#Overlord of The Vortex | Osial

[saccharinerose]

Made some updated references for my Beisht and Osial human form designs

[the-muse-coven]

"Sometimes it feels like I don't even want to be the 'hero' anymore." Aether muttered, vindictive. He was the savior, the hero, the one people came to when they needed something, when they wanted him for something.

"I just wanted help finding my sister. I didn't want to get embroiled in this world's conflicts." He grumbled, his shoulders sagging as if he had a great weight on them. Which in a way, he did. He was stuck here, getting embroiled in each conflict at each nation he visited to follow after his sister and try to get her back. The Archons were barely even any help.

...He considered what Osial said, all he can offer is to raze it to the ground? It was...very tempting. Aether was so tired of having to sacrifice so much of the efforts he wanted to spend finding his sister to help others, to help people, only to receive barely even the minimum in response to aide him. Mondstadt had put up missing persons posters, while Venti had simply ushered him off to Liyue, where he'd gotten embroiled again in Zhongli faking his own death, and then the Fatui had summoned Osial, and he'd had to help take the Ancient God down. Zhongli in response had offered him nothing, at least Ping had given him a mobile place which he could comfortably stay. He'd moved onto Inazuma, only to be embroiled in the rebellion there, finding out about the Delusions the Fatui made and distributed to vision-less people, on how people simply forgot themselves when their visions were taken. He'd challenged and beat Signora in a duel before the throne, where she'd died.

And now...Sumeru, where Irminsul had been corrupted, causing wither zones, Elazar, and to have Divine Knowledge to drive people to complete and utter madness. He'd had to help them fix it, had his dreams harvested for data by the Akasha. Only to at the very end know the truth of how it was fixed and be unable to tell anyone, because they simply wouldn't believe him. All they would know is that Buer had always been Kusanali, and that Rukadhavata had never existed. All while learning what happened to Khaenri'ah and its people because of Celestia.

Paimon wasn't with him for once, and so just this one time, Aether could say what he wanted to say, his actual thoughts, without feeling like he was going to be spoken over.

He worked his jaw, following Osial's line of sight to Guyun Stone Forest and the sea, "...If my powers weren't sealed by some Unknown God...I might take you up on that offer." He said, carefully, but with the drag of so much behind the few syllables, and so much information just offered in those few words. The blond moved closer to where Osial was, not encroaching completely on what little space Osial had, but just enough that he could better follow the Old god's line of vision better, his equally golden eyes almost vacant as he stared out, swirling with a maelstrom of different threads of thought.

"For once...I don't want things that an Archon can offer. I don't want the notions of freedom from Barbatos, I don't want words of sage wisdom from Morax, I don't want tentative advice from Buer. I don't want the straightforward ideals of Eternity from Baal." He muttered, "I want the advice of someone from a bygone era of Gods. Because nobody here beyond maybe Morax, knows what I do. I'm not even sure you know what happened, when I helped Buer with Irminsul."

Aether fell quiet, chest heaving out a frustrated breath, "And if advice is not what you are able to offer. Then offer something beyond razing the world that you can. Even simply facing you again, like this instead of as it happened in Liyue." He said, letting his tone do as it pleased, frustration bleeding into every word.

@the-muse-coven asked: “ i’m sick and tired of being the one who has to make the sacrifices! ” - (Frustrated Aether! Context: main verse, post-Sumeru Archon Quest line)

"And it is to me you come to air your complaints..." There is an amused tone behind his words as Osial looks upon the otherwordly traveller, head tipping to his side. It does not escape him how ridiculous the concept it is, being one of the foes who most likely forced sacrifice, or at least a giving on the part of the hero.

"I cannot offer you anything you want to hear. I am not Morax with wisdoms to impart, nor Barbatos with his notions of freedom... I am no archon. Just a vengeful god of a bygone age who has been vanquished again."

He turns to look over Guyun Stone Forest and out to the expanse of the sea, contemplative as he retreats into his thoughts. "All I can offer you is raze it all to the ground. But that's not what you heroes do now, is it?"

[lemonadecandy]

Meeting Zhongli [Part 12]

Game: Genshin Impact

About: Zhongli x fem!reader

Note : The premise is that 'you' get transported into the game and journey through Teyvat along with the traveler. This is a reinterpretation of the Liyue Archon Quests. Hope you enjoy~

Warning: Mentions of violence, slight profanity.

The sky had begun to darken as the waves crashing against the harbor slowly increased in intensity. Most of the area around me had already been evacuated due to the quick reflexes of the Qixing. While the stage was being prepared for the main act of the play, Osial, the overlord of the Vortex was rising from the tumultuous sea. And then, right on cue, the Jade Chamber flew over the dock and approached the ancient god. This was the final test. This was what everything had been leading up to. In the countless millenniums of my existence, I had faced and fought through countless dire events, but none had me as anxious as I was now. Perhaps because this time, it isn’t me who faces the calamity.  Will Liyue be able to pull through…?

But strangely, I also felt composed as  her  words once more appeared in my mind.  ‘Liyue will be able to handle it, maybe even prosper from it.’  I hadn’t entirely bought her excuses about otherworldly powers of foresight, but I couldn’t deny her credence when she spoke. It felt as if she believed in this city more than even I did. And there had been something strangely enchanting yet comforting about her words. I wanted to trust her, as though her words were the absolute truth. Perhaps it was precisely for this reason that no matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t view her with cynicism, I was ready to forgive her for the first plausible excuse she presented. 

That said, the facts she yielded, had all been completely accurate. I need to understand her more before I can truly put my mind to ease. But that is going to be near impossible to achieve. By her outburst outside Third-round Knockout, I doubt she ever wants to see my face again. For the little while we did spend together after that incident, she has built a stone wall between us that even I am not confident I can break. I have already terrified her enough, with our contract in place, the only right thing to do was to respect her wishes.

Heavy doubt had been gnawing at my mind for these past few days. Another  new  experience… I have been decisive all my life, so why was it that whenever the thought of Y/n came up, did I feel utterly lost and hesitant? What I did, was how I  always  dealt with my enemies.  Maybe that was it… deep down I didn’t even acknowledge her as my enemy.  I sighed in frustration at my thoughts.  What’s even the point of thinking about this… 

That said, Y/n is a clever one. Would another approach have even worked on her? It clearly seemed like she had been faced with a similar situation a few times prior. Is that why she was able to maintain her cool so well while I was confronting her? If so, I wonder how those other encounters had gone.

As a measure to not stand out to the Millelith I stepped back under some shelter. Osial had now started his onslaught of attacks, but the Qixing along with the Adepti had already posed their counters. By what I could manage to make out from the hazy sky, it seemed like they had decided to use a copy of the Guizhong Ballista. A clever strategy, but not one that can guarantee their victory. I started becoming increasingly anxious as the battle continued, it was a feeling that I hadn’t been well acquainted with. Every part of me wished that I could somehow contribute, but I tried to maintain my calm.

After having defeated the Harbinger, the traveler must have already hurried to the Jade Chamber.  I wonder if Y/n went along as well? 

And as if to answer my query, the woman I had been thinking about made her appearance. She seemed to be coming from the direction of the Golden House. On closer observation, it seemed like her right leg had been injured causing her to limp as she walked. There were a few other cuts and bruises on her body, but none as severe as the one on her leg. I looked around but her companions were nowhere to be found.  Did they insist she stay back because of her wounds?  It was plausible, the trio seemed to dote on each other a lot. I considered offering my assistance but quickly decided against it. She seemed to possess healing capabilities and I was probably the last person she wanted to see. 

Y/n’s attention had been captivated by the skirmish in the skies but soon noticed my presence. She instantly looked away and proceeded to walk past me, acknowledging her ignorance I looked away as well. But strangely, before she completely overtook me, she had paused. Fazed by her actions, I glanced at her with caution. Y/n was staring at my hands as she sighed with what seemed like pity, “It will be fine.” 

Following her line of sight, I looked down at my hands as well, they were shaking. Not just my hand, my entire body was trembling. I also came to the realization that I had been holding my breath, causing me to lightly pant. I raised my right hand to pop a few buttons on my collar and slightly undo my tie to help calm myself with a deep breath.  I hadn’t even noticed the state of my body!

Despite my attempts, I was unable to entirely regain my composure. I looked back at Y/n who was once again engrossed by the sky. Comfort identical to the one I felt when I’d had drinks with her reached out to me from her unmoving figure. Suddenly she looked back and tossed something toward me. I reflexively raised my hand and managed to catch the item.  

“It worked.”, she huffed with annoyance.  It's the feather…!  I had imbued it with some of my own power, providing protection to anyone who carried it on their person. Y/n had rather begrudgingly accepted it after some insistence. “Thanks”, she scoffed in an almost inaudible whisper. 

But I hardly felt pleasant about her gratitude.  And yet… her leg has been injured.

Contrary to my expectations, instead of swiftly making her exit after returning the artifact, Y/n opted to stay. We only stared at the sky with agitation. The Qixing’s plan had been interrupted by the appearance of the Fatui skirmishers. The traveler seemed to be running around, trying to fend them off. I nervously gasped for air as the ballista slowly started losing its form. Despite the realization, the Adepti pushed forward, trying to hold the line.

Suddenly, Y/n spoke up, “There are tall buildings… super tall ones. More than even 160 stories… but none that float in the sky. Though we do have vehicles that fly in the sky, pretty fast as well. Elemental powers and visions don’t exist there, nor do gods… But we can still be powerful…. Still, perhaps not as close to you archons… But we do have the internet!”, she rambled. I didn’t quite understand her statements, but it seemed like she was talking about  her  world…? She was even fondly chuckling at her own words. “You guys are still a long way from that…”

Tall buildings… and what is ‘the internet’?  I wondered as I remarked, “It sounds like a wonderful place.” Flying vehicles… wasn’t there some novel series that featured those?

“I don’t know… there are ugly parts… a lot of them. But still… it’s my  home …”, Y/n’s tone was solemn. I could make out great sorrow in her eyes as she uttered the last few words. The desolation on her face was similar to the one when she spoke about her family. I too know the loss of losing the ones beloved to you.  I wonder if there’s a way for her to go back home…? 

I was once more tempted to try and comfort the foreigner that stood beside me. It was only adequate for the amount she had unknowingly provided me. I raised my hand to pat her on her head but quickly pulled back as I recalled her words.  ‘We are not friends.’  At that moment I felt a strange surge of disappointment in myself.

Unfortunately, Y/n had caught my movements and glared at me through narrowed eyes, “Don’t be mistaken…. You’re the only one who knows…” She sighed in frustration. “…that’s why.”

I wasn’t sure, had she brought up the topic of her home to distract me or comfort herself…? Either way, it seemed like she really wanted to talk about it. And I felt the urgent need to let her know that her confidence in me wasn’t something unpleasant. “It isn’t pity, nor is it charity. You are one of the strongest mortals I have witnessed. If I were ever to entirely lose Liyue, ‘my’ home, I would lose my mind. Despite knowing the limits of your physical powers, you still persevere. Your desire to go home keeps you fighting, pushing forward. I can’t help but respect such show of fierce resolve.”, I recalled the foreigner’s bravery when I confronted her, it had been quite inspiring. “If you were from Teyvat, your ambition would have gained you a vision by now.”, I stated in hindsight.

“Is that why you  spared  me?”, I glanced at Y/n once more and she seemed a little shocked by my words, but it soon turned into skepticism. “I am flattered… but you overestimate me.”

“Oh? If you were that ‘weak-minded’, you wouldn’t be out here chatting with the one who tried to kill you.”, I remarked, a little taken aback by the lack of self-confidence in her own courage.

“Misery loves company, no?” I had not a clue of the troubles Y/n had faced before arriving in Liyue. But it seemed to have greatly broken spirit. Perhaps… even my  own  actions had played a great part in it. And this fact was truly disheartening to me.

“Y/n—“, I began, but was interrupted by her tapping my shoulder and directing me towards the battle ensuing in the skies. It seemed like Liyue was on the losing side. The Guizhong Ballista had been completely decimated and many of the soldiers had been gravely injured. Caught off guard by the outcome, I tried to take a step forward to perhaps take action before matters got much worse. But Y/n tugged at my elbow, signaling me to stay back.  That’s right, this is a ‘test’.  And all hope has not been lost yet. 

What followed thoroughly impressed me and put my mind at ease at the same time. Unexpectedly, Ningguang seemed to have taken the route of great sacrifice. The jade chamber crashed down onto the ancient god with a giant explosion, pinning him to the surface of the ocean’s floor forever. I felt myself smile with exasperation as the final realizations and implications dawned upon me.  Liyue… will be fine.  An overwhelming sense of melancholy rushed over me as I subsequently rejoiced in the success of my plans. 

“See? I told you, didn’t I?”, Y/n remarked from beside me.

I glanced at her and she too held an appreciative grin on her face. “Yes.”, I affirmed.

We observed the group as they safely descended back onto the ground with the help of the Adepti. “Off to La Signora, I suppose?”, Y/n asked taking a step back to probably go and check on her friends.

“Ah! You’re… right”, I was once more startled by the precision of the foreigner’s abilities. Maybe I should stop being so skeptical and just accept her explanations.  It’s almost frightening how accurate she is.

I sensed a strange heaviness in my heart as I watched Y/n turn around to take her leave. It felt as if a myriad of emotions were tugging at me. But the one which stood out the most right now… was  guilt��. I felt a strange premonition, that I wasn’t going to get this chance again, a chance to apologize… a chance to meet  her  again. Right now, the only reason we were interacting was because of the traveler’s quest to meet the geo archon. But what after that? Judging by the state of things at present, she would instantly turn away even if we happen upon each other in a chance encounter. And I didn’t quite understand why, but immense despondency settled within me as I came to this revelation.

“I… I apologize… I sincerely apologize for what happened that day.”, I impulsively blurted out the words that had constantly been haunting my mind. “I could have taken a more peaceful approach.”

I knew that this was just the bare minimum, not even close enough to get back on good terms with her, but it was what I  needed  to do. It’s clear as day that she has had similar encounters before… I know it for a fact, and I also know that they didn’t go any better, it was so apparent from the way she behaved around me. 

Besides, everything was pointing to her innocence. The more I look into it, the clearer it is. I  owe  her an apology. She was just an unfortunate soul who had been given the burden of knowledge, a knowledge that was better not possessed. And I hadn’t even paused to understand her.  Even after all these years… I still can’t reach even a semblance of Guizhong’s gentleness.  She must be disappointed in me.  I  am disappointed in myself.

Y/n looked back, but the expression of solace from just a few moments ago had once again been replaced by cautious resentment. Unsurprisingly, I was only met with a scoff at my attempt at asking for forgiveness. “Well, in a sense you did do the right thing, if you hadn’t threatened me with death, I would never have come clean.”, she sighed as she replied. “Zhongli, you are a mortal now, try being a bit more  considerate  from now on. As for your apology… I will consider it.” 

That’s right… It’s the beginning of a new life, I must let go of my ways as an archon.  But at that moment, instead of her advice, what captivated my attention was the slight smile on her face as she said those words. It was a rather gloomy one. But even in the desolation of her expressions, I could make out an inkling of warmth, of kindliness… of  hope . Hope that it was not entirely over, that there was still some light at the end of this tunnel. And right then, I felt my heart skip a beat. A strange sensation built in my chest as a smile crept onto my face.  Wait, what—?!

“Alright, that’s it I suppose?”, Y/n cut in and interrupted my thoughts, she was once more readying to leave.

“Just one last thing!”, I hurriedly tried to hold her back. Opening the pocket dimension, I rummaged through to retrieve the feather Y/n had returned. Using the power of my gnosis for perhaps the final time, I successfully attempted to enhance the powers of the artifact before handing it back to her. “Keep it. Your journey will only get harder from here on out. I have imbued it with some more of my power, as long as you use it well, you shall be able to evade more injuries.”

This time Y/n accepted the item without any counter. She explained as she examined the feather, which now had a glowing sheen to it, “As much as I want to reject, adeptal magic is a little too good for me to consider passing on.” She smiled with what seemed like sincere gratitude, “Thank you.”

“I am only paying back what I owe.”, I smiled back.

[luckykittens198]

72 Demon Gods name in Genshin Impact as per 3.4 patch

1. Barbatos - Venti: Anemo Archon, Three times winner of Mondstadt Bard of the year, so called "tone-deaf bard" by EN Paimon

2. Morax - Zhongli/Rex Lapis: Geo Archon, Wangsheng Funeral Parlor Consultant, Local Moraless man and antique collector, Childe and Hu Tao paid for his purchases most of the time

3. Baal - Raiden Makoto: OG Electro Archon, died in Khaenri'ah, her mental Landscape became a weekly domain

4. Beelzebul - Raiden Ei/Raiden Shogun: Current Electro Archon, former hikkikomori, now relearning to socialize, Raiden shogun is her puppet body, creator of Wanderer though she forgot about it, her purchases got paid by the Three Comission

5. Buer - Nahida/Lord Kusanali: Current Dendro Archon, just escape from extended 500 years confinement, can use legillimency on people but dislike it, super computer in child-like body, best Archon so far

6. Decarabia - Decarabian: former overlord of Mondstadt, known from his storm wall of old Mondstadt that was so strong people bent when walking

7. Haagenti - Haagentus - Guizhong: The late God of Dust, died of enemy attack during the Archon war, formerly speculated to be Morax's lover but apparently a 'BFF' of Madam Ping/Streetward Rambler

8. Marchosias - Guoba: The current form of God of Stove, used to be able to make clones of himself, now helping Xiangling in the kitchen, reduced mental capacity due to surrendering his power to the land, the creator of chilli-minced cornbread buns

9. Paimon: Mascot extraordinaire, emergency food meme, lovable in all dub but english dub

10. Astaroth - Istaroth/Kairos: The God of Time, one of the four Shining Shades of the Primordial One, suspected to be involved in Sacred Sakura shenanigans, mysterious relation with wind

11. Focalor - Focalors: The Current Hydro Archon, known as the God of Justice

12. Orobas - Orobaxi/ Orobashi: The former lord of Watatsumi island, currently a skeleton over Yashiori, forced to die because accidentally reading a forbidden book, still being worshipped

13. Naberius: mentioned in Albedo's character story 4 where Albedo and his Master found the heart of Naberius

14. Andras - Andrius: Wolf King of Wolvendom, Wolf of the North, got a feud with Decarabian, refuse Archon position, now a ghost

15. Havres/Flauros - Havria: The God of Salt, used to oversee Sal Terrae, got betrayed by her follower because they are afraid for her, nuke her killers into salt, as Zhongli said "Salt. And betrayal."

16. Ose - Osial: Overlord of the Vortex, pinned down under Guyun Stone Forest by Morax, center plot of Liyue Archon Quest, apparently the abyss planned to amputate him and used his limb as mechanical god, poor guy got slammed down by a floating house

17. Amun - Amon - Deshret: King of the desert, sacrificing himself to stop the forbidden knowledge polution that he brought to Teyvat, best friends of *REDACTED* and Nabu Malikata the Goddess of Flower

If I missed something, do let me know

[vishapsking]

"Something ails you, Retuo... you are unlike yourself..." Cautious words spoken as observation as Osial peers upon his companion, though beneath the words there is an undercurrent of concern, an anxiety stemming from the care that he has come to hold for the one who has drawn him from his domain with friendship. "Are you ill of health, or is there something that weighs upon your mind? I cannot promise to be sympathetic... but I can listen if it will alleviate..." Lie, if his dear friend is in pain, of course he will feel for him, but there's some things he will not, cannot, admit to. His aid is enough, it has to be.

random asks. @csial / always accepting !

Ample pain surges through their mind as glimpses of imagery blur together. Something tugs at Retuo's psyche, pulling the strings of sanity taut. It isn't something he can quite put a finger on. It's one thing and yet a millions others all at once. Guizhong had spoken words of concern for them once before after finding them alone and so utterly still at the peak of Mt. Tianheng one eve. When they thought of it, they couldn't recall even leaving their domain. How had they gotten there? What were they doing before this? Was it not writing?

Nevertheless, the Dragon King waved off her concerns and offered an excuse of seeking late-night inspiration. Whether or not the Lord of Dust truly believed their fib remains a mystery.

Now here they are again at the end of pools that read nothing but concern. The worry bleeds from Osial's words despite how the other often tries to hide his emotions. They were talking, right? Did they fall silent partway through? Dark claws rake through their hair. In their time above ground, Retuo has picked up many human-like mannerisms. So a small laugh falls from their lips.

"A hundred apologies to be a cause of concern, Osial. Perhaps this one is more tired than we had thought." Retuo smiles as he always does around The Overlord of Vortex. They playfully poke a clawed finger to Osial's forehead, massaging the furrow between his brows away.

"We are merely tired. Please do not concern yourself. You will ruin your lovely features. Now what was it that we were discussing? Oh yes, Lady Beisht's last performance was truly a wonder. Her movements are most elegant and hypnotic, are they not?"

[localplaguenurse]

I JUST REMEMBERED OSIAL HAS A WIFE

Imagine that when Beisht, Osial’s wife comes up to have revenge on Liyue

Meanwhile Zhongli, Ms Huang and Childe are having tea together when it happens

(Jade Chamber rushing towards a very angry Beisht)

Childe: ….

Childe: I swear that’s not me this time-

Also do you think the vortex vanquisher was named that because it was used to defeat Osial, the overlord of Vortex?

Chaos is happening all around them and wifey just slowly turns their head towards Childe.

Wifey: :)

Childe: I swear to the Archons I didn’t do that

Wifey: :)

Childe: It’s not my fault this time I promise you

Wifey: For your best interest, let’s hope it’s not or that I don’t find out it is :)

Also yeah probably

[boundinparchment]

Of Blood and Sparks - XXIII

Karina Alexandre of Fontaine lost her position, her family, and her Archon's favor. A dead Electro Vision is her mark of guilt. A reminder to never fail again. Faith shattered, and suspicious of the Fatui, she eventually makes her way to Liyue, where she encounters a certain funeral parlor consultant. Little does she know it's only the beginning. Original character centric; eventual Zhongli/OC. Posted originally at @chevalier-of-fontaine. ArchiveOfOurOwn || FF.net || Karina's profile

When he arrived at the funeral parlor, Glaze Lilies nestled into the crook of his arm, he was hardly surprised to find two Fatui emissaries standing outside.  He’d anticipated this possibility, that the Tianquan would tighten the reins on the foreign presence while managing relations with the Adepti.  Commerce and mora flowed through Liyue regardless of the Sneznhayan group’s contributions and dealings; a decision that, while frustrating in the moment for most business owners, would be a long-term benefit if the rest of his plan went accordingly.

His stay didn’t last long.  Director Hu, despite her tactlessness when it came to business promotion and pricing, needed only the additional reassurance to their clients that things would be taken care of in due time.  She was young but her grandfather prepared her for this role; like her nation, she only needed a guiding hand, not a care-taker.  Otherwise, how would the director, or any of his people, learn?

Nerves were soothed and his presence requested at Northland Bank.  La Signora did not like to be kept waiting.

Even now, a quiet life so close, and he was still not done.

He acquiesced.  The contract must be upheld.

As he crested the curve of the stairs to Northland Bank after smoothing over nerves at Wangsheng, the sky darkened and the usual afternoon birdsongs ceased almost instantly.  A downpour began, just barely drowning out the rumble of thunder overhead as lightning flashed and winds whipped.  Despite his overcoat, he was soaked, and meeting a Harbinger in such a state was improper.  He heard mortals mention that being out in such weather can weaken one’s immune system.  Would he, too,  need to worry over such a thing?

The Gnosis, tucked close to his heart, burned in his pocket.

He entered the bank and upon providing his details, was escorted to a private room on the second floor.  Judging by the fine furniture, warm wood paneling, and plush carpet, this was a room used for vault requests.  Some antique dealers and jewelers used a similar model.

The room afford a better view, unobstructed by the bridges of 

Beyond the Harbor, a maelstrom near Guyun.

Five heads, each as ruthless as the last.  He swore he pinned each of them to the bottom of the ocean thousands of years ago.  And yet, the Overlord of the Vortex loomed, just as powerful as the day he was crushed beneath the surface.  Despite Erosion, Zhongli doubted he would ever truly lose the memories and the pain the ancient one wrought so long ago.

The Jade Chamber soared, a palace of finery, of power.  Despite Lady Ningguang’s attention to power and wealth, she was never without Liyue’s defenses in mind.  Days prior, he heard the Qixing were investigating the Guizhong Ballista, baffled at its speedy repair, but intrigued nonetheless.

As below, so above.  He could make out the shape of ballistas, her designs.  The telltale glow of the adepti broke through the storm; Cloud Retainer, Mountain Shaper, Moon Carver.  It was impossible to not have felt their presence, even far away.  Perhaps Alatus, as well.  

Instead of a rain of arrows, adeptal energy.

Cloud Ratainer’s handiwork, no doubt.

Osial was an unexpected turn of events.  And the last time the Overlord appeared, it took divine power to bring him down.

Zhongli pressed his hand over his heart, felt the shape of the Rook.  It would be so easy to…

No.

They must do this.  If he was to be free from duty, if his people were to be free from the chokehold of the Panopticon above and its lies, he must allow them to try.

He recalled a time long ago, when Guizhong knelt in a field of flowers and presented him with a hatching bird.  It was young, struggling with its shell.  When he reached to help, she shooed away his hand.

“If you do that, it won’t have the strength to develop properly.  It must break its way on its own, find its own path.  Too much interference can harm it, even if that’s not what you intend.”

His words to Karina had been similar.

Finding a new Archon would have been easy.  Transfers of power happened over the ages.  But it would do Liyue no good to simply replace one god with another.  They must find their own way.

He  lowered his hand from his heart.  If he did his job as Archon right, they would overcome anything.

The door handle turned.  Solitude, broken.

Just as the Jade Chamber plummeted towards the sea.

[stormy-seasons]

2nd TPE/In Exchange snippet!

Not too long after that, perhaps a matter of months, the eerie peace from the sea is broken by emissaries from Osial, requesting truce and treaty. Morax comes to Xiao, face serious, and says, “The Overlord of the Vortex has requested treaty truce. I have chosen who will attend the meetings with me – my foremost yakshas, certain of my adepti, and Retuo, naturally... and you as well, if you wish to.”

“Of course, my lord.” Xiao affirms. Then, cocking their head to the side, they ask, “Is this one to play a particular role? As your spear, or your pet?”

Morax snorts. “Osial is cannier than most of them. There is no need for pretence – simply be mine.”

That was easiest of all. “Yes, my lord.”

Morax has them by his side, spear in hand, when Osial comes ashore for the meeting, at the arranged location of the soaring cliffs above the Yaoguang delta. The discussions are... complex – at times, Xiao thinks they only properly understand perhaps one sentence in five. But that is fine. The making of such agreements is not their purpose. To guard Morax – that is their job. Still, Osial’s wave-crashing voice is... making them uneasy. 

“Hm... and your lovely spear pet?” Osial asks Morax, his form rippling like water. “Are they up for negotiations?”

Xiao carefully avoids glancing his way. That tone, and in this context... Morax’s posture is subtly stiffer, subtly stiller. He is displeased. But Osial continues, tone clearly provocative, “Some of the others you visited to reinforce the truce with spoke... admiringly of your pet. Of how it would dance for your pleasure.”

“Osial,” Morax replies, dangerously quietly, “Let us focus properly on the matters at hand. I do not ask you if you share Beisht without her permission.”

Morax beckons Xiao nearer before continuing, and they yield to him, glad to have him divert Osial’s attention away. But the exchange, unpleasant as it was, is soon put aside in favour of the negotiations – Osial makes no further commentary. 

Later, Morax does not order Xiao to discreet action, though he still feels unsettled, to Xiao. They do not understand. “Should I have acquiesced, my lord?”

“Hm? To what?” Morax cuddles them closer, while Retuo seems to be signalling for them to stop. But they’ve already begun this line of thought... 

“Should this one have agreed to the Overlord of the Vortex’s attentions?” Xiao asks plainly. “Would that serve your purposes?”

They do not say that they have pretended at doing so before. Morax knows that. They do not say that under other masters, masters far less kind, they have done so before in truth. Morax shakes his head. “No. No, there is no need for that. You should not. Osial may be interested, but he intended to provoke a response from me. You do not have to. I will never obligate you to do so, nor should you volunteer just for my sake.”

Ridiculous. But it is their master’s will, and Xiao drops the subject, snuggling deeper into Morax’s arms. 

[heldvisionsarch]

"What else is there?" Leaning back on hands, Osial shifts his legs gently, kicking them back and forth rhythmically in the water from his perch as he hums. "I am a product of the world I was born into...Not one made for this time..." There's an honesty he's loathe to share with others, but there's trust in the Salt Goddess that is not afforded to many. "I shall linger in my domain and become a creature of nightmares, a monster brave adventurers rise to face eventually I suppose... we cannot all adapt to this changing world easily." He sighs, turning his gaze from her to the endless expanse of the sea, before letting lids close over cerulean. "I shall leave it to you to prove there is a place for the old gods in this world..."

“ there is this thing, that comes from fontaine, called movies. i recently had the chance to view one. it’s moving paintings, with real people, and talking and music- like opera, but on a screen . . . and less opera. and there are these . . . short books called ‘ light novels ’, that have lovely illustrations, but much of the time, it has mediocre to outright poor writing, that you can’t look away from. ”

“ sourpuss. ” she frowns at him, pink eyes not hiding bothering to hide the hurt she felt at his words. she jabs a finger into his cheek, as he looks away. “ if you think i’m going to let you rot away in your domain, osial- you’re mistaken! ” havria turns on her best pout and pinches his cheek. “ you sound like morax with all that ‘ woe is me ’ hand-wringing. what a pair of grumpy old men both of you are ! ”

many mortals and divine beings would break down in fear before thinking to antagonize the overlord of the vortex, but the gentle hearted god of salt would not let her old friend speak like that about himself.

“ so . . .  so don’t spew nonsense ! anyone can change- even us gods. ” of course, the ever hopeful, ever idealistic god of salt would keep that dream of a peaceful, gentle world with her friends. “ you belong in this world, just as much as i do, to hear you say otherwise :  it breaks my heart. i don’t have the physical power to stop you- but i hope my words sway your heart. ”

@csial​

[plumblossomcafe]

Ch.34: A Soul Set Apart

Paimon: Dain, there you are. Did you see Master Jean?

Dainsleif: I saw her but purposely avoided her. As both the Lionfang Knight and Acting Grand Master, she naturally would have some reservations towards me. If I'm not careful, one day, I may find myself becoming the object of one of her investigations. But back to the matter at hand... I defeated some of the Abyss forces but wasn't able to gather any information. Did you have more success?

Aether tells Dain what they learned from the spirit of Lupus Boreas...

Dainsleif: I see... Well then. We can more or less figure out where the first Field Tiller ended up.

Paimon: Huh? Really? Just from the Lupus Boreas story?

Dainsleif: That information combined with a more comprehensive analysis. For example, the old story you told me you heard in the Cathedral...

Y/n: *Finally put the pieces together* "The Tyrant's Final Fury"!

Dainsleif: Exactly, the strange story told to you by that young sister, long mistaken to be a curse rained down by a deceased tyrant.

Aether: Actually, Barbara's the deaconess...

Y/n: Never mind that! *uses her vision to display a visual of the clues* The fireballs raining from the sky were probably missiles! But the ancient people of Mondstadt wouldn't have seen the fireballs for what they were!

Paimon: Ah, Paimon gets it! So "The Tyrant's Final Fury" was really just missiles fired from the Field Tiller after it ran from Wolvendom! After it was damaged in the fight with the Wolf of the North, it must have wandered into the ruins of Old Mondstadt and stayed there... Then, whenever anyone got close — PEW, PEW, BOOM! It would fire a ton of missiles at them... Until one day, it finally broke down for good, and the fireballs stopped raining from the sky. Back then, the people of Mondstadt hadn't seen many Ruin Guards before, so they came to interpret it as "The Tyrant's Final Fury"!

Y/n: Exactly!

Dainsleif: It looks like we need to make a trip to Stormterror's Lair and comb the entire area.

Aether: No need.

Dainsleif: Hmm. What do you mean...?

Aether: I... I remember.

Paimon: Huh? You mean... Ohh, Paimon remembers, too! We saw that abandoned Ruin Guard sitting atop the tower when we went there before! Can't forget something like that!

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Paimon: This is it, right? Okay then, use your Elemental Sight to look for the eye!

Aether: *uses Elemental Sight*

Paimon: Ooooh... So what did you see?

Aether: Nothing....

Paimon: Huh? ...Nothing? But Paimon was so excited... What's going on...? Are you sure you did it right?

Dainsleif: This requires another method. Using Elemental Sight on a Field Tiller is of no use because it is not powered by the elements. Let me give it a try. *conjures magic* ... And done.

The eye of the Field Tiller appears

Paimon: Wowwww! It's, it's the...!

Dainsleif: The very thing the Abyss Herald has been seeking all along — the eye of the first Field Tiller. All of the Ruin Guards today are just replicas of this machine. As the prototype, its combat capability was unrestricted.

Paimon: "Prototype"? ...Paimon doesn't know that word. Is it another ancient term from Khaenri'ah?

Y/n: No, a prototype is the preliminary model for something, mainly ruin guards for this case

Dainsleif: As the Abyss Order has surmised, if this eye is placed in the hands of the Defiled Statue... And if the limbs of Osial, Overlord of the Vortex, are attached to the statue... there you have a mechanized god. And this newly born god will have the power to "topple the divine thrones of Celestia."

Aether: The Abyss Order must be stopped.

Dainsleif: Yes.

Paimon: Th—Then... What should we do with this eye?

Y/n: Hide it somewhere where no one will find it. Like, putting it under the guardianship of the Church of Favonius?

Dainsleif: No. I'll guard it myself.

Paimon: Huh!? You!? Dain... You won't go and do anything crazy with it, will you?

Dainsleif: You may doubt me if you wish, but I must ensure it does not fall into the wrong hands. No matter where we may hide it, they will find it. And as for the Church of Favonius — well, you know I don't trust them.

Paimon: Oh, hehe... right...

Dainsleif: But our work isn't done yet. To avoid any further repercussions, we must also take care of that Defiled Statue.

Aether: By doing what, exactly? Can't we let the Church take care of this one?

Dainsleif: We can't have the Church get involved. Let's handle it ourselves. As for what I mean by taking care of it... naturally, I mean to completely destroy it.

Paimon: D—Destroy it!? That's a Statue of The Seven! As well as being a really important cultural relic, they're actually divine, too... Ugh, well, it's a good thing we didn't tell Barbara earlier. Otherwise, she'd be going completely bonkers right now!

Dainsleif: Hmph... Do The Seven really expect me to help them look after what belongs to them? Let's go back to those ruins and destroy the inverted statue. If we are lucky, we will also run into that Abyss Herald. I'll make sure it doesn't get away this time.

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Upon entering the ruins once more

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Paimon: So, after all that running around, we end up right back here again... Look at us... We barely escaped this place last time, and now we're strolling right back in! Gee, surely we must be some of the bravest adventurers in all of Teyvat! That or the stupidest... To get to that creepy statue...

Y/n: We just need to follow the path we used to escape last time. That should take us right to it...

Paimon: Yep! That'll work. Let's go, and remember to be on your guard.

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Upon approaching the room with the Defiled Statue

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Dainsleif: Looks like we're here. An eerie, lifeless, dark chamber... I understand the evil aura you were describing earlier.

Paimon: Ohhhh... Such a scary place...

Dainsleif: Be careful not to be overwhelmed by the power of the Defiled Statue— the Abyss Herald, it's here.

Abyss Herald: Mwahaha... You sense correctly. You are just as vexatious as ever, Dainsleif, enemy of the Abyss! I sense your soul is stained by terrible bloodshed, perhaps from your darkest nightmares. Unless... Huh? Oh, and something far more dangerous! You reek of a corruption familiar to me... Then we are the same. We're both dangerous. But dangers from outside of the Abyss Order must be caught and caged...

Dainsleif: Tsk. It is your words that forever reek of corruption... Time to silence you!

During the battle Abyss Mages showed up and Y/n told Aether to fight the Herald while she defeated the mages and upon finally defeating them Aether managed to gain the upper hand and Harold upon seeing this he conjures a portal and tries to escape but Dain restrains the Abyss Herald using magic

Y/n: *getting worried since the Herald is struggling to breathe* Dain stop!!! *runs to him while grabbing his arm* You're hurting it!!!

Dainsleif: Shut up!!!! *hits her in order to pry her off*

Y/n: Ack!!!

Aether: Y/n!!! *runs to her*

Immediately after, someone familiar to Aether appears and stops Dainsleif's attack freeing the Abyss Herald and the Herald bowed down to the person

Abyss Herald: Princess...

Paimon: Hey, c—could that be...!?

Aether: Lumine!

Lumine: Aether...

Aether: I've finally found you! Let's get out of here, it's too dangerous!

Paimon: W—Wait, Aether... she just blocked an attack against the Abyss Herald... Your sister, and the Abyss...

Lumine: Aether, why are you with Dain?

Aether: ...What? You're asking about... Dain "We've been separated for so long...Why are you asking about something that doesn't matter...?"

Paimon: Huh? Your sister... knows Dain, Aether?

Dainsleif: ...Lumine. We meet again.

Y/n: Wh—What's going on here? Dain knows her, too!

Lumine: You shouldn't team up with this man. He is my enemy.

Dainsleif: Lumine...

Aether: Hold on a second! Stop saying things that don't make sense, Lumine!

Lumine: ... But it must be said... Don't try to stop me. Don't try to stop the Abyss. That man, Dainsleif, was the "Twilight Sword," one of the royal guards of the final dynasty of Khaenri'ah. 500 years ago, he failed to prevent the destruction of Khaenri'ah. A curse of immortality was laid upon him, to forever wander the wilderness... while he watched the people he was supposed to protect turn into the monsters‍ of the Abyss.

Paimon: You're saying... Dain is from Khaenri'ah!? The same Khaenri'ah that was destroyed 500 years ago!? And you said the people turned into monsters... You're trying to tell Paimon that the Abyss Order is not only related to Khaenri'ah but is actually the people of Khaenri'ah themselves!? Uh... and the whole thing about Dain being your enemy? Ohh... Paimon's so confused...

Aether: You can tell me all this later. Let's go home!

Lumine: Home... Yes, of course. "Home" is wherever we are together. But I cannot go with you to the next world to find a new home... at least, not yet. Until the Abyss has engulfed the thrones with the help of the Child of the Archons, my war with destiny will see no end...

Aether: Destiny...?

Y/n: Help?

Lumine: Listen to me, Aether. I have already traveled through this world once. Once you reach the end of your journey as I did, you will see for yourself the true nature of this world.

Abyss Herald: *conjures a portal*

Lumine: So we'll meet again. Though we need not rush, brother. I have more than enough time to wait for you.

Aether: ... *runs towards Lumine*

Y/n/Paimon: *runs after him*

Lumine: We have always... had enough time

The Abyss Herald and Lumine leave through the portal as Dainsleif dashes into the portal to follow them, Aether reaches the portal, but phases through it as the portal closes behind Aether

Paimon: They... left... Oh, don't be too sad, Aether... We'll find them again! Look on the bright side, at least we got some really useful information!

Aether: I'm... not sad.

Y/n: You sure...?

Paimon: At least now, as well as The Seven, Dain is also a key part of finding your sibling too, right?

Aether: Once we get to Inazuma, we should keep that in mind as we look for more clues. Another objective for our journey.

Paimon: That's right! Um... by the way, what they said just now was all pretty confusing... Did you understand it at all?

Y/n: I pretty much got it.

Aether: I was too focused on my sister to really listen carefully.

Paimon: Oh... well then... let's go over it again.

The three try to recall as many details as they can while Y/n used her vision to help visualize the details better in order to understand better. ..

Paimon: First off, that Abyss Herald called your sister "Princess."

Y/n: It seems like your sister is leading the Abyss Order, even the Abyss Herald answers to her... Still, we don't know for sure if she's the highest-ranking leader in the organization.

Paimon: Also, your sister said that she wants to "engulf the thrones" and go to "war with destiny." What the heck does that mean? ...Could it be that she wants to destroy The Seven and the seven nations? Next thing... turns out the Abyss Order monsters are really what the people of Khaenri'ah turned into after their nation was destroyed. This story is just plain terrifying! And Dain is from Khaenri'ah, too! He witnessed its destruction 500 years ago.

Y/n: But... he didn't turn into a monster, and now he's fighting the Abyss Order...

Paimon: So that's why your sister said that Dain is her enemy, right? But... If the monsters of the Abyss are the same people that Dain protected all those years ago, then why is he enemies with the Abyss Order now? Also, how come... after all this time we've spent searching for your sister, it turns out she's on the side of the Abyss. What's up with that?

Aether: We have many new questions, but few answers.

Paimon: Yeah, you're right. Then... we can't let ourselves get down about it now Aether!Our journey's not over yet, let's get a move on! Time to leave this terrible, dark place and get back to the surface, where the sun shines bright.

Y/n: If your sister wants you to "reach the end of your journey"...Well then, show her what you're made of! Come on, Aether, Paimon, let's go!

Skit:

Lumine: *looking at Y/n with a stern look*

Y/n: *getting nervous* Would you like a cupcake? *stretches one out to her*

Lumine: *dies from the cuteness* I can't get mad or hate you!!! *hugs her* Please marry my lonely but weird twin brother of mine!!!!

Aether: *blushing* Hey don't say things like that!!!

Lumine: Aether, you better treat her right!!! Also I want nieces and nephews after you guys get married!!!

Y/n: Eh!?! *confused but blushing*

Aether: *red as a tomato* Lumine!!!!! *angry* I should've absorbed you when we were still the womb of our mother!!!!

Skit end(The absorbed idea came from @writing-genshin-obsession)

Unlocked:

Dainsleif ♡:

9%

"Just how important are you?"

[daybreakrising]

your  name: osial, overlord of the vortex, that which lies in the deep

your age: we're not discussing that.

your perfect date: to walk along the sands together, letting the sea dance around our heels. Find a spot to enjoy tea and a fine meal, and then retreat to the depths of our underwater kingdom.

make out in private or in public?: make out in private but trade small affections in public.

do you like to cuddle?: yes. lots. whether that's in human form, bipedal vessel form or god form with necks entwined.

tell me something about you: what is there that you do not know, hm? I enjoy making jewellery for you more than any other, and I do not mind when you tease me so even if it is embarrassing at the time. I love how well you know me, that we are still one after so many years.

why do you want to be my valentine?: because i am, in fact, your husband.

a valentine's application

"Hmm.........." There's a playful gleam of mischief in turquoise eyes as she studies the application. Mostly, she's amused that he's indulged this little game in the first place. "Certainly some points in your favour here..."

A kiss is pressed to his cheek, her hand finding his. "Consider your application accepted, dear husband."

[saccharinerose]

on god i need to turn these two into OCs, all I have to do is change some of the tattoos, they're like 97% headcanon anyway

[csial]

CSIAL. Overlord of the Vortex. That Which Lies in the Deep. A mutuals only portrayal of OSIAL from G.ENSHIN I.MPACT. Portrayed by Charlie [ they/them  |  UK  |  30 ] ♡ or ↺ if you're interested in interacting.

INTEREST CHECKER. || DOSSIER. || VERSES.

[vishapsking]

"And why do you tread here, Retuo?" Waters churn beneath the body of the hydra, heads twisting, turning, gaze fixed accusingly on the other. There is anger there, a storm brewing beneath the surface, tempered only by the caution of one who predicts battle. "Do you come as messenger or executioner?" An accusatory tone, a wariness all the same. Is this the calm before the storm or the oncoming battle for which he must brace or else fade into obscurity to corrupt the land?

random asks. @csial / always accepting !

All of Teyvat hums with tension while the air stills in anticipation. The Heavenly Principles were creatures of fickled whims and untraceable minds that matter not to them. Retuo Longwang does not desire crowns of validations from usurpers; though civilizations of old have crumbled, the might of the Dragon King still remains strong.

Still, such bold proclamations from above tears delicately woven alliances asunder with the weight of coveted crowns. With the threat of war nipping at their heels, many gods and creatures have gone to stake claim and prepare for battle. Perhaps the Lord of Dust would be better suited to come than him, but Guizhong was busied elsewhere with Morax and the others.

Retuo comes bearing no ill-will towards one who had once been counted as an ally. They come without barbs nor weaponry of any kind. Waters slither from beneath the endless blue, swirling the Overlord of Vortex. Amber gaze lifts to meet watery depths without fear or offense.

"The birds have vanished into deep skies. A last cloud drifts away, all idleness. Inexhaustible, the ocean and one gaze at each other, it alone remaining."

They greet the other with words echoing disappointment. "One comes neither as messenger nor executioner, Osial. Merely to ask if this is truly what you wish." Those who were once allies will be at the point of their blade come morrow on the battlefield.

"The others will allow your return to the assembly. This needs not end in bloodshed. Do you yearn for a false crown so badly? Your followers will be safe without it."

[thepolishlynx]

Genshin Impact - Everyone versus Beisht the Overlord Vortex (Osial's Wif...

[dkniade]

“#Osial had a wife so...”

Fatui Agent: Lord Harbinger, it appears some Liyue Treasure Hoarders think you are not only a water demon… but also the illegitimate son of an Adeptus and Osial, Overlord of the Vortex?

Childe: [insert in-character reaction here]

(maybe “Hahaha— Ah~ Those were fun times” or something?)

It’s wild when an account with a bigger following than I reblogs one of my posts with a comment because now I’m watching the replies/reblogs/tags on my “Childe can turn into water and fly” post like it’s some play unfolding, like a bunch of characters get into a scene and start discussing the validity of some legend.

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“I always assumed that's what he does when overdosed on whatever divine authority of permission provide.”

“#as in he can't do that normally #only when hooked to a battery #it would be insane otherwise #a guy who can just turn into water droplets and fly away #although maybe he is just *that* insanely powerful and downplays it”

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“I thought it was probably just a regular power of his, but figured Childe probably just doesn't use it much since it's an ability that seems mostly exist to help with retreating.”

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“It would help sooo much with badass entrances too.”

“#and messing with people #imagine taunting someone just flying around them as a ball of water”

-

“#its what he does when he's bored #just screweing with people #many treasure hoarders in liyue thought there was a water demon that was haunting them #its was him. childe #you thought it was an evil demon but it was me! childe!”

-

“#childe's mona phase”

-

Maybe this could be a legend… Some Liyue Treasure Hoarders spreading a legend of a water demon that haunts the sunny plains of Liyue, and it eventually gets so twisted that he’s thought to be an Adeptus until—

“No wait, I’ve heard that the demon appeared at the harbour around the same time that Osial was released a few years ago.”

“……..He must be Osial’s child.”

“Apparently a ginger appeared after a sighting and he seemed human. But Adepti can often can take on a human form, right?”

“…”

“Maybe an Adeptus and Osial had-”