Ihonestlydontknowwhattonamethis - IDK WHAT TO SAY They/Them

清淡

Avatar Gang Twitter EP.4

previous ep:

PLEASE HELP ME FIND THIS FANIC

It’s an avatar fanfic where the sullys are just moving in to the reefs and in order to kind of make them feel welcome, the reader plays with them in the water and have fun. Then it gets like really late and the kids were about to get in trouble for staying out to late and the reader tells Jake and Neytiri it’s there fault.

Oracle!Reader Part 14

Part 1, Part 13

Warning as usual. There is blood and gore in this chapter!

Staring up at the Archon parading around in human form, you lick your lips and note how even those minor injuries were healed. Your body aches with phantom pain, some wounds healed too rapidly. 

"I don't mind answering some questions, can I get your name first?"

A small smile plays at his lips as his hand is held out in front of you. "My name is Zhongli, I'm the Funeral Parlors consultant. It would be a pleasure to hear yours, outlander."

So he is aware of your origin, well at least partly aware. If he's not going to pull any punches then why should you? Besides if it all goes wrong, you can blame it on the bloodloss that you're still recovering from.

"I'm Y/N, and you're correct that I do not originate from this world. You must not be a normal person either, in fact you look identical to this statue. This one portrays Morax the Geo Archon, but I'm sure you know that, Rex Lapis."

Getting a good look at the statue from your proximity, it was obvious that Zhongli was Morax. You could make the excuse of it being game logic on why no one makes the connection, but that wouldn't work anymore. Maybe the statues are imbued with power that prevents anyone from this world to recognize the similarities?

"So it seems you are more knowledgeable than the traveler was when they arrived here. I should have known considering how the Electro and Geo particles surround you with zeal. Perhaps Teyvat is charmed by the features you share with the Holy One."

His step forward and angled head to look you in the eyes have you staring at glowing amber hues. The red eyeliner and outlined iris make it uncomfortably clear how intensely he's examining you.

"The curve of your lips, a stature so familiar, you resemble the creator so much. Teyvat must be bewitched and awed by an individual so alike as you. If only I could see your face in it's full visage, only then would I know for sure..."

Anyone would feel flattered or embarrassed with how seriously Zhongli studies you, but dread is the only thing you feel. You know that behind those honey-coated words is a trap just waiting for you to spring.

Too bad for him; the last thing you plan to be is predictable.

"My, my what a compliment! A devout and faithful follower like yourself is comparing me to the creator? You should pray for forgiveness to the merciful creator. I'm a servant for them, just in a different league than you. My connection with them is strong enough that Teyvat graces me with qualities alike yet inferior to the Everlasting One."

Zhongli returned to his perfect posture at your words, the flash of envy couldn't hide. "Oh?" Narrowed eyes and a lofty tone that encourages you to smile wider. "And what position could an outsider like you hold?"

"Well, as an Oracle of course! Really, just how dumb are you? An outlander that is incredibly knowledgeable of the Creator? It's painfully obvious." There's no reaction to your test insults, which is fine that wasn't the last you had in store.

"I'm from the world that the Creator is recuperating in. It's due to that, that I can speak to them much more freely than everyone here. Even Teyvat pales in comparison. That's why Teyvat is so attached to me, my aura is overwhelmed by the creators."

Honestly, you had Chongyun to thank for that one. You weren't sure how you were supposed to explain the whole Teyvat clinging to you without sounding repetitive. But if Zhongli was that easily fooled, he wouldn't be one of the victors of the Archon war.

"Then enlighten me on why the glorious creator would need an Oracle of your caliber to spread their word. Surely that's the least you can do." He's fully dropped that faux-polite tone in contrast to the technically proper speech. 

"Gladly! It's become common knowledge that the elemental monsters and animals have started to act strangely. Add in the leylines that change from out of control to perfectly calm in a matter of minutes or weeks. These are all signs of the Creator's upcoming appearance! They need to be sure of who in this vast land they can properly trust."

"That still doesn't explain why you in particular were chosen. A wily and fresh child like you wouldn't do the best job." Hard like stone, Zhongli refused to even blink at your words. A god like himself would never falter after thousands of years spent perfecting his worship. 

But did he really have to insult you at the same time?

"So you refuse to believe it because of my supposed inability to properly carry out any duties assigned to me? You don't even know all that I had done to arrive here! Surely you should know just how rough the waters were..."

The hand that covers your mouth does a poor job of covering the sly smile. Zhongli stares at you in silence, the wind swaying around the floating chunk of rock that you both stand on.

"Just what are you trying to imply?" His voice is as soft as a whisper but cutting like the sharpest steel.

"Why explain it when I can show it?" Silently rejoicing at such a convenient set up, you peer into your bag and grab the item you've been saving.

Shimmering brightly in the harsh glares of the sun is Beisht's scale, still in pristine condition despite your perilous journey since that day you got it from the sea-leviathan.

It feels like ages ago. Just how much time has passed since you arrived on Teyvat? How much more time will you spend in situations like this? Weeks? Months? YEARS?

The existential dread is quickly pushed away by your beaming smile at Zhongli's reaction to the singular item. The rocky exterior finally breaks at the proof of your 'abilities'. His lips part at the bright teal color and he blinks incredulously at it.

Really, how could you pass up the chance to rub it in?

"Surely a human of my caliber would be capable of this much. I mean, a perfectly intact scale from a leviathan that managed to avoid the whole Qixing that isn't dyed in blood? Child's play for a servant specifically chosen by the Creator. I never doubted the creators' choices!" 

Holding the scale in front of you, you smirk at the man with as much snark as you hold in your heart. "The same can't be said for you, Mr. 'That still doesn't explain why you in particular were chosen.' Because the Creator is capable of choosing anyone they want, for whatever reason they desire."

Silence envelopes the area as you stare at him, a beat passes with no movement until a gruff chuckle leaves him.

"The more you speak, the closer I come to a conclusion." Recovering quickly, Zhongli's gloved hand rises to tap his mouth contemplatively. "You're either something far worse than I've seen in a long time, or a hope for the Creator's return."

That white outline around his iris seems to spin with the malicious joy that he refuses to show. It's like his body screams that he'll either enjoy your presence or your destruction. Nerves and anxiety grip your heart but ignoring it has always worked better for you.

"Maybe I can say the same thing about you considering your past, but I see you still aren't convinced. And how could I ever let you, one of the longest standing worshippers, have doubts about me? So tell me, were Beisht and her husband devout or sacrilegious beings?"

The answer he'll say is obvious, not only because you hold such a confident stance showing that you know the answer but because of Zhongli himself. A noble dragon that willingly bows to someone would feel ashamed at the thought of resorting to lying to boost his own pride.

Quite ironic how you hold so much trust in his answer due to the acolytes' faith in the creator. The same faith that led you to this position, and the same thing that'll keep you from ever exposing the truth of your identity. A constant force preventing them from meeting their 'beloved' creator.

"You met Beisht in the flesh, there's no doubt that she is solemn and serious in her worship. The same can be said for Osial, it was one of the few things I could agree with the leviathan. Even still, I'm the superior believer. After all, I'm the one who is left after all this time." 

"Yet I met Beisht before you."

The scoff and know-it-all tone he used pricked at your nerves long enough to cause an annoyed response to slip out. Unfortunately, that seems to be what Zhongli was baiting for as he laughs, the low sound making the rock platform tremble.

"That's if you're even an Oracle. You may be from that world and even heard about Teyvat from the Creator, but for all I know, you could have been banished here for us acolytes to execute. Whether it be for avenging the Creator or entertaining them."

Damn, it was almost scary how fast he turned the situation around. But how could you falter now? Getting tongue-tied at such a crucial moment would be a pathetic way to lose your life.

"And what will you do if I truly am an Oracle? When the creator's return is delayed months, years or even decades due to your rash actions, what will you tell the creator when confronted with the consequences of your own actions?"

"Then you should work hard enough to prove to skeptics like myself. To put blind faith in whatever is dubbed the creator's is a fool's belief. Temptation and sin ravage Teyvat from the long drought of the Creator's presence."

For a split second, sorrow clouded his eyes. He's hiding something. It’s important and you can feel it in your soul. The only thing that really stains his and Venti's reputation is their war with Khaenri'ah. It must be connected to that. 

But it's too early to try digging in for information on that. He doesn't even believe you to be the Oracle, how could you possibly get that out of him? What if he's under a contract and must stay silent on the matter?

Lost in his memories, Zhongli doesn't realize how your face pinches in frustration. You'll have to get his approval as the Oracle before you can even- 

Oh.

Oh, why didn't you realize this before?

A grin spreads across your face as you circle in on the heart of the problem and the perfect way to fix it.

It's not that Zhongli doesn't believe you to be the creator's Oracle, he just doesn't want to believe it! He's envious: envious of why a random outlander like you got such a nice position in comparison to him who probably spent most of his life molding himself to the creators standards.

All that's left is to reel him in and you know the perfect way how.

"Prove myself? I've done plenty to prove myself, but what about you?" Mockingly, you tilt your head as your empty gaze peers into Zhongli's eyes, digging deep into him. He focuses back on the conversation at your shift in tone.

"If anyone should have to prove themselves, it should be you." This time it's you who takes the bold step forward. "Let's start at the beginning, shall we? And try to keep in that temper too so that I can finish my words. A dragon your age should know such simple things."

"As Morax you were quite powerful, though a brute to be completely honest. Still, you knew your limits well and paired up with the Lord of Dust before the Archon War, who served as the 'brain'. Tell me, just how did it feel when you found her as nothing more than a statue that day?"

Your words have a strong effect on the imposing man, his fist trembling at the mention of such a beloved god, one whose death still pains him. Paying no mind to his pain you ask the monumental question.

"Just how much resentment do you hold against the Creator for her death?"

A hand slams you against the Statue hard enough to bruise your skin. It doesn't squeeze around your throat but there's no need to as the Geo begins to petrify your legs, locking you in place. The Statue is in a constant state of healing in defense to the bruises on your neck.

"Just what are you trying to imply by saying that?" Cold and apathetic is the voice that flows from the stoic man. It's what you would imagine Morax would sound like before Guizhong taught him how to care for humans.

"C'mon, that's the second time you've asked me that. Don't make me speak the obvious-" A shuddering gasp leaves you as he tightens his grip. But it's gone just as fast; a flock of birds tackle Zhongli.

You can only watch in shock as what was only 4 to 5 birds grow to become at least 15 birds of all kinds attacking him. The throbbing of your neck being healed as the Geo instantly releases you is overshadowed by Zhongli swatting at the birds as he takes continuous steps back.

But that's all it took for Zhongli to fall off the edge as the birds flew away cawing happily. Standing and staring at the spot where Zhongli fell off in shock, you begin to chuckle. It grows to a giggle before you're laughing hysterically as you buckle to the ground. Loud peels of laughter ring around the area as you hold your stomach from the ache of laughing so much.

To think Teyvat took the initiative to help you out for once. Why couldn't it do it sooner? Was it only after gaining some power from activating a new nations statue of the seven that it could? You couldn't focus on the question anymore as the look on Zhongli's face when he fell came to mind again.

The sight of his eyes blown wide and a split second of pure panic sent you straight back into a fit of laughter. The ground far below you shakes as a Geo pillar constructs a bridge high enough to reach the stone you sat on. 

The sound of footsteps make you open your eyes and giggle at the sight of a disheveled and annoyed Zhongli. Annoyed is still an improvement compared to his enraged state earlier. With giggles slipping out, you stand back up and laugh louder at his appearance in full view.

His hair was pulled out of his rattail with his earrings nowhere to be seen. Bits and pieces of the weaker cloth of his suit were missing, giving him a poor look that didn't match his flawless posture. The red marks and light cuts only added to the joy you feel at his expense.

"Are you finished laughing, Y/N?"

"For now at least. I would suggest buying a new set of clothes but I don't think you have the mora for it!" Zhongli only lets out a long-suffering sigh as you crack up again.

You would be scolding yourself for not taking the chance to escape while he was away but it was better this way. You didn't need the information about Khaenri'ah, it was nice to know but the information wouldn't help you live.

The main reason you stayed was because running away would prove Zhongli right to be suspicious about you. It would let him know that you're scared and have something to hide. Plus, that would mean having to escape Liyue the same way you did Ei, just in a worse situation.

That's not something you want to repeat.

"Alright I'm done laughing." You say while wiping off the budding tears from the corner of your eyes. Zhongli sends you a look that screams that he doesn't believe you but you shrug it off.

"Really, that question was more of a test if you will. My main job is simply to see who the Creator can trust. Your relationship with the Creator beyond that is between you and them." 

The calm and peaceful tone you use is such a contrast to the one you used earlier that Zhongli is clearly apprehensive. Paying it no mind you continue to speak. 

"If you truly want a reason to at least try and believe me to be the oracle even if you don't fully believe me, then I'll give you one. I'm sure you still have the stone dumbbell from Guizhong that you've never been able to open. I know how to open it."

Those last words have Zhongli staring at you intensely as you gaze off into the distance. The Dragon-Queller tree is visible through the fog with its glowing blue branches and yellow leaves.

"How?" He breathes out, scared to trust but scared to lose this opportunity too.

"It requires a naturally grown glaze lily cultivated by the Creator. That's because it requires a 'pure' glaze lily and the only one who can grow such a thing at this day and age is the Creator. All the natural glaze lilies have died after all."

Zhongli's shoulders slump at your words. It seems he started to let his guard down after he fell off. He must no longer view you as a threat or, at most, an annoyance. That's okay with you, underestimation is the most useful viewpoint they could have for you.

"Should I even make an attempt to ask you why it can only be unlocked with that? You're only telling me this as a last resort to keep you alive, correct? Even if I told you that I would keep you alive without that information, you wouldn't believe me. As childish as you may be, foolishness does not seem to be a quality you hold."

"That may be true, but if you really want an answer to that first question then I'll tell you." You look over to lock eyes with him and smile. It conceals every sneaky and vicious thought you hold. "I have no clue. The Creator instructed me to use it as a last resort, if you want that answer then try praying. Perhaps you'll get an answer."

You would like to know the answer to the stone dumbbell too. After all, you only made up the solution! Seeing as Zhongli spent all these years after Guizhong's death, failing to unlock it, it's a good bet that it'll never open. 

It's silent as you both get lost in your own thoughts. Unlike before it wasn't tense, it was more comparable to the silence you would spend alone in your apartment. The nights you would only be accompanied by the thoughts of the 'what-if' situations. Thoughts that would only stay thoughts just as the past would be just that, the past.

Wanderer learned that the hard way too. You wouldn't let yourself hold so many regrets before your inevitable death. Even in Liyue you weren't truly safe, so wouldn't it be best to speak to Zhongli while you still could?

"I have questions about Khaenri'ah… Well, the better way to put it is that the Creator has questions about them. It's one of the few things that they mourn the most. A whole nation devoted to worshiping solely the creator, destroyed by the Archons that swore their life and loyalty to the creator. So will you explain it to me?"

His eyes fill with the same sorrow you saw in him earlier. It seems you were right in guessing that his line on blindly trusting things labeled with the creator was connected to Khaenri'ah.

"I have spent all my years after that day asking for forgiveness, for some way to atone. It was one of the few contracts that I did not properly balance in equivalent exchange. I regret signing it, not for myself but for my beloved God."

"So it's a no."

"It's an agreement not to speak of it."

"Then don't speak about it." Zhongli seeds you a questioning glance as you mischievously smile at him. "Just listen to my words and don't look away. I'm quite sure nodding and shaking your head doesn't count as breaking your silence."

A huff of amusement leaves him at your solution. His eyes close with his lips curling into a small smile. He nods his head in acceptance, not having the drive to poke holes into your stubbornness.

You were quite confident in the conclusions you've drawn so far. Genshin Impact was nearly the sole reason you were living back on Earth. Family and friends were nonexistent, you had given up hope on making any new connections as well. The only thing you did when you weren't home was work and your work made you be everything but yourself. So combining everything you know from the game with everything of the cult that you've learned thus far shouldn't be too hard.

"When the Archon War broke out, I'm sure most of you were merely looking to keep your people and nation alive. The original design of having the gods powered solely on their people's worship paled in comparison to Celestia's offer of power by obtaining a spot in a group of seven. At the end, you all had a choice. Accept your spot by accepting a Gnosis, or go against them similar to how the Dragon King once did."

Zhongli perks up at the mention of the Dragon King. Not many people know about the original Dragon King. Most people assume it's Azhdaha when in reality, the original was a far greater dragon.

"You all must have been quite against it. The only God you would all bow under would be the Creator who had left before those events to sleep in my world, yet Celestia probably whispered to you all that it was allowed on Teyvat because it was approved by the Creator. That the Gnosis was a reward for all your hard work and as Celestia was the first descender, all of you accepted it.”

The way he begins to stare at you is invasive, like he's just dying to jump you to get every bit of knowledge you hold on the topic. He's starting to suspect you.

"Yet when Khaenri'ah was revealed to exist years afterwards, everything was thrown into confusion. I'm sure you and the other Archons were fine with their presence as Khaenri'ah worshiped the Creator, but was Celestia?" 

A sly smile creeps upon your face at the memory of when it was revealed that Khaenri'ah  wasn't the first civilization to be turned into hilichurls. No one liked Celestia so you had no problem pinning almost all the blame onto it.

"I'm sure they were enraged, especially as Khaenri'ah grew more and more bold with their inventions. Gold in particular was quite dangerous seeing as she not only created life but also Durin and the Golden Wolflord. And even that was unintentional!"

You laugh cheerfully as Zhongli chuckles in surprise at your words. Had you successfully deterred him? Probably not, but he hasn't stopped you so you'll keep going till the end.

"Celestia ordered you all to aid them in destroying Khaenri'ah but you all refused. How could any of you harm a nation so devoted to the creator even if they refused to worship Celestia or the Seven? But that Gnosis you all accepted comes with a price. A price that serves as leverage and a control device."

The thoughts of what Beisht told you on how Celestia had caused them to forget the original way of worship resurfaced. Celestia was just too suspicious for that to be the only thing they had done. It would take a lot more than that to force the Archons to listen to them.

"That Gnosis was like a drug. It gave you all so much power, tasting and making you feel like you're on top of the world! Just for it to come crashing down when the unpleasant side effects hit you. It corrupted you all like poison forcing you to wage war against Khaenri'ah. My best bet is that it was like mind control. What do you say?"

He looks at you with a blank expression, as if trying to see the secrets you hid in your soul through your eyes. But there's no response from him, not even the occasional nods that he was giving before.

"Well if it was mind control, perhaps it made you believe that Khaenri'ah had plans to overrule the Creator and create their own human god. Or maybe it made them out to be traitors to the creator. Perhaps both? That doesn't really matter, what does matter is that only after the war was in full throttle were you all brought back to your senses."

You didn't have any proof of that last part, it just seemed like something Celestia would do. Not only to prove their superiority but also force the Archons to put their best effort in defeating the people of Khaenri'ah to save their nations.

"After the war ended, you all wanted to get rid of it but Celestia wouldn't allow such a thing. Even if you most likely tried to find some loophole, Celestia doesn't play nice. It would make sense if they threatened to give a punishment similar to what they had done to Khaenri'ah. So long as none of you destroy or throw it away, they'll leave you all be,”

Venti was a god, no matter what fans said, there was no way he would lose to Signora. It made more sense if that was his way of 'handing' it over to the Tsaritsa. There was also Nahida who threatened to break her Gnosis to one-up Dottore. That was always funny, you would kill to have witnessed that in person. 

"Of course none of you would actually use it or even desire it in your vicinity. Everyone wins when the Tsaritsa uses her various methods to acquire the gnosis'. And thanks to the traveler appearing during that time, Celestia was probably too busy freaking out over that to pay too much attention. For a while at least."

Finally looking back to Zhongli, you smiled proudly. "I must be pretty close right? At no point did you laugh at me like you did with Alice so I'll take that as a good sign. And even if I'm wrong, everything will be solved when the Creator descends."

Stretching to loosen the tension in your back, you applaud yourself for the brilliant thinking. It's not like anyone can actually fake gold blood for long when even hair dye didn't exist yet. You're basically leaving all these loose ends to the you that would be believed to be the Creator. Which is never going to happen!

"Would the Creator scorn me for asking you once again if you're truly an oracle?"

"I'm sure the glorious creator would be fully justified in doing so, but I'll scorn you in their stead.. And don't get it twisted, it's not because of your feelings concerning Guizhong's death. It's how you, by your own negligence, offended the Creator!"

An utterly baffled expression paints his face at your accusation. Unrelenting, you point your finger at him with a serious face that you haven't shown him till now.

"Did you really believe that the creator wouldn't realize? Just how little you changed from that brute of a dragon that saw humans as plentiful yet insignificant as dust? To think that you believed yourself to be comparable to the primordial dragons."

Zhongli stiffens at the mention of the primordial dragons. After all he is the prime of the Adepti who's exuvia is a dragon, not a primordial dragon. Wouldn't it be fun if he held some sense of inferiority when compared to the primordial ones?

Zhongli sits on the ledge of the rock with his elbows on his legs and his hands covering his face. It was time. He would question just what you were talking about and you'll explain the elemental sacrificing that he forgot. That'll be the end and he'll have no choice but to support you! 

Smiling knowingly you approach him and lean down to see behind the shadow casting over his eyes. Your eyes twinkle victoriously as his breath leaves a cloud from the crisp air.

"I should have known that the creator would not forgive me for failing to arrive on time."

What? 

"How could I have been beaten to that shooting star by that astrologist? No matter who may have been her master, I failed to arrive on time."

Zhongli sulks there as he continues rambling to himself on 'missing' the shooting star due to his old age. Was he seriously talking about how you lost him the first time to Mona?!

Memories come back of you using the last of your wishes on his banner and being greeted with Mona instead. The first 50/50 you lost and was forced to use nearly all your primogems to get him. A fact that you never let Zhongli forget through your adventures.

Just what would he do if he knew how you always switched to a different character whenever his idle starts to play? Would he sew his lips together in repentance? That must be the difference between a true believer and a fake believer...

Holding back a sigh you begin brainstorming on how you were supposed to bring the conversation back to the sacrificing. Zhongli is too lost in his own head as he begins to continuously blame himself for any mistake he could have made.

"Being unable to answer the travelers' questions must have worsened their view on me too."

"That and how you were willing to let Liyue flood if they couldn't defeat Osial."

"Human life may be precious but they're as numerous as the dust that make up stone. I would rebuild Liyue for the rest of this long life until I cultivate a nation that I could humbly present the creator with."

"Then shouldn't the creator just grind you down and raise a different Adepti to their exact liking? You should work hard to be exactly what they desire to be truly loved."

"Are you saying that the Creator loathes me?" He finally looks away from the sea of clouds to stare at you. Sparing him a glance, you listen to him grow more panicked by your silence.

"Do they wish to see me crumble and be reabsorbed into the earth for my mistakes, for my sins? Was it the way I mechanically went through the motions of worship for the few years after Guizhong's death? Or does my benevolent god crave me and my nation to fall for aiding in the destruction of Kh-?"

Abruptly Zhongli grasps at his chest where his heart lays as he coughs. More out of politeness than concern you rub his back as fluid flies from his lips to his closed fist.

The thick inky plum colored fluid stained his fist with droplets of crimson swirling within it. His coughing fit slows to a halt as his hand slowly releases the clothing over his heart. Harsh breathing and a shallow pained groan is all that can be heard as he cleans himself up.

“Pardon me-” 

“Was that a warning from Celestia or a side effect if you get too close to speaking?"

"The implication is the same no matter what it may be from." He whispers as you begin to move back to return his personal space. Yet his now ungloved hand is what wraps around your grass stained sleeve.

"Now answer my question." Determination and a barely concealed unruly emotion simmer beneath his composed surface as he asks. "As an oracle, tell me what I have to do to earn their forgiveness. What must I reap to begin repenting for the sins I sowed?" 

Eyes widening at the sight of the disheveled man, you stare at him quietly. The messy hair, cut up clothing and grip tight enough to keep you still all while being careful not to bruise.

Hook, line and sinker.

"Is that a question for me to answer? Am I the god that you wronged? If you wish to communicate with the creator yourself, then there is a way. A method to begin regaining the pebbles that make up the mountain of trust you once shared with them."

You grab the arm that connects to his hand wrapped around your own and pull him up. He obeys the silent command and stands up, his gaze never faltering from your form. Silent and towering like the mountains he's created, he simply listens.

"Celestia has hidden more from you than you originally thought. But I'm sure you already know that. Offer yourself to the merciful creator and they'll surely hear your pleas of forgiveness. Whether they forgive you or not is up to them."

Releasing your hold on him, you turn to survey the area. Now where could you have him perform the sacrifice? His free hand comes to rest on your shoulder for your attention.

"What must I offer of myself? My blood? My body? If need be, I'll even be willing to offer my life. My life is worthless without them. I'm nothing more than a grain of mineral if not for them."

"There's so many things you can offer, but if you want to make the most impact, then you'll offer up your body parts. Your life may be precious but just how much longer do you have left?"

"Then will the private temple I have built for them work? We can head there immediately." He points south to the sole unnamed mountain in Minlin. You vividly remember unlocking the teleport waypoint there.

"The only way I'll know is when I see the interior. I'll meet you there Zhongli!"

Pulling yourself away from his grasp, you close your eyes and calmly imagine what the scenery around the waypoint looks like. The rocky feel of the floating stone changes to a lush green beneath your feet. Opening your eyes you're greeted with a valley of viridescent brustles with degraded stone ruins at the edges. 

"To think that the Creator even allowed you access to the waypoints. They must treasure you greatly." He appears at your side in a matter of minutes. His tone has a hint of longing and bitterness.

It's sweet like the flavor of a childhood candy that you would sneak behind your parents backs. Almost sweet enough to make up for the starvation you would face later on as punishment.

"Instead of focusing on that, why don't you show me that private temple you created? As the Geo Archon, I hold high expectations for you."

"This temple is the one I created for me. If you want the glamorous shrine built for the mass and appearance then you're better off viewing the public one that the Qixing now control."

He walks down the hill until the grass is tall enough to cover his calves. You follow behind him and stare blankly at the plain that is covered with a healthy amount of tall marigolds. Just as you're about to repeat the question, the earth begins to rumble.

It starts with just one stone rising from the ground, until it multiplies into a roof like structure. You watch in awe as a temple surges out of the mountain with the slightest bits of dirt falling off it.

Stone of high quality and clearly careful upkeep shines with small cracks from the passage of time. Gold, silver, and bronze layer the nooks and crannies of the pillars that keep a roof over the doorway.

Marveling at it, you follow Zhongli into the temple... He couldn't kill you in it, right? Surely you could still teleport even if he locked you in it… Teleporting without using the map might not work due to the focus and effort it required, but doing it with the map has never failed you yet.

The inside was even more impressive; statues of all kinds surrounded the hallway. It was you, always you, just in different poses, clothing and materials. From thin robes crafted entirely from Cor Lapis, to suits made of Noctilucous Jade.

Arriving at what seemed to be the main room, you're greeted with a huge statue comparable to the public one in Inazuma's plaza. Sunlight bathed your statue from the skylight above it.

Your body was made of Cor Lapis decorated in an Archon-like robe made from Noctilucous Jade. A fresh Glaze Lily sat in your palm as Silk Flowers adorned your head in a crown like structure. You sat on a blue stone throne that seemed to grow brighter as you approached it. The sleek yet dense mineral looked like the magical crystal chunks you would give to the blacksmiths. 

"Be careful to not venture too close to that one, the elemental energy may leave it to join you." Zhongli warns as he steps into the middle of the room. Smiling casually to hide your amazement, you head back to him.

"What an impressive statue, the Creator is feeling quite pleased with the display but still wishes to see your true remorse." Digging into your bag, you brought out the ceremonial knife and the handbook you took notes on.

"Go get the softest cloth and lay it on the ground. This ritual is simple, you'll cut off whatever part of your body you wish to offer, pray, and wait for a response. If 10 to 20 minutes pass with no response, then you can leave it at that or offer more in hopes of a response."

Closing the book and shoving it back into your bag you offer the knife to Zhongli. He looks up from where he laid the gilded gold fabric to stare at the knife before letting out a drawl laugh.

"That knife will do little to my scales, Y/N. A ceremonial item is to be bathed in liquid gold to be used so I have more than enough weapons that can actually cut my skin."

Scoffing, you stuff the knife back in as he leaves and returns with a variety of weapons. The largest was an ax that smelled faintly of blood. Was it used to sacrifice someone not too long ago? The thought makes you uncomfortable, yet you're no longer alarmed at the thought.

My, have you changed.

You move to stand away from the center closer to the exit. Zhongli's bare hand turns to a pattern of black and amber hues. Shedding his thick coat, his flexed muscles in draconic form are left in full view.

If you were back on Earth, you would have killed to view this. An Archon’s skin was something the majority of the players wished for, for quite a while. Even now, you would love to see his true Archon form, but the thought of actually living was far more tantalizing.

Rolling up his sleeves, he chooses a sword and examines it carefully. Without fear he raises it high and slices downwards cutting his hand off cleanly. The ruby liquid sprays onto the floor as the droplets drip off his sword and dismembered limb simultaneously.

It doesn't matter how many times you witness or smell blood, it still disgusts you. The only blood you truly cherished in shedding was the one that left that man's body when you stabbed him in that cold alleyway.

His hand lands onto the expensive textile with a wet thud as the ivory bone sticks out. Zhongli lays the sword down gently resisting the urge to groan in pain. Gritting his teeth he returned his attention and gaze back to you. You, who stayed in perfect position ahead of him, clad in gems and minerals carved by his own hand.

Closing his eyes, his lips followed the adored pass time of praying with intensity. Too lost in his regret, joy, and infatuation his words slipped out clear like the perfectly carved jewels he’s crafted for you.

"My god, my god. For I have sinned against you so. The mistakes I cannot fix or change, I pray for your forgiveness." Your unmoving, unchangeable eyes stared at him with an expression so familiar to him, one who worshiped you in this temple for centuries.

"From allowing myself to be tricked, to the lack of devotion I felt to you in Guizhong's death and finally with how I treated a servant of yours with disdain. Envious, I am envious to an extent that I shouldn't hold to my righteous god like you. Even now I still haven't broken the habit of referring to you as 'my' god."

Once again, just like the first time, Teyvat seems to overwhelm you with his feelings. You stare at his back as his lips murmur the words of devotion without an end in sight. Silently, you accept his offering, this first one was only to put the last nail in the coffin of you being an oracle. 

The sky darkens as Zhongli's hand crumbles into a pile of primogems that dissolve into the air. Blue and purple stars dance across the sky as a lone gold star makes its way closer. 

You didn't plan to always accept his offerings. After all you did lose a 50/50 to him and was forced to put up with his paranoid possessiveness in regards to your creator self. Shouldn't you make him lose a few times to even the score?

The gold star shines brighter and bigger as Zhongli gazes at it with a smile purer than anything he's ever felt since his creation at your hands. It flies through the window enveloping him and the whole room with a beaming light.

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

When his eyes open, the skylight shows the sunny sky but he can already feel his connection to you stronger. The brilliance you bore shines beautifully in him like a star he wished to keep hidden for only him to see.

It worked, it worked! There is no need for him to be wary or envious of you for claiming to be so close to the creator anymore. In fact, you were a sign specifically designed for someone like him. A sign that the creator had not grown complacent in simply watching Teyvat, you were now showing interest in coming back soon. And through you, he can find out details about the creator that were kept secret all these millennia.

A wide and joyful grin is bared with obsession tangling within it. He turns his head to where you stood and his smile drops abruptly when all he's greeted with is an empty spot. 

He built this temple for him and the creator to enjoy in privacy due to his possessive nature born from his dragon lineage, yet the sight of Y/N who up and vanished after fulfilling their duty struck his core like the abyssal gunk that used to constantly corrupt his body.

You may have left, you may think that he wouldn't treat you, a fellow devoted servant well due to his earlier behavior. And he understands that, he truly does but that simply means he has to rectify his mistake before it's too late. You were a mere human while him, a god. 

Finding you before any terrible consequences from his mistakes won't take too long.

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

Unaware of the dragon's changing tune, you eye the Dragon-Queller tree from outside the temple with interest. After all the work you've done thus far, indulging yourself with a nice close up of the magnificent landmark would be a good treat for yourself.

This one took a while and it was edited by the same jerk. I really hope all the work was worth it and that the next part can be done faster. But as my college is starting this early Sep, it might be even longer. Genshin's lore is a hot mess so I tried my best to keep it simple while touching on the important parts. All the lore I put in is almost completely accurate. If you don't include the sagau parts. If your name is italic then that means I couldn't tag you. I manually put everyone so hopefully this fixes the notifications problems. Taglist: @vvyeislazzy, @nikqi, @the-dumber-scaramouche, @etherisy, @yourlocalstranger123, @ra404, @iruiji, @goldenglow149, @haru-tofuu, @lsleepysimpl, @bebobeboben, @yuyuzi-ling, @amidst-the-tempest, @resident-cryptid, @mxd1zzy, @mochicurls21, @nervouseaglelover, @thedevioussmirk, @yumuramma, @kwqsla, @undecidingfate, @ehjane, @game-savvy, @akiramirae, @sielt, @fluffy-koalala, @formacoon, @sxftiebee, @khxii-i, @ursinaw, @chuuya-brainrot, @sweetbills, @kazuchaos, @snowfoxnix, @bluebelony, @conspicuous-mayonnaise, @pencil-of-ashes, @ghostlyintervention, @taiformaifoe, @goaudduck, @carminerin, @maddysflowers, @zenith-of-all-zenith, @crazydreamcat, @leafanonsforest, @grimreapersscythe, @leylanx, @sapphireknown, @help-whatdoimakemyusername, @zhonglisfruityass, @mer0n37, @victoria1676, @mochinessss, @sinnful-darling, @emilymikado, @pix-stuff, @esthelily, @luxie963, @emmbny, @millienolife, @kbar1013, @xxblackroses623xx, @chxrlxtteee, @aludicpoet, @yandematic

Help Support Bean and Bill

Hey everyone. Unfortunately My fiance and I (Bill-l-s4cc) were involved in a car accident yesterday that was pretty traumatic. I will spare you all the details. Basically our car is so damaged and unrivaled, and will cost over 6k to repair and we need a rental car as well.. Besides making content our source of income is doordashing, so its safe to say we are in a tight spot.

If you could help in anyway, share or spare even 1 dollar to help, it would mean so much to us to help us get through this dark time.

Paypal: paypal.me/katieabean

Kofi: kofi.com/beansbuilds

Yawnetu | Chapter 6

Jake x Neytiri x Na’vi!Reader Warnings: Implications of racism/Drowning, Mentions of childbirth/Uncaring of health/Abuse Word count: 3.2k Summary: With her arrival in Awa’atlu, reader seeks to find a sanctuary for her family, one that she may find in two particular individuals A/N here’s the anticipated chapter 6! thank you so much for all the support guys! love you all

Taglist: @itsyoboysparkel @dumb-fawkin-bitch @drinking-tea-and-be-obsessed @fanboyluvr @mooniequeen @berrybluez @bajadotcom @alwaysinwritersblock @pandoragalora @perfectprofessorloverapricot @lvrcpid @answer-the-sirens @phantomalex14 @neteyamforlife @bat1212 @sadforeversblog @ducks118 @cleverzonkwombatsludge @1800imgay @soushswag @honeybxes @lola-bunn1 @alldaysdreamers @doggodorime @theesexystallion @scarlettwch @annamarieisbae @wallpaintt @zatarias-pandora @daoyus @ambria @simp-erformarvelwomen @simpliheavenli @tojidilfs @automaticwizardnerd @lexasaurs634 @symptoms-of-moonlight @avtprint @deviismynamewritingismygame @sunrays404 @tsireyassgurl @xx-kaitlyn-trixx-xx @that-one-daydreamer @yeosxxx @noname2246 @ok-boke @rubyrubyruuu @diosmilkymommers @annaleesworld @jiminsthickthighs @holysaladapricothero @peaches-peach-peach @enochi @thispussyshouldcomew @ihonestlydontknowwhattonamethis @kirisimpster @pompompomegranate @stevebuckysdoll @midhito @any-maybe @nyylovestowrite @omnimaki @blueberryfailureclinic @degenweeb @tejas-kris

Village life started early. Many of the Omaticayan adults were already awake and beginning their morning chores of hunting, cooking and cleaning. Laughter of the children flowed through the air and it made them smile, happy to see them alive and bubbly after the terrible war not that long ago.

Neytiri was always up before her husband, being used to the bright morning light and loud chatter of her people. Jake however, not so much, the man tossed and clung to his mate, silently begging her to stay in bed, rubbing her big stomach tenderly. The warrior patted his hand and lifted it off her, getting out of the hammock to start the day. She sighed when her eyes caught the empty one across the hut, ___ must be up already.

She wanted to speak to her, make up for all that she has done, perhaps Neytiri will make a bracelet with Sylwanins beads. The same ones that she pulled off her mate in the heat of the moment. The Na’vi knew ___ swept them up and kept them amongst her things, she just had to find them.

Neytiri walked to the other side of the hut, crouching down and surveying the area, trying to find a basket or pouch, anything that might hold the beads. She lifted the hammock slightly to see underneath and noted its coldness, ___ must have been awake for longer than she thought. Seeing that there was nothing, the tsakarem stood tall and sighed. Where could they be?

A shuffle behind her made her ears twitch and a big groan sounded around the home, Jake stretched his body and got out of bed, walking up to his mate and kissing her cheek. “What are you thinking about?” his eyes were shut as he basked in the morning glow.

“An apology” Neytiri whispered, “I want to remake the bracelet that I broke”. Her ears tipped down in shame, she had no right to do what she did, it was childish and unbecoming of a future Tsahìk. She should not have done this to her dearest friend and supposed mate.

Jake’s eyes opened and he hummed but froze when he took in the sight before them, “Neytiri, I do not think you should worry about that now - shit!” he backed away to run out of the hut, climbing down the tree as fast as he could.

The woman stared after him in confusion and looked to where he did, frown instantly forming on her face. How could she have not seen this sooner? Half of ___’s things were gone, some clothes, blankets and the dried food they kept up here. Neytiri felt dread in the pit of her stomach and she held a hand to her mouth, silent tears welling in her eyes.

___ was gone.

-

The waves were calm since she arrived past the forest and out to sea, the Na’vi was thankful that Eywa was kind to her on the journey. If the weather was harsh she was not sure if she would have survived, the ocean was a very different place than the forest she grew up in.

It was an eight hour flight, including two one hour stops, to the reefs and ___ was jittering with nerves the whole way. She did not know what awaited her, if the Metkayina were kind and willing to take her and her boys in. She has heard about the unkindness of some Na’vi clans in stories as a child, ones that kept her awake at night, parents always used them to threaten their children into good behaviour. She could only hope these people were the opposite.

In the distance ___ noted the water turning a more lighter blue, the large creatures in the deep ocean starting to thin out and disappear the closer she got to the village Mo’at has talked to her about. In her viewpoint was an island, huge trees reaching out to touch the water and tide pools scattered around the edges of the reef. It was a beautiful sight, the air carrying a salty scent and warm breeze, warming herself as she was soon to land.

She was here.

Her ikran shrieked, notifying the strangers who looked up from their chores in the pools, whooping and diving into the waters to get closer to their village. A horn blew into the air, alarming her and the babies who squirmed in their mothers warm embrace. It was a warning signal, one that she was familiar with and was used against large predators from the forest.

They flew through Awa’atlu, ___ looking around at the different Na’vi in slight wonder, never having seen any like them before. They were a light blue, almost green, the same colour as the water below them and she noted their tails, thicker and fin-like. Tìlor swooped closer to the homes that rested above the water, finding a place to land his aching wings.

The ikran dropped onto one of the beaches, screeching out into the morning, shaking his head and chittering at the strangers who surrounded them. The Omaticayan on his back slipped off gracefully, slightly shaky legs carrying her towards the front of the people who stared at her with curious eyes, confused on what brought her here. Soft murmuring and chatter was carried out amongst the Metkayinans, questions bouncing back and forth between them.

“What is happening here?” a strong voice boomed across the people, immediately some parted to make way for the Olo’eyktan, dressed in colourful clothes and carrying a large spear, behind him a large creature splashed away, hissing. It was Tonowari, she remembered, a fearsome leader and great hunter, or so she was told by Mo’at. The tall Na’vi man sauntered up to her, copying her as she dipped in greeting, hands coming up to their foreheads in respect. “You are from the forest. What brings you and your little ones here, alone?” he questioned, eyeing the boys strapped to her body with a soft look.

___ gulped, shying away slightly. Tonowari was large and intimidating, but his aura radiated kindness, blue eyes only looking at her in curiosity not resentment. “I came to seek uturu, Olo’eyktan”

“Uturu?” a feminine voice shouted out, strong and unwavering. A women walked up to them, handing a child over to the closest person next to her. She was obviously Tsahìk, dressed in the classic forehead charm and excessive clothing. Again ___ dipped in respect, babies babbling at the constant movement their mother created. “Why?”

Ronal walked in circles around the forest Na’vi, touching her tail and gripping one of her arms, eyeing the boys as she did so. She was finding her soul, trying to seek her spirit and talk to Eywa through the interaction. “I have no place among my people, I- I had to get away from them”

“You are outcast?”

“I chose to be” ___ sighed out, eyes dropping slightly from both fatigue and the memories of Jake and Neytiri. “Toruk Makto is not as kind as the stories” Ronal quickly grabbed Sylwaì’s little arm, eyes squinting at the lack of fins.

“These babies will be slow in the water” she looked at her mate “they will have a hard time keeping up” Tonowari just stared at her and sighed, eyes flitting to their own son, Ao’nung, who has just been born a few weeks ago. He had every right to turn them away, to say no, but it was not the right thing to do, not with those babies on the line.

Ronal turned back to ___’s twins, blinking at their exposed kuru’s and purplish skin, they could not have been older than a day or two. The tsahìk clicked her tongue and walked back to her mate to stand beside him, heart heavy with the thought of this poor mother being cast out from her home, they both came to an agreement.

“We will provide you with a home to live in, food to eat and the Tsahìk will care for your recovery. You will find your role here in the clan once you are ready and my people will teach you the way of water” The clan leader raised his arms and voice, giving the statement to his clan who showed no objections. Despite the oddness of her arrival and questions still being unanswered, they will welcome her small family with love.

“Irayo Tonowari, Ronal” ___ thanked them and tipped her head, watching a smile grace the man’s face while their shaman curtly nodded.

“Let us help you with your bags, you must be exhausted” two Metkayina hunters sauntered up to the ikran, careful to not irritate the graceful beast and took off the woven bags on his back, walking in the direction of an empty marui.

-

It was peaceful here, ___ noted. The sounds of the forest were no more but instead was replaced with calm waves and the noises of oceanic creatures. Her marui was placed above the surface of the reef just like the rest, but was at the front of the village. She had the perfect view of the vast sea and a better sight of the planet and moon in front of them in the sky, much clearer than when she lived with trees obscuring above her.

Sylwaì and Syatxì babbled in her arms, grasping her woven top with pinching hands. She smiled down at them with love, a heavy weight disappearing from her heart.

They were safe.

Her family away from the cruelty of Toruk Makto and his wife, Palulukan Makto, ‘rider of fear’ she mused, ‘fitting’. A rustle was heard behind her where the entrance to her hut was, her ears swivelled and her head followed, wanting to see who it is.

“Oel ngati kameie, ___” Ronal strolled inside, basket on one hip and baby strapped to her chest. The boy looking around curiously, like he has never seen a marui in his small life before.

___ greeted her back formally, twisting away from the large opening she dangled her feet from and watching as the Tsahìk sat down next to her, sorting out the various items in her basket. “You have just given life to your children, srane?” when the bluer Na’vi nodded the other sighed and tutted “I assume you have had no time to heal properly, I will help you with applying salves to sooth your aches”

“Thank you, I was in a rush to leave the forest, I did not think about my own health or comfort on my travels” Sylwaì turned his little head to the stranger and blinked his wide yellow eyes, looking down to see other baby and reaching for him. For someone who was just born not long ago, he was already growing so fast.

Ronal smiled at him and unstrapped Ao’nung, happy to let him loose while she worked on the Omaticayan. ___ sighed as she did the same to her eldest twin, stroking Syatxì as he clung to her. They worked together in silence, ___ helping in whenever she could, using her knowledge that Mo’at taught her to use ointments on herself.

The paler woman dusted off her hands and nodded at her handiwork, looking the other in her eyes, admiring the flecks of yellow, never having seen it before in a Na’vi. Ronal has heard stories of others, different tribes and races from her father, but she did not anticipate meeting one in her life. “What has happened that caused you to leave the forest?”

The question caught ___ off guard and she paused, eyes wide and slightly watering. Memories rushing back to her, the broken bracelet, the verbal abuse, the beatings she had endured…

Before she could give an answer a loud coo and a splash echoed through the marui and immediately both women looked towards where one of the babies fell out the open space in the wall. Ronal chuckled when she took in the panicked look on ___’s face, “is- is he okay?! Tsahìk?!” she put Syatxì down and crawled to the edge, about to jump into the deep waters to save the baby when she was stopped by a finned hand.

“Ao’nung will be fine, Metkayina babies learn to swim as soon as they are born, look - he is floating up to the surface” the woman pointed out, seeing her son bob up and grin a gummy smile at his mother. Ronal used her stomach as leverage as she leaned down and scooped him up, shaking her head and tutting him.

___ merely blinked, surprised, “in Omaticaya we learn to climb the trees. As babies we are strapped to our parents as they go through the forest and sometimes we roam by ourselves…but seeing this, it is different”

“you will learn, as will your two sons, who are both the same age? Babies born at the same time are rare, you are blessed by our great mother”

“Srane, I was lucky with them” ___ kissed the top of their heads, mirroring their little smiles. Ronal repeated the question she asked earlier before being interrupted, as a Tsahìk she must learn why a stranger must insist on residing with her people. Are the sky people back? Is that why she abandoned the forest? But Eywa has said the danger has passed.

“Kehe, te tawtute are gone forever, but like I have said, Toruk Makto, Jake Sully, he is not as noble as Na’vi may think” ___ trailed off, not wanting to go into great detail. Ronal simply hummed, she will not push her, but one day she will get a proper story.

A yip called outside from in the waters, one that the Tsahìk was familiar with, immediately she leaned her head outside the hole in the marui and saw her mate on top of his tsurak, waving at the two women. “You will join us for the communal breakfast, yes? The people have decided that they want to get to know you and your babies” Tonowari grinned when ___ stared at the clan leaders, flabbergasted.

“I do not understand, why do they want to learn about us?”

“You are new, they are curious, the women are also enamoured by the cuteness of your children” Ronal rolled her eyes at the thought of all the older ladies about to swarm them so early in the day but could not deny that the partial reason she came was to see them too. “Afterwards me must get you acquainted with the water, the sooner the better”

“Will we be alright to?” ___ wanted to make sure that her and the babies health was okay before doing any extraneous activities. The other woman nodded and smiled, standing up and grabbing her son, passing him to his father who moved closer to the home.

“I must take my leave and help prepare breakfast, I have left you some clothes over there, ones more fitting for our waters, come to the beach when you are ready”

-

The Olo’eyktan did not lie when he said the women were excited to see the twins. As soon as she wandered down to the beach she was swarmed, Metkayina cooing at the tiny blue babies who squealed happily with the attention.

“They will be strong hunters. I can feel it” one of the elderly stated, admiring the strong physique of Sylwaì. ___ only chuckled as her tail flicked, her eldest boy was as chubby as they come, she did not think the physique was all that strong yet.

“Srane, they will have good mates too. Ones that will provide many grandchildren” another tickled one of the boys wriggling feet.

“Ma Sa’nu!” a Metkayinan swatted her older mother at the prospect, flushing purple in embarrassment and apologising to the twins mother who grinned.

“I hope they will not start any time soon, they are fresh out the womb Itxaì” Ronal strolled through the chattering Na’vi, nodding in greeting to the aforementioned woman and her daughter. “Come, we must get you some food. I trust you are hungry after your journey?”

With that que ___’s stomach rumbled, now it was her time to flush in embarrassment. Tail tucked between her legs and ears flat to her skull. The Na’vi in close proximity chuckled while they wondered across the beach for some breakfast.

Tonowari sat with some of his hunting men, talking about where they will go for next weeks trip. The man looked up and grinned at his wife and new clan member, bouncing Ao’nung on his knee who burbled at one of the men. ‘Already such a strong talker’, he mused. “Sit here, the sand is warm and would be enjoyable for your boys”

Having already fed the twins earlier ___ put them down without hesitation, sighing when the wrap came undone and her back ached a little less. Ronal grabbed a large leaf to pile some fish on, handing it over and watching amused as it was scarfed, “you act like you have never eaten payoang before”

“We have fish in the rivers, but they are never like this” the dark Na’vi wiped her mouth with the back of her hand, eyes stuck on the rest of the seafood and fruit in the pile in front of them.

“Take however much you want”

She did not have to be told twice.

Tonowari let his son roam a little on the sands, watching him as the baby crawled slightly to the others, grinning in amusement at his sons curiosity. “Your children will have a good life here, we have many occupations for them, large waters to swim in, many Na’vi to befriend, they will never be alone or unfulfilled. Neither will you”

___’s tail swished against the sand, curling and disrupting the stillness of the tiny rocks, it was the complete opposite to the Metkayinans, who’s tails slapped the sand and could not twist like hers, “Thank you. You have been welcoming to us, I will do what is needed to contribute”

“And you will” Ronal piped up from beside her, grabbing her own pieces of fruit, “but in due time. Now, do you know how to swim?”

___ blinked, yes she could, she has learnt with the rivers in the forests. As she nodded the other woman observed her, eyes glancing up and down ___’s thin body. “Forget what you know. We will start anew, you must learn to breathe”

“But I am breathing. Am I not?”

“Kehe, she means from here” Tonowari chuckled and placed his hand onto his stomach and sucked in some air, chest puffing and back straightening, “to live like us you must breathe like us in the water”

“And my sons-?”

“Will be taken care of” the Tsahìk interrupted, reassuring the newcomer, she was sure that the elders of the clan would not mind caring for the twins for a couple hours today, they are too young to learn breathing techniques that they were not born to do “we start when the sun is at its peak. For now you must eat”

___ had a feeling that today will be challenging, she was in a new environment and must erase her teachings of the forest to replace with the way of water. But she will get through it.

She has to.