#WANMIN RESTAURANT WOULD NEVER

[aster-go-brrr]

JUST TELL HIM IT'S TOFU???

[taylorman2274]

We Care About You (Part II)

The aftermath that follows is a struggle for everyone to comprehend.

Content Warning(s): N/A

Notes: SAGAU; GN!Reader

Word Count: 1k

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Taglist: @silverstarred

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The past few days have been hard for your mind to wrap around.

Ever since that particular incident you had while playing Genshin, you've been extremely hesitant to log back on. Now that you knew all the people of Teyvat were self-aware, you were scared to imagine what they thought of you.

"Have they been self-aware the entire time that I've been playing? Have they always been able to hear my voice whenever I spoke aloud? Do the Traveler and their friends hate me for forcibly controlling their movements and actions like puppets? If that's the case, wouldn't it be better for me to leave them alone without letting them know?"

It doesn't seem like there's any part of your day where you're not thinking about how to follow up with the world of Genshin Impact. In fact, it's gotten so bad for you that some of your friends have noticed your change in mood and asked if anything was wrong.

Knowing that this situation is not only unheard of but also impossible to comprehend for anyone, you simply told them that you were dealing with personal issues, which honestly isn't that far from the truth.

Eventually, you began to worry if some of the people in Teyvat would figure out a way to reach you beyond the computer should you not reach back to them soon. In the past, you would've laughed at such a thought. But now that you've witnessed the impossible, you didn't want to wait around and find out.

"If I'm going to continue playing Genshin, I should at least try and accommodate their needs and wants better."

As much as you didn't want to delay your return to Genshin any further, you felt that researching all of your current playable character's needs, wants, likes, and dislikes took top priority over anything else in your life right now.

...Well...besides your needs and wants.

First, you took note of their favorite and least favorite foods. You would feel pretty bad if you kept feeding them food that wasn't their preference. Especially since characters like Lisa and Ganyu were vegetarians.

Second, you took note of everyone's talents. While you know that some characters had passive talents which gave you extra dishes when cooking or extra materials when crafting, you felt that those jobs should be left to the professionals, such as Xiangling and Albedo respectively.

"Let's see. First off, I should probably remove the people in my party with full-time jobs, as they take priority over exploring with the Traveler. So I should probably replace any Knights of Favonius, Liyue Qixing, Tri-Commission Member, etc. However, that doesn't exactly leave me with a lot of options to choose from. Although Xiangling works for Wanmin Restaurant, she's currently exploring Teyvat for ingredients. I assume accompanying the traveler would be fine with her. Bennett works for the Adventure's Guild so that works as well. But that also leaves me with a Pyro-heavy party, which may pose a problem for enemies such as Pyro slimes..."

However, the more you spent time researching, the more pessimistic and depressed you began to feel. Here you were spending all this effort trying to accommodate to all the characters you've obtained without even knowing if they gave a single thought or care in the world towards you.

"...I never really asked if they wanted to join the Traveler's adventures. ...So...maybe I should just only use the Traveler...?"

You sighed deeply. This was not gonna be good for your mental health.

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Meanwhile...

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The Traveler didn't know what to think.

On one hand, they were happy that [Y/N] was getting some much deserved rest. On top of that, they were also happy that they got to have a break from doing commissions all the time. But on the otherhand...

They were really starting to miss you.

This is the longest that they have gone without feeling your presence and they were starting to worry if they had accidentally scared you off due to that incident.

The incident that revealed Teyvat's self-awareness.

"...You're thinking about [Y/N] again, aren't you?" Paimon asked.

The Traveler chuckled sadly. "Is it really that obvious?"

"Kind of? Paimon thinks that's what everyone is thinking about."

They believe her. Zhongli, Venti, and a few others had reached out to them over the past couple of days for any news about [Y/N]. They were saddened by their expressions when they told them they had no news to give.

“...Y/N..." The Traveler sighed.

"Hmm?" Paimon hummed in thought, "What was that?"

"...To think that was their name all along. And to even think that they may be just as human as most people in Teyvat! It’s honestly kind of relieving when you think about it.

Although they weren't going to lie. At first, they saw [Y/N] as an unknown entity that possessed them to do its bidding. It was scary at first, knowing that neither them nor Paimon were able to figure out a way to interact with or avoid it. However, after solving both Mondstadt's and Liyue's respectable crises and powering them up with newfound strength, they started to see you as a sort of companion similar to Paimon.

"Yeah, even Paimon is starting to miss traveling and exploring with them."

"Is that so?" The Traveler taunted, "I thought that at one point you were trying to prove yourself as the better guide?"

"Hey! Paimon told you already that she has proved herself as the superior guide time and time again." She exclaimed as she crossed her arms.

They laughed. It felt nice to tease Paimon like this to distract them from the lack of [Y/N]'s presence, but they were starting to feel like they couldn't keep this up forever.

"Regardless, Paimon hopes that [Y/N] comes back soon. Everybody will feel a lot better once they do."

The Traveler looked up to the night sky and watched the stars flicker with light. Paimon followed their gaze and gave a sorrowful frown.

"I hope so too."

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Author Side Notes: I had an idea.

But in all seriousness, I'm flattered by all the positive comments, reblogs, and likes from the previous post. I only expected to get around 20 notes since it was my first post but somehow I've ended up at 800+ and counting? It's almost too much for me to handle lol.

As for the rest of this story, I've decided that it will likely take around six parts for me to reach its conclusion. We've got two down so far, so that makes four more to go. Of course, that's only if y'all want to read more.

[violet-eng]

Lantern Rite Zhongli x fem!reader - NSFW of course

Summary: Zhongli likes reader! since the first day he saw her. Then, during the Lantern Rite, he finds a spot where to watch the show together and do it. The second part wasn't planned. Old man just wanted some time with his crush but ended up doing it.

Warnings: Smut as always. piv. Outdoors sex? Unprotected sex (wear a condom please)

World count: idk, but it's a lot.

(🎨by @gorooon0402)

__________________ ׂׂૢ་༘࿐┊ ⋆ ┊ . ┊ ┊┊ ┊⋆ ┊ .┊ ┊ ⋆˚         ✧. ┊         ⋆ ★

The first time Zhongli saw you was at the top of the city, at the place where Rex Lapis had died. You had caught his attention, kneeling in front of the place, offerings in front of you and your head lowered.

He knew everyone in Liyue, somehow his ancient omniscience had given him that privilege, but you were a complete stranger. The cloak covering your body, the seams bruised and the hood worn, you had had a long journey, but you were there, praying.

You stood up, wiped your knees and adjusted your clothes. You headed towards the exit and brushed against his arm.

“I’m sorry,” you said, your voice soft, just like your features. You were in his eyes the most beautiful creature he had ever seen in his life.

That same afternoon, Zhongli goes to the Bubu pharmacy in search of certain medications; his human form had been difficult for him to care for in recent years. He rings the bell on the table expecting Baizhu or Qiqi to appear, instead, you are the one who receives it. This time you wear a different cape, matte oak colors without a hood, allowing your face to be seen clearly, framed by your hair.

"What can I help you?" You ask, both hands on the table and a kind smile on your lips. Zhongli, due to vestiges of his ability as an Archon, perceives a certain energy emanating from you: perseverance, an unbreakable will accompanied by nostalgia and kindness. He realizes that you have come a long way in your life, that you know hard work and have extensive knowledge about the different nations of Teyvat. He wonders why he didn't give you a Vision when he was Rex Lapis, realizing you lack one. All of this is enough to awaken something in him, a human feeling that he thought he had gotten rid of a long time ago.

"I need medicine" is the only thing that can come out of his lips, while he spreads a prescription in front of you.

"Ah, yes. Mr. Baizhu warned me that someone like you would come" you say, taking a bag.

"Someone like me?" The phrase sparks a hungry curiosity in Zhongli.

"Yes, an elegant gentleman with an eloquent voice."

Those words send a wave of heat up Zhongli's spine, although his face doesn't flinch.

"I see, it's like Baizhu" he finally says.

The following months you find yourself invading Zhongli's mind, and the more he gets to know you he realizes the greater attraction he feels for you. It's not just your face, your smile or your gestures, it's the way you care for the patients that Baizhu can't care for, the way you tell the children about the things you've seen outside of Liyue, when you help Madam Ping with her teapot or when you bandage Yanfei's ankle for running from side to side.

You are the kind of person he decided to live for as a human, the kind of pure soul he had given up his gnosis for, the creature he hates not having created, even though he knows he would never have had the ability to create something so perfect like you.

The Lantern Rite arrives, the festival is bigger this year than last, and Zhongli, who watches everything from one of the tables at the Wanmin Restaurant, cannot help but feel slightly alone. He looks for you in the crowd, perhaps you could share stories of his expeditions as you have often done for a few weeks, but he can't find you anywhere. That worries him.

He asks about you in a subtle way, knowing that people hold you in high esteem for your work as an auxiliary doctor, discovering that you have been making outpatient visits all day to some of the adventurers who suffered a gunpowder accident while preparing the fireworks.

So Zhongli heads to the city dock, where he finds you leaving the house of one of your patients. He notices that you are exhausted, so he approaches you cautiously.

"It looks like you haven't rested all day" he says as he offers you a drink.

"Is it late for the event?" you ask after wiping your lips with the back of your hand.

"No, you're just in time."

"Madame Ping's place is probably full, not to mention the plaza. I was dying to see the lanterns this year," you say, looking over the sea, where you realize that they are preparing everything for the big event.

"I know a place..." Zhongli says, not very sure of his words although his tone of voice hides it pretty well.

So you two end up crossing the water in a boat, reaching the other shore, from where you can see the coast of Liyue.

You are amazed by the sight, and you express it to Zhongli as you get rid of your cloak, revealing your clothes underneath, it is a dress, and Zhongli surprises himself by looking for where the zipper of your clothes would be or how easily It would be undoing your buttons.

The lanterns rise, and you pick up your legs as you follow the bright spots rising above the dark sky with your gaze. You watch the show and Zhongli looks at you, the amber color of the fudistant ego reflected faintly on your face.

You are alone, and that gives him enough courage to approach you, take your chin in his hand and turn your face towards his. You don't have time to react because his lips are against yours, gently sucking on your bottom lip.

You put your hands on his chest and separate yourself from him in search of air. He feels dazed, ecstatic, and ashamed all at once. He believes he has offended you, and regret consumes him until you kiss him again, this time wrapping your arms around his neck.

You feel the same as him, and that gives him enough courage to take off his jacket and tie while still kissing you. His hands go behind your back looking for that zipper that he had identified before, and then sliding it to reveal your body in lingerie. The image sends a ripple to his core and he suddenly feels imprisoned in his pants. He gently pushes you until your back is against the grass, damp from the rain a few hours ago, and he positions himself over you, your legs between his.

“Zhongli…” you whisper as you watch the way he undoes his shirt and then removes a glove with his teeth. You notice something primitive, almost animalistic, in his gaze.

As he undoes his pants you notice his hardened cock lifting the fabric of his underwear, your already wet center becoming even more soaked at the image of him on top of you.

Zhongli leans over you to kiss you as he gets rid of the fabric and is completely exposed to you. The image he gives you makes your nipples harden, and you close your legs even more before the incessant moisture that flows from you. Zhongli's body seems sculpted, his shoulders defined, his pectorals large, and his abdomen marked by his muscles. His cock points at you, big and thick, the head red with hunger at your center and a vein bulging on the side.

You gulp at the thought of what awaits you. You can't believe you're with him like this, outdoors, on the grass.

"We're alone, right?" you ask, and he smiles, leaning over you.

"Completely alone," he says, kissing your neck as one of his hands slides under the fabric of your bra, grabbing the soft flesh of your breast and teasing your nipple.

“I’ve wanted to do this for so long,” he whispers in your ear, his voice hoarse.

He takes off your bra, exposing your breasts to him. You try to cover yourself, but he grabs your hands and pulls them away from your breasts. He wants to see you, he has wanted to for weeks.

"Don't be shy," he hisses, tilting his head, a proud smile on his lips. You are completely blushing, "Let's see what else you have for me" he says, sliding one of his fingers between your breasts, down your abdomen and reaching the edge of your panties. He lowers them cautiously from both ends and when he takes them from you he brings them to his nose, inhaling your essence impregnated in the damp fabric. That only causes you to leak even more.

Zhongli throws the fabric along with the rest of the clothes and bows again, this time he won't pause as much. He glances at you as he spreads your legs with one hand, a lopsided smile appearing on his face as he notices how wet you are for him.

"All this just by touching you" he says as he slides two of his fingers through your folds making you shudder and arch your back, you are as needy for him as he is for you.

He brings his fingers to his mouth and tastes your juices, running his tongue over his lips.

"So sweet, and all for me," he growls.

He aligns himself with your entrance and suddenly you feel him slide easily inside you, it's as if you were tailor-made for him, specially created for him.

Zhongli pushes his way inside you, molding your walls to the shape of his cock.

“You're tight,” he whispers, stifling a moan, leaning over you and gripping the grass under his hands. The way you squeeze him drives him crazy.

When Zhongli is completely inside you, you throw your head to the side and cover your mouth so he doesn't hear you moan, you don't want to make him uncomfortable with some embarrassing sound.

"I want to hear you," he says, taking your hands and putting them on the sides of your head, "I want to hear you moan, scream, curse... no one else is going to hear you, only me."

You look at him with reddened cheeks, completely drugged with desire and lust. The way those words leave his lips, the way he looks at you while he's inside you, all of it makes you feel ready for whatever's next.

Zhongli moves slowly at first, drawing soft moans from you, he wants you to adjust to his size, he wants you to get used to his rhythm as he holds on your hips while he lets low moans into your neck.

You cling to his back and move your hips as if to signal that you are ready, that you want him to fuck you as he really wants.

When your insides feel empty without him, your walls clench around his tip, and then he slides all the way inside, hard and fast, giving you no time to process the thrust.

He does it one, two, three times, keeping your hips static against the grass, the friction against your buttocks burns at first, but then succumbs to the pleasure you feel every time he enters you, every time he hits your cervix and your g-spot. Every time he moans incoherently into your neck you forget that they are out in the open fucking like two animals in heat.

"So soft, so mine," he says between indecent moans as his tip arches inside you, hitting your cervix. You feel that at any moment he will cross into your uterus and split in half.

The force with which he thrusts into you is almost beastly, accompanied by grunts and his hand tangled in your hair. His mouth attacks your nipple, making you feel double stimulation.

Zhongli stands up and sits on the grass, placing you on top of him, on his hip. He never left your insides.

You cling to his neck and rest your head on his shoulder, the image of the approaching lanterns blurred by the tears in your eyes. Zhongli's hands on your hips mark the pace of penetration, sinking deeper into you if that is possible.

"Just like that, cutie, just like that~" he growls as he squeezes your glutes and abuses your pussy with his cock. You feel a knot forming inside you.

“Zhongli,” you moan, breathing heavily, arching your back and digging your nails into his shoulders.

He realizes you're about to reach your limit, and he lays you back down on the grass.

"Don't resist," he says as he lifts one of your legs and places it on his shoulder, giving you a wave of ecstasy from the new, even more pleasurable position.

You look at his face as he continues to move inside you, some of the lanterns fly above his head, the amber fire almost as intense as that of his eyes at that moment. You caress his cheek, that image of him, thirsty for your pussy with the flashlights on him, you want to keep it in your memory forever.

His thrusts become frantic and irregular in rhythm, you feel the burning in your belly and center grow more and more, like a flame of fire every time he touches the already quite abused rubbery spot. Zhongli goes on and on and on and then you feel him coming. The knot inside you unravels and you let out a scream as you mark his back with your nails. You've reached your orgasm, and overstimulation haunts you as Zhongli continues to move, seeking to reach his own climax.

He twists his mouth into a grimace and presses his hips against yours, releasing a load of his cum into your hole.

He's breathing hard, his forehead is sweaty, and his member is still inside you. You caress his chest and neck, he takes your hand and kisses the back. You are both silent, only your heavy breathing can be heard in the air.

"Oh my Rex Lapis" you finally say.

Zhongli smiles and kisses you on the lips after hearing you say that. Maybe in the future he will tell you about his past and who he really is, for now he just wants to be there, lying next to you, naked and watching the lanterns traveling through the night sky.

[contentloadingandstuff]

Jealousy Bits - Zhongli, Diluc & Alhaitham x Fem!Reader

A/N: It's my second time writing for Fem!Reader, so C&C is more than welcome! CW: Alhaitham might be a little OOC.

Zhongli

Jealousy is a foreign concept for Zhongli. For eons his mind was preoccupied with more important matters than petty insecurity. Centuries passed, and never once have you given him a reason to worry. But as time passed and Zhongli, along with you, stepped down from his position, he started connecting more with his human side. He experienced many things he never got the chance to as a god - including a certain kind of longing.

"I'm leaving, dear!" You look over the contents of your purse, making sure everything necessary is contained within. Your hand moves to rest on the doorknob, but you pick up the sound of steady footsteps. 

Turning back towards the living room, you see Zhongli standing in the corridor, his eyes resting on you. "If I may ask, where are you going today?" 

"I managed to convince Ganyu to have a proper meal at Wanmin Restaurant. Poor thing needs to quit starving herself, don't you think?"

Smiling slightly, he nods. "Yes, that would be good for her health. Ever since the… choking incident, Ganyu has never been the same."

You both chuckle. Zhongli crosses his arms over his chest. 

"I shouldn't keep her waiting. You know how anxious she tends to be." Once again, you turn towards the door. 

Something sparks in his mind. The mental image of you, laughing and smiling with somebody else while he is alone evokes a specific feeling, an itch that urges him to keep you in place, here, with him. Zhongli wants to stop you, and he stretches out his arm, but thinks better of it. You turn the key in the door, and the sensation comes back. He feels the need to act. 

Zhongli clears his throat. "I… I am having tea when you return. If you'd care to join me."

When your gaze meets his amber eyes, he seems unsure, and looks down at the floor in unusual embarrassment. His arm drops back down to his side. You approach him with a smirk, resting your hand on his chest. 

"Aw, is someone jealous?" A slight blush forms on his face at your gentle touch. 

"Perhaps." He answers after a moment. 

You slide your hand into his, and squeeze it gently. It's warm and bigger than yours, his gloves adding a pleasant texture. Zhongli looks back at you when you cup his cheek with your other hand. 

"It's okay. We'll take a nice bath when I return, have tea, and then… we'll see where the evening leads us." You plant a featherlite kiss on his lips, and send him a smile before turning to leave. 

Before you can open the door, he speaks again. 

"I love you, Y/N."

"I love you as well, Morax."

Diluc

Diluc cares only for those strangers he absolutely must, but he keeps his loved ones close. Although he keeps a steady facade suggesting otherwise, he gets possessive at times - just as anybody else. Cool as he is, Diluc won’t stop himself from acting upon his feelings with his characteristic decisiveness.

His eyes skim over the paper in his hand. Thirty barrels, twenty-seven million Mora - everything seems in order. He grabs the pen and scribbles his signature. The man thanks him and leaves shortly. Diluc sighs and rubs his temple.

It was supposed to be your night out. Just some casual drinks, grape juice for him and some light alcohol for you to finish off the work week. Despite explicitly stating that he is off-work, the recent delivery of Harra Fruit extract decided to arrive at that exact moment. With who the other party was, letting one of the staff handle him would be bad for his image. Begrudgingly, Diluc welcomed the merchant and finished the deal. Although he lost an hour or so, the evening was still salvageable. 

The noble turns back from the loading bay towards the Angel’s Share back door, and pushes it open. His eyes see the familiar scene of many men and women enjoying their evening to the tune of a mediocre ballad, sounding out from the small stage. The notes are fine, but the occasional mishap doesn’t go unheard by his sensitive ears. Despite that, the tavern goers seem to pay no attention, possibly too drunk to notice. Still, if his memory serves him right, the last performer had far more lyrical talent. 

He looks around the tables Venti frequents, but doesn’t find him there. Where did this rascal go-

“Y/N, do you perhaps wield the power of Anemo? Because your beauty blew me away!”

His eyes turn sharply towards the counter. The cyan-clad bard, his back leaning against the wood, smiles in satisfaction. In front of Diluc sees you, blushing slightly and giggling. 

“That was… wow. Horrible.” You smirk. “But I’m sure you can do better.”

Diluc watches as Venti looks away, smiling, his mind rushing with ideas. He suddenly looks back at you, a wide smile on his lips. Barbatos clears his throat theatrically. 

“It’s handy I have my library card on me, because I am totally checking you out!”

Both of you laugh. Diluc furrows his brows, and his heart starts beating faster. How can such crude humor make you laugh? You never laugh as hard at his jokes…

A small blush creeps up his face as he looks on, suddenly hyper-aware of his thoughts. He brushes the shame off. He is right - this evening was supposed to be “Diluc and Y/N talking and drinking” and not “Venti and Y/N talking and drinking while Diluc handles business”. There is no way the drunkard Archon steals your attention tonight.

“Two rounds, please! One for me, and one for the prettiest Windblume in this locale!” Venti says, raising two fingers.

Charles nods and reaches for the cups, but Diluc glares at him and shakes his head slightly. The bartender makes his understanding known and turns to a different client. The aristocrat looks around the tab record and quickly finds a small piece of paper, labeled with the bard’s name. Nine rounds… That would equal seven thousand three hundred Mora. Drawing another note, he writes down the numbers and places the paper inside a mug. He leaves the serving area and circles to approach you and Venti from the side. 

The bard, too deep in his flirty conversation, fails to notice his approach. With a fairly loud sound, Diluc puts down the mug right next to Venti. His aqua eyes dart straight towards the tycoon. 

“Oh! Hello master Diluc! How is the evening going?” The innocent tone that reaches Diluc’s ears annoys him even further. 

“You ordered two drinks, I believe.” He walks in front of Venti, arms now crossed over his chest. “You will get them upon paying for the nine so far. If you don’t, I will ask you to leave. You’ve drunk enough.”

The mug is picked up, and Venti draws the paper. Upon looking at the sum, he smirks and puts the utensil down. “Why, of course! Let me get my coin pouch really quick.”

After patting his sides and drawing the leather container with a small Aha!, Venti peeks inside, and his confident smile turns into an awkward one. He chuckles. 

“It seems that I forgot most of my Mora tonight, how unfortunate, truly! Can I just… add it to my account?” Venti looks at Diluc with big, puppy eyes. The man scuffs, unmoved.

“The one counting three hundred thousand Mora? Sure. If you pay it up now, that is. Do you have the money?”

The bard smiles nervously. “Ehe~” He turns to you. ‘My oh my! Look how late it is! Sleep is important, miss Y/N, and so I will rest now. Goodnight~”

Venti evacuates with practiced ease, Diluc’s eyes burning a hole in the back of his head. You turn to look at Diluc. 

“Does he really drink this much…?” You ask, feeling a bit awkward after witnessing their interaction.

Your lover shrugs, and sits down on Venti’s place. He turns to you, a confident smile gracing his lips. 

“Well, I’m here. What about your other two wishes?”

You smile and chuckle at his unexpected goofiness, covering your mouth with your hand to stop yourself from laughing out loud. Diluc swears it’s the sweetest sound he’s ever heard from you.

Alhaitham

Alhaitham holds most strangers in a neutral regard. Their squabbles, bold flirts and personal drama doesn't interest him, and as such rarely anything can get him possessive and needy. Someone flirts with you? You can handle things on your own. Spending less time with him? No matter, you have things to get done as well. Talking to another man? If he is nothing more than a coworker or a friend, it's none of his business. Despite this solid and logical reasoning, Alhaitham assumed he would be jealous at some point - just in case. Yet he expected a human to be the cause, and not… an animal.

A cat, to be precise. 

It all started when, coming home from shopping, the two of you were approached by a stray. Alhaitham recalls the unfortunate creature resembled a wet, rotten rag more than an actual feline. It started meowing at you while rubbing its filthy face on your leg. Instead of repulsion, however, you felt pity for the animal. After a good five minutes of pressure and puppy eyes, Alhaitham agreed to take the cat in. On the condition that you would take responsibility and care for it, of course. 

After being taken to Amurta veterinarians, who cleaned, bandaged and prescribed the right medication to the poor animal, it started resembling an actual cat. When the researchers confirmed that the cat would be fine, it was given a name, one that stuck in his mind ever since. 

Alibaba. 

Or Ali for short. 

It was just as he expected, and true to what you promised. You fed the cat, cleaned his litter box, gave him medicine, played with and groomed him. Over time, Alibaba returned to his former glory. His fur grew back, now long and lustrous. It was mostly white, with light brown patches near his paws, tail, ears and mouth, perfectly complimenting his deep blue eyes. Alibaba soon got plump and lazy, which you found greatly adorable. He was an obedient cat with a loud purr and a gentleman's meow that stole more and more of your heart each time. 

Alhaitham didn't pay much attention to your new pet. That is, he didn't until you started calling the cat names. It's normal, he knows that. That’s just what humans do with pets. But something about you calling Ali a “handsome boy” and a “gentleman” doesn't sit right with him. He gets those compliments on occasion, but Alibaba gets it daily for just existing… 

He couldn't believe he was getting jealous over an animal. Just when he pushed the thought away, the creature already noticed his feelings. It started running away from Alhaitham, and moving away when he tried to pet it. Ali didn't even eat the food and treats he provided, but dined on yours just fine. The cat didn't restrain itself from looking smugly at Alhaitham while being praised and showered in affection by you, seemingly mocking your boyfriend. 

The whole situation was silly, and he knew it. It was only right for him to resolve his jealousy in an equally amusing way. 

One day, after returning from work, you were greeted by Alibaba, just as per usual. You went to put your things down on the table, the cat following your actions by jumping up on the furniture. It meowed, rubbing its face against your hand. You smile. 

"Who's a handsome boy?" Alibaba meows in response. "That's right! You are!" 

You move to the fridge, and grab a bag of cat food. The animal rubs its body all over your shins as you pour the food. After leaving Ali, absolutely inhaling the contents of his bowl, you go to the bedroom. You open the door and freeze. 

On the bed, resting on his side, is the shirtless Alhaitham. The sight of his chiseled chest fills your eyes, and a small blush of surprise heats up your cheeks. 

For a solid minute or so, you stand there, unsure of how to react to this unusual situation. Alhaitham looks at you with a slight smug. 

"Am I a handsome boy as well?" 

Thanks for reading!

[senanatheskenana]

Genshin Characters’ Voice line About you

Jean

"Oh (y/n)? They're wonderful! They just work so hard, and they're so compassionate... It almost makes me want to work even harder with how much they do to help me!... What?? Of course, I wouldn't have a crush- feelings for them! It-It would be completely unprofessional to feel something like that for a fellow knight!"

Amber

"So you've heard of them too... I'm not surprised, they're just so cool that I'm surprised they dont have as big a fan club as Barbara. I guess if they had a fan club, you could say that I'm the founder of it!"

Lisa

"Such a cutie- we've known each other since our days in the Akademiya. They were just as formidable then. Hm?  If you're insinuating that I liked them back then- or now- well, that's, unfortunately for you, none of your business, traveller."

Kaeya

"I've asked them countless times to the tavern but every time they refuse- say, I dont suppose you could perhaps convince them to meet me somewhere? Every time I do it they play hard to get- they call me a flirt. Oh? You think that I should ask them to go somewhere more romantic? Hmm, I'll think about it, but while I'm doing that you ask them first. There might be a reward in it for you~"

Diluc

"W-What? No, I dont really know all that much about them. I hardly ever talk to them, so of course, I wouldn't know that. I'm not being defensive, that's ridiculous- the idea- no! I... Is this- Has Kaeya been telling you that I like them? N-No? Oh. You didn't even ask about that... I have something I must do- Goodbye, traveller."

Venti

"Ah yes, (y/n). The single most perfect thing in Mondstadt- if not Teyvat... And perhaps the only thing I can't write a song about. It's just not possible to write something that lives up to them in person. It's like drawing air, you just can't do it"

Mona

"When I first met them, it took me by surprise. I hadn't seen it. Perhaps it was better that way because I could experience it all like fate wanted me to."

Albedo

"I sometimes find myself drawing them without realising. I dont know why but even during experiments I sometimes get distracted by thoughts of them. I've made plans to see them, to try and pinpoint why these things are occurring."

Rosaria

"They're just as irritating as you- not leaving me be, following me around like a puppy... Well yes, I suppose it would be strange not having them around. And it is sort of sweet that they keep trying. Dont get any ideas, it's just that"

Eula

"Proper procedure would dictate that I begin our courtship with perhaps a bouquet or an offer of attending a social function together. Do you think that they'd prefer red or yellow roses? "

Xiao

"Why are you asking me about... them. I-I don't know much about them, I wouldn't put them in danger like that. The closest I could ever hope to get to them is always too far for them to see me. Don't be stupid, an Adeptus and a mortal could never hope to live together happily, it will always end in regret and grief."

Beidou

"When we get ready to dock, I climb into the crows' nest and can you guess what the first thing I look for is? Bingo! I could spot them from a mile away even in the fog because my heart recognises them before my eyes and tells me every time"

Ningguang

"I have a  certain Qixing member I dine at Wanmin Restaurant with- all professional of course... Most of the time. You can't expect me to be a businesswoman all the time can you?"

Tartaglia

"Back in Snezhnaya, I have a childhood best friend. I also have a lover. I'm fortunate enough that they happen to be the same person. Why are you so curious about this? Are you surprised that someone can love a war machine like me? Or is it the other way around? Trust me, if you met them you'd understand how easy it is to fall in love"

Zhongli

"I haven't felt like this in hundreds of years. Every time I see them, I feel the memories crashing back and I see the future through their eyes. I sometimes feel terrified of getting close because I know they will one day pass on too. But I also remember that if I dont the only thing that changes is my happiness. "

Ganyu

"Am I really that obvious? Do... Do they know that I feel this way? Oh, so it's only you that realised- whew, that saves me a little embarrassment "

Hu Tao

"Every attempt I make to ask them out, it always ends in them backing away. Should I start asking them to go somewhere instead of coffin picking?"

Shenhe

"Of the people I've met, only one other do I remember as much as you. (Y/N) would pick herbs on the mountains and I would watch from the bottom to catch them if they fell. Sometimes I wish they would be a little more clumsy"

Yelan

"I guess you could say I know them. Pretty... Intimately if I do say so. I didn't imply anything, you're just inferring things, traveller haha~"

Ayaka

"We first met at a clan function and we hit it off right away! We would sit around the teapot and pour each other tea and pretend to be an old married couple. I suppose we still do now, but we dont have to pretend anymore"

Kazuha

"The thing I regret most about leaving my home behind is... (Y/N). There hasn't been a day where I haven't whispered 'i love you' into the wind in hopes it might one day reach them. I haven't forgotten them and I only hope they haven't forgotten me. No- it's selfish to hope that they wouldn't move on after so long."

Yoimiya

"My favourite part of fireworks shows is when (Y/N) runs over to tell me how beautiful they were. I'd throw a show every night if they were watching it each time!"

Ei

"I... I seldom find comfort in the company of mortals. I dont often find comfort in anyone's company. But I suppose if I had to look back, the one thing that really does bring me peace and happiness is (Y/N). Perhaps, this is a story best left untold for now, Traveller"

Kujo Sara

"My strict schedule hardly permits my free time. What little time I do find I usually spend escorting the shrine attendant (Y/N) around the island. 'Below my salary' you say? It's not that. I just quite enjoy being around them. Please keep this confidential... "

Kokomi

"Ah, speaking of (Y/N) could you please deliver this letter to them? I'd love to do it in person but I'm extremely busy. Thank you so much! Just dont read its contents, they are strictly for their eyes only. Strategies? Wha- oh yes! That's it. Off you go now"

Thoma

"Nervous? I-I look nervous. I... I guess I'm a little nervous to see (Y/N) again. It seems that every time I see them I get a little more schoolboyish, and I feel my face flare up. Oh, they're coming! Does my shirt have creases in it? Good!"

Itto

"How does my hair look? And my horns? What about my- What do you mean I'm panicking? Nah, I'm just trying to make sure that I impress them. An oni's got to look his best when they meet someone like (Y/N) after all"

Gorou

"Have-Have you seen (Y/N) recently? No! You dont need to go and find them, I was just wondering. I think I might have upset them... I didn't mean to but I panicked. They got a new outfit and I got really nervous because they looked so... I could feel my tail wagging and I didn't want to embarrass myself- so I ran. God, I'm such a coward. "

Yae Miko

"They're quite cute to tease, hehe~ It's so easy to make them blush and I just can't help myself when I get the chance to fluster them."

Ayato

"When Ayaka first introduced us, I was worried that they might be intimidated... But I'd trust that's not the case considering that we now share a bedroom. I have a feeling that Ayaka knew what she was doing, haha"

Tighnari

"I know I tend to ramble on and on about plants- but they said that they like it. (Y/N) says that out of anyone, they would want to listen to me do it... What? N-no, I dont think that they like me- well yes they like me- what I mean is love- I mean that would be quite nice but- oh, I'm doing it again."

Cyno

"I dont tend to get along with Scholars, more often than not I end up frustrated with their pride and arrogance. Of course, there are exceptions. Tighnari and (Y/N) are amongst the only people associated with the Akademiya that I could call...Lo... F-Friends."

Candace

"I protect Auru Village so of course, that means (Y/N). They are probably the one I keep an eye on most. I just like to make sure they are always safe. When someone encounters a rarity in the desert, they protect it with all their heart."

Nilou

"I'll never forget our first dance... it was wonderful. I was so caught up in the movement that when I stopped spinning my head kept going and I got dizzy- but the first thing I saw clearly was them. For the first time, I tripped over my feet, oh I was so embarrassed! When the crowds finally dispersed, they remained and we ended up waltzing into the night."

Scaramouche

"Dont be stupid. I dont have any sort of emotion for that mortal. They're just another annoying human. They're tenacious I'll give them that, always trying to talk to me. It's like they're asking me to hurt them... What do you mean you think I'm scared? Of what? Why... No, i dont get scared of feelings- I-I just dont have them for them!"

[fandangotales]

Getting Isekai’d with your parent/parents in CULT AU / SAGAU

Warnings: Toxic/abusive parent child relationships mentioned, stereotypical parent child relationships, yandere, disturbing content, description of blood!

Summary: Multiple scenarios in which your parents or parent gets isekai’d with you to Teyvat! GN READER!

REBLOGS AND COMMENTS ARE VERY APPRECIATED! THANK YOU!

In which the reader is isekai’d with their mom:

The acolytes would love her, especially since she is related to you.

Oh? She mentioned a favorite perfume, or a preferred dish?

Cue your residence being overflown with gifts not only for you, but also for your mother.

Surely gaining her favor would be beneficial to gaining the Creator’s, right?

Mothers typically know a lot about their children, so it wouldn’t be strange for the acolytes to ask her many questions about your life as a child, your preferences, your favorite acolyte, your typical sleeping position-

I’d also watch out for what she might tell them about your childhood, as the acolytes painstakingly record and revere pretty much anything related to your existence.

You got your ears pierced when you were 5?

It is now a religious tradition for a child’s ears to be pierced on their 5th birthday in honor of the Creator.

In general, your mother is not worshiped as a deity, but is highly respected by all in Teyvat. This is mainly due to your relationship and closeness with her.

Disrespecting or upsetting her is unimaginable, as it would be upsetting to you.

In which the reader is isekai’d with their dad:

“You’re not good enough for my child, stay away from them.”

The second the acolytes hear this line, they were about to fall to the floor in devestation, if it wasn’t for your hasty reassurance.

“Dad! You can’t just say that, they are all nice people-” you protested, nervously scanning over the upset faces of the crowd. “Don’t mind him, this is just something he says often!”

…

After that fiasco, many of your worshipers attempted to prove themselves to your father, much to his annoyance.

—————

“Sir, I can assure you that they would be well cared for! The finest of any kind of item would be theirs the second they asked, and I would do my very best to ensure their happiness!” The ginger pleaded, doing his very best to impress the man before him. “I also consider myself a family man, just ask anyone around about how much I value my dear siblings-“

“…and how much did you say that you make a year?” Your dad asked, gruffly staring Childe down.

His dull eyes seemed to light up, sensing an opportunity to sway the man’s favor. He leaned in close to his ear, whispering his… impressive salary. The older man nodded, as he patted the ginger on the back.

“You can take them out to dinner next week. They mentioned wanting to visit Wanmin restaurant to me the other day.”

⚠️ Dark content starts below this line!!! ⚠️

In which the reader is isekai’d with abusive parents:

The Cult AU is the absolute worst AU for those people to be in.

Your followers do not tolerate any disrespect or negativity directed at you, from anybody.

And if they became aware of they way your parents treat you?

Let’s just say that they’ll never bother you again! :D

Of course if you don’t want them… permanently erased from your life, the acolytes will respect your decision. But that doesn’t mean they will be happy about it.

Perhaps if they changed the way they treated you, and genuinely apologized for the suffering you went through because of them, then maybe they would be forgiven by your worshipers.

However, if they did not repent for their sins against you, then their life in Teyvat, (If your mercy allowed them to keep it), would be awful.

Angry glares from anyone they meet, the inability to purchase items from merchants, the constant harassment from your followers…

It would simply be a shame if they weren’t able to live with it.

And if you felt upset over their inevitable death, whether it be by themselves or some unpredictable accident it always coming for them, you could always seek comfort in the arms of your acolytes.

Hold one of them as you sob into their shoulders, as they become the reason for your comfort.

Let your sweet, innocent followers take care of everything, cook all your meals, brush your hair and maintain your body, let them offer themselves to you fully-

You shouldn’t have to lift a single finger. You deserved their utmost adoration and devotion.

Now that they are gone, you can finally be worshiped and loved in the way you always should have been.

They must’ve tainted your mind, made you think you were unworthy.

They must’ve been the reason your expression contorts into one of unease when your acolytes offer sacrifices and perform rituals in your name.

They must be the reason you felt an underlying sense of wrongness, starting with the very first interaction you had with your once beloved characters.

You are no god, you are unsafe, and these “people” are insane.

YOU. NEED. TO. LEAVE.

…

“We will now commence the offering, in honor of The Divine One. As they created a perfect world for us, we will maintain an obedient and thankful following for them. Let these corpses of those who have committed grave sins against Their Grace serve as a reminder for all.”

The once white altar was stained a dark red, as a large pool formed beneath the two mutilated corpses were haphazardly placed upon the smooth rock.

Your throat constricted, as you fought back bile. The oh-so-familiar faces of your parents burned into your eyes.

The priest raised his arms, beginning a prayer with the worshipers. You could feel the eyes of the people around you searing into your skull. Your head began pounding, as their words became more morbid and deranged.

“Oh Creator, we dedicate the bodies of these sinners to you. As your servants we humbly offer this gift to you, as thanks for all you have done and continue to do. With earnest hope, we wish this simple gift to you brings you joy.”

[a-certain-romance]

i made the house wife ei and miko thing tbh if u want more i can write u some fr (gonna turn it into a whole ass story for u) tbh skmetimes i imagine shenhe and her house wife to imagine how possessive she could get over her house wife being jealous at every moment

then we have ningguang who adores her house wife who dhe convinced to live a life of luxioury in her jade chamber tbh your not swayed at first untill you know you can worry over her while she works and sew her stuff shes always so pleased so she rubs her hand on your thigh staring at you knowing whats to come she already planned ahead ofc

then hu tao and her house wife (coping with the fact im an og and never got her c1) anyways shes so giggly most of the time watching you cook and giving you soft kisses every time she finishes a meal. your too cute to resist honestly!! so she decided to leave you her outfit who knows what she’ll do next <3

im mot gay iswear-

AHHH ANON U ARE THE BEST!!! (Feel free to share if you have more!!)

Warnings: Smut written by a minor, possessive sex/tendencies (Shenhe), face sitting (Ningguang), Overstimulation (Ningguang), mastrubation (Hu tao), fingering (Hu tao)

Link to pt 1 , Pt3, & Pt4

- She’d get so jealous thinking about all the people you might be around. Shenhe hates crowds so knowing that she’s not at the best of her abilities in the harbor leaves her on edge

- Shenhe who gets so possessive that she singlehandedly builds a house in the mountains away from all those people who might interfere with the two of you. It’s a good midpoint between the Wangshu Inn and Qingce Village, and plenty far away from the crowded harbor

- As she spends her time in meditation and training you spend your time with household duties and tending to your garden of Qixing and other flowers. You spend the days trying to familiarize yourself with new recipes that fit to your and Shenhe’s tastes and even experimenting with a few dishes. On the few times you do travel back to the harbor with Shenhe you always stop at Wanmin restaurant to exchange knowledge and recipes with Xiangling

- These trips can be very fun, though many of them end in a rough fucking against the wall of some alleyway after someone looks at you in a way that Shenhe doesn’t like

- She’s content to carry you for a while since it means you get to be all the more closer to her

- It’s the fact that you aren’t interested in her for her wealth that makes her fall for you

- Being Ningguang’s housewife means you don’t need to lift a finger while you’re in the Jade Chamber

- Yet she still melts when you take it upon yourself to help the maids by cleaning Ningguang’s study on your own or cooking her favorite meals when she’s had a packed schedule

- She’ll order the finest silks or brocades or fabrics; anything you ask for will be in your hands at a moment’s notice

- When she’s especially pleased with your hard work she’ll guide you towards your shared room and reveal her most expensive lingerie & lipstick combo

- She’ll let you suck and nip at her breasts for a bit before locking her legs around your waist. She can’t have all the fun, this night is meant for you. Deep make-out sessions lead to her urging your legs to sit on either side of her head

- Ningguang will lick and suck on your clit until your brain goes dumb from the pleasure, and even after you finish she’ll keep going and overstimulating you further

- Hu Tao who serenades you with poetry as appreciation for all the cooking you do

- She also handpicks the prettiest flowers from her walks around Liyue and places them in a neat vase every few weeks just for you

- She leaves her outfit in plain sight on the bed. It all started with wanting to try on her hat, leading to you wonder what the rest of her outfit would feel like

- You bask in the sweet aroma of red plum blossoms. It’s like she’s with you right now! Sometimes you wear it when she’s not around. Hu Tao catches wind of this quickly and always leaves a spare article of clothing at your place

- One of these days she surprises you by coming early and finds you pleasuring yourself while wearing one of her jackets. Aiya, it was her who got you into this, might as well take responsibility and finish what you started she thinks as her finger teases your wet folds

[jhuzen]

Hi!! I wanted to make a request if you're taking them right now! (Sorry if you aren't, feel free to just ignore!!((in love with your writing by the way it's amazing)))

My idea is Zhongli with a partner who is very usually very cheery and chaotic but very emotionally closed off. Until they get drunk for whatever reason and sobbing to Zhongli about how much they're in love with him and how he's the best thing that ever happened to them etc.

Basically just very mushy drunk reader.

Anyway, hope you're doing well, make sure to drink water and be nice to yourself!

truth serum [gn/m.reader]

asmsiskdkcmeimcwdc?? not me absolutely having fun with this godsend ask. like. tysm anon. i love it. you have no idea how amazed and happy i am to see this ask. good shit. another big brained anon ftw. also i hope i did it some justice 😭 i really enjoyed writing their chemistry,, it’s so cute hehe

𖦹 a pinch of angst, drinking, alcohol, an attempt at a cute scenario

In all the years that Zhongli has known you, there was nothing short of joy and amusement that you brought into his life. Since the day he met you up on one of the mountains he’s shaped and created, you’ve enticed him and drew him in so effortlessly and he complied, growing closer like a moth to a flame. You were the sun that everybody looked forward to — him more so.

And he wasn’t wrong with his judgment, you gave what you offered. You were the gentle glow and the warmth that radiated on the nights that he’s cold. Always blessing him with that smile of yours — how ironic was it that he was the famed archon, and yet he looked to you and worshipped you far more than anyone in the people of Liyue could ever do so with him. To him, you were the unsung deity, the person that deserved a throne but never needed one, your benevolence exceeded anyone’s expectations and anyone wouldn’t be ashamed to have you.

You are Zhongli’s pride and joy, the only one capable of forging the embers of passion that sweltered within him. You are his everything.

And even with such a kind attitude, you were no downer. You exhibited a form of exuberance that immediately drew everyone in. With that warming smile of yours, everyone wanted to be near you for a chance (though Zhongli still with the characteristics of the draconic Morax would refuse anything closer, you were his even before he staked his claim).

Said exuberance of yours often turned you into a mad riot — a whirlwind of pure excitement that anyone could barely keep up with. Zhongli had to stifle a quiet laugh when he had to come get you from Wanmin restaurant, Guoba scolding you as you tried to beat Xiangling on who can eat the most Jueyun Chilis. You lost to young girl, but Xiangling wasn’t doing any better. You tried to reason out that you were losing on purpose, but with your labored breathing and your adorably red face, Zhongli could tell otherwise.

Often times, Zhongli would get dragged into such schemes, to the point that he has to save you from plummeting down into Osial’s prison when you tried to propose to him to be your lover in the stone forest. It truly was memorable for all the wrong (and right) reasons.

You’ve endeared him when you took the leap of faith and came to him with open arms, ready to finally have him after the long-winded pining, the hinting glances he would give you, and the way the former archon only seems to care about you and only you far more than anyone else.

Being with you was nothing short of delightful. Everyday, Zhongli would wake up to your breathtaking smiles and home-cooked breakfast. You entertained his endeavors and stories that could last for days, even making remarks of your own. You bought him trinkets that ranged from something simple, to something he knew even Tartaglia’s bank would quiver at. You were perfect.

Well. Generously speaking.

By all means, you weren’t a bad partner or a lover, you gave him everything, from the material possessions, down to the intimate moments you and him shared.

It was only that there are times, when Zhongli would be left in the silence of your shared home, he would zone into those moments that were so intimate emotionally and found… that it was only him that ever shared the appreciations, the loving gratitude, and the genuine love that he feels for you. And you accepted it wholeheartedly, only to turn the other way and continue on with what you’re doing.

It worried him greatly.

Even more when his thoughts were proven right as you held him so closely as you and him laid under the shade of the tree, with him comfortably resting on top of you. He could hear your heartbeat from your chest, as he laid his ear on it, quiet thumping can be heard and if he were to listen close enough, there was a timber of kindness and love inside it.

He sighed, content and at peace within your arms, “I don’t think I’ve ever appreciated life more than now…”

“Hm? Why do you say that?” You asked, hands slowly removing itself from his waist as you played around with the strands of his hair. “You’re not dying on me, are you?” You jested and he only scoffed with no malice. Ever the joker you are, it’s ridiculous how he fell for such charms.

“I am merely appreciating the finer things in life. Madame Ping has urged me to talk more about it,” a mere white lie for him to coax out your vulnerability. Madame Ping was far too aware of his happiness now that he has you — she was always the one on the receiving end of his talk of fondness about you.

“Oh? Then what makes you appreciate this life then?”

“Complications are far behind me now that I’m no longer the one in control… everything feels so much simpler yet so intricate,” he looked up at you, chin resting on your chest as he flashed you a small smile. “All of it because now I have you. I love you, [Name]. I would give you all the stars if I could, and slay a thousand beasts to keep you from harm… you are my everything and without you, I can no longer see myself as something…”

He watched with glee as your eyes widened at his words, no doubt taken by surprise. Zhongli can feel it, your vulnerability, ready to bare itself to him with the same level of intimacy as he’s displayed. Just that, and he can be the most content man in the world.

“I— ah, that’s good.”

Zhongli blinked owlishly as you stumbled over your words. Struggled even. He felt your muscles tense up beneath him.

“Good. I’m glad you’re happy, dearest.”

He couldn’t shield you from the way his eyes flashed a smidge of hurt at your response. And you weren’t an idiot. A bit reckless to the point of trouble following you, sure, but you were far from ignorant. Especially to your lover. You frowned a little and tilted his chin up, “Hey now, don’t make that face. I’m glad you’re feeling okay in the life that you’ve been living. And I love you too,” you tried to salvage what you could but even you were aware at how lacking it was.

Zhongli wasn’t unappreciative of your efforts, but he could only nod and stomach the gnawing worry inside him as he felt your lips brush against the skin of his forehead. Surely there’s a way to pry you open, right? There was something holding you back… and he doesn’t know what.

He was aware already that despite how accepting you seem, no one has ever seen you so vulnerable. You were an individual so full of life, but you never once wore your heart on your sleeves. And if people could look past those smiles of yours that are just so full of life, they would’ve known just how closed off you truly are. It was confusing, really, and Zhongli was starting to doubt things.

If he can’t even know your true feelings… then what’s stopping you from suddenly going up and leaving, only to never come back? Zhongli was heartbroken at the thought, he can’t lose you, not in a million years and even more than that.

But how… in Teyvat is he going to pry you open?

“ALCOHOL!!”

Zhongli almost yelped as he watched the poor you crash into the cobble streets of the harbor, jolting at the sight of the infamous Crux Captain on top of your back, with an incredibly huge smile on her face. He grimaced at your weak groan. He knows you can stomach a little pain. He knows that after he watched you confront Azhdaha to help the traveler into coaxing him to give them some materials for something important.

“[Name]!! I’ve arrived with a hundred souvenirs and a thousand more kegs! Courtesy of the rich lady up top, of course.” Beidou cackled as she finally got off of you, helping you up to your feet. “Oh! Hey there! Hope you don’t mind me borrowing your beloved for awhile!” She winked at Zhongli… but from her one eye, it only seemed like a mere blink.

Zhongli tilted his head a little as the look of confusion crossed his features, “Pardon? What do you mean by that, Captain Beidou?”

You dusted off the last bits of dust on your clothing and laughed a little, “Ah, I almost forgot. Y’see, before Beidou left, she told me I owe her a challenge.”

“A challenge?” The former archon cocked an eyebrow.

“A challenge!” Beidou parroted with a loud laugh, patting your back rather strongly to the point that you almost went back down to kiss the ground. “I challenged [Name] into the greatest drinking contest ever! Them against me, of course! It’s finally time for us to prove who’s the one that can hold the most liquor in the world!”

Zhongli looked at you questioningly, and you returned it with a shrug, “It’s what she wanted. And she won’t leave me alone until I say yes. If I didn’t I probably wouldn’t have been able to leave the ship.”

“Like there was even a chance for you to say no!” Beidou laughed again before patting your back and Zhongli’s shoulder, “Alright, I’ll see you in Liuli Pavilion! The booze is waiting and I don’t want my rival backing out!”

You had to rub your back from the soreness and sighed, “Though I doubt she’ll win, you have to admire the captain’s spirit. It’s hard not to honor her request.”

Zhongli stepped nearer and fixed up the lapels of your suit, smiling a little, “You know it’s a rather unfair match, right? While the Captain is amazing, you’re basically impossible to even get drunk.”

“That may be true, but hey, who knows?”

Who knows, indeed — is what all Zhongli could say as he gawked at the many barrels of alcohol that were stacked upon each other. The captain was not kidding, she secured barrels of it even, and the spark of glee that was within her eyes was relatively alarming. He merely tagged along so he can at least help clean up, but now curiosity was lingering at the back of his mind.

He’s never once seen you drunk. Often times, it’ll be him already mumbling about on the occasions that you and him would go out and drink to unwind (often in the company of one harbinger who would always challenge you and subsequently lose). He’s even seen you offer a handicap and drink Snezhnaya’s fire water in one bottle and Tartaglia still got wasted first.

You simply held your alcohol so well. Zhongli figured maybe this was the reason for Beidou’s challenge, to finally outdo you.

And Zhongli would have called it a night if it hadn’t turned for the unexpected.

But before that, expectantly, Beidou was out. She couldn’t beat you, and probably not even a million years. But she managed far more than any other human out there, swigging drink after drink with little to no care, keeping up with you all the more. It was almost inhuman, really, to see her empty the huge beer glass with so much gusto, the accompanying snacks as chasers left to the crew members who were also around to witness their captain’s victory.

And when she finally tapped out, surprisingly, you… you were already drunk.

Zhongli waited in bated breath as you and him were the only ones awake in the establishment. He was positive even the owners had to have dozed off with how long this competition has been going on already.

“Z…Zhooooong…zhongzhong…” you murmured and he was already by your side in a flash.

“Dear? Are you alright?” The concern inside him was quelled as he watched your flushed cheeks brighten even more. You’ve had one too many to the point that you were barely coherent. He was surprised to say the least — seeing you so feverish and so drunk.

“Zhonnnngggzzzzzzzli,” he blinked as you looked up, letting go of the beer glass you had in your hand. “Did I… win?”

“Sure did. We’re the only ones awake.” He laughed.

You raised a wobbly and weak fist in victory, “H….Hhhh…. Y-Yep. D-Das’right… I am the… undefeated champ,” your fist landed softly on the back of Beidou’s head, bonking her slightly with a slurred grin, “Take that… you… sea lady thing…”

Zhongli sighed a little, it was definitely in your fashion to get yourself into this kind of situation. Definitely your style to agree to something as ridiculous as a drinking contest and get drunk for the very first time. A smile tugged on the corner of his lips, “I will go get you some water and carry you home, yes?” He said and you nodded.

Only that when he did stand up to get water, you pulled him back down from his coattails, making him sit on your lap.

“[Name], I…”

“Shhhshshshshhh, no. Shush.” You huffed, enveloping his waist with your arms as you buried your face into his chest. He let out a breath, “Shush.” You chided and Zhongli obliged, trying to breathe quietly… however that’s done.

You and him stayed in silence, and he relished in the feeling of you within him. It was a sight to behold, something he will definitely remember for all eternity.

“Zhongli…” you murmured into the fabric of his coat, he only let out a quiet hum in response, playing with your hair like you did with him before. “I love you.”

“I know, dear. And I lo—”

“No!” You suddenly yelled and one of the crew members stirred at your volume, but you could care less. You lifted your head from his chest and held his shoulders, pulling him back a little as you looked at him square in his eyes. “I. Really. Love. You.”

Zhongli smiled a little and nodded. But you cut him off before he could say it back again, “I don’t think you realize just… how much… I love you. It’s ridiculous. I love you so much that it’s soooo annoying,” you drawled and the former archon had to wonder what you meant.

Lucky him that you were going to tell anyway. It seemed as though a moment of sobriety and clarity came upon you, as your lazy slurring left your system while you spoke.

“You… are probably one of the best things that ever happened to me. I know I don’t say it much, but,” you hiccuped and Zhongli only then saw the tears cascading down your face, “I really, really, really love you so much. You have no idea how much it broke me when I saw your face before. You looked so sad, Zhongli, so, so, soooo sad. I’m sorry I couldn’t say it before, love. I don’t know what came over me, and I—!”

“Oh dear,” an airy chuckle left Zhongli’s parted lips as he watched you suddenly break open the emotions you held in your indestructible dam, flowing through like the tears in your eyes.

“I just— I just… I just!!! I just love you so much, man! Y-You treat me so well and give me all that I hope for!” You wailed so dramatically and Zhongli had to wonder if anyone woke up (he hopes not for the sake of your dignity and that he only wishes to be the only man to see this side of you), “Zhongli, I will marry you. It’s not even a want to do kind of thing anymore, I-I feel like if I don’t have you, I will die.”

It wasn’t even your intention, but soon tears pricked at the ends of his eyes, sniffling at your display, “Let’s hope we do not come to that point, yes?”

You pouted a little, “…Yes… Anyway… I’m… sorry I couldn’t say much… it’s hard for me, I guess,” you confessed and Zhongli understood. He always will for you. “But please understand… that if I also could, I would bring you not just stars but all worlds, that for your safety, I will not just kill a thousand threats but also build the strongest home… I will do it all for you…”

Suddenly, the fears within Zhongli were quelled and sent away as you finally gave out, letting him know that his worries were nothing but anxiety and that he will always have a place in your heart. He could feel his cheeks warm at your proposition earlier of tying the knot, even he couldn’t resist the giddiness that flooded his system at your drunken promise. It was enough for him to know that you still loved him even when it was expressed through a drunken honesty.

“…I love you… Zhongzhong…” you took your final shred of consciousness to breathe out your little declaration, eyes finally closing as you gave into the blissful slumber.

He cupped your cheeks and pecked your lips with a content smile, “I love you too, [Name].”

Zhongli was right about himself when you finally laid your feelings to him so openly. Because right now, he can confidently claim that he is most content man in the world.

[eepyuii]

frostbite — pt. 4

pairing ; childe x gender neutral!reader

content ; childhood friends to “rivals” to lovers, slowburn-ish

cw ; brief mentions of drowning, fighting (?)

note ; i’m ngl i’m kinda proud of this chapter, i may have done the smidgenmost cooking. also i will be making a masterlist soon!!

previous | next | masterlist

liyue harbor looked its prettiest at night.

the lantern lights made the city’s colors pop out so much more. from afar, the harbor looked like it’s own galaxy of yellow stars or like a celestial being as lively as its nightlife. this isn’t even the first time you’ve thought this- zapolyarny palace also seemed infinitely more majestic when the lights turned on during the evening. it almost made you enjoy working late shifts.

almost.

unfortunately, aesthetics can’t sugarcoat the things the fatui has done and that you’ve been a witness to. the mass production of delusions, the robbery of gnoses and let’s not even get started on the things the doctor has done. even with eleven harbingers, who all have their fair share of unorthodox acts, don’t seem to rival the blasphemies your very boss has committed. blasphemies you’ve only watched, sitting neatly and keeping your mouth shut, and done nothing about. you’re only undeservingly grateful you weren’t present for the majority of his atrocities. but then again, who even were you to keep count of divine punishments you would never provide to the sinners who warranted them?

plus, now wasn’t the time to dwell on entirely so much.

if you stood lifelessly in the middle of the street for any longer, someone might get suspicious. you choose to head towards the coastal side of the harbor, merely observing the crowds walk back and forth between the street businesses. a few steps further and you reach a small street food restaurant- wanmin restaurant. the line of customers is concerningly big for such a time of day, you shiver to imagine what it’s like during lunch time.

the large, open window of the restaurant shows an older man attending to the customers with utmost friendliness and behind him, a younger blue-haired girl hurries from side to side as she rushes to ready the dishes. you see her look down and speak as if talking to someone incredibly short, so short that they’re entirely covered by the half wall of the window.

you furrow your eyebrows, confused by the sight- that is until the girl turns to you and panic invades her expression.

“guoba, wait! watch out for-“

before she finishes her sentence, you feel a faint thump against your leg. you look down to see… what in all honesty just looked like a teddy bear- except it seemed entirely alive and currently knocked over on the ground, paw wiping its little forehead as if it got hurt on the crash with your calf. next to it was also a small bag of mora, spilling over onto the sidewalk.

you hurry to gather up the coins and put them back in the bag before any slimy passerby could snatch them away while the girl steps over to help up the teddy bear.

“agh… i shouldn’t have sent you out to get groceries in such a hurry and you also need to watch where you go better!” she reprimands the creature, patting it down to smooth away any dirt.

“a-and i’m so very sorry! we’re overflowing with customers today and we were running out of oil so i thought i’d have guoba run to mr. dongsheng’s shop but i guess the pressure got him distracted…” she bows apologetically and the bear follows suit.

chuckling sheepishly, you wave the gesture off. “please, there’s no need for all that… it was just an accident after all.” you look down at the bag of mora in your hand.

“say, why don’t i go buy that oil for you? i’m not busy at the moment and you and… guoba clearly need all your attention on the food.”

her eyes light up as if the second coming of rex lapis has just occurred before her. “you’d do that? oh, that would be amazing! thank you so much…” she trails off as if waiting for you to say your name.

“y/n.”

“y/n! thank you so much, y/n. i’m xiangling, by the way!”

the shop just around the corner from the restaurant and you dutifully wait in line to be attended by mr. dongsheng. you’re almost getting lost in thought until you hear an exclamation from nearby.

“x-xingqiu wait up!” what sounded like a young boy huffed out, sprinting from nearby. you turn to see exactly a young light-blue haired boy in white clothes rushing to catch up with another boy with darker blue hair in elegant navy garbs who was already waiting for him at the bridge to the outskirts of town.

“come on, you slowpoke!” the other boy giggles and as his friend is finally beside him, he abruptly grabs his wrist and pulls him along to run once more.

the display is so genuine and lighthearted that it even makes you chuckle fondly, makes you nostalgic for a simpler time.

you buy the oil and swiftly head back to wanmin restaurant, where xiangling is practically weeping with gratitude. “oh thank you, thank you, thank you! you’re a real lifesaver, please let me repay you- a whole evening of dishes on the house with whatever guests you’d like!” she bows once more.

“don’t sweat it… but i’ll hold you to that.” you nod amusedly and make your way out to leave xiangling and guoba to their arduous cooking.

your aimless wandering through the harbor takes you to the eastern side next, to the passageway between the pool of lotuses that leads to bubu pharmacy. you lean against the railing, watching intently as the fish swim aimlessly through the calm waters- then you turn to watch the people crossing the passageway, couples, families, childhood friends all enjoying the comfortable mundaneness of life.

turning even further, you spot a small girl sitting at the top of the staircase that leads to bubu pharmacy, you’ve seen her before behind the counter of the establishment… qiqi, was it? she sits at the edge of the elevated structure, facing the piers of the harbor as she watches with droopy eyes and what seemed to be a glass of milk in her hands.

the sleepiness in her expression reminds you of how late into the night it must be, urging you to head back to your quarters and get whatever sleep you can.

on your way up the stairs of the catwalks, you pass by heyu tea house, where an opera is taking place. the singer is a young girl, adorning traditional liyuean opera garbs that flow gracefully with the elegant twists and turns of the dance she performs. not to mention her unparalleled singing accompanied by the smooth sounds of a liyuean instrument, a guqin as you recall it- her voice so mesmerizing it nearly pulls all of the attention away from the heart wrenching tale it tells.

you’d heard stories about liyuean opera and how entirely different it was from the snezhnayan iterations, but none of the descriptions truly made justice to the fantastical spectacle you stumbled upon by luck. once again, you almost forget you were supposed to head to your dorm and rest.

unfortunately, rest is not for you.

you lay in your bed, eyes wide awake and fixated at the decorated ceiling as you recall all that you saw this evening. the liveliness of the common folk, xiangling and guoba, the two boys, the young girl from the pharmacy delighting in something as simple as a glass of milk, the opera performance. it’s all so human, so natural, simple, meaningful and so entirely precious. you’d made an enjoyable evening stroll just out of watching people… be people.

and you were going to drown it all in just a few days.

well, not as much you as childe was going to. but you didn’t do anything to counter it, not a peep of disagreement, not an act of defiance, not even an idea of an alternate solution. all because of some goddamn chess piece for the tsaritsa’s stupid plan. a pang of forced guilt hits your heart- you’d be surely decapitated in the town square for saying such things about her grace, or thinking rather. but that’s not how you feel, you’d care less about not criticizing an archon if they were truly being stupid.

but that’s how childe feels.

he reveres the tsaritsa blindly more than anyone you know. you needed to speak to him, first thing tomorrow.

surely he wouldn’t mind pulling out of his ingenious, but foolishly dangerous, plan just for you?

—

they say early bird gets the worm yet here you remain, up at the ass crack of dawn with no worm to speak of. if you were slightly less exhausted at the moment, you would’ve caught onto ekaterina’s look of sheer pity towards you.

“good morning, sergeant! how may i help you?” she greets politely.

“mmh.. yes, morning…” you mumble back, pinching the bridge of your nose. “would you know where childe is right now?”

“i believe childe is currently exercising outside of the harbor. would you like to leave a message for him?”

“no no- no need, i’ll just go to him myself. where exactly outside of town is he?”

“childe usually likes to train up in the mountains behind yujing terrace, he took a few officers to train alongside him so it won’t be difficult to spot the group.” you nod and mutter a curt ‘thank you’ to her. your feet feel like they’ve got pure geo constructs tied to them but you manage to make it to the door of northland bank- though before you get to make your way out, you hear ekaterina call out to you.

“i would advise you to bring a weapon, sergeant! knowing how stubborn childe is.”

chuckling at the indirect jab toward childe that she delivers, you only materialize your polearm with the power of your vision, the only instance you’ll ever use it.

“don’t i know it.”

sometimes you wonder if childe is even human- the mere climb to the mountains behind yujing terrace was enough exercise to last you a week or so. once you settled upon the mountain top, heaving as if death were at your doorstep, you take in your surroundings to spot a small group of men in the distance, gathered in a circle that and facing away from you. a few more minutes of walking reveal that they are in fact clad in fatui uniform and the sound of grunts, thuds and the ever despair-inducing sound of the eleventh harbinger’s maniacal laughter.

you join the circle silently, eyes sharp and cold, to watch as childe effortlessly topples over a low-rank officer. a little more observation would show that this poor man wasn’t the first one to receive such treatment, as all the other men look over with sheer horror in their eyes and dirt clinging to their uniforms- all while childe’s clothes remain spotless and neat. said terrified men notice your sudden presence and scurry to salute you properly with trembling arms while you merely gesture for them to be at ease.

“so! who would like to go next?” the harbinger calls out obliviously only to be met with shameful silence. he scans the whole circle like a bloodthirsty predator, though once he finally turns around to see you there, his eyes seem to gain a different light. if they can even attain any.

“y/n! to what do we owe the pleasure to have you here?” he laughs, raising a hand to gesture to you while facing the other officers. “gentlemen, sergeant y/n of the medical division.”

the officers almost immediately salute you once more and you sigh. “please, at ease.”

“truly impeccable timing, doc! i’ve just sparred one-on-one with each one of these officers to teach them a thing or two about combat. though… i might’ve gone a little too hard, plus they might learn better through observing rather than getting shoved around one by one. so why don’t the two of us spar?”

you put up a hand to stop him. “yeah yeah, unfortunately i’m not here to rumble. i’ve got something i’d like to discuss with y-“

“aw, come on! this is a once in a lifetime opportunity for these gentlemen!” childe whines.

“i really would rather not, it’s a bit of an important matter that i want to sort out-“

“it’ll be quick! just one round.”

“i didn’t sleep well last night plus-“

“then a spar is just the way to get the blood pumping!”

“can we please just talk for a few minutes and then you can go back to-“

slash.

where you expected to receive another interruption from childe was instead the sharp tip of a hydro blade right beside your head, narrowingly missing you by a hair. the officers gasp dramatically, while you practically stab childe with the incredulous glare you throw him. even worse, the asshole only smirks playfully as if it was just a playground game.

being on the other side of his blade is famously not unfamiliar to you.

you summon your polearm without thinking and swing it angrily from right to left, hoping only to get the hydro sword away from you. childe does exactly as you predict and steps back expertly to dodge your spear, bearing the widest grin. what ensues next is a tiring back and forth between the two of you- childe hits, you hit back to defend yourself, childe hits back harder. the men watch intently as if watching the most intense play of their lives. it’s probably after a good eight minutes of fighting that your arms start growing weary from how tightly you’re holding onto your weapon and your legs get even sorer than they were from how much you climbed. this is getting stupid.

you put all your focus into finding an opening in childe’s strikes to overtake him, finding it within his next attack, where he switches his grip on the twin blades so the sharp sides face outward and he brings his arms together to create momentum for a double-sided swing that covers the entire of his front. in the millisecond that his hands are next to each other, you send a wave of frigid air that freezes the entirety of his swords and bites at his fingers in a way that makes him hiss and drop the weapons on instinct.

as the icy blades collide with the ground, they shatter into a million glittering shards. childe looks down, half-shocked half-amused at the display and laughs once more. he continues to stare at the ground, any trace of his swords is entirely gone- though it’s no matter, as hydro is already swirling down his wrists as he prepares a new set.

“hah… the fun finally begi-“

before he can finish his taunt, you’re tackling him onto the ground, taking advantage of his distraction. you kneel with one knee up, the other is latched firmly beside childe’s torso, and press your polearm firmly across his arms as to restrain him. the fatui officers are practically losing their minds at this point.

“enough.” you huff out with a snarl, chest heaving up and down violently.

childe is finally, truly at a loss for words. he looks up at you as if you’re the most divine being he’s ever seen and the halo of sunlight that forms around you really doesn’t help. though, you only interpret it as him simply being so surprised that someone finally beat him. after a few seconds of remaining in the position, you take it childe has surrendered and stand up and away from him.

you dust off your clothes and utter without looking up. “leave. all of you.” the men sprint out of the scene like startled rabbits.

“now can we talk?”

taglist ; @kentply @osaemu @rain-and-a-nice-nap

[sweatandwoe]

it's chicken.

zhongli with a cute waitress that keeps letting him have meals for free cause they get to making googly eyes at him for so long they forget to ask for money

you're too good to me @chickenparm

Warnings: Zhongli x GN!Reader, Fluff, Crushes (it's just very cute), a bit of awkward!Zhongli and awkward!reader, and Chef Mao being a bro

-

"How big is his tab?"

You blink, setting down the dishes you were bringing in. It only takes a moment to follow Mao's gaze and find who he was searching for.

Zhongli.

The handsome man from the funeral parlor, who always seemed to be short on mora.

He's facing away, strolling down the street away from Wanmin restaurant, his hair moving slightly in the wind. Both wrists are crossed over his lower back, hanging just above his hips. You look away when he glances back, almost like he knew someone was watching him. The golden eyes were far too pretty.

Slowly you glance at Mao - he's got an odd spark in his eyes and his lips are twitching. Though he's leaning casually against the counter, close to the serving window. The oven is off and now he's going lax and sated with the day coming to a close.

Your fingers twitch, moving to the sink. "It's zero."

"Zero?" There's a tone, near glee when he speaks. Though Mao is shaking his head when you sneak a glance at him, fingers drumming against the stone counter. He gives a low whistle after a moment. "You've got it that bad, huh?"

You turn on the sink, frowning. "Mao-"

"I'm not judging!" He raises both hands, moving over to sling a washcloth over his shoulder. "But he comes in once a week and never pays, you'd think he'd get the hint."

You frown. It's quite known that Zhongli had been paying for most things with money given by that Fatui leader, or putting it on his tab. He could've paid for it with that other man's money, but he always looked a little off-set when he could only give that. A little out of place, uncomfortable.

So you had simply stopped asking. Not really hoping for anything in return, you just got the benefit of being able to see and talk to him once a week. He was always kind, thoughtful and would go on for ages about all sorts of history when you asked him. And the small loss of one meal a week in your wages was well worth his company in your mind.

When Mao nudges you, you give a shrug and then hand him a bowl to dry. "I don't think he feels that way about me, and I... I just want to be his friend, if nothing else."

There's a quiet that settles between you both as you settle into the rhythm. He doesn't ask about it again that night or the next few days, but there's a spark in his eyes and a slight smirk curling on his lips. Pestering him about it brought nothing, only for him to drop the ball.

"I want you to come in late tomorrow."

You peer at him, as he locks up the restaurant and he's faced away from you. "Late?"

He turns, wiping his hands over his thighs and tucking the key away. "Yeah, I want you here for the dinner rush, I'll pay you the same don't worry about it. Xiangling wants to help with waitressing tomorrow, and you know I can't deny her anything."

That was a lie. Not the denial part, he always spoiled his only child, but Xiangling wanting to help wait tables instead of cooking was a lie. She'd always help out at the restaurant, but her father had always trained her to be more on the culinary side of things.

Still, you don't argue in case maybe he did want some father-daughter time. Xiangling wasn't always in Liyue anymore and she had come home two weeks ago. And besides you were getting paid for it.

Your skin just wouldn't stop prickling with anxiety that he had something planned.

The reason became clear when you show up on the day, only to find Xiangling wearing an apron, already helping customers at the main table and counter while Mao is busy serving up food. It's not too busy, surprisingly. But what is a surprise is a small table you can set up in the back alley, looking over the river.

And at who was sitting at it.

You glance at Mao, who peers at you through the serving window with a wide grin. His eyes crinkle when you begin to sputter.

"I am not going-"

"Oh, yes you are. Your duties tonight are to go have fun. You've earned it." He shoos you when you try to move to the kitchen, to the point of closing the door and calling for Xiangling. "Customer for the back table!"

And she appears with her father's smirk on her face and spear in hand - and you can't really say no now. Marched over to the table, where you can see him. He's staring off into the river, both hands on the table, eyes slightly wide. There was a glaze lily between both hands and he looked far more tense than you had ever seen him.

When you approach, he stands so quickly that his legs hit the table and he's using his geo vision to stabilize it before everything on top wobbles into the river."I'm sorry-"

"It's okay-"

You both pause, staring at one another. Xiangling makes a sound that is quickly silenced, but you're sure it was almost a giggle. She's rushing off to deal with the other customers.

And then you're both left alone.

Zhongli still has both hands on the table, leaning over slightly from where he was standing. After a moment, he takes the glaze lily in hand and gives it a fond look, before turning his gaze on you. "I brought this for you."

"You didn't have to." The words slip from your mouth, but you're moving to accept the gift. Your cheeks are warm, and your palms are sweaty against the stem. "It's beautiful."

His lips part, but he glances away and closes his mouth. Whatever he wanted to say, it makes his cheeks go slightly pink. He moves to untuck your chair, and you sit. Once he joins you, you both settle into the most awkward silence you've encountered on any date before.

Date? Was this even a date?

The silence stretches on, and you're almost certain Mao had told Xiangling to not take your drink orders until you were talking. You slowly set the glaze lily in your lap, not wanting to damage the soft flower. Then you glance at him, not looking at you, his fingers drumming slightly against the table. The pink on his cheeks was still there. He almost seemed anxious but that was because he probably wanted to leave. You don't dare to think of what Mao had said to the poor man.

"Zhongli," he glances up at his name and you pause. His eyes were the shame shade of Mora coins, including the slight shine to them. "I don't know what Mao said to you but, you don't have to be here if you don't want to be."

His fingers settle, and then his shoulders sag a bit. "I'm not here because Chef Mao forced my hand."

You blink, and your own cheeks get a little warm. "Oh."

"He was the one to suggest it," he does admit, folding his fingers together. "I realize, while I had been studying history I had forgotten an important aspect to take in."

"What would that be?"

"Culture." He shifts, and his cheeks go a little darker. "Courting, specifically on how to start to engage in it."

Oh.

Oh.

Your body relaxes, a smile twitching on your lips. "You wanted to ask me out?"

"Yes. But I had no clue how to, I've never courted someone before." He admits with ease. His smile is small, and the crow's feet growing under his eyes stand out a little more from it. "Not many have been interested in seeing me romantically. I'm not used to it." One hand reaches across the table. "But I am interested in you."

Your fingers settle across his own, watching as he lets out a small breath at the touch. "That's good to know. Because I am interested." You pause. "In you, I mean."

"I understand." But the same way you find his awkwardness in this endearing, he seems to feel the same way with you. It's easy then to fall into your familiar rhythm, though he asks more questions about you now, leaning in to catch your every word and asking questions. He makes you snort once and he smiles widely at the noise.

Mao watches you both from the back window, before glancing at his daughter. "How long has it been since you sat them?"

She smiles, eyes twinkling. "An hour."

His face splits into a wide grin. "Knew it. You can go ask them for their drinks now." He smiles to himself watching his daughter skip outside, to get the order. Once she's gone, he lets out a breath, eyeing them out the window.

They had better make her the flower girl when they got married. Of course, Mao would be the best man, because he'd have to guide Zhongli through it. But he wouldn't mind.

Seeing his two lonely friends smiling tenderly at one another, eyes full of joy, is far worth the cost of two meals and some of his time.

[cherry-froggie]

will you be my valentine today?~ [headcanons]

summary — Headcanons for how some Genshin characters will spend the special day with their loved one

characters — xiao, zhongli, ayato, thoma

notes - welcome to one of those days of the year when everyone else writes about the same topic, today we will keep the trend; this is my entry to the "happy valentine's day" writing event from the @yae-publishing-house!

MASTERLIST || REQUESTS

XIAO

"A day dedicated to grating your lover with gifts and affection? Is there something special about this day that sets it apart from others?"

All Xiao ever wanted was to simply spend time in your company, free from worries or concerns, and without any distractions or interruptions that could pull you apart. He imagined the perfect Valentine's Day as not much more than a calm and serene occasion, one spent solely with his other half.

A dream that he was fully intent on achieving.

If you ever gifted him with something physical, be it a helpful tool or a small token representative of your love, he would gladly accept it before looking deeply into the windows of your soul with his eyes of vibrant amber. He would hold onto the gifted object and your hand with the most delicate touch. As the two of you exchanged kind and loving looks with one another, he was the happiest.

With a gentle whisper and the evening sun illuminating the inn, he confessed, "I only need you, not these possessions. They mean nothing to me without you by my side." He spoke with a calm smile, a hint of affection and love shimmering within his eyes. As such, he did not expect you to give him anything, not preparing a present in advance.

Do not mistake him not being the most familiar with diverse human practices as a sign that he does not care for or love you as much as you do for him; he was simply naive of the significance of the day as he only came to know about it through Verr Goldet that same morning. But rest assured that he will never forget this day ever again.

However, if you prefer a physical gift, he would take the time to teach you the intricate and delicate art of how to make a butterfly out of nothing but ordinary and simple leaves or offer the rare opportunity to walk around Liyue's vibrant and beautiful fields until he found a flower that he deemed worthy of your beauty, which he would then proudly place on your hair.

Creating something together brought a smile across his lips as he felt his heart swell with joy.

To Xiao, love was all about the memories and moments that formed between you.

ZHONGLI

"It's a day to celebrate the love in our lives and to show appreciation for the special people in it, a reminder that love is a beautiful and powerful thing, and it's important to hold on to it."

Zhongli envisioned the perfect Valentine's Day to be a day filled with leisure and relaxation. He pictured himself walking down the city's beautiful walkways while holding hands with you and talking about everything that made him smile and laugh, taking in the sights and sounds of the many stores and vendors that passed you by. The mere thought of you brought a sense of joy to his heart, and he was almost lost in thought, so much so that his mind was empty and quiet.

You would then stop off at the Wanmin restaurant, and a most delicious, mouthwatering meal awaited the two of you, accompanied by the stories the storyteller had to offer.

You would sit down, relax and slowly enjoy the food you ordered, savoring every bite you took. The peaceful atmosphere served as the perfect backdrop for a romantic conversation, one that would allow the two of you to talk about your days and reflect on the beauty of the day in a moment of affection.

As a token of his love for you, he would gift you a beautiful jade hairpin, a symbol of his devotion, a small and delicate gesture to be nothing more than a sweet surprise, one that would allow him to look on with contentment as you wore the jade hairpin with pride.

The beautifully deep and rich jade hairpin, intricately crafted, would have swirling designs that spiraled around it. It would shine in the light like morning dew, representing not just his fondness but his respect and admiration for the beauty and grace that you possessed.

It would be a rare and cherished keepsake, treasured for many years. Indeed, for a lifetime.

Zhongli is a man with both distinct and unique tastes, a person who could identify and even pinpoint things with nothing but the slightest and most faint touch.

He would not expect anything more than a good conversation and the mere act of enjoying one another's company. He was content with simply existing and coexisting with you, no matter the occasion.

If you were to gift him with something, whatever it may be, then he would be overjoyed, grateful to be in the presence of such a wonderful person and lifetime companion.

AYATO

"Love is a precious and important aspect of life. Although I find it a bit excessive to have a specific day dedicated to expressing love, the most important thing is that love is cherished and appreciated, no matter how it is done."

Valentine's Day was of great importance for Ayato since it was a perfect time to celebrate and share the love of his life while escaping from all the duties as he could focus solely on his relationship. His perfect day would be filled with happiness, laughter, and love; one filled with joy and contentment that he would never forget. He wished for this to be a time when he and you could finally connect more intimately.

Ayato would love to spend quality time with you and was nothing but excited for the experience ahead. The two of you would walk across the city's streets as he would feel himself growing in anticipation for your future together.

You stopped at various sites and landmarks, admiring the magnificence of the nature-made wonders that had been erected on the ground you were standing on. The city of Inazuma was a visual marvel to behold; one that many tourists and photographers alike flocked to just to see its natural beauty and unique landscapes.

As he stood before you, the sun's rays burst forth from behind him, illuminating his figure and highlighting his stunning beauty. With each passing moment, his silhouette grew stronger and more radiant, casting an inviting glow that seemed to envelop you in its comforting embrace. Despite the sheer majesty of his presence, there was an understated elegance to his every move, a humble grace. He stood tall and proud, with a confidence that could only be born from knowing that he was truly loved and appreciated. And as you gazed upon him, basking in the radiance of his light, you knew deep in your heart that this was the moment you would always treasure. "My dearest," he began, his voice rich and tranquil, "As we stand here, I am reminded of the many wonders and beauties of this world. And yet, you outshine them all."

You would savor the taste of joy and delight at the moment together, even when the time seemed to slow to a crawl.

Your day would be nothing but joy, and you could find yourselves in an endless state of tranquility and pleasure in one another's presence. There was no rush; you could spend day and night together if it so pleased you. It was all about loving and appreciating each other's presence in whatever way you could.

Ayato was more than grateful for the opportunity to experience such an event with someone as gracious and loving as you. He knew the memories you would make would last forever. Indeed, one thing that Ayato had always loved about you was your natural ability to make him smile so effortlessly.

He contemplated for a while what he would desire from you during this day and found that one gift that would win him over was a delicious cup of milk tea medley especially prepared by you. Such a simple and thoughtful gift would touch his heart.

To him, a gift that would be enough to bring a smile to your face was a bouquet. Nothing too grand or fancy, he just wished for a simple and considerate present; one that would be all he needed to show his deep admiration and devotion.

As the day would finally come to a close, you would sit down and partake in a delicious meal that had been lovingly and carefully prepared by Thoma's hands. He would decorate the room with candles, flowers, and an assortment of exquisite tableware so the setting would be perfect for such a special occasion. He would design the perfect meal with the utmost care, combining elegant cuisine with a gorgeous presentation. The entire scene would create an intimacy and warmth that only you could experience together, leading Ayato to feel a deep sense of overwhelming gratitude and love for you.

You would talk, laugh, and enjoy each other's company over a delicious home-cooked meal, and Ayato would think back to all the times he had felt complete and satisfied while in the presence of his beloved.

THOMA

"For me, it's all about making those special to you feel valued and appreciated through small gestures with meaning behind them that touch the heart and warm it up."

Thoma was always a hopeless romantic. He was planning something big to show his love and affection for you.

One surprise he had planned was to take the entire day off from his usual daily activities to spend some time with the one he loved most. He wanted to dedicate the day to you, his much-deserved partner, and he planned to create many new and wonderful memories together.

Thoma's lovely and secret home for the local dogs and kitties is a fascinating site, and he was more than willing to show off his little slice of paradise to you. The cute kittens and the adorable pups were simply the perfect addition to the already heavenly scenery, and Thoma knew that this secret hiding spot was one he could never keep hidden from you.

You would take in the pleasing scenery around you, taking the time to appreciate the stunning natural beauty of it all and the endearing nature of the many animals that inhabited the area. The perfect blend of joy and excitement, combined with the breathtaking nature of the surrounding areas, would bring forth an unforgettable experience and a precious memory to hold onto forever.

As you walked through the countryside hand in hand, you would find yourselves in utter awe and bewilderment at the scenic Inazuman landscape. You would feel the serene breeze brush against your faces and marvel at the lush and lively green grass all around you. You would delightfully take in the fresh country air and the calming peace that awaited you. Thoma would point out the various creatures that populated and dominated the surrounding nature. You would discuss your aspirations and ideals, visions of the future, and hopes for the time ahead.

As the sun would set, Thoma would surprise you with a delicious and romantic dinner, beautifully decorated and lovingly prepared.

You knew he enjoyed escaping into the pages of a good book and finding himself lost in the world of fantasy and imagination that awaited him at the turn of every page. What better gift to give him on such a day than the new works from the Yae Publishing House?

No matter the book, he would find himself deeply invested in the plot and story, no matter how fantastical or unrealistic it may be. He would spend an entire afternoon, or even the full day, just being lost in his imagination as he read and immersed himself in a different world, a world that only existed between two covers, a world gifted from you.

His strength is as grand and unshakable as his faith in love; however, the inside of his heart is as soft and vulnerable as a small kitten. Any loving words directed toward him with such great affection will bring out a side with pleasure and tenderness. Such a proclamation may also be a little overwhelming and surprising, so he might not be able to muster up the courage to say anything in response immediately, but he will be sure to say anything to make you even redder than him.

proof read? no aaaaaaaaa im too tired im sorry i canNOT

and as you read this you think to yourself "another one? where is the epilogue for the forgotten puppet, that kaeya fic promised more than a month ago, the second part of the jealousy headcanons, the 100-follower special fanfic?" LIKE YES I KNOW I KNOW IM SORRY IM TOO MUCH OF A PERFECTIONIST I TAKE LIKE 1 OR 2 DAYS DEDICATED TO WRITE A FULL FIC

"xiao's part is now short" to contrast his height, xiao is the tallest character in the hit game genshin impact I DONT EVEN KNOW HOW I MADE THOMAS PART SO LONG (like xiao)

i'm sorry i AHAHA i need to regain my mental stability THANK YOU EVERYONE SPEND THE DAY IMPACTING GENSHIN CHARACTER'S LOVE LIVES

[archonsoflove]

Law and Order

Zhongli/Tartaglia/Neuvilette

CW: Explicit Sexual Content, M/M/M, Mating & Breeding, Scent Marking

Word Count: 4.6k

-------> MASTERLIST

-------> Read on AO3

-------> Part Two: Hunger

Part One | Insatiable

“Zhongli, baobei, wouldn’t it be lovely to travel to Fontaine?” Ajax sat across from Zhongli at their usual table at Wanmin Restaurant, a basket of crystal shrimp between the two of them. “We’d be able to visit museums, do wine tastings, and browse antique stores. It paints a pretty picture, doesn’t it?”

Zhongli gave Ajax a flat look from the other side of the table, far from pleased. “Ajax, you know as well as anyone else that I have seen everything I will ever need to in my lifetime. There are certain places I don’t wish to visit twice.”

“What?” Ajax leaned forward; eyebrows raised in that mischievous way that Zhongli adored. “Don’t tell me you don’t get along with the Hydro Archon? Is that what this is about?”

The old dragon coughed into his hand, quickly making use of his chopsticks to snatch up a shrimp.

“Zhongli, no…” bewilderment lit up Ajax’s eyes, widened and ecstatic in realization. “You mean to tell me you will forfeit a vacation in Fontaine because of her?”

“Yes.”

And Ajax simply could not take no for an answer.

~

“Ajax, if you try and feed me any more ginger sweets, I fear your kindness will be rejected by my stomach and prove your efforts futile.”

While dragons and adeptal beasts were known for their immunity to most human ailments, it seemed Morax’s human form was not. Zhongli knew for a fact that the ocean was not his friend – Osial end him – and seasickness even less so.

Ajax sat down next to him on the bed in their cabin, a tentative hand coming to rest on his bare shoulder. The billowing white poet nightshirt hung to one side, proving to be a sorry sight against Zhongli’s dishevelled form.

“If I’d known Rex Lapis was prone to seasickness, I’d have put you on a ship a long time ago,” Ajax teased.

Zhongli face went ashen at the thought.

“I’d much prefer it if we spoke of something else.”

✦

Fontaine was beautiful. And elegant. Just as Zhongli had remembered it to be. Tall architecture, in creams and soft hues of blue that were gentle on the eye, lay before them. The crisp scent of freshwater melding with Sumeru’s ocean across the main harbour did not go unnoticed by his keen sense of smell.

“Would you look at that?” Ajax whistled softly as the land far below them passed by in a blur.

The Aquabus moved quite fast, and with the railings so low, Zhongli wondered for a passing moment if passengers had ever toppled over.

“Such fine machinery,” Zhongli hummed in agreement, keeping his hand tightly grasped in Ajax’s. Heights were something he was not fond of, if he could help it.

Zhongli felt as if he were still moving when they finally reached the port – and solid ground. A small creature, which he could only assume was a Melusine, passed them their luggage. He sat down on the bench to watch the bus depart once again, head still spinning from vertigo.

Ajax looked beautiful when he was in his own element. Dull blue eyes were now alight with keen interest and the bustle of a new city. And something warm bloomed in Zhongli’s chest, knowing he’d get to wander these streets with someone he loved. It had been a long time since he had indulged in the pleasantries of travel, especially with good company.

“While Fontaine has remained at the forefront of technology in recent years, it’s charming that they’ve held on to a more traditional style for their interior design.”

Ajax’s smile was genuine, eyes never leaving Zhongli’s face. It seemed there were some small ways in which he could surprise an Archon.  

Hotel Debord had always welcomed the Northland Bank’s investments with open arms, and it seems that generosity was extended towards their employees as well. Their hotel room was a grand suite, bookcases lining one wall, cerulean and golden rimmed antiques on the other behind glass casing.

“And silk sheets?” Zhongli stepped over to the bed, running bare fingers over the golden silk, eyes dark amber in the soft lighting. “If I am correct, Fontaine takes pride in the quality of their silk productions, and much of their materials come from the Melusines…though I haven’t been able to meet with such a creature long enough to ask.”

Ajax dropped their suitcases by the foot of the bed and toed off his boots. His feet sank deliciously into the plush carpeting, and for a second, he thought it best they stay in for the evening... But! This was Fontaine.  And the nightlife waited for no one.

Zhongli felt Ajax’s arms slip around his waist, breaking him from his thoughts of silks and tradesmanship. Ajax laughed softly at the small purr emanating from his lover’s chest, placing a small kiss in the hollow beneath his ear. He would never get enough of this man, and his mind, forever racing from thought to thought, constantly lost in history from decades past.

“I’m sure you’ll meet many people while we are here. But for now, shall we go out for the evening? Indulge a little?”

Zhongli hummed in agreement, arching his neck for Ajax to leave a small bite in the junction between his neck and shoulder. A flash of something hot and dangerous crackled up his spine, and he turned around in Ajax’s arms to face him.

“Dining with you would be my pleasure,” Zhongli whispered softly, his lips brushing the shell of Ajax’s ear. The involuntary shiver that passed through Ajax did not go unnoticed, and it made Zhongli’s lips tilt up in that humoured and sly way of his.

And it was always like that with them, the constant push and pull of their nature. It was one of the reasons why Zhongli loved him so dearly.

✦

Café Lucerne was in the heart of the Court of Fontaine, and Ajax did not for one second let go of Zhongli’s hand as they walked through the bustling streets. No one spared a second glance at them, too lost in their own affairs, and for that Zhongli was thankful. In Liyue, people were much more observant.

“While Café Lucerne is a café, they have wonderful food,” Ajax told him, a dashing smile complimenting the blush high on his cheeks. “It’s much different to our dining experiences at home.”

The sun had been unforgiving when they’d travelled through to Romaritime Harbour, and it seemed he was a touch sunkissed. And Zhongli’s heart swelled with fondness upon hearing home. Ajax thought of his land as home.

“What am I going to do with you?” He found himself saying, a smile tugging at his own lips as he allowed Ajax to drag him along.

A soft snort from the Snezhnayan. “You are going to take me to dinner, Zhongli.”

And what kind of lover would Zhongli be to deny him?

“Good evening,” a waitress ushered them to their table, her golden hair slicked back into a bun. “I will be back shortly to take your order.”

“This is quaint,” Zhongli commented, taking in the antique and fine clothing stores across from them. He swore he saw a dog with a bonnet, but it may have been a trick of the evening light.

“It is, isn’t it?” Ajax sighed wistfully and reached for a menu. “I’ve heard that you can debate and speak of any topics at Lucerne, as long as you don’t bring up death.”

Zhongli had to laugh at that.

“And, if you do, they will ban you.”

“However have you managed to not get banned when you last visited?”

Ajax smiled and met Zhongli’s gaze, his heart fluttering at the adoration he found in bright cor lapis.

“If you must know, I got quite drunk that last time I was here. A man was convinced he was an apple tree and wanted to “become one with the soil”, and so I told him to go drown himself instead.”

Zhongli frowned at that.

“It was a joke of course! I just found it absurd at the time, and I later found out his friends did bury him in the sand.”

“Fontaine’s people are stranger than I remember.”

~

Arouet had brewed them a perfect cup of coffee, with rich cream and milk. Ajax had insisted on having desert before dinner, and Zhongli basked in the leisurely nature of the evening.

“Sumeru’s coffee is richer in flavour,” was Zhongli’s conclusion. Ajax was crestfallen.

“While I can see the advantages of brewing coffee with the help of technology, I suppose the more traditional methods can never be overshadowed when quality is on the table.”

And Ajax had no room to argue. Sumerean vendors brewed their coffee in metal jugs over hot sand, and while the slight tang of bitterness put him off, he also missed the thicker quality of the espresso.

“But I do have to say that Arouet’s pâtissier makes lovely desserts,” Zhongli added, his attention drawn back to the Conch Madeleine, lifting a forkful to his mouth.

Before Ajax could reply, a man behind Zhongli caught his eye. It was the flash of pale blond hair, cascading down a cloak of ocean blue, elegant tailorship lining the edges of his suit in deep gold. It was only, and only, when he turned around from Lucerne’s front desk, that he realized exactly who he had been staring at.

The tall man locked eyes with Ajax, and immediately the Harbinger felt inclined to get up from his seat and run for the hills. Fontaine had hills, and caves, and he knew he could go far. Pale eyes trailed over Ajax, before landing on Zhongli’s back, eyes widening slightly. Zhongli stiffened, all too aware of Ajax’s distraction, and catching the scent permeating the air. One he knew far too well.

“Tartaglia, what a pleasant surprise to see you back in Fontaine so soon.”

Zhongli looked behind him at the deep voice, surprise colouring his cheeks a startling shade of crimson. He shot Ajax a glance before they both rose to greet the stranger.

“Chief Justice Neuvilette,” Ajax moved around the table, and offered out a hand for the judge to shake. Neuvilette simply stared at his hand for a moment, before hesitantly reciprocating. “It’s wonderful to see you again.”

Zhongli narrowed his eyes at the exchange, all too familiar with the scene playing out in front of him. And that scent. Sea salt and mint, something darker, and terribly recognizable.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” Zhongli said stiffly, dipping his head in greeting, “again. It seems you still have not grasped the proprieties of mundane social etiquette, Neuvilette.”

Ajax didn’t miss the way Neuvilette seemed to do a double take when turning his focus to Zhongli. He did one himself. What did Zhongli mean by “again”?

“Oh…”

Zhongli revelled in the questions he saw swimming in those lavender eyes.

“I believe my eyes are not deceiving me,” Neuvilette finally said, “for we have met, haven’t we, Morax?”

Ajax looked between the two of them, his mouth slightly agape.

“I have to say, your alias is well-chosen,” Neuvilette continued, a soft, good-natured laugh in tow. “It seems we may have more in common than we initially thought, Tartaglia. We seem to travel in the same circles, despite our occupations, of course.”

Zhongli’s hackles rose at the thought of anyone thinking they knew more about Ajax than he did. A low growl threatened to escape him, but a tentative hand on his shoulder stopped him. Ajax’s hold tightened as he moved to stand next to him. Zhongli cleared his throat and cast his eyes down to the ground.

What on earth was he doing?

“That we do,” Ajax replied politely, wearing a smile Zhongli knew was well trained into him from his days spent helping customers with paperwork at Northland Bank. “I do hope you find the rest of your evening pleasant.”

“Yes,” Zhongli interjected. “And I am quite glad it is not raining. The weather has improved greatly since my last visit.”

Neuvilette’s eyes darkened at that, but he said nothing of it, and simply nodded. With his hands clasped behind his back, he offered Zhongli a shallow bow, that same, gentle smile on his face. Ajax felt wary of it, while Zhongli’s baser instincts seemed to recognize this as a challenge. But a friendly one. It made his head feel light. That dark scent clung to him, and made his breath quicken.

“Enjoy your evening, gentlemen. May we meet again before you leave. It would be a pity if we didn’t meet for dinner. There is much for us to talk about after so much time spent apart.”

The two of them only sat down again once Neuvilette had turned the corner, heading to one of the Marcotte Station’s stop. The questions flowing between them, unanswered, seem to come out all at once.

“How do you-“

“Ajax, I’ve-“

Ajax laughed nervously and lifted a hand to run it through his hair. Zhongli knew he only did this when he was worried.

Zhongli decided to ask first.

“Ajax, how do you know the Chief Justice of Fontaine, exactly?”

Ajax sighed, looking at Zhongli with tired eyes.

“The last time I was in Fontaine, Il Dottore was occupied with Meka technology,” he started, smiling weakly when Zhongli reached over to hold his hand, his thumb tracing soothing patterns into his skin.

“And Clockwork Meka piqued his interest to such a high degree that he thought it fine to tamper with the official Fontainian Garde, which you can imagine was one of the reasons why I had to stand trial.”

“But thankfully I was let off easy, and in turn, was acquainted with the Chief Justice himself. There is nothing more to it, I can stand by that.”

Zhongli squeezed his hand reassuringly, his heart melting at the sight of those blue eyes filled with concern. He knew Ajax would fight for him in a heartbeat if he had to.

“I’ve known Neuvilette for many years,” Zhongli started, tentative and hushed. “But only in passing. Do you know what he is, Ajax?”

Ajax looked at Zhongli, expression morphing into confusion.

“What do you mean?”

“Neuvilette is a dragon, Childe. A water dragon, at that.”

Zhongli had to try very hard not to burst out laughing at the look of mortification that fell over Ajax’s face.

“Is that…” Ajax closed his eyes and shook his head, as if this were a dream he could snap out of. “Zhongli, is that why you acted so out of line like that? Because he’s a dragon? Because you are territorial?”

The god had the audacity to look embarrassed.

“That may have been the case.”

Ajax then decided the bill was in order.

~

“Just like that.”

Zhongli bit deeply into the scar on Ajax’s nape, tongue laving gently over it after. His hands roamed over Ajax’s body, pressing deeply into tender muscles, the warm, soapy water rippling over them. Agile fingers traced over healed scars lovingly, and lips chased after freckles adorning the pale expanse of back akin to cinnamon on cream.

He could never get enough. Feel enough.

He inhaled deeply into Ajax’s neck, relishing in the snap of ice and pine that always lingered there. And his mind seemed transfixed on the notion that this man was his. A ceaseless mantra of mine, mine, mine. A low purr escaped him, and Ajax gasped, feeling hands tightening their grip around his waist.

“I’ve been lax with my training recently, haven’t I?” Ajax said breathily, head falling back to rest on Zhongli’s shoulder. “I hear there are many opponents to spar in the High Court. Champion Duellists, too.”

Zhongli kissed the furrow in his brow tenderly, a sound of protest leaving his lips.

“You are perfect,” he said reverently, lips skimming over Ajax’s cheekbone. Ajax hissed at the ticklish contact, skin still burning slightly from the sun. The hot water did not help much either.

To make his point clear, his fingers dug deeper into the softened flesh of his hips, thumbs moving in slow circles over his hipbones. Ajax moaned low in his throat, eyes fluttering shut at the gradually building heat in his gut, sitting heavy in his lower back. He arched into the touch, craving more, wanting more.

”We should finish up,” Zhongli whispered, voice a velvet timbre.  “The heat won’t do your skin any good for too long, I’m afraid.”

A low chuckle, the water splashing as they got out. Zhongli knew exactly how to take care of him, and Ajax was still left speechless at how easily he read him. Again, the constant give and take, push, and pull, of their relationship left a thrill rushing through him. Or was that just how love was?

“Zhongli, don’t tell me you brought Mist Flower essence with you?” Ajax raised an eyebrow, sat on the edge of the bed as Zhongli rummaged through his suitcase.

He stopped for a moment, looking back at Ajax, a knowing glance thrown his way. Ajax’s eyes moved over his form, stopping at the dip of his collarbone, exposed where the silk robe had come loose.

“Ajax, you burn quicker than oil meeting a flame. Did you really think I wouldn’t come prepared?”

“Point taken,” Ajax huffed, tearing his gaze away. He undid his robe and lay on his stomach, letting it pool over his lower half. He winced at the tight pull of skin. He’d burnt badly. He felt the dip in the bed when Zhongli kneeled over him, the pop of a vial being opened, loud in the comfortable quiet.

A small whine when cold ointment met his skin, the strong smell of mint hanging over them.

He couldn’t deny that Zhongli’s hands felt wonderful on his skin. Featherlight touches, gentle and careful not to hurt, leaving goosebumps in their wake. His breathing evened out as Zhongli continued his work.

A single finger traced from his tailbone up to his nape, agonizingly slow, while the other gave his waist a testing squeeze.

“That feels good,” Ajax breathed, voice muffled by the sheets.

Zhongli didn’t miss the way Ajax’s hips shifted against the bed, and the flex of muscles, shining under the dim lighting. His fingers trailed down to his tailbone, slipping to his hips and underneath, grazing his abdomen.

“Such, ah-,” Ajax raised his hips, a soft moan escaping him, “such a tease.”

His face burnt bright, from the sun or arousal, he didn’t care. Zhongli’s chest pressed against his back, his cock half hard against the back of his thighs, his nose pressed into his neck.

“Because you’re mine, Ajax,” Zhongli said against his neck, voice laced with the edges of a growl. Oh, he’d never acted up like this.

“Hah, then-“ Ajax keened and writhed under him, trying to turn over to face him. A solid grip held him in place, pinning his hips into the bed. “Then take me.”

The scrape of elongated fingernails up his side made him release another pathetic wine. He wanted to see him, wanted to admire how well he’d made his lover lose his carefully held composure. From the corner of his tearing eyes, he noticed small flecks of gold adorning blackened arms like stars. Oh, how stunning he was.

“Like this,” Zhongli panted, breath fanning Ajax’s jaw, wet kisses trailing down to his collarbone, a fanged bite making him gasp at the sting. “You’re mine, Ajax. Mine to claim. Mine to breed.”

The old god’s eyes were wild, and molten gold when he gripped Ajax’s chin to press their lips together, tongue viciously prying his lips apart, to taste, to swallow those beautiful, high moans. Every caress was like fire, crawling up Ajax’s arched spine in white heat. If he were to die, he would choose this man to devour him.

“Zhongli,” Ajax’s voice came out shaky, between their lips, brushing together hurriedly as their robes were pushed off, water from a duck’s feathers. And how lovely Zhongli had always looked in silk. Regal, yet soft. “Please.”

Zhongli relished in the flush that spread over Ajax’s chest, as he ordered, “Prepare yourself for me.”

A soft gasp of shock followed Ajax as he moved to the head of the bed, resting his back against the cushioned headboard. Zhongli’s eyes watched him carefully, slitted pupils dilating at the sight of hydro slicking scarred fingers, before reaching down, index pressing insistently in. Impatient. And it had lust pooling heavy in his gut.

He couldn’t rip his gaze away from Ajax’s, deep blue eyes darker still, arousal and desire and love rising to the surface. He trailed a hand down his own stomach, an arm braced behind him, and legs spread, hissing at the contact with his hard length.

“I love seeing you like this,” Zhongli admitted breathily, “How you crave my touch. How it drives you mad.”

Ajax’s head lolls back to rest against the cushions, eyes closed, and mouth parted in a silent moan as he presses two fingers into himself. Zhongli’s eyes fall to his cock, a beautiful and sinful sight, laying against a white thigh littered with bruises from too tight a grip, the tip a deep shade of red. Erotic. Pearlescent spend leaking, begging to be tasted.

“You are divine,” Zhongli groans, deep and guttural and his own hand squeezes around his length. Heat stokes headily in his groin, and he stops, chest heaving with breaths meant to soothe the lust rather than to catch breath.

“Zhongli, please. I need you inside me,” Ajax’s free hand comes up to circle two fingers around the base of the head of his cock. Zhongli sees white for a second at the sight, his pride soaring high, a voice in the back of his mind declaring: he could come just like this, without even needing to touch him.

An animalistic sound, low and predatory, fills the room as Zhongli moves over Ajax. Obedient and knowing, Ajax removes his fingers from himself and holds them out to his lover. A long, rough tongue escapes kiss swollen lips to lick them clean, and he whines – a high, pathetic thing – as Zhongli moves down his body, eyes clouded over in a haze, the taste of Ajax, Ajax, Ajax on his tongue.

“Others may want you,” Zhongli murmured lowly against Ajax’s stomach, kisses pressed into freckles and scars reverently, “but I am the only one who may claim you. I have claimed you.”

“You have,” Ajax breathed out, lust-heavy gaze following Zhongli as he bit into his thighs, small pinpricks of blood licked up by a draconic tongue, just shy of being too rough to please.

A pleased purr emanated from the god’s chest, his arms and the tips of his hair shimmering with flecks of amber. Ajax held his breath, watching as Zhongli opened his mouth and licked tentatively at the head of his cock, finally tasting his prize.

“Oh,” Ajax’s hands found purchase in Zhongli’s hair, coaxing him to lick up his length, and swallow him down. A few silent moments as the vibrations of Zhongli’s own moans sent sparks of pleasure skittering up Ajax’s spine, making his stomach flex in anticipation.

And then he started moving, tongue dragging on the underside of his length, relishing the shudder he felt run through Ajax’s body, hands tightening in his hair and stinging deliciously.

Anyone who dared to challenge a god for his own mate was a fool. And Morax intended to imbed his scent on his mate as thoroughly as he could before the evening was over. And how intoxicating his scent was, the taste of Ajax’s spend heady and all-consuming on his tongue.

~

The following morning, Zhongli was insatiable.

“You are stunning like this, Ajax.”

Ajax’s laugh against his lips was swallowed into a deep kiss, followed by smaller kisses across the freckles scattered on his cheeks.

“Can we have breakfast, please? One moment of your time.” Ajax looked a mess. A beautiful, debauched and thoroughly fucked mess, at that. “While room service was a joy, I think the maids may never come in unannounced again.”

Zhongli had been awake before Ajax, and had taken him in his sleep, rousing his lover from dreams to come inside him again. At the memory, Zhongli gently pressed a kiss to Ajax’s shoulder, trailing his teeth cheekily over the bruise there for good measure.

“I thought it was good manners to knock, but it seems Fontaine is different.”

Ajax scoffed at that, sitting up a little to reach over for the tray that had been placed on the nightstand. “Quite.”

Amongst freshly sliced bread, jam, and black coffee, they spotted a blue envelope secured under the stacked side plates.

“A letter?” Ajax frowned and snatched it up, turning it over curiously. Embossed with the High Court’s crest, and addressed to them, there was no mistaking who it was for.

I hope this letter finds you both well.

While our meeting was brief last evening, I trust you will accept my invitation to dine near Palais Mermonia. My apartment is just across from the building. You would be blind to miss it! Fontaine offers a rich history of the arts and law alike, which I know you will enjoy learning more of. I will be off duty by six, and eagerly await this opportunity to catch up with old friends.

Sincerely,

Iudex of Fontaine,

Chief Justice

Neuvilette

“He’s really inviting us to dinner, isn’t he,” Ajax stated, more out of disbelief, than actually asking a question. “Zhongli?”

“It’s hard to say…” Zhongli started, eyes still scanning over the words. Elegant penmanship, he found himself thinking.

“Do you want to see him?”

When Zhongli looked up at Ajax, instead of seeing jealousy like he’d feared, he saw sincerity and a tender softness. Vulnerability.

“I…” he sighed frustratedly. “Ajax, I was not completely honest with you last night. Neuvilette… while he is…” he fixed his eyes on Ajax’s fingers, absently tracing circles over the inside of his arm. “He was a close friend, quite some time ago, but…”

Ajax had never witnessed Zhongli at a loss for words many times in their relationship, but the tenderness never left his touch or his gaze when he asked: “Were you lovers?”

“Oh!” Zhongli laughed at that. “No, no, not quite. I never had an interest of that nature towards him, but…I do think he did.”

“Hm, I can’t blame him,” Ajax pressed a kiss to Zhongli’s temple, nose nuzzling affectionately into his hair. “Would you like him to have an interest in you?”

They knocked noses as Zhongli turned his face to kiss the corner of Ajax’s mouth, seeking the warmth and reassurance of his presence. “I don’t find it uncomfortable, if that is what you are implying.”

“My love, you know what I am asking.” Ajax kissed Zhongli gently, coaxing the answer out of him, teeth sinking into his plush lower lip.

Zhongli reached out a hand to grip the tray on Ajax’s lap, already knowing he’d knock over the hot pot of coffee onto them if they continued.

“Ajax, I am quite aware of what you are trying to get out of me, but….”

“But?” Ajax prompted, looking smug, noticing the blush rising high onto Zhongli’s cheekbones.

“Dragons have certain instincts…ones that aren’t quite usual anymore, since there aren’t many of us left” he admitted, a sigh of defeat following.

“You’ve always had the instinct to breed me-“

“This is different,” Zhongli cut in, holding up a hand to silence him. “While we are scarce, we still tend to want…” he trailed off and brought a hand up to his face, touching his reddened cheeks self-consciously.

Ajax left a kiss on Zhongli’s jaw, a silent encouragement.

“Zhongli, I love you. I will never judge you.” Another kiss on the shell of his ear.

He let out a shuddering breath. “While it’s in our nature to breed, it’s common for my kind to want the same in return as well. This desire can sometimes be fuelled by the presence of a compatible mate.”

Zhongli could see the cogs turning in Ajax’s mind already, making sense of everything he had just said.

“So…” Ajax leaned forwards to put the tray by the foot of the bed, the glass clinking as they settled. “You’re saying that while you adore doting after me, there’s something Neuvilette can offer that I can’t? Something you crave?”

Zhongli let out a choked gasp as Ajax climbed over him to straddle his hips, pushing their hips together, grinding down.

“Ah, I can see the appeal, honestly,” he said, bracing his hands on Zhongli’s chest, thumbs running over his nipples, hips moving sweetly to brush their lengths together teasingly.

“I don’t need it, Ajax,” Zhongli said, voice wavering with newfound arousal. Ajax looked beautiful above him, taking what he wanted when he wanted, using him however he pleased. “I have you, and I love you, and that’s all I’ll ever need.”

“But,” Ajax’s hips came to a stop and he arched forwards, all lithe and lean muscle, and practiced balance. “I can imagine it, Zhongli. You taking me, filling me with both of your cocks, and him – ah – filling you from behind, taking your pleasure, but knowing he can never be yours. Not in the way that we are each other’s.”

“Who would we be, to deny ourselves the delicacies Fontaine has to offer?”

-------> Fic Tags: @halfwizardprincess @randomness-fandomness12

@aristotels

[iyney]

— STARRING - Y/N’S FRIENDS ♡

THE HEART TO MY ALBUM — A SCARAMOUCHE SMAU

✩— [name] : A violinist who is taught to obey her mother’s orders throughout every obstacle she faces and comes across. She is second best in her classes and she elects herself into every extra course, she could put herself in. [name] holds her friends dear to her heart since that's the most freedom she can find, without it being through her mother’s orders and greed.

✩— ayaka : Kindhearted in the friend group, also the one that caught the eye of [name]’s mother and was exceptionally liked by her. Ayaka shows genuine care and compassion for [name]’s discontent with her mother’s attitude and control over her. Since she came from a hard-working, business family that usually avoided her getting attention from her parents often but resulted in tons of affection from her big brother. Ayaka can't help but be by her side at all times to show her comfort since she's usually allowed over at [name]’s house, the majority of the time — due to the strict orders placed by [name]’s mother.

✩— lumine : A trusted friend of [name]’s. Lumine is quite the responsible one in the group but also the one who complies with Hu Tao’s silliness and antics, creating a bundle of laughter and humorous jokes in the group. Lumine is also the one who tries to encourage [name] outside of the house more, and has a substantial loathing for her mother’s behavior and how it impacts [name].

✩— lynette : A little similar to Ayaka’s relationship with [name]’s mother but instead of getting approval from her, she was called ‘strange’ by [name]’s mother instead, from her lack of speaking as if she was a programmed robot. The biggest supporter and also a [name] defender, along with the other girls. Lynette's loyalty for [name] goes strong — all the way to middle school, where Lynette was picked on for being called “weird” from her lack of emotions but fortunately was defended by [name] on her side.

✩— hu tao : Hu tao is the second trusted friend of [name]’s. Hu Tao is honestly the one who manages to crack all the jokes in the friend group and honestly encourages all of them to hang out often at an event, coffee shop, or even at the Wanmin restaurant.

THE HEART TO MY ALBUM » masterlist : next

༉‧₊˚ SUMMARY: y/n was never passionate about her talent of being a violinist, mainly why she never spoke about it with grace in her words nor a shine in her eyes. But one evening, when she thought she would be alone in the music room, playing her violin. An indigo-headed boy accidentally finds his way into the humming room, following the beautiful tune that caught his ear, which turns out to be the second top student in his class, who ranks one rank lower than him and that's y/n. His presence, unfortunately, seems to go unnoticed by y/n as she’s merely focused on the strings of her violin as her fingers slowly prick the string down lightly — casting a soothing tune. Hearing this melody Scaramouche can't help but be intrigued by her aptitude and appearance that she seems to hold up very well. It was almost as if he wanted to know more about her, he had heard some interesting segments about her, and not just that but she had the second-highest score in their class. What else is there for this girl?

— taglist: @alatusorrow @veekoko @xtobefreex @scarasbaby @skyoverkill1 @iv-vee @7kkagami @1mewo1 @l3tus @hiraethhv @lovemari @feiherp @aruatsu @yoshhii @layla240 @phoenix-eclipses @0kauy @keiiqq @airorin @ridzu @saturnsapothecary @l1zzy-1s-c00l - if your blog isnt highlighted then that means i can’t tag you, please check your mention settings.

[contentloadingandstuff]

Hi, this my first request since I found out about tumblr, and I am glad that you will have my first request!

What about hcs jealousy? Or as an alternative, how about writing about poly relationships? If nothing is clear, then I apologize, English is not my native language.

Male!Reader x Jealous Shenhe, Ei and Mona

A/N: Here you go! I've randomized some characters for this with the help of the almighty Wheel. As for poly relationships, I don't really like them. I'm a little traditional, yeah. Anyways, enjoy!

CW: Male!Reader

Shenhe

It isn't surprising that Shenhe gets possessive at times. You're her first and only love, so she wishes to protect you from everyone and everything. Yet seeing you with other women gives her a feeling far different from the worry the monsters bring. It sends unpleasant current through her body, urging her to move forward and reclaim your attention for herself. She bottled it in, preferring to instead go ask Ganyu about it first. She isn't the best person to go to for relationship advice, but asking Cloud Retainer would turn a simple question into a three hour long lecture. Ganyu answered to the best of her ability, and told Shenhe to 'ask them about it'. So Shenhe acted. 

She sees you and Yelan in Wanmin Restaurant, enjoying some tea and fresh air. It's obvious she dressed to impress this day even for a person such as Shenhe. Her large cleavage is put right in your view, covering just enough to keep it decent. There is also a back window, which your girlfriend doesn't approve of. 

“Oh, hello my love. How are you doing?”

Before you can stop her, Shenhe materializes her spear and presses it against Yelan's throat. The woman moves her hands defensively up to the blade, attempting to gently push it away. To no avail, as Shenhe only pushes it back down. 

“Who is this woman and what does she want with you?”

“Uh… Shenhe? Calm down, please. We're in public space.”

“Why are you spending time with her instead of me?”

“This is Yelan. You see, we're working together. We had a lunch break, so I thought we'd get a drink.”

“That's a greeting I have never seen before. Nice to finally meet you, Shenhe.” Yelan nudges the spear tip away, and this time Shenhe relents. “Y/N has been talking a lot about you.”

“Hm. I see. Very well.” She nods repeatedly before pointing her weapon at Yelan again. “But don't forget yourself, else I may mistake you for a demon in the future.”

And just like that, Shenhe waddles off. You and Yelan watch as she disappears into the crowds. 

“Is she… always like this?”

“Yeah. And that's why I love her.” You say with a smile. 

Raiden Ei

After millennia of relationship, Ei isn't particularly worried about your loyalty. You have been through thick and thin together, so the bond between your bodies and souls is inseparable. Why, in that case, does she feel jealous, maybe even threatened by Miko? There's just this… vibe about her. She flirts with you whenever she can, working hard to make you laugh or even just smile. Ei knows that she wouldn't contest you, but better safe than sorry. It doesn't help that she tends to be overtly serious or dramatic about it. 

Miko looks on as you descend the Grand Narukami Shrine. Behind her, Ei does so as well. She approaches Miko after a while. 

"You are getting bold, Lady Guuji. Trying to seduce him right before my eyes?" She says, voice low and intimidating.

"Oh. Am I now?" Miko smirks and turns to face her friend. 

Ei lifts up her ring finger, showing an ornament made of Electro-infused gold with intricate carvings.

"Do you know what this means? It means he is mine, and mine alone. So don't try my patience, Miko." 

Miko snickers as Ei's eyes turn pink.

"Of course, almighty Ogosho. I wouldn't want to displease my divine senior after all."

Annoyance doesn't leave the vessels oculars. Miko's getting a little worried when the cold expression on her face doesn't shift. 

"Cool off, Ei. I was merely teasing. No harm done, yes?" 

Ei pouts.

"I hope. For your own safety."

Mona Megistus

"A proud astrologist never gets jealous" is one of the most obvious lies Mona tells you daily. And why does she do that? To clumsily attempt to mask that fact, of course. Whenever you talk with other girls, she makes it her job to keep even a little bit of your attention to herself, by holding your hand or waist. She never openly admits to being jealous, but she does act before thinking quite often. 

"F/N L/N, we need to talk." 

You look up from your lecture to find Mona standing right before you, hands on her hips. 

'Yes?' You ask, closing the book. 

 "Do have something to say to me?" 

Oh boy. Here we go again. 

"Can't you just tell me what's this about once?"

"Ugh, fine! But you better be grateful." She crosses her arms on her chest. "That woman from the church you talked to yesterday? What was that about?" 

You sigh. 

"Mona, listen. We… Oh screw it. Why don't you check what my intentions were in your magic puddle of wisdom, hm?" 

She draws the symbol in the air, and the constellations appear. She starts studying it. 

"Skin color…? Hmph! What a lame way to pick up a girl." 

You stay silent as your girlfriend goes through the reflection. Soon, her face is red from embarrassment.

"And?"

"You really only wanted to ask about her complexion…" She drops the scrygrass and it fades away. Her arms cross again, and she looks down. "I'm sorry, Y/N. I just… Sorry. I… I'm scared you're going to… leave me." 

You get up, and put your arms around Mona, whose cheeks are now running with small tears.

"I'm not going to. I wasn't going to leave you then, I'm not going to leave you now and I won't ever leave you. I love you, Mona." 

She's shuddering lightly. Her voice comes muffled from your shirt and her soft crying. 

"I love you t-too… "

Thanks for reading!

[slothgiirl]

the pitfalls of spiraling (xiao x reader)

1.1k. fluff. body image issues. suggestive. established relationship. comfort. tried to keep it gn neutral but lmk if u disagree.

You look yourself over in the flat's only mirror. Xiao’s bathroom didn’t even have a mirror. You didn’t mind before, avoiding mirrors as a general rule so you didn’t have to linger only any of your physical insecurities, out of sight therefore out of mind, but you needed to check how your bathing suit looked on. The angle was awkward.

You felt awkward, so exposed. Your mouth was dry, palms sweaty as you zero in on all your insecurities: the way your stomach jiggled as you moved; the stretch marks on your hips; the hyper-pigmentation on your knees and chin; your large pores and the stubborn acne that had followed you into adulthood. . .

Spiraling. 

You were spiraling. 

You squeeze your eyes shut looking away. 

The bathing suit had looked nice in the store but you were starting to think you’d be better off in shorts and an oversized shirt this summer. People would stare at the beach. They’d think you're fat. You were fat. (and ugly, an awful voice in your head adds.) 

It was bad enough being surrounded by your wonderful friends. Who could compare to Ganyu? 

Maybe if you stopped eating dessert from now until summer. . .cut out breakfast. . .you sigh. You walked up and down the steps of Wangshu Inn daily and you were still fat. (Even if you weren’t fat there was no fixing your face.)

You knew you were spiraling, hugging your arms around your chest, and yet you couldn’t stop. You’d been doing so well lately. As spring had arrived in Liyue, you’d worn a cropped top, you’d had more servings of almond tofu than you could count without feeling guilty, you’d felt beautiful when Xiao caressed every inch of your skin kissing you for what felt like hours. 

But right now, all you felt was worthless. 

You could still return the bathing suit. 

You’d have more fun this summer if you felt comfortable anyways. 

There was always next year. You could join Xinyan and Yun Jin when they went out dancing. That would be a fun way to exercise. And you could keep working on feeling good about yourself. Whichever one worked first. 

You sigh, pinching the fat that bulged over the waistband of the bathing suit. 

“Are you ready for lunch,” Xiao utters softly. You hadn't even heard him come in. Your boyfriend is swift as the wind, standing awkwardly, red dusting his cheeks as he stares at you. His eyes kept glancing from your face, then lower, then back to your visage again. 

“Ugh,” you squeak, embarrassed that he’d caught you like this, feeling awful about your body. “Yeah, give me a moment.” Your face burns, you feel even  more self conscious with Xiao here. 

He was an adeptus that could have anyone he wanted. Xiao was breathtakingly beautiful, all defined muscles and sharp angles. You couldn’t help but feel lacking in moments of wallowing self hatred. Like this one.

“Alright,” he nods, making an effort to keep his eyes on yours instead of your body, “I assume that this is not what you were wearing to Wanmin Restaurant. It is not exactly the beach.”

You snort, easily amused by Xiao. Then, without planning on it, you ask him in a small voice, “what do you think?” It was Xiao. He was blunt, never mincing words or sparing feelings. An objective opinion would be nice. It’d be nice to know if you really did look bad or if it was all in your head. 

“About?”

“My bathing suit,” you clarify, biting your lip right after, shifting your gaze back to the mirror. There was no hiding your belly rolls. 

“It looks,” Xiao swallows thickly, “good.”

You frown. 

“Is the fabric uncomfortable?”

“No, it’s not that,” you shake your head. Why was it so hard to tell Xiao what you told yourself all the time? (Saying it outloud would make it all the more true.) Your eyes stung. “I just don’t think I look good,” you look down at your feet, “I’m too. . .it’d look better if I was thin.”

“Mortal beauty standards are subjective, it is worthless to pursue them,” Xiao states evenly. 

“I know. . .” That didn’t change how you feel though. 

Xiao tilts your chin away from the mirror, “the tailor did a poor job if your clothes do not fit to your satisfaction.”

“It’s not that. I just wish I looked like the people in the adverts do in clothes.”

Xiao raises a brow, uncomprehending, “the kamera manipulated models?” 

“It sounds stupid, I know and I’ve been better about it lately,” you cover your face with a hand, feeling small, “I guess it’s harder with a bathing suit because I’m more exposed. . .”

Your boyfriend pulls your hand away from your face, placing a soft kiss on the back of your hand, “mortals place too much importance on physical appearance.” Xiao places another chaste kiss on your cheek. “I know I do not often tell you, but you have always been exquisite in my eyes.”

You flush red for an entirely different reason. “Really?”

“Yes. Why would I lie,” Xiao asks redundantly, caressing the side of your face, “You are lovely. Since the moment I first saw you, long before we exchanged even the slightest greeting, you entered my thoughts and have yet to leave.” He’s as red faced as you are. 

“Xiao,” you utter softly. 

It was so easy to spiral into self hatred, but somehow hearing that you were pretty from someone you loved made it easier to be alright with yourself. You believe him. 

“And I love this,” Xiao, caressing your soft belly with his hand. 

You chew your lip, finding it hard to believe him when you’ve been insecure about your body for so many years yet knowing Xiao was not a liar. 

“If you do not want lunch,” Xiao’s voice is low, as his hand trails down you back, squeezing your bum. 

You jump at his touch, entirely different from the self doubt spiral you had gone on this afternoon. Of course, Xiao may be an adeptus, but he was also a man seeing his lover in a bathing suit and he was hungry for more than chaste kisses. 

“Xiao,” you yelp when he sucks a kiss under your jaw, “Zhongli and Shenhe are expecting us. And I want noodles.” Unlike Xiao, you needed three meals a day, probably some fruit for a snack. Not everyone could live off Almond tofu. 

“Tt,” Xiao frowns against your skin, “I suppose we will continue this later then.”

Heat burns under your skin in anticipation, but not enough to stand your friends up. “Let me go change. I know you’ve been looking forward to seeing Zhongli again,” you remind Xiao before he decided that you could eat at Wangshu Inn after he was done with you.

[strxnged]

KAZUHA: 🍁 wind on the calmest eve.

epilogue to lightning on the sunniest day, in which you are beckoned away from your comfortable inheritence of the endo clan by a beautiful stranger to voyage across the sea. please consider reading lotsd, allegedly one of my best works so far.

word count. 2k. genre. lovers to friends (lol)

overview. chances bring you to a hearty reunion with the alcor's crew, and later, kazuha himself.

warnings. angst, implications of alcohol (not consumed by you or kazu), me projecting onto... "you"

Things would never be the same for you.

It had been three years and four moons since you last saw Kazuha Kaedehara at your bedside in that house-of-a-friend in Liyue harbour. It had been a renewed lifetime since you met him in your home village, since he had “suggested you come along” onto Captain Beidou’s ship. That village was no longer your home now. Your home had become wherever the wind of Liyue led you, furnished with curiosity and courage.

Your faithful satchel, a gift at Kazuha’s unexpected parting from you, had seen better days. The metal clutch was dulled from its original shine and the boar leather was cracked and worn. There was a hole in one side through which you had lost a few knick-knacks before you became aware of it. This hole had been patched many times but by now you had accepted that there were no items you needed to keep in your satchel but bread for the day and your diary, in which you tried to maintain records and sketches of your journeys. No, all you needed with you was your blade, your meals, and a certain crimson maple leaf which had curiously remained unfaded in vitality and colour. Yes, it was still much the same hue as his eyes, which had not faded from your memory either.

You weren’t sure what had beckoned you to return from the peaks of Minlin and journey to the sea of clouds to spend some time in the harbour. It may have been the elation of the view over Liyue and nations beyond. Perhaps it was the almost-forgotten taste of Zhongyuan Chop Suey. Or the smell of the sea. Regardless, you were determined to follow the wind south.

It was only as you strolled yourself down the roads of the harbour, your nose catching the olfactory wonders of Wanmin restaurant’s specialties, that you heard something you did not expect. Beidou’s laughter was nearby—an unforgettable but welcoming sound, like a bell on a tavern door.

You must find her. You had not had the chance to bid her farewell all those years ago. Though you did not hold any grudge for the Alcor’s quick departure that day, you had wished from time to time that you had known it would be the last meeting for three years.

You were glad that it was not the final time you should see her, with her before you now. And she seemed to feel the same. As you rounded the corner to discover that her and the rest of the crew were congregated at the tables outside the restaurant, her eye lit up as a scarlet lamp. She stood and ran to you, crushing your ribs in a quick hug.

“Endo! By the archons, it’s you!” 

Not long after that, you were sat at a table with the Captain on your right and the First Mate on your left, and served spicy Jueyun Chili Chicken on a plate fuller than your stomach could ever handle. It did not take long for Beidou to update you on all her crew’s voyages—as well as the politics in Inazuma, which you’d already heard tidbits of from other travellers—as well as the romantic affiliations between herself and a woman from the Qixing, between several crew members, and between Juza and a fish. 

“Wait, a fish?” you couldn’t help but ask, raising an eyebrow at him.

Juza lowered his eyes to his mug, downing a gulp and saying nothing in his own defense.

You had meant to ask where Kazuha might be, but you decided that maybe he was off somewhere alone. You could remember back to the voyage you took together, and how often during the social instances he would withdraw and look out on the sea by himself. He’d been mourning his friend at the time, of course, but it wasn’t unlikely that he was also just that type of person.

And so you were caught slightly off guard when Beidou said, “By the way, Kazuha’s at the usual spot. He told me to let you know if we happened to see you.”

“The usual spot?”

The strange thing to you was that there was no usual spot for yourself, much less for the two of you. If he was in Liyue Harbour, there would be nowhere he’d been with you more than once in the past. And besides, the chances you would remember such a spot were low after all this time.

Beidou shrugged. “I thought you’d know what that meant, ‘cause I sure don’t. He says it every time we’re here.”

“Is there a usual spot you guys come to when you’re in the harbour?”

The Captain shook her head. “I really don’t know. Other than the restaurant, I couldn’t tell you.”

You sat with it for a few minutes as you engaged with others in the crew, who received you with drunken excitement. Soon, the chatter was drowned out by your own thoughts.

How long had he been waiting for you? Where was this spot? Why did he want to see you?

You had developed somewhat of an idea, but it seemed so personally contrived that you weren’t sure whether to trust it. You were always on the move, so there was no usual spot. There was just you, the road, and the unknown.

—🍁

The road north of the harbour had always been a favourite of yours over the last few years. Every journey that led in and out of the city had had such meaning to your travels, and along with that, it boasted a stunning view. At daytime you would see the busy ports and businesses on the waterfront bustling with activity, but now at night a look over your shoulder offered a serene picture of lights reflecting on the Sea of Clouds.

You weren’t really sure where you were going (a feeling you knew and mostly liked), but something was telling you it was the right way. Something in the post-dusk breeze; perhaps it was the same something that lead you to the harbour in the first place.

Someone stood overlooking the city, and you knew who it was immediately. You opened your mouth to make your presence known, but you did not have to. The figure who was Kazuha Kaedehara turned at that moment, smiled, and ran towards you for a long overdue hug.

“It’s you,” he said, “finally.”

You couldn’t do anything but nod and grin at him.

“How did you know where to find me?”

“I—well, Beidou told me you’d be at the usual spot.”

He laughed. The sound of it made your chest hurt. “I didn’t expect that to work,” he admitted.

“It wasn’t much to work with. I’m not sure, Kazuha, but I think the wind was more telling.”

“Yes, the wind has changed recently,” he spoke wistfully in the way that only Kazuha could. In the way that awoke your pulse and attention in the same way it had all that time ago. And suddenly you felt like your old self, captivated by his charm, wistfulness, and challenge—yes, his challenge for you to change everything to be with him.

You could not tell whether he wanted you to be with him. But now you realized that you did not want to be with him forever. Only in this moment would his presence suit you, and it did so magnificently.

“It has,” you agreed, “in a way I may not have predicted all those years ago.”

He responded with silence, and a knowing look.

You felt yourself grow lost in his eyes for a few moments before you recovered your senses. You inquired after all the time between you. “Kazuha—Kazuha, my dear friend—please tell me how you are faring. Have you avenged your friend? Have you seen the edges of the earth?”

The two of you talked for a few hours as the night went on. The air was cool and the stars were striking as you finally reached silence. Your voice had been slightly hoarse, before, from the time spent with the Crux’s crew—and now it was nearly gone, from more narration and laughter. You sat together in the grass, both gazing at the sea in the harbour and both knowing, though it was unspoken, that you would part again very soon.

Someday maybe you would again need a “funny old voyage with Kazuha,” as you’d once said to him. But you were sure that it would not be soon.

He had once been all you wanted. He had been the object of your first pursuit. But now, it was the life which had succeeded him. Your love for him had grown into something that was no longer of him but of life itself. And in this life which he had given you, there was no room for his companionship. Not yet—perhaps not ever.

You might never again see the pools of maple red that were his eyes. You might never again hear his voice of timbrous breeze. But you would carry the eternally scarlet leaf; you would patch the satchel as many times as it would allow, and you would know the unending enervation of adventuring the valleys and mountains ahead.

You had once thought yourself to be in love with him, and though you could not forget the rush of importance he bestowed upon your heart, you knew now that you were more enamoured with the curiosity that he had given you. 

Someday, when your heart again ached for routine—well, he wouldn’t be waiting for you. Things would never be the same for you and him, and that was the greatest gift of all.

thank you for reading! reblogs are (quite) appreciated.

🍁LIGHTNING ON THE SUNNIEST DAY

➳ GENSHIN MASTERLIST