So they are harbingers of chaos. [Sounded like common behavior for the desperate. To bring everything else down around them for a purpose they deemed greater with no further regard. Takame's eyes fell shut, contemplative. Each shard is not so different in that regard, be they full of cutthroats or heretical mages.
He mustn't allow such thoughts to come to light. His thumb tapped against the scales on his chin, half to relieve the nervous energy that began to boil over in him.]
What sort of ruin did the rift that brought you here appear in? [If it was of Allagan design, it would explain much and give him a source of further information. His eyes opened slowly, giving Kaeya a long and meticulous scan from head to toe and back again while awaiting the answer.]
[He doesn't even hesitate. He's on the job right now and brevity is for other times.] Most ruins in Mondstadt are made of advanced magical arts long lost to the rest of us.
From the very gateways to the cut of the stone.
[He gestures with his hand and lays it back on his thigh.] Unless you mean where I arrived here. There was a lot of advanced machinery.
[Then his eye goes dark and his face flat and serious.] And there were corpses. It looks like the ancients of your land quite enjoyed their experiments.
[There's an edge to his voice. He clearly doesn't like the thought of biological experiments. At all. And anyone doing them would have an enemy.]
I see. [Both the before and after point to Allagan design, especially Kaeya's arrival to this shard. Part of him relaxed upon hearing Kaeya's tone. For as emotionally inept as he was, Takame had a talent for sensing genuine anger.
With good reason as well.]
The Allagans had little regard for human life. [His tone was grim, as if those who still don't remain. In a place like Garlemald who Allag shared an Emperor with. His lips purse at the thought and a breath comes out heavier and quicker. His theory proved correct, at least. But to learn how he would need to consult an expert. For later. For the alliance to request of him.
There's a long pause, the only sound being the tapping of his tail against the table leg as he sat upright in his chair.]
There is... one more thing I would ask. [There was hesitation in the way his voice softened.] The aether that swirls around you... save for traces of the umbral, it is almost entirely ice-aspected. 'Tis almost as if you've been touched by a primal of ice, though one has not existed for some time. [The edge of his tail curled in on itself under the table.] Why is that?
[It takes everything not to stiffen. His fellow Mondstadters couldn't ever find that out. To be this exposed. He flicks his left ear as he lays back against the pillow.
His expression is still serious but shades of exhaustion leak through. It seems safer to allow it to be seen.]
That is the nature of my magic. It is entirely Cryo. It comes at a cost, as all things do. Those who use magic back home even the gods themselves are singularly aspected.
[Entirely... "Cryo", he says. Earlier he described the crystals' energy as "Hyrdo"... Takame tilted his head before a splitting pain suddenly shot through it. Like the light in the room itself drove a spear right through it...
He brought a hand to his head, as if to dull the pain and his vision blurred...]
[So many threads and he can't quite tell where they're going. He would prefer to help clear out trouble but Jean is relying on him to untangle all these strings wrapped around their beloved Mondstadt.
He looks up and there is Aether with his companion. A smile steals across his face as he joins them by Sarah's stall. They hadn't noticed him. What a shame.]
Why so cold? I've always thought that we enjoy quite the intimate friendship. [He drags the word 'intimate' out as Aether turns to him with wide golden eyes. Pretty eyes if one were to ask him. 'Oh, I didn't see you there.'
Aether's skill in battle isn't something he can deny. There's no way he was missed. He laughs,] Hahaha... It seems your great battle sharpened not only your combat skills but your wit as well. A knight after my own heart.
[He places his hand over his own heart. Aether snorts and shakes his head. 'Ah, the handsome mister Kaeya.' His grin is a little more real. The traveler is someone he likes. They're fun to be around and don't have any of the baggage he has with other people he dare not name to himself. He can't resist a little flirting. It would be a crime not to.] Ah, you do feel something for me. And people say my charm is fake. To bask in the presence of Mondstadt's new big hero is quite the morale boost. And that's coming from a knight.
[Maybe laying it on thick. People bend a little more if he does that. He knows he's pretty and so does everyone else. Paimon put her hands on her hips. 'Sweet-talking sugar-coated Captain Kaeya...' It's a nice change. He laughs again.] Haha, nonsense! I speak from the heart.
[Aether ignores their banter to persist, 'What are you doing here?' Some of his mirth fades as the problems bubble back up. Not that they ever actually left.] Just looking for a quiet spot to collect my thoughts.
['While all the other knights are working hard to clean up after the battle...' Paimon says with a bit of an accusatory tone. He hears it every day from Amber. It doesn't bother him and he continues,] Thinking can be an arduous task, you know. Believe me, I'd much rather be taking out the trash.
[It would be so much easier. Cleaning out the trash is good exercise and when he gets to have a little fun is when he can drink himself stupid. Not today. A shame. Paimon loses a little of suspicious look on her face. A little bit. If he really wanted her to stop he'd just offer food or money. She's very easy to manage. 'So, whatcha thinkin' about, then?' He doesn't bother with dragging it out.] The Abyss order.
[He brings his hand up to his face as he says.] A dragon wreaks havoc in Mondstadt, and the Acting Grand Master leaves the city to combat the threat. Strategically, that's the perfect moment for the Abyss Order to make their move. If you were with the Abyss Order, would you squander this golden opportunity by sending in nothing more than a few hilichurls?
[His hand drops to his chest as he leans forward and Ather blinks, a thoughtful look on his face. 'You're right, it doesn't add up. There must be more to this story.' He nods and most of his amusement drops. No need it for it right now. This is work.]
To get to the bottom of it, I decided to wait. So I waited, and watched for their next move.
[And what a move it was. It was almost too obvious. It worries him. The fact they're united is a cause for concern and will be the subject of many sleepless nights.] Then came the day when you made all hell break loose in Stormterror's Lair, just as hilichurls' cries sounded from the city gates...The same day, I saw shadowy figures lurking in the city itself.
[He isn't the shadow at Jean's back for nothing. She doesn't have to know the lengths he goes to to see justice done. Justice is never an absolute principle. No matter what some people think about it. Paimon and Aether jerk back in shock and horror, the former exclaiming 'Inside the city?!'
He spreads his hands apart to gesture to the city as a whole. This is why he doesn't tell Jean the particulars. That and she would worry too unnecessarily and try to take it all on herself. Better to let the captain with his wealth of contacts and a vicious protective former captain deal with things for her.] Well, all the other knights were outside, fighting the enemy. As you can imagine, that left the inside of the city completely unguarded.
[Diluc wouldn't have left if he didn't know he'd lurk in the shadows and wait to strike down those who seek harm on Mondstadt.] Except for me, of course. And so I approached the Abyss Order infiltrators for a bit of... hmm, let's call it fraternizing.
[A little flirting. A little charm. Seeming shadier than usual. That kind of thing is so easy. People talk when they think you want something.] Through various means, I managed to gather some rather interesting intel. The situation is this: The Abyss Order... they are united under a single leader.
[Paimon jerks back again and her high pitched voice grates a little on his nerves. Just a little. 'The Abyss Order has a leader?' He hadn't been surprised personally. They're too organized. Sinners and fools too deep in the Abyss used to just cause chaos without pause. Now...it's direct as a sword.] Yes. And it was this very leader who devised the plot to turn Dvalin into a weapon of war.
[And he's hardly surprised when Paimon narrows her eyes again. 'What exactly did you have to do to find this out!?' Aether just watches him steadily, seeing to see through him a bit. Or maybe not. Hard to tell at times what Aether is thinking. He chuckles a bit/] Heh... Let's just say I'm blessed with certain linguistic powers.
[He's so good at words. It's the only reason he's survived this long. Well, except for the one time those words cost him the best friend he used to be thick and thin with.] There's more... The Abyss Order has a name for this leader... They call her "The Princess)."
[A title she has no right to. Maybe. There's angry grumbling coming their way and he looks up. Ah, there she is right on time.] Now, I'm sorry to cut this intelligence briefing short, but I do believe I spy Amber heading this way...
I think she's still angry with me for my absence from the defense effort during the attack... I'd better slip away before she notices me. [He lifts a hand and waves it as he slips away...]
[As Kaeya slipped away, so too did the vision. So too did the pain as Takame rubbed his temple and forehead. His breath came out short and he shook his head, tail lashing behind him like an agitated cat.
He's quiet for a while, trying to process everything he saw. The Miqo'te before him without ears or tail... in a city he didn't know speaking with a young man with Blonde hair and his... pixie familiar? He spoke with contempt, a serious tone matching the one used just a moment ago.
A tinge of regret towards the end quickly dismissed, something Takame knew far too well.]
Hells... [Practically growled. He should be used to this, the overwhelming sensation of another man's perspective who doubtless felt more than him. He tried to swallow it down, it's for another time. He spoke aloud just to remind himself he was conscious, to parse what he learned to himself. While he was mumbling, the sharp ears of a Miqo'te could easily pick up what he was saying.]
[Kaeya sits up and despite the pain moves closer to Takame.] Are you alright?
[He asks and reaches out towards him only to stop. His eye widens at the words. He's a very sharp man. It's why he's alive, after all.
They'd been talking about the Abyss Order. And those words...he'd used them before. The shock stays on his face and a flash of something else deep in his eye.
Worry. Deep-seated and so intrinsic, it's been with him since he was left alone by his father.] Explain.
Ngh... I'm fine. [Takame shook his head again, trying to brush off the remainder of the splitting headache. Looking up at Kaeya and seeing the look of shock was expected. This happened often and every time it did he needed to aloud to reconnect with the world. Every time it exposed his gift and prompted him to explain himself.
There's grit at the edge of his voice, though where it came from he didn't know.]
The Echo. [He took a deep breath, both to steady himself and keep his demeanor and tone even. As always.] It's a... a gift that I possess, one I have no control over, that allows me glimpses into people's memories.
[The word "gift" was quieter than the rest, like he struggled to call it that. Or feared what would happen if he did not call it that, as if there would be consequences. Deep down he wouldn't call it a gift anymore. Would that it were only because of that look of fear.]
[Kaeya's face goes blank. His eye narrows subtly, as he openly stares directly at Takame's eyes. He hasn't seen any evil from this man but evil can hide. Except the eyes never lie.
His fingers twitch so he sets them in his lap, imposing his control back over himself like shutting a door. He's off-balance. Internally, he reels. This is something that could rip the doors off his secrets. They don't matter here but, he has hidden behind the layers of lies for so long that he feels compelled to protect himself.]
I see. Is it really a gift or, a curse to the one that holds it? I suppose it's only you that can answer that.
[For all the horrors he can see this also is an opportunity. He lays down on his back and turns his head to watch Takame with his lone eye.]
And forgive me but I can't help but be curious just what you saw. Take your time. ...and if you can recount it in detail, I'd be most grateful to you.
[Kaeya will find no sign of deceit or ill intent in Takame's eyes. Only weariness, sorrow, apprehension. The faintest hint of light drowned in darkness from a proverbial match that begged to kindle a great flame.
Takame didn't know this man, he had thought to attack this man earlier. But seeing fear in someone eyes towards him reminded him how often it preceded a horrified escape from him, leaving him by himself. Even by people he was friendly with.
The guise of calm returned, but he didn't have an answer for whether the Echo was a blessing or curse. For Kaeya or himself. He knew he would have to come up with one eventually or else he could not evolve. But the thought still frightened him. Enough that despite his collected expression his heel tapped against the floor and caused his leg to shake as he recounted what he saw.]
Yes. [A pause.] You spoke with a young blonde man and his companion... a small girl? She resembled a pixie and had white hair. You informed them the Abyss Order had made their way into a city... Mondstadt, I assume, as your Knights were dispatched to rid the region of a dragon. [Another pause, looking to gauge Kaeya's reaction to what he was saying. He continued on.]
And that the Abyss Order sought, under the orders of one merely known as the Princess, to turn a... "Dvalin" [The name pronounced slowly, foreign on his tongue.] into a weapon of war. That is what I saw. [Though his pronunciations were rough, the way he spoke came off more as one giving a report to a superior than recalling a story.]
[What he sees in Takame's eyes takes the tension out of him. He allows him to see him relax. He hasn't missed that leg moving. He reaches up to press his palm against his covered eye. He's starting to see spots in his vision but he can think. That's important.] I see. I can pierce the veil of confusion about the events in question.
But forgive me for my earlier...worry. There's never been anyone with an ability like yours. It surprised me. [Worried him. It still worries him. Kaeya sits up with a wince and folds his legs under him. He rests his hands on his thighs.]
Not your fault of course. Any more than Dvalin's when he attacked Mondstadt. When trapped in a curse as he was...it's thanks to the Honorary knight it didn't get any worse. And as a knight I thank you for your honesty.
[He places his hand to his chest and dips his head just like he had in the memory.] It was Aether and his party that took down Dvalin. To save him. You saw the aftermath.
[Kaeya relaxing gave Takame the leeway to do so as well. His leg stopped shaking and his tail returned to its natural swap before resting steadily on the chair, curved around his thigh. He shook his head once again.]
You needn't worry. 'Tis rare even in this land. Though I realize no one wants their memories being brought to light. It may be out of my control, but for that, as well as my earlier hostility, please accept my apologies. [Said with a low bow of his head. While Kaeya hadn't been completely cleared of suspicion, seeing him fight against the Abyss Order even in his home realm proved that his goal was consistent at least.
Tension having passed, Takame got down to business again.]
Who is this Dvalin? Why did the Abyss Order seek him?
[Kaeya shamelessly stretches out on the bed and settles his hands on his chest.] Dvalin was one of the guardians of the four winds. He is now free of that role, but it was not that which chained him. Long ago, he fought against a corrupted dragon, and its blood got into his wounds.
The Abyss Order sought him out to try to destroy Mondstadt. And, I believe they were using him to try to draw out our long-missing god. For a thousand years, Barbatos has been missing. God of the winds and believer of freedom, he is still one of the Seven.
Why they sought him out..I don't know. Only the Honorary knight and Barbatos could answer that. [He looks up at him and stretches his arms up over his head. As if he just flopped onto the bed and sprawled there. His tail curls over his thigh.] It is possible - this is only a theory - they are seeking the places your Primals struck to harvest the abundance of energy. It may shed light on what they're trying to do to our gods.
If so, I am greatly concerned. The face of Teyvat changed when the Archon war occurred. Their objectives could risk yet another cataclysmic event for both of our worlds.
Hmm... [Oh Takame sees you, Kaeya. He isn't immune to the fact that Kaeya is undeniably handsome, nor unaware of what he's doing. Occasionally his eyes would wander from Kaeya's face to his body and linger for a moment. Given the nature of their described enemy though it didn't take much to keep him focused on that.
A "guardian" strong enough to become a weapon and used to draw out a God. Teyvat's Seven were surely the equivalent of Eorzea's Twelve based on how they're spoken of.]
It would not be the first time crystal energy was harnessed for such a purpose. [He sat up in his chair, folding his hands in his lap.]
We can ill afford for another calamity to strike this realm. I imagine the same rings true for you and yours. The alliance will have their own means to question you, but I will ask you this as a protector of this land. Will you join forces with us to combat this threat?
As long as I’m free to keep investigating, I see it only to our mutual benefit. In other words, yes I’ll join forces with you.
[He props himself up on his elbows and his dark blue hair spills over his shoulder. It is thinner than Diluc’s hair but just as long, more like a river that spreads over his muscle corded back. Faint scars exist here and there like cracks in ice. He shifts his ears and nods,]
We can’t afford another calamity. I assume both our worlds are still feeling the effects. As for questioning, I’ll put up with it. As you saw dealing with politics is nothing new.
[He is second to Jean. A fact people sometimes forget.]
You have my thanks, Kae'ya. [He gave another bow of his head. Takame wasn't anticipating rejection, but he didn't expect an agreement either. Especially given how aggressive he was earlier.
But having someone with the knowledge to avert a potential new-age Eighth Umbral Calamity brought him great relief.]
Most likely they will appoint someone to monitor you. But I will lend you my approval so that your investigations may continue unhindered. It is the least I can do. [His tail flinched again. After all this time he still wasn't quite used to his word meaning half a damn in other people's eyes. He changed the subject to something long overdue.] ... My name is Takame. Takame Kesi.
[The only way he's getting access to everything is to work with the alliance. His tail swishes on the bed. He grabs it and pets the fur in slow strokes of his fingers.] A pleasure, Takame.
[He lets his tail go as he shifts to look at him with one hand to his chest and body bending in as much of a bow as he can allow. The air around him is changed to something more respectful and full of authority, his authority.]
Then allow me to formally introduce myself. I am Calvary Captain Kaeya Alberich of the Knights of Favonius. Strategist to our acting Grand Master. I was on a case involving missing persons and noticed evidence of the Abyss Order. I tracked them to a ruin and, well, you know the rest.
[He flicks his wrist and his tail swishes as he drops both his hands.]
Forgive me if I can't help but notice...perhaps I could ask your assistance for my investigation? I don't doubt you will look into this too and having someone who isn't just written intel would be valuable.
And while I can't explain it yet until we approach it. But any place with heavy cryo energy I might...lose myself a bit. I will explain when the time comes.
Mm, and you as well Captain Kae'ya. [A pause, with less emphasis on the latter half:] ... Kaeya? [Takame gave a questioning look, as if seeking approval that it was said correctly. If they were to be allies, he'd certainly not forget his manners. His sister taught him better than that. But ah, Kaeya certainly seemed the type who was very proud of himself. Arrogant and conceited if his displays the past while have been anything to go by.
Ah, perhaps he shouldn't think such a way. At least Kaeya seemed competent. And cooperative most importantly.
As such he couldn't rightfully deny the request, especially made with such a subtly authoritative air. Foreboding caveat aside.] I will assist you. 'Tis for the best that a Scion does so considering the matter may relate to primals.
[He smiles for him and nods. Then he lays back down, careful to lay back on his back. Better not to piss off his ribs while they're healing.]
Whether it does or doesn't, I can't tell you. I know very little about your primals. As a gesture of goodwill and necessary action to arm your people I'll compile an intelligence report of all my findings of the Abyss Order.
I will be upfront that there are some threads I'm letting play out. I don't know where they're leading just yet, but if we hunt them now... [He tips his head and a serious expression claims his face. There is something in the Abyss he has never seen before. Something dangerous on a level they haven't been just yet. He can't permit them to run free. Pretending his guard is down is the best offensive.]
[In the same light, Takame knew little of the Abyss Order. But as much as inactivity bothered him, he knew it to be necessary. He worked in subterfuge before.]
I understand. Let them proceed under the assumption all is going according to their plan as data is collected on them. [He crossed one leg over the other, a stance more casual than he's shown so far. As if he's finally speaking about a subject he was confident in.]
Likewise, I'll collect what I can on the trade of crystals throughout Eorzea, documented or otherwise. Regardless of whether primals are related or not, vast amounts of crystals are necessary to amass power.
I’d like to touch crystals myself. [He says as he draws his hair together and lets it rest over one side of his chest. It’s a little more composed than he has been. It makes him feel a little better.]
But I would also check places that Primals have left their mark. Any place with corrupted crystal as well. I haven’t located their outposts in this world yet, but with greater resources we can find them.
Tell me more about Dalamund. Is there a map of the places parts of it struck?
The beast tribe's strongholds. U'Ghamaro Mines in Outer La Noscea. Zaha'rak in Southern Thanalan, Natalan in Coerthas. [Said for Kaeya's reference, words for him to keep in the back of his mind. But where Dalamud fell would be a prime location indeed. Would that it didn't bring about anxiety that silenced him briefly.]
... A fragment of Dalamud still lies within Castrum Occidens in Eastern La Noscea. Corrupted crystal runs rampant throughout and it is rife with abandoned Allagan technology.
Indeed. They act as homes as well as places of worship. Past the beastmen's Aetherytes are domains where crystals are stored and summonings are carried out.
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no subject
He mustn't allow such thoughts to come to light. His thumb tapped against the scales on his chin, half to relieve the nervous energy that began to boil over in him.]
What sort of ruin did the rift that brought you here appear in? [If it was of Allagan design, it would explain much and give him a source of further information. His eyes opened slowly, giving Kaeya a long and meticulous scan from head to toe and back again while awaiting the answer.]
no subject
From the very gateways to the cut of the stone.
[He gestures with his hand and lays it back on his thigh.] Unless you mean where I arrived here. There was a lot of advanced machinery.
[Then his eye goes dark and his face flat and serious.] And there were corpses. It looks like the ancients of your land quite enjoyed their experiments.
[There's an edge to his voice. He clearly doesn't like the thought of biological experiments. At all. And anyone doing them would have an enemy.]
no subject
With good reason as well.]
The Allagans had little regard for human life. [His tone was grim, as if those who still don't remain. In a place like Garlemald who Allag shared an Emperor with. His lips purse at the thought and a breath comes out heavier and quicker. His theory proved correct, at least. But to learn how he would need to consult an expert. For later. For the alliance to request of him.
There's a long pause, the only sound being the tapping of his tail against the table leg as he sat upright in his chair.]
There is... one more thing I would ask. [There was hesitation in the way his voice softened.] The aether that swirls around you... save for traces of the umbral, it is almost entirely ice-aspected. 'Tis almost as if you've been touched by a primal of ice, though one has not existed for some time. [The edge of his tail curled in on itself under the table.] Why is that?
no subject
His expression is still serious but shades of exhaustion leak through. It seems safer to allow it to be seen.]
That is the nature of my magic. It is entirely Cryo. It comes at a cost, as all things do. Those who use magic back home even the gods themselves are singularly aspected.
no subject
He brought a hand to his head, as if to dull the pain and his vision blurred...]
Echo GET
He looks up and there is Aether with his companion. A smile steals across his face as he joins them by Sarah's stall. They hadn't noticed him. What a shame.]
Why so cold? I've always thought that we enjoy quite the intimate friendship. [He drags the word 'intimate' out as Aether turns to him with wide golden eyes. Pretty eyes if one were to ask him. 'Oh, I didn't see you there.'
Aether's skill in battle isn't something he can deny. There's no way he was missed. He laughs,] Hahaha... It seems your great battle sharpened not only your combat skills but your wit as well. A knight after my own heart.
[He places his hand over his own heart. Aether snorts and shakes his head. 'Ah, the handsome mister Kaeya.' His grin is a little more real. The traveler is someone he likes. They're fun to be around and don't have any of the baggage he has with other people he dare not name to himself. He can't resist a little flirting. It would be a crime not to.] Ah, you do feel something for me. And people say my charm is fake. To bask in the presence of Mondstadt's new big hero is quite the morale boost. And that's coming from a knight.
[Maybe laying it on thick. People bend a little more if he does that. He knows he's pretty and so does everyone else. Paimon put her hands on her hips. 'Sweet-talking sugar-coated Captain Kaeya...' It's a nice change. He laughs again.] Haha, nonsense! I speak from the heart.
[Aether ignores their banter to persist, 'What are you doing here?' Some of his mirth fades as the problems bubble back up. Not that they ever actually left.] Just looking for a quiet spot to collect my thoughts.
['While all the other knights are working hard to clean up after the battle...' Paimon says with a bit of an accusatory tone. He hears it every day from Amber. It doesn't bother him and he continues,] Thinking can be an arduous task, you know. Believe me, I'd much rather be taking out the trash.
[It would be so much easier. Cleaning out the trash is good exercise and when he gets to have a little fun is when he can drink himself stupid. Not today. A shame. Paimon loses a little of suspicious look on her face. A little bit. If he really wanted her to stop he'd just offer food or money. She's very easy to manage. 'So, whatcha thinkin' about, then?' He doesn't bother with dragging it out.] The Abyss order.
[He brings his hand up to his face as he says.] A dragon wreaks havoc in Mondstadt, and the Acting Grand Master leaves the city to combat the threat. Strategically, that's the perfect moment for the Abyss Order to make their move. If you were with the Abyss Order, would you squander this golden opportunity by sending in nothing more than a few hilichurls?
[His hand drops to his chest as he leans forward and Ather blinks, a thoughtful look on his face. 'You're right, it doesn't add up. There must be more to this story.' He nods and most of his amusement drops. No need it for it right now. This is work.]
To get to the bottom of it, I decided to wait. So I waited, and watched for their next move.
[And what a move it was. It was almost too obvious. It worries him. The fact they're united is a cause for concern and will be the subject of many sleepless nights.] Then came the day when you made all hell break loose in Stormterror's Lair, just as hilichurls' cries sounded from the city gates...The same day, I saw shadowy figures lurking in the city itself.
[He isn't the shadow at Jean's back for nothing. She doesn't have to know the lengths he goes to to see justice done. Justice is never an absolute principle. No matter what some people think about it. Paimon and Aether jerk back in shock and horror, the former exclaiming 'Inside the city?!'
He spreads his hands apart to gesture to the city as a whole. This is why he doesn't tell Jean the particulars. That and she would worry too unnecessarily and try to take it all on herself. Better to let the captain with his wealth of contacts and a vicious protective former captain deal with things for her.] Well, all the other knights were outside, fighting the enemy. As you can imagine, that left the inside of the city completely unguarded.
[Diluc wouldn't have left if he didn't know he'd lurk in the shadows and wait to strike down those who seek harm on Mondstadt.] Except for me, of course. And so I approached the Abyss Order infiltrators for a bit of... hmm, let's call it fraternizing.
[A little flirting. A little charm. Seeming shadier than usual. That kind of thing is so easy. People talk when they think you want something.] Through various means, I managed to gather some rather interesting intel. The situation is this: The Abyss Order... they are united under a single leader.
[Paimon jerks back again and her high pitched voice grates a little on his nerves. Just a little. 'The Abyss Order has a leader?' He hadn't been surprised personally. They're too organized. Sinners and fools too deep in the Abyss used to just cause chaos without pause. Now...it's direct as a sword.] Yes. And it was this very leader who devised the plot to turn Dvalin into a weapon of war.
[And he's hardly surprised when Paimon narrows her eyes again. 'What exactly did you have to do to find this out!?' Aether just watches him steadily, seeing to see through him a bit. Or maybe not. Hard to tell at times what Aether is thinking. He chuckles a bit/] Heh... Let's just say I'm blessed with certain linguistic powers.
[He's so good at words. It's the only reason he's survived this long. Well, except for the one time those words cost him the best friend he used to be thick and thin with.] There's more... The Abyss Order has a name for this leader... They call her "The Princess)."
[A title she has no right to. Maybe. There's angry grumbling coming their way and he looks up. Ah, there she is right on time.] Now, I'm sorry to cut this intelligence briefing short, but I do believe I spy Amber heading this way...
I think she's still angry with me for my absence from the defense effort during the attack... I'd better slip away before she notices me. [He lifts a hand and waves it as he slips away...]
Item Refresh: 6 hours 50 minutes
He's quiet for a while, trying to process everything he saw. The Miqo'te before him without ears or tail... in a city he didn't know speaking with a young man with Blonde hair and his... pixie familiar? He spoke with contempt, a serious tone matching the one used just a moment ago.
A tinge of regret towards the end quickly dismissed, something Takame knew far too well.]
Hells... [Practically growled. He should be used to this, the overwhelming sensation of another man's perspective who doubtless felt more than him. He tried to swallow it down, it's for another time. He spoke aloud just to remind himself he was conscious, to parse what he learned to himself. While he was mumbling, the sharp ears of a Miqo'te could easily pick up what he was saying.]
They are... united... under a Princess...?
Beep beep beep
[He asks and reaches out towards him only to stop. His eye widens at the words. He's a very sharp man. It's why he's alive, after all.
They'd been talking about the Abyss Order. And those words...he'd used them before. The shock stays on his face and a flash of something else deep in his eye.
Worry. Deep-seated and so intrinsic, it's been with him since he was left alone by his father.] Explain.
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There's grit at the edge of his voice, though where it came from he didn't know.]
The Echo. [He took a deep breath, both to steady himself and keep his demeanor and tone even. As always.] It's a... a gift that I possess, one I have no control over, that allows me glimpses into people's memories.
[The word "gift" was quieter than the rest, like he struggled to call it that. Or feared what would happen if he did not call it that, as if there would be consequences. Deep down he wouldn't call it a gift anymore. Would that it were only because of that look of fear.]
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His fingers twitch so he sets them in his lap, imposing his control back over himself like shutting a door. He's off-balance. Internally, he reels. This is something that could rip the doors off his secrets. They don't matter here but, he has hidden behind the layers of lies for so long that he feels compelled to protect himself.]
I see. Is it really a gift or, a curse to the one that holds it? I suppose it's only you that can answer that.
[For all the horrors he can see this also is an opportunity. He lays down on his back and turns his head to watch Takame with his lone eye.]
And forgive me but I can't help but be curious just what you saw. Take your time. ...and if you can recount it in detail, I'd be most grateful to you.
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Takame didn't know this man, he had thought to attack this man earlier. But seeing fear in someone eyes towards him reminded him how often it preceded a horrified escape from him, leaving him by himself. Even by people he was friendly with.
The guise of calm returned, but he didn't have an answer for whether the Echo was a blessing or curse. For Kaeya or himself. He knew he would have to come up with one eventually or else he could not evolve. But the thought still frightened him. Enough that despite his collected expression his heel tapped against the floor and caused his leg to shake as he recounted what he saw.]
Yes. [A pause.] You spoke with a young blonde man and his companion... a small girl? She resembled a pixie and had white hair. You informed them the Abyss Order had made their way into a city... Mondstadt, I assume, as your Knights were dispatched to rid the region of a dragon. [Another pause, looking to gauge Kaeya's reaction to what he was saying. He continued on.]
And that the Abyss Order sought, under the orders of one merely known as the Princess, to turn a... "Dvalin" [The name pronounced slowly, foreign on his tongue.] into a weapon of war. That is what I saw. [Though his pronunciations were rough, the way he spoke came off more as one giving a report to a superior than recalling a story.]
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But forgive me for my earlier...worry. There's never been anyone with an ability like yours. It surprised me. [Worried him. It still worries him. Kaeya sits up with a wince and folds his legs under him. He rests his hands on his thighs.]
Not your fault of course. Any more than Dvalin's when he attacked Mondstadt. When trapped in a curse as he was...it's thanks to the Honorary knight it didn't get any worse. And as a knight I thank you for your honesty.
[He places his hand to his chest and dips his head just like he had in the memory.] It was Aether and his party that took down Dvalin. To save him. You saw the aftermath.
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You needn't worry. 'Tis rare even in this land. Though I realize no one wants their memories being brought to light. It may be out of my control, but for that, as well as my earlier hostility, please accept my apologies. [Said with a low bow of his head. While Kaeya hadn't been completely cleared of suspicion, seeing him fight against the Abyss Order even in his home realm proved that his goal was consistent at least.
Tension having passed, Takame got down to business again.]
Who is this Dvalin? Why did the Abyss Order seek him?
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The Abyss Order sought him out to try to destroy Mondstadt. And, I believe they were using him to try to draw out our long-missing god. For a thousand years, Barbatos has been missing. God of the winds and believer of freedom, he is still one of the Seven.
Why they sought him out..I don't know. Only the Honorary knight and Barbatos could answer that. [He looks up at him and stretches his arms up over his head. As if he just flopped onto the bed and sprawled there. His tail curls over his thigh.] It is possible - this is only a theory - they are seeking the places your Primals struck to harvest the abundance of energy. It may shed light on what they're trying to do to our gods.
If so, I am greatly concerned. The face of Teyvat changed when the Archon war occurred. Their objectives could risk yet another cataclysmic event for both of our worlds.
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A "guardian" strong enough to become a weapon and used to draw out a God. Teyvat's Seven were surely the equivalent of Eorzea's Twelve based on how they're spoken of.]
It would not be the first time crystal energy was harnessed for such a purpose. [He sat up in his chair, folding his hands in his lap.]
We can ill afford for another calamity to strike this realm. I imagine the same rings true for you and yours. The alliance will have their own means to question you, but I will ask you this as a protector of this land. Will you join forces with us to combat this threat?
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[He props himself up on his elbows and his dark blue hair spills over his shoulder. It is thinner than Diluc’s hair but just as long, more like a river that spreads over his muscle corded back. Faint scars exist here and there like cracks in ice. He shifts his ears and nods,]
We can’t afford another calamity. I assume both our worlds are still feeling the effects. As for questioning, I’ll put up with it. As you saw dealing with politics is nothing new.
[He is second to Jean. A fact people sometimes forget.]
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But having someone with the knowledge to avert a potential new-age Eighth Umbral Calamity brought him great relief.]
Most likely they will appoint someone to monitor you. But I will lend you my approval so that your investigations may continue unhindered. It is the least I can do. [His tail flinched again. After all this time he still wasn't quite used to his word meaning half a damn in other people's eyes. He changed the subject to something long overdue.] ... My name is Takame. Takame Kesi.
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[He lets his tail go as he shifts to look at him with one hand to his chest and body bending in as much of a bow as he can allow. The air around him is changed to something more respectful and full of authority, his authority.]
Then allow me to formally introduce myself. I am Calvary Captain Kaeya Alberich of the Knights of Favonius. Strategist to our acting Grand Master. I was on a case involving missing persons and noticed evidence of the Abyss Order. I tracked them to a ruin and, well, you know the rest.
[He flicks his wrist and his tail swishes as he drops both his hands.]
Forgive me if I can't help but notice...perhaps I could ask your assistance for my investigation? I don't doubt you will look into this too and having someone who isn't just written intel would be valuable.
And while I can't explain it yet until we approach it. But any place with heavy cryo energy I might...lose myself a bit. I will explain when the time comes.
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Ah, perhaps he shouldn't think such a way. At least Kaeya seemed competent. And cooperative most importantly.
As such he couldn't rightfully deny the request, especially made with such a subtly authoritative air. Foreboding caveat aside.] I will assist you. 'Tis for the best that a Scion does so considering the matter may relate to primals.
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Whether it does or doesn't, I can't tell you. I know very little about your primals. As a gesture of goodwill and necessary action to arm your people I'll compile an intelligence report of all my findings of the Abyss Order.
I will be upfront that there are some threads I'm letting play out. I don't know where they're leading just yet, but if we hunt them now... [He tips his head and a serious expression claims his face. There is something in the Abyss he has never seen before. Something dangerous on a level they haven't been just yet. He can't permit them to run free. Pretending his guard is down is the best offensive.]
We'll learn nothing.
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I understand. Let them proceed under the assumption all is going according to their plan as data is collected on them. [He crossed one leg over the other, a stance more casual than he's shown so far. As if he's finally speaking about a subject he was confident in.]
Likewise, I'll collect what I can on the trade of crystals throughout Eorzea, documented or otherwise. Regardless of whether primals are related or not, vast amounts of crystals are necessary to amass power.
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But I would also check places that Primals have left their mark. Any place with corrupted crystal as well. I haven’t located their outposts in this world yet, but with greater resources we can find them.
Tell me more about Dalamund. Is there a map of the places parts of it struck?
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... A fragment of Dalamud still lies within Castrum Occidens in Eastern La Noscea. Corrupted crystal runs rampant throughout and it is rife with abandoned Allagan technology.
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But the energy of the crystals...]
I want to check that fragment. They don’t care much for technology. It’s energy and creatures they can corrupt and use, possibly even gods.
[If a primal could be taken under binding...he closes his eye. This is not good.] Hold on.
The strongholds. Are these...cities dedicated to their primals?
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[A head tilt. It's too early to be sure, but.]
Do you believe that is their target?
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