#also sobbing over jean and diluc its fine

[cryoniic]

starter for

↳ @archoniic

𝑫𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒅, 𝒔𝒍𝒚, overconfident to a fault and almost sadistic? Those were traits Kaeya was most proficient in. With the task -- or rather, the imperative -- of saving Mondstadt and those he cared for deeply, gaining the trust of an Archon, preventing detrimental events, and rewriting history?

The least he could have done was make it a challenge

Does he have a chance of success? There is a possibility that Khaen'riah would never have been destroyed. The relationships he had with those he cared about deeply would cease to exist upon his return if this were the case. The years they had spent together, the laughter they shared, and the tears they shed, would only end up being memories and burdens for Kaeya and Kaeya alone. In the end, it was a small price to pay to ensure their survival.

His decision weighed heavily on his shoulders, but he knew there was only one option -- to put his life on the line selflessly. If they had never seen him again, no one would have known. Each of those he cared for was visited before he left. The least he could do was ensure that their last thought of him was not entirely awful if they never crossed paths again.

He underestimated the challenge of dealing with Jean and the Knights. He certainly hadn't anticipated emotions to play a role, not when the stakes were higher. Jean's familiar twinkle of happiness would be a memory he would cherish through the inevitable loneliness of the years to come. Diluc ... There was nothing he could do to bid Diluc farewell. The red headed noble wasn't likely to respond well to gifts in a public setting, or comments that weren't needed, and any niceties might make him push for answers, jeopardizing the plan. He settles for buying one last glass of red before he departs - making sure it was the very same man who poured it.

"Thanks." A warm smile appeared, though Diluc may have passed too quick to notice. Those years would be remembered by a single word spoken by the man. Although he had differing views, he hadn't abandoned him like others may have. At such a young age, he accepted him and gave him an entirely different perspective than what his father expected of him. Although he wasn't born here, he considered it his home by nature. If only you knew.. One final glance over his shoulder was taken as he reached the door. It took him only a moment to curl his lips, make a noise in his throat, and then he was gone.

In the time between that point and his transportation to his destination, the Calvary Captain arrived on the outskirts of what he hoped were the Guili plains with uncertainty about his safety. Some women are watering crops among stone structures. It was almost too peaceful. Apprehensively, he steps forward, pondering how best to approach. whomever he spoke to would be ingrained in their memories beyond what they already know. Even the slightest slip could affect the future. No doubt Kaeya was quick with his tongue, however he was not immune to mistakes. The fresh smell of the morning harvest greeted him as he approached. This was an entirely different scent from Mondstadt -- yet not unwelcome.

Knowing now that his attire was unique and prone to drawing attention, hindsight would have greatly assisted him in approaching people who had been around years before he was a twinkle in his parents' eyes.