#mentioned harbingers

[that-foul-legacy-lover]

Mmmm Sanctuary back at it again bc Im gonna study Marine Biology in College, but just imagine the Harbingers as abyss monsters that live in really cold enclosures so you got sick once bc it was so cold but now next time you came in you were smothered in Jackets and warmth from...wait did they steal those Jackets?

Diluc got into the enclosure once and is banned from being put anywhere near their enclosure. Poor Childe got a bunch of owl scratches.

Bonus idea of the reverse AU too where Childe and friends tends to you, a Ginormous Barn owl, or other abyssmal animal oooh Maybe a Manta ray even. Yummy thoughts.

:O!!!!!!! i hope you have so much fun in college!!! marine biology is fascinating, especially since we've explored so little of the ocean :DD what else could be hiding down there!!

oh my goodness yessss all the Abyss creatures under your care get so worried when they see that you might be getting sick- Childe, Kaeya, and the other Harbingers thrive in particularly cold environments so you getting sick is quite common at first. of course you eventually get used to it, but even the slightest hint of coughing or sniffles makes them (Childe most of all) whimper in concern. coats start mysteriously appearing for whenever you seem cold and all you can do is wonder where on earth they got them from!! (they've been stealing them. Columbina specifically) but you can't really complain because whenever you let them drape the jackets over your shoulders you're met with resounding purrs and happy coos, so in a way it's a win-win for everyone <3 oh, and the absolute best thing is going from the Harbingers' cold enclosures to Diluc's toasty warm one <33

speaking of Diluc he HATES THE HARBINGERS. absolutely DESPISES them!!! he tolerates Childe because you love him so much but all the other Harbingers??? no no no, you shouldn't be spending time with them, they're dangerous!!! go hang out with Albedo!! or Kaeya!! or for goodness sake him!! if you're ever spending time with him and he sees one of the Harbingers looking at you, he'll immediately move to block you from their view and glare at them (he definitely pouts if you're paying attention to them instead of him but of course he'll never say)

OHOHOHOOO YES Childe and co maybe finding you with injuries and helping you recuperate,,,, perhaps first seeing you as more of a patient but growing to care about you a lot,,,, yesssss <33

[rockingbytheseaside]

✦ When someone tries to imitate you or take your place 

Pierro, Capitano, Dottore, Pantalone 

(tw: general mentions of violence and intimacy, swf. Old ask suggested by the lovely @pandaquick, better late than never)

Your position in the Fatui is a much more personal and delicate matter. You are not just some high-rank advisor or soldier idling within the Zapolyarny Palace, nor can you be defined as another Fatuus. You are someone of a different echelon - a Harbinger’s beloved, safeguarded with the utmost honor conferred by Her Majesty the Tsaritsa. It is no secret your significant other would utilize a whole army to protect you, but what happens when someone, in their foolishness, forgets that?

✧ Pierro was the first to notice that someone tried to imitate you. An individual of high status endeavored to emulate your work and areas of expertise. Subsequently, this individual began to adopt aspects of your appearance, from hairstyle to clothing. However, the breaking point occurred when this foolish person attempted to purchase an identical jewelry brooch to the one you frequently wore. It was a similar piece, one gifted to you by Pierro.

Except that imitator missed one important clue - Pierro orders you custom-made silver adorned with deep-cut sapphires that would put the Tsaritsa’s crown into shame. A one of a kind piece.

This cheap attempt to imitate you and usurp your spot was what forced The Jester to abandon his silent observation. His gaze has long caught the envious glances directed towards you whenever you accompanied him on meetings, whenever he linked his arm with yours, whenever he generously kneeled beside you to put his coat over your shoulder and keep you warm from Snezhnaya’s cold - the same individual, always seething with resentment. Thus, it was time for the Director to silently act. 

He kept tabs on this person via a network of spies, gathering intel on their behavior and intentions. And with the most skilled spies raised from the House of the Hearth, it didn't take long to have a whole pile of evidence right on his desk. And with the simple snap of his fingers, he effortlessly orchestrated the apprehension and subsequent banishment of the culprit, sparing no unnecessary words. Hearsay will not be tolerated in the Fatui, but to see some lowly scum tarnish your reputation by cheap mimicry then it’ll be his responsibility to weed out. 

“Pierro, dearest, What's wrong? You seem so deep in thought.” - Your gentle murmur broke The Jester's train of thought. As he lay in bed, your head resting on his chest and his arm draped over you, he reminded himself that he was in the comfort of your love. He doesn't have to mull over the bloodied ordinances when he feels the warmth of your skin underneath the covers.

“Apologize, my divine. It seems my mind was drifting to troubling thoughts. But it no longer matters when you're here.” - Thus, he gently planted a kiss on your forehead and tucked the covers around your body which harbored marks of his devotion earlier that night.

✧ Il Capitano clutched the hilt of his sword in resolution. Something was wrong and he could see it. The Harbinger was in the middle of his morning spar with you, a regular training session where you and the Captain warm up as a routine. He stood in a defensive stance, his movements fluid yet measured as his sword received blow after blow from your weapon. You, on the other hand, moved like a silent tempest, your strikes precise yet frustratingly urgent.

It was unlike you to be so unsteady, noted Capitano to himself, especially when fighting. Despite the unspoken patience, an undercurrent of concealed despondency and anger laced your body language. 

“Alright, my dear, I can feel your unease. What troubles your heart?” 

You shook your head, panting as you almost faltered. You insisted on continuing the training session, but it was clear your brave facade was almost crumbling. 

“It would be foolish to continue. And I care about your well-being. Please, confide in me, my beloved.”

You tried, you really did. But before you know it, your lips pursed into a thin line and a flood of tears escaped the moment you shakily lowered your weapon. Now the Captain was on full alert, rushing towards you and gently supporting you before you could hide your tearful face in shame. With an arm around your trembling form and much persuasion - you relented and shared the source of your frustration. A newly enlisted soldier had undergone thorough training under the tutelage of Il Capitano, and their impressive advancement was unmistakably evident in their unwavering dedication. However, this individual began to devote more time to the Captain, delving into military intelligence and climbing the ranks. You genuinely felt joy for the new recruit, truly. Yet in timid humiliation, you had to confess you felt obsolete as if your power alone wasn’t enough for a harbinger of his caliber and ranks.

“Ah, my dear, you are far from weak. My time with the trainees is merely a duty, a part of my job as the 1st Harbinger. But when it comes to you, my dear, your might and wisdom are incomparable. You don’t deserve my ranks, you deserve my life laid before you.”

But whatever gentle words of affection were coming out of the Captain, your next words of truth made him halt at once. “... At least, that’s what the recruit told me when we spoke. That I'm weak.” 

“...What did you say?” 

The gentle armored hand on your shoulder now tightened in restrained anger, fury flaring within his chest. Capitano now understood: your tears, your sudden insecurity, your doubt, your silence… It wasn’t coincidental. This recruit who was so conveniently rising in the ranks made sure to aim not just for the Harbinger. Specifically, you; to sow self-doubt onto you and hinder your precious relationship. Someone was deliberately bullying you.

You looked up at Capitano’s dreadful silence, asking him what was wrong.

“It… seems, my dear, someone has crossed an unforgivable line. One that would cost them their life dearly. And I am to blame for not noticing when harm and doubt came your way. I must amend this transgression for your forgiveness.”

You blinked in response, not having time to comprehend the severity of his words; It’s hard to respond when your beloved suddenly kneels and bows like a knight on duty. In the end, Capitano ushered you to take a day off and let your mind rest easy.

The next day, Capitano returned home early but was eerily silent once more. He stayed with you the whole day, like a hawk overlooking his nest, his arms crossed but his touch gentle. Although he claimed nothing was wrong, you received news that certain recruits were gone, and any upcoming soldiers that would come into his care would receive even stricter training from now on. That day, you wondered why some Fatui soldiers feared talking to you. Not to mention the armor around Capitano’s knuckles seemed faintly red-tinted.

The Fatui organization was a constant battle of powers and ranks. But to climb the ladder and meddle with the life of The Captain was a personal offense, one that would result in quick and unapologetic bloodshed. Nevertheless, he made sure to remind his soldiers about that. 

✧ When one of the folks working under Il Dottore as a lab analyst approached you, you didn’t expect them to call you names so suddenly. You stood there, confused and apprehensive at the sudden barrage of insults from the stranger. But they explained:

“You don’t do anything when helping during research, you know! I don’t even know how The 2nd tolerates you when you’re this useless. I’ll tell you what, quit your special-treatment act, and don’t come back to the lab. The Doctor is better off with someone of his level of intellect.”

You didn’t fight or defend yourself, you didn’t even insult the assistant. Instead, you smiled simply  - “Very well, I won’t. Good luck.”

That day, you turned and left. The frustrated lab analyst was left in confusion but thought they succeeded in eliminating the only obstacle left to get closer to the elusive yet powerful Harbinger. After all, what the hell do you even do at his lab? You exchange a few words with Dottore, maybe sporadically point at what to do, and remain seated in the back, resting as if you were the Tsaritsa herself. The audacity. How come Il Dottore never kicked you out?

Well, it didn't take long for this person to find out.

The next day, naturally, Dottore couldn’t find you when he proceeded with work. You were neither at his study, nor at the lab, nor at your favorite corner of the library. It was barely noon, and receiving your warm greetings was his routine. And the Doctor always follows the agenda.

“Where are they?” 

His question was brief but pointed, and his subordinates knew exactly who he was referring to. They could sense the tension in his voice. The only individual privy to the reason for your absence smirked smugly and responded.

“Hmph. It seems they decided not to come, Lord Harbinger Dottore.”

That was their first mistake because The Doctor caught on to the haughty smirk coming from his new analyst.

“And you know so certainly how?” - he quickly gestured to a nearby Fatui servant with a flick of his wrist. “Send in servants to check in on my behalf. I wasn’t informed. If my darling is feeling tired or unwell, bring their preferred refreshment immediately, and ensure it is warm.”

However, this displeased the new lab assistant, as even while you were away, Dottore was still dotting on you as if it was his second nature to do so while he was busy with work. Thus, they cleared their throat and spoke up:

“They… barely accomplished anything in your presence, doctor. So I advised them to leave, to which they agreed. Pretty straightforward, s-sir.” 

“Oh? Did you, now” - A burning rage, like never before, flared up within Il Dottore. With clenched teeth and a rigid jaw, his voice oozed with venom. But any seasoned lackey working under Dottore knew that this was the calm before the storm. Because soon, an echo of shattering vials and slammed objects would ring out from the laboratory. And in your absence, nothing would prevent the doctor from showing a bit of despotism. 

Much later that evening, after everything was set and done, the servants informed him of your whereabouts. Il Dottore briskly made his way through the Zapolyarny Palace to find you. Spotting you tucked away in a secluded nook of the palace, he hastened over, anxious to ensure your well-being, fearing you might’ve withdrawn due to the influence of some blabbering lowlife. 

“Dear! There you are… No one has the right to speak to you like that ever. Are you alright? My dearest, why did you not tell me immediately?! I would’ve-”

Dottore’s frustrated rambles come to a halt when you place a finger on his lips to shush him. You didn’t look despaired, in fact, you looked calm - “Zandik? Did you have another tantrum in your lab while I was absent?”

The doctor gulped, remembering his place. Calming his senses, he placed his hands on your waist and ushered you closer to his arms.

“... Perhaps. But I had to. How could I be certain that no one had harmed you? Why did you comply with that impudent fool? You should’ve gone to me first.”

“Well, it was unpleasant to hear the insults, sure. But…" - you glanced apologetically and a knowing smile returned to your lips. "I knew you'd find out and deal with the issue very quickly." 

✧ You and Pantalone were an odd couple. You didn't hail from a rich background, nor were you well-versed in the art of business and finance. You were more proficient in adventuring, your travels taking you to all sorts of journeys and commissions, a polar opposite from your beloved Pantalone. This led to raised eyebrows among the aristocrats of Snezhnaya. How can the richest man of Teyvat, who lives and works in prestige, be associated with such a simple person as you? For some, this gave the impression that they had a better chance of winning him over.

Thus, once upon a night, Pantalone was invited to a luxurious soirée. Here he was, clad in his finest suit, silver rings complementing his equally expensive optics. But to the Regrator, the jewelry adorning him was the least of his concerns - because you were the most precious gem in this gala. You accompanied him, although reluctantly, feeling out of place amidst the grand assembly of extravagant guests and the languid orchestra.

“Pantalone, do we have to…? I know you said this is not a business party, but there are so many guests already lining up to talk to you.” 

“Oh do not fret, my sweet. Evening galas like these are where the real negotiation and connections entail. But I know the details bore you, so I promise we won't stick here for too long. Besides, I get to introduce you as my one and only!”

That's exactly what you were afraid of. As a company of some esteemed noble ladies adorning elegant gowns, you had difficulties matching Pantalone’s polite smile. Overwhelmed by the scrutinizing gazes of some guests, you politely excused yourself to the bathroom. Pantalone was concerned, thinking of following you, but that was exactly what the guests wanted. 

You spent a long while by the hallway alone, trying to stabilize your breathing. The muttering of guests enjoying drinks and strolling was faint, but you could hear some people nearby:

“How can the 9th be with someone like them…? Surely it’s a joke.”

“A charming, rich man like him, and he can have anyone he desires. Yet he wastes his time on a simpleton?”

“Someone was definitely in it for the Mora, maybe he hasn’t seen real class. Quick, let’s go talk to him while he is alone.”

You stood with your back to a wall, and for the first time, uncertainty crept in. With fists clenched by your side, you reprimanded yourself that you are not alone. You came here with your significant other - and he, above all else, knows that gossip has no place in your shared private life. Hence, gathering up your courage, you raise your head high and strode back into the gala.

Pantalone, unfortunately yet expectedly, was surrounded by the same foul-mouthed nobles who wished to impress him. They prattled on about his financial success, while ladies fanned their folding fans and stood too close for his comfort. While they humored him, The Regrator cast hurried glances around the gala in search of you. Where are you?

“Lord Harbinger, may we offer you more champagne? I am sure this expensive bottle is up to your taste.”

The 9th attempted to hide his frown at the woman's tone, his stomach unwilling to ingest any drink some excessively elaborate name. “No thank you, I’d rather decline. I am waiting for my dear. I promised her a dance later this evening.”

“Oh, please sir, I insist. The night is young and there is plenty more for-” 

Before the woman could continue, your voice cut through the air; calm, yet unmistakably firm. “He said no. Simple enough to understand.”  

A hush fell over the gathered guests, the weight of your words settling like a sudden gust. Only Pantalone beamed with a genuine smile. “Ah, dear! There you are,”. The Harbinger was about to step back towards you, when the same lady suddenly blocked his path, her back facing him while her tone edged with defiance.

“I beg your pardon, but I’m afraid the question is directed towards Lord Harbinger Pantalone. I am sure you wouldn't know the pleasure of tasting a 500,000 Mora champagne from Fontaine.”

You recognized the snark in her tone directed towards you, and you couldn’t deny the anxiety twisting in your gut as eyes narrowed in your direction. However, with a shake of your head, you reminded yourself who you truly are and simply said: “Sheesh, lady, you spend that much on a drink that tastes worse than sparkling water? To each their own, I presume”

Her smile vanished. The guests stared in stunned silence, but it was Pantalone’s genuine laughter that pierced the tension. The sound was rich and real—because only he knew how adept you were at humbling an overconfident aristocrat with a dose of blunt truth. That’s how Pantalone managed to push through the crowd and circle his arm back around your waist, leaving the astonished onlookers behind.

“Ah dear, you’re a savior. I apologize I dragged us into this unpleasant company…” - he confined to you apologetically as you two walked away. “You always knew how to be sincere in your honest way.”

“It’s not like I meant to pick up a fight…" - you sighed. "I simply couldn't bear the humiliation, Pantalone. I'm aware that some people give me strange looks when I'm with you. They regard me as if I'm some peasant standing next to a powerful Fatui harbinger. That I'm nothing. That's why I couldn’t just hide, I had to step up to defend myself.”

“Oh, darling… My sweet, precious darling.” - The two of you left the manor that hosted the soiree, the chill night breeze muting the faint sound of guests and replacing it with a symphony of cricket noise from the garden nearby. Pantalone's fingers intertwined with yours.

"You are not just 'nothing' - you're my everything. You did not come from riches, and neither did I. You of all people know that. Would I really hold respect for some rich fool who didn't know an ounce of hardship when Mora was all they had since birth? No, dear, I wouldn't."

With a tender hand, he rested his palm on your waist, gently guiding you along the cobblestone path as if leading you into a slow waltz by garden roses in the night.

"Besides, you should never be ashamed to seek out my help. Although I must admit... Your tone earlier - oh my. Use it on me more often, darling. I wouldn't mind." 

[clouvu]

Save me french yuri... Save me

[cluescorner]

Every other harbinger: My coworkers are fucking insane and I hate them. I'd probably have killed them by now if we weren't on the same side. Why in the fuck am I forced to put up with these selfish, pathetic, obnoxious imbeciles?!!!

Capitano: *Exists*

Every other harbinger: omg Capitano

[jessamine-rose]

˚♱ଘ Faustian Bargain ଓ♱˚

Welp here we are with the fourth entry in my Yandere Church AU. Let’s fall into depravity once more, this time with Demon! Pantalone x Contractee! Darling (˵ •̀ ᴗ - ˵ )

Tw:: yandere, manipulation, blood, violence, slight self-harm for summoning purposes, spice, mention of nsfw, MDNI

Note:: fictional depictions of religion, guest-starring Demon! Scaramouche <3

♡ 2.5k words under the cut ♡

♡ Since their creation, humans have ruled over the mortal plane under the influence of spiritual beings. But while angels are venerated as divine saviors, demons are fallen sinners who corrupt humanity through temptation and curses. It is for this reason that humans live in fear of demons, with the Church condemning all forms of unholy covenant. But time and time again, that warning has fallen on deaf ears.

♡ Throughout history, several individuals have formed pacts with demons in exchange for divine favors. Favors vary across demons but in all contracts, the price is clear: The human gives up their soul and any chance at salvation. Once the pact has been made, the human is granted the ability to summon the demon as their lifelong companion. But upon the human’s death, the pact is broken and the demon is free to seek out new souls.

♡ It is through these contracts that the Harbinger of Fortune rose to prominence. He is a “young” demon in the sense that his earliest records only date back to three centuries; but in that short amount of time, Pantalone has tempted many fools and heretics with the promise of material wealth. And it is through this tactic that he attained power, recognition, your soul.

♡ In your defense, you had no other choice. Born to an elite family in Liyue, you had enjoyed a life of luxury until your parents squandered their fortune. After a failed attempt to flee to another nation, they were murdered and you were told to repay their debts lest you meet the same fate. It was a hopeless situation—you had no assets to pawn off and even then, your remaining days would be spent in poverty. So when you recalled the local stories about the demon who deals in prosperity, you were desperate to summon him.

♡ It is difficult to find authentic records of his summoning ritual, but you manage with what little time you have left. There is an illustration of his sigil, to be copied on the floor with blood from your own palm. A table is arranged with incense, gold coins, freshly-brewed tea, a mirror, and the dagger used to extract your blood. Once everything is in place, you clasp your bloody hands together and utter the sacred incantations.

♡ As soon as Pantalone’s true name leaves your lips, the incense sticks emit a dark fragrant smoke. The summoning circle glows violet and within it, a brilliant figure emerges. Dark horns, adorned with silver, curve back along his raven hair. His garments are styled with violet jewels, serpentine motifs, an iridescent cape embroidered with a scene from the Garden of Eden. He is beautiful, so beautiful that you feel unworthy when his bespectacled gaze meets yours.

♡ Before you can look away, he is already onto you. In a polite voice, he introduces himself and asks for your name. Next, he tells you to disable the barrier of the summoning circle; he prefers civil negotiations. It takes some reluctance on your part but eventually, the two of you are seated together at the table. There is a critical look on his face as he surveys his offerings and explains his contract in detail.

♡ Aside from the general rules, there are clauses specific to Pantalone’s pacts. He can only be summoned twice a week, and never on Sundays. Contracts with other demons require his permission. Any attempt at breaking the pact will incur severe consequences. All of this is said with honeyed words and a kind smile.

♡ So perfect is his facade that you fail to notice an undertone of condescension. A glimpse into your soul was all it took for Pantalone to regard you as a hopeless fool hindered by your worldly upbringing. But that is fine—fools are easier to deal with, and you’d make a pretty addition to his collection of souls. Plus, it was only yesterday that his previous human died, and he is always quick to move on to the next pact. With that, Pantalone tells you to make a choice.

“A fair exchange, don’t you think?” he asks. The smile on his face is deceptively angelic. “In return for your soul, I will provide you with wealth, prosperity, everything your heart desires. Do you believe it is worth the price, ______?”

♡ You say yes. That is when Pantalone takes off his rings then his gloves, revealing multiple scars slashed across his palm lines. Gracefully, he picks up your used dragger, draws a new line, and clasps his wounded hand in yours. Then he wraps the same hand around your neck, staining it with a mix of your blood.

♡ There is a burning sensation followed by a burst of pure ecstasy. Once the euphoria subsides, Pantalone lets go of you and holds up the mirror. The front of your throat is branded with his sigil while a diamond pattern encircles your neck. It glows violet before disappearing altogether, a sacred collar invisible to mortal eyes. Thus, the pact has been formed.

♡ The next few minutes are calm. Pantalone’s scars are concealed once more. The two of you finish your tea. He takes a coin from his offering, now magically engraved with his sigil, and explains that you need only flip it to summon him. Then he offers one last smile, says he will look forward to your partnership, and disappears with the remaining coins.

♡ In the morning, you wake up to find bags of coins and jewels on the table, the exact amount needed to pay off your debts. Once the money has been given, you eagerly summon Pantalone to thank him. He merely smiles, leads you to your parents’ office, and tells you that the next step is to rebuild your family business. After all, while he can create material riches out of nothing, a mysterious source of wealth may attract the suspicion of your fellow humans.

♡ Soon enough, the company is flourishing under “your” authority. In reality, it is Pantalone who instructs your decisions and eliminates competitors. During meetings with clients, he attends in his invisible form and whispers to you the necessary responses. With success comes your return to high society, and Pantalone is all too happy to escort you to galas as your plus-one. His human form attracts several admirers, but his attention remains on you.

♡ He is also pleasant company. You can’t help but summon him often—your house feels empty without your parents. As for friends, you refuse to trust anyone after they turned their backs on you during your financial crisis. Pantalone is always nice about it, listening to your woes and participating in your hobbies. Once in a while, he will activate your pact mark and comment on how needy you are.

♡ He even fulfills your carnal desires. Over the months, Pantalone has toyed with your physical attraction towards him, teasing you with light touches, seductive whispers, sinful smiles…and a deep kiss when you shyly proposition him. That kiss is soon followed by heavy makeouts, long nights in your bed, physical marks all over your body. Greedy as he may be, he always makes sure to repay the pleasure you’ve given him.

♡ One night, you ask him about his divine nature. He confirms the popular belief that all demons are fallen angels; in his case, he was created for the Ninth Order, the lowest rank in the angel hierarchy. For the first century of his life, he could only settle for the inferior powers and duties assigned to his status. Neither could he enjoy the freedom which humans were born with.

♡ Thus, he set his sights on Hell. For angels are not created equal but demons can earn their powers through individual efforts. But leaving God always comes with a price, and Pantalone’s was paid in blood and tears.

⬩◈⬩

“Is that how you lost your wings?”

In the dark, your demon’s scars remain apparent. A pair of rough, featherless, ugly lines which you are careful not to touch, lest he flinch—from pain or shame? During your first night together, Pantalone refused to talk about it and you took the hint.

Even now, he flips over in your bed to hide his imperfections from you. When he answers your question, his voice takes on a light tone.

“Yes. It was God who ripped out my wings, and He even had the ‘mercy’ to cast them out of Heaven after me. But that was a long time ago, and I’ve since put my old feathers to good use.”

His capes, he means. They are his signature accessory, all crafted with sheer fabric, tiny jewels, and iridescent embroidery. Each cape is its own masterpiece, bearing fantastical images of God’s creations. It was during a casual conversation that Pantalone told you the threads were sourced from his old feathers.

He looks past you, and you know his gaze is on the coat rack. Tonight’s cape depicts a celestial paradise filled with winged figures. Beneath Heaven, separated by dark clouds, demonic figures descend into a fiery sky.

“Still, it must’ve been painful,” you tell him. Hesitantly, you add, “I mean, you didn’t only lose a body part that day. You also lost your former appearance, your ability to fly, your siblings—”

At that, a smile makes its way to his face. A large, genuine smile that isn’t directed at you.

“My former brethren were not dearly missed,” he replies. He sits up, combing the strands of hair tangled around his horns. “After I landed in Hell, I was taken in by an older demon. Let’s call her Jiejie, since she does not appreciate needless declarations of her true name. She is the one who treated my wounds, the one who cared for me using her own resources, the one who welcomed me into her home with open wings. And for that, I am eternally grateful.”

A soft breeze rustles the cape, threads glittering in the moonlight. Some threads, however, lack the iridescent quality of Pantalone’s feathers. Instead, they are silvery shades of black and gray.

His tone softens. “I will confess that I had an easy start in Hell thanks to her influence, as did Scaramouche who fell before me. But everything else—my contracts, my current status—are the fruits of my own labor. Perhaps someday, I may even reach Jiejie’s level of power.”

“I see…” You look into his eyes this time. “So what do she and that Scara demon specialize in? They sound nice; am I allowed to form pacts with them?”

“No.” He says it firmly, with no room for argument. Bare hands pull your body closer to his. “Even speaking as their brother, that sounds very unconscionable. Don’t get too greedy now.”

“Oh, I…okay!” you squeak. A faint violet light takes up your peripheral vision—your pact mark? “I’m sorry for asking. I’ll remember that.”

“Good.” His hand moves to your throat, tracing your sigil. When your eyes meet, his are bright with desire. “Never forget, you are mine first and foremost.”

⬩◈⬩

♡ In the following years, Pantalone grows more fond of you. Gifts begin to appear in your hands, from violet jewels to stylish garments. He accompanies you to more meetings with your fellow humans, his arm wrapped around your waist in a possessive gesture. His physical affection intensifies. On a few occasions, he even visits you despite not being summoned.

♡ It’s a nice change, but an overwhelming one. As time passes, you meet new friends and suitors, only to reject them after Pantalone claims to have glimpsed malice in their souls. Neither can you summon other demons, not when he is confiscating your demonological texts under the pretense that you’re too “impressionable” for another pact. And who can forget the time you were caught looking for information on the Tree of Life?

♡ It wasn’t your intention to seek a way out of your debt. It was by pure coincidence that you ran into the heretic who sold you the grimoire with information on Pantalone; and the conversation naturally shifted to the topic of your eternal damnation. Unsurprisingly, many humans have attempted to go back on their deals; and according to your “friend,” the best solution is to become immortal through the Tree of Life. You only asked them to contact you if they ever find the mythical tree, but that was enough to anger Pantalone.

“Do not lie to me, ______,” he snaps. His smile appears calm, but his tone sounds absolutely venomous. “I glimpsed your memories of last night, and I know you tried to violate our contract.”

“I…” You fearfully shake your head, only to cry as your throat constricts. It hurts, as though his sigil is burning your flesh, and your knees hit the floor. “I didn’t mean to…”

Your voice trails off. A gloved hand tilts your head upwards, forcing you to meet his death glare.

“Speak up, darling. My time is precious.”

♡ After that, you apologize and make no attempt to evade your fate. The next time Pantalone becomes angry, you at least have the luxury of not being the target of his emotions. It is a seemingly normal day, and you are served tea by a long-time servant. Suddenly, Pantalone appears and pulls you away from the individual, not bothering to hide his true form. When he tells the servant to “drop the act,” there is an indigo glint in their eyes.

♡ And that’s how you learn that the Puppeteer specializes in demonic possession. The servant’s body falls to the floor, unconscious, and it is Scaramouche’s turn to make himself known. He has asymmetrical horns, a single skeletal bat wing, and an expression which is far from friendly. A silvery black-and-gray feather dangles from the brooch pinned above his heart.

“Tell me, Scaramouche, what are your reasons for spying on my precious jewel?”

“Hmph, as if you need to ask. I just wanted to see if your little pet is worth Nee-san’s blessing. If you still desire them when that time comes, you’re on your own.”

♡ You don’t understand what they’re talking about, but it’s clear that you have no part in the conversation. After a few insults, Scaramouche leaves, but not without telling you to “know your place” in the future. That is when Pantalone sighs, pours a cup of tea for himself, tells you that it is none of your concern. Don’t worry, darling, he has it all under control. So just sit down, drink your tea, talk to him about anything under the sun. You still have a long life ahead of you, and he shall give you Heaven on earth until the day your heart ceases to beat.

♡ And perhaps if you are good enough, he will act on his desire to keep you as his pet in Hell. It’s been centuries since Pantalone has tortured a sinner, but he does know the best ways to break your mind. And is eternal suffering in his home not preferable to another demon laying their hands on you? At any rate, it’s not like you have any other choice.

“In the name of love, I will respect the contract between us and the fate you put in my hands.”

♡

More Church AU here!! Dottore ๑ Capitano ๑ Arlecchino

Note:: Please do not send me any Church AU asks/ requests involving characters or dynamics not included in my masterlist.

Aahhh I hope y’all enjoyed my take on Demon! Pantalone!! He ended up with the most tame + lore-heavy fic, and I swear that the character of “Jiejie” will make more sense when I write the remaining stories for Church AU. Also, fun fact, Pantalone’s capes are inspired by Rusly Tjohnardi and Hieronymus Bosch’s triptychs~

Moving on, thank you to @diodellet for beta-reading this and supporting me through every step of writing hell. Now if y’all excuse me, I’m must avenge myself and whack Pantalone with the biggest cross I can find o(^▽^)o

Tag a Pantalone enjoyer!! @navxry @beloved-blaiddyd @leftdestiny-posts @meimeimeirin @euniveve @lychniis @teabutmakeitazure @stickyspeckledlight @mochinon-yah @zhongrin @harmonysanreads @oofasleep @theinnerunderrain @ddarker-dreams

[screamingcrows]

it's Saturday; don't forget to terrorize your local scholar. Short Dottore fluff below.

You brushed it off as restlessness the first time. Anticipation perhaps? Zandik had been gone a while after all.

Kisses were peppered down his chest and stomach, remembering to pay extra reverence to the countless patches of marred skin. Little licks teased at the edge of his underwear before you tugged it down, - not enough to free the growing bulge - not quite done with your fun to indulge his desire.

Zandik was used to getting what he wanted in his own time, and the hungry glint in his eyes when you looked up from the expanse of his skin was a testament to his restraint. Closing your eyes, your lips descended upon the dip of his waist, not quite having the time to relish in his soft sigh before it morphed into a clipped sound akin to the cry of a wounded beast.

The second time was difficult to ignore as he jolted underneath you, muttering an apology for the quite determined knee that had caught you between your legs. It took a moment for you both to regain some composure, his rough palm rubbing your hip gingerly all the while.

By then, a hypothesis had begun to take shape, and as any good scholar would - and you were determined to make him proud by acting as such - a third replicate was necessary to ensure significance. All thoughts of bringing him satisfaction vanished. Therefore, it was with no remorse when your teeth sank into the tender flesh just above his hipbone, lips tugging into a satisfied smirk as Zandik tensed, fingers gripping the sheets tighter as he fought what was no doubt another instinctual reaction.

You gracefully ignored his little hiss of "quit it", letting your tongue drag across the quickly forming goosebumps. Another huff passed his lips accompanied by a small shiver. It was captivating to witness. Usually composed enough that people around him forgot his humanity, seeing him struggle to keep still, chest thrumming beneath your hands, was nothing short of a treat.

Proudly, you sat up, fully aware of the wicked glint in your eyes, finding amusement in the tired one he shot back. It was no doubt hubris keeping him from expressing more dissatisfaction than that.

The subdued chuckles you got from pinching at his sides were precious, fledgling glimpses of the life that you would surely come to lead once Pierro's play came to an end. Still, it was far from enough in that moment. Not when you could see how he worried at his already chapped lip, hands swatting fervently as though you no more than the bugs of Sumeru. A little nuisance. His little nuisance, if the sliver of fondness hidden in those garnet eyes could be trusted.

It was an exercise of trust, you realized, a man with his past laying himself bare and relinquishing control as you prodded at all that he was. Warmth bloomed in your chest, briefly stilling your hands to rub tenderly at his waist as you smiled down at him.

It was when you dove back down, licking with renewed vigor and intent that he broke. In a moment, his expression morphed from quiet discontent to pure disbelief, swatting incredulously at the hands now pinching his sides, choking out little protests between full laughs. The purest symphony rang out in your shared chambers, vibrations travelling from his chest to your heart as he laughed without restraint. Everything seemed a little brighter, hardships irrelevant when presented with the sight of glittering tears rolling down his cheeks, large palms trying to encircle your wrists.

Zandik did eventually succeed in wrestling you off, trapping your hands against his heaving chest by pulling you close, warm puffs of air hitting the top of your head as he slowly regained his bearings. A thin layer of sweat coated his skin and had you whining in protest when he rubbed himself against you, lips pressing against your forehead before his whispered promise of revenge reached your ears.

[incorrectfatui]

[andersdotters]

I think the thing that's easy to forget about Arlecchino is that she is not the original Arlecchino. The one that set up the House of the Hearth, the one that greatly abused its members, the one that lied to Freminet about his mother, the one that brainwashed the members to be willing to give their lives for their family was the original Arlecchino, not the current Arlecchino. The current Arlecchino was previously a child raised by the House of the Hearth that succeeded the original Arlecchino through some kind of "serious clash."

The original Arlecchino was painted to be a very cruel person. She'd would greatly punish members that did not succeed in their missions. She lied to Freminet that his mother abandoned him, then used his mother's well being as a way to threaten Freminet into obeying. Going off of one of her subordinates actions, she would've been fine with the creation of orphans if that met taking them in to become later members of the Fatui.

When the current Arlecchino got into power, she changed many things. Where the previous Arlecchino wanted them to give up their lives for the family, the current told them that they must value their lives. Every single one of them was important. Where the previous Arlecchino would punish members for failing missions, the current does not do so, but chooses to give missions suitable to the person.

What I find really interesting about the current Arlecchino is that she is not without morals. When Lyney asks to receive a delusion to help his sister, though she does not react outwardly, her eyes were described to be full of "wrath." She then shows a startling amount of emotional intelligence and asks if that is what Lynette would want. When it comes to Freminet, not only was she furious upon learning he was cruelly lied to regarding his mother, what I'm shocked is she knew about his mother in the first place. She knew what his mother looked like. Freminet entered the House of the Hearth before she became Arlecchino, but she still knew. If you want to look deeper into this, this implies that she purposefully looked into his past and sought out his mother for him.

People may say she's acting. People may say she is acting "nice" to groom the sibings her way, but anger is not something easily faked. Those seemed to be genuine reactions. I do not think that was a lie. However, I'm not saying that she's not lying or manipulative either.

What the most important thing to keep in mind about all of this is what Wanderer and Childe have to say about her. They both fully state that she is insane. She has no problems betraying people. She seeks to control others. She is insane. No ifs, ands, or buts.

I'm just really curious to see how Genshin will reconcile this conflicting information about her.

((check the tags for more of an analysis on her that goes a bit deeper))

[imminent-danger-came]

Eldritch Abomination MK Theory

OKAY. @the-punning-ubus

I just want to say reading these tags are SO validating, because I have my little "MK was an eldritch abomination thing pre-hatching from stone" theory and seeing someone else come to pretty much the same conclusion feels good.

I've been meaning to write a proper theory post on this for a while, so now is as good of a time as any!

Obviously we have Wukong's "Not just anyone can wield my staff, but you did" from A Hero is Born and "The staff's just a big 'ol stick bud! It takes someone special to wield it" from 3x03, but there's also something in 1x09 Macaque:

Macaque: "Your staff kinda gives you away dude, not just anyone can wield that thing."

-

Macaque: "Ohohoh no, can't you hold the magic staff anymore? Well, you know what that means—there really isn't anything special about you. You're just a kid with a heavy stick."

-

-

The sweet irony of "There really isn't anything special about you. You're just a kid with a heavy stick!" followed immediately by MK lifting the staff again is not lost on me.

So, from s1 it was pretty obvious that Wukong didn't "give" MK any form of power, but we knew that already with MK being a monkey demon and all. I just think it's particularly intriguing that all of this was laid out in the same episode where MK proclaims "I am the weapon!". In all honestly, he probably was/is.

One of the main questions coming out of s4 is "why was MK created?"—Monkey King's stone was used to form another, but for what purpose? To what end? What reason was MK at the center of all these stories?

Well, here's my current theory:

MK was something in a past life, and that something needed to be contained—and so, to put a stop to past life eldritch abomination MK, he was then sealed away in the stone.

I think this scene in particular raises some alarm bells:

The stone cracks open, bursts with light, and then it closes—like something was put inside it. The scene could of course just be an aesthetic choice, or chosen to be this way for another reason we don't know yet, but it just feels so deliberate. A ball of light appearing from the stone, then another ball of light in the mystery woman's hands being revealed to hold a monkey, and then the stone reforming around the ball of light. I just can't help but feel there's something there.

Next I want to discuss the two key things that make me feel this theory has merit:

1.) MK has made a habit of breaking out of things he shouldn't be able to (the calabash in 1x05, the trigram furnace in 2x00, the scroll in 4x07, Destiny itself in 3x14) and the stone would be no exception.

2.) Every antagonist in this show has been sealed away in some form, then being released to resume their plans from before being sealed. Here's a list:

DBK was sealed under the mountain, and after being released continued his plan of world domination.

Spider Queen was metaphorically trapped in her fallen empire, and after being given the chance to rule the above world once again, immediately takes it.

The Lady Bone Demon was imprisoned in her tomb, and after being released prematurely (before learning the error of her ways), she continued her plan to destroy the world and create a new one.

Azure Lion was imprisoned in the scroll, and upon being released (by an unknown 3rd party), immediately worked to free his friends and then end the Jade Emperor's reign.

Now, I love foils, so MK breaking out of the stone he was sealed in, yet coming out an actually changed being unlike everyone else in this show, would be DELICIOUS:

Lady Bone Demon: ”No backup and no weapon? So, you’re plan is to fist fight a child?” Sun Wukong: “We both know that’s not what you are.”

(3x11 This Imperfect World)

-

Lady Bone Demon: "STOP! Have you forgotten? Destroy me and you destroy the host! Have you become so desperate to end me that you would sacrifice this blameless innocent child?" Sun Wukong: "You're giving me no choice! All the time you spent locked away, and you haven't changed a bit! I'm going to finish you, like I should have done a long time ago! I told you—you should have stayed buried."

(3x11 This Imperfect World)

-

Subodhi: "I have not brought you to your master. Although this is the stone from which Sun Wukong once sprung, it appears overtime, it was used to form another. A simple creature, with no past, no family, and no name. There is a reason you were at the center of these stories—a reason you can harness the power of the Monkey King himself!"

(4x06 Show Me the Monster)

-

(If you want extra fodder for this, please see this parallels post :3)

So, if MK were to hatch out of the stone—where *he* was sealed away—and he actually came out of it a "blameless innocent child" with "no past, no family, and no name", it would work exceedingly well. Wukong's not above giving people second chances, but if you use that second chance to try and destroy the world, you force his hand.

(Side note: it could also be the case that the stone was used to "reset" whatever MK was in his past life, and Wukong was originally meant to destroy whatever came out of the stone—which could be the reason he stayed at Flower Fruit Mountain for hundreds of years. However, when an child came out, a new being without a past or the memories of what it was before—Wukong choose to let it go. He choose to let it live a normal life—or even ensuring it could live a normal life—and it then found it's way to Pigsy. This definitely gets into real crack theory territory, but I did want to bring it up.)

Now, none of this is even mentioning the suspiciously MK shaped figure in the mural from 3x13:

Now, the figure in this mural is only shown when MK is also on screen, which is framing that drives me insane. Perhaps this is when they first caught MK's past life, then finally able to subdue him and seal him in the stone.

And so, if MK really was this terrible chaos driven abomination in his past life, what does that mean ✨thematically✨?

Well,

Sun Wukong: “Point is, mistakes happen, but so long as you leave the world in better shape than you found it, then it’s all good. Right?”

(4x01 Familiar Tales)

-

SWK: “ENOUGH! I’ve never let anyone dictate my destiny in the past, and I’m not about to start now. None of us are! We can’t change who we were yesterday or in a past life, or a hundred life times ago! We live with the choices we’ve made, for what matter is the choices we make RIGHT NOW! Only we decide who we are and what we do with the power we have.”

(4x07 Pitiful Creatures)

-

MK can't change who he was in a past life. He can't change that the roads all lead to pain. But you know what he can do? He can try. He can try and get a little bit better every day. He can try and help people. He can try and make the world better than he found it.

Maybe in a past life, MK caused just as must chaos and destruction as Wukong did in his past. Maybe he caused even more problems then he has as the Monkie Kid. But that also doesn't undo the good he's doing now.

Anyways, that's my "MK was an eldritch abomination thing pre-hatching from stone" theory. Hope you enjoyed

[that-foul-legacy-lover]

Hellu here with the idea of creator!melusine able to work with the hydro element and childe/foul legacy (and neuvi) showing them all the neat tricks?

*eats your idea in one bite* mmmm delicious and tasty :)

perhaps you're not even given a Hydro Vision- instead you have innate control over the waters of the Primordial Sea. in a way it makes sense, the waters being the oldest and most connected to the Creator, but you're still understandably a little spooked when parts of Fontaine's ocean begins bending to your will. Foul Legacy is absolutely ecstatic, however, chittering happily and gently cupping your mittens in his claws. your siblings curiously peek over your shoulders, oohing and aahing as they watch sparkling water form tiny shapes in your hands before dissolving again- you're just like their sister Sigewinne! except, you don't have a Hydro Vision, but you can control the water all the same!

Legacy admittedly wants to teach you how to fight as soon as he can, but Neuvillette lightly flicks him on the forehead with a frown, met with reluctant grumbles. they can both teach you, but first and foremost Neuvillette wants you to know basic control. he makes sure you never get overwhelmed, helping you learn and tempering the waves with his own power as the Hydro Sovereign if anything begins to get out of hand. when he's not here, Foul Legacy secretly teaches you how to make more complex shapes with the droplets, starting from a perfect sphere and moving your way up to eventual weapons- he WILL teach you how to fight with Hydro eventually, it's best to get an early start! although, his favorite thing to do is helping you make a tiny narwhal out of water, the miniature beast swimming around your antennae and Legacy's horns as he trills in delight

[eternally-frozen]

Sakura Blooms

Synopsis: You ask Childe to bring you a flower that’s on the other side of Teyvat. It’s a simple plan to get him away from you for a while, but he turns the situation around and makes you regret ever deceiving him. Had he seen through your plans?

Warning: Forced marriage, implied kidnapping, toxic behaviour, implied abuse (?) // its mentioned he locks you up in a room in the dark for hours when you don't behave

Note: This is absolute shit :( Wanted to write something about the dendrobium bc of the lore (I had a whole plan lmao) but I somewhere did a 180 and suddenly wrote 1k about something different??? It’s fine.

Song recommendation: None. I couldn’t fine any in my history that fit </3

“I want Sakura Blooms.”

He’s silent for a moment. “A what now…?”

“I saw them in the book you gave me. I want them.”

Childe frowns in confusion as he tries to remember where exactly he heard ‘Sakura Blooms’ and what book you’d been talking about.

When you point to the small table between the fireplace and the couch it clicked.

He’d given you the book after you complained about not being able to understand Snezhnayan. He assured you you didn’t need it with him by your side – he was all you need, but apparently when you grew bored you’d become crankier (or so he asserted), so Childe went to the nearest bookshop and asked for any books with pictures.

The shop owner showed him a few books but one specific one caught his eye. The cover was green with hints of pink, something cute that reminded him of you, so he bought it as a small present.

You’d been throwing fits every day ever since you arrived in Snezhnaya, something he understands since it must’ve been a big change from Mondstadt.

A welcoming gift was long overdue.

But you asking him to get something?

Now this is something he didn’t expect from you this early. He must’ve made big progress by showing you his patience.

“Show me which one.”

His voice is determined and he seems to have abandoned anything that went through his head prior to your question.

After you grab the book from the small table you flip through the pages, skipping as fast as you can through Mondstadt’s flora and stopping once you see the pink petals of the Sakura Blooms.

The page is filled with detailed illustrations. There’s a giant tree full in bloom, another illustration which depicts a bundle of the petals, and the last one, an illustration of a branch from the tree.

You can’t read any of the words but you’re familiar with the flower. It’s used when making perfume, but you previously used it to make paint. From this experience, you know the flower is hard to obtain.

Childe walks up behind you and wraps his arms around your waist. You let him pull you back into his chest and ignore any further actions. If your plan succeeds you’d have him gone for a good while – any unwanted touch is a willing sacrifice if you can get rid of him for a few weeks.

He hums and you feel his breath on the side of your face.

When he doesn’t respond further you state your case. The more he’ll think about it, the bigger the change will be he’ll say no.

“I, um… I really want them because you don’t have that many flowers here.”

You grip the book a bit tighter. He stays silent – you hadn’t convinced him.

“And well… I.”

You try to look as nervous as possible. Be weak and he’d feel in control. Hit his weak spots and you’d be able to succeed.

“I always wanted the flowers on my wedding day.” You fiddle with the pages of the book on purpose, “And since you wanted to marry so fast I couldn’t choose anything. So I thought you could get these in return?”

You feel his lips press against your neck. His hands squeeze your sides a bit tighter and he tries to press into you even harder.

“Why didn’t you say so?” Another kiss on your neck, “You know that ceremony was only temporary. I promised you we could do anything we want once you stop throwing tantrums.”

One of his hands reaches for your face and turns it to the side so he’s able to look at you. His eyes are dull and they stare intensely into yours.

“So you’ll get them?”

“Yes. I should be able to get in contact with a few people, but it does mean you’ll be alone for a while.”

You relax in his arms. A few weeks with him stuck in the capital means silence.

“Do you want a different dress as well?”

“…what?”

“You’ve been so good lately. Of course, it can’t be anything outlandish…” he trails off, “-but I guess you can help this time with choosing your dress.”

You frown and he continues.

“It still won’t be a big ceremony, but bigger than our last one. My family will come and we can even get Pulcinella to come. If you really want it I can invite some of the maids as well, just so you’ll have some familiar faces.”

You try to push his arms away from your waist. “What ceremony?”

Childe’s grip turns stronger and he pushes a few other kisses to your neck. “Wedding ceremony.”

“No! I don’t want that-“

He suddenly squeezes you tighter than before. You immediately stop talking and you freeze in your place. You can already feel the bruises start to form on the areas where his hands dig into your body.

He’s silent again.

You had yelled a lot during the first few days after you’d awoken in Snezhnaya. He never yelled back and instead silently approached you before manhandling your body towards the basement where he’d keep you in the dark for hours. You’d scream, cry, and plead, but it’d always take a while before he’d let you out.

Your chest heaves up and down and you slowly turn your head.

He doesn’t seem happy at all.

“I… I’m sorry.”

“Hmm.” He watches the water pool at the bottom of your lids. “It’s alright. Everything is still new for you so you need time to adjust. It’s not that easy – I know, but we’ll always have each other.”

He continues, “My family adores you, so there’s no need to be afraid.”

He turns you around. One of his hands pushes onto your lower back, forcing your body onto his. His other hand pushes your head to his chest.

His heartbeat doesn’t calm you down. It beats too fast, almost as if he’s excited.

You wonder, did he know?

[zombiedeers]

Here's a new ref for my spooky month sona too !!

[nocherrybombs]

Childe: Oh boy, I can't wait to go to Natlan and hang out with Capitano!

Pierrot: Yes, about that. You're being reassigned to Fontaine, effective immediately.

Childe: What?! Why?

Pierro: No one else is available except for Pantalone, and after that spending spree you went on in Liyue I believe that you owe him one. Besides, Pulcinella thinks that it will be "good for the boy to see more of the world".

Childe: But they're crazy in Fontaine.

Pierrot: Crazy in what way?

Childe: They put people on trial and then execute them for no reason.

Pierrot: And this is a problem for you?

Childe: Okay, point, but there's a difference. When I kill someone it's fun and exciting! Watching Focalors kill someone just makes me feel kind of sad and sleepy.

Pierrot: I will not have this argument with you, Tartaglia. Your assignment is clear, as the Tsaritsa wills it.

Childe: Fine, but don't expect me to behave myself.

Pierrot: I never do.

[untoastted]

My friend filled the lab I was making with torches so I made this

Don’t mind Pantalone burning in the fire hazard of a lab

Original photo I took that inspired this plus a bonus Tinylone

[incorrectfatui]

Pierro: Zandik? What’s wrong?  Dottore: I have to write a whole paragraph for the Akademiya.  Pierro: That’s not so bad; I wrote entire books for the King.  Dottore: Yeah, but this has to be good.

[it-happened-one-fic]

Play the Fool - Dottore (Part 2)

Author's Notes: And so the fic continues to progress far beyond what was planned. At this point I really don't know how many parts this fic will end up having, at least 4.... I do hope everyone can keep enjoying it though. Just like the previous part I listened to "Black Sea" by Natasha Blume while writing this. Reader is gender-neutral. I hope you enjoy!

Type: Mer-Dottore/ Merman AU/ gender-neutral reader/ I'm not gonna label this as fluff since that doesn't feel quite right, but know that it's NOT angst, yandere, or anything like that

Word Count: 1775

Trigger Warning: Discussion of past crimes including murder (Dottore), Fatui are generally shady

{Part 1}, {Part 2: You're Here!}, {Part 3}, {Part 4}, {Part 5}

EDIT: Entire series now available on AO3! (link deleted due to glitches)

Out. Out. Out. The word had rung through my mind in the most unforgiving fashion as Dottore’s red-eyed stare had held my own gaze.

A frown had creased my brows as I’d looked down at him, “Out. You want to get out of this tank or out of this building?”

“Both.” He’d been utterly confident that he could succeed. I could hear it in his voice and see it in his eyes. And that was what had told me something very simple, and that had determined the actions that had led me to this present moment. Musing about my very first interaction with the merman that currently swam through the tank.

“You have a plan,” I’d paused before continuing, crossing my arms in a small show of refusal to be totally overwhelmed by him. “One that involves me.” 

When I’d finished, a purely villainous smile had curved across his face. He’d known his plan would work, which meant he’d known even then that I would agree to take part in it.

That thought was enough to have me frowning yet again in the present. Especially when I recalled the shudder-inducing reply that had rolled off his tongue like the richest of honeys, “Precisely.”

If I’d ever doubted that Dottore was a dangerous man, I certainly didn’t now. Despite all my caution, I’d done exactly what he wanted, and he’d prepared for exactly that. Pointing out that it was a matter of time before the Fatui’s scientists came back to finish the job and kill him off. And where would that leave me?

Jobless, untrained, and knowing far too much about the Fatui’s inner workings to simply be released.

It was either help Dottore or wait until he and I both got killed. One path led to certain doom, and the other could be just as deadly if I didn’t watch my steps very carefully. Dottore was risky, but despite how much I hated it, he was my only chance just as much as I was his.

And so I waited for him to hatch his plot.

It was a simple plan, and I had a simple part to play. But everything hinged on Fatui being foolhardy enough to not catch on to what Dottore was doing.

But thus far, no one had noticed the merman carefully growing algae under the guise of conducting underwater experiments. But I watched. 

Watched as that sickly green slowly began to spread across the tank’s walls with unimpeded growth despite all of the scientists’ best efforts to engineer something to remove it.

It was almost impressive that Dottore was willing to create something that could so destroy his environment and potentially kill him if all didn’t go well, all in the name of getting ‘out.’

I stood as the head scientist, one of the ones who’d originally betrayed the finned harbinger, approached. A deep frown was on the man’s face as he eyed the now disgusting tank that was filled with brackish water and one scheming merman who was already growing sick from his environment.

“Sir, I’m going to have to physically clean the tank or he will die,” I bowed as I spoke. Keeping up the pretense that I knew the exact same amount of information as I’d been giving the day I’d been hired. 

Nothing.

Cold eyes darted to where I stood as the man seemed to register my presence for the first time. But the scientists never had noticed me unless I was intervening to keep another drowning from happening. And I hadn’t done that in quite some time. Not since I'd accepted the deal offered by the finned demon behind me.

“That would require removing him and draining the entire tank, and that is very risky,” There was a sneer to his words as he looked down his nose at me. Obviously not even considering my words, despite the fact he had no other options.

“At this point, it is our only option. Otherwise, we will simply have to leave him be and let Her Majesty, the Tsaritsa’s pet perish without even trying to save him or whatever it is that he may have to offer to the Fatui.” 

It was a leap of faith, but I’d long pondered why they’d kept Dottore around for so long. If they just wanted him dead, they could have killed him long before I’d been hired. The only excuse was if he had or knew something they needed, and that would also explain why so many scientists had so foolishly placed themselves at risk of drowning.

Maybe, just maybe, the merman held the key to something that these scientists and the Fatui as a whole needed.

Incensed by my assertion, the man’s nostrils flared. He was fixing to snap at me. I could see that from a mile away and braced myself for his tempestuous rage. But he didn’t get to say or do anything since someone else joined the conversation.

“Indeed, that wouldn’t do. What would you recommend, caretaker?” Faux politeness dripped from the ninth harbinger’s voice. 

This was the man who hired me in the first place. Regrator was his codename, but he was also called Pantalone. I hadn’t seen him since he’d brought me in and left me here after informing the group of scientists that I would be taking care of Dottore in their stead. To see him now was… Concerning. 

The first time I’d spoken without having been addressed and had asserted a view all my own, a harbinger had appeared. It added new weight to Dottore’s assertion that I would be killed the very moment that I wasn’t of any use. 

“If it pleases you, the tank can be drained so that I can clean it. During that time, a smaller tank that can be moved with more ease could be used to hold the merman.” I spoke carefully, clearly enough to be heard but not so loud that I’d seem outspoken. I needed to appear humble and unassuming if this plot would ever succeed.

“Why a tank that can be moved with ease?” The head scientist jumped on my words in a second, and I fought the urge to cast a glance back towards the mastermind, who’d left the difficult matter of convincing everyone entirely up to me.

“It is my understanding that all of the smaller tanks have easily removable lids…. I fear that having him in such a tank in the same area with so many people nearby could prove disastrous,” I lowered my head, making myself appear unsure even as I attempted to convince them of the plot without giving away anything.

“You fear he will kill some of the staff here?” Pantalone spoke up once more, clarifying my statement with a musing tone, and I looked up to see him gazing at me with a me thoughtful expression.

“Yes, my lord. I fear such a thing could occur should he be given the opportunity.” He nodded at my quiet confirmation, and I prayed he’d buy it. 

It was an airtight excuse, though. Dottore did not have the best record of sparing individuals who left themselves open to attack. In fact, so far as I knew, I was the only person who’d put themselves in such a risky position without ending up dead or being saved by me.

“A valid concern. Very well. We will proceed with the draining, and you will clean tonight, when there are fewer people here to lessen the risk. We will also put him in a smaller tank that you can wheel outside this room.” 

I could hardly believe my ears as Pantalone gave his orders. I couldn’t have asked for a better situation for a daring prison break if I’d been picking and choosing as I liked.

In fact, it almost seemed too good. But I couldn’t afford to be picky, not when I was dealing with the situation I was handling at the moment.

So I would play the fool once more and go along with yet another harbinger’s scheme, even though I knew of the potential risks. 

The head scientist himself seemed less than pleased with Pantalone’s words, but he didn’t protest as the harbinger strolled out. Leaving people to begin scurrying about to move the much-feared merman into a far smaller tank that was strangely ready for everything that was occurring. Almost like it had already been prepared.

I looked into the tank to see Dottore swimming about, his tail flicking in a sluggish manner that showed exactly how much his algae was already affecting him. 

He paused only briefly to look towards me before turning to swirl around in another area of brackish water as machinery descended from above to catch him in the net that would move him.

A hand landed on my shoulder, and I was roughly turned to face the head scientist, who was looking down at me with glaring eyes, “If something goes wrong, it will be on your head. And not even a harbinger can protect you if you displease the Tsaritsa.”

With only those words, a poorly concealed threat, he shoved me away from him and towards the tank that Dottore had just been dropped into. Almost like he was hoping the merman would drag me into the water and kill me for him.

A spray of water was sent into the air as water splashed out of the far smaller tank, and Dottore turned to press himself against the glass. Something akin to a hiss leaving his mouth as he looked towards the head scientist.

It was almost satisfying to see the man back away at the sound that came from the merman behind me. Dottore was certainly doing a good job of keeping up his act as a wild merman who could not be trusted and would kill the scientists the instant he was given the chance to. 

No one drew any closer as ever more machinery placed the lid on Dottore’s new, smaller tank and clicked the locks down in place.

People parted around Dottore’s tank, giving both me and the merman a wide berth as I pushed him out of the room to wait.

As soon as we were alone, my fingers tapped lightly on the thick glass, and his hand pressed against where I’d touched. “I’ll be back in a bit after I finish cleaning that tank of yours,” My voice was low as I spoke, and I briefly glanced down to see him looking at me. 

He didn’t nod his head, nor did his facial expression change. Instead, all he did was pull his hand away from where my fingers rested, in silent agreement.