#◟༺✦༻◞ Seraphs reminisce how to fly even without wings┊Aether → risingsol.┊

[reginrokkr]

What’s wrong with it? The nerve he has to ask such question. Shadow casts over brilliant, icy sapphires with the simple lowering of his head, light blond bangs covering his eyes like a curtain that conceals the inner turmoil Dáinsleif harbors within. This is what wisdom does to a man that knows no better than to look past his belly, just like several denizens of Khaenri’ah were each in their selfish pursuit. The fallen star that once knew nothing but the struggle of those whom suffer the consequences of human despair and the gods’ mindless wrath to maintain their status as rulers and whose heart shattered for those in need as the two of them both sought for ways to find their destiny and fight for survival... is no more. Did the Abyss Order brainwash you so much that you have forgotten the essence of whom you are?

❝You became mired in hypocrisy just as those whom kiss where you step are.❞ The fallen luminary was miles away from intending to hurt, but to state a fact regardless of how painful objective truths may be. They always were— it is the reason why not everyone is fit to pursue wisdom. Even less to achieve the ugly truths of this world. ❝Just for your own benefit and that of others whom long ago lost sight of what they can or cannot do, you would abandon and sacrifice the same people that offer you servitude.❞ Dáinsleif rises his head anew to meet amber irises, his own fair features no longer denoting the usual neutrality they done— but a much eerie and serious stance better to go unprovoked. ❝All those hilichurls and olden Black Serpent Knights wanted is to meet their end on their own terms. Who do you think you and your minions are to take what little left they have? Who are you to sully what little honor and dreams they have against their will?❞

❝If you think that makes you any better than Celestia’s divine superiorities, you are gravely mistaken.❞

Dáinsleif doesn’t fail to notice the hopelessness in Aether’s voice nor the sharp inhale that follows thereafter, a speck of hope in a sea of utter darkness that threatens to grow only deeper should this continue. Nonetheless, he doesn’t relent. For this Twilight Sword of old— no, the Bough Keeper is beyond fed up with this nonsense. ❝What’s more— you would gladly throw under the bus these people whom are no different than those who we assisted centuries ago. Innocent people whom have naught to do with Khaenri’ah’s tragedy, yet your subordinates loathe with all their heart as if they were the perpetrators of their disgrace. Have you forgotten?❞ Albescent, long locks of blond sway gently with the soft shake of his head. ❝Your actions amount to nothing more than the destruction of this dying star that struggles to contain all this devouring darkness. Think about it: the Abyss Order would operate normally as they are with or without you. Do you think you can come to this world, wreck everything havoc and leave millions of people without their rightful legacy as you leave with your sister should your plan succeed?❞

There are other ways to do this. Much longer and lethargic, but not much longer than what you’ve awaited so far. ❝Everything comes in its due time, with or without your questionable intervention. The Fatui, the Abyss Order... they are precipitating that which you seek to happen, regardless of what may happen once the Long Night comes.❞ Which will. Long ago those seeds were planted in the fertile soil dotted with flowing stars. It is only a matter of time until they sprout and create new paths of fate that occur naturally. Not by some usurpers’ will.

[reginrokkr]

❝Do you miss your homeland when you stargaze?❞ Stargazing is an activity that Dáinsleif adores since he remembers, so spotting him doing just that isn’t strange in the slightest. Nevertheless, what little he knows about the traveler journeying with him in this vast world wouldn’t suggest such a pleasant experience in a heart where melancholy made an abode.

@risingsol​ ♥︎ed for a tiny thing!

[reginrokkr]

@risingsol​​ replied to your post “◟༺✧༻◞ Attributes ❝...❞”

THE MAX LEVEL FOR CURSED IM EWTIOEIOWE CHOKING

❝Are you perchance trying to say something, Aether?❞

[reginrokkr]

"I'm sorry but I have to do this at least once - please don't zap me!" This was all the warning that the traveler would give before he scooped up the small Tinysleif into his arms, encasing the little potato cake in an embrace that he did his best to not make extremely tight. Being impulsive was something that got him into trouble sometimes, but also acting on his emotions was just a part of him and Tinysleif was too cute to not give a squeeze!

Confusion and curiosity reflect in icy sapphire depths spotted with stars at the suddenness of the statement. What is there to apologize for? What is there to zap him for? Unbeknownst to him, Dáinsleif would find out sooner than later. For Aether’s actions seem to be as swift as his words that the Twilight Sword of old is struggling to find sense for still as he moves to scoop him up. The deed alone does naught but add to Tinysleif’s confusion that settles on a frown, not by the act itself, of course— he appreciates greatly how kind and gentle is his touch, but out of sheer ignorance of where this is leading.

Dáinsleif was never an individual known for seeking physical contact, after all, and he is certain that the traveler caught wind of as much during the moments they spent together. Mostly fighting hand in hand against the Abyss Order forces.

...Oh.

To say that the Bough Keeper didn’t anticipate this outcome is an understatement. Snow white features burn in shame as soon as his prominently smaller form is pressed against Aether’s in a tight embrace. Not too tight to cause any kind of discomfort, regardless. The first set of thoughts that cross Dáinsleif’s mind are in the likeness of whether he is so stern that asking directly for a hug becomes god’s work. If perhaps the solidified trust betwixt them is not sufficient to request one. Or maybe— maybe the fact that Aether is fully cognizant of his reluctance to touch more than necessary is the reason why he daren’t ask.

Cyan irises soften thereafter, astral pupils trembling within their orbits when the first set of thoughts is dispelled to give room to a whirlwind of sentiments that wash over him in tidal waves. Comfort. Kindness. Warmth. Dáinsleif has re-learned how nice human warmth is these past days since that Abyss Exegete dared to enchant him in this state. Nevertheless, there is an underlying feeling interwoven with a simple act such as an embrace that he cannot deny. How long has it been since the last time he felt the safety that comes from being surrounded by someone else’s arms in a genuine, kindhearted gesture? Most importantly—

For how long did he yearn to reminisce what it feels like once again?

Ultimately does Tinysleif grasp onto the white fabric of Aether’s scarf with his little hands, face burying into the fallen seraph as much as he can in the semblance of a reciprocated embrace. A mental note to be followed at a later time to remind the traveler gently that should he wish to hug him in a future occasion, there is no need to act so abruptly or assume that a negative reaction will come out of it. For now, he will remain perfectly still to bask in this affectionate touch for as long as Aether wills it. He may draw something from this experience that Dáinsleif ignores, but so does the prophet in reaffirming his humanity. That he, too, needs someone else’s warmth even if he is no longer mortal.

@risingsol ✦

[reginrokkr]

"...would it be faster to just join her?" Moments of self doubt were normal during a journey, but after all that had come to pass... the right path to follow felt a little muddled. "She's already seen what she wants me to see - Dain, how long have you been journeying? Does it... feel like there's an end?"

Doubt, poison to one’s heart when there is naught but mysteries that refuse to reveal themselves as easily as one would desire. It is no wonder that Aether feels lost, trapped in a whirlwind of negative emotions at the notice that the more he advances, the farthest he appears to be from his sister. We will be reunited at your journey’s end, she once said. True as your words may be, can you truly say that you will be both one of a mind all the same? Or is it hopeful thinking alone that blood is thicker than water, hence no matter how irrational you are he will condone your unforgivable deeds?

Several centuries treading the path of solitude would harden one’s heart, one would think. And true they are, so is Dáinsleif’s thought. Nevertheless, if there is one thing that the abandoned seraph never lost is his sense of warmth and empathy, a far cry from what his aloof and logical-bound attitude may suggest. Icy sapphire irises soften in quiescence, intent to peer into Aether’s ambers through long, albescent lashes to no avail. Otherwise cheery, hopeful and vibrant environment when no Abyss Order scoundrels get in betwixt is heavy and gloomy as it settles in.

For the time being, he gives the descender star some time to think and ponder his musings aloud. By no means he intends to shift his perception, mindset or priorities in this moment of his life, no. For all he knows, this world can burn down to ashes if that means an opportunity to reunite and leave. Nonetheless, everything changes when it is his sister whom wants to plunge this whole world into oblivion, into everlasting darkness. Anyone whom descends to this world can be a blessing or be harbinger of calamities, including him.

Dáinsleif snaps out of his reverie the next time Aether speaks, he perks and straightens on the trunk where he sits and looks over the other blond. ❝I remember not a single moment that I stopped journeying since Khaenri’ah’s fall.❞ The Twilight Sword of old is no such man to reveal anything about his person. Though to his favor —for better or for worse, there was not a time he could decide which—, he lacks memories of halcyon times of a bygone past of his. Even so, he has never been one to deny the wandering star an earnest answer, either. Unless it is a truth that can damage this world, he can never think of an eventuality that he would, seeing how lost he is. It is best to serve as a light —however faint it may be— to the lost ones than making matters worse.

❝Alas, there is no such thing as ever stopping until I see my calling fulfilled. Relevant matters take time, as it does mine.❞ A pause. ❝You ought to be aware of as much, knowing the origins of your nature.❞ Perhaps not the most positive answer he could give him. Dáinsleif has always been a man to set on realistic ways rather than overly positive or negative ones that can blind him with false hope. ❝...In moments like these when there is no end to be seen at the end of the tunnel, you must never lose sight of what led you to where you are. Where are you heading? What is your reasoning to do what you wish to achieve? Never forget them.❞

Otherwise you may fall to madness as many before you did— as your sister one day may lest something is done.

❝Of course, a turn of events should not deter you from achieving that which you wish. You have seen for yourself what she desires, that must conflict with people you have met in this world or the world in itself. Do you think that is the best solution?❞ Whatever conclusion you may reach, you must not cease your pursue of your sister. ❝Cannot there be a different resolution that benefits you both without harming anyone? These are all questions only you can answer.❞ He turns enough to be face to face to him, an onyx-gloved hand rises to touch the spot over his heart with a finger. ❝In your heart.❞

@risingsol ✦

[reginrokkr]

"Here." A share of piping hot bowl of calla lilly seafood stew was offered to the other, something to perhaps warm up Dain's frame as the chill of the night started to set in. "Eat up! I made a whole bunch, more than enough for both of us."

■    ■    ■    The crackling of dancing embers by the fireplace, the soft rustling of leaves as a gentle breeze rises every so often and the tranquility of the area they have chosen to spend the night on are discordant elements to nocturne perils that Dáinsleif was acquainted with ever since he still lived in the now Khaenri’ah. Might as he tries to force himself into relaxation, his heightened and honed senses byproduct of many years of military experience and leadership warn him to not let himself be deceived by these components that may conceal unexpected dangers. 

More than ever, eventide creatures are at their worst: in their beginnings, they were merely creatures of the Abyss that would rather shy away from the light of the golden kingdom. But now, it is confirmed that what additional beings that came into existence may arrive to the nation of freedom harbor sentiments that their makers possessed. There is another factor to keep in mind also: amongst these creatures, once upon a time humans are betwixt their ranks and can control them as they fancy if they so will it.

Dáinsleif snaps out of his reverie at the sound of his companion’s voice alongside the smell that tickles his nostrils of the appetizing dish. He reaches forward to accept the bowl, mindful to not burn himself despite counting with the protection of his gloves as he mouthes a small thank you in appreciation for his kindness. It hasn’t been that long since the two of them have met and decided to start a journey together and it already felt like they’re joined at the hip. The very thought helps to add to the warmth that holding the bowl and being sheltered by the bonfire between them, a smile only to be noticed if one were to pay special attention to his eyes illuminates his features before looking back at Aether. ❝With your permission.❞

If the dish’s aroma was not telling enough by then, the first bite he takes should seal the premise as he allows the stew’s flavors inundate every taste buds. With the stew serving as a unifying thread, the savory taste of the seafood meet alongside the freshness that calla lily flowers offer as well as the rest of used spices do create a harmonious experience in his mouth that culminates with the enjoyable warmth that runs down his throat with every swallow.

Cyan irises rise from the bowl to meet amber ones in a gentle nod of his head that denotes complacency. ❝Exquisite. You ought to take pride in your culinary skills.❞ And his adaptive qualities for using ingredients that he must be unfamiliar with, for how little time he must’ve spent in this world. A genuine smile makes its way to his otherwise neutral features as his gaze drops to the bowl once again, bringing it to his lips for a large sip to the broth. ❝Allow me to prepare us a dish next time we camp in the wilds like this. You can expand your cuisine horizons by tasting different food too.❞

Wary as Dáinsleif may be of their surroundings, it can’t be all that bad to lower his guard just a tad— if only while they enjoy some hearty dinner at least.

@risingsol ✦

[reginrokkr]

🔥 am i cool enough, big brother dain?

■  ■  ■ ❝Why would you want to know that?❞ From him, for that matter. Regardless of his lack of understanding, Dáinsleif cannot help but shake his head humorously and look at Aether. Though his features may be schooled to inexpressiveness to perfection, there is a glimpse of amusement in icy sapphires— most importantly yet, fondness warms his eyes in ways that roseate lips have forgotten to express through something as simple as a smile. ❝Never mind that. I suppose I can indulge your curiosity if that is what you wish.❞

There is a moment of silence that ensues thereafter, all for the sake of giving his query a careful consideration despite the lighthearted nature of the situation. ❝In this world so fragmented despite being whole once upon a time, you have in you a power— perhaps an ability if you will. Of connecting people.❞ All things considered and how Celestia tries to segment this star even more at the closest opportunity they have —everything to conceal a secret truth that hails from the Old World, he presumes—, there is no stronger descriptor to be considered attractive than this that can suit him. Unbeknownst to the fallen seraph before him, he, too, is standing by another individual that acts as a connector: life and death; past, present and future; divine and humane... Perhaps these traits go unknown to the vast majority, but they are not to be underrated. ❝These words may lack meaning to you and stray from what you might’ve expected. Worry not, in due time you will understand.❞

Unless... you already do. Do you not?

Send 🔥 to know if Dain finds you attractive → Accepting! || @risingsol ✦

[reginrokkr]

"You know, you don't have to hide your pain from me." Neither of them had embarked on this journey without some scars on their hearts- perhaps some scars on their bodies as well and the companionship had been... soothing to have. Perhaps Aether was still accustomed to the company of another on his travels, more than he had thought previously or maybe it was just the unfamiliarity of the world that laid into an anxiety that he wasn't even aware that he had. But Dain had been a stone in all this, had offered up encouraging words when the journey grew tough and a healing hand for moments where he would undoubtedly push himself too far. All the while, finding new experiences that shortened the length between experiences that might uncover unpleasant sights.

Aether wasn't alone in his suffering either, for all the reassuring words that Dain offered him and the aid rendered were things that Dain probably needed as well. There was a solemnness to the other that was present, but that still didn't change the fact that the other was his friend - a person that he very much wanted to see happy at the end of it all. Sheepishly, he opened up his arms to offer up a hug - gaze softening when he looked over at the other. "We're in this together, right? You're not alone."

Compassion-stricken words hit like a boulder of frozen water when the confirmation of what Dáinsleif has been questioning himself for some time makes itself manifest: Aether knows. Of course the Twilight Sword isn’t blind to his inner struggles and the darkness he harbors within, nor the nightmares that plague him time and time again. It is upon seeing so many other innocent people paying the consequences of a kingdom’s sins and his own mistakes that led him to hold onto the firm belief that others have it worse, that he has no right to even complain about his current circumstances. Oft times, he self-chastized himself for succumbing to the physical pain and the mental exhaustion that make pressure specially in his slumber, strengthening himself to deal with it in his search of his fate.

Alas, how long until even he would crumble under the weight of all his sadness and sorrow?

Open arms meant to offer the comfort of an embrace garner a new meaning with this fallen seraph’s last words: you’re not alone. Not without the you don’t have to hide your pain from me. Is he reading into this too much? Incorrectly even? Or is his assumption correct Aether, too...? Dáinsleif’s face remains as unreadable as ever in his careful consideration, most likely a misinterpretation of what the lost wanderer truly means. Cold stone as he may present himself most of the times, his heart is warm like stellar cores, his innate need to shed light in other people’s dark moments like the moon does above everything.

So a most delicate frown appears in his pale features when the instant thought to reciprocate the hug crosses his mind, all under the belief that Aether needs it— thus completely disregarding what he feels. The hesitation evident in his tensing muscles at the thought of aggravated physical pain were he even touch him, byproduct of that damned curse that will haunt him to everlasting days. A soft gulp and he steps forward to take Aether in his embrace wordlessly: one arm wrapped around the midsection of his back, the other one cradling his head close to his chest in what he believes to be a comforting gesture as unbeknownst to the fallen star, eyes press shut tight with nothing but the wish of endurance of the pain that is to come for as long as the hug will last.

Trembling eyelids open slowly when the realization that the so anticipated pain never came after several seconds of wait. It doesn’t hurt. Long exhales abandon roseate lips in the exercise of mentalizing himself so, muscles slowly relaxing and his mind finding momentary peace. Dáinsleif stays there, no word or movement that would give away the conclusion of this physical contact, unfazed as if he were an automaton of Khaenri’ahn origin. Then, it hits him. Aether’s arms wrapped tight enough around him but not so tight to cause harm, the warmth he evokes, the semblance of a feeling of sending his beating heart against him and the stirring of his own.

It doesn’t hurt.

At that moment, his face falls completely: fine eyebrows knitting in a frown, lower lids trembling and roseate lips parting to release a shaky sigh. It’s warm... welcoming. Everything he never expected to ever find for the rest of his life as a punishment of the gods for the sins he’s committed and the failure that he became in the face of divine adversity. Does he deserve this? He doesn’t know, nor it seems to matter in that moment when this time willingly his arms tighten their hold on Aether, chin rests atop the crown of his blond hair.

The corners of his eyes start to burn with the might of forming tears, clouding his vision until he closes them and pearlescent tears roll down his cheeks as this time, he presses one of them on his head instead. Given the present circumstances, there is no helping the whirlwind of emotions that wages within, not the strange stirring of his quivering heart. For how long had he yearned this comfort he’s undeserving of? Before he could have the chance to formulate an answer, Dáinsleif breaks down. So is revealed through the shaking of broad shoulders as he presses Aether to him some more in a foolish attempt to conceal his undoing, through the occasional and low sniff and the need to hide from the world even if just for a moment by pressing his forehead to the crown of the other’s head.

For every moment of sorrow he deprived himself from letting it heal properly, for every moment of horrifying nightmares that haunt him in his slumber... Dáinsleif never prayed to any god in his life, but this time— he did. Ever silently, to one person:

Just this once... I vow that it will never happen again. Please.

@risingsol ✦

[reginrokkr]

‘ your failures are just what happened — they don’t have to be who you are ’

■    ■    ■    Ah, how he loathes the self-exposure that stems from defying the Abyss Order. Dáinsleif should’ve anticipated this would happen, for those creatures that seem to seek naught but ruin other people’s lives as they’re being consumed by resentment that perhaps already existed in their hearts were once people who he protected as Khaenri’ah’s Twilight Sword. Of course they would know his story, just as they can use it to their convenience to ruin him as a knee-jerk reaction to his opposition. How couldn’t he? Even if he, too, may resent the gods above whom doomed the kingdom’s existence since before its creation, he cannot oversee the injustice these people are facing.

Guilt and sorrow-stricken as he may be, his heart remains true: the chivalry of a knight that should be no more after the nation met its downfall is not limited to Khaenri’ah. It extends to the rest of humanity.

Despite the bravery he professed and the refusal to listen to one ill-word they had to say to him, here he is now, wounded to the very core. It has always been like that, ever since he saw himself with no other choice but to confront those of what he considered his homeland. One moment he overwhelms them with his unbreakable willpower and he overthinks what he was told on the next. These occurrences are so frequent that Aether must’ve caught up with bits and pieces of his story without the need to press him for answers or Dáinsleif openly discussing his circumstances. In his yet broken heart, this failure of a Twilight Sword should’ve been deemed as such: a malfunctioning weapon good for nothing. A horrible monster for throwing his people under the bus for the safety of others.

          Instead, he receives kindness.

                                                    And that breaks him even more.

❝That, I try.❞ He truly is. Perhaps that plays a great part in the reason why he feels indebted with ensuring the safety of these people that have to pay the consequences of a kingdom’s sins. Sins that perhaps would’ve never existed weren’t it for the fact that the gods above chased them until they were no more than cornered animals forced to live in uttermost darkness. A glance is shared with Aether and Dáinsleif nearly regrets looking at him in the eye, but his stance doesn’t waver despite the subtle quivering of roseate lips that he forces into stillness by pressing them in a thin line. ❝Is it why I am trying to make amends.❞

Nothing but an ocean of sorrow fills icy sapphires and yet, there is an unmeasurable kindness in them with the way they soften as his head cants to one side. ❝You should not feel overwhelmed by that which you could not control, either.❞ He refrains from calling it a failure, in his case. For he was merely a passing star forced into confinement away from his kin by the wrath of some god. Dáinsleif closes their distance slowly and places a gloved hand atop his shoulder, long fingers offering a gentle squeeze.  ❝Never let your darkness defeat you.❞

@risingsol ✦

[reginrokkr]

risingsol asked: ‘  you don’t have to have everything figured out.  ’

Onyx gloved hands clench and unclench in an irregular pattern. The unfocused, icy sapphires glued at them do nothing but denote further Dáinsleif’s current absentmindedness. An image that remained imprinted in his mind burns more in the back of his eyes as the only thing he sees, the sight of an Abyss Mage fading to nothingness and the liquid remnants of corrosive blood dripping off the black edge of his blade.

Never has the Twilight Sword ever draw his blade against a person or a creature that he is cognizant of its human origins for a reason. Though it is hard to discern an Abyss Mage’s emotions by facial features that they have no more, his ears ring with the shocked cry that came from recognizing Æternum Crepusculum in his hold, the very sword that the king of Khaenri’ah ordered to the best swordsmith to create for him as a gift. Be it by myth believers or rumors, there was not a single soul that did not know about the perk of that blade: once unsheathed, it cannot return to its case until it has claimed a life.

A shaky exhale emerges from his nose at the memory, prompting his hands to intertwine in a trembling hold as albescent lashes flutter close— the wrinkles betwixt his eyebrows the only sign of distress and inner struggle in an otherwise collected face.

What could have possibly incite Dáinsleif to end the life of someone whom not too long ago he was supposed to protect? An instinctual act of protection or a sense to oppose that which is unfair, he cannot tell which one is worse when both are at fault. Alas, how could he overlook the utter disregard for the human race upon watching that abyssal creature scheming against an individual from the shadows? For all he knows, this sentiment of hatred for humans could’ve been bloomed as a result of that person’s transformation into a monster. Or perhaps even in their days as a human, they stopped caring. There is one thing he knows: these ill feelings are directed to the people of Teyvat.

It’s one life for another. The very notion makes the fallen luminary tighten his hands hard— so hard that his knuckles would be white weren’t for the coverage of his gloves. Dáinsleif hated it with all his heart, made him feel like he’s playing god in deciding whose life is worth its continuity when he’s anything but. Being aware of his deeds in confronting abyssal creatures that now he knows that they’re Rhinedottir’s creations was hard enough, the prospect made him realize just how rotten the kingdom already was. But to murder a creature that was human once under his protection is a fact that he will never recover from— a seed that has been planted in his being that will germinate in nothing but another burden for him alone to bear.

❝You don’t have to have everything figured out.❞

Aether must’ve sensed something amiss in him for him to speak when he should’ve been asleep. The Bough Keeper perks up at the sound of his voice at once, his back straightens and his intertwined hands undo and fall back to his lap. You should be resting, Dáinsleif wanted to say, but instead his azure eyes soften in quiescent consideration of his words. He ignores what Aether must be thinking about him to prompt that sentence from him, but he cannot deny a muted curiosity that he’s too shaken up to even pay attention to. When words fail to form an immediate response, Dáinsleif pats the spot beside him, a silent invitation for the younger blond to join him by the campfire.

❝I know.❞ He finally manages to muster, albeit it is nothing but halfhearted dishonesty on his part to not worry him further. Aether has enough on his plate as he is. But ah, he does have to have everything figured out and the first step has already been made since the moment when he chose the outlander’s life over the Abyss Mage’s. He does have to have everything that is in his power figured out to assist him to the best of his ability, for habits die hard and his chivalry will die harder— if that day ever reaches.

But as things stand, Dáinsleif himself is in no better position than him. He, too, has lost everything and he’s not even allowed death’s respite. ❝We will figure things out as we go.❞ Ever the ingenious one that never fails to give an insightful answer, the Twilight Sword was at a loss. You, whom have come from the heavens above, will have to figure your issues out too. For I cannot guarantee that I will stay all the way by your side nor that we may part ways once we find our answer. ❝There is still a long way to go, many things to come to terms with.❞

Icy sapphires soften in an untold smile that his lips daren’t, he has already lost the notion of time of when he lost this ability. A gloved hand surges to offer what he hopes to be a comforting squeeze— completely unbeknownst of the prospect that he, too, needs a sense of comfort. Alas, his guilt and subsequent self-depreciation eclipse such a human need that he no longer feels so. ❝Go back to sleep. We’ll depart when the sun rises.❞ The abyssal might will only decrease when dawn breaks. Hopefully so will the abyssal creatures. He cannot afford to face any other anymore— not until he comes to a decision that he’s not ready yet to.

[reginrokkr]

risingsol asked: ∗ 39﹕ sender  is  caught  following  receiver .trying to tail dain never goes the way it should …

Unlike what it may cause to many other individuals, the path of solitude Dáinsleif imposed to himself to follow is punctuated with relief when he’s at his best. Ever since he was forced into immortality by the divine five centuries ago, he had at his disposal any way of life he could choose from, yet he has chosen one of the most difficult ways if not the hardest. The Twilight Sword of all could’ve thrown everything away, forget his past life and simply roam this world and combat the insanity that sooner than later would be bound to come uninvited.

Nevertheless, he could not idle by when he knew he could do something to avoid more tragedies like the catastrophe he had to witness with his very eyes without being able to do anything. With the wisdom this world had to offer as his armor, he became a prophet that could impart knowledge in dribs and drabs, make other people aware of certain truths but without transgressing the line which Celestia had established betwixt a nation’s peace or ultimate destruction.

What this abandoned celestial would have a difficult time to admit, however, is the respite that he feels in the company of another. Namely Aether’s in this moment.

Roseate lips part to heave a sigh as he minds his business, completely aware that he’s being chased by an all too familiar presence. At first Dáinsleif has mistaken it with an accidental coincidence that they would meet in the same place, but as time transpired and the fallen seraph made no move into striking a conversation, the realization that he must be on to something dawned on him. Reason why the former knight feigned ignorance and continued his way to the destination he was willing to reach, only to be bothered by how obvious the other’s attempt at being subtle became ridiculous— specially with that little one’s distinctive chattering nature.

Why chase me when you could approach me directly? Are your suspicions about my person so prominent that you have the necessity to spy me? Whatever the answer might be, the Truth Seeker found himself indifferent to it.

The last straw was when Dáinsleif perceived that the blond must have tripped over something. Despite his poor attempt to remain silent, it was about time that Paimon’s loud voice would give them both away. Though the man would have preferred to simply resume his way, the concern that the boy could have harmed himself and that he didn’t count with medical supplies weighed more, thus he stopped on his tracks. ❝Would you rather I feign ignorance on the fact that you have been following me for a prolonged amount of time or that you just tripped over something?❞ He calls out from where he stood, making zero attempt to turn on his heels to look at him directly for a brief moment before ultimately doing so.

Slow steps lead him to the lost traveler, crystalline eyes softening a fraction at the poor sight of the other in disarray. The sound of nearby crows rouse the Bough Keeper’s attention to pay attention to the setting sun. All forces of the void gain strength at night, it would be dangerous to trade any further with him tailing behind. Icy sapphires return to the blond to inspect quickly any injuries he may have before offering a onyx gloved hand for him to take. ❝Come. Let us find somewhere to camp so I can give you some healing assistance. You can tell me later why you’ve been tailing me.❞

[reginrokkr]

✧ @risingsol

The truth was never intentionally cruel or intentionally lacking; it simply was what it was. Human emotions, or just simply the emotions of living beings, that was what gave those characteristics to the truth. Ever since he had stepped foot into Teyvat, there had been many a hard and soft truth that Aether had learned: the cost of freedom from Mondtstadt’s archon, the weathering on one’s soul that came with the passage of time from Liyue’s archon, the price of belief from a god lost to salt and sand - all of which were used to forge an image of Teyvat that was slowly becoming clearer as the days passed. Strife and loss were all things in the record of history for most places; nothing could be gained without at least something being lost, even in the most benevolent of timelines.

To learn that Celestia had been crueler still to its citizens was another blow. One that hit harder for reasons that Aether thought he wasn’t able to discern at first, until the link of cruelty was made upon himself. So it was not only outsiders that had suffered at the hands of the beings thought themselves higher, but the people of Teyvat themselves. His memories were still a blur from before, but every prompting from Dainsleif had reminded him of the past, had prodded at his mind until memories had to slowly spill forth. Khaenri'ah… the destruction of that underground city many years ago… why did he remember it? Why did Dainsleif know about it?

The path to knowledge isn’t a linear one and knowledge didn’t automatically mean relief - these were things that Aether knew, but knowing sometimes meant more sleepless nights. His sister… and Dainsleif. Lumine… and Khaenri'ah. His only kin… and the Abyss Order. Her battle with destiny… and his truth that could only be found at the end of this journey, what did it all mean? Mulling over these questions without an answer was what the other had caught him in the middle of, amber hues sweeping over those of icy sapphire briefly.

“No… I guess not.”

He chuckled quietly. Dainsleif had been difficult to even speak to the beginning, yet his demeanor had changed entirely when Aether had spoken the purpose of his travels. Was it the empathy of humanity? Or was there another reason for it? “Hey, do you mind if I ask you a question - one besides that one, I mean. Why… did you agree to help me?”

Dáinsleif has witnessed the passing of many moons in his life, permanently unchanging like the Eternity the Archon of Inazuma seeks when there is no sunlight that can change the way it displays on the now gone Khaenri’ah. Only upon emerging to Teyvat once more he acquainted himself with the different shapes of the moon —long ago forgotten— byproduct of the sun’s position and its light’s reflection on the ever moving satellite, all within sleepless nights that even he was not exempt from experiencing.

A burdened mind and a troubled heart are the perfect combination to be prone to sleepless nights. Were he take into account the last event that transpired the last time they met and cooperated into a joined mission —naught but the product of an all alignment of alike resolves—, it would suffice to have one reason among a plethora of many more that could warrant Aether’s issues of having a good night’s rest. Nevertheless, it was not Dáinsleif’s right to go beyond ensuring his wellbeing and pry into his thoughts. If there is something he can attribute to this boy is his extended courtesy to not pry in return.

You whom once questioned the coincidence of our meeting after bearing witness of the Abyss Order activity within Liyue’s premises— what makes you believe that I am helping you? What a naïve mindset you have, and how much you have to learn yet.

Quiescence follows Aether’s inquiry for brief moments of careful consideration, cyan irises regarding at the boy with nigh pity for watching his misfortune play before his very eyes. ❝You value the worth in my actions towards you beyond what they really are.❞ Pale lashes ghost over high cheekbones with the momentary closure of his eyes as his strong arms cross over his muscular chest. ❝You merely sought my aide for the Guild by paying for my services as long as they concern the Abyss Order. There is nothing more to see to it.❞

Though his words may hold an undeniable truth, there is indeed more to it that Dáinsleif refuses to mention. No matter how many centuries have passed and how many grievances his heart endured, it will never cease being prone to sentimentalities. Watching Lumine choose her path to what ultimately may be the bane of her existence roused many questions that no one would ever answer him— not even Irminsul itself, for the information registered from the tips of its roots all the way to its very core is objective and not subjective. Seeing her go down a path Dáinsleif would have never desire her to equated to see with his own eyes the possibility of a replay of his sister’s doom.

Forcing that girl into another choice was not his place to take, even less to stop her from choosing what her heart tells. Nevertheless, what he can do is become a guiding light to that whom Dáinsleif seems himself reflected onto in what is no different than the Heavenly Principles mockery to what has happened to him. To remind him the purpose of his journey— so he does not make the same mistake he did in forgetting that he was meant to rescue his sister from the so-called Kingdom of Darkness by Celestia, a prospect that he had no power over to remember when it was those gods’ deed to wipe his memories out. Yet, that does not deter him from blaming himself for it, regardless.

[reginrokkr]

Tag dump #3:

◟༺✦༻◞ May the moonlight have mercy on us┊Dáinsleif × Lunafreyja.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ Warm me up with your imperishable fire ┊Dáinsleif × Diluc.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ Illuminate the eternal night with your grace┊Dáinsleif × Kaeya.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ Should this farce cease; may you all reunite┊Lunafreyja → moonichor.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ Brave into the dark night to set all sins alight┊Diluc → gnaneisten.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ Lunacy or reason? The choice is yours to make┊Kaeya → ecleips.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ May your soul be your guiding light back home┊Sora → valorxdrive.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ Seraphs reminisce how to fly even without wings┊Aether → risingsol.┊

[reginrokkr]

✧ Aether

“Monsters of the Abyss, huh?” Of course at the end of his journey through Teyvat, it was to be expected that his powers wouldn’t be fully returned to him. Stepping foot here had upset Celestia and backing the cause of others who wished to rebel against the heavens probably only drove the wedge in further. All this time, he had thought that his journey had been granting him power to aid him along in his quest - trust in others still remaining even if doubts remained in his heart about the truth of this world. What had been the point behind all of it though? For all the archons that had told him to take his time through Teyvat to turn their backs on him? When he had watched flesh twist and turn into the abyssal creatures, something inside of him shifted. Were it completely of his own volition, he could no longer say. When heart lost its warmth, there was only one thing that could bring color back into his world. 

Dainsleif was not that catalyst, but the one beside him had been so. The might of the former Twilight Sword could not be discounted, having only gained the ability to free the Herald from the other’s grasp from the advantage that surprise gave him. Old allies turned into new rivals, this was a song and dance that he was far too familiar with now and the other’s words only drew a rueful chuckle from him. 

“You always were a man of principles and veiled words. This might be the most direct I’ve ever heard you speak. Maybe I should’ve been more harsh when we traveled together then.” The singular step drew a singular shrug from the lost traveler, haughty gaze still holding even with the threat of further action from the other. 

“Is that what you came here for? I’m afraid that you’ve wasted yourself a trip; I’ve got no intention of stopping unfortunately. Correct me if I’m wrong, but it almost sounds like you want to strike me down if I said no.” Amusement grew cold, a quiet anger in his voice betraying the lofty tone he was still attempting to keep. 

“Refusing to call your old countrymen by anything aside from monsters, are you going to continue your betrayal by staying by her side even after you kill me then?” 

Still as a pillar Dáinsleif may be, there was little helping to the small quiver of his heart in Aether’s emphasis that he just called these whom once were also people monsters of the Abyss. No matter how cold he may be when addressing to them in the present time, there is no denying that he continues bearing the burden of his ineptitude for being unable to protect his people and the royal family from the threat of the gods’ wrath. Many times the Abyss Order members had mocked him, called him a traitor— and as much as Dáinsleif agrees with this statement, the fact that they found betrayal in his actions for opposing them rather than his failure to protect them makes him strong to continue through this without ever existing a sliver of doubt in his heart.

There is an undeniable truth in Aether’s assessment that he would not hesitate to strike him down if the situation called for it— which perhaps will in this encounter, much more hostile and direct than past ones. Nonetheless, the Abyss Order’s plans resulted into failures so far and they have not posed any further danger for now. Were he forced to draw his sword against the boy, he would not use it for anything more than a warning for the time being.

Not that Dáinsleif would give him the benefit of knowing so or abide as per his manipulation by bringing Lumine into this.

❝Mistake yourself not. Lumine’s collusion with me is merely circumstantial.❞ He does not waste a single second to bite back, visibly indifferent to the other’s piercing statements. ❝You do not originate from anywhere in this world like her and yet you would agree to side with them at the cost of replaying the same tragedy they endured to people who are unrelated to Khaenri’ah’s fall. What interest do you have in doing that while paying little to no regard to others whom are jeopardized by the Abyss Order’s plans were they come to fruition?❞ Within their journey, Dáinsleif could see in Aether an innate gift for seeing beyond when other people would not and thus providing him an understanding that many others are completely clueless for. If what he seeks is to defy the Heavenly Principles to force his way and his sister’s out of Teyvat, what gain does he have in ruining other people’s lives in the process?

Unless—

❝Have your ideals become twisted by their warped and delusional views of what may happen if they overthrow the divine of Celestia?❞ A fair brow rises as one hand rests atop his hip, nigh baffled that Aether would allow himself to be dragged into a war that is not his own to fight. ❝Whatever happened in the past, what matters is what those people are nowadays: a threat to innocent people. That mentality they harbor makes them the opposite of victims and the same as those they— you seek to overthrow: tormentors.❞

[reginrokkr]

✧ Aether

Perhaps reuniting with Lumine had make his movements a little slower than usual, Aether already having to resist the urge to glance back one last time before turning his back on the sibling that he had begun this journey long ago to awaken and leave this world with. This meeting was a reunion on a number different fronts, the lost traveler only feeling the need to intervene when his eyes caught sight of a power he thought he would never see once again. Although he was certain that he would have to jump in at some point - Lumine had grown strong in his absence - surely it was hurried along by the presence of that man by her side. 

For him to breech the domain of the Abyss as well, having many an unkind eye cast upon him was surely a reaction that the other had expected. “You shouldn’t have come. Unless you wish to bear witness to all those that still remember the weight of your betrayal with your own eyes, I’ll allow you to leave this one time.” 

Vexation and anxiety are enemies of all rational thought, what an advice to be given when Dáinsleif himself trampled over his own words in favor to take the utmost advantage of the opening to the Abyss which hardly ever he finds the opportunity to cross. Within his logical mind, there is no necessity whatsoever of treading over eggshells when the Abyss Herald’s precipitation to fight him is naught but a byproduct of fear upon finding out after five centuries that as nigh one of them, the former Twilight Sword poses a much greater danger to them than what they could have anticipated him to be amidst endless mockery and annoyance to watch him be hot on their heels each time.

What is that strand of blonde hair to you? Someone you must kill? Or the object of your penitence?

Many times did Dáinsleif question himself this when it was clear that Aether started to regard him as an enemy —despite his wishful thoughts that by then he did not know what he was saying as a result of his feelings—, now he knows. Irregardless of his own personal wishes, he knows what must be done as icy sapphire devoid of any sentimentality meets amber. ❝Little matters what these monsters of the Abyss have to say about me.❞ One more step brings him closer to the high and mighty looking boy, what a tragedy it is to watch him act like that when in bygone past he was anything but. ❝If you expect me to quiver and kneel at your feet begging for your undesired mercy, you are wrong. As far as I am concerned, you are in no position to command anything from me.❞

Eyes that once held warmth in reflection of resonating circumstances are stone cold as they narrow in a visible display that he is not to be bedeviled with. ❝My extended benevolence towards you is long overdue, Aether. I will not ask this of you again: cease this or I will not be left with any other choice than granting you the same courtesy as I do with your pawns.❞