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tearskillstardust · 5 months

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; WHICH CHARACTER ARCHETYPE DO THESE GENSHIN CHARACTERS EMBODY?

albedo, ganyu, raiden shogun, kazuha, lyney, neuvillette, venti

— no tw. reader gender irrelevant.

✧ ALBEDO

— "the shadow self", "the outlaw". he would represent the archetypal character that almost every reader adores for their originality but they cannot replace the hero because they lack the ambition or just the ego or push. he would be the character that comes to peace with their dark sides and manages to live, adjusting to the fact that they are a ticking time bomb. the comfort character for the lost or misguided, one can say.

— his personality is focused on themes of self-realization. mainly he was created by rheindottr to fulfill her own ends at the times, though, arguably, he ended up being so much more than an experiment. his own fate or history even, is quite close to that of kunikuzishi's, except that he found right guidance since the start in life so he knew what was right and wrong, what had to be done, what could be left.

— while wanderer represents the villainous side of the spectrum because of his inability to come to peace with his true identity, albedo represents our ability, our strength, our courage to be able to grow fully into ourselves, in spite of our flaws and accepting them as a part of our complex tapestry of a life.

— albedo would be best fit in stories that aim at either— self realization/finding a purpose in life or adventure. he'd be the character that indirectly puts the hero back on track when they're lost or the one that stands beside them when they are alone or feeling hatred/disgust for themselves.

✧ GANYU

— "the mother", "the lover", "the herald". the main focus of ganyu's persona is around themes of protection, nurturing and guidance. she represents the mother, or guardian figure of our childhoods whom we often looked up to as a safe figure to be guided by. she represents the link with childhood we all have, or in this particular case, the hero of the story.

— perhaps what dumbledore was to harry potter, or sally jackson to percy jackson. these are figures that are ultimately lost or forgotten in the long run as the hero is exposed more to their goals, but their teachings and actions play a significant role in shaping their personality and moral compass, often times, even as the only ray of hope in situations of hopelessness. she guides us forward, the kind mother, and encourages us to find ourselves in the world.

— ganyu shared an almost common past with xiao but they both turned out to be completely different individuals. this is, again, the manifestation of ganyu's motherly, kindred yet guiding spirit. while xiao gave in to karma and temptations of sin and duty, ganyu managed to keep sane. she represents our ability to find ourselves when we are lost. the childhood friend whom we really adored, or a past lover who taught us life, even an autumn leaf that taught us of life in death.

— ganyu would best fit in stories that revolve around themes of— growth/metamorphosis or achieving a goal/fulfilling a dream through a lot of struggle or just romanticization.

✧ RAIDEN SHOGUN

— "the guardian", "the herald". raiden shogun embodies struggle and discipline. her principles, her teachings revolve around saturnian themes of discipline, delay and patience. in fact, she is much like ganyu in the sense that she could represent an elder figure we really looked up to when we were younger except that the warmth and emotion is much lacking. she fascinates, and guides as well— but unlike ganyu's 'kind mother' persona, she traps us like mother nature and stops, resists change and evolution.

— in order to overcome her traps, we have to evolve in ways that are foreign to us. like a butterfly, perhaps, when it is coming out of the chrysalis. nature tries to stop it, but the butterfly has to struggle against it and spread its wings for the first time and fight its way out. and those who can't fight, fall right to the ground.

— she personifies the part of our lives that are bitter-sweet by nature yet beneficial. take kazuha's struggle with her as an example. kazuha could have very well thought of the shogun as a deity, a figure that represents the huge change in his path in life. she does something, which affects him indirectly, but hugely.

— her action puts him on his life path, that is self-realization and the quest for knowledge, but there was a struggle initially out of which he had to emerge. he will not judge her kindly, but she played an important role in making him what he is. she put him, the hero of his story, on the path to his true life goal by being the herald of sorrow and grief in his life which forces him to re-evaluate everything and face the harsher aspects of life.

— she is much like the sphinx. she puts us on our paths and kickstarts everything, which is the huge difference between her character and the villian's— the villian brings change that is harmful by nature whereas she brings change that is necessary to evolve, no matter how you see it. she fits and is necessary in every story.

✧ KAZUHA

— "the hero", "the wise". kazuha is a manifestation of an evolved hero. a hero who has achieved their target, their goal and is in the search of the lesson they now seek the most. he represents the noble side of our personality, our morality, our ability to find our path in life through every struggle. he is representative of our light side, our jupiter, our teacher.

— [please also refer to raiden's paras, i have explained kazuha's life very well there] kazuha is metamorphosis, growth through struggle and sorrow. it is arguable whether or not his personal goal will be seen as a goal for all, but one can observe that the change he goes through after his exodus from inazuma is a change every hero has to go through at some point in time.

— apart from that, he is also perceptive, wise and sage like. he offers insight and knowledge very kindly when one may be lost. unlike a character that simply dumps information, he filters it a lot and gives the seeker precisely what they are looking for. and yet, the main essence of the wisdom is never quite lost or overlooked.

— he guides the traveller when they come to dead ends. he shows the path forward gently. he doesn't hold our hand through it, yes, but he is the ray of light when everything is following. perhaps a small clue, a gesture, an action or even a signal. like how zeus guided thalia in pjo, if anyone here has read the books. he didn't hold her hand through it, he simply showed her where she ought to go next when all seemed lost.

— kazuha would best fit in stories that revolve around themes of— truth/epiphany or struggle/sorrow or simply a life based on ambitions and targets that ultimately morphs into a life lived for others.

✧ LYNEY

— "the lover", "the sidekick", "the trickster". lyney embodies fun and love in a very kind manner. you could say that he is like the character we would all admire for their optimism and hope even in the worst of situations. they help the hero through ups and downs in a more practical way than "the mother" or "the wise", and represent ideals of peace, serenity and a love for life that are usually lacking in the hero.

— characters like him generally include— will solace from pjo, ronald weasley from harry potter, john watson from sherlock holmes, the last one, though, to a lesser extent. these characters are generally ignored for most of the time unless a calamity strikes which the hero can't deal with on their own and these characters shine all of a sudden, with their peace-making attitudes and harmonious persona, and often times, even common sense.

— although, unfortunately, these characters lack the assertiveness or even the dedication and devotion to fulfill an endeavour to the end through paths littered with sacrifice and sorrow. this is why they cannot replace the hero although they do a very good job in say, comic relief, introducing love and life, and even help the hero out of their trauma when all is said and done. they are usually emotional and kind.

— lyney would best fit in stories that revolve around themes of— childhood connections/stories that start from the very beginning of someone's life. he would fit in every story line as long as his personality does not conflict on an ideology basis with the hero.

✧ NEUVILLETTE

— "the hero", "the mother", "the wise". neuvillette is the most reliable figure in all of fontaine, as is emphasized continuously. he is the reincarnation of the hydro dragon and is born amongst his own people in his second life. his depth of emotion and empathy is such that even the skies weep when he is sorrowful. he is kind by nature and embraces the harsher aspects of life with a wise approach.

— he embodies the fulfillment of goals through struggles and with continuous sacrifice and patience. his character can be compared to somewhat that of yudhishthira from the hindu epic mahabharata. he was the son of the hindu god of justice and balance which is why he lived a life of righteousness and penance despite being continually belittled. he was deprived of his birth rights but still maintained his patience and lived and treated others with nothing but kindness. he does achieve his goal in the end, albeit with a lot of sorrow due to the loss of family in the war, that is the throne of the aryan nation, which later comes to be known as 'bharat'/ india.

— neuvillette too, keeps his string of patience through millennia of suffering. he does not give up for the sake of his people and emerges what someone looking from the front of the curtains would call successful, though he himself barely looks at it that way. he feels sorrow at the loss of focalors/furina and cannot entirely accept it emotionally, though he fulfills his responsibilities as the ludex with utmost devotion.

— he is the vessel of the noblest of human traits and embodies kindness in a way that is rarely ever seen, even treating melusines with kindness and respect. he is the kind of hero who always achieves his targets in the end because of his complete devotion to righteousness. not in the traditional sense—but entirely in the morality and wisdom sense.

— neuvillette would best fit in stories that revolve around themes of— morality/wisdom or sacrifice/dharma.

✧ VENTI

— "the trickster", "the rebel", "the wise". venti is much like lyney actually, but he is much more enduring and wise. venti is our rebellious side, that demands us to seek what we deserve irrespective of what others think we do. he fulfills his own goals quite cleverly, never quite clearly and by intertwining them with others plans and ambitions. in spite of that, he is still led by his wisdom and patience, and he does not use others for his means, the theme of which is quite apparent with tricksters.

— he is coy and lighthearted. he leads us forward with subtle hints and clues, never being precise or direct with it. but his own input is always there when needed, without the presence of which, things will not be able to progress. he rebels against what is wrong and easily breaks through society's perception of right and wrong. his presence is the kind of presence that usually motivates the hero to be wild and unrestrained with passion and freedom. he represents freedom in its purest form—kind, liberating and patient.

— in spite of all of this however, he is not moral. he is inspiring ideed, but his ideals can be dubious and self-centered and not entirely trusted. he is wise though his own knowledge is usually for his own good.

— his character can be described as being close to that of the weasley twins in harry potter, chiron from pjo, odysseus from tsoa. a mix of all of them perhaps, into a very chaotic and morally grey personality.

— venti would best fit in stories that revolve around themes of— mischief/cleverness at play or best friends to lover tropes, except that he plays match maker.

more a character analysis than anything else lol, still, i really enjoyed this one!

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2cutie · 4 months

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Midnight Challenge

Raiden x Female virgin!Reader

summary: 18 + content! Raiden requests you to join him to dinner after relinquishing in the victory of battle together. You both delved into each other's flirtations and push to see just how far the other is willing to go...

a/n: elder god Raiden(no specific game/media). light master/sub. i like my older men & Raiden supplies. def self indulgent huehuehue

You watched him with a soft expression as he took off his hat and breathed in the calm air. You both had teleported back to the Shaolin temple after completing a mission together, the tranquil and gentle atmosphere much more serene than the energy of the battle. The silence was a welcome contrast and he sighed, content.

Raiden turned to look at you when he felt the stare, his electric eyes shimmering gently. His expression was of calmness and peace, basking in the simplicity of the moment. You smiled gently when your gaze met. The sense of completion washed over him, the battle of the outside world forgotten.

" That was quite the battle. You faired pretty well, old man," you joked in kind, scanning him quickly for any prevalent injuries. You were pleased to find none.

"Yes, I've managed to hold my own." He chuckled softly. "I must commend you for your prowess in battle as well. You fought with remarkable skill and determination."

The praise caused your chest to flutter with pride, and you bowed in generosity. "Thank you, Lord Raiden."

"Enough with formalities. We've fought together on many occasions now, and I consider you a friend. I believe we've earned the right to address each other more casually." Raiden placed a warn hand on your shoulder to righten you.

"As you insist. The feeling runs mutual." You straightened to a stance again, sighing happily. "I feel every time I have the fate to fight alongside of you, it is never less than thrilling. The joy of accompanying a god to battle, I suppose. Thank you for being my unwilling inspiration to improve."

He offered a rare genuine smile. "You are an excellent warrior in your own right. I am happy to serve as your ally."

Your eyes twinkled in delight as a soft blush decorated your cheeks. You fought the urge to bow again, but instead took the initiative to walk beside of him through the temple, seemingly with out a destination. Your footfall echoed softly in the quiet surroundings, paired with the sound of distant monks training.

"There is something refreshing about this place," the god remarked after a break, taking in the aura. "It's still and peaceful, almost as if time has stopped moving." He paused, considering his next words. "Do you ever find the simplicity of this place to be… dull?"

You tilted your head, considering his words. You gazed to the scenery, watching as some leaves blew gently across the air, the grass shifting gracefully. "I suppose… I do. It can be rejuvenating when I need it to be., but perhaps I'm too used to the way of training so now I like things to be a bit more unexpected" Your stare found him again. "Pretty to look at, maybe not to spend continuous time in. Do you find it to be dull?"

Raiden's expression seemed to grow contemplative. "Alike you, it depends. Sometimes I find the tranquility of the temple to be a much needed respite, a chance to reflect and decompress. But other times, I feel that this place can be too peaceful, that I still crave the challenge of battle outside the walls of this place." He nodded toward some of the monk's practicing in the courtyard. "I admire the tenacity and commitment of the monks to the pursuit of peaceful meditation, but battle and conflict remain a central part of my life."

You hummed. "It seems we are not so different. It's a bit amusing to think about."

"I consider you a kindred spirit of sorts."

You willed your blush to go away as he spoke, hoping it wasn't as obvious as it had felt. If he noticed, he did not saying anything. "Knowing you on a personal level, it does seems our souls align in some way." Your voice trickled off for a moment, debating your wording. "I believe you know some of my past, but that isn't something I can say for many people. Our companionship is of high virtue to me."

"I know some of your past, but I would not dare to claim to know all of it. From what I do know, I see someone who's strong and resilient, someone with a good head on her shoulders. Your words and demeanor speak volumes of the type of person you are."

A sigh released from your lips, soaking in the warmth of his words. Perhaps, and you would never admit it, you stumbled just a bit. "I don't know if I would believe that years ago. Thank you. Sincerely."

Raiden noticed a vulnerability in you that you rarely showed. His electric eyes twinkled in the sunlight, pleased to know you trusted him enough to reveal it. "It is my pleasure, truly. I believe that you are the type of person who deserves to hear words of encouragement and appreciation."

He was thrumming strings along in your chest so easily, and he did't even know it. Your body buzzed, as if you had his power coursing through you instead.

You continued walking beside him, wanting to speak more but unsure of what. As you passed a fountain, you spoke. "I should probably shower some of the battle off me. Thank you for another successful battle, and putting up with my company afterwards."

"It was my pleasure to fight alongside of you as well." The god slowed to a stop, nearing the courtyard. He paused for a moment, gazing into your eyes with a certain look you couldn't quite place. "If you will indulge me, may I ask if you have any plans tonight? Perhaps you could join me for dinner?"

"Oh!" You were truly a master of words. "I don't have plans, actually. None. None at all!" Oh gods, just stop talking. "I'd love to join you."

"Wonderful." His expression lit with genuine delight, amusement hidden just below. "I expect you are eager to rid yourself of the battle grime, as well as to get some well earned downtime. I will await your return. Until then, please rest and recuperate."

"Until then," you confirmed. You waved to him as you departed to your bedroom, under the promise of later. As you rounded the corner, you couldn't help but let out a delighted giggle. Your heart pulsed, shy yet thrilled, and continued to your room.

Your well-anticipated shower proved to be more than needed as the warm water laxed your sore muscles. You did small chores around your room to distract your racing mind.

You weren't expecting much for how the dinner may go, uncertain if Raiden even felt any emotion that you did. But even if it was just to be platonic, you were delighted to have the opportunity.

The anticipation made the time go slow, but you were ecstatic when the time came to get ready. You decided not to go over the top to look nice, deciding on a more naturalistic approach. While your heart could fool itself, your mind wasn't set to believe that it was truly a date.

When finished, you returned down the familiar path to the fountain. Unsurprisingly, Raiden was there, his back to you. He turned when you heard you approach.

"Fancy seeing a thunder god here," you teased, stopping in front of him.

"How quickly the tide changes. I recall just a few hours ago, I was the one who asked you to dinner." His eyes glinted in humour as he observed you. You exuded a certain charm and allure that was almost captivating. "You certainly look stunning in this attire."

That caught you a bit off-guard. "Ah, well, thank you. It really isn't anything divine." But you appreciated the sincerity. "You look just as wonderful, as always."

He hadn't changed from his normal clothes unsurprisingly, but was without his hat. His headcap had remained on, and you were a bit disappointed at that.

Raiden smiled at the compliment. "You're too kind. Would you mind following me to the dining hall? I've prepared dinner for us tonight, and it would be a pleasure to share it with you."

"Of course. After you." You stood tall and followed after him, intrigued. As far as you knew, he didn't know your taste palette and that was making you a bit nervous.

Raiden led the way to the dining hall below the temple so you two could dine alone, the heavenly scent of food wafting in the air as you got close. Perhaps you were afraid for nothing. He opened the door for you, and followed inside. He directed you to a decorated table that was laid out with a multidude of delicious dishes, ranging from elegant desserts to spicy foods, and even meat dishes.

You were taken back by just how extravagant it all was, mouth watering from just looking at the savory foods. "Somehow, I had a feeling you wouldn't disappoint, Raiden." You chuckled as you sat across from him, eager as ever. He didn't need to know that wasn't all the truth, and his proud smile made you feel better about your white lie.

The dinner consisted of several savory courses, from a delectable soup to tender and flavorful appetizers, all in impeccable quality. The conversation was friendly and light, compensated around the time you savored the sweet spices. It was little conversation where it was more so talking about nothing, yet it was enticing. But more so, you were thrilled to discover that his ability to be a chef rivaled that of his to battle.

"I fear that no food is ever going to compare to this again."

Raiden smiled at the admiration and leaned back in his seat, pleased. "I'm glad to hear. I am always eager to experiment with new flavours."

"God of lightning, god of cooking on the side. It's almost unearthly how good it all is." Wait… The question posed in your head. You had to ask. "Wait - is it actually unearthly? Do you seriously use your lightning to cook?"

An amused huff of air puffed from his nose, seeming quite amused at how you seemed to believe your hypothesis before even his answer. "I did not, though that is an interesting thought. I was still once very much mortal and have learned to cook the same way any other mortal does."

You hummed, impressed. "I'm now enamored for your cooking. Please, if you ever feel like cooking, be sure to invite me again. I don't know if I'll be able to enjoy normal food again after this," you jested, taking another bite of food in proof. The flavour erupted over your tongue instantly.

"The offer goes both ways, you know," Raiden replied, his tone hinting and cheerful. "I would love to share my culinary with you whenever you want to join me for dinner. I would be interested in tasting your creations as well."

You met his eyes again, a twinge of hope tickling inside you. "I can't calim I'm the best cook, but I'm not so bad that I would kill you." You laughed and finished off the last bite of your food.

"I suppose I can overlook the occasional meal that fails to kill me." He softly laughed with you, a deep and uncommon thing. He continued to gaze over you as you finished the meal. He noticed that the shared gazes would linger a little bit too long. He did nothing to regulate it.

You enjoyed the mutual silence for a moment, but you were getting a bit too curious for your own good as you eyed his headwear. Your expression clearly showed your thought process, face scrunched as you considered asking.

"You seem to be debating on something." He watched closely, awaiting with a curious yet eager expression. "Do you wish to know something?"

"It's dumb." You answered slowly, but eventually laughed. "It's so dumb…. Buut, I was just curious what you keep hidden underneath that headcap, if you'll entertain me. I just thought about how long I've known you and have yet to see what you're hiding." You hoped that didn't sound rude. "Of course, it's completely fine if not. I didn't mean to sound forthright."

Raiden couldn't help but smile, eyes filled with amusement. It was an unexpected yet a charming enough request that his smiled enough for his teeth to show. You added that to a list of accomplishments. "You've piqued my curiosity. I'm always up for a bit of fun." You leaned forward in interest. "Perhaps I will entertain your request, perhaps not. You will have to wait and see."

Your mouth fell open. He did not. "You-" You barked a laugh in shock, but it soon bubbled into guffawing. You dipped your head back, truly amused. "You suck! So bad! I never expected you to be such a tease."

He laughed along with you, his amusement growing at the sight of your mirth. "What, a god isn't allowed to tease?" He voice was playful.

"Now I didn't say that; I just wasn't expecting it. You're always so serious." You leaned back into the chair, crossing your arms over your chests and gave him a once-over. "I'm starting to like discovering these hidden sides of you. You're actually quite entertaining."

Who knew, the god of thunder had a playful side. How unseen it must be.

"I find that there is a time and place for everything. I am not opposed to letting my guard down and having some casual fun from time to time."

"It's honestly fun to see. I consider you a good friend, so it's delightful to know you aren't always so stoic."

Raiden felt something move in his chest. What, he wasn't entirely sure but chose not to dwell on it. "The same goes for me. It is comforting to know that you enjoy my company once you got past my intimidating exterior."

"I figured it came with being a protector of Earthrealm. Can't have the enemies knowing you're a divine cook," you joked and you saw his lips quirk. "Though, it's funny; your brother is such a stark contrast to you."

His eyebrow quirked at the mention. "Fujin and I are similar in some ways, yet so much more different in others. The contrast is certainly engaging, to say the least."

"He says much of the same thing." You chuckled. "I talk to him quite often, when the time permits. He shares stories about the two of you when you were younger, it's endearing how he speaks of it. Also sickening. Though, he did tell me you were one to pull his hair just to spite him when you fought."

"I see he likes revealing some of our more childish habits. I assume he failed to mention any of his," Raiden wore a high-spiried smile, chortling at the memory. "But yes, I've got my tricks."

"Dully noted. Would that be the reason for your headcap? To stop Fujin from getting revenge?" You were being instegative now, knowing that is was simply meant to keep his hair from his face.

It was a playful dig, one Raiden found himself liking. There was an air of teasing between you both, and he was very much enjoying it. "Perhaps I simply wanted to add some flair to my usual attire. I do believe it provides a certain air of authority, if I do say so myself."

You hummed, leaning on the table to get a good luck at it, as if you hadn't seen it so many times before. "You're right. I do believe you are the only one I've seen wearing it."

Passive aggressiveness suited you nicely even if he did catch onto it. "I think it does add a nice bit of distinction, does it not?"

You snorted. "Distinction is certainly one way to describe it. It looks a bit odd in a normal setting, I must admit. However, you do make it look good so at least you can get away with it."

"I'll take that as a compliment then."

The atmosphere drifted back to light conversation as time filtered between the both of you. Dusk turned to nightfall swiftly, the room slowly casting shadows as the late hours creeped in. You were completely enraptured by him the entire night, captivated by the moment. His eyes mesmerized, especially as they seemed even more alight when he spoke. You were too entranced to notice the time filtering by.

But when his eyes flicked to the windows, yours followed. It was completely pitch. "Oh, wow, It's late." You felt panic rise in your chest, trying to decide what hour exactly it was. "I'm so sorry for holding you up. I didn't realize just how late it's gotten."

"No need to apologize," he responded in a gentle tone. ""I myself didn't realize much time passed as well. What's more, I was enjoying our conversation, so I don't mind one bit."

"That's relieving, at least." You rose from your chair. "I enjoyed this as well. You have a bit of a… thrilling aura to you. You are very intriquing."

"Thrilling aura?" He repeated, amusement clear by the choice of words. He stood as well and gathered the dishes.

"Yes, like…. How should I say it." You hummed in thought and helped collect the plates as well, following and returning them to the sink. "I guess because of your status as an elder god, that spending time with someone so high above me feels like it could be 'forbidden'. I know it's not, but I just find it so out of the ordinary to share you downtime. I know I can be boring."

When the plates were placed where they needed to be, you both wandered back to the entrance. "We may be words away in terms of divinity," he began, "However it it is a privilege and pleasure to have spent the night with you. As for being boring, I don't believe that to be the case. You have shared many interesting stories with me, and I have been enthralled by each one of them."

Your cheeks flushed as he spoke, pulse a bit quicker. You shyly tucked some hair behind your ear. "I can say the same… even despite your vendetta to keep hiding what's under your headcap," you quipped. "I suppose I can let that little detail go."

Your curiosity about his appearance was cute. But for now, he liked the air of mystery to it, perhaps if just to ease you more. "Curiosity will only encourage you to continue wondering, will it not?"

You rolled your eyes when you realized he meant to still keep it a secret, but you smiled anyways. Despite the crushing interest, you felt it rather charming that he would play a bit. "Yes, yes, it will. And I'll remained bothered about it until the day." You flicked your eyes back to him, a small glaze of adoration in them. "You have many layers of mystery to you, Raiden. I find great interest in trying to solve them, and that is just one of the many."

"And what if I told you that beneath this was nothing but disappointment?"

You tilted your head. "What it is, premature balding? Or no wait - fully bald. No, no, it couldn't possibly be the secrets of the universe, right?"

Raiden hummed, shaking his head. Each of your possibilities were more ridiculous and humorous than the last. "Perhaps. Any of those could be correct. I could be bald, and not want to bring attention to it so I hide it." He spoke in a fake-slighted tone.

"Somehow, I think you would be able to pull it off. But, perhaps I'm so used to seeing the monks here. Most of them are bald."

"Perhaps indeed. Being on this planet for much of a longer time than you has introduced me to many styles. I realize that you may be correct of me pulling off such an appearance."

"Wha-" You barked out laughing at such a absurd sentence. "That was such an overdramatic and humble way of saying you agree with me! What was that?" You had to double over and grab your stomach, the words replaying in your head. It took a moment, but when you finally were able to straighten yourself, the smirk was still evident. "Perhaps I'm too delirious because it's so late, but that may have been the most hilarious thing I've heard you say."

You reactions to his foolish answer that was more playful than serious was indulging, far beyond amusing. "The night may leave your judgement compromised. But I can't help feel that it has also been truly refreshing, and I believe that the late hour is not the cause of this."

"It has been quite the wonder. I am sad that it is coming to a closure, but if I stay any longer, I fear you'll make me laugh too hard and it'll wake up Kung Lao…. He is truly someone you do not want to anger when he is sleeping."

"We wouldn't want that." He said that as if he had any idea of how hard you learned that lesson. Lucky him. "Your attempts at laughter would prove to be ill-advised."

Your eyes narrowed at him as you walked out of the dining hall, him back by your side. "Whose fault would that be then? Don't make me laugh and it won't happen." You elbowed his side gently.

"I shall endeavor not to elicit any jokes. And if I fail to do so, I shall endure Kung Lao's wrath willingly instead of laughing at you, of course." He leaned in just a bit, barely noticeable. But you caught it.

"What a generous man you are." You leaned against him as well, copying his mannerisms.

Raiden was delighted in the response to his gesture. Every moment was becoming an exchange of teasing between you two, and he found himself enjoying the rapport ever so much. The air seemed to flow easy at each exchange of witty banter.

You found yourself unable to stop smiling as you continued the way to your bedrooms. Your body again buzzed, chest alight. This was a progressive night between you both, even if it was just a friendly thing. "It's so late - dare I even say early at this point - and yet I have absolutely no interest in sleeping. I feel so energized."

"I'm quite awake myself." His body felt invigorated by your presence, admittedly.

"I blame you. I'm typically asleep at this time, so can only assume you have caused this."

"Despite that, I do find it to be quite fulfilling to have you in my company for such a late evening."

You tried to hide your laugh as you looked the other way, over your shoulder. It didn't work. "Careful with your wording there, Raiden. You're starting to sound a bit sultry."

"And is a bit of sultriness bad, if I may ask?" He watched you from the corner of his eye, feigning innocence.

"No, no, I quite welcome it. Just hoping you don't dish what you can't serve." Raiden didn't miss the look of flirtation in your eyes. Nor how you stepped just a bit closer. The night was bringing forth new things and you were starting to see a side you didn't expect from him, and it was making you swell with confidence.

Likewise, Raiden leaned back to you. Your elbows brushed against one another. The clear flirtation was quite obvious, and you both were receptive to it. "I believe I'm quite able to dish it as well as take it. Shall I raise it up a level to make up for that?"

"Will I be wooed by the Thunder God himself? I'm interested of what the next level entails. Please, entice me. I'm curious."

Your bedroom was just up ahead, leaving limited time to explore this bit of flirtation. You didn't want it to end, feared that the moment may be abolished come morning.

Yet he bit at the offer and gave a suggestive reply. "Why should I be the one to entice you? That wouldn't be entirely fair, would it? Perhaps you ought to tempt me in your own way, and then I shall do the same. For balance sake."

His sentence caught you a bit off-guard, but it was a welcome allure. "Smooth, Raiden. Very smooth." Your eyes traced over him, slowly drifting up his body, absorbing all details, and ensuring he could feel wherever your flaming stare landed. Ever so slowly, you up past his broad shoulders before settling to land on his lips, holding the gaze.

You looked away.

You had made the first move into the teasing challenge.

"Isn't there some kind of old saying to not temp a god? And here you are daring me. Regardless, I think I'd do a few sins for you."

His body buzzed. To think his flirtation had set a precedent for how you actually planned to challenge him was enticing. "That would be correct. Though, it would take much more than that to tempt a god such as myself. If anything, it is quite generous to allow you to even attempt to entice me."

"Allow me? Frankly, it sounds like you are wanting me to, since you'd be permitting it." You were putting up a false sense of bravado. Inside, your heart hammered against your chest and threatened to burst from how bad your nerves crept. But this was enthralling, and you were in way too deep. You felt your pulse skip several beats as you saw your door, wondering what exactly this was about to become.

"I suppose you may have me there. The question yet remains whether I would like you to actually tempt me, or if this is merely a game that I'm allowing you to play."

Of course he wouldn't specify which. That was for you to decide.. or to play it out and see. "I don't know if I'd consider myself much of a temptress, though your challenge seems inveigling."

"We shall have to see how the night turns out. Perhaps you have hidden talents that you are waiting to unveil? If so, I would be quite surprised if you are truly not the temptress you so believe you aren't."

He apparently had more faith in you than you did yourself. How curious.

You stopped in front of your room, considered your next plan to action. Opening the door, you turned around to face him. "I hope I can live up to at least some of those beliefs you hold in me. Half of the battle will be finding what you even crave and playing into them." Your eyes locked with his chest again, heat building in you as you traced along the details of his broad muscles. You wonder how they would feel... You pushed the tantalizing thought away for now. You gave a crooked smile, backing into the room, teasingly, cajoling. "I'd be honored to accept the challenge, Lord Raiden… Or would you perhaps prefer 'master' in this setting?" You titled your head. "If you also wish to proceed with this game... lock the door."

Raiden remained in cool disposition as he considered your proposal. He decided he was excited with the turn of events.

The challenge was set now, and the night would either be a fun game or something completely exhilarating.

"It seems that this night will be a time for experimentation between the two of us." He followed you inside, locking the door behind him as instructed. Your core flared in response.

You studied his every movement as he came into your room, watching to see what he did, how he responded. In reality, you had never attempted to seduce before and this was more nerve-wracking than you wanted to admit. You were frightened that you may embarrass yourself, or worse - shun him away.

You were walking an incredibly thin line, but the anixety of the situation churned different at the thought of what may also become, even if only for a night. "Expiermentation often is how people find their delights in life. Hobbies, crafts… Kinks, even."

"I believe we could benefit from a lot of it then. While life is a constant cycle of learning, changing, it is good to explore what we crave."

"And what exactly is it that you crave… Master?" You advanced to him slowly. You had to raise your head up as you got closer, his impressive height looming over you. You were still playing into the 'master', trying to decipher any body language to see if it any any affect.

He daringly leaned in. "If you're going to call me 'Master', you must truly be venturesome to do anything at my orders. Are you willing to prove just how submissive you can truly be?"

"Is that what you desire? My submissiveness?" You whispered the words to him since he was so close, your expression going half-lidded. You gracefully slid yourself down to kneel on your knees, and he watched you the entire way down. In this position, you had to crane your neck further. "If you are curious about that, I can prove to be very dutiful."

Raiden's lips quirked at your response. Your will to submit yourself made his mind turn to all kinds of possibilities. "How voluntary… May I give you an order then?"

You only nodded, remaining in perfect posture as you awaited.

He looked over you in almost a predatory light. But it didn't scare you. Instead, it turned you on. "I find you hair quite enticing." He looked away from your eyes to look to your hair. "I would like for you to let me have free reign over it."

"My hair is yours, master."

A simple enough order. You could do that.

The approval sparked an instant trigger within the god. The fact that you seemed so willing to do whatever he pleased to you was an irresistible thing to fathom. "Good girl."

The praise burned inside you, almost insatiably hot. He strode forward, a hand gliding into your hair. You closed your eyes and gave him the access to do as he pleased, patient and still for him.

His fingers caressed your smooth hair, running his thumb over the texture. It was clear he had you completely enraptured, and the dominant position and control over you stirred deviously inside of him. As he stroked your hair, he spoke: "Have you ever allowed a man to touch you this way before?"

Your eyes opened to only flick away, embarrassed. A light blush painted your face. "No," you admitted.

The shy and embarrassed behavior were exciting to elicit from you. It only made him want to tease your further as his other hand moved to massage your neck. "Then, I feel truly honored that I am the first to be able to touch you in such a way. Do you know what this moment makes you to me?"

Your eyes met his, curious. You shook your head, not daring to speak.

A low chuckle vibrated through his throat. It felt like it reverbrated through you. "This moment makes you vulnerable. And you allowed me to make you so. Do you know how much that says you trust me on some level, that you want to submit to me in such a state?"

You swallowed thickly. You nodded this time.

Raiden's lips curled up in an almost sinister way. To see the desire and lust begin build in you set his mind alight. It was pleasurable, for how easy it was to move you hair in any way he desired. "Good girl. I think you are understanding the game quite well. Now, do you wish for me to stop? Or will you allow me to continue playing with your hair?"

"Continue, please."

"Good answer. Do you know what this makes me want to do?" Another shake of your head. "This game is making me want to lean down and kiss your neck. Is that something you would allow to happen? Would you be able to keep yourself calm while I do this? Or are you already on the verge of breaking down?"

His words were sinful for how much of a tease they were. They made you shudder. "I can remain calm for you."

"Then I shall proceed." He wasted no time to lean down and press firm kisses to your jaw, a slow advancement downward to your neck. His lips were soft, the kisses kind yet lingering and it allowed you to keep composure to start. He felt your pulse and body's reactions under his lips to read your unspoken emotions.

You barely resisted the urge to shiver. Your eyebrows furrowed at the sensation, yet you remained still and pliant for him as you savored the feeling into memory,

Raiden's kisses deepened to being seductive, tongue swirling over your heated pulse points with his fingers twirling in your hair the entire duration. "Have you ever been kissed on your neck like this before? Is this something you are accustomed to?"

"No… This will be my first."

The god hummed in the nook of your shoulder, pleased at the answer. He pressed his body against yours where he could, lips along your throat, your jugular. "Is this something you find pleasurable, or do you find it ticklish perhaps?"

Your mind short-circuted as he pressed against you. You had daydreams about this, but actually feeling his seven foot frame was another thing. You felt small and you were willing to break under him. "P-pleasurable…"

The faltering in your speech made him growl quietly, but you felt it. Your mind was clearly losing the ability to keep itself in check, yet he would not allow you the time to recover as he continued his travel down and moved his lips to cover your collar bone, pulling at your shirt collar. "You're stuttering quite a bit." Raiden shifted his lips to land beside your ear. He mumbled softly, voice just loud enough for you to hear. "Allow me to show you how absolutely irresistible you are in this state of submission. How this is turning me on so much."

You let out a shaky whine at his hot breath spilling against your ear. You hands twitched to touch him, but you would stay patient under his orders. You nodded quickly, eyes shutting.

"It almost feels like you have given yourself up; That I am the one calling all the shots here. You are at my mercy in every sense of the word. I am the one in control now, and you shall allow yourself to be completely submissive to me. Your body and mind belong to me now. Does this excite you?"

His husky voice vibrating through your mind was starting to make your thighs tremble. You nodded again. "Yes, master. My being is at your will."

You fully subjected yourself to him and his heart thrummed. "Excellent, just the way I like you. Keep your eyes closed." He softly placed a kiss on your head, tugging lightly on your hair.

But then he moved away.

You remained where you were, still tremebling softly. His loss of body heat made a shiver work its way up your spine. You worried a bit - worried he may be leaving - but then you heard the telltale sound of clothes shifting. He was undressing.

You wanted to give in to your creeping lust and watch him undress, but you kept your mind set to his command. It caused you to vibrate in anticipation. Your thighs were starting to feel slick as the heat pooled between them.

After a few seconds, you could hear his footfall approach you again. You straighted your position a little taller.

Raiden kneeled down to match your height a bit better. His hands came to land on your shoulders. "Open your eyes," he uttered softly.

Your eyes opened sluggish, trying to hold onto at least some control. Your body flamed as you were greeted with his bare chest displayed right in front of you, old scars and freckles prominent against his skin. You forced your eyes to continue onward and not get distracted. They trailed up his neck - how nice it looked and how you craved to give it the same attention, if not more, than he did to you. His shoulders moved slowly with his deep breaths, and there was a slight flush to pigmentation. You continued to eye up his body, noticed his lips again.

Then, your breath hitched. Your vision dialed to his exposed hair. It was a striking and pure white colour, rather long and healthy as it brushed against his sun kissed shoulders. It draped across him beautifully, some strands framing his defined face in a perfect compliment. He looked like poetry, and you weren't even a poet.

You were still for quite awhile, silently detailing it all to memory. You craved to touch him.

Raiden released a soft sigh as the look in your eyes glistened. He felt flattered under your gaze. "Do you want to touch me? If you so wish, I will allow it. I think you've earned it."

"May I please?" Your question was so quiet you weren't sure if he had even heard it.

"Yes, you may."

Relief washed over you. You shifted, softly bringing your hands to him. Gently, you expiermentally ran your fingers through just the ends of his pure white hair. The plush feel was almost ethereal, so gentle and calming to touch. You ran a thumb against the texture, as if to check it was true, before moving up to his scalp, running your fingers through the white strands. It was perfect, there were no knots; just smooth and elegant, beautiful hair. He clearly cared for his hair despite keeping it hidden. You pushed back hair from his face, tucked it behind his ear ever so lightly as if it were delicate and not a deity. He remained perfectly still for you.

"You're so spellbinding, Raiden," you whispered in complete honesty, forgetting the submissive title to just compliment him earnestly. You trailed your hands up his chest and stopped at his cheeks. You swiped over his lips. He had kissed your neck, your skin, but his lips against yours were still foreign.

Perhaps your mind was getting ahead of yourself. Perhaps you were entranced by his beauty.

Raiden kept silent as he watched your thoughts and admiration pass over your features. It was clear to tell you were becoming enraptured, but he preffered you in this state of mind.

Your desire finally caught up to you. You had been haunted by the thoughts of his hair and his lips for so long, and they had presented themselves before you. How could you not give in?

You gingerly brought yourself closer, kissing him in a featherlight embrace. It was ever soft, sweet and innocent, an experimental touch. You fingerpads ghosted at his jawline.

He didn't resist you, but didn't move. His lips remained still as you kissed him, allowing himself to bask in the feeling you gave him, and for you to take what you wanted.

You broke away after just a moment, eyes still closed. You allowed him a second - if he wanted to pull away, to tell you to stop. He did not. So you kissed him again.

The next time you pulled away, you remained a small distance away. Your sigh landed against his lips as you entertwined breaths. Your eyes opened and took him all in once again, his true beauty stark. You could feel yourself slowly losing the battle of falling completely and helplessly in love. "Sorry," you muttered, hands crossing behind his neck. You chuckled. "I guess that wasn't very submissive of me."

"I rather like it. It allows me to see how far I can push you into becoming infatuated with me."

"If that is what you want, you're a bit late. I've been infatuated with you for quite some time."

The admission striked a chord within him. "And have you had fantasies about me for this long too?"

Your hands froze. You shot him a glare, cheeks flaring. Guilty. "Perhaps.."

Of course he had to turn the serene moment into something filthy.

He could not surpress his grin. "Just perhaps?" The god waited for your expression intently.

"More than perhaps… I have fantasied this and… more than this on multiple occasions."

What an inviting revelation. "And what would this 'more' entail exactly? I would love for you to tell me."

You thickly swallowed. "I've had quite a few… thoughts and visions. M-most of them, um, though.." You hated how you stuttered, but his predatory watch was doing nothing to alievate your lust. "I've imagined y-your head between my thighs."

You weren't sure if there was a greater sin that telling a god straight to their face that you envisioned sex with them. Yet, it didn't make you feel dirty.

Raiden's eyes were locked onto you to watch you flush red. He openly smirked. "Continue, please."

You didn't think you could blush any harder, yet you did. The heat between your legs burned deliciously as you recalled the vision. You were leaking. "You were.. Er, your tongue. And mouth. You had me on my back as you ate me out. S-sometimes, I was on top and you let me ride your face. I fantasized about that the most."

He thoroughly enjoyed that more than he thought he would, and a low growling moan of approval slipped from his mouth. It was satisfying to know how aroused and hot you were becoming for him, and how you had been imagining him before. "Your dreams are quite vivid. And now, I'm starting to get some visions to add into these fantasies of our own. Would you like to know what I'm envisioning now?"

You were too flustered to answer with words, so you nodded, rubbing your legs together.

His hands ran up your thighs. You weren't as sly as you thought. His face inched closer to your ear again, voice filled with eroticism. "I'm now envisioning you on your back, with myself between your legs as they're strung over my shoulders, your breasts moving in time with each thrust I pound into you. Your nails cut into my back to ground yourself."

You breath turned ragged as he listed the sinful details. Your body flared, pulse thumping harshly against your ribcage. Your blood felt scolding, and it all coursed to your core. Your body twitched without your notice. "Yeah? Anything else you'd like?" You licked your lips, suddenly dry. "Any other fantasies?"

Something with how his voice was more of a growl was turning you into putty. His voice, so close to your ear, reverberated through your body, the illusion of you both being one. So close, so bound together. His voice felt like it was fucking you in itself.

Raiden devoured the site before him, your utterly breathless and trembling body made a hunger within him grow. It felt primal, and he resisted urges to take you for himself then and there. His lips ghosted over yours, breath touching yours as he spoke to stir you even further. "That one in itself is quite the vision alone. But I do have another… Would you like to hear it?"

"Yes… please."

His hand came to cup your chin. "Close your eyes." The hand slowly shifted down to the back of your neck.

You shuddered lightly and obeyed, your vision darkening once more.

He slowly leaned you back, where he was leaning over you yet still elevating you by your back. His voice was becoming deeper and rougher as he began to speak in a more seductive tone. "You're on top, and your hands are on either side of me as you gyrate your hips back and forth, pleasuring yourself and using me to your own benefit. Your head is thrown back and your eyes are tightly closed, enjoying the pleasurable sensations that I am giving you."

"Fuck!" Your body shuddered against your will, and the friction of your movement made you moan. You imagined his vision quite clearly in your mind with your eyes closed. You felt as if his words spoke of reality, your body reacting in kind, leaking as if you could truly feel yourself atop of him, riding.

You were making Raiden become breathless as well, seeing the image of you playing before him. He knew what was happening, he wasn't a fool. You were causing the same affect on him, pleasure building within him without even having touch him. You were a deviant. "Your body is trembling, your breathing is heavy and your moans are echoing off the room. Your legs are tightly gripped around my waist, shaking, and you're holding yourself as tight to me as you can. Your eyes are squeezed shut as you're close to your peak, and you're letting yourself go completely."

Your head dips back, the words washing over you. Your mind was running rampant with the visage of his words. Your body followed along with the story, and you whimpered pathetically in his hands. You felt a rush start to rise quickly inside of you.

"You're reaching your climax, your breath becoming more rough and raspy. You're grabbing onto me taught as if a lifeline as your body begins to shake uncontrollably and your legs begin to tremble even more. You release on top of me, you squeeze around me."

You moan, absolutely wretched, and your body follows exactly what he instructed in his story. Your hips gyrate as you feel yourself climax from his voice alone. He pushed you so far over the edge that you didn't care how pitiful you seemed as your hips moved to their own motion. You clutched his shoulder and moaned into his neck, riding your high.

Raiden panted as he felt your moan again his throat, eliciting a shiver up his back. He loved the sight of your body letting itself go as your moan grew louder to the visions of pleasure he delivered to you. Hips lips came to meet yours once more in the midst of your release, from the fantasy of your shared creation.

You kissed him hastily in return, moaning against the taste of his lips. Suddenly, you tugged him over top of you as you pulled your back to the floor, seeking his friction. In the new pose, his mouth began to nibble on your neck. You wrapped your legs, locking them over his hips, pressing him down to your mound. You ground against him so he could ride out his own release with you.

That was a feeling he was enjoying to its full extent, one he barely felt in his lifetime. Feeling the heat of your body against his, the feeling of your soft body rubbing him this way, the damp wetness through your clothes. He growled low as he began to rock himself against you, back and forth. His lips trailed up your neck with small bites to mark before landing on your lips one final time, and he rode out his own release.

The feeling of it all made you gasp, pushing his head further to deepen the kiss and milking him for all his glory. He was big and the feel of him rubbing against you made you feel carnal. Your legs tightened in the daze of your ecstasy when you felt his body release against you.

As he broke, he groaned against your lips and you drank it down, thirsty for it. When the kiss broke with a trail of saliva connecting, he resigned his head back to the junction of your shoulder.

His body relaxed within yours as he willed himself to regain composure. Your hand in his hair slowly released its grip to a soft pet and he sighed at the feeling, combined with your body heat. He allowed himself to relax in the afterglow, waiting for his breathing to regulate.

You freely panted, and when he felt his mind was stable enough, he looked back to you. Your palm caressed his face, as if confirming he was truly still there and that had happened. "Fuck, Raiden… You're fucking good."

You were too strung out to even care that you were cursing to a god.

His eyes shut as you left soft little kisses up his cheekbones, grabbing your hand with his own. He was still in his own dazed stupor, breathing slowly. "I could say the same for you, goddess."

"Mm." You dropped your legs off his hips, glowing at the petname. "If that's how it is with only just talking about our fantasies, I can only imagine how it will be when we actually do them."

Raiden's body started to relax with yours, the heat of the aftermath a soothing warmth. He felt a tiredness start to creep, but your words kept him awake. "I completely agree." He pressed a kiss to your collarbone.

You rested with each other in a comforting silence. His body temperature was almost unnatural, basking you in a serene state as you lightly played with his hair. He leaned into the touch. "How.. how did I do for my first time seducing?"

You just had to know.

"This being your first time still remains a complete shock to me; you had completely overtaken me. I'd say you earned the title of a temptress."

That was a relief. A delight, even, to know you fell a god's resolve. "Seeing as you were my first, I'm glad it know it was enjoyable to the both of us." You felt him smirk in your skin. He would be very much inclined to be more of your 'firsts'. "Am I right to assume that this isn't a game? That you wanted me to tempt you? Truly?" You knew he could feel your pulse quicken in your chest as the anxieties phrased your questions. You wanted to know what this meant, exactly.

Raiden pulled himself from your arms and you felt your stomach drop. But he his head draped to yours, pressing your foreheads together. "Correct."

You kissed him, needing to express your gratitude. This time he kissed back, stroking your arms. How you'd love to suffocate yourself in his kiss… "I'd like to make those fantasies you spoke of come to life, Raiden. I imagine you'd look quite beautiful below me. Now that I know what your hair looks like, this completely adds a new layer to my visions. You'll look so delicious from above, your hair draped over the pillows…"

He huffed in merit as you trailed off, your thoughts clearly displayed in the glint of your eyes. "Oh? Your thoughts still run rampant even after what we've just done? You're quite naughty indeed."

You chuckled and pushed yourself to sit up a bit, wincing a bit of the feeling of your wetness inside your clothes. "Don't worry, I won't ask you for a second round, old man." Besides, you really wanted a change of clothes.

"Another quip to my age?" He helped you stand. "I'd say I can keep up just fine."

You took his hand as he led you to the bathroom. You leaned on his side and pressed a kiss to his chin, really the only place you could reach on tip-toes with him standing straight. "No worries, I'm into older guys." You gifted another kiss. "And you did extremely well." Another one. "We'll ensure you don't break a hip in the future."

"Is that so? Well, if you truly believe that and want to treat me like your personal toy, at least give me a few weeks to recover first before you ride me."

"Mm, we'll see." He sets you down on your bathtub rim and you run your hands over his chest. You gaze was nothing less than affectionate and his responded in kind. "Truly though, Raiden, I did want to thank you. I know I was persistent to know what your hair looked like. I find you mesmerizing; I hope to see you like this more often."

"I'm pleased I could sedate your curiosity in some way." His voice was soft, sweet and it dared to lull you before you could both clean yourselves.

"I think you actually managed to tire me out, admittedly. I think I'm just going to clean a bit, change and sleep. You're… welcome to join me and stay the night, if you'd like."

The smile he gave you was so charming, so handsome on him, you considered taking him again. You supposed you could wait. "I would be pleased to wake up beside you in the morning. Are you sure that's alright?"

"More than alright. I just know the morning sun looks so wonderful on you. I will be anticipating it."

The words made his heart melt with each passing moment. Your words, your praise, and just yourself, truly captivated him. "I will as well. Sleep well tonight. I am certain I will be in your dreams throughout the night."

#mortal kombat #mk #mk raiden #raiden #raiden mortal kombat #mortal kombat x reader #mortal kombat raiden #raiden x reader #raiden x you #mk x you #mk smut #i hate naming fanfics lmao #my art

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definesanity · 7 months

Note

Sorry for the wait, I just realized I needed to get my brainrots in order (?) and I have a few to share today:

- Canon Ranni and the Tsaritsa are a lot alike, divine-adjacent royalty associated with frost/Cryo. Also, Cryo users all seem to have a contradiction or irony in their life, i.e. Kaeya being a Khaenrian who protects Mondstadt, Diona a bartender who hates drinkers, Rosaria a nun who doesn't worship the gods, Aloy a Sony character in a Chinese animesque game, etc. The Tsaritsa is a goddess of love who has no love left for her people, a god who is (possibly) rebelling against the very order that usurped the Dragon Sovereigns and propped her kind up in the first place. Ranni (and by extension Ranni!Reader) is an Empyrean, chosen by the Greater Will as a potential new vessel for their will, for the Order they have forcibly imposed on The Lands Between, yet Ranni turns her back on them and forges her own path, no matter the cost.

All of this to say, imagine R!R and the Tsaritsa properly meeting for the first time, each laying their cards on the table (to an extent) and oh, finding something of a kindred spirit in the person opposite them. I can just imagine R!R saying:

"I think we shall get along just fine, sister."

Word spreads, and R!R proceeds to never clarify if they meant it literally.

- So the original gods of Teyvat were the Dragon Sovereigns. Let's assume the Creator made them as well. What if their form reflects that?

I imagine R!R initially wakes up in Teyvat in their original body, AKA the flesh they once discarded during the Night of Black Knives. When they recreate the events of that Night with some poor fool in Godwyn's place (I know I orginally said Focalores, but lately I lean towards Raiden or the imposter themselves) their new doll body more closely resembles their original form - you know, red-haired and Just Big like their parents (still with four arms, though). Half of their ghostly face is sort of overlaid on their physical one, like a spookier Phantom of the Opera mask.

Again, all of this to say: imagine R!R with spectral horns and a spectral dragon tail. Now they match with Adula. R!R would be imposing even without them, but with them, they command attention, perhaps even fear.

- Speaking of Adula, I wanna expand on that one brainrot I sent - in Teyvat, Adula has a half-dragon form, tail and horns and claws and all. My idea was 'Rhaenyra Targaryan, but pale and scary apex predator with white hair.' And as I was playing my catalysts only Genshin account, I realized something - the face I was picturing would look remarkably similar to Neuvillette.

Like, half-dragon Adula would be much scruffier than him - imagine the Lazuli Robe, but with a good portion of the skirt unevenly torn off, and something like Rennala's leggings underneath. No gloves or shoes, just simple cloth wrappings. A veritable ragamuffin of a grown woman, the Creator’s draconic equivalent of Scary Dog Privilege, but between the white hair, stoicism and intimidating aura, she looks like she could be the Chief Justice’s long-lost daughter.

Rumours spread, and Neuvillette neither confirms nor denies them, because - well, he doesn't remember, and for all he knows, Adula is related to him somehow.

I've run out of brain juice for the moment, so I will pose you a question: how do you think Neuvillette feels about Furina? I don't mean shipping, but like, what does he think of her as, in relation to him?

Thanks, and well, that's a good question.

Exasperated, maybe. Furina is an Archon, and very much flamboyant. Neuvillette is devoted to his duties and the nation he works for. To me, I see Neuvillette as sort of a tired, almost fatherly/brotherly figure to Furina. Sure, you can hear the annoyance, but I'd like to think he's gotten used to it. It's just his Furina shows herself to others.

Side note: I don't really mind people shipping them. I can certainly see it, though; it's just not for me, really xd

Thank you again for your thoughts! :D

#ryuusei's replies #genshin impact #Neuvillette #furina #sagau #sagau ring #sagau brainrot #ranni!reader #fandom enjoyer

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ryukang1995 · 6 months

Text

My roleplay monologue as Liu Kang for my Mortal Kombat AU

"As a kid, my life was not easy as I lost my family thanks to that pitiful sorcerer Shang Tsung.

Ever since being taken in by Lord Raiden, I had been pushed to my limits...to fight for Earthrealm in Mortal Kombat...

While my family was gone, there was one who filled that void for me...Kung Lao...

My ancestor was a great hero who fought for Earthrealm until his life was taken from him...

But I was not about that life. My mind was on one goal...revenge...

I was reckless. So much to the point where Lord Raiden ordered my own cousin to look after me...to make sure I did not go down a path of darkness...

I truly blamed myself and my own lineage for everything that happened in my life...for what happened to my own family...

For a while, I thought Kung Lao and Lord Raiden were the only ones I could trust...and then I met her...

Sonya...

She too had gone through struggles and loss of her own. Learning about this made me feel that I had truly found a kindred spirit...

Unfortunately, I could not commit to a life with her at the time as I had defeated Goro and Shang Tsung to become the champion of Mortal Kombat.

I longed to tell Sonya how I truly felt about her...but I couldn't do so at the time, due to my status as champion...

Being the chosen one is not easy. It means making decisions that truly break your heart...

I thought I had nothing left to fight for...

Thankfully, Sonya and Kung Lao were there to help me realize that love and friendship were on my side...

They truly helped me become a better person.

Without them, I truly would be lost..."

- Liu Kang

#mortal kombat #liu kang #sonya blade #kung lao #raiden #shang tsung #monologues #alternate universe #mortal kombat 1995 #mortal kombat 2021 #mortal kombat movie #roleplay

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imma-write-stuff · 1 year

Text

Scaramouche/Wanderer Meeting and Falling for a GN S/O Who is like Kratos (Enemies to Lovers)

Author’s note: The S/O is like the traveler they’re from a different world. If you don’t know who Krato is, he’s the protagonist of the game series called God of War. I will also will change names for Scaramouche/Wanderer to show the change he wanted.

CW: minor spoiler alerts for the game

- You were a demigod turn god who is well feared for your skills in the battle field. After fighting against the gods and destroying the pantheon, you traveled to different worlds and settled in Teyvat. You became a recluse for decades.

- Solitude didn’t last forever. When you meet the Traveler and Paimon, somehow you pick up your blades again and join them.

- Scaramouche noticed you as soon as he saw you for the first time. You looked out of place. Something...frightening he wasn’t sure if it’s the right word. He eventually gets clues about you, some thing

- He finally got a taste of you in battle when he tried to become a god as the Lord of Arcane Wisdom. Scaramouche noticed you were holding back, he didn’t understand why you did. It’s hinted that you can do more then that.

- After he joins the Traveler, it was the chance for Wanderer to get to know you but it was easier said then done to some extent. You were pretty stoic and didn’t speak unless it was important. It takes awhile for you to trust others and open up.

- Even the Traveler and Paimon still don’t know you well even when basic trust is form.

- Wanderer is no fool and knows how to pick up clues, first he notices how you would glare at your blades with hatred and...regret? Second your weapons will come to you, when you put them away they somehow always end appearing in front of you.

- Third clue? You’re a Descender, Nahida reveal this, and once she look into more info she was...cautious? Wanderer had a feeling she must’ve found something about you.

- Once your past is revealed Wanderer was speechless. A God of War that destroyed the pantheon and the world out of revenge. Wanderer thought what he did was terrifying but this, wow. He noticed how much you regretted your choice and all the bad things you did.

- One thing he can do is not pity you, that he can understand, you hate being pitied. Your bitter hatred towards the gods from your former home world reminds him of his bitterness towards his creator Raiden Shogun.

- In a way learning of each other’s past kinda help you grew closer, kindred spirits in a way.

- After you two began dating, you began to soften a bit and more willing to be open. Still pretty stoic though, Wanderer in return was not as harsh towards you and actually develop a healthy form of respect.

- Neither of you say I love you a lot but its expressed by action. Wanderer can be a bit possessive at times if not a little clingy. You did what you could to ease his mind.

- If marriage came to the picture, I can see the couple settling down somewhere quiet. It would suitable after everything you both been through, what you did, it would be best for you both to start anew.

#wanderer x reader #genshin impact #headcanons #x gn reader #genshin impact x gn reader

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mewtonian-physics · 2 years

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BRUH RLLY. TUMBLR WHYYY. great bc that is the exact reaction intended. i love funnywes and in particular the boo-womp video. i think i've watched it like 12 times now.

hey you came through this time!!! woohoo!!!

yeah tbh funnywes is pretty hit-or-miss for me because her sense of humor extends to areas that mine absolutely does not but some favorites of mine in no particular order are

boo-womp

raiden's victory (#raiden2024)

solid snake is wittle

okay so the ultimate punchline for the 'kindred spirits' video doesn't really hit for me but i like it anyway because every time someone says raiden and armstrong are the same i die a little on the inside

operation bathtime i wish it had revolver ocelot duck though

monsoon i sure do love jokes and images

that one where the whole punchline is that raiden is lefthanded

evil raiden

disregard rose, acquire currency (that's not the name but that's what it is in my heart)

the bad movie trailer (i'd actually watch that movie though. to laugh at it, yes, but i'd watch it.)

the cave one (it doesn't fit into my sense of humor at all, and yet... somehow... it does)

'i don't care, you fucking show pony'

the inevitable result of that one lady essentially saying trans people are going to create cyborgs

saucy jack (i have a love-hate relationship with that video but tbh raiden's reaction is exactly what mine was when i first hit that scene)

#ask

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surprisebitch · 2 years

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Which Genshin characters are your favorites? Not necessarily to play as, but like which ones you like the best, are more attractive, etc?

i will do a top 10

1. Arataki Itto - my oni husband. he is so fun to play and it's a bonus he is considered S+ tier by the community rn. he's so strong omg and i LOVVEE his personality 🥴 he is such a wholesome himbo. and like omg he is boyfriend material. and his story quest was a breath of fresh air. the best so far. it was comical but also full of heart and gay

2. Gorou - general gorou, my kindred spirit. supreme omega. power bottom. fkdkdj i love him omg and his character. cause like SAMEE. he is an extroverted leader yet also experiences doubts from time to time. he also believes he can still improve. his hangout is my most fave so far and it was so funny seeing how Yae teases him. also, his playstyle is very fun! i love how he has synergy with itto. i love his character design. also Ittorou best ship

3. Kazuha - the true anemo archon 😩 i didnt care he was clowned during his leaks and release. like i rolled out of love and it's amazing he is the #1 most used and recommended unit for abyss since his release. he is phenomenal. who needs crowd control when enemies get obliterated from ur insane swirl mutlipliers. gosh he's a king and I LOVE his personality and story quest. i hope Tomo gets revived or smth for him. Kazoo deserves a boyfriend

4. Kokomi - she is such a queen. so underrated but I truly believe as time goes, her value will increase. she is an incredible main driver for off-field dpses! in fact she is the best beidou driver rn. Kokomi made electrocharge a viable abyss comp. and besides playstyle, i love her story quest and character. she deserved better writing in the archon quest tbh

5. Yoimiya - she is so cheerful and fun. i super enjoyed her story quest, which was partly a BL too since she was a wingman for two gays djfjf i love her energy and her playstyle is very fun! sure she is no hutao but i've 36'd abyss with her and she is comfy to play too! i cant wait for Yunjin to buff her

6. Zhongli - Geo daddy. i love his personality and his design. he is so attractive. like when i rolled zhongli, i didnt care he wasnt meta or he was considered bad. I love his character djdjd and also im so glad he got buffed cause he is insane. best shielder in the game and i love he is perf with Ittorou team too!

7. Bennett - cheerful benny! for someone who is canonically unlucky, he is the pyro archon and is insane at healing, buffing and even for elemental reaction comps! he truly is incredible and i love using him with Ittorou. also i loove his optimistic personality. and it's amazing how he still has good luck or brings it to those around him even when he doesnt realise it

8. Razor - my wolfboy. benny's boyfriend. although powercrept, he was my main carry from the start until 2.0. my first triple crown. i love how he really cares for you and benny and people he call lupical. his playstyle was fun too! it's nice he has a stand. i sure hope he gets buffed cause he really needs help

9. Ganyu - overworked queen! rjdjjd she's my mood whenever uni term happens gosh i love her personality tbh and her story quest is one of my faves. also i wasnt a Ganyu main but Amos bow chose me so i rolled her. been my mvp since getting her. i love how easy her playstyle is lol and also she's pretty!

10. Scaramouche - i dont know if he will ever be playable omg. but i loove how sadistic he is but also playful like i really love morally grey characters. and after reading his lore in Husk of Opulent Dreams.. damn he can really be set up as a complex character if mhy learns not to do the same mistake with Raiden fjdjd but yeah im manifesting Scara to be playable and to still remain interesting. i love his character design too!

#genshin impact

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nekocarlsenpai · 2 years

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tw// suicidal thoughts

I had planned to live up to 32 years maximum, a minimum of 27, but if before and after 2025, nothing will change, I will kill myself before, and I'm not fucking kidding:)

I'm just tired, LITERALLY, I'm not taking this, but this situation is completely deteriorated even in 2020, when me was quarantined, this serious now.

I didn't go to specialists, but I know that everything is getting worse and worse with me mentally and I can't stand it, you can say that I'm coming to the edge of the abyss, but I'm not close to the edge of the end, my hands are letting go. I have mental problems, for personal reasons from my childhood, I have mental problems because of my studies, which I graduated from more than a year ago, problems because of finding a job, even though I'm on an internship and I'm holding on with everything I have, but I'm scared.

With consolation and a mental pillow and support, I go to fandoms to forget myself and distract myself somehow.....

I'm always looking for what I need in the characters, and not just to draw because I liked him, no....

In General Hotaru I found the protection and kindred spirit that I need.

In Raiden, I found the support I expected from "former" friends

In Fujin, I found the attitude to people that I myself wanted to get .....

I see myself in them, even if we are not similar in characters and worldviews, but I see what I wanted to get for my 21 years of life

That's why I have such a hyperfixation on them, and I'm afraid that it may end........

I used to say, "I have an iron rod, I can stand it," but this "iron rod" is collapsing and the process is irreversible.

I can't come to my senses after the death of my grandmother, my cat and my beloved teacher, every fucking year, someone died....

I hold on only because of my mother, because I have to provide for her. We live in prosperity, but I want to pay her with what she gave me life and I miss it, and I would like to provide her in the last years of my life so that she does not need something after my death

I'm holding on only because my girlfriend, who also depression, and I literally help but draw her our characters to distract from the bad :")

Yet this war is just adding fuel to the fire, the fact that I fucking sit for a few thousand kilometers from the scene and can't help my friends from Ukraine. Panic stress, it's all terrible....

But honestly? Then I'm already tired of fighting the "war" that I'm losing to myself, I just want to leave, I'm tired of pretending that everything is fine.....

My hands are letting go and I want it to end, I want this pain to finally end.....

I hate myself for this, I do not know how much longer I will last, I cannot accept myself as I am, I cannot accept my appearance and I cannot accept my inner nature, I literally ask for help, friends know about it, but hope that this will not happen

I just want to die......

#info nekocarlsenpai #tw suicidal thoughts #tw suicid #me and my suicidal thoughts

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puttingfingerstokeys · 4 years

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an alliance you silly fool

for lack of a better title--here ya go. I’mma call this a sequel (or maybe just a spiritual sequel) to thermodynamic equilibrium which, in turn, is a sequel to heart and fire. Should I turn these into legitimate fics? Fuck idk.

Fire and Ice (subscorp) with tendrils of strange subplots--enjoy!

Broken Timeline

From the moment he woke up that morning, Johnny Cage knew that this was going to be the absolute strangest wedding he would ever have the pleasure of attending. The venue was idyllic with falling leaves of many colors scattered about, caught by wind and tossed here and there by eddies of breeze. Fujin’s on his game, thought the actor, passing beneath the archway that marked the entrance to the Shirai-Ryu Fire Gardens.

The place was a temple and a training complex all in one. The “facilities”, such as they were, bore the gravitas of age and deeply held tradition and dignity. The Lin Kuei dotting the area, therefore, were somewhat out of place. It was good, at least, to see them (those who remained) in flesh bodies—all save Cyrax, whose yellow chassis was impossible to miss.

Johnny could not help noticing the amount of Shirai-Ryu, a clear testament to the late Hanzo Hasashi’s dedication to their restoration. His heart gave a little, achy beat, then, when he counted and compared their number to that of the Lin Kuei. The titan of time had taken so much from Sub-Zero and his clan.

Kronika’s machinations had decimated the Lin Kuei; Sub-Zero had said as much, but seeing it first hand was gut-wrenching. “Great venue, though,” he commented to no one in particular.

“An ideal choice. Arctika would have been much too cold for the mortals in attendance.”

Johnny nearly jumped out of his skin at the sound of his old friend, Liu Kang. It felt like an age since he had heard that voice but despite all that, it forced a smile. Johnny played it as cool as he could and turned to face the keeper of time, glowing eyes and all. I’m never getting used to that.

“Liu, ya made it—lookin’ ah… divine, buddy.” He reached out and patted Lord Liu Kang almost hesitantly on the shoulder. He was hot to the touch, but the fire did not burn, sort of like Raiden’s low-grade EMP field. Speaking of... “Where’s ah…” Johnny craned his neck and looked around, as if he missed something. “Ol’ Sparky?”

“Lord Raiden is indisposed, unfortunately—elsewhere in the timeline.” Liu Kang seemed hesitant to offer details. This sensation, along with the lack of Raiden told Johnny something was up. He would have dismissed it but for a tiny discharge of what was little more than static electricity, arcing from Liu Kang’s upper body. Johnny nodded and gave a thumbs up, catching sight of Cassie, Jacqui, and Takeda Takahashi over Liu’s shoulder.

“A’ight well, good to… y'know see ya, Liu. I’m gunna—”

“We must speak later, Johnny,” said Liu Kang, grasping Johnny’s upper arm, shining eyes boring into his, even through the sunglasses. Johnny's heart skipped a beat. Liu knew him too well to hope he had noticed nothing. “After the ceremony.”

“Sure thing, man, no problem…” Johnny paused. “You okay?”

“I think I will be, once we speak.”

That was the best he was going to get, so Johnny let it lie and moved over to see the happy couple and his daughter. Jacqui was leading one child, their eldest, a six year old named Hanzo—the child was bright and gleeful, dark eyes sparkling with wonderment at the falling leaves—and her belly was swelling with another. She was radiant. Takeda balanced a two-year-old on his hip. Her name was Sonya and she was just as inquisitive as her brother, holding a red leaf in one hand and a small blanket in the other.

“Jacqui, Takeda, glad you’re here,” he greeted, pulling them both in for a hug.

“Mr. Cage,” they both chimed, wide smiles stretching across their faces. Everyone, it seemed, was fairly fond of Cassie’s father. She stood off to one side, offering her hand to little Hanzo when the adults squeezed him out in favor of a hug and catch-up session. The boy ran to her and slapped her palm before grasping it.

“You two look great—ah, hey, Jacqui… how’s your dad?” Johnny didn’t want to pry, but felt it was the right thing to do to inquire. It was what Sonya would have done. She was always well aware of protocol and propriety. Now he had to be the master of his own manners. It had gotten easier, but it still was not easy.

“He was…” Jacqui chewed her lip. “Today wasn’t great, to be honest, Mr. Cage; he has ups and downs.”

“This one was a down,” Takeda said, shifting his grip on Sonya, “but he sent us with all his respect and… honestly, curiosity.”

“Yeah, who’da thunk?”

Presently, Cyrax, who was acting as an usher, approached and gestured that the Takahashi family should follow him. Jacqui bid Johnny goodbye and there was melancholy in her eyes, a kind of regret that she could not offer more solid information or good news on her father. Johnny crossed his arms and found himself losing focus, staring off into the woods beyond the gates, thought and memory carrying him away.

When Liu Kang had taken control of Kronika’s crown—Johnny was informed that that had been a fight literally for the ages, like all of them—he had supposedly set about restoring the timeline,doing his best to put pieces back into place, where they belonged. It meant making many painful decisions, but Liu was, as ever, aided by Raiden, who had given his chosen champion his divinity that he might fulfill his ultimate destiny.

Liu Kang had offered little information on the arrangement. Fortunately, Raiden was a little more forthcoming than ever he had been previously. He had explained to Johnny and Cassie one afternoon upon visiting Johnny’s Beverly Hills residence that he had conferred his divinity permanently, but that he was still himself, an elemental, and that Liu Kang had given him that aspect of himself back once Shang Tsung had been defeated. For what reason and to what end was evidently not for Johnny to know.

“It will belong to Liu Kang again,” he had said, “once my mortal life is over.”

He had guided Fire God Liu Kang to make many decisions which hurt him deeply. Returning the younger versions of all of his friends to the past had been heart-rending. Johnny preferred not to think about it in depth. He had forgotten how much he liked Lao and Kitana until he had seen them in their younger forms again. It was doubly painful now to know they were back within their timelines, put into place to maintain the balance—Liu Kang’s balance. No more of that Kronika bitch, Johnny thought. That’s shitty balance.

“Something is on your mind, Cage-san.” It would be the second time that day Johnny would jump out of his skin. He whirled this time, recognizing the voice, but startled nonetheless.

“DO not sneak up on me—Jeezis…”

Scorpion shrugged. “Be more aware of your surroundings in a den of assassins.” He did not speak with malice, though his strange wraith’s eyes betrayed nothing and so Johnny had to go on instinct that he was not being menaced. Certainly Scorpion’s attire had changed; he wore the traditional robes of the Shirai-Ryu nuptial rites, rather than his customary yellow and black assassin garb. There was something comforting in that, but Johnny had laid money on there being some kind of violence at this wedding, so he was still hoping Scorpion was packing some kind of heat under all that fine fabric. Just one “get over here” would do me, I swear.

“Okay, you got me there—am I supposed to be sitting down? Also aren’t you like… shouldn’t you be hiding someplace ‘til it all starts?” He found himself observing the man’s hair, now, held up with an ornate pin that looked to be made of gold. Everything about this was weird, but also made a strange, cosmic sense. There was balance in this, too.

“Western wedding traditions and eastern ones are laid aside here,” said Scorpion cryptically. “We are neither. Shirai-Ryu descend from Outworld… But if you would be seated, we might begin.”

Before Johnny could respond, Scorpion sank into the ground in a flash of fire and heat. Johnny wondered if his hakama would be singed by so doing and chuckled, shaking his head at the thought. Heading toward the seats, he noticed that many people had arrived while he had been daydreaming and he wondered how he had missed them. Before he could worry much about that, Cassie had caught his eye and was signaling him to a seat near the Takahashi family and, of all people, Kung Jin.

“Good to see you, kid,” said Johnny, shaking Jin’s hand. Jin nodded.

“You kidding, Mr. Cage? I wouldn’t miss this for anything.”

The seats were filling, all familiar faces. Not many were complete unknowns; those who were quickly found their place among kindred spirits. This was an intimate affair, after all. Who would turn down the chance to see the legendary Fire Gardens of the Shirai-Ryu? There was low, murmured chatter, a few peals of laughter, and many wide eyes.

All at once, however, a hush fell over the crowd prompting the laughter to die down and the murmuring to become whispers. The wind which had been moving the multicolored leaves two and fro stilled and Fujin himself touched down near the back, settling into his seat. Grey Cloud leaned over and whispered something in the god’s ear; Fujin seemed pleased and smiled a crooked grin, nodding.

Kotal Kahn adjusted his headdress a moment, before taking it off and setting it to the side of his seat. Now is not the time to be emperor, he thought, but honored guest. Next to him, his empress’s smile was soft, approving, her hands folded in her lap. Lord Liu Kang had given them a great gift, restoring Jade to life and vitality. Their wedding had been the largest celebration Outworld had ever seen. She could not see how this could eclipse that, but was politely in attendance nevertheless.

Erron Black leaned forward and exchanged a few whispered words with Johnny, who shook his head, pointed toward the most ornate building in the Fire Gardens which was serving as the backdrop for the “stage” of this ceremony. Swatting Johnny’s shoulder, Erron leaned back and crossed his arms.

“Hang on! Don’t start without us!” A voice called from the entrance where a couple of Lin Kuei were struggling to lead a pair of figures who were now jogging toward the seated assembly. Johnny flew up out of his seat and lifted a hand.

“Lao! Kitana! How…?” He was baffled, but so very, very glad to have the seats in that row filled by these two. Perhaps Liu had done something similar for them to what he had done for Jade. It was good to see her sitting next to Kotal. This was balance.

“Divine intervention,” said Kitana simply, her face a broad, open grin. Dark eyes sparkled with delight and she looked as young and beautiful as ever. Lao had aged a bit, but he was still a knockout. Johnny flushed a little at the thought and shook his head.

“Well c’mon you acts of god, siddown.”

“You think there’s gunna be some kombat?” Lao asked, stuffing an elbow into his nephew’s ribs. Jin swatted at him and shrugged. Kitana shot a look at both and they sat back. Johnny shook his head.

“It’s a wedding,” Johnny stated nebulously.

“You’ll be eatin’ your words come this evening,” Erron declared without looking or offering context. Cassie looked between them, eyes narrowed with suspicion. Johnny pulled a face and gestured at Lao and Kitana to sit. Everyone else had gone silent, so it was clearly time.

A frigid bank of fog had settled into one side of the “stage”. Those closest were shivering, wrapping arms around themselves, smiling with heart-pounding anticipation. Of course this could not be a normal wedding.

Sub-Zero emerged from the fog bank, ice coating his hands, which he opened and held out toward the right side of the venue. His attire was formal, some kind of ancient Chinese wedding garb, very traditional, as Scorpion’s had been. What were they playing at? And where’s Liu?

“This’s gonna be a helluva show,” rumbled Erron Black, sitting a little straighter. Grey Cloud leaned over and whispered something else to Fujin, who nodded, but then covered his mouth, glowing eyes wide and darting toward his companion, who crossed thick arms with satisfaction and sat back looking very much like the cat who ate the canary.

A tornado of fire swept the fog and chill from the crowd and Scorpion stood, wearing the same garb in which Johnny had earlier seen him. Not a bit of it was scorched, which was impressive special effects, in Johnny’s mind. He tried to forget the magic bits as much as possible; it hurt his brain even now. He heard a low whistle from behind him, distracting his enchantment-driven discomfort. Evidently his gray matter wasn’t the only thing being strained constantly by their odd choice of companionship.

“It is Shirai-Ryu tradition that the intended must fight for his wife,” said Scorpion, his voice resonating over the quiet crowd without a need to raise it. “A brother, a father, an uncle, or cousin…” He gestured, arms out to either side of himself, as if to indicate that he had no relatives, that he was his only family. “I am nobody’s ‘wife’.”

This, at least, earned a chuckle, rippling through the crowd and easing some tension. Those who had been present from the beginning of the initial konflict knew well the former animosity between Scorpion and the man who had once worn the Sub-Zero mantle. More than that, they knew the rivalry between the Shirai-Ryu and the Lin Kuei, then brutalities committed against the former by the latter. This ceremony was unprecedented.

“But, I will represent myself.”

“I challenge you, then, Hanzo Hasashi, Grandmaster of the Shirai-Ryu, for the right to call you mine.” Sub-Zero’s dress garb had not changed, but his hands had retained their icy coating and, presumably, that ice was running up his arms now. A cold snap was fanning out from his position, placing a beautiful layer of frost upon the leaves and greenery closest to him.

“I assent.”

Scorpion was enveloped, then, in violent flames, the challenge accepted. These consumed his dress attire and replaced it with his yellow, black, and red assassin garb as he walked through it, untouched. Swinging the spearpoint of his chain almost lazily, Scorpion emerged. With a swift, unforgiving motion, he hurled it toward Sub-Zero.

“GET OVER HERE!”

The spear flew like lightning, taking Sub-Zero by surprise in the shoulder and tugging him forward into a stumble, staining his nuptial attire with blood. Scorpion was on him in an instant, pulling one of his swords out and swinging hard for the man’s face. Only a quick motion deflected it, ice coating the Lin Kuei Grandmaster’s arm and sending the blade spinning off and sticking into the fine wood of the dojo’s porch. The crowd gasped appropriately as Sub-Zero grasped the spear end and tugged it free, tossing it almost contemptuously onto the ground.

Scorpion retracted it and then began swinging it in another lazy arc as he approached, backing Sub-Zero toward a stone monument to the left of the dojo building. Before he could make another move, Sub-Zero had encased himself in ice and burst forth with a rolling tackle in his traditional blue uniform. Scorpion stood his ground and took the man’s momentum in stride, forcing him to one side and bringing a savage elbow down on his back. There was a grunt of agony from Sub-Zero, but the kryomancer did not release his hold, slowly beginning to chill his arms. Scorpion’s hand bearing the spearhead was trapped, but his other arm remained free and he beat Sub-Zero about the head and shoulders mercilessly, trying to free himself before hypothermia set in.

When his hand dropped open and the spear dropped from it, Scorpion knew he had to change tactics. He set his jaw and brought a leg up, aiming for Sub-Zero’s thigh muscle. The hit drove home and he broke away swiftly, rolling into a kick to the Lin Kuei Grandmaster’s jaw which sent him reeling onto his back. Sub-Zero manifested a snowpile—something he had recently cultivated—to catch himself.

“He’s not even fightin’,” Erron grumbled, arms crossed.

“Would you fight the man you loved? ‘Cause I wouldn’t.” Johnny’s mind flew, unbidden, to Liu Kang. “Besides, you’re still winning.”

“Damn right.”

“You’re BETTING on this?” Cassie’s hiss was so forceful, Johnny nearly jumped.

“Of course not, pumpkin, why would I do something like that?”

Meanwhile, Scorpion was bearing down on Sub-Zero, intent lacing every single one of his tightly coiled, compact muscles. He was an imposing figure, if only in reputation. As far as Johnny was aware, the man had never breached five and a half feet tall, if that—but make no mistake, he had more than earned his name. Supposedly—and everyone was inclined to believe this tale—he had, through sheer force of will and rage, fought his way through the Netherrealm to challenge Quan-Chi and demand his vengeance. The story, after that, became a bit sordid and most people did not repeat what came next.

Sub-Zero launched a few icicles in rapid succession at Scorpion, who was making a run at him. These, he leapt and ducked with almost practiced ease and then, with one tremendous heave, launched himself into the air to come down on top of Sub-Zero, spearhead kunai in hand, aiming very clearly for throat or face. Johnny could see their mouths moving from where he sat, but could not make out their words.

“Do you fight for your honor?”

“I fight for ours.”

“You will not best me.”

“I will.”

“I will kill you, Liang.”

“Hanzo… you are beautiful.”

Sub-Zero forced Scorpion’s arms, both of which were now employed in trying to drive the blade downward, up and over his own head, sticking the tip into the dirt. Both of Sub-Zero’s chilly arms had wrapped around his torso again, but the hold was much softer and without menace. He was holding Scorpion, rather than attempting to crush his ribcage.

“I… yield,” said Hanzo Hasashi, very quietly, sitting up and facing the crowd. “Before this assemblage… I yield.”

Johnny couldn’t help noticing that Sub-Zero’s hands had come to rest easily and comfortably on the yellow-clad assassin’s hips for but a moment before Scorpion stood and offered one of his own. Sub-Zero took it and stood, towering over his new husband, looking pleased, but hardly gloating. Both chests were heaving.

“That counts as violence,” Erron hissed in Johnny’s ear. Cassie was rolling her eyes in their direction, but her attention was mostly upon the spectacle before them. She had never, in her lifetime, had the privilege of witnessing the two Grandmasters really throw down. She was glad she did not have to take them on; one was enough and Sub-Zero had been toying with them. Proud as she was of her training, skill, and heritage, there was something to be said for the raw experience of age.

“Wait…!” Takeda called from a few seats down. He stood, gesturing. “Master Hasashi, your… your eyes!”

“My…” Scorpion paused and looked at Sub-Zero.

“You’ve returned to me, Hanzo,” whispered Kuai Liang, brushing a few stray hairs out of Scorpion’s face. “Body and soul.”

Johnny was the first to stand and applaud. Others soon joined until the entire crowd was surging to their feet with wild laughter and clapping and whistles, whooping and hollering. Jade considered this ceremony adequate competition to hers. Kotal was in tears.

“If anyone here has any reason these two should not be joined,” said Liu Kang, appearing from a portal just at the top of the steps to the Shirai-Ryu dojo. “Speak now and risk life and limb.”

“It is not recommended,” Sub-Zero added, holding Scorpion tightly.

#cc #cw #subscorp #thermodynamic equilibrium #mortal kombat

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