jaxfluff

[jaxfluff]

no offense because i love this band but cigarette after sex’s discography is proof that if you write the same theme enough times, people will call it iconic instead of repetitive. meanwhile, my manuscript gets side-eyed because i reused the word “glistened” twice in one chapter.

[jaxfluff]

I’ve filtered nearly every OC tag there is and I still see OC fics, if I want to read an OC fic I will deliberately go looking for one. At this point I just block the blogs that don’t tag their fics correctly.

y’all i’m sooo tired of looking through an x reader tag and finding multiple x OC stories!! what is so wrong with the x OC tag that you HAVE to put your story in the x reader tag as well?! i’m talking multiple different fandoms, different characters, different platforms (AO3, Wattpad, Tumblr etc) all having their x reader tag clogged with x OC stories. if you’re main character has a name and/or a description of what they they look like, ITS NOT AN X READER STORY!!! STOP PUTTING YOUR X OC STORIES IN THE X READER TAG😤😤😤

[jaxfluff]

Y'all I gotta say something

Please remember this is my opinion!!

I can't stand when I'm looking for /reader stuff and I keep getting the use of "I", maybe I'm just being dramatic and pissy but I just cannot stand it when first person is used... I can't!

Anyways! I'm gonna go attempt to write

[jaxfluff]

[jaxfluff]

𝐈 𝐀𝐌 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐕𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒.

— A REVERSE HAREM ISEKAI SERIES.

PROLOGUE: START GAME?

tags. historical au. isekai. villainess au. reverse harem. yandere content. yandere male ocs x fem reader. warnings will be added in individual chapters.

-> masterlist. chapter one.

Out of pure boredom, you download a reverse harem otome on your phone to pass the time. Its story is rather cliché, but the characters are hot and the game is fun enough.

You play as the hidden child of a ducal family, born out of the wedlock, the child of a maid. Your siblings bullied you relentlessly, and the Duchess despised you. The Duke acted as if you never existed at all.

The game is set right before the start of the Imperial Ball. The Crown Prince was looking for a bride, and the Imperial Family had invited all eligible ladies from across the empire. You're taken to the ball as your sister's lady-in-waiting.

Then, the story falls into place as all stories tend to do. The Crown Prince falls for you, your childhood best friend confesses his love for you, and the villainess’ loyal knight betrays his master for you.

Right. The villainess. She was desperately in love with the Crown Prince, and simply couldn't accept the fact that a bastard daughter had gotten him instead. She even tried assassinating you a few times.

At the end of the story, she is arrested and stripped of her title. Then, she is exiled to a kingdom not apart of the Empire to live out the rest of her days. She had left, screaming and cursing your name.

「 CONGRATULATIONS! CROWN PRINCE ROUTE COMPLETE. 」

> HOME.

Satisfied, you click back to the game's home screen to start the childhood friend's route. Each route had multiple endings, both good and bad. There were three love interests to choose from, and you had picked the most basic option to start with.

Suddenly, a notification pops up in the middle of your screen.

「 SECRET ROUTE UNLOCKED. 」

> ACCEPT.

You accept it curiously, but when you check the game's UI, nothing seems to have changed. You huff. Perhaps it was time for bed. You could play the other routes later.

With that, you turn off your phone and head to bed.

.

..

…

「̶̳͐ ̷̙̀̈́̿͋͠͝Ş̵̛̯̱̟̙̺̘̓̎̃͠T̶̛͔̳̳̳̓̐̿̏̒̈́͜ͅA̷̬̗͙̩̟̍͋͆̐̋̎̕͠͝R̸͕̫͗́̽̔́T̶̡̰̤̬̝̖͇̟̺̆̌̊̕͝ ̶̩̙̻͉̌͊̓̃̊͂G̵̡̟̝͎̝͈̃͋͆̎A̶̧͊̃̅͌̊̊̈̀̕M̸̮̼͑͐̑͑̅̄̈́͜Ę̴͚̟͎͚̘͘̕?̶͎̠͋̏͝ ̴̢̗̗̱̙͔̦̱̱͋̀͒͘」̵̄̾̂

You awaken, body oddly heavy. Quietly, you groan, massaging your neck. When you regain your bearings, you realise you are no longer in your bedroom.

You're in a fancy bedroom, the type you only see in games and manhwas, adorned in a soft nightgown to boot. You must be dreaming.

A rustle sounds from the other end of the room, and you see a man sitting by a small, decorative round table. There's a faint glow to his skin. He looks almost ghostly, as if he'd fade away if you so much as blinked.

“You're awake.”

He sounds… odd. Soft as a whisper, and loud as a scream. A thousand voices overlap into one.

“What is this place?”

He tilts his head.

“Your bedroom.”

“Wh —”

“I hope you enjoyed my game. I made it just for you.”

The… game? The reverse harem otome? He made it? For you?

Huh?

You stare at him in confusion. Despite his blank expression, his eyes look soft.

“The real game should start soon. I simply wanted to greet you before you go. You accepted the hidden route, did you not?”

“There was only one option.”

“That is because you are the only one suited for this task.”

What, like some Chosen One bullshit?

He walks as if he glides, coming up to you from where you are seated on the bed. A cold hand cups your cheek, tilting your head up. He presses a gentle kiss to your temple.

“Good luck,” he tells you. “I will help you. Do not forget that.”

Then, before you can react, the world dissolves beneath your feet, leaving you tumbling, tumbling, tumbling…

┈┈・୨ ✦ ୧・┈┈

You awaken, body oddly heavy. You stretch, yawning. Your head throbs. What an odd dream to have.

“My lady, you're awake!”

Sharply, you turn to look at the source of the voice. It's a woman, dressed as a maid. No, she is a maid. Somehow, you know it in your heart.

“Leave me be,” you say to her.

She dips her head, scuttling out of the room quickly. You take a long look at your surroundings, then at yourself. You are in the same bedroom as you were in the dream, and in the same nightgown. Your head aches.

You notice that the round table is placed next to a window. When you take a peek out of it, you find the bedroom overlooks a lush garden outside.

You pinch yourself. Ow.

Definitely not a dream.

Just then, a chime sounds in your ear, and a bright, holographic screen thing appears in front of your face.

「 MAIN STORY: PROLOGUE 」

Welcome to God's Darling ♡

To help you get started, the first few quests will act as your tutorial.

There is a traitor lurking within the L/N estate. Find the traitor.

Completion Reward: Recognition from your father, Duke L/N.

Punishment For Failure: NIL.

> ACCEPT.

You have no choice but to accept anyway. You wonder if this is what that man had meant by the ‘real game’ starting soon.

Duke L/N… L/N. That was the villainess’ last name. The villainess from your otome game. He was your father. Which meant you were —

Y/N L/N.

The villainess.

There is a short knock on the door. “My lady? Are you feeling alright?”

┈┈・୨ ✦ ୧・┈┈

You manage to get everything sorted out all right.

Apparently, you had been out riding as per usual, when your horse acted up all of a sudden, sending you crashing to the ground. You were in a coma for two days from the concussion.

The doctors check you over one last time before deeming you perfectly fine. You shoo everyone out of your bedroom after that, claiming you wanted a bit more rest.

So. There was a traitor somewhere in the duchy, and you had to find them. You're half certain your riding accident had been that traitor's doing. At least, that's usually how all the stories go.

Honestly, you're working without any clues here. Your playthrough of the game had only been from the main character’s perspective, and she never needed to know about anything related to the L/Ns, save for the fact the villainess was from that family.

Perhaps you would've known more if you had played through the villainess’ knight’s route. Ugh. Why did you have to isekai as the villainess anyway? So cliché.

You hardly know anything about the villainess herself, except that she was in love with the Crown Prince.

You wonder if there's a game UI you can scroll through. There was already a quest menu.

Magically, the holographic screen appears again.

「 MAIN MENU 」

> STORY ARCHIVE.

> QUEST MENU.

> CAPTURE TARGETS.

Capture targets? You select that option.

「 CAPTURE TARGETS 」

> ZACHARIAS ASTRIDELLE.

> BLAISE HENDERSON.

> JETT EVANS.

You skim through all three, finding them useless. The game has locked all of them behind some prerequisite goal, only leaving you with the most basic information.

You huff. Perhaps you should find Jett first. After all, he was, according to the game, your most loyal knight. Up until he betrayed you for the main character, but that could be put off and dealt with later.

And, if it was any consolation, the main story only began in a month. That would give you some time to settle into your new role as… villainess. Somehow.

> ZACHARIAS ASTRIDELLE.

Crown Prince of the Astridelle Empire. One of the best swordsmasters in the Empire, second to only Jett Evans. He is charming and easygoing, but no one truly seems to know his heart.

> BLAISE HENDERSON.

The Master of the Mages Tower, and Selene's childhood friend. Mysterious and elusive, little is known about him at all.

> JETT EVANS.

The villainess’ loyal knight, and the best swordsmaster in the Astridelle Empire. He is reserved and cold. Many say his heart may be made of stone.

> █████

██ █████ ████ ██ █████ ████ ██ █████ ████ ██ █████ ████ ██ █████ ████ ██ █████ ████ ██ █████ ████ ██ █████ ████

end notes. names are so hard to come up with fml

@ valekhor , do not repost, plagiarize, translate, or adapt my work without prior permission and or confirmation.

[jaxfluff]

                                 ・・・MIDNIGHT VISITS

     Feat! Ren "Draken" Ryuguji, Keisuke Baji, Hanemiya Kazutora & Shuji Hanma      ― These boys sneaking into your bedroom after sunset      ✗ Mention of sex work in Drakens part. Mention of child abuse in Kazutora's part, suggestive in Hanma's part

     ✎ Tokyo Revengers M-list

                             龍宮寺 堅 || KEN “DRAKEN” RYUGUJI

        ☁ You enjoyed the causal, late night trips to the twenty-four open 7/11, or the motorcycle trips to the beach, where you would sit and chat for hours until the sunrise came over the horizon, where you all would sit and admire the beauty of the sky before deciding to head home and either get ready for school, or have a small nap before going out during the day, again. 

        But unfortunately, you had gotten yourself into some trouble at school. Attendance, grades and your attitude was not being put up with and your parents decided to ground you for the week, making sure you couldn’t sneak out the window by taking the make-shift rope you had made from old blankets. So, here you were, Friday night at twelve in the morning, on your bed alone. Usually, you’d be outside on a Friday night with the others, doing God knows what. But not this Friday. 

              You weren’t sure when you had fallen asleep, but throughout the night, you had in fact fallen asleep. It’s like those moments, where you blink and suddenly time has been robbed from you. You only knew this, because you heard the sound of pebbles hitting off your window. You turned to your alarm clock on your night-stand. The three digitals on the clock said 3:16 a.m.       That's when you knew you had fallen asleep, because just seconds ago it said 12:00 am.       Remembering about the pebbles, you got up from your bed and lazily dragged your feet across your room to your window. Drawing the curtains down and lifting the window open, you stuck your head out and looked down at the ground, where you saw Draken. When he noticed your presence, he gave you a half-smile and a wave.       “What are you doing here?! I’m grounded, remember!” You harshly whispered out to him, not wanting to wake up your parents or alarm your older sister -who was 100% in the kitchen by now doing God knows what.       “That’s exactly why I’m here,” Draken responded in the same tone.       “They took the rope!”       “I don’t need a rope. Stay away from the window”       Rolling your eyes at the blonde, you still did as you were told and stood back from the window. Actually, you had gotten bored and sat on your bed, watching the window to see if he could actually make his way into your bedroom or not. 

       Seconds went by, and Draken’s head peeked from below the window. “See? No rope” He said, while climbing in, attempting to be careful and silent, but with his big figure and the size of your window, he did have difficulty. But, he got in nonetheless and closed the window behind him.

       “Why are you here”

       Draken sat on the bed beside you, the mattress dipping from his weight. You had turned to face Draken, your legs in a criss cross.       “They called it a night and the brothel is. . . . busy”

       Your house has become somewhat like a second home to Draken. He always stayed the night anytime the brothel was more busy than usual and the noises from the girls and their clients could be heard from his room -That he soundproofed for the most part.

       “My parents are going to kill both you and me, mainly me for allowing you in”

       Draken removed his shoes and placed them at the edge of your bed before taking his shirt off and just throwing that aside. He climbed into your bed, turning to the side where he could still see you. “That's morning us problem, if we get caught~”

       “Ew, don’t say it like that” You slapped his arm. “Move over, this is my bed after all”

                                  場地 圭介 || KEISUKE BAJI

        ☁ To the school, to your friends and your family, you were this good girl with the good grades and the good influence. And, well, they aren’t wrong. You did have good grades and you were a good influence on the people around you, but they didn’t know about the tiny secret you kept from them all.

       You were studying late. It was one in the morning, but you had a test in home economics coming up. To others, this test wouldn’t be anything major, but home economics was going to be a part of the career you wanted in the future, so you were extra particular about these tests. 

       You had gone four hours of just straight studying, with fifteen breaks in between. You were falling sleepy and the information you were trying to place in your head would slowly fall out because of your lack of focus and concentration. You were slowly dozing off, when you heard a tap at your window. That got you awake and alerted.

       Originally, you thought it was nothing more than the branch hitting off your window, getting pushed by the wind. But, when it happened again, it seemed a little more aggressive. Raising a brow, you pushed yourself from the desk and made your way to your window.

       Pulling up the blind, you let a small scream slip past your lips when you saw Baji’s face right up at the window. You placed a hand over your mouth, silencing the scream. 

       “Daring?! Everything okay?” You heard your mom call from the other end of the door. 

       “Yeah! Just scared myself is all. Sorry mom!” You replied to your mother. When you were certain she was a good distance away from your bedroom, you slid open the window, smacking Baji on the shoulder. “What! Are you doing here?!” You harshly whispered at the male, who’s only response was a smirk. 

       “I got bored. So, here I am” 

       “A text would have been nice!”

       “Yeah, but then you wouldn’t have screamed. That was entertaining”

       Keisuke Baji, was the secret your friends and family weren’t aware of. Not like you meant to do it on purpose. . . .actually no, you were. You knew the judgment your friends and family would give him. He isn’t that much of a bad guy, he just has different views. 

       “You can’t be here. My family are still awake” 

       Baji held out a hand, giving you that grin of his where his shark tooth sticks out. It was a stupid, yet effective grin because whenever he uses it, you always caved in. “That’s why we’re leaving” 

       “I can’t leave Baji, I have a test to study for”

       “Knowing you, you’ve been studying for hours. Now c’mon! Let’s go!” 

       You glanced back over at your desk, looking at the laptop that had researched information about the test topic. The copies full of information and the open books with highlighters and sticky notes. Sighing, you turned to Baji. “Okay fine, only four an hour. No more than two hours!” You warned him before taking his hand, where he dragged you out of your window and into the night. 

       You were out for four hours. 

                            羽宮 一虎 || HANEMIYA KAZUTORA

        ☁ Kazutora’s home life wasn’t a home life any child should have. Anytime it got extremely bad, he would come over to your house for a night or so, to get away and allow his mom to cool herself down. Your parents were aware of this and they welcomed him in with warm hugs. They also knew he snuck in through the window. He only did this whenever it was past midnight and he didn’t want to wake everyone up by knocking on the door, so he’d go up the apartment's fire escape staircase and wait for you to open the window. 

       Tonight was no different. 

       You were on your bed, reading. This time, it was actually eleven at night. So, he had  arrived hours earlier than usual. 

       You were getting to the good part of the book, where the two characters broke the tension between one another, when you heard a knock on your window. Your book flew from your hand and your heart raced, pumping. You let an exhale slip past your lips before looking at the window. 

       Thanks to your transparent curtains, you could see a figure standing outside your window and you knew exactly who it was. So, you grabbed some tracksuit bottoms and a vest for Kazutora before you walked over to the window, parting your curtains to see his sandy brown eyes falling down to your figure, his lips pulling into a soft smile. 

       God. He had such soft features. 

       You pushed the window open and drew back one curtain and stood aside, watching him struggle his way into your bedroom. He fell in the process, but he got there eventually. 

       “Bad night again?” You asked, watching as he stood himself up. He closed the bedroom window and drew the curtain over. 

       “Yeah. . “ His voice went soft, the smile falling from his lips. 

       You hated when that smile left. It pained you.

       You took his hands in yours and dragged him over to your bed. “Well, since you arrived early. We have time for a movie and some snacks.” You turned around and picked up the pile of neatly folded, clean, spare clothes he always left here for his unplanned sleepovers. Kazutora took the pile of clothes from your hands and that soft smile appeared once again when he glanced down at the folded clothes. You smiled. 

       “Go get changed. I’ll make some popcorn”

       He muttered a soft “Thank you”

       “Anytime Tora. Now go”

       And with that, he left your room and headed towards the bathroom to get changed, saying a quick hello to your surprised parents who were heading to bed themselves. They greeted him back before heading into their room. You never noticed how your parents don’t question things about you anymore. 

       Wonder why.

                                 半間 修二 || SHUJI HANMA

        ☁ Hanma was a disaster to be around. He has made these night visits nightly. You hadn’t gone one night without him coming around and visiting you. It was a mix between love and hate. One hand, you enjoy the company and it brings some fun into your boring life, and on the other hand you would like a full eight hours of sleep.

       But at last, you can not have both. 

       Four in the morning. That’s when you were rudely awoken by a knock on your window then some pebbles soon followed afterwards.

       You shot up in your bed, the sleeping mask falling off your eyes and around your neck.  Slowly, you turned your attention to your window and saw Hanma standing there, his hand in the air and scrunched. Like he had more pebbles he was going to launch at your window.

       “Stupid, fucking shit” You angrily lifted your blankets off your body and marched over to the window, lifting it open. “What is wrong with you?!” You spat harshly, not caring who you woke up at this point. It was four in the morning. You should be asleep by now.

       “What? Not happy to see me~” Hanma made his way into your bedroom, sliding the window down to keep the night air out. He turned to you, his hands resting on your waist. His hands were fucking freezing. 

       “No. I am not. It is four in the morning. Why would anyone be happy to see you at this hour!” 

       “Someone who lovess me~” He began swaying you both left and right, gently 

       “Really? Well, call me when you find her” You were still mad at him, but you were a sucker for the soft movements. Sighing, you wrapped your arms around his neck. “A text would have been nice”

       “A text would have warned you” He rested his forehead on yours, his eyes jumping from your eyes to your lips back to your eyes. That stupid smug look on his face.

       “Still would have been nice. I would have left the window open”

       “Ah, where’s the fun in that~”       You rolled your eyes and scoffed at him before placing your lips on his, kissing them softly. 

       The kiss was soft, like the other few kisses would have been. He can be rough and violent, but you found that at night -especially after 2am- he becomes soft towards you. The way he slowly leans into the kiss, or how his hands fall to your hips, tugging at the hem of your shirt. When you cup his cheeks in your hands, that's the okay signal. He slides his hands under your shirt. His hands are cold, touching your skin made you shiver. You didn’t realise he would be so cold

       You broke from the kiss, so the two of you could catch your breaths. “Your a jerk” You said, in a breathless tone.

       Hanma leaned down so he was on the same level as you, that smug look never leaving his face. He leaned in closer, his lips right beside your ear. The warmth of his breath made you rethink your life decisions.

        “But you love me~” He whispers, a teasing tone laced between his words, bringing butterflies to your stomach.

[jaxfluff]

Tokyo Revengers + Them sneaking in your window / part II

Part I / Part II

Cw: Kazutora being a little pervert.

Includes: Reader x Draken, Reader x Sanzu, Reader x Inui Reader x Kazutora.

Description: Exactly what it says in the title. All characters are of age. (minors dni.) This takes place in a alternate universe where Kazutora is not in jail, Kanto Manji timeline.

Notes: “I don’t have a favorite. I love all my boys the same.”

Draken

Draken’s hand clasped around your mouth, silencing you as footsteps echoed outside of the room. He kept his back to the wall, holding you still as he waited for the footsteps to pass, only letting you go when he felt your tongue slip out of your mouth. “You’re disgusting…”,he grumbled, rubbing his hand off on the side of his pants. Chipper giggles left your lips and you gave him a cheeky grin, admiring the slightly disgruntled look on his face. He looked so attractive even when he was clenching his jaw that way and rolling his eyes up into his head. His hand found the top of your head and he ruffled your hair, looking down at you like you were some kind of annoying puppy that was too cute to be upset with. “You want your parents to call the cops on me? Lower your voice.” He used his hand on your head to gently push you away from the door, closer to your bed and deeper into your room. “No, of course not.” You smiled up at him, a painfully sweet smile that tugged at his heart. If he told any of his friends that he spent his late nights sneaking into some girls house, they’d tease him, but it would all be worth it to see that smile grace your lips.

Sanzu

He slowly grew closer to your face on his hands and knees, admiring the way you were sprawled out on the bed for him. He liked pretty things, they had a way of drawing him in, and you were certainly so. creak. You threw your blankets over the pink haired gang member without warning, suddenly pulling him as close to your chest as you could. He cursed under his breathe but remained quiet and pressed against you as the door to your room opened. “Y/N, I’m heading to bed. You turn in soon, okay?” An older woman’s voice reached Sanzu’s ears and he stayed completely still as you leaned over his body even more to hide him completely. If your mother knew you had snuck a boy into your bed, she would probably have a heart attack right on the spot. Hell, you felt like you were going to have one as you beamed at your mom from across the room. “Yes mam, I love you, goodnight.” This seemed like enough for satisfy your unaware mother and she wished you goodnight before exiting your room, locking the door behind her, how she knew you liked it. “You didn’t lock the door…,”Sanzu muttered, pushing the blankets off his head and sitting up in your covers. If you were anyone else, he would have rang your throat out for shoving him down the way you had. “Oops?”, You gave him a apologetic smile, noticing the way his jaw twitched in annoyance before he began to slowly push you back down into the bedding, straddling your waist again. "You're lucky you're cute....".

Kazutora

Golden eyes watched you from the small crack in the closet door, waiting as whoever had come in, retreated out of the room with heavy footsteps. You looked so cute in your night gown, nervously playing with the pretty ties on it while lying to protect him. He waited a few seconds as he listened to whoever had come in, make their way down the hallway, before pushing open the closet door and stepping out of the small room. “Was that your father coming to check on you? ”He tilted his head and approached the door, locking it carefully before looking back at you. “Mhm, he was saying goodnight.” Kazutora couldn’t help the smile that crept across his face as he looked at you, there was something so exciting about the idea of being a unwelcomed guest in your house. That your father cared so much as in to come make sure you were all safe and alone before going to sleep. “Good, that means we should be clear for the night.” The tiger like man stepped towards you, taking some of the fabric of your nightgown in his hands and lifting it up. “Kazutora!”, you protested quietly, grabbing at his hands. He looked back up at your face with a grin, eyes twinkling with playfulness. “What? You look so good in it…I wanted to see what else you had on.” He suddenly scooped you up from under your thighs, catching you off guard as he carried you towards your bed. “Let’s play around, m’kay?”.

Inui

“One more time…”, You spoke in a whiney tone as you affectionately pulled at Inui’s shirt, trying to stop him from climbing out your window. He sighed softly, his breathe was visible in the cold air from the open window and you could only admire the way his hair blew slightly in the breeze. His eyes slowly rested on you, soft and somber as always, he didn’t want to leave you. He knew how much you relied on him and he wanted to be there more for you, but your parents hated delinquents and didn’t allow him around. “Come here…one more time.” You shivered when his cold hands made contact with your cheeks, cupping your face and pulling you closer to him. His lips were always so soft and sweet, the feeling of his mouth against yours was enough to keep you warm, even if the moment was short lived. He nipped at your bottom lip, making you giggle, before pulling away again, one of his thumbs caressing your cheek. “That’s enough…I have to go. No more…”, he shut down the beginning of your continued protests, swinging one leg over your window sill. “I promise I’ll come and see you soon, goodnight.” Even with the way your heart ached at his departure, you couldn’t not return his contagious smile, watching as he slowly climbed down the side of your house.

[jaxfluff]

Tokyo Revengers + Them sneaking in your window / part I

Part I / Part II

Cw: Hanma being sexual, nothing else.

Includes: Reader x Hanma, Reader x Mikey, Reader x Smiley, Reader x Rindou.

Description: Exactly what the title says, all character are over the age of 18, despite this being a mostly sfw piece.

Notes: I made MYSELF fall in love with Smiley.

Rindou

“Quit pulling.” Rindou gritted his teeth in response to the way you were pulling at the sleeves of his muted light blue hoodie. He could have swore you were actually trying to get him killed with how you kept tugging at him while he tried to hoist himself over the window sill. Your eagerness was adorable, it was something he has always admired about you, but if you didn’t stop, he was sure that he was a dead man. “Okay, Okay. Just hurry up!” You backed away from your boyfriend, rushing him in a hushed tone. Every once in awhile you would glance back towards your door, prepared to shove him back out the window the moment someone came knocking. Rindou swung his second leg over the window sill and slipped inside your room, being immediately greeted with your grabbing hands all over him. “Y/n!” He hissed in response, trying to fix his glasses before his lips were sealed in a needy kiss, impatience getting the better of you. How could you resist your grumpy boyfriend when he made such cute faces?

Hanma

“Missed me?”, he was already teasing you and he wasn’t even in your room yet, tossing his legs over your window sill and finding his footing on your cozy rug. “Sorry about being late, Kisaki needed to run a few things by me. It was hard to pay attention to anything he said, all I could think about was getting my hands all over you and taking-.” You rushed forward and covered his mouth in a panick, face starting to burn. “Don’t say things like that, idiot.” You muttered, meeting his eyes that twinkled with mischief and satisfaction. Hanma enjoyed nothing more than teasing you and watching the way you squirmed in response, he never got sick of the way you would scold and shush him. You slowly pulled your hand away from his mouth, glancing back at your bedroom door. “My parents would disown me if they saw you here, so don’t cause any trouble Shuji.” Hanma smiled down at you, enjoying the risk of the situation and the way you were still avoiding his gaze. “I can’t promise you anything, baby.”

Mikey

Mikey barely said a word as he crawled into your window, eyes drooping as he dragged his feet across your carpet. “Mikey-,” you weren’t even able to get a word out before he collapsed into your arms, both of you falling back onto the bed. This was the real Manjiro Sano, you knew that as well as Draken and Emma did. He acted tough in front of his gang, playing the role of the invincible Mikey, but you knew that he was secretly just a big old baby. “Tired?” You cooed softly, running your fingers into his fluffy blonde locks. He answered you with a small nod, arms finding their way around your waist and pulling you tight to his chest, burying his own face in your neck. Nights like these, you didn’t actually get to talk or catch up with your delinquent boyfriend, but you didn’t mind. He needed the sleep and you were more than willing to keep him comfortable while he dozed off in your warm embrace. “My big baby.”

Smiley

You shushed your boyfriend as he grinned at you through squinted eyes, holding your favorite stuffed bunny by its ears. “Nahoya!” You snatched your precious plushy away from his grabby hands, holding it to your chest. “Can you chill for one moment? And stop beating up my stuffed animals when I walk out of the room.” Smiley continued to beam at you, watching the way you carefully began to rearrange your stuffed animals back into position. “That one looked at me funny, I had to show him who runs shit.” You once again glared at him, unimpressed by his vulgarity. “No he didn’t, these are my babies. They’re our babies.” You climbed onto your bed to finish putting them back in their spots, Smiley approaching and leaning over them. “Oh, well I gotta toughen em up. It’s a cruel world out there.” He began to reach for one and you were quick to block his arm. “No you don’t! They are babies, and will always be babies.” You used your body to block them, scooting in front of him so he couldn’t grab at them. Smiley couldn’t help but get a kick out of teasing you, he thought it was cute how protective you were over your plushies. “This one looks like a natural born fighter.” His arm attempted to go around you a final time, motioning towards your frog plush. “Smiley!”, You grabbed onto his arm, pulling him forward onto the bed and trying to wrestle him away from the stuffed animals you had just fixed. He began to laugh a bit as he easily overpowered you, pushing you down onto the blankets. The small wrestling match was interrupted by a sudden knock on the door and both you and your orange haired boyfriend exchanged a panicked look.

[jaxfluff]

see you again in the next life 👋 🐠

[jaxfluff]

me when the READER in the X READER has a name:

like babe the fic ate but i do NOT look like an Aurora🙁

[jaxfluff]

Since you requested this, I present some Lyney angst.

After Lyney stood you up on your date for the umpteenth time for Lumine, you begin to reevaluate whether continuing the relationship is worth it.

Your decision is finally made when you end up spending your anniversary alone; you begin to remove yourself from Lyney's life. You stop going to his and Lynette's performances, you completely change your daily routine just to avoid the twins, you even stop going out on 'date nights'.

After a while, you make the decision to completely disappear from Lyney's life... By leaving Fontaine and moving to Liyue where your maternal cousin, Ying'er.

It is only after Freminet lets it slip that he saw you by a Waverider Point did Lyney realize that he hadn't seen you for a while. He hurries to your house, but it's already too late; you were long gone and the only thing left in the house was a box containing every present he had given you.

AN: My tears were my dinner for tonight. I blame you for it :| Reblogs are much appreciated.

Pairing: Lyney x f! reader

Words: 7450

CW/TW: neglect, insecurities, regrets, jealousy, ghosting, angst (no comfort)

PART 2

header art credit

Just a Lumidouce Bell

Am I still not worth that much? I'm sorry for the way my life turned out. Sorry for the smile I'm wearing now, guess I'm still not good enough....

Amidst the muted elegance of Hotel Debord, you sat alone at a table, an island of solitude amidst the bustling symphony of clinking glasses and hushed laughter. The warm ambiance of the place seemed to mock your anticipation, and your fingers tapped rhythmically on the tablecloth. It had been two hours already – two hours of watching the seconds on your watch crawl by like wounded insects. Your fourth glass of Fonta stood empty, a testament to the passage of time, or rather, the lack thereof. The soft glow of the chandeliers cast gentle halos on the faces of the diners around you, their conversations forming an indistinct hum in the background. Each passing minute weighed on you like an anchor, dragging your hopes deeper into the abyss of disappointment. You glanced at the waiter who had been keeping a sympathetic eye on you, his understanding smile only amplifying the emptiness settling in your chest. With a sigh that felt like the release of a heavy burden, you motioned him over and requested the bill.

As you absently traced the rim of your glass, your thoughts turned to the painful cycle that seemed to have gripped your relationship. Lyney's absence on countless dates had gradually eroded the foundation of trust and affection between you two. The memory of his excuses and empty promises lingered like an unwanted ghost, haunting the corners of your mind.

The waiter returned with the bill, and you settled it with a mix of resignation and quiet determination. Leaving the table behind, you stepped out into the Fontaine night, where the chill wind embraced you like a forsaken lover. The sky above was a tapestry of melancholic gray, and the air carried the scent of rain, as if even the heavens were in mourning. A bitter smile tugged at your lips as you recalled the old tale whispered by the Fontaine residents – the legend of the hydro dragon's tears. They said that when the dragon cried, it rained in Fontaine, as if the very essence of the city wept. Tonight, however, it seemed that the tears were not exclusive to the hydro dragon. The world around you felt like a reflection of your own shattered hopes and unspoken fears.

How many times had you stood at this precipice, hoping against hope that Lyney would emerge from the shadows, apologizing and promising change? Yet, tonight marked the culmination of a painful decision you had been grappling with for a while. You cast one last look at the hotel's entrance, where the promise of Lyney's arrival had withered into nothingness. With a heavy heart, you turned away, your footsteps carrying you through the quiet streets of Fontaine.

In the aftermath of another painfully unattended date, your thoughts traced back to when the shift in your relationship with Lyney had begun. It was a time when a fabled traveler named Lumine had graced Fontaine with her presence, a time of both salvation and unintended consequence. Lumine had arrived in the city just in time to quell the storm of false accusations that threatened to engulf Lyney and his sister Lynette, accusations that had cast a dark cloud over the opera house they held dear.

As Lumine recounted the events that had unfolded, her words were a lifeline thrown to the twins. Paimon, her ever-loyal companion, had echoed the sentiment, and together, they wove a narrative that exposed the fabrications that had threatened to unravel Lyney and Lynette's reputation. You had stood on the fringes of the courtroom, your heart a conflicted battleground.

But the moment of salvation was soon tainted by the truth Lumine unearthed – the revelation that Lyney and Lynette were entwined with the Fatui, the very organization that had sown chaos and discord throughout the world. The atmosphere in the room shifted from relief to palpable tension. You watched as Lumine's expression twisted from compassion to betrayal, her gaze hardening as she stared at the twins. It was as if a chasm had opened between the savior and the saved. Lyney's eyes, once bright with hope, dimmed with the weight of regret and shame. In that pivotal moment, alliances shifted and perspectives changed, leaving an indelible mark on all involved. You, a silent spectator in this theater of emotions, had nudged Lyney to make amends, to bridge the gap that Lumine's revelation had torn open. The bonds that formed in the midst of adversity were often the strongest, and it seemed only fitting to build bridges and show gratitude.

However, as time unfolded, what had begun as a well-intentioned bridge-building exercise had evolved into something more complex. Lyney's interactions with Lumine deepened, and the lines between friendship and something more nebulous blurred. The halo of Lumine's presence cast a shadow on your once-intimate moments, like a third party in a relationship that was never meant to be.

Lyney's attention, once solely yours, had now shifted toward Lumine and Paimon’ s needs. Expeditions and adventures seemed to beckon him at every turn, each one carried out with an enthusiasm you had once known so intimately. It was as if you were watching a play from the wings, a play in which you had once held a starring role but now struggled to find your place. The weight of his absence settled heavily on your heart, a void that grew with each time he disappeared without a word. He accompanied Lumine on explorations, embarked on quests at her side, and even ventured into realms unknown, all while leaving you in the silence of unfulfilled plans. The intimacy you had once shared was overshadowed by a gnawing ache, an ache that whispered of betrayal and abandonment, even as you fought to quell those feelings. You had whispered to yourself that you were overreacting, that this was the product of insecurity and nothing more. The sting of neglect seeped into your heart, slowly but surely, and you struggled to reason with the feelings of jealousy and hurt that began to fester.

You remember that one evening, you had been sharing dinner with Lyney and his sister, Lynette. The conversation had flowed in fits of banter and laughter until it had inevitably veered towards Lyney's grand finale, a spectacle involving Lumidouce Bells cascading from the opera house ceiling like sparkling confetti.

The exchange between the siblings was a dance of words, a playful sparring that masked a deeper sentiment. "Oh come on, Lyney. Lumidouce Bells again? I thought you'd go for something truly unexpected, like Rainbow Roses. I mean now that you’ve given Lumine one." Lynette had teased, her grin a sly challenge.

Lyney had laughed, a light in his eyes. "Well, Lyn, sometimes the unexpected is what leaves the most lasting impression. And besides, Lumine seemed to appreciate it."

The exchange between the siblings was a lighthearted banter, but its impact on you was far from trivial. A faint wave of jealousy surged within you, unnoticed by anyone but yourself. Rainbow roses – a symbol of affection and love, yet they had never graced your presence. You swallowed the emotions that threatened to spill forth, battling the thoughts that questioned your own worthiness. Had you not been special enough to deserve such a gesture? Were Lumidouce bells all you were worth to him? When had the gift of rainbow roses become Lumine's privilege, while you stood on the periphery?

With a determined exhale, you pushed the memories away, the sound of your footsteps against the cobblestones echoed beneath your weight. The decision had begun to take shape, a fragile ember of strength ignited within the recesses of your heart. It was time to create distance, to let the echoes of your absence resonate in the spaces Lyney now shared with Lumine. Maybe, just maybe, he would realize the chasm that had formed between you two, a rift born of neglect and unspoken yearnings.

You recalled the moments when you had attempted to bridge the growing gap between you and Lyney. The conversations, the attempts at understanding, all seemed to dissolve in the face of his apologetic smiles and kind words. He would express remorse for his actions, his absence, and offer promises of change, but those promises seldom materialized into action. The disconnect between his words and actions cast a shadow of disillusionment over your heart, and the ache of feeling unheard and unseen grew heavier with each passing day. There were nights when you would pour your feelings out, laying bare the loneliness that gnawed at your soul, and he would listen with attentive eyes and a sympathetic touch. His reassurances would wrap around you like a fragile cocoon, and in those moments, it felt like you were understood. But as the days flowed into nights, those assurances would dissipate, leaving behind the cold residue of his absence.

Amidst these tumultuous emotions, you had set your sights on your anniversary, hoping against hope that it would serve as the turning point. It was a date pregnant with the weight of your relationship, a day that would mark whether the bonds between you and Lyney were still strong enough to weather the storm that Lumine's presence had unleashed. With a heavy heart and the weight of uncertainty on your shoulders, you had decided to give it one last chance, to see if he would rise to the occasion and mend what was frayed. The thought of your anniversary, the day that marked the culmination of your journey together, tugged at your heart as you walked through the moonlit streets. The cobblestones beneath your feet seemed to whisper tales of past celebrations, of shared laughter and stolen kisses. The memories were a tender reminder of what had once been, and your steps grew heavier with the weight of the decision you knew you had to make.

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The opera house stood before you, its grandeur illuminated by the soft glow of golden lights that lined its entrance. The air buzzed with anticipation, the energy of the audience seeping into the night. As you approached the entrance, your heart quickened with a mixture of hope and trepidation. This was the night of Lyney's show, a night that held the potential to mend the fractures in your relationship. You clung to that hope, even as doubts gnawed at the edges of your resolve.

As you stepped closer, a man stationed at the entrance regarded you with a look that spoke of impatience.

"I'm sorry, miss, but I can't let you in without a ticket," he said curtly, his tone devoid of empathy.

You blinked, taken aback by his dismissal. "But I should be on the list. I'm a VIP for Lyney's show," you protested, your voice quivering with a mix of frustration and desperation.

The man raised an eyebrow, his skepticism evident. "And what makes you a VIP?"

You struggled to keep your composure, your voice cracking as you responded, "I'm Lyney's girlfriend, and I've always been there to support his magic shows."

He let out a scoff, a condescending smirk playing on his lips. "Lyney's girlfriend, huh? I've heard that one before. If that were true, you should have been on the list. But you're not."

Stubbornness fueled your determination as you planted your feet by the entrance, watching as people with tickets were allowed to pass. Your heart clenched with every person that walked by, their laughter and excitement cutting through your resolve like a knife. You were holding on, holding on to the belief that Lyney's promise to change, to prioritize you, wasn't just empty words. Then, your gaze shifted, catching sight of a familiar figure – Lumine, accompanied by the ever-cheerful Paimon. They approached the entrance, their presence a stark contrast to the turmoil in your heart. The man stepped in their way; his voice curt as he asked for their names to check the list.

Paimon’ s voice chimed, "We should be on the list! We're VIPs!"

The man scanned the list, his expression changing to one of recognition. With a nod, he granted them entry, opening the door with a polite gesture. The interaction was swift, seamless – a confirmation of their privileged status.

Your heart dropped like an anchor, the realization hitting you like a wave crashing against the shore. Lumine, the fabled traveler who had unwittingly become a central figure in your heartache, was being welcomed with open arms. The same arms that seemed closed off to you.

Lumine's gaze shifted, her eyes meeting yours. She smiled warmly, her voice carrying through the air, "Hey, why don't you join us inside? It'll be fun!"

You managed to conjure a smile, but it felt like a mask stretched too thin. Your head shook slightly, a half-hearted refusal escaping your lips. "I appreciate it, but I have some errands to run, and I'm running late. Enjoy the show!" The lie tasted bitter on your tongue, but it was a necessary shield to protect yourself from the vulnerability that threatened to spill forth. Before Lumine could insist further, you turned away, hurrying from the opera house entrance. Tears welled in your eyes, a torrent of emotions threatening to drown you. How could he? How could Lyney forget your name on the list? Was it a thoughtless oversight or a deliberate omission? Each step you took away from the grand entrance echoed the rhythm of your heartache.

As you walked away from the opera house, your heart weighed down by the fresh wound of rejection, your thoughts turned to the looming anniversary. Just one more week, and it would mark the day you had set your sights on, hoping against hope that it could breathe life back into the fading embers of your relationship. You had planned it meticulously, each detail chosen with care, envisioning a day where the two of you could finally address the growing chasm between you. Lyney had promised he'd be there. He had assured you that he wouldn't let anything get in the way, that this date would be different. You clung to those words, the memory of his sincerity a beacon of light in the darkness of your doubts.

But now, with the fresh wound of being excluded from his show, you wondered if there was even a point to it all. Could this relationship withstand the storm that Lumine's presence had brought? Could Lyney truly change, or were his promises just empty words, blowing away with the wind? As the moon hung high in the sky, its silvery light casting a gentle glow over the city, you quickened your pace. The aquabus was waiting, its doors open, ready to carry you away from the scene of your shattered expectations. You stepped aboard, the soft hum of the engine a soothing backdrop to your tumultuous thoughts. The seats felt cold against your skin as you settled in, the world outside passing by in a blur of lights and shadows. The gentle lapping of water against the boat's hull seemed to echo the rhythm of your heart, both steady and uncertain. The city's lights danced on the water's surface, mirroring the dance of emotions within you. Your gaze remained fixed on the horizon, your thoughts a whirlwind of hopes and fears. You had invested so much into this relationship; into the memories you had shared and the dreams you had woven together. But now, those dreams seemed fragile, like delicate glass ready to shatter at the slightest touch.

-----------------------------------

The rain fell in relentless sheets, soaking you to the bone as you stood before Lyney's home. In your hand, you clutched a bouquet of rainbow roses, their vibrant colors dulled by the downpour. It was impossible to tell if the water streaming down your face was tears or rain, the two merging seamlessly in the haze of your hurt and frustration. With trembling fingers, you knocked on the door, each tap a testament to the storm raging within you.

The door creaked open, revealing Freminet, Lyney's shy and quiet brother. His expression was a mix of reluctance and confusion as he regarded you.

"Can I help you, (y/n)?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

You struggled to keep your voice steady, your heart hammering in your chest. "Is Lyney home? I need to talk to him."

Freminet's confusion deepened, his brows furrowing. "Lyney's not here. He went out somewhere, and I don't know when he'll be back."

The weight of disappointment settled on your shoulders, a heavy burden that threatened to crush you. You managed to offer a weak smile; your gratitude sincere even in the face of your own pain. "Thank you, Freminet."

Turning away from the door, you walked back into the rain-soaked streets, the bouquet of roses now a poignant symbol of unfulfilled hopes. Your footsteps were heavy, each step echoing the ache in your heart. The plan had been simple – a picnic date in the picturesque mountain ranges of Elynas. You had arrived with a heart full of anticipation, bearing gifts, a lovingly prepared meal, and a bouquet of rainbow roses. But as hours turned into a day, all that greeted you was the relentless downpour. The sun had set by the time you had decided to confront Lyney directly. It was your anniversary, a day that was meant to celebrate your love and connection. Instead, it felt like a cruel reminder of the growing chasm between you. Your emotions were a tempest, a maelstrom of hurt, anger, and betrayal. The wind seemed to mirror your turmoil, howling through the city's streets.

As you walked back home, your clothes clinging to your skin, you spotted a scene that shattered what little was left of your resolve. There, at a bakery, stood Lyney and his sister Lynette, laughter and mirth in the air. And standing beside them was Lumine. You covered your mouth to stifle the sobs that threatened to escape, your willpower barely containing the torrent of emotions within you. The weight of the past weeks, the unfulfilled promises, and the pain of your anniversary – it all crashed down in that moment. You felt like an outsider, a shadow lingering on the fringes of their happiness. With a heavy heart, you turned away, your footsteps carrying you into the night. Each step was a heartbeat of agony, your soul aching with every footfall. The city's lights blurred through your tear-streaked vision, the raindrops masking your tears. Each footfall was a heartbeat of agony, your emotions raw and uncontained. The city around you seemed to blur, the rain masking the tears that fell from your eyes. In the quiet solitude of your home, the pain became a living thing, an ache that seeped into your very being. The anniversary that was meant to be a turning point had instead become a breaking point. And as you lay in your bed, tears staining your pillow, you couldn't shake the feeling that something fundamental had shattered beyond repair.

Back in the solitude of your home, the pain became palpable, a living entity that refused to be ignored. Sleep eluded you, the darkness of the night only amplifying the darkness within your heart. Your mother's words echoed in your mind, a whisper of wisdom that you couldn't ignore. It wasn't right to stay in a place where you no longer felt welcome, and this relationship had become exactly that. The pain, the heartache, it was a weight you could no longer bear. Sleep never came that night. Instead, you lay there, tears staining your pillow, the echoes of shattered dreams reverberating through your thoughts. The decision had crystallized – it was time to quietly exit Lyney's life. The pain was too deep, the hurt too raw, and the love you once shared felt like a distant memory. As the night stretched on, you found solace in your mother's words, a bittersweet reminder that sometimes, leaving was the only path to healing.

In the days that followed, the pain remained a constant companion, an ache that settled deep within your heart. You made a silent decision to gradually withdraw from Lyney's life, the weight of unfulfilled promises and shattered dreams urging you to seek distance.

You found yourself avoiding the places where Lyney and Lynette performed. The familiar auditorium that once echoed with applause and magic now held too many memories tainted by disappointment. The sound of applause felt like a mocking reminder of the applause you had given him, the cheers that had always been for him but had never seemed to reach your ears. Your daily routine underwent a transformation, as if you were trying to rewrite the narrative of your life. Mornings were no longer marked by the smell of coffee brewing and the anticipation of the day ahead. Instead, you woke up to the quiet embrace of solitude, your footsteps leading you away from the places that held too many memories. The cafe you used to frequent was now replaced by a new haunt, where the barista didn't know your name or your story.

If anyone dared to bring up Lyney's name, you became evasive. Each inquiry felt like a dagger, a reminder of the pain you were trying to heal from. You mastered the art of changing the topic, a skill born out of necessity. When friends asked about him, you would smile and steer the conversation toward safer waters, your heartache hidden beneath a facade of normalcy. In every action, every choice you made, your quiet withdrawal from Lyney's life became more pronounced. There was the evening when you saw a poster advertising a new magic show by the twins, and you deliberately turned away. You didn't want to see him in the spotlight, a place that once held so much allure but now felt tainted by unfulfilled promises. Then there was the day you walked by the park where you had shared laughter and secrets, and instead of walking through it, you chose to take the longer route. The thought of stumbling upon him, of facing the painful truth of his absence, was a fear you couldn't bear.

The change was reflected in your living space. Photographs that had once adorned the walls were now tucked away in boxes; memories sealed away like precious relics. The pillow that once held the scent of shared dreams was replaced, the fabric absorbing the salt of your silent tears.

In moments of solitude, you found yourself haunted by memories. The sound of his laughter, the touch of his hand – they had become ghosts that whispered in the corners of your mind. Each time you felt the urge to reach out, you clenched your fists and reminded yourself of the pain that lingered beneath the surface.

And yet, despite your efforts, there were times when the walls you had built crumbled, and the anguish within you threatened to spill over. You would catch a glimpse of something that reminded you of him – a street magician performing tricks, a rainbow after a storm – and your heart would ache with a bittersweet mix of longing and resentment.

Despite your quiet exit, the silence from Lyney's side was deafening. It had been two weeks since the anniversary, and the absence of his presence was another knife that gutted you. Your withdrawal had been a decision to protect yourself, to heal from the wounds that had been inflicted, but it hadn't alleviated the pain. Fontaine, once a place of shared memories and dreams, had become tainted by the echoes of a love that hadn't stood the test of time.

The decision for a fresh start had been a gradual realization, a seed planted in your heart that had grown into an unwavering resolve. You couldn't continue to live in a place that held too many memories, too much pain. So, you made the monumental choice to leave Fontaine behind, to start anew in Liyue, where your maternal cousin, Ying'er, lived. The preparations had been meticulous. Each step, from packing your bags to selling belongings that held too much sentimental value, had been a farewell to the life you were leaving behind. The pictures that once adorned your walls, the trinkets that had once been gifts from Lyney – they were now memories stored in boxes, reminders of a past that you were letting go of. The decision was both liberating and heartbreaking, a duality that you carried with you as you stood at Romaritime Harbor.

The day had finally arrived, the culmination of weeks of quiet planning and emotional preparation. The ship that would take you to Liyue loomed before you, a vessel of possibilities and new beginnings. You hadn't informed anyone of your plans, not even Lyney. The only connection you had maintained was through the letters exchanged with your cousin. The details had been carefully arranged, and your goods were already on the ship, waiting to carry you toward your future. All you had was your backpack and a small travel bag, each item carefully chosen for its practicality and necessity. Your heart felt heavy as you stared at the ship, your emotions a whirlwind of anticipation and trepidation. The bustling harbor, with its scent of salt and sea breeze, seemed to mirror the churning sea of emotions within you.

The moments before you finally boarded felt surreal. You were on the cusp of a new chapter, a story yet unwritten. The bustling activity of the harbor was a stark contrast to the stillness within you. You took a deep breath, the cool air filling your lungs, and with that breath, you let go of the pain, the hurt, and the unfulfilled promises that had weighed you down. The ship's horn sounded, a deep, resonant note that seemed to echo through your very being. With determined steps, you walked toward the gangplank, your heart pounding in rhythm with the steps you took. As you crossed the threshold onto the ship, the world behind you blurred, and the world ahead held a promise of healing, growth, and a chance at finding yourself again.

----------------------

Lyney's nimble fingers worked swiftly, carefully packing away his props and magical tools backstage after yet another successful magic show. The applause from the audience still echoed in his ears, a reminder of his talents and the connection he had with his spectators. His assistants were bustling around him, the energy backstage almost as electrifying as the performance itself.

"Great job, everyone!" Lyney cheered, his smile genuine as he patted one of his assistants on the back. "That was a fantastic show."

The assistants shared relieved and satisfied smiles, their camaraderie evident in their interactions. As Lyney continued to pack his bags, he noticed his younger brother, Freminet, approaching him. However, Freminet's expression was slightly different – a mix of hesitation and something that seemed like offense.

Lyney furrowed his brows, curiosity piqued. "Hey, Freminet, what's wrong?"

Freminet glanced around to ensure they had a moment of privacy before speaking in a hushed tone. "Lyney, did you find someone else to help gather materials for the magic pockets?"

Lyney's confusion deepened, his brow furrowing further. "What do you mean? I've been waiting on you to give me the materials for making the magic pockets."

Freminet's expression softened, a touch of embarrassment coloring his cheeks. "I must have misunderstood, then. I saw... I saw (y/n) at the Romaritime harbor, and I thought... I thought you had found someone else to help…."

Lyney's confusion deepened, his thoughts racing to make sense of the situation. "Wait, (y/n) was at the harbor? What was she doing there?"

Freminet shrugged, his voice soft as he apologized. "I'm sorry, Lyney. I didn't mean to jump to conclusions. It's just... I saw her, and I thought maybe she was there to help distribute the magic pockets."

Lyney's brow furrowed further, his concern growing. Why would you be at the harbor? The pieces of the puzzle didn't fit together in his mind. He clenched his jaw, trying to suppress the unease that threatened to bubble up.

Just then, a new assistant who was in charge of entrance and security approached, a curious expression on their face. "Lyney, who's (y/n)? I heard you mention their name."

Lyney's gaze flicked to the assistant, his heart skipping a beat at the mere mention of your name. He took a deep breath, steadying himself before he answered. "(y/n) is my girlfriend."

The assistant's face turned pale, a sudden shift in the atmosphere that Lyney couldn't quite place. Before he could inquire further, another assistant named Fabien chimed in, breaking the tension. "It's been a while since we saw (y/n) at the shows, hasn't it?"

Lyney's brow furrowed again, and he absentmindedly placed his fingers under his chin, a thoughtful gesture as he considered Fabien's words. It had been some time since you had appeared in any of his shows. Something wasn't adding up, and he couldn't ignore the gnawing feeling of unease.

As if sensing Lyney's thoughts, Jerome, the assistant who had asked about you, hesitated before speaking. "Lyney, I might have messed up."

Lyney turned his attention to Jerome, his eyes narrowing as he asked, "What do you mean?"

Jerome shifted uncomfortably, clearly troubled by whatever revelation he was about to share. "A few weeks ago, a woman named (y/n) came by during the performance at the Opera House. She told me that she was your girlfriend, but her name wasn't on the VIP list. I... I didn't let her in."

Lyney's eyes widened, shock and disbelief mingling on his face. "Wait, you're saying that (y/n) came to one of the shows, and you didn't let her in?"

Jerome nodded, his expression apologetic. "I'm sorry, Lyney. I just thought... I didn't want to go against protocol."

Lyney's eyes widened in shock, a gasp escaping his lips before he could stop it. It couldn't be possible that your name wasn't on the list. He had never excluded you from his shows before. The realization hit him like a physical blow, his heart pounding in his chest.

Serge, another assistant, chimed in, his voice carrying a mixture of matter-of-factness and concern. "Yeah, it's true. (y/n)'s name hasn't been on the VIP list for the past few shows."

Lyney's mind raced, piecing together the puzzle with growing dread. If your name hadn't been on the VIP list, it meant that you hadn't been attending his performances. But why? He couldn't comprehend why you wouldn't have been there. And then, Serge's words hit him like a lightning bolt, igniting a whirlwind of emotions he hadn't expected. Between all the chaos related to the prophecy, to the primordial sea, the fatui, he had forgotten to give your name once and the list had never been updated since then. "Why didn't you bring this to my attention, Serge?"

"I just assumed you and (y/n) broke up," Serge said, his tone apologetic. "Especially since you've been getting closer to Lumine lately."

Lyney felt like the ground had been pulled from beneath him. The assumptions, the misunderstandings – they were crashing down around him, leaving his heart in tatters. He wanted to protest, to explain that there was nothing between him and Lumine, that his heart still belonged to you. But the words caught in his throat, suffocated by the weight of his own silence.

Lynette's comforting hand on his shoulder brought Lyney back from the turmoil of his thoughts. Her touch was gentle, a silent reassurance that he wasn't alone in this. He met her gaze, his eyes filled with a mix of pain and regret, and she offered him a sympathetic smile.

"(y/n) will understand," she said softly, her voice carrying a soothing melody. "Misunderstandings happen, Lyney. You should talk to her and make it right. Maybe take her on a nice date, show her how much you care."

Lyney's gaze was distant, his thoughts a turbulent whirlpool. Make it up to you... The words echoed in his mind, and he suddenly realized how long it had been since the two of you went on a proper date. Months, it had been months. And then, like a punch to the gut, the memory hit him like a tidal wave. He had become so caught up in the chaos of his life – the prophecy, the secrets of the primordial sea, the Fatui's plans – that he had let something as important as your relationship slip through the cracks.

The anniversary... it had been a few weeks ago, and he hadn't been there. He hadn't kept his promise to be by your side. He clenched his jaw, the weight of his own neglect and forgetfulness crashing down on him. He remembered the day clearly now, how he had been sidetracked by Lumine's confession about never having eaten a croissant. It had led to a whimsical food adventure with Lumine and Lynette across Fontaine. He had lost track of time, of the significance of the day, as laughter and the joy of the moment had carried him away. He couldn't believe he had forgotten such an important day. The day that marked the beginning of your relationship, the promise of a shared journey. How could he have allowed himself to be so careless, so thoughtless? The realization was a knife in his heart, and he felt a heavy sense of regret settle over him like a shroud.

Lyney's mind raced with a newfound determination as Lynette's words echoed in his ears. He couldn't let this misunderstanding fester any longer. He had to make things right, to find you and explain, to apologize for his neglect. The realization of his mistakes had taken a toll on him, and he couldn't bear the thought of you feeling abandoned. You deserved better than that, and he was determined to show you just how much he cared.

Without a second thought, he left the backstage in a hurry, the urgency of his actions fueled by regret and love. He berated himself mentally for letting you down, for not being there for you when you needed him the most. You, who had embraced every part of him – his past, his affiliations with the Fatui, his ambitions, and his bond with Lynette. You had accepted him with open arms, without any grand expectations. The memories of your unwavering support, your soothing words, and your warm presence flooded his mind, adding fuel to his determination.

The path seemed endless as he ran, his heart pounding in his chest not only from the physical exertion but from the fear of what he might find. He had taken you for granted, assuming you would always be there, believing that your bond was unbreakable. But now, he was faced with the possibility that he had pushed you away, that you might have left because of his own mistakes. The image of you, the warmth of your smile, your unwavering support – it all flashed before his eyes as he reached your home. His breath was ragged as he halted in front of the door, his hand poised to knock. But before he could make contact, his heart sank at the sight before him. The door was slightly ajar, swinging open with an eerie quietness that set his nerves on edge.

He pushed the door open wider and stepped inside, calling out your name in a voice that betrayed both desperation and hope. "(y/n)?"

The sight that greeted him was nothing short of a gut-wrenching shock. The living room, once filled with warmth and memories, now lay barren and empty. The walls that had once held photographs and decorations were bare, the echoes of your presence erased from every corner. His breath caught in his throat, his chest tightening as his eyes landed on the center of the room. Everything was gone. All that remained was a solitary box in the center of the living room, accompanied by a dried bouquet of rainbow roses.

Lyney's fingers trembled as he reached for the dried bouquet of rainbow roses. His heart felt heavy as he carefully picked it up, his gaze fixated on the attached card. The edges of the card were slightly crinkled, and he noticed that it had been exposed to moisture before, the ink smudged in places. His chest tightened as he read the words, the sentiment behind them hitting him like a tidal wave.

"In a meadow full of Lumidouce Bells, you are my Rainbow Rose."

The corners of his lips twitched as he saw the lipstick stain in the shape of your lips, a bittersweet reminder of the affection you had poured into this note. And then, his eyes focused on the date below the message – the date of your anniversary. The realization hit him like a punch to the gut. This was the gift you had prepared for him, the gesture of love that he had so conveniently forgotten.

His stomach churned with nausea, regret, and self-loathing. How could he have been so blind, so absorbed in his own world that he had overlooked something as important as your anniversary? He swallowed hard, his throat dry as he placed the bouquet and the note gently to the side of the box, a mixture of reverence and guilt in his touch.

With hesitant hands, he opened the box, revealing its contents – a treasure trove of memories that he had unknowingly neglected. Trinkets, photographs, tokens of your shared journey. His fingers trembled as he reached for a small jar filled with dried Lumidouce Bell petals – from the very flowers he had given you after his magic tricks, a gesture that had turned into a tradition between you. His heart ached as he held the jar, each dried petal carrying a memory, a moment of joy and connection.

His fingers continued to explore the contents of the box, pulling out gifts that he had given you. Each memory resurfaced as he sifted through the box, his fingers brushing against trinkets, photographs, and gifts that once held a special place in your hearts.

A perfume bottle – a fragrance that had always reminded him of you. He could almost smell the subtle floral notes as he held it in his hands, a memory of the times you had embraced him, your scent mingling with the magic of the moment.

Earrings – he remembered the way your eyes had lit up when you had opened the box containing them. He had chosen them carefully, wanting them to be a reflection of your uniqueness, just like the love you shared.

A soft shawl – he recalled draping it over your shoulders during chilly evenings, the two of you huddled close together as you watched the stars. The shawl had become a symbol of the warmth you brought into his life.

His gaze shifted to the photographs, memories frozen in time. Pictures of him and you, smiles and laughter shared in moments that now felt distant yet vivid. Some photographs included Lynette and Freminet, reminders of the bonds that were important to you as a couple. He traced his fingers over the images, his heart aching with the weight of his regret.

But there was more in the box, a neatly wrapped package that drew his attention. His heart skipped a beat as he unwrapped it, revealing a new pair of gloves and a magician's cane. His initials and yours were engraved on the base inside a heart, a symbol of the love that had once burned brightly between you. He remembered the times he had performed magic tricks for you, the way your eyes had lit up with wonder and amazement. He recalled the joy you found in those moments, and he felt a lump form in his throat as he realized how much he had taken that happiness for granted. He could almost hear your voice, the excitement as you had presented him with the gift, the promise that you would always support him in his endeavors.

Tears welled up in Lyney's eyes as he held the magician's cane, his grip tight as if he could somehow hold onto you through it. He could feel the weight of his own mistakes pressing down on him, the ache in his chest almost suffocating. His gaze fell to the bottom of the box, where a note lay tucked away. With trembling fingers, he picked up the note, his heart pounding in his chest as he read the words.

"In a meadow full of Lumidouce Bells, you were my Rainbow Rose. But in the end, I was just a Lumidouce Bell."

The words were stained with tears, a stark reminder of the pain and heartache you must have felt. He clenched his fist, the note crumpling slightly in his grip. How had he let things come to this? How could he have pushed you to a point where you felt like you were just another fleeting moment in his life? He had hurt you deeply, and it was his fault that you had felt pushed aside and abandoned. The guilt and self-hatred were almost suffocating, his breath coming in ragged gasps as he imagined the pain you must have experienced.

Without another moment's hesitation, Lyney stood up, the cane still clutched tightly in his hand. He had to find you, he had to make things right. The thought of you being in pain, feeling betrayed and alone, was unbearable. He rushed out of the house, the echoes of the memories still ringing in his ears as he made his way to the aquabus that would take him to the Romaritime harbor.

The journey felt like an eternity, each passing second a reminder of the time he had wasted, the moments he had missed. He trembled with fear and anxiety, his heart pounding as he thought about what he would say to you if he found you. Would you even be willing to listen? Would you give him a chance to make amends?

As the aquabus docked at the harbor, Lyney's heart raced even faster. He rushed off the boat, scanning the area desperately for any sign of you. He asked bystanders, his voice a mix of urgency and desperation, but no one seemed to know where you were. Panic gnawed at his insides as he realized that you were truly gone, disappeared without a trace. He stumbled towards the docks; his vision blurred by tears. The water stretched out before him, a vast expanse that mirrored the emptiness he felt inside. He dropped to his knees, his fingers gripping the edge of the dock as he stared out at the water. He felt a surge of rage and self-loathing, his heart consumed by a storm of emotions. How could he have allowed this to happen? How could he have hurt you to the point where you felt like you had no choice but to leave?

The pain was almost physical, a crushing weight that settled over his chest, making it difficult to breathe. He stared out at the water, his vision blurred by tears, his thoughts filled with memories of you – your laughter, your smile, the warmth of your embrace. He had taken it all for granted, assuming you would always be there. And now, he was faced with the harsh reality that he had pushed you away, that he had lost you. As the water lapped against the shore, Lyney's heart felt as though it was shattering into a million pieces. He clung to the cane he still held in his hand; his knuckles white from the force of his grip. He had always been the magician, the one performing tricks and illusions, making things appear and disappear. But now, it was he who was left with a vanishing act – you, the most important part of his life, had disappeared, slipping through his fingers like sand. It was a cruel twist, a bitter taste of his own medicine.

A voice echoed in his mind – Lynette's words about misunderstandings, about making things right. But how could he make things right when you were nowhere to be found? How could he apologize and explain when he didn't even know where you were? The uncertainty gnawed at him, the fear that he might never get the chance to tell you how sorry he was, how much he loved you. He wished he could perform a real magic trick, make you reappear in front of him, hold you in his arms and tell you how much he needed you. But life wasn't a magic show, and the consequences of his neglect were painfully real. He had failed you, failed to protect the love you had shared, and now he was left with the emptiness of your absence. The realization hit him with a brutal force – you were truly gone, and he had no one to blame but himself.

Taglist: @hiraethsdesires; @sailorstar9; @aerithsthingss

(p.s - there is another Lyney oneshot I am working on which i mentioned in one of my posts. Please let me know if you want to be tagged on that one and no it isn't a part 2 for this one.)

PART 2

[jaxfluff]

Finally found it after so long of looking for it 😣😣

Not Just a Lumidouce Bell

AN: Y'all. The support and requests for this was insane. Everyone had their own opinions of how it should go and I know this is going to disappoint quite a few of you. Maybe we will have an alternative endidng? Idk we'll see. Reblogs are much appreciated.

Pairing: Lyney x f! reader

Words: 9770

CW/TW: neglect, insecurities, regrets, jealousy, ghosting, angst, depression

AN: Here's an amazing fanart drawn by @icezeebee based on the part 1 and part to of the fic - Fanart. Please go show them some love and tell them how awesome they are!!!

header art credit

That's why we parted, from our ways to heal our souls. I'm a small town miserable man that does what he can.

PART 1 | PART 2 - Not Just a Lumidouce Bell

In the bustling heart of Liyue Harbor, you stood amid the aromatic symphony of fragrances that filled your workshop. The air was alive with a myriad of scents – floral notes intertwining with earthy undertones, creating a sensory tapestry that reflected the essence of your journey. Rong Hao, one of your loyal employees, had just finished packing a substantial order for the prestigious Goth Grand Hotel in Mondstadt. The rustling of paper and the careful placement of delicate bottles provided a rhythmic background to your conversation.

"Rong Hao," you called, your voice carrying a quiet authority as you approached him. He turned towards you, a respectful nod on his face as he listened attentively. "We've worked with Goth Grand Hotel before, and I want to make sure we continue fostering a strong partnership with them. Can you include a few samples of the new air fresheners Ying’er’ s developed? It would be a thoughtful gesture to show our appreciation."

Rong Hao's lips curved into a small smile; his understanding evident in his eyes. "Of course, (y/n). Ying’er’ s air fresheners have been quite popular, and I'm sure the hotel will appreciate the gesture."

As he continued with the meticulous task of packaging, your thoughts briefly wandered back to the past three years. After leaving Fontaine behind, Liyue had welcomed you with open arms, and you had embarked on a new chapter of your life. The art of perfume-making had beckoned to you, a legacy passed down through your mother's family. Guided by your cousin Ying'er, you had delved deep into the craft, discovering the nuances of blending scents and creating harmonious fragrances.

Ying'er had proven to be a patient and knowledgeable teacher, and under her guidance, you had not only mastered the art of perfumery but had also ventured into the realm of skincare products. The fusion of scents and skincare had been an ingenious concept, and slowly but surely, it had gained popularity in Liyue. Over the past year, your business had started expanding its reach beyond the borders of Liyue, reaching out to other nations within Teyvat.

The workshop itself was a testament to your dedication. Shelves lined with beautifully crafted bottles of perfumes and skincare products gleamed under the soft glow of lanterns. Aromatic herbs and flowers adorned various corners of the room, infusing the air with their natural fragrances. The scent of bergamot, intertwined with the warm embrace of sandalwood, enveloped the space, creating an ambiance of tranquility and creativity.

With Rong Hao finishing the packaging, you offered him a grateful smile. "Thank you, Rong Hao. Your efficiency is truly an asset.”

Just as he was about to depart, you paused him with a thought. "Wait, Rong Hao. Since tomorrow is Lantern Rite Festival, why don't you take the rest of the day off for today? Enjoy the festivities and the lanterns."

Rong Hao's eyes lit up with surprise and gratitude. "Thank you so much, (y/n). I truly appreciate it."

Just as he was about to leave, a cheerful jingle of bells heralded the entrance of two familiar figures. Ying'er and her boyfriend Timaeus entered hand-in-hand, their laughter carrying a contagious joy. Ying'er had a handful of envelopes, and she approached you with an eager grin. "Hey, (y/n)! Look what I've got!"

You returned her smile, curious. As she handed you a few envelopes, your fingers brushed against the paper, feeling the delicate texture beneath your touch. One envelope, however, stood out – intricate and adorned with a shimmering golden seal. Ying'er placed it in your hand, excitement gleaming in her eyes. "This one is special. It was given to me by one of Lady Ningguang’s assistants. They asked me to pass it to you."

You studied the envelope with a mix of curiosity and intrigue. Its ornate design held an air of importance, and you carefully opened it, savoring the moment. The paper felt delicate between your fingers as you unfolded the contents. The elegant script inside held a message that caught your attention, capturing the essence of its sender.

It was an invitation from Lady Ningguang’s, the illustrious Tianquan of the Liyue Qixing. She had invited you and a plus one to the Culture Extravaganza that was to take place at the prestigious Yuehai Pavilion, just before the release of lanterns. The invitation carried an air of sophistication and honor, and your heart quickened at the recognition.

As you shared the news with Ying'er, her eyes sparkled with delight. "Oh, (y/n), this is incredible! To be recognized by Lady Ningguang’s herself is a tremendous honor!"

A thought crossed your mind, and you turned to Ying'er with a warm smile. "Would you like to join me? It would be wonderful to have you by my side."

Ying'er's eyes softened with gratitude, and she shook her head gently. "Thank you, (y/n), but Timaeus and I have plans for tomorrow. He arranged for a date on a boat so we can enjoy the lanterns together."

Timaeus rubbed the back of his neck with a sheepish grin. "Yeah, I thought it would be a great opportunity for us to experience the festival from the water."

You couldn't help but chuckle at their sweet interaction. "Well, in that case, I hope you both have an amazing time."

You couldn't help but feel a pang of loneliness as you watched Ying'er and Timaeus exchange affectionate glances and laughter. Their presence radiated a warmth that you found bittersweet. As they stood hand-in-hand, sharing a tender moment, a small smile played on your lips, even as a twinge of yearning tugged at your heart. Ying'er and Timaeus were a picture of happiness, their camaraderie evident in their gestures. With a playful grin, Timaeus extended his hand towards Ying'er, and in response, she handed him one of the envelopes, her eyes sparkling with delight. As he playfully pretended to examine the contents of the envelope with exaggerated curiosity, you couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle. They were undeniably cute together, their companionship evident in the shared laughter that filled the air.

Your fingers found solace in fidgeting with the ring on your ring finger, a piece of advice that Ying'er had shared with you. It was meant to ward off unsolicited advances, especially during the Lantern Rite Festival when tourists often targeted local women. While the festival brought joy and unity, it also attracted those looking for romantic connections, something you hadn't quite found in the past three years. As your fingers traced the smooth metal of the ring, your thoughts turned to the past three years. Establishing your life in Liyue had been your main focus, and it left you with little time to delve into romantic pursuits. The memories of your time with Lyney lingered in your heart, his absence leaving an indelible mark on your emotions. Every attempt at building connections with potential partners seemed to fall short, as if a silent comparison with the memory of Lyney loomed over each interaction.

You longed for companionship, for someone to share moments like this with – moments that were filled with laughter and affection. A wistful sigh escaped your lips as you watched Ying'er and Timaeus, your heart yearning for a connection as genuine as theirs. The festival atmosphere seemed to heighten your sense of longing, emphasizing the solitude that occasionally crept into the corners of your heart.

In the past three years, you had encountered Lumine and Paimon once again. Like clockwork, they would join the Lantern Rite festivities in Liyue each year. The small world you lived in became even smaller as you discovered their acquaintance with Timaeus and Ying'er. Despite your longing, you held no animosity towards Lumine; in fact, you had confided in her about your decision to relocate to Liyue, begging her to keep your secret from Lyney. Lumine's understanding nature had led her to respect your wishes, and she refrained from bringing up any stories related to the Fontaine siblings.

You held the elegant envelope from Lady Ningguang in your hand, your fingers tracing over the intricate writing that adorned its surface. The delicate texture of the paper beneath your touch carried an air of importance, and you marveled at the craftsmanship that had gone into creating such a stunning piece. The shimmering golden seal caught the light, its brilliance reflecting the honor that came with the invitation. Ying'er's stories about the event rushed to the forefront of your mind. She had attended one of these events in the past, back when they were held in the Jade Chamber. Her raving reviews had painted a vivid picture of elegance, sophistication, and cultural appreciation. Now, you found yourself on the brink of experiencing this grand occasion firsthand, and excitement bubbled within you.

With the day's tasks still ahead of you, you busied yourself by tending to accounts, interacting with customers who frequented your workshop. As you skillfully managed the balance between overseeing the store and addressing customer inquiries, you ushered Ying'er and Timaeus out of the shop, encouraging them to make the most of their time together. Their laughter and happiness were infectious, and you found a smile tugging at your lips as you watched them leave. Amid the hum of activity, you also attended to the packing of orders that were destined for various corners of Teyvat. It was a testament to the success you had achieved in these three years, the fruits of your dedication to your craft and the support of your loyal customers.

The day of the festival arrived, and with it came a sense of anticipation that hung in the air like a gentle breeze. The doors of your workshop remained closed in honor of the occasion, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Liyue Harbor. The festive spirit was palpable, the entire area transformed into a vibrant tapestry of colors, sounds, and scents. You ventured out into the heart of the harbor; your senses overwhelmed by the delightful chaos that surrounded you. The tantalizing aroma of street food wafted through the air, tempting your taste buds and drawing you towards the bustling food stalls. The sizzle of skewers and the rhythmic clatter of pots and pans provided a lively rhythm to the festivities. Street performers of all kinds captivated the crowd – acrobats defying gravity, musicians coaxing melodies from their instruments, and dancers weaving tales with their graceful movements. Laughter and applause echoed through the streets, creating an atmosphere of shared joy and celebration.

As the sun began its descent, casting a warm and golden hue over the harbor, a sense of excitement coursed through your veins. The anticipation of the Culture Extravaganza at Yuehai Pavilion filled the air like a tangible energy, drawing you closer to the heart of the event. Holding the elegant envelope that held your invitation, you made your way through the bustling crowd, guided by the soft glow of lanterns that lined the path. Upon arriving at the entrance of the event location, you presented your invitation to the vigilant Millelith guards stationed there. Their respectful nod and warm smiles indicated that your presence had been acknowledged. One of the guards graciously guided you towards your designated seat, weaving through the sea of elegantly dressed guests. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of anticipation, a collective eagerness to partake in an evening of culture and unity.

Taking your seat, you found yourself beside none other than Hu Tao, the 77th Director of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, and her knowledgeable employee and consultant, Zhongli. With polite smiles, you exchanged greetings with them, appreciating the opportunity to share this occasion with individuals of such distinct expertise and charisma. As the seats around you gradually filled, the air seemed to buzz with conversations and whispers, each guest bringing their own unique perspective and excitement to the event.

As the event commenced, a hush fell over the audience, the collective attention fixated on the stage before them. The first performance, a mesmerizing Liyue opera piece by Yun Jin, began to unfold. The delicate strains of traditional instruments blended with Yun Jin's powerful voice, weaving a narrative that resonated with the very essence of Liyue. The audience was enraptured, their breaths held as the melodic storytelling wove a tapestry of emotions and cultural significance. The atmosphere within the pavilion was electrified with emotion. The audience reactions were a symphony in themselves – gasps of awe, whispered commentary, and nods of appreciation rippled through the crowd. As Yun Jin's final note hung in the air, the entire pavilion erupted into a thunderous applause, a standing ovation that served as a testament to the impact of her performance. The air seemed to vibrate with appreciation, the collective emotion of the audience mirroring the beauty of the opera piece.

The momentum continued as the event flowed seamlessly into the next performance – a captivating dance from Inazuma. The dancers moved with a grace that seemed almost ethereal, their movements telling a story of their homeland, its traditions, and its unique cultural tapestry. As the dance unfolded, the atmosphere shifted once again, embracing the elegance and intricacy of Inazuma’ s culture. The audience's reactions were as diverse as the performances themselves. Whispers of awe and admiration floated through the air, mingling with the soft rustle of fine fabrics and the occasional murmur of agreement. The collective energy of the audience remained palpable, connecting every guest in a shared experience of appreciation and wonder.

The echoes of the applause for the Inazuman dancers had just faded when a familiar voice, rich and melodious, echoed through the venue, commanding the attention of every guest present. "Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests," the voice declared, its tone carrying a blend of confidence and charisma, "the performances you've witnessed thus far have been a feast for your eyes and ears. But what you are about to experience will immerse all your senses in a world of wonder and enchantment." The words hung in the air, teasing the audience's curiosity and anticipation.

Your heart skipped a beat as you recognized the voice, the sound of it igniting a rush of emotions within you. As the spotlight illuminated the center of the stage, your gaze was drawn inexorably toward it, and there he stood – Lyney. His presence was magnetic, and the years that had passed had only refined his charm. His wide smile seemed to embrace the entire audience, his gaze warm and inviting. He bowed gracefully, acknowledging the applause that greeted his introduction. "I am Lyney," he began, his voice carrying the confidence of someone accustomed to captivating audiences, "and I am a magician from Fontaine." The words were spoken with a measured cadence, each syllable resounding with a sense of familiarity and novelty all at once. It was him – the man whose memory had lingered in your heart, the one whose absence had left an indelible mark on your emotions.

Amid the mix of emotions that surged within you, a soft exclamation of "Oooh, a magic show!" came from none other than Hu Tao, her excitement evident in her tone. Her words seemed to break through the trance that had settled over you, reminding you that you were present in this moment.

Your heart raced as you remained frozen in your seat, your gaze fixed on Lyney as he commanded the stage with his presence. The audience around you were abuzz with anticipation, the collective energy almost tangible. A mixture of nostalgia and longing stirred within you, memories and emotions intertwining with the present.

Lyney's show began with a touch of classic magic – a dove pulled from a hat, its wings unfurling as it soared into the air, symbolizing the very essence of magic itself – the art of making the ordinary extraordinary. His voice, a symphony of confidence and charm, resonated through the pavilion as he introduced the trick. "Ladies and gentlemen," he proclaimed, "while this may be a trick you've seen before, remember that at its core, magic is about making things appear and disappear at will."

The audience watched in awe as Lyney continued to perform various tricks, each one more enchanting than the last. Coins vanished and reappeared, silk scarves transformed into liquids, and playing cards defied gravity as they danced through the air. His lines were delivered with a magnetic flair, drawing the audience into his world of illusion. "Now, my friends, watch closely. Believe in the impossible, for in that belief, magic truly comes to life."

Laughter and gasps of amazement filled the air as Lyney engaged the audience, involving them in his tricks. He exchanged playful banter with volunteers, leaving them astounded by his skill and wit. Amid the magic, you found yourself caught between the desire to be drawn into the spectacle and the instinct to remain inconspicuous. You held your breath, your heart pounding, as Lyney's performance continued to unfold. "Imagine," he mused, his gaze sweeping over the crowd, "that reality itself is a stage, and we are all players in a grand performance." The sense of wonder in his words resonated with everyone present, drawing them deeper into his performance. He involved the audience in various tricks, seamlessly integrating their reactions into his narrative.

In one instance, he produced a silk scarf, drawing it through his fist only for it to emerge as a string of colorful flags. "Life is like a tapestry," he said, his voice both poetic and whimsical, "woven with threads of experiences and moments." He glanced at a young child in the front row, involving them in the act, eliciting laughter and applause.

"Flowers," Lyney began, "have been an integral part of magic shows for centuries. They embody the beauty and transience of life." He produced a Windwheel Aster seemingly out of thin air, handing it to a guest from Mondstadt. "A symbol of elegance and grace," he said with a smile, the lily blooming like a promise in the guest's hand.

He continued his floral theme, drawing a Glaze Lily from nowhere, presenting it to Yun Jin, who had been seated among the audience after her breathtaking performance. "A tribute to the harmony of cultures," he remarked, the lily a token of appreciation and recognition.

And then came the Sakura confetti, a shower of delicate petals that enveloped the Inazuman dancers who had joined the audience. The petals caught the light as they drifted, creating an ethereal atmosphere. "A celebration of unity," Lyney declared, his words uniting the audience in a shared experience of joy and camaraderie.

With a smile that held a world of memories, he walked toward you. His voice, soft and filled with meaning, rang through the pavilion. "While Teyvat boasts a kaleidoscope of beautiful flowers, in an orchid full of them, there will always be only one that draws my heart." The anticipation in the air was palpable as he walked toward you, the crowd parting as if in reverence of the moment. He extended his hand, a bouquet of Lumidouce Bells materializing in his grasp. "Lumidouce Bells," he said with a smile, the words carrying a depth of meaning that only the two of you could understand.  With bated breath, you watched as Lyney, with a smile that held a myriad of emotions, leaned forward and whispered in your ear, "Found you." His words resonated like a secret shared between two souls.

As he handed you the bouquet of Lumidouce Bells, his touch was gentle yet charged with a significance that sent a shiver down your spine. Just as your fingers were about to close around the bouquet, you noticed a flicker in his expression – a falter in his smile and a tremble in his hands. Your heart raced as you accepted the bouquet, his touch lingering for an extra moment before he stepped away, returning to the center of the stage to conclude his performance. Despite the impressive tricks that followed – cards transforming into butterflies, objects levitating – there was a subtle shift in his energy. The enthusiasm that had marked the beginning of his show seemed to dim, replaced by a quiet intensity that spoke of unspoken emotions.

The audience remained awestruck by the death-defying tricks, their gasps and applause punctuating each moment of wonder. But as Lyney took his final bow and left the stage, you sensed a wistfulness in his gaze as he cast one last look in your direction. The connection between you was undeniable, a thread that had persisted through the years and found its way to this moment.

As you settled back into your seat, clutching the bouquet of Lumidouce Bells, your fingers brushed against a small card hidden amidst the delicate blooms. Carefully extracting it, you unfolded the note to reveal words that seemed to dance off the page.

“You're not merely just a Lumidouce Bell, but you are MY Lumidouce Bell, an incandescent presence that casts a gentle and enduring fragrance upon my senses. Its beauty, a tapestry woven into eternity, outshines even the rainbow roses, mere pretenders swathed in the guise of lilies. Much like me, entwined in the delicate masquerade of existence.”

The note continued, inviting you to meet him at Chihu Rock just before the release of the lanterns. As you looked around at the vibrant tapestry of colors, scents, and emotions, the anticipation of the evening's culmination filled you – a culmination that promised to bring closure to what had been left unspoken for far too long.

---------------------------------

Lyney's hands held the porcelain pot filled with a soft-scented cream, its fragrance wafting delicately through the air. But it wasn't the cream itself that had caught his attention; it was the intricate decorative motif that adorned the pot. A side-profile silhouette of a woman holding a Glaze Lily in her right hand – it felt oddly familiar, like a whisper from the past that stirred memories within him.

His brows furrowed as he gazed at the motif, a sense of recognition tugging at his thoughts. Why did this remind him of you? As he stared at the motif, his mind raced back to a moment in time, a fragment of a memory that surfaced like a whisper in the wind. He remembered you, sitting across from him on one of your dates. It was a simple evening at a quaint cafe, where the laughter and conversation flowed freely. He had been fascinated as you sketched something on a paper napkin, a beautiful illustration of a woman holding a Lumidouce Bell in her hand. The design had struck him then as both charming and creative.

And now, as he looked at the pot's motif, he couldn't help but see the striking similarities. The pose of the woman, the delicate flower – it was as if your illustration had come to life in the most unexpected way. His heart raced as he fished out a paper napkin from his wallet, a napkin he had secretly pocketed on that very night. He unfolded it with careful hands, revealing the sketch that had captured his attention all those days ago. Comparing the drawing on the napkin with the motif on the pot of cream, there was no doubt about it. The designs were uncannily similar – almost like pieces of a puzzle that had fallen into place. His pulse quickened, his mind racing to unravel the connection, to make sense of the serendipity that had woven itself into this moment.

His heart surged with determination, his gaze seeking out Lynette. He rushed toward her, a sense of urgency pushing him forward. "Lynette!" he called out, his voice carrying a tone of desperation.

Lynette turned to him; her expression curious as she raised an eyebrow. "Lyney? What's got you so worked up?"

Breathing slightly faster, Lyney gestured toward the porcelain pot he held. "Where did you get this cream? The one with the Glaze Lily motif?"

Lynette glanced at the pot, then back at him, her expression shifting to one of surprise. "Oh, that? It's not mine, Lyney. It's Freminet's."

Lyney's brows furrowed in confusion. "Freminet's? Are you sure?"

Lynette nodded, a bemused smile tugging at her lips. "Yeah, I'm sure. I mean, I've seen him use it before."

Lyney's mind raced as he processed the information. The motif on the pot, your illustration on the napkin – they couldn't be mere coincidences. The connection was too strong, too intimate to be dismissed. He looked back at the pot, his gaze lingering on the silhouette of the woman holding the Glaze Lily.

Time seemed to stretch as Lyney waited for Freminet to return home, his thoughts consumed completely by you. It had been three years since you left – three years since he had failed you, hurt you with his neglect. Those years had carried the weight of regret and longing, each day a reminder of his own shortcomings. Lyney's life had never been easy, marked by the trials of Fontaine and the looming threat of the prophecy. Even in the midst of these challenges, losing you had been one of the most painful experiences he had to deal with.

He remembered how he had wanted to search every nook and corner of Teyvat for you, to find you, to make amends. But Fontaine's mission, his duty, had taken precedence. "Father" had set a path before him, and Lyney had followed it. Even after the mission's completion, he had continued his search for you with the help of the Fatui. He wasn't sure what he was hoping to find – an address, a name, any trace of your existence. But each lead turned cold, and the void of your absence seemed to deepen with every passing day. Loneliness had become a constant companion, an ache that never quite left. It had haunted him, a ghost that whispered in his ear, a constant reminder of the pain he had inflicted.

The cream in his hand became a symbol of the past and the present, of missed opportunities and second chances. As he waited for Freminet, he felt the weight of the years that had passed. Memories of you were both a comfort and a torment, the warmth of your presence and the ache of your absence intertwined. Lyney's heart clenched as he recalled the laughter you shared, the moments of tenderness and joy. How he had allowed that to slip through his fingers, he could never forgive himself. The thought of you disappearing without a trace had left a void that nothing could fill.

As he stood there, lost in his thoughts, a sense of longing overwhelmed him. His assistants, ever well-intentioned, had tried to lift him from his slump over the years. They had orchestrated meetings with different women, hoping to redirect his focus and mend his wounded heart. But each attempt had only stoked the fire of his anguish. The very idea of anyone else in your place felt like a betrayal, a mockery of the bond he had shared with you. He had lashed out, his anger and pain spilling over, berating his assistants for their misguided efforts.

"I don't want a replacement," he had exclaimed one night, his voice laced with frustration. "I need her. I need (y/n), okay? No one else can fill the void she left behind."

The stages of grief had woven themselves into his life, each emotion an ache that settled deep within him. Denial had been his initial response, clinging to the hope that you would return, that the chasm between you could somehow be bridged. He had walked past your favorite cafe, caught glimpses of people who bore a resemblance to you, only to have the illusion shattered each time. Anger had surged when he caught the scent of your perfume in passing, a memory that had buried itself in the fabric of his life. He had shouted at the wind for playing cruel tricks, for conjuring fragments of you only to snatch them away. Bargaining had consumed him in the quiet hours of the night, as he tossed and turned in his empty bed. In those solitary moments, he had whispered promises to the void, pledges to mend what had been broken if only he could have another chance. Depression had visited him often, its weight pressing on his chest, making each breath a struggle. His days had been marked by a sense of hollowness, a numbness that refused to lift. The pain had become physical, a dull ache that throbbed with each beat of his heart.

And then there were the nights – long, torturous nights that were haunted by nightmares of you. He would see you hurt, your eyes filled with disappointment, your voice echoing with unspoken reproach. Other times, his enemies would appear in his dreams, threatening to harm you in ways he couldn't prevent. The helplessness he felt in those dreams mirrored the helplessness he felt in reality. The fear that he could no longer protect you had become a relentless specter, leaving him waking in cold sweats.

And through it all, your memory remained a beacon of light in the darkness. He would close his eyes and see your smile, hear your laughter, feel your touch as if you were standing right beside him. The ache of your absence was a reminder of the love he had lost, a love he would do anything to reclaim. In the midst of his pain and longing, one thing was clear – he didn't want to spend another moment without you. If given the chance, he would never let you go, never let you feel inadequate, never make you feel his absence. He would cherish every moment, hold you close, and never allow the distance to creep in again.

As he stood there, lost in the whirlwind of his thoughts, the door opened, and Freminet returned. The man's presence broke through the haze of Lyney's emotions, and he forced himself to focus on the present. The revelation of the cream's origin was a clue, a thread to follow, a path that might lead him back to you. With determination in his eyes, Lyney turned his attention to Freminet, his heart and mind aligned in their purpose.

"Freminet," Lyney began, his voice steady despite the turmoil within him. "Where did you get this cream from?"

Freminet stammered, his eyes widening slightly as he tried to process Lyney's intense gaze. "Uh, well... I've been diving a lot lately, and my skin started to dry up really bad. So, I read this article on Steambird, you know? They recommended this new moisturizer that was… uh… imported from Liyue."

Lyney's heart quickened at the mention of the article. It was a thread, a connection, something to hold on to. "Do you still have a copy of that article?" he asked, his voice eager.

Freminet nodded, a touch of curiosity in his eyes as he disappeared briefly and returned with the newspaper. Lyney took it from him and began to skim through the pages until he found the article in question. The words on the page spoke of a new skincare brand that had been gaining popularity in Liyue and was slowly making its mark across Teyvat. He read that the product was not readily available in Fontaine due to import costs, and it was being sold exclusively in Romaritime Harbor.

A surge of anticipation coursed through Lyney's veins. Romaritime Harbor in Fontaine was not far from where he stood. Could this be a sign? Could you be in Liyue? His heart raced with the possibility, and he knew he had to find out for sure. He looked up at Freminet, his eyes determined.

"Thank you, Freminet," Lyney said sincerely, his gratitude shining through his gaze. "This means a lot to me."

Freminet offered a small smile, though confusion lingered in his expression. "Uh, you're welcome, Lyney. But, uh, can I ask why this is so important to you?"

Lyney's lips curved into a bittersweet smile. "This might be the clue I've been waiting for. Thank you, brother."

Freminet nodded, a warm smile crossing his features. "Of course, Lyney. If there's anything else I can do to help..."

Lyney's gaze was resolute as he responded. "There is. I need to meet with 'Father.' It's time to put our resources to use, to verify something important."

Freminet's expression shifted to one of understanding, his eyes reflecting the gravity of the situation. "I'll make the arrangements," he said, his voice steady.

With a sense of purpose, Lyney turned and left Freminet's shop, his heart filled with renewed determination. The cream, the Glaze Lily motif, the connection to Liyue – they were all pieces of the puzzle that were leading him back to you. As he made his way to meet "Father," his steps were guided by hope, by the prospect of mending what had been broken, and by the overwhelming desire to find you once again.

--------------

Backstage at the Lantern Rite festival, Lyney stood with Lynette and his assistants, a flurry of emotions swirling within him. The festival was in full swing, the air alive with the vibrant energy of the celebration. His heart beat like a drum in his chest as he took in the flurry of preparations around him. Lynette and his assistants were nearby, their presence a reassuring anchor in the midst of the bustling atmosphere. Memories flooded his mind as he glanced at the lanterns that adorned the area, their soft glow casting a warm and inviting ambiance. He remembered how you had wished to witness this festival, to experience the beauty of your mother's home, the place she had left behind to create a life with your father. It was an event that held deep significance for you, and he had listened with rapt attention as you described every detail. The lanterns, the colors, the sense of unity – they were all part of the tapestry of your stories. And now, standing in the midst of it all, he felt your absence keenly.

He knew that you were here, among the esteemed guests of the Liyue Qixing. He had pulled several strings to make it happen, with help from Charlotte, Lumine, and Paimon. The favor he held with the Tianquan, thanks to his connection with Lumine, had smoothed the way for your presence. The pieces were falling into place, the stage was set, and all that remained was the grand reveal of his discovery of you.

As the Inazuman dancers finished their mesmerizing performance on the stage, the crowd erupted into applause. The energy in the air was palpable, a mix of excitement and joy. But for Lyney, the anticipation had a different edge. He knew that his turn was approaching, the moment when he would step onto the stage. His heart pounded even harder as he adjusted his attire, his mind racing with thoughts of you. It had been over three years since he had last seen you, and the prospect of finally reuniting filled him with both hope and trepidation. Would you still be the same? The memory of your smile, your laughter, the way you looked at him – they were etched into his mind. Would you be happy to see him, or would the distance that had grown between you overshadow the reunion? The uncertainty gnawed at him, a persistent anxiety that he couldn't shake. The stage lights flickered, signaling that his moment was drawing near. As the applause for the dancers began to fade, he exchanged a glance with Lynette and his assistants, their encouragement a silent reassurance. The stage was now his, the spotlight waiting to illuminate his discovery, his determination, and his longing.  "Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests," He spoke with confidence that masked his inner turmoil. "The performances you've witnessed thus far have been a feast for your eyes and ears. But what you are about to experience will immerse all your senses in a world of wonder and enchantment."

With a deep breath, he stepped forward, his heart in his throat. The crowd's attention shifted to him, their murmurs quieting in anticipation. The lanterns cast a warm and gentle glow upon him, creating an almost ethereal aura. His steps were measured as he walked onto the stage, his eyes scanning the faces in the crowd. He knew you were among them, somewhere, watching. "I am Lyney," he began, his voice carrying the confidence of someone accustomed to captivating audiences, "and I am a magician from Fontaine."

 As he continued speaking, his eyes scanned the expectant audience, searching for a face he hadn't seen in years. And then, as if drawn by an invisible force, his gaze locked onto you. Your presence was a radiant beacon in the sea of faces, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. He couldn't deny the rush of emotions that flooded him at the sight of you.   You looked just as beautiful as he remembered, if not more. You were adorned in a traditional festival attire, every intricate detail woven with elegance and grace. Delicate jewelry adorned your neck and wrists, shimmering with every move you made. The lantern light caught the glint of the jewelry, creating a soft halo around you. Your lips were parted in genuine surprise, your eyes widening as you took in the unexpected sight of him on stage.

 His heart swelled at the sight of you, a mix of longing, love, and a touch of sorrow washing over him. He wanted nothing more than to rush toward you, to gather you in his arms and hold you close. But he couldn't – not just yet. The show had to go on, and Lyney was, at his core, a performer. He understood the power of a well-executed act, the art of weaving emotions through illusions. He knew he had to convey his message to you through his performance, to let you know that he had found you, that he was here, that he still cared.

He moved with grace and precision, each movement deliberate and purposeful. He conjured illusions that mesmerized the crowd – fireworks that appeared from nowhere, a cascade of shimmering lights that danced around him, and moments of suspended reality that left everyone in awe. And all the while, his eyes kept finding you in the crowd, his performances a message meant only for you.

"Flowers," Lyney began, his voice carrying a melodic cadence that resonated through the air, "have been an integral part of magic shows for centuries. They embody the beauty and transience of life." He conjured a Windwheel Aster with a flourish, presenting it to a guest from Mondstadt. As he handed over the delicate bloom, a smile graced his lips, and the Windwheel Aster became not just a flower, but a token of elegance and grace, blooming like a promise within the guest's grasp. His performance continued, seamlessly entwining the theme of flowers. From the vast expanse of his magical repertoire, he conjured a Glaze Lily, extending it towards Yun Jin, the performer who had graced the stage with her captivating artistry. The lily symbolized more than its physical form—it was a tribute to the harmonious fusion of cultures, a testament to appreciation and acknowledgment. Then came the crescendo of his floral spectacle, the Sakura confetti that cascaded from above, a shower of delicate petals that seemed to suspend time itself. Each petal caught the light, creating a tapestry of ethereal beauty that enveloped the Inazuman dancers who had joined the audience. "A celebration of unity," Lyney declared, his words uniting the hearts of the crowd in shared exhilaration and camaraderie.

A pause lingered in the air, heavy with anticipation, as Lyney's gaze found you. “While Teyvat boasts a kaleidoscope of beautiful flowers, in an orchid full of them, there will always be only one that draws my heart." His steps, guided by a sense of purpose, carried him toward the individual who held his heart. As he moved, the crowd seemed to part as if in reverence of the unfolding moment. The weight of his words hung in the atmosphere, laden with a depth that only the two of you could fathom. His hand extended, and with a flourish, a bouquet of Lumidouce Bells materialized in his grasp. Lumidouce Bells, chosen not just for their beauty, but for the significance they held between the two of you. A smile that spoke volumes graced his lips as he regarded you, and his words held a world of shared history and emotion. "Lumidouce Bells," he repeated, a simple phrase that contained a universe of unspoken sentiments.

With every eye upon him and every heartbeat suspended in the air, Lyney took a step forward, closing the distance between you. As he leaned in, he was teased with the familiar scent of you. "Found you," he whispered.

And then, the moment arrived. With an outstretched hand, he offered the bouquet to you, a silent invitation that held a universe of meaning. Your hand reached out, fingers brushing against the delicate petals, and for an instant, time seemed to hold its breath. His eyes fell upon the ring adorning your finger, a glint of gold that sent a shockwave through his heart. A ring. The sight of it felt like a dagger piercing through him. Someone else had managed to find their way into your heart during the years he had spent searching for you, longing for you. The pit in his stomach deepened, a chasm of anguish that threatened to swallow him whole. His hand trembled imperceptibly as you took hold of the bouquet, his touch lingering a moment longer than necessary. He wanted to etch this fleeting connection into his memory, to savor the sensation of your touch before letting go.

It was a cruel twist of fate – he had finally found you, only to discover that you were no longer his to hold. With a heavy heart, he managed to plaster a smile across his face, a facade that concealed the tempest raging within him. He stepped back, retreating from the threshold of what could have been, what should have been. With a determined stride, he returned to the center of the stage, his heartache masked by the resilience of a performer. The show must go on, regardless of the chaos that threatened to unravel his thoughts. The next phase of his performance involved feats of daring magic – illusions that defied logic and challenged reality. He summoned flames that danced at his fingertips, conjured illusions that seemed to play with the fabric of space itself, and performed tricks that left the crowd in awe. Each act carried a deeper layer of emotion, each illusion a reflection of the turmoil within him. His eyes kept meeting yours throughout, and with every exchange, it felt like his very being was disintegrating, his emotions laid bare for you to see. The heartbreak was a constant undercurrent, but he continued, the echoes of his actions weaving a bittersweet symphony that only you and he could comprehend.

And then, as his final act approached, he knew that the time for his performance was drawing to an end. The climax of his act involved a seemingly death-defying escape, an illusion that left the crowd breathless. His movements were precise, each gesture a calculated step toward a climactic moment. And as he emerged unscathed from the shackles that had bound him, the audience erupted into a standing ovation, their cheers like a chorus that resonated with his own tumultuous emotions. With Lynette and his assistants by his side, they took a bow, the applause like a crescendo that filled the air. But beneath the facade of the performer, Lyney's heart was heavy with the weight of what could have been. The applause faded, and as he stepped off the stage, his footsteps were laden with remorse and sorrow. The energy that had fueled his performance now felt like an anchor, dragging him down into the depths of his own emotions.

"Lynette," he whispered as they retreated backstage, his voice cracking with the weight of his emotions. She turned to him; concern etched on her features. "I need a moment," he managed to say, his voice betraying the anguish he fought to conceal.

With the echoes of the applause still ringing in his ears, Lyney found himself making his way through the lantern-lit streets of Liyue City. The cacophony of joy and celebration seemed distant, as if separated by an insurmountable divide. His steps were heavy, his thoughts a whirlwind of emotions that threatened to consume him. The warmth of the lanterns that once held so much wonder now felt like a mockery of his own turmoil. He had asked you to meet him at Chihu Rock before the lanterns were released into the night sky. But now, as he climbed the steps that led to the rocky peak, his heart weighed down by uncertainty.

Would you even show up to the place he had suggested? Would you be there with the new person who had become the recipient of your love? The thought was a dagger in his heart, a painful reminder of what he could have prevented, the pain he could have spared you. Did you now make omelets just the way he liked them – sunny side up with the edges slightly burnt? Did your new love also get to experience the warmth of your smile as you closed your eyes and laughed, allowing your scrunching nose to be kissed affectionately? He recalled other little quirks – the way you hummed when you were lost in thought, the way you always saved the last piece of dessert for him even if you pretended to be full, and the sound of your laughter that could light up even the darkest corners of his heart. The images tormented him – soft, intimate moments that he had once cherished, now twisted by the possibility of being shared with someone else. These questions, these thoughts, they were all blades that cut through him, leaving wounds that no magic could heal.

And yet, he found himself on the peak of Chihu Rock, overlooking the city bathed in the glow of the lanterns. He waited, his heart a maelstrom of emotions. Maybe it was futile, he thought. Perhaps you wouldn't come. Why would you even want to meet him, the one who had let you slip through his fingers? Minutes stretched into an eternity, each second filled with the anticipation of your arrival. Why was he still here? He didn't know. What would he say if you did come? He had no idea. But one thing was clear – he needed to apologize. Apologize for the pain he had inflicted upon you, for the words left unsaid, for the distance that had grown between you. It was the least he could do, the only way to mend the fragments of what you had shared.

Lyney's ears caught a sound, a soft panting that seemed to carry on the wind even before he saw you. His heart leaped within his chest; anticipation mingled with anxiety. He stood up; his eyes fixed on the path leading up the rocks. And there you were, ascending the rocky steps with the bouquet of Lumidouce Bells still held in your hand. As you drew nearer, he extended his hand toward you, a silent offer of help. He saw you hesitate for a brief second, a flicker of uncertainty crossing your eyes. But then you nodded, your fingers curling around his hand. The warmth of your touch, the familiarity of your grasp, it all made his heart ache. Would this be the last time he would feel this connection? He wondered, his thoughts a whirlwind of emotion.

"Lyney," you whispered, your voice breathless from the climb and the emotions that surely mirrored his own.

But he couldn't let you finish. He looked into your eyes, his own brimming with regret and apology. He had to say it, had to let you know, even if the words could never truly mend the fractures he had caused. "Listen," he began, his voice steady despite the turmoil within him. "I know that apologies can't change the past, can't erase the hurt I've caused you all these years. But I owe you this. I owe you an apology for every time I bailed out on our dates, for every moment I made you feel like you were less than you truly are."

He took a deep breath, the scent of the Lumidouce Bells intermingling with the damp earthiness of the rocks. "I was so caught up in the allure of adventure, in the promise of releasing Fontaine from its cursed prophecy, that I was blind to the pain I was causing you." He paused, his chest constricting with the weight of his remorse. "It was all my fault, you didn't deserve to feel neglected, especially not by me."

He watched as your expression shifted, a mix of emotions dancing in your eyes. He wanted to reach out, to wipe away the pain etched on your features, but he knew that words were all he had to offer now. "You called me your rainbow rose," His voice trembled as he spoke, his emotions laid bare before you. “But the true rainbow roses of this world are extinct. And as their era came to an end, a plant that used to grow symbiotically with it has stolen the name 'Rainbow Rose.'" His voice cracked, the weight of his metaphor carrying a world of meaning. "Rainbow roses that you see today are imposter lilies, just like me – pretending to be something I'm not."

Tears welled in his eyes; his vulnerability exposed for you to witness. He had said the words that had lingered in his heart for so long, the words he owed you, even though they couldn't undo the past. And as he looked into your eyes, his own filled with the anguish of his confession, he could only hope that you would see the depth of his remorse, the sincerity in his apology, and the love that had never wavered, even in the face of his mistakes. "But I'm here now," he said. “I want you to know that I'm sorry. Truly, deeply sorry. I regret every tear you shed, every smile I failed to bring to your lips.”

He braced himself for your response, the silence between you both heavy with unspoken emotions. The lantern-lit surroundings seemed to hold its breath, waiting for your next move. And then, your voice, like a soft melody, broke the stillness, whispering his name. His heart fluttered at the sound, a sensation he had long missed.

But he couldn't let the moment linger in a sweet fantasy. He cleared his throat, his eyes flickering toward the ring on your finger. "I'm glad," he began, his eyes fixed on the glint of gold that adorned your finger, the ring that had been a tormenting reminder of his own failures. "I'm glad someone else brings you the happiness I couldn't."

He noticed the confusion that flickered across your features, the furrow of your brow and the faint "What?" that escaped your lips. He pointed to the ring, his gaze unwavering, and then looked away, his jaws clenched with a mixture of emotions he struggled to put into words. The silence that hung in the air was pregnant with unspoken pain, a chasm of misunderstanding that seemed impossible to bridge.

And then, like a soft melody that cut through the tension, he heard your giggle. It was a sound he hadn't realized he had been longing to hear, a sound that made his heart flutter in a way he hadn't experienced in years. It sounded just like in his dreams, a symphony of joy that had once been his to cherish. He met your gaze again, his eyes searching yours as he watched you take off the ring. Shock colored his features, a mixture of astonishment and disbelief that painted his expression. What was happening? He wondered. "What...?" he managed to utter, his voice a mix of shock and incredulity.

Your laughter filled the air once again, a melody that seemed to bring light to the darkness that had clouded his thoughts. "Lyney, this ring," you said, your voice laced with amusement, "it's not what you think."

He blinked, his confusion deepening. "Not what I think?" he repeated, his brows furrowing.

You met his gaze, your eyes holding a spark of mischief that he had missed so dearly. "It's not real," you explained, your words causing a mixture of relief and bewilderment to wash over him. "I wore it to ward off unsolicited suitors that seem to come out of the woodwork, especially during the Lantern Rite Festival."

His heart skipped a beat, his eyes never leaving yours. The weight of the realization settled over him like a gentle wave, soothing the ache that had taken residence in his chest. He had misunderstood, misjudged, and in doing so, he had subjected himself to needless torment. The tension in the air began to dissipate, replaced by a renewed sense of hope. His lips quirked into a small, almost disbelieving smile, and he let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding.

And then, as if the floodgates of communication had been opened, he heard your voice, soft and uncertain, asking him the question he had been waiting for. "How did you find me?"

He met your gaze, his own eyes filled with a mix of emotions. He cleared his throat, his voice soft but resolute. "I never stopped looking for you," he said. "I used every Fatui connection I had to try to find any trace of you, but it was like you truly were the best magician – disappearing without a trace." He offered a small, self-deprecating smile, the tension of the moment momentarily eased by the hint of humor. And then, his fingers moved to the inside pocket of his coat, retrieving a crumpled napkin. He unfolded it carefully, revealing the illustration you had drawn so long ago – the silhouette of a woman holding a Lumidouce Bell. "I never stopped carrying this with me," he admitted. He looked into your eyes; his gaze unwavering. "I'm happy to hear that your business venture is doing well," he said, his words carrying a sincerity that was mirrored in his eyes. "And through it, I finally found you."

Tears welled in your eyes; the emotions too powerful to be contained. Your voice trembled as you whispered, "Why are you here, Lyney?"

He didn't hesitate, his gaze never leaving yours. "I think you already know the answer," he whispered back.

Your hands trembled as you held on to the flowers, your gaze dropping to your fingers that played with the flower petals. "I haven't stopped thinking about you," you admitted, your voice barely more than a whisper. "But I'm scared... scared to be so dependent on you again, scared that I won't recover if my heart breaks once more because of you."

His heart ached at your words, the vulnerability in your voice piercing through his own defenses. He reached out, his fingers gently tilting your chin, lifting your gaze to meet his. The world seemed to quiet.  "I understand," he said, his voice gentle but resolute. "And I'm not here to ask you for anything, to demand your trust. I'm here because I needed to apologize, because I needed you to know that my feelings for you never wavered, even when I was blind to your pain. I'm here to say that I'm willing to rebuild what we had, one step at a time, if you'll let me."

As if on cue, the world around Lyney seemed to respond to the emotions that hung in the air. Slowly, hundreds and thousands of floating lanterns began ascending into the sky, their warm glow illuminating Lyney and you in a cascade of light and warmth. Your gaze was drawn to the spectacle above, the lanterns carrying wishes and hopes. Lyney's thumb brushed against your cheek, a tender gesture that wiped away the tear that had escaped. Your eyes met his, the unspoken understanding between you growing stronger with each passing moment.

But your gaze shifted slightly, drawn to his thumb where a teardrop glistened. It was a poignant sight, one that caught your breath. The gloves he wore – they were the ones you had intended to gift him on your anniversary three years ago. The gloves that you had left behind in the box filled with memories of him. They looked worn, as he had been wearing them every day, to feel your presence beside him.

Then, with a slow, deliberate motion, he closed his fist, the teardrop vanishing from his thumb. And when he opened his fist again, there was something new – a Lumidouce Bell. But this one was different, not just in its material – silver and gold – but in its significance. It was the one he had carefully designed, a representation of his intentions for your future together, a token that you could keep forever if he ever had the chance to see you again. His voice, soft yet steady, filled the space between you. "You're not just another Lumidouce Bell," he said, his eyes locking onto yours with unwavering determination. "You are my favorite Lumidouce Bell. My only Lumidouce Bell. And you always will be, if you allow it."

Your trembling hand reached out, your fingers gently grasping the metal flower that he had offered. The design was intricate, the melding of silver and gold creating a delicate balance. As the lanterns continued to ascend, carrying with them the wishes and dreams of those who released them, he felt a sense of renewal in his heart. A smile curved his lips, a genuine expression that radiated with emotion. For the first time in a long while, he allowed himself to feel a sliver of happiness, a shard of relief. The distance between you was no longer insurmountable, and the mistakes of the past were not the end of your story. The future remained uncertain, but he held onto the possibility that it could be rewritten – a tale of redemption, forgiveness, and a silent promise to never let you slip away, ever again.

As the lanterns continued to ascend into the sky, casting a cascade of light over the rocky peak of Chihu, the past and the present seemed to merge into a single moment. And as you looked into Lyney's eyes, he knew that this was the beginning of a new chapter – a chance to heal, to mend, and to create a future that was forged from the lessons of the past.

Taglist: @hiraethsdesires; @sailorstar9; @aerithsthingss; @sleep-deprivedracoon; @childofthe4threalm; @frostbite19; @sketcheeee; @emiliangnl; @bluewobblerplaidsalad; @athanasia-day; @starsinthepavement; @shm-shsh; @yasuudere; @ellobosh; @namine123; @ambermondy; @hiqhkey; @eunchaeluvr; @cindywasneverhere; @hannakow; @ixchelhernandez4; @kakeruko14; @kazunish; @yaxilyy; @duckyyyx; @drmyday; @lunalixya; @chaos-mix; @supernerdycookietrashblrr; @emocka; @mrsirene; @llkea; @sleepylinj; @charm-charmander; @mochikofi; @ssaelles; @mayyay; @zenix108; @silverpaw2; @paraluman11; @belle-lune999; @yeetreetyree; @justko2222; @velvetyshu; @pandathepinata-blog; @makiaaa; @remi--imer; @firemelody4; @hanah2307; @azariahrizz; @katthecatnapper; @mellowsposts; @jihyuniepark; @stickydrawingportraitlamp; @icezeebee; @eve--011; @kaylovesdrawing; @lourvitica; @ciarchivez; @yaesmilktea; @sammuwy

(p.s - there is another Lyney oneshot I am working on which i mentioned in one of my posts. Please let me know if you want to be tagged on that one and no it isn't related to this one.)

AN: I know some of you wanted (y/n)to move on with another person. But I do believe some people are worth a second chance. I apologise if I disappointed anyone with this ending. Please feel free to reach out to me if you wish to have an alternative ending to this. It just felt right given how we saw Lyney's perspective in the last part and in this. He wasn't scummy, he was just too caught up in the moment.

AN: Here's an amazing fanart drawn by @icezeebee based on the part 1 and part to of the fic - Fanart. Please go show them some love and tell them how awesome they are!!!

[jaxfluff]

girlhood is staying up late to read the top posts in an x reader tag

[jaxfluff]

I'm not looking to start shit so I'm not linking it or anything, but you may have seen a recent anti-dark-content post circulating with a lot of notes making rounds in the x reader sphere and while I have nothing against people posting their feelings in their own private spaces, every time I see these kinds of posts there's a lot of misinformation that gets regurgitated in the reblogs/replies and I saw what looked like a battlezone in the replies, so.

I know posts like that can be very jarring and affects people like my readers, so to combat misinformation/shaming for anyone who saw it, I'm going to share some of my information on combatting fandom puritanism/misogyny/kinkshaming in its most common forms.

The most important fact, if you read nothing else, is this:

Most women have rape fantasies.

62% to be exact. I think the most pervasive myth on this content is that consumers are "weird" for it, when the numbers don't indicate that. You're in the majority!

The vast majority of people who have rape fantasies do not put them into practice in real life. A variety of factors can determine whether or not they do, particularly specific psychiatric disorders. (X)

To specifically address common harmful and pervasive myths:

the "go to therapy!" line

Generally any academic or professional resource will immediately tell you that consuming and engaging in "dark" fantasies is accepted and encouraged by mainstream psychiatry and part of the professional education for psychiatrists. (This also used to be pretty well-known until like the last 5 years or so, not sure why that changed.)

Here are some particularly insightful resources:

1) This article by Dr. David Wahl, in my opinion, hands-down does the best job of simply and thoroughly explaining why these fantasies occur and why couples practice CNC, as well as the fact that they are both harmless, psychologically beneficial to those with them, and not at all correlated to real-life rape.

2) Dr. Claudia Six has some of the best and most thorough material out there on the subject, specifically explaining why this is taught in mainstream academia psychology and how it is incredibly helpful to rape victims (X).

3) Lisa Diamond is a professional who focuses on this subject a lot, and was featured in the documentary "The Dilemma of Desire," in which she specifically focuses on how these fantasies are not correlated to real-life desires. (X)

4) Dr. Casey Lyle has specifically talked a lot on his socials about how fantasies, even in men/the perspective of the offender, do not correlate to actual risk of offending.

5) This article is not by a professional, but from the perspective of a survivor discussing how it is beneficial to survivors.

the "why would you want that?" line

The idea that fictional tastes = what you want to happen to you in real life is actually of misogynistic origin. I don't want to seek out or add links on this one, but if you're really curious, you can research about how the idea that "women read rape fiction, that means they secretly want rape!" was originally a classic "red pill"/MGTOW/4chan talking point that made its way into mainstream dialogue and thus the public mind in the last 15 years or so due to the incel epidemic popularizing those communities.

the "it's only valid for survivors then!" line

On one hand, yes it's very important to acknowledge that trauma victims use it to cope, however I feel that over-emphasizing that gives the impression that non-victims should be excluded from consumption of dark content, so to clarify, it's a very valid means for all women. Many women who have not personally experienced rape still fantasize about it, and that's fine.

The full explanation as to why this is true for many of them would be lengthy (and addressed in the aforementioned Dilemma of Desire documentary), but in the simplest terms, nonconsensual sex is the only context in which patriarchal society permits women to have sex at all without feeling guilt. For many women, particularly those in more heavily misogynistic or religious cultures, these fantasies are appealing because the idea of consensual sex may give them feelings of shame, guilt, "sin," etc. These fantasies allow them to experience the feeling of being desired without guilt of participation.

No society on earth is free of the psychological grip that cultural misogyny has on women, and shaming women for adapting to the conditions they are forced to exist under is as harmful as the misogyny that causes it itself.

ALL women experience a form of psychological trauma inherent to female childhood and female adolescence in a patriarchal world, and that is just as valid as coping with individual traumatic events.

Good resources on the subject of why women have these fantasies and how they are helpful in general:

(X) (X)

The "what you consume will make you do it in real life!" myth

Although the resources above already address this, it's important to establish why this myth is so prevalent and what its origins are.

The idea that consuming media with dark themes leads to or indicates desires to replicate those acts is a residual element of two major events:

1) Puritan revival culture, popularized in the US and UK in the 90s and 2000s (also known as "Satanic Panic"). A major facet of this movement was TV megachurch preachers making money off of exploiting well-meaning but paranoid parents into believing that your child playing Dungeons and Dragons or Pokemon would make them future serial killers and lure them into satanic cults. (X)

2) at the tail end of this, it was cemented in the public mind as a cultural ripple aftershock of the Columbine shooting, where this sentiment became popularized as the general public blamed violent video games like Doom and "dark" music like Marilyn Manson (whose life was temporarily completely upended by the events and took him years to recover/be safe from) for the 1999 shooting. This event had MASSIVE permanent and global effects in all sorts of ways that the public often underestimates the sheer scope of, notably that it solidified, prolonged, and, in the minds of many, "proved" the paranoias of the preexisting Satanic Panic. (X) This established a precedent, leading to virtually any major horrible event being blamed on the perpetrator's media consumption, including murder and sex crimes.

What this myth ignores in the cases it references (the slenderman stabbings, columbine, sasebo slashing, batman shooting, etc) is two crucial facts: that hundreds of millions of people consume the same media with no negative effects (helpful effects even), and that in every single case cited as "evidence" to the claim, the perpetrator had a preexisting psychiatric condition correlated to acts of violence (which usually went ignored, downplayed and even accelerated/worsened by those around them rather than the help they needed).

Sorry for the wall of text, but I feel an ethical obligation to combat this kind of misinformation, and I hope these resources are helpful for those who may be negatively affected by common misunderstandings.

You are not abnormal or wrong for the fictional content you consume or the fantasies you have!

[jaxfluff]

I'm admiring respectfully.

I forgot to post it here

[jaxfluff]

This is awful! Writing takes soooo much time and energy, it's difficult to plan an ending to a series that will make the variety of chapters come together. This is only going to make writers not want to write anymore.

[jaxfluff]

a new age-restricted chatroom just opened! ⚠ (minors dni) ⚠

↬ (click to view) missing you ↠

◇ characters ◇ zhongli, childe, al haitham

◇ tags ◇ minors dni, modern!au, afab!reader, fem!reader, sexting (childe, zhongli), phone sex (zhongli, al haitham), established relationship, lots of dirty talking, abs & dick pics (digitally drawn/manga panel style), petnames (baby, babe, sweetheart, dear, darling, princess, love), praise (good girl), light degradation (slut, pervert), begging, brat taming (zhongli, al haitham), orgasm denial (zhongli), mentions of sex tape (zhongli), dom/sub relationship (zhongli), mentions of blowjob (childe), implied breeding kink (childe), sex toy (al haitham), no actual pics from 'your' side (pictures sent as ‘blank’ pic) from because everyone’s bodies are different <3

◇ a/n ◇ yet another chatroom, and this time, a spicy one with a 'call' feature, as promised from wayyyy back last year lol i am praying and hoping and begging to rex lapis that this wasn't cringe or awkward but if it is then i will pretend not to hear and i will not perceive hskdjskdh also, al haitham’s part was inspired by this long-distance couple's sex toy.

◇ notes ◇ recommended to view via pc/laptop screen ◇ you will be prompted to give your name, but if you don’t feel comfortable you can skip them entirely - if you do give your name, the data will only be stored locally on your devices

some little tidbits / notes:

yes, the wallpaper changes based on your local time.

(optional) send me screenshots of your favorite interactions or line lol

if you have yet to see ‘This chat has ended’ then- well, the chat has yet to end! be patient, it might take him some time to reply~ ;)

if the ui glitches, try turning the screen upright, back down, and then wait for a little (thanks @/prinrestcess for the tip!)

© zhongrin | 2023 ◆ no repost. reblogs much appreciated. feel free to reach out to submit suggestions, feedback, comments, or if you just want to talk!

◇ taglist ◇ @thestarsofenkanomiya | @genshinparty | @abyssmal-skies | @hamdehlesmis | @depressivecomforts | @sophiethewitch1 | @why-am-i-here-someone-save-me | @sunnshineflxwer | @heartonthemoon | @yuutasbabe | @percyval-archives | @carbs-need-more-love | @rebeccka | @queen-belial | @stygianoir | @silentmoths | @niktwazny303 | @dustofthedailylife | @herdrops | @diebischesther | @marina-and-the-memes | @angryhope | @mixed-kester | @shuangxo | @fiannee | @lordbugs | @anonymousficreader | @shizunxie | @ladylofspades | @sup-zfam | @ansy-tea