Cyno X Y/n - Tumblr Posts

Hello, sorry if this request doesn’t make sense but I was wondering if you could do headcanons for Tighnari, Alhaitham, Cyno, and Kaveh (you can just pick one if that’s to many) with a reader who has a younger sister who’s like 14 who that they take care of since they don’t have parents, thank you for your time

A/n: Hello! My apologies for this taking so long, some things ended up popping up. But, I do hope you enjoy these. Just them interacting with your sister. Wholesome stuff. I didn't include Kaveh in this one, simply because I don't feel too secure yet in writing him, but once I know him better I'll see to do a follow up 👀 These are not completely proof read

Characters: Tighnari, Cyno, Al-Haitham

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Tighnari:

- Tighnari is arguably the best when it comes to dealing with anyone young. He's got the patience and the needed gentle, but sturdy hand. It's like this with pretty much any kid he comes across, but seeing how close he is with you he takes this even more seriously

- He's caring with your sister from the start, politely introducing himself to her and starting a relaxing chit-chat with her while you go about your business if you're in a rush. He really doesn't mind watching over her as long as he's not in a pinch with the rangers and patrols

- She reminds him of Collei, in a way. He doesn't quite understand why but he pinpoints it onto their shared curiosities for his work. Both girls seem to linger at his back and watch him (and his ears) as he handles plants and papers. He indulges them a little, having them believe that he has not noticed on their clear spying

- Tighnari shares his knowledge with your sister, he enjoys it truly. He loves to share the knowledge that may as well help an individual out - and if your sister decides she wants to be a ranger or some form of biologist, you have Tighnari to blame, or thank. He brings out some specimens to show her if a physical presentation is necessary, or he recommends books for her to read if she's willing to delve further into the subject

- Isn't surprised when she eventually asks to pet his ears or rub his tail. He could practically hear her thoughts when she first met him, but she seemed to refrain from asking on the first meeting. Tighnari would bow down slightly or instruct her to climb up higher if she is really short, and even if she tugged a little, he wouldn't seriously scold her, just warn her not to do it again. Tighnari gives her a small warning just to not be too rough beforehand and that "It's just like any dog or cat's ears", but your sister just seems to find his ears the most special

- It is also no issue if your sister has to stay with him for some time, nights or even weeks if Mora is tight, he would help you both out in any way he can. He has Collei to keep your sister company too, since there is so much he can do as an older person in your sister's life. Collei and she seem to get along very well, so there is no issue regarding their friendship

Cyno:

- Now, it takes Cyno quite some time to come around to have the time to meet your sister. So all she knew about him was what she could hear from merchants or Akademiya students. All the terrible rumors also stick, so it's no wonder when she appears to be too nervous to meet him when you brought it up. She would need some confirmation and encouragement that, no, General Mahamatra is not as the boogeyman most describe him as

- Cyno may come off as unfeeling on the first go, as he is the man of analytical mind and one that isn't too in-tune with his emotions naturally, but also since his job does not allow for such soft sympathies. So the conversation may feel a bit tense or awkward when he sees that his ways are pulling too hard on the reins, and that your sister is tense or even uncomfortable

- He would definitely crack several jokes to cheer her up, and somehow- miraculously - your sister feels at ease when Cyno rushes to tell the jokes and explain them. Her laugh brings a wave of relief to Cyno, he may even mutter something and just exhale loudly before indulging in some food to take a reprieve. This man has the best intentions - please, give him a hand, he is a bit slow with sentimental things

-Now, for later interactions between him and your sister, they all become a lot more casual and friendly, your sister would put a lot of trust in him. If his reputation was not enough to guarantee reliability, the friendship they build over time is. She is much more often with him, and some may look weirdly at your sister and Cyno if they see her talking her mouth off about some off-topic with him wearing a faint smile as they go to find you

-It is a cute sight honestly. And also - Cyno has a habit of picking up small trinkets on his way. It can be anything small as a crystalized shard from the dunes, or some luxurious looking missing vase from the forest, and he brings them all back to you and your sister - giving more romantic gifts to you behind your sister's back

Al-Haitham:

-Is the most jaded out of these three. He is not easily affected by emotions, and as such he can come off as quite rude to others around him, or too strict or too stern. It takes him the longest to get the gist of the kids these days, but he does try. He is incredibly understanding despite outwards impressions, and he understands the struggles you both are going through and he does try his best when he ends up with your sister in his care

-Taking the analytical approach all the time proves not to be affective all the time - and this is something Al-Haitham gets to understand later down the line as he gets closer to your sister

-Similar to Cyno, he attempts to remedy awkward situations with some form of jokes, but his humor at the start just is too stern for a child. His jokes needs more working on than Cyno's. But Al-Haitham is adaptable, and he picks up the humor of the kids at that time and slowly this goes into his advantage when he tells these jokes and funny riddles to your sister

-He is quite protective of your sister from the get-go. Seeing as she is an important part of your family, the last of it, he takes it very, very seriously that your sister is safe and out of harms way. Although the other two on this list are also very defensive of your sister, they are much more calm about it and more casual

-Al-Haitham is very observant, and when you sister is in his care he always has his eyes on her, he makes sure she stays in his field of vision where the space is clear and if any changes happen that could be harmful - he would know

- Just as willing to lend his hand in academic knowledge on all sorts of topics. If you woke him up in the night to ask him about all sorts of academic positions within the Akademiya and what they all do, he would break out into an explanation without any questions, and would go to sleep right afterwards. So if your sister came to him for help, he would do his best to simplify the knowledge so she can better understand. He is very open to any questions, but if your sister did end up asking some silly question he would give her a silly answer before elaborating further, unless she caught onto it herself

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Ⓒ n0tamused. Do not repost, translate, edit, and/or copy any of my works. Likes, comments, and reblogs are appreciated.

For you, and you only

A/N: I hope you guys enjoy!

This is my first time writing for cyno so his is a bit shorter 😭

Heizou,Kazuha,Kabukimono and Cyno (seperate) x gen neut!reader

Headcanon,fluff,not proofread, Kabukimono is Scaramouche 😭

♡♡♡♡

HEIZOU ▪︎ analytical harmony

He loved solving puzzles and mysteries and you knew that when you started dating him

He'd take you to events that was specifically made for nerds who loved using their brains

You ended up just following him around though as he did all the puzzle solving 😭

Every once in a while though, you would solve a simple puzzle/crack the code/find a clue and he'd praise you like youre the smartest person ever

Proud bf coming through

But when events like that are not available, he'd make puzzle boxes and give it to you

Inside that said box, would be a little paper filled with sweet little nothings, or just a simple "have a good day today love :))"

Must admit, you look forward to getting those puzzles from him

Its that little thing which makes your relationship all the more sweeter

KAZUHA ▪︎ Scarlet Leaves Pursue Wild Waves

Gentle, poetic, a gentleman and handsome, he is truly the package

What more could you ask for anyways?

That man wants to let you know every waking moment that you are deserving of his love

And what other way would be more romantic than giving you weekly haiku's

He's settled on making one every week so he doesnt overwhelm you too much (which isnt true you love how he expresses his love)

And he wants to make a Haiku that truly resonates how he feels towards you

Kazuha only wants the best haiku's given to you

Alwaya puts his all into it

Because you deserve the world <33 (thats him he is world)

Sometimes, when he reads his haiku to you he'd give you a maple leave, or something he saw that gave inspiration for his latest haiku

You kept them all, youve got a shelf full of the trinkets he gave you as he recited his haiku

And placed his haikus in a special box

His goal for writing haiku's was not only to remind you of his love

But to also comfort you when he isnt around

Kazuha is a wanderer, a ronin, his home is in mother nature and he wants to travel

You understood of course, you would join him in some of his journeys when fate calls for it

But if you cant, reading the haikus he gave helps a lot as if he was truly there with you

His love is with you all the time no matter how far apart you both are

CYNO ▪︎ Judicator of Secrets

When you both first started dating and youre upset, Cyno usually freezes up and stares at you

Dont blame him though, he was afraid anything he did would make you even more upset

He never wanted to make you upset ever

You were his lovely partner he only wanted to make you smile and happy

It was really hard, especially with his serious personality

After a few months though, he finally found a way to comfort you

He'd sit down next to you in silence

Then crack up the most downright horrid joke ever with a blank face, looking straight at you

It never fails to make you laugh

He knew you were laughing at the fact that the joke was bad

But to him it didnt matter because he ends up seeing you smile

You were the only one who actually liked his stupid jokes, and listened to him as he explained it in great detail

You made him happy

It was time for him to return the favour

KABUKIMONO ▪︎ Puppet without a heart

He is a puppet, barely understanding human emotions but always trying his best to be just like them

When you both started dating, he felt more human than he ever did

He adores and appreciates you so much

He wants to be able to pay back all you have done for him

He doesnt know how to though, human emotions are complex and beautiful

Just like Kazuha, he wants to give his all when it comes to appreciating you and expressing his love for you

Sometimes, he'd walk by the shore of the beach

And if by some chance he's lucky, he'd find a seashell that reminds him of you

He doesnt pick a random seashell no, he'd collect all he sees as he walked around

And when he thinks he's found enough, he'll pick the prettiest one that reminded him of you

When he gave you a seashell for the first time and explaining in full detail why it reminded him of you

You almost cried, you appreciated it so much you made it as an accessory

He loved that you brought it around

That man started going out more finding more small things that reminded you of him

Half of the time he has his eyes stuck to the ground finding things to give to you

Everyone teases him for it, but Niwa would always defend him

Kuni just wants to see your eyes sparkle and see you smile when he gives you stuff

He wants to be the reason you smile

He'd spend his whole life time finding ways to make you happier than ever

♡♡♡♡

“To be up with you

with Cyno”

“I want to be with you,” he weakly tried to argue. The general had been trying through the night to stay awake with you. His reasoning? That he wants to be with you

It seemed silly, and you’re right. Because he absolutely is.

After all his patrolling and work, you thought a day off was in order. Even though he challenged you to genius invokation TCG several times, you watched and took care of him. Ensuring he could rest.

He objected this arrangement, but eventually relented until it came time for bed.

Even as he struggled to keep his ruby eyes open, he claimed that he had to stay up with you.

“Allow me to stay awake, or face. . .” He trailed off as you gently pushed him back. He had no energy to put up a fight.

You crawled under the covers of your bed alongside him. While he drew you in close, you whispered something that didn’t quite register in his exhausted mind.

“I’m not leaving your side any time soon, so please. Try to rest.”

"The way she is with me

with Cyno"

No one would believe you. No one would believe that the general mahamatra was sitting in front of you allowing you to place little flowers in his previously braided hair. Absolutely no one would think you were telling the truth if you announced how serene his expression was while asking how it looked.

And that was fine.

You didn't need others to believe you and your boyfriend's silly little moments like this. Maybe that's what made them so special. The fact that no one could replicate the behavior on either of your ends just made it that much more amusing.

"My art is completed," you triumphantly declared. He chuckled softly, content in this very state. Just with you in your guys' special date spot. Like a crevice in the universe just for the two of you, molded by his hands.

With his flower-strewn braids, he turned to face you slowly. He wasn't willing to destroy your handiwork. You noticed the smirk on his lips, "You really “rose” to the occasion, didn't you?"

You couldn't help but laugh at his typical antics.

And that laugh just made him fall a little further into your heart.

Heaven Sent Pt. 6 (Cyno x FemReader /AU Brothel)

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Word Count: 1.01 k

Previous parts: Pt.5, Pt.4, pt.3, pt.2, and pt.1.

No beta, we die like my will to fix my sleep schedule (not proofread)

des: Tbh, barely any Cyno in this one. It's just Candace easing reader into the village :>

warnings: None! Just pure comfort: bubble paths, headpats, hugs, all the good stuff.

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“Y/n, I’m glad to see you here,” the same woman from when you arrived greeted you. Her eyes shifted from yours and curiously onto Cyno’s, the corners of her lips turning a little upwards to a smile in surprise.

“-and in company too.” She offered her arm, stifling a giggle at the general’s silent defeat as you took it and unhooked your hold on him. “That will be all for you, Cyno. Thank you for taking her here.”

Hesitantly, Cyno bided you both good night and headed back to the resting quarters for much needed sleep. Now in the care of Candace, you idly followed her through a pillar of corridors. The sound of running water growing louder, and the air becoming denser as you stepped further and further into the building. With the ambient sounds, there was now the awkward silence between you both with the exception of your feet causing echoes in the hall. Her focus was on the path in front of her but sometimes, she took small, tender, glances your way.

“If…you don’t mind me asking, is something troubling you, Miss Candace?”

“Did you notice my staring? I’m sorry if that made you uncomfortable and please, you needn’t call me Miss. Though, I do appreciate the manners.” She chuckled, sighing heavily afterwards as she spared some thought to your words.

“To answer your question, Y/n, I’m a bit in shock –is all.” her gaze wanders to the pavement leading into the baths. Once you’ve both reached there, she gently unhooks her arm from yours and moves to feel the waters in the bath, sending ripples into the warm pool.

“Life in the desert is hard as it is,” She started as she sat on the edge of the waters, reaching to the side for a bottle of what you can assume is soap, and poured it into the steaming pool. As soon as it hit the water, the steam blew up and permeated a fragrance so mellow and calming, it served to soothe Candace as she eased the words out of her mouth.

“But to think there would be others who would stoop so low…to cause such suffering and to what end?” Her eyes stared into the rippling reflection in contemplation.

Neither of you fell on an answer, and even if you could, it wouldn't undo any of what you had gone through or make it easier as to why you had to. Baring that silence, she turned her attention to you when she felt it was ready. With a gaze as equally soft as her smile, she reaches her hand to gesture to you to come in and you did. With her back turned, she waited until your body came in, she offered,

"If ever you need somewhere to stay, you can come and shelter here in Aaru Village." She looks back to you, your head above the water and your body immersed in the warmth of the bath, easing your tired muscles and letting your back press against the tiles of the bath.

"I'd be coming here followed by a lot of trouble, Candace…I don't think I can do that to you or anyone here." You voiced your hesitancy, it was more of a precaution for her sake. But Candace kept grace, brushing a few locks of your hair and dipping it into the water,

"Then let it. Within these falling sands, the people who come here are allowed peace under my guard." You couldn’t stop yourself from trembling a little at what she said. Could you really do that? Start your life anew here? A thought like that used to be as real as a pipe dream, but as Candace’s fingers reached your scalp and untangled your locks, the choice of your fate became clearer to you. You could, you really could..

"Don't you worry about what may come beyond this canyon. As a community, we'll share our troubles and bear it together." At her affirmations, she stilled at hearing your tears drip into the pool, and in silent understanding, she resumed to brush and wash your hair. Gingerly rinsing the soap off with the waters, and drowning out the sound of your tears.

"It's okay, you're safe now." She said, reassuring and scaring off any worry that might’ve held you in that moment, and from beneath your palms covering your face, you sniffled and smiled.

Once you were done bathing, she left you momentarily to dry yourself and get dressed in fresh linen clothes that she had prepared you. As the two of you walked, you were beginning to see the neighborhood homes coming into view again. From your peripheral vision, you see Candace's smile changed only for a second as she followed your line of sight,

"I hope you won't hold this against me." She suddenly said in a lighthearted but weary tone. Her brows furrowed slightly as you fully turn to her in confusion,

"Hold what against you?" Without warning, a small pattern of steps repeatedly hitting the pavement was heard, and it was fast approaching. Before you could react, a pair of little arms wrapped around your waist, forcing you a step back at the sudden impact.

"Y/n–!" The young boy chirped your name with the biggest smile you've seen him have yet.

"A-arman! You really are here," you bent down to hold his face in your palms, checking for any new scratches or anomalies, his grin squished in your hands in the process.

"Aunt Candace fed me lots of yummy food, and we get to share a big warm bed in our room,"

You didn’t spare another moment and lifted him up in a hug, feeling more secure and happy in how he snuggled into your neck and wrapped his arms around you.

“Candace, everyone and the general…I don’t know what to say..” You hated how many times you’ve let your eyes pour like faucets these days, but no one, not even yourself could fault you for it. She sighed in gladness at your smiling face, and kept her usual poise manner, petting Arman’s hair as he’s held in your arms and mumbled with a gladdened heart, “Just get the rest you need, Y/n. We’ll say what needs to be said tomorrow morning.”

Hand in hand, you and Arman followed her into the rooms to retire for the night. Under a new roof from outside of the prison you’ve known for so long, your heart is finally at ease.

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A/N: Updates are gonna be slower than before cause I'm in my senior year in HS, waw,, omg :O

Anyways, the lack of Cyno will be made up for in the next one :))

I hope you guys had an enjoyable summer and as always, thank you for coming back :]

Remind someone you love them and until then, <333

-Kapi

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Broken Glass | Cyno X GN!Reader

A/N: The man was not coming home after 76 pity, so out of my sorrow, I believe he deserves this. I was also conflicted between Cyno being the General Mahamatra or the former one. No worries, I got it eventually. Remember that constructive criticism is appreciated and enjoy!

Summary: Cyno’s regrets for your fall-out returned when the glass of a picture frame shattered.

Genre: Angst

Reader: Second POV. Gender-neutral pronouns if any. 

Warning: Argument. Falling-out.

Word Count: ~380

~

Glass shattered on the floor.

A picture frame had fallen off the bedside table when Cyno kicked the sheets. He frowned, moving himself off the bed to pick up the pieces.

His breath hitched suddenly once he found the photo of you and him, and his fingers stopped reaching out.

His eyes stared upon the photo— one taken for a time when you and he smiled. His chin was resting on your head while you leaned against his chest.

Oh, how sorrowful.

Cyno scowled. He did not want to be reminded of his regrets again. The broken glass over the both of your faces was another stab from life.

If only he hadn’t yelled at you like that. If only he knew how to control his frustrations.

It did not help that for a long time, he had been shaking those emotions off. After all, Cyno believed as the current General Mahamatra that he should not let them cloud his logic.

“Step away from him, (Name).”

You, his partner, were in his way of punishing a scholar. You went out of your own to defend the very person that committed injustice to the Akademiya.

“Cyno, show him some empathy. He was doing it for his children!”

‘This was your fault.’

He narrowed his eyes and scoffed. The General pulled back his polearm, releasing the scholar. “I’m heading back to Sumeru City.” Anger dripped from his voice as Cyno walked past you without a single glance to the eyes.

This single action of his stung your heart. But one way or another, you had to stand for your beliefs: the Akademiya did not have good of intentions as people would assume. 

The scholar behind you felt thankful for your support, yet there was a sense of guilt for the strain between you and the General. You chose to laugh it off, something that did not reach your eyes.

Your walk back to Aaru Village was silent, up until you and Cyno had a private conversation.

Cyno threw his polearm onto the ground. He stormed towards you, seething, “Do you realize the kind of stupid decisions you’re making lately? The point of my position as a Mahamatra is to bring these people to justice for their crimes. The Akademiya will have my head yet again for letting go of a scholar.”

“The Akademiya’s regulations are nonsense, Cyno. Don’t believe that everything are serious matters. He bought and sold the Divine Knowledge Capsule to bring food to the table. It was a one-time thing, and he never intended to use it!”

“And yet they need me as General Mahamatra.” A dangerous frown on his lips.

“You’re not listening. The Akademiya are not who you think they are!” you yelled. “You always focus on tracking these scholars down, but not a single question about why the Akademiya is so persistent on finding this Divine Knowledge Capsule.”

“Knowledge Capsules have dangerous effects, and I expected you to know that, (Name).”

“Shohre told me they’ve chosen to prioritize the Divine Capsule over the others.” Your brows furrowed. “She told me they’ve chosen you and you only to handle this. What happened to her and the others?”

Cyno clenched his teeth. “It’s reasonable they would choose someone who always finds their target no matter what. But you.. you are always in my way,” he scowled. “You’ve never had these views for the Akademiya until recently. Would you mind explaining yourself?”

“I can’t tell you that now, but you have to listen to me when I advise you to distance yourself from the Akademiya, Cyno.” You stepped closer, your hands held together close to your chest.

“You,” he pushed you away by your hands, taking you aback, “have no concrete evidence, do you.”

“...” 

Cyno took your silence as an answer. The conflicted look on your face said everything. 

He scoffed, walking past you again.

“I can’t believe I’m partners with the likes of you.”

A response that he knew would break your heart. 

No matter how many times he tried to convince himself that your fall-out was your fault, Cyno realized he was slowly fading off from contact with the Akademiya. From that point, “former General Mahamatra” was more his title. 

His room in Aaru Village became cold and gray, contradicting the hot and bright weather in the desert.

And to the man gazing upon the floor in silence.. he couldn’t bring himself to pick up the glass. His reluctancy moved him to lay on his side, gripping the empty, lifeless bedsheets.

Princess and Her Matra | Cyno X (F) Reader (Part I) (Royal AU)

Story Premise: You were the Princess of Setekh, ruling over a flourishing kingdom among dry deserts alongside your Father. You found yourself stuck in a dilemma when you were forced to give your hand in marriage, in return for the Avidyan Prince of the Forests to rescue your kingdom. Your heart was set solely on your bodyguard, Cyno the General Mahamatra. But suspicion arose around the Prince's motives, perhaps you found a way to your true love after all.

Summary: You and your General Mahamatra slipped into the Royal Garden following a discussion upon your arranged marriage.

Relationship: (Bodyguard) Cyno X (Desert Princess) Female Reader

Characters: General Mahamatra Cyno.

Warnings: None.

Word Count: 1220

Parts: One / Two / Three / Four / Five

➵ ➵ ➵

The King spoke to his council. All while you observed, the only thing you could really do.

In the throne room were two towering seats, decked in gold and colorful gems. At least one of them were. The smaller one, occupied by you, was more plain.

All of the King's messengers stood in front of the steps, organized like as if there was an elongated table.

"My King," bowed one man, "I for one believe not in entrusting Princess (Name) to the Prince of Avidya. They do not trust us, evident by closing off flowing streams from their forests. They mean to dry us until we die of thirst! How can we trust them to not forsaken the Setekh?"

The old King combed through his beard. A long sigh escaped his lips. "I do not. But I cannot allow my people to suffer from dehydration any longer. The only natural source is the spring that resides in the center."

You winced, hearing the discussion. You never liked grave topics. Your eyes shifted to a guard standing on the side by the sandstone pillars.

His amber hues lit up upon eye-contact, only a little but it was there. You gave him an exasperated smile, leaning your head on your hand. He simply huffed, the corners of his own lips twitching up.

"My King, with all due respect, does it not appear suspicious? What would the Avidyan Prince truly want from this arrangement? Surely, 'a wife for the Prince' is too simple and illogical of a reason for them to suddenly want to repair relations after years of distrust."

"I heard you." The King only raised his palm to stop. "But my decision is final: my daughter will be married to this Prince in two weeks' time. If the case of betrayal ever arrived, I trust my General and the Matra will handle our guests swiftly." The old King sent a nod.

Cyno blinked away from your eyes to return one to your Father.

"Hold on–." You furrowed your brows.

"(Name)." The King's voice became stern. "I understand your reservations, my child. However, I expect you to–."

"Place the Setekh above myself, I am well aware." Your shoulders dropped while curling up your fists. "I cannot believe this," you scoffed. You found yourself tapping harshly on your throne's armrest. "I shall be in the Royal Garden instead, Father."

The King's eyes saddened and sighed. You quickly stood and stormed right out of the throne room. The council, distracted by plans for the upcoming engagement, did not notice your hasty disappearance.

Of course, there had been one man.

The General Mahamatra trailed you from behind, holding a partisan. He wore a Hermanubis headdress, a shape of a jackal, signifying his high ranking and head of the Setekhan Military's Royal Branch, the Matra. His face adorn in red powder marks, while his uniform dressed in black and gold. A lot of his skin, he left bare, for the desert heat never took kindly to those covered.

"Leave me alone, General."

The young man raised an eyebrow. "I'm afraid I cannot do that, Your Highness."

"I need time to myself, General."

No word.

"That is an order from your Princess," you scowled, pausing in your tracks to face the General Mahamatra.

"My King's one order is to guard you at any time. I'm afraid his word overshadows yours, Your Highness."

You only frowned and turned away to continue striding.

Suddenly, a polearm swung in front of you, halting you.

"You were feet away just moments ago."

"I wouldn't have been your bodyguard if I am not quick on my 'feet.'" He smirked. You tried to hold a deadpanned expression, but your lips cracked into a small smile the longer your eyes held contact. You waved him off. "Sometimes I do not know what to do with you."

You gazed down and frowned again. "Of course, even if I do, you would not listen to me while Father is here, would you." You pushed Cyno's partisan aside, making his playfulness falter. "Hold on–." He sighed. "I don't truly mean that, Your Highness." He jogged up to stay beside you. "Your word is my command. I always intend myself to protect you, regardless of the circumstances."

"Mm."

"You're aware I would never betray you, honest."

"Mm."

"Not for my King himself."

"Mm."

Cyno sulked, nearly lagging behind you.

It felt uncharacteristic of the Mahamatra, but you remembered the kind of person he became when a card game showed up here and there. An entire other person, you thought. Truth be told: you gave into his– you admit– endearing behavior. "Enough of that, my General." Your hand traced along his jaw as you hastened your stroll past. "Hurry along."

A glint gleamed in his eyes. You did not glance back at him, yet you already regretted that.

"What's the matter? Is a 'hurry-cane' arriving?"

"It's the Setekh. Hurricanes only appear in the Avidya."

"What?" Cyno huffed. "You don't understand? The joke is–."

"Shush-shush-shush." Your finger landed on his lips before he could continue. "I assure you time and time again, General: jokes are only clever when you leave the explanations out."

You and the General reached the greenhouse, a wide glass dome inhabited by many desert plants and color-popping flowers. A few butterflies in golden-like wings flew by. You smiled upon the sight, taking in how the light hit each plant just right.

You sighed. "I only wonder what will become of this place once I marry." The thoughts ran in your head. For all you could imagine, you may move to the Avidya, making this your final chance of seeing desert wildlife. Or the Avidya could be plotting the downfall of the Setekh with your marriage, leaving the beauties alone to die.

Your eyes caught a withered goldpoppy, brown and shriveled. You stepped forth, hands gently caressing its petals. A faint glow could be seen before the flower returned to its youth.

"General," you called. Immediately, he stood by your side. He tried to meet your eyes, but you only paid attention to the poppy. "Would you.. still protect me, even when I'm married off into another kingdom?"

He gave it a second, glancing from the poppy to your face. "Cyno," he spoke in a gentler tone. Much different from his serious usual.

Your eyes flickered to his, being caught off guard.

"I told you to call me 'Cyno,' Your Highness." He gathered your hands and lifted them to his lips, placing a kiss. "In the same way as how I assured you of my intentions to protect you, no matter what."

You blinked.

In the silent moments that passed, a rosy blush crept his face. The General Mahamatra himself turned away in embarrassment, clearing up his throat.

Your eyes softened.

"Thank you, Cyno." In contrast, you reacted with a sheepish smile. "With the wedding arriving in two weeks, I doubt my Father would be happy to hear or see this, but perhaps behind closed doors," your voice trailed off.

He creased his brows. "'See–?'"

On your toes, you pulled Cyno's head and crashed your lips into his. His eyes widened in shock. For someone as stoic and straight-faced as him, someone who was an intimidating general, the General Mahamatra had an easy time becoming awfully flustered.

"You can also call me, (Name)."

Princess and Her Matra | Cyno X (F) Reader (Part II) (Royal AU)

Summary: Your Prince of Avidya had arrived with the intent of taking your hand in marriage, but something seemed off about him and his advisor. A bitter taste infected the General Mahamatra's tongue, watching you from afar. Matra Dehya and Candace could not help but tease a little.

Relationship: (Bodyguard) Cyno X (Desert Princess) Female Reader

Characters: General Mahamatra Cyno • Matra Dehya (Lionness) • Matra Candace (Priestess) • Prince of Avidya Scaramouche • Avidyan Advisor Il Dottore.

Warnings: None.

Word Count: 1570

Parts: One / Two / Three / Four / Five

➵ ➵ ➵

"So, you're going to explain how you managed to catch Her Highness's heart?"

A whisper.

Cyno whipped his head to find two Matra beside him, one smirking and the other with a knowing smile. He grumbled, "Dehya. Do not."

"Just curious, General."

"We have figured you two have feelings for a while," Candace chuckled. "There is no need to pretend anymore."

The Mahamatra, however, froze. Hushed, he demanded, "Don't tell me word got out to every–."

"Calm yourself, General." The Lionness flapped her hands. "We're not clueless or ignorant as you think. Really offensive if you even think of us like that." He deadpanned in response. She continued, "It's obvious what'll go down if this reaches our King."

"We can assure you your secret is safe."

Cyno could not have asked for better friends. He sighed, crossing his arms. "So?" Dehya pushed in a quiet voice.

The General thought back to the other late afternoon, half a week ago. He could still feel the touch on his lips. His fingers nearly ghosted over as the memory flashed, but he was also aware of prying eyes from his friends, especially the Lionness's.

"It simply happened."

Candace snorted as a soundless laugh shook her body, while Dehya looked offended. "'Simply happened'? What kind of answer is that?" She flickered between her friend and Cyno. "Pretty certain your lovey-dovey moment is a lot more than 'happened.'"

"At ease, Dehya," said Candace, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Careful or the whole throne room will catch us."

Dehya scoffed. "Whatever. Guess our General has other– more shameful– secrets hidden." She glanced in your direction. Then, eyed Cyno. "Today's the day, huh. How're you feeling, General?"

He was well aware of what his friend meant. He sighed, a pained look in his eyes. How could it ever be easy to watch your own lover look into another person's eyes, hold another person's hands, and eventually live their life with them instead of you? The Mahamatra trailed his sights from the floor to you, meeting your eyes and your upset expression.

You were there, yet you were also so far.

Suddenly, a loud rumble of the palace entrance opening cued everyone to positions. Cyno cleared his throat as he, with force, put down his partisan.

Adorn in cream-colored fabrics with gold and auburn linings, you stood from your throne alongside your Father.

As the giant doors widened, light crept into the throne room and a set of men in uniform of forest green and onyx black, presumed to be bodyguards of the Prince, or the Matra's counterparts known as "Rangers."

They were followed by a rather interesting man.

Your posture stiffened as he, who had light blue hair and eyes covered with a mask, entered the throne room. His stature, tall. You were quick to note his unusual clothing compared to the Rangers.

"What in Deshret's name is that man wearing?" Dehya murmured. Candace creased her brows. "Strange. I have traveled to Avidya when I accompanied our merchants before, and this does not suit their culture."

"So you're saying he's from a whole 'nother kingdom? I never even thought there is a place outside of Setekh and Avidya."

"I am sure no one from either kingdom would adorn themselves in such thick animal fur."

"Honored to meet you, King of Avidya. Your Highness all the same." The strange man bowed to you. "My name is Il Dottore, closest advisor of His Highness, whom I may formally introduce to you: Prince Scaramouche of Avidya."

Your hands turned clammy.

Your breathing hastened.

A young man of a shorter, slender figure strolled in.

His locks were indigo, matching his eyes distinguishably outlined in red. You found his clothing bizarre as well. While he was dressed in what would be closer to Avidya fashion, there was also a large amount of purples and reds in his palette, especially in his wide ornamented hat. A long, leafy green, silk veil accompanied him from behind.

"The pleasure is all mine." He put on a smile, bowing.

Cyno felt his jaw tighten.

The King nodded his head. "Prince Scaramouche. I welcome you to the Setekh. I have my faith all is well in your travels?"

"Your concern is appreciated, Your Majesty. Not a single trouble there was."

"I see. Allow me to introduce you my daughter, Princess (Name). Or shall I say, your betrothed." The King signaled in your direction to bow. You nearly scowled.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Prince Scaramouche." You had hesitated in great distaste. It seemed Scaramouche paid no attention to it. He held out his hand, bringing yours as he placed a gentle kiss. "I must say, you look rather stunning, Princess (Name), seeing you dressed in glowing silk."

The Mahamatra found his own eye twitching.

You hummed. "Then, color me impressed to find your subjects in such thick fashion. The Setekh rarely has anyone in thick fabrics. Perhaps, it would do you well to alter yourself in better convenience, my betrothed." A slight swing in your tone, as if to mock.

A Setekhan council member broke into snickers, gathering eyes which forced him to compose himself.

Your Father narrowed his in your direction.

"My, I suppose you do have a point, beloved." Scaramouche's hand twitched. "But I'm afraid us Avidyans take much pride in our culture."

"Then, perhaps the Setekh is not a suitable place–."

The King hastily cleared his throat. "Excuse my daughter's fatigue. It has also been a while since we have had honored guests welcomed into our palace. You must be exhausted yourself. Allow my Matra to guide your way to your chambers."

As the guests began leaving the throne room, Cyno glared, sending daggers toward the Prince. However, you, catching onto his glowering expression, signaled your hand. 'Calm down,' you mouthed.

I could say the same for you. He did not say it though. It was much preferable to him for you to impolite to another man. Cyno huffed, before marching to your side, as always when you were due for slumber.

"Matra Dehya, Candace." The King named, stopping the two from accompanying the guests. Confusion seeped into their faces. "As of tonight, I shall assign you to guard my daughter. Nothing shall get in the way of this wedding."

They bowed. "Understood."

"And you, (Name)." You knew where this was going. "I expect better behavior of you in front of the Prince tomorrow. The future of Setekh is dependent on your relations." Your Father's voice was laced with disappointment, nearly making you feel guilty. "Do you understand?"

You mumbled, "Yes."

"Rest up. You have many plans to fulfill with the Prince"

Silence filled your walk to your chamber. You did not wish to say anything, especially when concerns bounced in your mind. The General Mahamatra stared towards you, equally worried. But it seemed the Lionness had some ideas of her own. "That guy was bizarre."

At least you had someone who loved to speak her mind.

"Hm." Candace hummed. "Il Dottore or Prince Scaramouche?"

"To be honest, both."

"I have to agree. They wear unusual clothing."

"You two noticed as well?" You paused in your tracks. "All of Avidyan merchants who entered Setekh are dressed purely in greens and browns. Occasionally, they would wear black."

"Il Dottore is dressed in a thick coat. Even in Avidya, the weather is much too warm for him to wear such a thing, as I said to these two," Candace pointed out. "I cannot say much about the Prince. He suits Avidyan fashion better than his advisor."

"I have a hypothesis," you slowly voiced.

"You should be cautious, Your Highness. All of us should be." The General Mahamatra crossed his arms. "It could be that the arrangement is tampered by external parties, coroborrating with Avidya."

"Why though?" Dehya questioned. "What are they even getting by uniting Setekh and Avidya? Haven't they always hated us?"

"That is exactly what one of my Father's councilmen said. For many centuries too." You nodded. "Tomorrow, during lunch, both parties are discussing plans for the arrangement. Perhaps things will finally make better sense then."

"If something ever happens–." The Mahamatra jumped quickly to urge you.

"Any harm done to anyone of my palace and Setekh, and those men will not leave unscathed, I promise you that."

"Don't let your guard down, Your Highness," Cyno reminded.

Everyone paused.

"Seriously?" Dehya groaned, hands on her hips.

"Have I said something.. wrong?"

You blinked. Oh, he was serious this time. Suddenly, a laugh jumped out. Even Candace smiled. Dehya's smile was more painful and awkward.

"Would anyone care to enlighten me?"

"The one time..." Your General looked at you confused, as if pleading for an answer. You remained silent this time. For the best, you thought.

"We bid you a good night, Your Highness." Candace smiled.

As the door to your chamber finally shut tightly, Dehya could not stop herself, breaking into snickers. "Our mighty, stoic, fierce General," Dehya wrapped an arm around him, swinging from side to side, "is actually a lover boy. Always ready to jump in for our sweet Princess." She clasped her hands together and imitated the scenario playfully.

She spoke in exaggerated voices, switching between Cyno's deep pitch and yours. "'I will always be there for you, Your Highness.' 'You make me so happy, my General!' 'It makes me jealous that another man is taking you–.'"

"Say another word and you'll be sorry."

Princess and Her Matra | Cyno X (F) Reader (Part III) (Royal AU)

Summary: Forced to accompany Scaramouche to the Royal Garden, many secrets began to seep like venom. You and your General were not ready to hear them.

Relationship: (Bodyguard) Cyno X (Desert Princess) Female Reader

Characters: General Mahamatra Cyno • Prince of Avidya Scaramouche.

Warnings: Suggestive. Mentions of Blood.

Word Count: 2250

Parts: One / Two / Three / Four / Five

➵ ➵ ➵

"Cyno," you sighed, letting your eyelids fall in pleasure.

"You.. you feel so.. good," he rasped, shaky breaths. "Agh, Your High–."

"Say only my," you gasped, "name."

"(Name), (Name)," he repeated between breaths, "I can no longer– Archons– hold myself together–!"

"Please, Cyno, please! Ohhh~." Your moans sent him trembling more. Your hands suddenly crept up the skin of his nape, combing his hair. Your legs wrapped around him. "Do it inside!" That was the final push before he–.

The General Mahamatra shook awake, eyes widened and face deeply flushed. He blinked a couple of times, realizing he had fallen asleep while standing by your chamber. He prayed to the Gods above no one caught him in such a vulnerable state.

He spotted the sun beyond the hall window, setting closer to the horizon. Right. It was the late afternoon. Apparently, you were scheduled to have a private drink with the Prince following the discussion, and you claimed wanting to change your attire.

Except Cyno knew you well enough to figure you wanted a breather after discussing your marital fate.

He was right. Not a single change in dress or accessory when you exited. For a moment, he had to shut his eyes. The dream of his gave him a far more embarrassing feeling than he hoped. When he opened them, he found you scanning around, which piqued his curiosity.

You hummed. "Are Matra Dehya and Candace no longer accompanying me?"

"They were temporarily requested for their presence."

"What a shame."

The General Mahamatra raised a brow. "Is my presence not enough, Your Highness?"

"Well, you could use some humor, maybe sarcasm."

"I am pained you do not find my jokes pun-ny."

"And a sigh leaves my lips." You pinched the bridge of your nose. "I wonder if the Prince himself has better ones."

This might have struck a genuine nerve in the General, who stiffened up, because you instantly paid mind to how he went silent. You turned your head to find a frown plastered on his lips.

Oh. That was your mistake.

You did not mean to make him feel insecure of his own humor. Sometimes, you forgot he took much pride in his jokes, even if they rarely garner a laugh from a crowd.

You paused halfway down the corridor, knowing the Mahamatra had no choice but to follow suit. You glanced toward one way and the opposite. Cyno furrowed his brows, looking concerned, because it seemed like you detected a threat that he shockingly did not.

"Stay close to me, Your Highness." His eyes narrowed as he took on a defensive stance. He then, however, felt the touch of a pair of hands on his chest. Cyno blinked away, slowly meeting your eyes with a perplexed expression.

"No, no. There is nothing wrong, my General." One of your hands went to lower his polearm. "I was only checking to make sure there are no witnesses."

"What are you talking about–?"

The General Mahamatra's breath hitched when your hands circled up his neck and to his head. The sudden touch sent shivers down his spine, and he gulped. His heart pounded against his chest

"Your," he croaked, "Highness."

The sensation felt too close to his dream. To have imagined you bare, the feeling of your breath on his skin, the sound of your breathy moans. He attempted to look away from you. How could he meet your gaze when he, a General, imagined the most obscene things of you, his Princess.

You pulled him down and kissed him on the lips, fingers combing through his hair that brought out a shaky breath. How you adored getting this vulnerable reaction.

He wanted to return the touch.

His hands slowly lifted up, closer and closer to your face.

However, much to his dismay, you pulled yourself away before anyone saw anything. You left him once again flustered, and this time, in a frustrated way. He scowled as his face bore a heavy blush, panting softly. You were playing too many games with him.

Then, down one end of the corridor heard footsteps. You and the General composed yourselves in no time.

"If it isn't my Princess."

This time, you were the one scowling. Rounding the corner was Scaramouche, sneering. "It's time for a private moment of our own, beloved."

"You did not bring along a bodyguard? I expected better caution of you."

"Why ever would I need to? Private moments require isolation. But I suppose you did not reach the same conclusion."

The General frowned.

You narrowed your eyes. "My Father is always worried of me."

"My, you like jumping to conclusions often. To think of me as a–."

"You have forgotten: threats come in other kinds of people, my beloved." Your voice held a mocking tone. "Assassins and thieves are common, you see. So I shall require my guard with me at all times." You stepped in front of the General.

"So you say. How strange, I don't recall having to deal with such pests in Avidya. Perhaps this is an issue among the Setekh people–."

"I believe we shall call off this 'private moment' of ours for the time being, Prince Scaramouche," you snapped. "Sounds like we cannot handle being next to one another."

The young Prince's eye twitched. "Now, now, Princess. Are you not being sensitive right now?"

"Sensitive as I may be, that is your issue. I shall not tolerate a husband who thinks it right to make demeaning assumptions about my people."

He clenched his teeth and gave into an annoyed sigh.

You could only laugh inwardly at how apparent his irritation was.

"My sincere apologies, beloved. It was rather shallow of me. Still, I would like for us to spend time in private. After all, what is a thriving relation without getting to know one another?" Scaramouche extended his hand.

The Mahamatra eyed him. That did not go unnoticed by the Prince. "Perhaps your guard," he snarled, "may accompany you as well."

You hummed, accepting his hand. "I am content to know you see my point of view. Wherever shall we go, beloved?"

"Why not show me this 'Royal Garden' your Father speaks so much of during lunch." He worded it not as a request but as a command. You eyed him with a frown. Immediately replaced with a strained smile, you spoke, "Yes, of course."

You reached the greenhouse, basking in the sunlight's warmth once again. Your eyes briefly lit up at the butterflies passing along, but the presence of an unwanted stranger kept your guard up.

That was a significant reason why you hesitated bringing him here. Now you could not be in the greenhouse without worrying that he might taint the flora.

"Well isn't this beautiful. For a region so assumed to lack life, it seems to flourish." The veil of his hat glistened in the evening light.

"Even the Setekh has its own secretive finds, you know."

Scaramouche eyed a goldpoppy, too closely for your liking. "Oh, I know secrets all right."

You raised a brow in suspicion. "What do you mean by that?"

"Are you always so quick in your judgement? I feel rather hurt to see you so cautious of me, Princess."

"Enough with your act, Prince. I am well aware you despise showing your kindness just as much as I show my hospitality."

No words.

The greenhouse went silent for a moment until you caught the edge of a scowl appearing on his face. "You are truly annoying, Princess. I may detest your kind, but I have done all I can to mend the relations of our kingdoms. I cannot believe this is what I get in return from my own betrothed."

"Do not mistake me for a fool. Something as simple as a 'wife' is not your true goal."

Suddenly, the goldpoppy his palm was caressing withered, shriveling back into its dried, wrinkled form. Your eyes shot wide, and a string snapped in you. "What are you doing–!?" The General was quick to stop from storming too close. "Stop that! My mother planted this garden!" The nearby poppies began to shrivel up the same.

You glared at the General, but his arm remained wrapped around your waist. "You need to keep your distance, Your Highness!" he urged.

You turned your anger back to the Prince. "What have you done to them! Answer me!"

The Prince plucked a dead poppy, spinning it in his fingers. "Calm yourself, beloved. You're overreacting." His indigo eyes flickered to the General. "And you, why don't you release her? It's not like I'm going to harm her."

Cyno only narrowed his eyes, clenching his jaw. His silence said enough.

Scaramouche sighed, raising a hand. "I didn't want to resort to this, Princess." A single flick of the wrist sent the Mahamatra flying back, letting you collapse to the ground. Panicked, you faced your General, who was held up by a set of strings.

He loudly winced. "Argh!" The thin strings pulled back tightly on his skin, beginning to leave small cuts. "Your Highness!" he yelled with seething in his voice. "Get away from him!"

"Cyno!" Your eyes in horror. You turned to face the Prince, picking yourself up. "Release him!"

"Don't be a fool, Your Highness! Forget me–!" Your General groaned in a stinging pain as strings tightened further.

"Enough!" you pleaded, which had gone ignored.

Scaramouche snarled, "Shut your mouth, guard. This is a matter between your Princess and I." He drew a finger up your chin. You tried to slap him off, but another of his strings wrapped around your shoulders, holding you back.

"You're right," he sneered in a mocking whisper. "Why would I go through so much work just to have a useless wife and boring old romance, when I could have so much more?"

He snatched your hand, prompting more struggles from the General. The dead poppy in Scaramouche's hand lifted up to meet your finger. You watched the crazed look infect his smile as the poppy glowed back into its colorful youth.

"So it is true." His hand went up to hold your chin, examining your face while you scowled. "The Setekhan Princess shares the Goddess of Flowers' ability to restore life."

Your brows furrowed. "What?"

He scoffed. "How pathetic. You actually have no idea? You hold the power to bring your useless plants back to life, and you have no idea that you descend from a family blessed by the Goddess of Flowers?

"What does that have to do with this marriage?! Is the Avidya dying? Is it resurrection you seek?" You had lost all your patience.

He laughed. "My dearest beloved. You being blessed by the Goddess of Flowers means to me you have the power to call a Jinni, the key to entering the Eternal Oasis. To be granted with the very power which can rival a God."

Beads of sweat trickled down your face. "You would find me nothing more than useless. I know nothing of calling a 'Jinni' more than I know my family being blessed by Nabu Malikata."

Scaramouche narrowed his eyes. "Then, it would mean 'nothing' to keep your precious guard alive."

Your eyes widened as he curled his fingers together, making more cuts on the General's skin. He yelled, wincing and struggling to move. He was panting and groaning loudly.

"No! Let him go!"

No response from the Prince as he kept his eyes on strangling the Mahamatra.

"Please!"

Nothing.

"I will summon the Jinni! Just let him go!"

Finally, Scaramouche wafted his hand, releasing the strings. Cyno dropped onto the ground, panting. "Good girl," he mocked. "That better be the case, my beloved."

The General, fueled with anger, picked up his partisan.

"Watch yourself, dog, or we're going to have more trouble. I kept my word: your Princess is unharmed." The Prince strolled away, leaving the greenhouse. "In two days' time during the evening all the same. Stand me up and your guard's won't be the only one caught up in this mess."

The fury dissipated the moment Cyno laid his eyes on you, who was also released from the strings. He ran to your side, arms wrapped around your form.

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry." Heavy breaths left his lungs. "I should've taken you away the moment things became tense." His voice sounded strained, full of guilt. "I didn't realize– Archons." Cyno's embraced tightened, cursing himself again and again.

Tears pooled in your eyes. You sat silently, burying your face in his shoulder. The scent of blood shot your eyes open, and you pulled back. "Cyno– your wounds!"

"It's nothing, Your Highness. I wouldn't have been the General if I couldn't handle the pain."

A pained look took your eyes. "You said the same thing about being quick on your feet, and look at you. Do not get too cocky, Cyno." Your hand caressed his cheek. Then, a white light slowly glowed along his cuts.

"You are lucky this 'blessing' of mine can heal. I truly had no idea I was blessed by Nabu Malikata. I thought I was simply born with it."

Cyno leaned closer to your hand, eyes closed. "You should be much more careful, Your Highness. This 'Jinni' and 'Eternal Oasis' he spoke of could be a catalyst for something far worse."

You sighed. Thoughts ran through your mind for a way out of this. A hum emitted. "I may have read something about it in the palace library. But they sounded more like legends I never believed it." You recalled his ulterior motives. A cold shiver ran down your spine, as you realized: "Scaramouche aims to become a God."

Princess and Her Matra | Cyno X (F) Reader (Part IV) (Royal AU)

Summary: Sanity slipped from Scaramouche as you, kneeling on the floor, retaliated against his desire to enter the Eternal Oasis. You, carried in the arms of your loyal General Mahamatra, must put an end to the Prince's enraged assault on Setekh.

Relationship: (Bodyguard) Cyno X (Desert Princess) Female Reader

Characters: General Mahamatra Cyno • Matra Dehya (Lionness) • Matra Candace (Priestess) • Prince of Avidya Scaramouche • Avidyan Advisor Il Dottore • Liloupar the Jinni.

Warnings: Minor Character Death.

Word Count: 3070

Parts: One / Two / Three / Four / Five

➵ ➵ ➵

"You're telling us in the one time we were tasked with not watching over you, the Prince held our General Mahamatra hostage, nearly killed him, and coerced you to call this 'magical spirit' to enter some kind of Oasis?"

Dehya gaped in utter shock, while Candace, concerned. Before the latter inquired, you interjected while flipping through pages of a book.

"No, I have not informed my Father yet."

"With all due respect, Your Highness, you should. For one, you have a good reason to get your wedding called off. Two, send them away!" Dehya cracked her knuckles. "I've been waiting to get rid of those numbskulls. Did you see how they've been treating us? We Matra may be soldiers, but calling us 'dogs' is low." She turned to Candace for validation of her point.

The latter, however, noticed your reservation. "Your Highness?"

In your thoughtful silence, Cyno answered, "Her Highness is worried about her people. The whole point of our King agreeing to the arrangement is to save Setekh from dehydration. Knowing the Avidya's malicious intention now, the Prince himself threatened to harm the Setekh if anyone hears of this."

He crossed his arms. "And knowing how he managed to have me tied up so easily, I doubt he was bluffing."

"Don't think we should be giving into his egotism though," Dehya remarked. "He's probably going to assume control of Setekh regardless of whether he enters the Eternal Oasis."

"Do not worry," you assured, speaking up again. "I have a plan."

"I believe it has something to do with that book?"

You nodded. "I have read about the legend of the Eternal Oasis. I do not remember ever it saying the realm grants a God's power." Flipping through the pages. "Though, I do recall reading this Jinni shares a notable power of its own."

"I am guessing that's the 'magical spirit' you were talking about," said Dehya.

"The Jinni had served under the Goddess of Flowers, or Nabu Malikata. Only listens to those worthy, which I assume is whoever is blessed by the Goddess herself." You finally reached the page.

Scanning the words, your fingers paused on an interesting detail. "Just as the Jinni is cautious with its master, the gateway to the Eternal Oasis opens only to those whose heart is deemed worthy," you murmured to yourself.

Suddenly.

You heard loud thuds beyond the library doors, hurrying down the corridor, as if panicked.

You recognized them as footsteps.

"Did something happen outs–?"

A voice boomed, muffled through the door. "The Prince has gone mad!" You also recognized that sound as one of the Matra.

"Defend our King!" shouted another.

Blood ran cold as you picked yourself from the seat, hands on the table. "Father? What's going on?" Your breath became shallow.

All four of you bolted out the library, straight to the throne room. It had not been three days since his arrival, yet somehow, your fiancé had caused unnerving trouble.

There was a dispute. Your eyes darted from the crumbling sandstone pillars to the shredded banners on the walls. Then to the Avidyan Prince, surrounded by his angry Rangers. "You're no Prince of ours!" one Ranger screamed, directing their spear at the young man. "You must be the reason why Lady Rukkhadevata, went missing! You monster!" yelled another.

Dehya was bewildered. "Rangers rebelling against their own Prince?"

"Fools!" Scaramouche seethed, tying up the Avidyan soldiers in his strings. "Completely absurd. You dare disrespect your one and true Prince!? You should be bowing to me!"

One Ranger prepared his bow, his brows furrowed and tall black ears folding back. "As if! You're no Prince of ours if you wanted nothing to do with our forests! We have always taken pride in keeping Avidya alive, yet you are bold enough to tell us to let it wither!" The arrow shot through, but Scaramouche cut it up into pieces with his strings.

Another Ranger leaped up behind him and threw her boomerang.

"Silence!" However, his hand sent her flying back onto the ground with a loud thump. The Prince pulled a set of strings around the Fennec, strangling his throat.

"Your Highness!" Your head turned to find one of your Matra running to you. "You must leave! Run away for your own sake–." His sentence barely finished as Scaramouche cut his body up. The pieces dissipating to blood-red dust. Your eyes widened in horror. Cyno, Dehya, and Candace attempted to retreat you, but Scaramouche sensed your presence.

He eyed you with a crazed smile. "Looks like you're on time, Princess." A sudden movement of his wrist and the strings were attached to you. He yanked you to him.

This prompted the General Mahamatra to shout, leaping to grab ahold of you. "Your Highness!" But more cutting strings appeared, caging he and the other two outside.

"I demand to see my Father! Where is he!?"

"Under close care of my advisor. So there is no need to worry, dear." He held your chin, mocking you.

"Do not lay a finger on him. Or anyone!" You gritted. "What have my people done to you? What have your own done to you?"

"What have they done?" he laughed, turning his back to you. "They failed to know their place." The strings pulled everyone in the throne room up, hanging them on the walls like flies trapped in a web. "I am your true King. Your true God with powers beyond your understanding."

All except you.

"But not enough for you fools to respect me, is that right?" His head snapped back to you, stomping back to your kneeling figure. The Prince snarled. "So you better call that Jinni of yours, or one snap will kill them all."

"You're wasting precious time, Scaramouche." Il Dottore scoffed, stepping in the perimeter. "Slice their heads off them all already. We only require the girl for the Oasis."

"If you choose to kill them all," you picked up a fallen arrow and brought it up to your neck, "I shall end myself as well!"

"(Name)!" Cyno yelled. "What are you doing, (Name)?!"

"Your Highness, our lives are not worth it!"

"We Rangers are not worth your sacrifice!"

"The Setekh needs you!"

Yet your resolve remained.

"Do you dare to gamble with my death, your only chance of reaching the Eternal Oasis?"

"You." Scaramouche's form shuddered as he laughed maniacally.

He laughed.

And laughed.

To the point even you were concerned.

"Haha! You truly are bold, Princess!" He laughed. "To think that these pathetic subjects cared about you so so," Scaramouche swung his hand across your face, "much!" His expression went from laughter to a dangerous scowl.

"How could they worship such a pathetic weakling like you?!" he screamed, slapping your face once more.

This time, you had enough. You etched the arrowhead into your skin, drawing a trickle of blood.

"Enough, Scaramouche!" Il Dottore interjected.

The Prince stopped his hand from throwing another hit.

"Do you, or do you not want to become a God." The question, or more so statement, made the Prince falter. "Hit the girl again," Il Dottore's tone dripped with venom, "and I shall cast you aside as your Creator had done before."

His hand dropped to his side. His knees onto the floor.

And suddenly, the strings on everyone were released.

You closed your eyes, lowering the arrowhead. You heaved, releasing some pressure on your lungs. "I command everyone to leave the palace grounds... Matra, evacuate all Setekhans to Avidya. I urge for the Rangers to provide temporary shelter."

You added, "..Immediately."

Although the named and injured councilmen passed a worrisome glance in your direction, everyone opted to follow your word and flee the throne room.

"General," the Lionness called out.

"Leave me be. Whatever the circumstances, I cannot abandon Her Highness."

The Priestess intercepted, "Then, we shall help you as well."

"No, I have always served as her protector. You two heard her: evacuate the people."

Candace bit her lip and nodded. "Defend our Princess."

"We have released your people. Time is ticking, so you better do what you must, girl." You glared upon Il Dottore's sharp-toothed sneer, carnivorous and predatory. You wanted to fling your hand to his nose.

One glimpse to the side and you found your General. His hand gripping his partisan while positioned defensively. You showed him a weak smile, a sign you knew more than you led on.

You faced forth the thrones, worn away from the chaos ensued while standing tall. You slowly clasped your hands and closed your eyes once again. "Strewing flowers along a path, that which is blessed by the gentle Nabu Malikata herself," you recalled from the book. "I call upon thee, Jinni, to seek my heart's wealth."

All of a sudden...

A blinding light illuminated the throne room, capturing the insatiable eyes of Il Dottore and Scaramouche. A spiral of brilliance glowed before halting in front of you. A brighter flash prompted you to cover your eyes until it dimmed into a bottle. Or perhaps, a bulb made from glass. There was a violet cap on top and a distinguished golden glow inside. For a moment, it trembled, danced frantically until a voice echoed.

"Who has called upon the powers of a Jinni?"

You prayed you were aware of whatever fate you were pulling yourself into. There was a sense of hesitation: "It is I, Princess (Name) of Setekh."

It audibly gasped. "It is a great honor to encounter another member of the Setekhan Royal Family. I shall introduce myself, Your Highness. It is I, Liloupar."

"Enough stalling," Il Dottore interrupted. "I demand you Jinni to bring forth the Eternal Oasis."

In a shade of red, the bottle shook violently. "How audacious of you. I only listen to the commands of those who are worthy and one alone. Who are you to dare order me in front of Setekh's Princess? Oh, I understand. Indeed, you are nothing more but an outlander."

Il Dottore scowled. "Hold your end of the bargain up, Princess."

You rolled your eyes, before facing the Jinni. "Liloupar," you spoke in a gentle voice. "I request of you to show us the entrance to the Eternal Oasis. I entrust you to reveal a heart's truth." For a minute, Liloupar only appeared to stare at you. You felt as if the Jinni was pondering. "Very well," Liloupar hummed. "As you wish, Master."

As the bottle danced in the air, a gateway appeared before them. This garnered a malicious smile from Il Dottore. Scaramouche wasted no time pushing you aside as he hurried to the entrance, only to learn:

He could not pass through.

Stunned, his breathing quickened.

"What is this?"

Panicked.

"Why can I not enter?"

His hands began slamming onto the gateway, like an invisible wall existed there. Liloupar lowered itself into your arms' embrace, vibrating in prideful satisfaction.

"What is going on, Scaramouche? Move along!" Il Dottore reprimanded. "After every resource poured into this project, not another second should be wasted. The Prodigal cannot obtain its full potential without a God's power!"

Enraged.

"Open your eyes! Are you so blind to not see what I am doing?" snarled the Prince. His eyes flickered to yours, violent and crazed. He seethed, "You find this amusing, do you not? Daring to play your absurd games and tricks against me, Princess?" Electricity began to conduct as the floors shook. Sand from the ceilings themselves fell. You tried standing to your feet, but your balance faltered. A voice bellowed:

"I am going to end you all!"

"(Name)!" Cyno grabbed you by your wrist and yanked, ushering you away from the palace. "The palace is no longer safe. We must retreat to the Avidya!"

"Archons!" you cursed. "Is there no end to this tantrum of his?!"

The second you and Cyno touched the final flight of steps, a deafening and thunderous sound quaked the Setekh. You peeked behind to discover that Scaramouche had transformed into an enormous mechanical puppet, demolishing half of your palace in the process. His height as tall as thrice the palace.

Sandstone debris and boulder-like chunks toppled down, nearly colliding into you if it were not for your General wrapping an arm around your waist, picking and carrying you up in his arms. "Hold onto me, Your Highness!"

You yelped, panicking as the Prodigal swung a hand down in your direction. "Cyno! Above us!"

Cyno leapt out of the way as the hand smashed right into many homes and buildings, crumbling them all to dust. Your stomach churned in a sickening feeling, and you prayed to Deshret the Matra evacuated everyone on time.

"Never in my years of serving my masters have I experienced such troublesome events," Liloupar trembled.

"From your right!"

Cyno jumped to the left, avoiding a scorching beam from obliterating you. "Not only his hands!?" You grimaced upon how the Prodigal occupied a wide range of offense. "You cannot outrun him, even if we reach the Avidya!"

"I have my duty to protect you. Until I entrust you under the care of the other Matra, I cannot simply stop when your life is endangered!" he yelled. His amber eyes gazed down into yours. For a brief moment, his features softened up.

You instantly broke contact when a shadow overcasted his features.

"Cyno!" you screamed, tugging on his shoulder. "Above you!"

The Prodigal's hand began to fall with a heavy force. Your General gritted his teeth. His mind came to terms with the unlikeliness of outrunning the strike area, yet his legs pushed further. A booming sound echoed as the edge of the hand pounded into the sand. Your fingertips dug into your palms as you urged, "Cyn–!"

The Prodigal's fingertips were right above you. You felt the wind knocked out of your lungs as your General hurled you tumbling forward. You fell with a weighted thud. The impact casting sand and spinning your head into a migraine.

"Urgh."

Accompanied with a terrible high-pitched ringing in your ears.

"Aurgh."

An awful groan left your throat, leaving you to cough up some sand. Your throat had gone dry when you realized. "No." You screamed his name, "Cyno! You did not dare–."

You witnessed his figure vanish as the Prodigal's hand made full contact with the ground. A disastrous earthquake rumbled Setekh from the force, and a huge gust of wind nearly blinded you with sand.

You found yourself hyperventilating.

Your blood ran cold.

Practically gasping in and out.

You could not move.

Dread painted your eyes.

"This cannot be happening."

You faced down, vision blurry by the second as hot tears trickled down. "Cyno. Cyno." You tried running to him, but your legs were too weak. "Cyno. No. This cannot be happening. Please. Please!" Your hands clenched tightly and you shut your eyes. Voice caught in your throat, feeling like you were going to choke. "Please! No. You said you would protect me no matter what."

Liloupar left your arms, glowing brighter. "Master!"

You slowly opened your eyes again.

And trailed up front.

Your General.

A breath heaved out. More tears fell over your smile. You sighed again out of pure relief, shutting your eyes, "Thank Deshret." Opening up again, confusion soon overtook your features instead.

"Cyno?"

A violet hue shone from the electricity crackling underneath the puppet hand. As the murky fog began to fade, you distinguished another figure, large as the hand trying to crumble them. Only this time, you discovered a pair of claws and tall ears. All in violet and gold.

Your eyes widened.

"Hermanubis?"

The figure's claws shoved the Prodigal's hand off them, another gust of sand hitting your way. Cyno was still there, but the colors around his headdress– which enlarged into some form of a hood or mask– lit up in synchronization with the figure that seemed to possess him.

"Cyno is Hermanubis?"

"No, not himself," Liloupar corrected. "It appears he is a current holder of the Great Priest Hermanubis' power. 'How' he obtained such power is beyond my knowledge." You pursed your lip and huffed, your strength returning to pick yourself up. "There is no time to ponder now. I must help him."

This had the bottle frantically shaking. "But Master! Your own safety comes before his!"

"Liloupar." Your resolve remained strong. "I wish to help him."

The Jinni merely sighed. "Perhaps it is time for me to conduct use of my other assets."

A voice reverberated from inside the Prodigal.

"Unsightly insects!" His hand swung at Hermanubis, who leapt onto the arm and bolted up to strike the head. Scaramouche seethed, "Keep your claws off of me, animal!"

He attempted to snatch Hermanubis off, but the latter jumped to the shoulder and landed another heavy strike to the puppet's spine. Catching him off guard, the Prodigal nearly fell forward.

Another to the head.

Across the face.

Until Scaramouche screamed, enraged.

"Worthless humans should be bowing down to your God!"

He hurled Hermanubis down onto the sand. Giving no time to recover from the impact, the Prodigal ignited a blast. The energy revving from within.

SHATTERS!

Scaramouche audibly hitched his breath as a needle practically stabbed him through the heart. His sights fell to the very Princess he despised, standing in his way. You smirked.

"There's more to me than smile-and-waves!"

You aimed another arrow to the chest. The bow you carried being a metamorphosed Liloupar. "Leave Setekh alone!" Releasing in an instant, the arrowhead struck the heart, pieces of glass breaking off from its outer casing. His emanating power briefly faltered. The Hermanubis figure picked themselves from the sand, their glowing white eyes staring upon you.

"Cyno! Strike the heart!"

The figure silently nodded, leaping back onto the puppet's arm again.

Scaramouche became more agitated. "No!" The Prodigal tried to swing him off, but Hermanubis clutched on, who propelled himself up to thrust a powerful lightning bolt to the puppet's chest. The entirety of the heart case shattered into thousands of pieces.

An energy wave bursted in response.

The puppet began to collapse, but Scaramouche, in his final chance of retaliation, shot a beam in your direction. "I refuse to be brought down alone!" he yelled.

Hermanubis, or rather Cyno, darted to you. Their glowing eyes widened. Their claws dug into the sand and vaulted themselves in desperation to grasp you.

Time slowed down in this very moment.

Hermanubis wrapped you into their claws, right before the light blinded you.

Princess and Her Matra | Cyno X (F) Reader (Part V) (Royal AU)

Summary: Your physical confrontation against the Prodigal, possessed by Scaramouche, ended on a relieving note.

Relationship: (Bodyguard) Cyno X (Desert Princess) Female Reader

Characters: General Mahamatra Cyno • False Prince of Avidya Scaramouche • Lord of Avidya Kusanali (Nahida) • Undercover Scribe of Avidya Al-Haitham.

Warnings: Suggestive.

Word Count: 2790

Parts: One / Two / Three / Four / Five

➵ ➵ ➵

An explosion...

A deafening rumble...

Expecting a hard tumble, your eyes shut tight.

Your back hit into some kind of wall.

And you expected a harsher impact, but you no longer sensed any movement.

You could hear yourself panting, afraid of facing wounds or damage. Finally, you peeked through your eyelids.

Hermanubis was above you, their claws held you gently and whose eyes narrowed in a softer way. This felt surreal. Before, you had only heard of powers that summoned a figure in fantastical books, but never witnessed. The violet hue of the Hermanubis figure was transparent, holographic even, so through them, the skies were still visible.

Dawn was beginning to rise.

However, the scattered fog of sand and dust from what felt closely to an eruption of a volcano remained in the air.

Liloupar tugged on your neck. It metamorphosed into a necklace, the tiny bottle charm twittering. Silent, yet you could imagine all the things being said: "This is atrocious!" "How could an outlander dare to wreck massive destruction?" "What in Nabu Malikata's name!"

You glanced down and found their summoner, Cyno. The light gold eyes of his headdress closed as he panted heavily himself. Sighing in relief, you crawled over the large claws. "Cyno," your voice muffled through the matter. "Cyno." You rested a palm on the holographic claw. As if you were holding his hand too. "I am unharmed."

He finally gazed in your direction and visibly relaxed.

"(Name)."

"You spoke my name for once." A breathy laugh escaped. "You could have informed me you bear Hermanubis's power. How have I not known after years of knowing you? Or rather, how could you not tell me earlier?"

"There hadn't been any need for me too. If I were to show you my full strength, Your Highness, I'm afraid your palace would not be standing to this day."

"Afraid it is inevitable despite so." You hummed. "Now, let me down, General."

Hermanubis gently lowered their claws until your feet reached the sand. The figure disappeared, retreating into the General's body. You rushed to Cyno and cupped his cheeks. "Are you injured?" You examined his features in worry, though not much could be seen with his headdress hiding his upper face. Violet energy streaks flickering from it.

"Few wounds but nothing more than that. I am the General Mahamatra." The shallow cuts that struck his shoulder blades and face, especially down on his legs, slowly closed up. Your touch giving a remedial and comforting feeling.

"You say that time and time again. I doubt I can truly bring a life back, you know. If a horrible fate catches you, my eyes would not be able to stand it."

"Does it make me all the more 'eye-catching' if it hasn't?"

"You–." A sigh escaped your lips.

He could sense your stare.

As well as a touch lingering from his cheeks to his shoulders. "..Are my injuries truly all you are checking, Your Highness?"

Now you sensed amusement in his tone. "..Whatever do you mean?"

"If I am not mistaken, I may assume you are entranced by my appearance. More so than ever."

"Am not. Only surprised." You huffed, averting your eyes. "Do not confuse that in your head, General."

"With all due respect, Your Highness, you shouldn't get 'a-head' of yourself either." Cyno husked, stepping closer to you, "You may have amused yourself with my reactions those times before, but let's not forget other instances where you hid behind your hands, full of fluster."

You gulped.

CREAAAK!

A loud creak startled the both of you into backing up. Your hand instinctively reached for Liloupar, hanging on your neck.

But you stopped.

The fog had only now dissipated, revealing the damaged Prodigal's torso by the palace steps. His hand fell right by you. It made you shiver upon the tremendous height of this puppet.

His presence was not all.

Floating high in front of him, there was an unusual light emitting. You in your tattered dress and Cyno among his battered body ran closer and spotted a–. "Girl?" You stopped halfway of the distance.

The light resembled close to the hue of leaves from the Avidyan forests. The young girl dressed in white silk, covered in linings the color of ferns. Her hair was similarly white, and by the glance of her legs and outstretched hand, her complexion seemed pale. Emeralds crowned all around her head to behind her fairy-like ears.

Is she some form of a fairy? Another figure whom you thought were from mere legends?

"No!" You heard a bellowed scream. "I refuse to be taken back there! I refuse to go back to Inazuma! Do you hear me?! I am your Prince! I am your God! Show your respect!"

"Whether you are a God or not, I cannot simply permit you to trespass the livelihoods of innocent people," the young girl spoke. "Both the Avidya and the Setekh do not deserve your cruel definition of authority and power." A small figure, resembling a chess piece, was casted from the puppet's heart.

"Must be his source of energy," said Cyno to you.

"No! Enough! You cannot be doing this to me!" Desperation seeped in Scaramouche's voice.

Sorrow flashed in the young girl's eyes. "You have mistaken one crucial detail: Gnoses do not grant anyone a God's power. It may have enough energy to sustain your mechanical puppet, but as you witness yourself, it is not enough." The "Gnosis" was captured into her hand. Another crackle of electricity sparked around the fallen puppet, before it made its way to a complete death, Scaramouche hanging from the threads attached to inside the head like a doll.

A puppet.

"I have chosen not to return you to Inazuma, but instead, I shall make it my responsibility to show you another way– that you need no God's power to express your true value."

No voice emitted from the man.

A visible wince on your face. You could have felt empathetic, if not for the wrecked destruction on Setekh.

"You must be the Princess of Setekh."

You were startled by the voice appearing right in front of you. Cyno himself becoming wary, and he immediately jumped to pull you behind him.

"I apologize. I never mean to scare you." A gentle smile on her lips. Your face-to-face interaction allowed you to see your clover-like eyes. Everything about this young girl shared a close resemblance with the forest.

You tapped on your General's shoulder, asking him to stand down. "Do not worry," whispered you. After a moment, he gave a quiet nod.

"Who.. are you?"

"I am aware I have not appeared in many centuries, but I can infer your family knows very well of my predecessor, Lord of Avidya, Rukkadevata."

Your eyes widened. "You.. are her descendant?"

"Not necessarily." She laughed. "I am but a branch of her. She expended her strength to remove the Withering from Avidya. Then I came to be as a small child." She then frowned. "However, as he attempted in your palace, Scaramouche and his advisor, Il Dottore, took advantage of my weakened state to overthrow the Avidyan authority. They went through the lengths of manipulating my council once they locked me in a cage."

"Their clothing suggests they do not originate from Avidya..?"

"You are correct. They serve under the authority of Snezhnaya, another kingdom full of frigid winters far north."

"What is this.. 'Inazuma' you and he spoke of then?"

"Scaramouche's birthplace. Or rather Kunikuzushi's birthplace. That is his real name before his affiliation with Snezhnaya gave him, 'Scaramouche the Balladeer.' With that, he also obtained his power of enacting death, stealing life or energy. He will be taken under my care."

You connected that his falter of resolve back then with Il Dottore had to do with his history in Inazuma.

"Out of curiosity, how did you manage to escape?"

The girl smiled a proud one. "I have my subjects to thank. You must meet my dearest Rangers. Ranger Kaveh is indeed a true genius behind mechanisms and his lovely architecture."

"..."

She took your hand in hers, much smaller than yours. "I apologize. This must be overwhelming for you."

You shook your head. "It is simply because I have never heard of even other kingdoms or regions than.. Setekh and Avidya. You may be surprised, but books are not commonly seen here as much as they do in Avidya." You turned your gaze to the Prodigal. "And seeing this.. opened my eyes to technology unbeknownst to my people."

"We do have many trees in our region. I shall take it upon myself to transport many books from our libraries, especially as a portion of compensation for this mess."

You smiled. "Hold on, I never caught your name?"

"Simply refer to me as 'Kusanali.' My full title being 'Lord Kusanali.'"

"Enchanted to meet you, Lord Kusanali. I am (Name)– Princess (Name)."

"All the same to you, Princess (Name). I assure you I aim to resolve conflict between our kingdoms. I shall undo the troubles of my council and reopen the flowing streams into Setekh again. I apologize for such events happening under my authority."

"Thank you." Your irises softened.

Suddenly, your body jolted in realization– blood running cold but not in the face of a threat. A curse slipped out. You immediately rushed to the palace steps. Your General, alarmed by your run-off, quickly bowed his head in Lord Kusanali's regard– who chuckled– before he followed you.

"My Father!"

"The palace grounds are unstable, Your Highness!"

"How can I be careful for myself when my Father must be in danger!? In pain!?" You cried, "How could I have forgotten about him?!"

You reached the top of the flights when you heard two voices. One of which gave a familiar bellowing laugh. "You are quite an intriguing one, are you not boy?"

"Depends on what you find about me intriguing." You saw a tall man with silver hair with a contraption over his one ear. He crossed his arms. "Is it the fact that you never had anyone speak to you in such a casual, blunt manner? Or is it simply because I chose to act against my superiors by terminating the machine's flow of energy into the–?"

"Father!"

The King, who kneeled on the disturbed floor of the throne room, glanced over his shoulder with nothing more than a smug smile on his lips. "I recognize that sound anywhere. About time you are! I nearly believed you had wholly forgotten about me." Happy as you were seeing his change of demeanor, you jumped to embrace him. You had missed his light-hearted side from before the marriage dilemma. The King– though he joked– felt a wave of relief washing over him. "No words can describe how eased I am to hear you safe, my daughter. There is no more forcing you through the wedding." He spotted the warrior standing at the wrecked entrance. "I wager the General Mahamatra himself need be awarded my thanks once again."

"It is a duty I intend to honor."

"It brings me a great deal of pride I chose you to protect my daughter."

The General smiled and nodded.

You narrowed your eyes at the Mahamatra. "You knew my Father is alive and well, did you not?"

"Perhaps."

"No wonder you seemed so awfully calm," you scoffed upon his playful tone. "All while I hurried here cursing myself." You turned to your Father. "Are you fine yourself, Father? I was worried that man Il Dottore had done something horrifying. Why are you simply kneeling in the throne room? And who in Deshret's name may this be?" Your hand signaled to the silver-haired man, always wearing an apathetic face.

"Awful lot of questions, Your Highness," he remarked. "Al-Haitham, one mere Ranger of the Avidya if you failed to assume by my attire."

"Are you not a councilman?"

"Oh?" His brow quirked. "Color me surprised you noticed. I am in fact a Scribe to the Avidyan Royalty. However, concealing my occupation as a pawn of war brings less trouble when it comes to obtaining secretive information. So-called 'Prince Scaramouche' and Il Dottore never truly suspected my intents. Your King had been abducted in order to extract knowledge of the Eternal Oasis. To be frank, I find such decision useless when the saying they spoke of mentioned the 'Setekhan Princess' alone."

You checked your Father's features again, concerned.

"Your King sensed the presence of the Eternal Oasis and wished to kneel here. He refused my offer of taking him to a physician, despite being pale. Either Setekh lacks gratuitous healthcare– even for the King himself– or the trait of being reckless and ignorant of your health runs in the family." Al-Haitham scoffed. "I have heard many things from your maids down the corridor."

You huffed. "We simply place our people's well-being above our own."

"You cannot expect yourself to do that if you are unwell. In truth, I do not actually care what your reasons are," he said, "but I find it best to know the outcome is intentional than unexpected. Just informing you, Your Highness."

"..."

The older man spoke up, "(Name)? The Eternal Oasis was here, was it not? You opened the entrance, did you?"

"..I only agreed to for the sake of our people. I am aware.. the Matra are here to protect us, but I cannot bring myself to sacrifice them. Besides," you paused, "the False Prince and his Advisor are incapable of entering."

"Incapable?"

"Only those who are worthy may enter."

Cyno quirked an eyebrow and smiled. He figured you must have taken it from the book. The King pondered thoughtfully. "Your mother.. I sensed her presence here."

You widened your eyes. "Mother? How do you sense her? Why would she ever be–?" "My Deshret, (Name)." He crossed his arms. "You did not truly believe every of those men's word, did you?"

"Whatever do you mean?" Awfully confused you were.

"Your Mother and I knew each other very well, so do not dare question my intuition, child." He pointed a finger. "A simple feeling has enlightened me to the idea that maybe..."

"The Eternal Oasis is not a realm granting a God's power," you gasped. "Rather, it may be a burial ground."

"It is only an idea." He scratched his beard. "I do not dare enter.. in the case I am wrong. After all, I know nothing more than what I was told. In fact, I never knew your ability to heal was a blessing from the Goddess of Flowers. Nevertheless, I am well– merely kneeling in my own peace."

You sighed, extending your palm to Al-Haitham. The Avidyan Scribe raised a brow in skepticism– so did your General– but accepted his palm into yours regardless. "Before I forget..." Both of your hands wrapped around his warmly. "Thank you."

There was an audible silence. You did not notice it yourself, but the tip of his one open ear had tinted a rosy hue. That and how he briefly averted his gaze, thinking a fallen chunk of the far wall rather interesting.

The General Mahamatra, unamused, crossed his arms.

"Calm down," Al-Haitham said. "I am only caught off-guard. I would not dare of dreaming to steal the Mahamatra's love of his life he accompanies day-and-night and calls, 'Her Highness.'"

In an instant, Cyno's eyes widened. Shoulders visibly stiffening.

"Or even, '(Name).'"

You gaped, more so your Father who immediately pointed upon your General, shaking his hand and stuttering. "Y-You!?" he exclaimed. "Y-You've wished t-to court my daughter!? And already on a forename basis!?"

So much for peace. You slapped a palm to your head.

An entertained smirk tugged on Al-Haitham's lips. An evil glint in his irises, even. "Oh, I forgot to mention: I have also heard plenty of rumors about that from your maids, Your Highness. Especially of such an endearing moment in the Royal Garden. Or how some overheard your name being chanted by the General Mahamatra himself in his quarters. Seems like you two have been at it for a while now."

Your head snapped to the man of the hour. Now, you were also shocked. My name? From him? In his quarters!

Cyno, stunned and his entire face deepened in embarrassment, clenched his polearm hard. He did not dare to meet your eyes, you being aware of his activities. He cursed himself.

Thunderous, your Father bursted out loud. "What nerve! Right under my nose!" He practically roared, "General Mahamatra Cyno! You better explain yourself!"

Cyno– despite being so terribly intimidating and vengeful to his enemies (or anyone who intended to harm you)– silently and comically hid behind you in face of the King as you frantically tried to calm your Father down.