[ Thoma never expected Childe to want to go with him to the point of sounding... disappointed? ]
Ah, don't be like that! Festivals are a lot more fun when you go with someone you care about, and I would love to be the person who shows you around and gives you a good time.
I doubt that you would love to spend the festival with me seeing as you tried to give me reason to not take you.
[ he's gonna stay petty, sorry. ]
But I'm not going to be here for too long and I would rather experience the best of everything the festival has to offer. Anyway, you'll always have other festivals to take whoever you want.
[ just get to the point for the love of Celestia — ]
[ so it's like That, huh!! but it's alright. Thoma is Determined to make sure Childe loses that insecurity and has as much fun as possible. ]
You won't regret it! We'll have the best time together. And it's not just because I want you to believe me, but because I also know I'd have the best time with you.
[ and he's ready to prove it. ]
I hope you'll be ready to eat lots, and get blown away by all the intricate masks and art pieces on display! I was also thinking, if you want to fit in more, we can get you fitted in an outfit that's more Inazuman? Unless you're more comfortable in your gear! That's fine, too.♪
[ it doesn't matter how much Childe teases him or challenges his abilities - Thoma is already envisioning the end of the night, with the fireworks and looking over to see his friend's face and maybe seeing a smile... ]
I was thinking red, but maybe we can go green and blue this time around? To match the color of our eyes, if that's not too corny~ We'll be like the colors of the sea. And let's go together! I'll get us a great deal - the owner is a good friend.
[ plus, Childe's dark red hair in the midst of all the blue will look ever so soft in the festival lights... ]
Did you also want to get a special mask, since you're used to having one that's customized for you?
[ everywhere they go, Thoma seems to be well-liked by the people they come across... whoever he ends up dating is going to have a difficult time not getting jealous. not that Childe would ever worry about such a thing since he's definitely not thinking about what it would be like to date Thoma. ]
Alright, we can go along with your idea since it sounds like you really thought this through. Hm, do the types of masks hold some sort of symbolism?
There are plenty of people who dislike me, if that's what you mean? And many more who feel apathetic towards me, I'm sure! It may just seem like I have many friends, but I suppose it's because I've grown used to using that word loosely... to cover a multitude of relationships.
And before you say anything, you definitely are my friend. But I have to be careful around those who'll be more sensitive. Some people like to use me for connections and I'm alright with that, so long as I know I can depend on them in return! But they also don't want the reminder that that's not exactly what friendship means. Does that make sense?
[ it sure is nice of Childe to think of him in such a way though... ]
They do! Depending on which you get, but the most popular around these parts is probably the kitsune mask. And dare I say, kitsune in general fits you nicely. You're cunning and curious and friendly, but also un-tameable. Doesn't that sound like you?♪
[ it confuses Childe to hear that plenty of people dislike Thoma. surely he's exaggerating... although it makes some sense that those who dislike the housekeeper are threatened by his closeness to the Kamisato family, therefore envious of his social position more than anything. ]
You do seem like the type who would call someone a friend upon your first meeting. And I wasn't about to ask such a question... but thank you for clarifying.
[ although he was wondering about it to himself. ]
I do like making friends wherever I go.
[ mostly people he can spar with. ]
How charming. Then I should get one of those kitsune masks for myself. So what will you be wearing to the festival?
I understand... it makes me seem rather facetious, doesn't it? It's one of the insecurities I have, trying to be on the perfect balance between too much and too little.
[ Thoma's not about to make any excuses for Childe when he has a good idea of what he's actually capable of, but being eager to make friends is one of characteristics that he genuinely appreciates. it's not something a lot of people have, even if they believe they do. ]
Let me buy it for you! It's the least I can do when you're my guest, and it can be a souvenir that will always remind you of me.♪ Hm... for myself... maybe an oni mask? Or tengu? I don't know if there are any that fit me as perfectly. [ 🥺 ] Oh! What about a hyottoko?
I cannot imagine you ever giving too little of yourself. Perhaps an instance of that sort of situation would only be considered as such in your mind.
[ to say that Childe is surprised by Thoma offering to pay for him would be... very accurate. Childe is quite known for having a lot of money due to fulfilling many of his Tsaritsa's assignments. and the wealth pretty much comes with being a Harbinger. so no one really offers to pay things for him — which is silly to think about because surely this little mask shouldn't be too expensive, and yet Childe still finds himself feeling touched by the gesture.
or it could just be Thoma's ploy in getting close to Childe so that he can gain information about the Tsaritsa and her plans. so unfortunately, Childe will have to remain careful...
... or maybe Thoma just really wants Childe to be reminded of him whenever he sees that mask...?
ugh. he needs to stop thinking about this. ]
Thank you, Thoma. That's very kind of you. I'll be sure to repay your kindness by being good company during the festival.
A hyottoko? Is that the one with the funny face? What could possibly be the meaning behind that mask?
[ Thoma's glad that Childe can't see how his compliment (if it could be called that?) catches him off guard. he certainly expected the Harbinger to be observant, as they are agents of the Tsaritsa, but there's something about the way Childe says it that makes it sound like a gentle chiding to be kinder to himself. ]
No repayment necessary! I'm looking forward to spending time with you as it is, and seeing the look on your face as you taste everything Inazuma has to offer.
Yes, it's the one with the funny face! So, there's a legend that a boy with a funny face was born with a golden belly button, so there are some regions where if someone passes away, they use that mask to bring good fortune to the household. I like the idea that something comical on the surface can still have well-meaning intentions underneath it... pure goodness, if you will?
Perhaps because many people may see me the same way. Strange, and unusual, but once they get to know me, they may see me as someone who's actually good. Maybe a touch too on the nose, but we can't all be very cute foxes, can we?♪
Do you take pleasure in watching others eat? I'll be sure to put on a good show for you, then.
[ he's just teasing... mostly. and if his words sounded slightly dirty, well, that is definitely intentional. ]
A golden belly button? Did it do anything for him and his family?
Hmm. But you don't look strange or unusual, so I don't think that mask really fits you. Perhaps you should just match masks with me instead. You might not be a fox but you're certainly cute.
I do! Especially when it's my food that they're eating. But Inazuman fare in general is quite tasty and as someone originally from Mondstadt, I'd daresay it's one of the best in Teyvat.
[ if Thoma slightly choked at Childe's words, then ... no one needs to know. ]
I'm not sure... made money for them, maybe? It'd be quite funny if you could get mora from your own belly button.
Am I really?♪ I'm starting to think you really like me, master Harbinger. And not just because you want to take me to bed. Who knows? You might even get lucky after the festival.
It might just be me thinking in a gruesome manner but wouldn't they have to cut off his belly button in order to exchange the gold for mora? Or... perhaps he simply gave luck to his village for being born.
[ lots to think about with this hyottoko folklore. ]
The way you bring it up sounds like you're the one who is more excited about the prospect of bedding me. It must be your silly pride that's holding you back, is it not?
[ don't the people of Schneznaya know what it's like to have fairy tales and folk tales!? or are theirs always this intense... ]
Or um. Maybe the belly button magically brought good fortune to his household every day, just by the virtue of existing! I imagine a belly button cut off would eventually shrivel up and be worthless without who it's attached to.
[ anyway, Childe is a liar, liar, pants on fire - ]
Hm. Not just my pride if you have to know. I can't bed just anyone, and we haven't even kissed yet. I don't know about you but I prefer to have a proper buildup to that sort of thing. Plus, tension can be fun if you know how to play it~
I suppose that would make the gold of a belly button useless if it shrivels up once it is detached from the body. I wonder if they were able to pass it down.
[ good thing Childe is a hydro user then. :) ]
I'm sure you're aware that I'm not just anyone so you can't use that sort of excuse on me. And kissing is for lovers, which we are not... But I can agree that a buildup is important. You would know if you had just given in.
[ he can absolutely hear Thoma pouting somehow... but Childe isn't going to fall for it!! not yet, not this soon anyway. thankfully he can't actually see the housekeeper, so Childe can hold a bit of resistance from giving in. ]
You won't know what I would do unless we go to bed together.
Nevertheless. This is a silly topic to have when you aren't even keen on sleeping with me.
[ let's change the topic now before Childe ends up saying something he'll regret. ]
Yeah, I'll meet you tomorrow! But just so you know... I am keen.
[ he's just scared, you know!! it's not every day he has to contemplate about sleeping with a Harbinger and what kind of consequences that might bring. ]
[ there's a shiver that goes down his spine at that - as difficult as it may be to discern Yae Miko's intentions, and as easy as it is to hear her voice - very few can make threats sound as mellifluous as she does. it's one of the reasons why she scares him so easily. ]
When you put it that way... it does seem rather silly. But I believe dogs are in just as much need of freedom as the foxes! It's just that they need extra guidance, after being tamed.
Would it be bold of me to assume that you found my requests amusing at the very least, Lady Miko? I have to confess I like the thought of knowing I might have tempted a smile from you. Even a small one.
Please don't feel bad! I'm sure he's very much enjoying himself without even realizing how out of place he is. All he's focusing on is the adventure and all the new sights and sounds - I feel as though I can sort of relate to him that way.
[ Is that what was most frustrating about her? That as menacing as she was, an allure calls for one to ignore their common sense and give her one last chance. A charm that was Archon's only knew how old in the making. ]
Or perhaps dogs were always meant to be tamed. The difference is you're less likely to find a domesticated fox than you are wild dogs, no? It is as nature intended them to be.
[ Yet, Thoma tries to fight against one's nature. Perhaps he can't relate. Mondstadt may have its hooks on everyone daring to want freedom, but... here he is. Trying to get a fox to smile anything but a sly grin. ]
If it did anything other than bring amusement, the request would have been denied. I run a shrine, Thoma, not a zoo.
Oh? I wasn't aware that was more your nature. To me, you seemed quite fond staying put with your Lord and Lady – just as a dog would spend the very last of his days happy at the side of his Master. Am I wrong?
You're not wrong, my lady. There's a lot I owe to the Kamisato clan after washing up to these shores.
[ like purpose. and a home. perhaps she's right after all (as always, really-). Thoma likes to think that the freedom to choose where to live was him living out his homeland's ideals, but he's felt at home being rooted.
and he thinks she's rooted too, in not such a different way, although he's smart enough not to mention it. ]
But I think I appreciate the knowledge that it's my choice, every day. It doesn't feel so much as being leashed as it feels like I'm affirming my desire to stay here every time I wake up and go about my day. Whether that's being domesticated or not, I suppose it's up to one's perspective?
[ She gets it. Some loyalties run a little deeper, tugging at parts of oneself that they wished to keep more guarded. Miko doesn't travel the world, tending to the affairs of humans and archons alike. She's still bound by duty, by her lax role in Inazuma.
No one would question it, for they are fearful of what would come from it. ]
Mm, so it is. Much of life is subjective, such as if it is a good idea to bring a gang of dogs up to a mountain shrine.
You are an odd one, you know. For you represent what makes Inazuma... well, as it is but something else. It is usually Liyue that welcomes settlers from other lands.
The Kamisato clan is fortunate to have such obedience and care, it seems.
If only I snatched you up for a shrine role first...
[ Sarcasm is so difficult to read over messages. She's silent for some time, even if Thoma continues talking. ]
Please bring towels, as well, unless you like the smell of wet dog.
[ she's not wrong. the subtle significance of being picked as the 100th individual to have their Vision taken away has not escaped Thoma's notice - he is (was) a representative of the threat to eternity, by his own existence. a foreigner, where lands should always remain the same. but he prefers to consider it all important for a reason. what small waves he can make in his day-to-day actions may one day be stronger tides. ]
Something tells me you'd be just as fond of me as you are of the stray dog that's undoubtedly making your nose wrinkle. Although I'd be much better behaved...!
[ he's grabbing some towels, some treats for ease of capture, and of course, one should never intrude in the same space without making a genuine effort to both apologize and express gratitude. ]
Are you in need of anything, lady Miko? Would you like some dango? Or perhaps some fried tofu?
[ She's sorry her ex tried to make a weird kinda sexy ritual about taking your vision, bro. Miko tries to only get involved when it makes sense to, after all. Thoma pushes his luck, relying on a sunny charm that reminds her quite like the Traveler... ]
Making my nose wrinkle with its stink, yes. Your behavior is very much up for debate if this cute boy is causing problems.
[ Because what kind of problems could Thoma, of all people, cause? He's a fixer, after all.
Bribery comes in the sweet form of food and she doesn't think twice before replying: ]
Fried tofu. Freshly made. That will be your apology.
Ah, he won't, he won't! He's a good boy at heart for sure. Perhaps if he's antsy enough to dip into the pond, it's because he's feeling lonely? Please tell him that I'm on my way, as soon as I pick up these freshly made fried tofu.
[ yep. he's requesting for her to speak to the dog - sincerely. hey, they understand more than most people assume! ]
I'll be there before you know it, milady. Ready to hand over two servings of fried tofu for a wet pup. Thank you for being so patient...!
[ She fortunately doesn't confirm if she passed the message on. The shrine maidens were too busy zipping around trying to calm the foxes, after all. ]
Perhaps he was chasing fish, causing more trouble than he's worth... hm. It just seems like no one here is capable of speaking dog, so it truly is up to interpretation. I doubt it's loneliness, however.
Good. A transaction worthwhile. I'll be seeing you shortly, then.
[ Because yeah, she's having to enter the fray to wrangle this dumb dog up too. ]
[ when Thoma does arrive at the Grand Narukami shrine, his face is almost as red as his jacket, but his smile stays ever so expansive (and apologetic) as he approaches Miko with a recognizable container of fried tofu take-out, carefully wrapped to preserve as much heat as possible without compromising the crunchy quality. it goes from being cradled in his arms to an open offer with both hands; whatever fear he feels around Miko has obviously been tempered by the urgency he feels to get the dog off the sacred premises. ]
Lady Miko, please accept my apologies again. And my deepest thanks-
[ a little excited yip of recognition from the criminal himself makes Thoma give a short laugh despite himself. little rascal. ]
- for allowing this trip in the first place. I'll be sure to exercise more caution next time. Ah, if there will be a next time, of course. I wouldn't want to presume.
[ Miko hadn't done anything that would scare the dog off. She stews in her own grievances, silent as the dull wind in the mountains. It takes a bit for Thoma to oblige to her request and make his way back – but she had left the ponds at the side of the compound to the front steps when he arrives.
The sunny blonde catches the sunset like nothing other, leaving the maidens behind her in awe. He's a good guy and his word was solid. They approach Thoma, taking the container for their Lady without even a single word.
Thoma's friend was all too happy to see him – bumrushing the boy without any reprieve. ]
If you can make one promise, perhaps. Are you willing to oblige my request?
[ A soft huff past her lips follows: ]
A smaller class of dogs. I'm not quite sure you can manage them.
[ the wanted criminal is safely gathered up into his arms, wetting his jacket and shirt and effectively heating up the housekeeper - who's already so warm - ]
Aha... [ his face is the epitome of rueful apology as he winces; the suggestion is well-deserved, but no less embarrassing. the only thing that comforts him is the thought that the shrine maidens aren't looking at the pair of them with any hint of disgust.
well. it must be difficult to resist the charms of a puppy, no matter how wet and dirty it is, right? ]
Yes, of course, lady Miko. I must say that I'm grateful to be granted a second visit at all. I'll be sure to use the time between to brush up on my skills of instilling obedience. [ after which he begins to look a little hopeful - ] Would you... happen to have any advice, milady?
[ If there was no one to set Thoma right, would he even be the dutiful worker many people know him as? Miko wasn't his 'supervisor' by any means, but Thoma provides the same helpfulness as he does to his Lord and Lady. Maybe it was because Miko's reputation far exceeds her title... ask Gorou. ]
The girls need a break from time to time. I'd rather them playing with dogs than falling for boys from the city. Either their hearts are broken or they leave my tutelage. A lose-lose and their sobbing does get rather annoying...
[ A thinly-veiled connection to men and dogs, it was clear dogs were the lesser of two evils in this silly case. ]
Positive reinforcement only goes so far. If you wish to have someone follow you, letting them know the proper way is the only way is crucial. There is a standard one must maintain and if they do not meet it – what is the alternative?
[ Thoma's smart enough to catch the implications and to keep his reaction to a bare minimum; it's times like these that Yae Miko seems truly otherworldly, when she's able to so easily dissect human lives into whimsical passings - and on some level, rightfully so. ]
Is this the experience you've found to be most common when dealing with us, my lady? [ his tone is nothing but sincere curiosity, ] That positive reinforcement cannot cover the entire distance of improvement?
[ it sounds harsh, but it also sounds like a very Inazuman way of thinking. the more he thinks about it, the more he realizes that it also applies to his own life here, and how he's been forced to grow.
but it also makes him wonder what Yae Miko truly thinks about his master. ]
Hm... I believe you're right. Even if we never consider it in such stark terms, that is the underlying expectation we all have when we're in such a position.
[ something to consider later. for now, the pup squirms in his arms and reminds Thoma - ]
I don't mean to take any more of your time than I should, Lady Miko. Thank you, again, for your gracious understanding. [ with a deep bow, ] I will take your words to heart.
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I don't need to be taken care of, housekeeper. You can talk to whoever you want.
[ it's not like he's going to get jealous or anything... hmph. ]
I don't know why I bothered asking anyway. I can just go by myself.
[ but he's definitely upset because he didn't think Thoma would sort of "reject" his invitation of going to the festival together. ]
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Ah, don't be like that! Festivals are a lot more fun when you go with someone you care about, and I would love to be the person who shows you around and gives you a good time.
[ please don't be mad. 💦 ]
Let's go together, please? I promise you won't regret it and I'll treat you to all the best foods. And find us the best spots for fireworks.
Let's go together, Childe.
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[ he's gonna stay petty, sorry. ]
But I'm not going to be here for too long and I would rather experience the best of everything the festival has to offer. Anyway, you'll always have other festivals to take whoever you want.
[ just get to the point for the love of Celestia — ]
So, sure. We should go together.
[ who was the one asking who here again? ]
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You won't regret it! We'll have the best time together. And it's not just because I want you to believe me, but because I also know I'd have the best time with you.
[ and he's ready to prove it. ]
I hope you'll be ready to eat lots, and get blown away by all the intricate masks and art pieces on display! I was also thinking, if you want to fit in more, we can get you fitted in an outfit that's more Inazuman? Unless you're more comfortable in your gear! That's fine, too.♪
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[ he is not saying that endearingly, ok?
well... at least Thoma is coming up with some good ideas now, such as dressing Childe like an Inazuman so that he can blend in. ]
Certainly. Just point me to where I can buy them and I'll head on over to get fitted. What colors are you going to be wearing?
[
he asks so that they can match.]no subject
[ it doesn't matter how much Childe teases him or challenges his abilities - Thoma is already envisioning the end of the night, with the fireworks and looking over to see his friend's face and maybe seeing a smile... ]
I was thinking red, but maybe we can go green and blue this time around? To match the color of our eyes, if that's not too corny~ We'll be like the colors of the sea. And let's go together! I'll get us a great deal - the owner is a good friend.
[ plus, Childe's dark red hair in the midst of all the blue will look ever so soft in the festival lights... ]
Did you also want to get a special mask, since you're used to having one that's customized for you?
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[ everywhere they go, Thoma seems to be well-liked by the people they come across... whoever he ends up dating is going to have a difficult time not getting jealous. not that Childe would ever worry about such a thing since he's definitely not thinking about what it would be like to date Thoma. ]
Alright, we can go along with your idea since it sounds like you really thought this through. Hm, do the types of masks hold some sort of symbolism?
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And before you say anything, you definitely are my friend. But I have to be careful around those who'll be more sensitive. Some people like to use me for connections and I'm alright with that, so long as I know I can depend on them in return! But they also don't want the reminder that that's not exactly what friendship means. Does that make sense?
[ it sure is nice of Childe to think of him in such a way though... ]
They do! Depending on which you get, but the most popular around these parts is probably the kitsune mask. And dare I say, kitsune in general fits you nicely. You're cunning and curious and friendly, but also un-tameable. Doesn't that sound like you?♪
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You do seem like the type who would call someone a friend upon your first meeting. And I wasn't about to ask such a question... but thank you for clarifying.
[ although he was wondering about it to himself. ]
I do like making friends wherever I go.
[ mostly people he can spar with. ]
How charming. Then I should get one of those kitsune masks for myself. So what will you be wearing to the festival?
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[ Thoma's not about to make any excuses for Childe when he has a good idea of what he's actually capable of, but being eager to make friends is one of characteristics that he genuinely appreciates. it's not something a lot of people have, even if they believe they do. ]
Let me buy it for you! It's the least I can do when you're my guest, and it can be a souvenir that will always remind you of me.♪ Hm... for myself... maybe an oni mask? Or tengu? I don't know if there are any that fit me as perfectly. [ 🥺 ] Oh! What about a hyottoko?
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[ to say that Childe is surprised by Thoma offering to pay for him would be... very accurate. Childe is quite known for having a lot of money due to fulfilling many of his Tsaritsa's assignments. and the wealth pretty much comes with being a Harbinger. so no one really offers to pay things for him — which is silly to think about because surely this little mask shouldn't be too expensive, and yet Childe still finds himself feeling touched by the gesture.
or it could just be Thoma's ploy in getting close to Childe so that he can gain information about the Tsaritsa and her plans. so unfortunately, Childe will have to remain careful...
... or maybe Thoma just really wants Childe to be reminded of him whenever he sees that mask...?
ugh. he needs to stop thinking about this. ]
Thank you, Thoma. That's very kind of you. I'll be sure to repay your kindness by being good company during the festival.
A hyottoko? Is that the one with the funny face? What could possibly be the meaning behind that mask?
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No repayment necessary! I'm looking forward to spending time with you as it is, and seeing the look on your face as you taste everything Inazuma has to offer.
Yes, it's the one with the funny face! So, there's a legend that a boy with a funny face was born with a golden belly button, so there are some regions where if someone passes away, they use that mask to bring good fortune to the household. I like the idea that something comical on the surface can still have well-meaning intentions underneath it... pure goodness, if you will?
Perhaps because many people may see me the same way. Strange, and unusual, but once they get to know me, they may see me as someone who's actually good. Maybe a touch too on the nose, but we can't all be very cute foxes, can we?♪
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[ he's just teasing... mostly. and if his words sounded slightly dirty, well, that is definitely intentional. ]
A golden belly button? Did it do anything for him and his family?
Hmm. But you don't look strange or unusual, so I don't think that mask really fits you. Perhaps you should just match masks with me instead. You might not be a fox but you're certainly cute.
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I do! Especially when it's my food that they're eating. But Inazuman fare in general is quite tasty and as someone originally from Mondstadt, I'd daresay it's one of the best in Teyvat.
[ if Thoma slightly choked at Childe's words, then ... no one needs to know. ]
I'm not sure... made money for them, maybe? It'd be quite funny if you could get mora from your own belly button.
Am I really?♪ I'm starting to think you really like me, master Harbinger. And not just because you want to take me to bed. Who knows? You might even get lucky after the festival.
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[ lots to think about with this hyottoko folklore. ]
The way you bring it up sounds like you're the one who is more excited about the prospect of bedding me. It must be your silly pride that's holding you back, is it not?
no subject
Or um.
Maybe the belly button magically brought good fortune to his household every day, just by the virtue of existing! I imagine a belly button cut off would eventually shrivel up and be worthless without who it's attached to.
[ anyway, Childe is a liar, liar, pants on fire - ]
Hm. Not just my pride if you have to know. I can't bed just anyone, and we haven't even kissed yet. I don't know about you but I prefer to have a proper buildup to that sort of thing. Plus, tension can be fun if you know how to play it~
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[ good thing Childe is a hydro user then. :) ]
I'm sure you're aware that I'm not just anyone so you can't use that sort of excuse on me. And kissing is for lovers, which we are not... But I can agree that a buildup is important. You would know if you had just given in.
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You don't plan to kiss me when we go to bed together?
[ 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺 x100 ]
And there's no way to change your mind?
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You won't know what I would do unless we go to bed together.
Nevertheless. This is a silly topic to have when you aren't even keen on sleeping with me.
[ let's change the topic now before Childe ends up saying something he'll regret. ]
I'll meet you tomorrow for the festival.
🎀
Yeah, I'll meet you tomorrow!
But just so you know... I am keen.
[ he's just scared, you know!! it's not every day he has to contemplate about sleeping with a Harbinger and what kind of consequences that might bring. ]
Have a good night. ♡
@publishings
[ there's a shiver that goes down his spine at that - as difficult as it may be to discern Yae Miko's intentions, and as easy as it is to hear her voice - very few can make threats sound as mellifluous as she does. it's one of the reasons why she scares him so easily. ]
When you put it that way... it does seem rather silly. But I believe dogs are in just as much need of freedom as the foxes! It's just that they need extra guidance, after being tamed.
Would it be bold of me to assume that you found my requests amusing at the very least, Lady Miko? I have to confess I like the thought of knowing I might have tempted a smile from you. Even a small one.
Please don't feel bad! I'm sure he's very much enjoying himself without even realizing how out of place he is. All he's focusing on is the adventure and all the new sights and sounds - I feel as though I can sort of relate to him that way.
sorry for the delay!
Or perhaps dogs were always meant to be tamed. The difference is you're less likely to find a domesticated fox than you are wild dogs, no? It is as nature intended them to be.
[ Yet, Thoma tries to fight against one's nature. Perhaps he can't relate. Mondstadt may have its hooks on everyone daring to want freedom, but... here he is. Trying to get a fox to smile anything but a sly grin. ]
If it did anything other than bring amusement, the request would have been denied. I run a shrine, Thoma, not a zoo.
Oh? I wasn't aware that was more your nature. To me, you seemed quite fond staying put with your Lord and Lady – just as a dog would spend the very last of his days happy at the side of his Master. Am I wrong?
never apologize<3
[ like purpose. and a home. perhaps she's right after all (as always, really-). Thoma likes to think that the freedom to choose where to live was him living out his homeland's ideals, but he's felt at home being rooted.
and he thinks she's rooted too, in not such a different way, although he's smart enough not to mention it. ]
But I think I appreciate the knowledge that it's my choice, every day. It doesn't feel so much as being leashed as it feels like I'm affirming my desire to stay here every time I wake up and go about my day. Whether that's being domesticated or not, I suppose it's up to one's perspective?
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No one would question it, for they are fearful of what would come from it. ]
Mm, so it is. Much of life is subjective, such as if it is a good idea to bring a gang of dogs up to a mountain shrine.
You are an odd one, you know. For you represent what makes Inazuma... well, as it is but something else. It is usually Liyue that welcomes settlers from other lands.
The Kamisato clan is fortunate to have such obedience and care, it seems.
If only I snatched you up for a shrine role first...
[ Sarcasm is so difficult to read over messages. She's silent for some time, even if Thoma continues talking. ]
Please bring towels, as well, unless you like the smell of wet dog.
[ STOP DIPPING IN THE PONDS... ]
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Something tells me you'd be just as fond of me as you are of the stray dog that's undoubtedly making your nose wrinkle. Although I'd be much better behaved...!
[ he's grabbing some towels, some treats for ease of capture, and of course, one should never intrude in the same space without making a genuine effort to both apologize and express gratitude. ]
Are you in need of anything, lady Miko? Would you like some dango? Or perhaps some fried tofu?
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Making my nose wrinkle with its stink, yes. Your behavior is very much up for debate if this cute boy is causing problems.
[ Because what kind of problems could Thoma, of all people, cause? He's a fixer, after all.
Bribery comes in the sweet form of food and she doesn't think twice before replying: ]
Fried tofu. Freshly made. That will be your apology.
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[ yep. he's requesting for her to speak to the dog - sincerely. hey, they understand more than most people assume! ]
I'll be there before you know it, milady. Ready to hand over two servings of fried tofu for a wet pup. Thank you for being so patient...!
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Perhaps he was chasing fish, causing more trouble than he's worth... hm. It just seems like no one here is capable of speaking dog, so it truly is up to interpretation. I doubt it's loneliness, however.
Good. A transaction worthwhile. I'll be seeing you shortly, then.
[ Because yeah, she's having to enter the fray to wrangle this dumb dog up too. ]
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Lady Miko, please accept my apologies again. And my deepest thanks-
[ a little excited yip of recognition from the criminal himself makes Thoma give a short laugh despite himself. little rascal. ]
- for allowing this trip in the first place. I'll be sure to exercise more caution next time. Ah, if there will be a next time, of course. I wouldn't want to presume.
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The sunny blonde catches the sunset like nothing other, leaving the maidens behind her in awe. He's a good guy and his word was solid. They approach Thoma, taking the container for their Lady without even a single word.
Thoma's friend was all too happy to see him – bumrushing the boy without any reprieve. ]
If you can make one promise, perhaps. Are you willing to oblige my request?
[ A soft huff past her lips follows: ]
A smaller class of dogs. I'm not quite sure you can manage them.
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Aha... [ his face is the epitome of rueful apology as he winces; the suggestion is well-deserved, but no less embarrassing. the only thing that comforts him is the thought that the shrine maidens aren't looking at the pair of them with any hint of disgust.
well. it must be difficult to resist the charms of a puppy, no matter how wet and dirty it is, right? ]
Yes, of course, lady Miko. I must say that I'm grateful to be granted a second visit at all. I'll be sure to use the time between to brush up on my skills of instilling obedience. [ after which he begins to look a little hopeful - ] Would you... happen to have any advice, milady?
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The girls need a break from time to time. I'd rather them playing with dogs than falling for boys from the city. Either their hearts are broken or they leave my tutelage. A lose-lose and their sobbing does get rather annoying...
[ A thinly-veiled connection to men and dogs, it was clear dogs were the lesser of two evils in this silly case. ]
Positive reinforcement only goes so far. If you wish to have someone follow you, letting them know the proper way is the only way is crucial. There is a standard one must maintain and if they do not meet it – what is the alternative?
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Is this the experience you've found to be most common when dealing with us, my lady? [ his tone is nothing but sincere curiosity, ] That positive reinforcement cannot cover the entire distance of improvement?
[ it sounds harsh, but it also sounds like a very Inazuman way of thinking. the more he thinks about it, the more he realizes that it also applies to his own life here, and how he's been forced to grow.
but it also makes him wonder what Yae Miko truly thinks about his master. ]
Hm... I believe you're right. Even if we never consider it in such stark terms, that is the underlying expectation we all have when we're in such a position.
[ something to consider later. for now, the pup squirms in his arms and reminds Thoma - ]
I don't mean to take any more of your time than I should, Lady Miko. Thank you, again, for your gracious understanding. [ with a deep bow, ] I will take your words to heart.