Bygone era

Eden was different, she always had a way with her words. Aponia and her were close, closer than the rest of Flame-Chasers were.

But the memories made her tense up again, she couldn't tell if this was real or not. "Eden" Aponia mumbles, feeling the love that the red head was willing to express. She gently leads the other woman carefully, not wanting to hurt her feelings. "It is good to see you again." Aponia spoke with a delicate tone, she was careful, just in case.

"I'm afraid I don't have much to catch up about," she muses. "I simply woke up here, among the clouds. I knew some of our Flame Chasers are about, but..." She casts Aponia a sidelong glance, mournful but delighted.

I didn't dare hope. The words never come, though, her breath drifting off into the breeze. Seeing anyone from her past life had been extra special, but Aponia was almost a tier above the rest. Not that Eden would have special preference for anyone at MOTH; Aponia was simply far more agreeable than most. Whereas Eden could fill a room, her companion was a quiet contrast, and for this she found her company perfectly complementary. Eden hooks her hand under the woman's elbow, requesting her physically, entwining up her arm.

She motions them towards a nearby cafe, and the pleasant coffee aroma invites them inside.

But that's all well and good, Eden muses. Art isn't a problem to be solved, and she's happy to train her eye on it for some time... or, help train the eye of others.

Belobog's administrative district had been perfect for a sightseeing vacation, and though she travels alone, Eden relishes in the opportunity. Waking up to admire the architecture, the icy lights, and the city teeming with life, it all feels like some sort of prize she does not deserve. She's checked her alcohol at the door, but for now, she does not miss it. At least, so long as she can have a little company...

A passing museum attendant springs her trap. "Excuse me, can you show me to your favorite exhibit?" she pleas, already taking the young woman by the arm. "I'm Eden. It's a pleasure."

Her feet don't pick up at a sprint, nor does she seem to rush, but there is a warm hurry in the way that Eden moves towards Aponia. She barely outstretches her arms before they wrap themselves around Aponia's back, cradling her friend has she would a priceless sculpture. And Aponia is art, to her, as any woman is— ethereal and magnificent, a treasure to share their presence with. Eden's floral scent pours over her, enveloping her, plunging in over her shoulder, nocking her chin in the crook of her neck.

"It's truly a wonder," Eden marvels, her breath tickling Aponia's skin. "Welcome home."

She unhooks herself after a beat, a languid smile playing on berry lip-gloss, before diving back in for a kiss on either cheek. It does little to dispell lingering grief that she can't help in her gaze, whenever she looks to Aponia's eyes. Maybe another kiss would help...

"Come? Let's catch up, dear Aponia. Death clearly doesn't take for people like us."

She doesn't truly mean to sing her words, but well, she can hardly help it given the nature of their inquiry. A layperson may not understand the importance of their endeavor, but Eden has been utterly taken with it; after all, when would she be given assignment after a pretty flower? Of all people, she's happy to appreciate the dedication to beauty, and the import of maintaining its value. Plus, what better time to catch up with one of her dear Flame-Chasers, than on some whimsical flower-chase?

She giggles. Of course the figures of legend would be attracted to a fairy-tale adventure like this. Like MOTHs to a flame, or perhaps MANTIS's to an... insect? She supposes that those bugs are probably not attracted to flower to help in her analogy after all.

Keen ears perk up to a quiet voice. Her gait comes to a halt, and Eden peers around the gloomy street for the source. A particularly dark alley seems to be a perfect hiding place...

Golden eyes sparkle warmly. "Ah, what do you have there, little one?"

She gestures to Kevin while keeping a steady gaze on the child. She hopes he gets the message to not make any sudden movements.

Elysia sits on an emerald toned cushion, which has been pushed close enough to one of ruby that it might quash any doubt of with whom this story is shared. It is not only theirs, of course-- it is the world's, it is humanity's-- but here on this ship, it means something only to the both of them. Oh, but Elysia so adores to retell it.

"Oh, and plenty of other things, too, but mostly love."

Eyes snake from their audience-- albeit small-- to the profile of Gold. She is as dazzling in this light as she is anywhere, but the dancing candleflame and setting sun paint her right fitting of her name. Elysia's smile is curled in that catlike way of hers, but for Eden there is something else there.

"It starts with thirteen brave heroes and a neverending war."

A hum. This is a contest, though to her it iks really just an excuse. Their story is one she never lived to tell, and perhaps she does not live to tell it here, either. Here, so far from her own stars, it is merely a piece of fiction.

"Some would say it's quite sad, but I don't think so! My darling friend here knows it just as well as I-"

Elysia reaches a hand to rest on Eden's, crystal eyes glittering. "So it's only fair that she should begin our tale!"

“Oh Elysia, you tell it as if you were not there yourself!” Her smile is half admonishing, half giggling. Her hand flips up below Elysia’s, taking the pink girl’s hand in her own, fingers intertwining so naturally as if their performance had been rehearsed. Eden turns to their audience. 

“For a world constantly on the precipice of destruction, we were as desperate as can be.” She squeezes Elysia’s hand lightly. “But there were as many beginnings as there were endings. You see, each of us wanted so dearly to see our world preserved…” Again, a squeeze comes through; her thumb swipes dearly at the back of her hand. “Finding each other amidst the dreariness changed us far more than any weapon did.”

Eden lowers her eyes, near imperceptibly, at these words. Her heart still aches for the fallen. Who was she to tell this story as if she herself had not been one of the sacrifices? As if she was not sitting hand in tarnished hand with another lost soul, reaped as a casualty of the era? 

✰ LANTERN RITE 2025 ! – reblog & send to earn Peace Talismans.

[XINYUE KIOSK] - Back again, Xinyue Kiosk’s keeping up the competition, offering sweet treats, savory dishes, and even refreshing veggies for all those looking to share a snack.

[TEA TASTING] - Third-Round Knockout is once again bringing the new year on with plenty of new tea options for all those caffeinated connoisseurs that want to branch out. Including, for the first time in quite a while, specialty imports all the way from Natlan!

[DRAGON DANCE] - Uh-oh! It seems like the main crew that would lead the dragon dance are two members short, and need two sets of hands NOW! Grab someone and help keep this dance from falling through.

[KAMERA BOOTH] - Liyue is as scenic as it is busy. Several Kamera’s are set up on the docks, surrounding mountains, and some of the best balconies in the area. Make a memory with someone important to you, or keep the lens' attention for yourself!

[LANTERNS] - Like a sea, lanterns float up and flood the night sky. Meaning often dictated by color, they contain our hopes for the new year. Gather with those most cherished and wish for blessings.

[FIREWORK SHOW] - While noisy, fireworks are an incredible display of beauty and color. Make your mark on the new year with a bang!

[JADE HEARTS] - A popular shape for a popular stone in the land of Geo, these Jade Talismans sold quite well. Now, they’re made as a profession of love and desire to ring the New Year in with the company of another.

[BURNING INCENSE] - Even with all the raucous celebration, it is always important to find a quiet moment and remember those who now belong among the stars.

[TOUR GUIDE] - With as many sights to see as Liyue has, join up with a group of strangers to garner the best sights across the city and countryside!

[GIANT JENGA] - While not necessarily a Liyue classic, a recent uptick amongst the younger generation has brought this classic game to the port, and with blocks bigger than ever! Will you best your friend, or will all the pieces come crumbling down? 

[RED ENVELOPES] - Customize your own envelope as a gift to those most cherished. Whether you slip in some mora or a confession of love, even the smallest of envelopes can be life-changing!

[SNAKE PETTING] - As the mascot animal of the year, an exhibit has been set up with several non-venomous and super friendly snakes, if you’re not afraid of these scaly babies.

[JADE MYSTERY] - Shitou is running a special promotion! Guess the correct Noctilucous Jades to find out what it is, just don't gamble all of your mora away...

There are places Yanqing has never heard of nor have never been to - so it's entirely possible that someone has saved his very existence without him ever hearing word of it.

"I do think that it would be lovely to see the fruits of your labour," Yanqing agrees, even though curiosity clearly comes alight in his eyes. What things has this guest done? What tales of heroism does she have? Maybe he'll get the chance to ask later...

Then again… it was nothing short of a miracle that Eden found herself of sound body and mind, after knowingly undoing herself. Maybe, just maybe, she could allow herself a small hope beyond just the determination of humanity.

In her thoughts, she realized that she’s stopped in the middle of the crowded street. Her guide, still several paces before her, marches onward, and pedestrians flow along and against their direction, swimming on with their lives. Eden quickly tries to conflate her melancholy with contemplation, and calls, 

“Oh! Yanqing! Storytellers… I quite like that idea. But first, how about we get a bite to eat?” Her eyes twinkle in the reflection of the sky. “As thanks for your generosity -  the Luofu is so vast. I’d surely lose myself.”

Not to mention, get lost.

"I've never been the best with words. Words don't do you any good in the heat of battle. But your body does." It takes only a moment to fill both of their glasses, her own raised in a slight toast before she brings it to her lips to down the liquid-- searing, stinging, and spreading a warmth from her lips all the way through to her gut. An all too familiar sensation, and one that causes her to let out a small 'ahh' of satisfaction.

"I can only wonder if you're inclined to agree."

She can’t help but laugh at how awfully forward she is, and the clear tones of her mirth ring out over the table. Content with just her company, Eden hadn’t even considered potential further implications. Feixiao’s intention is clear to her, though; even loosely intoxicated, Eden can still ascertain a person’s tells. It’s too obvious. Feixiao wants her, and she intends to have her. 

Her head spins, their words echoing in her ears. To show, rather than to tell… Perhaps, it would not be so bad to avoid isolation on her first night alive once more. These sorts of things hadn’t been uncommon in her past, but… that had been a lifetime ago. She wasn’t a celebrity, a show-stopper, a pop star intent on taking in hand the pleasures of life, anymore. She was just Eden, who had lost all her friends to save a world that she could only hope had been saved. Her soul was heavier, now. 

Her thoughts dilute themselves with another sip of Feixiao’s chosen brew. It’s good. Begrudgingly, it’s…new. This is not a taste she’s known, Eden decides, and yet it melts on her tongue. 

Perhaps, she could do with a refreshment. Something to remind her of her own current humanity, not just the self she had lost. And, she’s not exactly opposed to the idea. The warmth in her cheeks, different than the alcohol in her chest, betrays her.

The body is always honest, after all. 

She’s glad for the table between them. By the way her company leans closer, were it not an obstacle, negotiations might not have been part of tonight's sequence of events. 

Though she's made up her mind, Eden can’t help but giggle once again, catching Feixiao’s eagerness and matching its intensity. Her look issues a silent challenge: make clear your intentions, dear soldier, and perhaps I just might hear you out.

But to call the whole SoulGlad vs. SoulJoy debacle a war would be an insult to the countless planets languishing in its fires, but the Fool likes her dramatizations—and insults even more! So she'll continue working under the thought that it is. Her goal here is simple: ensure that no side dominates the other, so no one ends up winning or losing. It's a Foolish endeavor, but that's what draws her to it.

Her scheme starts in Aideen Park, where a pro-SoulJoy rally is being held. Sparkle enters the scene dressed as a bystander, pulling a wagon filled with unlabeled bottles behind her. It clinks as she walks, drawing some heads. But she makes no moves… yet. For a while, she simply lingers, watching intently as speakers stand on empty SoulJoy boxes and shout in megaphones. There's a surprising number of people here, enough to garner a small crowd—though most seemed to be there out of a want for entertainment rather than passion for soda. But that's all to her benefit.

Sparkle takes a bottle in her hands, and looks around the crowd. She's searching for an unwitting accomplice—or a witting one would be fine, too, if they were up to the task! Eventually, after a few minutes of scanning, she spots a woman by the edge of the crowd. Tall, long-haired, and beautiful. Exactly Sparkle's type She makes her approach, sly as a fox.

"What's a pretty lady like you doing here? Are you a SoulJoy enthusiast as well?" Sparkle doubts she is, but she continues with her spiel, handing her a bottle, "In any case, I need your help. I'm here to test out new flavors of SoulJoy. Would you mind helping me distribute some to the crowd?"

Having finished procuring various gifts for her new acquaintances -  a task that had barely lasted 2 hours, to her dismay - she had found herself with want for wandering. After depositing her presents, the park had caught her eye.  With that, she’d found herself a nice  evening of people-watching. Observing the new hope of this time eased her greatly. She hoped some of that happiness would rub off on her, perhaps granting new inspiration.

The scenery didn’t last, of course. Crowds of SoulJoy proponents and SoulJoy nay-sayers alike had flocked to her once peaceful niche, littering the air with their bickering. As the evening’s ruby glow waned into burgundy, then chocolate, then black, Eden had considered retiring to her hotel. The curiosity got the better of her, however; not to mention the drinks being passed around.

What she had discerned from the attendees was that there was some sort of brand war going on, something about similar beverages trying to get a leg up on each other. It really made no difference to Eden: people had their opinions, after all. But the fervor with which they campaigned for SoulJoy, their drink of choice, warmed her far more than the mediocre beverage in her hand, and she found herself immersed in the energy now occupying the park. It was different from the subtle humanity of the hustle and bustle of everyday life; it was emotional, and raw, but so too was it necessarily human.

Now, the clinking of bottles coupled with the rolling of small wheels catches her well-trained ears, and Eden allows her eyes to look up as it nears. The girl pulling them seems doesn’t exactly stand out, but there’s something about her, Eden decides. Her curiosity growing every second, she turns to look at her head on, wondering if the new attendee was simply another flavor of SoulJoy soldier. A SoulJoy Souldier, even, Eden muses. She takes another sip of the bottle in her hand, but her eyes sparkle with intrigue. 

She’s delighted when it seems that the girl’s chosen Eden for her attention, as if the star on stage has asked her to come up and sing with her. Her free hand reaches for the second bottle, not intent on any sort of rude reception. “I can help, yes. Though I’d hesitate to call myself a SoulJoy enthusiast,” Eden smiles. “I’m more of a guest, I guess you’d say. Just a liquor enjoyer passing through.” 

She sets her own opened bottle on a nearby bench, and turns to the girl, hand outstretched for another.

Eden can’t help but shine under the woman’s gaze. Her arms, already relaxed, let their movements flow smoothly, delicately; her motions are as natural as water. Letting someone take her in was normal; someone professing to doing so even more so. As a singer, a performer, and a celebrity, the eyes of cameras and onlookers had been a necessary reality to adapt to. 

But for some reason, this time Eden’s heart pulses in her throat, accelerated from more than just her drinks. 

“Cherish my looks? That’s quite a compliment, Miss Feixiao.” Another sip of her drink slips down, curling up around her heart. The room’s temperature has warmed itself to her, now. Eden refuses to drop eye contact, even as she downs the last sip of her glass. Her company’s eyes are hungry, her presence dangling dangerously close to her own. Leaning this far over the table, though in supposed admiration, Eden might have thought that Feixiao just another greedy money-maker, intent on self-gain. 

What is different, then? She finally puts a finger on it: it is the way Feixiao holds her liquor. Were she some man, come to take advantage of Eden’s hobbies, she would not so eagerly be matching Eden’s own alcohol. Near glass for glass, at that. 

Yes, the reflexiveness in which she holds the bottle betrays her. She had to be a connoisseur, Eden was sure of it. Perhaps not in class, but in some form.

“Tell me, is it not enough to simply see me now, sharing in this moment?” Delighted by the mood’s upswing, between coming through the doors and finding her guest, Eden decides a friendly tease. She looks innocently across the table. “How would you best cherish my beauty, then? A photograph?”