Recon: A short Story Snippet

by AidenJacksonSmithDSBB

Summary:

This a short one-shot fanfiction of a fic called Gamer of the Multiverse, technically speaking this would have happened a lot later in the book but I and another discord member were bored and made shorts about some of the characters in it, Well he made an 800-word story, I decided to balloon it and go with a 7.4k story because of motivation.

(Correction: It was 7.4k)
(Correction: It was 8.5k)
(Correction: It was 9.3k)
(Correction: It was 10.1k)

Notes:

• For DeathlyJazzHands55.

Recon - Short Story Snippet after Fugumi and Raiya’s talk

Chapter 1: Fugumi and Rayai Convo

Summary:

Well the other story creator gave me permission to post his short story of the events that lead up to this clusterfuck

“Ohmygosh, hi Rayai!!!!” As soon as her intended person was found, she immediately approached her. An overly cutesy smile was on her face as she approached, staring down at the shorter woman before her, ignoring how her face immediately turned into a sharp glare.

 

“You… what the hell do you want, Fugumi?”

 

“Oh, yanno, just curious, you know me” Fugumi smiled, placing a hand in her robe pocket as she twirled a strand of her dyed hair. The smirk on her face was present - cause personally, she just loves to piss off Rayai with her existence. The smaller woman tsked, taking a look away as she started to march off.

 

“You know that I'm not allowing you to try to see the Electro Archon.” Fugumi’s expression quickly turned apathetic, her eyes quickly darting around, analyzing the woman before her. “I know it's for your babe and shit, but I ain't letting go of her.”

 

The woman turned to Fugumi, a snarl on her face. Good. So she is paying attention.

 

“I don't get what bothers you so much about what I do, woman,” Fugumi questioned. “We are both system users, I'm acting of my own accord, and you’re acting of your own accord. Simple as A, B, C.”

 

“God this bitch gives me a headache.” Fugumi heard the woman whisper under her breath.

 

“I say the truth. You engage in your harem, and I engage with my trade. Both of us will be happy.” Fugumi smiled, as the woman snarled.

 

“You fucking went after Arle! What the fuck!?” Ah right… Fugumi does remember that. The woman was that fucking sneaky that she made off and recovered from the 2-day bites she made. She couldn't bother trying to find her afterwards, anyway. What a shame.

 

“Oh yes. Totally, I indeed do that.” Fugumi agreed, placing a hand on her hip. “But hey, she’s alive and well. Those bites should be gone now, so you can have her, anyway. Couldn't be bothered attempting to find her again.”

 

Her eyes darted to Rayai’s eyes. The fury hadn't quelled at all.

 

Fugumi’s eyes suddenly turned ice cold.

 

“Or what? Do you want me to take that Furina girl you love oh so dearly?”

 

A blink of an eye.

 

Fugumi was now staring directly into the eyes of Rayai. A tidal wave of fury was in her eyes, her hand was reaching out to attack her with her ability (She knows for a fact that the ability is not native to Genshin.)

 

Green strings had tied around her, immediately stopping her assault just right when it had started. She placed a hand in her pocket, a cautious move as she held a couple of breakable items. She knows for a fact that Rayai has those ‘Leviathans’ (honestly, she's thankful she checked out Wuthering Waves. It may not be the same, but similarities should still be considered).

 

If she attempted to use them, well… Fugumi can't promise Rayai’s safety. She did buy it from the Underground Syndicate, after all.

 

“Woah woah, calm down, Jamal!” Fugumi had a sickening smile on her face now. “Don't lose your head right now. You wouldn't know what could go wrong…”

 

“You're a fucking asshole! Don't you touch her!” 

 

“Calm your wee eejit self down.” Fugumi's voice, placing her hands in her robes. “I wouldn't have attempted that on Arle anyway. She just intruded and attempted a lot of shit that personally pissed me off.”

 

The green strings dissipated.

 

“So I think we can come to an agreement here.” Fugumi’s fake smile came back on her face as if it was practised at this point.

 

“It's real simple. You don't intervene with my business, and I won't interfere with your harem. Easy, riiiiiiight?~”

 

“Fuck you.”

 

“Yes, I in fact, also want you to kill yourself now but this shit's for the both of us, now, isn't it?” Fugumi snarled, starting to get agitated as well.

 

Rayai growled, and Fugumi could tell that she was about to say something else. She didn't want to give this girl the chance. With a sigh, she clapped her hands.

 

"Enough of that shit" Fugumi's voice was cold as ice, "You're done. Your little fit is over. Now, you're going to step back and let me go back to my kingdom. Got it?"

 

Rayai growled, but slowly stepped back, relenting to Fugumi's demands. Good. At the very least, the power dynamic has gotten to her thick skull. 

 

“This won't be the last time you see me, asshole.” Fugumi silently watched as Rayai took off from her kingdom, slowly disappearing from her sight the further she moved from the green hills.

 

Fugumi sighed. She actually got annoyed for once. And here she’s supposed to be the one who annoys others. Jeez.

 

Well, whatever.

 

"Now, where was I?" Fugumi asked, turning away as she entered further into the kingdom of Inazuma.

Notes:

Was re-reading, cannot believe he compared her to Jamol

Chapter 2: Fugumi and Rayai Convo

3rd PoV

Three days ago.

Chapter One

A woman in her early twenties walked onto the ship.

"Alright, Raiya, what was that?"

"What are you talking about?"

"Don’t play dumb with me. You’re usually far more composed than that."

"Tch, so you noticed then?"

"I think you forget I’m both older than you and actively work in four spy chains—two of those are yours. Besides, you’d have to be blind not to notice you reached out with your hand to attempt contact," the unseen male voice stated with a hint of frustration.

"Yes, I’m aware I gave her a hint about my other ability, but that was intentional." The woman turned to face the open sea. Despite the moderately large ship not possessing a crew, it began to move on its own. "I’m not that bad at pretending, you know." The air shifted as a male figure wearing red and brown appeared, adjusting a tricorn hat that he had taken off. "What I witnessed a week ago says otherwise." The man snarked.

The woman’s face appeared indifferent, but the tips of her ears were red. She paused and slowly turned towards the speaker. "I thought you said you were in Natlan then? Your letter arrived before the games started, and I’m quite certain you can’t teleport," she said, her face growing suspicious as she turned towards her companion.

The man flashed her an annoyingly familiar grin, one that reminded her of a certain drunkard. She snorted as the two walked into the ship’s cabin. Silence reigned for a few seconds before the man opened his mouth once more. "Details." He shooed the air before turning to face her. "In all seriousness, Leader of Fontaine, what are my mission parameters?"

The woman, who had been peering at the island they had just left, turned to him. "Officially, Azario, Freelander of Liyue, your mission is to investigate the disappearance of Yelan, also known as Spider. Parameters are one to three weeks in Inazuma, her last known location." The lady paused to stare directly at Azario. "Unofficially, your mission is to dig up any form of information she may possess—find me a chink in her armour. You depart within a week after the Lantern Rite." She paused, causing Azario to open his mouth, but he shut it once more as the woman sighed heavily. "You’ll have full authority over any changes to this mission."

His eyes widened in surprise before his expression turned neutral. He tilted his head in askance. "...Are you sure that’s a good idea?"

"Yes, because if there’s one thing I know you’re good at, it’s escaping situations that you most definitely shouldn’t be able to," she replied with another sigh. "...Even with the property damage you have a habit of causing."

Azario remained silent for a few more seconds before nodding. "Understood. Mission set, beginning preparations." The contractor faded into the wind, shooting off toward the main harbour of Liyue.

A few days later, Inazuma Harbor

Azario stepped off the boat, his eyes scanning the bustling port of Inazuma. Officially, he was here under the banner of the Liyue Pavilion, a reputable trade organization with ties across Teyvat. The paperwork he’d signed was meticulously prepared, a perfect cover for the real reason behind his visit. He allowed himself a small, satisfied smile as he handed over the last of the official waivers, his mind already racing ahead to the task at hand.

Once his formalities were complete, Azario's form dissipated into a gust of wind, scattering across the docks and soaring unseen toward the Shogun's Palace. The journey was swift, the familiar sensation of weightlessness accompanying his wind form as he maneuvered through the city’s air currents. When he reached the top levels of the palace, he reassembled into his human form, his boots touching the polished floor soundlessly.

The room was dimly lit, and it took a moment for Azario’s eyes to adjust. In the corner, he spotted Yelan—stripped of her usual confidence and, shockingly, her clothes. Her dull eyes stared blankly at nothing, her spirit seemingly shattered. The sight stirred something deep within him, but before he could process it, a faint noise alerted him to an approaching presence.

Without hesitation, Azario dissolved back into the wind, his form slipping past the heavy doors just as they began to open. He reappeared at the entrance of the Shogun’s Palace, his expression calm and unreadable as he presented the official papers to the guards. The excuse was simple: a routine visit concerning trade routes between Liyue and Inazuma. The guards, accustomed to such visits, nodded and escorted him to the higher levels of the palace.

Following their directions, Azario found himself back at the door he had left moments before. He paused, taking a deep breath, his mind racing with the implications of what he had seen. Steeling himself, he pushed the door open and stepped inside.

The attack came instantly.

Fugumi lunged at him, her blade a blur of motion as she demanded, "Why are you here? And why were you snooping?" Her voice was filled with fury, her eyes blazing with suspicion. Azario pulled out his blade and casually deflected her strike, his mind already examining her face and running through his options as he prepared for whatever came next.

Chapter 3: Politics

Fugumi PoV

Fugumi’s heart drummed loudly in her chest, though she kept her expression carefully composed. Her fingers traced the edges of the papers in her hand as she backed toward her desk, each step measured, deliberate. The name "Azario" was inscribed at the top, and the weight of it settled heavily in her mind. It wasn’t a name she recognized, and that alone made her uneasy. As a seasoned System Gamer, Fugumi was aware of the storyline and events of Genshin Impact’s intricate lore, from Mondstadt’s gentle winds to the dense jungles of Sumeru. She knew the characters, the quests, the storylines—up to the latest 4.8 update. But this man, standing calmly before her, was an enigma, one that she couldn’t afford to underestimate.

Her gaze flicked over the details on the documents, her mind racing to piece together the puzzle that was Azario. His connections spanned across Teyvat: Mondstadt, Liyue, Fontaine, and Natlan—the latter being noted as his place of birth. Each association hinted at a deep and possibly dangerous influence, one that extended far beyond the typical traveller or adventurer. Was he a character set to emerge in the 5.0 update, one that had somehow slipped under her radar? Or was he something far more concerning—an original entity, an outsider who had found his way into this world through means she couldn’t begin to comprehend?

Oh wait, she thought suddenly, she had [Observe]. Activating the ability, she quickly pulled up the detailed analysis of Azario, which confirmed her growing unease. The data revealed the following:

Azario - The Ardentis Zephyri

• Physical Age: 20

  • ("Okay, young. But who knows how much experience he really has? Age hasn't really ever stopped anyone.")

• True Age: Unknown

  • ("Ugh, wonderful. Another unknown factor. Great. This could mean he’s been around a lot longer and knows way more than he lets on.")

• Gender: Male

  • ("Wellll. Least that's consistent.")

• Race: Unknown

  • ("Seriously? This guy’s race is unknown? Could be anything... or something new entirely. That’s fucking concerning.")

• Level: ???

  • ("Annd of course, Why is everything about him unknown?! This is bullshit.")

• Vision: Anemo (Potential for Pyro, Electro, Cryo)

  • ("Anemo, but he might use other elements too? Just what kind of toolkit does this guy have? So be ready for a Real Life Traveler Threat.")

• Foul Legacy Type: Unknown

  • ("Foul Legacy...? That's huge. And he’s got multiple types or levels? Meaning... he's on the same level as Childe? Least that's the start of a scaling.")

• Affiliations: Mondstadt, Liyue, Fontaine, Sumeru

  • ("He’s got ties all over the place. Great. So, he’s connected with almost everyone though he isn't affiliated with the Fatui which is actually helpful information.")

• Rarity: ★★★★★

  • ("Five stars? Joy, just perfect. Meaning he’s top-tier, adding the fact I've never seen this guy even from leaks means I’m dealing with little to no help.")

• ???: ???
  • ("Fucks this? ???, This could be anything. Maybe he’s got something up his sleeve that I don’t know about yet. A trump card possibly?")

Foul Legacy:

???

???

???

• ("Three levels or types? That’s terrifying. That alone means he's far more powerful than Childe. What's his Foul Legacy type though? Pyro maybe?")

 

"His clothes don’t match any of the known regions. He's gotta be from Natlan. I don’t have any info on them. Fantastic, just what I needed. This is a fucking nightmare. Azario’s presence is a big deal, and I need to handle this carefully. Extracting information while keeping my position is crucial. This could end badly if I’m not smart."

Fugumi was already playing catch-up, and she knew it. Her attack, born of instinct and a desire to assert control, had been effortlessly deflected. The blade meant to strike fear or at least command respect, had met nothing but air as Azario had brushed it aside, his expression one of calm indifference. The ease with which he had responded sent a cold, creeping dread through her. This wasn’t a man to be trifled with. He was either her equal in skill—perhaps even her superior—or, worse, a potential End Boss, the kind of opponent she had always known to avoid until she was fully prepared.

And yet, here he was, standing in her domain, having seen more than she was comfortable with. He had walked into her office unnoticed, unseen, and had found Yelan—vulnerable, exposed, and in a state that could raise countless questions. Fugumi’s mind spun as she tried to calculate the implications. How long had he been here? What had he observed? Had he already pieced together the truth, or was he merely speculating? The unknowns were piling up, and she found herself on the defensive, a position she rarely occupied and one she loathed.

Turning him into a puppet or killing him, her usual solution to such problems, was out of the question. The risks were too high. If his connections were as deep as the documents suggested, the repercussions would be swift and severe. She didn’t know enough about him to predict his reaction, and that alone made the move too dangerous. He had seen Yelan—her condition, her vulnerability—and had likely assessed the situation far more thoroughly than she could in those brief moments. Every second he stood there, calm and unreadable, was another second she lost ground in this silent battle of wits.

Fugumi forced a playful, nonchalant grin as she faced him. “So, Azario,” she said with a tone that was almost too casual, “what brings you to my humble abode? It seems you’ve had quite the adventure just getting here.”

Her eyes glinted with a mix of mischief and calculation as she leaned against her desk, her demeanour an intricate dance of whimsical charm and underlying tension. Azario’s presence, so casually defiant, was a challenge she had to meet with equal parts grace and strategy. She couldn’t afford to let her guard down—not when so much was at stake.

“I’m quite curious about your visit,” she continued, her voice laced with a hint of amusement. “And I do hope you’re not planning to make any trouble. After all, we wouldn’t want to spoil the delightful atmosphere, would we?”

The man flashed her an annoyingly familiar grin, one that reminded her far too much of a certain carefree bard. He took a step closer, his presence filling the room with an unspoken tension that made her grip the papers in her hand just a bit tighter. The silence stretched as he let her words hang in the air, before finally breaking it with a response that sent a chill down her spine.”Okay, vampire have it your way, let’s play.”

Azario’s Perspective:

Azario’s eyes glinted with a cold, calculating light as he continued to probe. “I’ve done my research, Fugumi. Across and around, through many layers of deception and intrigue. Your little masquerade isn’t fooling me.”

Fugumi’s face remained composed, but there was a brief flicker of curiosity in her eyes as she asked, “Why do you think I’m some… type of creature I’ve never heard of before?”

Azario’s lips curved into a faint, knowing smile. “It’s rather simple,” he said, his voice smooth and deliberate. “In the bedtime stories of Khaenri’ah, there are tales of beings with peculiar attributes—terms like ‘Apostle’ and ‘Vampire’ that aren’t found in Teyvat’s common knowledge.”

Fugumi’s reaction was immediate. She muttered something under her breath, her tone laced with surprise and frustration. Azario’s keen ears caught the words, and he noted the slip with a faint, satisfied smirk. The trap was set, and she had unwittingly stepped right into it.

He leaned in slightly, his voice low but clear. “So, you’re familiar with Khaenri’ah, are you? And it seems you’re aware of terms like ‘Apostle’ and ‘Vampire.’ Quite interesting, considering that most of Teyvat’s inhabitants would not know such things.”

Fugumi’s eyes widened as she processed the implications of Azario’s words. The realization hit her hard; she had inadvertently revealed her off-world origins and her knowledge of terms that were obscure even to many of Teyvat’s scholars.

Azario observed her closely, the corners of his mouth lifting in a subtle, predatory smile. “It seems you’ve been rather careless with your cover story,” he continued, his tone carrying a hint of condescension. “You’re an Outlander, yes, however when you first appeared your tone and reactions were different… almost like you were expecting it to be a different period. Your questions about a Blonde Traveler who travels with a sort of fairy were unique, to say the least. Yet, you forgot to adequately cover your history when you arrived.”

He took a step closer, his presence imposing and intense. “You’ve made the mistake of assuming that your origins would remain hidden. But now, with this slip of information, I can see through the cracks in your façade. Your escape routes are closing, and I have ample ammunition to press my advantage.”

Azario’s eyes locked onto Fugumi’s eyes with a steely determination. “So tell me, Fugumi,” he said, his voice smooth but edged with a dangerous edge, “how do you plan to navigate this predicament? With your history now exposed and your carefully constructed backstory in tatters, it seems you have some serious explaining to do.”

He let the weight of his words hang in the air, his gaze unwavering as he waited for her response. The game was far from over, and Azario was ready to press his advantage and unearth the secrets Fugumi had so carefully guarded.

Fugumi’s Perspective:

Fugumi’s mind raced, her heart pounding in her chest. The carefully constructed illusion of control she had maintained was unravelling before her eyes. The slip she had made with the terms “Apostle” and “Vampire” had exposed vulnerabilities she could ill afford, and the calm façade she had cultivated was beginning to crack.

She took a deep breath, forcing herself to remain calm. Panic now would only worsen her situation. The realization that her escape routes were dwindling, coupled with the damning information she had unwittingly revealed, threatened to overwhelm her. Yet, she knew that succumbing to fear was not an option. Instead, she had to regain her composure and find a way out of this precarious situation.

Fugumi focused on Azario, who stood before her with an air of quiet confidence. His words had been calculated and precise, his knowledge unsettlingly accurate. She had to regain control of the conversation, even if it meant taking risks.

She began by subtly probing Azario’s defences, carefully crafting questions designed to elicit reactions that might reveal more about his true intentions and capabilities. It was a dangerous gambit—any hint of aggression or desperation on her part could further jeopardize her position.

“Azario,” she began, her tone deliberately light and nonchalant despite the turmoil within her, “I’m curious about your sudden appearance in Inazuma. It’s not often that someone with such extensive connections and knowledge just appears out of nowhere. What’s your true purpose here? Surely it can’t be just to investigate Yelan.”

Her question was probing, intended to draw out more information about his objectives. She watched his reaction closely, searching for any signs of weakness or deceit. The way he held himself, the precision of his responses—everything was under scrutiny.

Azario’s eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of curiosity evident in his gaze. “You’re quite perceptive, Fugumi. However, my reasons for being here are more complex than you might assume. I have my orders and my interests to pursue, but those are not of immediate concern to you.”

Fugumi pressed on, shifting her strategy. “And what about your knowledge of Khaenri’ah and those terms you mentioned? It’s not common knowledge in Teyvat. How did you come by such information?”

Azario’s demeanour remained impassive, but Fugumi detected a slight change in his posture, a subtle sign that she was hitting close to the mark. “The world is full of hidden knowledge and forgotten lore,” he replied cryptically. “One learns much from wandering and from those who deal in secrets.”

Fugumi noted his evasiveness, realizing that while she had not gained much in terms of concrete information, she had managed to glean a few critical points. Azario’s control over the conversation was evident, but his responses hinted at his vulnerabilities—perhaps his dependence on certain forms of information or his possible over-reliance on his knowledge.

As she tucked these observations away for later use, Fugumi knew that her next steps needed to be calculated and precise. Every word and every gesture would need to be carefully considered to ensure she did not reveal any more of her weaknesses.

Inwardly, she cursed her slip of the tongue and the subsequent loss of leverage, but outwardly she maintained her composure. The stakes had been raised, and Fugumi had to navigate this encounter with utmost caution. Azario might hold the upper hand now, but Fugumi was not out of the game yet.

Notes:

I'm a moron, can't believe I forgot about [Observe], what Gamer wouldn't' use it on an unknown?

Chapter 4: A battle of Wits

Summary:

This one had Scenes; Three four and five within it

The game was undeniably stacked in Azario's favour. Fugumi could feel the weight of his knowledge pressing down on her, a suffocating presence that left little room for maneuvering. Yet, as she mentally sorted through the scraps of information she had managed to pry from him, a glimmer of hope sparked within her. If she played her cards right, she might just regain some of the ground she had lost.

Drawing on her brand of subtle manipulation, Fugumi began to steer the conversation toward the intricacies of Inazuma’s web of secrets. Her voice was light, almost whimsical, as she spun a narrative that wove together half-truths and veiled threats, all designed to lead Azario down a path where she could trap him in his own words. She spoke of the delicate balance of power within Inazuma, the unseen strings that held the nation together, and the dangers that lurked in the shadows.

But just as she was beginning to feel a sliver of control returning to her, Azario cut in, his voice cool and unwavering. “You’re not telling me anything new, Fugumi,” he said, his words laced with an unsettling confidence. “I’m well aware of Tsurumi Island and its connection to the Rifthounds. I know of Watatsumi Island and the hidden depths of Enkanomiya. And, of course, I’m familiar with the secrets buried in Kannazuka and Yashiori Islands.”

Fugumi’s heart skipped a beat at the mention of Tsurumi Island, her mind briefly flashing to the Rifthounds and the dangers they posed. But it was Azario’s casual reference to Enkanomiya that truly stunned her. Enkanomiya, the hidden realm beneath the waves of Watatsumi, was supposed to be a secret yet to be unearthed by anyone in Teyvat. The fact that Azario knew of its existence was a revelation that sent a chill down her spine.

Her thoughts raced, trying to piece together how he could have obtained such forbidden knowledge. How long had Azario been in Inazuma? And more importantly, how much had he learned during his time here? The implications were terrifying.

Fugumi forced herself to maintain her composure, but her mind was a whirlwind of panic and calculation. She had severely underestimated Azario’s capabilities and reach. The possibility that he had been lurking in Inazuma for far longer than she had anticipated, gathering secrets and piecing together the most hidden of truths, left her reeling.

She met Azario’s gaze, trying to mask the unease that had crept into her expression. Her mind scrambled for a response, something that would turn the tide back in her favour, but the truth was glaringly obvious—Azario was several steps ahead, and the ground she stood on was crumbling beneath her feet.

For the first time in a long while, Fugumi felt genuinely cornered. She needed to rethink her approach, and fast. The realization that she was now playing a game of survival rather than one of mere manipulation struck her like a cold blade. Azario wasn’t just an opponent to be toyed with—he was a threat that could unravel everything she had worked so hard to build.

And in that moment, a terrifying question echoed in her mind: Just how much more did Azario know?

Fugumi felt the walls closing in around her. The choices she had left were few and fleeting, each one slipping through her grasp like sand. The possibility of escaping this confrontation with her secrets intact was growing more remote by the second, and the chance of even reaching a stalemate seemed laughable. For a brief moment, panic threatened to seize her—her carefully constructed facade teetered on the edge of collapse.

But before she could spiral further into fear, a familiar sense of detachment and calmness washed over her—Gamer's Mind. It snapped her back into focus, granting her the clarity she so desperately needed. Her thoughts, once a chaotic storm, now settled into a precise, calculated rhythm. And with that clarity came a memory, a crucial piece of information from her knowledge of Genshin Impact’s lore.

Enkanomiya hadn’t been discovered by humans first. It was the Abyss—specifically, the Abyss Lector, Enjou, who had uncovered its secrets. The realization hit her like a bolt of lightning. The only way to access the hidden whirlpool leading to Enkanomiya was by completing the prerequisite quests. If Azario knew Enkanomiya, it wasn’t because he had stumbled upon it himself. He had to have a connection to the Abyss.

Her heart raced with the implications. A direct link to the Abyss was dangerous, to say the least, and it suggested that Azario was far more entwined with the darker forces of Teyvat than she had initially imagined. This was a card she could play—a risky one, but perhaps her only chance to regain control of the situation. She needed to tread carefully, though. If she misstepped, she might lose everything.
Fugumi's mind raced as she pieced together her next move. She couldn’t confront him directly—Azario was too skilled, too prepared for that. Instead, she needed to guide the conversation, to subtly probe and hint at her newfound suspicion without giving away her full hand. If she could plant the seed of doubt or uncover more about his connection to the Abyss, she might be able to shift the balance of power, if only slightly.

With a steadying breath, she allowed her playful mask to slip back into place, the hint of a smile tugging at her lips. “You know, Azario,” she began, her tone light and teasing, “you certainly have a knack for digging up secrets. But Enkanomiya… that’s not something just anyone would know about. Unless, of course, they had help. Maybe from someone—or something—with an interest in the Abyss?”

She watched him carefully, gauging his reaction. This was her gambit, her last-ditch effort to regain some semblance of control. If she could make him reveal just a little more, or if he underestimated her knowledge, she might find a way out of this impossible situation. But the risk was enormous. One wrong move and Azario would have her cornered completely.

The air between them crackled with tension as she waited for his response, every second feeling like an eternity.

Fugumi waited for his answer with bated breath, her heart pounding in her chest. Every fibre of her was focused on the man before her as if the world itself had narrowed to this single moment. Everything depended on his response. The silence stretched, thickening the air between them, and with each passing second, the tension began to ease from her shoulders. The pressure that had been crushing her chest lightened, and a spark of hope flared to life within her.

Had she done it? Had she finally found a chink in Azario’s seemingly impenetrable armour? The silence, heavy and oppressive, began to feel like victory. A rare, elusive victory over Azario. The thought filled her with a sudden rush of elation, a dizzying high that made her feel invincible.

But that euphoria was shattered in an instant.

Azario began to laugh. A low chuckle at first, but it quickly escalated into a burst of full-bodied, uncontrollable laughter. He laughed louder, harder until he was practically doubled over, tears forming in his eyes as he leaned back on his chair, eventually toppling over and crashing to the floor. Fugumi’s triumph wavered, confusion setting in as she watched him, unsure of what to make of this sudden, bizarre reaction.

For a brief moment, she felt a surge of victory again—perhaps she had truly found his weak spot. Maybe the absurdity of the situation had finally gotten to him, and he had cracked under the pressure. But as the man stood up, righted his chair, and met her gaze with a grin that could only be described as triumphant, the cold grip of reality settled back over her like a shroud.

"You poor sheltered soul," Azario said, his voice laced with a mix of pity and amusement. "Did you know that in Natlan, we hold games, and the winners of those games are chosen to fight back the Abyss? Even if those chosen die, they can still be brought back thanks to the Pyro Archon. It’s not too rare for some of those chosen to get lost within the Abyss, only to find their way out in a completely different place in Teyvat."

Fugumi’s heart sank as the full weight of his words began to settle in. She had misunderstood—gravely.

"Coincidentally," Azario continued his grin widening, "I’ve been chosen over 15 times and have practically explored all of Teyvat thanks to mishaps with the Abyss. You, my friend, have officially dug your grave, and I’m here to push you into it."

The floor seemed to drop out from under her as the realization hit. She had been outmaneuvered, her brief moment of hope dashed to pieces. The very knowledge she had hoped to use against him had been turned on its head, leaving her with nothing but the cold certainty that she was now at his mercy.

Chapter 5: Gutting

Fugumi felt the weight of inevitable defeat settles in her chest. From the moment Azario set foot in Inazuma, the scales had been tipped against her. In her previous worlds, she had always been the one learning, adapting, and preparing to take control. Here, in Teyvat, she had finally begun to make her power plays, her machinations weaving through Inazuma's web of secrets—until Azario appeared and blocked her every move.

There was no more room for pretence, no point in clinging to the facade that had served her so well. She had reached the end of this particular game. With a heavy sigh, Fugumi let her mask drop completely, her demeanour shifting from the playful, whimsical persona she had carefully crafted to something far more serious and resigned.

She met Azario's gaze, her voice steady as she cut straight to the heart of the matter. "So, how much for your silence?"

Azario’s eyes flicked toward the corner of the room where Yelan—still unresponsive, still vulnerable—sat, a stark reminder of how thoroughly Fugumi had been cornered. "Contrary to what you might believe, I didn't come to Inazuma solely for you," he began, his voice measured. "Yelan, also known as Spider in other circles, vanished during an unknown mission to Inazuma. But before she disappeared, she sent a message back—a blank spot, a person of interest. So here I am, officially for the annual trade discussions, but unofficially, following a thread that led me straight to you, Fugumi Obaraido."
He gestured toward her, his tone shifting into something more pointed. "You've been driving more than a few intelligence groups up the wall with your sudden appearance, your lack of history. So I did what I do best—I dug deep, found roots, and once I had a thread, I pulled until everything unravelled."

Fugumi stiffened as Azario paused, his eyes locking onto hers. "I want a place in the Dark Web," he stated, his voice low and unyielding, "as well as access to all of Yelan's contracts and details. I need to keep her presence afloat, keep her absence unnoticed, without raising any alarms."

He leaned in slightly, his gaze sharp and unwavering. "After all, I doubt Ningguang or any of her retainers would be willing to look the other way if they found out what you've been up to."

As Fugumi weighed Azario’s demands, her thoughts spiralled deeper into the implications of her defeat. This man, whom she had never seen or heard of before, had walked into Inazuma and dismantled her carefully built web of secrets with terrifying precision. But what haunted her more than the loss itself was the potential Azario held. What else was he capable of if he could achieve this much with seemingly so little effort?

Azario wasn’t just a thorn in her side; he was a force she had grossly underestimated. The way he maneuvered through their conversation, turning every word and gesture against her, was a display of skill that went beyond mere experience. He had played her like a well-tuned instrument, each move calculated to push her further into a corner. And now, he stood poised to claim his victory—not with brute force, but with a mastery of strategy that she had rarely encountered.

The thought of Azario's potential chilled her. How much more dangerous would he be in battle if he was capable of such manipulation and insight in a political setting? She imagined him as an End Boss, the kind of opponent who would be virtually unbeatable—not because of overwhelming power, but because of his ability to outthink and outmaneuver his enemies at every turn.

She could see it now: Azario, at the heart of Teyvat’s power struggles, pulling the strings in ways that no one would ever see coming. His understanding of the Abyss, his connections across nations, and his ability to leverage even the smallest pieces of information all pointed to a man who could easily dominate the world if he chose to. And the scariest part? He had chosen to show restraint with her.

Fugumi had faced powerful opponents before, in this world and the ones before it, but none had shaken her like this. Azario wasn’t just a player in the game—he was a game-changer. The potential she saw in him was enough to make her reevaluate everything she thought she knew about this world.

If Azario ever decided to unleash his potential fully, there would be no stopping him. He could topple nations, destroy alliances, and reshape Teyvat according to his will. And here she was, barely clinging to her position, forced to comply with his demands just to keep herself afloat.

Her earlier arrogance seemed foolish now, almost laughable. She had thought herself untouchable, but Azario had proven her wrong in the most devastating way possible. The power he held wasn’t just in his abilities, but in his mind—his capacity to see beyond the obvious, to exploit weaknesses she didn’t even know she had.

This was a man who could destroy her without lifting a finger, simply by outthinking her. And that realization was what terrified her the most. If she had been playing at power before, Azario would have shown her what true power looked like.

As she reluctantly agreed to his demands, Fugumi couldn’t shake the feeling that this was just the beginning. Azario had let her live, let her continue to play her games, but she knew deep down that if he ever turned his full attention on her again, she wouldn’t stand a chance.

Azario’s potential was a shadow looming over her now, a reminder that in this world, she was not the only one who could manipulate the strings. And the next time their paths crossed, she would have to be prepared—or risk being completely undone.

Notes:

If you're wondering why someone with a gamer system is losing this badly the answer's pretty simple. I'm an amateur writer I don't think I could even write a political battle that's 3D. Secondly, Fugumi is a Gamer whose previous worlds were Cyberpunk and Guilty Gear during both of them she stuck close to the Canon of those stories however in this Teyvat she spawned before the Canon events started so no Traveler or Paimon around. She decided to take over Inazuma (for some reason I don't know), then noticed that someone was in her office for who knows how long, snooping and then found out the snooper is an official Freelancer backed with the influence from four nations and was in her office for long enough to shove her into a corner while she was panicking from one simple slip-up. She's quite literally out of her comfort zone and met someone who could causally deflect her attacks with no visible effort (she is a gamer mind you), and was currently annihilating her in a Political Battle I dare you not to panic.

Chapter 6: Acceptance

Fugumi stood on the dock, her eyes fixed on Azario as he boarded the Crux. His expression was perfectly composed, a stark contrast to the cold, calculating demeanour he had shown mere moments ago when he had systematically dismantled her position. Now, he was the picture of courtesy, thanking her for her cooperation with the trade routes, as if their earlier conversation had been nothing more than a routine discussion.

He turned to face her once more before the ship departed, smiling and waving with an ease that sent a chill down her spine. The gesture was disarmingly familiar, almost playful, and it struck her how much it reminded her of Venti—the Anemo God. Venti, the most elusive and secretive of Teyvat's gods, was known for his carefree demeanour that masked a profound understanding of the world's secrets. The similarities between Azario and the Anemo Archon were too unsettling to ignore.

The tone, the expression, the depth of knowledge—all of it mirrored Venti in ways that made her stomach twist. Azario wasn’t just a skilled manipulator; he was someone who seemed to know far more than anyone should. And just like Venti, he wielded that knowledge with a seemingly effortless grace, making it all the more dangerous.

As the Crux began to pull away, Azario’s eyes glinted with a sadistic amusement. He raised a hand to mime pulling something from his pocket, and she watched in confusion. Instinctively, her hand moved to her jacket pocket, and she felt a piece of paper. Her heart skipped a beat as she pulled it out, reading the single sentence scrawled on it.

"Brace yourself."

A sense of dread washed over her. She slowly turned back toward the now-empty horizon, her eyes scanning the water. Her breath caught in her throat as she spotted them—large, ominous fins slicing through the waves, heading straight for Inazuma. The recognition hit her like a punch to the gut.

Leviathans.

She groaned in exasperation, realizing exactly who was behind this. That "shitty Fannybaws"—a not-so-affectionate nickname for a rival who enjoyed causing her trouble—had decided now was the perfect time to be petty and unleash her monstrous pets into Fugumi’s waters.

Of course. It wasn’t enough that Azario had come in and shredded her political standing; now she had to deal with the aftermath of this mess as well. The timing was too perfect to be a coincidence, and she had a sinking feeling that Azario might have had a hand in this too, whether directly or indirectly.

Fugumi clenched the note in her hand, her mind racing. She had survived countless worlds and faced numerous threats, but this situation was rapidly spiralling out of her control. Azario had proven himself a formidable opponent, one she had woefully underestimated. Now, with the leviathans on the way and her power base shaken, she knew she had no choice but to adapt—to accept the reality of her situation and prepare for what was coming.

But as she turned away from the docks, her thoughts lingered on Azario. The way he had played her, the way he had left her with a parting shot, it all made her realise that she was dealing with a force far greater than she had anticipated. And if she didn’t find a way to counter him, this world she had so carefully built for herself could come crashing down around her.

For now, she had to brace herself—just as the note had warned. The game was far from over, and if Azario had taught her anything, it was that the next move was crucial.

Chapter 7: Aftermath

As Fugumi walked away from the docks, the sounds of the bustling harbour faded into the background, replaced by the deafening silence of her own thoughts. The wind rustled her hair, but even that comforting sensation couldn’t ease the heavy weight in her chest.

Her mind raced as a familiar screen flashed in front of her eyes, the translucent blue box displaying her latest quest results:

Hidden Questline Complete: The Wasteland

Objective 1: Meet and defeat Azario in a Political Battle - Fail

Objective 2: Obtain hidden information from Azario - Partial Fail

Objective 3: Pull Azario to your side - Partial Fail

Hidden Objective 1: Fail

Hidden Objective 2: Fail

Rewards: 200XP

She stared at the words, her heart sinking with each line. It was a humiliating defeat, laid out in stark detail by the system that had once been her greatest ally. Fugumi had faced countless challenges across different worlds, but this… this felt different. The cold truth of her failure was undeniable.

“Fail… Fail… Partial Fail…” she muttered under her breath, each word tasting like ash. She had been outplayed at every turn, her carefully constructed plans unravelling before her eyes. Azario had not only bested her but had also exposed her weaknesses, leaving her vulnerable in a way she hadn’t experienced in a long time.

The worst part was the hidden objectives. She didn’t even know what they were, and now she never would. The thought of unseen goals, things she had missed entirely, gnawed at her insides. Azario had maneuvered through her traps with a casual ease that left her feeling naked and exposed, and now, she was left to pick up the pieces of her shattered confidence.

Fugumi clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms as she fought to keep her emotions in check. The Gamer's Mind now removed, usually her refuge in moments of stress, felt distant, barely keeping her panic at bay. She had failed spectacularly, and the consequences of that failure were already beginning to unfold before her.

But as she replayed the events in her mind, a small, defiant spark ignited within her. She had lost this round, yes, but she wasn’t out of the game just yet. Azario was powerful, more so than she had anticipated, but that didn’t mean he was invincible. She had learned some things from him during their exchange, small pieces of information that she could use in the future.

And as long as she had something to cling to, some thread to pull on, she still had a chance. It was a slim hope, but it was better than nothing. “Azario…” she whispered, her eyes narrowing as she looked out at the sea, where the Crux had vanished from sight. “You’ve won this time, but the game isn’t over. I’ll be ready next time, and I won’t make the same mistakes again.”

With that thought, Fugumi turned and walked away from the harbour, her steps heavy but determined. She had failed, yes, but failure was a harsh teacher. And the lesson she had learned today would be the foundation of her next move.

A Few Days Later

The office was unusually quiet, the weight of recent events hanging heavily in the air. Fugumi sat at her desk, her gaze fixed on the papers strewn across it. The defeat she had suffered at Azario's hands was still fresh in her mind, and she had been anxiously awaiting any news from her network. Her patience was rewarded when a spy from Natlan delivered crucial information about the enigmatic man who had upended her plans.

The news was both troubling and confirming. Azario had spoken the truth about his background and his defences. Everything he had mentioned was accurate, and there was little she could use against him. What unsettled her most was the verified documentation of his battles against the 1st Harbinger Capitano and the 4th Harbinger Arlecchino. He had used some unknown ability in these encounters. What could it be? A delusion? Was he a type of creature not yet introduced? The mystery only deepened.

But before she could fully process this information, her attention was diverted by a letter that arrived from Azario. She tore open the envelope with an urgency that betrayed her anxiety and pulled out the single sheet of paper inside. Her eyes scanned the brief but chilling message:

"I know Skirk."

"This should be an equivalent exchange for the information you willingly and unwillingly gave me."

The words seemed to echo in her head, freezing her in place. Skirk. The name alone sent shivers down her spine. Skirk was a legend, Childe’s mentor from the Abyss, renowned for her mastery of Foul Legacy and her formidable combat abilities. The realization that Azario knew Skirk—or worse, had been trained by her—sent Fugumi's thoughts spiralling into chaos.

Her mind raced with the implications. If Azario had indeed been trained by Skirk, then he would have access to Foul Legacy, a power that was notoriously difficult to master and nearly unstoppable in battle. If he had undergone the same rigorous training, how formidable was he compared to the Harbingers? Skirk had defeated the All-Devouring Narwhal with relative ease—a beast that had given even a Foul-Legacy-enhanced Childe, the Traveler, and a nerfed Neuvillette significant trouble. The mere thought of Azario potentially possessing that level of power was terrifying.

Fugumi’s hands trembled slightly as she clutched the letter. The message was more than just a taunt; it was a revelation. Azario’s ability, whatever it was, had to be linked to Foul Legacy. She had to know more—every detail about his powers, his training, and his connection to Skirk.

She needed to investigate further, delve into the depths of his training, and discover the specifics of the ability he used against the Harbingers. The unknown was a dangerous enemy, and she needed every advantage she could get.

The weight of her task settled heavily on her shoulders. The knowledge that Azario could potentially match or surpass the strength of the Harbingers was both a formidable challenge and a stark reminder of her vulnerability. She would need to pull every string, explore every lead, and uncover every secret if she hoped to counter the power of this enigmatic bastard.

As Fugumi stared at the letter, her resolve hardened. She would not allow this revelation to defeat her. Instead, it would fuel her determination to understand and, if necessary, to confront the threat Azario posed. The game had changed, and she was far from finished.

The notification sound broke through Fugumi’s turbulent thoughts, and she turned her attention to the device displaying the newly updated information. The words “Ding~ New Information Added” flashed across the screen, grabbing her immediate focus. She quickly skimmed through the details:

Azario: The Ardentis Zephyri

Azario, known by his game name "The Ardentis Zephyri," is a shadowy and powerful figure whose influence has left a significant mark on Natlan’s history. Despite appearing to be in his early 20s, there are records suggesting his existence dates back even further, leading many in Natlan to believe he might belong to a long-lived or ageless species.

He wields an Anemo Vision but has demonstrated formidable proficiency with Pyro, Electro, and Cryo elements. His abilities were notably showcased during a confrontation with the 11th Harbinger, Childe, where he used a form later confirmed to be a Foul Legacy. As well as another battle against the 1st and 4th Harbingers which resulted in widespread devastation, creating a scorched valley in a mountainous region.

Following this conflict, Azario vanished from public view only to resurface later as a freelancer with connections to several major regions, including Mondstadt, Liyue, Sumeru, and Fontaine. His enigmatic presence and the mysterious nature of his powers have made him a subject of intense interest and concern, driving multiple intelligence agencies to extreme measures in their attempts to uncover the truth behind this elusive figure.

Possible End Boss

Fugumi sat in stunned silence as she absorbed the details about Azario, the Ardentis Zephyri. Her mind raced with a mix of disbelief and apprehension. The information painted a picture of a figure both formidable and elusive, far more complex than she had initially anticipated.

"Early 20s, but possibly far older," she muttered to herself, her voice tinged with frustration. "And a long-lived species? That's just great. If he’s been around for centuries, he could have accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience that’s practically impossible to match."

The details of his Vision intrigued her even further. "Anemo, but with strong ties to Pyro, Electro, and Cryo? That’s... beyond unusual. And to think he has access to Foul Legacy forms, confirmed during a battle with Childe. This isn’t just a casual encounter; this guy’s got some serious power."

The description of the battle that created a scorched valley made her shiver. "Fighting against two Harbingers and causing that much devastation? Capitano, the first Harbinger... Never got to see him in action... but he's the first for a reason. Arle on the other hand though... Strong especially with that 'domain expansion' she's got. He’s not just strong; he’s a force of nature. How do I even begin to handle someone like this?"

She paused, reflecting on Azario’s disappearance and subsequent reappearance as a freelancer. "Disappearing after such a catastrophic battle and then reappearing with ties to Mondstadt, Liyue, Sumeru, and Fontaine... this guy actually knows how to stay under the radar... No, it's probably due to the Abyss, judging from the frequency of the disappearances it means he actively knows how to travel within it, maybe as well as Dain. It’s no wonder intelligence agencies have been driven to extremes trying to figure him out."

The realization that Azario was such a massive enigma, with connections and power that spanned multiple regions, made Fugumi feel the weight of the challenge she was facing. Her mind whirled with the implications of dealing with someone of his stature.

"He’s a walking disaster and something that I didn’t account for. I thought I could manage this world with the knowledge and skills I had, but this… this is a whole different level," she admitted, her voice tinged with frustration and anxiety. "Tch, least the Fannybaws needs to deal with him too... wait a fucking minute."

Her thoughts shifted abruptly as a new realization struck her. "If Azario’s been around in Teyvat for as long as he seems to have, he’s bound to know a great deal about Raiya, the Leader of Fontaine. Considering his extensive connections and his track record, it’s almost certain that he’s crossed paths with her or at least knows of her. Raiya would have been keenly aware of his potential and power. If he wasn’t taken by her already, it’s because he’s proven to be a slippery and highly valuable asset. There’s no way Raiya wouldn’t have tried to secure him for her own agendas. Azario would be an incredible trump card for anyone who could win his loyalty.”

She leaned back in her chair, her eyes narrowing as she considered the new possibility. "If Raiya hasn’t managed to secure him yet, that opens a door for me. If I could somehow secure Azario’s loyalty, it could drastically shift the power dynamics in my favour. But this isn’t going to be easy. If he’s been able to evade Raiya’s grasp, he’s not going to be easily swayed by me either."

Fugumi’s mind raced with potential strategies. "I need to play this carefully. Convincing Azario to align with me, if possible, will require a delicate balance of persuasion and opportunity. I’ll need to understand what drives him, what his goals are, and how I can offer something that aligns with his interests or needs. This is my chance to turn a formidable enemy into a powerful ally. But first, I have to ensure I’m not walking into a trap or making a misstep that could lead to disaster."

She took a deep breath, her resolve hardening. "This just became a high-stakes game. I need to be smart, strategic and prepared for every possible outcome. Azario could be my greatest asset or my worst nightmare, depending on how I handle this."

Chapter 8: Raiya's Thoughts

Summary:

What happened after Azario was sent out

3rd PoV

Raiya watched as Azario’s figure disappeared into the wind, her focus shifting back to the dimly lit captain’s quarters. The room, adorned with intricate symbols and patterns from the worlds she had encountered, exuded an aura of otherworldly sophistication. To her left, an illustration of a mechanical being from AI-An stood as a reminder of one of her previous worlds. With Azario now gone, the only thing left was to wait for her ship to return to Fontaine waters.

Just then, a soft knock at the door interrupted her thoughts. Raiya turned to see Delta, her trusted advisor, stepping into the room. Delta was a notable contrast to his counterparts: while his brethren were marked by their extreme alignments, Delta, with his Neutral Good stance, displayed a balance of ethics and practicality. His presence was calm, yet his eyes hinted at a curiosity that he struggled to contain.

"Delta," Raiya greeted, her voice steady and composed. "I trust you have questions about Azario?"

Delta nodded, his expression serious as he took a deep breath. "Might I be able to speak freely?"

Raiya’s nod was slight but encouraging.

"Good. I will be blunt. Why do you want to keep that wildcard as he is? With your ability, you could alter his personality and bind his loyalty to you, just like us."

Raiya regarded him silently for a moment before releasing a weary sigh. Her eyes, though tired, held a deep reservoir of knowledge and experience.

"Delta."

He straightened, surprised by her tone—it was neither annoyed nor angry, but simply weary.

"I came to this world over five years ago," Raiya began, her voice carrying the weight of years spent in strategic planning and manipulation. "I became aware of Azario’s existence four years ago, reached out to him three years ago, and he joined us as a Freelancer two years ago. Azario is an anomaly. He’s unique in this world, and his existence here is unprecedented."

Delta’s curiosity was piqued, and he pressed further. "Why is that?"

Raiya’s gaze grew distant as she recalled the details. "Azario is possibly the strongest mortal in Teyvat right now. His powers and influence have always operated from the shadows, eliminating individuals of interest without drawing attention. His strength in this world is not due to any mythical power or fantastical ability."

Delta's eyes widened, his composure slipping as he struggled to process the information. "Then what is the source of his strength?"

Raiya's expression was a mix of wry amusement and a hint of bemusement. "It’s quite an unorthodox source. Azario encountered a creature called a Warp Trotter. This creature ran over him without even noticing him. The result? He contracted a disease—a sporadic but mundane disease, not a mythical artifact or power. This disease has elevated him to his current status."

Delta’s composure shattered momentarily. "A disease? A DISEASE made him this powerful?!"

Raiya wryly nodded her head. "Azario always wanted to live in the moment, not the past or the future, that disease he received from that pig merely reinforced his decision and subsequently decided to choose the Anemo vision as his own vision instead of his choices of Pyro, Electro and Cryo. In his words 'Anemo is the element of connection and reaction and if I'm to die so early, I'm definitely going out with an explosion, not a whimper.'" Raiya reminisced the time when she had also figured that out when Azario's trust in her grew past the 50 mark.

Delta struggled to maintain his composure, the enormity of the situation clearly unsettling him. "But what kind of disease could cause such a transformation?"

Raiya shook her head, her tone tinged with frustration and a hint of resignation. "I don’t know the specifics. All I understand is that the disease, combined with his Foul Legacy, has made him what he is now."

"But he's known me for over four years and I know for a fact he most definitely enjoys fucking with me and everyone so much that he's literally put 'Fucking with World Superpowers' on his Resume and gave it to me during a meeting. Besides friends try and help each other out, sending him to bother some upstart and most definitely not in his skill orbit is me throwing two stones over two objectives as well as the added bonus of him driving that bitch insane."

Delta turned to leave as he had gotten his answers, he couldn't help but muse quietly to himself, though he knew better than to voice it aloud. 'She really is a petty bitch.'

As Delta departed, Raiya's gaze lingered on the door, her thoughts still preoccupied with Azario. With a flicker of her hand, she summoned the detailed information on him, her access granted by the Gamer System and the trust points she had accumulated from their interactions. The data materialized before her, a testament to her extensive knowledge and control over the world’s many facets.

Name: Azario

Trust Score: 70/100

Physical Age: 20 (True Age is unknown even to him)

Gender: Male

Race: Human (Abyss-touched Spirit), ???

Sexuality: Vallissexual

Vision: Anemo (candidate for Electro, Pyro, and Cryo Vision)

Foul Legacy: Pyro

Origin: Natlan

Affiliation: Freelancer of Yuehai Pavilion, the Knights of Favonius, Ambassador of Fontaine, Inazuma Spy Network

Rarity: ★★★★★

Weapon(s):

• Obsidian Serenity (Sword)
• Harmonic Aegisflare (Flintlock Catalyst)
• Whisperwind Arbalest (Sidearm: Crossbow)

Disease: Entropy Gain Syndrome

Foul Legacy:

• Normal: When Azario activates his Normal Foul Legacy form, his body transforms into a raging, blinding flame. The colour of the flame shifts from intense red to an even more searing orange, culminating in an ultraviolet light that is extremely painful to view directly.

• Ion: Ion Foul Legacy is a more advanced and devastating version of Foul Legacy. It bypasses the gradual buildup of flames and directly unleashes a violent indigo flame. This form is characterized by an intense, concentrated burst of energy.

• ???: ???

Status: Optional End Boss

Raiya sighed deeply as she reviewed the information. Despite knowing Azario for four years, the final level of his Foul Legacy had remained elusive. She had made numerous attempts to extract details from Arlecchino, who, along with Capitano, had fought Azario. The information gleaned was sparse but significant.

According to Arlecchino, Azario’s transformation into a living flame had caused extreme temperatures that increased with each passing second. The battlefield was left as a charred wasteland, a testament to Azario’s devastating power. The battle against them had been catastrophic. Azario’s final form, described as an ultraviolet flame, had devastated the landscape. The area, once a majestic mountain range, had been transformed into a scorched wasteland, resembling a supermassive volcano that had condensed all its heat and imploded. The searing temperatures from the battle were so extreme that the Natlan Adventuring Guild had been forced to close off the region. The area remained untraversable due to the unbearable heat that continued to emanate from the mountains.

She closed the data with a final, contemplative sigh, her thoughts shifting to the next steps in her intricate plans. The information was a piece of a larger puzzle, one she was determined to solve. The complexity of Azario’s abilities and his erratic nature only fueled her resolve to use him to her advantage while keeping a vigilant eye on the potential risks at least for as long as she could.

---

Notes:

If you've read some of GrandLeviathan's works you might recognise the disease, but it's not completely the same and really only extends to "Basically everything seems slow for him, despite moving at bullshit speed". So it's not really a time stop ability