[ this is not a question he takes his time musing over. it is a question he knows the answer well, something he might have thought about before, at night, under a sky that does not exist.
when he watches her here, it is in an attempt to find a hidden threat. he does not, and instead, dainsleif is left wondering: is this guilt? is this fear of failure, that she'd come to disappoint those who look up to her? would she want to be put down, to avoid shame, to avoid reality, to avoid the disappointment?
this, too, is not something he can get a read on. ]
My sword strikes those who pose a threat to my nation. I have been tasked to protect Khaenri'ah. It does not matter from who.
[ and with that, dainsleif takes a step to the side, and resumes walking. ]
[ lumine watches him walk past her, his strides steadfast and purposeful. seemingly unwilling to allow her to catch up, given their differences in height.
it's such a lonely path to take, the path of loyalty and fealty to one's country. after all, it shackles a person down to their duties, to the obligation of protecting an ideal. and more often than not, the ending is quite tragic; heroic, because who dies a martyr but is not revered as one, but tragic all the same.
too bad, she thinks. guys married to their jobs are often a pain to deal with.
with a sigh and a helpless smile, she follows after him, quickening her pace until she manages to come to. really, he could stand to wait for his charge; it's his job, after all. ]
I bet you're popular with your knights. [ subordinates tend to look up to their superiors when they wax poetic on codes of honor. ] I suppose you've never dated anyone before, then?
[ at the very least, he does default to the same pace as before once she catches up. walking away had simply been a way to let go of the topic at hand, because what's more to say? dainsleif might not recognize her as their princess, might not truly trust her yet. not her character, not as a representative of khaenri'ah. but he's not about threatening her, not willing to talk what ifs on scenarios that could possibly not come to happen.
she is, however, gifted. his steps falter for a moment; he does not stop walking, but for a moment, he was tempted to. ]
What?
[ ... ? surely he has heard it wrong. surely their to-be princess hasn't asked him about his personal life. surely. he shoots her a look for a moment, and the confusion is, for once, clear on his features. ]
[ lumine's starting to learn a few things about him in the span of time since they've meet a while ago: very stern and serious, but easily embarrassed; also, he's not very skillful at completely hiding his thoughts, which means that he's far too honest for his own good. one would think schooling his expression is something he's mastered as the captain of the royal guard.
but then, she also thinks that he's never had someone like her to deal with. he must have a lot of questions to ask his king later on, starting with "why her?" ]
You seem like a very diligent and responsible guy and your loyalty is very admirable. Normally, that would be very attractive. [ for a puppy, maybe ... ] But that also means you're the type who would be preoccupied with work that you'd have reasons why you couldn't make it home for dinner.
[ an emergency, a task, a mission from the king—the excuses can be endless if one puts their mind to it. ]
Worse comes to worst, too, you'd choose Khaenri'ah over your partner out of your duty.
[ she talks, then. goes on, and on, and he thinks: this is absurd.
it is, ultimately, a good read on him. yes, he's diligent. yes, he's responsible. yes, of course he's loyal — what knight captain of a kingdom's royal guard would not be? he had sworn an oath to khaenri'ah when he entered the guard, many moons ago, then sworn another when he had been promoted captain. never before he has met someone who would see it as a bad thing.
(she doesn't say it, though, that it's bad, but it's almost implied, and it's how dainsleif reads her.)
the matters of the heart are not ones he's experienced in, let alone ones he has given any thought.
you would choose khaenri'ah over your partner. would he?
his steps finally come to a stop. ]
... [ no answer. he's thinking on it, seriously. ] If Khaenri'ah falls, what home is there for my partner to return to? If it falls, they would lose what they have as well. Family, friends. Memories.
[ blue on gold, again. this time, his eyes show the fierceness in his response. ]
In choosing Khaenri'ah, does that not mean I am choosing my partner as well?
[ lumine hears his footsteps falter until they completely stop. she's struck a nerve, and she doesn't even need to stop and turn around to see what she's dealing with. she already knows, hence her even pace, her footsteps not stopping.
the answers he gives her are very much expected; she wasn't at all surprised. really, her impression of him remains and she doesn't think it'll change anytime soon.
her footsteps finally pause when he pins on her the last question, and she slowly turns around to face him. the king should be proud of his knight, she thinks; he's someone who will willingly die for the royal family, for the country, who will abandon everything he has for the nation.
head canting slightly to one side, the smile she puts on has a weary but amused lilt to it. ]
Everything you've said only proves my point further, Captain.
[ that he's never dated anyone before, that he'll choose khaenri'ah over anyone out of loyalty. guys married to their work truly are a pain to deal with. ]
But like I said, diligence and loyalty can be quite attractive to others, so I'm sure you'll be fine.
[ this is... a weird spot to be in. she's an anomaly in teyvat, a traveler from the stars. she's radiant like the sun, and the sun doesn't shine in khaenri'ah. perhaps, he thinks, this is why he doesn't know how to deal with her. but all living beings thrive in sunlight. he's no exception.
he resumes his steps. a name is still not given. he thinks then, he hasn't earned it.
a strike for him. how have the tables turned. ]
I will keep it in mind.
[ it's a genuine statement. he'll ruminate, cogitate, muse the words spoken to him. is there fault in his ways? he's an excellent knight, an outstanding captain. does he fail as a person, or someone with a lack of empathy?
had his statement about striking down the princess in favor of khaenri'ah's safety been so wrong?
and because this is dainsleif, a curious soul at birth: ]
What would the correct answer be, for you? Do you not value the protection of your homeland over the feelings you may have for another?
[ she too resumes her steps, hoping she'll be allowed to move past the topic as he had earlier. but maybe that's wishful thinking on her end, her own question turned and posed on her. all lumine can do is throw her head back and chuckle, hands once more clasped behind her back.
how would he react if she were to say that she's willing to abandon a world and allow it to burn so long as she has the one person important to her? how worse could his impression of her get? ]
There's no correct answer.
[ a truth and a lie, because each person has their own brand of selfishness. a part of their nature that they can't deny. ]
All it tells me is that we're very much different from each other. So much so that I think you wouldn't like to hear my own thoughts on the matter.
[ another smile, before she hastens her steps, stretching her arms above her head when she finally steps foot just outside the palace entrance. the mages have kept her inside the palace for so long, imploring her to wait until she's gotten an escort at least.
there's no strikes given. she's allowed to have her own opinion, and he finds no threats for the safety of his nation here. she is, after all, not their princess. he does not recognize her as such, and does not find the need to turn against her.
a nation, or a loved one? her brother must be lucky.
the guards at the palace's gates salute dainsleif, who nods at them to allow them leave. khaenri'ah, outside the palace, is vast as any other land. for all that it's found underground, it's still bright, with lamps scattered all over. the grass, trees, birds — all made with khemia. there are buildings, houses, archways. into the distance, there are people going about their day, without a care in the world.
it is, no matter what, beautiful. peaceful. the pride of humankind. his answer, if it ever wavered, would find its strength again at the sight. ]
Is there anything you want to see? People will look at you no matter where you go.
[ the sight of the city makes her wonder why she's even here, what reason was she and her brother pulled into this world. it's peaceful yet lively, a city like any other, full of people going about their day. there's no sign of conflict, of any kind of brewing or imminent war. it's ... well, a pretty normal day in a pretty normal city.
it's a sight that her brother would've loved to see, too. ]
I'm used to being looked at.
[ it's one of the occupational hazards of being a traveler; she will always stand out anywhere like a sore thumb, her features often different and unique compared to those around her.
she tilts her head when she hears laughter and music, voices ringing somewhere from a distance. by instinct, she grabs dainsleif's arm as she would her brother's, dragging him to the source of the noise. ]
I suppose we could always start where people gather.
[ it's understandable that she is; an anomaly everywhere she goes, it's within human nature to be curious. he wonders for a moment if it's not exhausting to be the center of attention every time, if she'd rather hide away in the quietude of peace, away from prying and curious eyes. it is a question he's curious about (as he is about many a thing, especially when it comes to her), a question he'd then have asked—
but each and every time, she surprises him.
it's hardly that dainsleif would consider himself touch-repulsed. he is not. but not many people do it, and the touch of the sun can burn. it's sudden, and warm, and like all living things, they thrive under it. she pulls him along, and dainsleif doesn't have half the mind to pull away from the touch.
the music brings them to a gathering that is almost festival-like. it had been humbly, if not prematurely made, with colorful hangings that go from house to house, lamp to lamp. there's music, there's dancing, there's fresh smell of food. it's a celebration, and considering the happenings of that exquisite, unusual day, it doesn't take a genius to know what they're celebrating.
this, too, is outside of his comfort zone. ]
Hmph. I suppose news travel fast if one is willing to listen. [ people talk, and they love to do so. there had never been an urgency to keep her arrival a secret. ] They're celebrating the birth of a new princess.
communication is the first step to a good and healthy relationship. and as he's not complaining, well, she can easily assume that he's all for it—even if she can tell from his expression that he's not too keen on being touched and/or the idea of going to this gathering of sorts. his loss for not speaking out, really.
but even after reaching the streets, her hand on his arm remains, her pace simply slowing down to admire the decorations. there's laughter and cheer all around, contagious and boisterous, bringing a smile to her lips. it only fades a little, softening at the edges, when he remarks on what the festivities are all about just as a child approaches her.
briefly letting go of dainsleif, lumine crouches to the child's height, accepting the fistful of flowers they offer her. ]
There's a story I've read in another world, [ she says softly just as more people approach her, shaking her hands and touching her skirt and offering greetings and well-wishes. ] About a princess whose birth was celebrated by the entire kingdom.
[ her hand brushes on top of a little girl's head, who lets out a burst of delighted laughter. ]
In the end, she was sacrificed to the monster terrorizing their land by the same people who celebrated her birth. Tragic, isn't it?
[ she's as well-received as he had thought she would be.
they praise her, offer her gifts, pour their hearts out for her. it is, at face-value, a beautiful sight to see. she stands out as she blends in, almost as though she has always meant to be there, in that spot, surrounded by their people, and this thought, too, is absurd. somewhere along the way, dainsleif had looked elsewhere.
even when she speaks, his eyes are not on her. he watches their people, so full of joy and innocence. such lively celebrations do not suit his person, a man clad in so many blacks among the most colorful decorations. he would not say there's discomfort in this; he has simply accepted the reality that he belongs elsewhere far better.
he listens with care, as always. it is only when she's finished that dainsleif looks at her again. ]
Is that a concern you have for your own future?
[ what is not said, between the lines, is: do you think khaenri'ah would sacrifice you? ]
surely, there must be a reason for their presence in this world, the title bestowed on her. even the celebration currently being held in her honor represents an unspoken expectation pressing down on her shoulders. what it is, she's never been told, kept in the dark until perhaps the final moment when her duty is finally revealed.
in any case, she says nothing in response and simply smiles, tiptoeing and reaching out to put a crown of flowers on his head. khemia-made, she can tell from how artificial they feel under her fingertips, but they're beautiful all the same, woven by sincere hands.
once she's done admiring her handiwork on his head, she holds out a hand to him once more. ]
As my escort, shouldn't you be showing me around?
[ he can at least pretend to play the role of a willing royal guard, even if she knows it's a responsibility he doesn't wish to be burdened with. ]
[ the lack of response isn't entirely unexpected. it will be something to ponder about, food for thought when she lays at nights and reflects on her day. she does not know khaenri'ah like he does, does not know the people who so proudly call her their princess. she has no reasons to really trust them, no reasons to have a bond with them. he does not fault her for it.
the same can't be said for everything else that follows.
he needs not look at the flowers to know they would look far better on her head. the motion makes him pause, almost freeze. time and time again, she does things he's not used to, things no one has ever dared do. the teasing, the touching, the boldness. all of his years as a knight of the royal guard, and the years as knight captain hasn't prepared him for a girl with golden hair and a smile that could blind someone.
for once, he doesn't reject the motion as much as he simply does what anyone else would've done. the crown, he takes from his head, and places it on her head instead. there's a faint red color on his cheeks as he does so. much, much better.
dainsleif clears his throat. ]
We can walk through the city. It will help you familiarize yourself with the streets.
[ it's the easiest escape route, after all. he turns, and begins walking elsewhere. he's far from being the best choice for escort. ]
[ if she's noticed the flush on his cheeks despite his attempt at nonchalance, she says nothing about it.
instead, she simply giggles when the crown is returned to her, plopped onto her head like it's meant to be there all along. but it doesn't stay there for too long, lumine tugging it down and placing it on top of another girl's head, the same one who had offered it to her in the first place.
her smile unwavering, she carefully arranges it so it doesn't fall down before she gives her a little wink and a curtsy. ]
A princess should have her crown, after all.
[ lumine quickly departs, walking after dainsleif before the rest of the crowd accosts her and keeps her from her tour of the city. then again, she doesn't think she'll be able to completely avoid them, not when the entire city seems to be involved in the festivities.
perhaps she should speak to the king about this, about celebrations held for a princess that's not of this nation. ]
It doesn't seem like everyone here is of Khaenri'ahn descent ... [ her head cants to one side, peering at some of the passers-by. ] Some of them don't have that star in their eyes.
[ she catches up to him, eventually, and a side-eye at her shows that she hasn't kept the crown. the weird bout of disappointment that runs through his skin is not one dainsleif is familiar with, and he shoos it away soon after.
he'll truly have to have some words with the king. ]
There are those who have come from other nations to stay in Khaenri'ah, [ he begins, instead, addressing her statement. observant as always, he notes, but it's hard not to notice the intricate way their pupils are shaped. ] those who have abandoned their faith in the Gods.
[ after all, why move to the one nation in teyvat that relies on no god? many oppose them, many despise them. some are far more amicable towards the idea, and don't bear any ill-intent towards them. but no matter what, all khaenri'ahns agree on the same thing: they do not need a god to thrive and survive.
he takes her through a slightly less crowded street; commercial in nature, and the scent of fresh food is still significant. there are restaurants, cafés, stands, shops. many vendors peek through the doors to look at them, gossip in the air. they will talk.
dainsleif ignores them all. ]
Anything you'd want to purchase, you'll find it here. Khaenri'ah uses its own currency, so when it comes a time you'll want to visit other nations, you will have to exchange it for Mora. There are a few here who will do it for you.
[ imagine using the geo archon's currency. could not be them. ]
[ right. khaenri'ah is a nation that's not ruled by gods, supposedly an oddity in this continent they call teyvat. that much, she's heard not just from the king and the mages but also from those she's briefly met on her journey to the kingdom. considering what she's learned so far, she wonders:
is it the gods who abandoned khaenri'ah or is it khaenri'ah who turned its back on the gods? ]
Will your king allow me to leave Khaenri'ah's borders on my own?
[ the mages didn't even want her to leave and wander the palace on her own, the chief mage often shooting her an exasperated look despite his sincere imploration to wait until she's assigned a guard. honestly, if she were someone else, she might have considered the man father-like in the way he seems to indirectly scold her.
her gaze flickers at him sideways, smiling ingenuously. ]
Don't worry, I know you have responsibilities as a Knight Captain other than babysitting so I'll be sure to take someone else with me.
[ besides, she's more than capable of handling herself. why she even needs an escort is beyond her. ]
[ — is all he offers her in response. does it matter if he would let her or not? he has seen the way she acts, how easy it is to be led by her. likewise, he imagines, she wouldn't be the kind who would so easily be chained down.
if her brother were to awaken right now, wouldn't she fetch him and leave khaenri'ah, just like that?
he's ready to reply to her statement when a name gives him pause. it shows on his face, as always. ]
You've met Halfdan?
[ she's right — he does have responsibilities as knight captain, but so does halfdan as one of his knights. surely he wouldn't leave his post to go travel with a stranger. surely. ]
[ ah ... that gets her to pause, a finger tapping her chin. she supposes that that question is very valid, considering her innate wanderlust. it isn't as if the title bestowed on her ties her down to this kingdom, either; it never did and it never will, and the moment aether wakes up, she and her twin will no doubt have to decide on what to do next.
(and how wrong she'll be proven, eventually ...)
his second question gets her to glance at him, a mild expression on her face. surprise meets confusion, but then, seeing that he seems to be caught off-guard by this assignment, it only makes sense that her meeting with one of his knights is another mystery to him. ]
He escorted me to see the king the other day.
[ a temporary task, she remembers him telling her, until the king has decided as to who will be her personal guard. ]
And we had a quick conversation about the places I've been to. He seemed very interested to hear about them, but he's another guy married to his job, so ...
[ the truth is, he's not surprised that he had been escorted by one of his knights. it just so happens that halfdan is one of his most loyal, skilled knights, and likewise, a dear, close friend. he does not doubt in the least that he, too, would choose khaenri'ah over a stranger, no matter how bright she shines.
but she, too, is a mystery to be unraveled. he would not fault halfdan if he chose to follow after her. in a way, isn't this what dainsleif is doing right now, following her whims, a moth enchanted by a flame? ]
Is your travel across the stars a ploy to find yourself a boyfriend? [ if the question sounds sarcastic, it was not meant to be. it is, instead, bathed in curiosity. he doesn't know the purpose of her travels, after all.
and so, dainsleif continues: ] Would you settle down if you found one?
[ she blinks at the question before she lets out a laugh, attracting the attention a few of the people around them. if they had been trying to discreetly watch them before, well, lumine's just given them a reason to turn their heads and stare. not that she's paid any regard to it.
but to be fair, he asks her a such derisive-sounding question with a serious face. as expected of his personality, she supposes. ]
Who in the universe travels to find a lover while bringing their twin brother along?
[ she's quite certain that if aether were to hear that question, he probably would've sighed heavily and blamed her for giving off such a terrible impression to others. ]
But to answer your question: no, I wouldn't. [ because if she were to settle down, it would be for a different reason. a less exciting, more mundane reason. ] After all, I wouldn't want to stay in a place where my heart would get inevitably broken.
[ she laughs, and dainsleif doesn't find offense in it. he is, frankly, confused as to her response. had it been that funny of a question? it's the impression, her brother would have been right, that she gave him. the former conversation on his dating experience, and now the remark on halfdan. it's not a stretch to assume she had been looking for a partner.
people look, and he has half the mind to pull her away. the attention isn't very welcoming, not when they talk about the topic. he doesn't do it, though. of course not.
at the very least, he keeps walking. ]
You mean Khaenri'ah. [ because if it had been between dainsleif or halfdan, both would have chosen their nation over her. ] And if it were anywhere else?
[ lumine blinks again, letting out another giggle afterward. ]
I mean in general, Khaenri'ah or anywhere else.
[ though she assumes he's going down this line of question after their previous conversations, her escort somehow trying to add two and two together, thinking it would end up in four. he really is a little serious for his own good, a trait that seems to be innate in many knights and soldiers she's met.
perhaps she's also teased him far too much that he's started to think she's serious about it. ]
In any case, I'm not interested in Halfdan in the way you're mistaking it to be. Does my desire to bring him along my travels need to have romantic undertone to it?
[ the amount of times the same thought will cross of his mind seems to be unlimited: that she's truly different from everyone he has ever met, that she's anomaly, that he cannot read or understand her thought process. it leaves dainsleif thinking, curious about her answer. i mean in general, she says, and dainsleif wonders, does she just expect her heart to be broken, no matter what?
this is not, at the end, a conversational topic he has much knowledge about. she had been right, after all. he hasn't quite dated anyone before, never felt the need to. what room does he have to partake in such a conversation? ]
Based on the questions you've asked me before and your statement about his duty to his nation, I thought that'd have been your intentions from the beginning.
[ again. her brother would've mentioned something of the kind. first impressions are a important thing. ]
What would you say your type is?
[ he's not interested. probably. just curious, really. ]
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no subject
when he watches her here, it is in an attempt to find a hidden threat. he does not, and instead, dainsleif is left wondering: is this guilt? is this fear of failure, that she'd come to disappoint those who look up to her? would she want to be put down, to avoid shame, to avoid reality, to avoid the disappointment?
this, too, is not something he can get a read on. ]
My sword strikes those who pose a threat to my nation. I have been tasked to protect Khaenri'ah. It does not matter from who.
[ and with that, dainsleif takes a step to the side, and resumes walking. ]
no subject
it's such a lonely path to take, the path of loyalty and fealty to one's country. after all, it shackles a person down to their duties, to the obligation of protecting an ideal. and more often than not, the ending is quite tragic; heroic, because who dies a martyr but is not revered as one, but tragic all the same.
too bad, she thinks. guys married to their jobs are often a pain to deal with.
with a sigh and a helpless smile, she follows after him, quickening her pace until she manages to come to. really, he could stand to wait for his charge; it's his job, after all. ]
I bet you're popular with your knights. [ subordinates tend to look up to their superiors when they wax poetic on codes of honor. ] I suppose you've never dated anyone before, then?
no subject
she is, however, gifted. his steps falter for a moment; he does not stop walking, but for a moment, he was tempted to. ]
What?
[ ... ? surely he has heard it wrong. surely their to-be princess hasn't asked him about his personal life. surely. he shoots her a look for a moment, and the confusion is, for once, clear on his features. ]
I fail to see how that relates to anything else.
no subject
Oh, it relates to a lot of things.
[ lumine's starting to learn a few things about him in the span of time since they've meet a while ago: very stern and serious, but easily embarrassed; also, he's not very skillful at completely hiding his thoughts, which means that he's far too honest for his own good. one would think schooling his expression is something he's mastered as the captain of the royal guard.
but then, she also thinks that he's never had someone like her to deal with. he must have a lot of questions to ask his king later on, starting with "why her?" ]
You seem like a very diligent and responsible guy and your loyalty is very admirable. Normally, that would be very attractive. [ for a puppy, maybe ... ] But that also means you're the type who would be preoccupied with work that you'd have reasons why you couldn't make it home for dinner.
[ an emergency, a task, a mission from the king—the excuses can be endless if one puts their mind to it. ]
Worse comes to worst, too, you'd choose Khaenri'ah over your partner out of your duty.
[ she glances at him sideways. ] Am I wrong?
no subject
it is, ultimately, a good read on him. yes, he's diligent. yes, he's responsible. yes, of course he's loyal — what knight captain of a kingdom's royal guard would not be? he had sworn an oath to khaenri'ah when he entered the guard, many moons ago, then sworn another when he had been promoted captain. never before he has met someone who would see it as a bad thing.
(she doesn't say it, though, that it's bad, but it's almost implied, and it's how dainsleif reads her.)
the matters of the heart are not ones he's experienced in, let alone ones he has given any thought.
you would choose khaenri'ah over your partner. would he?
his steps finally come to a stop. ]
... [ no answer. he's thinking on it, seriously. ] If Khaenri'ah falls, what home is there for my partner to return to? If it falls, they would lose what they have as well. Family, friends. Memories.
[ blue on gold, again. this time, his eyes show the fierceness in his response. ]
In choosing Khaenri'ah, does that not mean I am choosing my partner as well?
no subject
the answers he gives her are very much expected; she wasn't at all surprised. really, her impression of him remains and she doesn't think it'll change anytime soon.
her footsteps finally pause when he pins on her the last question, and she slowly turns around to face him. the king should be proud of his knight, she thinks; he's someone who will willingly die for the royal family, for the country, who will abandon everything he has for the nation.
head canting slightly to one side, the smile she puts on has a weary but amused lilt to it. ]
Everything you've said only proves my point further, Captain.
[ that he's never dated anyone before, that he'll choose khaenri'ah over anyone out of loyalty. guys married to their work truly are a pain to deal with. ]
But like I said, diligence and loyalty can be quite attractive to others, so I'm sure you'll be fine.
no subject
he resumes his steps. a name is still not given. he thinks then, he hasn't earned it.
a strike for him. how have the tables turned. ]
I will keep it in mind.
[ it's a genuine statement. he'll ruminate, cogitate, muse the words spoken to him. is there fault in his ways? he's an excellent knight, an outstanding captain. does he fail as a person, or someone with a lack of empathy?
had his statement about striking down the princess in favor of khaenri'ah's safety been so wrong?
and because this is dainsleif, a curious soul at birth: ]
What would the correct answer be, for you? Do you not value the protection of your homeland over the feelings you may have for another?
no subject
how would he react if she were to say that she's willing to abandon a world and allow it to burn so long as she has the one person important to her? how worse could his impression of her get? ]
There's no correct answer.
[ a truth and a lie, because each person has their own brand of selfishness. a part of their nature that they can't deny. ]
All it tells me is that we're very much different from each other. So much so that I think you wouldn't like to hear my own thoughts on the matter.
[ another smile, before she hastens her steps, stretching her arms above her head when she finally steps foot just outside the palace entrance. the mages have kept her inside the palace for so long, imploring her to wait until she's gotten an escort at least.
but ah, where to start now? ]
no subject
there's no strikes given. she's allowed to have her own opinion, and he finds no threats for the safety of his nation here. she is, after all, not their princess. he does not recognize her as such, and does not find the need to turn against her.
a nation, or a loved one? her brother must be lucky.
the guards at the palace's gates salute dainsleif, who nods at them to allow them leave. khaenri'ah, outside the palace, is vast as any other land. for all that it's found underground, it's still bright, with lamps scattered all over. the grass, trees, birds — all made with khemia. there are buildings, houses, archways. into the distance, there are people going about their day, without a care in the world.
it is, no matter what, beautiful. peaceful. the pride of humankind. his answer, if it ever wavered, would find its strength again at the sight. ]
Is there anything you want to see? People will look at you no matter where you go.
no subject
it's a sight that her brother would've loved to see, too. ]
I'm used to being looked at.
[ it's one of the occupational hazards of being a traveler; she will always stand out anywhere like a sore thumb, her features often different and unique compared to those around her.
she tilts her head when she hears laughter and music, voices ringing somewhere from a distance. by instinct, she grabs dainsleif's arm as she would her brother's, dragging him to the source of the noise. ]
I suppose we could always start where people gather.
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but each and every time, she surprises him.
it's hardly that dainsleif would consider himself touch-repulsed. he is not. but not many people do it, and the touch of the sun can burn. it's sudden, and warm, and like all living things, they thrive under it. she pulls him along, and dainsleif doesn't have half the mind to pull away from the touch.
the music brings them to a gathering that is almost festival-like. it had been humbly, if not prematurely made, with colorful hangings that go from house to house, lamp to lamp. there's music, there's dancing, there's fresh smell of food. it's a celebration, and considering the happenings of that exquisite, unusual day, it doesn't take a genius to know what they're celebrating.
this, too, is outside of his comfort zone. ]
Hmph. I suppose news travel fast if one is willing to listen. [ people talk, and they love to do so. there had never been an urgency to keep her arrival a secret. ] They're celebrating the birth of a new princess.
[ though birth isn't exactly quite right. ]
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communication is the first step to a good and healthy relationship. and as he's not complaining, well, she can easily assume that he's all for it—even if she can tell from his expression that he's not too keen on being touched and/or the idea of going to this gathering of sorts. his loss for not speaking out, really.
but even after reaching the streets, her hand on his arm remains, her pace simply slowing down to admire the decorations. there's laughter and cheer all around, contagious and boisterous, bringing a smile to her lips. it only fades a little, softening at the edges, when he remarks on what the festivities are all about just as a child approaches her.
briefly letting go of dainsleif, lumine crouches to the child's height, accepting the fistful of flowers they offer her. ]
There's a story I've read in another world, [ she says softly just as more people approach her, shaking her hands and touching her skirt and offering greetings and well-wishes. ] About a princess whose birth was celebrated by the entire kingdom.
[ her hand brushes on top of a little girl's head, who lets out a burst of delighted laughter. ]
In the end, she was sacrificed to the monster terrorizing their land by the same people who celebrated her birth. Tragic, isn't it?
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they praise her, offer her gifts, pour their hearts out for her. it is, at face-value, a beautiful sight to see. she stands out as she blends in, almost as though she has always meant to be there, in that spot, surrounded by their people, and this thought, too, is absurd. somewhere along the way, dainsleif had looked elsewhere.
even when she speaks, his eyes are not on her. he watches their people, so full of joy and innocence. such lively celebrations do not suit his person, a man clad in so many blacks among the most colorful decorations. he would not say there's discomfort in this; he has simply accepted the reality that he belongs elsewhere far better.
he listens with care, as always. it is only when she's finished that dainsleif looks at her again. ]
Is that a concern you have for your own future?
[ what is not said, between the lines, is: do you think khaenri'ah would sacrifice you? ]
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surely, there must be a reason for their presence in this world, the title bestowed on her. even the celebration currently being held in her honor represents an unspoken expectation pressing down on her shoulders. what it is, she's never been told, kept in the dark until perhaps the final moment when her duty is finally revealed.
in any case, she says nothing in response and simply smiles, tiptoeing and reaching out to put a crown of flowers on his head. khemia-made, she can tell from how artificial they feel under her fingertips, but they're beautiful all the same, woven by sincere hands.
once she's done admiring her handiwork on his head, she holds out a hand to him once more. ]
As my escort, shouldn't you be showing me around?
[ he can at least pretend to play the role of a willing royal guard, even if she knows it's a responsibility he doesn't wish to be burdened with. ]
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the same can't be said for everything else that follows.
he needs not look at the flowers to know they would look far better on her head. the motion makes him pause, almost freeze. time and time again, she does things he's not used to, things no one has ever dared do. the teasing, the touching, the boldness. all of his years as a knight of the royal guard, and the years as knight captain hasn't prepared him for a girl with golden hair and a smile that could blind someone.
for once, he doesn't reject the motion as much as he simply does what anyone else would've done. the crown, he takes from his head, and places it on her head instead. there's a faint red color on his cheeks as he does so. much, much better.
dainsleif clears his throat. ]
We can walk through the city. It will help you familiarize yourself with the streets.
[ it's the easiest escape route, after all. he turns, and begins walking elsewhere. he's far from being the best choice for escort. ]
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instead, she simply giggles when the crown is returned to her, plopped onto her head like it's meant to be there all along. but it doesn't stay there for too long, lumine tugging it down and placing it on top of another girl's head, the same one who had offered it to her in the first place.
her smile unwavering, she carefully arranges it so it doesn't fall down before she gives her a little wink and a curtsy. ]
A princess should have her crown, after all.
[ lumine quickly departs, walking after dainsleif before the rest of the crowd accosts her and keeps her from her tour of the city. then again, she doesn't think she'll be able to completely avoid them, not when the entire city seems to be involved in the festivities.
perhaps she should speak to the king about this, about celebrations held for a princess that's not of this nation. ]
It doesn't seem like everyone here is of Khaenri'ahn descent ... [ her head cants to one side, peering at some of the passers-by. ] Some of them don't have that star in their eyes.
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he'll truly have to have some words with the king. ]
There are those who have come from other nations to stay in Khaenri'ah, [ he begins, instead, addressing her statement. observant as always, he notes, but it's hard not to notice the intricate way their pupils are shaped. ] those who have abandoned their faith in the Gods.
[ after all, why move to the one nation in teyvat that relies on no god? many oppose them, many despise them. some are far more amicable towards the idea, and don't bear any ill-intent towards them. but no matter what, all khaenri'ahns agree on the same thing: they do not need a god to thrive and survive.
he takes her through a slightly less crowded street; commercial in nature, and the scent of fresh food is still significant. there are restaurants, cafés, stands, shops. many vendors peek through the doors to look at them, gossip in the air. they will talk.
dainsleif ignores them all. ]
Anything you'd want to purchase, you'll find it here. Khaenri'ah uses its own currency, so when it comes a time you'll want to visit other nations, you will have to exchange it for Mora. There are a few here who will do it for you.
[ imagine using the geo archon's currency. could not be them. ]
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is it the gods who abandoned khaenri'ah or is it khaenri'ah who turned its back on the gods? ]
Will your king allow me to leave Khaenri'ah's borders on my own?
[ the mages didn't even want her to leave and wander the palace on her own, the chief mage often shooting her an exasperated look despite his sincere imploration to wait until she's assigned a guard. honestly, if she were someone else, she might have considered the man father-like in the way he seems to indirectly scold her.
her gaze flickers at him sideways, smiling ingenuously. ]
Don't worry, I know you have responsibilities as a Knight Captain other than babysitting so I'll be sure to take someone else with me.
[ besides, she's more than capable of handling herself. why she even needs an escort is beyond her. ]
Halfdan did say he wanted to travel someday ...
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[ — is all he offers her in response. does it matter if he would let her or not? he has seen the way she acts, how easy it is to be led by her. likewise, he imagines, she wouldn't be the kind who would so easily be chained down.
if her brother were to awaken right now, wouldn't she fetch him and leave khaenri'ah, just like that?
he's ready to reply to her statement when a name gives him pause. it shows on his face, as always. ]
You've met Halfdan?
[ she's right — he does have responsibilities as knight captain, but so does halfdan as one of his knights. surely he wouldn't leave his post to go travel with a stranger. surely. ]
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(and how wrong she'll be proven, eventually ...)
his second question gets her to glance at him, a mild expression on her face. surprise meets confusion, but then, seeing that he seems to be caught off-guard by this assignment, it only makes sense that her meeting with one of his knights is another mystery to him. ]
He escorted me to see the king the other day.
[ a temporary task, she remembers him telling her, until the king has decided as to who will be her personal guard. ]
And we had a quick conversation about the places I've been to. He seemed very interested to hear about them, but he's another guy married to his job, so ...
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but she, too, is a mystery to be unraveled. he would not fault halfdan if he chose to follow after her. in a way, isn't this what dainsleif is doing right now, following her whims, a moth enchanted by a flame? ]
Is your travel across the stars a ploy to find yourself a boyfriend? [ if the question sounds sarcastic, it was not meant to be. it is, instead, bathed in curiosity. he doesn't know the purpose of her travels, after all.
and so, dainsleif continues: ] Would you settle down if you found one?
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but to be fair, he asks her a such derisive-sounding question with a serious face. as expected of his personality, she supposes. ]
Who in the universe travels to find a lover while bringing their twin brother along?
[ she's quite certain that if aether were to hear that question, he probably would've sighed heavily and blamed her for giving off such a terrible impression to others. ]
But to answer your question: no, I wouldn't. [ because if she were to settle down, it would be for a different reason. a less exciting, more mundane reason. ] After all, I wouldn't want to stay in a place where my heart would get inevitably broken.
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people look, and he has half the mind to pull her away. the attention isn't very welcoming, not when they talk about the topic. he doesn't do it, though. of course not.
at the very least, he keeps walking. ]
You mean Khaenri'ah. [ because if it had been between dainsleif or halfdan, both would have chosen their nation over her. ] And if it were anywhere else?
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I mean in general, Khaenri'ah or anywhere else.
[ though she assumes he's going down this line of question after their previous conversations, her escort somehow trying to add two and two together, thinking it would end up in four. he really is a little serious for his own good, a trait that seems to be innate in many knights and soldiers she's met.
perhaps she's also teased him far too much that he's started to think she's serious about it. ]
In any case, I'm not interested in Halfdan in the way you're mistaking it to be. Does my desire to bring him along my travels need to have romantic undertone to it?
[ can't she just ask him just because??? ]
He's also not my type.
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this is not, at the end, a conversational topic he has much knowledge about. she had been right, after all. he hasn't quite dated anyone before, never felt the need to. what room does he have to partake in such a conversation? ]
Based on the questions you've asked me before and your statement about his duty to his nation, I thought that'd have been your intentions from the beginning.
[ again. her brother would've mentioned something of the kind. first impressions are a important thing. ]
What would you say your type is?
[ he's not interested. probably. just curious, really. ]
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ive been so busy n tired im so sorry......
dw about it! i've been sick too, so it's not just you
you said that and then i got such a nasty cold 🤝
everyone's just getting sick nowadays. feel better soon!
god. yeah. it took me out for a couple days but i'm better now thankfully!!
aaaa that's good to hear!! make sure to get lots of rest while recovering, liquids, etc