SUMMARY: random sagau brainrots i’ve had in my mind while i was on hiatus in one post!
FEATURING: various × gn!reader
WARNINGS: this contains yandere behaviours, gore, violence, self aware characters, reader being worshipped, worshipping and many more so please proceed with caution.
everything in here (except the one with links in it) is a work in progress. i’ll try to write and post the other parts when i’m not busy.
all of my sagau works will be linked here. so if you want to get tagged, send in an ask! i plan to make another taglist for this series and more characters are going to get added in the future!
every asks, posts and other things related to this series will be tagged as raidengaile; wonders of another world!
Can you imagine how weird it must feel to feel time passing at a much much slower rate than literally everyone else? Because your body and mind are still used to our world’s time, but in Teyvat 1 Earth minute = 1 Genshin hour.
You’re just existing, meanwhile the acolytes are literally crying on their knees, begging you to eat something. “It’s been weeks since you ate!” They say. “Is the food not to your liking?”
Meanwhile you’re just like
But I just ate a few hours ago.
Sleeping is even worse. To all of the acolytes you’ve been up for who-knows-how-long. Honestly, you put Jean and Ganyu to shame with how long you refuse to rest. What do you mean you’re not at all tired? You’ve been up for almost a month straight! Do not make them literally tie you to the bed, hoping that you’ll finally get some sleep.
And when your body gets the 9 hours of sleep you need, you are shocked to see the entire cult in utter chaos. Like some real “Lord of the flies” shit. And the second they see you awake again, they’ve back on their knees, crying about how much they missed you.
You suddenly understand why they are clinging to you every possible second. If they decide to absolutely lose their collective shit every time you take a nap, who knows what they’ll do when you want some time away from them. To you it’s only been like two or three days, meanwhile they’re convinced that you have abandoned them as the seasons begin to change.
RAE’S NOTE; i wrote this a few months ago, and it still seems like total and complete garbage to me. but since i don’t have time to write anything and i think i should post something; so i’ve decided to post this. although it’s one of the shittiest things i’ve ever written.
—tw; sagau try thing, mention of death (not reader), gn! reader
—videogame; genshin impact
Loneliness. That was the first word that came to your mind every time you contemplated your new life.
Surrounded by the wildest nature in all of Tevyat, you were living in a small, but more than cozy, cottage house in one of the deepest forests in the entire continent.
This was your paradise, the only place you could call home. The only place you could go without being chased. The only place where you were truly safe, safe from all the terror that dwelled in the surroundings.
You ended up in Tevyat purely by chance, for no apparent reason.
You had always been someone common, average, a totally normal person. But once you got there, and your presence was noticed, you became the focus of hundreds of characters you once swore to know.
You were once a Genshin Impact player. You loved that game as a hobby, and as a way to get away from the real world for a few minutes, even hours.
You learned to play, to explore, to fight… You learned everything you could about it, but mainly, you learned to understand and love the characters that made up the wonderful game.
At that time you adored them all as only a fan could. Some you considered them as older or younger brothers, others were as if they were your grandparents, parents or cousins, some other friends, or even, wanting some of the characters to be your partner.
However, that was already the past. All those moments of happiness with them were already part of something beautifully distant and unattainable. A past you longed to return.
Now nothing was like that.
Now everyone seemed to resent you, they seemed to hate your mere existence. They even wanted you dead!
The reason? You didn’t even know it yourself. You were only aware that from one moment to another your life was in danger wherever you were.
After running, hiding, walking, jumping, fighting, etc. After all that time of real terror and sheer suffering, calm seemed to return to your life.
With the help of what you thought was Tevyat itself, which you had a hard time believing at first, you managed to find that old house. You cleaned it up, slightly remodeled it, and learned to live there.
With your blood, sweat and tears you built your own vegetable patch to get food more easily, you learned that the other inhabitants of the continent (slimes, hilichurl…) weren’t hostile towards you, and you even ended up befriends with some of them.
It was a group of hilichurls. An adorable group of five of whom you tried to escape, but eventually realized they weren’t looking to hurt you in any way, but rather seemed to want to be your friends.
You took your time getting to know them and coming to terms with their friendly intentions.
It was difficult for you, more than you would like to admit, to understand their good actions a priori.
You had been days? Weeks? Months? Escaping mistreatment from Tevyat residents. And now, so suddenly, some beings behaved so nicely with you?
That really did surprise you, to the point of terrifying you more than cheering you up.
In the end, as I already mentioned, you accepted them and treated them like family.
Well, they were literally like your family!
That group of five were the first ones there, apart from Tevyat itself, who seemed to care about your well-being.
However, not everything was going to be happy again, wasn’t it?
Imagine the surprise it was to find the entire base where you had so many memorable moments destroyed.
Imagine the pain it was to realize what had exactly happened there.
Imagine the heartbreaking cracking sound your heart made when you saw one of the youngest of the group’s masks on the floor, with a more than noticeable crack in it.
Imagine the hatred, the rage, the anger, the wraththat formed in your inside.
Imagine the deep desire to annihilate those who had hurt your dear family.
Just imagine how the ground trembled and the sky darkened as their long awaited and longed for god finally woke up.
A cruel being, their God was. Sadistic, manipulative and ever-so-selfish. But they were their God, nonetheless, so what should they do if not give them whatever they wished for? What should they do if not make Teyvat itself get on it’s knees and pray to them, if not to hunt down the horrid imposter wearing the divine face of their ‘God’
A blinding light in a single night and their ‘God’ has seemingly.. Changed. Secrets are unravelled, and hearts are torn, but the true imposter did not raise their blade as they would have before
An imposter has overtaken the imposter
spoilers - Liyue Archon Quest
genres: SAGAU, villain/imposter AU, isekai
characters: zhongli, ganyu, brief mentions of xiao, GN reader as the person isekai’d into the imposter (they/them pronouns)
warnings: reader has a cult, toxic behaviours, mentions of death, mentions of execution
notes: just finished an overdue module so have this as a self reward lmao. This is inspired by those isekai villainess manhwas and @raidengaile’s manhwa!au! <3 (sorry for tag!)
Is it too late to enter the sagau rabbit hole? Oh well
Years Zhongli has spent by their God’s side, tending to their every whim and need like it was the last thing he could do. And truthfully, it was
He would grant them their every wish. Leave Liyue? Sure. Collect new acolytes? Of course. Retire from being an archon and fake his death in front of the entirety of Liyue, so that he may spend all of his time with them? He’d be delighted to
Though their requests may sound… strange to him at times, as it openly goes against everything they have asked for in the years leading before and after the Archon War, he still does them. Doubts have clouded his mind more than once, but he quickly strikes them down, ashamed to doubt the all-powerful God
However now, those doubts are starting to resurface
Chapter 11 perhaps. Sorry this one came out late, I took a bit of break because I needed one and breaks will probably become more common. I got those first ten chapters out and now I can relax for a bit.
On another note, I have a tentative idea for a main party of Razor, Kaeya, Bennet and Xingqiu. I do really like that team from what I’ve played and my research so that might end up being the canon main team that [Name] played. At the very least, Razor will be canon (Sincerely, a Razor main.)
Now then! Onto my very very self indulgent chapter.
TW!! for derealization, injury, implied panic attacks and implied dissociation. I don’t think it’s as bad as I’m making it out to be but better safe than sorry.
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
The stars in Teyvat were fascinating to stare at, each constellation unknown and simply an array of lights, likely with their own unique story.
Maybe that particularly bright star to the south was of a world Aether had seen, one he had explored and made memories in. Maybe that really dim one in the west had goddesses and glowing magical triangles like a certain video game franchise.
No one knows, least of all [Name]. The sun had begun to rise but it was early enough that the stars were still visible as the sunrise made its way over the mountains.
They weren’t sure how long they had been walking but upon reaching Springvale, they realized they had got farther than expected or planned and vaguely wondered if they should have left a note, however upon finding themselves glancing over towards the Wolvendom Woods, their thoughts of Aether left their mind as they smiled as walked quickly towards the treeline.
Wolvendom was a beautiful place, one they knew well from searching for Wolfhook for Razor’s ascension, he was part of their main team after all.
They had spent hours building every character in their main party and at least one hour on every character they got, honestly it was worrying and probably signaled they need therapy but Hey, if they weren’t planning on it before, this ‘dream’ as they call it will definitely make them get it, provided they can find a therapist.
See, just because [Name] spent a long time in Wolvendom doesn’t mean they’re smart in it, in fact, [Name] is apparently really good at getting themselves in really bad situations.
They weren’t sure what they were expecting when they remembered Hilichurls were along the path but apparently they thought they’d be able to sneak past unnoticed, something they couldn’t even do outside of this dream.
However the opposite of what [Name] expected when the Hilichurls saw them. They were honestly expecting to wake up from pure fear. The creatures moved over to them slowly and peacefully before doing this weird worship like motion that [Name] had seen them do in idle animations before, which explains where their brain got the image.
[Name] also didn’t think their impulse control was the best but to be honest, they thought it was better than patting a Hilichurl on the head to feel its fur, but hey, they’ve been learning lots of new things about their apparently very very unintelligent brain.
What brought them out of this self deprecating inner spiral was the sound of growling from the woods behind them. [Name] wasn’t sure if it was a wolf or a human but they couldn’t say they were keen on finding out and it did not sound pleased.
They could have sworn their heart nearly lunge into their throat as they simply took off running. Whatever was behind them moved as well but [Name] didn’t bother looked as they simply ran, their foot moving as fast as they could go.
A strange reaction for a very strange dream.
Dream.
They yelled in panic as they tripped falling into a bush full of wolf hooks. The hooks at the end of the bury burrowing into their skin but not a drop of normal blood.
Pain shot all through their body as the fall, horribly, suffocatingly real.
The liquid flowing from their cuts was not proper blood. It’s metallic sheen was visible in every hint of light however otherwise it was seethrough, the leaves and branches seemed to strain themselves to reach every drop that freely flowed from their hands, arms, legs and other miscellaneous body parts.
It stung, the Wolfhook making itself known in every available way, feeling as though it was pulling itself deepened into their body. Stung was too kind of a word, it burned, it felt their arms had been cut open and was crudely being sewn back together with knives.
The pain was inescapable, this wasn’t a dream. They couldn’t wake up but every second they stayed, the pain only multiplied in on itself.
This wasn’t a dream. None of this was dreaming but what else could it fucking be? [Name] asked again and again to empty air what it could be, their heart beating against their chest and their lungs tightening, a suffocating pressure placing itself on their already burning chest.
This had to be a dream but it couldn’t be. It’s too vivid, too lifelike, too fucking painful. What else could it be, they had no clue.
It felt real but it was a game, it wasn’t real. It couldn’t be, it wouldn’t be. They’d wake up, now. They had places to be, friends to visit and message, books to read and emails to reply to, they needed to wake up, they wanted to go home now.
The mental connection to the world around them began to dull as the pain reached a climax and began its descent in level and they retreated into their mind, attempting to pull at any scraps that could explain this.
What brought them back to attention was the smell of food. There was meat and something more that they couldn’t quite tell.
It took a moment for their vision to zero in once more and they jolted at the sight. They were no longer in a bush of Wolfhook, instead sitting in Hilichurl camp with not a Hilichurl in sight.
Instead, there was Razor. His brown hood sitting on his head but not limiting their view of his face. He sat, eyebrows furrowed at the cooking pot in front of him as he seemed to be making something. [Name] didn’t want to make him stop.
However it was unavoidable, they glanced down to where their cuts had been, only to find faint silvery purple lines across their skin, that definitely was not normal, however the movement alerted Razor that they were back to focus.
He gave them a smile that caused their heart to begin to melt before speaking. “Food almost done. I help Guide now.”
[Name] nearly wanted to cry.
This wasn’t a dream, maybe that would be okay.
Guide huh? That’s a cool title and if it helps to encourage people, surely it wouldn’t be wrong to take it. Maybe they could make friends.
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
I actually wrote the thing! It took me a while but it happened!
Please enjoy! Feel free to like/reblog/comment/send in an ask or send in a request!
(I’ve given up on adding a link to every chapter.)
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
It was around four am when [Name] slowly woke up from their slumber.
They opened their eyes to find Aether holding them, his face buried into their neck and arms wrapped around their waist, which caused [Name] to make a sound of annoyance as they struggled to free themselves from his annoyingly strong grasp.
It took about five minutes for them to free themselves without waking the Traveler but upon looking out the window and seeing the stars in the sky, they decided it was worth it.
Slipping back on their shoes that they didn’t quite remember taking off and grabbing their bag, they opened their door to step into the hallway.
They walked down the echoey corridors, exiting the same way they had entered hours earlier and being very gentle with the annoyingly large doors.
Dispite the late hours, Mondstadt was not fully asleep yet. Sounds could be heard from taverns and alleyways, and [Name] could have sworn the air of Mondstadt carried every word to them.
[Name] didn’t exactly consider themselves the most intelligent person so when their mind presented the idea of leaving Mondstadt and returning that afternoon, their pride had no chance of stopping them, however they did recognize they wouldn’t make it through the front gate. They could go out the side gate though.
Walking through Mondstadt at night was beautiful, gentle yellow lights illuminated the stone below their shoes and provided them something to see by, even as they turned into a more dimly lit part of town.
The clouds that had covered the sky had vanished now, the moon shining brightly and providing any light the street lamps could not.
As they reached the side gate, they grinned upon finding it empty and hoisted their backpack higher on their shoulders and approached it quickly, at least until a burst of flame in front of them caused them to fall backwards in surprise.
“What the fuckims?!” Again, awful last words.
Footsteps from behind them stole their attention and they turned to see Diluc quickly make his approach, annoyance written on his face as he spoke.
“State your name and business for being out so late at night.”
[Name] vaguely contemplated being as snarky as usual but one glance towards his claymore changed their mind as they scrambled to their feet.
“[Name], [Name] [Last Name]. Here to… I don’t know, go for a fuckin walk? Didn’t really have a goal when I left my room…” they trailed off, realizing how suspicious they probably looked.
“I’ve never heard of you before, and there’s no good reason for a walk this late at night.”
[Name] shrugged. “Ask your bro-… Ask Kaeya, he’s met me, and you can check my bag or something, I’m just going for a normal walk, don’t even have a vision to threaten you with.” Terrible save [Name]. Terrible save. Well, at least he’s treating them like a human being.
Diluc looked them up and down slowly before holding out his hand “The bag?” He asked before muttering to himself quiet enough that [Name] wasn’t sure they were normally able to hear it “Definitely doesn’t look like a threat… definitely doesn’t wield a weapon.”
They were tempted to try to bash his head in for that comment but doubted they would live long enough to do that if they tried as they handed their bag over.
Diluc was through in his investigation, [Name] would give it to him, however when it involved going through their things, they weren’t super happy with this development.
The first thing he pulled out was the pasta dish which [Name] had genuinely forgotten about but hoped was still edible.
He looked at it and its tupperware container oddly but put it on the ground beside him, then pulling out a pocket knife that made [Name]’s eyes bulge.
It was a normal pocket knife that they carried around, what made them stare was the fact it now sparkled like an obtainable item in game, well, it was a dream they told themselves, anything was possible. A stinging feeling from where they fell backwards caught their attention but they shook it off, this was just a dream, a very vivid one.
The third thing he pulled out was a change of clothes, black jeans and a white undershirt with a black and white flannel to wear overtop. Diluc gave them a look that made [Name] wonder if he was judging their fashion sense or lack there of in their chess like outfit.
Fourth was the item that caused him to step in his tracks, a simple hardback book with the cover, a boy in an orange shirt, he stood staring up at stormy skies above the empire state building, likely an unknown building but that wasn’t reason for him to stop like that, until [Name] realized he likely didn’t recognize the writing… this was going to be bad.
Unknown to them however, Diluc did recognize it, too well in fact. Everytime The Guide would control his body like a puppet on a string, increasing his speed and strength exceptionally, he’d see writing in front of his eyes, writing like this.
He’d been there for upwards of an hour before, staring at the unknown words in front of him because he couldnt do anything else, but he’d never complain. How could he complain? The Guide was the best protector Mondstadt, hell, Teyvat as a whole could hope for. Someone he could see as a role model, even though he didn’t know them personally.
Here he was, the middle of the night in Mondstadt, staring at a stranger who only awkwardly smiled at him as he went through their things, the cold of the night completely undetected as he stared into the eyes of someone who had a book with the same writing that The Guide used.
Diluc stood with the book in hand “Where did you get this?” And [Name] shrugged.
“Can’t remember, been a few years now but knowing me? 2nd and Charles free bin. Best find of my life, I’ve read that series from beginning to end like thirty times, you know, Nico really gets to me every tim-” their ramble was cut off by a glare so they shortened it down to something he might actually understand. “Not from this world.”
Diluc paused, staring at them. He stayed that way for a while as he tried to process what that meant. A stranger, an unknown traveler shows up whose very presence clears away the biting cold air of Mondstadt late at night this time of year, with writing only The Guide has ever been able to understand and claims they’ve read this story multiple times.
[Name] took that as a chance to put their stuff back in their bag and was tempted to snatch the book out of his hands.
“Do I get my book back? I’m no lighting quick thief myself so if I could just…” they slowly began lifting the book out of his grasp but Diluc came to his sense, ripping the book away from them and backing them up against a nearby wall, [Name] resisted the urge to make a snide commentary about how this scene could be misinterpreted.
He held the book near their face. “Where the hell did you come from?”
Now, professionalism was not [Name]’s strong suit, so they cannot be held responsible for what they did next, smug smirk included.
“Well, when a mommy and a daddy love each other very much, they do a little dance and that’s where babies come from."
A smirk grew on [Name]’s face as they continued with their godforsaken explanation, at least until a flare of heat from Diluc’s vision reminded them that even though this was a dream, for some reason they still felt pain so it was not wise to mock the guy who could turn them into the most delicious grilled meat skewer you’ve ever tasted, with enough natural salt to cause dehydration.
"Um, Earth? I came from earth.”
Diluc pulled back, staring at them in confusion and placed the book in their hands. “I have several questions for you, I’d like you to come with me.”
[Name] resisted the desire to slap anybody who tried to pull them around right now and instead touched his shoulder, lacing their words with as much venom as they could and hoping he’d follow through “And I’d like you to walk back to the winery and stop acting like such a bitch. Such a shame only one of us can be made happy.”
See, [Name] made that comment because they were tired of being pulled around. What they did not expect was for Diluc’s shoulders to loosen and for him to turn around and begin to walk the other way, back towards the main gate.
Diluc wasn’t expecting his entire body to once again be filled with the warmth and comfort of The Guide’s commands, much like when he or others were set out on expeditions. Not lovingly guided but controlled, the will to fight back stripped away, only capable of following through on their orders.
He then realized with a start, he was following that strangers orders… no, not a stranger, his god.
[Name] simply watched in quiet confusion. Hey, they figured, this being aware that it’s a dream thing really is working out.
They gathered their items back into their bag and zipped it up once more, stepping out the side gate as the sun began to make itself known.
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
Well! I have no clue what this became but muahahaha, I get to eventually explore [Name]’s abilities more.
No clue when the next chapter will come out but I’ve made it over a week straight of posting so please forgive me.
Feel free to like, comment, reblog, send in an ask, send in a request or even not interact if it makes you feel more comfortable! Just know I love seeing what you all have to say!
Hey folks! Part nine of The Guide! Let’s go!! Why do I work this much on fanfiction? I’m not sure but it’s currently the basis for my mental health so again, CHAPTER NINE BABY!
The Guide is a SAGAU (self aware Genshin alternate universe) where instead of [Name] creating the world, they played the game and was seen as a god who cared for Teyvat.
From Aether’s perspective, it was amusing how easily entertained The Guide could be but their quiet awe and fascination with the church caused him to be silent.
As [Name] began walking the aisles, the air they provided changed, still protecting them from the elements but changing to a cool breeze that was slightly too cold for comfort.
[Name] grabbed a book from one of the pews, a set of hymns dedicated to Barbatos before setting it back down. They didn’t have to know the words to know hymns when they saw them.
[Name] themselves didn’t notice the level of care with which they touched the book but Lisa did, she appreciated the kindness it was shown, and Venti sure as hell did.
He watched in pride as his temple was explored by an outworlder god. Venti had been angry before, especially at outworlder gods, playing with the free will of each and every person in Teyvat, but The Guide had proven themselves.
They could call out to their followers and those who had never even heard of them but if they could, they refused to force anyone into servitude, they simply called from the stars, sending down lights and sending stars across the sky to show they were hoping for somebody to answer their calls.
Venti had watched several times and felt their pull, perhaps not directed towards him, but carried to him to him by the winds who told him their name and told him all of how Teyvat itself begged for their presence, how even those that humans feared would not harm them for all would learn how Teyvat adores its human.
Now he got to bear witness to their silent respect towards his temple, vaguely reminding him of how he himself used to see human arts, pieces of beauty and an excellent representation of their culture and just who they were.
Venti wondered if his temple showed the same before shaking it off, it only mattered what you saw in the place.
For a bard so loud, he was pretty good at not beIng noticed if need be, he would be content watching from the sides as you and the leaders of Mondstadt spoke, this was not the time for his introduction.
What Venti didn’t realize was that his presence was noticed a while ago, at least by [Name]. They could have sworn they heard whispers of his name in the air and looked for him, locking their eyes onto him and ignoring him afterwards after realizing how deep in thought he must be.
Lisa had immediately sat down on a seat at the front of the chapel, Kaeya and Amber following suit as Aether watched you walk through the church and Jean followed not too far behind, occasionally asking questions.
“Is this kind of temple to your liking?”
“It is beautiful but it’s not mine.”
“Would you like something built, Your Grace?”
“No, and that’s not my name.”
“Do you enjoy church hymns? We have amazing choirs and I’m sure some local bards would be happy to comprise some tunes for you.”
[Name]’s brain and eyes quickly darted to Venti before returning to the matter at hand.
“No thank you. Again, I simply was willing to hear you out about me potentially being more than a drowned rat, not willing to hear about how to start my own cult.
The two went back and forth like this for about ten minutes, Jean asking questions about [Name]’s view on the types of services hosted by Mondstadt and offering to set up versions dedicated to them, personally.
Again and again, [Name] told her no, growing more and more frustrated each time she ignored their attempts to request explanations rather than offers. The limited abilities they had might be strange but they weren’t a god, they didn’t want to be a god and they sure as hell didn’t behave as one deserving of worship.
After Jean asked yet another question, this time in regards to what they wished for the requirements to serve at the temple she insisted be built, [Name] lost it, whirling around to face her as the wind picked up and pounded against the walls from the outside.
They spoke sharply and at a reasonable volume, wanting to make their view understood but not wanting to lash out.
"I am no god. I do not wish for a temple nor followers. Anything I have done for you in the past was done through a vessel, thank them for once with something other than money and let me life my own gods forsaken life.”
Lighting struck outside the building as a storm began, there hadn’t been a cloud in the sky before but lights flashed in a snow darkly light sky, closely followed by thunder.
[Name] held eye contact with a now startled Jean before they relaxed a bit and looked away.
“Look, there are others far more deserving of anything you’re going to give me. A god should be able to help their people and I can’t do anything of the sort… so please, just stop. I’m excited to be here, I truly am, but I would prefer if this worship talk stopped. I offered to hear you out and I haven’t heard a hint of an explanation, only your insistent ramblings about how Mondstadt can best serve me. Please, Mondstadt is built around freedom, not debt. I’d expect this behavior over the other nations but you all?”
[Name] vaguely wondered if this dream was in fact a nightmare, their brain reminding them their work may be praised to high heaven but there was always someone out there who deserved that recognition far more.
They wanted to wake up.
Jean stopped following them for a time, instead moving over to speak with the other four as [Name] continued to walk the aisles.
She returned a few minutes later.
She offered [Name] a place to stay the night, hoping they would be in a clearer headspace tomorrow, and [Name] couldn’t refuse, it’s not like that had any other place to go in this strange mental landscape.
It took longer than [Name] would have liked to convince the group that they would be fine on their own but that didn’t stop Aether and Paimon from making them aware that the two would be right next door if anything was desired.
So there [Name] sat. Still mentally stewing in anger and self pity, thinking to themselves once more ‘I want to wake up’.
They couldn’t, they tried to pinch their own skin but they just would not wake. Pain in a dream was normal but even what they inflicted on themselves wasn’t enough, they’d have to manually find a time where the connection to this dream was weakest and force themselves out. The lighting left the storm but the rain was as hard as before, causing [Name] to only sink further into their mind.
_______________________________
They spent the day in the room given to them, lost in their own thoughts and only calling out to be left alone when people knocked on the door, at least until after they had fallen asleep.
Another dream filling their mind but ending as a blur when they woke, a blur, a mess, of course this was a dream and that’s why they couldn’t remember what dream they had just had.
Moonlight from the now clear sky seeped through open curtains onto the wood and [Name] zoned out staring at the illuminated flooring, pulled out of it when a knock at their door drew their attention once more and instead of telling them to leave, they spoke plainly, telling them to come on in.
The door opened to revel Aether once more, this time without Paimon at them by his side. He looked at them in concern but all they could do is shrug.
“I’m not a god.” They told him once more and he approached slowly, sitting at the edge of their bed.
“I have a question for you.” Aether spoke so gently that [Name] was couldn’t help but wish to humor him and instead made a noise of curiosity.
So he continued “You claim you aren’t a god, what makes you so sure?”
[Name] paused for a moment, contemplating the answer.
“Because the things you say I can do aren’t so special. I can only do them because I’m not from Teyvat and if you were from where I was from, you’d be able to do the same.”
Aether stared into their eyes “Does your world have stories of gods? I assume they do considering you know the term.”
[Name] nodded in response so Aether took that as permission to keep talking.
“Most godly tales have entire races of gods, does them having equals make them any less powerful than the average human?”
[Name] paused for a moment, considering his words. “No, I don’t believe it does.”
Aether smiled. “Does a genius from a word of geniuses visiting a place where nobody can match their mind make them less impressive to the people they meet?”
[Name] shook their head slowly.
Aether smiled even wider, reached out to grab one of their hands. “You may be average to your kind, but you’ve done so much good for us, not being the only one doesn’t make you any less impressive, I’ve met other gods, other gods who could challenge you in control but non used their power the way you did. You have done nothing but help us so even if you cant do anything more, allow us to thank you properly.”
[Name] felt their eyes begin to sting “Not being the only one doesnt make me any less impressive huh? I feel like I’ve waited a long time to hear that.” [Name] took his hand in theirs and moved to sit beside him.
“I’ll do my best to let you all quote en quote help me, but please, no temples or servants.”
Aether chuckled. “Agreed. I’m more than enough.”
The now relaxed [Name] smile as tears began to roll down their face and they wrapped their arms around him and speaking with muffled words. “Thank you very much Aether… and can you tell Jean I’m sorry?”
[Name] couldn’t see the wide and vaguely unsettling grin as he wrapped his arms around them and whispered into their ear. “Why don’t you do it yourself? I’ll be there for you and we can have a proper conversation on what you need here in Teyvat.”
A nod set all of Aether’s worries to the side, relaxing into the hold of his god who would now accept the title. He had fixed her mess, Jean better be thankful he knew his Guide better than anyone.
All [Name] could do now was chuckle to themselves as they held Aether close, a thoughts entered into their mind. '1/48’ they thought to themselves.
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
Well, there was a tone shift for this chapter that I wasnt planning on.
I’m not super pleased with this chapter but I had a very long day and I wanted to make this for you all. Thank you for tolerating my attempts at writing and i hope you enjoy!
Feel free to like, reblog, comment, send in an ask, send in a request or even keep scrolling if it makes feel you feel more comfortable! Just know every interaction gives me a crazy large boost of motivation!
Well my dear people who interact with my content. Here’s part eight of The Guide.
The Guide is a SAGAU (self aware genshin alternate universe) with the premise of what if [Name] actually being the creator, [Name] was seen as being the only ‘god’ who helped the world.
Mondstadt was a very beautiful nation, all of the nations in Teyvat were but Mondstadt did a brilliant of capturing the hearts of travelers, [Name] being no exception.
As such, [Name] would enjoy being given the time to look around on their own instead of being dragged towards the cathedral.
Jean had always considered herself a well put together individual but when Hoffman had burst into her office, rambling that the Traveler had arrived and had someone with him that he called 'his guide’, Jean felt her normally calm disposition crack.
She gave him orders to locate Kaeya as she walked out of her office and towards the Library where she knew Lisa and Amber would be.
Normally Amber wouldn’t set foot in there but after accidentally setting an edition of 'The Dandelion Sea’, Lisa insisted Amber spent a week assisting the Librarian to quote 'teach her proper respect for the written arts’.
When Jean opened the doors, not worried about being gentle with the knowledge she currently possessed in her attempt to gather the first vessels of The Guide, she found Lisa napping on her desk as usual as Amber read through yet another gliding manual.
Amber took her feet off the desk where she had been resting them and quickly shook Lisa awake, calling out a greeting to her boss.
“Good afternoon Acting Grandmaster Jean!"
Jean’s mind offered the thought that Amber was trying not to be called out in front of Lisa for her disrespect of the paperwork but Jean didn’t have time for that.
She smiled at the two, waiting until Lisa was somewhat awake and speaking briskly. "According to the Traveler, Our Guide has arrived in Mondstadt.”
Lisa straighted in her seat and stood up to insure she wouldn’t fall back asleep as Amber gasped and spoke quickly.
“Is he sure? What do they look like?! Where are they?!”
Jean softened her tone at Amber’s joy. “I’ve been told they’re in the town center. I have yet to meet them but I’d like you two to come with me, as well as Kaeya whenever he gets here.”
“Well now, that’s not very nice of you, I can be here on time when it comes to them.”
Kaeya’s voice rang out from the doorway, leaning against the wall.
Jean nodded. “In that case. Let’s go. I’d like to take them straight to the Cathedral to discuss how they wish to be treated while here, preferably before anybody makes a scene.”
Ten minutes later, Jean found herself on one knee in front of The Guide, a bag had been placed beside the chair they sat on and they had this smile on their face that made her heart feel weak.
The warmth they produced was unmistakable, blocking the wind on Mondstadt which might otherwise send a chill up her spine.
She insisted Their Grace came with them to the Cathedral and requested Sara have their meal delivered when finished, she agreed, of course, especially with the hefty pay that the Traveler had promised.
When [Name] stood and reached for their backpack, a hand entered their vision and grabbed the handle. [Name] looked up to meet Kaeya’s uncovered eye and he gave them a playful smirk.
“Let me get that for you.” He told him and [Name] rolled their eyes and smiled at his antics.
They responded in a similar light hearted tone. “If you want to, I definitely won’t stop you.”
Kaeya lifted the bag, slightly underestimating how heavy it was, they had a lot of books and chargers in there, okay? And having to sling it around his shoulder.
There were a few minutes of walking towards and up the stairs, of which there were many, a fact [Name] was none too pleased about, perhaps they could convince Mondstadt to put in a ramp, before [Name] decided to ask a few questions, perhaps foolishly hoping for answers.
“So, do I get any sort of detailed explanation for what you meant by service and mercy, earlier?”
Aether held in a snicker. For a god who played his existence like a fiddle, they didn’t seem very good at reading social cues. Perhaps that explains their tendency to do things like climb walls in the city or cause him to say the strangest things, it’s was alright though, he would be more than happy to teach them everything he’s learned about social standards from his travels.
Luckily for [Name, Kaeya seemed to take pity on the confused outworlder. “She meant what you have helped us do for the betterment of Mondstadt and Teyvat as a whole, as well as the increase in power you have blessed your vessels with.”
Ahhh, [Name] slowly realized. Them playing the game probably looked very weird from an inside the world perspective. Their brain never even thought of that, well, they supposed it did considering it was their dream.
“So, you guys are calling me a fucking god is because I played a game? Look, whatever you’re thanking me for, I can’t do it anymore so there’s no need to thank me.”
Aether, who had been walking alongside Jean at the front of the group, paused and turned around quickly. “What do you mean you can’t do it anymore?"
[Name] felt slightly guilty at the hint of panic in his voice. "I needed a specific item and I don’t have it anymore, so I can’t do it. I’m sorry… but hey, you get to go back to your life now.” [Name] tried to smile to comfort him but the now awkward atmosphere and stares from other members of their group made them feel like they were going to stabbed or something.
It was a rather good thing [Name] couldn’t read minds as Aether’s was going a million miles a minute. He had spent his entire time on Teyvat with the knowledge he would always lose control to his god, that his god would keep him safe and he’d come to no harm but if having them with him ruined that promise of safety and increased strength then what could he do? Nothing, he was nothing without his Guide.
However through the panic of the group, every vessel nearly losing their minds with fear, Paimon simply laughed. “What are you talking about Silly? You can do it, you just need to learn the new controls! Don’t worry, it’ll come naturally when you need it!”
[Name] fought the urge to raise an eyebrow in judgement and instead simply glanced at Paimon.
“What the fuck are you talking about?”
“I taught you how to use vessels before! I know you haven’t lost that ability, I can feel it!” A stupid grin never left Paimon’s face as [Name] fought back an existential crisis.
Before [Name] could speak again though, Jean spoke up. “Paimon, if I understand you correctly, their godly blessings work differently when Their Grace is in Teyvat rather than out of it?”
“Of course! I mean, they still have access to the settings after all! Just press some buttons in your vision, [Name].”
It was only then that [Name] noticed a handful of buttons in the corner of their sight.
One featured the usual Paimon symbol needed for pulling up the menu, another seemed to have Aether’s face, one more had an eye icon and another had a map. Four in total, each in separate corners.
Normally, [Name] would be terrified but right now, all they could think was that this was a very detailed dream. A fun one as well. So [Name] reached into the air and pressed the Paimon icon.
The world around them seem to freeze in place, only Paimon moving around, who then came to float by their side, getting between them and a now stuck in place Kaeya.
[Name] ignored the action, looking at the blue screen that made itself seen in their view, formatted similarly to the Paimon screen on their laptop. There were options of buttons to press so [Name] decided to look them over.
X
Notifications Worldsettings
Quests Bag Achievements
SPEAK WITH TEYVAT
[Name] stared for a while before tapping the quests button and they couldn’t stop themselves from laughing loudly at the first quest they saw
Well this won’t get awkward.
Hug every playable character 0/48
(Set more quests?)
They didn’t need to see more. They pressed the x buttons on every screen and exited the Paimon icon. The world resumed and the 4 humans could only watched confused as [Name] howled with laughter, bending in on themselves as grasping their stomach as they struggled for air before they spoke, Paimon giggling at their side.
“Oh… my… goodness… this… this is the best dream ever. Okay! So I might get my abilities later but I’m not touching that right now! Onwards to the Cathedral!"
[Name] ignored the worried glances that the group exchanged as they walked up the stairs and eventually reached the final steps into their destination.
"I’m still very confused on what exactly the reasoning for this is and I am still convinced I am not a god but I’m definitely willing to hear you out. Inwards!” [Name] opened the doors walked inside, glancing around at the currently empty seats. “Huh, no one is here. Kind of a shame, was hoping to interrupt service.”
Amber watched in confusion as [Name] sat down on the stairs at the other end of the church before trying to whisper in Aether’s ear. “Do you think they’re mentally unstable or this is normal god stuff?”
Aether held back another snicker before whispering back “Definitely god stuff."
Speaking of god stuff, one stood behind them, watching quietly as his Guide, someone he wished he could at least call a friend, explored his church.
Also, if you sent in an event request, I’m so sorry if it takes me a while to get to it! I promise I’m not ignoring it, I just am either trying to find inspiration or am researching the character if I don’t know much about them (cough cough Dainsleif cough cough)
Request ‘Can I get an event love letter from Kaeya in the imposter AU when he was the first to recognize the reader?'
Absolutely! Please enjoy! (Also I’m sorry if he’s a bit ooc)
LOVE LETTERS TO YOUR GRACE
I truly hope this letter reaches you soon, My Grace.
I know you don’t quite like when I’m away but unfortunately, duty calls.
Now then, past all the sappy I’m sorry I can’t be there for you stuff, and the Oh how I wish I could return from this cold nights at work and simply make sure every dream that visits your mind each night only consists of what will be and not what has been, I’d like to be honest about what I wrote this letter for.
We haven’t gotten the chance to speak in a while, have we? As soon as they realized just what a fake that thing was, they switched the hunt from you to them and I haven’t seen you since they took you away from me.
Is being in a palace more comfortable than my bed? I don’t think it would be, especially not when surrounded by fools who don’t even seem to realize their very presence makes you shudder in disgust, rage, and fear.
They also deny me the right I have to see you, a sad thing to be honest. The only way this letter will get to you is if I convince Jean to bring it with her, but I can be very persuasive, you’ve seen that.
But I’m getting off topic again. I sat to write this letter with one goal in mind and my brain is jumping around almost like yours did when we first met, probably complete with the same amount of panic
Do you remember when I took you to Storm Bearer Point? I told you I used to sit there to watch the stairs and pray to you and only you that I would be yours, your vessel, one of your chosen servants once more.
You smiled for the first time that night, when I grabbed your hand and used it to point out my favorite constellations, you also seemed a bit too embarrassed to look me in the eye but I promise I won’t hold that over your head forever… just until I die;)
Do you remember something else I told you that night? I told you all about how unsure I was for your future and mine. Now your future is guaranteed, and you deserve it. After everything they had put you through, after the state I found you in, after all the work I had to help you, to save you! You’re now guaranteed safety, but you shouldn’t have safety with those whose very presence leaves you uneasy.
So I’d like to make a request. Come visit me. Come visit me because I want to know that you’re Alright, come visit me because we’ve been apart for so long
Come visit me because I adore you, not as the creator, not as Your Grace, but as you. As [Name], as this shining and caring soul I got to meet when we worked together to push away the dirt and grime and horror of what you went through.
I adore you, [Name].
If that word makes you uncomfortable then I’ll say it straight out, I love you.
Please visit me, we have a lot to talk about.
-With love, Kaeya, Calvary Captain of Monstadt and your waiting but not very patient admirer.
Don’t have the brain power to write a proper chapter right now but please enjoy a series of in game scenes I think took place before [Name] entered Teyvat.
Is this just an excuse to write scenes of some of my favs? Perhaps.
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
The sun in Liyue was always incredibly warm, it beat down on Razor’s now tattered form as he pulled back from the broken shield of a mitachurl and readied his Claymore for yet another damaging blow, electricity crackling in air.
As he landed a solid hit, sending the large creature staggering backwards, He felt himself being pulled away, the world around him flickering as he found himself back in the woods of Wolvendom, his scrapes beginning to sting as he left The Guide’s presence.
It was a few minutes later, after he sat down to rest, when he was pulled back to the now destroyed monster camp. The ground beneath him was warm and glowing a shade of red that put him at ease.
The soothing temperature of [Name]’s influence highlighted the ease he currently felt, yet his sight flickered once more, going black for a moment before once more returning to him. He found himself standing on unseen flooring, sparks of electro filling the purple room.
As his sight returned, he looked forward to catch a glimpse of his Guide.
They looked down at him with a smile and their words were heard clearly “Do I have enough? Do I have enough?”
He felt their touch move from his head, moving over quickly to an unseen button and a screen he had seen so many times before, their hand hovering over a white button that they then clicked.
Their face then light up with joy “AYO! RAZOR ASCENSION MATERIALS COMPLETE!” They shouted, causing him to flinch back before quickly returning to his previous position and smiling back.
“We’re gonna build you up and make you so fucking cool! So close to full ascension! Are you excited? I know I am!” Their joy was infectious, their continual praise over his strength and announcements of how much better he would become caused his chest to swell with pride.
He was safe with them, so whenever [Name] called for him, he’d listen. They had offered him a family he thought he would never get to have and he’d rather die than disappoint them now.
____________________________________
It was half past noon at the Golden house when Tartaglia made his arrival, he was running a little late but it was fine, after all The Guide’s main team didn’t arrive until the evening so he had until then.
He checked himself over in a handheld mirror he had once bought before one of these meetings and attempted to give it as an offering. It was cracked after that battle, Aether seemed to delight in crushing it underneath his shoes.
Regardless, Tartaglia kept it on hand, the cracks were stained with blood but he considered that a sign of good use.
He sighed to himself, hand moving down to his pockets to grab ahold of a new item he planned to offer to the team with the hope it could be of use. It was quite the pain to obtain so he hoped it would go to good use.
Upon learning of Their Grace’s unusual fascination with any items found in domains, he made it his personal goal to provide them with the best objects he could find, last time being one of those books the group had been gathering, this time he would offer a feather he had found within a chest, the blue shades starkly in contrast with the red on the tip. Perhaps he should set it to the side so it wouldn’t be ruined during the fight.
He had been told on several occasions that his obsession with gaining The Guide’s acknowledgement would lead to nothing but he had to try. Why you may ask? Tartaglia is a competitive soul, the idea of being the first Harbinger to gain this gods blessing was a tempting one indeed and with The Tarista having granted permission, that’s what he would do.
Zhongli had describe the feeling of their summon as a call from the sky and all of Teyat urging him to listen, Tartaglia was always willing to hear that call, to receive that strength, even if he simply answered in someone else’s place, the moment he heard it, he would come.
He needed that strength, that power that this god offered, most of all, he needed to be a part of their constant battles.
____________________________________
As the clock sounded the hour, it pulled Klee’s attention away from the food she had on hand and towards the bag of her own she had left in the corner of the room.
With a glance towards Albedo, who was currently still eating after being pulled down to Knight of Favonius headquarters, she stood up and grabbed her bag. “I’ll be back soon!” She told him with a smile and he raised an eyebrow “Be careful, and please be back within the hour.”
She nodded and ran out the door, her steps echoing throughout the finely kept hallways.
She swore she planned to be back when Albedo told her to be but as her tests of fish blasting continued as the sun began to set, she eventually looked up towards the sky.
It looked so peaceful and the world felt rather serene. She took a moment to prepare her next explosive when the sky lit up in beautiful shades of blue, purple highlights soaring through it all.
She grinned and set the bomb down gentle before plopping down on the grass around her, watching the stars streak through the sky, until she heard a voice behind her.
“Klee.”
She whirled around, expecting to see Albedo standing there but instead was met with an unexpected sight.
The wind was flowing gently around her yet it whipped itself together in a humanoid shape, each leaf, piece of grass and fallen stick forming the shape of a person quite a bit taller than her. It seemed to smile and point upwards, towards the colorful sky. The wind spoke again.
“Klee. Listen. Answer.”
She held her breath, not out of fear but in the attempt to hear what this person wanted and so she could answer what this person wanted to know.
Then she heard the sound from above. “C'mon, c'mon! Give me the chaos child!”
She fully looked upwards, staring into a purple star that shone across the sky once more, then the voice echoed again. “Oh c'mon! Just let me complete my collection of powerful children! Wait… that sounds wrong out of content. Please Hoyo, I just want the gremlin child! Let me make a chaos team. Come home Klee..”
She tilted her head in confusion and looked back towards the humanoid shape who point skywards once more. “Answer. Say yes. Go home.. Now.” The voice from the form changed from welcoming to cold and Klee flinched back, she looked towards another star and focused on it before muttering under her breath. “Yes… I’ll come home.”
She watched in awe as the star shifted from a blue to a golden and separated from the others.
A warmth flooded her body, blocking out the cold of the evening and she felt a joy fill her body. “AW YEAH! HEY KIDDO! NEXT UP ALBEDO FOR A FULL CHAOS TEAM!”
Klee smiled. She wasn’t scared and nothing in this world could or would hurt her anymore. She couldn’t wait to tell Albedo all about it.
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
Not sure what this is but I had fun! I don’t think this counts as a proper chapter but it sure was fun to write and I kinda wanna do more like this.
Taglist for random thoughts (this taglist is open but please be sure you want to be @‘ed everytime I have stupid self indulgent thoughts.)
Chapter seventeen of The Guide! I hope y'all enjoy it!
The Guide is a SAGAU (Self Aware Genshin Alternate Universe.) Where instead of [Name] being seen as the Creator, they’re seen as a god based off of the powers they can offer from the video game mechanics.
Oh my goodness this took a while to get out there. Sorry this took so long! Life was kicking me continuously! But hey, thing has been done.
Previously, after arriving at the Dawn Winery, [Name] and Paimon went off on their own to help [Name] adjust some of the world settings. [Name] turned on a few new buttons, not sure what they would do so but is curious as to the results.
The sun beating down but softened by the trees, Diluc’s frustration fading into the background as he watched their joy, Jean and Aether speaking quietly between each other with occasional glimpses towards the three tree dwellers.
They enjoyed the domestic feeling for a while before speaking up. “I need someone to practice some new skills on, any volunteers?"
Every hand went up, even Razor in his tired state, causing them to stare in shock for a moment. "Huh… alright then. Wasn’t expecting that.”
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
So apparently, getting into the tree was the easy part, getting down would not be so simple.
For Razor and Kaeya, it was as easy as a jump, to [Name] on the other hand, a simple jump would likely become a simple broken leg… maybe two.
With that in mind, they simply waited patiently for the other two to get down before softly calling Kaeya’s name.
“Oh Kaeya~ Would you be a dear and help me down?” Their voice carried downwards and a sly smirk slipped onto their face. Unfortunately, it was mirrored by the man below them, his smirk making them begin to regret asking.
He looked up with one eye as he spoke “Is our oh so holy Guide unable of making a little jump?”
[Name] awkwardly looked to the side “Pretty much. Aren’t you supposed to do what I ask or something?”
Kaeya shrugged in response. “Not really. I kinda just give you respect for the strength and ignore you otherwise. Diluc here on the other hand, an absolute worshiper, never forgave me that I’m on your main team and he’s not.”
As he spoke about the older of the two, he reached an arm around the other’s shoulders, shooting Diluc an infuriating smirk which caused Kaeya’s arm to quickly be shrugged off.
“Damn. Whatever did I do to deserve that, Master Diluc?” [Name] asked, distracted from their original request.
Diluc grimanced. “Well. You do a good job of protecting Mondstadt, despite your rather immature attitude.”
[Name] nodded in response “In my limited defense, your world is one of the few places I allow myself the chance to be as childish as I wish.”
Diluc raised an eyebrow “Explain?”
They stared at him for a moment “No.”
Kaeya couldn’t stop himself from laughing as he stepped closer towards the tree. “Do you want help down, [Name]?”
They nodded, suspicious of his friendly approach. “Yes. I do… Are you offering?”
He smirked, “Why else would I be mentioning it?”
Aether simply watched, Anemo at the ready to catch [Name] should they risk hitting the ground. He kept a close eye on the two from him place beside Jean as [Name] stared down at Kaeya and placed themselves in a situation where they could either jump or step down into his grasp.
“If you drop me, I swear to Barbatos, I will take every artifact I have given you back and replace them with one star traveling doctors set. I don’t know how to do that yet but I’ll learn.”
Kaeya merely laughed “I’ll catch you if you need it, do you doubt one of your most loyal servants?”
As [Name] attempted to take comfort in his words, a thought struck them. “Didn’t you just tell me that Diluc is the follower between you two?”
A silence followed for a moment “Perhaps. Regardless, I’m the one you made stronger so get down here or I’m telling a certain Adepti from your normal rotation.”
[Name] rolled their eyes and began their attempt to get down, first lowering themselves on branches as much as possible before latching their arms around a solid piece of wood and lowering themselves closer to the ground, letting go and being caught bridal style by Kaeya, who decidedly to promptly drop them in a way where they wouldn’t hit their head.
[Name] now glanced up from the ground to glare at him before turning to Paimon. “How do I take away artifacts?”
Kaeya stiffened “Wait, that was just a joke, chill, you aren’t hurt or anything, right?”
[Name]’s eyes flickered to him before flickering back to the traveling companion.
Razor and Diluc shared a look as they chuckled at the side effects of the Knight’s actions catching up to him.
Paimon only giggled “Same icon as before to pull up characters!”
[Name] smirked up at him, quickly darting out their hand to tap the Aether looking icon in the corner of their vision.
The change of the world was strange though, flickering around them in different colors until it went black and then they were floating in what seemed like a purple void.
They couldn’t see the floor yet they were standing comfortably, looking down almost made them feel dizzy so instead they looked straight ahead.
Razor was standing there, a smile on his face “You look solid now."
[Name] offered a look of confusion before looking upwards, seeing a familiar display of different characters, Razor in front, closely followed by Diluc and then Kaeya, then continuing on with other characters they had.
So, this was the C button screen. "Huh… Well, I’m not sure what you mean but I have a thing to do so if you’ll excuse me.."
They shifted onto their toes to reach up and tap Kaeya’s icon and they stumbled back when the purple display switched to a cool blue and Razor’s figure was replaced by Kaeya.
He looked side to side awkwardly. "Um.. Funny seeing you here.”
[Name] looked at him plainly before moving over to tap the artifacts display, resulting in each item floating in a circle around him. He reached out to try to grab one, only to move his hand back after a jolt of electricity hit his hand.
They looked curiously at the see through colored sphere around each item before holding out a hand to touch it themselves.
The first they grabbed was a headpiece. The color faded away, leaving only the artifact in their hands and they had to resist the urge to drop it when stats then appeared above it.
They didn’t focus on that though, instead turning back to Kaeya with a grin that then fell upon seeing his face staring at the item in their hands.
[Name] almost thought they saw hints of anger in his eyes, his fists were clenched, as was his jaw.
It took them a moment to speak up but they spoke as calmly as they could. “Kaeya, is this taking the joke a bit too far?”
He took a deep inhale before speaking again. “Yes. Give it back.”
[Name] gently placed the headpiece upon his hair, offering a calming smile. “Care to talk about it?”
He closed his eyes, attempting not to glare and invoke their anger.
“It’s a source of strength… and do you know what happens when you take away somebody’s artifacts?”
[Name] furrowed their eyebrows and shook their head. “No clue but I bet you’ll explain.”
Kaeya scoffed. “You don’t even know the influence you have… they’re disgraced. Everything they were? Forgotten. Sure, you can switch out items, temporarily, and you give them back and they’re okay but losing your favor? Losing your gifts ruins their lives. Nobody wants to hire somebody who let you down, nobody wants to work for somebody who let you down.”
[Name] tensed and then frowned. “Why go so far? Just because I no longer have a use for them doesn’t mean they have no use.”
Kaeya smiled bitterly. “No use, huh? Those people have been my friends and I’ve watched how people treat them. Amber’s been degraded to just teaching others how to glide, nobody trusts her to handle their fighting anymore as she obviously didn’t do well enough for you.”
[Name] glared downwards, through the see through ground and into the icey blue void below. “They’re fools. Every last one of them! Has it never crossed their mind that I just have a certain way that I play?! I do physical damage, only switching out for catalyst users when I need distance, bows work weird on a slow computer, I don’t have enough of their constellation to make them worth while! That’s the way I do it but that doesn’t make them bad characters. Every individual has their play style and so what if they don’t match mine? So what if I only use them in specific scenarios?” Their rant turned into quieter but still frosted mumbling.
A thought occurred to them and they looked upwards quickly. “Whose the worst about it?” They asked him.
“About isolating the disgraced?” Kaeya took a moment to think before speaking. “Some members of the church, most of the Knights, honestly Jean included as she worries you’ll fall out of favor with Mondstadt… And Diluc. He’s not upfront with his distaste but he can still make it known.”
[Name]’s eyes glanced up towards the exit button. “I need to speak with them in that case. I am not a god and I most definitely with not have them ruining others in my name.”
With a harsh slam on the X button, they returned to reality. Aether looked at them worriedly as Diluc glared heavily at Kaeya’s now smirking form.
When the character button is pressed, only the individual that The Guide was viewing disappeared but that didn’t mean the four, five if you count Paimon, weren’t aware of their disappearance.
The return eased the anxieties amongst them but [Name]’s viable anger and the now quickly changing weather replaced those worries with new ones.
Each of them were silent until Jean stepped forward “Your Grace… is something the matter?”
[Name]’s [eye color] eyes met hers. “I learned something very interesting. I’d love to hear your attempt to explain it.”
A mocking smile fell upon [Name]’s face as rain began. None of the group felt any sense of cold, once again only [Name]’s warmth but that didn’t make the rain much less uncomfortable.
“What did you learn, Our Grace?” She asked, taking a step backwards and tilting her head in a mix of confusion and worry.
[Name] closed their eyes before speaking “What good does isolation do?” They waited for a response and upon receiving nothing but silence, they continued. “Kaeya told me this really interesting fun fact that people that I take artifacts away from often get their lives ruined, what’s the logic behind that?”
Diluc sighed a sigh of relief. Something he could explain. “As you’ve forsaken them, we forsake them as well. If they’re not worthy of your service, unwanted by the god who makes even the most useless become saviors…. Then what good would they do for Mondstadt?”
[Name] looked at him in horror. “What the hell are you talking about?!”
Aether winced at their anger and attempted to speak gently while explaining Mondstadts actions. Surely if anyone could calm them, it would be him, and that would cease this dangerous weather.
“You’re seen as the god of potential and of strength… Mondstadt, Liyue and Inazuma have developed the habit of ostracizing those who lose their favor as they hope you’ll continue to protect their nation..”
[Name] looked at Aether. “Aether, Darling, surely you see how ridiculous this all sounds? Why hasn’t anyone put a stop to this?!”
Diluc was the one to reply. “Why would we, Your Grace? They failed you and upset you and Mondstadt is so grateful for what you’ve done for us. Is it wrong to cease them from disgracing us even further?”
[Name] gave him a cold look. “Stop talking. If you are going to treat me as a god, know a few things. One, treat everyone with basic fucking decency! Two, the only people who should be having their lives ruined are those who cause harm to the innocent! Three, I will not stand for ruining somebody’s life because of my opinions on them!”
[Name] looked at each of them one by one before pausing. “Oh my goodness, did I just make my first three commandments? Is this my version of the ten commandments? Somebody quick, get this on stone tablets.”
The tense atmosphere lessened. “What the hell are you talking about?” Kaeya asked from beside them.
They shrugged. “Don’t worry about it. Just, think through what I’ve said. I wanted to train some different types of control, where’s the nearest Hilichurl camp?”
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
Well, I wrote it but I’m not sure what I think of it.
Anyway, I don’t know where I’m going with this, don’t know what I’m thinking. It’s late and it’s nap time for me. I am too sleepy for proper brain function.
Chapter 16 perhaps? In the same night perhaps? For my own amusement perhaps? Perhaps.
This is another update in my The Guide series, which is SAGAU (Self Aware Genshin Alternate Universe) where instead of [Name] being seen as the Creator but instead seen as a god who cares for Teyvat that can offer great power.
Please enjoy my attempt at making my mental lore make sense and if you can’t tell from the way my speech patterns have dissolved, I’m tired.
Previously, [Name] set off towards Dawn winery upon deciding they would remain there while in Mondstadt. Upon arrival, they got to experiment with their ability to control their vessels inside Teyvat while waiting for Diluc to return.
Kaeya’s shifted his weight and placed a hand on his chest in mock offense. “I didn’t understand half of what you said but excuse me?”
“You’re excused, feel free to leave.” They told him with a teasing smile to which he shook his head.
“Hell no, I’m not leaving without an explanation.”
[Name] shrugged. “Guess you’ll be here forever then. In the meantime, I’ll be in the next chapter.”
“Next what now?”
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
“Next what now?” Kaeya asked again, cocking his head like he thought the other had gone insane.
[Name] smiled and waved their arms around them. “The next chapter. Now then, Paimon, what will the next thousand or so words consist of?”
Paimon chuckled “Really messing up the wall, huh? Why don’t we go off just the two of us?”
[Name] gave her a suspicion look before nodding. “You concern me, fairy looking child.”
Paimon giggled again, waving off the concerned quartet of Razor, Kaeya, Aether and Jean who stayed in place as Paimon lead [Name] further away from the manor.
“So! What do you want to know?” She asked with a smile
“What can you teach me? I would probably be able to learn how this stuff works on my own but I’d rather not risk hurting something.”
Paimon nodded. “Well why don’t you open the menu first?”
[Name] shrugged, that at least was something they knew how to do.
With a tap at the corner of their sight, a display entered their view as the world seemed to pause in its tracks.
x
ɴᴏᴛɪꜰɪᴄᴀᴛɪᴏɴꜱ ᴡᴏʀʟᴅꜱᴇᴛᴛɪɴɢꜱ
Qᴜᴇꜱᴛꜱ ʙᴀɢ ᴀᴄʜɪᴇᴠᴇᴍᴇɴᴛꜱ
ꜱᴘᴇᴀᴋ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴛᴇʏᴠᴀᴛ
Paimon smiled “Pretty cool, isn’t it?”
They nodded “Which button should I press?” They asked with their eyes trained on each button and Paimon answered with glee.
“Try the worldsettings option!”
With slight hesitation, [Name] tapped the button and a new display appeared, their sight changing once more to as though they were seeing through a blue filter and they entered a suffocating silence.
They took a moment to analyze the display
x
ᴍᴜꜱɪᴄ <●~~~~~~~~~~~~~~>
ᴀᴜᴅɪᴏ <~~~~~~~●~~~~~~~>
ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ ꜱᴇɴꜱɪᴛɪᴠɪᴛʏ
<~~●~~~~~~~~~~~~> ʏᴏᴜ
<~~~~~~~~~●~~~~~> ᴛʜᴇᴍ
ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀ ꜱᴇɴꜱɪᴛɪᴠɪᴛʏ
<●~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> ʏᴏᴜ <~~~~~●~~~~~~~~~> ᴛʜᴇᴍ
ᴛᴇʏᴠᴀᴛ ꜱᴇɴꜱɪᴛɪᴠɪᴛʏ
<~~●~~~~~~~~~~~~> ʏᴏᴜ
<~~~~~~~~~~~~~~●> ɪᴛ
ʀᴇᴠᴇʀᴇɴᴄᴇ <~~~~●~~~~~~~~~~>
ᴠᴇʀʙᴀʟ ᴄᴏᴍᴍᴀɴᴅ [ᴏɴ/ᴏꜰꜰ]
ᴘꜱʏᴄʜɪᴄ ᴄᴏᴍᴍᴀɴᴅ [ᴏɴ/ᴏꜰꜰ]
ᴇᴍᴏᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟ ᴄᴏᴍᴍᴀɴᴅ [ᴏɴ/ᴏꜰꜰ]
ꜱᴜʙᴄᴏɴꜱᴄɪᴏᴜꜱ ᴄᴏᴍᴍᴀɴᴅ [ᴏɴ/ᴏꜰꜰ]
ʟᴀɴɢᴜᴀɢᴇ ʙᴀʀʀɪᴇʀꜱ [ᴏɴ/ᴏꜰꜰ]
ᴠɪᴇᴡ ꜱᴛᴀᴛꜱ [ᴏɴ/ᴏꜰꜰ]
It took [Name] a few seconds to read through, each confusing them more than the last however upon taking note of the language barrier option, they reached out a hand to tap the Off button
They felt something round and solid as they did, pressing down they heard a click and the button light up as it changed the display from on to off.
They then decided to take the time deciding which of these they felt comfortable editing.
The buttons looked relatively safe and their meanings made a lot more sense than any of the sliding knobs, status bars? [Name] wasn’t quite sure what they were called but they knew that the descriptions of those things made no sense.
Like, [Name] didn’t even want to know what they meant by sensitivity, instead they tapped a few more buttons.
They turned on the buttons offered to them. Surely it wouldn’t hurt to experiment with the options and what harm could it do? [Name] paused that line of thought, that was exactly how horror movies started.
With that in mind, they kept off subconscious demand, that seemed like a recipe for disaster.
Once that was complete, they glanced towards the bars. Turning up their sensitivity probably wouldn’t hurt, right?
They reached out for the character sensitivity knob, laying their hand on it, it felt like cold round metal. They tightened their grip and pulled downwards, it clicked into place where they wanted and they pulled away satisfied.
ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀ ꜱᴇɴꜱɪᴛɪᴠɪᴛʏ <~~~~~~~●~~~~~~~> ʏᴏᴜ
As a final action, they turned the audio up two notches and turned the music on one. A gentle flow entered their ears, quiet but not too vague to be heard.
With a nod, they tapped the X, returning to their previous screen.
Paimon smiled at them “Happy with your adjustments?”
[Name] nodded, she seemed a bit louder but not horribly so. “Anything else?”
Paimon shrugged. “Nothing you won’t learn on your own, but Paimon is happy to answer questions!”
With a nod, they chose one of several questions on their mind. “What does the Speak with Teyvat button do?”
Paimon froze in place, her smile falling from her face as she shook her head. “Paimon thinks you shouldn’t press that one. Even powerful things can’t always work without permission but once you give them the go ahead, you can’t get them to stop.”
[Name] shifted their weight uncomfortably. “So you’re saying it’s a bad idea?”
Paimon nodded “You want to be normal right? Humans like challenges?” Before receiving a response, she continued. “Teyvat wants you to have fun… but it has a twisted version of fun. But that’s not important! If you don’t press the button, then we can have fun!”
[Name] jolted slightly at her quick tone change, noting the worry etched into the corners of her face, and so they nodded in an attempt to ease her worry. “Of course. That makes sense. One more question, how many quests can I set and do they give rewards?”
Paimon’s smile returned as she did a small twirl “As many as you’d like!” She told them with glee “Teyvat choses the rewards so they might be a bit different than you’re used to but we’re sure you’ll enjoy them!"
"What kind of rewards are offered?”
Paimon smiled “Weapons, mora, friendship, pets, Even things from earth! Anything you’d like!”
A thought struck [Name] “What about Primogems?”
Paimon laughed condescendingly at them “Oh silly! You don’t need those anymore, you can have any vessel you’d like!”
[Name] felt their heart stop and then begin to race. ‘Any character? Like, anyone? No more saving? Just… Character?'
Paimon smiled at their obvious happiness. “Primogems are pretty though, so if you want some for decoration then that can be done!”
[Name]’s eyes light up “So you’re saying… Primogem collection?”
Paimon nodded “If you’d like!”
[Name] smiled. “Perfect. Now then…. What guests should I set?”
Paimon giggled “I can help with that. I can set them too if you’d like.”
[Name] realized they weren’t exactly sure how they set that first one and nodded “Yes please?”
With a happy twirl, Paimon seemed to open her own screen. A screen of familiar blue and buttons that [Name] couldn’t read.
“What quests are you setting?”
Paimon smiled “Some basics about exploring Mondstadt and experiencing the world, meeting Mondstadt characters, going on commissions. You can get more… challenging things later.”
Paimon lifted her head to look [Name] in the eyes and they felt every nerve in their body go on edge, the look wasn’t anything special, a glance that they might have brushed off but it took hold of their mind, freezing them in place.
At least until she spoke up again “Why don’t we go back? You should get all settled in and I’m sure Kaeya is getting sick of holding your bag.”
[Name] inhaled and exhaled slowly, trying to push away that anxious feeling as they turned to walk back towards the group. “I’d like to try out my new settings on some enemies before settling down tonight… And is that where my bag went?! Kaeya I’m gonna fucking kill you, I was looking for that."
Paimon laughed as she moved to float in circles around [Name]’s head "Your fault for not noticing.” She told them in a sing song tone.
As the duo returned, they laid eyes upon a clearly exhausted Razor who had curled up on a tree and a very annoyed Diluc attempting to convince him to come down.
Kaeya had also decided to make himself comfortable on a tree branch, much to the chagrin of the red head.
Upon noticing their arrival, he gave a wave with a smirk on his face. “Welcome back [Name]. Care to join us up here?”
'Well’ [Name] thought to themselves. 'If they’re gonna be stuck somewhere, Mondstadt could be worse…’. As they grinned and ran over to the tree, doing their best to pull themselves up and accept Kaeya’s outstretched hand to assist, they realized they could get used to this.
The sun beating down but softened by the trees, Diluc’s frustration fading into the background as he watched their joy, Jean and Aether speaking quietly between each other with occasional glimpses towards the three tree dwellers.
They enjoyed the domestic feeling for a while before speaking up. “I need someone to practice some new skills on, any volunteers?"
Every hand went up, even Razor in his tired state, causing to stare in shock for a moment. "Huh… alright then. Wasn’t expecting that.”
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
I’m not super happy with how this chapter turned out but it is what it is. TWO CHAPTERS IN 24 HOURS BABY! Anyway, I have a life, I promise.
Please enjoy this chapter, feel free to like, comment, reblog, follow, send in an ask or even just ignore this if it makes you feel more comfortable! I hope you had fun reading!
Hold up, part fifteen? How the heck did I get here? Not sure but I’m thankful that y'all have been reading my stuff.
So! Part fifteen of The Guide. The Guide is a SAGAU (self aware genshin alternate universe) where instead of being seen as the creator of Teyvat, [Name] is seen as a god who cares for the world as a result of their actions as the player.
Maybe I should make a list of characters [Name] has… idk.
Also someone requested it so I’m gonna try out putting quick summaries of the previous chapter in the beginning.
Previously, [Name] returned to Knights of Favonius headquarters to discuss how their stay in Teyvat would go, eventually deciding they would be staying at Dawn Winery while the Knights research what brought them here.
[Name] nodded. “Sounds good to me. You did say something about needing to teach me how to change vessels so maybe have some others come with as well?”
Kaeya raised his right hand “I volunteer.”
Jean placed her face into one of her palms. “Of course you would. A chance to infuriate Diluc and spend time with The Guide. What could be better?”
Aether raised an eyebrow “Wherever Paimon goes, I’m goin’.”
Razor nodded “I follow Guide. Not leave Guide.”
[Name] sighed and leaned back into the seat. “I guess we’re all going then. To Dawn Winery I suppose?”
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
The walk towards the winery wasn’t as bad as [Name] was anticipating and honestly they had Aether to thank for that, the godsend had decided to stand in between Kaeya and Diluc in order to prevent the two from arguing and while it didn’t stop verbal disagreements, [Name] could rest easy knowing they wouldn’t be able to be physically violent.
Razor and Paimon had flanked their sides, Razor on their left and Paimon on their right. The teenager kept a rather brisk pace and he kept himself alert, eyes constantly checking the treeline for any unnatural sign of movement, while Paimon spoke in quieter tones than expected for her about the things she could teach once they had arrived.
Jean simply watched from the back of the group, her eyes occasionally darting around for any hint of danger but mainly focusing on the peaceful familiarity that had fallen over the group.
This wasn’t exactly a normal adventuring party but they didn’t stop anybody from falling into their own roles and Jean brushed back a stray piece of hair as she thought of benefits The Guide could have, especially if this silent comfort was part of it.
From their first introduction, [Name] had filled the knight with a feeling of ease, that warmth washing away the tense muscles and aches, it was amazing what [Name] could offer Mondstadt, what [Name] offered their vessels in general.
But Jean supposed she never truly knew what they offered, not in the same way. She had been blessed, yes, given gifts and strength but that comfort, the feeling of safe vulnerability only lasted so long, fading into obscurity and instead being overshadowed by her day to day life.
But Jean had felt their pull, not much but on occasion, had felt injuries soothed by the feeling of cold cloth on a burn, the pain fading away and instead of being crippling, leaving her unable to fight as she once was, each injury blends into the background, healed when The Guide finds the time but unnoticed until then.
She vaguely wondered if [Name] understood the danger they were in. Each nation knows what they can do, knows of each second chance at life they grant their vessels, the unmatched strength and gifts and passage of time bending to their will. Mondstadt would benefit from a partnership with this God, all they had to do is stop news of their arrival from reaching more desirable nations, easy enough, right?
Well, it didn’t matter. She could ponder the opportunities presented to her homeland some other time, they had arrived.
The main building was imposing, each perfectly shined stone glistening in sunlight shining down from a clear blue sky, but even more impressive were the vineyards as far as the eye could see. The game truly didn’t do any justice to the scale of this place, which made sense. considering it was supposed to be one of the most revered wineries in Mondstadt yet you don’t see much more vineyard than what looks good with the design.
Diluc felt his heart beat with both pride and amusement at [Name]’s reaction, their awe palpable and written across their face.
“You’ve been here before, have you not?”
[Name] nodded “Of course. Several times, but the screen does not do it justice… doesn’t properly convey all the sensory details as well.” ‘Something I forgot for my list’ they thought to themselves 'the winery is full of all sorts of sounds and smells.’
Diluc raised an eyebrow “Sensory details?” To which [Name] nearly shrugged.
“Sound and smell ow. Now then, Paimon, lessons perhaps? You have a room you need to prepare, yes Diluc?”
He nodded. “Of course. I will return to you as soon as I can.” He gave a stiff goodbye before heading inside while [Name] simply turned their attention to a certain floating creature with a remarkable grin on her face. “Lessons?”
She nodded, grabbed their right arm and began to pull. She seemed very keen on leading the group to the lakeside so [Name] dutifully followed, confused but excited nonetheless.
Upon their arrival, [Name] noticed some remarkably familiar cryo slimes and glanced towards Paimon “You got a plan?”
She merely grinned. “Physical contact is great for switching vessels and all you need to do is give a command. Verbal control is less detailed than manual but it’ll do the trick.”
“Any reason they can’t just do it themselves?” [Name] asked her and she shrugged in response.
“You know how domestic dogs can’t hunt because you feed them? Same thing. Also they would be fighting without the respawn function and we don’t want that.” A grin decorated her face as she spoke but [Name] had to resist the urge for their own face to twist in disgust. Had they truly effected the characters that much? and what the fuck did she mean by respawn function?
Regardless, [Name] turned towards an on edge Razor whose eyes stayed trained on the moving cryo masses.
“Razor, Kiddo, can I use you as my vessel for this?”
That brought Razor away from his concern and he nodded “Guide can always use Razor.”
[Name] muttered a thank you and tried to figure out how to handle this bit they settled on a hand on his head as they laced their words with intention.
“Razor, go kill those cryo slimes and stay safe.”
The effect was visual this time, his Claymore which had previously been unnoticeable found its place in his hands as his eyes glazed over, a bored look overcame his face as he began to approach the slimes.
The effect was also internal. This feeling was different, instead of the hunter guided by a whisper in the wind and his mind feeling free as his body left his control, he was the prey, dancing and guided by instinct and adrenaline, not fear, he knew he was safe. It wasn’t a bad feeling… simply different.
As claymore cut through gel and electric claws infested icy surfaces, Razor decided he preferred the original. He hoped they’d figure it out soon. Razor prefers fighting with you rather than fighting for you.
[Name] watched in awe as the skill with which each creature was destroyed from each attack. A feeling of guilt settled in their chest but those creatures would be back, right? They always were.
It was only when the last slime was crushed into pieces that Razor’s stance returned to normal, his back slouching once more and he turned on his heels to face the group once more, his eyes searching for any hint of approval which [Name] was happy to show him, opening up their arms to offer a hug as they showcased a brilliant grin.
A grin Razor reciprocated as he ran into their hold. The protective warmth of The Guide’s influence only growing as [Name] brushed hair out of his face. “That was brilliant, Razor. I’m proud of you.”
Razor’s smile softened and he closed his eyes, valuing this moment until [Name] pulled away.
“Wow I didn’t think it would be that impressive but you did great out there, kiddo!”
Kaeya snickered. “Kiddo?"
[Name] shrugged "Emotionally, he is my baby brother. As are Bennet and Xingqiu. Old teenagers yes, but still children and as such, older sibling instincts kick in. Besides, who doesn’t like being told good job kiddo? I know I don’t mind.”
Razor tilted his head “Brother is family, yes? … Saying Razor is lupical?”
[Name] smiled gently. “Yeah. I see you as part of my family, my lupical.”
Razor’s grin returned, nodding. “Lupical. I said before, I say now, you are my lupical.”
That comment made [Name] pause. He’s said it in his voice lines… does that imply they’ve all actually said their voice lines? It technically wasn’t a mind blowing idea… but still interesting. Regardless, [Name] tried not to focus on it too hard and it left their mind when Kaeya spoke up.
“If they’re your little brothers, what does that make me?”
A smirk made its way onto their face “You know that guy you meet during senior year who thinks he’s the shit and is Captain of a team but is failing all of his classes so he can’t actually play?”
Kaeya’s shifted his weight and placed a hand on his chest in mock offense. “I didn’t understand half of what you said but excuse me?”
“You’re excused, feel free to leave.” They told him with a teasing smile to which he shook his head.
“Hell no, I’m not leaving without an explanation.”
[Name] shrugged. “Guess you’ll be here forever then. In the meantime, I’ll be in the next chapter.”
“Next what now?”
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
Mhm. Chapter. I read far too many fanfics while writing this so it kinda went from a dramatic thing to ending it off by fucking with the fourth wall.
This fanfic has a life of it’s own so I honestly never know when the next chapter is gonna be. Wouldn’t it be funny if I put out two in one night
MUAHAHAHA PART 14 OF THE GUIDE! I shall thoroughly corrupt this site with my random posting schedule and desire to receive validation from strangers on the internet!
The Guide is a SAGAU story where instead of being the Creator of Teyvat, [Name] is a player who is seen as a God.
Kaeya resisted his urge to smirk at The Guide’s obvious annoyance with the floating… Pixie? Fairy? He wasn’t sure but wow was she being glared at with the highest level of annoyance the Captain had ever seen, well, other than that which was often directed towards him.
[Name] rolled their eyes before shifting their gaze to a confused Jean and muttering “I’ll interrogate you later, you main character wannabe.”
Jean lifted an eyebrow but [Name] waved her off. “Don’t worry about it. Now then! Proper conversation about why I am here and what’s gonna happen until I can get home… please?”
Jean nodded “Yes. Of course. If we’re being honest with you, we ourselves aren’t sure how you came to be here. I was aware Albedo was working on a project he hoped would bring you to us but it hasn’t yet been completed and such we also haven’t figured out what would happen to you while you’re here.”
[Name] resisted the urge to make a comment regarding the inefficiency of the Knights but restrained themselves, simply nodding slowly. “So the answer is… you have no clue what the answer is to either of those questions.”
Jean sighed “Yes. Correct.”
[Name] inhaled slowly and exhaled, resisting the urge to yell, knowing Jean likely truly didn’t have the answers.
“I see. So, I suppose we should start theorizing, yes? I know for a fact that my computer glitched before I came here, saying some shit about how Teyvat welcomes me and then I passed out and ended up here, that’s all I know… well, that and that it felt like my world didn’t respond to me. I had to work harder to open cabinets or zippers, or powder wouldn’t come out of my spice containers… maybe it’s like I lost connection to my world and because I had Genshin open, it connected me here?”
[Name] paused at their own explanation. Honestly they weren’t sure what was happening, they weren’t sure about their own theories. It kinda just felt like it happened because some story writer had an idea and didn’t think through all the logistics before writing the early chapters.
Aether spoke up first “We’ve had displays of something beginning in Teyvat as well. Natural disasters and the like, but last night a meteor shower began that nobody was ready for, similar to before you claim a new vessel.”
A glimmer of confusion made its way onto [Name]’s face before it clicked. Stars in the sky similarly to when they do pulls and gain a new character.
They nodded in response “So we’re still confused on what happened… Why don’t we leave the why for later while we figure out what’s gonna happen in the meantime?”
Jean nodded, this was where she could redeem her previous behavior.
“Of course we can. You’re welcome to stay in Mondstadt and Diluc has already offered to house you at Dawn Winery but we could also prepare you a place at Knights of Favonius headquarters.”
[Name] contemplated the options. Dawn Winery was distant from the main city and that had both positive and negative effects, they would have to have someone travel with them back to the main city and they’d likely feel lonely unless they could befriend some of the NPC’s they didn’t know well, on the other hand they’d likely get a nice room with privacy, they wouldn’t need to worry about someone, most likely Kaeya, barging in, they’d be living at Dawn Winery for archons sake and they’d have more of a chance to slip away and explore.
Now with the Knights, They’d be near some of their favorite characters, be able to truly experience Mondstadt in its entirety and get quicker updates on the progress of research into their return home, but once more there were downsides, little to no privacy as it was in the headquarters, people who expected them to be a god, the sheer number of people in Mondstadt and the noise that comes with it, the fact that they would likely be under constant surveillance and unable to explore on their own.
Quite frankly, based on sheer number of negatives for the headquarters, Dawn Winery seemed like the proper decision and it was so so cliche that [Name] had to avoid picking it purely for the vibes when they finally spoke up.
“I’m guessing either way I would spend most of my time in the city?” They asked. They vaguely registered Razor shifting his seat and noticed he had settled on staring directly at them in a vaguely unsettling manner.
At Jean’s nod, [Name] answered “Dawn Winery. I’d like the peace and quiet in the evenings if I’m going to be here day. Although I wouldn’t mind spending weekends on occasion.
Kaeya smirked "You just wanna see us sleep, don’t you? With the amount you stare and look closely when controlling us, I wouldn’t be surprised, it’s almost endearing.”
Diluc and Jean’s heads both snapped to glare daggers at the blue haired man but [Name] only chuckled.
“Obviously. I really thought we had something from the things you’ve said to me in the past and how could I ever go without your arrogant handsome face? And even at rest? With your permission, I’d love to keep you company while you sleep.”
Their voices were both laced with amusement and a teasing lilt that matched one another, either way it was worth it from the look of horror on Diluc’s face which caused both parties to laugh.
It did take a moment for [Name] to recover enough to speak “Don’t worry, he talked like this to me all the time, at this point it’s part of his charm.”
Diluc balked, his horror only growing as he turned to Kaeya “Have you no respect? They’ve done nothing but serve and assist Mondstadt, even doing your job.”
Kaeya shrugged “And openly simping over half the people they meet. Besides, we’re friends, right [Name]?”
[Name] smiled and nodded, giving a stupid thumbs up as they struggled not to sport a stupid looking grin on their face from joy. “Totally. You’re not getting rid of me that easy considering how much effort I put into you.”
Diluc shuddered and turned back towards [Name]’s smile as they sat, still seated in a surprisingly comfortable chair.
“Regardless of your… familiarity. I thank you for this opportunity to repay you for your service upon Mondstadt and will have a room of your choice prepared for you, however you may like.”
[Name] straighted in their back as they looked around awkwardly. “That…” they struggled while searching for the right word, feels wasteful? Is way too much effort for them? Seems so incredibly privileged? Eventually they settled on something socially acceptable. “Is unnecessary. Any room with a comfortable bed would do, especially considering I’d likely only be sleeping in there.”
Diluc’s face seemed to stiffen. “If you’re sure, Our Guide.”
[Name] nodded “I’m sure.” They told him, turning back to Jean. “Anything else?”
Jean looked between Diluc, Kaeya and the now semi-focused [Name]. “So, you’d like to stay at Dawn Winery while we do our research on what brought you here, yes? That’s the information I needed.” If Jean was being honest with herself, she wanted to leave the meeting as unfinished as possible, perhaps then she could speak with [Name] one on one and get some more personal questions… like why so many of her knights were chosen so early but not herself.
The cocky motherfucker with the eyepatch was the first to speak up. “Do you plan on continuing to assist your vessels? I’d hate to adventure alone after all.”
Arther nodded. “I’m also curious. Commissions are much more enjoyable when you’re here.” And Kaeya chuckled in response. “Oh please, My Guide doesn’t even use you for the commissions themselves, only using you to cash the check of our hard earned work and bonding.”
Arther opened his mouth to speak when Razor finally spoke “Guide only fight with you. Guide travels with me.”
[Name] shook their head. “I’m not doing this argument right now. I would love to come on commissions but first I’d like to get a grasp on my newfound superpowers.”
Paimon grinned and flew directly in front of their face. “Paimon can help with that! We can go to the winery and Master Diluc can have the maids get the room ready while I teach you everything you need to know!”
[Name] nodded. “Sounds good to me. You did say something about needing to teach me how to change vessels so maybe have some others come with as well?”
Kaeya raised his right hand “I volunteer.”
Jean placed her face into one of her palms. “Of course you would. A chance to infuriate Diluc and spend time with The Guide. What could be better?”
Aether raised an eyebrow “Wherever Paimon goes, I’m goin’.”
Razor nodded “I follow Guide. Not leave Guide.”
[Name] sighed and leaned back into the seat. “I guess we’re all going then. To Dawn Winery I suppose?”
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
Hiya! The response I got was that people wanted it to be romantic which I’m game for, however please request which character you’d like to be included in the harem this will likely turn into
So far I have
•Venti
•Aether
•Kaeya
•Diluc
•Albedo
•Zhongli
•Childe/Tartaglia/Ajax (I’ll figure out what I’ll call him in this story.)
•Scaramouche
•Xiao
•Jean
•Lisa
•Ayato
•Beidou
•Thoma
•Raiden Shogun
And these are characters I can think of that are (at least according to google) over 18 but if y'all have suggestions that are 18 or above, I am open to said suggestions.
Please let me know if you really really don’t want this story to be romantic, in which case I will re-evaluate my plans and talk with you about how I can best make it work for everyone who reads this story.
Feel free to leave a like, comment, reblog this, send in an ask or even scroll away if it makes you feel more comfortable but thank you so much for all the support you have given me.
PART 13 MY DEAR READERS! Sorry I haven’t posted, I am sick again, but that said! Have part thirteen of The Guide!
The Guide is a SAGAU (Self aware genshin alternate universe) where instead of [Name] being seen as the creator of this world, they’re seen as being a god who helps the world and it’s people flourish.
Also I have a bit of a question for my readers at the end of this chapter so please check that out (just don’t wanna put it here and take up too much space.)
Sun trying to shine through leaves is a pretty sight. It decorates the road in golden light and shines on your face everytime you turn your head up towards the sky.
It caused Razor’s face to light up as he walked down the path as he lifted his face up and sunlight got into his eyes.
It reminded them just how real everything felt… No, not felt… Was. How real everything was. They still couldn’t fully wrap their mind around that but they’ll try.
Their thoughts were stolen away by a hand on their shoulder which caused their eyes to drift away from the happy Razor to Aether’s worried gaze.
He took a second to make sure he had their attention before he began to speak. “What were you even thinking, vanishing like that? I was right next to you! You could have woken either of us and we could have kept you company. Do you understand how much you worried everyone back at headquarters?"
Each word was quiet and hissed out with an emotion [Name] wasn’t quite sure how to translate from his tone but it made them shiver with anxiety and a hint of anger. Just who did he think we was? They thought. Everything he’s done, I’ve guided him through, and for him to think I can’t handle a trip through Mondstadt? How weak does he think I am?
However another portion of their mind made itself known, reminding them of the sheer panic they felt from those Hilichurls, the stinging pain of the Wolfhook in their skin. He’s in the right, their mind whispered, you’re not safe alone. You can’t travel Teyvat alone, take someone who will help you.
They didn’t respond to him during their inner monologue, continuing to walk down the path out of Wolvendom and looking anywhere but Aether.
Eventually his grip on them tightened as he waited for their response which caused [Name] to twist away from his touch and reply. "Ow… Jeez man, emotional instability much? Whatever. I understand it wasn’t the smartest idea but I’m a curious little brat. Hey, I found Razor so I could have been a lot worse.”
Aether shook his head “No, see, that’s the problem. You could have been in great danger if you hadn’t found him. This is Wolvendom! You could have gotten gravely injured…”
“Chillax, Aether. I’m fine. I’ll ask someone to go with me the next time I wander off so I don’t die like Ghostbur.”
Aether raised an eyebrow in confusion but moved on quickly. “That’s not all of what I meant… Do you think we can’t protect you? Is that it? You have made us more than strong enough that your safety is guaranteed.”
[Name] paused for a moment. Made them strong enough? They supposed that made sense, especially considering all the work they’d done for increasing levels and farming ascension materials, not to mention artifacts but [Name] never thought of how it must have looked from their perspective.
“I… I’m sure you all could keep anyone safe, that was part of the purpose after all, but… things just aren’t the same when other people are around.”
Aether only shook his head. “You’ll understand what I mean.. Let’s hurry. Acting Grandmaster Jean is waiting for us.”
_______________________________
It didn’t take long for the quartet to arrive, Razor had moved towards the rear of the group but continued inside with [Name]’s gentle encouragement.
About an hour after they left Wolvendom, [Name] found themselves in Jean’s office, staring down at Razor who had curled up in one of the seats in a way that made [Name] sure he had back problems. Whatever, their job was to wait patiently for Jean and whoever she decides to bring with her to show up and then decide what’s next in life.
Simple? Right. Right. Of course. Simple is something [Name] values.
But no. Nothing is simple. Everything stops being simple when Jean walks through the door, accompanied by Kaeya and fucking DILUC.
You know those stupid fanfics you can find on Tumblr? You know, the Isekai ones written by chronically online individuals during global pandemics? That’s what this looked like a scene from.
Kaeya and Diluc were sharing glares between each other behind Jean’s back as Razor was curled up on a chair in the corner with Aether standing beside them as Paimon had made herself welcome to the pasta that had likely gone bad but didn’t seem to effect her.
This was very much a Genshin Impact lover’s fever dream and [Name] simply pinched their arm for good measure while Jean took a seat at her desk.
An awkward silence followed before [Name] did what they did best and channeled their years of experience regarding being a social anomaly and simply turned to face Diluc directly.
“Well then, I see my request for you to go back to the manor and stay there wasn’t very well received based on that glare on your face. You know, your hair is more of a wreck than usual, did you get any sleep Oh great Darknight Hero?"
Perhaps their friends were right when they said [Name] would get themselves decked for their snarky mouth.
Luckily for them, today was not that day.
Diluc turned to look at them and the glare melted off his aggressive face.
He stared only for a moment before quickly dropping to his knees, causing Kaeya to roll his eyes and Aether to stiffen beside them.
Diluc didn’t dare risk a glance upwards as his spoke.
"Your Grace, Our Dearest Guide, The Greatest Protector of Mondstadt.” Ax Diluc began his speech, Kaeya lifted a hand and moved it as though he was controlling a sock puppet, making his head mouth along with Diluc’s words and Kaeya’s face mocked the monologue.
“There is no proper apology I can offer for how gravely I treated you. I behaved as though you may be a common criminal and I can only pray you forgive my trespasses and continue protecting Mondstadt despite the transgressions I have played upon you.”
It took [Name] a second to respond, trying to make it make sense in their own head and not laugh at Kaeya’s dramatic interpretation.
“First of all, wow that sounds like a bible verse. Second of all, what the fuck are you talking about? Dude you were doing your job, I looked more suspicious than a boss battle room that has yet to load the enemy. Third of all, Greatest Protector of Mondstadt? Bitch, what am I? An Avenger? A Game of Thrones character? Enough with the titles.”
After about five seconds, Diluc still had yet to stand and [Name] rolled their eyes to the ceiling, muttering under breath for the first sentence.
“Gods give me patience. Diluc, stand up, now.”
They laced their second phrase with as much command as they could and watched in awe at themselves as he stood, well, stood isn’t the right term.
You know how games sometimes glitch with the phrase and suddenly you’re halfway across the room?
One moment he was on both knees, his hands clasped together and eyes likely shut and the next he had stood up to his full height, his eyes wide open with admiration perhaps as he stared into their own eyes.
A giggle and a clap echoed through the room from Paimon as she grinned.
“You’ve finally learned the basis of verbal control!” She exclaimed with joy.
Everyone else in the room had simply paused so [Name] took this chance to finish their original sentence as well as they could.
“Regardless. You have nothing to apologize, you haven’t changed my view on Mondstadt, my name is [Name] so please use it and unless you are going to help explain my situation, please leave.”
[Name] glanced in the direction of the Calvary Captain.
“You too. If all you’re gonna do is mock your not brother brother and drive me slowly insane, then begone thot. I have things to do and worlds to return to you.”
It took a moment for the room to settle down, Kaeya, Diluc and Aether remained standing as Jean offered [Name] a seat and [Name] noticed Razor had sat up and was watching the situation closely.
It then was another few seconds of silence before Paimon spoke up, floating behind [Name]’s surprisingly comfortable chair.
“Well, You’ve figured out verbal control so I guess the next thing we teach you is how to change your vessel, huh?”
[Name]’s head turned to face her once more.
“What the hell do you mean? And you better not just end the chapter here and make me wait days for no explanation.”
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
WELL! I LIVE! Still sick so not quite alive but close enough.
Question for you guys, you can answer by sending in an ask(if anon isnt working, feel free to request I don’t show your username. I haven’t figured out how to get Anon to work.), DM'ing me or leaving a comment, should this story’s overarching character relationship theme be platonic, romantic or unspecified?
Obviously there will be characters that have a platonic relationship with [Name], such as Razor and Klee and Bennett and so on and so forth, but depending on the shift the story takes, the relationship may be a different kind of family relationship.
I don’t want to write something with romantic tones and have a majority of my readers be uncomfortable because they are aro or they headcanon [Name] as being too young for that character or they just want to have a completely non romantic story, but I also don’t want people waiting for romance to develop that will never develop or growing bored of the fanfic or just flat out really wanting romantic content with Guide AU.
Anyway! Feedback of any kind is appreciated! Feel free to like, comment, reblog, send in an ask or even just scroll away if it makes you more comfortable.
(If I spelled your name wrong, you have full permission to send me some sort of meme of violence upon me while fixing my inability to spell. Also for the people who have asked recently, I’m sorry but the taglist is closed.
Well, chapter twelve, genuinely didn’t think I’d get this far. So! Part 12 of The Guide!
The Guide is an SAGAU (Self aware genshin alternate universe) where [Name], instead of being the Creator of the world, is seen as a god who cares for Teyvat from their actions as the Player.
Also, I am closing the tag list for now. I may open it again in the future but for now, it’s closed and I am free.
If [Name] decided not to spare their pride for a moment, they would admit the fact that being in Razor’s presence was a bit awkward but luckily, or unluckily, depends on who you ask, [Name] was an expert in awkward situations.
“Thank you for helping me.” They told him which caused his head to jolt up and shake rapidly.
“No, no, Guide helped Razor. Razor do the same!”
[Name] jolted at the level of anxiety in his voice and frowned before speaking again with as gentle a tone as they could. “I didn’t do very much, Razor, but you helped keep me safe, just like you always have… so thank you.” They gave him a smile in the hopes of easing his tense shoulders.
He only looked back at the cooking pot and frowned to himself before letting out a low rumbling sound.
[Name] wasn’t sure where the information came from but they knew the feeling he was trying to get across, a feeling of debt and loyalty, but nothing was owed and [Name] had only ruined his life, hadn’t they?
But that didn’t stop them from trying to comfort or distract the teenager. “Well then, what are you working on?”
He gave a slight smile “Razor makes human food for Guide. Doesn’t know what you want…"
They simply nodded, realizing communication would be a bit of a struggle. "Any kind of food sounds good and I’m sure it’ll taste good. I trust you on that.”
The mention of trust seemed to be what helped him the most, his formerly taut shoulders loosening and moving backwards as he moved himself in some sort of prideful upper body movement that [Name] wasn’t sure how to describe.
“Yes. Razor is trusted. Razor trusts Guide. We… friends?”
[Name] smiled. “Of course we’re friends if you want to be.”
Razor nodded, apparently satisfied with the development, as he adjusted something the pot that [Name] couldn’t quite see.
It was then that [Name] took his opportunity to ask some questions.
“How did you know where I was, Razor?”
“Teyvat told pack, pack told me. Teyvat told all that listen.” His response was mildly concerning but they supposed made sense, the system glitch or whatever that brought them here was likely felt by those in the world.
“What did Teyvat say?” They asked him slowly and winced at his reply.
“Said Teyvat’s owner here. Said Guide need be safe.”
Need be safe? [Name] thought to themselves. I’m always safe, when I’m actually faced with danger myself… my team can handle that.
“So Razor made Guide safe. Hilichurls are danger so stay with Razor.”
Razor’s voice shook them out of their thoughts but also caused some worry, the last thing they’d want now is to cause harm to any members of their team, especially on their behalf, so they shook their head.
“I hate to say it but I can’t constantly stay with you. You can visit me while I’m here but I really want to meet new people and staying in Wolvendom won’t let me do that.”
Razor seemed to take a minute to process that before speaking again “Razor will be with Guide. Guide need not be alone.”
[Name] chuckled at that. “You can’t go with me everywhere but I’d love to travel with you."
He grinned a toothy grin and then redirected his gaze to the cooking pot. "Food almost done, then Guide eat.”
They sighed in resignation and nodded. “Yes. I’ll eat. I swear though, y'all have some plan on feeding me good food so much that I physically cannot eat anything else.”
Razor didn’t seem to be listening, instead going through the work of putting out the fire he was using to cook.
[Name] was half convinced people who cooked outdoors and made good food were the gods, not them, but they ignored the amusing passing thought and only watched in silence.
They took the time with Razor distracted to think through their game plan for the day.
‘One, I need to eat with Razor and get him relaxed enough that I can either bring him into Mondstadt or have him leave me be. Two, I need to return to Mondstadt and speak with Jean and Aether about how I’ll return to Earth. Three… See about completing the well this won’t be awkwardquest.’
Speaking of the well this won’t be awkward quest, [Name] was pulled from their thoughts to Razor offering them the now cooled down cooking pot.
“Wait, were you not gonna eat?”
Razor shook his head “Razor will not eat, food for Guide.”
[Name] groaned in annoyance and shoved the pot back at him. “Eat your fair share and then I’ll eat, you need food too. You’re a growing teenager for gods sake!”
Razor flinched back before slowly pulling the meal into his hands. “Thank you..” he told them, sounding a bit hesitant.
[Name] waved him off and instead focused on the sounds of the forest, with the sun coming up over the trees, the birds began their songs while other animals either started or ended their day depending on their habits.
It was beautiful to listen to, each chirp chiming together and relaxing them, they were almost certain they could understand the meanings of the sounds, as if they were in a crowd and making out conversations.
“Did you hear what the Windrise squirrels said?"
"The Player! Teyvat calls for you!”
“ Aww, I understand Teyvat cares but why can’t we keep them?”
“Stupid two-legs, always stinking up the air with smoke.”
“I’m not explaining to Bluestar what I’m doing.”
“Wolf Child meets The Guide… How could you not enjoy the sight?”
Each conversation felt real, instead of imagining it, they felt as though they were truly understanding the conversations that they always wanted to.
It took a moment for Razor to finish eating but upon looking up, he gave a gentle smile at the sight of their confused expression.
“You hear them?” He asked, slightly amused.
“Hear what?” They questioned in return and glared slightly when he laughed.
“The creatures. The world. It likes you. You hear it?”
Realization dawned on them. They weren’t imaging their understanding, they honest to goodness could understand the words of the animals around them.
“Holy shit… Maybe I am a Disney princess after all.”
Razor tilted his head and opened his mouth to voice his confusion when a voice rang out from behind them.
“Your Grace! Why on Teyvat did you run off?!”
[Name] turned to look behind them only to see a very worn out and panicked Aether with an exhausted Paimon floating behind him.
“[Name]… Please… Never run off like that again. I had to ask Teyvat where you were.” Paimon whined out her complaints as she reached [Name]’s side.
[Name] couldn’t help themselves from giving a full chested laugh. “HAHA! PFFT. It- hahah- its your fault you- pfft- didn’t wake up- hehe.” Their laughter slowed as they looked him in the eyes and saw just how concerned and frazzled he truly seemed.
Eyes wide without his scarf and his hair an absolute wreck, his clothes were twisted the wrong way and his shoes seemed to be moments from falling off his feet.
They stood slowly and walked over. “Aether… Hey, I’m sorry I worried you but I’m okay now, Razor kept me safe.”
What [Name] didn’t notice was the self assured grin Razor gave the blond.
Aether straighted his back and grabbed their hand.
“We should head back to Mondstadt. Now. Acting Grandmaster Jean is ready to meet with you whenever you’re ready.”
[Name] grinned and turned back to Razor.
“Brilliant. Razor! Why don’t you come with us? You don’t have to if you don’t want and I promise I won’t leave you to your own devices!”
Their smile caught both of the boys off guard and the two quickly found themselves agreeing.
Paimon simply snickered before flying towards the path. “Well then, what are we waiting for? A yes? It’s not like Teyvat will ever tell it’s master no.”
[Name] glanced in Paimon’s direction as they followed the floating being down the road. “What do you mean by that? You keep referencing Teyvat as a living being.”
Paimon chuckled once more and sped up her flying, leaving the trio to attempt to catch up.
○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○●○
Okay so, this was a bit boring but I got it out there so chapter thirteen can some fun scenes.
Now then! Feel free to like, comment, send in an ask or even a request or reblog, or just click away if it makes you feel more comfortable. Just know I love seeing what you guys think of my work and thank you so much for reading!
I’m so sorry for disappearing like that for so long - things have been tough in the mental health department - but I’m doing a lot better now, so I hope to get back into the groove of writing! This is part 9 of “Teyvat’s Wielder”!
The air stilled as crimson eyes met a singular cerulean - clashing in a momentary battle as the two towering figures came to a halt. Despite the small distance between them, the dark haired captain could feel the angry heat radiating off of the one he once called brother.
“Kaeya,” was all the man before him said, his teeth clenched and the hints of a snarl carving away at his usually stoic face.
“Diluc,” Kaeya responded in kind, his lips pulling up into a practiced smirk as he straightened his posture, flicking his cape over his shoulder. In doing so, he revealed the blade strapped to his hip, it’s hilt glinting in the sparse rays of moonlight threateningly.
“We need to talk.” Diluc’s eyes narrowed as his brows scrunched together into an unpleasant scowl. He approached slowly, brushing past Kaeya and heading towards one of the narrow alleys - not a single glint of light reaching the darkened space.
Kaeya glanced around himself for a moment before following, feeling his muscles tense in a familiar threatened manner, every one of his limbs ready to react to sudden danger.
The only light generously granted to the pair was in the form of their visions - a blazing red and a cold, bright blue casting flickers of light onto the stony walls surrounding them.
“What is it that you want with me, Diluc?” the captain asked after a moment of tense silence.
A scoff escaped his brother’s dry lips.
“You are without a doubt the most foolish, idiotic man I have had the displeasure of knowing,” Diluc spat, his typically practiced and calculated words becoming as heated as the blaze that danced across his blade in the throes of a fight.
Nowthis was surprising.
Stunned for a moment, Kaeya was quick to return to his senses.
“Is that so? Could you perhaps elaborate?” he asked, lips quirking upwards once more, but faltering just as fast when diluc’s rough hands latched onto his cloak, the burning embers in his eyes lit with an unspeakable anger.
“Don’t play fool with me, brother,” he hissed, the strands of his messy red hair falling upon his fiery gaze as he attempted to cool his temper.
Kaeya was silent, his gaze scanning tthe disheveled features of his brethren - the sight all too familiar to him as he felt the coldness of his vision searing against his thigh.
“I’m not playing anything, Diluc.”
Diluc huffed in contempt.
“I knew you were a heathen, Kaeya - but I never thought you’d go as far as to aid the knights imprison and plan to execute the Creator.”
Kaeya stared at his brother with a wide eye, seemingly frozen in place by his own powers.
“The Creator?” he whispered, his gaze darting around their surroundings frantically. Any pretense of nonchalant smugness dropped - his body tensing even further.
“Yes.The Creator,” Diluc confirmed, straightening his posture and taking a step backwards, his gaze digging into Kaeya’s form.
“The one you and your knights attempted to kill as an imposter.” His words were hissed through tight lips, dripping with venom he had long stopped spitting at Kaeya.
Kaeya was silent for a moment.
“Well? What do you have to say for yourself, Kaeya?” his word was uttered like the most vile of curses by the flame-haired broader man as he eyes his brother disdainfully.
The captain took a deep breath and faced Diluc, his gaze clashing with the other’s as he, too, straightened himself up.
“I had no intention on aiding the acting Grand Master go through with her plan.”
“Is that so?” Diluc’s voice held no hint of believing him, his piercing gaze studying every small movement in the other’s face - studying it for hints of an upcoming lie.
Kaeya huffed, fixing his clothing before focusing his gaze on Diluc once more. The air around the two was battling between searing heat and unbearable cold - creating an uncomfortable middle ground between the two.
“I don’t know if that person was an imposter or not-”
“they were not,” Diluc interjected harshly, his fists clenching by his sides.
“But the trial was everything but fair. Even I could tell as much,” Kaeya finished, ignoring the interruption momentarily. Diluc’s form tensed, bulking at the other’s confession.
“I…see.”
Kaeya huffed.
“Is that all, Diluc?”
With no response, Kaeya turned to leave - his cape swishing at the abrupt movement. Suddenly, he was stopped by a strong grip on the item of clothing.
“No. It’s not all.”
Kaeya cast a confused glance over his shoulder.
“I need to know if I can trust you with a secret.”
Kaeya’s brows raised.
“I’m all ears.”
Darkness enveloped the manor and its surrounding fields - the only light casting its pale rays onto the surroundings being the fluttery crystalflies and sparse lights pouring through the windows of the building. The dirt crunched underneath the two pairs of boots - ground into even finer dust that would doubtlessly stifle the air during hot days.
“You will not breathe a word of this. To anyone,” Diluc spoke sternly, pushing open the front door slowly before stepping inside, the thick leather soles of his boots clashing with the polished floors beneath his feet.
Kaeya nodded, following the other inside and closing the door behind him with a soft click - his gaze taking in the familiar walls of the house he once called home.
“The creator is most likely asleep at the moment. It would do you well to be quiet for once,” the redhead warned as he cast a pointed look towards the cavalry captain - before striding towards the kitchen with all the grace and poise required of a young gentleman like himself.
Not even given the option to respond to the order with a sharp quip of his own, Kaeya followed, his gaze briefly lingering on the family portrait peeking out from underneath a velvety red drape. The scorch marks stretching across what little he saw of the canvas sent a harsh sting running through his chest.
Diluc was absently setting the kettle onto the stove, his form tense and awkward as he took note of Kaeya lingering in the doorway of the room. It had been much too long since they last had spent time under the roof of the Ragnvindr manor in a civil manner.
“Sit,” he instructed, lighting a small flame underneath the oven in a practiced manner, his eyes set on the metallic kettle before him.
With a muffled squeak, a chair is pulled out from the small table - one meant for the staff’s lunch breaks, yet every bit as extravagant as the rest of the furniture in the manor.
“You really meant what you said earlier, Kaeya?” Diluc asked, finally turning around to face his brother, a firm scowl resting on his face as he studied the other. “Or was it just another attempt to save your ass?”
Kaeya bit back a bitter chuckle.
“I meant it - I assure you. After all - the Creator did not escape their fate without a little help from the shadows,” he spoke, lowering his gaze and allowing a curtain of hair to shield his visible eye.
The soft, gentle chirping from the birds outside was what woke you from your slumber - their simple melodies drifting in through the window along with stray rays of sunlight. Your heavy lids slowly freed your eyes from the stronghold sleep had on them - and you took in your new comfortable surroundings with a soft sigh.
The bed was plush beneath your frame, molding itself to your needs as you shifted on it, slowly pushing off the soft covers and allowing the cool morning air to hit your skin. A soft smile emerged on your face for a brief moment.
You were safe, here.
Sitting up slowly, your arms moved to stretch above your head as you let out a yawn, small droplets of tears welling up in your eyes at the action on instinct. You went to wipe your eyes - banishing both the salty droplets and any sand gathered in them.
Your feet shuffled quietly across the floor, slipping on the pair of slippers you’d been provided graciously by the maids and donning a light robe on top of your cotton sleepwear. With a soft click, the door of your room came undone and you stepped out quietly - your eyes flickering to observe your surroundings out of habit, trying to confirm that you were safe.
With a slight tremor in your form, you descended the stairs, taking note of how quiet everything was. You supposed it was still far too early for even the staff to be up and bustling about.
With a quiet, content sigh, you approached the kitchen area, eager to ease the dryness itching at your throat with some cool water.
Pain. All you can feel is pain. Slowly regaining consciousness, you feel your head dangling over someone’s back with your hair covering your face. Like a tidal wave, it all comes rushing back to you; Lumine, the Abyss Herald! You begin to thrash and pound at the lectors back, “let go of me you sick fuck!” Screaming at him, you try to reach behind you and claw at his face. Just when you were about to make another swipe at him, you felt another surge of electricity flow through you. Yelping in pain, you go limp and start involuntarily twitching.
“Enough.” The Herald orders. “Bind her arms and legs if you must but we can’t have her convulsing in front of the prince.”
Prince?! You furrowed your brows, they must be talking about Aether. Recalling the Archon quests in your mind, you try to think of a reason why he would have you kidnapped. Your mind wanders to many outlandish theories but ultimately you’re stumped, unable to see how you fit into the puzzle.
The abyss lector follows his commander’s orders and binds your limbs with magic. You test the glowing cuffs out by pulling your wrists apart but it’s no use, you’re screwed. With nothing else to do, you finally take in your surroundings. You’re underground, that much you can tell but with no distinguishing flora or fauna, you have no idea where you could possibly be. This is bad, really bad. You have no weapons, no friends and are completely at the mercy of these jerks. The only things you have are the clothes on your back and your wits. You’re gonna have to be smart about this and bide your time if you want to escape.
Eventually the lector carries you to what appears to be a large room with Aether sitting on a throne made of obsidian. Resting his head in the palm of his hand he watches the abyss lector set you down in front of him. Beautiful. Even though you’re here against your will, you still have that fire in your eyes. Is it bad that he finds you ravishing when you’re mad?
Aether waves his hand, “leave us.” He orders. The black serpent knights, the lectors, mages and heralds of his court offer him a bow and leave the throne room. He rises from his seat and strides toward you, “(Y/N), welcome to the Abyss. We’ve been waiting for you.”
With your head held high, your glare at Lumine’s twin, “Why am I here, Aether?” He chuckles at your candor, “straight to the point as always, you haven’t changed a bit.” Face to face with you, he strokes your cheek with the outside of his hand, “I need your help,” he says softly.
Whatever he needs it can’t be good, you think to yourself. Heart thumping wildly in your chest you struggle to maintain a calm composure, “with what” you replied, tone coming out a little too forced. Staring at him, you see his golden eyes are mottled with determination and desire.
“Help me restore Khaenri'ah. With you by my side, we can return it to its former glory.” You raised your eyebrows, “and how exactly am I supposed to do that?” His face twists into a crazed expression, smiling unnaturally wide for your comfort.
“By stealing the eye of the first field tiller from Dainsleif and give it to me.” Your eyes widened with horror and you took a step back from him. He takes a step forward, “what’s the matter? Afraid you can’t do it? You shouldn’t worry, Dainsleif trusts you with his life. He loves you just as much as I do.”
“No. I won’t do it and…” you say with a shaky voice. “Whatever this is,” obsession? Mania? You’re not sure what to call it. Gesturing at him you say, “this is not love.”
In an instant he rushes to you and grabs your bound hands, “oh but it is!” Blush forming on his cheeks he confesses his love for you, “I’ve loved you since the moment I laid eyes on you. You love me don’t you?” In a panic you tried to free your hands from his hold but he only gripped you harder. Shaking your head vehemently, “please Aether,” you begged. “I just want to go home.”
Upon hearing your denial of his love and his plans, his unnatural elated smile changed in an instant to a cold, calculated glare. “I was hoping that you would cooperate but no matter, the serpent knights will take you to your chambers but first,” summoning abyssal magic, he casts a spell on you with ancient runes appearing on your skin. The feeling of foreign magic invading your body gives you a tingling sensation, the symbols softly glowing blue all over your face and body.
“What is this?!” You screeched in horror.
The Abyssal Prince smirks, “I severed your Divine connection to everyone. Every person across the globe is feeling it as we speak and think you’re dead.”
You begin to hyperventilate, this can’t be happening. Feeling like a cornered animal you rally your last ounce of courage and throw a double fisted punch at Aether. He laughs at your cute attempt and easily dodges you, knocking you unconscious with a light hit to your neck.
“Guards!” He calls out, the Abyss Herald teleports over to him and your unconscious form on the floor.
“What are your orders, Your highness?”
“Take our little Goddess to her chambers. As for the Loom of Fate, we will continue as planned but instead of the eye, we will use her instead. If she somehow survives, she can be my queen of the new world.”
Ever since you arrived in this world life has been good, in fact, you’ve never been happier. Before you got isekai’ed into your favorite video game, Genshin Impact, you were just a lonely nobody who was just going through the motions of what life was handed to you. But here in Teyvat you mattered though as strange it may seem, the people here are convinced that you’re their God and not like an Archon but THE God of Gods, The Divine Creator, the embodiment of Celestia itself. Apparently you are the reincarnation of the late Goddess who not only looked and acted exactly like you, but was also murdered in Khaenri'ah 500 years ago. At first, you tried to deny your status as their Creator but after meeting and interacting with your favorite characters, you decided to go along with it because it made them happy. But as Murphy’s Law dictates: ‘anything that can go wrong will go wrong,’ and that’s exactly what happened.
You, Lumine and Paimon were exploring a dungeon together as a part of a commission she was hired for, venturing deep into the crust of the earth. The stone walls were narrowing in and the air was becoming more and more scarce. Paimon was growing concerned, “uhhhh this place is getting a little tight even for Paimon. We should go back.”
Lumine, your trusted guide and friend, looked to your shaking head and held up a map for her to see. “Paimon you know we’ve been through worse together and, besides, according to this we’re getting close to where the relic should be.”
You agreed with your fellow interdimensional traveler, “yeah, Lumine’s right. We’ve gone this far, we can’t turn back now.”
Truer words have never been spoken. Upon reaching the end of the path, it leads you into an enormous clearing. Lit torches lined the walls of the cave where shadows danced to the flames flicker. However despite the torches, the cave was pitch black in the areas where the light could not reach and had an eerie silence that you found unnerving.
Lumine drew her sword and you your bow. “Be on your guard,” she warned. With an arrow nocked, you were ready for whatever monsters that emerged from the shadows.
Paimon looks at you and your bow. “When did you learn how to shoot?” She asked in a hushed tone. Following the traveler’s lead, you kept your focus on your surroundings, “a while ago,” you muttered quietly, “thought it would be useful to learn self defense.”
“Yeah. This world can be a pretty dangerous place, that’s why I stick with her. Who taught you?” You gave the floating fairy a wink, “ehe, it’s a secret.” Deciding that the conversation was over, Paimon rolled her eyes at you and floated next to her companion.
Venturing deeper into the cave for what felt like hours, you finally reach your destination but staring at the scene before you made your blood turn to ice.There, several feet away from you was an altar holding a priceless relic but looming ominously behind it was an upside down Statue of the Seven, a defiled statue.
Knowing the implications of that statue, the three of you backed away slowly from the scene. “We need to leave, now.” Lumine orders. But the second you and her turn to break off into a full sprint, a blue magical barrier cuts you off.
“Leaving so soon?” A low gravelly voice cuts the tension. Emerging from a cosmic starry portal, was a massive Abyss Herald. You couldn’t see his eyes but you could feel his malicious gaze on you. “Your Grace,” he says with a half hearted bow, “we’ve been waiting for you. Why don’t you come with me, we have much to discuss.”
In response Lumine moved her sword into a defensive position while you raised your bow and drew the string back, “I have nothing to say to you.” You called out to him, doing your best to keep your voice from cracking in fear.
The Abyss Herald cackled at your attempt to be brave. “Very well, then I shall take you by force.” Summoning his long hydro daggers, he cautiously stalked toward you like the apex predator that he is.
“(Y/N),” the traveler whispers, “you need to get out of here. Teleport away while you still can.” “What?!” you whispered back, eyes locked on the approaching monster, “I’m not leaving you and Paimon.” “We’ll be fine, he and I have unfinished business. It’s you that he wants.” Stubborn as ever but you nodded your head. Imagining a waypoint in your mind, you tried to teleport but… nothing happened.
“Oh?” The herald cocked his head to the side. “Were you trying to escape, little Goddess? We’ve only just begun.” With a wave of his hand, hidden runes illuminate the walls of the cave, “you’re welcome to try again but you won’t be able to break through this spell. I made sure of it.”
You scowl at him. You’ve had enough of his crap, aiming for his head you fire five arrows in rapid succession. While he was deflecting your arrows, Lumine jumps into action and swings her sword at him to which he blocks and attempts an aqua slash at the traveler thus beginning the fight. While the two were engaged in heated battle, you stayed around the perimeter of the cave, firing arrows at the enemy whenever you had an opening. But just when you think the tide of battle is turning in your favor, an electro abyss lector hiding in the shadows shocks you. You scream out in pain and immediately fall to the ground stunned. Every muscle in your body is contracted, your nerves on fire with excruciating pain that you can feel in your bones. With how tightly your muscles have contracted, the blood circulating to your brain temporarily stops and you pass out as a result.
When Lumine hears your scream, she sees in the corner of her eye, the abyss lector picking up your limp body and throwing you over his shoulder. Panic begins to swell within her. NO! They can’t take you too! She dodges tidal slash combo from her opponent and runs to your aid but the abyss member was too fast and intercepts her before she could make contact with the lector. With an abyssal roar, the creature charges at her in a spinning attack causing a deep gash in the traveler’s leg, incapacitating her.
“Out of respect for your brother, I’ll let you live. But make no mistake; come after us and you will feel the full might of the Abyss as you die.” With that, the members of the Abyss Order open a starry portal and disappear with you along with them leaving Lumine and Paimon alone in the dark empty cave.
Zhongli awoke this morning feeling better than he has in a very long time. Gone were the aches and pains that his body endured from the millenniums of battle and hardship and gone were the sins of his past that weighed heavy on his shoulders, his soul feeling lighter than air. Even strolling through the harbor, it appears Liyue herself has been given a breath of life as well. For the air in the harbor felt crisper, the sun was warm and radiant and the energy of her people was practically vibrating with your essence.
Watching the citizens move with such fervor, it was evident that you were the reason for this change. However, he found it odd that with every step he took in the direction of Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, the stronger he felt in his connection to you. A sense of dread washes over him and he can’t help but shudder at the thought of whatever antics the funeral director has put upon you. Taking a deep breath, he enters the building in search of you and to his horror, he finds you lying in a coffin laughing with your arms crossed while Hu Tao looms over with a gleam in her eyes.
“You are absolutely right, Tao. These coffins are comfy. When I die, I’d definitely want this one.”
The 77th director giggles, “I’ll keep that in mind so long as you promise that Wangsheng Funeral Parlor will be the one to handle your funeral proceedings and last rites when you die.” Rising from your coffin like a creature of the undead, you hold out your hand for her to shake. “You’ve got yourself a deal!” You said enthusiastically.
While the two of you sealed the deal, Zhongli couldn’t help but grimace in disapproval of this entire transaction. The very idea of you dying again put the ex Geo Archeon at great unease and the idea of grieving you once more would be far too much for his old heart to take. No, you will not be dying anytime soon, Zhongli determined. Not if he had anything to say about it.
Stepping out from the corridor the consultant makes his presence known, “Your Grace, it is a wonderful surprise to see you here. I will refrain from asking why you are in a coffin but I have more comfortable seating arrangements in my office.”
Gazing at the tall man before you, you couldn’t help but gawk at him. He looks even more handsome and refined in real life and the sound of his velvet smooth baritone voice makes you weak in the knees. With Hu Tao’s help you carefully climb out of the coffin and walk up to him with a grin. “By all means, lead the way.” Seeing you smile at him for the first time in 500 years made Zhongli’s heart skip a beat. Oh how he missed you, he can’t wait to tell you of all the things you’ve missed! Putting his hand on the small of your back as he’s done hundreds of times before, he leads you away to his office.
Watching the couple exit the showing room, the director observes the way he looks at you. Such eyes filled with adoration, it’s as if you’re lovers torn by war only to be reunited once again. Though it is possible, she thought to herself. He is an Adepti after all and probably has some history with you. Suddenly inspiration strikes her, this would be great material for a poem! The versemonger of the darkest alleys rushes to her respective office to capture her thoughts on paper.
Elsewhere, Zhongli leads you to his simple yet elegant workroom and offers you a cushy lovechair while he prepares you both some tea. You sit down in the seat with a blush still evident on your face from when he put his hand on your lower back. While you watch him prepare the tea, you think back to the feeling of his large hand against you and you secretly hope he touches you like that again. Your thoughts begin to drift to other places he could touch you when his voice calls out to you.
“(Y/N).”
Your eyes widened in shock and you snapped your head toward him. You never told him your name…
“W-what is it? Sorry I wasn’t listening.”
He chuckles, “head in the clouds I see, dear (Y/N). Even after all these years, you haven’t changed a bit. I just asked if you wanted some sweets; they’re imported from Fontaine.”
You nodded your head while he placed the tea and cookies in front of you and went to sit in the chair next to you. Feelings of anxiety start to build you as you realize that Zhongli seems to think that you remember him from before you died. Holding the teacup in your hands, you stare into the steam of your hot drink.
How are you going to tell him that he’s the only one who shares the memory?
You find yourself not wanting to be here anymore and the idea of teleporting away is looking more and more appealing. Sensing your anxiety, the amber eyed man takes one of your hands and holds it with both of his. Turning your hand over, he rubs his thumb across your palm and says, “You don’t remember me do you, (Y/N)?”
You opened your mouth to try and say something, anything that would soften the blow but no words came out. But you didn’t need to say anything because the pained look on your face was all the answer he needed.
As upset as he is, this situation is all his fault for he; Rex Lapis, The God of Contracts, The Geo Archeon was your most faithful apostle and he failed you. He has only broken one contract in his life and it was the one he created in which he would love and protect you for all eternity. He never should’ve let you go to Khaenri'ah and when heard of your untimely death he flew into a rage and greatly assisted in the destruction of the ancient civilization. But once the fires and the dust settled, not even your body could be recovered in the wreckage and with no body, he buried an empty casket. For the last 500 years, he’s carried the guilt of not protecting you on his shoulders and has been haunted by the memories of you wherever he went.
Not sure what to say, you gave your condolences, “I…I’m so sorry Zhongli.”
In response, Morax gave you a sad smile and put your hand that he was holding up to his cheek and held it there. You responded in kind by gently stroking his smooth face with your fingers.
“It’s alright,” he whispered, “I’ll remember for the both of us. And.. I am to blame for your circumstance. I should’ve done my duty and protected you like I vowed to.”
You shook your head, taking your other hand and placing it on the other side of his face, you looked him square in the eyes. You’ve never seen him look so vulnerable, his gaze full of bittersweet nostalgia.
“I-” you hesitated, you’re not sure if this is the right thing to say but you think it’s something he needs to hear. “The old me is gone. But I can tell you with every fiber of my being that she would forgive you, thatI forgive you and she would not want you to carry this guilt anymore.” You said with soft firmness and then gave him a tender kiss on his forehead.
Just as you were about to release your hold on his face, he pulled at your arms and you fell into his embrace with you in his lab. You can feel his heart thumping quickly against his chest while he holds you tightly as if you were about to disappear from his life again. Zhongli lets out a deep sigh of relief and inhales the scent of your hair, my goodness you even smell the same. He kisses the top of your head, “Thank you, (Y/N).”
You nuzzled your nose against his neck in return and shifted yourself to get more comfortable in his lap, your tea long forgotten and turned cold.
Bonus scene: After an emotional morning, the two of you decided lunch was in order and Zhongli recommended eating at Liuli Pavillion. Unsurprisingly, he orders the most expensive dishes and drinks. Usually, Zhongli would do most of the talking but for once, he did the listening as he was quite curious about you, your old life and your experiences so far in Teyvat. Watching you speak with the same mannerisms as the old you that he knew and loved, he could definitely see himself falling for this version of you too. When you both stuffed yourselves full of delicious food, the bill comes to your table.
You both glance at each other then the bill.
“…..Zhongli.” “Yes, dear?” “Do you need me to cover this?” “….yes.”
