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Book Two: Chapter Three
[From Immaturity to Maturity]
How many times would it take for his groggy mind to fight back the evil that is consciousness? How many times would it continue to lose? Way too many.
With a defeated sigh within the confines of his mind, Relon's vermilion eyes flutter open to find himself buried in the safety of Ei's- correction, his room. Large with draping, transparent, curtains now red and not purple, bountiful sheets not atop his form… and his lovers… huddled up… all around him…
Wait.
Eyes furrowing, likely for the umpteenth time now within the recent days, he looks around. Qiqi, for once, well technically not given their time apart, wasn't snuggled against him as he was used to. The girl was in front of him but she was currently nestled within the safety of Ganyu. Said adeptus only mere inches from his form.
Oh yeah, that's right… After the meeting, the girls didn't want to leave. And there was an argument about spending the night with me…
Now that he looked closer, Ganyu and Qiqi looked really cute together. Then again, Qiqi with anyone made for a cute sight but those two seemed to make the sight all the better. Comparable to the sight of his sister with Hu Tao even.
It made his heart skip a beat at the sight.
"Mmm…"
Looking down expecting the squirm-like mumble to belong to Qiqi, he then notices the soft sensation of fur atop his head.
"Huh?"
Lifting up, he's met with a single pink tail flopping upon his face. Ignoring the possessive arms belonging to Hu Tao, he adjusts himself more to find a familiar pink fox atop his head.
"Miko?"
"Mmm…"
Wincing as her hind leg stretches against his nose, a delighted hum follows before the familiar settles herself back down.
"Is there a reason you're on top of my head?" He whispers through a chuckle.
"Well, Child, there's no more space on the bed so I took advantage of the situation and claimed a spot one such as I and only I could claim."
"Uh-huh…"
"You were too out of it after the big quarrel amongst my fellow lovers so I see no harm done."
"Haha, I figured you'd say that."
Feeling her curled form undo itself, he winces once more as the fox stretches out before hopping off and onto the space above Qiqi's head.
"As much as I'd love to stay with our harem and sleep, work must be done and you're needed for that."
Oh? Fox Miko being serious? That was rare.
"What work?"
"I'll debrief you after you've freshened up. Don't keep me waiting too long."
With that, she hopped through the open spaces between the girls before vanishing out the door.
Huh. I wonder what she has planned?
"Seems you have a busy day ahead of you."
Eyes moving to the heterochromatic pair of Ganyu's, his smile meets her own. Carefully removing himself from the dormant Pyro, he inches forward meeting her lips. Feeling her fair-skinned hand place itself gently atop his cheek, he relishes in the affection before finally pulling away.
"Good morning to you too." She chuckles. "I couldn't help but overhear."
"I don't blame you."
That and given her super hearing, it would be hard to miss a simple conversation in whisper only inches from you.
"When it's Miko-related, anything can be considered busy. Just dealing with her warrants all of my focus."
"If anyone can handle it, it's you."
"Thanks for the reassurance. I'm going to need it."
Lifting up, his eyes do a quick scan of his bed's occupants. Aside from himself, Qiqi, and Ganyu, Hu Tao, Ayaka, Keqing, and Fischl layed all bundled against one another.
"General Kujou and Eula departed earlier this morning."
As if having read his thoughts, his eyes go back to Ganyu before absently nodding.
Given their roles, it makes sense.
Peering down to Qiqi still snuggled against Ganyu, he relents in letting the girl rest. Ruffling her hair, careful not to wake the child, he gives a fond smile.
"Get some more rest. I'll see you girls later."
"Have fun." She bids, that endearing smile leaving a warm sensation in his chest.
With careful movements, he leaps out landing on a crouch. Peering back to note of Ganyu caressing the squirming child, he departs.
It's not just Qiqi. Everyone's exhausted after the meeting. The fact that some of the others are already back at work… Hmm, I should check on them when I get the chance. At least Keqing is resting.
Outside
Door opening to the sunny rays, a raised hand shields himself from its brightness. Eyesight quickly adjusting, his eyes find his person of interest nowhere to be seen.
"Lord Shogun, good morning!"
Jumping slightly, he eases himself at the line of guards.
"G-Good morning. Continue with your duties." He dismisses.
"Yes, sir!"
Watching them disperse back to their stations, he peers over the railing to find Miko located on the small bridge overlooking…
"Fish? Seriously?" He chuckles approaching her.
"Hmm. Tempting but not in the mood at the moment." She muses to stop, bland eyes meeting his jovial pair. "We certainly need to fix your wardrobe." She sighs, pinching the bridge of her nose.
"It's not my fault my body changed making all my previous clothes useless."
Silky white shirt, shorts, and sandals was his attire and he saw no problem with this. To her, however, it reeked of everything but regal status.
"This is going to be a long day." Tilting his head curiously, she moves forward to poke his forehead.
"H-Hey, what're you doing?"
"Ei, you're awake aren't you? Come now, let me in."
"What are you talking about? Ei is probably-
I am here.
Head lifting in acknowledgement, he silently blinks.
"For how long?"
Ever since you awoken. I am able to sense when your consciousness stirs.
"... Huh. Duly noted."
"Now that you two have given your morning greetings, we have a lot to get through. Chop chop," she claps.
Fufufu, Miko will be Miko.
"I'm so confused." He can only muster out in clear bafflement for a ghastly portal to appear beside them. "An entrance to the Plane of Euthymia? Why are we going in there?"
"We aren't. I am."
Without any context or further explanation, Miko steps through for the rift to vanish.
"What just happened? And why does my head suddenly feel a little heavy all of a sudden"
Why are you questioning what you clearly witness?
"Miko?!"
Why are you still standing? Get a move on, we have a busy schedule.
"What? No! Time out! I have questions that need answers!"
Ugh, you're an amnesiac. Of course you're going to have those.
"That is irrelevant to the current situation!"
Relon, Miko will simply be within your consciousness with me for today. Ei explains.
"We can do that? That's… so weird."
It won't come the time you and one of your many mistresses decide to have a… "private" meeting.
Face heating up at the idea, he quickly gets a move on as the chuckles from both women echo in his head.
"Today is going to be a long one," he groans.
Now you get it~.
"Not! Helping!"
With that, the singular trio's trek began. Giving the occasional wave, it wasn't long once they reached the city that Relon asked the question.
"So what's on our to-do list? And why exactly are you inside of me?"
Oh my, Child. I didn't know you liked-
"Don't you dare turn that into a sexual innuendo." Quick and to the point, her teasing ended with an expectant 'hmpf.' "Seriously, why are you in there and not out here?"
Hmm, it's rather simple if you think about it. We'll be traveling all over Inazuma and I do not feel like walking such a trek.
"So you're being lazy and relaxing with Ei while I do the walking. I get it."
Judging by the mock gasp in offense, he'd say he hit the mora.
If you must know, we have to traverse though several groups of Inazumans and I refuse to be seen next to you in public until your attire is fixed.
"Weren't you the one who gave me this attire in the first place?"
If he had the passive talent of feeling their emotions, he could swear he felt a twitch from Miko at his retort.
Child…
Hehe, come now Miko. There's no need to hide your feelings when it's just us.
Ei, being the divine mediator that she is, seemed to dismiss whatever comeback the kitsune was going to spout next.
Hmpf. Fine. Relon, continue on. In the meantime, Ei, where are those controls we were speaking of?
"Controls? What controls?"
You needn't worry, Child. Go on. We don't have all day~.
"Why do I feel like I'm in danger?"
Whatever do you mean, Child?
Choosing not to reply, his eyes go to a small stall. In doing so, his stomach growls at the sight of various breads.
Ah yes, you didn't eat.
"Yeah. Someone called me out before I could properly prepare for the day."
In war, you must always be prepared at a moment's notice.
Raising a finger ready to refute, it drops as a twitch escapes.
"Damn it, you win this one. Still, my eating schedule is all over the place. Ever since I woke up, I've rarely eaten. Don't know if that's a good or bad thing."
It is not necessarily an issue. Ei answers. Due to your body uniting with my own, you've long since lost the need for nutrition.
"Oh yeah. Being chained up for several days. Somehow I nearly forgot about that… How?"
Love triumphs over many things.
"Fair point." He shrugs. "Though I do kinda want something to eat. And that bread looks good…"
We technically do not need to pay but your status as Shogun has yet to be announced to the civilians. Only the army knows. That and any they prattled to. Miko adds with clear disapproval.
"Almighty Shogun?" Perking at the call, Relon turns further down to see a soldier approaching him. "Ah, it is! Greeting my lord," the soldiers bows with a kind smile.
"Uh…"
This fool! Kujou and I ordered the army to be subtle when addressing you in public!
Calm down, Miko. Be thankful he didn't shout.
"Oh, forgive me Almighty Shogun!" He winces clasping both hands together as he looks around wearily. "I was informed by Lady Kujou not to notify the public of your status," he whispers. Seeing you in battle was awe-inspiring sir!"
"Um, thanks, uh…"
"Oh! Forgive my ill manners! I haven't introduced myself! Private Teppei at your service sir!"
He's so going to die off in a battle or two.
Miko/Miko!
I'm not wrong.
Internally recovering from the bluntness as Ei begins to berate their familiar, he eases himself.
"It's nice to meet you, Teppei. Just Relon is fine though."
Formality is a sign of weakness which can lead to possible overthrowing~.
I highly doubt that is going to happen.
You never know~.
Miko~.
Hmpf. Fine, I'll refrain from further commenting.
Thank you.
"Oh, I could never, sir! I'm only a private! I just joined the army and to address you as such… It would be highly disrespectful!"
Thankful of no ears in the immediate vicinity, Relon eases himself.
"Don't worry about it. When it comes to important business, but casual talk like this, I'll prefer more… normalcy."
"Ah, well, I suppose sir. I mean, Relon."
"See? Easy. Nice to meet you, Teppei." Relon smiles, extending a hand. "I'm counting on you for the coming future."
"Ah, yes sir!" He nods, grasping Relon's hand and shaking with plenty of eagerness. "You can count on me! If you need anything, anything at all, just shout! I'll run, sail, and swim from Watatsumi Island to your doorstep!"
"Haha, please don't push yourself."
"As you wish!" He steps back, saluting.
Disregarding the formality, his mind thinking of Ayaka, Relon tilts his head.
"By the way, what brings you here anyway?" Eyes bucking wide, a bead of sweat runs down his face.
"AH, THAT'S RIGHT! I NEED TO GET TO A MEETING! ALMIGHTY RELON, I HUMBLY REQUEST MY DEPARTURE! BYE!"
Relon can only blink at the sight of said male running with incredible speed.
He's quite fast. Ei notes.
"Yeah… Nice guy though."
With that encounter taken care of, he returns to eyeing the bread stall once more. In doing so, he makes eye contact with the smiling clerk. Watching her give a hushing gesturing followed by one beckoning him closer, he nods.
"Here you go, Lord Shogun," she winks, handing a roll of bread. "I couldn't help but hear that soldier's small uproar. Don't worry, I'll keep it quiet until the official reveal. That way you can pay me back with a hefty amount of mora, hehe!"
Blushing inwardly at their failed discretion, Relon chuckles accepting the gift.
"Thanks a lot, uh…"
"Dori. Inazuma's finest merchant. At your service."
"Okay. Dori, much appreciated. I'll try to keep hold of things on my end."
"Pleasure doing business with you, Relon." She grins. "
Parting with a respective wave, he returns to his walk. Pulling a stick of bread out the bag, he takes a bite to hum in delight.
"I've missed the taste of bread!"
Ahem, don't hog that food to yourself, Child.
Huh?
For goodness sake, go into the alley right quick.
"Mmm?" Responding with muffled sounds, he complies to gulp down the rest in his mouth. "Okay, wha-"
Cut off, a purple portal appears in front of him. From it comes Miko. With a wordless, coy, smirk, she takes a stick handing it to the male who dumbly accepts. Taking the remaining bag, she vanishes back into the portal.
One blink, two blinks, three, and then the repetitious blinking comes.
"What just happened?"
Mmm, thank you Child. You are a dear~.
Mmm, I've forgotten the taste of such simple yet delicious wheat!
"Hearing you two munching in my head is something I don't need. Especially with those sounds."
In response, their voices go muted. With a shake, he continues his trek into the city. Having people travel via mindscape would have to be kept to an absolute minimum. If Hu Tao… no. The mention would not even come up because he'd do everything in his power to ensure that never happens.
Coming to the end of the street with the flight of steps to his right, he gazes outward at the land. Lower Inazuma City just below with the island's remaining land as far as the eye can see surrounded by the clear blue ocean. It went without saying that he needed to re-familiarize himself with everything and everyone. He remembered generic things like shops and the casual civilian talk but nothing specific.
The calm serenity that surrounded him, the buried memories scattered around Inazuma waiting to be uplifted, much was to be done.
"Alright." Biting the last of his bread, his dusts off the accumulated crumbs. "Miko, where to first?"
Link emanating from within, his arm extends on its on to point. Eyes tracing his finger, Mount Yougou lies far beyond where the Grand Narukami Shrine awaits.
Feeling his control return, he gives only a nod to begin his trek.
Grand Narukami Shrine
"I'm not one to complain about exercise but has anyone though of adding like an elevator or something? Like the time it takes to trek between the city and this shrine feels like half the day goes by."
If we were to do such, then that would ruin the image of we shrine maidens. How else are we to stay in shape?
"Uh, Miko? Would it be rude to suggest exercising?"
We do that plenty.
"Uh-huh…" Coming to a halt as they near the top, his eyes wander to the glorious view that is Narukami Island itself. "For a bunch of islands, each landmass is certainly not small."
Inazuma may have the smallest population but it is still recognized as a nation after all. It's size is not to be underestimated. Ei states with clear pride.
"I can't wait to see it all."
Good. Miko says as a portal appears for said yokai to step out. "Because that is exactly what we have planned for the next few days. One of the first things we are tackling is your memory and familiarity with Inazuma as a whole."
"So I'll be going all over the place re-establishing myself."
"Exactly." With that, she takes the lead.
"What are we doing here though, Miko?"
"Tending to an important issue that we've been unable to solve. Until now."
"What do you mean?"
"Lady Guuji, Lord Shogun, welcome back." Looking at the countless shrine maidens speak in perfect unison, the creepines behind it goes unsaid as Miko dismisses them.
"Come, Child. She should be in today."
"Who?" Going unanswered, they enter the main shrine to trek up the staircase to find several more maidens inside.
Witnessing their presence, all stop what they're doing to bow in respect.
"Lady Guuji, Lord Shogun, welcome back."
"Thank you, ladies. Where is she… ah, there." Perusing through the faces, Miko stops on one in the back corner cleaning a series of vases. "Oh, Miyuki, do you have a moment?"
Nearing, he takes in the shrine maiden. A young woman of fair stature with dark-colored hair and reddish-violet eyes.
"Lady Guuji, how can I-" Cutting herself off, Miyuki's eyes lay upon the male. "Re…lon?"
"Officially our new Shogun due to personal matters. Do keep this under wraps until the official announcement slash coronation." Miko muses walking into the back and vanishing around the corner.
"You're really back. I thought you had vanished alongside the others…!"
"Aha!" Miko bursts back out with a shrine outfit draped over her arm. "Don't get too excited. He has amnesia. Still in the recovering process mind you."
"Amnesia? O-Oh, but then…!"
"Yes, I'm keeping my word as I said I would."
He couldn't tell what the meaning behind Miko's words of endearment but judging by Miyuki's supposed reaction, he could only guess it to be something important.
"We'll be off now," she waves. "Come along, Child."
"Uh, right…"
"Y-Yes! Of course! Thank you, Lady Guuji! Lord Shogun!"
Peering over at the shrine maiden bowing repeated, tears quickly becoming evident, his focus returns forward to Miko. Something was different. She wasn't wearing her usual amused expression. The way she held to that shrine outfit, the dutiful stride she kept as they left the shrine, and the aforementioned expression that wasn't completely serious but still held a level of focus altogether.
Miyuki mentioned a promise being kept. That much he knew. She was carrying a shrine outfit too. Clearly it wasn't for herself and he had no reason to wear one. Meaning…
"Are we going to see someone?"
"Two people actually." She responds curtly, casting her gaze over the vast landscape and its blue waters. "Ei." Wordlessly, a portal manifests for Miko to toss the garment in.
"You're not going back inside?"
"No. Not yet."
Accepting her answer, both begin their descent.
"Where to next?"
"We're going by Inazuma's best fashion designer."
Chioriya Boutique
When it comes to walking back and forth between the city and the shrine, so much time was lost in the trek alone. It had already at some point hit noon and the amount of daylight was lessening by the second.
"I don't get how you can go back and forth so much at such a leisurely pace."
"Well, when it's just me, I have no issue. It only takes time when others force me to keep at their pace."
"Oh yeah, that's right. You beat us to the shrine when we had that race. How did you do that?"
"Hmm, if I told you then what fun would that be?" Despite her own mood having quieted down somewhat, he could always count on that mirthful side of hers to keep a conversation.
Sighing, though it came across as more of a chuckle, he can only shake his head as they look up to the small establishment. Through the transparent glass, lines of clothing stood on models with countless more fabrics lying further into the building.
"What are we doing here then? I know you said it was to see someone but is that all."
"You seem to forget just how much of an impact you've made during your time."
"I wouldn't say I've forgotten. I mean, I have because, you know, the whole amnesia issue. Still, I guess I've just haven't recalled all of the people I've interacted with."
"Through the Silent Voice, you recalled not only that shrine priestess of ours, that dancer located in Sumeru, the woman named Shenhe whom oversaw yourself and Qiqi, and of course Arlecchino. I have to wonder if you've attempted any more remembering."
"N-No. Honestly, it's somewhat scary. Thinking of multiple things for something to pop out at random can be draining both mentally and emotionally."
"Fret not, time shall aid in your recovery. Now then, time to re-meet Chiori." Not awaiting his response, she opens the doors beckoning him in.
Mere steps follow the closed doors as robes and accessories fill his eyesight. People, likely designers, can be seen inspecting clothing sets scattered around the room. Eyes from said people drawing on them, they widen to bow in respect.
"Greetings, Lady Guuji!"
"Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Continue as you were." She dismisses in greeting with a wave.
Attention perking, the clapping of footsteps stirs his attention forward.
"How kind of you to grace us with your presence," a feminine voice speaks bluntly.
"Ah, there she is." Miko smirks.
From the rows of clothing exiting the fabric-like maze halts a young woman.
"Lady Guuji. Though I would prefer if you'd give me a heads up at the very least."
She has dark brown hair with yellow streaks, styled with side bangs and pinned up in an elaborate series of knots with a side ponytail. Eyes gleaming in a brighter shade of red contrasting to his own, her golden-and-black kimono leaves him mesmerized. The illustrious color of a Geo vision attached to her waist's sash.
"It slipped my mind. Do forgive me, Chiori, my schedule has been quite busy with… recent events having occurred.
In speaking, Chiori's uncaring eyes shift over and immediately go still. Before him, the emotion in her eyes cycles through. Uncaringnes to surprise to disbelief to the briefest moment of joy to annoyance and then back no care before finally settling on annoyance.
Wordlessly, her brows furrow as she marches towards him at an agitated pace.
"Hey, what are you-"
Cut off by her gloved hand clasping his on, the glare she delivered upon making physical contact silenced any idea of refuting. Wordlessly, she dragged him off towards the back with a chuckling Miko trailing after.
"Awe, so that's how she shows she cares~."
"Um, excuse me, could you slow-" Once again cut off as they reach a room, he's yanked forward nearly stumbling to catch his balance. "Hey, what's that… for?" Exhibiting the Lucinance trait in rapid blinking, he does so in response to her glowing hand seeming to mold the very door. Bit by bit, earth crumples amass reinforcing their only exit.
Geo? Wait, don't tell me!
No. She is not under the Harbinger's influence. Chiori is completely acting of her own accord.
"Shut it!"
Swiftly, she dashes forward materializing swords in the process.
"Whoa!"
Dodging in the knick of time, his eyes dial in on the woman clicking in annoyance.
"Hey, the hell are you doing?!"
"What am I doing?" She sneers, stomping the ground. Head dropping to see the ground shackled at his feet, he looks back to force his chin up as the scissor-like swords pin him. "What are you doing wearing that hideous outfit?!"
"That's why you're attacking me?!" He exclaims.
Hmm, it seems your choice of fashion is quite distasteful to both her and Miko.
You think?! How about some help?!
"Explain yourself, Relon Lucinance. Choose your words carefully or they won't be the only thing to get minced."
"Because he can't remember, my dear Chiori." Heads turning back, they find an amused Miko seated on a seat as though she's been watching the entire time.
A quick glance at the sturdy wall told she didn't get through meaning…
"You went through Ei and back out while she was attacking me." Relon blinks.
"Correct you are." She smirks rising up as Chiori relents after a moment.
"Hmpf. Which means you planned this out. Including my reaction and what would follow."
"Also correct~. Though, you have a similar way to Kujou when expressing your honest feelings. More so the violent part versus sappy romance."
"I don't know if I should take offense to that for her or not." Relon sighs as he feels his legs become freed.
"Oh, I say that with the most genuine care for that bird woman."
"No you don't." Relon and Chiori both flatly rebuke.
"Miko, when you emphasize anything, that's the most blatant hint at you being coy."
"Mischievous characteristics aside, I am still awaiting an explanation."
Furrowing at the woman looking at him, it clicks.
"I should be asking you that. Also, no apology for the sudden aggression?"
"I'm well within my rights." She dismisses with crossed arms while averting from his direction.
"I fail to see how exactly." He twitches an eye in irritation.
"Fret not, Child, that is simply how she shows concern. Though even I find it hard to distinguish her agitation over your well-being or her clothing's."
"If you're simply trying to get another reaction out of me, you're sorely mistaken."
"Awe, is that so? What a shame. Getting such reactions out of this one is still as amusing as ever. Not just for me but for anyone around."
"Please don't bring the others into this. I'm still recovering."
"Enough." Chiori states, though it seems more of a statement than a request as her swords de-materialize. "What did you mean by he's still remembering?"
"He's come down with the godly equivalent to amnesia."
"Wouldn't that still just be amnesia?" Relon wonders. "What would that make this then? Super amnesia? Divine forgetfulness. Hmm…"
"See? How can people not love him?" Miko jokes.
"What do you mean by 'godly?'"
"Ah, you caught that. Quite simple really. He's our new shogun." Miko answers looking over her nail.
"I know you're renown for your jokes, I having witness some first-hand but…" Chiori slows her train of thought as both individuals look at her. "You're not joking."
"He's grown noticeably taller, has he not? Before, he stood at just your height."
Gears turning, one silent look from Miko over to said boy makes the tense silence difficult to bear. Watching her ruby eyes gloss from top to bottom, he awkwardly shuffles.
Does Chiori examining your body bother you?
Uh-huh. Making me feel really self-conscious. Especially given my romantic status
I do not fault you. Her beauty is well contested amongst our group.
Ei had a point. Despite not recalling a thing about her, Chiori on looks alone is captivating. Whether her own red eyes matching his own, a perk he just simply admired, or her elegant attire and hair style, she definitely was up there in terms of looks alone. Still…
If she greets those she hasn't seen with such fearful aggression, then I don't know if I want anything to do with her. He mentally shudders earning a fit of giggles from Ei.
"And now I'm having him regain his bearing."
Huh?
"Sorry, I zoned out… again." He admits bashfully.
"I could tell." Miko notes with an amused look. "While you were talking with Ei about Chiori's beauty, I was simply catching her up on recent events. As well as the cause for our being here."
"Didn't you want me to reunite with her?"
"Reunite?" Chiori arches a brow eyeing the yokai. "That's the phrasing you used? Quite bold, aren't you?"
"Only when I've seen through enough of a possibility~."
"Ugh, I don't know how the others can deal with you so often."
"Oh come now, are you telling me you're not happy to have our dear Relon back?"
"Twisting the direction of this won't protect you."
"Awe, oh well. I'll make a hasty retreat for the time being. I'll be outside waiting. Don't keep me waiting this time."
Wearily, he watches the smirking woman walk towards a well-times rift before vanishing.
"Nothing about this situation makes sense," Chiori sighs walking over a disassembling the wall.
"Yeah, I'm still getting used to parts of it. Sorry for any trouble I caused, Chiori."
"Even now, you're…" A breath escapes as she shakes off whatever she was about to comment. "No. That's what make you you. Now then, I have preparations to tend to."
"What preparations?"
"Why, your outfit of course."
"What outfit?"
"Use that brain and stop thinking like how that buffoon of an oni once did. I'm referring to your official war attire as the new shogun."
"Oni? Wait, my own outfit?" He blinks. "I knew I needed a new outfit but I didn't think we'd be tackling that issue so fast."
"You represented me before you left and you'll be representing me now. Consider this a gift from you to me."
"Don't you mean-"
"I know what I said." She cuts off looking over some materials. "You're still an avid red and black-colored fan, correct? Or have you forgotten that too?"
"Huh? Oh, yeah. Fashion-wise, I still love those two colors."
"Hmm, I see…" Awkwardly watching the expert maneuver out and into her store adding accessories and fabrics from various spots, she stops. Likely having caught the boy dumbly standing, she sighs. "I won't be able to start today." She lightly snaps making him stiffen.
"O-Oh, gotcha. I'll come back another time then." Carefully and hastily, he maneuvers through the rows and workers until he nears the front.
"Relon."
"Yeah?"
Turning around, a tender poke at his chest stops any further movement. Eyes recognizing the familiar gloved hand, he lifts to take in the serene smile Chiori wears. Small as it may be, the genuine compassion emanating from it couldn't be any more real.
"It is good to have you back. Despite what I may say and how I may act."
Fully turning, his stunned look shifts to a cheerful smile of his own.
"It's good to be back. If you need anything, just call. I'll be there to help however I can. That's a promise."
"Oh? Promises are quite sacred, you know," she notes in a light and tender tone. "You shouldn't make them so easily, especially with me. I take those quite seriously."
"I'm fully aware. I mean every word of what I say. First I'll get acquainted with Inazuma and then I'm putting a stop to this war!"
"Hmm, I'll leave that to you then. Give me some time. I'll contact you then. Oh, and Relon?"
"Yeah? What's up?" In response to his acknowledgement, her smile fades for her scowl to return in full force.
"If I catch you in public with such disgusting and drabby clothing like this after I finish your outfit, you'll really get a thorough examination. Got it?"
"Y-Yes, ma'am!" He stiffens once again for her glare to ease.
"Get going. Lady Guuji is waiting."
With a nod, he spins on his heel running out. Following to halt at the entrance, she watches as both companions begin to converse as they move further and further away, Eyes lingering on the male until he is out of sight, her hold over the material tightens. Moving her focus to that of her store, she delves further in.
"Much work needs to be done. For his sake and Inazuma's."
Relon
"You really planned ahead, Miko. I didn't expect we'd take a boat."
"Hmm, you get used to it. That or you can always opt to walk across with your Cryo abilities if you would like," Miko mumbles peering out at the endless water.
"I… don't think I'm ready to do that. If I try now, I may sink to the bottom, haha."
In spite of his outer amusement hanging strong, his inner turmoil had waned long since boarding. He'd thought nothing of it, but overtime he noticed something not wrong per se but clearly off about his and Ei's familiar. Specifically her attitude.
After exiting the Plane of Euthymia, her attitude had shifted ever so slightly. So much, that he didn't think anything about it. Time and time again, however, that odd expression as though strained appeared for a flicker of a moment. Even their conversation with Chiori where she acted so aloof seemed so… wrong.
Here they were now. Supposedly an exiting moment for him to venture beyond the island and towards another was veiled by the downer that was Yae Miko. She didn't even seem able to hold back the solemn visage she sported.
Leaning back to feel the wind run through his mane, his eyes go from the islands far off to the driver and then her.
"What's wrong, Miko?"
Ears twitching, she doesn't waste a moment to prove his inquiry wrong by turning to greet him with a coy expression.
"Whatever-"
"You can drop the poor excuse for an act."
Instantly, her attempt to feign ignorance crashed as the conflicted expression she was hiding appears.
"When you mean business, you certainly don't mince you words," she huffs with crossed arms. "I thought I was doing a somewhat decent job too."
"If it was anything simple, then you likely would have not left a single trace leaving me none the wiser. However, for whatever it is to make you like this, it was somewhat obvious after a while. It didn't help that every time I brought it up in my head, Ei didn't say anything. Meaning either you told her not to or it wasn't her place, either way proving my hypothesis right."
"Hmpf, your observation skills certainly haven't rusted. Consider this a rather egregious task on my part."
"Egregious? As in bad?" A slow nod is her answer. "I take it that it somehow relates to that shrine outfit?" Another nod.
"I was hoping you'd be too entranced in our grand outing that you would not bring it up yet. I even had the plan to run away once we touched down. Alas, that plan can be thrown out and sink to the bottom of the ocean."
"Dramatic or dire, I can't tell which you're being more of."
"How about a little bit of both?"
"Miko," he deadpans.
"Fine. Do you recall anything about a group called the Arataki Gang?"
"Nope. Should I?"
"Yes. You were technically a member albeit for a short time."
"So what happened?"
"The leader, that dense oni, the same one who antagonized Kujou since day one, happened to also have a Geo vision. Arataki Itto was his name."
Immediately, it clicked.
"He left Inazuma."
"Mhmm. Though you should know, onis are incredible creatures. Renown across Inazuma for the immeasurable strength."
"Wait, Chiori also has a Geo vision but she's still here."
"Glad you caught that. Unfortunately, both lived on different islands when the Harbingers commenced their act. Following the occurrence of Inazuma's inhabitants leaving and new civilians arriving in each and every day, we realize it too late. Only by our attempt to save her did we realize the unfathomable resistance any affected would show."
"Chiori fought… to leave Inazuma? Wait, but that means…!"
"Yes. Itto did the same against his own group. The very gang he considered his family."
"You couldn't have made it to both?"
"Relon…" She begins fighting off the pained look her exasperated voice holds. "He wasn't I or the Shogun's priority."
At those words, a pain in his chest extends across his body.
"You chose those important to Inazuma. Those who were closer…"
"While you went after the Arataki Gang." She finishes.
He could feel it, the distraught from within belonging to Ei. The very same emotion he currently feels.
"Then what?" He asks. "You just said that an oni has incredible strength. How much are we talking?"
"Enough to easily rip a normal human in half. And that's what he did without a shred of thought."
He couldn't hold it back as his body jerked at the image. Hand clenching his chest, his own expression of pain seemed to make her own heart ache ever more. Yet, she continued.
"Only one survivor remained. By the time we restrained Chiori, many other important figures like our own Kamisato had already fled. By the time you arrived, you saved the last member from meeting the same fate."
"Who?"
"The sister of Miyuki, the shrine maiden we spoke to earlier. The former Deputy Leader of the Arataki Gang. As well as an Electro vision-user Inazuman. Her name… is Kuki Shinobu."
Yashiori Island
"So this is Yashiori Island. It looks so wild yet tame at the same time."
"Due to a war within Inazuma, much of the inhabitants here suffered."
"I see. So during the transition of inhabitants, the others and myself arrived. Once we did, we became familiar with not only you and Sara, but Chiori and those of the Arataki Gang as well. During that short time, Beidou and the others had yet to arrive."
"Yes, that's correct."
"I didn't think the Harbingers' Wave would make those of Teyvat leave randomly."
"It's rather smart in hindsight. Have a few leave each and everyday so that overtime, the numbers accumulate to a level unheard of. From the moment you left Snezhnaya to after you set foot in Inazuma, people were still transitioning between nations."
"Then Kokomi left early on for me to meet her in Fontaine."
"Yes, that's also correct. You're still adding pieces to that timeline filled with holes of yours."
"Yeah. I have to if I want to make sense of what I learn now and later down the line."
"Fufufu, no need to tell myself the obvious. I'm not as slow as the others. Come along, Child."
At least her attitude has somewhat recovered.
Yes. I am relieved in that regard.
Holding back his mild surprise as both begin their trek, his eyes remain forward.
But what about what's to come?
I… A sigh comes. Just as Miko, you too must face the problem caused by my own actions.
"No." He answers, gaining Miko's attention. "I agreed to go with you. This is our problem I left when Shinobu needed me most. Even if I can't remember anything, even though I accepted the past Relon and my present self being one, I'm going to face her. So all three of us are in this together."
Relon…
"Those sentimental speeches of yours are missed, yes, but make sure not to overuse those. Also, I'm sure Ei has mentioned this but keep your conversations to yourself or else your reputation as a mighty God will crumble, replaced with many seeing you as a lunatic-like herald."
"I don't know what you're talking about." Now it was his turn to give a grin.
Coming to a halt at the peak of the small hill, the sounds of shouting catches his attention. Looking over to his left, the familiar flags representing Inazuma can be seen with torches alit a short distance away.
"Fort Fujitou. Another base of our army's. It is also one of the locations where the Cryo and Electro Armies train together."
"I gotcha. I have three weeks to get better acquainted with those of Inazuma. Right now, I'm focused on only one thing." He speaks, continuing on to stop at the edge showing a split in the island.
"Musoujin Gorge. Caused by a battle in the far, distant past." Miko details.
Continuing across the bridge, both touch the light dirt path to take in the small village up ahead.
Higi Village
"Once a village full of inhabitants, due to the raging conflict between both sides, many left. Now all that remains…"
Stopping before a lone hut in far better condition than the rest of the homes, stands the two. Around them, aged items such as bucket, wells, tools, and other miscellaneous things lie scattered. The moon's own luminescent gives the nightly setting a calm though foreboding look.
"Is Shinobu."
With an accepting nod, Miko steps forward.
"In case things go grim, you may want to step aside."
"Fine." Stepping away and out of sight, he looks to her who gestures his way. Arching a brow, he steps further back to look at the window, darkness as far as he can see.
"Shinobu? It's Lady Guuji!"
Of all the words to say, openly stating her name, the likely bane of Shinobu's anger, was a poor move. Catching a purple light out of the corner of his eye into the window, a blast of light erupts. Vanishing as the front of the building collapses, he watches the kitsune skid to a halt. Before her on the ground lies the now singed shrine outfit.
"Miko!"
"I take it that means you don't want to go back to being a shrine maiden. A simple 'no' would have sufficed." At her words, she tilts her head as a purple whips slaps the air next to her.
Recoiling back into the confines of the home, he can only watch as a ragged-wearing young woman with unkempt green hair slowly marches out. Electrofied whip in one hand and what looks like several kunai in the other. The scowl on her face makes any attempts at civil dispute out of the question.
"Here I was wishing to come in and talk like adults. Have a heart-to-heart, have you get acquainted with the others, and get you back to your family."
Miko seriously was saying all of the wrong things. Seeming to have the term "family" as a sort of trigger word, Shinobu, in response, shouts flailing her whip.
With no effort, simple shifts of her body is all Miko needs to do until Shinobu opts for close range. Static coating her form, she bursts forward. Leaning back, her form also being veiled in electricity, Miko backpedals. Throwing knife after knife, Miko parries each until the green-haired girl is directly in front.
Tossing a knife up, Miko's eyes go from it back to the girl in time to duck a horizontal swipe of the whip as well as its follow-up.
"You're clearly not in the mood for talking but can we just-"
"Shut up!" Shinobu finally speaks in a growl doing a front flip and kicking the returning knife at where Miko once was. "Tch!"
He needed to stop them. There was no need to fight. Violence like this wouldn't lead to anything. They'd both get hurt. Miko may be hurt. Her self-acceptance would come. He could feel it. He could sense such a thing happening. He had to move!
Shinobu, don't-
One step was as far as he could get before the first flash of something came.
"Watching over her like this will only make things harder the further this goes on."
"I know. However, as things are now, approaching will do nothing. Even if you act as a mediator."
"What will you do? Continue to check on her every other day to make sure nothing happens?"
"Yes, if I must. Ei and I failed to protect those that represented Inazuma. My own choice left me blindsided. It was a frustrating weakness, I admit. One I do not plan to repeat."
"When the time comes, I'll need your help Relon. She won't listen to anything I or Ei say. You, her last remaining friend, still have a chance at bringing her back from the depths of her sorrow and heal the scars she's gained."
"When the time comes, we'll talk to her. Together. Not as the Shrine Priestess or as a surviving member of the Arataki Gang. Itto once promised me to look over her when he couldn't and I don't plan to let him down."
"Very well. That's a compromise I can accept. Not because of her family's own request or the constant begging Miyuki does, but because it is my own choice."
Staggering, he drops to a knee holding a hand to his face.
That was…
"I just want to talk, Shinobu. Can we?"
"Talk? About what?! You chose those important only to you and the Shogun! You chose politics over the safety of your own people!"
"I'll take that as a no. Fine. Go ahead and vent. I'm here to listen but more importantly, atone."
"Vent? Atone? No… You don't deserve to have anything go your way!" In that moment, she withdrew a dagger. Its purple hue signaling the coming of something. To his stunned look from afar, she cuts herself. The second whip now orbits her form.
Exhaling a steady breath, Miko and Shinobu vanish. The cliffside, around the base of the large tree, over by the small pond, bursts of Electro energy collide. Landing on two small rock forms, both eye the other. The scowl on Shinobu's face only deepens.
"You're a coward, Miko! You let the Boss leave, you and that damned Shogun then took away Relon! The only remaining person I could call a friend."
"Relon had to for the sake of Inazuma, Shinobu. You became too unstable. Bringing you back by force would only worsen things so we made the difficult decision to-"
"There you go again. Inazuma this, decision-making that! You're only making excuses! You said you came to atone!" Raising her blade once more she stabs it into the ground. "Then stand there and accept what you once taught me!"
From below, the surface gained a hue of purple.
Gyoei Narukami Kariyama Rite.
She knew Shinobu's signature attack. An ability meant to dispel the foul evils and purify the very space. Any caught would surely succumb to its potent Electro powers or be ripped to shreds by the countless razors that would surge from below. She could easily dodge but what would come after? More fighting, more ranting? Doing the same thing over and over would get them nowhere. If she wanted to change the nature of this confrontation…
"Take it! For those you let die, Yae Miko!"
Yes, that's what I'll-
"NO!"
Feeling a force push her out of the way, her eyes buck wide. Airborne, she can only take in Relon having pushed her away. At the same time, having already initiated her attack, Shinobu can only look in disbelief mixed with horror.
"Relon?!"
At once, the ground erupts as electricity and razors rise.
"Grr!" He grits guarding as best he can.
"Relon!" Miko exclaims, touching down on the water. "What are you doing?! I told you to stay out of this!"
"Shut… it!" He winces as more of his clothing tears followed by blood splatter around him. "You were about to take that attack, weren't you?!" At his words, she cannot respond. "Admitting your fault is fine and noble but risking your own self-being is a line I won't accept! We made a compromise, didn't we?!"
Immediately, she realized it.
"You remember!" She whispers out in awe.
"R-R-Relon? No… You shouldn't be here. Why…? You need to get out!"
"Shinobu! Don't think… Miko simply ignored you… Ever since Itto's rampage… she's always watched over you! Almost… every day…! Not just because your family asked her to, not just because Miyuki begged and pleaded, but because she wanted to make things right!"
Relon!
"HA!" Unleashing a shockwave, the attack dispels for him to wobble dropping to a kneel once more as he pants. "So… let's." He breathes out.
"Your wounds…! How?" Shinobu questions in clear bafflement.
After a moment, he carefully rises holding his aching head.
"A lot has happened while we both were gone, Kuki." Looking at Miko having conformed, she nods walking onto the shore and next to Relon.
"Let's talk, Shinobu. Not as the head of the Narukami Shrine."
"Or as the new Raiden Shogun." Relon adds. "But as who we are. Just ourselves. From one person to another."
She didn't say anything. Whether it was from the mental fatigue of their predicament or Shinobu simply not knowing how to respond, Relon couldn't tell. Carefully, she staggered over towards him. The entire time during her slow pace, those reddish-violet eyes wandered up and down his body. As though searching for every cut she casted upon him. By the time she reached him, he could clearly see her pursed lives quivering, holding back the dam of emotions she had let slip mere moments prior.
Once more, the glow from her whip caught his eye. Just as its pulsating power had amplified her, it too was now doing the same to him. Immediately, he realized the exact cause.
She's healing me?
Before his very eyes, the once cuts had closed and vanished without a trace. Wordlessly, her hand devoid of its once crackling strength pinched his sleeve before weakly guiding him back in the directions of the tarnished home.
"Shinobu, you should know. I've lost my memories so there's a lot I'm still remembering."
No response came. Not even a sign of an inkling of hesitation. Hearing the careful swishing of water, he doesn't need to know Miko is close behind. Carefully, they maneuver through the debris to enter. Past what is likely the living room, Shinobu stops before what seems like a shrine of photos.
"These are… the Arataki Gang members?" He wonders moving forward to grasp a picture frame.
"Akira, Genta, and Mamoru." Looking over his shoulder as she stops next to him, he instinctively has to restrain himself from going to clean the tears trailing down her cheeks. "They were the first to accept the boss for who he was after Granny Oni, even after she passed. At first, I saw them as just a bunch of idiots but watching them help out the less fortunate made me realize they genuinely meant good."
"Shinobu…"
"For the boss to… For Itto to do something…" Form trembling fighting back the unstable emotions, she turn flinging herself for the wailing to erupt. "IT DOESN'T MAKE SENSE! SOME VILLAINS USED SOMETHING TO ALTER OUR MINDS?! WHY?! ITTO ISN'T LIKE THAT! HE'S STRONGER…!"
Even as her body went limp to the ground, he didn't let go. The entire time as her body shivered and wailed, he held her close. Not as a forgotten friend, not as a source of physical human contact the girl was in need of, not out of pity much less such an act being the right thing to do. He simply held her as a means to hold back his own fury.
Even as Miko snuck outside to gaze at the roaring thunder, the wails of one lone girl heartbroken over a tragedy made the raw element sound like a whisper.
Higi Village - Outskirts
Placing a series of small gifts before three graves, all take a moment of silence. Eyes opening, none take their sights from the burial marker.
"Shinobu, what will you do?"
"There's no need to waste our breath talking. I'll fight," she answers in a voice devoid of any warmth. "Don't think I've forgiven you or the Shogun either."
Showing amusement at the likely response, a chortle escapes the yokai.
"I figured."
"I stand by what I said." She begins as a flicker of a spark in her voice returns. "I still hate the course of action you took. But…" She pauses earning Miko's curiosity. "Seeing Relon now, and remembering what he said when he took my attack, I dislike immensely that I must admit this but… after thinking for so long, I understand why you chose that cause of action. Save the important ones who have the capability of restoring Inazuma."
"Yes, in summation. It's good to have you back, Shinobu."
"I won't feel back until the Boss- until Itto is. Until then, Relon- no. Almighty Shogun," she addresses kneeling. "I request to join the Electro Army to put an end to the evil war, to make the Harbingers sorry for what they did, and most of all, to bring back the Boss."
Looking over, Miko watches as his downcast eyes soften.
"Stand, Kuki Shinobu." He offers a hand which she takes. "We're no longer the Electro Army but the Elemental Alliance. Two armies, soon to be all, united under one goal. To bring back peace and make the Harbingers regret it. All of it."
"... Yes, my lord!"
"Now then, shall you remain here?" Miko wonders looking back in the direction of Higi Village. The natural response was a flinch, an understandable one. "... No. I've been away from society long enough. I… should return to my family."
"Miyuki has missed you as I'm sure the rest of your family." Relon offers a warm smile.
"If I may, sir. May I request some time before I dive into my duties?"
"Oh, already making so many requests are we?" Miko smirks for both to snap her way, one deadpan and glare in unison sends the kitsune huffing. "Fine, I'll be at the docks. I see nothing else I say is welcome. Oh well, I'll be waiting for you two."
Watching as she treks down the dirt trail, an amused shake of his head is all he can offer.
"She means well, Shinobu. You do realize that much, right?"
Hearing a grunt come, an exasperated sigh follows as she turns to head back to the village. Several minutes pass before she returns carrying a small bag. Giving one last glance to the village and then the grave, both depart side-by-side.
"I know."
"That was a long answer," he chuckles.
"I had to think a long time on said answer," she replies dryly, though the smirk she wears dismisses any ill thoughts she could have manifested.
"Good. As long as you do. Let's head back, Shinobu."
"Kuki."
Stopping in place, he tilts his head.
"You always called me Kuki. Not Shinobu. Only you and the Boss- Itto could call me that. Outside of my family at least."
Inwardly blinking, he responds.
"You don't have to force yourself to not call Itto 'Boss.'"
"With you as the supposed Raiden Shogun, it seems odd calling him that now and not you."
"Just Relon is fine. Everyone keeps struggling with doing that, funny enough."
"But, shouldn't everything you say be absolute given your status?"
"Right?! Hmpf, maybe I'll pass a law to call me Relon when I'm out in public or else be punished."
"Pfft, that'll certainly whip everyone into shape."
"While I'm at it, why not just call Itto 'Boss' and me 'Super Boss?'" He grins for the girl to blink before a snort finally escapes as laughter soon fills the air.
"Hahaha, that side of you certainly haven't changed, that's for sure!"
"You finally laughed," he breathes for Shinobu to go quiet. "You look better like that, Kuki."
Nothing awaiting an answer from the blushing female, he continues on as she quietly follows after.
"Relon."
"Yeah?" He calls, looking over his shoulder as a breeze comes through.
"When you decide to take on Liyue, can you bring me? I want to be there to personally drag the Boss back." Silently staring, his lips curve upwards as he continues seeing the boat and an awaiting Miko in the distance.
"H-Hey! Relon!" She calls quickly catching up.
"You shouldn't have to ask something so obvious. It goes without saying that if we want to get the Boss back, all Arataki Gang members need to be assembled."
Once more, the impact of the protagonist's words impale the heart of yet another ally. The truth and conviction behind his being and the words that escape all the support such needs to be believed and acknowledged.
He wouldn't comment on the constant start-stopping she was doing because he was at fault but healing one's heart is a duty Relon Lucinance would proudly take up.
They return to Narukami Island watching as her family welcomes her back with an emotional reunion.
Narukami Island - Lucinance Residence
"Ahhh, I missed this water~." He breathes out sinking further into the depths of his bath water.
I am relieved you were able to bring Kuki Shinobu back from her path of despair.
"I couldn't have done it alone. Whether I want to admit it or not, the Silent Voice occurred again." He says, lifting his eyes to the ceiling as a hand rubs the side of his head. The phantom pain from the numerous times resurging as bothersome as always.
"The more you come into scenarios in which the Silent Voice occurs, the more you shall remember." Looking back upside down, his cheeks switch to red at the sight of Miko with her usual amused expression. "Going under that guideline, you shall eventually regain the answer to who you once were before departing from Snezhnaya."
"Columbina… and Qiqi."
"One is stated to be your real one with the other supposedly a child you adopted. Quite the mystery you Lucinances have going on." She hums seating herself along the edge with her tender legs trapping him in place. "What are we to do with you? Hmm…"
"Huh? H-Hey, Miko, what're you doing?" He squeaks out with shaky eyes as her hands tenderly grasp his face. Looking at her mischievous upside-down face from his position, his voice catches in his throat as the sight of her chest covering half his view.
"Oh? Isn't it obvious~? Given yesterday's events as well as you being a good boy and not only behaving but helping me out with Shinobu, I'm going to gift you a kiss. Besides, some of us didn't get one during our meeting."
"Eh? But- Mmf?!"
He had no time to react. No hope of drawing upon his godly reaction speed could be mustered. He was simply helpless to the onslaught of lips. Clearly inexperienced, but completely sultry lips and gasping breaths, hums, and moans, that came from Miko told all that was needed. Like a flower tasting water, his body instinctively reacted. He was in control still but the moment their lips made contact, his mind felt like mush all over again.
Feeling her breasts press into the top of his skull, he pushes against them. In doing so, another muffled sound escapes as Miko retaliates pressing both her body and her lips as closer as physically possible. Regardless of the dangers in lack of oxygen and comfort.
Within the span of seconds, the novice Miko had ascended to an even level of kissing much as Ganyu had. Whether beings of such ages could just adapt on the fly or for some other reason, he couldn't guess. Unlike Ganyu who treaded that thin line known as one's boundaries, Miko stepped across without a shred of hesitation.
Feeling her tongue do a once over along the ridge of his teeth, she plunges it in feeling his own recoil in surprise. Eyes bucking wide at the act, they meet the eyes of Miko's filled with excitement and something he could barely fathom himself; lust.
No longer in control of the raging battle over lips, it now became a one-sided onslaught of her tongue ravaging the insides of his mouth. Refusing the teasing defeat, his own lashed pushing her from his mouth and into her own. Back and forth, the clear and easy exchange of saliva waged on. All the stress from today felt like a fleeting memory as the soft and luscious sensations around his head made the day seem like a hazy dream.
He didn't dare pull back for breath. It would surely be a sign of defeat. The only way to obtain breath was between the cracks in their liplock. In doing so, he could feel her hot breath entering his mouth and vice versa.
He didn't want to stop. No one would interrupt them. He could-
Within that moment, his hold on her face lessened until all at once he dropped.
Ducking down, the only exit available, he meets the warm water before quickly surging up.
"HA… ha…. Ha… ha…" He pants gasping for air.
Pop!
Retracting his eyes from the floor and over to Miko, his once mooshy mind solidifies once more as she licks her fingers.
"Why'd you stop? Don't tell me, Ei did that~?"
Blinking incredulously, he gulps any saliva lurking at the both of his mouth regardless of who it belonged to.
"I almost did something I wasn't prepared for." He admits quietly, soft breathing clearly heard through his nostrils as he attempts to calm his racing heart.
"Oh, and what might that be I wonder~."
"Mikooooooo!" He whines, refusing to meet her.
"Ahaha, very well. I'll stop. Having such an exciting first kiss sure has done its number on me as well." She admits placing a hand to her chest. "If I couldn't walk right, I'd be tempted to bathe with you right here and now~. We'll have that be my thanks for a days hard work~."
"Ugh…"
"Alas, I'll wait until later after you've taken care of things."
Perking at the comment as the familiar rises, she spots his curious expression.
"Surely, you don't think I was the only one hungry for a kiss from the man whom I love. Do you?" Widening in realization, she smirks at his own antics. Switching from a mature mindset to that of a child will forever be a trait she loves about him. "Any who, hurry up. Tomorrow comes quick, my love."
"Hey, that's the first time you've called me that." He points out causing her to halt mid-step.
"Is it? Hmm, what a precarious nature for spotting the oddity in something you have, Child." She winks, blowing a kiss before departing.
"The heck did she mean by that?"
As the echoing sounds of the doors close behind her, he relents in any further thinking. Today, he'd done enough and… that had definitely been an eye opener. True to her nature, Miko had come to truly relay that message to him. Not just come for some lip service.
Ei and Sara…
It wasn't farfetch'd for the initiator to want to be the recipient so-to-speak. Sara kissed him after their race so with how he was now, she clearly would like the act, wouldn't she? As for Ei…
"Ei." He calls calmly. Like always, he feels her presence tingle the forefront of his conscious before permeating.
Yes?
"Let's start my training tomorrow."
A moment of silence comes though he can sense the positive acceptance.
Your encounter with Shinobu spurred your haste, did it not?
"It did. I already knew I needed to get the hang of my abilities but… seeing Kuki and Miko fight while I stood there unable to do anything myself; that was the most frustrating of all…"
I see. Very well. Do be prepared. To carry on the title Raiden Shogun, you require much.
"Which I currently lack. No better time than now to start."
Correct. While we are at it, I can begin drilling into you how to refute Miko's affectionate approach.
"Yeah. Wait, what?"
Pinch.
"Ow! What the hell?"
Another pinch.
"Ow! I'm sorry!"
Initiating multiple pinches.
"Ow! Ow! Ow, ow, ow! Ouch! That last one hurt more!"
Endure. Even if this lasts for all of eternity!
"I CAN NOT ENDURE THAT LONG!"
Nonsense. The will of the shogun is eternal.
"EIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII!"
A/N: Alright. All the upcoming character chapters have been revealed! Except "The Boyz" because gotta get through each guy one at a time. Again, Star Rail Story. Check it out. Relon x Silver Wolf are a thing~.
Upcoming Chapter Order
Ei → Sara → Beidou → Fischl/Amy
Notice - Here's the list of characters. Y'all pick one, I write a chapter about them.
Hu Tao
Keqing
Razor
Lisa
Ganyu
Ayaka
Eula
Kaeya
Chongyun
Rosaria
Teppei
Dori
Chiori
Kuki Shinobu