#now paimon is curious...

[trashcanwithsprinkles]

so I'm rereading cn for the umpteenth time, and I just noticed this line:

“Huh. Blind,” a voice mused, surprised, quiet. It sounded like a teenage boy. He raised his voice slightly. “Hey- You must be this Master Child people have been talking about, right?”

People had been talking about him? “That would be Childe, but yes. And you are?”

so I just wanted to ask, are child and childe not pronounced the same way in cn? would it be "chil-dey"? I just found this rlly interesting feel free to ignore if the answer is obvious 😂

i mean they are pronounced the same, this is more my fault than anything? childe should've said something like 'childe with an e at the end' rather than just (to bosacius' ears) repeat the same thing. the reason i didn't write that is that the answer would've been 'with a what' because the liyue script doesn't have 'e's, it's a different thing hahaha

so you can just imagine he says something like 'that would be child-eh/uh'. like a little inflection at the end just to emphazise it's not just child as in. a kid. just to clarify, and then goes back to saying it normally

[aureliawhispers]

WAS I JUST A FOOL?

In which you haunt the narrative.

cw | female! reader, reader's dead, angst.

pairings | jing yuan, zhongli, geto

JING YUAN sees you everywhere.

He sees you in the flowers that bloom every spring, warm and colourful. The books you loved that he still keeps in his house, which is now silent without your sweet voice, and the chessboard you both loved to play.

The way you would always pout when you lose against him, demanding a rematch.

"That's so unfair, Jing Yuan!" You yelled, pouting. Jing Yuan could only chuckle at your antics "Oh, so it's Jing Yuan now? Not 'darling'?" He muses.

You huffed, "I will only call you that if we do a rematch!" You crossed your arms "Uh huh, for like what? The 12th time today?" Jing Yuan pushes on, having fun teasing you.

You gasp "NO!! Are you implying I lost that much?!" Jing Yuan turns his head away "JING YUAN!!" Jing Yuan could only laugh as you sobbed about how many times you lost against him.

Or when you laugh, reading a scene from one of your beloved books.

Now, his house is a quiet kind of cruel. No footsteps. No humming. Just silence. Endless silence.

No one dared to say your name, not aloud.

Not even in their heads. Not the cloud knights, not Fu Xuan, not even Yanqing. Your name became sacred. Heavy. A forbidden language that only grief could understand.

Many have warned him not to get too close to you or he'll fall deep into the abyss.

"She's mortal, my lord! Mortals only live for a matter of time, they don't even live up to 70!"

"And? Will that stop me from loving her?"

For you were mortal, fleeting, fragile. A breath against the eternity he carries.

And still, he loved you.

Still, he loves you.

And he'll be waiting for his time to come "Wait for me, my songbird" He smiles, holding your journal close to his heart. Even when his memories cannot be stored anymore in his brain.

He will always and forever be haunted by your haunting presence.

For as long as lives.

Anyone could see by the way ZHONGLI stares at silk flowers that he's reminiscing about someone, someone dear to him, perhaps, they whisper.

He would leave one seat with him whenever he goes out, leaving some confused, even though he's alone. He would buy things that were obviously not for him, as if he were keeping them for someone.

Lumine and Paimon see him one day, walking to a hidden small island. They wonder what he could be doing there, so they followed him quietly.

"I know you are there, traveler, Paimon" Paimon yelps, "W-We swear we weren't following you or anything!!" She defends herself while Lumine rolls her eyes at her obvious lie.

"I'm sorry, Zhongli, we were just curious where you were going" She answers truthfully, and Zhongli smiles at the duo "If you'd like, come with me then" The duo looked at each other, surprised, but followed him nonetheless.

The duo felt the atmosphere get lighter and the wind get gentler.

Right there, in the middle, was a jade rock, engraved with a name on it. As Zhongli places silk flowers on the grave, Paimon reads the name aloud, "Who was she, Zhongli? A friend?" She curiously asked while Lumine glared daggers at her.

"Oh, sorry! That was rude of Paimon" Zhongli shakes his head "No, no, it's fine" He places another silk flower.

"I enjoy talking about her" The duo listened, quiet now, the waves lapping gently at the edge of the island, as if even the ocean knew to be still.

Zhongli let his fingers brush against the engraved jade rock.

"She was my lover, my equal" He continued "The one who understood me most" His voice was slow and steady, like an old poem.

He smiled faintly "She would always tell me of the mortal world, how she would love to help them, how if she weren't a Goddess, she would have loved to settle down with him, somewhere quiet"

"I leave the seat beside me for her. I bring her favorite pastries home, even if she’ll never taste them again. It’s foolish, I know"

"No" Lumine said quietly "it's not"

And Paimon, unusually silent, whispered, "She must’ve loved you a lot, too" Paimon felt like crying.

Zhongli looked up toward the sky, golden eyes glowing faintly beneath the fading sun "I loved her more"

You were too good for this world, GETO would always say.

But what he really means is—You were too good for him.

He remembered it just like yesterday when you told him, with stars in your eyes, that once you both get married in the future, you wanted daughters after the wedding.

You should have been the mother of Mimiko and Nanako. He knows you would've been the most wonderful mother to them.

"Who's she, Master Geto?" Nanako asked, curiouslly.

His smile falters a little, "The woman that I love" He replied.

No past tense.

The girls call you mother.

Not just because of him, but because they felt you in every soft kindness he gave, in every lesson he taught them about gentleness and strength. He never corrected them.

They wonder if you would've loved them just as how Geto loves them.

It was just another day with you and Geto lying on his bed after a mission.

"I wanna get married at the beach" You said once, tracing circles on his chest. He raises a brow "Why?"

You rolled your eyes "Cause why not? I love watching the ocean breeze" You continued "I would love to have seashells as decorations and watching the sunset as we say our vows"

Geto feels his cheeks getting warm and he wraps his arms around you "Well then, I'll just have to make it come true, hm?" Geto smirks, planting kisses on your face as you giggle.

"My beloved bride" Now, it was your turn to feel shy "My charming groom" You buried your head on his chest, your heart beating fast

He wonders if you are disappointed with how he turned out.

He wonders what you would've looked like in a wedding dress.

He wonders what you would've named your children.

And he'll keep wondering.

He wonders if you'd still love him, now that he's become something darker, colder.

He doesn't have to keep wondering now, though.

Slowly but surely, Geto won't feel his body anymore, he won't feel the pain of not having you by his side, he won't feel the pain of his best friend being disappointed by him.

It'll all be gone soon.

His vision blurs. The world grows quieter. He thinks of seashells. Of a white dress. Of the sun setting, as you say your vows "I do"

Gojo looks at him with a blank expression, his eyes holding sadness and a hint of relief "Tell her that I miss her cooking" Gojo says, knowing his best friend doesn't have any more time.

Geto laughs, coughing blood out "Of course...I'll be seeing her soon, right?"

And this time, he won't have to wonder anymore.

Gojo nods his head slowly. His best friend will soon reunite with the woman he loves.

His beloved bride.

[taylorman2274]

We Care About You

For the past couple of days, you've been sacrificing sleep to spend more time playing Genshin. The people of Teyvat take notice and do not approve.

Content Warning(s): Liyue Archon Quest Spoilers

Notes: SAGAU; GN!Reader; First Story; Inexperienced Writer

Word Count: 1.5k

Previous || Next

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You honestly should've seen it coming.

There were too many hints that told you what was about to happen, but you either didn't notice them or ignored them entirely.

Now you're about to fall into unconsciousness against your will, all because someone within Teyvat cared about your well-being.

"How is this even possible?" you pondered before you finally fell into sweet unconsciousness.

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The first hint happened so quick you almost missed it.

You were a couple of minutes removed from logging into the game and had just started working on your second of four daily commissions.

As you were teleporting to Dadaupa Gorge to help Wyatt look for his key, you noticed an unusual message on the loading screen.

Sleep

When night falls, make sure that you get plenty of rest!

You were lucky that you were a fast reader or else you wouldn't have been able to read that message in time.

At first, you didn't know what to think of it. Sure, Hoyoverse could've easily added it into the game, but you didn't see them ever doing such a thing. Additionally, you've never seen anyone else experience this message before.

"Probably something new," you guessed before gliding on down to speak with Wyatt.

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The second hint was a bit more noticeable than the first.

After completing Wyatt's commission, you were on your way to Falcon Coast to defeat some hilichurls. It was approaching nighttime in Teyvat when Paimon suddenly said:

"It's getting pretty late. Paimon thinks that we should go to bed soon."

You stopped gliding forward for a brief moment in slight surprise. It only took a few seconds for you to snap back to reality before pausing the game to save what airtime you had left.

"I can see a new line of text being possible, but a new voice line?" you contemplated. Like the last hint, you really didn't know what to think of it. If it was only one new voice line that got added into the game, you guess you shouldn't see that as a big surprise.

"Today has certainly been weird," you added before unpausing the game.

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It wasn't until the third hint that you started to think that something was wrong.

After defeating the two waves of hilichurls, your last commission had you beat up some cryo slimes near the Dawn Winery. You teleported to the Anemo Archon statue, grabbed a couple of Windwheel Asters, and began to glide down to the water.

However, just as you were about to pass the Dawn Winery, you began to hear a sweet melody coming from the building. This wasn't the theme you were used to hearing when you were near the Dawn Winery, so being the curious person you were, you took a quick detour to the building.

As you approached the building, the melody began increasing in volume. Furthermore, as you moved your camera you noticed the sound gradually shifting volume in-between your right and left ears.

"Wait, this isn't just a soundtrack? Someone's actually playing this?" you questioned, speaking aloud for the first time. You rarely speak your thoughts aloud, finding such an action to be awkward, but you felt that the situation warranted such a reaction out of you.

After a bit of wandering and camera movement, you pinpointed the source of the sound coming from the roof. Starting from the front of the building, you climbed up the wall and onto the balcony. You moved the camera around, trying to see if you could get a better view of the roof, and after a while, you found the source of the melody.

Venti the bard was currently straddling the roof beam with his back against the spire right near where the Anemoculus used to be. He had his eyes closed as he was playing the soothing melody on his lyre. If he noticed you, he took no note of it as he continued to play.

"Okay, now things are getting weird," you began to monologue to yourself. "I can somewhat explain a new loading screen message and a new voice line, but a new audio played by a character who is never supposed to be seen outside of archon quests and events? A change as big as this would've surely been advertised by Hoyoverse on social media, right? So why does it feel like I'm the first person to have discovered this? Do I consider this to be a bug or a glitch?"

However, as you continued to think to yourself, Venti continued to play his melody. As the melody dragged on and on, you began to yawn and feel your eyes growing heavy.

"Hold on. Is this melody...making me sleepy?”

Music notes began to fade in and out as they floated from Venti's lyre to your player character.

"I can't fall asleep just yet! I still need to finish my commissions!" you proclaimed before leaping off the balcony and continuing your way down to the beach. "Ooh! I also may need to travel to some domains and farm for materials."

You missed the fourth hint while you jogged away from the winery. Had you looked back at Venti, you would have noticed that he stopped playing the melody before sighing with a slight frown on his face.

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After completing all of your dailies, you decided to take a change of scenery and meet up with Liyue Katherine.

"I still need to go to Wanmin Restaurant and trigger that Beetle event. Plus, the crafting table is just around the corner for me to craft some Condensed Resin!"

You were too distracted by the crafting table to notice the fifth hint of the day. Had you kept your eye at Third-Round Knockout, you would've noticed the former Geo Archon getting up from his table and walking over to you.

Having finished crafting your Condensed Resin, you began to head over to Wanmin Restaurant. But before you could...

"Traveler! A quick moment of your time, please."

Startled by the sudden attention, you flicked your camera behind you to find Zhongli approaching your player character.

"It has been a while since we last had a chat. I was hoping you would accompany me while I head to Wangsheng Funeral Parlor to retire for the night. We can catch up with each other while we walk."

Too many thoughts were running through your head for you to give a proper response, not that any prompt showed up anyway. Zhongli took your inactivity as a sign of acceptance.

"Good. Let us be on our way then."

Zhongli started to walk past you, which didn't help your thoughts at all.

When his feet hit the ground, there was no visible space between the sole of his shoes and the ground. You never saw any of his clothes clip through any part of his body. In fact, you swear you saw a few wrinkles.

"Everything about him is too detailed. The walking animation, the clothes, the collision, the hitboxes; there is no way in hell everything should be so... fluid."

You started to think whether or not you should go through with his request. However, before you could make a decision, the game decided to make one for you.

The Traveler moved... but your hands were off the keyboard.

"WOAH Woah Woah woah..." You repeated as you backed your chair away from the computer. Now you were starting to think that your game was broken. You quickly scooched your chair back closer to your computer and were about to Alt+F4 outta there before...

"I would refrain from doing that."

You stopped what you were doing and looked up at the screen. Did you miss something that the Traveler did?

"As much as we all love to have you around, we know better than to have you overstay your welcome when you are clearly tired."

...That didn't sound like he was talking to the Traveler.

"I admire your persistence, but you leave me no choice, [Y/N]."

"Oh sh-."

Before you could finish your sentence, a loud buzzing sound suddenly played from your computer speaker. Almost immediately, you could feel yourself about to fade to unconsciousness. You quickly stood up and covered your ears as you tried to fight it, wondering how in the hell this sound was affecting you despite having heard it before in Sumeru. Unfortunately, the noise continued to grow louder and louder until you could no longer stand on your own two feet. You slowly slumped to the floor as the sound began to lower in volume, sensing that its job was done.

You honestly should've seen it coming.

There were too many hints that told you what was about to happen, but you either didn't notice them or ignored them entirely.

Now you're about to fall into unconsciousness against your will, all because someone within Teyvat cared about your well-being.

"How is this even possible?" you pondered before you finally fell into sweet unconsciousness.

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Author Side Notes: I know that I'm not the best writer in the world, but this idea for a SAGAU story I had continued to grow and grow until I felt like I could connect all of the plot points by myself.

I also have more ideas for SAGAU stories if anyone wants to hear them.

[harunayuuka2060]

WHB Satan: *is accustomed to humans falling for his handsome looks and attempting to flirt with him, but today, he never expected a human to charm him just to make him follow her orders*

MC: *deliberately dressed in a gorgeous, alluring white dress, with the mark of Asmodeus prominently displayed on her chest*

MC: I’ll only say this once: take us to Gehenna.

WHB Satan: *chuckles* Are you sure? It won’t be a problem for your son, but what about you?

MC: *maintains her stern expression*

WHB Satan: ...

WHB Satan: Tch. Anything else?

MC: ...

MC: Go visit a dentist.

WHB Satan: *dumbfounded* Huh?

WHB Asmodeus: ...

*When he entered the house, it seemed warm, with the lingering scent of coffee and freshly baked cookies.*

WHB Asmodeus: *chuckles*

The devils of Abaddon: *confused*

WHB Asmodeus: My wife has already left.

Abaddon devil: But Your Majesty-

WHB Asmodeus: She will never leave a place looking desolate. Now, I’m curious… which devil could have helped her?

WHB Satan: We have arrived.

Paimon: Oooh~! You're with a gorgeous woman, Your Majestyyy~!

Leraye: Who is she?

WHB Satan: Her name's MC. From now on, she'll be living here in Gehenna with her son.

Leraye: Whoa! *beams* Welcome!

Ezrin: ...

Ezrin: Mom?

MC: *puts an arm around her son's shoulder*

Ezrin: ...

Paimon: But waiiitt~ What is that mark on her chesttt~?

Leraye: Eh? Isn't that-

WHB Satan: She's Asmodeus's.

Paimon and Leraye: !!!

MC: ...

MC: It looks like I already have quite the reputation here.

WHB Satan: That's because that idiot won't stop talking about you.

[kujiba]

【Mew Mew Bitch】

୨୧ — ꒰ Cat!reader | they/them prounouns | Sagau | cultish behavior

reader who gets transported into teyvat.. As a half cat human

Mondstadt / Liyue / Inazuma / Sumeru / Fontaine / Natlan / Snezhnaya

After your (not so) calm trip in mondstat, you decided it was finally time to stealthy leave the city in order to experience the full time adventure!

Seeing that you were free, Aether then took the chance and offered you to assist him and paimon in their later journeys around teyvat.

Having the creator of the world be their travel companion almost made paimon completely faint from shock! But to you it felt like a silly little adventure, so you agreed.

The next stop being the nation of contracts, Liyue.

Tianquan of the Liyue Qixing; Ningguang had heard about your coming arrival and instantly issued the most luxurious and attractive looking gifts that fitted just for you, she could care less about the price, No matter what the costs it will be done without hesitation for her God.

Despite all the effort, it definitely left ningguang dumbfounded to watch you ignore the jewelry that she had brought which would reach over 100,000,00 mora.. For a life size cat stand that a worker gave as a small token.

Of course their god would prefer something like this, their body is legitimately a human with cat ears and a tail.

Scratch all the previous plans, they're going to have to make a different approach now in order to get your affection.

Ganyu, a adepti working under ningguang felt curious about your cat like traits, specifically your cat ears. Was it like hers but just more furry and soft? Are people allowed to touch them? She needs to know it all.

And so an idea popped inside her head.

Using very simple knowledge, Ganyu and Shenhe would then begin to often fish at Mt.Aozang in the very morning to seize as many fish as possible as a treat for you, this often turned into a competition in who would gather the most fish for their god.

One thing that's certain is that your love at resting in tall heights never fades, the Millelith would get an ocean of reports with countless of witnesses saying that they had seen their creator resting at the roof of wangshu inn making Xiao work overtime to catch you when you accidentally slip off the edge.

Other times would be that xiangling would have to guard you while you joined her in catching ingredients for her next dish. One moment you're eating raw fish straight from the river, the next you're getting kidnapped by some random hilichurls that spotted you from a distance.

The amount of times that you nearly encountered death was enough for hu tao herself to come and approach you, advertising her business to you with a 10% discount for first time customers. She then got scolded for trying to do such blunt move on their creator

Qiqi likes to follow you around, asking if she could touch your ears or tail out of pure confusion, she just decided that you were similar to ganyu and then asked for cocogoat milk. Once you feel something tug the base of your tail you already know who's doing it.

Zhongli has his fair share with animal type companions, so it didn't really bother him much whether you're a cat or human, you're his divine creator! What DOES bother him is that whenever in the open world, you would jump on the rock pillars he would summon WHILE there is an on going fight with an enemy

99 percent of the time you'd just fall off the rock pillar but thankfully land on your two feet like always. However, Zhongli was ready to drop everything he had on him to come and catch you in less than a second

Let's not talk about the mountains.

[mayaree-darling]

Water... Connoisseur?// Neuvillette

synopsis: Neuvillette shares his love for water tasting with the Creator (ft. Paimon and the Traveler)

from aree: this was supposed to be a short funny little thing but as always i can’t keep my mouth shut and now this is 17 pages long

content: Creator!Reader; smol spoiler(?) for and inspired by Neuvillette's story quest and profile/voice over; Reader and the Traveler (and Paimon) have Siblings Energy; I headcanon that the Traveler can see their inventory the way us players can; Pure Crack; Probably OOC Neuvillette

fic length: ~5.3k 

You are the Creator of Teyvat, spending time with the Traveler, Paimon, and Neuvillette. At one point, the Iudex offers for the four of you to take a break in his office and he'll fetch you some refreshments. Almost immediately, you see from the corner of your eye the Traveler and Paimon stutter out that they'll get the drinks themselves, but it's too late. You didn't see what was wrong with Neuvillette offering something to drink - if anything, you're curious to know what kind of drink he'd prepare for his guests. This was your first time tasting what Fontaine had to offer. So you let him go. 

When Neuvillette leaves the room, the traveling duo beside you share a heavy sigh. You turn to them and ask what's wrong. They share a meaningful look. You'll see, they say.

Eventually, Neuvillette comes back rolling a small food trolley in front of him. On top are four silver pitchers and four goblets. Paimon sheepishly laughs, "Here we go."

You step forward - because it's clear to you Traveler and Paimon have no plans on taking initiative - and Neuvillette motions to the pitchers. 

"Each one is from a different nation. I hope that you'll find at least one of them to your tastes, Your Grace. I assure you they are all of high quality, although I have no doubt of it since they are a part of your creation, after all. Personally, I can't say I favor one over the other. I find each one particularly special in its own way, so I must apologize if I cannot give you a recommendation." 

You frown. You... made them? You don't remember something about creating a drink for each nation. Was this a recipe from your old life that only a dragon sovereign could remember? The Traveler clears their throat and mumbles something under their breath. You turn to them questioningly and you watch bemused as their mouth ticks up at the corners.

"It's water." The Traveler looks at everything in the room before their eyes land on you.

You blink. "Excuse me?"

"Haha.. It's just water... The drinks..." If Paimon was standing on solid ground, you think she would be bouncing on the balls of her feet, her arms behind her. When she meets your eyes, she lets out a sheepish laugh. "That's what Neuvillette means by they're from every nation. They're... spring water from different places."

You slowly look at the Traveler and Paimon in turn, hoping for a deeper explanation or for them to tell you they were pulling your leg, but both of them refuse to look you in the eye. Your mouth is opened to a permanent gasp of understanding as you turn back to the food trolley in front of you.

Oh...

"Is there something wrong, Your Grace?" You almost regret looking at Neuvillette. Although he doesn't usually show his emotions, it's almost like he can't help but show you how dejected he looks. To put it simply, it felt like you kicked an otter to the curb, sad puppy eyes and everything. You half expect it to start raining outside that instant. "I can arrange for the Melusine to make something else, if you'd like. I'm sure they'd be honored to -"

"NO! No. It's okay. It's fine, Neuvillette. Thank you for the offer, but it's fine." You shoot a frown at the duo, who have taken to plastering themselves on one of the many sofas in the room, intent on letting you handle the water situation. You breathe in and take a step forward, taking one of the goblets. "You said each one is special, right? I'm sure they'll taste... nice..."

You pointedly ignore the Traveler as they grumble once more (you pretend you didn't just hear Paimon say "no it won't"). You look at each of the pitchers and pretend to be thinking hard about your choice. It's kind of hard to make a choice now that you know they're all just water. Your only saving grace is you know where they came from.

"I think I'll start off with... Sumeru!" Neuvillette all but beams at your decision and picks up the selected pitcher. You're glad he did because you didn't know which was which. You pray to Nahida that you didn't make a bad choice (the God of Wisdom has yet to fail you since your descent and you hope that she has your back this time, too.) Holding out your goblet, you watch as Neuvillette fills the cup half way, almost hoping there's a telltale sign of a difference (or it's a different drink altogether).

It's just water.

"A wonderful choice, Your Grace. This particular water comes from Apam Woods of Sumeru. You'll find the taste to be rich and complex. Despite usually having to take the time to savor it to fully appreciate it, I'm sure Your Grace will have no problem distinguishing its special flavor, which is unlike any other."

Did he have to put the pressure on you like that? 

You laugh sheepishly as you fight to give Neuvillette your best thankful smile. Taking back the goblet, you stare at your drink, deciding your best bet was to examine it if you were going to "savor" it. Maybe it was a different color? No, it's still translucent in nature. Swirling it a few times, it doesn't appear to have a thicker viscosity as it sloshes around your cup. As for the smell it was- 

Wait. Huh?

"It's fragrant," you mumble. Only when you hear yourself clearly do you realize the room is silent. Looking up, you see Neuvillette staring at you, and behind you, even the Traveler and Paimon have taken an interest in your exchange. All eyes are trained on you, watching your reaction. You look back to Neuvillette as he lets out a hum.

"It's... fragrant? I must say, even I have never thought to discern its smell. For a moment, please," Neuvillette steps forward and takes a goblet for himself, pouring water from the same pitcher. He pulls the goblet up to his nose. "Hmm. As I thought. It seems I am unable to smell this fragrance you speak of. How interesting."

"Wait. If you can smell it..." You turn to Paimon as she looks at the Traveler. When they look at you, their eyes are expectant.

Surely, you can...?

Looking at Neuvillette, he gives you an encouraging nod. You raise the goblet to your lips and take a tentative sip. And then another. And then... another? You lower the goblet, and then turn to the Traveler.

"It tastes like flowers." You know you and the Traveler share the same incredulous look. You can just feel the disbelief and confusion pulling at your face. Looking at Paimon, she's just as confused, head in her little hands. "When I focus on it, it's floral. Kind of like... tea? Like herbal tea, just less strong. It could even be perfume."

"Marvelous," you look at Neuvillette, and it's clear to you he does not sense the growing bewilderment you and the other two are going through. He smiles at you softly, and you don't have the heart to tell him that water isn't supposed to have a flavor. "I don't seem to recall anyone else sharing my taste for water. But I must say - even I am unable to perfectly put a name or a description to the flavor I experience. It's almost always a feeling."

"WAIT! Waitwaitwaitwait! I wanna try, too!" Paimon rushes to your side and takes your goblet in her hands, ready to drink it. You hear Neuvillette clear his throat and turn to him as he fills the other two goblets with Sumeru water. Paimon lets go of your goblet and goes to take one for herself. You see the Traveller stand up and grab one too. "Is it different from the one we had before? Wait, but it's from the Apam Woods, too..."

The Traveler and Paimon take a big gulp at the same time, licking their lips and savoring the taste before eventually they click their tongues in unison.

"Nope." The Traveler laughs, almost amused and defeated at the same time.

"Nothing's different. It's the same water as last time!" Paimon stomps her little feet in the air. "Are you pulling Paimon's leg?"

"Of course not. However, I am curious. If it is fine with Your Grace, I would love to hear more about what you can taste," If you were honest, you didn't want any more of the spotlight on you - being the Creator, you've had enough of that. But Neuvillette seemed so happy in the moment you couldn't possibly refuse him. 

"Well, besides smelling and tasting like flowers," you take a sip, letting it roll on your tongue. "It also has this sort of herby aftertaste? But only when I focus on it. Kind of like basils? Or rosemary? I can't tell you for sure what kind, but it kind of tastes like that."

When you turn back to them, you're surprised to see Neuvillette looking at you in confusion. Did you say something wrong?

"He doesn't know what those are, dummy," The Traveler sighs. You watch as they take a metal shaker out from their inventory and start preparing a drink of their own. Paimon watches on, excited of drinking something that wasn't just water. "They don't have those here in Teyvat, remember?"

"Traveler, I implore you to watch your words. Was it necessary to call Your Grace as such?" Neuvillette frowns. 

The Traveler shrugs and you both share a secretive smile. "They prefer that over 'Your Grace', though."

Neuvillette turns to you with concern. "Is-is that true, Your Grace? Why would you prefer that name? I can't quite say I agree with that decision but- "

"It's fine, Neuvillette. I forgot you didn't know any of those herbs, so I'm sorry for that. Just know the water tastes like it has a bit of herbs or spice to it." You shake your head with a laugh, thinking of a way to change the subject. "Anyway, can I taste the other ones?"

Neuvillette almost visibly lights up at that and takes another of the pitchers, filling your emptied goblet with more water.

"This one is from Inazuma's Konda Village. For its mouthfeel, I find it quite placid." Neuvillette looks at you expectantly. You're reminded again of a puppy, or in his case, an otter. A very cute otter. As you put the goblet to your lips, you have half a mind to gift him a seashell.

You take a sip and almost immediately spit it out. In an instant, Neuvillette is by your side, throwing the goblet halfway across the room. Before you realize it, you're in his arms and he has half a mind to bolt out the room to get you to a healer until you stop him.

"WAIT! Wait, Neuvi, just calm down-" you descend into a coughing fit.

"Your Grace! What's wrong? Is it poison? Were you poisoned?! Oh no, Paimon can't look-" 

"That's preposterous. I prepared the drinks myself," he says that, but Neuvillette talks like he's suddenly doubting himself. 

"You sure you don't need to get healed?" the Traveler frowns in concern, turning your face this way and that, looking for signs of poisoning.

You shake your head again and swallow down another cough, clearing your throat. "No, no, I don't need a healer. I wasn't poisoned. I just wasn't expecting to suddenly take a shot of sparkling water." 

The Traveler blinks, there's a pause as it sinks in, and suddenly they stand up and head back to the food trolley. They pick up the shaker they unceremoniously left when everyone panicked and resumed making their drink.

"Traveler, are you gonna make medicine for the Creator?" Paimon floats around you in concern. 

"You guys can stop panicking. They're not gonna die," the Traveler sighs and looks at you with a face that can only be described as 'Are you for reals.' "I think they were just surprised with how the water tasted."

You motion for Neuvillette to let you down, which he does albeit very hesitantly. You merely laugh at the concern on his face and give him a pat on the back to reassure him that no, the Creator was not going to die on his watch just because of a bad drink of water. 

The Iudex frowns hard looking at the pitcher of Inazuman water. "You called it... sparkling water? Pardon me if I'm wrong, but am I to assume water from Inazuma has different visual properties? Does Your Grace see something we are unable to? And if so, does this difference have an effect on the taste?" 

You shake your head again for what seemed like the thousandth time, before you stop and think about it for a second. You head to the food trolley and pick up Paimon's empty cup. Pouring Inazuman water from the pitcher, you watch as normal looking water fills the goblet. The normal fizzle of bubbles you expect from a carbonated drink is not present, even as you swirl it around. 

Before Neuvillette can stop you, you take a sip of it again. You hear him stifle a gasp. His hand is on your shoulder, ready to bring you to Sigewinne at record speed if needed. But you weren't mistaken - it really does taste like sparkling water. Weird. You turn to Neuvillette and try to look as reassuring as possible.

"So, back from... where I came from, we have this drink called sparkling water. It's not that it was particularly, uh, sparkly, but it did have a lot of bubbles. The water from Inazuma here looks like regular water, but it does feel like sparkling water in your mouth," you explain slowly. The look of doubt doesn't leave Neuvillete's face. "It's also not deadly for us, just like how this water isn't. I mean, you like drinking it, right? That means it's fine for consumption." 

He visibly eases up at your words. He reluctantly lets go of your shoulder with a shaky exhale. You kinda feel bad for making him so worried. Eventually, you watch as he calms down from the panic earlier and suddenly he's back to his stoic self, unable to resist his interest in your water tasting experience.

"So this so-called sparkling water... what does it feel like? May you explain? I'm afraid I cannot quite imagine it." Neuvillette looks to be deep in thought and you laugh softly. He really was into water tasting. 

"Oh? Paimon thinks Mondstadt has something similar."

The Traveler pauses from taking a sip of their new drink - Boreal Watch, you remember it's called - before opening their inventory. They scroll through a list of ingredients before taking out a single bottle. The bubbling liquid is a familiar sight. "They call it Fizzy Water. I used it to make drinks at Angel's Share once. Feel free to drink this, Monsieur Neuvillette. Master Diluc gave it as a freebie."

Neuvillette takes the bottle with a nod of thanks. He examines the packaging for a moment, pops the bottle open and takes a swig. There's a pregnant pause before he turns his back to you, takes his goblet and spits out the drink into it out of your line of sight. The three of you don't have to look at each other to know the expression the others have; Paimon sounds like she's close to tears from holding in her laughter. 

When Neuvillette turns to you again, you give him a small smile, ready to comfort him, before he drops to his knee in front of you. You try to pull him up by his arms but he just holds on to your hands.

"Your Grace, please allow me to apologize for making you go through that."

"H-hey, I didn't mind you literally spitting it out, come on now, I basically did the same thing if not worse-"

"No. Not that, Your Grace. I also apologize for that, yes, but I refused to swallow that drink down no matter the cost." He's staring at you dead in the eyes and he looked so serious it was unnerving. "I'm apologizing for letting you drink the water from Inazuma. Had I known that is what you would experience, I would have skipped offering it to you as a refreshment." 

"Please stand up. Don't worry about it. It's not that big of a deal," you pull on his arms again and he doesn't resist, standing back up. "I told you it's a normal drink from where I'm from, right? I was just shocked because I wasn't expecting it."

"Do you mean..." Neuvillette visibly cringes, much to your amusement. "People from your old land... like? To drink it? How... eccentric."

"So do those from Mondstadt, Monsieur Neuvillette," you turn to the Traveler in disbelief that they'd say that right now, but all they give you back is a devious grin peeking from atop their cup as they take another sip. "Dawning Dew was a bestseller."

Paimon clears her throat as she collects herself. "It's kind of funny that Neuvillette can't feel the fizziness when he's drinking? He said that he can feel what he drinks, not taste it. Paimon wonders what's up with that."

"What's Konda Village water like for you, again?" you hum.

"If I had to put a word to it," Neuvillette thought about it for a second. "Placid."

"Placid? That's one way to describe something." Paimon shrugs. 

"Yes, that was how I would have described it," Neuvillette shoots a glare at the bottle of Fizzy Water and another concerned look at you. "After current events, I can't quite say the same."

Paimon was right, though. Placid was definitely a different way of describing things. Placid meant... calm? Or tranquil? You definitely didn't think that's how you'd describe Inazuma. Wait, Inazuma? And that feeling of sparkling water...

"Is it possible... You think it's 'placid'... because your mouth has gone numb?" you gape at Neuvillette.

He stares back at you blankly. The silence in the room is deafening. 

“Maybe… don’t drink that for a while. Not until you’re ready again,” you offer.

“Agreed.” Neuvillette nods stiffly. 

“Alright!” you clap your hands and turn back to the food trolley. “What’s next?” 

To your surprise, Neuvillette’s hand wraps around your wrist as you manage to grasp the next pitcher's handle. He looks just as surprised as you do that he’s holding on to you. 

“Neuvi…llette?” you blink at him.

“Forgive me, Your Grace,” he lets go like he was burned, but he doesn’t exactly move away. “But we can stop here if you so wish.” 

“What do you mean?”

“What I mean to say is,” Neuvillette coughs into his fist, thinking hard about his next words. “Although I wish to learn more about the different tastes Your Grace can experience, I must admit I am unable to guide you nor accompany you in your journey, per say. Should there be something wrong with the following water samples, I can only watch and listen like the others, but not help until much later.”

You nod slowly. 

“It means he’s concerned, dummy,” a voice calls out from behind you and you roll your eyes.

“Yeah, I kind of got that, thanks for the heads up,” you groan.

“If I am honest,” Neuvillette’s voice is soft, you’d even be confident to say it’s like he only wants you to hear. “I feel like a scientist watching my latest test subject. Fascinated, and yet should a problem arise, useless.”

“Hey, don’t say that,” you frown at him, but the expression easily slides off your face when he faces you (damn those sad otter eyes). Eventually, you offer him a soft smile. “If I really considered this as life threatening as you think, I would have stopped after the first pitcher. But I’m genuinely having fun, alright? So don’t worry too much about it.”

He doesn’t look quite convinced. You have been telling him to calm down a lot this entire time. When he opens his mouth to dissuade you, you beat him to it.

“I should thank you, you know.”

“Excuse me?” Neuvillette gapes at you. “I almost rushed you to a healer just a moment ago, Your Grace. I have done nothing to earn your gratitude.”

“That’s the thing, though, thank you for taking care of me this entire time, Neuvillette. You’ve been looking out for me every time we’re together, so thank you,” without thinking it over, you close the distance between you two and hug him. When you pull away, he’s intent on not looking you in the eye. “Thank you also for introducing me to water tasting. Never thought the day would come but here we are. It really is quite fun.”

“I see…” Neuvillette says, before abruptly turning around, giving you a clear view of his reddened ears. “Pardon me for a moment, Your Grace. I just… need to recollect for a moment.” 

Before you can say anything else, he leaves your side and goes to get your goblet he threw earlier in a panic. He kneels down and picks it up, but instead of heading back towards you, he just sort of holds it, turning it around in his hand mindlessly. You watch, jaw slightly open, until you feel a presence behind you. 

“I think you broke him.” 

You turn to the Traveler with concern. “Yeah I think so, too, should I be worried?” 

You both turn to Neuvillette, seeing he’s still busy with his goblet, before looking back to each other.

“I bet 500 mora he’ll go back to normal if you make yourself another drink.” 

“It’s not really a bet if we agree on the same thing, though?” 

You clear your throat, hoping to catch Neuvillette’s attention as you turn to Paimon. “Paimon, mind if I borrow your cup for now? We can share if you need it.”

“No, that’s okay. Paimon’s had enough of water. Paimon will share with the Traveler!” Almost on cue, the Traveler offers their drink to Paimon. 

The moment you lift the next pitcher, Neuvillette is by your side in an instant, your goblet and his safely set aside for washing later. “May I do the honors, Your Grace?” 

You offer your goblet as he holds up the pitcher. He pauses.

“Promise me we’ll stop if things get… awry.”

You smile. “You said it yourself, right? This is water prepared by the Iudex himself and made by the Creator themselves. I don’t doubt for a second that it’s not safe.” 

Neuvillette shares your smile softly before pouring the water into your goblet. Third time’s the charm, right? You take a sip and… raise an eyebrow.

“It’s salty. Huh.” you take another sip. “Sort of metallic, too. That’s pretty close to the same thing but, yeah, I’d say it’s rather salty.”

“Salty? That’s quite strange.” Neuvillette double checks that he’s holding the right pitcher. “This water is from Liyue, particularly from Qingce Village. I know of the water from Liyue to have an enduring aftertaste, but I must say I was not expecting it to be salty.”

“Me, too; for Liyue I was kind of expecting it to have an earthy kind of taste. Whatever that tastes like, I don’t know, but I was ready for anything besides this,” you take another sip. “Can’t say it’s all that bad, though. I feel like I’m at a beach.”

“Only if you’re actively drinking the sea water.” 

You don’t even bother looking behind you. “I said it ‘felt’ like. I didn’t say ‘taste’ like. Get your facts straight.”

Looking up at Neuvillette, you realize he’s only watching your reactions. He smiles softly when he finds your attention on him. Not wanting to be the only one “enjoying” the drink, you offer your goblet to him. He looks at you, slightly alarmed, but when you make no move to take the goblet back, he reluctantly takes it. He turns away from you as he drinks. 

You hear the Traveler clear their throat behind you. When you go to look, their eyebrows are raised at you. They look to Neuvillette and then to you before scoffing. Oh… was it that intimate an action?

“A-anyway,” you clear your throat as Neuvillette hands the goblet back to you. There’s a small pleased smile on his face. “What do you think of when you drink water from Liyue?” 

“For me,” Neuvillette closes his eyes for a few seconds, careful of what to say next. “I always thought it had a poignant touch to it.”

“Poignant?” What did you think of when you thought of poignant? Swirling the water around your cup, you recall a story quest. Liyue, salt, and water are key factors in its plot. A sad smile overtakes your features. “Ah. Yes, I guess poignant would be a good word for that. Salty is the right word, too.”

Neuvillette tilts his head to the side at your sudden change in demeanor. “Your Grace?”

“It’s nothing. Just thought I’d visit an old friend sometime.” you tilt your head back as you down the rest of the cup. “Anyways, I think I need something else to wash that off.” 

“Ah, yes. I suppose that does come with consuming salty foods.” Neuvillette nods. “Would you like a different drink? Something aside from water, I mean.”

“Actually, water is good for washing off salt, so I thought I’d ask for more water.”

He holds up the last silver pitcher. “We have Mondstadt left, if you would like to give it a try right now.”

“How would you describe it?” you ask, but you’re already holding out your goblet.

“This particular batch is from Cider Lake.” Neuvillette fills your goblet a little more than usual, most likely to fully cleanse the salt from your palate. “Besides having a crisp and clear feel, I also find that it warms the heart.”

“Oh, wow, guess Venti’s got it nice going for him,” you lift the goblet to your lips and drink.

“I’d be bold enough to say it’s the only thing nice going for him.”

You almost spit out your drink for the second time this day. You turn to look at the Traveler, but they’re busy having a debate with Paimon. That means that the person who said that was-

Neuvillette takes the goblet from your hands and drinks. When you look at him, jaw hanging open still from disbelief, you watch as the corners of his mouth tick up.

“Are you allowed to say that?” you whisper. The Traveler and Paimon don’t seem to have heard, but you sure as hell did.

“I just did, did I not?” He offers a small smile that borders on innocent if it wasn’t so conspiratorial. “I have faith that the Creator will not spread rumors about me, I hope.”

You don’t know if you’d still call it a rumor when he so blatantly did it in front of you, but you end up laughing. You put both hands up as a show of surrender. No way in hell were you telling on the dragon sovereign of Fontaine.

“So, as for our final drink,” Neuvillette offers the goblet back. “What do you make of water from Mondstadt?”

You make a show of finishing the cup all in one go. “Out of all the ones we tasted, I think this has got to be my favorite so far.” 

“Oh? Is it that good?” Neuvillette watches you keenly, awaiting for more details. 

“Yep. It tastes like water.”

Neuvillette chuckles softly, but when you simply offer him a smile, his smile drops. “You… are not joking?”

“Nah. It’s exactly as you say - it’s crisp and clean. It’s how water tasted like back from my world,” you hum in delight. “It doesn’t remind me of anything else but the pure taste of water. Can’t put my finger on whether it’s distilled, mineral, or tap water, all I know is that it’s water for me.” 

“Hmm. Although I want to say it’s rather an anticlimactic ending, I can’t say so. I leave today with the knowledge that there is still a water sample we can similarly taste.” Neuvillette smiles to himself once more. “But that’s enough of that. I believe I’ve put you through enough for today, Your Grace. Thank you for entertaining me and my hobbies.”

“I had fun! Make sure to call me next time you get a new sample, I’d love to have a taste.” You beam at him.

Neuvillette stares at you for a moment - was he waiting for you to tell him it was just a joke? Sure seemed like it - before his smile was back, relieved. You can almost see his little otter tail waving around. “Of course. I already look forward to it.” 

“Are you done now?” 

You take a step back as Paimon suddenly steps into the middle. Her little frown does little to make you feel bad. If anything, it has the opposite effect and you laugh. Her frown deepens at you as you rub her little head. 

“Yeah, yeah, we’re done. We can get a meal now.”

“Woohoo! We're getting meals, plural. Where are we going to eat? Paimon wants some Fontainian Foie Gras!” you follow the fairy as she heads out the door, excited for the prospect of food. And then you pause as you remember.

“Ah, wait. Before we leave. Just one more thing.”

You head back to the food trolley and grab Paimon’s goblet. You make a beeline for a corner in Neuvillette’s office. You noticed earlier there was a small drinking fountain. Gathering enough water into your cup, you take a sip. You turn to Neuvillette.

“Oh my gosh, it’s sweet.”

＝＝✿＝＝｜✧••❀••✧｜＝＝✿＝＝ 

❀BONUS❀

The Traveler and Paimon share an exasperated sigh for what seemed like the hundredth time in the past week. Ever since the water tasting incident, the Creator and Neuvillette have taken to going around Teyvat, trying out different waters straight from the spring of each nation. 

"Why do we have to visit each nation? Paimon thought you could just have them delivered straight to your office!" Paimon leans on the Traveler's head, tired from floating around so much. 

"Appreciating the nation from which the drink came from is part of the experience, Paimon." Neuvillette swirls the water in his goblet, offering it to the floating fairy, who only takes a look at it before cringing away.

The Traveler and Paimon share another look. They know he just likes the opportunity to bond with the Creator over their appreciation of water.

"Are we going back home after this?" Paimon groans.

"I can make you some Sticky Honey Roast if you guide us to Snezhnaya?" You take another sip from your goblet, one made from pure magical ore.

("Your Grace deserves only the finest things, even if it's only dinnerware and the likes," said Neuvillette. "I may also add that a traveling merchant said that drinking from a crystal goblet highlights the taste of the refreshment, as it is free from the taste of metal usually found in a standard cup." You don't mention that you notice he has a matching goblet, right next to a pile of books on his desk. Embedded on it is a familiar seashell.)

In an instant, Paimon is by your side, eyes glittering with determination. "If you cook three Sticky Honey Roasts for Paimon, Paimon can take you to Kh'aenriah."

You lower your goblet and hold out a hand. "Two. And I'll throw in a Squirrel Fish if you find a lake where we can drink from."

"Deal." Paimon takes your hand and you shake on it.

The Traveller flops to the ground and sighs.

They knew they were going to be the one to look for that lake.

✨ Masterlist ✨

Taglist: 💛@wonpielle 💜@shikanosn

Disclaimer: Characters are not mine and belong to their respective creators. Their portrayal is merely my own interpretation of them and may not be accurate to their intended characterization. I stake no claim to the original works, only to the ideas and plot of the fictitious stories I’ve written them into.

[xichilie]

Tartaglia x (fem) reader

Unexpected fondness

The sun was setting over the stone bridges of Liyue as the group made their way off the main road and toward a quiet spot to rest. Aether led the way with his usual calm focus, Kazuha not far behind with an eye on the treetops. Paimon hovered, grumbling lightly about aching feet and empty stomachs.

Y/N trailed slightly behind them, a satchel slung over one shoulder. “We’ll set up near the clearing by the water,” she offered. “There’s space for a fire.”

Aether nodded, and within minutes, they were settled. Kazuha took up a spot on a rock with a quiet sigh, while Y/N unpacked some simple ingredients for a quick meal. She moved with quiet efficiency — not much fuss, just purpose.

Then came the familiar sound of boots against grass.

Paimon’s ears perked up first. “Wait—someone’s—”

“I thought I smelled something good,” a familiar voice said casually from the edge of the clearing.

Childe stood there, arms folded, his usual half-smile in place. He looked relaxed, almost too relaxed.

Aether was immediately on guard. “What do you want?”

“Peaceful company. Maybe a bite to eat,” Childe replied with a shrug. “Not everything’s a scheme, you know.”

Kazuha remained silent but didn’t bother hiding his suspicion.

Y/N glanced up from the pot she’d been tending. Her gaze landed on Childe for a moment — long enough to take in the red markings, the glint of his vision, the expression that always looked like it was half a joke. Then, simply:

“There’s enough if you want some.”

Childe blinked.

Aether looked at her, surprised. “Y/N…”

She didn’t turn. “He’s not doing anything. If he does, you’ll stop him.”

It wasn’t said with naivety — just quiet confidence.

Childe stepped forward, slower this time. “You’re… unusually chill about this.”

“You haven’t done anything wrong today,” Y/N replied evenly, spooning stew into a bowl and handing it over without ceremony.

He took it, watching her for a second longer than necessary before sitting near the fire. No smug remarks followed. No baiting the others. He just started eating.

Paimon still looked unsure, hovering near Aether. “Are we seriously just letting him stay?”

Aether sighed but didn’t argue.

The fire crackled. Silence settled. Kazuha remained watchful. Paimon mumbled something about stew and floated over to claim her bowl.

Childe said nothing for a while. But every so often, his eyes flicked over to Y/N — not sharp, not playful. Just curious.

She hadn’t flinched when he arrived.

She hadn’t questioned his presence or motives.

She’d just fed him.

It didn’t mean trust — he wasn’t foolish enough to believe that. But it did mean she didn’t look at him the way others did. And for a man like him, that was rare.

He didn’t understand her yet.

But he wanted to.

Night had fully settled over Liyue, the stars beginning to peek through the dark silk sky. The faint sounds of the harbor were far in the distance now, just a low murmur carried by the wind. Their little camp had grown quiet, the fire reduced to glowing embers.

Kazuha was already half-asleep, sitting upright but eyes closed, resting as only a seasoned traveler could. Aether had rolled into his blanket, one arm behind his head, listening idly to Paimon’s sleepy chatter until she eventually dozed off mid-sentence.

Y/N was still up, seated on a flat rock near the fire pit, legs drawn up with a blanket wrapped around her shoulders. She poked gently at the coals with a stick, not to keep them burning, just to watch the sparks drift upward.

Childe remained nearby, seated cross-legged on the grass a few feet from her — not close enough to crowd, but not far enough to feel excluded.

"You don't talk much," he remarked lightly, tossing a small pebble into the dark.

Y/N glanced sideways, faintly amused. “I talk enough.”

He chuckled softly. “I guess so. You just don’t talk like the others do — not with that edge. Most people look at me like I’m about to stab someone in the back.”

“I don’t think you’d stab someone in the back,” she said after a pause. “Seems more your style to do it from the front.”

He blinked, then laughed, loud and genuine.

Y/N cracked a small smile, lips barely upturned, but her eyes warm with something a little softer.

“Have you always been like this?” she asked. “This... you?”

Childe looked up at the stars, the laughter fading into something quieter. “Depends who you ask,” he murmured. “I used to be different. But the world’s got a habit of teaching lessons early if you’re not careful.”

She didn’t press — just nodded like she understood.

A silence settled between them. Not awkward, but thoughtful. The kind that stretches when words don’t need to fill the air.

Then: “You didn’t have to offer me food earlier,” he said, voice low now. “But you did.”

“You looked like you needed it,” Y/N replied simply.

He turned his head toward her, a bit of his usual grin returning. “Kindness is dangerous, you know.”

“Only if you use it wrong.”

He watched her a moment longer, caught by the steadiness in her voice. There was something comforting in her presence — not in a loud or obvious way, but like sitting near a hearth after a long walk in the cold.

She turned her head then, meeting his gaze. “You should sleep.”

“Not tired.”

“Liar.”

He chuckled again, softer this time, but didn’t deny it.

“I’ll keep watch for a bit,” she said, shifting to get more comfortable.

“You trust me to sleep first?”

“I trust that if you try anything, Aether will punt you into the nearest mountain.”

He smiled at that. “You’re probably right.”

Another few seconds passed before he stretched out on the grass beside the fire, folding his arms behind his head. He didn’t close his eyes immediately. Instead, he kept watching her — how the firelight caught in her hair, the way she looked at the stars as if memorizing them.

Something inside him stirred — quiet and unexpected.

For the first time in a long while, he wasn’t in a rush to fight or prove something. He was just... content.

“I like your voice,” he said, almost sleepily.

Y/N blinked, caught off guard. “Why?”

He shrugged, eyes now closed. “Because it doesn’t sound like you’re afraid of me.”

She didn’t answer right away.

But after a beat, she whispered, “Goodnight, childe”

He opened one eye

By the time he sat up to look at her again, she was already facing away, humming softly to herself as the fire crackled low.

He lay back down, but the smile stayed.

[hunn1e-bunn1e]

Aether - "Mysterious Adeptus, Sky Weaver"

🐇.•°•.🐇.•°•.🐇.•°•.🐇.•°•.🐇.•°•.🐇.•°•.🐇.•°•.🐇.

In which the Traveler and Paimon unknowingly come across a mysterious adeptus by the name of Sky Weaver while the two are exploring near the sparsely populated cliffsides of Mt. Mingyuan. Or; In which the long-forgotten tale of the adeptus Sky Weaver is uncovered by Aether from the lips of the various Adepti of the Nation of Liyue and the people who know them.

Prologue | Part 1 | (1.5) | Part 2 | (2.5) | Part 3 | (3.5) | Part 4 | (4.5) | Part 5 | (5.5) | Part 6 | (6.5) | Epilog | Extra 1 | Extra 2

                                                                                                   

🌠•♡•🌠•♡•🌠•♡•🌠•♡•🌠•♡•🌠•♡•🌠•♡•🌠

“Now that we've helped Fujin tend to the soil, Paimon has noticed that it's a lot prettier in Chenyu Vale.”  

The floating fairy-like creature chirps as she hovers along the dirt path by her blonde companion's side.

“Speaking of prettier things. Traveler, did you notice that the sky here in Chenyu Vale is much different from the skies in the rest of Liyue?”

The golden blonde next to her stops and turns his gaze onto her, raising a brow of skepticism. His eyes then raise to the darkened sky that hangs above them and take in the sight.

What Paimon said was true. The sky truly was different from the rest of Liyue and any other region that the two had visited so far. As it was night, the sky was a deep midnight blue with swirls of violet and turquoise that seemed to glow from within the cotton-like clouds that partially obscured and circled the shining white moon. Stars speckle the suspended landscape of night haphazardly, their droplets of white add an almost otherworldly quality to the already ethereal scene. And, of course, the faded silhouette of Celestia looms ominously in the distance, creeping north ever so slowly. It truly was unlike anything that Aether had ever seen before.

“That's–… how did I never notice it.”

The golden blonde mumbles as he looks up in wonder and amazement, but also confusion. 

Why was the sky in Chenyu Vale so drastically different from anywhere else? What was so different about this place? How was the sky this way in the first place? It was strange; like the sky was altered by something to be this way, and although Aether wanted to think that something like that was impossible, his expectations have been demolished and rebuilt countless times since he descended into Teyvat.

The small bob-haired fairy floated in front of his face and waved her arms about to attract his attention.

“Hey, if you're curious about the sky, why don't we head back to Yilong Wharf and ask the locals about it? Maybe if we're lucky we'll run into Cloud Retai– uhm… Xianyun again; she might know too!” 

Paimon suggests before turning and floating further down the dirt road toward their new destination.

“Hm.”  

Aether hums, giving a curt nod as he follows his guide back to the wharf.

“Uuugh! Paimon is so tired! Why is Chiwang Terrace so far from here anyway!? It's already daytime!”  

Paimon whines as she slowly floats along with her blonde companion at a snail's pace in a slumped-over position.

“How about we head over to Jiulue Teahouse? We can sit down and eat some of the local dishes then we can start asking around.”  

The outlander chuckles softly as he reaches over and pats the floating girl on the head in sympathy before grabbing her and carefully holding her under his arm. Paimon only sighs and gives her friend a nod as she's carried off in the direction of the teahouse. 

On their way over to one of the nearby stalls, Aether spots a storyteller on the outside stage; maybe this storyteller has a few tales about the skies here. Though, after a short deliberation, he lets his floating companion go and buy food for the two of them while he goes and speaks to the storyteller; with a reasonable allowance, lest the girl buy out the stall's entire stock and empty his mora pouch.

Once the two part ways, the golden blonde sees the older man leaving off the stage, seemingly emptied of his arsenal of tall tales. So he waves the man, who he learns is named Jiewu going by the nearby chatter of patrons, down.

“Excuse me! I know that you just got off the stage, but I was wondering if you had any stories about the skies of Chenyu Vale?”  

He asked straightforwardly; getting a comical sweat drop from the older man at his bluntness.

Jiewu mutters a bit as he pinches his chin between his thumb and forefinger; his crow's feet becoming more pronounced as he squints his eyes in thought. The older man takes a glance up at the magnificent sky with a bland expression, as if it were the most mundane thing that he'd ever seen before. It was almost as if he didn't notice anything significant at all. Strange.

“I can't say I have any stories about the sky, young man. I've no clue why you're interested in something like that, there's nothing very spectacular about the sky.”  

Jiewu confusedly drones out; raising a thick brow at the blonde and taking another glance at the sky above.

“Was there anything else you needed, young man? If I'm not home soon, my wife will have a fit”  

The older man asks in a still polite but slightly rushed tone, making it clear that he wanted the conversation to end quickly.

Aether only shakes his head and allows the man to take his leave. Turning around, he sees Paimon floating toward him with bagged food in hand and an annoyed expression on her face. He raises a brow at her, silently asking what was wrong.

“Paimon asked the stall owner about the sky while waiting for the food, but he only looked at Paimon with a weird face and said ‘there's nothing really special about the sky, is there?’. And the other people Paimon asked said something similar!”  

The floating girl loudly complains before digging her hands into the bag, pulling out a skewer of food and angrily chomping on it; letting out muffled mumbles about giving the stall owner an ugly nickname.

Aether only sighs as he motions for his fairy-like companion to follow him.

Their next stop: Mt. Mingyuan!

As the traveler scaled the cliffs of Mt. Mingyuan, he kept hearing the sound of a paper bag rustling and the unmistakable munching of food. A metaphorical vein bulged out on his temple as he whipped his head around to look at his floating guide.

“You— Paimon, give me the bag! If you eat everything again, I swear I'll feed you to a cryo slime!”  

Aether growled as he recklessly took one hand off the cliffside to swipe at the bag in Paimon's hands, the girl dodging every time.

Unfortunately, all the wild movements made him lose his foothold in the cliffside and sent him plummeting towards the ground below. In too much shock to deploy his wind glider, all the golden blonde could do was stare upwards at the screaming Paimon who too was frozen in fear. 

But then… on the wind, he heard a faint whisper of droplets landing on the surface of water…

From beneath him, Aether felt a soft embrace pushing him upwards; the quiet sounds of shifting waters made him look back. What he could only describe was a small cloud of heavy mist with a ring of water swirling around it. The strange cloud lifted him, and Paimon when it reached the height she was at, up and over the cliffside, where it then came to a stop and seemingly patiently waited for him to get off. 

The golden blonde shakily stumbled off of the helpful cloud and fell on his bottom on the grassy cliff top. His heart beat erratically and his whole body trembled as the adrenaline finally caught up with him. He didn't even register the tearful apologies of his floating friend as she hugged him and sobbed into his chest.

“...One did not think that mortals had become so foolish over such a short time…”  

A gentle voice softly whispered from a place that Aether couldn't locate.

“...You shall consider yourself lucky that one was present to witness your fall, lest you no longer be among the living…”  

The voice spoke familiarly; it reminded Aether of how Xianyun and the other adeptus spoke. Surely this voice must belong to another adeptus that he just hadn't met yet.

“...Descend the mountain and return to a safer location, the cliffs of Mt. Mingyuan are no place for young mortals like yourself…”  

The voice spoke again, this time though, it seemed to be coming from the cloud that saved him from his fall. With every syllable pronounced, the cloud of mist gave off a faint but ethereal glow in a medley of colors. Colors that were reminiscent of the night sky that he had seen just yesterday.

Breaking from his adrenaline-fueled trance, Aether shakily gets to his feet and takes the still-sobbing Paimon into his arms. He spared a glance back at the cloud, tempted to stay and ask it about its possible connection to the mysterious skies that he had been wondering about, but one look at the disheveled companion in his arms and he knew his answer. He'd have to worry about that later, his dear friend needs him right now.

“Can… Can I ask you for your name?”  

The golden blonde asked, almost sounding as if he was begging with how his voice trembled.

“...One's name should be of no concern to you at this time; you must go now…”

The ‘cloud’ softly answered back, as if it were trying to coax a sleepy child back into a dream.

With that answer, Aether nodded and headed down the mountain with careful and measured steps, occasionally giving quick glances down at the sleeping Paimon's tear-stained face. He sighs, perhaps he can just ask about this mysterious adeptus another time, he has much more important things to worry about now.

🌠•♡•🌠•♡•🌠•♡•🌠•♡•🌠•♡•🌠•♡•🌠•♡•🌠

🐇.•°•.🐇.•°•.🐇.•°•.🐇.•°•.🐇.•°•.🐇.•°•.🐇.•°•.🐇.

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[the-white-void]

"You have heard the Story."

Synopsis: A Play that was acted over and over again has finally reached a stir in script, changing the events that were supposed to happen. Will this Play finally lead to a happy ending? Or lead the play to the same script as before?

Warning: This contains mentions of violence, killings, torture, and repetitive deaths which may be uncomfortable to some readers.

One || two || three || four || five...?

Taglist: @kthehoeforfictionalmen @pix-stuff @kthehoeforfictionalmen @time-shardz @scarletttcroww @mysteriaqueen @atsukawolfcat @junkoslette @mefOrgOr @altheqo @obliviousariies2007 @mmeatt @quacking-simp @amnervous

Dreams are the manifestation of oneself. Made from desire,experience, trauma, and hate. Many things can warp the mind to elude the creature into a dream; one too familiar to let go, or the pain to make them reform. Dreams are a curious thing. It's been a long time since you dreamt. A feeling all too distant since then. 'What did dreams feel like? How do dreams make one feel?" Questions surged through your thoughts while sitting inside a cold and desolate cell.

"Why are these questions coming to me now?" You wondered as you gazed up at the ceiling, eyes wandering at every crack and fragment dangling from the stone before a loud clang echoed cutting your thought.

The sound was made when a guard thrust his sword at the bars. "Quiet fraud!!! This world doesn't need your corrupt thoughts out loud!" The guard sneered as he pulled his blade. back to its sheath.

Brushing off the guard's words, you stepped closer to the bars with a sly grin while leaning closer. "Hey, do you know how dreaming feels? It's been a while since I've had one." Yet the innocent act was returned with a clang banging into the bars.

"I said quiet fraud!!! You better shut your mouth if you know what's good for you." The guard's voice came aloud, echoing through the dungeon halls. Your face remained unchanged and unfazed by his threat, simply smiling, but yet the tone of your grin became unsettling, leaving a cold sweat down the once threatening guard.

"You know... I prefer my questions to have answers." Your tone of voice was sickly sweet, enough to come off as poison. Your eyes drew closer to the guard, your gaze piercing through his haughty façade. "Now tell me. What is it like to dream?". The guard quickly turned his back away to face you, still, he could feel his mind weighing over him as he felt his body slowly fading from his control, with your question burdening his whole being.

"What is it like to dream?"

Luck graced the guarding knight as a small figure appeared to interfere. "What's wrong? Are you alright?" A young and squeaky voice came as the figure came closer revealing itself as the Dendro Archon, along with another person wearing an expansive hat.

"Wait, Buer" the short man with a big hat came off surprised when the Dendro Archon suddenly dashed off to help the guard. Your smile faded as you saw the Archon come closer before returning, but with a different reason for grinning, then releasing the guard from his agony as he fell to his knees before hitting the ground.

While Kusanali focused her attention on the guard as Wanderer had his eyes on you, wary of your intentions as you had the guts to impersonate a being of another plane. "Why are you trying to act like a god? That won't get you anything." He sneered while keeping his distance. A low chuckle escaped your lips as you looked at him. "That's very rich coming from someone who tried to become a god." You teased as you lay your bum on the floor with your legs crossed, giggling at your little joke.

Your short statement made the Wanderer's blood run cold, if he had any. Ever since her erased himself from Irminsul, no one else other than the traveller, Paimon, and Bier could have known, yet, some imposter knew that. "How did you..." The Dendro Archon overhead you and Hat Guy's little exchange and came over with a tinge of fear behind her face brimming with courage. "How did you know all that? Ever since he was removed from Irminsul, no one should have known about that."

Your smile was unchanging as you looked up to her and giggled. "Tehehe... Maybe you could try guessing-" your voice leaving a little teasing tone as your eyes remain on the young Archon.

The Dendro Archon remains unmoving, her eyes still as untainted waters of a clear spring, the clarity deceivingly clear. "Because you've seen it before, again and again, countless times, in every loop you've experienced..." She voiced out with a tinge of pity laced in her stern facade.

Your smile was drowned out by the Lord's words, while also leaving her company confused. Standing up from your laxed form, slightly towering over the young Archon while your eyes were dead set on hers, your teasing aura vanished into a tense and trembling form. "You... remember...?" Your voice quivered as well as your eyes. Your once calm facade crumbled showing the same prey that was hunted countless times.

Walking back into the shadows that filled the cell you were locked in, turning away as thoughts and words escaped your lips in mumbles, mumbles no one else in the dungeon could understand. Facing the wall you clenched your fingers on the surface, grabbing onto what little sanity is left before madness drove your mind. "Lieslieslieslieslieslies... Even... evenifyouremember... You paused your rapid mumbling as you clenched your hands harder on the wall, breaking your nails before your blood oozed out.

Your silence filled the dungeon with a haunting flavour, like the clam before the storm, leaving the Dendro Archon and her companion uneasy. "Kusanali, we should leave this nutjob. We're not gonna get anything from them." Wanderer tries to tell his concerns, but Nahida was laser focused on getting more from you.

The silence was deafening before it was interrupted but the sound of a droplet hitting the floor, then another, and another. Your hands rested on your sides, before turning your head to the two outside your cell.

Your sudden change in form left the two alarmed as Wanderer gets in front to protect the Archon.

You were still as still a statue; in an instant, you leapt onto thern but you were stopped by the bars holding you in. Your eyes showed an insane victim conscience about freedom or a trap. "Remembering that means NOTHING!!! LIARS! You're just here to ask me SHIT aren't ya!!!" Your furious yells echoed through the hollow halls while. While your hands gripped harder on the bars, your blood continued to flow, blood of glimmering gold against the small ember of light flickering from a lamp.

"You're... The Overseer...?"

[jazeswhbhaven]

Funny/cute idea: an MC that likes sewing and makes little doll-sized clothes for Ppyong, Jiyu, and Jjok.

I think Satan, Belial, and Lucifer would have different reactions seeing their babies in different outfits.

I can totally see Eligos and Paimon giving MC ideas to add ribbons and cute accessories. Mammon would buy the best quality fabric and be supportive. Bimet taking some of Eligos' ribbons and attempting to sell them to MC.

Ahhhh anon, I'm so sorry I have no idea how this slipped my radar when you sent it 😭 Thank you for waiting

I can totally see Satan being ridiculous at first with suggesting the kind of outfits that MC needs to make for Ppyong and Jiyu. Belial is intrigued to see what designs MC comes up with, because Jiyu is way smaller than Ppyong by a lot. Eligos and Paimon would be collaborating together on outfit ideas for the red lumps. Paimon would get so carried away too like?

Lucifer would be indifferent, but curious as to what kind of clothes MC could make for Jjok. They'd have to be water resistant....for his "accidents". Ppyong's fans excited to see any new outfits he may have acquired....

OH and MC making miniature versions of the uniforms each noble wears for their country. For Jjok it's up in the air because there really isn't a dress code, so he just has a matching uniform similar to Ppyong and Jiyu for group pictures. They look so cute too. In their human forms....they even request for MC to make the uniforms match too and now they resemble a new Kpop group of just 3 attractive men (I HC Jiyu would be shorter than Rin and Juno)

[themissinghand]

Mind if I could have a SAGAU request? So the player is burnt out from the game. Like completely. Some characters find a way to your desktop and ask "Why haven't you entered Teyvat lately?" After explaining that you still like/love them, they are disappointed but understandable. Problem is, they can't go back until you launch the game. So the characters sort of become desktop buddies (Showing my age aren't I?) and perhaps helping you out in the various other games the player would play or just vibing as you surf the web, make arr, write stories, etc. As for the characters... Aether and Paimon at least, though adding Kazuha, Yanfei, Freminet, Bennett, Fischl, Childe, and Collei would be cute too.

Genshin Impact Desktop Buddies

Summary: In which your favourite Genshin characters miss you. 

Or now you have them as your desktop buddies until Genshin Impact is fixed.

Pairings: Aether & Paimon, Kazuha, Yanfei, Childe and Fischl x Neutral! Reader! 

Note: Desktop buddies are ancient now lol, but honestly such a cool thing to have back then. Hope you enjoy! 

Warning: None, just fluffy goodness. 

★・・・・・・★

You’re tired. Like really tired. 

Grinding for artifacts, ascension and weapon materials has worn you out. That includes your wallet too.

They were worth it, no doubt about that, but staring at a screen all day every day could tire anyone out. 

And yea, you need sleep. 

For the first time in a long time, you decided to shut down the game, and take at least a few day break. 

It’s not like it would make a big difference right? 

Little did you know, it most definitely would. 

Just a few days later, not only did your laptop started acting weird to the point where you thought of buying a new one, Genshin also disappeared from your desktop. 

Before you knew it, you see little figures that look oddly familiar on your screen…

“Why haven’t you entered Teyvat lately?”

Aether & Paimon

The player spun around, eyes widening at the sight of Aether and Paimon now out of the game, and...hopping around on your screen.

"Aether? Paimon? How... how are you here?".

Aether stepped forward. 

"Our Creator, we've missed you. The others are worried. Why haven't you been to Teyvat?"

You sighed, has it already been a couple of days? Also, since when were you their creator? 

"I'm just a little tired-” There was a dramatic gasp from Paimon.

“Tired of us? Aether! Our Creator is tired of us!” 

“No! I mean, I still love Teyvat and all of you, but I needed a break and I will go back soon." You quickly responded with reassurance, which luckily appeased the floating companion. 

Paimon floated closer, which was like a weird zoom on her face, her eyes softening with understanding. 

"We get it, but... we can't go back to Teyvat until you' launch' the game." She says robotically, but appeared confused right after.

“Ah, okay. Give me a minute.” 

When you tried to download the game via the Genshin website, it stated that there was a website maintenance. 

“Creator! What is happening? The world is changing!” While you were frustrated, Aether and Paimon were jumping and flying everywhere around your screen, exploring how tabs open and following your mouse as you click and hover.

Their curiosity made you smile, and you slowly explain how everything works slowly as with each passing second, they marvel at how advanced your world is. 

“No wonder you’re our Creator!” 

“What’s this!?” Before you knew it, you pulled up multiple websites, and the one you landed on was Disney+.

“Do you want to watch a movie?” 

“What’s that?” Aether asked, curious, followed by Paimon’s cute little head tilt.

(You wished you could just squeeze those cute little cheeks-)

“It’s like telling a story, but you get to see it unfold right before you. Here.” You pull up ‘My Little Mermaid’ and they jump seeing the video move, with everyone inside move. 

“Woah…it’s like another world!” 

Aether seemed to marvel over it, and for a moment, he wondered, maybe, you could traverse worlds too. 

Seeing the stars in their eyes made you feel guilty, as if another misunderstanding arose, but you let them be, as their cute little figures sat down and watched the movie. 

You too, watched it with them, and for the first time in a while, you didn’t feel lonely. 

Throughout the movie, you patted them on the head with your mouse, which the two seemed to like very much. 

(And yes, you did pinch those cute little cheeks)

Kazuha 

“I’m glad that you didn’t abandon us, Your Highness.” 

Never in your wildest dreams did you expect to see THE Canadian Aether, Kazuha, on your screen, bowing respectfully to you.

“Let me know if I can help you in any way. Although my form is…not in the most helpful form, I will do my best.” 

You held back a giggle when you saw a shy little Kazuha looking at himself and then at you shyly, and you really wanted to tease him, but you chose not to. 

Instead, you pull up your incomplete art project. 

Might as well since you can’t download Genshin now and might have to wait for a few days.

“Actually Kazuha, I was hoping you could help me finish my art.” He immediately perked up, a serious expression overtook his shy one.

“Of course, Your Highness, let me know what you want to draw and I can help you!”

“Great! I’m trying to draw a handsome and cute man, he has platinum blond hair…” Slowly, you list one by one, the characteristics of the person you want to draw. 

Kazuha learns fast. Soon, he was able to figure out how your art platform worked. 

At first, he hesitated, and didn’t want to interrupt your drawing, but slowly, he learned to add in his thoughts and feedback, and guided your mouse to smooth out the lines, and perfect the colouring.

“He has red eyes…” 

Calming and soothing, his voice made you feel at peace, just like how you would hang out with him at the top of a mountain somewhere and listening to the game music. 

But this time, he was a little closer, where he felt more real albeit still in your screen. 

“Your Highness…isn’t this…me?” His little cheeks was dusted with pink as he quickly covered it with his hands. 

“It is you.” 

“But why…”

“Because you’re one of my favourites, Kazuha.” 

It was all it took for him to become shy again, and he began to cough awkwardly as if to mask his embarrassment. 

“Thank you…Your Highness.”

Yanfei

“Phew! We were so scared that you left us Your Eminence! But…I suppose we can’t do anything until you open up Teyvat again, until then, let me know if I can help you!” 

Yanfei's cheerful voice made you smile as you leaned against your palm. 

Then she turned around, as if taking in her surroundings before looking back at you. 

“Your Eminence, if I may, may I help you organize your…space?”  You blink, and that was when you notice the amount of files littered across the desktop screen, and you realized that from Yanfei’s view, it must’ve been very unorganized.

“Sure.” 

Yanfei brightens at your acceptance, and hopped a little to show her excitement. 

“Okay! I’m good at this, so leave it to me! Just follow my lead.” 

You were gonna clean up your PC eventually, though you did not expect it would be today. 

Either way, Yanfei was like a referee and a police, asking questions but also making sure everything was organized correctly. 

In a way, Yanfei felt like a Mom asking her child to clean her room.

Even so, it was so cute to see her marching everywhere like a soldier and asking you to organize it in a neat manner.

“Okay, next, let’s organize this folder!” 

“Okay-” Before you knew it, you immediately hit backspace. 

“Your Eminence…who was that-”

“Let’s move on.” But Yanfei stared at that folder with an intense stare. Did she see it? 

With a little nudge and push with your mouse, Yanfei eventually moved on, but she constantly had a smile on her lips. 

It was you cosplaying as her for an event. 

Yanfei would be sure to tell her friends back home. 

Childe

“Well, I’m happy to hear that, Your Highness! But…what were you doing? Away from Teyvat?”

Childe’s smile was a little bit menacing to look at, so you pull up what you were doing before to distract him.

And it did, surprisingly. 

“What is this?”

“It’s a game called Valorant.” 

You start the game, and once you get prepared, he too was locked in. 

With each attack and maneuver, Childe slowly became hyped up by your skill and admired it. 

“Your Highness! Why didn’t you tell me before?!” He became to gush, albeit trying to remain civil as he looked between you and your character in game. 

“Again.” In the end, he asked (begged) for another show. 

This time, you changed your agent to someone else, and once again, showed how skilled you are even in melee, which Childe initially advised against. 

But you blew his expectations away. 

“Your Highness, can I duel you?” 

You blink, before you laugh jokingly, but you knew in real life, Childe would absolutely crush you.

But you leave him be, and instead start another game. 

Honestly, Childe would be a great hype man. 

Fischl

“Ah, of course! How the stars seem to be against us this time…regardless! With me, Fischl von Luftschloss Narfidort here, there is nothing you need to worry about!” 

As expected, Fischl is quite the actor and storyteller as she spews on about how she faced something similar before, something just as interstellar as this. 

You don’t mind it, after all, if you did, you wouldn’t have Fischl on your team the entire time would you? 

Fischl deserves more love is what you find in the fandom, and while she may be annoying at times, you found her passion admirable, and even a little sad when you think this is her way of happiness. 

So you respected that, and listened as she rambled on, and moved as if she was on the stage. 

Perhaps…she would do good on stage with Furina in Fontaine. 

“Fischl, I do need your help on something.” You asked when she finally finished, and she straightened herself with grace as expected from the Prinzessin der Verurteilung. 

“I need your help with my stories. I want you to create elaborate and dramatic narratives for everyone to love.” She froze for a moment, but her grin immediately hid her surprise. 

“Why of course, I would be delighted. Allow me!” With just a few seconds to think, she immediately began her storytelling. 

With her little graceful steps and hops, she almost dances away, but she doesn’t stop sharing her fantasy story full of magic, fate, and stars. 

It was hard to keep up, but you didn’t want to disappoint her, so you did your best to type her word by word. 

Luckily, she seemed to slow down to match your pace, as if the two of you were a duet with the piano and violin. 

When she stops, you end off the story with a dramatic click, and you match her prideful smile. 

Truly, Fischl is a character not everyone can handle, but that’s alright.

After all, you love her for who she is, and maybe, Fischl appreciated that more than anything else.

[nekofromanotherworld]

Dragon's nest

Some people get to know that Ludex of Fontaine has family.

______________________________________________________________

“Traveler! Paimon!”

“Oh, hello again Katheryne. How can I help you?” Lumine asked, coming closer to Adventurer’s Guild with Paimon. They wanted already to go to eat something but seems like their plans decided to change.

“There is request from Palais Mermonia, do you accept it?” Black-haired women asked.

“I think we should take it Lumine! We will get more mora for food. But what kind of quest is it?” Paimon asked this time, curious what we will get this time to do.

“You have to delivery this package, but carefully, there is glass bottle with some liquid.” Katheryne said before reaching for small package, which was green box with some herbs drawn on it.

“Thank you very much for informing us about it, where can we get our payment later? And to who we have to deliver it?” Paimon asked, and gave few more questions to women. Of course she has answered on all of them.

“Now take it and go, before the person that ordered this becomes irritated for not receiving their package.” The receptionist said before waving at girls to go already. On the way to the building they started planning on what they wanted to eat after delivery, suddenly it started raining. Girl and flying creature started walking faster to not get soaked with water. After they got to the elevator and got to the right floor, rain was not as intensive as at the beginning. But it was still raining, making their clothes soak with water.

Two girls entered big building, in which they were welcomed by no one else but Melusine- Sedene. 

“Hello there Traveler and Paimon! Do you have maybe package for Monsieur Neuvillette?” Melusine asked two girls.

“So Ludex of Fontaine has ordered something?! I thought he would send someone to order something, but I didn’t think he could order something for himself personally!” Paimon said shocked. She couldn’t believe that someone as important as him could order something personally.

“Why he didn’t send someone? I think he could have done that, and it would probably be easier for not only him but for person making order, to not stress so much about package.” Paimon talked with shock written on her face. Lumine and Seden were just looking at her and listening to her talk with herself mostly.

“Let me lead you to his office, he has guest now but I think he won’t mind a delivery and another person to talk to.” Melusine said with smile on her face. She turned around and started going to the main hall which leaden to the turns, left and right. Turquoise creature turned left, Lumine and Paimon followed behind her. Light-brown haired Melusine knocked on the door. After waiting few minutes, they hear someone screaming something behind the door.

“Ah! Package already came! Neuvillette! Come here! It has already came!” Lady Furina screamed after opening the door, she snatched the package from Lumine’s hands and run back to the Neuvillette’s office.

“I guess she is Monsieur’s Neuvillette guest, that you talked about” Paimon said to Sedene.

“Ah! Yes she is the guest, but she is there only to help him. Since Monsieur Neuvillette has small problems with his family, so someone has to help him with looking after them” Melusine said with worried look one the face.

“Wait, Neuvillette has family!? He didn’t tell us anything!” Flying creature said shocked. “Lumine! We have to get more information about this!” Paimon said and flew to the office through the open door.

“Paimon! Wait! We cannot just enter like that. We didn’t get permission!” Lumine said and ran after her friend, to stop her from making something dumb. The first thing blond-haired girl saw was Lady Furina with her back turned to office’s entrance. She was showing something with her hands to somebody sitting in front of her. Probably Ludex of Fontaine, why did Furina run to him with parcel?

“Can I give her that? Can I? Can I? Please! Let me give her that!” Furina asked while jumping in front of long wooden desk. She nearly knocked down candlestick.

“No. You cannot, you know perfectly how she will react if it won’t be me who enters lair.” Neuvillette said calmly, with green box in hand. There were some plants drawn on it.

“Hey! What are you arguing about? We want to know too!” Paimon flew closer to them.

“Can I at least tell them what happened?” Furina looked excited at Traveler and Paimon.

“Yes, you can.” Neuvillette sighed.

“So, as you can see, you delivered package to us, or Neuvillette. He ordered to calm down his wife.”

“Wait, what do you exactly mean by “calm down”?” Paimon asked.

“You see-“ Furina started.

“My wife has given birth to ten , healthy, dragon eggs. And she is exhausted, which contributed to the fact that she is not calm. She is very nervous that someone will hurt our hatchlings. Unfortunately my scent didn’t help her. That’s why I ordered some calming bath oils to help her.” Neuvillette explained, like it was oblivious.

“Okey, but still why haven’t you told us that you have wife and you have family?!” Paimon yelled.

“Because if I told anyone someone could get them hurt or worse, kidnap them.” Neuvillette said while walking to matte glass door. He opened it and entered another room. Furina ran after him

“Hey wait for us! I want to see her too!” Paimon yelled angry.

“If you all want to see her I suggest you to be quiet and seat on the sofa.” Neuvillette said. Room which they all entered was spacious, as every other place in Palais Mermonia it had high walls and many windows. Mostly white and blue colours were there. On both sides of the entrance there were two light blue sofa’s and four big pots with big pink flowers. On the right there were standing two white armchairs, next to them there were many bookshelves, and big coffee table. On the left, of entrance, one would expect a bed to stand there, instead there were many blankets and pillows thrown there. On top of that there was something long and big laying, curled in circle, with space inside.

“There she is” Furina whispered while pointing with her finger big creature.

“Woah! It is so long, how is it even possible? Wait, what do you mean by ”she”?! Is it Neuvillette’s lover?! She is dragon too?! I thought that he is the only hydro dragon!” Paimon yelled and asked many questions.

“Shhh, you have to be silent. You just entered dragon’s den. You can’t act like that, you have just disrespected her.” Furina whispered, meanwhile Neuvillette walked closer to sleeping dragon.

“Dear, please wake up. It’s me, Neuvillette. I came with something for you.” He said while touching bluish scales to wake up his lover. To the touch, dragon growled.

“See, that’s why only he can enter room, when she is in this state. Even her husband is not welcomed. That’s why we ordered calming bath oils.” Furina said to Paimon.

“But why she is so nervous?” Lumine asked.

“Because she is still in shock after birth. If you are curious it was not her first pregnancy. If I’m not wrong it’s her third.” Furina explained.

“Wait, third pregnancy?! How many kids they have? Thirty?” Paimon asked.

“No, they have around nine kids, not all hatchlings are ready to hatch, some of them never do it. That’s second reason why she is so nervous, she doesn’t want to lose another. She is too scared, that’s why she doesn’t let anyone near her, especially people who she doesn’t know.” Furina explained. Finally Neuvillette woke up his dragon lover.

“Love you have to get up, I have something what will help you. You have to eat too, you won’t be strong enough to take care of hatchlings.” Neuvillette said while petting dragon’s back.

“But I don’t want to, I have to stay beside them. I cannot lose more. If I do I will be horrible mother” Dragon finally said something.

“My dearest, you are wonderful mother of nine children. All of them are strong and know how to take care of themselves. If any of those hatchlings will die, every member of family will cry after them. Beside I ordered this specially for you.” Ludex of Fontaine said, and put green box next to laying dragon. Dragon opened its blue-white eyes and looked at the box.

“Are those bathing oils? The ones which I love? From my favourite herbarium?” Dragon asked, while looking at white-haired man.

“Yes. Do you need help with getting up and taking bath or do I have to carry you to the bathroom?” Neuvillette asked.

“No you don’t have to, but can you take care of hatchlings? I don’t trust those two on sofa’s, only Furina.” Dragon said.

“Hey! Don’t say things like that! We are worth your trust!” Paimon screamed.

“I don’t think so, I see you first time” Dragon said while raising up and untangling its body. Dragon had fur from head to the end of the long neck, scales were in some places dark blue, blue, or even white. On the top of head it had, same as Neuvillette, long horns. Its four paws had fins and torso was vey long, same with tail which was ended with two big fins. Dragoness walked out of bet and took parcel from Neuvillette to its mouth and walked to the other end of room. There were another doors which led to the bathroom. She opened them and entered, after she did that she used her tail to close door.

“Woah! She is so big, but not nice.” Paimon said.

“She is like that because she is nervous that you two can harm her children! Don’t be shocked” Furina said after pointing her finger at Paimon.

“Furina is right, Paimon. She is still in shock after birth, you should be understanding.” Lumine said, trying to calm down her flying friend.

“While we wait for her why don’t we make some tea and bring some biscuits and other food, so we can chat with two hydro dragons about everything and nothing? You can gain some of her trust!” Furina proposed.

“That’s good idea! I’m in!” Paimon agreed with Furina.

“Then let’s go and grab some food.” Furina said and run out of room, Paimon and Lumine after her. Rest of the day was spent with pair of dragon’s, their family and three other people, all drinking tea and eating whatever three girls brought.

______________________________________________________________

Don't copy my work

[gold-rhine]

A/N: This is Kaeya with the Disco Elysium skill system, because I miss him and I think it fits him really well. It's a scene from his hangout, the Liyue part, where—if you don't remember or criminally didn’t play it—Kaeya and the Traveler go to Liyue, meet a guy Kaeya saved from bandits a couple of times (but didn’t remember at first), and who is now being swindled by the local scammers. Kaeya already explained to him that he's being scammed, but didn't offer to help, instead advising him to reach out to local authorities. The Traveler then tries to convince Kaeya to help by telling him they think he's a good person, and he denies it, but agrees to help anyway. I always thought this would be fascinating to explore from his internal monologue POV, because his answers are so self-contradicting.

All dialogue is canon, I only wrote internal monologue.

Warnings: mentions of alcohol addiction and suicide ideation

Characters: Kaeya, Lumine

________

YOU - You walk away, but the traveler doesn't follow. You stop a few paces away and watch the traveler talk to the idiot who got scammed and his friends.

Aunt Zhang: That con-artist is human scum!

Guangzhi: Don't worry, Wu. We'll come with you to the Ministry to report the case.

Captain Wu: Surely I'll be able to get my Mora back... probably... hopefully...

PERCEPTION: The Traveler stays silent—she’s never been one for unnecessary words, and with her chatty fairy absent today, the quiet feels heavier than usual. Yet the faint crease in her brow betrays her resolve, as she turns to walk up to you with a look of determination.

CHESSMASTER [Trivial: Success]: Authorities? A tedious solution. She’s already decided—you’re the better choice, and she won’t leave without your agreement.

LUMINE (THE GOLDEN TRAVELER): She stops before you, arms crossed, golden eyes sharp and unyielding. The silence stretches. Damn that absent pixie; at least Paimon’s whining would’ve given you an opening to deflect.

Crumble immediately.

2.[Composure - Legendary] Say nothing, stare her down.

3. [Chessmaster- Easy] Tell her there will be a price for your help, and she will be the one to owe you.

>4. Surely you can think up of ways to deflect even without the Celestia's baloon?

SILVER TONGUE - Use that 'martial arts hero' bit from earlier. Remind her how you teased her about secret vigilante work, play it off like she's taking this too seriously.

LOGIC - She IS a hero. Why pretend that it's a joke?

SILVER TONGUE - Precisely. By calling her a 'martial arts hero' — linking it to that dour Darknight persona, you make heroics sound absurd. Even she’d hesitate to embrace the comparison. Who willingly becomes another Diluc?"

ANGEL'S SHARE - She's friends with Diluc.

SILVER TONGUE - She's friends with everyone. She's friends with Paimon, but 'Emergency food' wasn’t coined for no reason.

Crumble immediately.

2.[Composure - Legendary] Say nothing, stare her down.

3. [Chessmaster- Easy] Tell her there will be a price for your help, and she will be the one to owe you.

>4. [Silver Tongue - Medium] Use that 'martial arts hero' jab again. Frame it as playful teasing - make her insistence on helping seem almost childish. The more she leans into heroics, the more ridiculous she'll sound.

SILVER TONGUE [Medium: Success] - "I am quite curious. How does our chivalrous martial arts hero intend to come to Captain Wu's rescue here?"

CHESSMASTER - What a delightfully naive question. She's not here with a plan - she's here to draft you as her personal strategist. Might as well invoice her for your help.

THE FOOL - I thought we agreed she's one of the people we will try to keep out of being transactional with? Also she did a lot for us in the past anyway.

THE LIST - Favors Count is 5 to 7 to her advantage, but she did try to screw us over with that hereditory sword.

YOU - The sword. That entire week you spent waiting for her to decide. The way she played along until the last moment. The way you almost believed she wouldn't do it.

She failed your test. That doesn't balance out. It outweighs everything.

ANGEL'S SHARE - This is exhausting, and you haven’t even had a drink today. Just walk away. Find a bottle. Forget this.

DRAMA - Just say that you don't know how to solve it anyway, so asking you is pointless.

KING IRMIN'S TRIAL [Trivial: Success] VERDICT: NOT A LIE.

The solution remains unconsidered, therefore unknown. No lie has been spoken. Your vision doesn't blur. The chains don't tighten. The old laws still shield you.

THE FOOL - But you could devise a plan if you tried. This technical truth might satisfy the law, but when did you start hiding behind loopholes with HER? She deserves better than that, try to reason with her...

CHESSMASTER - She deserves nothing. Reasoning with people is a luxury you can't afford. That scar above your eye burns at the memory. You reasoned with Diluc too. You remember how that ended.

1.Give up and crumble.

2.[Silver Tongue - Easy] Amplify the 'vigilante hero' mockery. If she wants to play champion, paint her as naive - a wide-eyed storybook hero chasing windmills. The more absurd you make altruism sound, the less she'll press.

3.[Chessmaster- Easy] State your terms coldly. She wants your skills? She buys them.

4.[Drama - Easy] Let your voice go hollow. 'I don't know how to help' isn't a lie if you refuse to consider solutions. The chains won't tighten.

>5.Try to reason with her.

6. Say fuck it and leave to get a drink.

YOU - "There are countless victims of injustice in the world. We can't try to help each and every one of them, can we?"

LUMINE (THE GOLDEN TRAVELER): She tilts her heard, as if she's heard something that doesn't quite make sense, and then says firmly, with no hesitation "But you're a good person, Kaeya."

SILVER TONGUE - What?

CHESSMASTER - WHAT???

LOGIC - She can't be serious. This *has* to be a joke.

DRAMA [Easy: Success]: She looks at your earnestly, no hint of sarcasm or dishonesty in her golden eyes. She means what she's said.

LOGIC [Legendary: Failure] - You've let her see the cracks in the mask. Even her little useless fairy caught on by now. You've manipulated *her* directly and admitted it on several occasions, why would she still be thinking of you as a good person?

CHESSMASTER [Impossible: Failure] Unless... unless this is her gambit. Not manipulation—absolution. The one move you can't counter. She was the bigger master liar all along!

THE FOOL - No, that's ridiculous, she's not. But she had traveled Teyvat. She's stood against the abyss and the archons. Seen through Signora's deceit, Childe's bravado, even Zhongli's contracts. And when she looks at you— Why does her voice sound like truth?

LOGIC - ....

CHESSMASTER - ...

ANGEL'S SHARE - No. You are a filthy sinner.

LOGIC - Yes. This correlates with the all known data.

ANGEL'S SHARE - Because you were always a dirty liar.

DRAMA - Even back then, under the rain, crying, you lied to Crepus.

ANGEL'S SHARE - You lied to them all. All that time. And for what? You failed to do anything.

ORDO FAVONIUS - You failed your duty.

KING IRMIN'S TRIAL - You failed your duty.

THE FOOL - But...

ANGEL'S SHARE - You failed everyone. The world would be better without you.

1. Say fuck it and leave to get a drink.

2.Say fuck it, leave to get a drink and kill yourself.

>3.DRAMA [Easy: Success] Don't do that in front of her, that would be horribly uncool.

YOU - What are you supposed to do then?

SILVER TONGUE - Play it cool. Pretend to be surprised, but condescendingly and sarcastically.

1. Say fuck it and leave to get a drink.

2.Say fuck it, leave to get a drink and kill yourself.

>3 [Silver Tongue - Medium] Cooly and sarcastically tell her you're surprised she thinks you're a good person.

SILVER TONGUE [Medium: Success] - "Oho, I'm surprised. I didn't know you thought of me as someone who helps other people unconditionally."

CHESSMASTER - Wait. Play along. Having the Descender believe in your goodness could be useful.

KING IRMIN'S TRIAL [Challenging: Failure] VERDICT: A LIE. It contradicts every known fact. Chains tremble at your throat.

DRAMA [Medium: Success]: You don't have to say it directly. Stay vague. Let her assumptions do the work.

KING IRMIN'S TRIAL [Challenging: Success]: Verdict shifts: NOT A LIE. You merely expressed surprise. The chains loosen.

THE FOOL - But she was the one who knew the bad parts and shady moves and still wanted to be your friend. If you don't contradict her now, wouldn't it be hollow after this?

CHESSMASTER - "Hollow". This is about the big picture, not your ridiculous feelings.

ANGEL'S SHARE - It's already hollow. Everything you touch rots. Why pretend otherwise?

1. Say fuck it and leave to get a drink.

2.Say fuck it, leave to get a drink and then kill yourself.

3 [Drama - Medium] Say something evasive. Let her believe what she wants. The chains won’t tighten if you never quite agree.

4.[Silver Tongue - Legendary] Map the exit before she speaks—flatter her righteousness, then pivot to how exhausting virtue must be.

5.Crumble.

>6. Tell her you're not a good person.

YOU - "I'm genuinely flattered, but we both know that I'm not that kind of person really."

LOGIC: A half-measure. You didn’t deny it outright—just implied she’s mistaken. Coward’s truth.

CHESSMASTER: Smart. Now she’ll argue for your goodness, listing your virtues like a defense attorney. Let her convince herself.

ANGEL’S SHARE: Lies taste better with honey. Too bad you’ll drown them in wine later anyway.

THE FOOL: We both know. But do you? Really?

LUMINE (THE GOLDEN TRAVELER): She rolls her eyes, but with a fond smirk. Then, she starts counting on her fingers.

LUMINE (THE GOLDEN TRAVELER): "You didn't want others to laugh at Captain Wu's woes." She bends down one finger. "You helped Captain Wu just because you were there, and you didn't even remember it." A second finger folds. "You even helped him think through where we can find the con-artist." Her third finger curls in.

LUMINE (THE GOLDEN TRAVELER): She smiles confidently, a sure truimph written all over her face. "And that's why I believe you'd be willing to help."

SILVER TONGUE: Clever. Turning your own actions into evidence against you. She’s learning.

LOGIC: Three points. All factual. No obvious counterarguments.

ANGEL’S SHARE: Or she’s just stating the obvious. Even a drunk could see you’re softer than you pretend.

DRAMA [Easy: Success]: Her smirk says she knows she’s won. The worst part? She’s right.

THE FOOL: …She’s counting your good deeds. When did anyone ever noti—

CHESSMASTER: She's wrong. You forgot Captain Wu's debt entirely. If you truly cared, it would've lingered in your mind like wine stains on ledgers. But it didn't. That's the truth she's missing—you're not kind. You're indifferent.

THE LIST: Captain Wu: No strategic value. No political ties. No outstanding skills. Of course he slipped your mind. Useless people don't get remembered.

SILVER TONGUE: You only suggested where to find that con artist so Wu would stop whining. Basic crowd control, not compassion.

ANGEL'S SHARE: Ah. So you're worse than even you thought. Not just a liar—a liar who abandons the weak. How very... you.

THE FOOL: But... wouldn't you want to be the person she sees? Even if she's wrong about you now... couldn't you become that?

1.Crumble.

2.[CHESSMASTER - Medium] - Bargain for price.

3.[Silver Tongue - Medium] Keep deflecting! Pivot to her "naive heroics" again. If she wants to play this game, make her justify every rule.

>4.[Composure - Challenging] Crumble with dignity. Sound amused, but not shaken—a king conceding a chess move, but not the match. Let the laugh in your voice mask how her words linger.

Composure[Challenging: Success] - "Your logic is very straightforward… and quite endearing in its simplicity."

LOGIC - Deny now and you'll have to explain why. Admitting this means exposing the ledger in your mind where every kindness has a price.

CHESSMASTER: Checkmate. At least barter for favorable terms. If you're going down, make sure she pays for the privilege.

ANGEL'S SHARE: Or just drink until this conversation blurs into something less... revealing. First round's already poured.

THE FOOL: She's smiling at you. Not the smug grin of victory, but something warmer. Like she's seeing something you've long since buried.

DRAMA [Easy: Success]: The chains don't tighten. That's the worst part. This isn't a lie.

Run. Now. Before her words sink in any deeper—before that fragile hope in her eyes becomes something you might actually want to protect.

2. [Chessmaster- Easy] Betray her cleanly. One sharp cut. Report her next illegal action to Jean, "accidentally" leak her plans to the Fatui, let the consequences teach her what you won’t. Better she learns now.

3.[Chessmaster- Challenging] Betray her slowly, with consequences actually harsh. Become exactly what she thinks you’re not. She deserves better than a man who prices every kindness.

>4.Agree to help, but drown it in enough sarcasm to poison the sincerity.

5. [Silver Tongue - Legendary] Deflect desperately. Deploy every weapon in your arsenal - flash that signarure smile, spin a joke about knights in shining delusions, offer to buy her a treat. Anything to shatter this moment before it cracks you open.

YOU - "But I like how you think. So I'll indulge your martial arts hero aspirations for now."

LUMINE (THE GOLDEN TRAVELER): Her smile widens, still confident, like she didn't doubt you even for a second.

THE FOOL: ...Isn't it worth it?

CHESSMASTER: Silence. The chessboard lies abandoned.

SILVER TONGUE: Silence. For once, your tongue turns to lead.

ANGEL'S SHARE: Silence. The old script whispers its tired line: Let them leave first. Yet your feet stay rooted.

LUMINE (THE GOLDEN TRAVELER): Of course she grabs you. Of course her hands are furnace-warm. Of course that infuriating smile never wavers as your traitorous pulse leaps before your brain can hiss "abort mission."

YOU: Damn her.

[arisewanekosuki]

Traveler's little helper: Teyvat

Aether, Dainsleif x Fem! Reader Mondstadt , Liyue , Inazuma, Sumeru, Fontaine --------

💛 The first time Aether meet you, he didn’t trust you. It was before he reached Mondstadt, you appeared from nowhere, telling him that you’re here to help him reach his goal, to witness his journey around the Teyvat. You aren’t here to fight for him but you always manage to make him stronger with things you and him found on the wild or dropped by monsters. He still didn’t recovered his true power, on his travels he already fought many strong enemies and even more is awaiting him, and yet you are always there to make him stronger or to take care of his wounds.

One of surprising things was when you said that he and you are ‘connected’. But even you had hard time to explain what this 'connection' means and how it fully works. He understood that this ‘connection’ gives you some powers, for example one of them is that it let you make him stronger. The other one is that you can see the strength of artifacts or weapons, you even said that you can ‘read’ some stories from them. The other one, that he doesn't like, is that there may be times when you ‘hear’ his thoughts. He wasn't happy about that but you assured him that you can only ‘hear’ them when he is concentrating on helping someone. He is confused with what you meant by that. The more you two spend time together, the more Aether started to trust you. In the moments when he feels down, you are always by his side or when he wakes up from nightmares about losing his sister, you always hold him close and let him cry. When he feels tired, you always take him and Paimon somewhere where the three of you can relax. And before Aether realized, he started to enjoy every minute he can spend with you. When you got Serenitea Pot, sometimes it felt like you're already a family. He enjoys the mornings when you two would make breakfast together. You and Paimon gets along very well and he can’t help but find it cute, when Paimon sits on your lap and she reads you a book. And he do too, love to read to you. He remembers how you said, how you enjoy to listen to him and it makes you happy when you can hear more of his voice. He's more talkative with only you and Paimon. But he would lie if he said that he didn't miss the times when you, Paimon and him would slept close to each other in a wild. You three would cuddle together for warmth in cold nights. Now everyone has their own room in the Realm Within that you three got. And then…. The only thing that Aether hates is how many of his male friends have taken an interest in you, one by one. He misses days when there was only him, you and Paimon. Now whenever you have free time or take a little break from adventuring, no matter in what nation you all staying in, all of his friends visit the Serenitea Pot and they try to spend more time with you. At first he didn't mind when you would tell him to stay and relax while you would took some of his and yours friends to help with commissions, so you two wouldn't miss to gain some mora. But now… he can’t stand the idea of you being surrounded by some of his male friends. As long if you go with girls he can be at peace but the guys, oh no, he has to go with you so he can protect you from them! Sometimes Aether wonders about asking Tubby if they can, at least for some days, make that nobody except you three can enter Teapot.

🖤 Dainsleif didn’t thought too much about you the first time you meet. For him you were just another companion, like Paimon to Traveler, there was nothing special about you. But bit a bit his thoughts about you started to change, he started to be interested in you. You are not from Teyvat, he is curious about this ‘connection’ you have with Traveler and your powers that can make Traveler and his friends stronger. And he is curious why you can’t do anything when it comes to Aether’s sister or more serious events that awaits him. You can’t read the Teyvat alphabet, someone has to read to you, yet you understand and can speak in their language. You’re a mystery person to him. There were times when he would paid more attention to you, thinking that you may have ill intentions, but after meeting you and Aether in the Chasm again, he realized that you’re kind person. You felt bad for his people, you even said how you wish to have powers to help them and him. You always worry about him and tell him that if he ever wish he can join to your little group and travel together for some time. He doesn't understand this himself, but he can feel at peace when he is with you, but he’s not sure whenever it’s because of the powers you possess or maybe something different. He would like to join you in your travels, to know you the same way the Traveler knows you, but for now he can’t… but maybe one day… he wonders if you will still going to accept him to your little group in the future.

------ Thank you for reading till the end! (^ v ^)/) Sorry for mistakes... Tbh I wanted to post it after I finish writing for boys from Mondstadt, but I decided to post it now. After all I'm not sure if anyone will like this idea anyway so there is no reason to delay this post any longer >.<

[purplexing-writing-and-concepts]

{Am I...a God? Neat!}

-Chapter Nine: Shadow’s Gaze Upon the Land-

(Y/n) sat at the table staring holes into the two males across from them. They listened as Childe and Zhongli explained the situation and Zhongli's intentions of performing a parting rite for Rex Lapis. The old god hummed but said nothing during the entire exchange much to Aether's confusion and worry, Paimon was far too busy eating the compensated buffet to fully engage with the topic at hand. "So you wish for our help with this...rite of parting as you say...what do you think Starlight? Are you up to that task? If not do feel free to refuse..." They said gently whilst still looking at the two with sharp eyes of scrutiny. Upon hearing Aether quietly agree the old god nodded their head. "Very well then...I'll leave the children in your capable hands Mr. Zhongli....do see to it that nothing happens to them in the meantime..."

While they said this with a smile the tension in the air was so horribly charged with hostility it was clearly an underlying threat. They then stood up ruffling Aether's hair and patting Paimon's head as they began to leave," I have some matters to attend to for the moment...I'll return for the children later..." (Y/n) said with a wave of their hand as they finally parted from the restaurant. They then made their way to a darkened alley before fading into the shadows. Once done they soon reappeared from the shadow of a balcony that was being reconstructed on the peak of Dragonspine.

"Ah back again...How goes things Dorian? Polaris?" They asked as they floated behind the two with a curious look seeing the creature that they created was bouncing about happily whilst the homonculus poured over what looked like blueprints or schematics. Dorian glanced to the side a bit before fulling turning around with a short bow of respect. "I see you've returned..."

This drew of chuckle from the god’s chest as they gently straightened his form before speaking, “No need for that now Dorian….I may be something godly but treat me as you would anyone else….” They finished with a smile before patting his head and floating upwards towards the floating pillar in the sky just as Polaris flew after them to catch up as well. Reaching the top of the Skyfrost Nail, (Y/n)’s eyes glanced around at the view before them. A soft smile graced their face as they then closed their eyes and began to concentrate their power into an orb. The orb of condensed magic cosmic magic began to grow rapidly before it was the size of the average wagon wheel. Spinning it they chuckled before opening their eyes and letting the orb float above them and continue to grow before it was big enough to cover the top of the nail like the flat end of a nailhead. “I suppose I’ll repurpose this….” They murmured to themself as the orb exploded into a wave the covered the entirety of Dragonspine into a ripple effect. The snowstorm cleared and the Skyfrost Nail began to crack more before breaking into smaller and smaller chucks of crystal.

By this point the remaining crystal chunks floated around as the air around them compressed and spun them, like a rock tumbler polishing them to a fine finish. These refined crystals then gravitated towards each other before forming itself into a javelin style spear, glowing the same bright blue as the Skyfrost Nail had. “Perfect…hmm I’ll keep it simple and call it the Frosted Sky…” (Y/n) murmured to themselves once more as they floated back down to meet the curious gazes of the hilichurls and Dorian. Polaris was swaying from side to side in his typically happy dance, the sound of bell chimes ringing out as he cheered in praise of both the new weapon his creator had and the removal of celestial influence. “Dorian? I have something for you dear….” They murmured to old god said with a knowing look as they presented the javelin to him. “I’m aware you prefer the sword but I believe this polearm might serve you better in your question of self realization…and sorry not for your proficiency it will teach you how to use it best…..”

The blonde in question was slightly skeptical but regardless took the javelin from the god he’d begun to serve. As soon as his hands touched it he felt a wave of cooling like an icy wind wash over him. With a hum he swung the javelin to the side finding it to be with far more ease than he’d ever had wielding a sword, the ringing the weapon made as it swung through the air also gave a him a sense of awareness that he was deeply unaccustomed to. Yet despite this it felt oddly familiar as if there was a helping hand guiding his movements to wield this new weapon as if he’d done so always. “How…?” Dorian’s voice was now bewildered as home stared between the newly acquired weapon and (Y/n). “Simple…I just gave you a guiding hand is all…now use it well my dear Dorian…there will be changes to the monsters here and they will need both your and my guidance….but mostly yours as I will be busy for the next few days…If you truly need me that spear will call for me…take care everyone!”

They waved just before Dorian could speak and teleported back to Liyue.

As they exited the shadow cast by a nearby tree they took a moment to look around. Noticing that Zhongli and their children were all standing in front of Babu Pharmacy. Childe was also nearby laughing up a storm about a ‘Cocogoat’. Seems the old god was gone far longer than intended, they merely shrugged before approaching. “Ah greetings everyone I see you’re all in good spirits…” Aether smiled seeing his parent standing behind the no longer laughing Harbinger. Zhongli’s expression was slightly troubled at their presence and Childe was looking like a nervous kid that was caught being naughty.

Paimon’s smug expression as she floated past child acting huffy like an upset toddler making (Y/n) coo. “Oh it’s alright stardust…You couldn’t have known that little Qiqi was talking about Coconut Milk….” Though despite their comforting words they too were giggling about the situation with a knowing look. No one questioned how they knew what was being discussed. "But I suppose that means all the preparations for the rite of parting are completed yes?" The old god asked though it was obvious they already knew the answer. Zhongli cleared his throat before speaking, "Precisely...With that we shall be headed back to Yujing Terrace...Mr Childe, Dr. Baizhu, Little Miss Qiqi...see you soon..." As he left he could feel the eyes of the old god on him, and it took everything within him not to shudder at the feeling. Once he was out of sight (Y/n) let go of Paimon to let her float back to Aether's side as the two began to speak with Baizhu and Qiqi a bit more. Childe too had made his way out of the pharmacy shortly after Zhongli. Childe stood off to the side a bit as he calmed himself down from the good laugh he'd gotten from the situation, "So...you've been ease dropping I hope? What have I missed?" Instead of the voice he expected to hear which was that of his agent Ekaterina, he heard another familiar voice that instilled a sense of panic within him that he was unaccustomed to. "You've missed nothing other than my warning it would seem little harbinger...and no need to worry for Miss Ekaterina...she's back at the Northland Bank...though I can't attest to her mental state at the moment...poor girl seems rather...forgetful...." Once finished speaking they approached him before tapping his back," But I will throw you a bone for my own amusement...the Qixing are keeping the Exuvia in the Golden House....do use this information wisely...it'd be a shame really if you weren't able to fufill your mission of obtaining the Geo Archon's gnosis now wouldn't it..." Their voice came out almost like a purr that relayed the underlying threat to their words. "off you go~" They said with a gentle shove than sent him stumbling forwards a bit as the redhead quickly made his way down the long staircase without another word. With that interaction completed Aether and Paimon had just exited the Pharmacy having finished their conversation with Baizhu and Qiqi. "Ready to go you two?" (Y/n) asked with their usual chipper tone as they gentle pinched both companions' cheeks. Receiving a nod from their blonde son the old god then began to lead the way to Yujing Terrace.

[luceafarul-de-dimineata]

ngl kinda curious what happens if mc gets shipped with one of the nobles more often than the kings instead?

You know the AO3 ship popularity chart? Let's say they did one of those for the "child of Solomon" fandom.

Mod Jjok: The most popular ship with Mc for this month is... Mc x Sitri! With over 20k words in the longest running fanfiction on the ship reaching peak popularity in the middle of the month!

Dantalian: Sitri? Isn't that his majesty Satan's blood bag?

Glasylabolas: It turns out he has a name.

Paimon: I think this must be mistakeeeeen. I just recently wrote in collaboration with Astaroth a 25k words fanfic about Mc x Satan

Eligos: Oh, I mass-reported that one. I would apologise about that, but demons can't lie

Paimon: You're so sillyyyyy

Paimon: You just lost cuteness session priveledgessss

Eligos: :'(

Eligos: It was for the greater good of Tartaros

Bimet: Very noble of you, Eligos

Dantalian: Bimet! You fucking bitch, where's my MC body pillow????

Eligos: @Dantalian please take this in private we don't vibe with this negative energy here

Dantalian: Speak for yourself, I vibe with it!

Gamigin: Guys, what happened????? I was asleep, it's like 5 AM in here.

Gamigin: HOLY FUCK

Gamigin: How did Sitri of all people win????

Paimon: I mean, he's not that baaaaaaad

Gamigin: 20k words isn't even that long! How?!

Gamigin: I think we all have to come together to break the two up

Gamigin: Sitri is a common enemy and we shall stop him!

Dantalian: I'm sharpening my knife as we speak.

Gamigin: His Majesty Lucifer said I'm not allowed to leave Paradise Lost :'(

Dantalian: And?

Gamigin: And ... what?

Dantalian: He's not your dad! Even if he was, you don't have to listen to him. Do you think I listen to everything his majesty Asmodeus tells me to do? No. He may be my dad and my king, but I am in control of my own future.

Glasylabolas: Preach brother, preach

Gamigin: But I don't want to go against Lucifer's orders

Dantalian: Pussy

Glasylabolas: Pussy

Dantalian: First! Suck it old man!

Gamigin: Wait, doesn't Paimon live in the same country as Sitri?????

Gamigin: @Paimon, dearest, could you please kill Sitri for us? At least tranquillise him or something. Make sure he doesn't move anymore.

Paimon: I'm not murdering Sitri over thisssss

Paimon: I'll just ask him if it's true he's dating Mccccc

Dantalian: I think we should vote on Sitri's fate

Glasylabolas: Absolutely. I am for democracy.

Dantalian: Knife or gun death?

Glasylabolas: I prefere knife. Gun's make everything messier. How am I supposed to get arroused by a pile of guts?

Dantalian: Ask Ronové or Phenix and they'll tell you

Dantalian: I once saw Ronové remove an angel's intenstines and fucking them

Eligos: That's why nobody wants to visit Abaddon.

Dantalian: In his defence, it was kind of hot

Glasylabolas: I can imagine

Glasylabolas: I should call Ronové again...

Dantalian: He charges for one night stands now cause Abaddon lost its health care recently

Gamigin: Yeah, Morax told me about how you started getting curious about his eye hole.

Dantalian: I don't even blame Ronové for that one. I'm also curious what happens if you cum down someone's eye socket.

Paimon: Ok guyssssss

Paimon: I talked with himmmm

Paimon: It turns out that he just had a lot of black tea recently and wrote 20k words in a dayyyyy

Paimon: And a lot of people read it because Asteroth recomended it on his bloggggg

Dantalian: ah, yeah, shipping

Dantalian: Asmodeus x Mc for the win

Eligos: In your dreams

Dantalian: Yes. I do dream about that often.

Dantalian: I don't even know why y'all care so much for Mc's sex life

Dantalian: Having sex with only one partner is boring

Gamigin: Keep your shitty opinions to yourself.

Dantalian: Only if you make me

Eligos: I'm going to mass report it

Gamigin: I already did <3

Sitri: All of you are so mean

[Mod Jjok stopped comments on this post]