#ludi harpastum

[beehiveofblorbos]

at this point ludi harpastum makes me nervous at best and realistically, terrifies me. It’s been a lore connected festival in the past; that’s when Collei stumbled upon Mond with the sealed remnants of a god within her and that’s when Venti and Vennessa overthrew the Lawrence Clan.

like… they’ve withheld ludi harpastum this long. and it is specifically withheld, as we’ve had mentions of it in the game since the very beginning.

and klee, the little girl who’s connected to all of Mond’s most key players, is very much themed as the perfect maiden to be at the center of the festival.

if there was going to be some tragic business in mond dragging us back in… and drawing in all the most lore relevant players, even Alice and the other Hexenzirkel… don’t you think it’d be focused on Klee? On this historic festival that we’ve been hanging on to and for all this time?

and hey. Klee, unlike most playable characters, has not appeared in the main story despite being one of the earliest releases.

[canonical-transformation]

“Ouroboros” (WIP extract, working title)

----

"How pathetic you all are," spat the girl-monster. Finally, finally, she was vile again, just like she'd always known she was, just like she'd nearly forgotten. "I was right under your noses this whole time."

The Knight, still short of breath, stared at her, uncomprehending.

Go on. You're a Knight. Is it not your job to slay the Beast? Didn't we see that exact story, Vennessa and Ursa, play out in a puppet show just hours ago?

She'd play the role if she had to.

"Two dead. So what?" She smiled wide, teeth bared, the way her physician always had. "I'd do it all over again."

The Knight's face softened. "That wasn't you," she said.

The fool, she didn't understand.

"You're wrong. You're wrong! That was me. I killed them, and I don't even care. They'd never have spared a thought for scum like me, why would I return them the courtesy? What are you waiting for?... Come on. Come at me!"

"...no."

Idiot. Idiot.

"This is your chance!" said the girl-monster. "Come on, chosen heroes of Mondstadt! You know you're no match for me, but... fight me, or I'll... I'll kill them all!"

She swept her arm in the direction they came, where, several blocks away, the sounds and smells and sights of Ludi Harpastum bustled on, unaware of the scene unfolding on the rooftop.

The Knight's face changed, and it— it was a smile. A sad smile, but a smile nonetheless, almost a kind one, at that.

Thrown off, the girl-monster repeated, "I'll kill them all, you hear me?"

...but the moment had passed. Her words lacked gravitas, desperation inflecting her voice as she came to realise that no end was coming for her.

The Knight smiled, a sad smile, perhaps kind, and looked the girl-monster in the eye and told her that she wasn't real. That there was no monster, there was only—

"No. Why are you... no, you can't say that..."

—there was only the girl who'd helped the Knight with her investigations; the girl who had shared fried radish balls and treasured her simple prize at the fair; the one who couldn't use a slingshot but tried her best anyway.

That, the Knight told her, was the girl she knew.

Somewhere beneath the girl-monster's layers upon layers of hurt and anger and terror, she felt a twinge of fear: a new kind of fear, one she'd never known before. She was too inexperienced to understand what it was, but she knew enough to understand that something was terribly, terribly wrong...

...for the Knight's smile, sad and kind, eyes glistening in the moonlight, was the warmest thing the girl-monster had ever seen.

She knew that a proper monster ought to destroy that smile. But she also knew she hadn't the resolve to.

[kavvueh]

Painting Flowers

by @kavvueh

Chapter 23 is here - and so is Ludi Harpastum!

Summary: One year after Alice dies in a research accident, her daughter Klee develops a penchant for burning things and getting into trouble at school. Her big brother (and now guardian) Albedo has to juggle Klee's behavior issues with a career-making project at work: reviving the extinct Inteyvat flower. But luckily, Klee's first grade teacher is pretty patient with her, all things considered -- and, well, it helps that he's not bad to look at, either... Even if he swears up and down that he's a space pirate.

Read it here!

A short snippet of the fic is below the cut!

Dear Albedo,

Thank you for everything you do. You make me happy and I love you very much. Please let Dodoco stay forever. I want you to always smile. 

Love, Klee. 

Underneath that was a small note penned with a different hand.

P.S. Captain Kaeya hopes you smile lots, too. Happy Ludi Harpastum, Klee and Albedo. :) 

[capmangacap]

[daily-amber]

day 72: i finally used one of the many many color palettes ive saved

Colors palette: Stay and Play the Day Away

[dreampearls]

tighnari meeting amber and the both of them gushing about collei meanwhile colleis jsut standing there on the brink of death

[monarchamos]

Hc that, even though Venti largely disagrees with the presence of the church and its religion built for him, the belief and prayer etc, the adoration does get to his head sometimes, and he finds himself liking the loving attention, which is part of the reason why he is so absent as an archon, because if he lets it get to his head too much he’s terrified of going straight down the same path as the Decarabian.

ooh yes on one hand what if he goes corrupt on the other hand ego go brrrr affection is yummy

[46hasu]

One of my biggest fears about upcoming Archon Quests is that we finally get to see Ludi Harpastum in a Mondstat Interlude Quest, only for it to be the chapter where the city gets attacked by Celestia/Abyss as it was foreshadowed.

[baeshijima]

i love how everyone has collectively agreed that collei has four dads

collei is the token daughter we all need and love !!!

[the-fandom-is-now-my-life]

I don't know if you're accepting anymore requests for the Creator Baby Daddy thing, but if said baby daddy was a certain redheaded teetotaler that runs the Dawn Winery? 😗

Their grace had a

Firey headed child

Wc: 1k

As the soft sunlight seeps inside the room you open your eyes, a bright red mane moving softly up and down as it rests on your chest, its curls framing Diluc’s jaw and nose.

It seems like the finger you ran around his hair and cheek woke him up. “Rise and shine, little prince”

Bright red eyes look at you with tenderness and his lips kiss your sternum and arms tighten around your waist.

“We can cuddle for a bit but remember I have to leave after breakfast to Liyue” he nods but sighs against your skin “even after I leave you will be forever in my heart”

“And my heart will always ardently burn for you, your grace” he kisses your lips as he mumbles sweet nothings, both of you fully under the cotton covers and enjoying the last few minutes of time together.

“It's been quite a while, Diluc” you sit down on the stools in front of the bar, it's almost closing time and the few people left are gathering themselves to go home. Even Diluc was surprised to see you at this hour but he holds back from asking about it straight on.

“It's been almost three months, I think? I believe you were scheduled to return for the next Ludi Harpastum, in two more months” without hesitation he keeps the conversation going smoothly, so used to chatty drunkards going on and on and still expect an answer.

Looking at him doing the closing chores so focused delays your answer a few seconds, but honestly who could blame you? His white shirt was rolled up his elbows and the top few buttons were undone “Mhh there was a change of plans, for reasons I will stay a season in mondstat”

“I see… I guess you just arrived?”

“That is right, we hurried back and managed to make it here in two days”

Throwing the towel he was drying the whiskey glass with over his shoulder he leans forward, resting his back from standing for so long and causing a few stray crimson hairs to stick to his thinly sweaty skin, the warmth of the tavern almost making you break into a light sweat after a few minutes inside “Would I be so bold as to offer you a drink, your grace?”

“I would love it, just please make sure to not add alcohol to it”

He nods and turns to pour a small layer of grenadine in a glass “as you please”

“aren't you going to ask me why?”

“Why you don't want alcohol? I was just guessing you didn't want today”

“Well, it's partly because of that but there is also another reason” softly you lay a hand down on your lower belly, sure he would understand the implication.

“Upset stomach? Alcohol does irritate the stomach's lining” but when turns to pour orange juice he sees your deadpan expression and the hand between your hips, soon the connection is made “was that from…”

“Yes, indeed! I do hope your heart is still burning for me”

“Always, your grace” a soft smile grace's his face, if the candles were dimmer it might have been impossible to see. Closer to a gasp or a whisper he leans forward and swears “I would rather rip my heart out than to stray from you”

During the pregnancy his hands and sight seem to always find themselves stuck on your body somehow, a constant reminder to himself that you are safe and this is something nobody nor anything will be able to take away from him and even if they attempted he would fight to defend.

Any comforting words that you might attempt to soothe him with fall to deaf ears so it might be better to hold in the good news until you start to show to enjoy to the max your boundless liberty before making good acquaintance of the dawn winery and periphery, it's not like he would force you to! He would never dare to order you around, it's just his face that makes you the slightest bit guilty when you leave and travel alone. Even if you wouldn't consider four knights of favonius alone he still seems to hold resentment and mistrust.

People say that firstborns always look like their dads, nature's paternity test some claim, but regardless of how your baby looked (even you must claim that as soon as your beloved baby came out it was hard to find any resemblance with humans) the firey red fuzz on his head linking him to his father in a second. Not like Diluc doubted it for a second.

“This selection is a chardonnay” Diluc holds a white grape before smashing it between his fingers and giving it to your toddler to happily chew “it makes a wine of the same name” when the kid swallows he hands them a dark one and does the same procedure “this one is Malbec, a staple for most of our red wine” but this time he spits in back on the ground, seemingly too bitter.

“Why don't you stick to feeding him normal grapes?” You ask from the table under a shadow, sipping grape juice and reading a book.

“When he grow up they might want to work here and with so many types of grapes and things about the winery to know I should teach him young” he turns around from besides the vine, he from may you know where decided that he needed to teach your year old about the multiple varieties of wine grapes and their wines.

“Fine~ if you feel like you want to do it teach him, I doubt much knowledge will stick right now but I will be rooting for you here” he turns around to face the plant again and you keep watching his arms show from under the rolled shirt and how they tense when reaching for a new grape and the love with which he teaches his child, quite possibly reminiscing about his father doing the same with him.

[lair-of-platonic-yanderes]

Platonic yandere step father Diluc has so huge potential... Just imagine he and his teen! step child. Like to bring a kitten from street. Something like that. My English is bad sorr

Fluffy companion

Platonic! Yandere! Step-father! Diluc Ragnvindr x GN! Teen! Step-child! Reader

Description: You were in a bad mood. You wanted some company.

Diluc didn't like, that you had a bad mood. He tries to make up for it.

Warnings and tags: OOC. Platonic Yandere. English is my second language. Unpleasant Donna. Diluc is married (somewhat). Diluc's spouse's (Reader's biological parent) gender aren't specified. Reader's biological parent are a lousy parent. Child abandonment. Arranged marriage. Discussion of arranged marriages. Long backstory. Lumine is Traveler. Attempt at worldbuilding (arranged marriages in Mondstadt, CPS in Mondstadt). Diluc's age aren't specified. Implied blackmail, murder, robbery.

_______

Sometimes, people of Mondstadt didn't look at you. They had to make themselves to look at you. And then, they would not.

The "would not" part was almost the same in all cases. They would look above your head, at the ground, at the birds, at Barbatos's statue. Anywhere, but not at you. Someone would even ignore you talking to them, forcing you to repeat your words again and again. Well, perhaps, such people want you to yell to get their attention, so they could call you a disrespectful brat, complain to Master Diluc and get you in trouble.

But, before "would not" part, came a "look". And "looks" were different.

~~~~~~

Moco's and Hillie's looks were curious. In the worst way possible. They were looking at the source of gossip, when they looked at you.

You tried to shield away their whispers, focusing on a book.

"So... Are they a part of the Ragnvindr clan or not?"

just focus on a text

"No one knows... They weren't officially adopted..."

on a text

"Really? Well, it explains what I heard about their upbringing..."

text

"Tell me..."

please, stop talking about me

"Discuss your poorly done work, you lazy gossips!" Adelinde was livid. "Get back to work!"

A pair of maids quickly strode off, looking with fear at the Head Housemaid. She turned towards you.

Her look was full of pity.

"[Y/N], are you okay?"

You nodded. You weren't, but you don't want to discuss it right now. Adelinde didn't believe you, but decided to drop the subject.

"[Y/N], can I ask you for a small favor? Can you go to "Floral Whisper" and get decorations? They are supposed to be ready."

You immediately put your book down.

"Of course, Miss Adelinde!"

She gave you a small smile. She held a basket towards you.

"Here. For carrying them."

You took the basket and were ready to go, when Elzer called for you.

Elzer's look was full of sorrow and guilt. His gaze didn't linger, choosing to look at the owl statue.

"[Y/N], can you, please, bring that bottle to Master Diluc?" He pointed at the bottle on his table and turned around, showing, that he won't speak to you again.

You quickly put the bottle in your basket to leave the manor, heading to Mondstadt City.

~~~~~~

People from the Winery were, mostly, fine.

Citizens, on the other hand...

~~~~~~

Getting decorations would be a fine task, if Flora was there. She was kind. She looked at you.

Unfortunately, she wasn't here. But Donna was.

She was the worst. And that days she will be even worse.

"Hello. I am here to get commissioned decorations."

Your voice was loud enough to be heard. Yet Donna didn't react, choosing to look at the Quinn's stall. You waited. You repeat your words again.

"Please, can I have decorations? Are they ready?"

Donna didn't answer. But she spoke.

"Such a shame, that Windblume Festivals and Ludi Harpastum lost a lot of charm during last two years. Especially for a young maiden."

She gave you a quick side-eye. A very angry side-eye. You flinched, but repeat.

"Please... The decorations..."

Donna groaned, tear off the basket from your arms, took a box with Master Diluc's name on it, that was full of small flower decorations, and dumped the contents in the basket.

"Here. Be on your way."

You clenched the basket and walked off.

It has been going on for the last two years.

Young and unmarried were borderline hating you.

You were a constant reminder, that the Uncrowned King of Mondstadt was married.

_______

______

Mondstadt was beautiful that days. Well, it's not like Mondstadt wasn't beautiful in any other days. But, no one would disagree, that during Windblume Festival, capital city would become especially beautiful.

"Angel's Share" tavern has surprisingly a lot of free tables for a Windblume Festival.

Right now, on the first floor, Lumine spotted Nelson and Payne, both were sitting on their usual spots. She and Paimon were occupying a table on the second floor, and were the only ones up here. Lumine and Paimon were enjoying their berry juices, when Paimon noticed someone else.

"Look, Lumine, there is a kid down here!" Paimon pointed a finger at the first floor's corner. It was hard to look at it from duo's spot (and if Paimon didn't float a little bit higher, she also wouldn't spot the kid), so Lumine had to stand up.

In the far corner, there were a teen. They sat at one of the tables, looking before them. A basket full of flower decoration were standing on the table before them. They looked deep in thoughts. And very sad.

What was conserving, is that there also was a bottle of wine on the table.

Paimon float closer to the railing, taking a better look at the bar counter.

"Charles isn't here. Do you think they steal the bottle?"

Lumine and Paimon glanced at each other. They have never seen an underage drinker, and they knew, that people of Mondstadt are very careful with drinking age. But, everything can happen.

Lumine and Paimon hurry to the first floor.

They didn't notice, that two more people walked into the tavern.

"Hi! Happy Windblume Festival!" Paimon waved her hand, trying to get teen's attention. Lumine smiled.

"Happy Windblume Festival!"

They almost jumped, and turn their head towards them. A solemn look returned to their face.

"Oh... Hello. Happy Windblume Festival." teen looked uncomfortable. They chew their lip. "Do you... need something?"

Paimon float forward.

"Paimon's name is Paimon. And that's Lumine!"

Lumine waved.

"Nice to meet you." Traveler cast a sneaky glance at the bottle. It still was full. And wasn't open.

Teen nodded. They didn't say a word. Paimon continued.

We just saw you here alone. In a tavern..."

Teen slammed both hands against the table. Their voice trembled. It looked like they were on a verge of crying.

"I have the right to be here! I didn't do anything wrong!"

Lumine raised both of her hands.

"Calm down, please, we didn't mean anything bad!"

"Oh, is our Honorary Knight harassing kids?"

Lumine could hear a smirk in Kaeya's voice. Calvary Captain slowly approached them. Diluc was silently walking beside him. Kaeya ignored Lumine and Paimon, instead focusing on the teen.

"Sad, [Y/N]? Want to have a hug from your uncle to make you feel better?" Kaeya opened his arms, inviting [Y/N] for a hug.

"Uncle?! Kaeya? Master Diluc?" Paimon and Lumine asked in unison. Diluc didn't answer immediately. He walked closer to the teen and awkwardly pet them on the head. After that, he finally answered.

"I am married. [Y/N] are my child."

"What?!" Paimon squeaked. Her eyes sparkled with interest. "Master Diluc is married? Who managed to win his heart?"

Lumine looked as interested as Paimon.

Duo failed to see an uncomfortable look on Diluc's, Kaeya's and [Y/N]'s faces.

_____

Everyone in Teyvat know, that Mondstadt is a city of freedom. So, people would assume, that arranged marriages in Barbatos's land are forbidden.

People, who think like that, aren't mistaken, but, they also aren't completely right.

Marriages, that are arranged only for the sake of getting a hair, are banned. Here, parents can't sell their children into what can be called a slavery.

However, marriages, that arranged for establishing new business connections, for helping to Mondstadt, for making lives of both families better, are still legal. As long as parents discussed everything with their kids, there should be no problem with a consensual, mutually beneficial arranged marriage of Mondstadt's citizen.

On multiple occasions, Crepus spoke to Diluc about arranged marriages.

First time, he explained in the smallest details, in what situation he will consider arranging a marriage between Diluc and another person. Crepus also promised not to think about arranging a marriage, and doing it only as a last resort.

Second time, Crepus talked to Diluc and Kaeya at the same time. It happened few years after Kaeya was adopted into a clan. Crepus explained, that Diluc and Kaeya, despite both being part of Ragnvindr Clan, have different "fiancé" values. Diluc was more valuable, as future head of a clan. However, marriage with Kaeya will let someone have a higher title, without getting the hardest responsibilities of the clan members. Crepus gave a permission to hit anyone, who would discuss Diluc's and Kaeya's value as possible husbands.

The third time, Crepus discussed with Diluc reasons for agreeing to a marriage.

Of course, not for getting an heir. Diluc should find someone he loves, to have children with. And, Diluc should be careful about having kids in an arranged marriage. If one day, they decided to get a divorce, Diluc and his spouse won't deal with traumatized children.

Think twice, before agreeing to a marriage to help Dawn Winery. It would be better, if Diluc will deal with business problems with his own power.

It's a good reason to help Mondstadt by marrying a possible ally. And, as usual, it should be Diluc's decision.

Getting married to help someone is a noble cause. However, Diluc should be careful about who he helps.

Crepus Ragnvindr never insisted on Diluc getting married. He never tried to arrange a marriage for him or Kaeya. Master Crepus just wanted his sons to be happy.

Diluc didn't think about having a spouse.

Not before Crepus's death.

And, he wasn't thinking about getting married after Crepus died.

Perhaps, it was the end of Ragnvindr bloodline.

_________

Diluc was sitting beside the fireplace, deep in his thoughts, when someone, who were standing behind his chair, coughed. He looked behind him. Elzer was standing here, looking exhausted and slightly guilty. Diluc raised an eyebrow.

"Elzer? Is something wrong?"

Elzer take a deep breath, before he spoke. He was speaking slowly, carefully choosing his words.

"It's complicated... Master Diluc, let me start with this... What I say next in no way, shape or form is a request, a plea or an offer." Elzer take another breath. "An old... acquaintance of mine has some problems. Many years ago he helped me with some serious task, so I have a small debt. So, to fulfill it, I agree to pass his message." Elzer looked at Diluc again. "I am simply delivering a message."

Diluc remained quiet. Elzer was always professional and collected, when he talked to him. Seeing him in that state wasn't something Diluc expected to ever see in his life. Diluc nodded to encourage Elzer.

"I understand. Please, continue."

Elzer sighed, rubbed the bridge of his nose. He even slightly lumped forward. He looked... tired.

"Will it be strange for me to say, Master Diluc, that I was hoping that you wouldn't listen to me?" Elzer asked rhetorically. The next second, Elzer spoke again.

"My old acquaintance is from Liyue. He is from one of the smaller noble families. He is facing some serious troubles." Elzer looked into the fireplace. Diluc could swear, that, for a moment, Elzer hopped, that fire would escape the fireplace and either burned him, or his mysterious acquaintance with troubles.

"He has two children. And older one messed up. Badly." Elzer, once again, spoke slowly and carefully. Diluc decided not to interrupt him. Better gave him as much time as he needs. "Twelve years ago they disappeared. Or, perhaps, they just decided to travel. Their father refused to elaborate. It's not that important. What's important, is that Older One returned a few months ago. With a spouse and a child. New made grandfather was delighted. Until the first family dinner."

Elzer rubbed his temples. This time, Diluc decided to ask a question.

"What happened?"

Elzer answered immediately. With every world, Elzer's voice became more and more irritated.

"Older One got drunk. And confessed, that they did something to... They trick their spouse into... Dear Barbatos!" Elzer was almost growling at that point. "That idiot confessed, that twelve years ago they were sabotaging protection and contraceptives, so their child would be conceived and born. They wanted their spouse to always be with them. They used the child to chain their spouse to them." Elzer became silent. Diluc waited. Elzer voice was tired.

"Their spouse weren't happy about it. They asked for divorce. And disowned [Y/N] on a spot."

"Their own child." Diluc wasn't asking. There was no need for it. Still, Elzer nodded.

"The word about the whole situation get outside the family. And now their reputation is in shambles, they are loosing their wealth. However, there is one way to fix the situation. To marry a younger one to a good family, to someone outside Liyue. That's why they asked for help."

Elzer looked at Diluc with a guilty expression.

"Master Diluc. They asked me to deliver their proposition. Fourth of their future income, partnership with Dawn Winery, base for gathering information in other nation. In return, they ask..."

Before Elzer could finish, Diluc spoke.

"For me to marry the younger one."

Elzer nodded.

"Yes. But, as I said, I only was asked to carry a message. I never promised them an answer, or an agreement."

Diluc looked at the fire.

"I understand... Never thought, that I would get such an offer."

It was a messy situation. And none of Diluc's business. He should just reject this "offer".

However...

"The kid... How they are doing?"

Elzer shrugged.

"I can't tell for sure. "Happy" grandfather mentioned his kids and himself, but hardly spoke about [Y/N]. But, I can guess, that they aren't in a good place right now."

There was no doubt in it. Kid lost everything in one moment. And, it was unclear, if they have someone, who weren't busy and can reassure them.

Crepus did mention, that helping someone through arrange marriage was a noble cause. It would be a good deed, to help a kid. By marrying their relative.

Diluc turned his head towards Elzer.

"Can you, please, arrange a meeting? I want to talk to them."

______

Meetings went surprisingly fine and productive. Diluc counted at least five times, when his "future father-in-law" was ready to bow before him.

It was concerning, that there was hardly any interactions between him and his "future partner". But, as Diluc can see, that all family members were focusing on salvaging what remains of their family's connections. They didn't have much time for a small talk.

The contract was made.

Marriage will end, when the family establish themselves in a different nation and will be able to have a normal income, that will let them live and not survive.

Diluc can ask for divorce anytime he wants.

Cheating is punishable with divorce.

Diluc and future generations of Ragnvindr Clan will get all support family can give them.

Diluc's property and finances were secured, he shouldn't worry about losing them during divorce.

It wasn't relationship. It won't be a fairy tale romance.

It was a business relationship. That, hopefully, would help people in bad situation.

_______

There was no need for a wedding ceremony. They could just go to the Cathedral and have a small ceremony. Just two of them. No guests, no feast. Nothing.

They could just sigh a contract in Liyue. No guests, no feast. Nothing.

But Diluc felt bad. He wanted to let his future partner have at least a celebration.

And all went downhill.

Wedding started with a scandal.

He said his wow.

And they start screaming.

Accusing him of being a monster. Of taking advantage over their sorrow. Of being a virtue.

Soon, the whole family was screaming at each other.

Younger one refused to get married.

But the contract was signed.

And Liyue citizens value contracts. Heir of family should marry Diluc Ragnvindr.

That day, the wedding did happen.

Diluc and Older Sibling got married.

And Diluc became [Y/N]'s step-father.

_______

It was evening.

Diluc was checking on the vineyard. His mood was sour.

His "spouse" were an unpleasant person. They spent days pitying their previous marriage, they disrespect his workers and ignored [Y/N]. The kid were eleven, their family was destroyed, their parent disowned them and second parent didn't pay attention to them. Moreover, every time Diluc tried to talk with [Y/N], his attempt would be shut down with a "Don't you dare to parent my child, Diluc!"

And now, Diluc has loosed all chances to help [Y/N].

His "spouse" wanted to help their family in establishing a new life in a new region. So, they left in the morning, right after Diluc left for a Mondstadt city. Diluc didn't have a chance to say goodbye to [Y/N].

Vineyard was quiet and peaceful. Only sounds of wind were heard...

"ACHOO!"

Diluc froze. Which of his grapevines caught a cold?

Diluc looked down, after he heard rustling of the grass. Red eyes met with [e/c] ones.

[Y/N] were shivering. They looked tired and hungry.

"Sorry, Master Diluc... I don't know if I am allowed to stay in the Winery! I will leave if I..."

Diluc shushed them.

"We will go inside. Adelinde will prepare a warm bath for you. We will have dinner."

________

Year passed.

[Y/N] were living with Diluc. Live was more or less normal.

Diluc can't say, for sure, when exactly he started to think about [Y/N] as his own child.

Diluc didn't think twice about hosting a birthday party for them.

But, one problem remained.

[Y/N]'s biological family.

Mondstadt laws about abandoned children were simple.

Child abandonment was a crime.

However, there was also an "Exception".

If the child in question had guardians, caretakers, and their distant parents can be reached via mail, in that case, it won't be viewed as an abandonment.

Currently, only Alice's and Klee's situation was considered an "Exception".

Alice treated that arrangement seriously. She spoke to Knights, nuns, her old friends and even Diluc's staff, making sure, that her little girl won't be left unsupervised. Alice was always reachable. Jean could write a letter to her, and Alice would respond. And would return to Mondstadt, if situation calls for that.

Was it a good solution? Maybe not, but no one would dare to call her a "bad mother". She did her best to care for Klee and fulfill her responsibilities for Knights.

Diluc's and [Y/N]'s situation shouldn't be an "Exception".

Diluc has no reason to let [Y/N] stay. He could just divorce their parent, who were nowhere to be found and who refused to contact their child.

There were no reason for Diluc to keep being involved with them.

But, Diluc knew, that he was the only one, who cared about [Y/N].

Two months after [Y/N]'s twelfth birthday, Diluc filled necessary paperwork.

Now, there were two "Exceptions" in Mondstadt.

________

While Kaeya was keeping Lumine's and Paimon's attention on himself, Master Diluc leaned towards you.

"Are you okay?"

You nodded.

"Yes..."

Master Diluc pat you on a head again.

"Are you sure?"

You could lie again. Like you lied to Adeline. But Master Diluc wasn't Adelinde.

"Moco and Hillie were gossiping again. Donna was rude. Grandfather and others... still didn't write."

You missed Diluc's dark glare.

"Don't pay attention to them. They aren't worth it." Diluc saw, that his words didn't work so well, and you still were upset. He should find a way to cheer you up. But he still was busy and can't spend time with you. And you barely have any friends in Mondstadt. Adults knew about your family's behavior and were suspicious of you. They thought, that your situation was your family's ploy to get into Ragnvindr Clan. And kids tend to mimic parents' behavior, so, a lot of kids and teens ignored you. Still, Diluc didn't want you to spend the whole day in the tavern on in the manor. He took a heavy coin purse, full of Mora, from his pocket, and gave it to you.

"Hey... [Y/N]. Take it. Have some fun. Play games, eat a lot of treats. At the end of the day, we will go home together. Deal?"

A faint smile appeared on your face. You took the purse.

"Thank you, Mister Diluc."

You still have troubles with calling him "dad". Well, can't have everything at the same time.

You left the tavern. The basket and the bottle remained on the table.

_______

You were bored and lonely. You were sitting on a bench, munching on a Hash Brown.

Food was delicious, but you weren't that hungry to eat for a whole day.

Most of the games weren't interesting to play by yourself.

You wish you had some company.

Something soft rubbed against your legs. You looked down and saw a fluffy ginger kitten. You always wanted to have a kitten, but your parents didn't let you, and you still were nervous near Master Diluc to ask for a kitten.

"Hi... Are you also alone?"

The kitten meowed, rubbing against your leg. You slowly reached towards kitten. He sniffed your hand, before bumping it with his forehead.

It looks like, you get a company you wanted.

________

The workday was finally over. Master Diluc and you were on your way home. You had your kitten with you. He was hidden. 

It was wrong to sneak in an animal. But, you wanted to keep the kitten.

"[Y/N]... Are you hiding something?" Master Diluc looked unamused. You tried to give him an innocent smile.

"No, Mister Diluc. I am not hiding anything."

Diluc skeptically looked at the suspicious bungle under your shirt. 

"Really?" Diluc flatly asked, pocking the bungle. One offended "meow" later, and a ginger kitten climbed under your shirt and sat on your shoulder. You were busted.

"Master Diluc... Cookie played with me today... I thought..." You swallowed your words under Diluc's gaze.  

"Today we will give him a bath and feed him. Tomorrow we will go to Margaret and ask for advices on kitten care." simply stated Diluc.

You looked at him with wide eyes.

"You mean... You are fine with me having a pet?" 

Diluc ruffled your hair.

"Why I should be against it? You could have asked for one long ago."

 You didn't know, what got into you. But you hugged Diluc, kitten was still on your shoulder.

 "Thank you do much, dad!"

 Diluc let your words sunk in. He put his hand on the top of your head. Diluc's lips barely moved.

 "You called me... dad." 

 You froze. You tried to get from the hug.

 "It was an accident, I didn't mean..."

 Diluc's hand pressed you against his chest in an awkward hug.

 "That accident... It will make me really happy, if you start repeating them more often."

 ________

It was middle of the night.

Diluc was patrolling Mondstadt City. Right now, he was observing, how Donna got in serious trouble.

Windblume Festival tend to lure criminals. People, who were trying to get their hands on something valuable.

Quite stupid and gullible people. Who believed an anonymous note about maiden from flower shop having some rare expensive jewelry at home.

Donna will be terrified, and her house will end up completely messed up.

Darknight Hero should probably help her.

But, she was so rude to Darknight Hero's child. 

That should be a lesson to her.

Diluc will make sure, that the rest of Mondstadt won't be damaged.

He had a busy evening.

He helped [Y/N] take care of Cookie.

He had a strict talk with maids. Reminding them, that they should do their job, and not gossip about his child. And reminding them, that he has connections, money, and he knows where their families live.

He had dinner with [Y/N]. [Y/N] called him "dad" a few more times.

 Last time, Diluc was that happy, was when he got a letter on [Y/N]'s thirteenth birthday.

From his allies from underground intelligence network. 

About a successful operation to get an intel on Fatui.

Unfortunately, they arrived a little bit late. There were casualties. 

A certain noble from Mondsdat became a widower.

To keep the network safe, that casualties should be hidden from the public.

Diluc was patrolling Mondstadt City.

And his thoughts were focused on [Y/N].

On how Mondstadt view them.

He could easily put the end to all rumors.

He could make Mondstadt citizens accept [Y/N].

He didn't do it.

It’s probably for the best that no one else tries to be friendly with them. Diluc wouldn’t want to see [Y/N] break out of that shell they were forced in, after all. As long as they are like this, he will be their only source of comfort. 

Their father.

[a-998h]

Each nations festivals for the Creator.

Mondstadt

It is known as The Ventus Dies Natalis (Latin: The Winds Birthday Festival).

Time of year: Spring

How long it lasts: 3 weeks/ 14 days

Origins: The people of old Mondstadt wanted to honor the creation of the winds. Do to this they planned a festival that at first was a serious religious affair that lasted for a week, before it became a 3 week festival.

Traditions week by week

Week 1

Day 1: The people go to the cathedral plaza or inside the cathedral for prayer and to present offerings of Calla Lillies, Snapdragons, Dandelion Wine,and Fruits of the Festival, Mint Jelly, Moon Pie, and Northern Apple Stew.

Day 2: A tournament between the knights is held from sunrise untill noon. Once the final round has ended, the winner is given a crown of Calla Lillies, Snapdragons, and being honored with the title of Ventus Fortitudinis (Latin: Wind of Strength). The winner is beilved to be blessed with good fortune for as long as they retain the title, the current title holder is Bennett for two years in a row.

Day 3: A tournament is held between Mondstadt's archers from noon to sunset. The winner gains the title of Sagittarius Ventus (Latin: Archer of the wind) along with a Calla Lilly and Sanpdragon flower crown. The winner is beilved to be blessed with good fortune for as long as they retain the title, the current title holder is Amber for four years in a row.

Day 4: From sunset to midnight a contest for bards is held and the winner gains the title of Vates Ventus (Latin: Bard of the wind). The winner is beilved to be blessed with good fortune for as long as they retain the title, the current title holder is Venti for six years.

Day 5: The three winners throw a ball, similar to the Ludi Harpastum games, but these balls have two flower crowns on each ball. The three winners throw the balls and those who cath any of the balls and gain one of the six flowers crowns is believed to share in the original winners good fortune. After this the people good to play games, eat, and drink.

Day 6: This day is most for prayers to local shrines or at the cathedral.

Day 7: People go and either, buy of pick Calla Lillies and Snapdragons and spend time making flower crowns for their friends, family, or lovers. A large feast is had and people gift the flower crowns they made to each other.

Week 2

Day 1: People return to the Cathedral area for another prayer and this time no offerings are put at the statue offering table.

Day 2: Those who are willing with travel out to the separate shrine near the Thousand Winds Temple in order to deliver written prayers of the people.

Day 3: In cetian locations in the more rual areas will have games set up, like wind glider races.

Day 4: This is a day with many bards who share their poems, song, and stories with people in the plaza during one act performances that last from noon until sunset. Once the sun sets, people will spend their night drinking and eating.

Day 5: This is another rest day.

Day 6: drunken partying with lots of food.

Day 7: people gather around campfires or fire places and tell stories.

Week 3

Day 1: The church choir sing a few songs to start off the final festival week.

Day 2: The petals of Snapdragons and Calla Lillies are picked from the flower and case to the wind carrying prayers, often down by those who do not wish to write their prayers.

Day 3, Day 4, Day 5, Day 6: drinking, feasting and games.

Day 7: The people all blow on dandelions, making wishes as the fluff blows in the wind. A large feast like at the beginning of the festival is held in oder to cap off the festival itself.

Liyue

The Creator has been celebrated on Lantern Rite on few occasions.

The Creator has a festival of their own called Lóngfèng jié (Chinese: Dragon and phoenix festival).

Time of year: Spring

How long it lasts: 15 days/ 1 week and a day

Origins: When the adepti roamed the land along side humans, they saw how the humans would worship the Creator on the same days of worship for Rex Lapis. Once he was told, Rex Lapis said that the people shall have a festival for only the Creator every spring for 10 days before it became strethed to 15 days over the centuries. The times during Lantern Rite where the Creator was worshipped, happened during times where the spring was to rainy and dark for the typical festival.

Day 1: The citizens gather at their nearest shrine and present offerings of Snapdragons, Violetgrass, Lotus Flower Crisp, Stir-Fried Shrimp, and Stone Harbor Delicacies. This happens after the people say a prayer for good fortune.

Day 2: a parade is held with a dragon and phoenix being made to look like it is dancing by being controlled by a team of performers.

Day 3: There are kite design contests for both children and adults. Once the designing is done, there is a contest for who's kite can go the highest and farthest.

Day 4: A feast is held to honor the Creator's role in making the Archons.

Day 5: The Liyue Opera puts on a performance of the Creators brith from the stars and Celestia.

Day 6: Bouquets of Violetgrass and Snapdragons are traded between those who are close.

Day 7: People place a Snapdragon or Violetgrass flower into the sea as a prayer for good fortune.

Day 8: The shrines are decorated with Snapdragon Violetgree garland and only drink offerings are placed this day.

Day 9: A feast is held to celebrate the Creator's role of making the adepti.

Day 10: The Liyue Opera puts on a performance about how the Creator made the Archons, adepti, and humanity.

Day 11: Prayers are written onto pieces of paper and are then burned, they believe the smoke carried the prayers upto Celestia for the Creator to grant.

Day 12: A contest is held for who can make the best sculpture of the Creator from sunrise to noon. The winner is given the title of Shítou yìshùjiā (Chinese: Artist of stone) and the current title holder is Madam Ping. From noon till dusk a tournament is held to see who is the strongest fighter, it was used to see who would be a good guardian to the Creator, the winner gets the title of Fènghuáng wèishì (Chinese: Protector of the Phoenix), current title holder is Beidou. From dusk till sunset a contest held to test who would be a good advisor for the Creator, the winning title is Míngxīng gùwèn (Chinese: Advisor of the Stars) current title holder is Xingqiu.

Day 13: People tell smaller stories and myths about the Creators interaction with Liyue's archon and adepti at home or on stage.

Day 14: A final feast is held for the Creator's role in making humanity and everything on the mortal world.

Day 15: The Liyue Opera puts on a performance on the death and rebirth of the Creator. Kites with prayers and wishes written on them will be released as the streets are lit with lanterns. In Qiaoying Village, wusho dances are held, in which Gaming is usually the main star.

Inazuma

The festival is called Hana-shin matsuri (Japanese: The flower god festival).

Time of year: Summer

How long it lasts: 10 days

Origins: The yokai started holding a small festival to thank the Creator for giving them life. When yokai and humanity became friends, the yokai shared some of the traditions with humans while making sure they were followed and done properly. Eventually the festival became a common part of life in Inazuma. It became even more important when the arachons of Inazuma were seen in public for the festival.

Day 1: A prayer service is held at Grand Narukami shirne in which special incense are burned and offerings of Dendrobium, Sakura, Sakura Mochi, Sakura Shrimp Crackers, and Tri-colored Dango.

Day 2: Kabuki theaters put on performances that tell important myths about the Creator, similar to the Liyue Opera.

Day 3: Sangonomiya shrine holds a prayer services with the same offerings as the first prayer day.

Day 4: A parade with floats moves through the streets of Inazuma city. Each float follows a set theme for the festival that year.

Day 5: The samurai and Inazuman warriors hold a contest of strength and skill. The winner gets the title of Hoshi no senshi (Japanes: Warrior of the stars), and current title holder is Kujo Sara for 4 years in a row.

Day 6: Onikabuto trading, collecting and fighting amounts children is seen as a way for them to test their strength, Itto is still trying to win.

Day 7 and Day 8: Are the rest days untill the evening, in which there is a large feast.

Day 9: Sakura and Dendrobium flowers are put floating into the sea and a way of wishing or prayer.

Day 10: Fireworks are fired into the sky as way to end the festival.

Sumeru

This is known as Laghayati Parvan (Sanskrit: Color Festival).

Time of year: Summer

How long it lasts: 7 days

Origins: The people of Sumeru believed that since they were closest to nature, that they were closer to the Creator. They treat this time of year like a 7 day funeral service as it is believed that the Creator drew their last in the Avidya Forest, however it has become more light hearted in the last 20 years.

Day 1: People clean their homes and the nearest shrine before leaving offerings of Sumeru Rose, Mourning Flower, Padisarah Pudding and Baklava along with prayers.

Day 2: People get markings on their body in symbolic patterns using an ink made with Henna berries.

Day 3: The people lights bonfires to tell stories about the Creator and Greater Lord Rukkhadevata. People in Sumeru ship them. (After Lord Rukkhadevata get erased, those stories are replaced with stories of a parent daughter relationship)

Day 4: People adorn their homes and local shrines with flower garlands and lanterns.

Day 5: People throw colored powder made with Henna berries at each other and decorate their homes and shrines with it.

Day 6: The colored Henna Berry powder is thrown as a welcoming gesture for the Creator.

Day 7: A clean up of all the colorful powder from the streets and buildings.

Fontaine

This is the Dieu créateur Carnival. (Fench: Creator gods carnival.)

Time of year: Late winter/early spring

How long it lasts: 7 days

Origins: It started as a way for devoted worshipers of the Creator to mark the end of their fasting period. Fontaine kept it like this for the whole time untill Furina became archon. Furina thought the Creator deserved a more fun and colorful celebration.

Day 1: Rainbow Roses and Romartime bouquets are gifted to shrines as offerings along with Fruity Trio and Fontaine Aspic.

Day 2: An 18 float parade goes through the streets lead by the king, queen, and carnivalon on floats. These floats are offer followed with performers from all nations.

Day 3: Another parade during those in costume on the floats throw up to 10,000 flowers into the crowd. During this time boquets of Rainbow Roses and Romartimes are exchanged between lovers, it is believed to bless the relationship with years of good luck so long as the partners are together. This parade is called the défilé de fleurs (French: flower parade).

Day 4: This is a repeat of the parade on day 2 expect the floats are decorated with lights of various colors. Known as Défilé de lumières (French: Parade of lights).

Day 5: On this night, people par take in games and drunken fun while dressed in costumes and masks.

Day 6: This is a day full of performances all having a common theme of myths about the Creator.

Day 7: The days in which people clean up from the weeks events of chaos and fun.

Currently all nations are either starting or preparing a festival to welcome the Creator back to Teyvat. I will explore these a bit more in the main plot line.

[phoenixblaze1412]

HAIII can I get some fluff with Webttore? like maybe its when him and krupp are at the ludi harpastum and hes so sick of krupps talking that he just starts focusing all his attention on reader (his other assistant) who he finds much more tolerable and totally doesnt have a soft spot for - 🐓

Webttore, who's been casting secret glances at you the whole night while he and Krupp talk to the other nobles, mostly the Seneschal and Diluc Ragnvindr.

He would make sure you weren't too far away from him. He doesn't want to see those other snobby nobles looking at you hungrily as if you were some fresh meat. You're his assistant after all, he's not letting anyone else take you away from him.

Whenever he would try to make small conversations with you, Krupp would always join the conversation and gloat about himself and his 'achievements'. The harbinger could only glare in annoyance at his assistant's intrusiveness.

Webttore has had it with Krupp's blabbering. Not to worry, he's going to deal with him once all of you get back to the palace. Now if only he could keep himself sane without hearing Krupp's annoying voice throughout the mission.

How lucky he was when he saw Krupp drag you along with them to help collect some wares, silently seething at his assistant when he noticed him gripping onto your arm too tight.

Webttore wanted to get to know you more, which is why he immediately grabbed you by the waist before pulling you away from Krupp who was busy talking to the nobles. He doesn't care about the people in the party, his focus solely on you.

He doesn't like you, he simply tolerates you is all. You're always so quiet yet obedient whenever he barks orders and commands. Why would he develop feelings for a meek assistant?

Alas, Webttore did developed feelings for his meek assistant.

Now that he got a closer look on you, were you always this attractive? He must've not been able to appreciate your beauty due to you always having your head low whenever you were working in the laboratory with him. Nonetheless, he's enjoying what he's seeing.

This has you curious and worried, you were suddenly being pampered by your Lord Harbinger and this has you somewhat afraid. Were you now considered useless that he was acting all friendly with you just so you he can earn your trust before breaking you and killing you off?

He was asking you if you had eaten already, feeding you the delicacies on the table served by the maids and butlers of the mansion. You tried to decline, even though you were starving, but Webttore can already tell through your nonverbal actions.

So there you two were, your mouth being stuffed full of the sweet pastries the harbinger has been feeding you. How he knows you have a sweet tooth, you'll never know nor ask about it either.

While you kept panicking internally if your boss was about to kill you soon, Webttore was too busy enjoying his time with you without Krupp intruding on your time together.

With Krupp walking around and moving past people just to search for his Lord Harbinger, calling out his name and such, you were being led away by said man to the other side of the mansion.

With a few minutes left to spare before you and him have to go back to the palace, Webttore has a small idea in mind that is sure to have a lovely result and would be claimed as a cherished memory to him.

Once he has you pinned against a wall with no other people around, he quickly grabbed hold of your chin before tilting your head to look at him as he looked at you with a grin.

You could only stare in fear, is he finally going to kill you right here and now? Has he finally decided to end your life--

Your eyes widened in surprise when you felt a soft pair of lips pressing against yours. Your shock quickly went away as you kissed the harbinger back, the thoughts you were thinking about earlier immediately faded.

Webttore was happy with the results as he pulled away from the kiss. He didn't expect that your lips would taste so sweet, it could probably be the treats he has been shoving into your mouth earlier.

Unconsciously rubbing his thumb along your bottom lip, Webttore placed his mask back on his face as he gave you his signature grin.

"Now then, let us leave that noisy mustachio behind. He can come back to the palace by himself. If he doesn't come back early then I'll simply neutralize him. Come now, pet."

Immediately following the harbinger with a flushed face, you walked alongside him as he linked his arms with yours before leaving the mansion, leaving Krupp behind.

"You belong to me, my dear. No one should ever dare to touch what is mine."

[bundoesnotcompete]

Based off my previous SAGAU post about a hunted reader meeting the Tsaritsa. Multiple connected bite sized povs combined. Pov's are as follows: the creator's sibiling, the reader, Lumine. Implied violence

The Other Half

There was a new trailer that had come out for Genshin Impact. While they had to admit they were excited for it, it still hurt as they had played the game with their sibling constantly. Sighing they booted up their computer, getting ready to start streaming for their fans. As they got Set up, they watched their chat fill up with love, chat aware of the recent loss and giving the best encouragement they could. Preparing they turned on their Vtubing model and got to work.

"Hey! Hello! I see all my happy little chatters out there! Um, I know I haven't been streaming like usual after y'know everything." More words and hearts filled chat, they too were grieving the loss of their favorite streamer's sibiling. "I am ready to start playing Genshin again though. I know everyone has missed it and even though its not gonna be the same without them, i want everyone to know that i am still going to play it. So, how about we see that new trailer, yeah?"

Chat was going too fast to see much, but it didn't take a genius to know they were excited. Finding the trailer called Flowers For a Blooming Spirit, they began to watch in anticipation, unaware of what was happening in it was very real.

--------

It was snowing in Snezhnaya like it always. Thick snow covering a large castle that held two very important idividuals inside. The camera shifts, showing a woman with a white dress and thick cloak to match it. The woman sat on a throne facing towards someone who has their back to the camera. They both were talking but it seemed to be coming to end by the time the camera shows them. The camera shows the bottom of the womans but not the rest. She begins to speak.

"My Lamb, I know this is of great importance to you, but are you sure you want to do this alone?" The camera shows the other being from the neck down, showing that they are wearing and identical cloak to the woman's.

"I am fully aware of my current prediciment. I want to see Paimon and my other half. Don't worry old friend, I will try not to get into too much trouble." The Lamb's face is revealed to show a mask covering it. Though the shape and origin of it is unknown, it covers the whole face. The one known as The Lamb turns their heel, beginning to leave the room. The woman says one final thing before The Lamb leaves.

"Do be careful. You know i worry about you, My Divine Lamb."

New Story Arc: The Deluded Dreaming Of Gods

New Character: The Lamb - ???? - Abyssal

Event Wish Preview:

First Phase: Albedo - Xiao

Second Phase: The Lamb - Tartaglia

New Event: The Ludi Harpastum Festival

------

The Lamb

Appreantly, when one is watched by the other twin creator, they are forced to follow a script. While it had little effect on you, Teyvat seemed try and restrict any mention of the relationship between the other twin and The Traveler. It also felt odd to be watched, you had thought it to be more like a cold chill but instead it was a warm blanket. You hoped you looked cool being watched even if it was something trivial like talking to The Tsaritsa.

It had only been a mere handful of years since the hunt for your head had happened, The Great Hunt as it was now called. Alot would be an understatement for what has happened between then and now. Between being an honorary harbinger and meeting Paimon, you had been busy trying to right things on Teyvat. As badly as most everyone had treated you when you first descended, you had grown fond of Teyvat and almost everyone in it. Well, except Celestia and the Twin Imposters.

Abyssal energy hummed in the back of your mind, demanding attention in your thoughts too. That was another thing, the abyss called to you and allowed you to use it. In fact, it was eager to do your bidding as long as you loved it in turn. The Abyss was not chained down by the seals covering your body, thus allowing you to use it in almost in its entirety. Of course that came with drawbacks, like a month power nap and Teyvat being displeased that you had forced parts of the two planes together. The Abyss and Teyvat were like cats in a way, you had thought. Being petty towards each other and getting jealous over who got attention from their parent, but working together in order to get everything functioning like it should. If only they could do it without overstimulating your mind with whispering at times.

"Little Lamb we are here. Oh, come on don't give me that look, you were the one who wanted to show up to the Ludi Harpastum festival knowing fully well we had work to do first." Pantalone's voice gently waded through the carriage. He was correct that there was work to do, but the wine was more important to you. Well, other than watching Venti shit himself at the fact that you were very much alive and seeing The Traveler. You were right outside the gates of Mondstat and Fatui soldiers and diplomats were waiting for you and Pantalone. Quietly groaning, you got out of the carriage and walked with Pantalone to the Goth Grand Hotel.

A few of the locals did not seem pleased with your and Pantalone's arrival, but kept it to themselves. The Knights of Favonius, however, were tenser than wooden boards. You tried to focus on something other than upcoming meeting and looking at the festival decorations could only do so much. God, you hoped Pantalone would do most the talking. After the horrendously awkward meeting between you and Furina last time, you could only hope that Pantalone would do the talking. You did not want a repeat of last time, especially now that you were likely to be watched by both your sibiling, the entirety of their chat, and the civilians of Monstat.

Walking into Goth Grand Hotel, you took a second to appreciate the interior because of was one beautiful building. Looking back, you were led into a large room were most all of the fatui stationed inside Mondstat were. Noticing that they were now in the presence of 2 high ranking officals, someone ordered the room to attention. You and Pantalone stood in front of the group.

"Now that's more like it. No more meddling about, hmm? First order of buisness, we are well aware of a few rats in this building so let us deal with that first." Pantalone's voice rang clearly throughout the large room. You knew you were about to feel guilty about not being able to save the poor sops were about to be taken off payroll. You knew Pantalone did not like mora wasted and those who have betrayed both the fatui and him were nothing but wastes of mora. Oh well, there wasn't much you could say now that would save their lives. Might as well try to think of a swift death for them that wasn't bloody.

-------------

LUMINE

Lumine was trekking her way back to Mondstat for the Ludi Harpastum Festival. According to Paimon, the Festival was 15 days long and had just about everything you could imagine a festival having. While Lumine was excited, she couldn't shake the gut feeling that something was off about this festival. While Kaeya's letter was mostly about the festival, he made mention of Fatui Harbingers being there. In Lumine's experience, Harbingers often meant something big was about to happen. As she came atop the hill, she felt the warm presence come back to her. It had been gone for what felt like forever. Standing by the Statue of the Seven, Lumine took a moment to compose herself.

"Traveler! The Ludi Harpastum Festival is gonna start soon if we don't hurry up! Oh Paimon is so excited. Do you think they will have lots of food?" Paimon appeared beside her, high pitched voice rattling on about food.

Taking off towards Mondstat, Lumine made it to the gates just before the evening hours. However, the guards seemed to be about ready to turn to stone with how tense they were. "Hey is it just Paimon or does everyone seem really tense?" Paimon floated close to Lumine's ear, whisepering as she spoke. "Maybe Jean or Keaya will know something. Let's go ask them." Lumine nodded and headed to the Headquarters of the Knights Of Favonius. When she finally made it and asked a Stressed looking Jean, it appeared she was right, something was off.

"Oh, yes, they have every right to be stressed. With how many have already showed up to the festival and the arrival of two Fatui Harbingers every knight is stressed out. But, please, do not let that distract you from having fun at the festival." Jean had explained, rubbing her temples as she did so. It seemed her work never ended. The festival was already a stressful time of year for the knights and two harbingers showing uo only added to it. On top of that, the Harbinger called "The Lamb" was suspected to be one of the hands of the Tsraritsa herself. Any wrong doing could completely sour the already fragile relationship with the Fatui. She did not want risk a diplomatic incident with someone like that. Jean watched as Lumine nodded.

"I do not want to seem like i am overstepping or trying to ruin your time here, but if you wouldn't mind keeping an eye out for anything suspicious I would greatly appreicate it. Please, have a wonderful time first and foremost. Now, if you do not mind I have a meeting to prepare for. Go out and have fun and hopefully i will be able join you soon." Jean had shooed Lumine out of the office. Lumine smiled before nodding and leaving to join the festival activities. It was nearly evening afterall and she didn't want to miss even a single minute of activites with friends.

Unaware of the looming ghosts, Lumine went and enjoyed festivites and met with old friends. The Lamb prepared for an eventful next few days. Between haunting Venti for his crimes against them and preparing to meet Lumine, The Lamb had their plate full. Pantalone prepares to move his chess pieces in the most profitable direction that won't entirely spoil Fatui and Mondstat relations. All of them entangled in a web that The Lamb themselves partially created to expose the concept of Divine Creator to their sibiling.

(Arc: The Deluded Dreaming of Gods.) (BEGIN)

---------------

A word from the author:

This was originally written to be multiple parts and way different then I thought. This was also a test of my strength when i comes to writing an actual semi connected short story thing. I was not satisfied with the original work so i remade it into this snippet. I would delete it, but i wish to keep it so into this little dumpster it goes.

I try not to make the Reader into too much of an OC but i find it difficult to not make it an OC insert sometimes when i write. Hopefully its not too much like an OC when read. The Ludi Harpastum Festival is an actual thing in Genshin. I am not making that up.

[opal-serpent]

WHERE is venti story quest act II WHERE is mondstadt expansion WHERE is ludi harpastum where is it hyv, where is it-

[starcurtain]

Diluven Fanfic I Want to Read...

It's time for the annual Ludi Harpastum festivities, but someone on the town planning committee's suddenly gotten a brilliant idea to mix things up: Why not, rather than having a lovely maiden throw the harpastum, give that honor to the "uncrowned king of Mondstadt" instead, with a very special prize thrown into the mix to boot--the lucky citizen who catches the ball will win not just a year's worth of good fortune, but also a whole day's date with Diluc, complete with drinks and dining at the illustrious Dawn Winery!

(Truly this plan reeks of Kaeya, but they sent Barbara of all people to ask, and what is Diluc supposed to do, tell her to throw the ball herself? There's way too many weirdos in town nowadays for that; he's looking out for her safety, unlike some people--!)

But when the celebration finally arrives, Venti (who normally just watches these festivities play out, basking in the enjoyment--and the loose purses--of everyone else) feels an echo of an earlier, deeply unpleasant age: Diluc couldn't look more uncomfortable playing the role of Mondstadt's maiden, and the crowd is a little too eager to win the right to control Master Ragnvindr's time and attention.

What's any self-respecting archon to do, seeing one of his most dedicated citizens in such distress?

Why, swoop in and save the day, of course! (It's only right that someone entirely free of ulterior motives be the one to win the festival's good fortune, after all, and the fact that an exquisite dinner topped with all-you-can-drink dandelion wine is included in catching the ball this year absolutely did not weigh into Venti's decision to participate; what are you accusing him of?!)

So Venti easily catches the harpastum, and congratulates himself on rescuing his favorite bartender from a day of deep, personal embarrassment.

Unfortunately for Diluc, who has been nursing a silent and increasingly mortifying crush on Lord Barbatos since he was like ten years old, this is absolutely the worst possible outcome. It's one thing to sneak glances at your archon when he's playing at being a broke bard in your bar--it's another thing entirely to take him on a date.

(Kaeya knew the whole thing would be hilarious when the idea first dawned on him. But this? This is gold.)