Xiaother

Xiaother is the slash ship between Xiao and Aether from the Genshin Impact fandom.

Chapter I: Act I
Aether first meets Xiao in the quest "Wangshu" that is part of Liyue's archon quest. He is sent to meet several adepti and deliver the message of Rex Lapis' death to them. After going to the highest balcony of the Wangshu Inn, Aether and Paimon admire the scenery of the land when Xiao suddenly appears next to them, startling both of them. Xiao warns them about getting involved in the world of adepti and advises them to leave to avoid getting hurt. Before Aether and Paimon get to properly talk, Xiao disappears.

Aether speaks to Verr Goldet and asks about him. She's already impressed because Xiao rarely agrees to see people in the first place and that he must be in a good mood then. Should Aether be able to keep him in a good mood, they may be able to properly converse with him.

Paimon and Aether prepare a Satisfying Salad and go through a small series of events to also get Almond Tofu, Xiao's favourite food. They approach him again and offer the dishes to him which he accepts. He's stunned after Aether tells him what happened to Rex Lapis and explains he will seek out the other adepti.

Chapter I: Act III
When Osial emerges in the quest "Turning Point", Aether and Paimon rush to the Jade Chamber in order to help defend against it. Xiao is also there along with the other adepti, questioning why Aether has come. The adepti, the Qixing and Aether start to fight Osial and the Fatui that arrive as well. When Osial begins to attack, Xiao warns Aether not to get hit. He soon blesses Aether with his adeptal powers as well, greatly increasing his movement speed.

After the Fatui are defeated, Osial unleashes an incredibly powerful attack. The platform which Aether and the others were fighting on starts to break, causing Aether to fall from an incredible height. However, Xiao teleports towards him and holds him from behind, bringing him back to the Jade Chamber. Aether has one arm over Xiao's shoulder, while Xiao's hands hold onto Aether's and his waist as a support. Xiao squeezes his hand and tells him to be careful which Aether acknowledges.

Xiao, the other adepti and Aether combine their powers at last to sacrifice the Jade Chamber and defeat Osial.

Alatus Chapter
Act I: Butterfly's Dream

One day outside Wangshu Inn, Aether and Paimon encounter a masked adeptus who calls himself “Starsnatcher” that can apparently grant people's wishes, although his manner of operating is immediately suspicious. Later at Wanwen Bookhouse, they witness Starsnatcher purchasing a copy of the book “Yakshas: The Guardian Adepti”. The book tells the story of the Yakshas and how only one remains alive today, the Conqueror of Demons. Aether and Paimon, now even more suspicious of Starsnatcher, and head back to Wangshu Inn. They find more corrupted hilichurls, which Aether has to finish off.

Using Elemental Sight, Aether tracks the evil aura of the hilichurls to Xiao. Xiao explains that the changes in the hilichurls stem from the karma he has accumulated. Aether and Paimon realize that he's the sole surviving Yaksha mentioned in the book and Paimon feels pity for him. However, Xiao dismisses the book and explains that his deceased comrades would feel insulted by their pity.

He tells them that he was there to cleanse a cavern of demonic influence. To make up for her accidental rudeness, Paimon requests she and Aether be allowed to help him with the cavern. Xiao reluctantly agrees.

After cleansing the cavern, the pair inform him of the fake adeptus who had been using a Sigil of Permission to exorcise the demons. Xiao deduces this to be the reason the demons were congregating in the first place and states that they would have to confiscate the sigil. To do this without resorting to violence he decides to use an adepti art – the Dream Trawler which can be used to call the souls of others.

Xiao tells them to head to a shrine near Mt. Tianheng to fetch certain items. At the shrine, Aether and Paimon encounter the remains of a junior Yaksha named Pervases who helps them procure what they need. Sensing Xiao’s karmic burden on them, he tells them to send his regards to him before his illusion and voice disappears forever. The ritual is successful and Xiao chastises Starsnatcher. Upon learning Xiao’s identity, Starsnatcher promises to not pull such deceptions again and Xiao accepts his oath.

When Aether and Paimon return to Wangshu Inn the following day, Starsnatcher had left them the Sigil of Permission and a letter. Aether gives the sigil to Xiao who thanks them for their help. Xiao orders Grilled Tiger Fish, Pervases's favourite dish, and Aether urges Paimon that they should leave to give Xiao space.

Lantern Rite (2021)
Part I - The Origin of the Lanterns At the start of the festival, Verr Goldet asks Aether and Paimon to look out for Xiao and try to entice him to experience the festival, but the two believe it is not the best time to disturb Xiao yet due to the Starsnatcher and Pervases incident.

Part II - Currents Deep Beneath the Lanterns While the Mingxiao Lantern is under construction, Aether and Paimon observe a suspicious person around the highly-flammable materials. After seeing him run off, they notice that Xiao is also at the harbor and has been watching this person. Xiao explains that he sensed a malign influence, but since the case doesn't involve demons or deities, he entrusts the responsibility to Aether and takes his leave.

Later, when Aether questions treasure hoarders about a mysterious letter, Xiao suddenly appears to help. The treasure hoarders challenge him, but Xiao defeats them and scares them into handing over the letter. He wants to leave, but Aether stops him, explaining that the next time they meet, it should be somewhere with a view on the Mingxiao Lantern. Xiao seems to reject the idea at first, but then tells him to come to Wangshu Inn once the matter is resolved, since the lantern could be seen even from there.

Part III - Light Upon the Sea After solving the case, Aether fulfills the agreement and heads to Wangshu Inn to meet Xiao. Aether once again asks about seeing the Mingxiao Lantern together with him, but Xiao rejects and advises him to go to the city alone. In the Developer's Insight, it was confirmed that Xiao didn't dislike the idea of joining Aether, but rejected out of avoidance. Because Xiao is in a lonely state where he hasn't spent much time among humans, he wouldn't know how to act and what his place would be in the crowd.

Aether and Paimon talk to Verr Goldet and Huai'an to see if they know how to convince Xiao. Huai'an mentions that it would be easier to bring Lantern Rite to Xiao than the other way around, which Paimon and Aether actually consider a great idea. Together with Huai'an, they find a spot and set up a festive stall. Aether and Paimon tell him to prepare Almond Tofu and Grilled Tiger Fish before going back to fetch Xiao.

Once more, Aether asks Xiao to come to the Lantern Rite with him, but tells him that he won't have to go to Liyue Harbor. Xiao is confused, so Paimon reveals what they prepared and tells Xiao to quickly come down with them. Even when they arrive, Xiao still doesn't understand the meaning behind it, so Aether explains that he can still participate in the festival this way.

The three eat together, Paimon suggesting that they should go to the harbor for the Mingxiao Lantern now. Aether tells Xiao to come with them, but he rejects, so Aether asks if he can at least accompany them on the way. Paimon points out how dangerous the road is and that they need his protection, which ultimately convinces Xiao to escort them.

When they arrive at the outskirts, Paimon finally asks why he is so adamant about not getting involved, so Xiao explains that him and the citizens have nothing in common. He's reluctant to speak more on the matter, so he bids farewell. Aether asks one more time, but Xiao still refuses. Before he leaves, he tells Aether to call his name if he's in trouble, promising that he'll be there anywhere and anytime.

While Aether and Paimon watch in the city, Xiao is shown to actually watch the lanterns from afar as well, sitting down and even smiling.

Moonchase Festival (2021)
One for the Foodies, Two for the Show Aether, Xiangling and Keqing all make their way to Wangshu Inn to gather more information about the Stove God. Smiley Yanxiao is happy to help out, but also asks Aether for a favor. He wants to offer a dish to Xiao that's not Almond Tofu, so he asks Aether to teach him the Satisfying Salad recipe. He has heard about Aether making this salad for Xiao in the past, which seems to be the only other dish that Xiao has found respectable.

Three to Get Ready, and Here We Go During the second part of the event quest, "Three to Get Ready, and Here We Go", Xiangling and Aether collect the opinions from Liyue citizens about their preferences in food and their opinions on Xiangling's dish. When they search for a person with mild tastes, Aether thinks of asking Xiao. Remembering Xiao's promise of coming as soon as his name is spoken, they go to a quiet place and Paimon yells for Xiao, but nothing happens.

Paimon is confused and Aether clarifies that Xiao actually only made the promise to him. After speaking his name, Xiao appears immediately. Aether is surprised it worked and Xiao tells him that he honors the promise he made to Aether.

Xiangling explains that she would like Xiao's opinion on her dish, but Xiao hesitates. Aether also expresses that he would like for Xiao to try it, so Xiao finally agrees, explaining that he will do it because it is Aether. After Xiao gives his opinion, he wants to take his leave. Aether thanks him and Xiao bids farewell with "See you next time".

Lantern Rite (2022)
Sky-Gazers, Land-Walkers Xiao appears during the 2nd part of the event quest when Keqing and Aether travel to give gifts to the adepti. Xiao rejects these gifts since he doesn't think gratitude for his duties is needed and plans to leave. Aether asks if he wants to see the fireworks together, but Xiao explains he will continue his patrol as usual. Xiao wants to remind him what to do when he needs him, but Aether reassures him he already knows.

After the quest, Xiao can be found near Pevases' temple. When talking to him, Xiao assumes Aether has come to invite him to watch the fireworks together, which Aether confirms to be true. Xiao thinks he'll be fine where he is.

Perilous Trial
Chasmic Maze

After realizing that the group is stuck inside the underground domain of the Chasm with no apparent way out, Aether remembers that Xiao, who they had met briefly beforehand, should still be there too. Since he promised to always come when calling his name, Aether gives it a try, but gets no response. He tries again, but it turns out that Xiao cannot sense their presence there.

Danger All Around

After solving the puzzles found within a new domain, the group sees an illusion of Xiao. Aether asks if he is alright and if he is injured, but Xiao is barely able to respond before the space interrupts the illusion. Yanfei later figures out that this domain changes accordingly to people's desire in order to trick and trap them. She convinces Aether that they should concentrate and imagine finding Xiao, which leads them to another spatial rift allowing them to communicate with him.

Aether asks Xiao to come find them, but he initially refuses since his condition is harmful to others. However, after he finds out that Aether was in danger too, he changes his mind and manages to attack the rift and reunite with them. Aether is worried when he notices that Xiao is injured.

Once they return to the camp, Xiao tells Aether that they can avoid getting split up now. Along with the others, Aether urges him to rest. As he watches him rest, he wonders if he's capable of having dreams.

End of the Line

Once Xiao has woken up, he tells Yanfei and Aether what he experienced in the domain and that he had found who he was looking for. He had been looking for another Yaksha named Bosacius, although it was just an illusion. Xiao then reveals his plan to use all the energy he has to create a rift that will allow the others to go outside. This would result in self-sacrifice and him staying in the domain. The group rejects this plan, including Aether who wishes to leave together.

Soon after, the group discovers a new domain that they plan to explore for a possible way out. Xiao says he will find a way and disappears. Aether asks him to wait, but he's is already gone before he can hear.

They find Xiao once again after a while of being inside the domain. Aether calls out his name and they rush to help him, but he urges them to stay back. After his battle is over, Aether reminds him that he hasn't recovered from his injuries, but he tells him not to worry.

At Tunnel's End, Light

During the cutscene of them escaping the domain, Xiao exhausts all his strength to get the group to the surface, but is unable to maintain the energy flow and the platform begins to crack. When the others realize his strength won't last, Aether can be seen flinching before looking at Xiao with a concerned expression. As Xiao makes up his mind, he takes one final look into the direction of Aether and the group before teleporting them all to safety, with him staying behind.

In the end, Xiao is saved and brought to safety by Zhongli. When Aether sees Xiao was saved, he runs over to check on him. The group recollects themselves on the surface and bid each other farewell, but Xiao seems to be waiting for Aether. After everyone else has left, he tells him that there is somewhere he'd like to go and that he can join him.

They meet at Pervases' Temple where Xiao opens up to Aether. He tells him that dying in the act of sacrifice maybe wouldn't have been tragic, but Aether implies he knows that isn't true. Xiao is indeed aware of that, so he figures this mindset must be a form of his own insanity. Paimon and Aether explain what Ushi said to them and tell him that even with his condition, he should spend time with people who make him happy. Aether tells Xiao that there will always be someone willing to be by his side.

Xiao then tells him about the Yakshas and the memories left behind by Bosacius. He tells Aether that he's already said so much, but doesn't need to hold back as much when talking to him. He looks back on how many Yakshas and mortal soldiers have given their life in times of war, but Aether reassures him that they're all heroes. Xiao says he likes that word.

He explains that there's good in the world despite all the disaster and that even the darkest hearts have room for those they cherish. He accepts Aether's words and tells him that from now on, heroes will always look out for each other.

Lantern rite (2023)
The two meet during Aether's search for the mysterious adeptus who saved Dvorak's ancestor a long time ago. Going off the little information Aether has, he tries to lure the adeptus to save him by pretending to drown in the lake at the top of mount Aocang. However, to come to his rescue isn't who he's looking for, but Shenhe and Xiao. Embarassed, Aether and Paimon try to explain their plan to the worried yaksha, and Xiao warns them against trying something so foolish again, as they caused "someone" a great deal of worry.

They are seen together once again during the Epilogue, as they both are guests at Hu Tao's banquet. At the dinner table, they sit next to each other, following the girl's suggestion. As the dinner progresses, Xiao becomes overwhelmed due to the number of people present and the fact that both Rex Lapis and Barbatos are sat at the table, pretending to be commoners. Aether detects Xiao's discomfort and takes him outside the restaurant to calm down, leaving even Paimon behind. The two then have a heart-to-hear conversation, during which Xiao opens up and explains his insecurities about never being able to fit in with mortals, something that seem to come naturally to the Geo and Anemo Archons. Aether reassures him and tells him that he doesn't have to imitate their behaviour, and that many people in Liyue admire him for who he is. They return inside Xinyue Kiosk after Xiangling comes looking for them, telling them that the desserts are ready. After the banquet, the group separates, and Xiao, Aether and Paimon are the last ones leaving.

After the Epilogue, if the player chooses to go to Wangshu Inn, they will unlock a bonus conversation with Xiao. In this conversation, Xiao asks Aether to taste both Yanxiao's and Xiangling's Almond Tofu, as he can't tell the difference on his own. He then asks Aether to tell him about stories from the city, a stark contrast to his previous disinterest in the life of mortals.

In the promotional video for the third Lantern Rite, posted on Genshin Impact's official Youtube channel, Aether can be seen joining Xiao to view the lanterns together. After two years of refusing company, it seems that Xiao has finally accepted Aether's invite to spend Lantern Rite together.

Xiao's Birthday
Xiao's Letter (2021) Xiao says that he decided he would find a Crystalfly for Aether to put in his hair because "it would look nice [on Aether]." Before Xiao knew it, he caught nine more, which in total equates to the 10 Crystal Cores attached to the mail in addition to Almond Tofu—his favorite dish. He goes on to tell Aether that if he wishes to meet him again, he should only speak his name. Lastly, Xiao discloses that being able to spend some time with Aether is enough despite his apathy towards birthdays and celebrations, and aversion to large groups of people.

Teyvat Food Notes Furthermore, Mihoyo released another blog post which describes how Xiao's birthday was spent. Aether, thinking about what to get Xiao for his birthday, wanted to give him something other than Almond Tofu because he didn't want to be like everyone else. So, he decided on making him the Mint Jelly he tasted during Windblume Festival as Xiao's birthday present. Meeting up with Xiao, Aether was handed the Crystalfly mentioned in Xiao's letter, but he didn't think that it was suitable to wear in his hair.

The two then walked through Liyue together, Aether collecting ingredients for the jelly along the way. In the afternoon, the two returned to Wangshu Inn where Aether borrowed the kitchen to make the dish, Xiao offering to help out. When they finished making the 'slimes', Xiao didn't want to eat it, wanting to order Almond Tofu instead. He tells Aether that he isn't bothered about the taste, but that he wanted to collect it, resulting in Aether telling him how he couldn't because it will expire. After eating the jelly and commenting on the taste, Xiao then explains why he likes Almond Tofu - the dish reminds him of certain memories. The blog ends with Xiao stating how the jelly they made together is now also a "special memory" as he thanks Aether.

Xiao's Letter (2022) Xiao mentions how he's been walking alone on the beaches of Guyun Stone Forest and picking up Starconches on the way. According to folklore, they can be used to send messages, but Xiao notes that the only thing he can hear is the hollow sound of the wind, He quickly dismisses its importance, and says that Aether's voice is all that he needs to hear. He concludes the letter by asking Aether to tell him what messages he's heard from the Starconches, implying he may have tried to leave a message himself.

Quotes
Should the player own Xiao as a character, they unlock several voice lines of Xiao talking to Aether. The higher the friendship level, the more voice lines can be unlocked and the deeper the player's, and thus Aether's, bond with him grows.

Profile Voicelines
"If you awake to a knife at your throat, if monsters dig their claws into you, if death comes knocking at your door, call out my name. Adeptus Xiao. I will be here when you call."

- Xiao's voiceline "Hello"

"Go. I'll be here."

- Xiao's voiceline "Good Night"

"The Lantern Rite? Hmph. the time for humans to discard their glowing trash into the sea has returned... How childish... Though if you insist... I will go with you."

- Xiao's voiceline "About Us: Lantern Rite"

"I deal in death. If you cannot bring yourself to kill — speak my name."

- Xiao's voiceline "Something to Share"

"I'm willing to protect you. But don't think about getting close, and stay out of my way, or all that awaits you is regret."

- Xiao's voiceline "More About Xiao: I"

"In the thousands of years that have passed, I have taken countless wraiths. If you want no trouble, stay away from me. See me as a weapon, and nothing more."

- Xiao's voiceline "More About Xiao: II"

"It's too late. The connection between us is too strong. Even if you wanted to, it's too late to sever it. Hm? You've never thought to sever it? *sigh* This eternal dance of demon subjugation... My fight goes on. But I would like to know more about you."

- Xiao's voiceline "More About Xiao: V"

"Countless souls have fallen prey to these hands. I too have been swallowed by the darkness — and yet you dare to drive me on. You may think of me as... your companion. You seek to find me salvation? ...You... really are a difficult being to comprehend."

- Xiao's voiceline "Feelings About Ascension: Conclusion"

"This mortal concept of commemorating the day of your birth really is redundant. Wait. Have this. It's a butterfly I made from leaves. Okay. Take it. It's an adepti amulet — it staves off evil.."

- Xiao's voiceline "Birthday"

"It seems Shenhe places a great deal of trust in you. Well, how could she not. There are few people in the world as kind and good-natured as you."

- Xiao's voiceline "About Shenhe"

Teapot Voicelines
"I will protect this haven. For your sake. I know that I can never have a peaceful and carefree life. ...Still, your kindness is accepted."

- Xiao's teapot dialouge

"Generally, I don't partake in activities like "chatting." But if it's with you... I'll try."

- Xiao's teapot dialouge

"...I don't know if it's related to you, but recently, the pain from my karmic debt has been less excruciating. It's much easier to bear than before."

- Xiao's teapot dialouge

"If you have free time, we can go to Liyue Harbor together..."

- Xiao's teapot dialouge

Other Characters' Voicelines
"My first impression of him was that he's not one to smile. After meeting him again more recently, however, he's still as reserved as ever, but... he seems a lot more relaxed now. Maybe he... met someone special."

- Shenhe's voiceline "About Xiao"

Fanon
The ship first gained real traction after the quest "Act 3: A New Star Approaches" was released because of the cutscene where Xiao saves Aether from falling in the sky. It has been well established in the fandom ever since. Especially due to the 1.3 update containing the Lantern Rite event and Xiao's story quest, Xiaother's fanbase and popularity grew immensely.

Xiaother possesses multiple tropes that people see much appeal in. For one they are often seen as the sun and moon. Not only do their colour schemes match this concept, but Aether is usually depicted as the gentle soul of the two, being rather bubbly and kind, while Xiao is canonically distant and often supresses his feelings. The healing aspect of this ship is what truly drives the fandom however. Since Xiao has been suffering for centuries and is deeply traumatized, many love the idea of Aether being the one to show Xiao the good sides of life and that he's worth much more than simply being a tool in battle. This was even partially confirmed as the "Feelings About Ascension: Conclusion" confirms Aether wants to help Xiao find salvation. Aether is often portrayed comforting Xiao, not leaving his side and being gentle with him.

Another often seen idea in fanworks is Xiao being overwhelmed by simple acts of affection, such as hugs.

Being an immortal being that has stayed from others for most of his life, fans enjoy Aether being the one to be able to move Xiao's heart. The devotion that follows even in game is another factor as well. From the very beginning Xiao is willing to kill for Aether, something romantic to many. Xiao protecting Aether is often a theme in fanworks and they're portrayed as a battle couple a lot of times as well.

Xiaother became the 6th most written for ship on Archive of Our Own in the Genshin Impact fandom, with over 3780 works.

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Trivia

 * When the Traveler first meets Xiao in Wangshu Inn, the soundtrack «Lovers' Oath» plays.
 * In the Version 2.2 event «Tuned to the World's Sounds», the player performs «Lovers' Oath» together with Xiao in a duet. Additionally, the place where they perform is the balcony on Wangshu Inn where they first met.
 * In «Collected Miscellany - “Xiao: Conqueror of Demons”» Dainsleif comments at the end, «Will he meet someone, who understands his sacrifice and can shine a ray of light into his dark world...» The fandom speculates on it being Aether due to the connotations of light to his character and his desire to help Xiao.
 * In the Developer Insight #4: Character Stories (I) - «Vigilant Yaksha» Xiao it was revealed that Aether's first impression of Xiao was that he is a silent and brooding individual, a courageous and competent fighter, and someone who harbors great suffering. They also explain that after Aether spends time with Xiao, he can sense Xiao's gentler side deep down.
 * In Xiao's story quest, Pervases notes that he senses Xiao's aura and karma upon Aether, indicating that Aether does not get affected by Xiao's heavy karma.
 * In Xiao's companion dialogue, Xiao mentions his karma feeling lessened in the presence of Aether.
 * In Xiao's companion dialogue for "Cottage Kitchen", Xiao asks if Aether can make him his favorite food.
 * This could be a reference to his specialty dish, "Sweet Dream", being originally made by Aether.
 * In Xiao's companion dialogue, Xiao asks Aether if he wants to go see the streets of Liyue with him.
 * Xiao gives Aether a butterfly amulet on their birthday. In Chinese culture, a butterfly represents young love and symbolizes an undying bond between lovers, as well as immortality. Xiao also states that the amulet is made to stave off evil.
 * One of the most well known love stories in China are the "Butterfly Lovers", two people that weren't allowed to get married and turned into a butterfly couple after death.
 * Xiao's signature weapon is the Primordial Jade Winged-Spear. In 1.3 the "Primordial Jade Cutter" was released, the sword of the Primordial Jade weapon series was also released. Since Aether is a sword user, fans enjoy the concept of them having matching weapons.
 * These two are also the only weapons of that series so far.
 * In Xiao's voiceline «About Baizhu...» it's mentioned that Aether wants to try and give medicine to Xiao in order to ease his pain.
 * To commemorate Xiao's playable release, the Teyvat Food Notes released a real-life recipe for Almond Tofu and "Sweet Dream." In the blog post's story, Xiao doesn't actually make "Sweet Dream" — the Traveler [Aether] prepared it as a gift to him, and the only difference from regular Almond Tofu is the choice of toppings. Aether arranged the sugar beads so that they are similar to the colour of Xiao's necklace.
 * It appears possible that Xiao's birthday letter was written with Aether's braid in consideration.
 * Xiao's birthday mail gives ten crystalflies, so it could be meant for the long length of Aether's braid.
 * The official HoYoLAB Twitter account posted Xiao fan art with the tag #xiaother, which caused a big splash and discussion in the fandom. However, this post has been removed in the future.
 * In the Version 2.6-2.7 event «Spices from the West» the player can gift Xiao dishes to taste test. Xiao, enjoying a dish, asks Aether why he is staring at him like that.
 * Matsuoka Yoshitsugu (Xiao's JP Voice Actor) said in Teyvat Radio 29 (50:30 ~ 51:12) «...From now on, even if Xiao's heart is made of stone, I'd like to open its doors again and perform him to the best of my abilities. Eventually... I want Xiao to shout for the Traveler. With the distance between Xiao and the Traveler, he just tells him things like 'be careful' when he saves him in a pinch, right? There may be a day where Xiao shouts as if he doesn't want to lose the Traveler's existence.»
 * Xiaother was ranked in the top-100 ships on AO3 according to 2022 statistics.
 * Xiao and Aether play cards together in the official video version 3.4 (31:00).

Variations

 * 4NEMO refers to the ship between the two, Kaedehara Kazuha and Venti
 * 5WIRL refers to the ship between the two, Kaedehara Kazuha, Venti and Shikanoin Heizou
 * 6REEZE refers to the ship between the two, Kazuha, Venti, Shikanoin Heizou and Scaramouche