Quest Mingle: April-May

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Quest Mingle: April-May
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• These quests are valid from start of April until end of May.
• Characters don't need to be a member of the guild to do quests and anyone can do any segment's quest!
• City Location Details | Segment Location details
• Remember to keep distances (times are calculated as walking times) in mind when planning what quests to do when. You have two full months, so there's no rush!
• For some of the monsters, additional details can be found from the Beastiary.
• Rewards are for one completion of the Quest, but characters can do it multiple times to earn more money from them, as the problems do repeat.

• Please see the guild page for permanent quests.

City Quests

Even in your city... quests! [ Click to Expand ]

Quest Name	Description	OOC Notes	Rewards
Catch the Void	The animal shelter in Amberfall has its own section for a cat species called "the void cat". They look like normal black cats, but they have a habit of disappearing into the shadows of dark corners. A group of these cats has made an escape and are running around doing what cats do: stealing food, dropping things down from high places, scratching everything and absorbing light from light sources. Help the shelter staff catch and bring them back to the shelter.	Yes, the void cats are adoptable, hence why they are in the animal shelter. They just like running off a lot and sometimes make all light in a room disappear. The cats can be anywhere in the city, but generally don't go out into the segments as they do love people, but are just also adventurous.	50 Moon Coins
It's in Your Mayo	Solarpeak is known for its street food. And what goes well with street food? Mayonnaise. It's not, however, all it's used for as it's a way of attracting a culinary creature that only flies around the Summer District skies at this time of the year: The Cabbage Kites. They're flying cabbages that move around restlessly, but once they taste a mayonnaise that they deem tasty, they will turn into regular, very tasty and nutritious cabbages. Anyone around the place is challenged to make their own mayonnaise from scratch and see how well you do with the cabbage kites.	Cabbage Kites are creatures that search for the right food (mayo) that satisfies them all their life before their souls ascend, leaving their cabbage body behind. They can be attacked by other means, but the natives would find this disrespectful and likely throw mayonnaise at the characters, so it's not recommended when there's a peaceful way out.	any cabbage you catch
Welcome to the Jungle	When delivering new potions to people, please remember to use caution and don't trip. Someone did, right next to the clocktower. Now there's an almost literal jungle surrounding Coldreach's infamous clocktower and making it hard to access parts of it. Since the vines that surround the place were made by potions, they're impossible to cut through by normal means and making a potion to counter this one would take time. Use your imagination to deal with this problem without burning the place down. Anyone who burns the clocktower will be arrested.	Due to the excess amount of potions that fell on the tower, the vines regrow over time, making this quest be available for the whole two months even if someone manages to solve the problem right away. The vines are also alive and will try to grab anyone who tries destroying them and keep them as a meat shield.	100 Moon Coins
Who You Gonna Call	A group of mischievous ghosts have possessed some of the trash bins all over the city. Some of them have grown large enough to consume two people at once. They're not really in danger, just stuck in the trash bins. Help the people stuck in trash bins and try to chase the mischievous ghosts out of the city.	One way to get ghosts to evacuate the trash bins is to make them feel uncomfortable with temperature changes or shaking the bins enough (you might want to rescue the people before attempting these). That way they will find something else to possess or leave entirely. Ghosts can only be seen if they possess something, unless you're a Winter power holder.	100 Moon Coins
NSFW Quest Stranger Burglaries	Nightwake Center and it's Red Light Sub-district is in chaos. A group of burglars have been going around stealing people's lingerie. Any lingerie left unattended has been swiped and anyone has needed to go home commando afterwards. The natives that frequent the district and the staff members of clubs are all asking to get to the bottom of this.	The burglars are regular perverts who want to use them for magical enhancement purposes as the power of intimacy will work wonders for intimate items, or so the rumor goes.	500 Moon Coins

Winter Segment

Lights, Snow, Quests [ Click to Expand ]

Quest Name	Description	OOC Notes	Rewards
Bridge of the Lost CW: forced truths	At exactly noon, the bridge crossing the biggest river in the Winter Segment shines a peculiar light. In the past, it was a way of natives meeting their lost loved ones one last time. No one knows what would happen now, with the changes in the world, so we are looking for brave souls willing to go to the bridge and see what happens.	The Bridge only works now if people go on it in pairs and there are three possible scenarios that can happen: 1) The characters who entered the bridge will see each other as someone they lost. 2) The characters will see their worst enemy in each other. 3) The characters will see themselves in each other, but either an idealistic version of themselves or something they would never want to see themselves become. The barrier around the bridge will disappear once something truthful about the person they see in front of them has been said.	70 Moon Coins
Bone Sucker's Coming to Town CW: Gore, Death	Some natives enjoy going to the Watcher's Tower to look at the Winter Segment from a safe place. Unfortunately, bodies of the natives have started to turn up. They're all in the same condition: all of their bones in their body have been sucked out. Everything else is completely intact. Solve the mystery and bring peace to the lost ones.	The monsters behind the case are called Warlock Skeletons. The suck bones out of living things with their dark magic to make skeletons that move and do their bidding. They can be killed as long as the powerful jewel on their neck is destroyed.	200 Moon Coins
Harvest the Colors	In the evenings, by the Unfrozen Lake, various Northern Lights colored winter animals appear. These animals have absorbed the light and magic of the beautiful multicolored night sky. If you manage to befriend one, the animal will accepts pets. Touching the animals will lead to dust sticking to your hands and that dust can then be put into an empty bottle. Please collect a few bottles for the Tower of Potions to use.	The dust can only be collected by being kind to the animals. Being mean or killing them will make all of the dust around the area turn into regular powder and make the other animals flee. The Northern Light dust can be used for different power enhancing potions and medicine.	50 Moon Coins, a bottle of the dust
It's a Bird, It's a Plane, It's an... Orca?	One of the rarer visitors of the night skies of the Winter Segment is a species called the Sky Orca. They usually appear once a year and seeing them is a sign of good luck. The guilds are encouraging people to visit the segments to pay a visit to the Orca offspring that want to play with people and to protect them from the dangers of the segment while they are here. After a successful playdate, the mother Orcas will drop clouds down that can be used as comfortable beds.	Seeing and playing with the Orcas will literally boost anyone's luck and make them less likely to get into accidents for a whole week. On the flip side, if someone would kill any of the orcas, they would experience nothing but bad luck for two weeks.	A comfy cloud bed, or 100 Moon Coins for giving it away
Test of Courage	A few times a year, a mysterious house appears near the border with the Spring Segment, close to the Flower Yard. No one knows how or why it appears, but for decades it has been used as a "Test of Courage" site. It appears at nightfall and disappears before the sun rises (on several nights for several weeks). There have been times when someone has walked into the house and didn't get out on time... and had to spend the whole night until next in there. They weren't the same after that... Otherwise the house is safe, even if very spooky. How about a test of courage?	The house is very much a haunted house. More accurately it's a house that has been possessed by several ghosts so they make the house move on its own and move things to spook people. They just want to have fun and don't do this out of malice. The only danger is staying in the house when the sun rises as the house will disappear into a void space with anyone inside. What happens in void space? The ghosts start showing characters' greatest fears on display for anyone inside the void space to see and make fun of them.	20 Moon Coins

Spring Segment

Breezing through quests [ Click to Expand ]

Quest Name	Description	OOC Notes	Rewards
Can You Dye With All the Colors of the Lake	The annual fashion show is in June and fashion designers are looking for new inspirations. In fact, they are all looking for unique colors for their fabrics. They are asking for people who would be willing to travel to Prism Lake to dye their fabrics into new creations. They are given a potion that will make the fabric permanently absorb the color - but before using it, it's easy to test out different combinations. As a reward they will make you any outfit, either out of the colored fabrics or something else.	The biggest threat on this mission are the rainbow dyed bears that will occasionally come to find delicious fish from the lake. They aren't anything special, just normal bears that have been dyed by the lake. Characters can also fall into the lake and get a new coloring... but it's only permanent if they drink the potion. There are counter potions for it, however.	50 Moon Coins, free designer outfit
Duck, Duck!	Lately, anyone who has been going into the Spring Segment has been bombarded by none other than ducks. Not just any ducks, but magical Kung Fu Ducks. They're ducks that know Kung Fu and can use wind powers with their moves! We don't know where they are even coming from, but somehow I blame Jeffrey.	There have been catapult prototypes that have been stolen from The Research Center scientists who came to test them out. The Kung Fu Ducks are using these to launch themselves to fight opponents bigger than they are... since they're no larger than normal ducks. Still, they can be pretty menacing.	80 Moon Coins
In the Eye of a Hurricane	Lately, a lot of tornadoes have been forming around the segment, especially near the safe zones. Unfortunately, this means people are getting trapped inside tornadoes, unable to get out of them. The tornadoes are stubbornly staying in the same spot for a long time, almost as if challenging people to break through the wall of wind and get people out. Which is exactly what we're asking people to do.	The tornadoes are mostly normal tornadoes, expect for the fact that they can stay in one place for a long time, almost as if someone would be controlling them. And they are, by a group of Hurricane Birds that fly around the tornadoes. They look like eagles that are made out of steel. Their weak point is their stomachs. Chase them off or kill them, as long as you get them to stop making hurricanes.	100 Moon Coins
On the Wings of a Butterfly	Once a year, for two month period, a group of giant butterflies arrive. They offer lifts for anyone who need them and they are very fast flyers. Due to their size they're also not affected by the strong gusts of winds. The butterflies will help anyone harvest fresh cherry blossom petals from the Cherry Blossom Park without getting in unnecessary danger down below.	Cherry Blossom Petals can be used for various cosmetics, food, drinks and potions. Their magical qualities lies in prolonging life, making them important for medical departments to have.	100 Moon Coins if you sell a bag of your cherry blossom petals or just cherry blossom petals
Slime Desserts	Everyone knows there are slimes everywhere in the Spring Segment. However, only a few know that there are special slimes called Dessert Slimes among them. Their essence, the slime they produce, is a great ingredient in many cakes and desserts. Depending on the color it can taste like chocolate, fudge, liquorice and many other things. The best part of it is you don't have to kill them - just collect some slime residue. A chef in Nightwake has requested a variety of flavors and promises to pay anyone who is willing to collect some slime.	Slime Desserts are the same as slime: very weak and easy to intimidate. They are, however, rarer than the normal slime and only their scent will be an obvious way to tell them apart.	30 Moon Coins

Summer Segment

Get your hottest quests here [ Click to Expand ]

Quest Name	Description	OOC Notes	Rewards
Hope You Have a Landing Strategy	Since the Mermaids have invited people to The Great Ocean Lake (see the Rain Dance quest), we have come up with different ways to get people there. There's, of course, the airship but for those who want to get there faster there's a big catapult waiting at the Dayrise Bridge. It's strong enough to throw anyone over the forest and beach, straight into the lake. It should only take a few hours through the sky, maybe even less! Scientists will pay anyone who is willing to use it.	The landing may very well end up getting them a bit too short and landing onto the beach instead, but with a right landing strategy there shouldn't be any problems. Right? Right. Use any powers available to make sure your landing is safe or depend on others for to help you out. Getting back from the lake is definitely a different story.	100 Moon Coins
It Only Stings a Little CW: scorpions, willing poisoning	Coldreach's Tower of Potions has made a request to go to the Deserter's Desert and find a specific scorpion species there that produces a poison that will make them sick (high fever), will also make them invincible for as long as the poison is in their system. The poison needs to be harvested by letting the scorpions sting someone, so bring a partner who can help you come back from the Desert.	There's a time limit of 72 hours to get the poison out of someone's system before they pass away, which is why the members of the Tower have made a safe place to treat patients near the Summer Flower Yard. Doing it yourself is also an option, if you know how.	200 Moon Coins
They Lava You CW: Lava, Fire, Possible Burns	A larger group of Lava Lizards have left their home of the Lava-Ridden Land and are now terrorizing everything at the edge of the Jungle of Judgement. They're spitting lava at everything and anything, making the area dangerous to walk in and burning trees. They are steadily walking towards the city barrier. The larger pits of lava they manage to make also attract the Wyverns, so the fight may get dangerous and fast if something isn't done about it.	Both the Lava Lizards and Wyverns are tough skinned and hard to fight with. Wyverns also breathe fire so things may get very heated, very fast. Some of the lizards are also chameleons and will mask themselves to ambush their prey. Mermaids will send pillars or water with their magic, as well as work on the Rain Dance to put out fires (see Rain Dance quest).	500 Moon Coins
Technical Move: Rain Dance	The Summer Segment is known for its rough droughts. The Mermaids of the the Great Ocean Lake have decided to do something about it: a special dance called the Rain Dance. They need a lot of help though and are inviting everyone to participate either in the water or on the beach nearby. As a prize they will give you a special seashell necklace. Be careful of the Sirens though because some may be pretending to be mermaids and will try to drag you with them underwater.	The seashell necklace will release a temperature altering bubble when used underwater, making the water around the user a pleasant temperature and also lets the user breathe under water. Out of water it's just a pretty shell that you can put on your ear and hear a whale sing. The necklace needs to be powered up by touch energy and it lasts for 12 hours per charge.	Seashell necklace
Temple of Frustration	The Temple of Life has been a mystery for the longest of time. For some unknown reason all of the monsters avoid it and no one has been able to figure out why. We would like to investigate what's inside so use any methods possible to break down the temple door. If that doesn't work, please leave our measuring devices there so we can monitor any changes to the temple. Enter the Jungle of Judgement from the Spring Airship Station side for the easiest route.	The Temple of Life's door remains closed no matter what you do to it. It seems that something really powerful is protecting it. The Research team will pay for a full report of all the methods characters have tried of accessing the temple and for leaving their measuring technology on the scene. Otherwise, the Temple will surely be important later. If your character decides to wander to the Jungle of Judgement, please let us know and we will let you know what to expect.	50 Moon Coins

Autumn Segment

Maple scented Quests [ Click to Expand ]

Quest Name	Description	OOC Notes	Rewards
Blood Bloom CW: Blood, Blood loss	A species thought lost to the darkness has been spotted around the Autumn Segment. It's called Treanpire and it's a living, walking tree that also has the qualities of a vampire. It uses its roots and vines to suck blood out of all living things. After a feast its branches will bloom different colored flowers, depending on the blood it drank. They're dangerous and like to stalk people around the Airship Station and the Flower Yard. Take care of them.	The flowers on a Treanpire can be used for various blood related potions and medicine, but they can only be plucked out when the Treanpires are alive. When they die, the flowers die with them. If plucked before death, they remain good for potions.	500 Moon Coins
Chef Needs Maple Syrup Badly	A chef working at Coldreach has sadly run out of maple syrup for his restaurant that sells creations made out of maple syrup. He has requested that people would travel to Maybe it's Mapleline forest in the Autumn Segment to gather some more of it. He warns that staying there for too long might be a bad idea, so just quickly take some maple syrup from a tree and run (yes it comes as ready to bottle maple syrup).	Maybe it's Mapleline is a mysterious forest that turns anyone partially into a maple monster when they spent too much time there. It's said seasonal power holders are more resistant to it, but eventually the forest's power will affect them, too (in around a full day in the forest). Normally herbivorous animals that live there are now carnivorous and the other way around, so try not to get killed by a small, cute, maple squirrel.	50 Moon Coins per jar of Maple Syrup
The Graveyard Shift	The Abandoned Graveyard needs some maintenance every now and then. Cleaning the graves, sweeping some fallen leaves and leaving fresh flowers by the graves as a memorial. The natives would usually do this themselves, but with the increase of monsters and catastrophes, they're asking for otherworlders to do it instead.	A part of the graveyard is flooded, but it's still safe as it's inside the barrier made by the whole graveyard. However, if someone goes outside of the barrier and near the water, there are vicious Skelefish waiting outside. They're believed to be related to piranhas, but they're made out of sharp bones.	30 Moon Coins
Thunderbolts and Lightning, Very Very Exciting	A group of Research Center staff has been interested in the thunderstorms over the Autumn Segment. Because of that they are looking for volunteers who would wear a rubber suit and stand in the storms to collect some data on special thunderproof devices. It should be safe with the specially made rubber suits. They're not the comfiest to walk in or do anything, but it's better to be safe than sorry!	During the thunderstorms a species called a Storm Surfer (foxes made out of pure electricity) will appear. They're playful and curious and will likely try to take off anyone's rubber suit by using the zipper on the back and if they touch someone who isn't resistant to electricity they will most likely paralyze them.	100 Moon Coins
With Great Power Comes Great Frogs	The Research Center has a capture quest. There is a species called "Almighty Frog" that's living in the Autumn Segment that they have taken an interest in. It's a frog that can wield all the basic elements (water, wind, fire, earth). The scientists are curious as to why a native frog can use all elements without everything going to hell, but native humans cannot. It's important the frogs are captured alive and brought back to the Center... but they're hard to catch and challenge people to a duel.	Almighty Frogs are the size of an infant, so larger than normal frogs, but still relatively small. They still pack quite a punch as they are agile and can use all elements simultaneously. Usually they are pacifists, but they love challenging people to battle. They mostly live in the swamps near the Pumpkin Spice Trail that drains seasonal magical energy (ineffective against the frogs) so they need to be lured out to fight.	200 Moon Coins

code bases by tricklet

Comments

[monoceroscaeli]

[He looks down at the seashell necklace in his hand, forgetting that they were to get a reward for their work. He palms it, nodding towards the mermaid teacher in thanks. He notices how she sneaks glances at him, but doesn't really bring any attention to it, thinking that would probably be a bad idea to do right in front of your girlfriend and all...

But Yoimiya doesn't seem to mind, mentioning it herself. Tartaglia's ego is definitely fed by the teacher's gaze, but his face dusts a light shade of pink when Yoimiya is the one to call it out.]

Haha, hey, you shouldn't be saying that kind of thing, should you? She was eyeing up your prize, hahaha.

[He's not offended, he just doesn't know exactly what to say here- but maybe it's best that he moves on and changes the subject. The necklace is pretty, so he stops for a moment to walk around to Yoimiya's back so he can properly hook it around her neck, walking back around to her front to admire how it looks on her. She wears it so well, his eyes softening as he admires her, arms akimbo as he gazes at her.]

But I think the real prize is that I get to see how irresistible you look, especially with that on. I almost think you wore that bathing suit just to entice me...

[niwabi]

[ His reaction to the mermaid teacher's mini attraction to him is honestly endearing. Yoimiya giggles, heart fluttering at his display of loyalty towards her. She fully trusts him but it's still sweet to see him be so considerate of her thoughts and feelings. ]

Hehe, don't worry! I don't mind. If anything, I think she's got great taste.

[ She winks at him. As not to make him feel any more awkward, she moves on! It's very easy to do so with how he gently loops the splendid seashell necklace around her neck. Now it's her turn to blush, cheeks coloring pink as she can feel the admiration in his gaze. One of her hands comes up to touch the necklace, examining it in fascination as she turns it around a few times. ]

From the way you're staring at me, seems like my plan is working. [ after learning that white is one of his favorite colors, she most definitely picked this bikini with him in mind, ] Let's go! Once we find a more private place, we can play in the water and you can really see my bikini up close and personal.

[ Playing on the beach with her boyfriend sounds like a dream come true! Yoimiya is very much excited about all the fun they'll have today. Taking his hand, she starts to lead him out of the waters and back to the shore. She glances around, noticing a wayward path in between a few large stones. It's quite far away from all the hubbub of the rain dance teachings going on in the background. ]

Let's check out that area!

[monoceroscaeli]

[Not Yoimiya, planting all sorts of ideas in his head.

The Harbinger follows dutifully as she leads him by the hand, setting upon the path on the shore that leads around some foliage to a more private, enclosed part of the beach that's hidden away from where the mermaids and other helpers were learning the rain dance. Childe looks around, admiring the scenery, finding that this is the perfect spot to relax for a bit and spend a little more private time together. The water laps up on the sand in gentle waves, giving them a small little bit of paradise away from the others.

Tartaglia grins now that they're away from prying eyes, letting his hands dance around the edges of her bikini as he teases what he just might do with it in a few more moments now that he knows that no one can see them.]

You've got quite the eye! We'll be able to really enjoy ourselves here. Now, what should-

[His thought process is cut off completely by the sound of a melody, turning his head in its direction towards the water. He doesn't see where its coming from exactly, his eyes scanning the immediate horizon until he sees someone floating in the water, right in front of the tall rocks that hide away this part of the beach. The person begins to float a little closer as they sing, hand outstretched towards the couple. Tartaglia squints to try to make out the figure, but before he knows it, he feels his mind focus completely on the singing voice from the waves that beckons him to come and meet them.

His eyes seem to lose focus, mindlessly staring out towards her as the power of the siren grips him completely, standing there with a blank look on his face and with his jaw slightly agape. Slowly, he begins to step towards the water as if he were possessed, confused questions coming from him as the face of the siren becomes clearer and clearer.]

Yoimiya? Why are you out there...? When...?

[The siren has stolen Yoimiya's face with its magic, looking at Tartaglia like she needs his help, singing sweetly to him as he lumbers forward to heed her call...]

[niwabi]

[ Yoimiya is giggling, preparing to throw out a slew of fun, suggestive ideas they could do but he suddenly stops talking in the middle of his sentence, which is already a huge cause for concern. Her ears perk up at what sounds like singing? The voice behind the melody is beautiful but there's something about it that's haunting at the same time. ]

Tartaglia, what's going on? Hey! I'm right here!

[ Hot on her heels, she's quickly following after her boyfriend. She's doing everything in her power to get his attention, raising her voice, waving her hand in his face but sadly, none of her methods seems to be working at all. Tartaglia seems to be completely and totally hypnotized by whatever it is that's caught his attention. Never before has she never seen him wear such a blank expression, it's not like him at all. She squints her eyes, glancing at the direction of where he's heading to. From the distance, she can see a hand and what appears to be a feminine figure.

Right then, it starts to click. As they were making plans to come out to this area, she recalls warnings from the locals about sirens lurking in the waters. ]

Wait, don't go! I think that's a—

[ In a flash, a wall of water gushes out from the depths, separating the couple. Yoimiya had to give it credit, the creature is much more intelligent than any other monster she's encountered in Ellipsa so far, but that's what makes this situation all the more terrifying. She's trapped on the other side, watching in horror as Tartaglia's figure walks further away from her. Frantically, she runs around, screaming his name in an attempt to get his attention but to no avail.

Having cut off the blonde annoyance, the siren's singing has a firm grip on his mind, inviting him to come closer. Urging him to forget about his pesky girlfriend and be with her and her alone. Now that she finally has him in her grasp and he's close enough, the creature reaches out to grab his hand, pulling him in for a tender embrace as they're halfway submerged in the water. This one seems to be quite the expert at its magic, having replicated Yoimiya's sweet smile perfectly, looking so happy to see her lover. ]

Tartaglia... I knew you would come to save me. [ she wraps her arms around him, nuzzling her face into the crook of his neck. ] You really are my prince charming.

[monoceroscaeli]

[The melody entrances him further, not noticing the small blonde next to him frantically trying to get his attention, focused solely on reaching the source of the magic that controls his thoughts. Not even the sound of water that comes up to separate Yoimiya from him is recognized, the haunting song forcing his vision to tunnel until all he can see and hear is the siren reaching for him, needing him to save her. Tartaglia treads deeper and deeper into the water, relief washing over him once he's finally gotten far enough in to be with the imposter that wears Yoimiya's face, willingly pulled into her embrace as he smiles down at her with lovestruck eyes.]

You worried me for a moment, but I'm glad to find you're alright...

[She begins to hum another haunting melody, further wrapping her grip around his every thought, hand coming up to cup his face. She pulls away just enough to be able to gaze into his eyes, using Yoimiya's features to her full advantage as her other hand cards through his hair, pulling herself closer to him and pressing her forehead to his own. Childe feels as if he's in heaven, desperately holding her as if letting go would mean losing her forever and ending this wonderful dream he seems to be living, swaying back and forth while silently swearing to himself that he'll never leave her side ever again.]

♪ ~Tartaglia, Tartaglia, won't you kiss me sweetly before the world comes to an end? To be apart is an ache my heart will never mend~ ♪

Yes...Yoimiya, you mean everything to me...

[The siren looks over to Yoimiya, a wicked smile on her face as she lets her magic fade enough to show the firework shop owner the rows of sharp, pointed teeth that she'll sink into him before he perishes, before she turns back to him with doe-eyes that cause Childe to melt under her gaze. She hoists herself upwards on his body, letting the waves carry them further out now that she's issued the command for him to fall completely in love with her, not waiting for him to obey to slot her own lips with his in a kiss that's hungry and deep. It's meant to gain full control and to piss Yoimiya off as much as possible, opening one eye to glance back at the blonde just to see how she reacts to this.

Meanwhile, Tartaglia's mind explodes with euphoria, compelled to grant any wish of hers, willing to die for her at a moment's notice, kissing her back with a fervor that he would only ever reserve for Yoimiya, but unfortunately he fully believes that's exactly who he's kissing. The siren pushes her weight onto him, making the both of them submerge under the water as they enjoy their lip lock, eventually disappearing under the waves and out of view...]

[niwabi]

[ It's a bit difficult to make out what's going on from behind the vicious water wall. All Yomiya can see is the haunting sight of Tartaglia falling deeper into the siren's melodious spell, the creature tenderly cupping his face and pulling her boyfriend into a loving embrace.

Tartaglia's safety is of the utmost importance, she could care less about potential hazards this blockade might have in store. Yoimyia takes a deep breath, brazenly busting through the ocean barrier without any hesitation. Thankfully, the seashell necklace works like a charm, the bubble shield protecting her from any ailments. After exiting from the trap, Yoimiya is just in time to catch a perfect glimpse of the siren using her own face to wickedly smirk at her, displaying those horrifying sharp fangs that will no doubt be used to tear her beloved apart. The monster is frightening but it's nothing compared to what she, unfortunately, has to bear witness to.

The siren pulling Tartaglia, her boyfriend, someone that she adores, and holds dear... into an intense lip lock.

Yoimiya is completely frozen on the spot, watching in horror as the two share a passionate lip. The sight of their heated kiss is burned into her mind, her heart aches with pain, feeling like it's going to sink into the pit of despair. Yoimiya has never been the jealous type. Her boyfriend's dashing good looks are on a whole new level, his charisma has the potential to attract anyone's attention, it's understandable there might be others enamored with him, she's fully prepared herself for that fact. But the image of her boyfriend sharing a deep, ravishing kiss with someone other than herself is a pain she wouldn't want to inflict on even her worst enemies, akin to a sharp blade plunging into her chest. However, she will never hold this against Tartaglia, it's not his fault in the slightest. She's fully aware he's being tricked, that the only reason why he's returning the kiss is thanks to the siren using her face as a disguise.

There's no denying that the siren succeeded at pissing Yoimiya off, her eyes feel like it's burning on fire as anger-filled tears stream down her face, she's livid that the monster would be so cruel as to trick her beloved and now, she's ready to redirect her aggression onto the creature as if she were a scorned lover.

In order to not lose heart, she slaps both of her cheeks with her palms as a way to pull herself together. Rescuing her beau is a top priority! Yoimiya wastes no time diving in after the pair, the special necklace is quick to do it's magic, surrounding her with a bubble shield as she draws her bow, loading in a pyro-infused arrow. Now that she's underwater, the siren's true form is brought to light, it's fish-like tail having revealed itself in full. The siren has Tartaglia cradled in her scaley arms, threading her webbed fingers through his red hair, sneering at Yoimiya coming to his rescue. ]

Oh~? Attempting to get your lover back? It's too late, he's under my control and will be mine forever. I can see why you're so fond of him, though... [ she lets out a devilish laugh, desiring the total destruction and despair of her prey's beloved. ] He's an amazing kisser. It's exciting to think about what the rest of him tastes like.

[ Those words are infuriating to listen to but Yoimiya doesn't say anything, refusing to let the siren's taunts get under her skin. She's completely focused on pulling the strings of her bow, putting all of her power into this aim. A bubble surrounds the arrow as the firey girl shoots it off, directing it right at the siren's back. Holding onto Tartaglia seems to have backfired on her, Yoimiya's aim is right on point, searing her special goldfish mark onto the creature's scaley skin.

The siren lets out a horrifying screech, the pyro goldfish mark in combination with the bubble and being underwater made for an intense vaporize reaction, exploding onto her backside on impact. It's not enough to finish her off but it does cause her to let go of the Harbinger. Which is exactly what Yoimiya had been aiming for! She's quick to swim over to him, hooking her arm around his chest. Since Tartaglia's been underwater longer than her, she makes a quick decision to give him the seashell necklace. She hurriedly loops it around his neck, surrounding him in a pleasant bubble to allow him to breathe. ]

[monoceroscaeli]

[As he sinks further and further down, it feels as if the siren has stolen the very breath from his lungs, weakened his body so that he can barely move, helpless in her arms. The burning sensation of needing to breathe gets completely ignored as the imposter strokes his hair, gazing upon him as if he were her dinner rather than her lover, and all he can do is gaze back with complete admiration and devotion. He'd let her do what she will with him, he'll drown right here just to know the satisfaction of dying next to her, feeling nothing else but joy as his life slowly ebbs away. Whatever she says to Yoimiya doesn't really register, all he can hear is her beautiful voice filling his ears even now, though muffled.

Suddenly, the siren lets go of him, some kind of screech echoing through the water accompanied by an explosion, but he hardly has the will to move, his vision beginning to go dark as he drowns. Tartaglia's body hangs in place for a moment before it's suddenly grabbed, a necklace placed around his neck that generates the bubble that supplies the air he needed so desperately to live, coughing up water violently as he sucks in oxygen. Although Yoimiya's landed a critical hit on the siren, Childe's reverie hasn't been broken- he looks over to the siren, expression still blank as the monster writhes in pain.]

AAAAARRRGHHHH!!!! You'll pay for that!

[It's clear that the attack was more than the monster was expecting, fangs sliding out from behind Yoimiya's cute face as it rounds on the blonde. But the siren has tricks up her sleeve, those pointed teeth curving upward into something more menacing, letting her song fill Tartaglia's ears again.]

♪ ~Beloved, protect me from the monster who tries to take me away from you~ ♪

[He responds immediately, turning on Yoimiya to grab her wrists, eyes almost lifeless as the siren swims up behind him to lean on his shoulder, smirking at Yoimiya. Her pain is still visible, the siren unable to keep herself from bending over in some amount of pain from the terrible burn on her back, wincing and shaking with anger even as she mocks Yoi.]

Did you think you'd freed him? I already told you, he's already under my control and mine forever. I was going to eat him, but I think he'll make a better slave at this point. This necklace will let me keep him for as long as I want...

[Her hand comes down to brush her fingertips across the necklace and then up Childe's neck and jawline, to get another jab in as she ponders how she wants to kill Yoimiya.]

♪ ~Tartaglia, you're my willing slave now, obey me forever and ever more~
Now do my bidding and get rid of this eyesore~ ♪

Of course, [he responds, voice flat.] Yoimiya, my beautiful light in the sky, my master...I will obey.

[He lets go of one of Yoimiya's hands, a blade forming out of hydro energy flashing inwards towards her neck, but stopping a hair's breadth away from it. Something is stopping him from completing the deed, and the siren notices it.]

Do it Tartaglia, kill her...end her...

[niwabi]

[ The siren's hold on Tartaglia is stronger than anticipated. She thought that nothing would hurt worse than watching her boyfriend passionately kiss another woman but oh boy, she's proven wrong. Yoimiya's eyes grow wide with shock as he suddenly grabs her wrists, even going as far as to pull one of his hydro blades on her. Being seen as disposable prey for Tartaglia to take care of hurts more than anything, her heart feeling like it's going to break.

However...

It's faint but she could sense that slight hesitation deep inside him. He's a Fatui Harbinger so if he really wanted to, he's capable of stabbing her in the neck to end her life right then and there. It's a relief to know that deep down, Tartaglia is doing his best to fight back against the siren's magic.

Yoimiya knows she has to move fast, her lungs crying out for air. Even though she's about ready to drown, she's determined to fight back. With little firepower she has left, she elbows him in the stomach to slip out of his grasp, knowing full well he's capable of taking a bit of pain. Now that she's pulled away from him, she firmly grips onto his shoulders, staring directly into his eyes. Bringing them together, she kisses him, the strong salty taste of the ocean prominent on his lips. It's gentle, unlike their usual heated lip locks, it's a kiss filled with all of her affection and love, wanting to send a message to her beloved that she trusts him until the end of time. That they'll get through this watery nightmare. ]

Do you really think your kiss is strong enough to break my spell? Pathetic! Kill her, Tartaglia. Get rid of this annoying brat once and for all.

[ There's not much time left. Yoimiya can tell that her lungs are desperate for oxygen, her body feeling weaker with each ticking second. Even under such dire circumstances, she has full faith in Tartaglia. She believes in his capabilities but most importantly, she believes that their love for one another will triumph over this evil water witch. A hand weakly comes up to cup his face, pleading into his eyes as she mouths these last few words to him:

Tartaglia, it's me.

I lov...

...

She never gets to finish that sentence, the last remaining oxygen in her system fizzling out. Her golden eyes which are normally so bright, so full of life fades away into nothingness as if a burning flame is extinguished. All she's able to see is pitch-black darkness. Any remaining energy is gone, her fingers slip away from his face as her body grows limp, sinking further down into the ocean's depths. ]

Hahahaha! What a pitiful way to go. [ the wicked siren's laugh resonates throughout the waters. ] Serves her right for ruining my beautiful back. That ugly little heathen deserves to be fish food. Let's go, Tartaglia. You'll be my most magnificent slave.

[monoceroscaeli]

[He's not sure what it is, but staring at Yoimiya as he holds a blade to her neck rouses something from deep within him, no recognition in his eyes but the grip that the siren holds on him breaks just enough to keep him from killing her in one swift blow. The monster is wounded, and her magic suffers from a crack in its power over the Harbinger, giving Yoimiya the chance to break free of him as she lands the elbow to his stomach. It's got more strength in it than his addled mind could have comprehended, letting go of the small blonde woman who now grips his shoulders and stares deeply into his eyes before capturing him in a gentle, caring kiss that conveys unspoken words between them.

His lips move against hers, finding something in it that brings him a little farther back to reality, eyes still blank but feeling emotions weigh on him as if someone had started to pin him down with bricks on his chest. Confusion begins to take over as Yoimiya so desperately cups his face, the words on her lips easy to read, spelling out something neither of them have dared to say to each other but have felt in some capacity. But the nail in the coffin is when her eyes seem to lose their life, her body falling from him as he floats there watching her fall to the bottom of the ocean. The siren laughs in his ears, still floating behind him as Yoimiya begins to die right in front of his eyes, feeling the hotness of tears well up in his eyes as she slowly begins to disappear from his sight.]

What's the matter, didn't you hear me? I said let's go-

[The mistake the siren has made by floating behind him so close is the speed of which he forms a blade that pierces her stomach, thrust backwards without looking so she would never have the chance to think about dodging the strike. Blood seeps from the wound and colors the water red, her eyes wide with shock as the Harbinger doesn't even bother to look behind him as he utilizes the power of his vision to swim downward towards Yoimiya, easily catching up with her free-falling body to catch her in his arms. The necklace is placed around her neck, letting the bubble form around her now as he administers a few rounds of CPR to her until she coughs up the water in her lungs, relieved to see that she's not dead.

No longer able to speak, he only waits a moment for her eyes to focus, smiling but holding back a silent fury that engulfs his entire being. The anger in his eyes is unhinged and uncontrollable, looking like a murderous madman who's found his prey. The Harbinger has come back to his senses, and he's about to make this monster pay for what she's done to the two of them.

The siren hangs in the water above them, rage filling her as she stares downwards at the couple. She's not dead, and she's ready to fight whoever is going to come up and challenge her- or she's coming down to meet them. Tartaglia nods to Yoimiya, only sorry right now for what she's going to see him do, pushing away from her as electro energy surges in the water around him, being careful not to electrocute her. Water swirls around him as the electricity shoots off in every direction, his blue and white summer outfit seeming to be brimming with energy itself before Childe launches himself upward in a purple blur, zipping past the siren to burst from the water before crashing back down into it.

Except now, it almost seems like he's changed his outfit, the black and red of his delusion now prominent on his clothing, mask covering his face as his electro polearm comes down to pierce the siren through her chest, letting the electro energy surge through her as he mercilessly ends her right there, making sure an unbearable amount of voltage fries her entire body through and through. It's an explosion of pure energy that surges out from him all around, and when it's all said and done, he only watches as the siren's lifeless body sinks downwards towards the ocean floor. The mask is pulled back to the side of his head, looking downwards at his defeated opponent with a cold, icy glare. Good. Stay dead.]

[niwabi]

[ In a fleeting moment, Yoimiya could see her life flash before her eyes while sinking to the bottom of the ocean. Blearily, her honey-colored irises flutter open, a spark of life glimmering back to her eyes as she's greeted with the sight of her beloved's wonderful face. She's still a little out of it, coughing up water and attempting to steady her breathing. Even though she's still feeling somewhat weak, seeing Tartaglia rejuvenates her spirit, smiling at him with a tender love she's never expressed to anyone else. In the darkest of hours, Yoimiya's sunny disposition has never once wavered. ]

Tartaglia... I knew you'd come back for me.

[ Despite the dire situation, she never lost faith in Tartaglia, not even for a second. Every fiber of her being believed in him.

Although he's smiling back at her, Yoimiya sees the raging vortex of fury in his eyes. The whole time she's known him, he's been nothing but kind and caring, showering her with love and affection the fireworks shop owner never realized she desired until meeting him. It's almost startling to witness such an unhinged expression darkening his face, she can feel the anger emitting from him. He's fully prepared to extract retribution for both of them and she doesn't blame him. Yoimiya nods her head in affirmation, this siren is a menace to society and needs to be swiftly taken care of before she harms anyone else.

Yoimiya watches in amazement as Tartaglia makes quick work of the monster. Up till now, she's only ever seen his hydro powers in action, it's incredible how he's able to command electro to his will, zip-zapping in every direction, even losing sight of him a few times due to him moving at lightning speed. The sudden change in his outfit is unexpected, she's never seen a Harbinger in action until now but their prowess really is on a whole different level, to the point of being otherworldly.

He's completely merciless in the method he chooses to finish off the siren, driving an electro polearm through her body, his powerful voltage zapping her to the core. There's not an ounce of hesitation in him as he deals the final strike, she can feel his primal urge to dispose of this pest once and for all. It's a scary reminder that despite the numerous times he's lovingly held her in his arms, he's still one of the eleven Harbingers whose strength has the potential go to head-to-head with an archon. It's no wonder why he holds such a high rank in the Fatui.

...

That still doesn't matter to her, nothing will ever deter her feelings. She's firm in her adoration for him, her love being resolute and unshakable.

Not even bothering to glance at the siren's corpse, Yoimiya quickly swims over to her beloved. She approaches him with a warm, radiant smile, reaching out to grab his hand. With their fingers interlocking, she leads him back to the surface. As soon as they emerge from the water, she throws her around her lover for a warm embrace, nestling her head against his chest. Admittedly, she's a little shaken up with everything that's transpired but right now, all she wants is to be with him, to be reassured that the Tartaglia she knows and loves is by her side and no longer spellbound by the siren's twisted magic. ]

Thank goodness...! I'm so happy you're back.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Normally, he'd of had a little fun killing the siren, but for what she just put them through, he'll make an exception to that rule. She wasn't much fun to fight, given he never gave her a chance with how angry he was, letting his temper get the best of him before he cut her down and fried her from the inside out. The adrenaline rushes through him still, but at least his thirst for blood has been satiated for the moment, and relief fills him once more when he sees Yoimiya swimming up towards him from what was going to be her watery grave. His fingers twine with hers, swimming back up to the surface, Tartaglia gasping for air the minute he gets there. He'd spent a long time underwater, and it had begun to feel like his lungs were burning, breathing in the ocean air like it was saving his life all over again.

At the same time, Yoimiya wraps her arms around him, nuzzling her head into his chest, sending a flood of warmth and love through him as it cools his temper and calms him down from the raging inferno of anger that he was just moments before. The Harbinger returns the embrace, happy to have her in his arms again, feeling the guilt, regret and dread of his behavior sneak up on him. He sighs heavily, letting his head fall to rest on top of hers as he kicks his feet to keep them afloat, mind wandering back to the last fifteen minutes or so.]

I am too...thank you saving me, I was powerless underneath her spell.

[The anger is still there, knowing that it wasn't really his fault that it all had transpired. But at the same time, he can't help but feel like had he been stronger, he would have been able to break out of the hold the siren had on him a lot sooner.]

Yoimiya, I'm so sorry. I can't imagine how you must of felt witnessing all that...

[Tartaglia hugs her a little tighter, squeezing his eyes shut when he puts himself in her shoes. Watching someone else kiss him, try to kill him, and then in turn try to use him to kill her...he'd ever wish that upon her, or anyone really, to have to go through that.]

[niwabi]

[ His apology is riddled with guilt, she can hear the regret in his voice. Normally, Yoimiya wouldn't wish death upon anyone but this whole situation is making her especially glad that horrible monster has been vanquished. Her heart aches for him, she can't imagine what he must have felt like under her spell, unable to lift a finger and do anything. ]

Don't worry, Tartaglia. It's not your fault at all. The only one to blame is that siren. I know you would never do any of those things willingly.

[ She wants nothing more than to reassure him, affectionately cuddling into this warm, wet body. Of course, Yoimiya would be lying if she said she wasn't the least bit hurt by everything she witnessed. Watching her boyfriend passionately kiss another woman, on top of being on the other end of his hydro blade broke both her heart and spirit. She's praying to the archons that it never happens again. Not a single one of these instances is Tartaglia's fault and she'll never ever hold it against him. If it wasn't for the siren using her face, he never would have been tricked otherwise. ]

In the end, we were able to completely trounce her. [ her soft, tender hand is placed on his cheek, gently stroking the side of his face with her thumb, ] You were amazing out there! I was in awe watching you fight with those incredible electro powers. You came to my rescue like a champion from the ocean's depths.

[monoceroscaeli]

Haha, thanks. I did, didn't I?

[Normally, her praise would have lifted him out of his funk, but this one feels like it went way too far for him to be any sort of cheery after that. He doesn't have to be a mind-reader or even try to look for signs that she's just trying to be strong in the face of such trauma. If it were him, he'd be terribly hurt, even if he recognized that it wasn't anyone's fault but the sea monster that had used her magic to mind control him.

A soft, sad smile unfolds on his features as she runs her thumb over his cheek, leaning his head into the palm of her hand, nuzzling it affectionately as he breathes out another heavy sigh. He'll treat her like a queen for as long as it takes to truly put this entire episode behind them, so he hopes she doesn't mind if he spoils her rotten for a while. Tartaglia begins to swim back towards the shore while they both still reside in each other's arms, using his vision to help propel them a little faster until they finally reach land again.]

Yoimiya, will you come sit with me for a while? Right over there in the shade.

[He indicates a part of the sandy beach that has a few large trees that hang over it, providing a nice place for the two of them to rest. Admittedly, he's a little tired now after all of that, and only wants to sit for a bit and collect himself.]

[niwabi]

[ That sad smile tells Yoimiya everything she needs to know. It's not just about her, he went through his own trauma while being mind-controlled and for that, she's even more grateful the wicked witch is dead. Unfortunately, the mental scar of Tartaglia kissing someone else will be burned into her mind for some time, there's no denying she's hurt but she's sincerely not upset at him in the slightest. It pains her to see him so sad on her behalf when none of this is his fault. ]

Of course. We could use a breather after all of that.

[ She's more than willing to sit with him as long as he desires. The Queen of the Summer Festival might be known as a big talker, but she's also a good listener. Whatever is on his mind, she's happy to lend him an ear if he's willing to share. There might be a bumpy road ahead of them but she's willing to traverse this rocky path with him, she has faith they'll get through this traumatic experience together.

Taking his hand, Yoimiya leads them to the designated spot underneath the shady palm tree. After getting situated, she hooks her arm around his own, leaning against him to rest her head on his shoulder. ]

... I know we haven't been dating long but I want you to know I'm very happy we're together. You mean the world to me.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Tartaglia's own head comes down to rest on hers, not caring that the two of them are both soaked, all he wants for the moment is to be close to her and sort through everything that had happened. One thing that he can't erase from his mind is how easily he'd shown his complete affection to that monster, feeling as if no amount of teeth brushing was going to get the awful taste out of his mouth after kissing her the way he did. And for Yoimiya to have to watch, it burns him deeply, with those feelings still fresh in his mind. He'd been so happy, thinking that was Yoimiya, when in reality it was just some imposter wearing her face...

The second was his blade at her throat, and how close he was to slitting it without hesitation. And the third was probably the worst of all, the crystal clear memory of her mouthing "I love you" to him as she began to drown.

His body physically shudders thinking about it, a tiny whimper involuntarily sneaking out of him as his eyes close. The entire experience had been awful, and he's glad to hear how she feels about him. It's something he knows, it's not as if she's tried to hide that she's been happy with him so far, but it'll never be something that he grows tired of hearing.]

...I love you too.

[His free arm wraps around her middle, bringing her in closer to him as they sit there, his eyes still closed. It's like they say, you don't know what you have until it's gone, and for that second underwater he'd been afraid he'd really lost her. It wasn't until he'd completely regained control of himself again that he knew he could still save her, but he'll never be able to erase that image from his head or the pain he felt in his heart when he saw her lifelessly fall away from him.]

[niwabi]

[ In a moment of desperation, those three words she subconsciously kept locked away in her heart had slipped out on their own. Deep down inside, she's been harboring these strong feelings, daring not to say them out loud since they haven't been dating very long. The whole situation had been distressing, and she was willing to go to great lengths, do anything, say anything to snap him out of that spell.

... but perhaps she shouldn't be too concerned with the concept of 'too soon', Yoimiya has always been the type of gal to speak her mind, its never stopped her before.

Yoimiya doesn't say anything for a good minute, his words having stunned her to silence, she truly did not expect to hear that phrase uttered back at her. ]

Ah...

[ She's getting choked up, voice cracking. Hearing those powerful feelings being returned fills her with such overwhelming emotion. Teardrops begin to well up in her eyes, flowing down the side of her face. This entire time, she's been trying to stay strong for him, not wanting to pile onto his worries but listening to his heartfelt confession spilled her emotions out in the open. It's not sorrowful tears, she's so happy he's still alive, to hear those words "I love you too" pour of out his lips.

Bit by bit, it feels like the pain in her heart is beginning to heal. She buries her head into his shoulder, sniffling. ]

Sorry, I can't seem to stop crying. I'm just so happy to hear you say that... [ Come to think of it, she never did mouth those words in full. ] From the bottom of my heart, I love you Tartaglia.

[monoceroscaeli]

[He instantly recognizes the beginnings of tears, silently pulling her into him as she buries her head in his shoulder. He hadn't meant to make her cry, even if these particular tears were ones of joy and relief. It gets him to chuckle quietly, the first time he's actually felt like he's allowed anything else but a somber moment, hugging her tightly to him.]

Hahaha, it's okay. You've made me an incredibly happy man.

[He breathes a sigh out of his nose, his body relaxing as he quietly holds her, not saying a word so they can both have the moment to work through all their emotions- the stress of it all isn't something he feels they can just pretend to move on from. He too, is happy that they're both alive to be able to share this moment together, focusing now on Yoimiya and her well-being. He needs to be a rock for her as much as she's already tried to be that for him, stroking her hair with reassurance.]

C'mon. Let me see your beautiful face now. You can't hide from me forever.

[He says as he laughs again, tilting his head to the side to peek down at her in his shoulder, eyes bright and focused on her. Though as dull and lightless as they are, there's a certain gentle and kind shine to them at the same time when he looks at her, his smile wide.]

I can't thank my savior properly when she's buried in my shoulder like that.

[niwabi]

[ She's still a sniffling, sobbing mess but the gentle strokes to her hair is so nice and soothing. His touches are like magic, doing the trick of calming her down. Lifting her head up to gaze into his eyes, a rosy hue dusts over her cheeks from being called beautiful. It's not the first time he's complimented her, nor will it be the last but it never fails to get her heart racing every time. Although his eyes might appear dull and lifeless to most, Yoimiya can see a kind shine behind them, as if it were a twinkling star being dropped into the ocean. ]

The entire time we were down there, I never lost faith in you. I wholeheartedly believed you would pull through and save me.

[ A soft, warm smile encompasses her features as tears continue to stream down her cheeks. She affectionately returns the hug, relaxing into his warm embrace while snuggling against his body. ]

I understand why this is so upsetting, you went through an awful experience as well. If I was in your position, I'd be so mad at myself. [ It's a terrible situation for both of them, Tartaglia is just as much of a victim as she is. ] I know this will understandably take some time to move past but... please don't beat yourself up too much. What transpired was not your fault.

[ None of what she's saying is an attempt to appear strong, it's her honest feelings spoken from the heart. ]

I don't hold anything against you.

[monoceroscaeli]

[His entire core warms with the amount of trust and faith she's placed in him. It makes his whole body buzz, his heart beat a little stronger, and his head swirl with emotion. He can't even say he was confident in what would of happened. All he knew is that she hadn't hesitated to dive in and do her best to release him from the siren's power, using all of her skills and resources on hand to do it. And it had worked, enough to give him the ability to stick his foot in the door to regain his mind, something he'll be forever thankful for.]

I know you don't.

[He says it softly, confirming to her that he does and will continue to feel bad about it to some degree for the foreseeable future, even if he doesn't even take any blame for it. It's just knowing how much it hurt her hurts him, and in the weeks to come, he'll make up for it.]

Thank you, again, for having the courage to face off against that monster for me. It takes true strength to be able to take charge of a situation like that and make it out alive. I don't know where I'd be right now if you hadn't been there when I needed you most.

Now come here, so I can give you a proper thank you.

[Tartaglia wipes some of the tears from her eyes, finding her pretty even now as she weeps openly in front of him, a level of admiration, sadness, and joy all reflecting in his expression. Leaning over, he presses a loving, deep kiss to her lips, eyes closing to brand what this feels like onto his mind, that this is the real Yoimiya that he's kissing, and these are his real feelings for her. Not a magic-induced trance, but something more grounded and true, his mouth moving passionately against hers as if he were trying to wash away the looming presence of the monster that almost ended everything here for them both.]

[niwabi]

[ The trauma of everything that transpired will take some time to heal, for both of them. If there's one modicum of good that came out of this situation it's that her loyalty to Tartaglia became all the more resolute. She would journey to hell and back for him. Hopefully, nothing like this ever happens again but Yoimiya is firm in her resolve, not hesitating to dive into unknown waters for him once more, knowing full well he would do the same for her.

As he captures her lips for a deep, mind-melting kiss, Yoimiya returns the affections in full, parting her lips open so he can taste every crevice of her mouth. She will happily lock lips with him all day long if that's what it takes to cleanse his palette of the siren's presence. His wonderful gesture of endearment helps her to forget about the pain she felt watching her spellbound boyfriend kiss another woman. This kiss is everything she could ask for, a reminder that it's her he enjoys sharing passionate moments with, no one else. For that, she couldn't be any happier.

As much as she doesn't want to break away from the lip lock, the urge to breathe starts to set in. There's a hint of reluctance as he pulls away, gazing into his ocean hue orbs, her features expressing a loving devotion to him and him alone. ]

Ah... that was a wonderful reward.

[ The teardrops swelling from her eyes have begun to dry up. She's grinning at him, delighted with her thank-you gift. More please... ]

[monoceroscaeli]

[Childe certainly doesn't hold back in his kiss, taking full advantage of Yoimiya's willingness to dance inside of her mouth with his tongue, tangling himself with her and deepening his display of affection until his senses go sideways. Breaking seems like torture, breath heavy as they separate, his hand coming up to stroke the side of her face now as he returns her gaze.]

There's certainly more where that came from.

[He's glad to see that she seems to be calming down a little now, happy to continue to give her exactly what she wants, grinning back as he goes in once again to capture her in another loving, drawn-out kiss. Her lips finally wash away the last of his guilt for the time being, sighing with content when they finally break again to nuzzle his head into her chest.]

Mmmmm...did I ever tell you that I really like this bikini on you...

[His voice hums against her skin, not trying to be a pervert here, but it seems like an easy way to push their thoughts away from what had just happened towards something more lighter, something more normal.]

You look pretty good in white.

[niwabi]

[ Oh, she's very happy to hear that. Tartaglia truly is the gift that keeps on giving, knowing exactly how to spoil her. Every fiber of her being feels like it's on fire as he leans in for another kiss. She eagerly responds in kind, tangling their tongues together to ensure the monster is wiped clean from his memories. After breaking away, she lets out a satisfied mewl while threading her fingers through his ginger hair, chest heaving up and down from the passionate lip lock. Kissing him always fills her with bliss. ]

Hmmm... [ she pretends to ponder, thinking about his compliment from earlier, ] I think I recall you staring at me like a lovesick puppy while saying I look irresistible with this on. Oh, and something about how I wore this bathing suit just to entice you.

[ She's more than happy to let him nestle his face into her chest. It's been a long day, he deserves it. Anything to help clear his mind is the goal. ]

Ding, ding, ding, we have a winner! You're correct, I picked this color out with you in mind, hehe. I'm glad you like it.

[monoceroscaeli]

[And he'll definitely enjoy how she threads her fingers through his hair, pushing his head against her hand just so he can force her to practically pet him, tiny, happy noises bubbling up from him as she does so. He definitely likes it, it shows off her body in just the right ways that makes it hard not to stare, which apparently he was doing earlier.

Yeah, he supposes he was, wasn't he?]

Did I say those things? I don't remember ever saying that, [he teases, sounding like he's lying through his teeth.] A lovesick puppy...is that what I am to you?

[And just to be a brat, he starts licking her just as a little puppy would, the taste of seawater crisp on her skin. But it doesn't deter him, turning his head inward to be a menace and lick between her breasts as well as other non-erroneous areas.]

[niwabi]

[ Those adorable, happy noises purring out from his lips is one of the most precious melodies to ever grace her ears. Like how he spoils her, Yoimiya is always happy to give him anything he desires, patting the top of his head, carding her fingers into his locks of hair.

There is a small part of her that has second thoughts about spoiling the Harbinger, with him now acting like a brat purposefully lying. She knows what you said! Don't think she doesn't!! As she's getting ready to shoot him a look, the sensation of his tongue running across her cleavage and all across her skin sends her into a giggling fit. ]

Hey! That tickles...! Hahahaha!

[ She's howling with laughter, his tongue slurping her skin feels so funny, hitting a few of her ticklish spots in the process. He really isn't beating the puppy allegations, looking like a dog affectionately licking its owner, all too happy to be by their side. ]

Keep that up and I'm really going to believe you are a lovesick puppy. [ don't mind her, she's still laughing. ] Although, I actually think you're more of a fox than a dog. You're cunning and mischievous like one.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Her statement gets him to stop licking her for the moment, though it was entertaining hearing her laugh from getting tickled by the motion. Note to self, Yoimiya's a little ticklish- that definitely won't be something he takes advantage of later. Definitely not going to explore her and see exactly where every ticklish spot is on her body.]

If that isn't the first time I've ever heard that one, haha.

[If he had a tail right now, he'd certainly wag it, his eyes flashing with amusement and that very same mischievousness that she's just accused him of.]

But, I'll take that as a compliment- now, how am I going to manipulate and mislead you into doing what I want...

[Not that he probably needs to do that, but he'll still continue to tease her. Except now, instead of licking her, his hand slips into her bikini top to press and squeeze one of her breasts, kissing across the side of her neck. After all, part of the reason whey they even came here was to have their own little private time, and doing anything enjoyable helps him keep his mind focused on Yoimiya instead of anything else that could creep into his mind.]