#day 1 rite of tranquility

[flowersonpebbles]

Rite of Tranquility- Day 1

Jowan thought Dallas might have taken him with them after he helped keep an eye on Connor whilst they left for aid from the Circle, from their home that they both only knew for most of their lives... Dallas did not take him, merely said that Jowan did in fact aid in keeping the people in the castle safe after they left for more help... Eamon did not care, he was still sent off, back to the Circle for them to punish him for being a bloodmage... poor Lilly... she must have been just as frightened as he is now.

He stares sadly down at the lyrium brand, burning with white fire. The rod shaped like the sunburst symbol so fondly looked upon by Andrastians... Jowan blinks back tears before just squeezing his eyes shut, pursing his lips to try and stop them from trembling as he's held down on his knees by Templars surrounding him.

"Dallas, do you ever think the Tranquil hates us for being more like people than they ever will be..?" little Jowan asks, struggling to fall asleep. Dallas frowns deeply at the thought, hanging upside down to glare at Jowan.

"They're people like us, just different, Jowan. They're really nice and Owain even taught me how to read!" Dallas whispers earnestly, cheeks puffed up. "They don't hate us and we shouldn't be scared of them just because they're different than us, they still feel! They just express it differently!"

Jowan takes a deep, shaking breath at this little memory... he can only hope Dallas might come visit him then. After learning of Jowan's bloodmagic and feared him, then hopefully Dallas would no longer fear now.

Now he only needs to calm himself, there is no escaping this... he brought this upon himself, after all. He should have never dabbled with the forbidden arts...

He opens his eyes, steadying himself as he stares the rod down, gritting his teeth as it is pressed against his forehead, sudden magic coursing through his veins and then just bursting into... nothingness...

Jowan blinks slowly, jaw slowly going lax as the Templars let go of him. He stands up slowly, feeling a light headache at the front of his head. A headache that will never go away again, though...

Jowan stares at Dallas calmly, smiling ever so softly, "Dallas, it is good to see you again." his friend looks so much older than he should though, and sickly, even...

[sylviesoothsayer22]

Well Matched - Chapter 1

Lycoris radiata

When the Yiling Laozu’s spirit emerged from the Burial Mounds as a newborn Calamity, the entire cultivation world trembled in fear.

Wei Ying just wanted to find a quiet place to rest. He had no plan, so he naturally followed the strange butterfly that seemed to beckon him somewhere. What’s the worst that could happen?

“You’re adorable.”

“I thought I was charming.”

“Charming and adorable. I’m tempted to keep you.”

“….sweet-talker.”

“Rejoice, Wei Wuxian is dead!”

“Fantastic, fantastic indeed! Remind me again, who was the hero who killed the Yiling Laozu?”

“His shidi! The little sect leader Jiang Cheng!”

Everyone in the tavern laughed and declared those who have led the Siege of the Burial Mounds heroes. They all toasted to the Patriarch’s demise.

It had been several months since the news first broke out and many have not yet ceased celebrating.

A condescending snort cut through their revelry. All eyes were drawn to the rogue cultivator lounging in his seat. One youth lazily twisted his head to the man’s direction and cast his left eye on the speaker.

“Too early for that.” He rumbled. “The days of the Yiling Laozu are far from over.”

“What do you mean?”

“Let me ask you all a question.” The speaker said. Clearly pleased to have everyone’s attention. “Since Wei Wuxian wasn’t born into the Jiang sect, how many Soul-Tranquilization Rites has he undergone before his violent death?”

Almost every member in the tavern paled in realization.

“You can’t mean that he’ll come back as a ghost!”

“Even if he did, every soul within the Burial Mounds are trapped there. The amount of resentful energy alone makes it impossible for the dead to break free!”

“The Burial Mounds no longer hold as much resentful energy as they used to.” The cultivator informed them gravely.

“What do you mean?!”

“Speak plainly!”

“Don’t go around spreading false rumours for attention, you old fart!”

The only person who didn’t put up a fuss was the youth who was watching the pandemonium with a bored expression. The cultivator gazed at the anxious crowd in silence before loudly slamming his jug on the table.

“Silence! Do you wish to hear what happened after the Siege or not?!”

Everyone quieted and listened to the cultivator with wrapped attention as he began his tale:

“After the Patriarch’s demise, all was quiet for a while and the Great Sects believed it would be the end of it. Yet, some wandering cultivators detected strange disturbances within the Mounds. The resentful energy appeared to be constantly fluctuating. Through their observations, they saw a thick red fog emerge and cover the mountains. The wanderers notified the sects who sent out members of high rank. Those same men would come back and swear blind that they saw the Patriarch lurking around.”

“How is it that no one has heard of this until now?”

“The sects silenced as many gossipers as they could find. They did not wish to spread panic or give the demonic worshippers hope.” The cultivator cast the interrupter a slight glare. “May I continue now?” He asked dryly.

“At that point, all of the sects believed that Wei Wuxian did not pass on. Many high-ranking cultivators, sect leaders and head disciples converged on the spot where they sensed the yin energy was at its highest, believing that the Patriarch’s spirit was still recuperating. Wanting to put an end to this drawn-out battle, they rushed at the swirling mass only to stop in their tracks!”

“Thorny black vines shot through the rocky ground and held them all in a vice-like grip. They tried to hack them off with their swords, but new vines would grow in their place. The bound cultivators felt themselves growing weak. Somehow, Wei Wuxian drained them of their spiritual energy. What’s worse, the red fog surrounding the mountain hardened and formed into a barrier. By the time the cultivators realized that they had walked into a trap, there was a familiar sound of a dizi playing.”

The crowd’s eyes were as wide as saucers. The youth’s eyes were narrowed in deep thought. Many leaned forward as the cultivator continued with his story:

“A figure emerged through the fog. None other than the Yiling Laozu himself! Different, but still recognizable. When he was last seen, he was gaunt, injured and looked ready to collapse at any moment. Back then, he looked fragile but unmistakably human. Now, not anymore. His skin was as white as pale snow. The grey of his robes swirled unnaturally against the breeze like ash. The black of his clothes were so dark, they appeared to be devouring any form of light. It almost looked as if it were made of shadows. His eyes let out an eerie blood red glow. There was a vial full of -what appeared to be- ashes suspended around his neck by a red string. The strangest addition to Wei Wuxian’s appearance was the countless ghostly-green fireflies floating around him. What purpose they serve, I do not know.”  The speaker shook his head. His expression haunted.

“Everyone believed that the Patriarch was about to start another massacre. One that would overshadow what he did in Nightless City. Instead, he plays one sharp note and Wei Wuxian dissolved into a murder of crows! The crows and fireflies passed through the shield and scattered into several different directions. Everyone else was left trapped within the barrier. For whatever reason, Wei Wuxian chose to spare the cultivation world his wrath that night.”

The crowd traded panicked whispers among themselves. The speaker watched them with an amused expression.

“You make it sound as if you were there.” The red robed youth piped up, while the rest of the tavern were busy processing the Yiling Laozu’s strange new powers. The rogue cultivator looked at the youth, affronted.

“I was there, ignorant brat! It took us nearly six months to break through that damned barrier and another three to search for that devil’s weakness in the Burial Mounds!”

“How has no one heard of this until now?” A member of the crowd asked disbelievingly.

“This is now common knowledge in the entire cultivation world. It’s not my fault no one cared to inform the people in this backwatered village!”

The youth snorted and shot back “How much of this story is fabricated? Unless you can provide proof that you were there yourself, I don’t see much of a point in listening to your fairy tales.”

The crowd let out murmurs of agreement. The rogue cultivator felt a tick mark growing on his forehead. He grabbed an item that was wrapped in layers of talismans from his pocket and slammed it on the table in front of the youth.

“Here’s your proof! The jade token that was once tied to Chenqing!” The youth picked up the token and examined it. The item exuded an absurd amount of yin energy that could only belong to something powerful.

“It certainly appears authentic.” He commented. The cultivator snatched back the token from the young man’s hands.

“Bah! What would you know?” He grumbled as a he re-wrapped the item and put it back in his pocket. The youth shot him an unimpressed look.

“You mentioned that you and your fellow cultivators were looking for the Patriarch’s weakness. Did you find it?” The youth asked blithely. The rogue cultivator gnashed his teeth.

“No. The Yiling Laozu is far too cunning.” He faced the crowd once more.

“While normal ghosts can be dissipated in numerous ways or sealed with a spirit-trapping pouch, beings like Wei Wuxian can only be destroyed through the destruction of their ashes.”

“Didn’t you mention he had a vial of ashes wrapped around his neck? Why were you looking for them in the Mounds?” A member of the crowd asked, confused.

“I’m getting there!” The rogue snapped before continuing “We looked for clues on where would Wei Wuxian go to for refuge. Through our findings we found many similar looking vials and took the chance that maybe his was among them. When we started destroying every vial we could see, we realized these ashes belonged to other ghosts. The truly horrifying part? After we captured a stray soul and demanded information, it was revealed that they willingly sacrificed themselves for the Patriarch. He did not even have to use his flute on them!” The cultivator shook his head in disbelief before continuing. “Somehow, this Wei Wuxian won the ghosts' loyalty after the destruction of his mortal body. They even called him ‘our lord’!”

“Perhaps he’s building a city for the dead as we speak.” One member mumbled. Almost everyone in the tavern let out shudders at that possibility. The only ones who weren’t affected was the story-teller and the youth. The rogue cultivator snorts.

“Now who’s telling fairy tales?” He took on a severe countenance.

“If the Yiling Laozu decided to create a ghost realm, the amount of resentful energy needed would attract the attention of every single cultivator within a thousand miles. Don’t you get it, you fools? He’s in hiding! Right now, he has likely suppressed the majority of his powers to such a degree that it would take a strong spiritual weapon to detect him.”

“Do you mean that finding the Patriarch is a hopeless endeavour?” The youth drawled out in a bored manner.

“Not quiet. Remember the ghost-flies? Normal fireflies only come out in the summer. Yet, no matter the season, these creatures follow him wherever he goes. We merely have to wait for news on them.” The rogue cultivator concluded.

“How sad that the entirety of the cultivation world has to rely on mere rumours and heresy to catch one measly ghost.” The youth remarked, casually.

“Well, do you have any better ideas?!” The rogue cultivator shouted. “If you don’t, then get out of my sight! You disrespectful wretch!”

The youth shrugged and got up. He brushed past the ill-tempered cultivator and smirked in secret as he exited the tavern. Once the ‘young man’ was a fair distance away, he pulled out the token that he snatched from the arrogant cultivator. A silver butterfly landed on the item. Hua Cheng waited as the creature scented the yin signature and watched as it took off in search of the source. He continued his leisurely walk.

Wei Wuxian. He thought. What an interesting character you are.

Chapter End.

Author's Note: Lycoris radiata is the botanical name for red spider lily. The flower is typically associated with death, long journeys, sad memories and final goodbyes. Interestingly, the colour red usually means love and passion.

Omake:

WWX: *sneezes for the nth time that day*

WWX: Aish! Have I suddenly become so popular?! Why the hell are people talking about me so much?!

WQ & WN: *judgmentally staring*

WWX: *sweatdrops* Nevermind~

All three: *see something let out a silver glow in a corner* Wait. What was that?

I'll try and post the rest of this fic one chapter per-week until I eventually run out. Hope ya enjoyed it!

[uranium235s]

sorry for being some insane kind of freak but i love your dragon age art unbelivably much (where are all the beautiful transgender people bioware i know they exist) and your lore seems really cool have you written it down somewhere? sorry if you havent i just really think your stuff is cool asf thanks

I LOVE INSANE FREAKS I AM ONE MYSELF PLLYTYRUGGYH thank you for asking I can definitely explain my ocs and their lore and will do so gleefully in fact, don't have it written down anywhere but my brain so this is my chance

probably needlessly long-winded lore below the cut

SOMNIAR

Somniar is an elven mage! he was born in the Mahariel clan, but when he was very young and began to show signs of magic, he was left behind in the Denerim Alienage because the clan had too many mages. He was briefly taken in by the Surana family, but a few years later the alienage gave him to the circle where he then grew up in its walls.

Surprisingly I have thought about his relationship with Jowan despite the fact that he's a bit one-off 💀 I think Somniar grew really attached to him and was basically his shadow for the first several years that he arrived there. when he realized he was trans, Jowan gave him all his hand-me-downs so he could wear the male robes because that was almost assuredly something he could not petition the templars for.

When Jowan escaped the circle, Somniar was blasé about being kicked out and conscripted. he found it better than the alternative (tranquility) and therefore went along with it just fine. He had deeply conflicting feelings about actually being a warden, having been raised by the circle to believe that he was uniquely prone to corruption, he worried that becoming tainted was something that would make him unclean or more susceptible to the thralls of evil magic. He didn't really cope with this fear until him and Alistair became truly isolated in their wardenhood after the massacre at Ostagar and he realized he had to be this way regardless, so there was little point in being emo about it.

At Ostagar, he reconnected with another new warden recruit from his birth clan named Sylric who belongs to an IRL friend of mine! Sylric is the one who gives Somniar his vallaslin and helps him reconnect with the Dalish :)

basic overview of his game choices:

• Romanced Alistair

• Travelling party is Leliana, Zevran, and Alistair

• Specializations are arcane warrior and spirit healer :)

1. Saved the circle and rejected the rite of annulment

2. Killed the demon, saved Connor, kept isolde alive, and vied for Jowan to not be executed

3. brokered peace between the Dalish and the werewolves, cured the curse

4. killed Branka, elected Bhelen

5. did not defile the ashes. obviously

6. Kept Alistair in the Wardens, elected Anora as queen, allowed Alistair to execute Loghain

7. asked Alistair very nicely to do the dark ritual

8. SURVIVED!!!!

His post canon is defined by being warden commander at Alistair's side until the events before DAI drove them in differing directions, physically, though as they intended to return to each other. However, in the events of DAI is left in the Fade, so that obviously can't really happen.

After the loss of his husband, Somniar takes a brief trek back to Ferelden with intent of invoking some kind of revenge on the inquisition but is stopped by Advisement of Leliana (who saw this coming)

After this, Somniar goes out on his lonesome and camps at various locations over, sleeping and exploring the Fade, and remains in this constant asleep state until he has a vivid and extremely depressing fade dream (which I have written about :) ) that brings him out of it. Afterwards, he heads to Antiva to travel with his closest friends, Zevran and Sylric <3

HAWKE

Honestly my hawke isn't very complex?? lore wise I think what the game presents is accurate, but im of the opinion that as he got older he became the black sheep of the family, exacerbated by Bethany dying. copes by humor and escapism but is constantly brought back down by The Neverending Agony

my Hawke's complexities are based on his relationships with the others and less on the events that besiege him though, I'd feel bad writing out an entire list of relationship Diagnostics so I will say that:

His most close-knit and authentic relationships are with Aveline, Varric, and Fenris, most complicated (but loving still) are Anders & Carver, and the rest of the companions being his close friends that don't really get to see his most personal side. Except Sebastian who is genuinely this man's arch nemesis.

Overview of my game choices:

• Romanced Anders

• Travelling party is Anders, Varric, and Fenris

• Specializations are Blood mage and spirit healer

• Purple personality mainly, w/ secondary blue :)

1. Carver became a grey warden

2. Duelled the Arishok to save Isabela

3. Helped anders compile the ingredients with pretty much no questions asked 💀

4. Sided with the mages. obviously.

Bonus, Legacy - 5. Sided with Larius to kill Corypheus

6. (DAI) Survived the fade

Post-Fade, Hawke meets up with Carver and Anders to ensure their safety before travelling back to Kirkwall. He is all too happy to tease Varric about being Viscount but gladly helped in furthering the rebuilding effort while thinly obscuring Anders continued existence

FIRUZ

my sweet Dalish mage. Firuz absolutely loved life with his Clan. He was extremely close and familiar with his Keeper above even his own parents, and was basically the clan babysitter. Because of his incredible patience and chaos management, the clan elected him to be the one to watch over the Divine Conclave, much to his dismay.

His vallaslin are of June, the elven God of craft, which fits him well :) despite his magic, Firuz always has a higher affinity for mending and crafting things the old fashioned way. while in Skyhold (less so in haven) he spends his free time crafting armor for his travelling companions and aiding in weapon crafting, which he is admittedly a little bit less good with. He absolutely adores Dalish leather and wood weaving but finds less time to commit to it while leading the inquisition :(

Game choices:

• Romanced Dorian

• Travelling party is Dorian, Cassandra, and Varric

• Specialization is rift mage :)

• War table missions mostly used Josephine and Lelianna

1. Allied with the mages

2. Left Alistair in the Fade :(

3. Kept the Wardens in Ferelden to rebuild

4. Brought Celene and Briala back together and had them rule Orlais as a duo (mostly)

5. Drank from the Well Of Sorrows (hence why his hair turned white 💀)

6. (Trespasser) vowed to stop Solas by any means necessary

7. (Trespasser) Disbands the inquisition

After the events of the main game, Firuz mostly spends his time hunting dragons and taking care of the remaining rifts around the south. He spends a lot of time recuperating from an absolute horror show of a hero's journey, and returning to passions he lost along the way. Firuz starts the game as quite overwhelmed and jumpy about his situation and by the end has mostly entered a state of numb depression. At no point does he take well to being the leader or the hope of the people.

In the few weeks before Trespasser where Dorian has returned to Tevinter "temporarily", Firuz takes as an opportunity to finally return to his Clan, at least for a brief visit. These few days really heal something in him, and give him a deceptively good feeling about the future, which is almost immediately destroyed by the events of Trespasser.

After losing his arm and his partner, he spends a lot of time running Jenny business with Sera, and travelling to visit his friends who have thus scattered to the wind. In particular, he makes good on Varric's offer to come visit in Kirkwall and spends many weeks there overseeing the rebuilding effort and spending time with Varric, Hawke and company. Alongside this, he stays with his Clan long term. Occasionally, he sneaks to Tevinter if permitted, but never for more than a few days. I'm so excited for what horrors DA:D will inflict upon his short-lived peace

SORRY FOR SO MANY WORDS I CANT HELP MYSELF

[sunvistajourney]

Step Into History with Sun Vista Journey's Exclusive Cultural Heritage Tours of India

India is a place where spiritual rites, centuries-old customs, and ancient monuments make time stand still. If you're an American tourist who has a strong interest in history, culture, and classic tales, Sun Vista Journey Cultural Heritage Tours of India provides the ideal method to see the essence of this amazing nation.

From imposing palaces and forts to revered temples and ageless villages, every trip organized by Sun Vista Journey is more than just a trip; it's a voyage through time.

Why Choose a Cultural Heritage Tour of India?

India's current diversity is a result of its more than 5,000 years of uninterrupted history.  Rich customs, distinctive ceremonies, and magnificent architecture are examples of the legacy left by dynasties like as the Mughals, Mauryas, Rajputs, and Cholas.  In addition to seeing these sites, a Cultural Heritage Tour in India allows you to become fully immersed in the customs and tales that give them life.

Every destination has a story to tell, whether it's the majestic charm of Rajasthan, the spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi, or the breathtaking Taj Mahal.

Top Cultural Heritage Destinations You Must Explore

1. The Mughal Marvels: Delhi, Agra & Fatehpur Sikri

Begin your heritage journey with the classic Golden Triangle Tour.

Explore Delhi’s Humayun’s Tomb and Qutub Minar

Marvel at the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra

Walk through the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, an abandoned Mughal capital with striking red sandstone architecture

Each site is a window into India’s imperial past.

2. Royal Rajasthan: Jaipur, Udaipur & Jodhpur

Step into the grandeur of India’s royal history.

In Jaipur, discover the Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal

In Udaipur, enjoy serene boat rides across Lake Pichola and admire the regal City Palace

In Jodhpur, visit the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, towering over the Blue City

Rajasthan is a celebration of art, architecture, and valor—perfect for history lovers.

3. Spiritual Varanasi & Artistic Khajuraho

Feel the spiritual heartbeat of India in Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest cities.

Witness the soul-stirring Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Take a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges

Explore Khajuraho, home to intricately carved UNESCO-listed temples that reflect India's ancient artistic legacy

4. Timeless Traditions in Kerala

For those who want to blend heritage with serenity, Kerala offers the best of both worlds.

Cruise through the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey in a traditional houseboat

Enjoy cultural performances like Kathakali in Fort Kochi

Discover the colonial charm and spice trade history of southern India

Kerala’s fusion of nature, history, and local traditions is a unique cultural gem.

Why Travel with Sun Vista Journey?

At Sun Vista Journey, we believe that a heritage tour should be as enriching as it is comfortable. Here’s what sets us apart:

✅ Expertly Curated Itineraries

Our team hand-picks iconic heritage destinations and lesser-known cultural treasures to create immersive and balanced travel experiences.

✅ Local Guides with Deep Knowledge

Our professional guides are more than narrators—they are storytellers who bring India's history to life with rich anecdotes and insights.

✅ Comfort & Luxury

We ensure you travel in style and comfort, with handpicked hotels, air-conditioned transport, and seamless coordination throughout the journey.

✅ Customized Heritage Experiences

Whether you're fascinated by architecture, spiritual sites, or royal lifestyles, we tailor every itinerary to your interests and pace.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: When is the best time to take a cultural heritage tour in India? A: October to March is the most pleasant time to explore India, especially for cultural and historical sightseeing.

Q2: How long should I plan for a cultural tour of India? A: Most tours range from 10 to 15 days, covering major heritage cities and attractions.

Q3: Is India safe for American tourists? A: Yes, India is safe and welcoming to international tourists. With Sun Vista Journey, all travel logistics and safety protocols are handled for a worry-free experience.

Q4: What should I pack for a cultural tour in India? A: Bring light and modest clothing, a pair of comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a good camera for capturing architectural marvels.

Q5: Can I get a customized tour itinerary? A: Sure! Regardless of your interests—temples, forts, colonial history, or festivals—our travel specialists will collaborate with you to create a personalized itinerary.

Book Your Cultural Heritage Tour with Sun Vista Journey Today

The cultural landscape of India is enormous, varied, and incredibly fascinating. You are going through history, discovering the meanings behind each stone, and feeling the pulse of old civilizations when you go on the Sun Vista Journey.

Our Cultural Heritage Tours of India are designed specifically for you, whether you're a history lover, a spiritual seeker, or an inquisitive American traveler hoping to discover India outside of the travel guides.

[strengervinay]

Riverfront Bliss: Camping in Rishikesh & Wilderness!

If your soul’s been yearning for nature’s hug and a dash of thrill, Rishikesh camping booking is the escape you’ve been craving. Nestled along the serene banks of the Ganga, Shivpuri on the Badrinath Highway offers a camping experience that’s a perfect blend of tranquillity, adrenaline, and connection — with both nature and yourself.

Night Camping in Rishikesh: Where Peace Meets Adventure

Imagine unzipping your tent to the sound of a gurgling river and chirping birds. That’s the reality of night camping in Rishikesh, where days are packed with adventure and nights with bonfires and a starlit sky.

Arrive at the campsite by 12:00 PM and get welcomed with a refreshing drink. Post check-in, you’ll have a luscious lunch, play games like volleyball and badminton, and go waterfall trekking. The evening is reserved for music by the bonfire and a hearty dinner under the stars. Tents are comfy, and the view? Worth a million sighs.

Rafting and Camping in Rishikesh: A Duo That Delivers

For the wild hearts and adrenaline junkies, rafting and camping in Rishikesh go hand in hand like maggi and mountains. White water rafting on the Ganga isn’t just a sport — it’s a rite of passage for every thrill-seeker who comes here.

From 9 km to 24 km stretches, you get to choose your battle with the waves. Tack on a bungee jump or flying fox if you’re feeling extra adventurous. Once your adrenaline settles, retreat to your riverside tent and sip some chai as the sun dips behind the hills.

Camping Rafting in Rishikesh: All-in-One Wilderness Package

Planning your next group trip or a weekend escape? Choose a camping rafting in Rishikesh package that combines everything — adventure, food, and fire-lit nights. For just ₹999 per person, this 1-night, 2-day deal includes three meals, snacks, indoor games, and a waterfall trek.

Whether you’re trekking to the nearby waterfall, exploring the lush biodiversity, or floating in the pool with mountains watching over, this package ensures your escape is both rugged and restful.

River Side Camp in Rishikesh: Reconnect by the Ganga

There's something timeless about a riverside camp in Rishikesh. As you watch the Ganga stream by, surrounded by forests and the misty Shivaliks, the noise of your daily grind fades away.

Morning tea with a riverside view, meditation under ancient trees, or lazy strolls exploring Shivpuri’s rich local culture — this is the gentle side of adventure. You’re not just camping; you’re realigning your soul.

Bliss Beyond the Bonfire: The Final Word

Rishikesh camping booking isn't just about booking a tent — it’s about stepping into a rhythm far removed from the chaos of urban life. From the thrill of night camping in Rishikesh, to the white-water challenge of rafting and camping in Rishikesh, to the all-inclusive ease of camping rafting in Rishikesh, and the meditative magic of a river side camp in Rishikesh, this adventure offers something for every soul.

Dreaming of the Char Dham Yatra in 2025? If yes, check out Universal Adventures’ website for itinerary details and answers to all your questions!

[dotinluquman]

The Best Kochi Wedding Venues stated by Renowned Wedding Planners

Live the Enchantment: Best Kochi Wedding Destination as Recommended by Top Wedding Planners

When it comes to your dream wedding, venue comes into play. Your venue selection tastefully selected not just defines the mood of your D-day but also dictates the entire experience for your guests and yourself. Kochi has been a popular venue for Indian weddings because of its amazing blend of seaside cool and heritage.

If you are getting married in this beautiful piece of Kerala, a destination wedding planner in Kochi will show you the most gorgeous, high-end spots that are not even on lightning-fast Google search. They are locals and pros, so they have met them personally, which would be just great for your size, budget, and your taste. Let us see some of the most popular wedding venues in Kochi, as recommended by experts.

1. Bolgatty Palace and Island Resort

One of the top Kochi wedding locations is Bolgatty Palace, which is a water-leaf palace. This is ideal for a lavish royal wedding full of pomp and circumstance.Event organizers like the location because of availability of space, uniqueness of place, and affordability. The palace is perfect for little residential of guests with barely any logistic issues as well.

2. Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Cochin

A tranquil and opulent retreat, this five-star retreat is situated on Willingdon Island with a view of the harbor.. The colonial as well as contemporary facilities combined harmoniously make it perfect for couples who like comfort. Perfect for beach weddings in small numbers and sundown receptions at sunset with picturesque views of the setting sun, luxury Kochi destination wedding planners recommend it.

3. Ramada Resort by Wyndham Kochi

It is situated amidst backwaters and offers indoor as well as outdoor areas for celebrations. One such perfect spot for couples who would love to have the beauty of God's own country dress their special occasion. Planners' heaven because it is easily accessible, like a painting, and has good accommodation.

4. Brunton Boatyard

For a touch of romance and history, this Fort Kochi heritage hotel is simply ideal. The fact that it has a sea view and is located in a colonial building adds to its secluded and intimate feel. Planners love its retro feel and elements, particularly for small weddings or pre-wedding functions.

5. Le Meridien Kochi

One of the largest in Kochi, Le Meridien is capable of hosting grand weddings in its expansive halls. With river-facing lawns and banquet halls and with every modern amenity, it is the top priority. For prolonged wedding ceremonies with lots of rites and large guest lists, they propose it.

6. Lake Symphony Resort

It is situated in a secluded area surrounded by the backwaters, the resort provides the wedding party with a peaceful, nature-blessed wedding location. It is the planner's choice number one as it is relaxed in nature and perfect for the couple who would like to experience a relaxed, stress-free wedding with plenty of greenscape.

Having the ideal Kochi venue isn't a matter of being there but also understanding how to throw open each of the venues to your theme wedding. A Kochi destination wedding planner isn't merely an individual who books and negotiates but also knows how to handle the crew around, arrange theme decors, and plan events depending on weather conditions as well as logistical needs of locations.

They will take you there where you desire to go, either an ocean wedding, history palace wedding, or resort wedding. Your home representative can even obtain a more favorable package price and more tailored options.

 Summary

Kochi boasts an abundance of wedding locales that could create a memorable evening, including upscale resorts and palaces, tranquil backwaters, and historic hotels.

[oilsandherbsuk]

Powerful Benefits of Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense, sometimes known as the “king of oils,” is one of the most treasured essential oils in the world. Spiritual practices, skincare, and holistic health have used frankincense essential oil for thousands of years. It is a remarkable natural cure that continues to fascinate with its numerous medicinal capabilities. Whether you want a peaceful atmosphere, softer skin, or a boost to your immune system, this ancient oil can help.

If you’re new to essential oils or are already familiar with their advantages, you’ll want to learn how Frankincense Essential Oil can improve your health. Let’s examine its highlights and how to use them daily.

What is Frankincense Essential Oil?

Frankincense essential oil is obtained from the resin of the Boswellia tree, which is found mostly in the dry, mountainous regions of the Arabian Peninsula, Africa, and India. The resin is collected, steam distilled, and turned into an aromatic oil that has been utilised in a variety of applications, including religious rites and contemporary aromatherapy.

Small incisions extract the rich, amber-coloured resin of the Boswellia tree from its bark. Over time, the resin solidifies into what we know as frankincense, which has a long history of use in ancient cultures. In fact, the Bible records Franciscense as one of the gifts given to the infant Jesus, underscoring its significance in religious rituals.

What distinguishes frankincense is its unique blend of chemicals, which include alpha-pinene, limonene, boswellic acid, and incensole acetate, all of which contribute to its numerous advantages. These components give frankincense its rich, earthy perfume and potent healing powers that benefit both the mind and the body.

1.     Enhances relaxation and reduces stress.

People commonly use frankincense essential oil to relax and relieve stress. Its relaxing effects can help generate a sense of tranquillity and peace, making it an excellent choice for relieving anxiety or calming the mind after a stressful day.

When diffused in your home or business, frankincense can assist in creating a peaceful environment ideal for meditation, yoga, or simply relaxing. The oil’s grounding effect helps to slow down the nervous system, promoting deep, restorative breathing and mental clarity.

Why does frankincense have such a calming effect?

Research has demonstrated that Frankincense controls the neurological system, aiding in emotional balance and reducing feelings of anxiety. Frankincense contains incensole acetate, which has been associated with reduced anxiety and a deeper sense of relaxation. Studies have also demonstrated that inhaling frankincense enhances the body’s stress-coping capacity by reducing the release of cortisol, a hormone that occurs during stress.

Many people use frankincense oil to improve their meditation practices, finding that it clears the mind, deepens attention, and creates a tranquil environment that facilitates a stronger connection to the present.

Quick Tip: To create a tranquil environment and increase attention during meditation, add a few drops of frankincense essential oil to a diffuser or apply it to your pulse points. You may also combine it with other essential oils, such as lavender or sandalwood, to create a soothing combination for the evening.

2.     It improves immune function.

Experts also recognise frankincense essential oil for its immune-boosting qualities. Its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties can help the body fight off harmful germs while also maintaining healthy circulation.

Research has demonstrated that the boswellic acids in frankincense can help reduce inflammation in the body, thereby improving your immune system’s ability to fight infections. Whether you’re recovering from an illness or simply want to boost your immune system, frankincense can be a useful addition to your wellness routine.

The Function of Boswellic Acids in Immune Support

Boswellic acids are a crucial component of frankincense resin and are known to have a strong immune-boosting impact. These chemicals serve to regulate the immune response, lowering inflammation and promoting general health. They also aid in circulation, allowing the body to more effectively distribute oxygen and nutrients, which is essential for a healthy immune system.

Research has demonstrated that frankincense enhances respiratory function by clearing blocked sinuses, reducing coughing, and enhancing general lung health. Inhaling frankincense essential oil can help clear the airways, making it an excellent choice for anyone experiencing seasonal allergies or cold symptoms.

Quick Tip: During flu season, diffuse frankincense essential oil or apply it to the chest to boost respiratory health and immunity. You can also dilute it with carrier oil and massage it into your neck and chest to help open your airways.

3.     Promotes skin health.

Frankincense essential oil is a natural treatment that can help improve the appearance of your skin. This oil is well-known for its anti-ageing effects, which can minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in smoother, more youthful skin.

Frankincense can also help with skin renewal, so it’s a beneficial choice for boosting skin tone and texture. Due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, people have used it to treat acne, remove scars, and soothe irritation.

How Frankincense Improves Skin Health

Frankincense oil is abundant in antioxidants, which help protect the skin from free radicals—unstable chemicals that can cause damage and premature ageing. Frankincense’s anti-inflammatory qualities can help reduce redness and swelling caused by acne, eczema, and other skin disorders.

The oil’s capacity to stimulate cell regeneration makes it an excellent choice for reducing the look of scars, stretch marks, and wrinkles. It also tightens and tones the skin, making it appear more youthful and bright.

Quick Tip: For a revitalising skin treatment, mix a drop of frankincense essential oil with your moisturiser or carrier oil.  It is particularly beneficial for aged or acne-prone skin. You may also make your own face serum by combining frankincense with oils like rosehip or jojoba.

4.     Promotes healthy respiratory function.

Traditional medicine has long used frankincense to promote respiratory health. Its anti-inflammatory effects assist in reducing swelling in the airways, making it beneficial for illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, and nasal congestion.

The oil’s relaxing properties on the respiratory system might help you breathe easier, clear your nasal passages, and improve lung function. If you’re feeling congested or having trouble breathing, frankincense can provide a natural, holistic treatment.

How Does Frankincense Help With Breathing?

Research has demonstrated that Frankincense expands airways, reduces inflammation, and increases oxygen intake, thereby simplifying deep breathing. Frankincense’s alpha-pinene is well-known for its ability to cleanse sinuses and prevent respiratory tract infections.

Quick Tip: Inhale the relaxing aroma of Frankincense Essential Oil straight from the bottle, or add a few drops to a steam inhalation to expand the airways and make breathing easier. You can also dilute it with carrier oil and apply it directly to your chest or back for added support.

5.     Promotes mental clarity and focus.

Another significant advantage of frankincense is its capacity to improve cognitive function. This oil’s relaxing yet uplifting characteristics can help clear the mind and increase attention, making it an excellent choice for anyone who requires mental clarity when working or studying.

Frankincense promotes memory retention, focus, and overall mental sharpness. It can help you stay alert and focused while lowering mental weariness, making it especially useful for people who are experiencing stress-related cognitive deterioration.

How Frankincense Improves Cognitive Function.

Frankincense contains incensole acetate, which has been proven to improve brain function, notably in regions involved in memory, emotional regulation, and focus. Frankincense, which reduces tension and promotes serenity, can help you concentrate better and stay cognitively bright.

Quick Tip: To boost attention and mental clarity, apply frankincense essential oil to your temples or diffuse it while at work or studying. You can also combine it with peppermint or rosemary oil to enhance your cognitive abilities.

Frankincense Essential Oil for Skin Rejuvenation and Anti-Ageing

Frankincense essential oil is an effective tool for maintaining youthful, beautiful skin. It has anti-ageing benefits because it stimulates skin cell regeneration, thereby reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.  This oil also helps decrease the appearance of scars and stretch marks by improving skin suppleness and healing.

How Does It Work?

The oil contains ingredients that improve circulation and oxygenation in the skin, allowing for greater nutrient absorption and regeneration. Frankincense’s anti-inflammatory properties aid in soothing sensitive skin, reducing redness and swelling. It also possesses antioxidant capabilities that protect the skin from the harmful effects of free radicals and environmental stresses such as pollution and ultraviolet light.

How to use: To integrate frankincense into your skincare regimen, simply add a few drops to your moisturiser or combine it with carrier oils such as jojoba, rosehip, or argan oil.  Massage the mixture onto your face or body to minimise wrinkles and improve skin tone.  It’s a gentle and effective technique to revitalise your skin and reduce the effects of ageing.

People use frankincense essential oil for spiritual and emotional healing.

People have used frankincense for ages in spiritual pursuits, especially as incense during meditation, prayers, and ceremonies. Its anchoring and relaxing characteristics aid in deeper emotional healing, making it a vital tool for people seeking to improve their mental and emotional health.

How Frankincense Benefits Your Mind and Spirit

Frankincense is known for calming the mind and promoting clarity. The oil promotes emotional balance and inner tranquilly. It is very useful for coping with anxiety, depression, or sorrow. By breathing frankincense or using it in meditation, you can create a relaxing environment that promotes emotional balance and spiritual awareness.

The relaxing perfume can help you release negative energy, relieve emotional blockages, and feel more connected to your inner self. Whether you want to improve your awareness or lower emotional tension, frankincense is an effective tool for emotional and spiritual healing.

How to Use: To incorporate frankincense into your spiritual activities, spread it in your environment as you meditate or pray. You can also rub it on your wrists or pulse points to help with grounding and emotional peace. If you want to experience deep relaxation, use frankincense to enhance yoga sessions or to create a serene environment for deep introspection.

 

Final Thoughts

Frankincense essential oil has a long history of use for spiritual, bodily, and mental health. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, immune support, enhanced skin health, respiratory relief, or mental clarity, frankincense has a wide range of benefits that can help you live a better life.

If you haven’t yet introduced frankincense essential oil into your daily regimen, now is the time to start. With its grounding, relaxing, and renewing effects, this ancient oil can help you achieve equilibrium in your mind, body, and soul.

Quick Tip: For the best results, use frankincense essential oil frequently. Make it a daily practice to reap the entire variety of benefits, whether through your skincare routine, diffuser, or wellness ritual.

FAQs for Frankincense Essential Oil

1.         What is Frankincense Essential Oil?

Boswellia tree resin, found in the Arabian Peninsula, Africa, and India, is used to make frankincense essential oil. Steam distillation extracts the aromatic oil, which people have used for its therapeutic, spiritual, and healing effects for hundreds of years.

2.         What are the main benefits of frankincense essential oil?

Frankincense oil is known for its relaxing properties, which promote relaxation and stress reduction. It also strengthens the immune system and promotes skin health by reducing fine wrinkles and acne, and helps improve lung function. Additionally, it improves brain clarity, focus, and emotional well-being.

3.         How should I utilise frankincense essential oils?

There are several ways to use frankincense.

•           Diffuse aromatherapy throughout your house or office to create a relaxing ambiance.

•           Topically, dilute with carrier oil and apply to skin for regeneration or chest for respiratory assistance.

•           Some people consume frankincense internally, but only under the supervision of a healthcare practitioner due to potential benefits.

4.         Does frankincense essential oil help with stress and anxiety?

Yes, frankincense has grounding characteristics that can help relieve stress and anxiety. The oil promotes relaxation by lowering cortisol levels and helping the neurological system manage stress.

5.         Is frankincense essential oil safe for the skin?

Frankincense is suitable for most skin types when mixed with a carrier oil. It is known for its anti-ageing, calming, and healing effects, which can assist with acne, wrinkles, and scars.

6.         Can I use frankincense when pregnant?

Always consult your doctor before using any essential oils, including frankincense, if you are pregnant, as some oils may not be safe to use during pregnancy.

[gil-galadhwen]

31 Days of Dragon Age

Days 1-5 here. Days 6-10 here. Days 11-15 here.

Day 16 - Favourite DA2 Location

Hmm... either the viscount's keep for chats with Aveline or the Hanged Man for chats with Varric.

Day 17 - Favourite DA2 Quest

Tranquility. Mostly because it involves rescuing a mage from the templars and my Hawke meeting Anders for the first time 👀

Day 18 - Favourite DA2 NPC

It has to be Sandal. At this point, and after interacting with him in DAO, I was starting to get intrigued by what he might be...

Day 19 - Favourite DA2 Scene/Dialogue

When Aveline speaks to Hawke about grief...

"When someone tells you 'move on,' you take their hand and say 'my choice.' No one tells you how to mourn."

Day 20 - Favourite DA2 Lore/Codex Entry

Although apprentices do not know the nature of the Harrowing, all of them understand its consequences: They either pass and become full mages, or they are never seen again. Those who fear to undertake this rite of passage, or those who are deemed weak or unstable, are given the Rite of Tranquility instead.

The actual procedure, like the Harrowing, is secret, but the results are just as well known. The rite severs connection to the Fade. The Tranquil, therefore, do not dream. This removes the greatest danger that threatens a weak or unprepared mage, the potential to attract demons across the Veil. But this is the least of Tranquility's effects, for the absence of dreams brings with it the end of all magical ability, as well as all emotion.

The Tranquil, ironically, resemble sleepwalkers, never entirely awake nor asleep. They are still part of our Circle, however, and some might say they are the most critical part. They have incredible powers of concentration, for it is simply impossible to distract a Tranquil mage, and this makes them capable of becoming craftsmen of such skill that they rival even the adeptness of the dwarves. The Formari, the branch of the Circle devoted to item enchantment, is made up exclusively of Tranquil, and is the source of all the wealth that sustains our towers.

—From On Tranquility and the Role of the Fade in Human Society, by First Enchanter Josephus.

[tourporlaindiaseo]

Triangulo Dorado Con Varanasi By Tour Por la India Company

Golden Triangle with Varanasi by Tour Por La India Company

Introduction Tour Por la India Company's Varanasi tour provides an opportunity to experience the essence of India through the Golden Triangle with Varanasi . This painstakingly designed trip links the lively cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur to the spiritual refuge of Varanasi. This tour promises to weave a complex tapestry of history, culture, and spirituality, delivering a fascinating experience to India's most prominent places.

Day 1: Arrive in Delhi.

H2: Exploring Delhi. Begin your tour in Delhi, the capital city that combines old history and modern vibrancy.

H3: Highlights from Old Delhi Visit the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the lively Chandni Chowk Market. Don't miss the Jama Masjid, one of India's largest mosques.

H3: Sights of New Delhi Explore New Delhi's sights, such as India Gate, Qutub Minar, and Humayun's Tomb. Drive by the Presidential Palace and Parliament House.

Day Two: Delhi to Jaipur

H2: A Journey to the Pink City Travel to Jaipur, Rajasthan's capital, noted for its rich past and beautiful architecture.

H3 - Amber Fort Begin by visiting Amber Fort. Take an elephant or jeep ride to the fort and admire its magnificent buildings and courtyards.

H3: City Palace and Jantar Mantar. Visit the City Palace, a royal home and museum, as well as Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory.

H3 - Hawa Mahal Visit the magnificent Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds, which is distinguished by its distinctive lattice windows.

Day three: Jaipur to Agra

H2: En Route Visit to Fatehpur Sikri. On your journey to Agra, stop at Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This abandoned city boasts breathtaking Mughal architecture.

H3: Arrival at Agra When you arrive in Agra, check into your hotel and plan your day's activities.

Day 4: Agra sightseeing.

H2: The Taj Mahal. Begin the day with a visit to the Taj Mahal. At sunrise, the white marble tomb is breathtakingly beautiful.

H3: Agra Fort. Explore Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its palaces, courtyards, and gardens.

H3: Itimad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb Visit the Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb, sometimes known as the "Baby Taj," for its delicate marble craftsmanship and tranquil atmosphere.

Day five: Agra to Varanasi

H2: Visit Varanasi. Take a train or a fly to Varanasi, one of the world's oldest living cities and a popular Hindu pilgrimage destination.

H3: The Evening Aarti Ceremony The Ganga Aarti ceremony takes place on the Ganges River's ghats. This spiritual ceremony consists of chanting, music, and lamp lighting.

Day 6: Varanasi Exploration

H2: Ganges Boat Ride Take an early morning boat ride on the Ganges to view the dawn and observe pilgrims' daily rituals on the ghats.

H3: Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple Explore the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is one of Varanasi's most sacred temples and devoted to Lord Shiva.

H3: Sarnath Excursion Visit Sarnath, where the Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the archeological site, stupas, and museum.

Day 7: Back to Delhi.

H2: Depart from Varanasi After breakfast, you will be transported to the airport or railway station for your return to Delhi.

H3: Tour ends When you arrive in Delhi, you will be dropped off at your hotel or the airport, bringing your Golden Triangle tour with Varanasi to a close.

Conclusion Tour Por La India Company's Golden Triangle with Varanasi tour combines historical sights, cultural encounters, and spiritual adventures. From the architectural marvels of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur to the religious rites of Varanasi, this itinerary offers a thorough and engaging view of India. Travelers can expect a wonderful and hassle-free trip thanks to skilled guides, comfortable accommodations, and well-planned itineraries.

FAQs

1. What is included in the Golden Triangle and Varanasi tour package? The tour includes lodging, transportation, guided tours of main sights, admission payments, and some meals. Specific inclusions may differ depending on the tour package.

2. How long is the Golden Triangle with Varanasi Tour? The itinerary normally lasts seven days and includes visits to Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, and Varanasi.

3. Is it possible to modify the tour? Yes, customized solutions are available to meet your needs, such as additional stops or schedule alterations.

4. What should I wear to the tour? It is recommended that you dress comfortably and wear walking shoes. When visiting sacred sites, dress modestly, and bring a hat and sunscreen, especially during the warmer months.

5. Are cameras permitted near the monuments? Most monuments allow photography, however tripods and bulky backpacks are not always permitted. Your guide will provide more information about what to bring.

[thetajinindia]

spiritual Tours India By The Taj In India Company

The Taj In India Company provides Spiritual Tours in India.

India, with its rich tapestry of spiritual traditions and practices, has long been a haven for individuals seeking enlightenment, calm, and a better understanding of oneself. The Taj In India Company provides expertly planned Spiritual Tours that take guests to some of the country's most respected and spiritually significant places. These tours offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to see historic temples, partake in traditional ceremonies, and relax in hallowed areas, all while learning about India's rich spiritual legacy.

Tour's Highlights

Day 1: Arrive in Delhi

Hello and welcome to India.

Your spiritual trip begins with a warm greeting at the Delhi airport. An escort from The Taj In India Company will accompany you to your hotel for check-in and leisure. An introduction to Indian spirituality

In the evening, there will be a brief orientation session regarding Indian spirituality, which will provide an overview of the upcoming events as well as the significance of each place. Overnight stay in Delhi

Rest and prepare for the upcoming spiritual journey. Day 2: Delhi–Haridwar

Morning Departure to Haridwar

After breakfast, take a picturesque journey to Haridwar, one of India's holiest cities, on the banks of the Ganges River. Har Ki Pauri ghat

Visit Har Ki Pauri Ghat, a sacred bathing ghat where pilgrims go to wash away their sins in the Ganges' holy waters. Participate in the evening Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing rite that includes prayers, songs, and the presentation of lamps to the river. Stay overnight at Haridwar.

Stay at Haridwar overnight to absorb the spiritual ambiance of this ancient city. Day Three: Haridwar - Rishikesh

Early morning yoga session

Begin your day with a restorative yoga session on the Ganges riverbank, led by a local yoga instructor. This calm location allows you to experience body and mind harmony. Travel to Rishikesh by car.

After breakfast, travel to Rishikesh, dubbed the "Yoga Capital of the World." This tranquil village, located in the Himalayan foothills, is well-known for its ashrams, yoga institutes, and spiritual retreats. Visit to Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

Explore the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, which is one of Rishikesh's largest. Participate in a meditation session to learn more about the ashram's teachings and practices. Evening Aarti on Triveni Ghat

Attend the nighttime Aarti at Triveni Ghat, a tremendous spiritual experience featuring chanting, music, and the customary offering of lamps to the river. Overnight stay in Rishikesh

Spend a relaxing night in Rishikesh, surrounded by the gentle sounds of the Ganges. Day 4: Rishikesh-Varanasi

Morning Yoga and Meditation

Begin your day with meditation and yoga, emphasizing inner serenity and self-awareness. Flights to Varanasi

Following breakfast, transfer to the airport for your trip to Varanasi, one of the world's oldest and most sacred cities. Arrive in Varanasi

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind before exploring India's spiritual center. The evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the great nighttime Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a captivating ceremony in which priests execute rites with fire, incense, and chanting to create an extraordinary spiritual mood. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Stay in Varanasi overnight and soak up the city's tremendous spiritual atmosphere. Day 5 - Varanasi

Sunrise boat ride on the Ganges

Begin your day with a peaceful boat trip along the Ganges at daybreak. The ghats come to life as pilgrims do their morning rituals and prayers. Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Learn about the temple's history and Hindu religious importance. Sarnath Tour

Visit Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. Explore the ancient ruins, stupas, and Sarnath Museum, which exhibits valuable Buddhist items. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Reflect on your day's events and spend another night in this spiritually active city. Day Six: Varanasi - Delhi

Morning Free Time:

Spend the morning at leisure, touring local markets or returning to the ghats to deepen your connection with the spiritual atmosphere. Flight Return to Delhi

In the afternoon, transfer to the airport to catch your flight back to Delhi. A farewell dinner

Finish your spiritual trip with a farewell supper, where you can share your experiences and thoughts from the tour. Overnight stay in Delhi

Spend your final night in Delhi, ready for your voyage ahead. Why Should You Choose The Taj India Company?

Authentic Spiritual Experiences: The Taj In India Company provides authentic spiritual encounters by introducing visitors to educated guides, local practitioners, and traditional ceremonies. Customized Itineraries: Tours are designed to match individual preferences and spiritual interests, resulting in a very personal and meaningful experience. Comfort and Convenience: Travel in air-conditioned vehicles and stay in carefully selected lodgings to enhance your spiritual experience. Expert Guidance: Take advantage of the insights and experience of guides who are deeply knowledgeable about India's spiritual legacy. Conclusion

The Taj In India Company's Spiritual Tours India take you on a transforming trip to India's most sacred and spiritually significant locations. From the sacred city of Varanasi to the serene ashrams of Rishikesh, this tour offers a rich tapestry of experiences to nourish the spirit and educate the intellect. Whether you're looking for inner peace, spiritual progress, or a better understanding of India's many spiritual traditions, this pilgrimage promises to be memorable and enriching.

[tajmirrortours01]

Royal Rajasthan Tour by Taj Mirror Tours Company.

Visit Taj Mirror Tours to start your Royal Rajasthan Tour.

An Overview of Royal Rajasthan Tour A state in India renowned for its magnificent forts, sumptuous palaces, lively culture, and gracious hospitality is Rajasthan, often known as the "land of royalty and valor." It gives a taste of India's illustrious past, where legends of bravery and magnificence abound everywhere you look. A tour through this majestic land filled with history, culture, and timeless beauty is what the Taj Mirror Tours' Royal Rajasthan Tour promises to be like.

With Royal Rajasthan Tour, Why Not? Experience designing immersive travel itineraries is a specialty of Taj Mirror Tours, particularly in Rajasthan. Ensuring that each visitor encounters the genuine spirit of Rajasthan's regal heritage, they prioritize elegance and authenticity. Taj Mirror Tours promises an unforgettable trip to this famous state, from painstakingly designed itineraries to flawless execution.

Highlights of the route Day 1: Welcome to The Pink City of Jaipur The Pink City of Rajasthan, Jaipur, is the starting point of your adventure. The Taj Mirror Tours personnel will meet you at the airport and take you to your accommodation. Discover the vibrant marketplaces and streets that are painted in pink tones, which accentuate Jaipur's elegance.

Touring Jaipur on Day Two Visit the magnificent stronghold perched on a hilltop, Amber Fort, to begin your day with breathtaking city views. While you visit its palaces and courtyards, marvel at its exquisite architecture and historical significance. Proceed to the magnificent City Palace, which houses museums and royal relics and has a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture.

Day 3: From Jaipur to Jodhpur, the "Blue City" Visit Jodhpur, sometimes called the Blue City because of its houses that contrast sharply with the desert surroundings, with azure hues. Take a tour of the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, which is situated atop a hill with a view of the city. Discover stories of Rajasthan's regal history through its beautifully preserved palaces, elaborate carvings, and large courtyards.

Day Four: Journey from Jodhpur to Udaipur, the City of Lakes Make your way to Udaipur, sometimes called the Venice of the East because of its serene lakes and sultry atmosphere. See the expansive collection of palaces known as the City Palace, which has a stunning view of Lake Pichola. See the amazing cityscape from Jag Mandir Palace, which is encircled by water on all sides, by enjoying a lake cruise.

Day 5: Overview of Udaipur Take a tour of the stunning Saheliyon ki Bari park, designed for the royal women and including fountains and marble pavilions. See the Jagdish Temple, which is devoted to Lord Vishnu and renowned for its magnificent construction and carvings. Experience Rajasthan's colorful traditional music and dance traditions during a cultural display in the evening.

Day6: Journey from Udaipur to Pushkar, the Sacred City Go on to Pushkar, a holy town well-known for its Brahma Temple, one of the world's few temples devoted to Lord Brahma. Go through the lively marketplaces that line the busy streets, where you may get jewelry, handicrafts, and spiritual mementos. Take in the tranquil Pushkar Lake, which is encircled by ghats where pilgrims carry out their religious rites.

7th Day: Jaipur to Pushkar Your Royal Rajasthan Tour with Taj Mirror Tours comes to an end when you return to Jaipur. Enjoy a final day of shopping for souvenirs and regional crafts or seeing any places you may have missed. Send out with happy recollections of Rajasthan's imperial beauty and head to the airport or railway station for your next destination.

To sum up Offering a unique window into Rajasthan's colorful present and sumptuous past, Taj Mirror Tours' Royal Rajasthan Tour is unmatched. Every second spent in Rajasthan is an exploration of its rich cultural legacy and rich history, from the majesty of its forts and palaces to the friendliness of its people.

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Hiram Kasten: A Veteran of Stage and Screen

Fans of vintage television and movies are familiar with the name Hiram Kasten because of his exceptional acting abilities and iconic performances. Over the course of several decades, Kasten has established a name for himself in the entertainment business and shown a variety that few performers can equal. We'll explore Hiram Kasten's life and work in this blog, emphasizing his contributions to both stage and cinema.

Early Years and the Start of a Career New York City, a center of culture that has produced many of the most outstanding people in the entertainment business, is where Hiram Kasten was born and reared. Growing up in the busy metropolis, Kasten immersed himself in the lively theater scene and at an early age fell in love with the arts. His early involvement in neighborhood theater plays served as the impetus for his successful acting career.

At the State University of New York at New Paltz, Kasten pursued his undergraduate education, honing his skills and expanding his knowledge of the performing arts. He returned to New York City after graduating and started a professional acting career there. Casting directors were soon drawn to his talent and dedication, which resulted in his first television jobs.

Breakthroughs in Television The 1980s, a decade characterized by the popularity of sitcoms and family-friendly television programs, were Hiram Kasten's big break. He frequently made cameos on well-known TV shows, displaying his comic timing and range as an actor. He played multiple characters in different episodes of the renowned comedy "Seinfeld," which was one of his most prominent early performances. His outstanding performances on the show brought him notoriety and paved the way for bigger chances.

Apart from "Seinfeld," Kasten had appearances on popular television programs like "The Golden Girls," "Everybody Loves Raymond," and "Mad About You." His versatility in various parts and genres made him a highly sought-after actor in Hollywood. By showcasing his versatility in comedic and dramatic roles, Kasten's performance on these shows cemented his status as a dependable and gifted actor.

Stage Actors and Film Characters Hiram Kasten's talent was equally evident on the big screen as it was on television, which gave him widespread fame. He made multiple cinematic appearances, frequently adding his special touch to memorable supporting parts. Some of the films in Kasten's repertoire are "White Palace," "Mickey Blue Eyes," and "My Blue Heaven." He was able to explore various aspects of his acting skills in each part, which further demonstrated his versatility as an actor.

Throughout his career, Kasten has participated in theater plays since he has a deep affection for the stage. His theater credits include both modern and classic pieces, demonstrating his ability to enthrall live audiences. It has been demonstrated that Kasten's abilities go beyond the screen by the positive reviews he has received for his genuine and nuanced theater performances.

Stand-up and humor Hiram Kasten is well-known for his comedic roles in addition to his acting career. With his incisive wit and humor, he has delighted audiences with stand-up comedy performances at numerous locations across the nation. Without a doubt, Kasten's humorous upbringing has impacted his acting, especially in terms of his ability to time his comedic acts perfectly.

His stand-up performances offer a funny behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood and frequently draw from his experiences in the entertainment industry. Kasten's comedic abilities highlights his ability to connect with audiences through laughter and adds another dimension to his complex profession.

History and Significance Hiram Kasten's professional background demonstrates his commitment to and love of the performing arts. He has gained the respect of his peers and the admiration of fans throughout the years for making a lasting impression on both television and movies. Kasten has demonstrated his versatility and talent via his body of work, which demonstrates his dedication to his art and willingness to take on a variety of positions.

In addition to his achievements on stage and television, Kasten is renowned for his generosity and friendliness. As a mentor, he has shared his skills and experiences with young actors and comedians to help them succeed in the business. Beyond his performances, he has made significant contributions to the arts, earning him acclaim in the entertainment industry.

In summary The account of Hiram Kasten's rise from the streets of New York City to the pinnacles of Hollywood is one of brilliance, tenacity, and adaptability. Throughout his decades-long career, he has established himself as a dynamic and trustworthy actor who can give standout performances in a variety of settings. Hiram Kasten's reputation in the entertainment industry is still well-established as he keeps inspiring and entertaining.

[travelbuddysindia]

Top Festivals Of Kerala In 2024

1. Cochin Carnival

God’s Own Country welcomes the New Year with the grand fiesta, the Cochin Carnival. It is the largest festival of Fort Kochi, in Kerala imparting a spellbinding aggregate of Christmas and New Year celebrations. Marked via an array of activities and sports like cultural indicates, fairs, food fairs, bike and cycle races, rallies, seaside soccer, arts, and video games, Cochin Carnival steals the hearts of every person who attends the gala. Embark on an unforgettable journey from Chennai to God's Own Country with our meticulously crafted Kerala tourism packages from Chennai, offering the perfect blend of tranquility, culture, and natural beauty.

Reflecting colorful customs and traditions, Cochin Carnival makes for a superb manner to kick start the New Year. Burning the effigy of Pappanhi, or an old man at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve is the whole lot-awaited second of Cochin Carnival and is Fort Kochi’s manner of welcoming New Year.

2. Makaravilakku Festival

The festival starts off-evolved on the day of Makar Sankranti and concludes on the seventh day with the lighting fixtures of the lamp thrice at Ponnambalamedu, a divine region within the mountain ranges of Western Ghats.

Another highlight of the Makaravilakku pageant is the grand Thiruvabharanam procession wearing the sacred embellishes of Lord Ayyappa from the Valiya Koyikkal Sastha Temple in Pandalam to the Sabarimala Temple. Millions of devotees visit Sabarimala Temple at some point during this festival to view the auspicious ‘Makaravilakku’, additionally known as ‘Makara Jyothi’ and to search for the benefits of Lord Ayyappa.

3. Theyyam Festival

The most specific and colorful festival which is the delight of Kerala is the Theyyam Festival. It is popular frequently in North Malabar regions of Kerala like Kannur, Kasaragod, and so forth. This tremendous pageant is sort of 800 years old and mixes folks' dance, track, and mime together with complicated rites and rituals.

The Theyyam Festival is a real pride to watch where the Theyyam represents a divine, mythological, or heroic character, wearing amazing make-up and colorful costumes with huge headgear. There are more than four hundred distinct kinds of Theyyam performances like Rektha Chamundi, Muchilot Bhagavathi, Kari Chamundi, and so forth in each one has its unique components.

4. Chettikulangara Bharani

Celebrated with an awful lot of divinity and grandeur, the Chettikulangara Bharani is one of the popular and colorful spiritual galas of Kerala. The celebrity enchantment of Chettikulangara Bharani is the majestic parade of the colorful and brightly adorned systems where the taller and bigger ones are assumed as horses and smaller ones as chariots and are locally called Kettukazcha.

Also Read : Top Famous Tourism Activities in Kerala

5. Attukal Pongala

Known completely for women, the Attukal Pongala is a famous festival of Kerala which is stated to be the biggest unmarried amassing of women for a religious hobby. And this particular pageant has additionally received a Guinness World Record for the same.The pageant starts off evolved from the Bharani day of the Malayalam month of Makaram-Kumbham and maintains for ten days. The most exquisite function of Attukal Pongala is that lakhs of girls line up on either facet of the roads across the Attukal Temple in Thiruvananthapuram district, making services of Pongala to soothe the Goddess Attukalamma, regardless of the sizzling sun.

6. Vishu

Vishu festival in Kerala. The beautiful Golden Shower Tree or the Kani Konna Flowers has special importance because it broadcasts the appearance of the Vishu Festival in Kerala in addition to its miles an inevitable part of the Vishu Kani ritual. With exquisite joy and fervor, Keralites celebrate the Vishu Festival.

7. Thrissur Pooram

Thrissur Pooram is the most respected temple festival in Kerala. Held annually at the famous Vadakkunnathan Temple in Thrissur, the colorful Trissur Pooram competition attracts millions of tourists all the world over with its uniqueness and grandeur.Thrissur Pooram is especially celebrated to worship Lord Shiva who is the presiding deity of Vadakkunnathan Temple. Offering a fantastic show of caparisoned elephants, dazzling parasols, percussion tracks, and magnificent fireworks, Thrissur Pooram is a ceremonial dinner for the senses and is worth being considered because the Mother of all Poorams.

8. Boat Festival

Reflecting the wealth tradition and traditions of the nation, the Boat Festivals are the maximum consequential part of Kerala and are so famous internationally. The serene backwaters of Kerala flip lively and energetic for the duration of the Boat Festival and the vibrancy of the competition must be skilled via yourself as no phrases can explain the keenness and exhilaration you experience when you are there. The Boat Festival in Kerala begins with the famous Champakkulam Boat Race and ends with the President’s Trophy Boat Race. The maximum famous of all of the Boat Festivals is the arena-renowned Nehru Trophy Boat Race.

9. Athachamayam

Athachamayam heralds the beginning of the 10-day Onam pageant in Kerala which is widely known with awesome enthusiasm and happiness. The predominant function of Athachamayam is that it is easy to witness nearly all of the people's art sorts of Kerala through this colorful festivity.It is held each year at the Atham megastar of the Malayalam month Chingam as a commemoration of the successful march of the King of Kochi from Tripunithura to the Vamana Temple at Thrikkakara. Athachamayam displays an imposing appeal that is conducted in a totally brilliant way with a grand procession of caparisoned elephants, forms of people art forms, floats, and musical ensembles.

Also Read : Kerala Shopping What to Buy in Kerala

[merakkisalon]

The Best Men's Hair Salon for Special Occasions: Wedding, Prom, and More

Introduction 

When it comes to special occasions like weddings, proms, or any significant event, every man wants to look their absolute best. After all, these moments are cherished for a lifetime, and looking great adds an extra layer of confidence. To ensure you're the star of the show, you need a salon that understands the importance of these occasions. Look no further than Merakki, the best men's hair salon for special occasions in Faridabad.

Merakki Salon: Integrating Your Style With Perfection

At Merakki Salon, we believe that every man deserves to look and feel like a million bucks on their special day. Our team of highly skilled and experienced hair stylists and makeup artists are dedicated to making that happen. We specialize in creating timeless and sophisticated looks that will leave a lasting impression.

What makes Merakki different?

1. Customized Services: We understand that no two men are alike, and everyone has their unique style. That's why we offer personalized services tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Whether you're going for a classic, modern, or bold look, our experts will work closely with you to achieve the perfect style.

2. Exceptional Hair Services: Your hair is your crowning glory, and we treat it as such. From precision haircuts and styling to coloring and texture treatments, our hairstylists are masters in their craft. We use only the finest products to ensure your hair looks and feels its best.

3. Impeccable Grooming: Grooming is a crucial aspect of looking dapper on special occasions. Our grooming services include beard trims, shaves, and skincare treatments to ensure your skin is glowing and your beard is perfectly sculpted.

4. Flawless Makeup: For those moments when you want to go the extra mile, our makeup artists are here to enhance your natural features and create a flawless look. We use top-quality makeup products to ensure your makeup lasts throughout the event.

5. Relaxing Ambiance: Preparing for a special occasion should be a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Our salon provides a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere where you can unwind and prepare for your big day.

Merakki Salon for Weddings: The Ultimate Choice

A wedding is one of the most important days of your life, and you deserve to look your absolute best. We specialize in wedding grooming and styling. Our team works closely with grooms to create a cohesive look that complements the wedding theme and ensures you shine alongside your partner.

Prom Night Ready: Our Expertise

Prom night is a rite of passage, and your appearance matters. Whether you want a classic, suave look or something trendy and unique, Merakki Salon has got you covered. We'll make sure you step onto the dance floor with confidence and style.

More Than Just a Salon: A Trusted Partner

Merakki isn't just a salon; we're your trusted partner in looking and feeling your best on special occasions. Our commitment to excellence and attention to detail sets us apart as the best salon for makeup in Faridabad.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Merakki Salon is the best men hair salon for special occasion grooming and styling. Our team is passionate about giving you the best look and feel on your big day. Whether its a wedding, prom, or any other special event, we're here to ensure you leave our salon with confidence and style that's second to none. 

Don't settle for less when you can have the best with us. Your special day deserves nothing less than perfection. Book your appointment today and experience the difference!

Also Read:

Indulgence Personified: Faridabad's Best Salon Services Unveiled

The Barber Shop vs. Men's Hair Salon: Which One Is Right for You?

Originally published by https://merakkisalon.blogspot.com/

[eywa-eveng]

ɪɪɪ. sᴇᴄᴏɴᴅ ᴛᴏ ɴᴏɴᴇ

ᴘᴀɪʀɪɴɢ – ᴊᴀᴋᴇ sᴜʟʟʏ, sᴜʟʟʏ ғᴀᴍɪʟʏ X ᶠᴱᴹ ᴹᴱᵀᴷᴬᵞᴵᴺᴬ ᴿᴱᴬᴰᴱᴿ

ᴡᴏʀᴅ ᴄᴏᴜɴᴛ – 16.2k

ɢᴇɴʀᴇ – angst

ᴡᴀʀɴɪɴɢs – widower!Jake, war, gore, major character death

ᴀᴜᴛʜᴏʀ’s ɴᴏᴛᴇ – Part three is finally here! Only one part left and then this short series will be officially finished! Also, this installment follows closely to the plot of the movie.

ᴘᴀʀᴛ ɪ – ᴘᴀʀᴛ ɪɪ – ᴘᴀʀᴛ ɪᴠ

ᴛᴀɢ ʟɪsᴛ – @eywas-heir @fanboyluvr @amiets2 @neteyamforlife @itscheybaby @sunrays404 @im-in-a-pansexual-panik @eternallyvenus @bobojojoba69 @behindthearcane @elegantkidfansoul @goldenmoonbeam @ladylovegood-69 @slutforsmut4ever @myheartfollower @pinkiemme @arminsgfloll @wtf-why-do-i-gotta-do-this @onlyreadz @sovereignsylvia @scc7514 @ghost-lantern @calums-betch @nao-cchi @a—1–1–3 @crazy4books1 @meladollsims

Wind blows through the great arches of the Cove, lifting misting clouds of warm water that sparkle in the pale light rising from beneath the waves. The breeze is filled with the comforting scents of home; of lush sea grass and the tang of the ocean as gusts of air whistle like flying arrows across the open water. The waves crashing against the shore below add to the melody like the beat of a drum as the wind whispers a soft song through the balmy air. The floating islands stand guard, shadows passing overhead like clouds to offer relief from the warmth of the afternoon sun. It’s peaceful here in the Cove of the Ancestors, tranquil as still water as you work. 

The climb had been arduous, your palms sore and legs burning from the climb. The ground feels like a salve as the cool dirt rushes like water over your hands as you carefully dig up plants. Collecting these greenish gray roots are the last of your chores for the day. They’re a necessity for some healing tonics and Ronal has nearly depleted her supply with the new wave of hunters looking to prove their worth so soon after their rites have been passed. It is expected. They are still young, still eager to prove their strength and worth as one of The People. But hunting is not all that is needed in the clan. Some will be better suited to other tasks. Weaving nets, repairing the marui, teaching the younglings the ways of the clan. Some will become healers and free divers. It is what you’re suited to even after so many years of training to hunt and fish. Now, you tuck the last of the knotted roots into the satchel on your hip and dust the dirt from your hands. The climb up the winding vines hanging from the spono alusìng may have been strenuous but getting down is always your favorite part. A few steps back, a deep breath, and then you’re sprinting to the edge of the island. 

Those few moments in the air feel infinite as the wind whips around you, running through your hair and across your skin like weightless touches as the water below draws closer. There’s a moment of darkness as you close your eyes against the impact and then a burst of light as the water slows your descent, the tide keeping you from sinking. Pale purple light plays across your skin, the fronds of the Ranteng Utralti tracing against you as you swim towards the surface. The light fades as you return to the village, purple fading to yellow as the afternoon deepens to evening. The terraces are emptying and hunters are beginning to return from beyond the reef as you pull yourself onto the path in front of your marui. Ronal’s voice greets you, a sharp, wordless yip you recognize as a call for your presence. 

She isn’t happy when you join her, the marui already crowded with guests as the children stand in the shadow of their tsahìk and olo’eyktan. There’s a grave energy filling the home, a disturbance that only grows as your eyes pass over Lo’ak and the rest. A chill trickles down your spine as you hand Ronal what you’ve collected. She sets it to the side with little regard, her green eyes filled with an anger that flows deeper than petty squabbles between children. Before you can speak she grabs your arm with enough strength to make your ears bow back in submission. 

“What have you been teaching your children?” She’s seething, words coming from between clenched teeth as she bares her fangs at you. Your lip twitches, prepared to draw back in your own show of displeasure. There is an accusation shining in her eyes, words harsher than she cares to share in the presence of others. Before she was tsahìk she was your elder sister and it’s clear in her fierce expression that she’d rather dispense with formalities and speak her anger freely. Instead she tosses your arm away with a hissing sigh, returning to her pacing before whirling to face the children once more. 

They’re standing with their heads bowed, ears pulled back and tails hanging limp between their legs as Ronal’s green gaze draws over each of them like a stinging nettle. Finally she settles on her daughter. Tsireya already looks close to tears, eyes clouded thick with regret and unshed tears. Her tanhì flicker with a faint anxious light, seemingly keeping time with what must be her thundering heartbeat. It’s an expression you’ve known in your younger years at the hands of Ronal. She expects so much of those she teaches, and even more when they are her family. Tsireya is in line to be tsakarem, she’s meant to reflect Eywa’s grace. And whatever she’s done has gone against the Great Mother’s teachings. 

“You allowed this! You allowed him to bond with the outcast!” Ronal snaps. 

“Payakan?” The word leaves your lips before you can stop it. Barely a whisper but your sister hears it. The flames of her anger are turned on you in an instant, catching quickly and burning away at your pride as she scolds you as if you’re a child. A hiss rolls off your tongue with little consideration, teeth bared at Ronal as your tail begins to sway in tense waves. Your sister isn’t perturbed by the display of aggression. Neither of you will go beyond these small shows of hostility. 

“Yes, Payakan!” Ronal snaps. “Your son has bonded with him. And they allowed it to happen!” She doesn’t name which of your children has made this misstep but a place in your heart knows it was Lo’ak even before Ronal’s eyes settle on him. He doesn’t look nearly as remorseful as you’d expect. There’s an air of annoyance and agitation in his idle movement, but there isn’t a sense of guilt in his lowered gaze and sagging shoulders. 

“Lo’ak, what have you done? You should’ve known better.” His head raises when you say his name, defiance bright as starlight in his yellow eyes. 

“You are the son of a great warrior and this is how you act? You have been taught better than this.” Tonowari says just as Jake makes his way to the marui. Jake’s eased expression immediately falls to shadows, his brows drawing low and his jaw tightening as he hears the olo’eyktan’s words. 

“Payakan saved my life, nawmtu. You don’t know him.” Lo’ak’s words only serve to sow further discord as he speaks against Tonowari. Tsireya murmurs his name, shaking her head to discourage his attitude. There is still more he wants to say, insolence still clear on his face as he lifts his chin but holds his tongue. Tonowari does the same, nodding at Lo’ak’s disrespect. 

“Sit.” He says evenly. Threads of anger slowly pulling at his tone. At last, Lo’ak bows his head as Tonowari stoops to his level but the olo’eyktan is not mollified. “Sit down!” He shouts until all the children are seated. Tsireya falls to her knees like a stone through water while the other boys remain tense. Tonowari’s voice is strong enough to buckle even your knees but Ronal catches you by the elbow before you can kneel at her mate’s side. She might have laid the fault for this at your feet–blaming your poor teaching–but she won’t let you bow to Tonowari’s anger in this way. She shakes her head when you look at her. Despite her initial anger, this isn’t your lesson to learn. 

Tonowari dissipates his anger with a harsh exhale before speaking again. 

“Hear my words, boy. These are lessons you’ve learned before when the tulkun returned, but it seems you do not remember. The tulkun forbid killing, yet Payakan has gone against this. He has returned to the ways of the days of the First Songs; taking lives. We follow the way of our brothers and sisters. Payakan is a killer, so he is outcast. To all.”

“No. I’m sorry, nawmtu, but you’re wrong.”

“Lo’ak!” You snap before he can say more. “You speak to olo’eyktan.” His eyes settle on you for a brief moment before his mouth opens again. 

“I know–”

“That’s enough!” Jake snaps. His silence lasts a few beats longer, long enough for Tsireya to try to dissuade him with another shake of her head. He seems to consider her before raising his head once more. 

“I know what I know.” He finishes. Ronal drops your arm, clicking her tongue at your son before turning away from all of you. This new bond has upset the great balance and it will be a burden to the tsahìk before anyone else. Though it weighs just as heavily on your shoulders, perhaps more. Lo’ak is your child. His teaching is your responsibility. And yet here is a clear mark of your failure to teach him your ways. 

“That’s enough.” Jake growls, looming over Lo’ak like a pouncing animal. At last, Lo’ak surrenders. “I’ll deal with him.” Tonowari nods, watching Jake pull Lo’ak away from the marui. The rest of the children scatter, glad to be free of their leaders’ anger. 

“Go,” Ronal dismisses you as well. “You’ve worked hard today.” Those are her words of consolation. Not an apology but a stone to step over this conflict. This storm will not pass as easily as fighting between the children, but what’s done is done. A bond with a spirit brother can only be undone by death. This decision; Lo’ak and Payakan will have to live with it for the rest of their lives. 

It’s in your nature to soothe and nurture, a childhood spent healing and convening with the Great Mother has instilled a caring nature within you. Even with anger sitting heavy as stones in your chest you want to go to Lo’ak, to ease his thoughts. Jake will surely have torn into him like an akula for his disrespect towards Tonowari, and while his words will be harsh they aren’t undeserved. Some things you simply cannot turn a blind eye to. He has gone against the way of the Metkayina in a way no one has in recent memory. It is expected that the tsahìk approves the bonding between spirit siblings. For Lo’ak to disregard tradition, to bond with an outcast no less, is a great show of disrespect. And yet you want to understand why he did it. You linger just beyond the path of the Sully marui where Jake’s voice has carried. His words are muffled but anger is evident in his tone. After a while, Lo’ak storms out. When Jake doesn’t follow to drag him back inside you decide it is your time to make a gentler attempt at reproach. 

Lo’ak knows you’re following him. Your shadow is lengthening in pinkish purple light of the coming eclipse and casting across his back as your feet find the prints he’s already left in the sand. Every Na’vi is taught to hunt from a young age and his ears twitch towards the soft pattering of your footfalls even as he refuses to stop. When he is finally tired of running he turns to look at you. His face is no longer set in stony defiance. Instead the harsh lines have fallen away to something soft and vulnerable. He looks nearly close to tears, his bottom lip tucked between his teeth. He isn’t sad, but there is a sort of frustration that can only be released through angry tears. Like a bowl spilling over, Lo’ak’s overabundance of clashing emotions has nowhere to pour but outwards. 

“They hate me.” His voice breaks over the words. “They hate me, Sa’nok.” Your heart squeezes. 

“Shameful. Outcast. That’s all I’ll ever be to anyone.” When his head falls you lift it with a gentle hand under his chin. “I wasn’t trying to hurt anyone. Payakan is my friend, I swear. Please, Sa’nok, you have to believe me. You have to believe me.” He clings to your arm as if you’re the only thing keeping him from being washed out with the tide. It isn’t sadness tinging his voice but an unrestrained desperation. Ronal denied him. Tonowari denied him. Jake denied him. Even Tsireya told him to hold his tongue. None of them would hear him, none of them would See him. But you See. So much. 

“Lo’ak. Ma’itan. I believe you.” You take his hands in yours and draw him to sit in the sand. “Just tell me what happened. Everything.” And he does. He tells you of how Payakan saved him when Ao’nung abandoned him beyond the reef, of how he visited him nearly every day between his chores and lessons, of how he knew they were meant to be spirit brothers after seeing the bond between The People and the returning tulkun. 

“Those men died, but it wasn’t Payakan who killed them. He rallied the men to fight back against the demon ship after they attacked him and his family. He watched his mother die. He was upset and scared. It wasn’t his intention to get anyone killed.” A long breath leaves your lungs as if you’ve surfaced after a long dive, releasing the tension in your chest before you speak. 

“By the tulkun way he is a killer. We did not decide this, but it is the way of our brothers and sisters. Payakan must bear the weight of those lives lost. I will tell Tonowari the truth of it, but it will not change his mind. This path we follow isn’t for us to decide. Only a tulkun can remove the stain Payakan carries.” 

“But it isn’t fair. He knows what he did was wrong!” 

“I know, but it is the way.” You send him off with a promise to talk to his father. Jake is alone when you arrive, your skin still damp from wading in the ocean to wash away the sand. Tension is clear in the harsh lines of his muscles as he sharpens a spear, stone against stone tossing sparks of light between his hands. There are many things on his mind. Dark and heavy, looming just out of sight. This is just another weight upon his shoulders. 

“Ma Jake,” he doesn’t look up from his work at the sound of your voice. Instead he grows more tense, knuckles paling as his grip tightens on the stone in his fist. His ears pull back in a show of irritation but you won’t be ignored. “Jake, this is very hard for them. This is a new place with new traditions. They are learning. It will take time. Everything does not always come easily.” 

“I know.” His tone is thick with authority, dripping with the voice of an olo’eyktan. It’s final. He wants this to be done with. But if he was olo’eyktan you would be his tsahìk. It is what you trained for. It is what all your lessons have taught you to be. In this you are equals. His voice can’t intimidate you when you both stand on equal footing. Jake is no longer olo’eyktan. He’s left that life behind in the forest. And you will never be tsahìk. But you are mated, still. Equals. 

“Lo’ak tries to live up to your expectations. It is very hard for him.”

“I know.” His tone has shifted to something more pliable. He’s less assured. “You are very hard on him.” He stops sharpening the blade at last, eyes swirling with a mixture of denial and acceptance. He sets his work aside and reaches for you. Your hands meet. Hot and cold. His warmed with anger and yours cooled by the ocean. There is so much fire inside him. He’s left war behind but the war hasn’t left him. 

“I do everything I can to protect them,” Jake laments, “and Lo’ak still goes against my word at every turn. Fighting with Ao’nung, going beyond the reef. And now he’s gone and done this. The rest I expect. He’s never been good at following rules. But this–he’s brought shame to this family. Ronal was already hesitant about letting us stay. If you hadn’t spoken on our behalf we probably would’ve been turned away come morning. Now Lo’ak has disregarded a sacred tradition. One that Ronal presides over.”

“It isn’t just Lo’ak’s choice. He bonded with Payakan because he allowed tsaheylu to be made. A bond between a Na’vi and tulkun is as sacred as the one you share with your ikran. You must be chosen for a bond to be made and Payakan chose Lo’ak. He didn’t follow tradition but this is one of his rites passed. Ronal knows this just as well as I do. It isn’t perfect but I’m proud of him. He is becoming one with the clan. That is what you wanted isn’t it?” At last Jake sighs and the last of his fire burns out, body relaxing its rigid posture. His fingers have cooled or perhaps yours have gained some warmth as he toys with them between his own. Five fingers playing across your four. 

“I was worried.” He says after a moment. “I thought that if we couldn’t make it here–if we had to leave–I’d lose you. I’d lose this home. I’d lose everything all over again.” 

“Ma Jake.” Your hands pull away from his to hold his face in your palms. His brows are pulled tight and you kiss away the tension formed between them. “Where you go I follow. If you leave, so do I.” He’s already shaking his head before you can finish.

“I don’t want it to come to that. This is your home. The look on the kids’ faces when we had to leave the forest gutted me. I want this to be our home. But I don’t know how much longer this can last.” Neither of you mention that this small piece of happiness has already begun to slip through your fingers like sand. Lo’ak and Payakan are a welcomed distraction from the storm looming over the horizon, to the south where humans are beginning to attack villages. Tonowari has given the order to keep Jake hidden, but the peace his words have made is tenuous at best. How long until the sawtute bring their war to Awa’atlu if sister islands in the atolls are already being attacked? 

Still the days go on. Tonowari continues to bring hushed reports of what is happening just beyond the reaches of the village. It’s all you can do to share the burden of this knowledge with your sister, with your mate. The guilt tears at Jake’s heart each time he hears of more homes being burned and animals being needlessly killed, but just as you do he tucks it all away to keep the cloud of ignorance hanging over the childrens’ heads. But, sooner or later, gathering clouds bring rain. 

“These things happen.” Neteyam stiffens under your hands at the reassuring words, muscles tensing before he slowly eases himself. He’s embarrassed if the purple tinge of his cheeks and low draw of his ears are anything to go by. He’d come trailing into the marui holding his bleeding arm and promising that it couldn’t be as bad as it seemed given the blood dripping through the seams of his fingers. He keeps his gazes pointedly out of sight, lashes lowered to hide what you might find there, but his tanhì still keeps a stuttering glow beneath your fingers as you smooth a soothing balm over the newly made stitches of his arm. The jagged welt is short but cut deep, the mark of an irritated tsurak. These wounds are common in the clan, nearly everyone receives one during their training. It will heal and fade with time but perhaps quicker than Neteyam’s pride. 

“Skimwings are not easily mastered. It will take time before your chosen mount fully accepts you as its rider. These bonds aren’t as easily made as those with ikran and ilu. Ilu are docile and easily soothed. Tsurak are fierce creatures meant for hunting in open water, and they do not choose their riders as ikran do. It is good that they are vicious. With time their attitude will soften towards you. Until then, you must take care to stay away from their sharp bits.” It’s meant to be teasing but Neteyam shrugs from under your hands. You sigh. 

“Neteyam.” His head turns towards your voice but his eyes don’t rise to meet yours until you say his name again. He is embarrassed and disappointed. It is expected to fail before you succeed but it doesn’t seem like your son will allow himself such grace. As with everything else, he must uphold the highest standards lest it reflect badly on his family. So much of his life has been molded by the expectations of others. As the eldest son of Toruk Makto, and the older brother to a spitfire like Lo’ak who is so prone to making mistakes. It was clear from your first meeting that Neteyam tries his hardest to be like his father, and to make up for what others might say about his brother. But he is still young, still learning. 

“It’s alright. No one is expecting you to ride a tsurak with the ease of a hunter on your first attempt.”

“Sempul did.” You tuck a stray braid behind his drooping ear, stifling a laugh. 

“Your sempul has ridden greater things than a skimwing and even he took a few attempts before he could mount properly. I watched him. Even when I was training, I got scars of my own. It is the way of things. Mistakes mean you are learning.” 

“But I shouldn’t make mistakes.” He grumbles. “I should be better.”

“And you will be, ma’itan, with time. Now go. You’ll miss the rest of your lessons and be more upset with yourself come eclipse.” He still hasn’t fully shaken the weight of disappointment from his shoulders but Neteyam stands with a dull nod. His whole body sags beneath the weight of this failure to meet his own expectations. His tail is limp between his legs as he trails out of the marui. You’re only alone for a moment. Just long enough to turn the fish over the fire before Jake comes ducking in. 

“Neteyam was hurt?” He asks. 

“He is your son.” You sigh, setting aside the fish you’ve already wrapped in leaves. “He has learned to ride an ilu and now he is learning to mount a skimwing. He learns as quickly as the wind, but a storm can’t blow on forever.” 

“Did you talk to him?” He asks, finding his place beside you. You feel his hand find its way into your hair, twisting the dark waves over his fingers as he watches you cook. Neteyam isn’t usually so stubborn but he takes his responsibilities as the eldest son of a legendary warrior all too seriously. Never mind that Toruk Makto has only emerged five times since the times of the First Songs with Jake being the sixth. He needn’t be so insistent on being the strongest, the fastest, the absolute best. It is like the newly made warriors of the clan boasting their strength as if to prove their place among the People. Learning with a swiftness isn’t necessary especially when he is still adapting to life in a new place. 

“I told him these things take time, but he won’t hear my words. A tree does not grow overnight, but he seems to think he must make miracles happen to live up to you.” Jake’s ears fall back against his head, brows frowned as he mulls over your words. It is the truth. 

Jake is a miracle walking among the Na’vi. An uniltìrantokx that became one of the People. He came from a star. Lo’ak had shown it to you once. Pointing at a distant dot of light in the deep blue sky like a pearl at the bottom of the ocean. It seems so impossible to travel through the skies as if it were the ocean but you’ve seen what the sawtute can do. Their metal, their light. It is all so strange. Frightening. They take and take. More than what is needed. From the ground beneath their feet, they twist and distort until it is something unrecognizable as earth; as their home. There’s a sharp pang in your chest as you remember the feeling of Eywa crying out as the Omatikaya’s Kelutral fell to the humans’ greedy hands. Jake said that their mother was dead, that the Earth had nothing more to give, but they wanted more. They wanted to do that here. Perhaps Neteyam is right to want to be like his father. This war isn’t over. The attacks on neighboring islands have proven that. 

Another sigh leaves him and you can’t help but count the seconds it takes for the heaving breath to pass. 

“I wish he could’ve seen what I was like before. They wouldn’t believe the mistakes I made to become what I am today.” 

“I would.” You tease, letting the moment of tension pass. “I’d believe you fell out of every tree you tried to climb and missed every mark you tried to shoot. Like a baby.” 

“Kawngtu,” he says, mirthfully bearing his teeth, “I should show you all I have learned. You should know I am not a child.” Your ears grow hot at his words, cheeks warming as your freckles flicker to life as bumps like plucked flesh prickles down your arms. His tone is unmistakable. Low and warm with a teasing drawl but you won’t entertain his obvious advances. Even as his tail traces over the exposed skin of your back, drawing around your waist in a flirtatious display of affection, you ignore him in favor of continuing your cooking. Night is slowly approaching and the children will be hungry after their lessons and chores. Still acting childishly as always, Jake continues to pluck at your nerves like the string of a musical bow. You swipe at him when he gets in your way, whipping him with your tail when he won’t be moved quickly enough for your liking. His current disposition is favorable compared to how somber he’s been as of late. 

It’s regrettable that the two of you weren’t able to bask in the sweetness of a newly made bond. It is expected that the days following the first tsaheylu between mates is filled with only happiness. A break from responsibilities as a new spiritual thread is woven between two souls. But the Great Mother did not seem to think your bond needed moments of leisure to be made strong. Instead there have only been these few gentle moments stolen between the growing worries that seem to draw nearer with each passing day. Even this small moment is broken as a shadow passes through the soft light of the disappearing sun, tall and commanding as Tonowari arrives with a heavy look of resentment rising like a wave in his blue eyes. It’s a look you’ve come to recognize well in the weeks since the first sawtute found their way to Awa’atlu’s distant atolls. So far from the lush green corner of the Pandoran jungle where the humans first set their covetous sights, yet not free from their treacherous hands. 

“Tskano’a.” He says. Another village just like yours touched by those hands of destruction. “No one died. They were expecting an attack. Most of the marui survived their burning. But they are drawing nearer, Jakesully. I give you my word that no one will tell them where you are, but this is all I can do.” 

It’s what he always says. Tonowari is patient and kind. A worthy olo’eyktan. The protector of peace above all else. The safety of the clan means more to him than the destruction of these demons. To attack would mean to wage war and war would mean shattering the peaceful life he has built for his people. Yet it doesn’t seem as though the sawtute want to give him a choice. 

“The boy is still with them.” The human boy. Spider. That is what Jake called him. A friend of the children since childhood. He was brought up in the ways of the Omatikaya, as close as the clan would allow, and now he has betrayed his people by serving the sawtute. His life matters to your children and so you are glad to know he lives, but he is still human. A plague upon Pandora. 

“They’ll be here soon.” It is the truth you feel inside you, sounding as clear as your heartbeat as the Great Mother breathes the words into your spirit. Always listening. It is a tsahìk’s purpose. And these words you’ve heard countless times. Softly, like the whispers of the wind. But now they rush like blood in your ears.

It is the undeniable truth as plain as Naranawm’s blue eye in the sky. The humans are coming and they’ll be here soon. Even if they have to burn every village to the ground. The men look at you with fire in their eyes. A passion burns within them both; a need to protect. Now more than ever. Tonowari only nods at your grave words before departing. Jake ducks back inside but you remain just outside, feeling the warmth disappear from the air as the burning orange of the sun fades to the bluish darkness of night. The children will be returning soon but you can’t shake the cold hands of fear from your body. They linger over your heart and tie knots in your stomach, staving off any thoughts of joining your family for dinner. This family that you’ve only just become a part of. 

“We need to do something.” Jake ignores your words, crouching down to continue cutting fruit as you’d been before Tonowari’s visit. There’s an irritated strength in each slice of the knife, scoring the slab of wood as he goes. “Jake, they are looking for you. We need to trap them. Kill them. Before these demons destroy anything else.” The knife is set down with a troubled growl. 

“I know.” He seethes. “But we have to be smart. It isn’t just us that could get hurt if we attack.” You want to say more but Tuk comes skipping inside talking about a crab she saw today and the conversation is abandoned as the two of you try to rebuild the facade of safety around your children. But it begins to crumble each time your eyes meet. Bright yellow haunted with what’s to come clash with your gaze as a nauseating sort of anticipation fills you. Like waiting for a nightmare to begin. 

The feeling never seems to pass. 

Rain kisses against your skin in a warm spray. Not heavy enough to stir the waves, just enough to turn the sky to a dreary gray. Your feet sink into the damp sand as Jake leads you to where Ronal and Tonowari are waiting. A hunting party returned with news of an injured tulkun, but as soon as your eyes meet your sister’s, the air seems to shift. The wind feels sharper, the rain colder, and you shiver at the uncertainty in her eyes. Tonowari speaks but you can hardly hear him, his voice is like the crashing of waves after you’ve already dove beneath them, warbled and forgotten as you and Ronal share in your own silent conversation. She is your sister and that bond binds you close, but the lessons of your childhood have brought you even closer. The men speak with words as you open yourself to the Great Mother’s silent voice. She’s there in the wind, in the rain, in the sound of the waves. 

Panic settles over you as you feel loss echoing through the air. Ronal must feel it too as she cuts her husband short to usher your small party into the ocean. Your tsurak croaks as you make tsaheylu, the feeling of fear that has settled in your chest echoing through the bond. It only grows more unsettling when Tonowari finally lands, the rest of you drawing in close behind. The orange spread of the tsurak’s wings are the only color over the bleak waters, drawn to darkness by the storm. Except for another spot of orange, brighter and uninterrupted by any pattern. It is startlingly out of place. Like a fire burning on the waves. Sawtute. Just as their light is strange and wrong–too bright–this color is greatly misplaced in the gathered pod of tulkun. One is unmoving among them, only shifting with the crest and fall of the water. Not injured. Dead. 

Hì’ikran have already gathered, their small shadows swooping overhead and sharp cries cutting through the deep bellows of the mourning tulkun. The tiny banshees are already nipping at the tulkun as you move in closer. For a moment, you accept this as the way of things. There is balance in everything, even death. The hì’ikran must eat and here there is food. But your heart rejects the thought as soon as you are close enough to truly see the tulkun. Ronal makes a small, wounded noise just as your heart turns cold in your chest. The thumping beat of it stills to chilled silence as you lose yourself for a moment. Just long enough to fall from your skimwing. Your mount screeches as you plunge into the dark water, surfacing with a sputtering cry as you swim towards the tulkun. 

Ronal is already there, hands pressed desperately against the unmoving creature. A feeling of hopelessness crashes over you like a heavy wave, threatening to drag you beneath its unmovable weight as your eyes flit wildly across Roa’s body. Those bright orange wings keep her above the water, embedded in her thick skin. Blood seeps in tepid rivers from the places the metal stabbed through her body. The hooks don’t move as you pull at them until your palms burn where the metal begins to wear against your skin. You fall back into the water, thrown off of her by the force of your own strength. A wordless shriek tears from your throat as you swipe at one of the bloated bags with your knife. It tears open and Roa sags, one of her fins beginning to sink. Her son, still tucked beneath it, begins vanishing as well. 

He doesn’t look at you when you touch him, trying to pull him from under his mother’s unmoving body. He doesn’t offer those same shy clicks he’d given when you met him last. It rends a strangled sound from you. Wordless but understood as Ronal looks at you and the calf. She’s sitting on Roa’s forefin as she’s done so many times before. But the tulkun doesn’t greet her, doesn’t scold her son for his bashfulness. She simply floats, bloated eyes rolled towards the sky. Shot through with blood and unseeing as Ronal presses her forehead against her spirit sister. Despite the sudden cold of the rain and water there’s a warmth spreading through your body. A dangerous swirl of anger and grief, sadness and fear that is like a whirlpool in your chest, sucking away any clear thoughts. All you can see is Roa and her son. Dead. And your sister’s despair as she reaches for you through the water. Her hand shakes in yours but her grip is tight as if she will never let it go. Tears mingle with the rain as they drip down your cheeks. Everything feels too close and far away all at once. Like the ocean has disappeared and swallowed you whole. 

“Her name is Roa.” Tonowari says at last, head bowed towards Jake. His tone is clipped with suppressed emotion though you can see it in his eyes. The sorrow, the stifled rage. He sets his lip in a harsh line and looks towards the horizon. 

“She was my spirit sister.” Ronal’s voice is a watery croak. “She was the composer of songs. Much revered. We would sing together.” 

“She waited many breeding cycles to have this calf.” You sob. He was so small, so young. He had many years ahead of him, a spirit brother to bond with, calves of his own to have. And yet it’s all been washed away in a moment. “The clan was so happy for her.” 

“What is this, Tonowari?” Ronal turns to her mate, hand still tight around yours. “What is this?” She shrieks. The olo’eyktan bows his head in the face of his wife’s grief. Death is a heavy burden for anyone to bear but a tsahìk feels things with a strength beyond that of the People. A tsahìk feels all. And Roa was not simply a bonded member of the clan, but her spirit sister. This pain has bowed her over like a flower in the wind, petals fallen and stem broken. You feel it, as well, the deep, aching pain that refuses to pass. 

“What have they done?” You shout, turning to Jake. The anger swelling in your chest has turned the plea to an accusation. It is the wrong place to rest your anger but there is no one else in sight for you to blame. He flinches and lowers his gaze but doesn’t move to comfort you. It reminds you how different you truly are. The ocean is deep and full of dangers. Jake has to cling to his tsurak to keep afloat. You’ve taught him well but not well enough to survive in the open oceans without an animal to guide him. A dark, ugly feeling rises like poison in your chest; regret. For allowing him to stay and cast this dark shadow. 

The thought is there only for an instant before shock douses your wrath, snuffing it out before it can consume you in an inescapable blaze. It wasn’t Jake that killed Roa. It wasn’t your mate that brought you this pain. And even though you haven’t said anything out loud, for once you’re afraid that someone can see what is in your eyes because Jake urges his tsurak forward, out of your sight. It only causes your heart to sink lower in your chest. Ronal releases you with some hesitancy as you pull away from her hold to follow Jake. You watch his back as he bows under the shadow of Roa’s fin. He doesn’t go further than her side, eyes tracing over her body. He reaches for you as you swim to his side, pulling you into his arms. 

There’s a comforting strength in his arms. 

“My girl,” he says softly, the human words flowing off his tongue as he pulls you on to his mount. “I’m so sorry.” 

“The sea gives and the sea takes.” It’s all you can say, words pounding in your head like a drum. It blocks out all else. The sea gives and the sea takes. Water connects all things. Life to death, darkness to light. These words are your way of life. As familiar as your own name. There’s comfort in their truth. Water cannot flow on forever and it’s here that Roa’s river empties into the vastness of the ocean to join the memories of her ancestors. They will sing her songs, remember her voice. She will never be truly gone. And yet it feels as though every trace of her will slip between your fingers the moment you turn your back to her. Tears still cloud your vision as you look at her prone body. There are more orange bags beneath her fins and a strange light like a white flame flickering over her back. A huge barb stands out against her dark scales, the needle plunged deep into her back. 

“Ma Jake.” It is something alien. Something human. Bright red and flashing as it is. There’s a soft sound emanating from it like a bird’s chirp. 

“Shit.” Jake curses. Always in English. He carefully climbs onto Roa’s back and you watch as his fingers dance over the strange object until it falls dark and silent. He pulls it from the space between her scales. You shrink away when he brings it for you to see, wholly uninteresting in being so close to their strange tools. 

“It’s a tracker.” He says as Tonowari rounds Roa’s body. His eyes trail over her before settling on the metal thing in Jake’s hand. You leave them to talk over what the tracker could mean. They’ve moved on from this but you’ll stay if only for a few moments longer. This will be the last time you see Roa and you want to remember it for a little while longer. 

It’s quiet as you sink beneath the waves, skin coming to life with dots of pale light as you swim beneath Roa’s shadow. Your fingers trace against her skin, finding the shapes of her tattoos across her pale underbelly. They tell a story of her life. Each mark etched into her skin like the bead of a songcord. Ronal is there as well, staring at the tattoos. Her eyes hold steady on the twin flowers blooming from a single vine. The same ink that trails along Veyan’s side. Both tulkun had gotten the tattoos to commemorate their bond with you and Ronal. You wonder if Veyan felt Roa’s death as the two of you had. If she is somewhere mourning the loss of a sister. 

«We must lay her to rest.» Ronal nods, neither of you mentioning that she will hardly be given the traditional funeral rites. She’ll be sunk here in the open water. Far from the tulkun resting grounds. The water is deep and dark. No anemones bright as sunlight dance in the gentle current below. Still Ronal unsheathes her blade and nods for you to do the same. The orange wings fold in on themselves, spewing out air as Roa begins to sink. Her son falls beside her and the two of you follow them down as far as you dare, watching their silhouettes disappear into the deep. There’s a burst of light when they finally land, stirring up stray flashes of syuratan. The tulkun begin to sing their bellowing mourning song. It rings through your head, echoing through the journey back to shore. Heavy and sorrowful as they sing about their sister. The clan will mourn too. 

The rain falls heavier as Tonowari calls the village to order in the central marui. There’s a restless sort of energy flowing like lapping waves through the crowd as Ronal pulls you to stand beside her and Tonowari. 

“My spirit sister and her baby have been murdered by the sky people!” Hushed sounds of anguish rush through the air, mournful yipping and defensive hisses. 

“This war has come to us. We knew about the hunting of our tulkun people, but it was over the horizon. Far away. Now, it is here!” Tonowari’s voice booms through the marui, crashing like thunder over the People as he declares war on the sawtute. Others join in his show of aggression, teeth and tongues bared in fierce war faces. Upset turns to aggression as growls ripple through the crowd, spears thumping and eyes flashing with a need for retribution. Jake’s eyes pass over the crowd with a look of distress.

“The sky people don’t think like us. They don’t care about the great balance.” He tries to reason. 

“We do not answer to sky people!” A hunter shouts. Jake’s nose scrunches in distaste, a shadow casting over his eyes as his brows furrow. 

“They’re not going to stop. This is only the beginning. You have to tell your tulkun to leave. Tell them to go far away!” 

“Leave?” You hiss. How could he say such a thing? The tulkun are part of the clan. To tell them to leave would be to sever the bond that has held strong for so many generations. 

“You live among us and you learned nothing!” Ronal shouts. Others second her words, the shows of aggression only spreading further. Half of the crowd has shifted their weight into a lower stance, preparing for a fight that will soon be on the horizon. 

“No! Hear my words! If you fight they will destroy you. They will destroy everything that you love!” Jake points to Ronal, still heavy with child, but his eyes linger on you. There’s sincerity there. A hope that this battle will not come to pass. You hiss at him, baring your fangs. He may be your mate but you cannot stand beside him in this. Roa and her child must be avenged. No more villages will be burned. No more lives will be lost. Ronal’s hand covers her stomach, face falling from anger to disbelief. Her child has not even taken their first breath and Jake dares to threaten them with the violence of these demons. 

“Hear my words!” Jake shouts over the uproar but no one will heed his warnings. The time for peace has passed. An unbounded tulkun being lost could be ignored, but this was a bonded member of the Metkayina. The spirit sister of the tsahìk. Her death will not be forgotten and the clan will not be deterred. No matter who he turns to, no one will listen to Jake. He may have been olo’eyktan once but his voice holds no weight here. Not when it is so plainly clear that he does not understand your way of life. You thought that you had taught him well. That he was becoming one with the clan. But it’s clear that you had been wrong in your assumption. His eyes are pleading as he looks to you, begging your word to second his. When you don’t raise your voice to support him he hisses indignantly and snatches the strange tracker from Neteyam’s hand, cursing in English. A hush falls over the crowd as he raises it above his head, everyone falling still at the sight of the alien object. An arm pulls you away from Jake as he climbs up next to Tonowari, Ronal keeping you close at her side as her other hand holds her mate’s arm. 

“You tell the tulkun that if they’re hit by one of these they’re marked for death. Call for me I’ll silence it. Saving their lives, that’s all that matters. Right? Saving your family.” He says, eyes landing on you and your sister. His words seem to soothe the People. Everyone lingers in the silence, unsure if this moment of peace will last. Tonowari turns to the two of you but you look away from him. The anger you felt when you first saw Roa’s body is beginning to creep up again, embers turning to a blazing flame. You want to fight. It is what is right after losing a member of the clan in such a brutal way. But Jake knows things that the rest of you don’t. If he says that a war with the sky people will only bring death, you’re inclined to believe him. If Toruk Makto isn’t certain of victory, then perhaps the battle should not be fought at all. Ronal shifts next to you before an unspoken decision passes between her and Tonowari. 

“Tell the tulkun.” His word is final and yet no one moves. 

“Go.” Ronal says and the tension releases at last. “Go!” The People begin to disperse and Jake goes with them. 

“Jake.” He doesn’t turn even as you follow his retreating back. “Ma Jake.” He stops only when you run in front of him, blocking his path forward with your hands flat against his chest. He frowns at you, jaw clenched tight as his yellow eyes spear you in place. He’s angry. But so are you. 

“I will not stand and do nothing!” His hand grips your wrist and pulls you away from the marui still crowded with people. He doesn’t speak until the two of you are in the privacy of his home, the children still missing in all the chaos. 

“Jake!” His grip isn’t tight and is easily broken when you wrench your arm free of him. He doesn’t let you go further than a few steps before he’s clinging to you again, hands holding your shoulders to keep your eyes steady on him. 

“Ma muntxate,” he says slowly, “listen to me now.” His tone is that of a scolding parent and you feel your lip twitch, wanting to hiss at him once more. His lips press against yours before you can. It’s a grounding sort of intimacy. Soft and searching as each of you pour your feelings into each other. Your anger and grief mingles with his caution and fear. 

“Listen to me. Humans have been hunting tulkun for a long time. This is the first time they’ve ever been so blatant about it, leaving Roa the way they did. They’re not hunting tulkun. That was a show of power. They’re hunting me. And if we fight back it will lead them right to us. I can’t let that happen. Just trust me on this, okay?” He tucks a limp strand of hair behind your drooping ear, fingers caressing your cheeks still damp with rain and tears. 

“So we must sit and do nothing?” It’s unthinkable. Roa and her child have been lost and he is asking you to stay idle as their murderers kill more tulkun. How long until Veyan is lost? Until Tsireya’s spirit sister is attacked. The tulkun will be thinning like harvested roots until there are none left. Then what will happen to the Great Mother’s balance? It isn’t the way of things and you won’t stand by as Eywa mourns the untimely death of another of her children felled by the sky people. 

“Look, I’ve got nothing. But this will protect the People. I don’t want anyone else to get hurt because of me. If we fight, Na’vi will die.”

“And if we don’t, tulkun will die. Needlessly. A life lost at war is a sacrifice for the People. One that every warrior is willing to make. One that I am willing to make.” Jake winces at your words. “I’m sorry, Jake, but it is the truth. I am Metkayina. We fight to protect our brothers and sisters. This is the way. I thought you had learned that by now. How can you say you will not fight? You’re Toruk Makto.” So few have emerged since the First Songs, and only in times of great sorrow. He is a warrior of legend and yet here he sits, refusing to fight as if the mantle can so easily be removed. His name will be woven into songs for generations to come. What will they say of this battle? That he stood aside and let the sawtute terrorize the atolls that gave his family solace in their time of need?

“I told Ronal and Tonowari; I’m done with war. I did not lie about that. I came here for a life of peace.” 

“And is that peace not worth fighting to protect when it is threatened? Ma Jake, the Great Mother chose you for something. She has protected and guided you. Do not let her efforts be in vain.” He moves to say something but his brow twitches as the small object in his ear buzzes to life. His hand reaches for yours as he listens to the low noises. 

“Lo’ak?” He asks, pressing his fingers against his neck where an unbeaded choker sits above the necklace you recently made for him. More quiet humming follows until he asks, “Who’s with you?” Another beat of silence, then, “You get to cover and you do not engage. All right? You hear me? Do not engage. We’re coming.”

“Ma Jake, what is wrong?” He’s already moving, pulling you out of the marui. 

“The kids are in danger. Ao’nung and Tsireya are with them.” You look around at the people passing, calling warriors to your side as you rush to Ronal and Tonowari. 

“Is Rotxo with them?” You ask, not seeing his cropped hair as you pass by his family’s marui. 

“He said it was all of them. Come on!” Ronal and Tonowari look relatively peaceful despite the day’s events. Your sister cutting fruit and Tonowari repairing a net as the group you’ve gathered comes running up the path to their home, whooping out war cries that gain their attention. Ronal is on her feet in an instant, knife still in hand.

“The kids are under attack. They’re defending a tulkun. It’s your kids too!” 

“The demon ship?” Tonowari asks. 

“Yes! Hurry up, we have to move!” Jake leaves you to your own, nearly abandoned marui, returning with weapons of his own. Your spear feels strange in your hands after years of disuse. Hunting has never been something you were suited to but this weapon had become an extension of your body as you blossomed into adulthood. Years of learning the clan’s traditions have given you the strength to wield it but it has never felt as heavy as it does now with anger running in your veins like burning rivers of fire. Whatever peace you’d quieted your mind to was shattered the moment your family was put in danger and the rage rolls through you like thunder. There’s a restlessness in your body like you’re filled with a roiling tide, hands shaking as you grip tight to your weapons until your knuckles pale and your body stills to the lethal stillness of a proper Metkayina warrior. Jake returns just as you duck back into the passing storm. The sky has begun to lighten as the reef fills with the clan and their mounts all screeching out deafening war cries, weapons poised to attack. 

“Come here,” Jake stops you before you can rush past him. His hand linger on your skin after he puts a matching choker around your neck, fingers pushing back your hair as he puts that strange ornament in your ear. 

“Press here when you want to talk.” He says, leading your fingers to the two pads of the necklace. “I’ll be able to hear you wherever you are. Lo’ak has one, too. If we’re apart, hold here and I’ll hear you.” He holds your gaze for a beat longer, speaking without words. He’s afraid. He’s angry. The man before you is no longer just Jakesully. He is truly Toruk Makto. 

“Come. We must hurry.” You push past him to call for your tsurak. These demons have trampled their way across Pandora and arrived so near to your home. And now they’ve threatened your childrens’ lives. The lives of your niece and nephew. After killing Ronal’s spirit sister. A need to avenge laces through your body like bolts of white lightning, sharp, bitter, and burning as you add your own shrieking cries to the din. You ride at the head of the party, beside your sister with Jake and Tonowari at your flanks. 

It isn’t long to Three Brothers Rocks, the towering stone fingers appear over the horizon with the demon ship beneath their shadow. It is larger than any human invention you’ve ever seen, like a metal island floating in the waves. It is too far to see every detail but your eyes catch the unfocused shapes of humans skittering across the ship like bugs, their faces covered in those familiar shells. It wouldn’t take much to break it, to fill their lungs with the air of your planet. So much of Pandora is hostile even to natives and yet they think they can tame her. Soon they will learn. Some lessons must be taught more than once. 

“They’ve got our kids.” Jake says. “Your daughter. Tuk. Lo’ak.” Tonowari growls, voice scorched with hostility. Ronal’s hiss is nearly a whimper, nearly identical to your own. 

“Jake,” a voice crackles to life in your ear, sounding far off and nothing like Lo’ak’s. You press the strange piece of metal closer to your ear as the voice continues. They’re speaking English and you haven’t learned nearly enough from Jake and the children to fully grasp what’s being said. Only a few stray words are recognized. 

“What is he saying?” You ask, eyes flitting desperately between Jake and the ship. Whoever it is means to harm your family. That much you know even without understanding every word. Everyone’s eyes fall to Jake. 

“Hold here.” He says at last. 

“They are killers of tulkun.” Tonowari stops him before he can go further. “They must die. Here. Today.” These murderers must restore the great balance with their own blood. A thousand of their lives are less valued here than one of a single tulkun. The killing of even one was a declaration of war. No more lives will fall to their greed. Not if you can kill them where they stand. 

“It’s me that they want. That’s what all this has been about. Let me do this.”

“You brought this upon us!” Ronal bites out. Her gaze flickers between you and your mate as if unsure of who her anger should scorch first. It was you that spoke for him when she wanted to deny his family sanctuary. This could have been avoided had you held your tongue. But whatever happens, this is the path you’ve chosen to walk. It seems Jake has accepted his fate as well. 

“It’s me that has to do this.” The voice returns but none of his words make sense. Jake’s voice echoes in your ear as he answers, English flowing easily from his tongue. He gives you a parting glance before leading his tsurak forward. 

“Jake!” Ronal stops you from following with her spear across your stomach. 

“You stay. He has brought this storm over our heads. Let him be the one to quell it.” Your sister says. Her eyes hold flecks of sympathy but it is overshadowed by her need to protect. She is tsahìk. Eywa has chosen her to keep peace and balance. Jake’s life may be enough to free your children and turn the sawtute away from the Metkayina atolls. It is a sacrifice she is willing to make for peace. 

“Ronal.” You can’t watch your mate give himself over to those demons just as much as you can’t watch your clan fall to their hands. It feels as though your soul is tearing in two. A tsakarem protects her people, protects the great balance. But a mate protects their muntxatu. You grip her spear, ready to push it aside and defy her once more just as something breaks through the waves up ahead. A tulkun rises from the water, crashing down over the demon ship with a ferocious bellow. Payakan. 

The bugs begin to scatter aboard their ship and a screeching war cry tears from your lips, calling the rest of the clan to join. It calls the humans’ attention and they turn their eyes to the clan closing in on them. Teeth bared and weapons raised. 

Their guns are loud. It sounds like a hail of heavy rainfall as they turn their guns on you but they’re nearly silent beneath the water as you urge your tsurak to dive. Their tiny metal arrows hiss through the water in cloudy streams, too slow to do harm even as so many fall around you. It’s as if they’re coming from all sides as the shadows of their smaller boats pass overhead, lit by the red bursts of light that follow each fire of their guns. They’re easy to see and hard to lose. Hunting animals is harder than spotting a human with a gun. You rise from the water as another ship draws in close. One of them shouts as you arc overhead, a pained yowl leaving their lips as your spear tears through their chest. If they were alive when you dove back into the water they’ll die soon enough as you kick their limp body off of your blade. One life has been avenged. Still more to reap. 

The sounds of death fill the air as the ocean is stained with more blood but it hardly brings relief. It is the same as the sound of a wounded animal. A death with a purpose. It is what you remind yourself as their empty eyes gaze up at you before their life is snuffed out. It is for a greater purpose. One they could never understand. The great balance is something these demons could never grasp. Some learn. They haven’t. This is the way. And it is good. 

A hunter strives for clean kills. Needless suffering is not needed to kill a prey. The humans make mercy simple as their soft bodies burst like dropped fruit under your blade, crystal spearhead cleaving through their bodies wherever you strike. They cry out in warbled shouts for only a moment before falling silent. “Please” is a word you recognize but pay no heed to. The tulkun that they murdered surely begged for their lives as well. Your tsurak lets out a shrieking cry as you breach over another boat, its teeth tearing into whatever comes between its jaws. 

Neteyam’s wound pales in comparison to the deep fissures your mount carves out of the human, their skin turning to ribbons in the animal’s sharp teeth. But he isn’t dead. You flinch back as he swings a knife at you, the blade small enough for a child. It feels strange to touch him as you catch his wrist when he swings again. You hadn’t touched Max, hadn’t touched any human. The feeling is strange and new. His body is oddly pliant, soft enough for you to feel his bones shift beneath your fingers as your grip on his wrist tightens until he drops his blade. His eyes are blank of any inner glow–his soul hidden or absent completely–but his face curls in terror as his weapon falls. 

“Txopu rä’ä si, vrrteptsyìp.” He begins to cry, tears shining in his eyes as you yip and plunge your tsurak back into the water. He isn’t dead but he is close enough as blood streaks your mount’s maw. Streams of red fill the water as the clan makes quick work of the humans in the smaller boats, yet they still move with no guide. A burst of heat singes across your skin as an empty boat crashes into a stone outcropping in a cloud of flaming smoke, the metal crumpling like a teylu shell as it folds itself around the black stone. Dark clouds rise from the water where other boats have caught fire, some still carrying screaming sawtute. You watch a hunter rise from the water to meet them as they crawl out of the flames, spear tearing through two at a time before the third is met with his knife. 

Their numbers are becoming fewer, but so are yours as riders are shot from their mounts under the endless downpours of their metal rain. A shout leaps from your lungs as one grazes your arm, hardly enough to truly harm you but it feels like a burning stone has passed over your skin. The ocean stings against the shallow wound as you dive out of danger. The pain is hardly more than a dull prickling but others aren’t as lucky as bodies float around you. Brave warriors lost so that this battle can be won. Each of them will be mourned in turn but not now. You blink away the heat of the tears threatening to rise behind your eyelids and focus on the war still raging just over your head. 

The thin shafts of your spear arrows bend under your tight grip as your eyes find another boat floating overhead. The metal husk is caught in flames as the humans abroad rush to put out the fire. It will be of no use as one of your spear tears through their bodies. Their heads barely turned to the sound of your war cry before screams of their own join yours as blood bursts from their pierced chests. More dead but you may be joining them as a third appears, gun in hand. Your tsurak rears back, catching the shots in its chest. The pain echoes through tsaheylu, carving a burning ache between your ribs as your mount’s jaw closes around the human’s head in a final act of retribution. It rears back with a muffled screech, tossing the three of you out of the flaming boat. You’re only thrown as far as a stone outcropping as tsaheylu breaks and your tswin is freed from the bond. The stony shore scrapes at your skin but you roll to your knees with the momentum. Without your skimwing you’re stranded in the middle of a battle with only a few spear arrows in hand and your knife on your hip. 

The dark stone hardly conceals your vibrant body and you slink back into the water, still keeping close to shore. Smoke fills the air with thick, grayish clouds that blot out the sky and everything has taken on the flickering color of flames. Most of the metal boats are destroyed or empty, a few unmoving bodies still aboard. The demon ship is in flames as well and the humans are scattering to smaller boats. They’re leaving. Abandoning their ship and this war that they’ve called upon themselves. Their shouts echo across the open water but from this distance you could never hope to understand their words. You hope they are laments of defeat and promises of renouncing their attempted claim on Pandora. To continue will only bring them more death at your peoples’ hands. Because more lives have been lost than just tulkun. Their fingers spread across Eywa’eveng like poisonous roots, digging deep and stripping all that they touch. Leaving would be best.

Your head falls back against the rocks behind you, eyes facing the hazy sky. It is nearly eclipse. Soon the battlefield will fall into a blue-lit night. Your eyes will not be burdened by the darkness but humans aren’t so lucky. They should leave, you think tiredly. Return to that distant star in the night sky. Your body aches and your heart hurts. You can’t imagine what more pain they’ll bring if they stay. There’s blood on your hand as you lift it from the water, patches of red that the ocean couldn’t wash away. Your hand trembles as you stare at it, trying to decide if the blood is yours or another’s. It hardly matters as you press your bloody fingers to your throat like Jake showed you. 

“Jake.” Half of you expects your only answer to be silence. Or that unknown voice that stole Lo’ak’s necklace. 

“I hear you.” His voice sings through you. He’s alive. 

“My tsurak is dead. I’ve lost my spear.” Your voice sounds tired even to your own ears. Low and gruff as you inhale another breath of smoky air. Exertion burns in your legs and your tail feels bruised as you keep yourself afloat. The moment of stillness has brought you back to yourself, steadied your mind enough to feel your body. No longer numbed by the instinct to fight, the aches and pains of battle slowly make themselves known until even the tips of your ears are throbbing. But now isn’t the time for pain. There will be time to nurse your wounds once the battle is won. 

“Where are you?” Jake asks, his voice pitching with panic. You move to answer only to stop short as a large shadow swoops overhead. You sink beneath the surface as an ikran flies through the clouds of smoke, a figure hanging in its claws. Their words are muffled beneath the water but you recognize the sound of your daughter’s voice. Jake calls your name, it rings in your ear but you don’t answer. Your spear arrows are tossed ashore as you fill your lungs with acrid air before diving after the banshee. As quick as you are in the water, you’re not nearly as fast as the ikran and you watch from a short distance as Kiri is dropped aboard the demon ship. You rise to take a breath, eyes desperately searching for a way in that isn’t through the throng of demon warriors still leaving the burning ship. A flash of blue catches your eye as two bright silhouettes board the ship, crouching low as they move further inside. Tuk and Tsireya. Now you have two more reasons to board the demons’ ship. 

This metal does not burn when you press your palms against it like it had in your vision at the Ranteng Utralti. Instead it reminds you of stones cooled in the shadows as you leave wet footprints in your wake. Even as the humans disappear the ship has not fallen silent. It groans and shrieks out in a monotonous trill as a red light winks in and out of the flooding rooms. Soon the ocean will swallow it whole and whoever’s left will sink with it. You don’t intend for this place to be your resting place. The humans make it easy as you slink through the underbelly of their ship. Shadows pass over you inattentively. A child has more sense than these demons. Even the uniltìrantokx do not seem to know how to use their bodies. Their ears don’t move toward the muted sound of your footsteps, their nose doesn’t scent the smell of blood clinging to your skin. 

They all simply meander, guns poised loose and useless as you slink past, careful of the debris scattered across the floor. Your silence is unnecessary as the warriors stir up enough noise to cover each of your footsteps. Their voices twitter like birds as they mill around with little regard to your shape moving through the shadows just beyond their sight. Their voices echo through the metal walls along with that shrieking noise. It keeps time like a drum as your eyes search for the children in every space you pass. There are so few people still aboard that their voices stand out in the din of the sinking ship. Soft and frantic rather than loud and self-assured. You move towards the sound of their voices like a stalking nantang, your fingertips pressing into the floor as you move on all fours. Your hand finds a broken piece of the ship. Thin and hollowed, the ends broken to jagged points. It’s not nearly long enough to mimic a spear but the shape and weight of it offers some reassurance as you emerge from the shadows, keen on getting the girls off this demon ship. 

Tsireya and Tuk are crouched next to Kiri, trying to cut her free. You wait for the next beat of the ship’s shrieking before letting out a sharp yip. Kiri’s ear twitches towards the sound. You match another shriek with your own, your voice ringing out in time with the strange noise. Tuk jumps, eyes looking around as she hears your voice echo through the air. 

“It’s Sa’nu!” She says quietly. Kiri nods, shifting restlessly as Tsireya’s knife makes little progress on her bindings. 

“Cut it here.” Kiri corrects her, holding out the thin orange material as best she can. All their heads are bowed low, watching the bindings begin to give. You move towards them slowly, only stopping as more humans and uniltìrantokx come into view. You leap from the large metal box you’d been crouched upon, bringing your makeshift spear down hard on a warrior’s head. It makes a sickening cracking sound as blood rushes to the surface of their cropped hair. You swing again and their mask shatters, blood bursting from their crumpled nose. He gasps for air and you watch as Pandora poisons his lungs before moving on to the next. An uniltìrantokx raises their gun and you duck away from the hail of their fire to the sound of Tuk calling for you. A voice follows hers. One that is vaguely familiar. The same voice that has buzzed in your ear before the battle began. 

I want her, you recognize the words if only barely. Alive. The guns fall silent. You dare to glance towards the girls only to see an uniltìrantokx grab Tsireya’s wrist and toss her off a ledge. The breath stills in your lungs as you pray to not hear the horrible sound of your niece’s body landing far below. Instead there’s a splash. He’s tossed her overboard. Thrown her to safety. The voice speaks again and you hear one of your girls hiss. 

“Are you a Sully?” The voice shouts in broken Na’vi. A child is more eloquent and you don’t deign to answer. You aren’t called Sully. It isn’t your family name. But Jake has told you that human traditions are different. You would not be called mates on Earth. You’d be married and he’d give you his name. But you are not on Earth and he is no longer human. Such things mean nothing here. 

“Demon!” You shout back. “Release my children.” It’s doubtful that he understands Na’vi any more than you understand his Earth language, but you won’t embarrass yourself as he has by struggling to string words together. 

“You are a Sully.” He says with a mirthful tone. His next words seem to be directed towards the people around him and you tense for another rain of gunfire. Instead there’s the echoing thud of their heavy foot-coverings against the creaking metal floor as they seem to close in. The sounds are muted but your ears have learned to recognize even the smallest noises. Even the faintest snap of a twig in the forest could mean death if you aren’t an attentive hunter. It has never been your strongest suit but as the smell of their sweat begins to fill your nose as your ears twitch towards each new footfall you realize your weakest trait is still stronger than whatever they’re capable of. At least you hope it is. When the first warrior rounds the bend towards you you’re poised and waiting. His legs buckle as you sweep them from beneath him with a swift kick. He lands with a shout, his gun jumping from his hand. You kick it further from his reach as you round on the next target. A human warrior. Easier to deal with. He’s learned from the last human warrior you took down and ducks when you swing towards his head with your metal spear. You swing again, lower than he can duck and slash open the thick armor over his chest. It spills out white fibers that float like pollen in the air. 

The uniltìrantokx–their leader it would seem–barks another order and more of his warriors descend upon you like a cloud blocking out the sun. There are a few more wounds inflicted by your hand before you’re disarmed, someone’s arms hooked beneath yours with their hands clasped behind your head. You feel their knitted fingers digging into your skull, pressing against your tswin.  A hiss falls from your lips as he catches your thrashing tail between his legs when you manage to swing your hips and knock back a human that moved too close. The pain is a dull ache that thrums at the base of your spine but it doesn’t stop you from kicking as you’re dragged from your secluded corner into the full light of the fading sun. Eclipse is approaching fast and the warm light spills across the sinking ship, all of its metal innards limned in firelight. The uniltìrantokx that has you in his grip laughs as you thrash in his arms, flexing his arms to tighten his hold on you. You feel like a freshly caught fish dangling in a fisherman’s net. A snarl finds your lips to mask the shame as the leader of this war band approaches you with the saunter of a seasoned warrior despite his young appearance. He shouldn’t be so assured as he leans down to meet your gaze. 

“You are Jake’s woman, yes? Mate?” He asks. Whoever this man is, he knows Jake. Your mate never spoke of the war that he won all those years ago. The songs only praise Jake. He is Toruk Makto. A dreamwalker that became one of the People. But this man carrying himself as if he is a true Na’vi, wearing the skin of your people, must have been a part of the story he’s never told. From the time before the songs begin. He asks again, slower, as if you’re a child needing time to understand. As if he isn’t the one speaking like a baby. 

“Yes.” You bite out in English. That word you know. 

He huffs out a dry chuckle, “Good.” The smile that finds his lips is nothing short of predatory, his fangs catching the flashing light of the ship. He stands back to his full height and nods to the man still holding you back from attacking this uniltìrantokx with teeth and claws. The warrior at your back drags you to the ledge where Kiri and Tuk are bound and kicks at the back of your knees. You’re expecting it and your knees buckle but you don’t fall. He kicks again, harder this time, and you go down with a shout. But he doesn’t bind you as he did the children. Instead their strange orange binding is lashed to your upper arm, luckily leaving your injured arm free. You tug against the restraint as he ties you to the ship and the material bites into your skin. If you pull hard enough you’ll bleed where the edges dig into the rippling shapes decorating your arm. Tuk is quick to move towards you, tucking her body as close to your chest as her bound arms will allow. Kiri moves closer behind until she’s leaning against your back as you hug Tuk to your chest. 

“Sa’nok, your knife.” Kiri whispers. The warriors are inattentive, talking amongst themselves as if you’re of no threat to them. They hadn’t even bothered to disarm you or even search for any weapons. Perhaps they expect your comparatively sparse coverings to be incapable of concealing anything. And yet they’ve missed the knife still sheathed behind you, hidden beneath the thick waves of your damp hair. With a free arm and a weapon you could break free of your bindings but how quick would these demons fall upon you and your daughters. You only managed to fight against them for a few moments, injuring only a few before you were caught. Perhaps you could free Tuk and Kiri but they seem to think they need the three of you. Need people tied to Jake. 

“Not yet.” You try to keep the exhaustion from your voice as you squint against a sudden burst of light as eclipse closes in. A blue glow overtakes the last dregs of the amber glow of the sun and your skin flickers to life. The humans seem to draw in closer to each other, weary of the night even as the ship is still filled with false torchlight. Only their leader still stands alone. He guards the empty space between you and his warriors as you keep close to your children. His footfalls don’t have the same weight to them as he paces barefoot across the groaning metal. The pool behind you is steadily filling with water. The ship is sinking and if you don’t move soon it will take you and your girls with it. Your fingers twitch, eager to grab your blade, only stopped when the leader begins to speak again. Half of his words are lost to you but some are caught with the small knowledge you’ve collected. 

“I’ve got your daughters.” He sounds proud, taunting. “I’ve got your woman.” You hiss but keep still as the warriors turn towards the sound of your protest. They don’t look so worried now. The woman among them, arms covered in colorful tattoos, chuckles. She pushes out her bottom lip like a disgruntled child, mocking you. You bare your fangs with a snarl and she returns the gesture, though her hiss is hardly intimidating. Kiri snorts softly beside you, equally as unimpressed with these false-bodied warriors. The lead uniltìrantokx keeps up his taunting but your focus stays on the female warrior as her tail curls playfully behind her. She’s enjoying this. 

“You will never be one of the People.” You mutter. She snorts at that. Her jovial disposition disturbs you. You’ve taken many lives today but you took pleasure in none of it. It is the same as hunting. These kills were a necessity. This dreamwalker seems content to cause harm for her pleasure. You can See it in her eyes. Human eyes are empty. But she isn’t entirely human anymore. It’s barely a flicker of light but you catch the thread of amusement and it curls in your stomach like acid. Demons. All of them. She only looks away when one of them barks out some clipped words and they all begin to move in step, perching with their guns raised as they wait for something. No, someone. Their lively mood drops into a somber silence as they lie in wait for Jake. Even the humans know to fear Toruk Makto. 

Their leader’s mood hasn’t shifted. He still sounds so assured as his voice hums in your ear. He hasn’t moved out of your line of sight as the others have and he’s gone back to pacing as they wait. He says something you don’t quite understand but Tuk and Kiri do. Your youngest looks up at you with eyes full of fear. Whatever he’s said has scared her. She looks under your arm towards the rapidly rising water that’s slowly filling the room below, overtaking the limits of the pool. Her breathing picks up as she shifts anxiously. You draw her head against your chest, letting her listen to the steady beat of your heart only for it to stutter as you hear his next words. 

“Your boy didn’t have to die.” It’s hardly understood but it settles like stones in your heart. 

Your boy, he said. Die. Your eyes cut towards him, ears drawn tight to your skull as the words echo in your head. Your boy. Die. One of your sons has died. Neteyam is dead. Lo’ak is dead. Your son is dead. Your boy is dead. 

Your breaths begin to come in huffs like a chuffing pale as you breathe deep through your nose. It does little to soothe your anger but it’s all you can hear. Your labored breath and your heated blood rushing through your ears. Your heart beat thuds steadily like the beat of a drum. Keeping time as you draw your knife from behind your back. The crystal blade cuts through your bindings with ease. You’re free. The man is still talking, eyes looking towards the horizon as he taunts your mate. His voice is still in your ear but you can hardly hear anything outside of yourself. It’s only the sound of your breath, the beat of your heart. There are no thoughts in your head and yet your body moves. You feel yourself taking staggering steps towards the uniltìrantokx, your knife gripped tight in hand. Heat drips down your cheeks as your vision swirls. The man before you wavers as tears cloud your vision, his back still towards you. He doesn’t hear your footsteps, doesn’t feel the waves of rage cresting over him as your shadow flickers across his back. You raise your blade to strike only to be swept off your feet and tossed away from him. 

For a moment, you’re weightless. Then your body is met with the floor. Pain throbs through your back as scraps of the ship dig into your spine. The space above you swoops and dives like a bird before settling as your vision steadies with a dull throb thrumming in the back of your head. But the pain hardly touches you. It feels like when you fell from a tree as a child. The air is punched from your lungs and you roll to your knees with heaving breaths. Whatever that was has thrown you into a lower area of the ship. Your fingers sift through blood and those same crystal shards from your vision as you push yourself upright, stumbling only slightly. The tiny chips dig into the soles of your feet as you retrace your steps to get back to your daughters. Too much has been lost. You can’t lose anything else. Not today. You find your knife and then a lost spear as you move through the ship. It’s sized to someone taller than you but it will do fine as you follow the shadows moving through the smoke and fire. 

They no longer look like people. Even the uniltìrantokx begin to lose shape in your eyes, becoming faceless entities. Empty and spiritless. Abominations. Demons. Disgusting mockeries of your People meant to be killed without mercy. You will show them none. The ground is hot beneath your feet, metal finally beginning to burn after another fire burst to life. It’s startled the last threads of the human plague and you’ll use their fear against them. 

The clouds of smoke and dimmed light hides you in plain sight. A spine is separated, ribs shattered, as your spear cleaves through the back of an uniltìrantokx. They shout, spewing out blood. It splatters across your face like warm rain as you heave the spear over your head, tossing their body off of your blade. The rest of the bugs are scattering under the light of the flaming rain. Another bursts open as you leap from the darkness. One end of the spear kills one and with a twirl the other end tears through another. The little ones are easier to kill even as they point their guns at you. You swing up and open one of them from groin to face, shattering their mask before pushing them aside to find something else to kill. A shadow moves behind you but they don’t feel faceless. You know their presence. Another hail of gunfire illuminates the silhouette in bursts of reddish light. He only glances at you for a second before throwing a spear of his own at you. You duck with a hiss as it flies past you, landing with a wet thud as it finds the stomach of another uniltìrantokx just behind you. His hands close around the shaft, fingers knotted tight as he tries to pull it out before going limp. When you turn, whoever threw the spear is already gone. Something tugs at your heart and the haze settled over your mind shifts for only a moment before snapping back into place as guns fire forehead. 

Arrows would be better. Would keep you further from the touch of these demons, but the spear is all you have. You swing with vengeful shouts that grate in your throat, burning as smoke fills your lungs. Three more. They turn to the sound of your landing. Tiny things. Easily killed. One. Two. Three. The third gets stuck on your spear, his hands blood-slicked hands clawing at the wood as your foot presses into his stomach. He won’t be moved. Your knife finds his throat to silence his screams. A mercy he shouldn’t be afforded. One moves behind you, crawling as he clutches the wound you’ve cleaved through his side. It’s leaking rivers of blood so thick that survival will be impossible and yet you can’t stop yourself from leaping onto his back. His frail body gives way under your weight and you finish him with your blade in his back. Puncturing through his lungs as you would an animal. That is all these things are. Invasive animals. A scourge needing to be held at bay. 

A hand meets your shoulder and you hardly move as they try to pull you away from the body still trapped beneath you. When you turn the force of it throws them aside. Another tawtute. Another vrrtep. You hiss, or perhaps you scream. It may be both as your knife tears through their soft body. Once. Twice. Again and again until your hand is wet with their blood. Their eyes are empty of anything as you scream. How dare they touch you. Touch your son. Your planet. You shriek and it shatters through the air like a crash of thunder. Everything has gone still. The air crackles with the sound of fire, embers still falling through the darkness as the ship groans lowly. Metal. Dead earth. Everything around you is dead. And yet it is not enough. Your eyes drag through the darkness, looking for any sign of life. There’s no direction to your footsteps as you stagger through the water and blood splatters underfoot but you find your spear, still stuck in the collapsed human. You set your weight on his stomach and his blood rushes between your toes as you wrench the weapon from his prone body. It tears free with a crack, the blue crystal blade hanging loose and useless where the shaft has snapped in the middle. It hits the ground with a dull ring as you let it slip from your fingers. Knife still in hand you stagger through the darkness in search of… something. Your mind has gone blank. As clouded as the smoke swirling around you. You follow the sound of voices. Eyes fixed ahead. Half of the ship has been lost to the water and it feels like the gentlest kiss as you wade towards the figures still wavering in your eyes. Your mind begins to steady as your senses return. 

You can smell blood and the ocean. Feel the waves against your skin. Hear the words being spoken. 

“–don’t hurt her!” Your eyes find the figure of a small human. Blue streaks across his pale skin, most of it exposed save for the tewng he is wearing. There are beads in his loc’d hair. A strange mix of human and Na’vi as the pack on his back hisses minutely as he speaks. The beads of his armband shift as you grab him with enough force that he spins to face you. 

“Vrrteptsyìp!” You snarl at him. His brown eyes widen as he stares up at you. Your fingers tighten around your knife as you raise it to strike only to stop as he keeps his eyes on you. Fear. It’s as clear as Naranawm shining overhead. He’s afraid. And you can see it in his eyes. You can See it. 

“What trick is this?” You hiss, the point of your blade biting into his neck. A trail of blood blooms and falls, streaking through the blue stripes that mark his body like war paint. 

“Sa’nok, don’t kill him! Please, don’t kill him.” Kiri begs. The uniltìrantokx holding her beneath his knife says something. His eyes fixed on you. They’re empty. But his tone sounds shaken. As if he is forcing himself to stay calm and flippant as he has been. But his eyes don’t move from you or the tawtute still in your grasp. With a curious tilt of your head you drag your knife away from his neck, not lifting from his skin as you poise it at his chest. The uniltìrantokx shifts in a way he probably does recognize. This body is not his own. It was stolen. But you know. A tsakarem Sees all. His tail moves, curling nervously behind him as his jaw flickers. There’s a threat in his bared teeth. And it’s one you recognize. Because it’s mirrored in your own face as you watch his knife draw blood from your daughter’s skin. Whoever this little human is, he’s important to the uniltìrantokx. You hiss again and feel the breathing system on the boy’s back stutter as he heaves an uneven breath. Your blade slashes across his chest with the gentlest pressure, just enough to break his skin. 

“I cut.” You string together those two words in accented English. Kiri has asked you not to kill him, and you won’t. He is probably the Spider she’s spoken so fondly of. For your daughter, his life will not end by your hand. But this demon doesn’t know that. You raise your knife over your head with a shriek, staring into the child’s terrified gaze as you wonder how a piece of Pandora has found its way inside a human. The threat is enough and the uniltìrantokx drops his blade, tossing Kiri towards Jake. You’re gentler with the human as you release your bruising grip. Kiri stumbles to her feet as Jake leads her and Kiri towards where you stand. You’re still a bit hazy, still unsteady as grief floods your chest, and your feet don’t move even in the face of victory. The uniltìrantokx says something that you don’t understand but the word “death” is met with a snarl as you bare your fangs at him. 

A hand finds your arm. Small and gentle as they pull you towards the water. 

“Sa’nu, come on. Please. Sa’nu!” Tuk says quietly, clinging to your side.

“Sa’nok!” Kiri pleads as you finally realize the battle is over. Your children are free. The humans are dead. You can leave this place. Jake says your name evenly, still crouched in front of you. He hasn’t accepted this victory either. 

“Get them out of here.” It’s an order. Spoken with the voice of a legendary warrior. Your feet begin to move. The water sings to life with pale blue syuratan as you all slip off the sunken edge of the demon ship. The last demon is still talking, knife poised for a fight. And Jake hasn’t moved. Kiri warily calls for him, but her words go unheeded as Jake lunges at the uniltìrantokx.

“Jake!” You cry out for your mate but your attention is called away by the sound of something bursting. Fire fills the water, arcing towards the ship in lashing tongues of orange light. 

“Get back to the ship. Swim. Now.” The ship is finally succumbing to the ocean, spewing out dark liquid as the fires aboard eat through the last of its integrity. Water rushes up with you as you and the children clamber back onto the ship. Tuk clings to your hand as her small legs buckle in the push of the waves. She screams as she loses her footing and falls deeper into the ship as a waterfall forms at the edge of an opening. There isn’t a thought in your mind as you dive in after her. No thoughts as you push her ahead of yourself. She shouts at you to open things, heavy swinging pieces of the wall that come open as you pull. Until they don’t. You tug at another place where a shape is cut into the wall, a handle jutting out for you to pull. But the ocean presses in as you pull out and the wall seals itself before you can push Tuk through the small opening. 

“There’s no way out!” She screams, round eyes searching frantically for any place to go, but the light is beginning to wane. Winking in and out until it begins to dim like a dying fire. 

“Sa’nu, I’m scared.” She whimpers. 

“It is alright. Stay close to me.” You pull her closer, fingers weaving through her braids as she buries her face in your neck. The water rises around you as the darkness closes in. You pray for the Great Mother’s mercy. To save you and your daughter. And then only your daughter. Just Tuk, you beg within your heart. Please, save ma Tuktirey. For a moment there is nothing. No shift within your heart as there usually is when the Great Mother breathes her will into you. There’s nothing but darkness until a dot of yellow light appears. And then another and another, like stars as seeds of the Ranteng Utralti fill the water with warm light. A dark figure swims among them, rising to meet you as you hold out your hand. 

“Kiri!” Tuk leans into her touch as her free hand finds her cheek. 

“Everything is going to be alright, tsmuke. Follow me.” The yellow light guides the way through the flooded ship as you follow behind your daughters. The open ocean is a blessed sight as you follow the starlight to the surface. It isn’t the longest breath you’ve taken but the anxiety twisting in your chest nearly punches the air from your lungs and you take in gasping breaths as you swim towards the shape of a tulkun floating nearby. Payakan. Jake and Lo’ak cling to one of his fins, beckoning the three of you closer. 

“Come. Come here.” Lo’ak pants, holding his hand out towards Kiri. Their five fingered hands intertwine as Kiri pulls Tuk closer to her. Lo’ak is alive. He is alive and safe and breathing. Tears burn anew in your eyes. Neteyam is dead. Your son is dead. It emptied your head of all other thoughts, empties your heart of all other feelings. You go still in the water, barely kicking your feet as the thought washes over you. Perhaps you begin to sink but Jake pulls you towards him before your head dips back into the water. His arm wraps tight around you until even the water can’t reach the space between you.

“Thank you, Great Mother.” You whisper it again and again until you aren’t sure if you’re saying it aloud or in your heart. Thank you. 

ɴᴀ’ᴠɪ ᴛʀᴀɴsʟᴀᴛɪᴏɴs

Nawmtu – great person (honorific)

Spono alusìng – floating island (speculative)

Hì’ikran – dorado verde, small ikran (speculative)

Kawngtu – bad person, “bad guy”

Naranawm – Polyphemus, the planet Pandora orbits

Syuratan – bioluminescence

Taronway – hunt songs

Muntxatu – mate

Txopu rä'ä si, vrrteptsyìp. – don’t be afraid, little demon

Teylu – a grub, similar to a jumbo shrimp

Tswin – neural braid

Vrrtep – demon

Tewng – loincloth

Tawtute, Sawtute – sky person, sky people

Ranteng Utralti – Spirit Tree

’Itan – son

[ymiwritesstuff]

Lack of You

So I’m not the biggest fan of Childe in all honesty HOWEVER I decided to write this Yan!Childe fic for him because let’s be honest, he’s lowkey unhinged lmao. Anyway this is probably the darkest fic I’ve ever written so be sure to read the warnings carefully if you feel like that’s necessary. Please enjoy!

Genshin Impact

Yandere!Childe x Fem!Reader

Summary: After thinking you had found peace in Liyue after a difficult escape from your home, all your hope comes crashing down when you see him again.

Notes: Angst, Mentions of NSFW, DARK THEMES, Mentions of past abuse, Swearing, A hint of Zhongli x Reader, Yandere/Obsessive themes

Also posted on AO3!

Ch.1 | Ch.2 | Ch.3 | Ch.4 | Ch.5

18+ ONLY! MINORS DO NOT INTERACT!

As the grand entrance of Liyue Harbor slowly came to view, your lips turned upward into a warm smile, your feet picking up just a tad bit more speed. It had been a delightful vacation, the freshly picked windwheel asters in your basket were proof of that, but you were happy to return to the region you had called home for some time.

It felt nostalgic in a way. As your feet discovered the wooden surface of the bridge leading to the harbor once more, you found yourself reminiscing of the time you first arrived in Liyue. It had been a stormy day, the wind raged and rain fell, but you remember feeling a strange sense of calm as you familiarized yourself with the surroundings, not quite sure if what you saw was real.

You placed your hand on the railing, peeking down at the shallow waters below that eventually bled into the vast ocean. You inhaled the familiar air around you, allowing your (E/C) eyes to close themselves in this brief moment of basking in the beauty of Liyue.

Mondstadt had its moments, and you had enjoyed your time in there in the underlying presence of the Anemo Archon. In the city of freedom, you did indeed feel like a bird in the clouds, unrestrained. But nothing would surpass the utter feelings of tranquility and joy that engulfed your being every time the warmly colored leaves of Liyue entered your vision.

Despite leaving the cold region you had once called home behind abruptly on that fateful day, an action which many would write off as strange, not an ounce of regret floated in your conscience. As far as you were concerned, Liyue was your home. And would always be.

You retreated from the edge of the bridge and continued deeper into the harbor, eyes sparkling with joy. The flora that lay in your basket was blessed with a small glance from your orbs as you pondered what to do with them. The orange petals spun beautifully in the nourishing winds, so placing them outside somewhere was most ideal, you thought.

As you walked, your ears picked up an unusual amount of commotion, but you figured it must have had something to do with the recent Rite of Descension and just how horribly it had ended. You had received the news when in Mondstadt and you weren’t quite sure if you even believed them. But seeing the state in which some of the people were, it was clear as day that Rex Lapis, Liyue’s Archon, had passed on.

You frowned at the thought, but pressed on, not wanting your mind to be plagued by such thoughts. Not again. Though, something told you that the people would bounce back and prosper, despite the loss of their Archon. The people were strong, admirably so, and with the guidance of the Qixing, you were certain the region would heal.

Be it consciously or fully by accident, you found yourself nearing the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, some part of you perhaps hoping to get a glimpse of its consultant. Something akin to a friendship had begun to blossom between the two of you during your time in Liyue, and you found yourself seeking his company from time to time. His calm and collected nature and eloquent way of speech fascinated you, some would even say you found these traits rather attractive, though you wouldn’t allow yourself to admit that.

Mr. Zhongli was peculiar, yet so very charming and elegant. He had been your guide when uncertainty followed but most of all, he allowed you to forget all the sinister things that had brought you there to begin with.

A smile crept onto your lips as your eyes glued themselves on a familiar figure, that dark hair lightly swaying in the wind. His back was turned to you and he appeared to be engaged in a casual conversation. Perhaps he had time to listen to all the things you had experienced in the land of Barbatos while you were-

Your face blanched and your feet stopped abruptly. The hand holding the basket let go, the flowers plunging towards the stone ground that laid beneath your soon trembling form. Your eyes widened, an eerily familiar feeling of dread you had wanted to forget digging its nails into you as you looked at the person whom Zhongli was conversing with.

Your stomach sank. That orange hair, those dull azure eyes that somehow managed to feign life, and that careless smile he wore as he spoke words you couldn’t hear that would have fooled anyone but you. For you knew what laid behind that seemingly innocent smile.

It all came back to you. All the memories from the time you were plagued by an obsessive monster, hellbent on keeping you to himself with no regard for your feelings or protests. Without knowing, your legs carried you somewhere, your mind clinging onto the slightest piece of hope that he hadn’t seen you. It was suffocating, all the joy and relief you had previously felt crumbled into dust at the mere sight of him. Just when you thought you had managed to escape from his claws that had dug into your skin so many times back home, he came back like a vicious snake.

You found yourself in a secluded alley, desperate for air that had left your lungs. You panted, head feeling as if it would burst from the fear. Questions whirled in your mind. Why was he here? How did he find you? Was your difficult escape from Snezhnaya utterly fruitless?

You fell to your knees, hands buried in your hair as you tried to simultaneously fight back tears and somehow clear your mind that had become heavy and clouded with terror. Despair coated your entire being, all of your efforts to stay far away from your tormenter feeling hopeless. Would this nightmare ever end?

The sun was setting, night would soon coat Liyue Harbor, a place in which you had once felt safe. But now that you could practically feel Childe’s presence even when he hopefully wasn’t near, you lost all hope.

You somehow managed to stand up again, frantically looking around you, the paranoia of him being just behind the corner digging itself into your frail being. Your breath hitched and you placed a trembling hand on your chest, trying to make some sense of the situation. There was a slight chance that his eyes had not noticed you standing there, though you were more than unsure about this. However, it was the only hope you had and you clung to it desperately knowing that the next course of action was to leave Liyue for good.

As you came to the realization, you allowed the swelled tears to fall from your eyes, bringing a hand over your mouth. Once again, you were pushed to the point where you had to leave a place you called home behind, just because even the thought of seeing him again made your stomach churn. You didn’t want to go through that again, but you were out of options, and he, once again, was one step ahead.

The way home was silent, but not the peaceful kind. It was grueling. For once in your life, you wished for the usual yells of merchants or loud voices of the children. You walked with careful yet fast steps, eyes frantically glancing from side to side each time you passed a corner or another dark alley. You were terrified, it was almost ridiculous. You were sure he was somewhere, laughing sardonically at the state of you that he had caused. The thought reminded you of just how cruel he was. You were sure he got some twisted form of satisfaction from seeing you suffer.

You gripped the railing of the crimson stairs far too hard, your heart racing and throbbing in pain as you ascended them. Despite your horrified state, you were fueled by a small drop of determination to escape once again. As for where you weren’t sure. Mondstadt was the first place to come to mind, but you soon realized just how obvious that would have been. If Childe was as steadfast in catching you as you surmised, that’s where he would go first. Inazuma wasn’t any more comforting as the whole nation had been locked down, and no outsider would even make it there due to the raging storm at sea.

No matter how you looked at the grim situation, you were stuck. You tried not to think about it, for right now, your top priority was to leave Liyue as soon as possible.

You allowed yourself a slight moment to release the breath you had been holding as soon as you stepped into your dark home, closing the door behind you. Leaning against the door, you breathed, closed your eyes that had become red with tears, and tried to figure out your plan in your head. All you needed to do was to gather all the necessary items for your journey ahead. Still, it felt overwhelming. Difficult even.

You couldn’t help but think back to the moment when you first met him, how clueless you had been. He was perfect, almost too perfect, and you realized that when it was far too late. It saddened you, in a way. But what kind of a relationship with a Fatui Harbinger would work anyways. Childe was too far gone, too sick with what he thought was his undying love for you.

“Did you honestly think you could run away from me?”

Your eyes shot open and a cold shiver filled with dread ran down your spine for the second time that day. Only this time, it was worse. A single lantern at the other end of the room was lit, and that’s when you saw him again. His eyes, full of death watched you, an unquenched hunger floating in them. One corner of his pink lips was slightly upward as if he was trying to suppress a ruthless laugh at your pathetic form.

“Childe…” Your voice barely held anything in it, your body soon beginning to tremble under his gaze. The air became thick with something and your breathing became uneven. He tilted his head to the side, that dark void in his eyes looking straight at you.

“W-what are you doing here?” You were not sure how you managed to ask that, and you found yourself regretting the question as Childe took a single, threatening step towards you, that small smirk widening into something much more sinister.

“A business trip. On behalf of the Fatui,” he spoke, voice colder than the Snezhnayan blizzards. His tone was monotone, but you could hear the underlying wickedness embedded in it. 

You were not certain if he was telling the truth, as the disturbing glint in his eyes told more than his words. As he walked, his hand found a single piece of your clothing on an empty chair. He grabbed it, bringing it closer to his eyes and examined it. It was a local dress you had bought for quite a large sum of mora. It was your way of trying to move forward and forget everything. Forget him.

His eyes darkened at the sight and he gripped the fabric tighter before turning his painfully scalding gaze towards you. You flinched as he tossed the garment aside.

“I should be offended,” he said with a slight shrug, before housing a smirk on his lips once more. “Yet, strangely, I’m not.”

“How did you find me?” You asked, surprised to hear a bit more volume in your otherwise shaky voice. Childe couldn’t contain the chuckle that slipped his mouth.

“You seem to have quite the friendship with the gentleman at the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor.” He spoke with such glee it made you sick and his words didn’t bring you any comfort you secretly hoped but knew weren’t getting. Had he asked him about you?

“Zhongli…”

Childe frowned at that. How you said his name, almost as if it were a cry for help.

“He spoke quite highly of you. Just what kind of a relationship do you have with him?”

His wickedly calm voice changed, and your heart throbbed in fear when it did. You had heard it too many times, all in situations like this. Back home, if you so much as looked at someone else in a way that didn’t please him he would demand answers using that exact threatening voice. And you could never lie. You never dared to.

In a way, he chided himself for allowing you to escape as he was now faced with the chance that you had caught feelings for another man. And judging by the way your eyes widened at his question, it was not a mere chance. He didn’t like that. Not one bit.

He began walking towards you again, and you felt like you were choking, the pressure from his displeased, silently furious face worsened with every step he took. You pressed yourself against the door behind you, your hand trying to find an opportunity to push it open. But you were frozen.

“You have feelings for him, don’t you?”

His voice was full of malice and it was clear that he was holding himself back as you were certain he would snap into a fit of rage at any moment.

“C-Childe… I-”

He got closer and tears pooled in your (E/C) eyes.

“Does he fancy you as well?”

You moved your hand lower, panic settling in at the sight of his unhinged eyes. You didn’t dare look back at him. His eyes darkened.

“...Has he fucked you?”

“P-please… D-don’t do this-”

His brow twitched and his jaw clenched.

“Answer me!”

That was all it took for you to try and push the door open, but your attempt was short-lived as Childe dashed forward at almost inhuman speeds, grabbing your hands and pinning them on the wooden surface. You struggled in his grip, his fingers digging into the skin of your wrists as you pleaded for him to let you go, tears spilling from your eyes. All you got in response was a maniac chuckle.

“You really thought you could get away from me and get yourself another man, huh?!”

He pressed his body against yours and you found yourself losing your strength against him. Still, you tried to break free, sobs escaping your lips, despite knowing just how futile it was.

“Childe! P-please!”

Your protests did little to slow him down, instead, he let out a laugh so sadistic, it trembled in your bones.

“Yes! Beg some more! Because that’s the only thing you’ll be able to do from now on!”

He brutally grabbed your chin and made you look at him, his eyes now burning with a twisted form of desire and hunger. He licked his lips, that wide smile that was sick with a thirst that could never be quenched making your core twist in the most horrible sensation of fear you had ever felt. At this moment, amid that fear, you felt regret. You should have never escaped.

Upon seeing your frightened expression, something twitched in him and he lowered himself to your ear, gripping your both wrists with one hand, while his other held your jaw tightly. He inhaled deeply his mind processing your heavenly scent that was so addictive to him. He missed you, how your face twisted in fear at his actions, how you desperately begged for mercy. A part of him found your little escape thrilling, as he was now on edge from having you away for so long. He craved you and he was losing his mind. 

Perhaps he had already lost it.

You gasped when you felt his tongue on your earlobe, followed by his low, sultry yet shaky voice that send shivers down your spine.

“I’ll ruin you… I’ll ruin you so fucking bad you won’t even think about running away from me again.”