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aroacettorney · 5 months

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we talked a lot about how the incidents in delica absolutely broke ludger, but tbh, casey didnt come out of it unscathed either.

imagine how lonely you must have been to willingly travel to such a distant land just to see someone who was potentially like/similar to you. and when you thought you finally got a best friend who could understand you in a way that no one else could, they turned out to be something you would absolutely abhor with your entire existence. they gave no explanations. they bothered not with excuses. there wasnt even enough time for you to grieve what you just lost because they forced your hands to fight them in a death battle. without a word, they just simply vanished as if your friendship in the past few months meant absolutely nothing to them and you were left alone again, trying to navigate when and what went wrong all by yourself. there was a mix of burning hatred, betrayal, and sadness inside you, but there was no longer anyone for you to talk about it — no one that could understand it. you endured all those feelings for three years with no one to share while chasing after your old-best-friend-now-turned-archenemy for answers because they never gave you the closure you deserved.

even when you finally learned the truth, you realised that they had never trusted you nor your abilities enough to even consider working together. rather, they took on the most extreme measure and didnt hesitate to make you their biggest enemy all the while keeping all their troubles and pains to themselves. best friends, friends, friendly acquaintances, private detective and their client — it turned out that your relationship was neither of them. was it truly your one-sided assumption after all? or perhaps, was it because you failed them when you could have known better and done better? still wanting to keep believing that your companionship was once real, your guilt started gnawing on your conscience. not only you couldnt save them, but your inadequateness also doomed them to their worst fate possible.

then, the opportunity came. you finally mustered up all the courage to utter an apology. even though they acknowledged it, they made no intention to accept your peace offerings. they reminded, "our alliance is temporary". they stressed, "enemies are what we are destined to be". what a fool you were, trying to save a relationship that never existed. either that, or you had never truly been forgiven. they wanted nothing to do with you. they needed not saving by you. it wasnt a closure you wanted but its still a closure you got. in the end, you were left alone once more, with the knowledge of a possibility that you also might not be able to save them again this time.

#academy's undercover professor #academy's undercover professor spoilers #aro ludgercasey propaganda #selmore's undercover husband #casey selmore #this is caseys pov. to her ludgers true feeling is an enigma because he auto crits on deception.#ironically i think casey was/is much lonelier than ludger.#when she was bedridden for a month ludger seemed to be the only one who came for a visit??? (feral fans dont count)#what was marias even doing????#ludger tends to think he is alone but he still has a lot of comrades openly caring for him.#even tho the delica incidents hit him hard he still at least had hans as his trusted emotional supporter.#meanwhile casey had to process everything by herself. there was no one holding her hands through it.#there is betty but i dont think she would be good at processing these complex and contradicting emotions that casey were having.#caseys going through the same thing ludger used to experience. the helpless feeling of not being able to save someone you most care about.#with the guilt eating her up under the right conditions she has the potential to become ludger 2.0.#personally i think the trigger would be ludgers self-delivered death.#it could break her for good considering how much guilt she already has over the delica incidents — the one event that changed everything.#anyway in conclusion casey also needs therapy. both of them need couple therapy.

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serenexdreams · 2 years

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FLOWER FROM AFAR | YANDERE! KAMISATO AYATO X READER | PT 1

Part. 1 Part. 2

IN TEYVAT'S BEGINNER GUIDE TO GROWING FLOWERS, it cites that all native flowers flourish and bloom in their respective regions of birth--rarely away from home, do they choose to open their buds and blossom.

Kamisato Ayato had believed, for a very long time, that the flower unwillingly plucked and thrust to his side had withered. However, he was pleased to find that was not the case.

A DOWNCAST, OBEDIENT GAZE. Neatly combed strands of hair entwined backwards into a traditional Inazuman-style bun; pinned up by deep blue chrysanthemums. A delicate, snowy white kimono draped over your poised figure, embroidered with a flowery azure blue print.

Ayato's pale violet eyes drilled holes into your skull, silently observing your every move. The rich, comforting scent of matcha tea wafted through the air, as you brewed the hot liquid. Apathy clouded your (E/C) eyes, rendering your emotions unreadable. A faint spark of interest ignited within Ayato, as he calmly watched you bend forward, pouring him a cup of tea.

Had it not been for your unnaturally sharp facial structure, and (H/C) hair that stuck out like a sore thumb, you could have easily passed as any common Inazuman noblewoman. But these distinct features were easy to tell apart from a crowd; they screamed of Monstadt. Of the fact that you were a foreigner.

"...My lord, your tea is ready." Ayato was snapped out of his thoughts, gaze flitting to the cup of tea you offered him. "Please be careful, for it is quite hot."

Ayato took a sip. The refreshing, almost bitter taste instantly woke him up. A faint smile curved across his lips. "Your tea-brewing skills have improved since you arrived, dearest. I take it that you've learned from an expert--perhaps Ayaka?"

"Yes. Lady Ayaka was gracious enough to educate me on the process." You made no attempt at conversation, as an awkward silence stretched out between the two of you.

Nine months. It had been nine months, since you had been shipped overseas, like a bag of cargo--only to be wed off to the distant, elusive Yashiro Commissioner sitting in front of you. The only time you both had interacted, was during the engagement ceremony, the wedding reception, and the brief kiss you had shared during the vows. So what was he doing here?

You discreetly gulped down the bitter tea, tongue protesting in pain, as a searing hot sensation rushed down your throat. You held in a cough, retaining your composure. "...My lord, is there anything that you require of me? I believe I requested that you simply send a servant instead of personally coming to me. I understand that you are bu-"

"Is it wrong of me to want to visit my dear wife? I hold my family quite close to my heart." Ayato smoothly replied, taking a sip from his teacup. "I haven't visited you in a while, nor had a proper conversation in ages. I missed you."

You internally cringed at the unnatural, sappy words pouring from the typically dignified Yashiro Commissioner's mouth. Lies. All lies. What was he up to?

THE FIRSTBORN DAUGHTER OF TWO MONSTADT ARISTOCRATS--distant relatives of the Gunhildr clan, and one of the few families spared during Lady Venessa's rebellion. Your parents had been relatively lax; constantly busy with work, unable to make time for you in their lives. To compensate, they let you do as you wished; as long as you made sure to uphold family values, and study well.

Thus, your life had been filled with days immersed in your studies as an aristocrat and chasing crystal flies through the shadows of Whispering Woods. A simple and balanced life, filled with both freedom and rules. You had never resented your parents; they provided you with everything you needed and hired a nanny who raised you well. You and your parents held mutual respect and an indirect form of affection for each other.

Yet that all came shattering down when news of a marriage proposal from overseas arrived. The prospects were excellent, and your parents had hastily agreed in your stead. Nothing could be done; you were now engaged to the head of the Kamisato Clan, a man you had never met.

THAT NIGHT, you had bawled your eyes out in the lap of your beloved nanny; before begging your parents, for the first time ever, to not be sent to a foreign nation. Where you would be alone, once again.

That was when you realized it; it wasn't that they were always busy. They simply didn't care enough to constantly stand by your side. A political marriage like this was enough to ensure that you would be well-fed and sheltered, so they were satisfied. Their job was done.

Beneath the pale white moonlight, shining through the gaps between the branches of your favourite tree in the Whispering Woods, was a wet patch of soil. Your tears continued to roll down the edges of your eyes; watering the soil and tree. You had tasted what freedom was; but now, it was being ripped away from you.

Perhaps it was the Anemo crystal flies that took pity on you--or maybe even Barbatos himself, who knows. Either way, the next morning, you woke up in the woods; eyes puffy and cheeks red with dried tearstains. Next to you, a green glass orb glowed brilliantly; casting its emerald light down upon you. A secret friend that would forever accompany you on your endeavours.

At first, hope had sparked through your body; the vision was proof of your ambition and worth. Would it be enough to save you from your lonely fate?

However, when you had gleefully thrust your vision into the gaze of your nanny, her gentle demeanour turned sour.

"Milady--where did you get this?.... Please do not joke around. A noble lady, especially one getting married to a prestigious overseas commissioner, should not desire such things. Please always be reminded of your responsibilities. There is no longer room for freedom."

Cracks had slowly, one by one, crept across the glass mirror reflecting your once-perfect life. At first, you had despaired; confining yourself within the darkness of your room--refusing to eat or dress up for guests. It got worse--to the point, maids had to drag you kicking and screaming to take a bath. What was the point?

Regardless of how much ambition or intelligence you had, everything boiled down to how marriageable you were. Everything revolved around your pretty face and blue blood.

But did it really?

There's so much to explore, in this world. Why not try to chase for the stars, little lady? If you don't have a lot of time 'til you're shipped off overseas, you may as well enjoy it.

Some words of advice from some retired adventurers, lounging lazily around the warmth of a fire in the Whispering Woods.

A sharp, numb, pang of realization rang through you. They were right.

There was so much to see in Inazuma, as well, wasn't there?

"I haven't visited you in a while, nor had a proper conversation in ages. I missed you."

YOU RESISTED THE URGE TO ITCH AT A SPOT ON YOUR NECK. A mere distraction. Moving too much would cause the tiny pins in your hair to fall out of place, and wrinkle your kimono. You resisted the urge to clasp your fingers around the bronze locket hanging around your neck; to feel the comforting pulse of your vision, hidden inside the flimsy metal.

"I see." You dryly replied, uncomfortably looking away. From the corner of your eye, you saw a familiar blond, who gave you a short bow. An awkward smile graced your lips, as you tilted your head in greeting.

After you had arrived in Inazuma, you were greeted by a blond-haired, emerald-eyed man; one of your fiance's trusted servants, Thoma. He was a good conversation partner; a former Monstadter, now serving the Commissioner. If you wished, you could reach out to him for comfort. He'd surely sympathize with a lonely little lady, faraway from home. But you knew that he couldn't be trusted with your little secret. You could see the burning loyalty in his passionate emerald eyes, that he held for the Yashiro Commissioner.

"...Everybody, please leave the room." Ayato's sharp voice cut through your train of thought, as you refocused your attention on him. His once plaint, calm demeanour had disappeared. Hearing his order, your handmaidens and the servants all instantly disappeared. You hesitantly shuffled, unsure if you should follow. "No, you stay, Y/N."

"...Yes, my lord. How can I help?" You replied, gnashing your teeth, as you fiddled with the hem of your kimono. What on earth did this man want? He had shown zero interest in you, in the past; always busy with 'work-related matters,' never bothering to show up to any birthdays or formal events, just like your parents.

Not that you minded. The western wing of the Kamisato residence remained practically uninhabited until you had moved in. All the handmaidens and servants working in your quarters were on your side, in this household.

You were a noblewoman too. One of the talents you had picked up was exerting your own influence. Within weeks, you had completely won the staff over--including the handmaidens assigned by the Yashiro Commissioner himself, to watch over you.

Ayato calmly set his teacup down, steel gaze flicking to meet your eyes. Goosebumps trailed down your spine. "I would like to ask you something, and I'd prefer if you were as honest as possible."

Panic flew through your mind. Did he find out about the secret stash of Guides to Freedom you had commissioned an adventurer to transport to you? Or the wind glider hidden in the back of your closet? Or perhaps...

Your Anemo Vision?

"...ARE YOU NOT FOND OF MY PRESENCE? HAVE I OFFENDED YOU IN THE PAST?"

A dull silence resounded through the room, as you froze in fear. His words slowly ticked through your mind, processing. Ayato tilted his head, amusement evident in his unreadable gaze. He leaned towards you, and you instinctively flinched, snapping out of your trance.

"...I'm afraid I do not understand your question, my lord." You replied stoically. "You are my husband. There is no reason for me to disli-"

"Really? Then I'd like to inquire why you decided to place your eyes upon Thoma, rather than me, your husband?" You stiffened, as those saccharine-sweet, sugarcoated words flowed easily from Ayato's mouth. "Tell me, my sweet wife. Since when did you begin to fancy my own servant?"

You felt your own typically-dormant temper flare. Since when did this man have the right to involve himself in your private affairs? However, you patiently gritted your teeth--a faux, thin-lipped smile of elegance curving across your delicate features.

"I don't know what you are talking about, my lord. You rarely visit me, and we've only spoken on a couple occasions, regarding formal matters. I apologize, but you have no right to inquire about my private affairs. " You bluntly replied. "I neither dislike nor favour you, my lord."

Ayato hummed softly, shifting slightly.

The eyes are the windows to one's soul. Scriptures from the Favonius Church cited this saying--that one's emotions and beliefs are evident, and can be identified by looking into their eyes.

But when you gazed into his eyes, it was like peering into a misty field, after a gentle spring shower. A thick fog veiled his intentions, yet Ayato's mesmerising violet irises were clearer than the waterfalls of Springvale.

He patted the empty spot next to him. "Perhaps I haven't been clear enough. We should have an amicable relationship, but I've been neglecting you. I apologize. WHy don't you have a seat next to me?"

You narrowed your eyes, watching his snake-like expression twist in amusement at your reluctance. What in Celestia's name was he planning now? Regardless, it appeared that the minor tantrum he was previously throwing, was over. You stood up, shuffling to his side. Your kimono rustled, the exquisite silk crinkling as you sat down next to him.

Unbeknownst to you, his gaze burned with vicious envy, as his mind formulated a plan.

THE GLOSSY FABRIC OF HIS GLOVES suddenly brushed against your cheek, as you steeled your unrelenting gaze--putting up an unfazed front. His face drew closer, fingers trailing to your shoulders.

You could feel it. His cool, indifferent touch crinkling the kimono--calculative gaze soaking in your every reaction. You nervously felt your teeth rake the edge of your lip--bruising it.

"...My lord, I'd like to ask of you to please maintain some personal space." You dryly commented, feeling your cheeks flush a rosy pink. You pursed your lips, forcibly yanking his wrists away from your body. The long, rigid fabric slid backwards, revealing the unblemished skin beneath. You watched as Ayato's eyes appreciatively soaked in the visual before him.

Suddenly, he chuckled. The smooth, elegant noise sent a shiver across your spine, as your stomach fluttered at the sound.

The man was heartless--you knew that more than anyone. Neither of you even bothered to try and hide the fact that your marriage was completely political. So why was he trying to get all buddy-buddy with you? You scowled, glaring viciously at him.

"...I had thought that you were withering away, due to lack of attention. But it appears I was completely wrong." He leaned forward. Your eyes widened, as alarm bells went off in your head. You shot backwards, mouth opening to hurl a line of crude insults at him.

"How dare you-"

AS MONTHS OF COLD SILENCE between the two of you fluttered by, Ayato had become curious; what was his new 'bride' like? He had, for a long time, assumed that you had resigned yourself to your fate; to live as a sacrificial lamb, for the sake of a political alliance--yet the opposite was true.

You were interesting. A delicate flower, desperately clinging onto your last hope, and against all odds, blooming in a foreign nation. He could still remember the first time he had seen you manipulate Anemo.

It had been a long, dreary evening of meeting after meeting. The hot, humid summer air sank into the thick, ceremonial white robes he wore, as beads of sweat trickled down his neck. The sky was a deep, midnight blue; slowly flushing into a glorious golden dawn. Another night, wasted away.

It was an accident. Ayato had merely been observing the back garden of the Kamisato compound, from his hidden sanctuary; a small fountain in a clearing, overlooking the western wing's garden. A faint flash of emerald green lit up the area.

His eyes widened, soaking in the view. In mere seconds, a figure had scaled the wall of the compound--darting effortlessly through the air, and landing with a thump on the other side. An intruder? Or perhaps an assassin-

No. That face looked familiar. Ayato watched, intrigued as your appearance morphed and distorted. Your long, (H/C) locks, once tainted with an unrecognizable dark brown colour, returned to their original state. Your facial structure changed, as did your other defining features.

Ah...Y/N was her name, I believe. He had almost forgotten about you--and the fact that you even existed. His memory flashed back to the submissive, weak gaze that you held when he first met you. Had it truly all been an act? From a distance, he watched as a handmaiden appeared from the shadows--placing a shawl around your shoulders and frantically whispering into your ears, before helping you brush away a few stray leaves from your clothes. Your lips curved into a dazzling smile, as you let out a breathless laugh, trying to catch your breath.

How had you done it? Curiosity overwhelmed his indifference, as he continued to observe the two of you slink back into the confines of the western wing. Your acting was on spot.

For the next couple of days, Ayato would remain perched next to the fountain, documents in hand, as he observed you skillfully creep in and out of the compound. Some days, you'd return with a beaming smile, unaware of his watchful eye. On rare occasions, you'd return dishevelled; with windswept hair, bruised and tired. The scent of the ocean accompanied you everywhere you went--but the couple times Ayato encountered you, while passing through the halls, the heavy scent of Sakura bloom perfume masked the salty sea breeze.

Whenever you returned from your nighttime adventures, it was like you had been rejuvenated with life. An ethereal, bright glow surrounded you in the morning; unbeknownst to Ayato, like a moth to a flame, he was slowly sinking into an uncontrollable obsession. Until he finally snapped.

One night, you didn't return.

Ayato remained motionless; gaze fixed upon the wall of the compound. The thick stack of documents sitting next to him, lay abandoned and forgotten. Perhaps he had forgotten; if you could leave so easily, why would you return?

His heart stung with hurt--was it because he had become so accustomed to watching you? To be so free, yet also poise as a restrained and delicate lady; you awakened something within Ayato.

"My lord, it is getting quite late." A warm, friendly voice echoed from behind Kamisato Ayato. It was Thoma. A warm blanket was draped across Ayato's shoulders. "You should head inside and get some rest. Are you still waiting for Lady Y/N?"

Thoma glanced worriedly at the Commissioner, whose unreadable gaze glittered with anxiety. "...Not yet. Just a little longer."

The sun continued to peer over the horizon, as the early morning slowly came. Ayato remained in the same position. What am I even doing? It was none of his business--he had come to an unspoken agreement with you; as long as you didn't cause trouble, you could do as you wish. He wasn't even against you taking a lover--or was he? In fact, had you?

The mere thought of it, now made his blood boil. He subconsciously felt a spike of insecurity, as the early morning birds began to sing.

Suddenly, a huge gust of wind billowed out to Ayato's position; ruffling his pastel-blue locks. In an instant, all of his worries vanished--before his eyes analyzed the situation.

YOU HAD RETURNED; BATTERED AND IN CRITICAL CONDITION. From far away, Ayato could see a group of servants rush to aid you to stand, before examing the bloody slash across the side of your ribcage. You staggered in pain, letting out a gasp as a damp cloth was wrapped around the injury.

Yet, why were you smiling? The brilliant, glowing smile on your face reflected the excitement of your nighttime adventure. Ayato narrowed his eyes. This wouldn't do. At this rate, rather than wither away, you'd be ruthlessly ripped apart by outside forces. The thought unsettled him. He had to do something quick.

"...You want us to trail Lady Y/N, my lord?" Ayato impassively stared at the pair of Shuumatsuban ninjas, looking up at him with confusion. "...As in, the lady of the house?"

"Correct. She needs the appropriate protection that a Lady of the clan deserves. Report every single detail about her day and what she does." His tone left no room for argument, as the pair of ninja at his feet bowed again. What sounded like protection, wasn't completely innocent. Ayato felt chills prickle down his spine, as the lonesome feeling of abandonment washed over his mind.

"We accept this mission."

Since when had he become so captivated by you? Ayato wasn't sure. But you were no longer just a scapegoat; he had firsthand witnessed how delicate and naive you were, of this world. Surely you didn't believe that he'd continue to let you risk your life all in the name of 'freedom?' You hadn't been able to even detect his presence!

You'd be safer by his side. After all, flowers far from home require extra assistance in order to bloom and remain healthy.

AYATO'S GAZE WAS UNREADABLE, AS ALWAYS. The Commissioner was unfazed by your sudden outburst.

In one swift motion, his long fingers ascended to the back of your head, holding you in place--sealing his lips against yours. You didn't even have time to protest, as you felt him snake his arm around your waist, pressing your body flush against his.

You had made a fatal mistake; you underestimated your enemy, believing that he hadn't noticed anything. Ayato let out a faint chuckle, violet eyes glittering with a deep obsession, as he wrapped his arms closer around you. You scrunched up your nose, a furious noise erupting from your throat as you tried to push him away.

Where had you gone wrong?

#yandere #yandere genshin impact #yandere genshin #kamisato ayato #yandere ayato #unhealthy #dark deception #nobles #aristocrats #yandere x reader #self insert #arranged marriage #jealousy

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