#◟༺✦༻◞ τόμος β: Descensus in regnum tenebram┊Kingdom of Khaenri’ah.┊

[reginrokkr]

Suspicion runs rampant at its highest within Twilight Sword's mind since the arrival of an outworlder that people wasted no time to revere as the kingdom's princess when, in reality, royalty has fallen with King Irmin as the last king. It was sufficiently bad when awareness that he was rocking the foundations of this world with his deeds made itself manifest, and ultimately it fell into Dáinsleif's hands to do something to remedy it when the other five carriers of Khaenri'ah's hope didn't lift a finger for the cause. Let alone when the primary reason of crowning that girl that came like a fallen star as a princess out of a sick belief that she embodies the abyss.

Reason why Dáinsleif has always made everything in his power to stay away from her, for he's never wanted to partake in anything remotely dangerous that is interwoven with the Abyss— as many seem to have forgotten, it's their enemy that has been breathing at their neck and lurking at their doorstep since the very foundation of Khaenri'ah. So in view of the reasoning of the nobility turning her into the kingdom's princess, it is the easiest to believe that she would agree with their ways.

Or perhaps that is his own prejudice speaking and the reality is different.

His maneuvers could bring him so far until he was appointed as her personal guard —mainly for events, thankfully— by the regent. Such as tonight's, in which he was pushed to start as early as he was told by visiting the residence she inhabits to guide her towards the royal palace, where the event is bound to take place. And so he dips his head, his hand balled in a weak fist over the spot of his heart as per the Black Serpent Knight chosen salute to show respect —perhaps he could've shown more than that, he has seen many kneel before her presence—. ◜Regent Alberich has appointed me as your personal guard effective immediately. So from now on, I may protect you as the Twilight Sword.◞

@lunaetis ✧

[reginrokkr]

Dáinsleif has never been one to let his knights do everything on their own, from doing simple tasks of guardianship within the kingdom's borders and recurrent training all of them are expected to perform in a regular basis down to being on the frontlines against the forces of the Abyss. As the captain of the Black Serpent Knights, he's expected to take more administrative duties personal affairs when someone from high social spheres require his presence in certain events as the maximum exponent within the royal guards.

Everyone agrees on the fact that he does more than he's expected, and he takes these susurrations with pride. For in his mind, nothing is too little or too much in the face of the undying struggle Khaenri'ah is bound to face against the Abyss.

Its increase of activity sufficed to make Twilight Sword suspicious that something is amiss, their efforts to keep it at bay from the populace nigh existent when so many outbreaks have been occurring in a brief time. Thunders roar in the distance to demand everyone's attention like a king marching in the middle of his people would, what would be otherwise harmless zephyrs now howling winds bringing the pestilence and illness of the Abyss. And an even more intimate sentience of his own warns him of a disturbance within the Ley Lines that permeate even these parts of this world in all their mercy.

Reason why he has made it a personal mission to oversee his knights' training for the past weeks in person, causing an uprise in their motivation to come more often than it's demanded of them in order to keep their position. The strict requirements are far from an unfair method to weed out from their numbers with unreachable expectations despite what some of them may believe. In reality, and the main reason why Dáinsleif is there is for the sole motif of perceiving those who aren't cut out from being on the frontlines against the Abyss as a result of any indisposition they may have as a result of its heightened influence.

Surely, Khaenri'ah counts with advanced medicine to palliate most of the signs and symptoms may bring as a means to combat the impeding corruption that people may experience if not treated properly or due to extended periods of time within abyssal clutches. But even so... as of lately, the lunarescent knight had felt a feeling of unrest hard to shake off that makes him doubt how genuine is the will to hold themselves far from the chaotic influence and not do the exact opposite.

◜I believe that many of you have been wondering why I'm spending more time overseeing your training regime than what's believed to be necessary.◞ As he wouldn't have it any other way, the necessity to be sincere with his knights has come. Strong arms cross over his chest as glacial sapphires look at each of them with an air of solemnity, the corners of his eyes soften minutely. ◜It is a reality that the Abyss has become more vicious lately, and with there has been a rise of illnesses that we cannot afford to ignore. For that reason, I took it a personal mission to study all your medical condition and how you fare under harsher extremes. Those who cannot be up to the challenge will no longer fight on the frontlines.◞ For everyone knows that the Abyss forgives no one.

His arms fall by his sides as he walks to one side, stellar gaze fixed on the unknown beyond the smoke of darkness. ◜Know that this is no punishment nor your title as Black Serpent Knights will be lost. It's merely for the sake of not risking the safety of those of you who needn't struggle more than the others, no matter your origins. In our endless fight against the Abyss, victory belongs to both the weak and the strong.◞ And it's precisely because they are the strongest within the army that they have to defend the weak, even if they're currently standing against them. Ultimately, Dáinsleif lifts his closed hand to the spot over his heart, the Black Serpent Knight salute. ◜May glory be with us.◞

The other knights' reciprocated salute marks the conclusion of the Twilight Sword's speech, punctuated by his leave from everyone else's spotlight. Nevertheless, he lingers in the usual spot from where he oversees his men's training until the end of today's course to be at the service of anyone who desires to ask him any questions or may need help.

@guhamun ✧

[reginrokkr]

For every step forward there was a spasm that shook his muscles, making out of walking a nigh impossible task. Dáinsleif's body should no longer be in pain after Irminsul's interference to prevent him from falling to insanity and thus being thrown into the abyss of corruption, but the overwhelming pain remained registered into his brain. His face has seen better days, all dirtied with stains of black and blue and red, of tears and a mess of drenched light blonde locks sticking to his face that serve as a canvas for the other colors. Trails of scarlet blood and cyan resin imprint on the ground, sometimes intersecting together to purple as he goes with each labored breath to keep himself grounded.

Where was he heading to exactly? He could feel it, the holy aura that gods transmit to him. That was what he had felt earlier before, and so Asmoday confirmed for him upon reminding him that he, too, once belonged to the kingdom of the heavens. Each step drew him closer to what he hoped to be her, to ask why everything had to spiral into this destruction. The denizens of Khaenri'ah had their good and their wrongs as every individual in another country would— was it so wrong to stray from the divine's reign and shelter oneself into this dark isolation where nearly nobody dared to reach? At long last he reaches to the destination, that where his senses warned him of a divine presence and against his best judgement he headed for— she is not there. In her stead, there was the presence of another whom he fails to recognize at once due to the whirl of emotions that coils in his stomach. And thus he remains in a stupor, icy sapphires looking towards the other's general direction albeit never focusing until they do and Dáinsleif forces himself to move once again towards the vulnerable figure.

The Twilight Sword falls defeated onto his knees atop the pitch black mud that surrounded the only divine being that remains alive in this place. It takes him a few moments to recompose himself to the best of his ability and look upwards, frozen astrals ultimately registering whom this man is— it was hard not to recognize him after connecting his physical appearance to that of the Statues of the Seven that litter the land of Geo and whose visage is imprinted in books concealed in the depths of the royal library— Morax. ◜It will be a matter of time… until their safety is jeopardized, too.◞

What are mortals to do in the face of a calamity of such magnitude when even the most skilled of individuals in the art of combat struggle against these creatures without their god? His words lack the malice that several people whom he has failed to protect had as they turned into unsightly creatures before his very eyes. The spiral of sentiments he had felt all of a sudden was big, but the pain he felt with every crack of his skin to make room for the Ley Lines to occupy his corruption that he feels numb to it all. With naught but the ringing of his ears of screams that no longer exist.

Before he knew it or could do something to avoid it —not that he would do anything, at the moment simply giving in sounded more tempting, less painful—, Dáinsleif passes out on the spot, thus effectively shutting down all the dark whispers within the confines of his mind.

Kill him.

He ignores how much time has passed since he fell from the brink of consciousness, albeit it is a sharp pain as a result of the still ongoing process of muting the corruption within him that forces him awake. Azure eyes look upwards again and for the first time since his gaze laid upon Morax he takes notice of the deplorable state he is in. He looks to his close surroundings next, observing immediately the black mud that he's kneeling on that perhaps it must've taken a toll on the god before him.

◜One reason.◞ Twilight Sword mumbles under his own breath, a single tear streaming down his face the next time he looks upwards. Sapphire flames emerge from his hands, spreading all over the dark mud at a slow pace, ceaselessly. ◜Give me one good reason to think that not all of your kind is the same— that mortals on the other side won't be more damned if you make it safely out of here. That there is still hope for them… if you return to Liyue.◞ Steam rises skywards as the black mud recedes. Relentless as these flames may be, they don't seek to harm, no. They seek to consume that which is poisonous to this world— and so many other beings that are weak to its influence.

@daybreakrising ✦

[reginrokkr]

[ 𝐁𝐑𝐔𝐒𝐇 ] ― sender brushes receiver’s hair :)

Sentiments of embarrassment seldom make homage in the abandoned seraph's heart, or any analogous emotions for that matter. Perhaps it is a result of the poor social life he has being the occupied man he is with more important tasks towards the kingdom, or perhaps because never once there was anything sufficiently strong to awaken feelings like these. Whatever the case may be, it is not the same in this moment when Aria's moonlight penetrates through nigh transparent and white curtains and illuminates the two figures standing in the middle of the room.

It is not usual to be summoned to lady Lunafreyja's abode unless higher orders make him stay by her side when certain dangers loom closer and protection is mandatory, so imagine the surprise upon finding out that he was called for nothing more than to spend tranquil time together.

Dáinsleif did not anticipate her insistence to brush his hair, either. In his mind, it should be the other way around, her silky and moonlight-kissed hair being the one to be tended with careful brushing. He takes great care of his hair, yes, albeit this... it's fluttering, to say the least. Even so, he does a great job staying still where he sits while she brushes her fingers on his hair, feeling it smoothness and length as it goes. Hair tending is a comforting self-indulgence of his own, but only now he discovers how vastly different it is when someone else touches his hair, let alone brush it as she does as soon as she takes the brush in her hand.

A wave of warmth permeates the luminary whole starting from his fluttering heart and he hums low and deep, albescent lashes fluttering close to focus on the nice feeling her hands and the brush give him as she goes. It must be that his senses are prepared for the touch when he does it to himself, he ponders. However, when it is someone else, even if he can see them through a mirror... there is an unknown variable that can manifest in any way that he cannot control. Maybe that is why the sensory information reaches to his brain differently than it does when he brushes his hair himself.

Part of him feels like slipping a small jest, something about him not expecting that his hair was in such a poor condition that it needed tending from a second person, or that he did not know that she liked his hair so much that she wanted to have a chance to touch it and brush it herself. But nothing comes, finding the silence that blankets them and the room they're in more comforting and meaningful than any poor attempt to say something to break the ice. Because truth be told... there is no need.

Instead, Dáinsleif's eyes open and he turns his head enough to meet her cornflower gaze without disturbing her hand motions to his hair. The edges of his eyes crinkle in a smile, serenity and joy reflecting in his own stellar eyes as a quiescent way to communicate non-verbally that he enjoys this, the moment— her company. His eyes close thereafter and so he returns to his initial position, praying to the great Irminsul that he doesn't fall asleep as a result of the sleep-inducing act uninvited. Praying that more moments such as this appear in the future, just the two of them.

@moonichor ✦

[reginrokkr]

Paperwork is as inclement as ever, unforgiving of other obligations to be prioritized as per the Regent’s wishes. Alert and attentive of the Grand Scribe’s on the day, occupied on his office when the veil of night covers everything and the subject of his custody goes to slumber. It has been that way since it all started, thus surprise reflects in icy sapphires upon catching sight of al-Háitham sitting by the fireplace, book in hand and leg crossed over the other in a stance that denotes utmost elegance. ❝Should you not be asleep?❞ This time he returns to the Twilight Residence just a tad over midnight, symbolizing that today’s paperwork was fewer in number and in degree of concentration. Perfect to get a good night’s rest. Except the fact that concern begins to spring within his mind as the wooden door closes behind him and thus he makes a beeline to where the Sumerian scholar sits.

@samyavastha​ ✦

[reginrokkr]

Inteyvat anthers glow in the dead of the night, an announcement of their detachment from the shackles of their filaments to fly towards the nocturne dome specked with their companions-to-be: the stars, and the lonely moon that sheds its frigid, albescent light in the kingdom of darkness. Ever since his arrival to Khaenri'ah, this is the first time Dáinsleif has the opportunity to be on a vantage point like this with an even better company than his own solitude.

Glacial sapphires turn to look at the angelic figure beside him, what little and natural light that reaches Khaenri'ah imprinted on her like she's the source of this luminescence. ❝Many moons has it been since you witnessed this view, yes? Has it ever changed since then?❞

@moonichor ✦

[reginrokkr]

Tag dump repost #2

◟༺✧༻◞ τόμος α: αναμνήσεις από μια χαμένη ζωή┊kingdom of celestia.┊

◟༺✧༻◞ τόμος β: descensus in regnum tenebram┊kingdom of khaenri’ah.┊

◟༺✧༻◞ τόμος γ: αγκασμένος στην αθανασία ┊aftermath of disaster.┊

◟༺✧༻◞ τόμος δ: ψάχνοντας τη χαμένη μοίρα┊to the journey’s end.┊

◟༺✧༻◞ τόμος ε: ανακαλύπτοντας την αλήθεια┊100 years of penance.┊

◟༺✧༻◞ τόμος ζ: ενδιάμεση της ανθοφορίας┊way of the prophet.┊

◟༺✧༻◞ τόμος η: μαρασμός της αφάνειας┊twilight’s prologue.┊

◟༺✧༻◞ τόμος θ: λυκόφως οι θεοί που πέφτουν┊advent of ragnarök.┊

◟༺✧༻◞ chasing luminous river of stars ┊noctilucent crossroads.┊

[reginrokkr]

✦ @resolutepath asked: [ 𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐭 ] : sender has gotten injured protecting the receiver. ( perhaps from halfdan if you like? )

Dangers of the Abyss forgive no one. Long has it been since this kingdom settled at the roots of the Axis Mundi and in contact with the land of night learned this hard lesson. From flora and fauna unborn due to conditions incompatible with life to creatures that spill from the everlasting darkness, every inhabitant of Khaenri'ah has grown aware of the trepidations of living far away from the divine's gaze.

By logic, automatons should be the ones in charge of vanquishing these hostile monsters at the earliest opportunity they have to perceive their presence within the kingdom's borders, for they serve as one layer of protection towards knights and citizens alike should they be affected by the noctilucent poison. But no matter how intelligent they may be, they have limitations which humankind can surpass with ease.

It isn't unlikely for knights to partake in cleansing operations, for that reason. They can warn their denizens of the dangers they must escape from, practise caution to not let bloodshed affect them unlike automatons. And Dáinsleif in particular is no different from his fellow knights regardless of the title he dons: he is one more of them.

And much to his regret, not everyone agrees fully with his perspective.

Glacial sapphires widen at the call of his name, prompting him to turn in time to see a beast manifest through a portal with the wits to ambush him. Its darkness-tainted claws should've cleaved through him, but pain never came. Instead, a cry of pain makes him snap out of his momentary shock at the sight of Halfdan shielding him from the attack. Dáinsleif immediately catches his body before it hits the ground as the amber beam of a Field Tiller makes it recoil and engage the automaton into the conflict first.

Seizing the opportunity that he was given, his attention remains on Halfdan as a dimly illuminated hand hovers over the wound on his torso in search of something, anything of corroding essence that alerts his senses. To Halfdan's misfortune, its signs make themselves manifest. Fair brows knit in response as he looks at the silver haired's suffering visage, resonating with the pain he's in. By normal account, this wound should heal with proper time and rest— but it is the essence of the Abyss that precipitates everything to death that concerns Dáinsleif the most.

Albescent lashes flutter close for a fraction, from dim light sapphire flames spring and worm their way into Halfdan's body to counter the abyssal energy and vanquish it entirely from him. This process ends before a medic comes rushing their way to examine him, not a single trace of grief on features school to perfect stillness could be seen as Dáinsleif rouses on his feet. He catches a glimpse of Halfdan's emerald eyes looking at him, quivering with unspoken cognizance.

It is said that Twilight Sword's features seldom betray a shred of sentimentalism, but should one take notice of his eyes, they would see profound emotion in quivering pupils. Lament for the unfortunate turn of events that should be his to shoulder, and supplication— that he doesn't jeopardize his life like that for him again.

Not when both of them are aware that being affected with abyssal energy is a worse punishment than death.

[reginrokkr]

"You really think I'm worthy of..." A tinge of disbelief is settled on his expression a the gravity of these words, this approval, it causes his heart to beat with a sense of reinvigorated purpose as he meets Dainsleif's eyes. Their many days together has taught him a lot, cemented a deeper love for the people of Khaenri'ah, an appreciation of their path to make things better a day at a time. So to see him be granted the faith of being within the Twilight Sword's elite unit—

Was it so wrong to feel giddy? To be by the side of someone he viewed as an inspiration? A good friend to be?

"Captain Dainsleif!" Try as he might to keep his smile at bay, he's doing a mediocre job, that joy practically radiating as he gives him a steadied salute. Burning within those eyes was the resolve to build a great future together.

"I'd be absolutely honored to fight by your side. Aha, is it bad to say that I sort've dreamed of such a thing?"

Ruleless kingdoms are susceptible to condemnation if nothing is done to put order and control. In seeking a safe haven away from the dangers that divinities pose to humankind, sentiments of hatred, hubris until madness’ come surfaced in the hearts of many— even in the heart of a ruler. Khaenri��ah is no doubt the pride of mankind, the zenith of manmade achievements and the pride and glory that no one would dare to take away of them. However, it also bodes ill when their sights are set to plunge everyone to suffering for petty motives none other than basking in the protection of the Seven.

Oft times Dáinsleif was objective of criticism to many based on decisions made as the Twilight Sword, for one of his many obligations is to oversee the recruitment process. The trusting shut in the face of lack of understanding of his actions, the outrageous claimed madness and demanded the Regent that his position is revised. Dáinsleif cares not— in his heart, he knows the meaning behind his actions.

And blessed be Irminsul forevermore, so does the Regent whom believes in him so.

❝Mockery is not one of the deeds I am known for exercising, novice.❞ Firm and cold are his words, albeit deep in a meaning not for many to understand. Dáinsleif silences himself and observes every reaction of the new soldier, every trace that may warn him of a bad decision to find none. Halfdan is an open book, willing to reveal himself for most to realize his earnest and pure wishes. His will to defend Khaenri’ah.

Purity is what many lack. Regardless of their strength, that is what Dáinsleif seeks. For even a newborn fawn whom can barely stand on its feet one day may learn how to run great distances.

Icy sapphires soften when his focus returns on the gray-haired before him. Gentle and excitable, one day he will make a great soldier— he knows. Halfdan’s smile is mirrored with one of his own that makes a shy way to roseate lips, albescent lashes flutter to a close to showcase relief and peace in all his discretion. His hand rises to find homage on the other’s shoulder thereafter, a gentle clasp is given as frozen astrals meet warmer ones. ❝Never cease dreaming.❞ Perhaps a notion that many say to forget about when all of them long lost that which in sooth makes them human.

❝Dreams are the cure to madness, that which awakens one’s consciousness when it is lost.❞ One more squeeze is given as a spark of solemnity crosses moonkissed features, then he retracts. ❝Remember: fighting does not suffice to make one become a Black Serpent Knight. One must be an object of inspiration to others, a safe haven that many need that cannot be found in a place.❞

❝Never let go of that light within you that Khaenri’ah needs so.❞ By everything you hold holy, forsake it not.

[reginrokkr]

■    ■    ■    Being the Twilight Sword as the maximum exponent of Khaenri’ah’s military doesn’t limit Dáinsleif’s duties to such important branch of this kingdom alone. It extends to affairs that not even the highest individuals of the noble society can have access to, namely royal matters as the captain of the royal guards— pinnacle to the human division of the army. What he’s less accustomed to, nevertheless, is to receive guests from afar with no intent to establish boundaries with this godless nation via the king. Even less to be anointed as their custodian.

The Bough Keeper was instructed of the meeting point to meet this person without further information other than you will know who it is once you see this person. And so it was as soon as Dáinsleif arrived at the entrance of Khaenri’ah’s main library. Judging by the man’s attire alone, he can deduce that he’s a foreigner from afar. Inazuma and Liyue are promptly removed from his mental guess list, soon to be followed by Mondstadt. Before the knight allowed such intruding thoughts to take much of his time and the other’s after coming all the way here, he clears his throat to garner the grey haired’s attention. ❝You must be the scholar whom came to document Khaenri’ah, is that correct? I am Dáinsleif, pleased to make your acquaintance.❞ A gloved hand surges upward in a weak fist to bump gently with his left breast, a respectful salute mimicked by the width of the army at large. ❝From now on, I shall be your custodian for as long as your stay lasts here. At your service.❞

@alhaqiqah​ ♥︎ed for a starter!

[reginrokkr]

Khaenri’ah is a kingdom known by name to everyone, albeit shrouded in utmost mystery that begets curiosity by those whom seek to understand their prosperity far from the divine’s reign. Not the same can be said about this isolated nation that is at any information’s reach at the tip of its fingers. It is part of their survival, so it is part of their drive to protect themselves from any threat that may come this far end of the world’s way. Reason why the presence of faraway visitors stirs anxiety and an imperative necessity to guard at all costs.

Hardly ever Dáinsleif has the chance to take a stroll down the city’s streets to his fancy, for oftentimes he is occupied with documents concerning the military management. However, it is not unbeknownst of that whenever this opportunity arises, he’s dragged into someone else’s responsibility. ❝Lord Dáinsleif. Please, over here if you may.❞ The guard’s facial features look more troubled for disturbing him than by the situation per se— whatever that may be, for apparently he is dealing with a red haired man at the city’s gates. He approaches the men nonetheless, sliding a quiescent glance to the guard before icy sapphires fall onto the elegant man waiting for a brief scrutiny. ❝Is there any problem?❞

❝Uh… You see, when I asked this gentleman his ID as per the usual protocol, he said that he lost it on his way here.❞ Frozen astrals peer into rubies as the man talks in an act of lessening whatever nervousness he may have for addressing such a trifle matter to him when his garb suggests that he is not currently on duty. ❝I was suggesting him to come back once he has an ID at his disposal, but…❞ ❝Send him back for such a triviality being cognizant of the hardship one must endure to arrive here, you mean.❞ Though his tone of voice is as monotonous as it always is, it suffices to make the poor man startle beside him and lower his head, eyebrows knitting in guilt.

❝I beg your pardon, but as you seem to lack an ID to identify you I have no chance but delay your rest for a moment to ask you a few questions.❞ A hand ascends to rest on his left breast. ❝It must’ve been a tedious journey for you, so I will make it as quick as possible.❞ His eyes regard the stranger with an innate kindness known by many, no matter that he is the top authority of the military branch of this kingdom. Regardless, there is a shift in the ambiance as his eyes harden a tad, preluding the beginning of his questions as per his indiscriminate duty. ❝State your name, origin and business here.❞

@gnaneisten​ ♥︎ed for a starter in Khaenri’ah!

[reginrokkr]

❝ one gets so used to one’s own horrors, one forgets how they must seem to other people. ❞ though Gold can hardly say that she's ever cared about what others think of her, the pointed looks and whispers behind her back don't escape her. Let them simmer in their own inability to grasp the importance of higher knowledge. It won't be long before they'll change their tune once she successfully completes her work.

■    ■    ■    Isolation is hardly different than venom to those whom desire most fervently to lead lives analogous to those who bask under the Seven’s reign. Khaenri’ah is the epitome of this phenomenon in varying degrees, Dáinsleif noticed. From those who daren’t set a foot outside the protection of this kingdom albeit would forfeit everything they possess in order to see what any other location outside these disastrous conditions byproduct of its proximity to the Abyss looks like to those documented to have fallen to madness— many of which follow an eminence’s steps blindly.

What people seek the perfection that gold symbolizes for? Long and hard as the Twilight Sword may think about it to find an answer, he cannot wrap his mind around it.

Which once upon a time begged the question as to whether Rhinedottir is cognizant of what she evokes to other alchemists only to find that perhaps not. This answer does naught to assuage whatever suspicions Dáinsleif has about her, about the highly plausible misconduct in the use of the Art of Khemia that he knows the king conceals from him. Turning one sector of the Khaenri’ahn population to another would pose a most troubling scenario, but the Bough Keeper isn’t one to believe in the notion that time will settle the waters of disquietude.

Not when Khemia is being used for such a range of matters, starting once from the dire necessity to create flora and fauna to serve mainly as nourishment for humans and then to medicine when this arcane art allowed for further sophistication. Accidental incidents regarding the malfunction of automatons powered by abyssal sources cannot be taken lightly when they have been recurrent. Khemia practitioners proved to be earnest in their wish to see this kingdom prosper, but he has also seen the dark part of it from the prism of individualism that many others seem to harbor. And Gold, judging by her lack of self-awareness in regards of other people’s perception of her, suggests that she’s part of the latter group of alchemists.

❝Perhaps you ought to consider socializing more, specially with those with the intent to follow your steps in the path of what they believe to be success.❞ Success from the prism of what concerns alchemy, yes. It remains to be seen if it applies to another field of interest to this country or, in fact, his suspicions about her person are confirmed. His word choice is tame at best, regardless, unwilling to rise any conflict betwixt the two maximum exponents of Khaenri’ah’s two fundamental pillars: military and alchemy. ❝Disconnection from one’s subordinate-like peers may result in negative consequences if perpetuated for too long.❞

Notwithstanding the way she regards herself like from a social standpoint and irregardless of whether her Khemia advances are purely individualistic or something else altogether, being a renowned figure like her ceases all singularity. Another accident were to arise, Dáinsleif cannot promise to be as courteous as he currently is with her.

@drolliic ✦

[reginrokkr]

valorxdrive asked: "We did it!" And what a glorious victory it was. Without any forethought applied and the relief of having one less worry, Sora couldn't stop himself, there was an abrupt rush in to hugging Dain on the spot. If he looked exhausted before, this sudden embrace that briefly picks up the Twilight Sword would make that confusing to discern. It's only a good second in that Sora pauses and realizes what he's doing, leading to him setting Dain down, gently patting dust off the armor. "S-- sorry."

Fighting gruesome that reek of abyssal pollution is by no means an easy feat, even less when there are civilians added into the mix that could get harmed in the process. For being injured by their claws or fangs leads to intoxication, and said intoxication may as well lead to a plethora of issues that ultimately may cause death. This is why Dáinsleif as captain to the Black Serpent Knights and bearer of the Twilight Sword title decorated by none other than the king is so proud of his men— for they are the most understanding of the delicate situation whenever it happens and they always make their best to act as they were trained: take care of the civilians first, then these monsters will be dealt with.

Sora is no exception here. Even men that have been years within the military ranks may be at a loss of what to do whenever these situations arise, yet he knew distinctively how to act as if it were by gut feeling alone. No matter how young-looking he is or how little time it’s been since he joined the military lines to serve this country partly due to his own wishes to be fulfilled, the expectations Dáinsleif had on him were exceeded by far.

…As it was the boy’s over-excitement as a victory cry for a good service performed.

Not only Dáinsleif tensed like a rag doll as soon as the chestnut haired embraced him, but so it could be felt among the soldiers that witnessed such a bold display of joy. Each of them sported a concerned face, even some of them whispering to another their worries of what may befall the boy if he didn’t release him at once.

Apparently Sora must’ve read the ambiance and come to the realization of what he has done, for it would be a matter of time until he set the Twilight Sword down and went as far as to pat the dust off his armor. The sheepish action is met with a brief quiescence that lasts seconds, seconds that may extend to full minutes to others as they wait expectant to see their captain’s reaction. That is until a smile makes its way to settle on roseate lips and reach to otherwise cold-looking icy sapphires.

❝Worry not.❞ Albescent lashes flutter close for a fraction as a gloved hand lands on the boy’s shoulder, thus his eyes open anew to peer into sky blue ones. ❝This occasion is worth celebrating. You’ve performed wonderfully.❞ A gentle squeeze of his shoulder preludes his turning towards the rest of his men next, all wearing variations of relief and nigh contained, bubbling happiness upon seeing their captain’s good spirit despite the boldness that was just displayed. ❝My praises extend to the rest of you as well. Your bravery has proved one more time that Khaenri’ah’s safety will live on.❞

A round of cheers erupt in response, soon to subside as Dáinsleif brings his loosely closed fist to his left breast which they replicate. ❝May glory be with you all. Forevermore.❞

@valorxdrive ✦

[reginrokkr]

To the list of celebrations Khaenri’ah is notorious for having, Dáinsleif’s coming to the kingdom punctuated the birth of a new one: the good news that this kingdom will live on for one more year without fearing the potential targeting of the gods of Celestia according to Irminsul’s might. Nonetheless, the king and the Bough Keeper know both that Khaenri’ah has been touched by the Heavenly Principles’ wrath since the very beginning of its rise as per Dáinsleif’s prophecy.

Hence the major ballroom being occupied by mostly gentry and a select amount of people that do not belong to that category whom won the privilege to assist to this celebration in the palace presided by the king and the queen sitting their thrones and Dáinsleif standing by the king’s side as the highest authority of the Black Serpent Knights, and most importantly to this occasion, priest-like figure that serves as an intermediary betwixt Irminsul and mortals. His chin points towards a certain individual among many others, garnering the Twilight Sword’s attention with an additional glance for him to approach for a more private conversation.

❝Do you see that man? I was informed that he hails from Liyue. Is it not interesting to receive guests from afar and in a celebration that does not concern them?❞ Icy sapphires are directed once more towards said man, narrowing just a fraction at a particular feeling. It differs from the void’s darkness of the Abyss that he has grown accustomed to, yet it is something that evokes a familiarity that he can’t pinpoint— or rather, unbeknownst to him, a higher force exerting pressure onto him to not recognize what it is. ❝Perhaps he is not knowledgeable about the full extent of this celebration’s importance, Your Majesty.❞

❝Indeed. However, we must have a watchful eye on him to preserve to the best of our ability that what the great Irminsul prophesized is upheld.❞ ❝Yes.❞ Pale eyelids flutter close as he bows his leave. In his experience as the one whom can commune with Irminsul, Dáinsleif doubts that its might can be undone nearly as easily, even less without warning. For that mighty tree that contains the soul of this world is never deceiving. Alas, he understands the king’s exacerbated concern and so he does as he wills by making a beeline out of the ballroom, a tactic to not rouse any suspicions that the man in question has been their topic of discussion.

Moments later Dáinsleif enters the ballroom anew, unhurried steps leading him to the tall man. Leveraging the nearby presence of a waiter who serves drinks to the guests, the Twilight Sword takes graciously two glasses of champagne and offers one to the stranger from Liyue, roseate lips curling in an amiable smile. ❝It is not often that we receive knowledgeable guests in Khaenri’ahn culture from afar.❞ His head cants to one side, icy sapphires exercising a quick scrutiny before peering into the other’s ambers. ❝To what do we owe the pleasure?❞

@galactia​​ ♥︎ed for a starter in Khaenri’ah!

[reginrokkr]

Tag dump #2:

◟༺✦༻◞ echoes of a fallen star ┊drabble.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ memories are all but forgotten in the river of time ┊queue.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ τόμος α: αναμνήσεις από μια χαμένη ζωή┊kingdom of celestia.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ τόμος β: descensus in regnum tenebram┊kingdom of khaenri’ah.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ τόμος γ: αγκασμένος στην αθανασία ┊aftermath of disaster.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ τόμος δ: ψάχνοντας τη χαμένη μοίρα┊to the journey’s end.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ τόμος ε: ανακαλύπτοντας την αλήθεια┊100 years of penance.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ τόμος ζ: ενδιάμεση της ανθοφορίας┊way of the prophet.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ τόμος η: μαρασμός της αφάνειας┊twilight’s prologue.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ τόμος θ: λυκόφως οι θεοί που πέφτουν┊advent of ragnarök.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ κατάσταση α: λυκόφως οι θεοί που πέφτουν ┊stellar doom.┊ ◟༺✦༻◞ chasing luminous river of stars ┊noctilucent crossroads.┊

[reginrokkr]

Dáinsleif is no stranger to one of the prince’s tendencies to play tricks on other fellow guards to do as he pleases without being in their crosshairs. Rumors of these incidents have spread so wide and far that no matter how modest his men act every time he’s in their earshot, he learned about this fact. Reason why he is waiting patiently in a dark corridor outside the main chamber where a meeting is being undergone with some nobility from afar. Only the pale moonlight rays ghost over the equally pale complexion the Twilight Sword denotes, regardless of his choice for sporting a dark attire this time.

The tranquility and uneventful evening would suffice to lull him asleep where he stands, back pressed against the wall and arms crossed over his chest. And perhaps he would’ve nearly fallen asleep weren’t for the creak of an opening door masked with diligence as if to not be spotted. Too late.

A barely audible grunt abandons his lips as he straightens himself, head moving left and right to soothe the tension of his cervix. He lets out a sigh next, more audible this time to make his presence be known before directing icy sapphires towards him. ❝How unkind of you to leave the young nobles hanging inside.❞ Albeit calm, his voice reverberates through the empty corridor as he approaches the prince with the intention to hinder his way farther away with his body. ❝Our guests could’ve come to Khaenri’ah without them, but they decided otherwise to make His Highness’ experience as amenable as possible. What is your excuse?❞

@ecleips​ ✦