownst of the gravity of his ailment, Twilight Sword decides to give his immune system a little push. Thus his hand retrieves slightly from his face to bask in lunar flames before he slowly approaches it, aiming for a renewed contact to let sapphire might pass through the barriers of his skin into his blood flow.

Rare and far in between are the individuals who show himself the respect he has worked so hard to earn for the past century, oftentimes being brushed away for not being a celestial like the majority of species that indwell the fleet that conform the alliance known as the Xianzhou. Then there is Master Huaiyan whom served as an unmovable stone, firm against the ferocious tides that dared to underestimate him under his nose; Baiheng, whom gave him wings to soar the skies even when they have just met and he was a young lad— he would be forever grateful to the two of them for believing in him when no one else would, even when his own self-confidence threatened to dwindle under the pressure.

Then there's... Dáinsleif. Perhaps it is because he's an outsider in all of this who barely knows a thing of the workings of the Xianzhou, or the fact that as someone who has nothing to do with this world, is also a short-living species just like him, he cannot tell. But the genuine respect he professes... it suffices to let his walls down, and for a gentle blush to dust pale cheeks.

"Of course I am. Who else would be in charge of overseeing the weapons that are forged for the army?" Despite the turbulent feelings blooming within that have never resurfaced since a very long time ago, his arrogant streak arises as a self-mechanism to advert the blond's possible sentience upon seeing the warmth in his cheeks. Deep down, he knows that such a simple and candid gesture touched his heartstrings and for this alone— he would hold him in high esteem, too. No matter the difficult beginning they both had, he would remember.

"No wonder you displayed such unparalleled techniques in the battlefield. Specially for a swordless Twilight Sword." There is a hint of humour in his voice, albeit acknowledgement that he noticed that what he wielded was no material sword like everyone else. The notion that they are in pursuit of the same but in different circumstances washes away every playful tints, thus cold silver eyes narrow as his features soften in a moment's pensiveness. To learn that the two of them have more in common than he initially anticipated presses a button he cannot describe, but one he decides to ignore for now in order to listen to Dáinsleif. For what little he shared, he can tell that there is a gravity behind the coming of an outworlder— which adds to his own hesitance to even socialise to begin with. He prays that one day he will abandon the thought as he stays longer in the Xianzhou. "You must be dependable to your homeworld if you embarked in this journey on your own, without knowing what to expect even when the concept of world travelling was unknown to you."

For that, he deserves his respect, too.

Yìng Xīng rises his own cup, the corners of his lips rising in a grin to dispel any hard mood that was built while the blond explained more about the situation he is facing in his homeland and moves his cup gently to motion Dáinsleif to do the same. "Let us toast, for the new beginnings." He waits for the blond to follow before he touches the other's cup and sips some more of its contents.

Should you feel lost and need help to what direction to take... I will be here.

[reginrokkr]

Celestial luminary didn't anticipate it would be so fruitful to encounter someone whom he can converse and learn from like this. Whatever tension permeated on his shoulders and back eases away slowly as this time, he is the one who listens the white-haired man talk— Yìng Xīng. The terms «Abomination» and «Denizens of Abundance» are engraved within his mind, making a mental note to make proper research on these that without a doubt he can learn further from without necessarily engaging them into combat anymore. Now that he can ascertain a certain degree of correlation betwixt the beasts he fought and the creatures of the Abyss in Khaenri'ah, he is confident that he is on the right path in his pursuit to find answers about the secrecy of these creatures spawning at too opportune timings and... the vision of the future he has seen.

But that is not everything Dáinsleif is attentive to learn. After the bumpy start they had yesterday, he finds opportune to be mindful to pay attention to Yìng Xīng's story in coming to this concept of a world. He laments the ill fate of his homeland as well as he's gladdened that he found a way to hang onto the thread of life to come here with a legit reason Twilight finds legit. If only his deeds will prevent others from suffering the same destiny as he did when he was young, he would've fulfilled his purpose.

So he's a master blacksmith. When the prospect is bestowed to him, roseate lips curl in a fond smile byproduct of the deep respect he has for them back in Khaenri'ah too. ◜If you permit me, Master Yìng Xīng, I am going to take the liberty to say that your service is priceless to the army.◞ They are an invaluable part of the military just as soldiers who occupy the front lines to fight are, always procuring them with necessary weapons and appropriate garment and everything in betwixt that they would make use of. Onyx-gloved hand closes in a loose fist as it rises to bump gently over the spot of his heart a la military salute within the Black Serpent Knights from his homeland, in an offering of respect. ◜I am known as Twilight Sword, the captain of the royal knights in my homeland, the Black Serpent Knights. You may call me Dáinsleif.◞

Spirits lifted, Twilight's celestial gaze rises to look at the moon in the nocturne sky above with renewed vigor, visibly placid and tranquil unlike before when hesitance weighed the most on his weary shoulders. ◜Albeit for different reasons, you may find that we share a common goal. For I, too, seek to put down once and for all a faction of beasts that threaten the safety of my homeland.◞ Arguably the safety of the entire world, if they are to blame for the vision of the future he saw. ◜They seem to stem from a realm where this individual came from another world, as well as its energy began to be used as a substitute to a purer energy we used as sustenance.◞ Sapphire irises narrow as the words if we can control the Abyss, we can control everything— including the gods reverberate within the confines of his mind.

◜Recently I have discovered that my homeland guards well-kept secrets that I am positive they are connected to the obsessions I am concerned about. This is why I want to seek answers about what this energy and its beasts are...◞ His head lowers, his following words naught but a mumble under his breath. ◜...before it is too late and we reach a point of no return.◞

So the blond man's words aligned with the sense of being lost that Jing Yuan described earlier. The way he speaks about the Abominations and the Fragmentum monsters without knowing exactly what they're named like reveals that the world he originates from must be sufficiently secluded to remain in the shadow of ignorance of what happens outside. What the other says bears hardly a difference to a young chick that barely emerged from its egg and is exploring the world outside the confines of its shell.

Nevertheless, he doesn't appear completely closed off to the concept of existence of life outside his homeworld if he was encountered in the space on his own and the bitterness he displays when talking about an individual that arrived to his homeland and the negative repercussions that entailed. The blond man has begun to open, but Yìng Xīng can sense that he's still holding back— it's not unreasonable based on the fact that he fears that his presence in the Xianzhou may cause the same it is in his world.

A little bit of coaxing might do the trick.

"I was younger than what you appear to be when I first came here." Yìng Xīng begins to talk more in depth about his own experience as he rests the cup of wine on the wooden surface, thus he supports his weight on his hands, gaze never tearing away from the artificial moon above. "My homeland fell victim to the invasion of monsters akin to what we faced yesterday, you'll heard people refer to them as Abominations or Denizens of Abundance interchangeably among other names." There is still resentment in his voice as he reminisces the moment it happened, still too fresh in his mind even if it has been more than a hundred years since that happened.

"My scope in coming here was to learn the arts of blacksmith, so I can forge weapons for the military faction of this world, the Cloud Knights. So that one day I see the fall of those Abominations, thus avenge my parents." Light blue eyes widen slightly when the realisation that he's sharing more than he anticipated he would dawns on him, prompting Yìng Xīng to look at the blond man over the corner of his eyes. Something about him... makes him feel at ease sharing these with him. Is it solely the fact that he's an outsider like him? Or perhaps it is something about his being that makes him feel safe? "Several years and countless of struggles later, here I stand in the Luofu known as Yìng Xīng, the Master of the Artisanship." His chest swells with pride as the title rolls his tongue, only to realise soon after in saying his own name that he doesn't know the blond's.

Thus he turns to look at him fully as he picks the cup of wine again to take another sip from it. "Ah, I don't think I caught your name. Mind telling me what to call you from now on?"

[reginrokkr]

So that's the reason why he's so casual about discussing matters such as outworlders and travelling worlds. The premise that the albescent-haired man used to be an outsider like him alleviates his stance a little, enough to heave out a sigh he ignores for how long it remained confined within his lungs. This new discovery makes Dáinsleif ease some more and wet his lips some with the liquor the man poured for both of them— wine. A good one, at that. He has good taste.

Lunarescent seraph remains silent as he continues to talk about how inconsequential it will be if he's found with him given his own past experiences leading to this day, about problems he currently has that in no way will be aggravated by his lingering presence nearby. That is reassuring.

In a moment of utmost sincerity that the pale silver haired had with him —one he needn't have, they have just met recently after all—, the thought that he should reciprocate in kind his sincerity and openness crosses Twilight's still hesitant mind that slowly turns into a battlefield torn betwixt telling him something or telling him nothing at all. Perhaps it is the fact that he feels a connection with him in the fact that none of them belong to this world that he opts for the former, or perhaps there is something beyond that he's unbeknownst of.

◜My encounter with the fleet was unintentional. Those monsters we fought were my objective, all in pursuit of answers related to my homeland.◞ Despite his controlled pause to prevent himself from saying anything else on the matter, earnest truth is shared with the man that extended him a hand in times when all expectations were put on solitude until it is time to return to his material body.

◜The concept of world travelling isn't common where I come from. But the coming of a stranger aroused obsessions I was unaware people had.◞ Fair brows knit in a frown as his gaze lowers, teeth clenching behind almost perfectly shut roseate lips in displeasure. ◜That's why I would rather keep a low profile for as long as I stay here, while I look for answers.◞

Irregardless of how prime and proper the blond man looks, Yìng Xīng can sense the magnitude of trouble that occupies his mind for reasons he may suspect, yet not fully grasp. He feigns ignorance nevertheless as he invites the other over to his abode and gestures with a hand to wait for him by the veranda, so they can enjoy the autumn night's fresh air. Soon enough he returns with a couple of cups and the bottle of wine, thus he sits and pours some in each cup.

Rather than doing the talk first as he announced he would by giving him some word of advice as an outsider, Yìng Xīng stays silent to study the man from the quiescence. Judging by the quality of the material he wears, he can tell that he is no low-class. It goes well with the air of dignity and pride that surrounds him, weren't for how troubled he looks despite what tranquil features want to convey. From this up close, he can tell from the trembling star-shaped pupils in his eyes that something weighs on him— ah, how much he reminds him of himself when he was still young and inexpert the first time he treaded the Zhuming.

Perhaps it is fate that decided to unite them where other destinies converge.

Yìng Xīng listens carefully the blond's words, taking notice that he has already noticed the reality of living in the Luofu as an outsider even if he was bestowed a residence to live. Whatever he had yet to plan to warn him about so he won't disappoint himself with the faux hospitality extended to him by the General signifies zero now. That doesn't mean that he has any less to tell him, regardless.

"Listen, there was a time in which I was a new outsider to one of the ships, just like you are." Thus there is no need for him to let him know what he already does. Still, he appreciates the effort for trying to warn him. "I had much to prove in my years of life here." And he still does, but that's not his business. Yìng Xīng turns to reciprocate his gaze once the blond was ready to be more direct. "All issues connected to not being a local of the Xianzhou are behind now. The only ones that concern me have nothing to do with you, so they can spot me with you for all I care."

Despite the harshness in his voice, byproduct of his tiredness of this protocol and the treatment he has gotten over the years in general, his words stand true. Nothing of what anyone could tell him about his involvement with the blond matters to him nor will harm him in any way. Yìng Xīng lets silence to permeate so the blond reconciles whatever troubled thoughts he had about being harmful to him if those who spy on him were to find him with the other. He brings the cup to his lips to take a sip as his gaze wanders skywards to the tranquil moon.

[reginrokkr]

Strong back straightens at the man's command, icy sapphires blink in curiosity and slight confusion in equal parts as they bore into cold moonlight irises. Weren't for the albescent haired's following statement, Dáinsleif would've believed that his apology is unwelcome— this, he would respect. For he hasn't behaved at his best when the man only wanted to extend his kindness to him. ◜Please, perish the thought.◞ Platinum blond strands wave gently with the slow shake of luminary's head to refute his last words. ◜Even if that were the case, it is me to blame for my crude choice of words.◞ I just had too much in mind mind, he would say— but it is best not to. He doesn't need to know, nor he should care about something like that.

At long last does Dáinsleif relax when the notion that the man is aware of his situation finally hits him. Roseate lips part to heave a sigh in relief that helps him relax. He is more tranquil now that things are cleared out, albeit one question remains within the confines of his mind: is it a normal concept to travel worlds? By how easily is confessed without any sign of secrecy as it is, Twilight would be inclined to think it is— nevertheless, he cannot take something like that for granted.

It is clear that he has yet a lot to learn.

So lost in his thoughts lunarescent seraph is that unknowingly he nods to the question the man poses to him, only realizing that he's inviting him to drink after he has already answered before his mind caught up with the query. Within his perpetual inexpressive features, roseate lips press in a line, hesitant. It would be for the best to reject politely, but truth be told is, even if he was cognizant of what he asked since the first moment... he wouldn't be able to. He has already rejected him once the previous night, he wouldn't do it for the second time.

The small-sized cups where the man brews the liquor are vaguely resembling to the cups some of the Khaenri'ahn population uses, of generations that followed the coming of Liyuen people to the underground kingdom. Glacial sapphires are glued to the reflection of the moon atop the nigh transparent liquid within the cup, fair brows knitted in a subtle frown as nocturne breeze caresses platinum blond strands. The man said he would offer him some word of advice for his stay in the Xianzhou, however... Dáinsleif cannot help but feel remorse not only for what happened, but for what may come if his presence here supposes more troubles than benefits.

◜I cannot express enough gratitude for your kindness and hospitality, mister. However, I feel in the obligation to say that my warning is not baseless.◞ Dáinsleif turns to look at the man beside him, sincere and solemn. ◜During my short stay so far, I have noticed that I'm subject of suspicion. Which means that I am being followed and monitored even if those ordered to do so did not interfere in my life thus far. That's why...◞ Frozen astrals quiver within narrowing celestial sapphires as they elsewhere. ◜I do not desire to be detrimental to you if they learn of your involvement with me.◞

Weary features byproduct of an advanced age —it serves as a constant reminder that even if his years are indeed extended, his body fails to catch up with other long-living beings— soften once the reason why the blond man was waiting by his doorstep is clarified. At first it was indeed a bit confusing, inducing to offence even, but after talking with Jing Yuan, he cannot blame him. This man stands among the group of people who would rather figure themselves out without asking for help, a fact that is deserving of every merit he can get.

Being in a different world is akin to being in someone else's home, as such one must abide as per their rules and not always it's easy to find ways to fit in. Whether this is the man's wish or not, he ignores. Actually, he doesn't care that much either. Maybe as a result of the hardship he has encountered as a short-living species, wronged time and time again and whose importance has been diminished perpetually just for not being one of them despite possessing skills that far surpass others'. If he were in the same situation as he is and he came to the Xianzhou seemingly by accident, he cannot guarantee to behave much better than he does.

Yìng Xīng remains silent as the blond apologises to him, explaining that he should've worded that better instead of rejecting him like he did. For how lost Jing Yuan said he was in truth, this man has enough self-awareness to know that he's being watched by third parties. Nevertheless, unlike what he may think Yìng Xīng is already aware of the whole implications of this, as well as the fact that there was a time in which he was the exact same.

Standing with arms crossed where he is, he rises a hand for the man to stop bowing as an apology. "At ease. You apologised enough." He waits for the blond to look at him again as his hand returns to rest on his arm. "You weren't in your best moment to receive someone. I should've foreseen the possibility that you aren't from the Xianzhou, but from elsewhere. So in a way I saw it on myself." Yìng Xīng walks past the man to open the door of his residence with the keys, then he pushes the door open and looks back at him. "Do you drink?" An invitation for him to stay is offered. It would be the best for him to rest after a long day, but something about this man gets the worst out of him in terms of curiosity. "I think you could use some advise to soothe... your current situation in the Luofu, as an outsider."

Maybe it's his fighting style that was engraved in his mind that prompts him to want to advise him in order to tread safely in the Luofu, or some sentimentality rooted in the fact that both of them are strangers to this world that wants him to extend to the blond a helping hand, he doesn't know.

[reginrokkr]

Tardiness to answer begets thoughts leading to confirmation that this is an untimely moment to come, perhaps due to the man being occupied or not being currently at home. Maybe it is for the best, so it all remains as an inconsequential situation that won't gain any more importance than it has— which is none. Roseate lips part to exhale a sigh as his head bows, guilt unwilling to fade even if he just did as much as he could, before he opts to go back home.

To Dáinsleif's own surprise, the albescent-haired man has returned before he had the chance to leave, causing him to straighten his back in a position more rigid than accustomed. This time, luminary's response is immediate unlike the previous night in answer to the man's question as he dips his head once in a nod coupled with a small hum. Glacial sapphires drop thereafter in a quick moment to recompose himself and put his thoughts in order anew when that trail has dissipated at the premise that he will no longer necessitate to offer an apology to him. Ultimately, frozen astrals bore into cold moonlight irises, decisive to make his business known regardless of how positive or negative the other's answer may be.

◜I wished to extend my apologies to you for what I said last night. Despite the sincerity I transmitted to you in my belief that it will be in your best interest if you don't associate yourself with me, I have to admit that I conveyed it rather unkindly when you've been otherwise.◞ A courteous bow is offered thereafter as a manner to give strength to his apology. ◜Forgive me. It is naught personal against you.◞

Truth be said, there is more Dáinsleif could tell. Like the fact that there was a lot in his mind at the time —there still is—, or that he's lost in this world where he has already noticed that he's an objective for spying. Understandingly so, for all he knows he must be a suspicious subject even if his deeds benefitted the army of this concept of a world. None of it suffice to justify his callous way to address to him nor anything would warrant it. In light of his current situation in Luofu, he learned this ship's name is, he wasn't wrong in his assessment that it'll be better if they aren't seen together— lest he becomes a subject of suspicion too.

This— this is what it should've been like in Khaenri'ah too. Instead, she receives treatment of royalty when no blue blood runs in her veins as part of the kingdom's dynasty. It is all blind faith on someone who may not give them what they seek.

Well, that was an unexpected answer. Yìng Xīng had no true interest in poking his nose in someone else's affairs other than satiating his own curiosity about a man whom displayed superb combat abilities that without a doubt he would discuss with his companions once they have some rest and time constrictions permit them to reunite once again by the statue of the High Elder. At first, he's left confused at the prospect that the blond man didn't desire to strike a conversation with him.

Confusion would soon turn into impulsive pettiness for lacking experiences in which people he's talked like that byproduct of his own irritability due to the last fight. He's the master of Luofu's artisanship, who does he think he is?

This time, he's the first to arrive at the statue the following day when the sun still hangs high, close to start setting in this fabricated solar and lunar system of the fleet. Jing Yuan is second who came, and apparently he isn't the only one whose attention was caught by that blond man. From what he would explain, within the army they won't stop talking about his martial prowess without even a material sword to hold— something that also interested Yìng Xīng, but this wasn't the time to be thinking about it.

"Judging from how lost he was when the General asked him certain things related to Luofu or other ships, it appears that he's from another world." Now, that piqued his interest. Yìng Xīng opens one eye to look at Jing Yuan with curiosity, inviting him to continue. So he's from a different world... that would make sense why he didn't at least answer what ship he comes from, as it was very obvious to the artisan that he wasn't from the Luofu. "His service on yesterday's battle is rewarded in bestowing him a residence where to live, but even that comes at a price."

Yìng Xīng's eyes narrow at that, fully aware of what that means. Every time a renowned individual steps on any of the ships, they'll be subjected to thorough scrutiny even when the façade that everything is tranquil and placid is shown to them. "Another outcast..." He murmurs under his breath, earning Jing Yuan's sympathetic nod as Dan Feng arrives. If he knows what's good for him, he would better leave soon.

There are some who under his circumstances would ask for help if their coming was unintentional. Then there are those who would prefer to figure themselves out.

That conversation would permeate Yìng Xīng's mind until the sun has settled and it's time for him to return back home. To his surprise, he notices the blond man by his front door lowering his head and turning on his heels soon after to take his leave. His wounded pride would incite him to tell him off after what happened the previous day, but his eyes narrow instead at the thought that he cannot blame him. He, too, was once an outsider to this world who came at a young age to escape from his own homeland and receive training to walk down the path of revenge of the Abominations for what they did to his parents— so no more kids like him would have to lose them.

"Did you need something?"

[reginrokkr]

Someone who rushes into the fight of another is bound to attract unwanted attention. Dáinsleif knew this would happen since the moment more people were involved in this open war against creatures he hasn't seen before. But mistake yourself not: his desire to join the fight isn't to aid, it is to find answers of his own. Within schooled knighthood and countless of fights he has participated in, through combat he is capable of sensing nuances than otherwise it may not possible. Such was this case, where acute sentience led him to find out the same might of destruction as there exists in those rifthounds of the beast realm.

Ingrained in full in the battles lunarescent seraph was that he did not pay attention to the helping hand that sought to bring him to the material safety of the flying ship as he slashed and sliced through the monsters that came his way upon noticing that he's an enemy too.

Twilight Sword didn't particularly think about what would follow next, but he did not anticipate that he would be offered a stay in one of the ships that form the united fleet. Part of him did not desire to interfere in the state of affairs of another concept of world, being full cognizant of all its implications out of experience of that fallen star landing to Khaenri'ah as a result of an answered wish. The other part of him calls for reason and logic that he may not find another world to settle and look for information in whom knows how long— a most undesirable event. Besides, the involvement of this united human force with beasts that are to some capacity similar to what he faced in his homeland would prove most useful in his investigation.

Reason why, nigh begrudgingly he accepted the proposal and the home that was assigned for his comfort without the compromise to do anything else— partaking in this battle alone sufficed. Nevertheless, that didn't mean that his guard would be let down. He's currently far from home in spirit, and unlike what's happening in his homeland, he doesn't wish to involve anyone with his issues. This concept of a world has enough on its plate if they encounter more beasts like those.

Unlike what his exterior reflects, Dáinsleif's heart jumps within the confines of his chest when he hears an unprompted voice behind him. Thus the luminary turns on his heels to look at the man. By the way he speaks, he must be knowledgeable of the incident that occurred in the vicinities of the ships— perhaps he might've even participated in the battle, he ignores. If that stands true, the man deserves praise for his effort, looking at an advanced stage of age as he does, but not any less out of shape as he himself would be.

Conflicted thoughts inundate his mind to the point of ignoring the fact that he understood what the man from before and this one are saying to him despite belonging to different worlds, including the fact that he doesn't entirely understand what exactly the man means. Only one line of thought remains at the forefront: ◜It is in your best interest that you don't associate yourself with me.◞ Sapphire irises advert from cool moonlight ones, guilt for being unable to reciprocate the friendliness bestowed to him pooling at the base of his gut. I'm sorry. Dáinsleif turns back to face the door, his face turns a tad to deliver his last words. ◜Goodbye.◞

Clarity of mind after a strenuous combat and a better understanding of his surroundings coax memories of the last moments of the day back into troubled mind when he rejected that man's hospitality. In a moment where naught made sense to him and his mind was too occupied with his homeland's situation to bother to care about anything else, he has been rather impolite to someone who greeted him out of the goodness of his heart. Not that he should particularly care— ere long his soul will fade away and return to his material body in Khaenri'ah when either he has found the answers he's been looking for or Irminsul deems that he's been away far enough.

However, a formal apology is in order. Reason why he's at the front door of the house he saw the man entering, right across the path that separates them in a minute walk. For all the hesitation he feels, Dáinsleif knocks on the door and awaits patiently for an answer or lack of thereof. If he does, wholehearted sincerity will be given. If not... perhaps it will be for the best to leave it be.

There will never be end to these Abominations. That's the harsh reality Yìng Xīng came to terms with a long time ago, even when he barely had a hundred years of life and looked youthful like a child in his teenage years. No matter how much they strive to put an end to them, they will always rise again and cause discord wherever they go. Whoever thought that there is a path of Abundance in this must've been sick in the head.

The monstrosity left behind by the revival of Rahu is unparalleled like no other, and the main reason why the High Cloud Quintet had gathered to end it. As usual, the starskiff pilot Baiheng managed to get the five of them out of the closing maw of the now planet-beast in the nick of time. Outside, the Xianzhou fleet was fighting against the summoned abominations and Shuhu itself.

Upon exiting the now closed mouth, Yìng Xīng senses a strange presence into the distance, all alone like a wandering soul that shouldn't belong in a scenery of war. Baiheng must've noticed the same as him, as she made the starskiff wander towards the figure of a man who he barely caught in time to see him forge a blade out of... energy? As the master of artisanship in Luofu, the white-haired couldn't help but stare in awe before he recomposed himself at the same time that Jingliu and Dan Feng jumped off the starskiff to land on one of the abominations to kill, then onto another, and onto another.

"Hey, you!" Unaware of what the man is up to or his strength, Yìng Xīng extends his hand for the blond to take when they're sufficiently close, but he's surprised instead when not only he rejected it from jumping into the residue of an asteroid, also to charge against the now monster planet that they barely escaped of. He doesn't permit the awe to linger any longer as Jing Yuan marks their timing for the jump, saying that they will deal with that later if they have the chance.

The fierce battle comes to a close, and so the High Cloud Quintet are reunited in a new starskiff when the previous one couldn't make it any farther to return to Luofu. The High Elder's gaze upwards makes Yìng Xīng to look in the same direction in time to notice that the blond man he has seen earlier landed on top of the starskiff.

The event ends with a visit to the High Elder's statue where the five of them toast for a good-earned victory over the Emanator of the Abundance and its Abominations, not without each's sorrows, Yìng Xīng knows it all too well.

It is nighttime by the time he returns to his house. Before he enters his home to rest (his age becomes more evident every fight, no matter how strong he is and the good shape of his body), his cold silver eyes wander towards the lights of a house equally as luxurious right in front of him, where he spots the blond accompanied by two Cloud Knights and the general talking with the latter before they leave.

Despite his tiredness and remembering the blond's unparalleled strength that could easily count as an army of thousands, Yìng Xīng drags his feet to approach him before he enters the no longer abandoned house. "The General must've considered your aid important enough to permit you to occupy this house." And important it was, indeed. The corners of his lips curl in a grin as he rises his chin. "What ship are you from?" It is plain that he isn't of the Luofu at the very least, for him to receive a house where to live in— most likely compensation for his help in the conflict.

[reginrokkr]

Why must everything be reduced to the Abyss? Why only that which emerges from it can be regarded as source of hope and transcendence for the good and not other forces willing to advocate for humanity in this world? Twilight Sword asked himself time and time again, jaded at the coming of a fallen star summoned by high-ranked individuals of the underground kingdom. For all he knew, anything that comes from the Abyss is toxic and incompatible with life, a force that precipitates living beings to madness until their bodies are naught but shells of what they used to be.

If we can control the Abyss, we will be able to control everything down to the gods.

Words originated by nowhere else other than a point of delirium still reverberate within the confines of the forsaken seraph's mind. Irregardless of calm days as tranquil as they can be in a kingdom hidden in the shadows of an even larger world and coexisting with equally as terrible creatures dwelling them, Dáinsleif sensed a shift in the atmosphere since the moment all energy source was changed from the power within Ley Lines to condensing energy comprised of abyssal toxicity. Initially, the Bough Keeper believed that it is sensible to cease the strain removing energy from spirit veins caused to them and Irminsul by extension. But this— this is not alright.

Where does the Abyss energy come from? Has it always been an inherent force within Teyvat's vowels in need to maintain a balance of powers? Or is it an alien strength that, just like the fallen star now regarded as no less than an uncrowned princess came to this world post-genesis? Unbeknownst to the luminary, troubled thoughts swimming in his mind would be acknowledged by Irminsul through the spiritual connection that ties them together, helping him thus to find answers he's looking for out of genuine concern for the current state of affairs in Khaenri'ah alongside a prophecy that guides him closer to where his doubts linger.

To a post-apocalyptic world where no life exists, even of a simple flower. A star whose amniotic blood has been drank to the last drop by star-beasts he has already fought to protect the kingdom under the pretext of mere accident. World laid in naught but ruins and desolation, dwelled by no more than monsters that chorus a song of doom about transcendence.

If this is the Abyss' doing... there is nothing but void. Emptiness not in the kingdom alone, but in the entire world. Can this truly be... just a dream?

In the vastness of a dreamscape too real to consider just a dream, celestial sapphires open to find himself in the universe. Surrounded by stars, and soon to enter his field of vision beasts resembling in color palette the abyssal monsters he has fought when outbreaks of these occurred within the kingdom premises. Real as the chillness of space may be, Dáinsleif is cognizant of the fact that it cannot be as easy as wakening suddenly in the cosmos. Thus does an onyx-gloved hand rise to touch the spot over his heart, albescent lashes fluttering close in momentary focus. ◜This is... this is your way of answering to me, is it not? Irminsul...◞

Ornamented galaxy trapped within the chest piece that sapphire glows answers to him, causing Twilight to open his eyes anew and nod his head in understanding. ◜Alright. Then, permit me to take this opportunity to investigate more. About the Abyss.◞ A fleet of ships can be observed from the distance about to clash with an army of demons that needn't one in order to cross the stars. Dáinsleif closes his fist, taking notice of lunar flames embracing his body. Strength surges from within his core to move forward at high speed, leaving a river of stars and sapphire behind to head towards the bubbling conflict.

On his way realization dawns on him that a planet-looking celestial body morphed into a monster, apparent source of the coming of the fiends that mercilessly attack ships small and big in size. A world that turns into a monster... is this what Teyvat will look like, too? The only answer he has at the moment is to rush towards the bigger monster, and so he does. Swordless does the Twilight Sword create from sapphire flames a blade to wield in time of the beast's maw to open and reveal a flying ship nigh in flames, crossing the cosmic heaven erratically— potential byproduct of its malfunctioning due to an imminent breakage.

Muted surprise becomes hard to conceal at the sound of Dáinsleif's ethereal voice, testament of his nature as a seraphic being like he witnessed in their journey across the universe. Instant relief settles in his heart when confirmation that the Inteyvat's time hasn't come yet. At least, he will be able to enjoy the flower's presence for a little longer before it lays to rest in its home. Rèn makes a mental note to ask the blond to go to Khaenri'ah one day. There is no need to prolong the Inteyvat's life any longer— and to his fortune, he has found his own light to rely on.

Rèn approaches Irminsul once his mind was reassured about the flower he holds, eyes unable to peel off Dáinsleif when he turns to wait for him patiently. From his back he could hardly pay attention to the fact that his body isn't spotless as he thought it would be, granted that his platinum hair covers the entirety of his back down to the back of his knees. But when he finally realises this— he's left utterly speechless. Just like him, he is marred in sapphire scars that are focused on the right part of his body. Something within him pulls at his heartstrings and at his nerves to reach out to touch, but he refrains from doing so as the angel has already begun to explain what they are about to face.

Witnessing memories in first person isn't the same as seeing them through memories, Blade notes. By the sounds of it, they are going to partake in the reminiscences and watch them unfold in third person with the dangers they may imply. Fragmented and dispersed as they may be, he knows sufficiently well that he used to be a fighter in the past too, so they must be ready when that comes to pass. Rèn shakes his head no in response to Dáinsleif's last question, then he sits down next to him. His right hand, used to be bandaged at nearly all times, touched with a couple of auric scars covers the other's gently.

Please, stay with me until the end.

He prays silently in his heart as icy silvers bore into sapphires with the union of their foreheads in an intimate action— one more to the list. This is the highest expression of trust, letting Dáinsleif touch his soul. As it is the highest expression of sincerity, to let him see his memories, dark and lighthearted both. If even after learning the reason why he's a sinner Dáinsleif decides to stay by his side, then perhaps he—

"Ready." He whispers, dipping his head once in a nod to further confirm that he is prepared to face what is about to come.

[reginrokkr]

Against all odds, new insight Dáinsleif hasn't anticipated to receive from Irminsul— no, the Imaginary Tree crosses his mind in a wave of information hard to make heads or tales from at first. The Vidyadhara High Elder's past lives, his race's sorrow found in reincarnation by forsaking memories of past lives, the preceptors' unwavering yet counterintuitive expectations... an endless inner strife betwixt draconic heart versus human-like heart and three genuine wishes: to save his race, his friends and himself from this tortuous destiny.

Everything makes sense in the seraphic conflicted mind as he witnesses Yìng Xīng's shock leading to his premature demise... that never occurred, for before this he was granted the gift of Permanence. Twilight struggles to pay attention to Rèn's painful words at first, only to warp into something sinister, a wake-up call that Mara is flaring again as it was born from his deep sorrow, guilt and remorse. It is when glassy sapphires blink multiple times to chase tears away and push through his own sorrow of seeing his loved one in that condition.

◜Fault cannot be erased from where it's meant to be.◞ Dan Feng's... and Yìng Xīng's, no matter how much it hurts— but never from a position to judge. Sometimes truth is cruel. ◜But.◞

Dáinsleif turns on his heels and walks to Rèn in order to grab him by his shoulders, to ground him somehow— to not let Mara win over him. Not again. This time he won't allow it. ◜Dan Feng's mind was in a good place. Don't you see?◞ Amidst the terror of catastrophe, a glimpse of draconic transmutation's light is reflected in its journey to a young dragon. ◜Disaster swayed in the Xianzhou, but his plan worked. Your investigation was never misguided.◞ Sending the shift of memory reveal does the Bough Keeper turn slightly to see the young dragon he has seen before in his stay in Luofu. ◜She's the new successor of the former High Elder, a young lady that is the spitting image of the friend all of you have lost... and who he desired to save, just as she saved him.◞

The luminary's attention returns to Rèn, thus his hand rises to cup the side of his face. ◜Mara is taking your memories and heightening your negative emotions of the moment to believe what isn't true. Don't let it get its way to you again, Rèn.◞

Please, don't let your sorrow give Mara power over you again.

So this... is how it happened. Cold silver eyes narrow at the sight of himself and Dan Feng having one last discussion preluding something nobody would ever understand— even himself. By his own desire and against what the preceptors would say and the sin that supposes to the Xianzhou, he received the gift of longevity by the hands of the High Elder of the Vidyadhara. Perhaps it is the fact that soon a calamitous battle was about to start, perhaps something else altogether he would never understand, such is the draconic heart in nature: unpredictable. Whatever Dan Feng's reasoning was to grant him this, it was never without his own consent. How would it when all his life he's been self-aware of his own limitations as a short-living being?

This would initiate the beginning of the end in the next battle against Shuhu's upheaval as well as the start of his rejuvenation in the way his skin became smoother and devoid of wrinkles byproduct of his advanced age, tighter and more voluminous muscles and snow white hair to deep black hair. The combat was a success, but at the cost of a great loss: Baiheng.

To the list of unpredictabilities originated from Dan Feng comes his refusal to go through the dragon transmutation as the preceptors expected of him and... his great and mortal injury. If it weren't because of what followed. A draconic monstrosity was born from Dan Feng, creating chaos left and right and provoking many more losses. This decision of his further encouraged by his own discoveries in the investigation undergone to the dragon palace long before this battle was on the horizon. It is true that Dan Feng confided him a secret not meant to know by anyone, and his own encouragement to follow his heart was indisputable. However, this...

"It's... my fault."

A tear followed by many others falls down his cheek as his own voice and that of the memory synchronise, the two of them staring in horror at what all of this caused. Weren't for his wish to exceed the normal lifespan of a human so he could continue on the road to vengeance in order to avenge his parents, so that no more people like him would have to suffer the pain of parting from their parents for survival's sake... weren't for his big mouth in letting Dan Feng know about this, he would never even think of granting him Permanence's longevity. Weren't for his investigation and following discovery share with him, he wouldn't have applied it to his own plans.

"No. Everything is his fault. He who would be merciless against enemies and kin alike. His compatriots fell by his hand, him and his nonsensical greed. It's because of him that mara took a grip of me and because of it, death's pain followed me. It's all because of...!"

Blue tranquility is tainted by aureate ruby once again the more he lets mara chain him as it did the first time, born from pain and regret and a numberless list of sorrow he would be punished to suffer from for the remainder of eternity. It's useless. Nothing has changed, even if I was able to see the memories as they are... there is not a single nuance that makes any of this different.

That was... the first and only time he has died.

[reginrokkr]

Sentiments that have been once lost sprout anew as memories pass before celestial sapphires. Reminiscences that have been lost due to the inclement passages of time and the even merciless Heavenly Principles, one of the most precious things he had left if not the only at the time— not even a sense of self to claim as his own when everything he had for it is hatred as a result of what it has become.

Sudden timidness arises too when memories of halcyon times display before them, beautiful moments punctuated with naught but genuine love that was too short-living for what he would've liked. Nervousness gnaws at him at the notion that all of this must look to Rèn all too foreign, albeit something that they had shared for a while nonetheless. Dáinsleif will always remember with affection when he was taught to be more unrelenting in that which he wants and not give in to his own desire for the sake of others— a pity it lasted for so little as soon after he has returned to the material plane in Khaenri'ah, there was no room for that any longer.

His starry gaze moves from the love-making scenario before them to Rèn as he approaches him with a query he cannot say he saw coming, but all too in character with him for a man who claims that he is nothing like what he used to be anymore. It is a question that hits home, one that he has an immediate answer for, thankfully. ◜There is no other place where I would rather be.◞ His answer is sincere and earnest as he looks into his eyes for anything that might stir up any shape or form of insecurity or doubt of his words to find none. Even if all of this may be a far cry home from what he knows of him, at least from that which he learned in the time they have spent together since their reunion, he should tell that he needn't lie to him nor he ever did.

One last moment is displayed that they have shared: in the post love-making when Dáinsleif's soul illuminated as a sign that Irminsul is about to transmigrate it back into his body, one last confession that couldn't be any more honest: he didn't want to leave, he wanted to stay with him. Sometimes irony can be quite harsh or even cruel, for this is where he comes to find out that the least likely possibility for Rèn to find an Inteyvat flower has come true— it was the residue of his soul, a persistent wish to remain with him in this capacity. One that from what the snow haired has retold, it served him more than once in moments of insanity due to Mara.

What follows next is Rèn's desire to research into ways for him to use to become a long-living species. This is a sentiment he has already noticed in him since he was young, further confirmed by himself when he claimed that he has come to realize that he wouldn't have enough time of life to achieve everything he could and he would weren't for the fact that he was a short-living species. However, this... he can't help but think that it might be the beginning of disaster and what would eventually lead him to be mara-struck, if he succeeds. Which he must've done, thanks to Dan Feng who thought of him as strongly as Yìng Xīng did.

For all he knows, this is a taboo in Xianzhou and a deed frowned upon to the point of being no less than crime. He highly doubts that Dan Feng, as the High Elder Vidyadhara wouldn't know of this. But perhaps it was his wish to offer a favor back if this was the one he was referring to— or maybe something else altogether, he doesn't know. Soon enough, he would come to realize that Yìng Xīng's research would also serve Dan Feng in his own pursuit to break with the endless cycle of reincarnation that Vidyadhara are forced to endure time and time again with the downsides that entails, and to enable them to reproduce instead so their race won't go extinct and the gift of Permanence won't fall into the wrong hands.

Every mote of regret present in his mind for venting his frustrations and insecurities fades away and is replaced with gladness. Yìng Xīng is old and experienced enough to know that others may have different perceptions than his own, but this— this is something that he hasn't considered before, perhaps a result of his hurt and lack of courage to be open about it with Dan Feng, or maybe it was his wounded pride that didn't allow him be vulnerable about it.

The calmness Dáinsleif transmits by his presence alone like that of the moon up high in the nocturne sky is the same that his words transmit. He cannot put to words whether it's the fact that he is also in a high position in the military that makes him all the more reliable in what he says or that he's a complete outsider, separate from all this nucleus save for the bond they have built. Whatever it is, Yìng Xīng listens carefully and commits every word to memory alongside feelings he speaks of.

He's right. The fact that he's a short-living species makes his life all the more precious even to himself, who oftentimes believes to not have enough time to do everything he would've wished for his own peace of mind— and that of his parents and other children that may be forced to be separated from their parents for the sake of survival. Perhaps what Dan Feng wishes is for him to not concern himself with something that would reduce his life if not cut it short by some tragedy in the battlefield, hence his silence that in truth speaks volumes of how he would've wished otherwise. But truth be said... he doesn't regret what he said, and that wish burns fervently still.

Twilight Sword's words uplift him in ways he didn't expect would be possible when a few minutes ago his mood was dampened and give him a reinvigorating strength that straightens him and makes him even prouder of himself than he was, for better or for worse of poor Dáinsleif who will have to deal with him. It begins with a wide grin plastered on his features, then with the want to snake his arm around his shoulders and bring him closer in a half hug to express his happiness. "Didn't peg you for the type to be this deep. You certainly know how to make an old man like me feel better." A joyful laughter follows to release the excess of emotions until his heart is calm anew— it always is with Dáinsleif here, for some reason.

Eventually their foreheads touch in what became a characteristic physical touch betwixt them when they are alone like this drinking at night before parting ways, a sigh in relief escapes his lips as he nudges his forehead with his own to coax him into looking at him. "Thank you, Dáinsleif. From the bottom of my heart."

To Rèn's lack of surprise, Dáinsleif is as reliable as ever even if he looks a bit younger than his current appearance suggests. Silver eyes soften as the emotions of that moment swell within his chest, causing a hand to rest over the spot of his heart and memorise that feeling and hopefully keep it there. Even if in this point of time he's at a genuine loss with his sentiments due to the prolonged disconnection he had and knowing no more than negative emotions byproduct of Mara for such a long time, he can sense its warmth and the tingles in his heart. The way he cannot tear his look away from that scenario even if it's somehow distant from him now, but at the same time recently familiar with their own shared acts of trust and mutual comfort.

Blade returns by Twilight Sword's side and before them a chain of memories of their growing romance display before them, of moments when his former self taught the blond to be more unapologetic with his own feelings and desires— leading to an emotional moment when Dáinsleif has learned the motive behind his presence in Luofu and his sadness for being unable to leave at will. In a moment of utmost sincerity and a bit of persuasion from himself to think about what he wants in that moment, they engage into love making that causes his alabaster face to grow warm. These are feelings he can relate with, recognising them just now and being able to describe them for what they are at long last: love. Alas, there is too much to ignore that may not make this possible. And most importantly yet—

"...Tell me something, Dáinsleif." A brief pause follows before continuing his line of thought. "If you are here with me going through this it's because that's what you want, right?" He whom is driven by what is just and would go out of his way by the vast kindness of his heart, even to places where it's not his business to involve himself... did he really learn to guide himself by what he wants? Or rather— did he lose that habit? Doubt gnaws at him, thus he turns to look at him to be faced with this truth that may stray from what his hopeful heart wishes. But he wants to hear it, whatever it is. "Right?"

[reginrokkr]

The first instinct that arises within Twilight is to reach out for the other's hand as soon as he lets go, but the lack of evil energy that Mara emanates makes him refrain from doing so and listen. Devoid of hesitation and the certainty in Rèn's words leads him to confirm what he already knew: memories are never truly gone, they are buried deep within one's consciousness at most.

Only now does Dáinsleif learn that Rèn had a difficult life. Knowing of his past that he isn't a Xianzhou native at most as one of the thingd that tied them together when they first met. For all he knew, he was a renowned craftsman oftentimes described as arrogant and whose creations were the height of human hubris— not any less good for that, however.

Nevertheless, he has come to learn about his tranquil self more than the other. Yìng Xīng was thoughtful, a caring soul whom wouldn't mind sharing his gift of craftsmanship with others even as a simple token of gratitude. The cheery and sun-like aura was, in essence, partly an impenetrable shield that didn't allow pass of any negativity until he was within the comfort and intimacy of his home in quiescence.

Dáinsleif just happened to be someone akin to a confidant.

Far from being upset, Dáinsleif saw through pain-filled words coming from a position hard to verbalize as easily even within his close circle of friends. Reason why he shakes his head to dispel any doubts Yìng Xīng may have of hurting him in any way just for venting— Irminsul forbid. Specially when he is the one who is hurting for what considers to be a serious and legit topic. ◜Unfortunately, I am not suitable for that question because I cannot relate to the situation you describe. Despite being the captain, I always take part on the frontlines even if my military position gives me the freedom to do otherwise if I so desired.◞

A pregnant silence ensues thereafter, born from the need to have a brief pensive moment.

◜However, in an exercise of empathy towards your friend... I think it is hard to see someone willing to put their life at stake for yours when that person doesn't have at their disposal everything you do. As a short-living species, your life should be precious. So to see it exposed to danger that may end it sooner isn't easy. At least I would feel that way.◞ Nonetheless, this isn't without its positive side that stems from nothing but a kind and noble heart. He wants to let him know that, too.

◜I perceive a sense of nobility coming from you, Yìng Xīng. By protecting mister Dan Feng not only you're safekeeping his life as potentially the highest entity of Luofu, but you are also protecting indirectly the Xianzhou however you can. You could stay behind providing military assistance through your craft and engineering, yet you make yourself be part of the military too. And for your age, to stand at the helm as part of the elite in the High-Cloud Quintet...◞ Sapphire seek moonlight silvers briefly, roseate lips curl in a gentle smile thereafter. ◜It is naught short of commendable and deserving of respect.◞

The moment they stepped in the vast darkness of his homeworld was like someone's hands removing a veil that was covering his eyes to a truth long ago buried within the deepest recesses of his mind. One single glance sufficed to recognise this place as his homeland and the tragedy that has befallen by the hand of those damned borisins, abominations of the Abundance all of them. Blade feels Dáinsleif's hand squeezing his own and he reciprocates in a silent I know and I'm here to soothe his concerns. The night before he has promised to be open with everything he thought so he would act at the soonest indication of mara about to flare.

"This used to be my homeland... until the abominations of the Path of Abundance came and used humans as their fodder." Hatred spills like venom from his lips as emotions of that moment surge within his chest as if he were witnessing the same right now. "We defeated together one of these when we reunited. Before that I was frozen in place, I had no idea where all this fear came when I murdered singlehandedly worse."

Now I know.

His lips purse with contempt as he avoids looking at his young self running past them and to the awaiting Cloud Knights behind them. The beginning of something hard to define unfolds, a persistent sentiment he has felt for a very long time makes itself manifest. "My parents' loss, the fear, hatred, everything I felt here... became my purpose to be for a while." And continued after that too, albeit not in the same proportion.

Before them is displayed the scenery of one of the ships of the Xianzhou, though not the one Dáinsleif may think it is. "I used to live in the Zhuming ship before moving to Luofu." Images of his hardworking past self reveal, showing his evolution in crafting through several years alongside a man who he forgot once— but never again. "Master Huayian is one of the seven Arbiter-Generals and master of the Zhuming Artisanship Commission, think of him on the same level as Jing Yuan currently is." He lets go of the blond's hand to move forward towards him, all the admiration he felt for him alongside love like he would his own father swelling inside him.

"He was kind enough to take me in and show me artisanship. Thanks to him, I was able to make a name of myself and assist the Xianzhou military via the creation of Aurumatons." His hand sways and with it the image of his former master fades in starlight particles soon to reveal a timeskip of a couple of decades into the future. "Living in Luofu later on was eye-opening in many ways, but also..." Cold silver eyes drop to his hand, now closing into a tight fist. "It was when I realised that my existence is nothing but a mote in comparison to the rest, as a short-living species. Time passed by, changed my appearance. But never theirs. I wouldn't be able to complete the engineering of military material to confront the abominations of the Abundance and take revenge on behalf of my parents."

Sensing a change of pace in his memories, Rèn looks to the front and his eyes narrow when he sees himself interacting with a young Jing Yuan that in no time would be as tall as him, Baiheng who he admired so and... them. Jingliu and Dan Feng. What made me hate Dan Feng so much? I need to find out. Within these good memories that display without pause comes the moment Dáinsleif appeared in his life, too.

"I said I want to become Dan Feng's guardian, alas..." A prolonged sigh escapes his lips before he rises the cup of wine to get one more gulp of the drink. "It's hard to ignore their gazes, like they pitied me almost for being a short-living species." He couldn't contain the emotions he didn't show them at the time, laughing it up instead when the knowing but uncomfortable silence fell following his claim.

Yìng Xīng rests the cup on the wooden surface to lean back on his hands, eyes identical in colour as the moon looking at their analogous in the night sky. "You said you are the captain of the royal knights in your homeland, right? Do everyone in your position treat condescendingly the knights that may want to protect you in the battlefield?" Beneath the cheery and full of himself exterior lies a sea of insecurities born from that moment, from his condition as a short-living species making a fool of himself laying his life for the protection of someone whose race doesn't allow him to die, but reincarnate into a healthy new being. Deep down, he knows neither of them mean to treat him like that— but it is not always that he can keep up that strength before he crumbles, his age weighing on him all of a sudden. "...Forget I said that. It doesn't make any sense, I know. Pardon my venting, you don't deserve that."

[reginrokkr]

When there is consent for two souls to nearly converge and become one, to permit one mind to melt into the other, there is an expression of trust and safety like none other. For the first time since aetherial sapphires caught glimpse of Rèn's shattered soul, he's able to see both mind and soul one and the same even after passages of time have worn and torn his weary psyche. Moonlight silvers are the last Dáinsleif sees before albescent lashes flutter close, a prayer to Irminsul sent to the holy tree's extension behind them. Thus Teyvat's Anima Mundi glows once more, blanketing the entirety of seraphic realm of consciousness in its lunar white.

If everything goes according to the plan and with what low expectations Twilight had, Xianzhou should greet their ethereal presence. Instead, it is a bleak exterior where night has already fallen. It is naught like the beauty Dáinsleif has always cherished of eventide, but calamitous and bearer of bad omens judging by its heavy ambiance. Everywhere he would look there is destruction and not a single trace of humankind.

His hand reaches out to hold Rèn's immediately in his, fingers tightening a tad to make sure he is close to him in a moment where he lacks the knowledge or what to search exactly. ◜If Irminsul took in consideration my memories, we should be in the Xianzhou.◞ But it did not, which must only mean— ◜...It worked. It's displaying memories chronologically attending to your lost memories too.◞

Which should be something positive, but what they have to witness isn't so. Ere long beasts of overwhelming proportions appear in sight and the screams of people rings within Dáinsleif's ears. The sight of a young child weeping in amorous and parental arms touches luminary's heartstrings as it overlaps with one such similar image in Khaenri'ah when divine's wrath descended upon them. The child is pushed away from them thereafter not long before one of those beasts comes and makes of them naught but... human fodder.

Long fingers twitch and wrap some more around Rèn's hands, frozen astrals tremble within celestial sapphire depths as he watches a young Yìng Xīng run for his life towards a Cloud Knight troop heading that direction to take down those monsters.

This is why he was frozen in place the first time I've encountered him. That monster... looks the same as the one that devoured his fathers did.

To that realization, Dáinsleif's eyes close in mourning for a broken childhood he didn't know Rèn had, praying that wherever they are may rest in peace.

Muted surprise becomes hard to conceal at the sound of Dáinsleif's ethereal voice, testament of his nature as a seraphic being like he witnessed in their journey across the universe. Instant relief settles in his heart when confirmation that the Inteyvat's time hasn't come yet. At least, he will be able to enjoy the flower's presence for a little longer before it lays to rest in its home. Rèn makes a mental note to ask the blond to go to Khaenri'ah one day. There is no need to prolong the Inteyvat's life any longer— and to his fortune, he has found his own light to rely on.

Rèn approaches Irminsul once his mind was reassured about the flower he holds, eyes unable to peel off Dáinsleif when he turns to wait for him patiently. From his back he could hardly pay attention to the fact that his body isn't spotless as he thought it would be, granted that his platinum hair covers the entirety of his back down to the back of his knees. But when he finally realises this— he's left utterly speechless. Just like him, he is marred in sapphire scars that are focused on the right part of his body. Something within him pulls at his heartstrings and at his nerves to reach out to touch, but he refrains from doing so as the angel has already begun to explain what they are about to face.

Witnessing memories in first person isn't the same as seeing them through memories, Blade notes. By the sounds of it, they are going to partake in the reminiscences and watch them unfold in third person with the dangers they may imply. Fragmented and dispersed as they may be, he knows sufficiently well that he used to be a fighter in the past too, so they must be ready when that comes to pass. Rèn shakes his head no in response to Dáinsleif's last question, then he sits down next to him. His right hand, used to be bandaged at nearly all times, touched with a couple of auric scars covers the other's gently.

Please, stay with me until the end.

He prays silently in his heart as icy silvers bore into sapphires with the union of their foreheads in an intimate action— one more to the list. This is the highest expression of trust, letting Dáinsleif touch his soul. As it is the highest expression of sincerity, to let him see his memories, dark and lighthearted both. If even after learning the reason why he's a sinner Dáinsleif decides to stay by his side, then perhaps he—

"Ready." He whispers, dipping his head once in a nod to further confirm that he is prepared to face what is about to come.

[reginrokkr]

Sentiments of fear are seldom felt outside the battlefield in moments where the tides turn against him. Spurs of sincerity and honesty shouldn't come with fright, yet nothing but is what the selenic seraph feels. For he knows this is not the right moment for this. Not when he made clear since the beginning that this is mostly in the benefit of his homeland. Not when he the end of this journey is nigh and there is naught he can do to control when he leaves. Yìng Xīng deserves to be loved by someone who lives in this world, to be cherished by someone who won't leave him. And yet...

Dáinsleif jolts at the sound of his name, his body is petrified with fear for the unknown and of what's to come. Nevertheless, he saw it on himself. Be it for good or for bad, he must face the consequences of his action and so he complies to look at Yìng Xīng reluctantly as he does. Aureate eyes are far from hostile or dark with negative feelings he cannot see, shining bright like the warm star he is. What little composure Twilight had left crumbles when the albescent haired cups his cheek, glacial sapphires following his hand, fair brows knitting in a frown as an imperious urge to lean into his touch is fought. The next time they land on his gold irises again, they are frozen with ephemeral shock.

A shaky sigh abandons roseate lips when they welcome Yìng Xīng's in a kiss that warms him whole. It's sweet, tender and gentle, everything he already knew his lips were from the night they kissed for the first time. And just like Yìng Xīng does hardly any second later, Dáinsleif breaks completely and cries. Of happiness, of grief. Of everything at once. When their foreheads touch, this time he doesn't look anywhere else that isn't in the maze of his beloved's eyes.

So this is... what it means to be loved unconditionally.

Loved with little regard for the title he bears or the duties that weigh on his shoulders, loved with nary a care of the purity of his bloodline or what he is. Only loved for who he is and what they experienced here, together. Strong arms wrap around Yìng Xīng in a loving embrace as they keep crying, voice broken with nothing he can say due to the turmoil of emotions that whirl within him until moments later in the dead of the night where naught but his lover's name would be chanted like a prayer when they make love as the zenith of their strong feelings for one another.

As they do in what will be their last night shared together in the next thousand years. Nothing but a short week more Dáinsleif was given to spend time with his lovely star, every day a reminder that he's expected to awaken where he is in Khaenri'ah soon as Halfdan's voice and words become more frequently heard. One short week to devote himself to Yìng Xīng, for his lips to learn every inch of skin, for his heart and soul to be acquainted with his lover's.

Tears cascade down his features as the warmth of his beloved's body begins to fade away, numbing him from any stimuli he can feel in this world as the prelude of his undesired departure. The darkness of his room is shattered with a sapphire blue of Dáinsleif's own soul, setting him alight in Yìng Xīng's arms. Motes of stardust start to rise starting from his legs in slow motion, causing the luminary to incorporate himself on the bed, never letting go of his. ◜I don't want to go.◞ Such is the cruel truth of his heart that learned about love from the only man that taught him the importance make of his own wishes something relevant. Dáinsleif nuzzles the crook of Yìng Xīng's neck, wanting nothing more than to feel as much of him as he can in these final moments.

◜I wish nothing more but to stay with you.◞

Where Yìng Xīng saw joy in the premise that the other can leave content for having pursued what he sought, Dáinsleif saw sorrow. Where Yìng Xīng saw no problems in the fact that the blonde doesn't have power over when he'll go back home, Dáinsleif saw them. There is a sudden rift of dissonance between them that makes it hard for the white-haired to understand the Twilight Sword despite his own sadness on the matter.

Now that what he came for was fulfilled of all moments, what saddens you so, Dáinsleif?

Maybe it's because Yìng Xīng's own emotions are a mess that he can't see with clarity what is happening right before his own eyes. Maybe if it weren't because his heart clenches so painfully inside his chest, he would be able to see past Dáinsleif's pain and understand fully why there is nothing but sorrow where there should be joy and eagerness to return to his world. For all he knows, there should be nothing chaining him to the Xianzhou, in order for him to see so many problems he has yet to understand, in the fact that it wouldn't matter if he were to fade away right now beyond Yìng Xīng's own grief. It really wouldn't.

Nonetheless, his confusion is short-lived in the face of the second part that Dáinsleif seems so reluctant to reveal.

A second part to the truth of his heart that disarms Yìng Xīng completely, sending golden eyes to open wide with shock as he listens the blonde's part. In the absence of certainty connected to Dáinsleif's feelings about him, he believed that it would be fine if he was the only one who would grieve over a lost love —it would not— instead of the two at once without nothing they could do about it but accept this cruel fate. "..." But this... the knowledge that Dáinsleif feels so strongly for him to the point of yearning to do everything he claims, that in essence it is him who he longs for renders Yìng Xīng completely speechless for some moments until the realisation dawns on him.

All this time, these sentiments of love were mutual.

"...Dáinsleif." He calls for him as soon as he processes everything, pleading him to look at him. Yìng Xīng waits patiently for him to get out from his hiding zone that is his lap, but not so patiently for aureate to meet sapphire at long last before the hand that until then rested on his knee cups the side of his face to ultimately kiss his lips chaste and tender unlike the passion that burned between them a few nights ago— but not any less packed with strong feelings. His forehead rests on the blonde's after that, lips heaving a shaky sigh that preludes the fall of his own tears. "Even if what I see is merely your consciousness, your soul or both at once... it is real. All of this is real."

And how beautifully yet bittersweetly real it is. His free hand rises to cup the other side of his face too as his eyes close, he's too moved to contain his feelings now that he knows it is reciprocal. So he weeps and shakes his head no before his eyes open again to look at him. "Don't apologise for that. Don't ever do it. Not for sharing your feelings with me." You've been brave. Knowing how selfless to a fault he is, how hard it must've been for him to come to terms with these feelings despite knowing their circumstances, let alone gathering the courage to confess them to him makes him extremely emotional— his feelings a true turmoil. But if he were to highlight one of them, only one of them... it would be happiness. "Even if it's undetermined when you'll leave... I regret nothing."

I am proud of you. For allowing yourself even a moment to feel without neglecting what you yearn for.