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Draconic Impact Chapter 21
🕑 Added 2024-02-22 13:06:44 +0000 UTCEdited by: Priapus
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– Diona –
In hindsight, taking Mr. Crimson’s advice probably wasn’t a good idea. The first few times were fun as it made her feel like she was actually making a difference, but then Diluc and his stupid employees had retaliated and posted a commission for the adventurers.
And the one that took it was Lumine. Diona had seen firsthand how strong that girl was. Messing with her was a mistake. The fear she felt when she saw the Traveler charge at her nearly gave her a heart attack and turned her away from this entire thing. It was that terrifying.
But she couldn’t abandon her plan now. Technically, she was already a criminal since she had probably destroyed far more than she could reasonably pay for. Obviously, she was too young to be put in prison, but she would probably lose her job here and would have both her vision and weapon confiscated until further notice.
If that happened, then it’d be over for her. Also, her dad would be disappointed in her, and she didn’t want that.
She wasn’t really sure what to do now, and honestly, Diona was starting to feel a little paranoid. What if their investigations led to her? What if they found out that it was her who destroyed probably hundreds of gallons? This was clearly a mistake on her part. Doing something reckless like that.
Because child or not, there were going to be heavy consequences. Not even her dad would be able to save her this time. Not Klee or Jean, who always seemed to be rather protective of her for some reason. Would they send her to prison? Would they kick her out of Mondsadt!?
She knew how to hunt for herself since her father had taught her, but she was just a kid! She wasn’t not old enough to be living on her own!
Oh, it’s over. Diona thought in despair as she monotonously cleaned the mug in her hand. It’s so over for me.
She was so scared that she’d even stopped messing with the customer’s drinks, which used to be her go-to plan to stop this stupid industry once and for all. Obviously, that didn’t work and would never have worked if what Mr. Crimson had said was true.
Thus, her more… bombastic approach.
Diona would’ve felt better about herself once she heard that Lumine left Mondstadt had it not been for the fact that Dilic was now there guarding his winery. That man, who she didn’t like one bit, scared her. She heard he used to be part of knights at some point and went on a one-man crusade against the Abyss Order and lived to the tale.
No, not just lived, but actually damaged them too. Permanently crippling them in some parts of the world. If that didn’t sound terrifying – and admittedly really cool – she didn’t know what would.
She wasn’t going to mess with someone like that. If Lumine was that close to catching her, he would find her immediately. Diona would rather stay far away from that winery until she found another way to strike them. Quick and hard.
Maybe I should stop? She thought to herself in a moment of weakness, then shook her head. No way! I can’t just quit!
But what was she going to do now?
Her cat ears twitched as she heard the bell ringing on the door, making her hop from behind the counter to see Mr. Crimson walk in. It was still a little early for people to come over for drinks, which surprised her a little. It didn’t make her jump in fright, though. Trust.
“Ah!” Her eyes widened, climbing over the counter. “It’s you!”
Unlike before, when he wore a simple white shirt and leather jacket, this time, he looked like he was preparing for a formal occasion, with a lovely black dress shirt and a white suit slung over his shoulder. Very sharp and expensive looking.
“It is I, indeed.” He smiled, taking a seat on the stool in front of her. “How’s my favorite little bartender doing?”
“Shut up, you barely even know me!” She scoffed.
“I think I know enough.” He responded with a chuckle. “May I have a drink?”
Diona narrowed her eyes. This jerk…
“Whaddaya want?”
“Anything is fine. Preferably odorless.” He said. “I have a date coming up soon.”
“Pff, having a drink before a date.” She snorted. “The nerve. This is why alcohol is a plague. No respect for anyone. You should feel bad about yourself.”
“Haha, I suppose you’re right.” His laugh irritated Diona. Was he not embarrassed? “Though, what can I say? Your drinks are in a league of their own. I simply can’t stop myself.”
That was not a compliment. If anything, it made her feel more mad and depressed. Even simply touching the glass where the alcohol was poured in would – allegedly – make it taste way better than it should. Was she cursed?
Diona pouted, and before making his stupid drink, she left the counter and opened the front door.
“Hm?” Crimson blinked in confusion. “What are you doing?”
She ignored him, looking outside to the right and left, seeing nobody, then closing and locking the door before returning to the counter. There, now they could talk about things without anyone listening in on them. The jerk. She wanted to scold him for lying to her.
“You scumbag!” She cried out, pointing at him. “You lied to me!”
“Pardon?” He raised a brow.
“Telling me to attack the ‘heart’! You knew what would happen, didn’t you?!” Diona accused him. “I almost got caught!”
“I’m… not sure what you’re talking about.” He responded, still confused. Then, a second later, his eyes widened. “Wait, are you telling me you’re the criminal that has been attacking the winery?”
“Yes, but it’s your fault!” She said, slowly realizing something herself. “Wait, how did you know it was the winery? I haven’t even told you anything yet.”
“Are you kidding?” He looked at her incredulously. “Commission notices to take down the criminals have been posted everywhere. Of course, I’d know.”
“Eh?” Diona blinked. “Why were you looking at the commission board in the first place?”
“...Because it’s my job?”
Oh.
Oh no.
“You… you’re an adventurer…?” Diona’s blood froze over.
“Yes?”
He was an adventurer. She’d just confessed her crimes to an ACTUAL adventurer! The same adventurers that had started looking for her after her stupid stunts. She was done. Diona was dead. There’s nothing she could do to save herself.
IT’S OVER. IT’S SO OVER FOR ME! She panicked. THEY’RE GOING TO EXECUTE ME!
“W-wait, no, please don’t arrest me!” Diona begged, the color draining from her face. “I didn’t mean to do it!”
“I won’t—”
“Please, I’ll do anything!” She cried out in terror as she hugged his leg, on the verge of sobbing. “I’ll never try to ruin your drinks! I’ll make the best alcohol in Teyvat just for you!”
“Calm down; I’m not going to tell anyone.” He said with an exasperated sigh, even though he looked endlessly amused. “You’re so dramatic…”
“R-really? You promise?”
His slight hesitation made Diona’s heart drop. Oh no, he was going to put her in prison. It was so over—
“I promise.” He sighed again, this time not sounding as amused.
Diona felt a wave of relief as he said that, which was slowly being replaced with anger and frustration. Wait a minute; she wouldn’t have gotten into this predicament if not for his manipulation. Why was she begging him not to jail her? He should be jailed for tricking her like that!
“Oh…okay…” She said quietly, and instead of hugging, she started scratching and biting his leg. “This is all your fault, you jerk! You lied to me! I’m a criminal because of you!”
“Quit it.” He said, grabbing her by the collar and putting her on the countertop before him. “What am I going to do with you now…”
Diona crossed her arms and growled ferociously, like a fearless tigress that definitely wasn’t nearly peeing her pants. She’d stopped wetting herself years ago, anyway! She wasn’t a child anymore!
“What you did was very dangerous, young lady.” He reprimanded her. The heck? What was he scolding her for?! “What were you thinking?”
“Wha– You’re the one who told me to do it!” She blamed him. “You and your stupid advice. ‘Attack the heart of the industry’, what’s that supposed to mean?! You sound like some hermit!”
It probably wasn’t a good idea to antagonize him like this, but he’d already promised not to tell anyone. Crimson, although not upset by her name-calling, flicked her in the forehead, which stung her a bit.
“Ow!”
“It’s not my fault you took my advice too literally.” He deflected. “If you were any wiser, you’d know that was not what I meant.”
“Then why’d you say that?” She narrowed her eyes, rubbing her forehead.
“I thought you’d be smart enough to understand my meaning.” He said with a grin. “After all, here you are making incredible drinks, which I’ve been waiting for since coming here, by the way.”
Diona huffed and made him his stupid drink—Odorless, just like he ordered.
“Here.” She glared at him.
“Thank you.”
He took the glass and sipped from it.
“You’re truly far too talented for this world.” He said ominously. “Well, anyway, what I meant that time was simple. There are three ways here. One: Find a way to draw the customers away by being the competition.”
Diona’s cat ears twitched, and she leaned forward to hear more. Now, this was interesting.
“Being the competition? What do you mean?”
“Make a product that would replace alcohol that isn’t alcoholic.” He answered.
“How?”
“That depends on you.” Mr. Crimson shrugged. “I can’t help you there, unfortunately.”
That… sounded a lot easier said than done. How the heck was she supposed to do that? Replace alcohol, which was Mondstadt’s best product? Her? And what would even work? Juice? Smoothies?
Not even those things were safe. You’ll get the idiot who would stick alcohol in them and then popularize it, putting her back in square one.
“Huuaaa…” She groaned. “There’s no way that’s possible. People like to get drunk for some reason.”
“Yes, you’re likely out of luck in that department.” He agreed.
“Why did you even bring it up then?!” She scowled. “Are you making fun of me?!”
“Not at all. I thought you’d have an idea.” Mr. Crimson responded.
“Hmmm…” Diona looked at him suspiciously. “What’s the second option?”
“You become the ruler of Mondstadt and issue a ban on alcohol.”
“You ARE making fun of me!”
“No, no, this one would work with enough dedication.” He insisted. “Though it would probably take you a few years. Perhaps a decade or two.”
“The monarchy has been abolished for a thousand years! You think I have a chance to bring it back?!”
“You’re rather popular, are you not?” Mr. Crimson shrugged. “You should start by joining the knights. Everyone loves a warrior queen. And don’t worry; when the time comes, I’ll be sure to vote for you.”
For some reason, that made her feel a little giddy. Would he really vote for her? To be a queen? That sounded nice. Still, Diona wasn’t so easily fooled. There wasn’t even voting around here. Mondstadt didn’t have a ruler.
“You’re not even a Mondstadt citizen!”
“Yet.”
Was he messing with her, or was he actually that stupid? Diona didn’t know, and she was losing energy rapidly. Work had barely started, and she already wanted to go home and sleep. Why was he tormenting her like this?
“Think about it. Queen Diona, the most extraordinary mixologist, ruling the kingdom known for producing the best alcohol in all of Teyvat. Doesn’t it sound fitting?” He asked. “You would not only influence Mondstadt but every region as well.”
“W-well…”
….That did sound awesome, admittedly. She would cleanse the world of the poison of alcohol, not just Mondstadt. Then everyone and the kids her age won’t have to suffer from stupid alcoholic parents. Wasn’t that a noble cause?
But there was no way she could do that, right? She was barely twelve years old— becoming queen would not happen no matter how hard she tried. It sounded like a silly little girl's dream to Diona now that she thought about it.
“...What about the third option?”
“Propaganda,” Crimson answered with one word.
“Propa-what?” She blinked. “What does that mean?”
“Spreading gossip and fake stories so people believe you over the opposition.” He said. “In this case, alcohol. You would try that by convincing civilians it causes cancer or something, and the sales plummet to nothing. No one drinks and the industry is finished.”
“That sounds kind of… wrong?” Diona fidgeted. “I mean, spreading lies ‘n stuff.”
“That is true. It is why I think the second option is your best.” He nodded. “I’d wager that someone as popular as you would have much support. Including mine.”
“...Really?” Diona asked with a hopeful tone, then narrowed her eyes suspiciously. “You’re not saying that just to make fun of me, are you?”
“I’m being very serious.” He said very seriously. “In fact, a part of me thinks you’d be a great queen.”
“Y-you think so?” She blushed. “B-but I mean, it’s not gonna be easy, you know?”
“Naturally.” Mr. Crimson agreed. “Think about this, though. Isn’t Jean practically the current queen of Mondstadt? Besides the church, she runs most operations around the region and has quite a lot of political power. When it comes to foreign powers coming over for trade, they usually need to check with the current Grandmaster first, no?”
“That’s… true…” Diona replied. She thought it weird that Jean practically cared for everything, even though the knights were technically a vigilante group. “You mean I need to be the next Grandmaster?”
Well, she had a vision and was an excellent marksman. Even Varka himself had praised her skills once upon a time. Diona used to hunt a lot with her father back then. She knew all the basics and had even protected him from Hilichurls and slimes before.
She wasn’t as good of an archer as him, but her Cryo Vision was still a significant advantage over regular people.
He was still a fantastic father, of course. He was never abusive in words or actions, not even when drunk. He just… simply stopped making time for her specifically. In the morning, he would be working, and at night, he’d drink until he passed out.
That was practically how his day went out—every day for years. And Diona didn’t like it because she hated how he acted when he was under the influence. That wasn’t him! It was a completely different person!
But if Diona banned alcohol, then her daddy wouldn’t drink anymore, and he’d stop showing that terrible side of his. Also, he would live longer because alcohol wasn’t healthy, and she had heard of people dying from drinking too much.
And maybe he’d get very proud of her, too. His daughter, a queen? Sounded like something straight out of a fairy tale!
“No, certainly not if you were to take this seriously.” He waved off Diona’s suggestion. “In fact, it would be better to establish an entirely new faction—a real monarchy.”
“I-I see…”
Wait, why was she believing Mr. Crimson? How had the conversation even led to this in the first place? She just wanted her dad to quit drinking, and now she was seriously considering becoming the new queen of Mondstadt. How did this happen?
…Could she do it, though? Diona did have a lot of fans. Most adults in the region liked her for her alcohol, so maybe she could use that to her advantage. After all, as much as she hated it, she acknowledged her mixology talent. Diona was the only reason her boss was considered Diluc’s rival in the industry.
“But how am I going to do that?” Diona questioned.
“By gaining political power,” Mr. Crimson said, putting a hand on his chin. “You’re still a child, so it would be difficult to do that. Can you join the Adventurer’s Guild? I assume that would be the fastest way to do it.”
“...Maybe in three years.”
She was too young to join.
“I see.” He hummed in thought. “Then I suppose your greatest option at the moment would be to lean on your talents.”
Diona frowned, starting to dislike the idea.
“I understand it’s not something you enjoy, but remember that this will work in your favor.” He added. “Considering what Mondstadt is known for, your popularity, and the talent you were born with, becoming a merchant and establishing your own business might propel you far above most in the industry.”
“Ngh… That’s true…” She agreed with him, as uncomfortably as that was. “B-but I don’t know the first thing about making a company!”
“Lucky for you, I do.” He winked. “And I’m willing to lend you my expertise.”
“Y-you would?”
“Indeed. I would be wrong to fill your head with ideas and ambitions and then abandon you. I say we do it together. You and I.” Mr. Crimson nodded, offering her a hand. “I will teach you everything I know, and you will take this world by storm. What do you say?”
The prospect sounded too good to be true. Would he really do that? Or was he just saying this to use her for something terrible? Though he was willing to help her destroy the alcohol industry before— he’d given her the silly ‘attack the heart’ advice that started this whole thing.
“And if I say no?” Diona asked cautiously.
She still had to be careful. Her dad told her not to interact with strangers unless they asked for a drink. Accepting a proposition like this could get her in a lot of trouble—more than being thrown in a prison cell.
“Then I’d walk away.” He shrugged, finishing his glass. “And forget we ever had this conversation.”
“You’re not… going to arrest me?” She shifted awkwardly.
“No. I will not.” Mr. Crimson confirmed. “What you did, you did out of misinterpreting my words. Frankly, it’s also partially my fault for expecting too much from you. I would not feel good about myself if I was the reason a young girl like you was jailed.”
Jab at her intelligence aside, that was nice of him.
Maybe he seriously meant this offer of his? And besides, even if he was trying to use her, she could always abandon this project and go back to what she used to do, right? Right??? Right. As long as Diona was on guard, she would be fine.
Also, wouldn't he try to be king if he wanted to do something like this? He could start his own business or something, join the knights, or maybe continue as an adventurer until he gained enough ‘political power’ to become king. That’s how it worked… Right? Right.
But seeing that he chose her… then maybe she did have potential.
…Maybe it was worth a shot.
“O-okay! I accept!” Diona took his offer, shaking his hand. “What should we do now?”
“Well, first, I’ll have to attend my date.” He said with a sheepish expression as he got up from his stool, making her deflate. Was he messing with her?! “I’ll be back in a few days to discuss plans with you. I have some ideas, but admittedly, I’ll need to study the geopolitical landscape of this world before we make any decisions.”
Diona pouted at him as she patted her head. Bringing her hopes up for nothing…
…Wait, this world? What did that mean?
“Thank you for the drink.” He said with a smile. “I’ll be seeing you soon, partner.”
“Whatever…”
With that, Crimson exited the tavern, leaving the small cat girl alone with her thoughts. Honestly, she had no idea what had just happened. How the conversation shifted to her being the darn queen of Mondstadt, but she had to admit. Mr. Crimson was definitely right about one thing.
Queen Diona did have a ring to it.
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– Crimson –
I did not know what I expected when I decided to visit little Diona, but beginning my most ambitious plan in Teyvat was undoubtedly not it. Making the bartender girl, seemingly the mascot of Mondstadt, queen for the sole purpose of banning alcohol? The same thing this kingdom is relying on to keep their economy afloat? Laughable. Idiotic. Unbelievably absurd.
Which is precisely why I’m bothering with it. As per usual.
But, for the first time, I admittedly have another reason besides ‘it would be funny’. Although not quite glorious or significant, I’ve never quite done something like this before. I’m used to assassinating political opposition or intimidating them into resigning, but this… this is different.
And so far, ‘different’ has been delightful.
My offer started as a joke, of course. I kept saying random things to elicit adorable reactions from the girl, but then I gave it more thought and realized there might be something I could get out of it.
To drive a political campaign fair and square was a challenge I’d never conquered before. While I could likely do it myself rather quickly, to take more of a… backing role and directly help a partner of mine to become king or queen sounds significantly more difficult: no killing rival parties and no cheating by strongarming Mondstadt via the Ama Clan into doing what I want.
Just me, my wits, and the little mixologist known as Diona. I could become king, but I’m already royalty in hundreds of worlds, and I frankly don’t like being a leader—far too many responsibilities for my liking.
Of course, this would mean I’ll have to take it somewhat seriously. And that means I will have to think and plan more, which I don’t enjoy, but if the results are satisfying, then by all means, I can handle using my brain a little.
It’s like playing those video games Carmine loves so much. Souls-like, I believe she calls them. They are difficult, but overcoming the difficulty is the point. It’s fun because it’s a genuine challenge. It’s why I love defeating worthy adversaries. To prove who I am and what I’m capable of.
To put it in simpler words…
I want to do it because I can.
And that is all there is to it.
Perhaps it’s the lack of difficulty throughout the years. The artificial hardships I’ve put myself through to feel something in the past millennia weren’t satisfying. Or maybe it’s merely instinct. My dragon blood acting up and demanding I conquer this challenge.
Regardless, I want to do it. It will likely take me years– Diona isn’t even an adult yet. But it isn’t like I’m pressed for time. I can be patient, and the girl isn’t particularly stupid. She is young and impulsive, but I saw fire in those eyes.
All she needs right now is discipline, temperament, a lesson in understanding politics, and time to master all these elements. I’m rather optimistic about this— I think I can turn her into a worthy leader.
As for her apparent distaste for alcohol and what that could mean for me? Oh, I wouldn’t overthink it. Eventually, she’ll outgrow her silly dream of banning it as her ambitions are set ablaze. She will see the bigger picture and take the throne for more meritorious reasons.
And, from my understanding, young kids can learn ridiculously fast. Granted, I’m used to training my little siblings more than other kids, so perhaps it’s due to the absurd natural talent of those with my mother’s blood in them. Instructing less gifted children could get tricky.
But I’m sure my decades and decades of experience in teaching will cover that.
Yes, Diona will do well. She’s a qualified candidate. As long as I keep fueling her flames of ambition, she will become an incredible ruler. Though admittedly, perhaps I’m a little biased, seeing that I truly value her skills as a mixologist.
It is what it is. We’ll see if she has what it takes.
Besides, giving myself an expansive goal might help keep me sharp in case I get surprised by whatever my mother plans for me. It should definitely fill the blank periods when I’m unsure what to do.
Hmm, I wonder what Carmine will think about this? From her perspective, it’s certainly unlike me to do something like this. Will she surprised? Proud that I’m challenging myself or disappointed that I’m using children to do it?
My gaze wanders from the glowing full moon to the girl walking next to me as we walk on the sand. The date with Barbara has been lovely, I will admit that. While we hadn’t done much, as most of it consisted of walking, dinner, and flying until we landed on a nearby beach for a romantic walk, our conversations were pleasant. She was very clearly nervous, however, which I found cute. According to her, she had never been on a date before.
She wore a sparkly blue asymmetrical dress and typical light makeup. Her hair was down instead of the usual twin tails, making her exceptionally beautiful. She didn’t go overboard as I thought she would. Perhaps someone else was there to advise her.
“You know, Ms. Barbara. Since you’re the deaconess of Mondstadt, you must be quite knowledgeable regarding the laws of this region.” I say. “Am I correct?”
“Well, I made sure to study a lot. Do you have any questions?”
“I do.” I nod. “Primarily about how one becomes a citizen of Mondstadt. Besides being born here.”
“Ah, that’s quite easy. There are multiple ways.” She answers happily. “First would be through great contribution to Mondstadt.”
“A little vague, no? When you say contribution, do you mean economically or…?”
“In general,” Barbara answers with a shake of her head. “The most recent example is the Traveler after she defeated Stormterror.”
Hmm, good to know.
“Second would be through becoming a Knight of Favonius.” She adds. “And serving for three years at least.”
“And the third?”
“Marriage.” She says. “Marrying someone from Mondstadt makes you an official citizen.”
That seems like the easiest and fastest way, but surprisingly, I’m more interested in the second option. I do not love the knights at all and would not be upholding justice in any meaningful way were I to join, but being the knight of a political figure, say, Diona…
It would translate my triumphs and success to her. Though, I do not think I need to join the knights specifically to become her knight. After all, she would be a completely separate faction. Joining the knights would be like shackling myself for no reason.
“I see.” I hum in thought. “Another question that’s entirely unrelated, but Mondstadt doesn’t have a ruler, does it?”
“Not particularly.”
“Would you be opposed to having one?” I ask.
Barbara pauses, giving it some thought before answering.
“I’m… not sure.” She says with a thoughtful frown. “Mondstadt didn’t have monarchy for a thousand years. Why would we need it?”
So I should give them a reason to need a ruler. Alright.
“I suppose you don’t. Though, in a way, would you call the Knights of Favonius the rulers of Mondstadt?”
“Hmmm…” She thinks for a moment. “I don’t know. They uphold the law, but they don’t particularly make it as far as I know. Besides general laws like no stealing or hurting someone, no big law passed.”
…How the hell did this kingdom survive ten years, much less a thousand? Is their slut goddess that competent, and I simply didn’t notice? No, there must be an in-depth explanation for this. I have so many questions and I would ask more, but I do not think it’s a good idea to get my answers from her. She might think I’m suspicious.
I can’t believe I’m even considering it, but I suppose I’ll have to hit up the library when I have the time. For right now, I’m going to assume that the Knights of Favonius are the government posing as a vigilante group.
Though, if that is truly the case, then taking over the knights is the fastest and best way of controlling Mondstadt. But it can’t be that easy, can it? I’d be rather disappointed if it is.
“I see.” I nod. “Thank you for answering my questions. As boring as they were.”
“T-they weren’t boring!” She shakes her head before looking to the side. “I think they’re pretty thought-provoking…”
I raise a brow at her short response. She sounds a little guilty for some reason. Nervous, I understand, but guilty? That’s odd.
“Besides answering my questions, you’ve been rather quiet for a while,” I comment, prompting the girl holding my hand to flinch. “Something on your mind?”
“W-well…” Barbara starts, sounding embarrassed.
“I hope I haven’t done anything particularly offensive,” I add.
“Oh no, not at all!” She denied profusely. “In all honesty…”
Her face turns redder as she puts a hand on her chest. Barbara hesitates to speak, then after taking a deep breath, finds the resolve to respond.
“Since you took me flying, my heart has been beating so fast.” She says. “I couldn’t come up with anything to talk about. I’m very sorry for making you do all the heavy lifting. I hope I wasn’t boring you…”
Oh, that is deeply precious. The fact that she would even state such a thing out loud makes her unbearably sweet. How is someone like her related to Jean at all? That woman feels like she is from a completely different stock.
Cute women are my weakness, indeed. Jean should be taking notes. Instead of her silly surveillance on me and constant paranoia, she should be doing something like this. You don’t know when being adorable would help you avoid the destruction of your region.
Then again, things here wouldn’t be as fun. Messing with her quickly became one of my favorite pastimes. One could argue that I’m breaking my contract with Lisa since the week hasn’t passed yet, but I’m not doing anything wrong.
Simply, I’m on a date with Barbara. I have no other ulterior motives. I’m not even doing it to be a nuisance to the knights, like how I took Klee with me on a picnic. Besides, how could I know that Barbara is related to the knights in any way, shape, or form, much less the Acting Grandmaster’s sister?
I’m definitely the innocent one here.
“You are not boring at all. Don’t you know?” I stop, holding her other hand. “Listening is an important skill.”
“But still…”
“Even if you haven’t said anything at all, walking together is good enough for me,” I add—a half-truth. I love a good, quiet vibe, but not answering my questions would’ve been rude.
“You’re only saying that to make me feel better.” She accuses.
“Is it working?”
Barbara smiles at me before leaning for a kiss. I oblige her, pulling her closer by the waist as she clumsily tries to match my tongue’s movement. Her efforts are unneeded but noted and appreciated. Despite her lack of experience and skill, she tries to make this as enjoyable for me as it is for her.
She moans in my mouth quietly before pulling away, red in the face and almost disappointed that we ended this so soon. In reality, we haven’t even started yet. I know exactly what she wants.
On the first date? Either I outdid myself, or behind the dutiful woman of faith and purity was a lustful girl waiting for the chance to pounce on the first man she laid her eyes on. The latter would make it very funny.
“I know a place far enough from Mondstadt where none can bother us,” I say. “Would you like to continue there?”
Her face goes even redder, and she doesn’t respond verbally. Instead, she buries her head on my chest, giving me the answer I wanted.
Oh, if only Jean was here to see this.
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– Barbara –
While it didn’t exactly go against her duty as a nun or even the deaconess of the church of Barbatos, Barbara had never thought anything like this would happen, and she hadn’t particularly been looking for it herself.
Obviously, she was curious and had her occasional needs, but those were so few and farbetween that Barbara had never truly felt the urge to think about romance or sex in general. Frankly, she had too many responsibilities to think about these things. Her idol gig, plus her work at the church, ate up most of her time.
She’d only ever felt slightly interested after hearing a few of the nuns talk about their husbands or boyfriends. Some complained, others gushed— it had happened enough times that it made her briefly think about what she would like in a partner.
But as fun as it was to daydream about a perfect future with a perfect lover, Barbara knew it couldn’t be that easy and she would simply forget about it after some time. Indeed, she would love a good, supportive partner because, admittedly, she sometimes felt alone.
That was until she’d met the adventurer who’d effortlessly stolen her heart.
After their date and their walk on the beach, he’d taken her far away and to a tavern past the borders to Liyue. Wangshu Inn, from what she read on the sign. Barbara felt extremely embarrassed while she followed him along as he paid for a room and was somewhat thankful to him as well.
After all, she was very well known in Mondstadt. Even in a different dress, no tavern or inn would be safe for her, and Barbara didn’t want rumors to spread about them. True, there wasn’t anything wrong with what they were doing, and she wasn’t exactly ashamed, but Jean could get too overprotective sometimes. She didn’t want to cause any trouble for Crimson.
She didn’t know what about him attracted her so much. He was very handsome, sure, but looks weren’t everything for Barbara. He was also kind, polite, and well-spoken. Was that what she found appealing in a man? Could this pleasant demeanor be it?
Barbara didn’t know. What she knew was that her heart would start pounding every time she looked at him, and this was the first time she had felt this way towards anyone. He was the first man she’d ever kissed and the first man she would let explore her body.
It felt like a dream.
She moaned as she felt his hand on her breast, gently squeezing it while delicately biting her neck. Barbara wasn’t sure what she should be doing and let him take the lead as he continued touching her as much as he pleased.
It hadn’t taken them long to start throwing their attire away, and while she was very embarrassed letting someone else take a look at her naked body, she couldn’t back down now. Barbara didn’t want to disappoint him by getting cold feet and leaving midway through their make-out session.
“Be sure to tell me if it hurts you, alright?” Crimson said, taking off his pants.
“Alright…” She nodded slowly, eyes glued to his muscles.
He was an adventurer, so having a trained body like this was only natural. It definitely wasn’t the first time she’d seen a man’s muscles, considering how many knights and other adventurers she’d healed, so she was unsure what made it so alluring.
She had gotten into it very quickly, fortunately, more so when she felt his rigid member on her stomach. Her eyes widened, feeling more and more aroused and anxious each time it twitched. A small part of her felt like this was going way too fast— making love on the first date? Since when was she so easy?
That rational thinking of her brain was, of course, overshadowed by the overwhelming anticipation as Crimson pointed his thing at her wet slit. It felt like she was being split in half as he slowly plunged it into her, prompting a wanton moan from her.
This surprised her somewhat. She’d expected it to hurt at first, but apparently not, as each thrust sent a pleasurable shock across her body. Her insides twitched and gripped his rod as he made her experience something she’d never felt before, groaning as he picked up the pace.
“With how loud you’re being, someone might hear us, you know?” He said.
“I–haahhh–can’t help it–mmmhm!” She responded in between moans. “Y-you’re so rough!”
Even though that was the case, Barbara didn’t tell him to be gentler with her.
“Should I go slower?” He asked.
Should he? She asked herself. But it feels so good like this…
She didn’t say anything, having already lost herself in pleasure as he continued pounding her pussy. His thing was tearing her insides apart, but she couldn’t tell him to stop. Her mind was hazy, and she couldn’t think clearly anymore.
This wasn’t what she expected to get. Crimson was a friendly and gentle person, so logically, she thought he’d give her a gentle and pleasurable first time. Obviously, considering his skill in kissing, he likely had prior experience in sex, so she had him take the lead since she hadn’t wanted to mess this up.
Only for him to go so hard on her? She wasn’t sure what to think. Scratch that, she couldn’t think. The only thing she knew right now was that she loved this feeling and wanted more of it. Only the primal instinct to breed was present.
Barbara’s insides tightened as she felt a massive wave of euphoria approaching, making her cry out louder and louder. On the verge of cumming for the first time, she threw her head back, only for it to never happen.
Her lack of verbal response had prompted Crimson to slow down, making her look at him in confusion and then embarrassment once she realized what this was about. Did she… like it rough? She was ready for a loving embrace and gentle touches, but this was… shocking.
Barbara was discovering things about herself, and wasn’t sure if they were good or bad.
“W-why did you stop…?” She asked.
“You haven’t answered my question.” He responded cheekily with a knowing look.
“P-please stop teasing me…” She whined. Barbara knew that he knew that she loved it.
“Answer first. Do you want me to slow down?” He asked again. “Or do you want me to go even faster?”
Barbara was beyond embarrassed at this point. She did love the rough treatment, didn’t she? Was he really going to force her to say it? He was so mean! That wasn’t like the Crimson she knew at all!
…
“...please go faster…”
“Hm? What was that?”
“I-I want you to go faster…”
“Faster… what?”
Seriously? She thought.
Did she need to say it out loud?! Did he find this arousing or something?! She couldn’t do that! Barbara was the deaconess of the church! She wasn’t some horny and vulgar—
“Please fuck me!” She begged. “I want you to ruin me, Crimson!”
It seemed that Barbara had run out of willpower before finishing that thought.
“Good girl.” He praised.
She didn’t know why, but hearing that made her core feel hotter.
Crimson took both her legs and pushed them back, then plunged himself inside once again. She couldn’t even let out a moan as he went back to pounding and reshaping her insides, drawing several orgasms in seconds.
He grabbed a handful of her breasts and unlike last time, he played with them roughly. He squeezed and pinched her hard nipples, showing a side of himself that she never expected. Even so, Barbara was quick to accept it. She loved it.
She loved being treated like this. It felt amazing and freeing. it felt… new. Different compared to how gentle and nice everyone was to her. Even though she loved the kind treatment, a part of her always thought that, sometimes, it felt like people were treating her like glass. Admittedly, it annoyed her.
This was the opposite, and she loved it.
“So–haaahh–deep! Harder! Fuck me harder!” Barbara screamed in ecstasy, and Crimson obliged. “I-I’m cumming!”
She came, but her partner didn’t even slow down as he continued destroying her with his huge cock. Barbara’s eyes rolled into the back of her skull from the bliss of having someone treat her like a toy.
Eventually, Crimson silenced her screams with an aggressive kiss, ramming his dick deep inside of her as she started emptying his balls into her womb, which forced another orgasm out of her.
She could feel his violent twitching as he filled her to the brim with his hot seed, and as he pulled out in the middle of her orgasm, she squirted her juices onto the sheet until her trembling ceased, leaving her exhausted as she caught her breath.
Thankfully, Crimson showed her some mercy and let her rest for a few minutes, and she regained her composure. For a moment there, Barbara had thought she was going to die from the pleasure. This was too much.
But it was just so good.
She yelped in surprise as she felt Crimson flip her around, making her lie on her stomach before feeling his hot and hard member resting between her butt cheeks. He still wanted more?!
“You didn’t think I’d be satisfied with one round, did you?” He asked with a chuckle. “Though, it seems that you aren’t either.”
It was embarrassing because he was right. She’d gotten extremely aroused the moment she’d felt his thing on her again. She said nothing, though, afraid of accidentally saying something mortifying again, and waited for him to slowly insert his cock into her pussy once again.
Barbara bit her lower lips as she felt his hands on her butt before he started thrusting again, going as hard as before.
This was going to be a long night, wasn’t it?
