Decisions

by Kinonon

Summary:

A puppet accepted a doll.

Notes:

My bad if I misunderstood a detail from the game.

Every time you wake up and open your eyes, you feel the warm touch of a hand on your cheek.

 

Your creator—your master—is a person whose strength is recognized by the gods. Her powers are quite extraordinary. She makes dolls like you, but she always makes sure to tell you that you’re her favorite.

 

Every day, he dresses you up in ouji-style outfits from Fontaine. She always tells you that you’re her adorable doll. She adores you.

 

Every time you see her, you feel something warm inside your chests. To you, she’s like your family, your friend,

 

your mother.

 

Although you don't know what those feelings and words are, or if you’re sure of what you think of her, you never told her your thoughts. You were too afraid of what her response would be. Will she get mad? Will she get disgusted? After all, you’re nothing but a doll. You’ll never be someone’s family.

 

She teaches you vocabulary every day. She’ll lend you books so you can learn to read and understand words. She consistently finds time for you to teach you how to take care of yourself, like cleaning and cooking. Although you don’t need to consume food to survive since, of course, you’re a doll.

 

You sometimes feel something heavy inside your left chest when you look into her deep blue eyes. Her eyes looked like the ocean in a book you read. Her eyes look so... lonely. It’s as if she wants someone to recognize her. Was that the reason she decided to create dolls—to create you and your other kind, your siblings? Was she a lonely person?

 

One day, she lends you a book about a mother and her deceased son. It made you feel warm inside, not because it had a happy ending but because it captured your feelings about your master. She was someone dear to you. You loved her and wanted to tell her that, but you were too afraid. Yet here you are, thinking such things that a doll shouldn’t.

 

“What’s wrong?” She called your name.

 

“Is there something bothering you?” She saw you slightly fidgeting your fingers. She could tell that you have something on your mind.

 

You looked at her eyes slowly. "Master, may I ask you a question?”

 

“Why, of course.” Your creator’s voice is as sweet and gentle as ever. “Tell me. I’ll be listening.”

 

“Why am I your favorite doll?”

 

She wasn’t expecting that question.

 

“You’re the first doll I ever created. Ah, I remember when you were still not detailed back then.” She made a small chuckle, remembering her past. She was still not good at making dolls back then, so when she made you, she was so proud of herself.

 

“You’ve been with me for a very long time. I decided not to throw you away and promised to upgrade you once I get more skilled.” She looked at you with a genuine smile on her face. 

 

“You’ll always have a special place in my heart.”

 

 

 

 

 

You were sitting in a chair while reading a book when, all of a sudden, you felt the surroundings shaking. You heard your creator calling your name. You obeyed her as her doll. You were quick to get on her side, worried if she got hurt in the quake. To your relief, she was safe.

 

“Yes, master?” Your face is still as expressionless as ever.

 

She put her hand on your shoulder and looked at you with a slightly concerned look. “Follow me.”

 

Both of you entered your bedroom. You were standing behind her when she turned around to face you. “Sit down at the bed.”

 

You didn’t say anything. You sat down at the edge of the bed, looking up at her.

 

She let out a sigh and called your name once again. “A catastrophe is going to occur. I need you to stay here.”

 

Her face was full of concern, but you can also see her determination. Why does she want you to stay here? Aren’t you supposed to protect her and fight with her?

 

You may not be very skilled in combat because she never taught you. But why? The other dolls had good strength. Did she forget to give it to you when creating you? Was it because you were her first doll? Or perhaps he did it on purpose?

 

When you had the opportunity, you would ask her to assist with her research and work. She always declined your aid. She would respond to you by saying that she didn’t want to get your hands dirty. But isn’t that your purpose? to dirty your own hands for your master? You’re willing to do that for her, always.

 

You wanted to accompany her, but you knew you'd only be a nuisance. “Understood.” You cannot complain. You must obey her.

 

You could feel her using her power to create a strong barrier at the mansion to protect the place and you.

 

“I’ll bring the others with me. I’m sorry, you had to be alone here for a while. We’ll be back.” You didn’t want to be left out, but you only nodded to respond.

 

Will she ever come back? Is this her way of abandoning you? No, you shouldn’t think such things. You could only hope for their safe return.

 

You wanted to tell her to be safe, but she didn’t give you permission to talk. You kept quiet.

 

No matter how many times your creator has shown you tenderness and care, your mind will always consume you and make you believe that you’re only a doll and not someone significant.

 

Sooner or later, she will get tired of you. There will always be someone who is better than you.

 

You’re replaceable.

 

You snapped back when she called your name again. “If I ever don’t return...”

 

She looked at you with hesitation, then she shook her head. “No, never mind.”

 

Just like you see every time you wake up and open your eyes, she puts her hand on your cheek and looks at you with gentle eyes. “You will always be my treasure .”

 

You felt her lips on your forehead. She withdrew her hand and backed away. She turned around, her back facing you now. “I’ll be back, so wait for me.”

 

She said your name for the last time before she walked out of the room, leaving you all alone.

 

It was already night. The curtains were closed, and the room was dark. Your shoes are on the floor now, and you’re sitting in the middle of the bed, just looking at the closed door.

 

She told you that you're her treasure. She told you to wait, so she’ll return, right ?

 

 

–

 

 

“You... Quit following me.”

 

He groaned and gave you an annoyed look. You immediately stopped walking closer to him. You remained standing where you were. The person standing in front of you is none other than Scaramouche, the Balladeer.

 

"The lady told me I'm allowed to go out now."

 

He looked at you up and down and then back at your expressionless face. "And? What does that have to do with me?"

 

You sensed a small heaviness in your chest. "She told me that I can return back to you…"

 

"Well, you're free to go now, congrats," he said in a sarcastic tone. "Don't follow me."

 

He sighed and lowered his hat a little. He rolled his eyes and turned around, his back facing you once more. He continued to walk toward the path where he was going. After a few steps, he stopped his tracks.

 

He turned around and gave you an annoyed look. "How long are you going to stand there?"

 

He hates your emotionless face. He hates the way you look at him with those dead eyes of yours. He hates you.

 

You didn't know what to say. He's asking you a question, and you have to respond. Indeed, how long will you continue to stand here?

 

Scaramouche knows you're confused. He turned his back on you. "You're so annoying. Fine, you may follow me."

 

If Scaramouche hadn't turned around just yet, he would've seen the faint spark in your eyes. "Understood."

 

You followed him from behind without saying anything, being too careful not to make a mistake and say something that’ll enrage him. It didn’t take long for both of you to reach the Fatui camp. He turned his face to look at you.

 

“Stay here.” And so you did.

 

He called his subordinates as he moved toward the camp's center, leaving you at the corner, under the tree’s shadow.

 

“Team A, display your resources.” He ordered them.

 

“Yes, my Lord,” the leader of the team responded.

 

They soon showed their supplies without making the Balladeer wait. Scaramouche examined everything to make sure they hadn't overlooked anything. He gave them a small, satisfied hum. “Good. Now, team B.”

 

It kept going until the last team. All teams got everything they needed from the lists they were given. They’re ready to head back to Snezhnaya.

 

“Wow, can’t believe all of you can be this useful.” He had a mischievous grin on his face. As always, he likes to mock his own minions. “It seems we already have all the necessary materials. We’ll head back tomorrow at the crack of dawn.”

 

He looked at you for a split second and then back at his subordinates. “You’re all dismissed.”

 

“Yes, My Lord!” They all respond simultaneously. All of them resumed their previous activities.

 

He walked in your direction. Once again, you two are alone. “You’re quite obedient, aren’t you?” He looked at you with a slightly disgusted face.

 

“Do you always follow orders no matter what the person says—no matter what the situation is?” He looked at you with narrowed eyes. Although he didn't ask you to respond, you are aware that he is waiting for your response.

 

“I’m made to follow orders.” As always, you looked at him with those empty eyes of yours.

 

He hates your eyes. No spark, no soul, and no brightness can be found in them. It’s as if you’re a walking corpse.

 

It reminded him of his past self.

 

“Obedience without any hesitation... It’s dangerous. You won’t be able to think rationally under pressure.”

 

His arms were crossed across his chest. He didn’t want to order you around. He wanted you to hesitate, at least. He wanted to make you more independent. He wanted to make you able to make your own decisions and act on your own judgment.

 

He didn’t know why. Was it because you’re both almost the same?

 

A puppet and a doll…

 

If you weren’t one, maybe he would’ve ordered you around and purposely sabotaged you just so he could punish you. He could’ve slammed you on the wall, grabbed your neck and choked you, or kicked your stomach, just like he does to his own subordinates.

 

He could’ve left you behind back then, yet he chose to take you.

 

He’s now starting to regret it. He sighed, giving you an almost annoyed look. “I might have to teach you how to be self-sufficient.”

 

You weren’t expecting him to say that. You thought he would yell at you. You looked at the ground, not meeting his gaze. “It won’t be worth your time. You shouldn't waste your time fixing someone like me.”

 

“Oh? What makes you say it’s not worth my time? Is it because you think so low of yourself?” He gave you a small mischievous laugh.

 

“I’m not fixing you, nor am I forcing you to change entirely. I merely want to help you grow. You should feel honored. The 6 th Fatui Harbinger is offering you aid.” He walked closer to you. Is he going to hit you?

 

You were waiting for his strike, but nothing came. Slowly, you looked up to stare at his eyes. His eyes twitched for a second when he saw your empty gaze staring back at him again. He really didn’t like those eyes of yours.

 

You didn’t know what to say, so it took a while for you to respond back.

 

“I can't decide for myself... Without orders, I'm nothing.”

 

Your response earned you a slightly annoyed look from him. He holds his hat a bit lower to cover his eyes. He walked past you. You turned around to watch him walk away. He stopped in his tracks.

 

“Do you wish to stay that way forever?” He turned back to face you again. He looked at you with narrowed eyes.

 

“Tell me, do you want to be forever chained up in your own body? Never able to do anything other than what you're assigned? Never feeling any emotion?"

 

Or would you rather be free ?”

 

“Free...” Your voice was quiet. You looked down at the ground once again.

 

You don't even understand what true freedom is. Are you supposed to act however you like without anyone's permission? But that defeats your purpose. You’re merely a doll that follows your master's orders. You, making your own decision? Can you even make such a thing?

 

“Don’t you want to free yourself? I know you do. Don’t even try to deny it.” He sounds slightly pissed. He wanted you to free yourself from your master’s strings.

 

The way you kept waiting for him to give you orders, it made him so sick. It made him feel like he was playing with his own kind. You shouldn't need orders since you ought to have been free 500 years ago. “Why do you still hold—”

 

“I still want to follow orders.”

 

Her orders.

 

"I can't decide for myself..."

 

Mother, come back to me.

 

"I need my master's orders."

 

I miss you.

 

 

–

 

 

The place was a disaster. The sky is red. Broken dolls, broken ruin machines, and her companions' diseased bodies can be found everywhere.

 

These Khaenri'ahns, their technologies, and all of them, be damned.

 

No matter what, these machines just keep coming. They never end.

 

She sensed a laser coming her way, which she immediately avoided and attacked the Ruin Guard. Later, the ruin machine broke down. She moved too much from that, causing her to cough up blood.

 

She looked at her precious dolls—her precious children—lying on the ground. She shouldn’t have bought them. The guilt she felt was unbearable.

 

She was so focused on them that she didn’t feel the presence of a ruin hunter coming her way. The machine thrusts its sharp arm near her left waist, causing her to scream from the pain.

 

She concentrated on the Ruin Hunter. She started using her strings with cryo surrounding them and tied the machine up, starting with the arm that thrusts on her. Soon, it took its whole body. She’s not giving it a chance to get away. She froze the machine and used her fist to shatter it.

 

Damn it, I’m losing too much blood...

 

She had a large hole in her left waist from the ruin hunter and a huge wound at her right leg and at the border of her right shoulder. Her head had been hit by a ruin grater earlier, causing a severe headache and causing blood to drip from it. Her left eye is slowly losing its vision. Her body was incapable of fighting back any longer.

 

She took a deep breath and used her remaining strength to stitch up her wounds using her threads. Alas, she can only heal her leg. No matter, she tried to run away. She’s heading in the direction of the large rock. She’ll rest and cover herself with it for now.

 

How long has she been fighting? How long has it been since the cataclysm started? It’s been hours—no, perhaps it's been days already.

 

She felt guilty leaving her dolls, but she promises that she’ll return after she has had some rest. She’ll come back for them and fix them once the war is over.

 

Just as she was in the middle of running towards the rock, she noticed a light pointing at her.

 

A massive Ruin Guard has her in its sights.

 

No, no, no! There’s not enough time to hide! The rock is still far away!

 

She ran faster, despite the pain in her waist and leg. She can hear the machine preparing its laser.

 

Just as the laser was going to hit her, a doll sacrificed itself for her.

 

She stopped in her tracks and turned around. Her eyes widened in horror.

 

The doll who protected her was the one she created after you. The doll was already unconscious, and her eyes were closed.

 

My daughter!

 

To her surprise, she still had some strength in her. She used her last string to tie the doll up, and she pulled her close to her. She quickly ran towards the rock while holding the doll close to her. She was enduring emotional and physical torture.

 

She’s now hiding behind the rock. The doll’s body was sitting on her lap. She caressed her cheeks, looking at her with gentle eyes, then kissed her forehead.

 

Thank you…

 

She was all alone in this fight. There were no other gods assisting her at this spot. The companions she had earlier were already deceased. She can’t let the God of Justice be disappointed. It was her and her companions' duty to guard this area. Yet, since she’s alone now, she must take responsibility.

 

She snapped back when she heard the Ruin Guard getting ready for its second strike.

 

What…? But I’m completely concealed behind the rock…

 

The laser struck the rock before she had a chance to process what was happening. It blew her and the doll away from their spot. The huge rock bursts, its pieces now shattered at the ground. One of its pieces hit her left leg.

 

She can’t run away now.

 

The doll was lying on the ground by her side. She’s trying to move the leg that’s been hit. It took her a while to do it, but before she could try to flee once more, the machine’s laser was already set. It hit her.

 

She cried out in agony. It hurt her a lot. It shocked her that she managed to survive that. One more hit, and she’s done for.

 

After she had been blown away, the doll was no longer by her side. There was no one to save her now. She continued to try to escape by crawling, using only her arms because she was unable to use either of her legs.

 

She had a desperate look on her face.

 

No, no! I can’t die here!

 

The massive Ruin Guard is starting to prepare its laser again.

 

I still need to bring them back home!

 

I promised them!

 

I promised him!

 

Her eyes were shut as tears began to flow.

 

I still have many things to teach him! He’s still vulnerable! He still can’t make his own decisions!

 

I still haven’t shown him the outside world yet!

 

She still hasn’t told you what she thinks of you. She still wants to do more things with you. She still wants to be with you.

 

I don’t want to die yet…

 

The laser has begun to fire.

 

He’s waiting for me! I have to get back!

 

He only has me! I have to be there for him...

 

She opened her eyes for the last time.

 

My son is waiting for me...

 

 

–

 

 

It has been 9 hours since your master left you. You’re still sitting in the same position and spot. You still haven't slept, and it's now 4 in the morning. You didn’t want to sleep; you wanted to welcome your master back as soon as she returned. But you couldn't stay up too late with your feeble body.

 

The room is still dark. Because of the shaking, some of the furniture broke and fell to the ground. The sounds of crashes, burning objects, and screams are still dimly audible outside. You wanted to open the curtains to see what was going on outside, but you were told to stay in bed,

 

Soon, you closed your eyes, letting your tiredness take over your body.

 

 

 

 

 

You immediately opened your eyes. You quickly sat down at your spot and looked at your surroundings. You felt it, your master’s barrier suddenly disappearing. Did she finally return?

 

You are unaware of how long you have been asleep. You’ll make sure to apologize to her for doing it without her permission.

 

You waited for a bit, but eventually you heard nothing outside your room. Has she not returned yet? Why did her barrier suddenly vanish?

 

The sounds of the catastrophe are still audible outside. You're beginning to worry now.

 

Perhaps your master lowered the barrier to allow her to preserve more energy for the battle. Yes, that must be it. It’s fine. You don’t mind if there’s no barrier protecting the mansion and you. You would be willing to allow her to break the barrier if it were to aid her in her fight.

 

Nothing has occurred close to the mansion so far. There wasn’t any crash or anything, it must mean that the battle is taking place quite far away. Yet why can you still make out the sound of the clashes? Whatever the case, you have faith in your master's survival. She’s strong and skilled. She said she would return, therefore she will.

 

When she comes back, you want to share your thoughts and feelings with her. It's possible that she will give you a disgusted look, but you don’t want to hide anymore. You want to make your first decision. You want to call her mother . You want to go outside and have a picnic with her. You want to bake this food called cake with her. You want to knit clothes with her. You want to do so many things with her. You want to laugh with her.

 

Your knees were pressed to your chest as you sat down. You kept gazing at the closed door, excited to see it open and show the face of your master.

 

You wait for her return.

 

You wait,

 

and wait,

 

and wait,

 

and wait,

 

and wait…

 

 

 

You waited.

 

 

 

 

 

How many years have passed?

 

Days would pass without notice as the room alternated between darkness and brightness. The sound of the calamity was no longer audible. Instead, you can all hear the sound of the birds.

 

The environment was beginning to alter. The mansion is now below the surface. It became old ruins.

 

You can no longer tell whether it’s night or day. You don't hear the birds’ chirps anymore. You continue to sit on the filthy, old bed nonetheless. Your figure is being wrapped in unrecognizable vines, which is basically telling it that you have been sitting there for too long.

 

She said she'd return, so you’ll wait for her patiently, no matter how many more years pass by.

 

The sounds of footsteps appear out of nowhere. You are informed right away.

 

Has your creator returned? Are they back now? As much as you wanted to give them a warm welcome, you can barely move from your current position, not because you’re wrapped in vines but rather because you’re getting weaker. You can barely even lift your arm and remove the vines from your body.

 

Soon, you see the fire’s light. The footsteps are getting closer to where you are. Instead of meeting the deep blue eyes you were hoping for, it was a pair of light indigo ones.

 

 

–

 

 

Scaramouche has been given the task of going on a journey near Fontaine. He was assigned to bring materials that could be found only in that nation.

 

Ugh, why do we have to go down here? What could possibly be down here? 

 

He was advised by Dottore that this place had delicacies that only grew here. "Be cautious, all of you."

 

In addition, he's beginning to think there might be more to it. The place has so many resources, although most of them can’t be used.

 

"Yes, my Lord," his subordinates responded. The place was very dark, and his subordinates were holding torches.

 

How fascinating that the place looked like it had existed for many years. It appears that the ruin is a mansion…

 

Someone used to live here. I’m certain of that.

 

It's a shame that such a large mansion had to be destroyed. Even though he is certain that no one knows the history of this location because it is so deep underground, he is pretty intrigued by it.

 

How did Dottore even know a place like this existed here? More importantly, why would anyone build a mansion down here, away from the people?

 

No matter, they're here to gather a certain material, so they’ll get that as soon as possible and get the hell out of this ruin.

 

As they were walking through the tunnel, they encountered a room. He started to head towards it and entered with his men behind him.

 

Just as he expected, there’s nothing here but another ruin and vines everywhere.

 

He continues to observe from this particular spot in the room while his minions search every area of the room with their torches.

 

"Give me a torch."

 

A subordinate handed him theirs. He swears there's something there, surrounded by vines.

 

His eyes widened a little at what he saw .

 

A person's body in a place like this? How long have they been here...?

 

Given that the body hasn't yet disappeared, probably not for long. Yet vines are growing up around the body... Could it be that he’s– 

 

He quickly backed away a bit.

 

Did I just see the eyes move to look at mine?

 

Scaramouche was ready to use his electro to attack, thinking this might be a trap. But he looked at your eyes once again, and he halted. He knows those eyes—that empty, dead stare. You were just like him back then.

 

He didn’t feel that you were going to move soon. He calmed himself, not like he hadn't earlier, and he gave the torch back to his confused subordinate. He moved closer to you again, looking at your empty gaze.

 

How long has he been here?

 

He removed the vines surrounding you until your figure was more visible.

 

A subordinate saw you trying to move your index finger from your right hand. The minion alerted him and the others.

 

"Quiet."

 

He didn’t need to be told twice, as he could feel the faint, dark aura surrounding his Lord. He’s definitely going to get punished later.

 

He continues to stare at you. Your clothing had several torn patches and was filthy. Your creator gave you this outfit, yet you did not maintain it.

 

You were expecting it to be her and the other dolls’ footsteps. You were expecting them to finally return. But instead, it was these people you don’t recognize.

 

Who are these people? Where did they come from? How did they get here?

 

Do they have my master?

 

“Who are you?”

 

"Who are you?" That’s my line. Who are these people walking around my master’s mansion?

 

Yes, you are aware that the mansion has already turned into ruins. You can’t help but remember that your creator doesn’t bring people inside without her permission.

 

Either they entered without permission or... They did, which would mean that your creator was with them. Yes, your creator must’ve sent them to get you! That must be it!

 

You tried to say your name, but as you expected, you couldn’t find your voice. Scaramouche noticed that. It just confirms to him that you’ve been here for too long. He moved his hand closer to yours. He gently holds your right hand’s wrist, feeling your skin carefully.

 

Cold... Could he be some sort of deity? Or perhaps a puppet…

 

… like me?

 

He looked at your attire, and he noticed that you were wearing Fontaine-style clothes.

 

He looks like a doll– …

 

He looked back into your eyes.

 

Right, he does look like a doll… 

 

You are one, but he’s still unaware.

 

He slowly withdraws his hand from yours. His men were still waiting for him so they could continue their search.

 

He’s curious about you. Why? Why would he? You’re nothing but a broken doll now. He should just leave you and continue the work. He should, yet he can’t help but feel the desire to take care of you.

 

He can’t help but see his past self through you. He didn’t like seeing it, that pathetic and weak form. He despises it.

 

Did you also have a creator? Were you also abandoned? Why, why do you have those dead eyes?

 

Are you also... heartless?

 

He’s experiencing a lot of emotions. First, he's saddened by your empty gaze and your body's protracted existence down here. Second, he’s furious after understanding that, at that time, he had been exactly like you. Third, he felt a small joy inside his chest, where a heart— the gnosis —should've been. He found someone who's almost like him.

 

He hates you but pities you at the same time.

 

He moved closer to you again and held your arm and shoulder. His original intent was to abandon you and continue the search. This wasn't the plan. But he refused to abandon you. Even his men are confused.

 

Even with your weak strength, you still tried to move away from his grasp. You will obey your creator's order to remain here until she returns and gives you a different order.

 

Scaramouche can feel that you’re trying to protest. He paid no attention to it. He draws you in and places you on his left shoulder. He stood up, carrying you like a sack.

 

A tiny person like him carrying you around as if you're nothing? You’re almost the same size as him, but still. Just how strong is he? Who is this guy?

 

Then you suddenly feel it. His dark aura was both powerful and dangerous. This man is no joke. He must have a strength that is comparable to your master's, or perhaps even greater. Why would someone like him take an interest in you? He could’ve ignored you and walked away with these strange masked people.

 

You can’t get away. You’re fragile .

 

He began to walk away from the room, with his men following behind him. Soon, you slowly close your eyes, losing your consciousness.

 

Sorry, master. I disobeyed you…

 

 

–

 

 

“You’re finally awake.” Scaramouche was standing beside the bed you’re lying in.

 

What happened…?

 

You sat up and noticed you were wearing a white robe instead of the clothes you were wearing before. Your eyes widen at the realization.

 

“Where’s master?” you asked the man beside you.

 

“Master?”

 

Is that how you address your creator?

 

“Your master is not here.” He noticed your shoulders quickly relaxing. He could see that you’re disappointed.

 

How long have you been unconscious? You should head back to where you were before, even if it’s dark and dangerous back there.

 

You tried to get up, but your legs felt heavy. Ah, you still don’t have the strength yet.

 

“Don’t get up yet, idiot." He looked at you with a deadpan face. “Relax. You’ve only been here for five days. You need to rest more.”

 

Rest more? Why would you need to rest? You haven’t done anything. Hell, all you did was sit in the same position at the ruinous mansion for 500 years. What did he mean by rest more?

 

As much as you’re confused, you know you can’t get up anyway because of your weakened legs.

 

He grabbed a chair and placed it beside your bed. He sat on it with his arms crossed at his chest.

 

“So... you’re not a human, are you?” He looked at you with a slightly intrigued face. “Are you a deity?”

 

You quickly shook your head.

 

You? A god? How ludicrous.

 

Scaramouche saw you shake your head, and then he gave a small laugh. “I expected that.” He looked at you with narrow eyes this time.

 

“Then, are you perhaps a... puppet ?”

 

Like me…

 

Your eyes slightly widened. His response was not far off. You wanted to give him the answer, but you're still wary of him. Can you trust this person? What if he hurts you if you don't respond? even though you don't sense any bloodlust from him. You hadn't talked to anyone in 500 years, so you were desperate to speak with him.

 

You took a deep breath. You broke eye contact and looked down at your lap, which was covered by the blanket. “I’m a doll.”

 

“A doll, huh…” He did think that you were a doll. He just wants to know first if you’re a puppet like him.

 

There’s not a lot of difference between a doll and a puppet. Both are used and taken care of by their own creators—except Ei didn’t actually take care of him and just left him all alone.

 

“Where’s your creator—your master?” he asked you. “Are you also abandoned?”

 

You immediately looked up into his eyes. You responded quickly. “My master didn’t abandon me. She promised to return to me… I’m just waiting for her.”

 

“And how long have you been waiting for her?” Scaramouche looked at you with a raised eyebrow. His face saying “ Yeah, that’s right. You’ve been there for so long, and you’re still denying that your master is no longer coming back. ”

 

“When was the last time you saw her?”

 

Your eyes looked down once again. You’re fidgeting with your fingers on your lap. “... It’s been a long time. I couldn’t remember how long it had been.”

 

“How come she left you alone there? Where was she going?”

 

Your body tensed up right away, quickly looking toward where the window was.

 

Right… the sky was crimson back then. She predicted a disaster.

 

Before you even knew it, the calamity had already ended. You were too concentrated on the closed door to notice it.

 

“She... went out to fight.” You looked into his eyes. “She was fighting for the catastrophe...”

 

Scaramouche was stunned. Are you perhaps talking about the cataclysm 500 years ago? If so, then she’s been away from you for a long time. Wait—if you already existed back then, doesn’t that mean you’re older than him?

 

Of course, he knows Khaenri’ah and the war from 500 years ago. After all, it was the reason why Baal—Makoto—was deceased. And the reason why Kunikuzushi has been created.

 

When you mentioned the word "catastrophe," he immediately knew what happened to your creator.

 

“I see...” His voice was in a tone of... emptiness? He was slightly disappointed. “Did your master... look after you?”

 

Even he was taken aback by his words. He can’t help but be curious. He wanted to know if your master cared about you or if she was just using you. He was curious if you, like him, were created for a certain purpose.

 

You’re confused about whether your creator ever cared for you. She never said it, but you’re certain that she does just by her actions.

 

“She was the one who taught me how to speak. She helped me learn to read and write, and constantly makes time for me to teach me how to cook and clean... She taught me so much."

 

She really did, yet you still yearn for her to teach you more.

 

“I shouldn't be making such absurd assumptions. I’m merely her doll. I’m sure she didn’t mean it that way, and it never will be. But... she treated me as if I were her son ."

 

Scaramouche was taken aback. He noticed your lips moving upward for the first time, albeit faintly. He didn’t know you were capable of doing that .

 

He really thought you’d be like him—abandoned and unloved. He was disappointed.

 

He shouldn't have hoped for much, yet he did. Even if you were exactly like him, then what? It doesn't alter the past, and your own creators will still abandon you both. What exactly was he hoping for? Or maybe, just maybe, he just felt jealous when you told him your creator took care of you.

 

He's beginning to regret taking you. He can just leave you here. He still has work to do and his Fatui reputation to uphold. He had more important things to do, like capture the Electro Gnosis. He should not slack off on his work just for you .

 

Right... Once they've gathered all of the necessary resources, they should return to the headquarters right away. He shouldn’t waste his time. 

 

Yet he didn’t want to leave you here. You’re all alone, with no one to assist you. You have no knowledge of the outside world. You’ve been down there for years without learning anything new.

 

He had the desire to help you, or maybe he just felt that he'd be like Beelzebub if he left you here. But why would he? He’s not the one who created you. Or perhaps... That's just an excuse, and he genuinely wants to learn more about you.

 

Scaramouche is furious with you. He doesn't understand what he's feeling at the moment. He despises you, he pities you, but he wishes to learn more about you. 

 

He stood up from his seat. He looked at you with a small, sad smile on his face.

 

“It seems that your master has given you kindness and care. I hope your master will return to you soon." He lied.

 

It’s obvious that your creator is no longer here. He simply chose to play along with you.

 

“I do hope so,” you say.

 

He began to make his way toward the door. He started walking toward the door and then stopped after grabbing the door knob. He made the decision to ignore you and continued to face the door. “I’ll visit again tomorrow.”

 

He opened the door. “Later.”

 

He went out, closing the door before he left.

 

Once again, you’re alone.

 

You looked out the window once more, and you can recognize the trees that were outside. You’re still close to Fontaine.

 

Maybe he’s not a bad person after all. He took you out of the ruins, and not only that, he gave you a room in this building. You’ll make sure to return the favor.

 

You lifted your blanket and pulled it away. Your hands are sliding down the upper part of the robe to look at yourself. Your entire body is wrapped in bandages.

 

You don't have a human body, so dressing it with a bandage and leaving it alone for a few weeks won't make you feel better. The only person who is aware of the resources needed to fix your body is your master. Given that she isn't here, this could be a problem. It’s fine, though. You can simply wait for her to return.

 

It’s not like you had a severe injury. Your body may have some scratches here and there, but it’s not worth getting worried about. Your body will be covered by your garments anyway. But you’re certain that your master won’t be pleased if she sees you in this state.

 

 

 

 

 

The next day came. Scaramouche came back just as he said. You saw him carrying a paper bag. He handed you what he was carrying. “Here. It’s your previous clothes. Rest assured, it’s fixed and cleaned.”

 

You reluctantly took the bag from him. You opened it just enough to see your clothes. You felt a sense of relief within yourself. This is the only item you have now that was made by your creator—not including yourself, of course. 

 

You pulled it close to your chest. “Thank you…”

 

You still feel preserved around him, but every time he speaks to you, you can't help but feel somewhat warm inside your chest. Perhaps you simply missed having a conversation. You miss the voice of another person. You missed receiving orders.

 

When he asks you something, you answer him, but you feel guilty. Your master told you to stay in bed and didn’t give you permission to talk. But you want to talk more to this guy with a big hat. You're not going to make this a habit. You promise to apologize to her once she gets back.

 

 

 

 

 

Scaramouche would keep visiting you. He only stays for an hour, but you still appreciate that.

 

On the third day, he told you about how annoying his subordinates are. You learned that he was in a kind of weird group. Fatui, was it? Yes, that might be the name.

 

On the fourth day, he didn’t talk much. But the silence was... relaxing? It wasn’t awkward. You’re always used to the silence. You could also feel your legs gradually improving. Not only that, but you swear you remember a scratch on your right thigh that mysteriously vanished that night.

 

Was your body capable of healing itself? You were taught many things by your creator, but not the mystery of your own body.

 

On the fifth day, he scolded you, calling you an idiot for lingering at the ruin for so long. He'd mock you and laugh at you. You didn’t mind. He looked much better when he was laughing, whether it was out of mockery or genuinely.

 

On the sixth day, he brought you tea. Just like him, you don’t need to consume food to survive, but for Scaramouche, he simply likes the bitter taste of the tea.

 

As soon as he saw you taste the drink, he fully expected a displeased expression on your face. But both to his disappointment and pleasant surprise, you were enjoying it.

 

“Does your master feed you?” he suddenly asked.

 

You respond, "I told her not to waste food on me, but she still did..."

 

You recall telling her that every time she gives you food. You'd tell her it would be a waste of resources and that she should keep it for herself. Of course, it made her upset, so to apologize to her, you ate everything she fed you.

 

“Hmm... is there anything you don't like to eat?” He looked at you with judgmental eyes.

 

“I shouldn’t be a picky person. I don’t mind eating anything.” You gazed down at the tea, seeing your reflection in it.

 

He just kept drinking his tea, not saying anything, and simply enjoying the pleasant time.

 

Scaramouche would visit you every afternoon. The time you spent with him felt nice. Even when he keeps his harsh attitude, you don't mind it. You truly did enjoy talking with him.

 

But then, the twelfth day came in.

 

It’s been 17 days since you were hospitalized. Your body is still recovering, but you can already feel the strength of your legs. Soon, you’ll be out.

 

As usual, in the morning, you’d only keep taking naps. If your body doesn't feel like doing it, either you look out the window or you keep staring at the closed door, waiting for Scaramouche to arrive.

 

But today was different. He normally comes to see you at 12:30, but it's already that time. You wonder whether something has interfered with his schedule, so you wait another hour.

 

He still hasn't shown up. Maybe he’s busy; yes, that might be it. But it's all right. It's only for a day, and it's not like you didn't wait all those 500 years for your master to return.

 

You wait for the next day once more.

 

He hasn't arrived yet. You try to recall if you said anything that caused him to no longer visit you.

 

The last time he visited, he didn’t talk much, just like any other day. So, what gives? Or... Was that already a sign that he was leaving you?

 

Right, he still has more important business to do. He’s not going to waste his time visiting someone like you every day. But was that the last time you'd ever see him? You still have to return the favor.

 

Another three days went by. You’ve been at this building for 3 weeks, and Scaramouche stopped visiting you 5 days ago. Your body has already fully recovered. It's just that you don't know how many days you'll have to stay or if you're already allowed to leave.

 

You were focused, looking out the window. When you heard the door open, you tensed. Instead of the man with the big hat you expected, there stood a tall lady you didn't recognize.

 

"Good morning," the lady said as she approached you.

 

You're not sure if you're seeing things, but you notice her giving you a judgmental glance. "You are now free to leave. You can return to your... leader .”

 

Leader? Was she referring to Scaramouche? It doesn't matter; you can now leave. You can go back to him.

 

You changed your clothes back to your old ones before leaving. The lady observed you twitching your fingers as you left your room. She reassured you that your "leader" had already paid them, but that wasn't what you needed to know; you wanted to know where Scaramouche could have been, but you didn't ask her because she was making an obviously disgusted look.

 

You rush out of the building, not wanting to bother her any longer. You swear you heard her say, "Fatuis. Nothing good happens when they are present." before you left. As soon as you exited, you scanned your surroundings.

 

Your master had told you that the city of Fontaine was massive, yet the area you were in was rather small. Maybe you're not in the main city but in a nearby town.

 

You've been wandering around aimlessly. You have no idea where he might have been. You remember him slipping and saying they had a camp a little outside of town. But the question is, which direction was it? You obviously don’t want to get lost in the woods, so instead, you try to walk around the town first in the hope that you’ll bump into him.

 

Finding Scaramouche wasn't that difficult. It's obvious who it is, given his huge hat. It didn’t take a whole day to find him.

 

You saw him on the street, headed out of town. He noticed you but simply gave you a quick side eye. You saw him looking at you, but he only kept walking in the direction he was going. It was clear he was ignoring you.

 

You merely want to express your appreciation for his help. It doesn’t sit right when you don’t do something in return. But what can you do for him? You’re nothing but a doll who doesn’t even have good physical strength. You may be skilled at household chores, but anyone can do it—and even better than you.

 

Even so, you decided to follow him.

 

 

–

 

 

“Don’t give me that bullshit!”

 

Scaramouche approaches you and grabs your chin, gripping it hard. He leans closer to your face.

 

You're still giving him that expressionless gaze. It increased his rage.

 

His plan was to leave you. He was supposed to ignore your existence and continue whatever he was doing. He was supposed to forget you.

 

“Why are you still waiting for your master!? You, of all people, should have understood that she's already–”

 

You turned your gaze away from him and began to look to the side. Your eyebrows are slightly furrowed. She’s no longer here. You know that. Yet you didn’t want to believe it, and you still hold a small hope that she’s still here, somewhere in the world.

 

If you could understand feelings, you would have broken down on the spot.

 

Or perhaps you would have done that a long time ago.

 

Now that your empty eyes are paired with your furrowed eyebrows, it makes him more upset. He slowly moved his hand away from your chin. “Why do you still wait for her? Do you... miss her?”

 

You opened your mouth to respond but then closed it again. You simply nodded, still not meeting his gaze.

 

He noticed this, so he lifted his hand and gripped your chin once more. As much as he hates those empty eyes of yours, he wants you to look back at him. “Look at me.”

 

You looked at his eyes with hesitation.

 

“Your master... is no longer here. So please , move on.”

 

He looked at you with slightly furrowed eyebrows. His eyes are looking at you with pity.

 

"She died from the cataclysm. She didn’t make it, I know you’re aware... She won’t return to you. She already left you."

 

Then what's my purpose now? Who will I serve now?

 

You already know that, but you still can’t help but widen your eyes slightly. It stings even more when you hear it from someone else. "But she promised... She promised she'd come back."

 

This upset Scaramouche even more. He didn't like how desperate you sounded. You were older than him, so shouldn’t you have grown up years ago? But you didn’t have anyone to help you. Scaramouche had Niwa and the others to help him. Meanwhile, the only person you had was your creator. And now, she’s no longer here for you.

 

She said you were her treasure. She said you were her favorite. She said you had a particular place in her heart. So what? That doesn’t make her come back to you. She’s dead .

 

Ah – 

 

A tear ran down your left cheek.

 

Scaramouche tensed up.

 

Once again, he removed the hand that was grabbing your chin. Instead of withdrawing it, he tries to wipe the tear.

 

He gave you a small, genuine smile. “You are capable of feeling emotions.”

 

You do feel emotions, after all.

 

He lifted his hand from your cheek and placed it on top of your head. He pats your head.

 

You had no idea why, but it made you tear up even more.

 

Scaramouche's eyes widened. He hadn't expected that reaction. He’s still looking at you with a small smile. “Go on. Let it all out.”

 

You tried to wipe the tears with your hands. As expected, the tears did not stop quickly. You closed your eyes and sniffed from the sob.

 

He continues to pat your head. You truly did remind him of his old self.

 

He moved in closer and hugged you. You hesitated, but you hugged him back. Your head is resting on his shoulder.

 

You are both covered by his hat and the fabric that hangs behind him. His subordinates were not present, so you two weren't seen, which pleased him. 

 

He wants to take care of you. He wants to help you develop. He wants you to move on.

 

He wants to help you, even if it takes longer than he expected.

 

He won’t abandon you like your creator and his .

 

“If you truly cannot decide for yourself, then let me decide for you.”

 

He hugs you a bit more tightly. “Let go of her and go with your life. Embrace your freedom... and be yourself, your own you. Be who you are.”

 

Do you want him to decide for you?

 

He called your name, and you flinched a bit. You slowly moved away from his shoulder and looked at him with your eyes still covered with tears.

 

“Will you allow me to take care of you?”

 

Is he trying to suggest making himself your new master? Yet, no matter what, you can never refer to anyone as your master other than your creator. You’re loyal to her.

 

Are you really loyal to your master if you’ll serve him from now on? Will she get mad at you for serving another person? Well, it’s not like she’s still here.

 

As if he could hear your thoughts, Scaramouche immediately reassured you. “You don't have to follow my orders or address me as master. You can just... do what you want and call me by my title.”

 

His reply gave you some relief. “L–Lord Scaramouche…”

 

His eyes slightly widened. Aren't the terms "master" and "lord" nearly identical?

 

He somehow didn’t like it. You sound like one of his minions, and he doesn’t see you as one. He sees you more as his... friend? No, you two aren’t friends. His doll—no, that’s out of the question. Then, assistant? Hold on; he’s the one assisting you. So, just acquaintances? Yes, that might be the right word.

 

You noticed that he didn’t look as pleased as you were expecting. What does he want you to call him? You can’t simply call him by his title without an address.

 

You pulled away from him, and his hands no longer held you. You brushed away your last tears. "Sir Scaramouche...?"

 

He’s also confused. Sighing, he gave up. He hummed in approval.

 

“You may call me that.”

 

 

–

 

 

Two days passed, and both of you and his men arrived back at the Fatui headquarters.

 

It was your first time seeing snow, so you were in awe when you arrived at Snezhnaya for the first time.

 

You heard about snow from your master. She once told you that snow is a tiny crystal of ice falling from the sky.

 

It was your desire to experience it with your creator. She’s no longer here, but even so, it’s not bad to enjoy it alone, right?

 

You recall her mentioning that in order to avoid getting cold, you must dress in layers. But since you aren't a human, it’s unnecessary for you. The cold never bothered you anyway.

 

Scaramouche dismissed his subordinates, and you two are alone now.

 

He looked at you with his right hand on his waist. “And you. I need to bring you to my chamber.”

 

Your eyes widened slightly as you flinched. “A-am I allowed?” 

 

You’re not part of them, and you also learned that their group was a big deal. So, as a stranger and a third party, are you really allowed to go in just like that? well, at least without getting killed?

 

He rolled his eyes. “It’s my chamber. I can do whatever I want with it.”

 

He turned his back and proceeded to head inside the building. You followed him right away, not wanting to be alone and get lost in the unknown territory.

 

The guards and servants were staring as you both entered the hall, especially at you. You’re positive that their expression was one of fear and sympathy.

 

It’s Lord Scaramouche… Who’s this guy following him?

 

I feel bad for that guy…

 

He’s going to get tortured by him…

 

You don’t know much about Scaramouche. All low rank Fatuis fear him. To them, he was a dangerous individual. Someone, they definitely don’t want to mess with. All of them don’t like his attitude.

 

Indeed, he’s intimidating and also very strong, but he can be gentle sometimes—towards you, that is.

 

He obviously has favorites.

 

On your way to his chamber, someone interrupted you two. A tall lady with cold eyes stood at the front.

 

“Balladeer, who is this?” Her voice is also cold.

 

You tensed up and stepped closer behind him.

 

“Knave...” His voice had a slightly cold tone. He eyed her up since the woman was taller than him.

 

Arlecchinno, the Knave, was the last person he wanted to see right now—actually, no. It’s Dottore and Sandrone. Who knows what will happen to you if he leaves you with them?

 

“He’s my new servant .” 

 

“Servant? How absurd. You don’t hire just anyone." She looked at him with colder eyes. “You know what happens if we bring an outsider here.”

 

“It’s none of your business.” His hand lowered his hat a bit. “He’s my property now.”

 

"If I remember correctly, I believe you went on an expedition to Fontaine. You were directed to bring the required supplies, not this thing .”

 

You could see some electro surrounding his right hand. He was clearly irritated. “I've already acquired the necessary supplies. He is merely an added bonus.”

 

He’s not entirely wrong with that. It's just that his choice of words is peculiar.

 

“Is that so?” Her arms were crossed on her chest. "I must admit, it's rare to see you having an interest in something. You despise almost everything. What is it about him that catches your eye?”

 

“That...” He doesn’t want to tell the truth. He also can’t say it out in the open. He needs to think of a lie.

 

Before he could answer, a short man interrupted them. “Welcome back, Balladeer. And what’s all the commotion here?”

 

It was Pulcinella, the Rooster. “Who’s this person behind you?”

 

This is quite annoying for him. He needs to give them an explanation now in order to earn their trust for you. Well, he doesn’t have to make them trust you, he just needs to have their approval of taking you in.

 

He let out a sigh. “I’ll explain the details at the main office.”

 

"We cannot allow him to enter. It's just for us, Fatui Harbingers," said the shorter man.

 

“Exactly. That’s why can you give me time to bring him to my chamber?”

 

"And let him remain there by himself? Who knows what he would do if no one was observing him? He requires someone to keep an eye on him," Arlecchino retorted quickly.

 

“He’s an obedient one. There's no need to worry about that.” Scaramouche replied with a small grin.

 

“Are we expected to accept that? Why don't you provide a more comprehensive response?” the woman retorted again.

 

"Oh, please, this guy is attached to me. If I tell him to jump off a cliff, he won’t hesitate.”

 

That’s true and also a lie. It's true that you’re a little attached to him, but you don’t see him as your master or anything that would make you actually jump off a cliff for him. You’re still holding on to your master.

 

You only accepted his offer to help you because you’re certain that’s what your creator would like for you to decide. You need to move on without her.

 

Let’s also not ignore the lie about him saying that you’re his property.

 

“Don’t worry, he won’t do anything reckless,” he said, narrowing his eyes and smirking at the upper ranks. “I can promise you that.”

 

 

 

 

 

Scaramouche unlocked his chamber door and entered. He managed to control the situation back there, even though it took more time to convince them. Now he can finally bring you inside his chamber. Even so, he must return to them and explain more.

 

You looked around and realized right away that the place was his office. There was another door on the right side that led to another room. You walked toward his table and stood beside it.

 

“I still have to owe them an explanation.” He groaned and pinched his nose bridge.

 

“Wouldn't it be preferable if the others saw me in person so that they would be more convinced that I am trustworthy? ”

 

“I didn’t give you permission to talk.”

 

Your eyes widen, and you quickly put your hands on your mouth. You didn’t mean to talk out loud.

 

He only gave you a mischievous laugh. He likes to tease you sometimes.

 

“It’s fine. The others don't need to see you right away." Especially to the Doctor and that lady, Marionette. “Or are you perhaps doubting that I won’t be able to convince them?”

 

“Not at all. I just thought that it wouldn’t take much time if we did that,” you say.

 

“I see your point, but just as Pulcinella said, you’re not allowed to go inside the main office."

 

You simply nodded, discarding the thought.

 

Scaramouche is already intimidating; imagine how frightening it would be once you met the others, not to mention that the woman and man from earlier already had a strong aura about them.

 

“I still have remaining work to do. I won't be back anytime soon.” He's already making his way back to the door. Before leaving, he made one final turn to face you. “Stay here.”

 

"Understood,” you said.

 

He then opened the door and walked out. He locked the door before leaving, leaving you alone.

 

Little did he know that he had made a tiny mistake.

 

 

 

 

 

It was already dark when Scaramouche came back. He managed to make his other colleagues accept you. Well, he had to tell them about how he found you, and, to his annoyance, he had to tell them about your situation.

 

He’ll never forget what La Signora said during the meeting.

 

"How pitiful. It's expected that you'll take him in since you've been abandoned as well."

 

Scaramouche disliked Tartaglia, but he'd be lying if he said he didn't appreciate his support. Always friendly, that guy. Even when he's speaking with his superiors, he'd be willing to defend someone if the other started talking about personal matters.

 

Or maybe he just hates La Signora in general. After all, they don't get along very well.

 

Not all Fatui Harbingers were present during the meeting. It’s just unfortunate that that woman had to arrive. And very fortunate that Dottore and Sandrone weren't there.

 

Scaramouche groaned with his eyes closed as he opened his door. He closed the door behind him as soon as he entered.

 

He opened his eyes and saw the darkness.

 

Ah, right, I locked the door.

 

His servants weren't able to turn on the lights for his return. Before he could light up the room, he saw something through the darkness.

 

What the fuck.

 

It’s not even a question. He’s genuinely confused.

 

As soon as he turned on the light, he tensed up.

 

You were still standing in the same spot he remembered you being in before he left.

 

Your silhouette and your faintly glowing eyes were what he had earlier seen.

 

He was very surprised. Have you remained standing there since he left? He is now even more persuaded that you are an idiot and that you still have a long way to go.

 

He walked toward you. “How long are you going to stand there?”

 

“You told me to stay here.” You respond.

 

“When I said to stay here , I didn't mean in the spot you're standing on but rather in this room. At the very least, you can sit back and wait for my return while I'm away.” He sighed and looked at you with a deadpan expression. “Do you really need detailed instructions to understand?”

 

“I apologize...” You lowered your head a bit.

 

“That’s not what I wanted to hear. It would be troublesome if you needed precise commands in order to move.”

 

He knows you obey your master's orders, but he was a fool to assume you didn’t need specific ones. Really, how did your creator put up with you? Furthermore, why didn't she do anything about it?

 

Sighing, he gave up. He made his way to the other door. “Follow me.”

 

When you were following him, you remained silent. You both entered his bedroom. He turned on the lights, and you can see the huge space of the room.

 

This time, the room had two additional doors that led to the bathroom and wardrobe area—though his wardrobes don't have that many clothes.

 

He took off his hat and placed it on the bed. He looked at you with a neutral face. “I’ll be taking a shower. After that, you can take your turn.”

 

You immediately tensed up and looked down at the floor. He noticed that and let out a long sigh. 

 

“Yes, you can use the bathroom and borrow my robes. Other than your outfit, you can use some of my casual clothes. I’ll buy you new ones later,” he said, not giving you a chance to think.

 

He spared you the time to not ponder too deeply since he knows that you have a thinking crisis. You overthink too much.

 

"Or is it that you don't know how to clean yourself?" He raised an eyebrow.

 

“I do know how. I was taught to clean myself,” you say.

 

“Thank god. I didn’t want to do all of the work. I don't have time to babysit you every second.” He went to the closet room and grabbed two black robes.

 

“Here, use this.” He handed you the robe, and you took it. He went to the bathroom without waiting for your response, not that you have one.

 

Now that you’re alone, you look around the room—still standing in the same spot. It reminds you of your bedroom back at the mansion. There’s not a lot of furniture, but it also doesn’t look so bland. There's a luxurious bed and a large glass window on the wall, as well as a couch in front of the bed.

 

You know he'll be displeased if you continue to stand in the same position, so you move around the room, being careful not to touch anything in case you break something.

 

The place brought up a lot of nostalgia for you. Oh, how you miss your home.

 

It didn’t take that long for Scaramouche to finish showering. The door of the bathroom opened, and you saw him in a black robe. There’s a towel at his head, still drying his hair. He didn’t say anything and went to sit on the bed.

 

He saw you looking at him. He raised an eyebrow. “What?”

 

You only kept looking at his eyes, then opened your mouth to speak. “Thank you,” you said in a quiet voice and turned around to head inside the bathroom.

 

He only looked at you as you walked out, his hands on the towel, drying his head.

 

After a while, you stepped out of the restroom wearing the same dark robe as him.

 

You look confused; you can't find him. You hesitated to open the closet room door, but he wasn't there either. You opened the door to his personal office and spotted him seated in his chair. He was working on paperwork when he noticed you open the door.

 

“You should rest. It’s already late,” he says, still focusing on the papers.

 

Like him, you don't require sleep. But there is no denying that your body is worn out. You walked for two days to Snezhnaya, and you weren't used to walking much after being confined inside the mansion for all your life. Let’s also not forget that you were standing in the same position for hours before he returned.

 

“Where am I supposed to sleep?”

 

He groaned, finally removing his attention from the papers and turning to you instead. He’s looking at you with an annoyed face. “Are you blind or just stupid? Did you not see the large bed?”

 

You still look at him with your expressionless face. “I think it would be rude of me to sleep in your bed. I don’t mind resting on the couch.”

 

“That’s what you think. Will you really sleep on the couch when there's a large bed available? It’s my bed, and I really don’t mind. Besides, I rarely sleep on it anyway.” Correction; he rarely sleeps.

 

You still can’t help but be deferential. Giving up, you nodded. “Thank you…”

 

He returned his attention to the papers. “Have a good rest.” He said your name for the last time that night.

 

You went back to his bedroom. You continue to consider whether to sleep on the bed while you continue to stare at it. But the couch is not spacious, and the bed appears to be comfortable. You took a seat on the bed's edge. It makes you feel like you’re back in your bedroom bed, waiting for your creator to return.

 

It’s quite unbelievable to think that you actually stayed at the same spot and waited for her for 500 years. If Scaramouche didn’t find you or take you in, you would’ve stayed there for another century—or maybe a millennium if no one found you—and your body would begin to fade away.

 

You can feel your consciousness slipping away. Before it happens, you lie entirely on the right side of the bed. You didn't wrap a blanket around yourself. You were lying on your back, facing the roof.

 

You slowly close your eyes; eventually, fatigue overcomes you.

 

 

–

 

 

It’s been 3 months since Scaramouche took you to the headquarters. You’ve been working as his servant ever since. You’re now working under him.

 

Since then, a lot has changed in your life. You'd follow his commands and give him what he requests.

 

You decide to volunteer to be his personal servant because it would be weird if you just remained in his chamber doing nothing.

 

You've already moved on from your master.

 

You don't view him as a master, but rather as someone you admire. He took care of you exactly as he promised, giving you a place to stay and offering to teach you many things despite his busy schedule.

 

Although you knew that being alone was risky, you asked him if he could give you your own room so you wouldn't keep disturbing him. Naturally, he declined, preferring that you continue to stay in his chamber. Not to mention that the only available rooms are for the lower ranked Fatuis, which he obviously does not want you to stay in.

 

You're still expressionless most of the time, but you’ve been making more faces and feeling more emotions ever since. You'd no longer have a thinking crisis—at least not all the time. In a small way, your confidence has increased.

 

You’ve been making a lot of decisions lately.

 

All of the Fatui Harbingers recognize you now. They didn't seem to care about you, but you can always feel this lady named Sandrome—Marionette—watching you. You have no idea what she wants or whether you have ever done anything to get her attention. You didn't even exchange words with her once. Scaramouche only tells you to avoid her.

 

Your physical stamina has been strong. You can easily swing swords now. You recall him asking you to choose a weapon, but you know you can only handle the most basic; swords. You can't handle the bow's complexity. Both the bow and the arrow require a lot of force to be used.

 

Polearms weren't to your liking, and they were also complicated for you, which made Scaramouche satisfied because, of course, his creator, Ei, is a polearm user. He despises anything connected to her.

 

For catalysts—you don’t have a vision or delusion, so it’s out of the question. As for claymores, you still lack the strength to handle them. It was also not to your liking because it was too big for you.

 

For your job, he doesn’t ask you to do dirty jobs for him. Most of the time, he would order you to do things like bring him tea and clean his chamber. It wasn’t that hard since you knew housework.

 

Of course, he doesn’t always ask you to clean his chamber; that’s his other servants’ job. However, he no longer requests tea from his other servants but rather from you.

 

You learned how to brew tea because your master enjoyed it, and now you may use it for him. So, basically, you don't have much to do other than brew tea for him, train in the training room, and walk around the city.

 

After a month since you were taken in, you were able to walk around the city freely. It snows every day in Snezhnaya, and the beautiful city covered in snow always fascinates you.

 

You prefer to stroll in areas with very few people around, just taking in the solitude. You have a good memory and sense of direction, so you don’t get lost. Although you don’t really go out that much, you still prefer being inside his chamber.

 

Scaramouche didn't give you any orders today, so you went to train your body. Some of the low rank Fatuis have already accepted you and would exchange words with you. You're not very close to them, but you appreciate their assistance with training.

 

He didn’t like seeing you with his subordinates. He does appreciate it when they help you get stronger, but he wishes you would seek his aid. The fact that you train alone most of the time but call for Childe when you need assistance irritates him even more.

 

He is the one who offers each time he assists you. He wants you to ask him. Do you honestly believe you're bothering him?

 

You’re already inside his chamber. He was nowhere to be seen, maybe working outside.

 

You went to the bathroom and took a shower. You are currently dressed in casual attire because he did buy you clothes as he had promised. He bought a couple robes for you so you wouldn't keep sharing, some casual ones, and he didn't have to, but he commissioned a clothier to sew Fontaine ouji-style outfits for you.

 

It's just like the clothes your master created for you.

 

You appreciate his offer, which is why you want him to order you more so you may do so and express your gratitude, even if you know it is insufficient. You’re really indebted to him.

 

It was already night, and you don’t feel tired even when you just finished training. You decided to read a book.

 

He knew you enjoyed reading, so he bought you books as well. Really, he’s spoiling you.

 

 

 

 

 

It was almost midnight when Scaramouche returned. He saw you sitting on the couch, reading a book.

 

“You’re still awake?”

 

“I don’t require sleep, sir Scaramouche,” you said after paying attention to him instead of the book. You stood up straight from your seat, slightly bowing your head. “Welcome back.”

 

“Stop acting as if you’re one of my minions.” He groaned and took off his hat. “And for the nth time, just call me Scaramouche.”

 

You stopped bowing your head. “That would be rude of me.”

 

“Again, the same response.” He rolled his eyes, then he put the hat on the couch. “At least if we’re alone?”

 

“Why do you not want me to call you with an address?”

 

He looked at you with a slightly annoyed look. “Because you’re not working for me–”

 

“I am working for you.”

 

“Only because you felt indebted. I never asked you to be my personal servant, and I never viewed you as one." He raised an eyebrow. “It was your own decision to obey me. And here, I thought you were loyal to your master.”

 

You looked away from his gaze, feeling a bit ashamed. “I have already moved on.”

 

“I know that.” He had a smug face now. “Are you making me your new master now?"

 

You quickly replied. “No, of course not.” 

 

"Oh, really?” He took a few steps closer to you. “Then why did you choose to be my servant? Why do you keep waiting for my orders?”

 

“You already said it yourself. I felt indebted to you.” You gave him a deadpan look. It was obvious that he was playing with you.

 

“Sure, but there are lots of ways you can express gratitude to me as well. So why choose to be my servant in particular?”

 

“That’s...” You took a step back, looking at him this time. “You know I’m only good at following orders…”

 

He sighed. “Have you not grown for the past 3 months? You have to stop following orders from people. You’re no longer someone’s doll .”

 

“But I want to,” you said. “I want to keep following orders. It’s my decision, and I’ll stop when I finally decide to.”

 

His eyes widened a bit, then he smirked. “Is that so? Well, if that’s your decision, then I respect it. But I have to ask: Why do you enjoy obeying orders so much?”

 

Your body tensed up. Indeed, why do you like to obey orders? Was it a result of your previous obedience to your master? Then again, Scaramouche isn’t your master, but you somehow enjoy being obedient to him.

 

Wait, do you even enjoy following commands? Or perhaps... You simply enjoy the feeling when they compliment you after you finish a task?

 

Every time you accomplished something and your master gave you praise, you felt warm within your empty chest.

 

Or maybe it's just a feature your master gave you that makes you feel warm and fuzzy whenever you receive praise, so it motivates you to follow orders. Who knows?

 

“Oh, you already finished reading this book? You really are a fast learner! As expected of my doll!”

 

“Did you make this tea? Hmm... Not bad. It’s edible.”

 

If you say you like getting praised, you know he’ll make fun of you for it. You decided not to tell him. “What do you expect? I'm a doll who has been carrying out orders. It would not surprise me if I simply enjoy receiving orders at this point. I've become accustomed to it."

 

He knows you’re hiding your real reason, but he chose not to taunt you any further. “Fine. I’ll let that slide for now.” He made his way toward the bathroom.

 

Since he put his big ass hat on the couch, you sat on the bed. You continued to read the book.

 

 

 

 

 

Scaramouche finished taking a bath. He sees you still awake and reading the same book as earlier. “It’s already past midnight. You should rest.”

 

“I told you, I don’t require sleep,” you replied.

 

He hung the towel he was using to dry his hair somewhere he could hang it. He sat next to you, looking at the book before taking it. “You were at the training hall earlier. Your body is exhausted. Rest.”

 

That is true. Your body is slowly becoming tired. After all, you worked harder than usual.

 

You gave him a slightly deadpan look as he took the book.

 

“This is an order.”

 

Sighing, you gave up. “Understood...”

 

Slowly, you lifted your feet off the floor. He stood up from the bed and turned off the lights. He slightly opened the curtains to let some of the moonlight brighten the room.

 

He went to the other side of the bed you're in. You watched him get on the bed as well. You looked at him with confusion, and he noticed it. “What?”

 

“Are you sleeping here...?” For the past 3 months, he never slept on his bed. He rarely rests, and when he does, he goes to the couch. This is a first.

 

He looked at you up and down, then stared at your face with a judgmental look. “Yes? Is there something wrong with that?”

 

“Not at all. It’s just... should I sleep on the couch?” you ask.

 

“Why? The bed is big enough for both of us.” He replied with a deadpan look. “Are you really being greedy right now? Fine, I’ll sleep on the couch.” 

 

Your eyes widened, and you motioned with your right hand in disagreement. "Oh, no, no—it's that..." You blink and look at the couch, then blink again and return your gaze to his face. "You're finally sleeping in your bed, so I figured it'd be best if I didn't sleep on it and let you have it all to yourself…"

 

“You can sleep here with me. I really don’t mind.” He laid his body on the bed. He covered himself with the blanket and turned his back to you.

 

You continue to look at him in bewilderment.

 

After a few seconds, you slowly positioned your body on the bed and wrapped yourself in the blanket.

 

You stare at the ceiling, still unsure whether he'll do something unexpected. Then, drowsiness took control of your thoughts. You fell asleep.

 

 

 

 

 

It’s been an hour since you passed out. Scaramouche has been eyeing your sleeping face for 10 minutes straight, not even blinking once.

 

He was moving closer to you as he watched you. He observes your stupid posture, sleeping straight with your hands on your chest. It's as if you are a corpse lying in a coffin.

 

He may not say it aloud, but he is quite interested in you. Sure, you had already told him about your past and your master, but his attention was drawn more to your physical appearance. He's curious whether you can wield any of the seven elements and is simply unaware that you can.

 

He's not sure if he saw things or not, but during his first training session with you, he noticed a tiny white string emerging from your hand. Don't worry, he was gentle with you and barely used 10% of his strength. Although he can hardly see it and he's sure that you missed it since you were preoccupied with striking him. He swears it was glowing a light blue, similar to the cryo element.

 

He wasn’t only curious about that. He was also interested in what material your master used to create you.

 

He remembers that when he held your right wrist back when he first found you at the ruins, it was soft. Not only that, you have a pretty face—not as pretty as his, though; this guy is ethereal.

 

He must say, your master did a great job creating you.

 

He moved a bit closer and poked your cheek. Somehow, he enjoys it. He didn’t poke you much to make sure not to wake you up.

 

He gently moved the blanket a little bit away from you and carefully held your right wrist.

 

Soft…

 

He recalls asking you if you also had ball joints. He had them, but they just faded over time.

 

You told him that you didn’t have those. Perhaps your creator wanted you to look more human.

 

He examined your face, searching for a sign that you might be awake. He didn't see anything different, so he continued.

 

He placed your right wrist by your side and held the other one this time.

 

When he looked at your left wrist, he noticed something. He rolled up your sleeve a little to get a better look. There, he saw a symbol of the number 1.

 

Does your master put numbers on her dolls so they can be in proper order?

 

He inspected it closely, gently bringing your wrist close to his face. It reminds him of his mark on his nape.

 

Did you wish to remove your mark as well, like him? No, definitely not. You love your creator, so this symbol must be very special to you, especially since it’s numbered 1. You were her first creation and her most favorite doll. You’re her number one.

 

He envies you.

 

He traced the mark with his finger, feeling your soft skin.

 

After a while, he let go of your wrist and looked at your chest. Are you also empty inside?

 

He placed his hand gently on your left chest. He eyed your sleeping face and looked back at his hand. He pushed his hand a little bit. To his surprise, he didn’t feel anything beating inside you.

 

Just like him, you were also heartless.

 

Perhaps you do have something inside. It’s just that it’s not beating. True, that's a possibility—you're a doll, of course you won't have a beating heart—wait, do you even have internal organs? But you were able to cry... Your stomach doesn’t seem to go up and down. You're also not breathing like him, but Scaramouche pretends to. He tried to blend in with the humans early on, so it's now become a habit for him.

 

Honestly, you should've asked your creator about yourself when you got the chance. Just what are you made of? Are you simply a doll’s shell? Or is there more to you?

 

He slowly pulled his hand away and looked at your face. He continued to look at you for another 5 minutes before placing his hand close to your cheek. He’d brush some of your hair from your face.

 

Really, how are you still not awake?

 

Or maybe you are, but you pretend to sleep.

 

He quickly pulled his hand away, looking at you suspiciously.

 

He whispered your name.

 

He waited a few seconds, but nothing happened.

 

He doesn’t believe that you’re actually asleep. He doesn't think you're genuinely dozing off. After all, he recalls a month ago when you fell asleep on the couch and he attempted to bring you to bed, but you woke up when he clutched your shoulder. You don’t usually let your guard down.

 

He eyed you for another five minutes, still calling your name in a whisper. Still, nothing happened.

 

He’s starting to get annoyed. He just keeps thinking that you’re pretending to be asleep. It’s childish, really.

 

He raised his hand and applied a small amount of electro to it. He put his hand near your shoulder and gave you a fast and faint zap.

 

He waited for a short while, but nothing has changed with your figure.

 

Did you not feel that? Are you perhaps immune to electro? Or maybe... You’re actually asleep. Wait—maybe that caused you to actually die—but it was a fast and weak zap.

 

How stupid; this situation, him, and maybe you also.

 

He moved his hand away, then leaned back.

 

He laid his body back in the bed, but instead of turning his back on you like earlier, he decided to face you. He looked at your sleeping body before gradually losing consciousness after a while.

 

 

 

 

 

You weren't there when Scaramouche woke up.

 

He looked at the clock, and his eyes widened. It was almost 7 a.m.

 

Normally, you would bring him tea at 6. This has never happened before. Well, it was his first time sleeping on the bed with you, and to add to that, he was the one who woke up second.

 

He's starting to panic, wondering if you were really there with him, or if you're not real and he's been delusional this entire time.

 

No… I still remember his soft skin.

 

Did you really not wake him up to give him tea? What if you're still in the kitchen, making him tea? But it’s almost 7, and you always hand him tea at 6 sharp—well, that was because he was awake.

 

He actually fell asleep and overslept as well. He didn't even intend to sleep for this long.

 

Sighing, he got up from the bed and began to wear his usual Fatui outfit.

 

Seriously, you should’ve woken him up. He would’ve preferred that, in fact. Maybe you still have your thinking crisis and just couldn’t bring yourself to wake him.

 

He looked over at the closet room, bathroom, and office room to make sure you were really not inside his chamber.

 

Maybe you went to the training halls? But you always ask his permission first. You don’t do anything as long as you have his consent.

 

He was about to grab his hat when he suddenly had a thought. What if you were taken while he was sleeping?

 

He immediately abandoned his choice of picking up the hat and made his way to his chamber’s door.

 

This is really bad. What if Dottore or Sandrone took you? Those two are dangerous to you.

 

The servants looked at him with bewilderment as he walked quickly through the hall.

 

His first choice was to head towards Sandrone's chamber. She was only one rank below him, so their chambers are not far from each other.

 

He was lucky that the door wasn't locked because he slammed it open right away.

 

“Where is he—!?”

 

His eyes widened at what he saw.

 

 

–

 

 

It was almost six in the morning when you woke up.

 

You sat up and noticed Scaramouche clutching a pillow so closely. The pillow was between you two, separating you.

 

Did he place the pillow there to avoid accidentally hugging you instead? But anyway, he looks better when he’s like this, sleeping so peacefully and nicely.

 

He usually shows his grumpy and smug face, so this is a rare sight. It’s nice to see him rest once in a while.

 

You got up from the bed and headed to the closet room to wear your usual clothes. 

 

Back in the bedroom, you're pondering whether or not to wake him up. Ah, but he looks so peaceful. Can you really wake him up when he’s like this? It’s rare to see him with his guard down.

 

You sat at the edge of the bed for a while, staring at his sleeping face.

 

You continued to stare at him, then, after a while, you looked at the clock. It was already 6.

 

You should’ve served him tea by now, but he’s still asleep. You wanted to let him rest a little longer.

 

What if you wake him up after you finish making him tea? Okay, that could be a good option. You believe he'll be pleased to have tea when he wakes up.

 

And so, you made your way to his chamber’s doors. You made sure to walk in silence when you exited.

 

As you leave the room, you notice some servants staring at you. To them, they still find it shocking that Scaramouche, a puppet, actually takes a doll in. How ironic, indeed.

 

Every time you walk across the halls alone, you feel tense. You can never relax, especially without knowing if you’ll ever bump into Dottore or Sandrone, or maybe even both at the same time. Just imagining it terrifies you already.

 

You learn that Dottore does human experimentation. You are aware that his presence is intimidating, but you dislike him now that you know he experiments on others.

 

As for Sandrone, you asked Scaramouche why you should avoid her. She doesn't have the same terrifying appearance as Dottore. You constantly draw her attention and want to find out why. But once he told you that she was constantly working on her research into automatons, you knew right away.

 

You're not one of those ruin machines, but you're a doll, which piqued her attention even more. Perhaps she wants to control you with her threads.

 

You were about to walk in the direction where the kitchen is when you felt someone—more like something—grabbing your arm.

 

You turned around and saw that a machine had grabbed you. You immediately realized from the design that it was Sandrone’s machine assistant.

 

You really are in great trouble now.

 

You saw her reveal herself from behind the machine. She had a small smile on her face, although you don't know whether it was genuine or forced.

 

“Greetings to you, the Balladeer’s doll .”

 

You tensed up and gazed at her with slightly furrowed eyebrows. You ignored her way of calling you.

 

You take a step back as her assistant slowly releases your arm. “Greetings to you as well…”

 

She made a soft chuckle. “There's no need to become so tense. I have no ill intentions."

 

You watched her sit at the right hand of the machine. The hand was lifted slightly, and she is now looking down at you. “I only want to have your time. Ah, rest assured, it won’t take long.”

 

You looked at her with confusion. What does she want from you?

 

She’s acting nice and clearly trying to lure you. “I have to brew tea for Sir Scaramouche.”

 

“That’s odd. Don't you always serve him tea at precisely six in the morning? It's already past that time." She narrowed her eyes on you.

 

She is aware of the time you serve tea to Scaramouche. Just how intently has she been observing you? This made you more wary of her.

 

“Sir Scaramouche is resting…”

 

You're not sure whether you're seeing things, but you noticed her eyes sparkling slightly.

 

She tilted her head slightly, her lips still smiling. “Well, if he’s still resting, you shouldn’t disturb him by serving him tea, no?”

 

"I figured it'd be better to wake him up then serve him tea to brighten his mood," you respond.

 

“Oh, but don't you know? He dislikes being bothered. You could risk his wrath.”

 

But you do recall bothering him while he was at his desk. You asked him if you could wander the city for the first time. Furthermore, don't you bother him every time you ask him for permission to do something?

 

Now you’re confused. Are you supposed to wake him up or let him rest and do your own plans for today? You’d be lying if you said you never assumed that after brewing his tea, you'd return to find him already awake.

 

You snapped back when you felt a hand wrap around your body. Her assistant held you up from the floor.

 

“Wha—?”

 

“Now, now. It won’t take too long. I promise,” she said with her hand covering her mouth and her eyes closed. It was obvious she was smirking.

 

You started to panic. “Let me go…!”

 

She only ignored you. Her assistant carried you two toward her chamber’s door.

 

You were confused about whether to be silent or scream for help, but Scaramouche told you not to make a scene in the halls—but you’re already making one!

 

The servants are watching you three as you head to her chamber.

 

She stood up from the machine’s hand and opened the door, and the three of you entered the room.

 

You didn't hear her lock the door when she closed it. It could be your chance to flee.

 

“W-What do you want from me?” you asked.

 

The machine only kept holding you tight, not giving you a chance to escape.

 

She walked in front of you and then looked at you up and down. Her eyes narrowed. “I told you, I have no bad intentions.”

 

Even still, you can't believe her. She could use her threads to manipulate you at any time, and you don't want that. You don’t want to be controlled by anyone other than your master and Scaramouche, especially now that you’re free .

 

She went to her other room, leaving you and her assistant alone.

 

You try to get the machine's hand off of you, but as you would expect, it doesn't even budge. You didn't hit it or anything because you were still focused on being respectful—even though they were the ones being rude and this machine brought you here against your will.

 

You were worried she'd return with materials from her machine experiment. To your surprise, though, she wasn't holding one other than the fabric she was holding in her hands. You tried to observe; perhaps there's more to it.

 

She holds it in such a way that the cloth is clearly visible. It was Fontaine-style clothing. It appears to be your usual clothing, but this one is more—how do you put it? Prince like? Yours is similar to one, though. Well, but the costume featured pants, and you were wearing shorts. Not only that, it’s more detailed.

 

If someone were to wear this, you would undoubtedly believe that they are a prince, just like in the tales from the books your creator once lent to you.

 

You look at her with confusion.

 

She ordered her assistant to release you; your body no longer feels the firm grip. She handed the outfit to you. “Wear this.”

 

You looked at it for a while, then you looked back at her, still with your confused face. “What?”

 

“Did you not understand?” She looked at you, almost in a judgmental way.

 

“N-No. I’m simply confused…”

 

Why did she want you to wear that? Isn’t she going to experiment on you and manipulate you with her strings? Maybe this outfit is part of her research, but so far, it doesn’t look dangerous.

 

“Aren’t you going to take me over with your threads?”

 

She'd be lying if she said she never considered controlling you. Yet because you're Scaramouche's property, she can't touch you. "For the third time, I stated that I have no bad intent."

 

“May I ask, why do you want me to wear...” You glanced at the outfit, then back at her. “...this?”

 

“I made this outfit a few years ago, but I had no one to wear it.”

 

She looked at the clothes, her eyes looking gentle.

 

“After all, I experiment with automations. I wanted someone to wear this. It’s ridiculous that I once considered wanting the Balladeer to wear this. Utterly risible.”

 

You weren’t expecting that. Was she staring at you the entire time, only to ask you to wear this? “You said you only work on automations, then why did you make such an outfit?”

 

“Why, indeed. I couldn’t remember.” She put a hand on her chin. “I like making outfits for some of my creations, but I can’t recall why I made such clothes. I found this while looking for a supply in one of my cabinets. It’s nothing important now—I’ve been keeping an eye on you, and I’m certain this outfit will look good on you.”

 

She handed the outfit to you once more.

 

You hesitantly took it and observed it more, just in case it was a trap. Nonetheless, the costume was well-made. Its colors were a mix of white, gold, silver, black, and the color of your eyes. It was fascinating when you looked at the little details. Will you really look good in this outfit?

 

“Where will I change...?”

 

She stared at you with a blank look. “Here.”

 

You flinched a bit. “... Here?”

 

Are you just going to change right in front of her?

 

“Can I at least have privacy?” 

 

She sighed. You swore she looked pissed just now.

 

She ordered her assistant to get a dressing screen. After a while, the machine put one near a corner.

 

You muttered a small thank you to it, then you made your way to change.

 

Why did you even agree to wear it? You don’t know. When you first looked at the clothes, it made you remember the times when your master would give you a new outfit.

 

Now that you think of it, Sandrone somehow reminds you of her. Both like to experiment, one with dolls and the other with automation. She did mention that she gives clothes to some of her creations, just like your master gives one to you.

 

You truly miss her. How you wish she could make you a new one.

 

It took you a while to wear it fully since you were struggling with how to put it on

 

When you revealed yourself from the dressing screen, Sandrone looked at you with slightly widened eyes. A small smile went across her face.

 

“As I expected, it fits you.”

 

You saw the huge mirror in front of the dressing screen. It wasn’t there earlier, but you did remember hearing some noises when you were in the middle of wearing the outfit—which made you cautious, thinking if that was the time they struck. But you continued to wear the clothes since nothing happened.

 

You looked at yourself, and your eyes also slightly widened.

 

Wow, you didn’t expect it to look good on you.

 

Her assistant positioned a chair in front of the mirror. The other hand was carrying something you didn't recognize—wait, it looked like the stuff your master uses on her face.

 

“Take a seat.”

 

“Are you going to apply makeup to my face?” you asked.

 

“Why, yes. It would be a waste to only see you in that outfit without any makeup,” she replied.

 

Without saying anything, you sat down. You’re being quite more obedient than you should be.

 

You've never tried those before, but they've piqued your attention. You also recall Scaramouche putting one of those on his eyes.

 

She noticed your obedience. She took one of the foundations and gently applied it to your face. You closed your eyes as she did it.

 

Since your face was already pretty, she didn't need to do much makeup.

 

Didn't the Balladeer say you spent 500 years at the ruins? Why do you still have such a nice face? Your creator really is quite something.

 

“Did your past master put makeup on you back then?”

 

“No. She only gave me her new handmade clothes.”

 

"I see." So that's why you were being obedient. The current situation brings back memories of your past. "Was your master kind to you?"

 

Your eyes were about to open, but instead you just kept them closed. “She is.”

 

“Do you miss her?” she asked curiously.

 

“Very.”

 

There's no point in dwelling on the past. You had already accepted her death. Saying you didn't miss her would be a lie. But it's fine; after all, Scaramouche is now there for you.

 

“If you had to pick between her and the Balladeer, who would you choose?”

 

You never thought of that. No one has ever asked you such a question. You’re perplexed. “I can’t choose. The two of them are dear to me. It’s impossible for me to choose only one.”

 

She put a small smile on her face, although you can’t see it since your eyes are closed. “Is that so? But wouldn't you admit that your previous master treated you better than the Balladeer?”

 

That is true. She treated you far better than he did, but Scaramouche only took you in for three months. So it's an unfair comparison, especially given that she's your creator and Scaramouche is simply your—whatever he is to you.

 

"You are right. But Sir Scaramouche taught me something important that my master never did."

 

Her eyebrows raised slightly. “And what exactly would that be?”

 

She retreats her hands from your face, and you slowly open your eyes to look at her.

 

“Emotions.”

 

 

 

 

 

It didn’t take her too long to finish. She looked at your face and seemed satisfied with her work. “You may look at yourself in the mirror.”

 

You hesitantly opened your eyes, and then you saw your face.

 

Is that me…?

 

You noticed the crimson eyeliner on your eye, similar to Scaramouche's. Maybe it was deliberate when she applied it. You noticed that your lips appeared more pink. You felt warm inside your chest. You felt... happy.

 

She took a few pins and started to style your hair. You didn't even bother asking questions because you were so focused on yourself in the mirror.

 

Indeed, you resemble those fictional figures from the books.

 

It was Sandrone's first time performing something like this. She was mainly focused on her research. This was new to her, and she seemed to enjoy her time.

 

She returned the items to her machine assistant.

 

You stood up from the seat, observing your new appearance.

 

“Do you like it perhaps?”

 

Like is insufficient; you have no idea how you feel right now. But you're positive that you genuinely adore your new look. “I do.”

 

"I'm certain the Balladeer will be pleasantly surprised to see you."

 

Your eyes widen. Right, you’re supposed to serve him tea!

 

You looked at the clock; it was nearly 7 a.m. You can’t go back like this. He’ll be displeased. But can you honestly remove the makeup after Sandrone spent her time putting it on you? That would be heartless of you—in a literal sense, you are.

 

She sensed your anxiety. "Don't worry, you may return the clothes later."

 

“That’s not the reason I’m panicking...” You were ready to put your hands on your face when you remembered you were wearing makeup. You only clench your hands in front of your face.

 

She gave you a narrow-eyed stare. "I'm certain that the Balladeer will not despise you in this form."

 

You groaned. “It’s also not that…I-I think I should head back.”

 

You were about to grab the previous clothes you wore when the door suddenly opened loudly. Then you saw him, Scaramouche, with a rage face.

 

“Where is he—!?” You saw his face in shock, and his body froze as he looked at you.

 

And that’s how we got into this situation.

 

“S-Sir Scaramouche!” Your body tensed up, and you stood up straight.

 

Fantastic. He's furious with you now. You didn't wake him up and offer him tea, you didn't manage to avoid Sandrone, and you're dressed in something you're positive he doesn't like.

 

You're going to get your first punishment. He'll definitely slam you against the wall, just like he does to his subordinates.

 

“Just as I expected. The Balladeer is pleasantly surprised with your new look.” She stared at him with a slight smugness.

 

Scaramouche really thought that you were already under Sandrone’s control. He truly believed you were in grave danger, but this? He wasn't expecting this.

 

His lips hung open for a moment before he stared at Sandrone with a furious expression.

 

“What did you do to him?” His eyes were cold.

 

“Nothing. I merely gave him a makeover.”

 

He was ready to unleash a few electro at his right arm, and Sandrone sat at her assistant’s hand, ready to strike also until you spoke.

 

“Sir Scaramouche! Lady Sandrone did not harm me in any way!” You quickly respond to avoid a disaster.

 

He stopped what he was about to do, then he looked at you once again. “Then why are you here? Didn’t I tell you to avoid her?”

 

"Well..." You cast a short glance at her before returning your attention to him. Your eyebrows furrow slightly. “She may have used force to bring me inside—but! She did not harm me, I assure you!”

 

He looked at Sandrone with a rage look before he looked back at you. I will talk with you later. She only gave him a slightly mischievous smile in return.

 

He took a step closer to you and grabbed your arm. “I can tell you were being obedient to her, which is why you’re in this new look. I ordered you to avoid her, yet you disobeyed.”

 

He gripped your arm slightly tighter. “You’ll be receiving my punishment.”

 

He looked at you with cold eyes. For the first time, you feared him.

 

“Yes, sir Scaramouche... ”

 

You swear you saw him smirking before he turned his face away and dragged you back outside.

 

You give Sandrone one final look before you leave her chamber, and she gives you a little smile. She was clearly enjoying the scene. She is not surprised that you would be punished, but she is aware that Scaramouche likes your new attire. He simply doesn't want to admit it.

 

His hand is still holding on to your arm as the two of you walk through the hallway. The servant stares in disbelief as you two walk in, obviously confused and surprised by your sudden new outfit.

 

Ah, you forgot to bring your previous clothes with you. Maybe when you return the outfit, you'll get it back.

 

You both went into his chamber. He shut the door and walked over to his desk. His back is turned to you.

 

You're confused. He hasn't said anything in a minute, and you two are still standing. Didn't he say he'd punish you?

 

“Sir Scaramouche?”

 

 

 

 

 

Fuck.

 

Fuck.

 

What the fuck.

 

What the fuck did Sandrone do to you!? Why are you dressed like that!? Why the fuck do you look so—handsome!? Did Sandrone pick up a new hobby or something?

 

He can't believe he's saying this, but he's pleased that she did this to you.

 

The way your hair has been styled makes you look more pretty. Your face has had a makeover. Let's not forget that he'd been glancing at your pink lips since earlier.

 

Scaramouche is here losing his mind; meanwhile, you’re over there, confused with his punishment. Indeed, you two are idiots.

 

Where did Sandrone get that costume, anyway? Did she get it just for you? You fit into it perfectly... He'll ask her to give you the clothes when they speak later. He wants to see you more like this.

 

He awoke without you present in his room. He was losing his mind and worried that you had been taken away. To think this is what you’ve been doing with her while he was asleep, how amusing.

 

He heard your voice calling for him. He turned around, his face no longer in a furious expression instead, it’s his usual poker face. His eyes are still slightly cold, though.

 

“Explain.”

 

He turned around to look at you, which made you flinch a little.

 

You detailed everything that had occurred since you awoke. You described how you were unsure whether to wake him up or not, how Sandrone first approached you, and how you were dragged into her chamber. Of course, you keep on stating that she didn't hurt you, and neither did her assistant.

 

He only looked at you with narrowed eyes, as you explained.

 

He crossed his arms across his chest. He raised his eyebrow. “And you agreed to wear the outfit?”

 

You couldn’t tell him that Sandrone somehow reminds you of your creator. You also couldn’t tell him about the questions she asked you.

 

You took a breath. “She wanted me to wear it, and it didn’t look like she had ill intentions. The outfit looks nice, and I was also curious how I’ll look with it…”

 

You look ethereal. He wanted to say it, but he just stared at you. "So you accepted because she told you to? She didn't seem to have any ill intentions? How absurd, as if the other person would inform you if they had a lousy plan.”

 

You said, "She assured me she had no bad intentions directly.”

 

“And you believed her?”

 

"Well, did you notice anything in me that would lead you to believe she hurt me?"

 

His gaze became colder, and you could feel his dark aura rise. Oops, you didn’t mean to talk back to him like that.

 

“What matters is that you obeyed someone else,” he said in a cold tone. You're not sure if he's actually mad or just jealous.

 

“I apologize.” You bowed your head slightly, now looking at the floor.

 

He sighed, then he put a hand on his chin. He looked at you with narrowed eyes. “For your punishment...”

 

It made you shiver a bit. This is your first punishment from him, so you're both curious and afraid of what he'll do to you.

 

Will he kick you in the stomach? orders you to get on your knees so he can step on you? Is he going to yank your hair and scold you?

 

“Dance for me.”

 

“Pardon?”

 

You stopped bowing your head and looked at his eyes with yours slightly widened.

 

Dance? Just now, did he ask you to dance? What kind of punishment is this? You never heard him order this to his subordinates. Did you miss something?

 

Even he was taken aback by his own words. Why did he tell you that all of a sudden? Screw you and your pretty face. Your appearance made him think you'd look good dancing.

 

“Did you not hear me?”

 

He orders you to dance. You must comply. "No, I did hear you. It's just that... I don't know how."

 

He was a little taken aback to learn that you can't dance. "Didn't you tell me your master taught you many things?”

 

“Yes, but she never taught me how to dance.” You respond.

 

He groaned and approached you. You're worried—will he hit you? If you had known that he would have you dance as punishment, you would have prepared.

 

His other hand grasped and held yours, and the other traveled to your waist. When you felt his hands on you, you flinched.

 

Scaramouche is torn between being disappointed and thrilled. He had to teach you how to dance, but it also gives him a reason to get closer to you and look at you more attentively.

 

You weren't sure where to put your other hand. Are you supposed to put it on his waist as well? But it’ll trouble his arm, and it didn’t feel right.

 

He saw you getting confused. He finds it cute. “On my shoulder.”

 

Oh, he noticed your confusion. But his voice didn’t sound annoyed.

 

You simply nod and put your hand on his shoulder.

 

He pulled you and had you both move around the room. He found it amusing that your body was stiff. You really don’t know how to dance.

 

He gave you a soft chuckle. “Relax. Being this way won't get you anywhere.”

 

You nod once more as you slowly loosen your body. You're not used to doing things like this. It was a little awkward for you. You keep gazing down, focused, and careful not to step on his foot.

 

He simply stares at your eyes. “It's rather rude to not look at your partner’s face while dancing.”

 

“I-I apologize...” You looked into his eyes while you both danced around the room.

 

Both of you are staring at each other. You would step on the edge of his foot once in a while, but he only kept guiding you.

 

Dancing was one of Scaramouche’s hobbies, but he’d rather die than admit it to you. He'd dance by himself, with no one observing. He finds that dancing helps him unwind.

 

He looks at your face, admiring your makeover. He didn't think red eyeliner would suit you. After this, he’ll let you have some of his.

 

He wondered. Did your creator ever give you a makeover back then? When you said she takes good care of you, did you mean she dresses you up like this, like an actual doll? Well, you are one. If not, and she just treated you in the same manner as other people, was she even aware that she had created such a beautiful being? He may be exaggerating, but he genuinely admires your new look.

 

Each second and minute passed by; it felt like eternity. It felt like time passed slower than usual. You were feeling awkward while he enjoyed every second.

 

Both of you are looking at each other with poker faces. One is confused by the sudden dancing and wonders if it was truly a punishment. While the other person's mind was completely consumed by the other, he was clearly going insane.

 

He stopped moving, and so did you. Did you both finish the dance? He seems to be staring at your eyes. Deeply . Both of you stood still, not saying anything. He was still holding on to you, so it was really awkward.

 

This was troubling for him. He didn't mean to halt the dance, but he can't help but want to stand still and stare into your face. He is aware of your confusion but still wants to stare.

 

He can continue this endlessly, and you can't even stop him because this is your punishment.

 

Of course, it’s always you who makes him feel complicated feelings.

 

He was about to break the silence, but you beat him to it.

 

“Sir Scaramouche, were you the one calling my name last night?”

 

His eyes widened. “...What?”

 

You started to panic a bit, wondering if it wasn’t him. “O-Oh, I apologize. It’s just that last night, I heard someone calling my name. I don’t know if it was in my dreams…”

 

His body froze.

 

You were half-awake last night?

 

Did you feel him touch your wrist and cheek?

 

Oh, and let's not forget about him placing his hand on your chest as well.

 

He'll feel humiliated if you find out. He may have to hit himself or you; both work.

 

Wait, did you feel the weak zap he gave you as well?

 

“No. I already fell asleep.” He lied.

 

You looked at him suspiciously. “Hmm... I could’ve sworn it was your voice.”

 

“No, it’s not me. You must have been dreaming last night.” He broke eye contact by closing his eyes.

 

“Is that so? Ah, but for some odd reason, I felt a small jolt during that dream. I wonder why?” You looked at him with narrowed eyes.

 

So you are aware! And there he was, calling your name like the idiot he is. But never mind that, are you aware of him touching you? He might have to punish you with his electro instead.

 

“How rude of you. I was calling for your name, and you didn’t wake up.”

 

“So you do admit that you were calling for my name last night?” Your face is in a deadpan.

 

His eyes widened, and his body flinched. He’s been caught. “Y-You—!”

 

He wasn’t used to being treated like this. Were you always this type of person? You really changed a lot after three months. If you were still the same, he’s certain that you would’ve shut your mouth by now.

 

He might’ve accidentally used a little bit of his electro, and now you feel a small shock on your body.

 

He was ready to apologize, but to his surprise, your face was still in its neutral expression.

 

“Ah, I didn’t mean to do that.” He gave you a mischievous smirk.

 

He noticed the twitch in your eye. Although he didn't use much electro, it appears that you can withstand that at least.

 

He is truly interested in the capabilities of your body. You have a lot of mystery in you.

 

His hands are holding your waist and hand tighter. He gave you a teasing laugh, and you only stared at him with a deadpan face.

 

He was going to offer you another silent stare when someone knocked on his chamber door.

 

He groaned in annoyance. “Yes?”

 

The door opened, and there stood a subordinate.

 

He gazed at both of you in bewilderment, giving you a quick glance before returning his attention to Scaramouche. His head was bowed. “Lord Scaramouche.”

 

He lets go of your waist and hand. He faced the subordinate and rolled his eyes. What a way to ruin a moment.

 

“State your business.”

 

“L-Lord Pierro wishes to see you.”

 

The Jester? What could he possibly want? Nonetheless, if Fatui's director wants to see him, he should hurry.

 

“You’re dismissed.”

 

“Yes, my lord.” He hurriedly exited the building chamber and made sure to close the door behind him. Scaramouche is really feared by many people.

 

He looked at you up and down, then back at your face. “And you. I’m still not done with you. Stay here while I’m out.”

 

You gave him a quick nod. “Understood.”

 

You're not sure why, but as he took his hands away from you, you felt sad. You enjoyed the dance and wish he could teach you more. Perhaps you two will do it once again when he returns.

 

Yes, it was awkward most of the time, but you didn’t mind it. When you looked into his eyes earlier, it made you feel warm inside your chest.

 

His eyes are beautiful. The light indigo color reminds you of a flower from Inazuma that your master showed you back then; hydrangeas.

 

He grabbed his hat and put it on his head. He made his way to the door.

 

He gave you one last glance before going out. You stood up from the same position, staring at him with your usual expressionless look.

 

He gave you a small smile, then opened the door and went out.

 

He doesn't have to say goodbye.

 

No matter how many times you’ve seen him leave, you know he’ll always return to you.