#genshin impact musings

[witch-hazels-musings]

a gesture

Warning -> fluff | reader gets a blister on their foot, genshin men notice and provide respite from the discomfort | pre-relationship (it's silly, and dumb, but let me have this)

Includes: Diluc, Xiao

Character X GN Reader (adventure guild reader*) | Anthology

A-N: I was planning on writing for a few more characters, but I'm a bit slow in my genshin right now, plus I *should* be resting ... 人(_ _*)

Diluc

"Be right there!" you shouted over the calls echoing in the hall. Your hand dropped from your lips and back to the stack of rolled papers in your arms. The guild was busier than normal. Perhaps it was because of the snow fading from the streets, or the warmer wind blowing in from the south. Being surrounded by the lake meant damper and colder winters, but you didn't mind.

You loved the snow.

What you didn't love was returning to restrictive shoes now that the cobblestone streets were less barred by ice. You missed your warm fur-lined boots.

"Hey, got a few more requests for you to review," you told one of the auditors as you leaned onto the polished wood counter that separated you from the workers just inside. You tapped the toe of your shoe on the floor to force room between your heel and the leather rubbing against it. "Oh, and this came from Alfry." You reached into your pocket and handed a folded, sealed letter to the attendant.

After waiting for several minutes, and shifting from one foot to the other - relief waning and waxing - you made your way outside toward the Kiosk near the front of Mondstadt. It took a while, you were particularly slow on the stone steps of the city since each one put added pressure on your heels. You could feel a blister on the horizon.

Katheryne greeted you with a wave when she saw you.

She was, without a doubt, one of your favorite people. She didn't lock you in long, uninteresting conversations about her life outside of work. She just thanked you for the updated commissions and let you be on your way. You wished everyone was like Katheryne.

It wasn't that you hated talking to people. You just preferred to get your work done and found it distracting to get lost in small talk about the weather. But you learned to be pleasant and control your drifting eyes that willed your soul to be anywhere but there.

When you approached the Guild, someone called you over and explained you were being requested in one of the assessment rooms. A room used by evaluators and requestors to work out the details of a commission. You weren't an evaluator - so who could possibly be asking for you?

You imagined several scenarios except for this one. The one where Diluc Ragnvindr was standing on the other side of the door, waiting for - you. In fact, you were so unprepared, taken aback, that you rechecked the room number.

It was odd to see Diluc outside of his normal patterns. The man was routine. Days spent at Angels Share, days absent from the city while he tended to his estate at the Dawn Winery. You had several run-ins with him over the years since his reappearance, but they were always in public spaces. Fleeting, nervous moments when you'd gather the courage to ask him for a drink while he worked or make polite - short - conversation when he dropped it off. You didn't even know he knew you worked at the Adventurers Guild.

"Sir Ragnvindr, is something - how can I help you?" you asked as you stepped inside the room and let the heavy door close behind you.

"Have I pulled you away from your work?"

"Yes," you said but caught yourself, "No. I mean, yes, but it's alright. Are you alright?" The thought crossed your mind that perhaps something had happened. An issue at the Winery or the tavern, maybe he thought you were the best person to help him? Not sure why. But you did know a lot of adventurers.

"I am well. Please," he gestured to the table and chairs beside him. Crossing the room, you noticed a tall, decorative bag on the corner of the table. The top was knotted by someone with experience. Diluc placed his hand on the table, and you stopped a few feet from him. He looked -- odd. Out of sorts even.

"Did you need something from the Guild? I'm not sure if anyone told you, but I'm not an evaluator, but I can find someone who can assist you in building a commission report."

"I do not require one. I am ..." he clenched his jaw and fumbled. "Please, sit," he repeated, gesturing to the chair slightly pulled out beside you.

Confused, you took a seat.

You considered yourself a rational person, a relatively calm person. One that could keep their head in most situations, but when the man you could hardly look at long enough to breathe knelt in front of you, lifted your calf, and began to untie your shoe, you yelped so loud it startled him.

"Dilu- I mean, Sir Ragnvindr, what are you doing!?" You reached for his arm but pulled back at the last second. A war raged inside your mind - one billowing urge shouted to push him away so you could steady your fluttering heart, and the other shrieked, terrified of making contact out of fear he'd know the truths of your unsettled heart.

"These are uncomfortable, are they not?"

You glanced at your shoes. "I mean - yes, but you don't have to worry about it. Please," you begged, fingers hovering above his hand, body fighting the will to rip free from his grasp. "Sir Ragn-"

"Diluc," he interrupted and looked up at you, "I much prefer when you call me Diluc."

You didn't know how to respond, didn't know how to react, so you just sat frozen while he carefully removed your shoes and tended to the wounds they had caused.

His touch was warm. Violently warm. It was like heat seeped from every bit of him. Tendrils of flames licked across his brow, his cheeks, his jawline. You were so close you could smell the earth and trapped dust from the melting snow trapped in his clothes.

He placed the bandage across your foot and carefully wrapped it until it was secure.

"T-Thank you," you mumbled. You were stuck between being embarrassed by what was happening and being smitten by it. You were in a haze. Your eyes could barely focus on his hands as he worked, barely noticing the stick he placed beside your right foot. The medicine he applied had soothed the soft burn of the blister.

He stood and a wave of his scent washed over you. It took a moment for you to catch your breath, but when you did, you reached for your shoes that he had placed on the table.

"I'll repay you for the treatment."

"No need," he replied as he tugged at the decorative cloth bag. His back blocked you from what was inside. You worked on stretching the laces of your shoes so you could slip them over your foot. Just as you were about to place them on, Diluc returned and stalled your actions, taking the shoe from you and returning it to the table. He easily held your calf and slipped on another shoe. A flat, wide one that wouldn't rub against you the way your own had. "How does it fit?" he asked as he carefully slid it over your heel and adjusted it until it was on completely.

The shoe was elegant, beautiful. Something you would only dream of buying - most of your clothes were from sales and take-bins of neighbors doing their yearly cleaning. These were --

"Wait - did you buy these?"

"I did. But I was unaware of your size. If these are not satisfactory, I purchased several others which may be more suitable for you," he explained and that's when you noticed the stack of boxes now exposed from the cloth bag. Two boxes were placed to the side, another still in it, while the last was open, the lid placed at an angle as if forgotten.

"You bought," you paused, disbelief pulling in your brows, "multiple pairs?"

"It seemed better to purchase multiple than to guess. Though I could have inquired from you directly," he trailed off as if the thought had only just crossed his mind.

But only one crossed yours, "Why?"

He looked up at you, still kneeling and preparing your other foot to accept your new shoes' partner, "I notice you. You would be unable to work in this state."

"Noticed me?"

"Yes. Besides, I couldn't rightfully ... never mind."

"What," you blurted, hanging on his every word.

He glanced at you and then looked back at your feet. There was a pause, a heavy pause in the air. "To see you in discomfort. It - It did not sit well with me."

You sat in silence as he ensured the shoes fit, as he laced them, and made sure they wouldn't irritate the bandage. You held your tongue and swallowed the pounding pressure in your chest when he lifted you from the chair and made sure you could stand before he let go.

You breathed him in while he stood before you.

"I will be at Angel's Share tonight. I can set aside some time for you, should you find yourself-"

"Okay," you blurted again, followed it up with an embarrassed sorry. It made him laugh, and you snatch the lurching urge to jump on him.

"Until then," he hummed, a smile tugging at his lips. "Do not rush in the meantime. I have already given my recommendations to the guild to allow you rest, though I do not imagine you'll heed it."

Diluc packed up the bag and bid you farewell, lingering his voice on the sound of your name, his eyes on your warm face. He slipped out of the room and left you in disbelief in a pair of beautiful crimson shoes.

--

Xiao

Why did you decide to wear these shoes?

You thought at least twenty times as you trudged down the path. As you hiked over the mountain passes that had seen better days in their time. A giant bolder blocked you a few paces back and you were still brushing yourself off from the unprepared scramble; you found a tear in your clothes and groaned.

For an adventurer, you got off pretty lucky. Only taking the low-priced requests. Ones left for running between towns, helping clear out someone's back room, or helping with a shipment. You weren't interested in the daring adventures that some in the guild would take, snatch up before you even had a chance to read the whole thing. And you certainly weren't about to follow in the footsteps of that strange traveler who - for a while - was accused of killing the Liyue Archon. (You still had your suspicions).

Nope, you were complacent, content with the simple jobs that helped you keep the lights on and splurge on the things that caught your eye. One of which was currently on your feet and digging into the skin uncomfortably. You hopped on one foot and shoved your finger inside the edge of the shoe in the hopes of stretching out the tight leather.

The top of the path crept over the horizon and you picked up the pace to reach it. You adored cresting the hill and seeing the harbor stretch across the bay, how the tall mountainside loomed above her - a watchful guardian, a shield and protector. You sighed and adjusted the pack on your back. The road into the harbor wasn't long, but it was steep, and you prepared yourself for a rough descent with your aching feet.

Every step slowed you down. Each one more uncomfortable than the last. You thought about taking off your shoes but didn't want to catch the disapproving glares that came from Liyue's citizens. So, you pushed forward.

A plume of green and black smoke enveloped you. You would have shouted but you were used to the sensation and how it obscured your view. Months ago you stumbled upon the smoke's owner in a field. He seemed injured so you went to check on him only to learn he was fine, and rather unappreciative of your concern - actually, he was irritatingly annoyed that you had distracted him from his lay-about.

"Hello, little Xia--woah!" Instead of appearing near you like he had before, you were suddenly floating in the green smoke. It whipped through your hair, tugged at your loose clothes, and bit at your skin. You felt like you were falling, and then you were - into the arms of the Adeptus who normally kept his respectful distance from you.

When your eyes adjusted to the return of light, you twisted to look at him, one arm draped over his shoulders as if he had placed it there.

"What are you-?" The words caught in your throat. Confusion, surprise, and bashful bewilderment tickled your cheeks and stole your ability to speak. Your face was inches from him. Closer than it ever had been before.

"You're injured," he spoke softly, matter-of-factly, his eyes drifting to your feet. You could already see the broken skin around your heel.

"It's nothing. Just my shoes," you explained as you stared at your own feet as if that explanation meant anything to him.

"Hold on," he said as he held you to him and the two of you disappeared into a puff of ethereal phthalo.

--

Xiao placed you on the small stool you had left out on the balcony the night before. He was careful to not let you crash into it. His strength - despite his size - was easy to sense as he eased you onto it and waited for you to settle.

"Thanks," you hummed, stealing a peek at his eyes. Eyes the shade of ginkgo trees in fall, eyes that held eons of history and centuries of sadness. Xiao didn't speak much, but his searching and timid eyes quenched your thirst for his voice.

He lifted your leg and you covered your mouth to avoid making a noise. Before you could ask him a question, he withdrew into his haze and was gone. You sat motionless for only a few seconds, and contemplated entering your house as you, in a daze, took off your shoes but when you rose to leave, Xiao reappeared holding a small container.

"For your injury. It's important to - take care of yourself," he mumbled the last part of his sentence as he held the container out to you. Averting eyes, open fingers unmoving, waiting for you to take it.

Your fingertips brushed his skin. "Did you get this for me?" He crossed his arms and didn't answer but his actions still made your chest warm and lips pull into a giddy smile.

"Don't dally," he scolded and threw you a sharp stare, "Or you'll be left with a scar."

"Oh right." You nodded and uncapped the container. The salve held a potent medicinal scent. "You don't have to stay," you added, a little sad at the thought of him leaving but recognizing that he didn't enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. His avoidance one of the many secrets locked in the amber of his soul.

"I'll wait."

You opened your mouth to protest but he turned his back to you, crossed his arms. Watched, observed. Protective.

"Thank you, Xiao," you whispered and chuckled at the grunt that floated toward you from the Adeptus statue standing near the corner of your balcony.

--

[hyacinthian-chateau]

hi there! congrats on 200, you surely deserved them all, and it's amazing you got that far doing something you like :) for the match-up event; i'm an esfj and my enneagram type is 6w5, my hobbies include reading fantasy and romance, playing music (singing, guitar, ukulele, a bit of the piano and a bit of the drums too), writing poems/songs or stories, and sketching stuff. i like the nature but mostly anything relates to the sea or beach, as well as forests and mountains (such are the places i grew up in), cats, and fashion. i strongly dislike waking up early lol and being with too much people too much time, people who can't take important things seriously or who are too impulsive to make decisions correctly.

if you ran out of slots or simply don't want to do this request that's fine for me, do whatever you find most comfortable and easy for you :) congrats again and have a nice day!

Jean, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆

Jean has formed an irreplaceable bond with you.

Hardworking and resilient are some words that best describe the Acting Grand Master. From dealing with paperwork, overseeing preparations for upcoming festivals, and keeping an eye on the energetic young Klee, Jean is always hard at work. And yet, despite your differing occupations, fate seems determined to finally have you two reunited after being apart for a long time. Thanks to the young woman's leadership and efforts, Mondstandt remains in order despite only having half the number of knights.

Both you and Jean had known each other when she was still a recruit for the knights, and you were a novice adventurer. In the past, the two of you would repeatedly come across each other with a handful of her assignments and your commissions corresponding with one another. Maybe it was the time you had spent in each other's presence that the young woman had grown quite fond of you. Even though you two hadn't seen each other, the Anemo-user always tries to maintain communications with you through letters. The day you return to Mondstand, the meticulous knight can't help but stare when you appear in front of her desk with a small folder of documents from the Adventurer's Guild in one hand and a souvenir from your travels in the other.

As the assistant to Cyrus, Mondstadt's Branch Master of the Adventurer's Guild, you are mostly found within the vicinity of the guild's establishment dealing with administrative work. Thus, you were considered a constant visitor to the Headquarters and a friendly face to the knights. Initially, your meetings consisted of overlooking the applications for this year's Windblume Festival. But it quickly changed into you trying to convince her to partner certain knights together during their daily training. You're sick of watching Dame Lizzie and Sir Swan making goo-goo eyes at each other for the past six months! The Dandelion knight can only sigh good-naturedly when you let out a soft cheer upon agreeing to have the two said knights paired up.

The Dandelion Knight always welcomes your presence. Recently, she has noticed her tendency to be drawn by your company even when other people would be in attendance. She doesn't seem to realize, but a few people close to her had--Kaeya, Lisa, and even Albedo exchange knowing glances when they watch the Acting Grand Master's gray-blue eyes shine brightly when you invite her for a brief walk outside of the Headquarters. The trio can only speak in hushed tones as they place bets on how long it would take for you and the Acting Grand Master to come to a realization.

On her rare days off, the young woman finds herself tagging along with you as you browse the trendiest clothing at Marjorie's then, followed by trying the newest drinks at the Cat's Tail. Ah, It's been a long time since the blonde has enjoyed herself like this immensely, and she has you to thank for that. Usually, she is the poised and reliable figurehead of the Knights. But with you, she has no need to uphold her imperative image and allows herself to be…well, herself. The Dandelion knight can't help but laugh as you gape at her when she expresses her fondness for the second male lead instead of the main lead in the newest novel you had recommended.

The said knight treasures your friendship and considers you to be one of her closest confidants. Despite being the intellectual and organized person you are, Jean knows you are always eager to help your fellow adventurers in the field--And yes, that even included Bennett, who was known to run into unfortunate circumstances. She has learned too much about you: From your aversion to dealing with counterproductive and fickle individuals to your inclination to work late into the night and innate ability to coerce her into a few of your antics--She finds herself smiling at the memory of how soaked her pants were when as you two attempted to catch some crabs along Falcon Coast.

Honestly, the swordswoman is well aware of her developing feelings for you. However, she is still hesitant to pursue anything further. From a young age, there had been expectations from the eldest daughter of the Gunnhildr clan, and Jean has never shunned her responsibilities. But like everyone else, she was human and had hopes and desires. Jean is well-read and has heard of love. Some say it's a mysterious entity that influences a person's emotions and behaviours to a certain extent. In the past, she hasn't had the chance to entertain such a thought, but when a warm spring-like feeling bursts into bright-coloured fireworks in her chest upon laying eyes on you once more, she finally understands it.

Hmm, Maybe she'll be brave enough to tell you one day, but for now, she is satisfied to watch how your face lights up like the break of dawn upon meeting each other once again…

[meropidas]

" do not . run . no one leaves the fortress . "

[wriothesleysgf]

cw p*ssy inspections, perv alhaitham, afab reader, petname 'bunny'

thinking about alhaitham who's secretly a massive pervert. every time that he's away on a business trip for the akademiya, he informs you that you're not to touch yourself no matter what. if you did, he would know and there would be consequences.

the very moment that he got home, as soon as he stepped over the threshold, your clothes were gone. alhaitham wanted you spread on all fours, with your ass up and wearing something pretty. he pulled your panties away before beginning to inspect your cunt, asking whether or not your been a good girl in his absence. of course, you lied through your teeth, nodding and promising that you'd been on your best behaviour.

however, you were dumb to think that he wouldn't notice how your cunt was practically leaking at this point. you couldn't help yourself, you didn't know when alhaitham would be home and you convinced yourself that he would never know if you came just once ! but then that turned into two. . . three. . . orgasms as you grew distracted.

"bunny? what's this. . ." the questions were always rhetorical when he interrogated you. alhaitham then leaned over so that his face was level with your bare cunt. he spread your folds with his index finger and thumb, revealing your puffy clit. in that moment he knew that you'd disobeyed his orders, and very recently at that.

deciding to toy with you, he blew a breath of hot air against the sensitive nub, watching as you tried to maintain composure despite the very clear overstimulation. your boyfriend only took it further so as to test the true strength of your facade. he spat on his fingers before easing two of them into your hole, digits instinctively curling in pursuit of your sweet spot.

fortunately for him, you were positioned just across from your vanity, which allowed for him to see the cracks in your expression begin to form. your lip quivered, tears welling in your eyes. a few more pumps of his wrist and you were mumbling how it was too much, to which he only bent down to whisper in your ear.

"you broke the rules, bunny. since your whore pussy is dripping onto the sheets already, maybe i'll opt for a kinder punishment."

[esmeblaze]

furina and neuvi doodles to play with screen tones :)

[kiwi-b0nes]

i've been thinking 

[pwurrz]

zhongli and neuvillette fighting over childe is so funny to me because. they’re both dragons so obviously they’re both possessive and jealous, ESPECIALLY when it comes to other dragons, but. they’re fighting for no reason.

childe just wants to fight neuvillette because he’s strong and he’s an asshole. him being a dragon has nothing to do with childe’s interest in him, it’s just an added bonus.

other than that he’s still committed to zhongli. he’s never showed romantic interest in anyone other than zhongli. and zhongli logically has no reason to doubt this it’s just. the idea of another dragon showing interest in His precious treasure is like the highest insult imaginable. childe is zhongli’s possession, he belongs to zhongli and zhongli only. he doesn’t like thinking like this, because deep down he knows his beloved isn’t literally a possession, but for dragons it’s all the same. and when arguing with another arrogant excuse for a dragon, he can’t help but revert back to old ways of thinking. (childe doesn’t mind tho. not in the slightest. childe is very into possessive zhongli.)

and while he knows he can’t stop childe from being around neuvillette, even if it’s just to fight him, he can’t help but feel possessive especially because he knows neuvillette’s intentions. so he just takes all his anger out on neuvillette. no one can understand their arguing, they’re communicating completely in growls and hisses and a language that was thought to be long dead that’s only spoken by dragons and archons.

looks like childe’s gonna make to metaphorically smack some sense into zhongli by aggressively and passionately making out with him the next time he tries to pick a fight with neuvillette. right in front of him, obviously.

[anemoelle]

centre stage. (one.shot)

➷｡ship : lyney x gn!reader

➷｡characters : gn!reader, lyney, neuvilette, foçalors, lynette

➷｡summary : FONTAINE ARCHON QUEST SPOILERS. lyney’s magic show goes wrong, but it’s you in the box.

[ 513 words. ]

➷｡warnings : mentions of significant blood/injuries, emotional distress, ambiguous ending (potential implications of death)

➷｡genre : angst, slight hurt/comfort, hurt/no comfort

➷｡song : gilded lily – Cults

➷｡extra : first tumblr fic finally! Just a little quick one to get used to how to post. My favourite thing ever is injury angst so this is for all my injury angst babes out there.

｡☆✼★━━━━━━━━━━━━★✼☆｡

Deep maroon and black clothes accompanied by pale features swam above you. Lyney. Lyney? You can barely recall what you were doing before now. Did you just wake up? The sight of your partner waking you up in the morning so familiar it makes you want to smile. Sometimes Lyney likes to perform simple tricks for you to slowly lift your mind from sleep. Your lips couldn’t move. A new feeling slithered and coiled around your torso. Pain. Panic clambered up your throat only to fail at your mouth. Lyney was so close yet so far, you just wanted him. You needed to tell him you needed help, sensation overwhelmed you. Lukewarm liquid grasped at your sides, urging to pull you under and drown you, rip you away. You started at your beloved above you, a vacancy forced upon your features. Lyney doesn’t know, he needs to know.

｡･:*:･ﾟ★

Lyney knew better than anyone. The second the box was crushed, you inside, Lyney lost connectivity with the world around him. Repeating over and over, the sound of snapped rope consumed his mind. Vomit peaked in Lyney’s throat when the blood seeped steadily out of the carnage despite the dust’s unsettled position. His shiny boots vaulted him forward down the seating aisle. The traveler and court officials blurred past him. Breathing harsh, he slid down beside the wreck, glass slicing through his tights, exposing him to the water that flooded the stage. Neuvillette’s shouting casted a devastating soundtrack around you as Lyney shoved glass and splinters from the half of you not completely buried by debris.

"Sweetheart? Hey, can you hear me? Come on let’s get you outta there." Lyney coos at your semi-conscious self.

You groan in response, Lyney hushing and whispering comforting words to you. The chaos around you was reaching the summit of a harsh crescendo. Tears cascaded down your cheeks, your voice cried out weakly for Lyney. He assured you.

"I’m here, I’m here, I’ve got you. We’re gonna be ok."

Hard hands gripped Lyney forcefully and tore him away from you. Neuvillette. The magician thrashed and yelled at the Chief Justice as he was separated from you. The large, white-haired man remained stoic, removing Lyney from the scene. Neuvillette handed Lyney over to some Gardes closer to the entrance of the Opera Epiclese, restraining the magician until further notice.

You remained under the debris. Blood has tainted the water a rich bloody sunset colour. The sound of your whines and exclamations of pain ricocheted throughout the theatre, a terrifying performance. The Gardes surrounding your blurred vision were unknown and filled you with fear. Lyney was right there a moment ago… The blue-uniform danced above you as they urgently tried to free you from your prison.

It felt like your brain collided with the other side of your cranium when they yanked you free. Your legs felt so numb. The numbness crawled up from your legs, settling over your body like a large cat ready for a nap. The rainbow of blues and bright lights tempted your eyes to close. As a paramedic’s lullaby tapped on your cheek, you thought of the maroon magician.

｡☆✼★━━━━━━━━━━━━★✼☆｡

thanks for reading !!

genshin masterlist.

[witch-hazels-musings]

absolutely smitten

warning: comfort / fluff - reader and character are recently engaged - character perspective (short read) | spoiler: childe’s real name 

includes: albedo, childe, diluc, kaeya, zhongli, xiao 

character x gn reader | anthology 

a-n :: i added a song to each story! listen to gather the feelings I felt while writing each passage, read them slowly for the best feeeeels - links to the song are next to each characters name)

albedo (about us)

the ring he’s chosen is handcrafted with love. the band a rich and elegant metal that appears to shimmer like water in the afternoon sun, the stone a perfect encapsulation of his feelings for the one he hopes will wear it forever. it’s bonded in the fabric of time, by the blood of the heart that beats for eternity, and the hopeful desires of a man whose lived long but feels like a child at your side 

he’s lost in thought but his eyes linger on the hand that’s moving feverishly across the page. words have finally lost all meaning, questions eluding him are answered, mysteries left unsolved as the universe comes into clarity at the locus of your finger. he blinks, shakes his head, attends to the person whose asked for his attention but as soon as they are gone he returns to watch you and capture in graphite what he sees. 

he had a suspicion you’d say yes but there was always that worry, that tickling fear in the back of his heart that his hypothesis of your love was one sided. so to hear your reply and know you’d have and hold him for the rest of your days, he has found his emotions overflowing; and he can’t stop smiling.

Albedo isn’t one for sharing, so the news would have to come from you, but as soon as it’s uttered and those celebrating with good wishes turn toward him, his cheeks are painted pink, white teeth flash in a smile, but his eyes have drifted to you - there’s no mistaking it, the data is in ... 

Albedo, the Chalk Prince, is absolutely smitten; he’ll never let you go.

---

childe (steep hills of vicodin tears) 

the ring he’s chosen represents his promise. a promise to be yours forever; to honor, to care, and protect you. if tomorrow he lost it all - his name, his title, his livelihood - this ring placed on your finger would hold him together and make him whole once again. by wearing it you have become his family, and his family will never be lost nor taken 

it flashes in the morning light as you settle on the edge of the riverbed. your working away, minding yourself, but he can’t stop noticing the ring; you move and it rattles his heart until he cannot take it anymore and the colors of the gemstones are lost in tufts of orange. how are kisses able to feel so different - what magic rests in that band around your finger? 

at times he thinks about you. this isn’t anything new, but now it’s images your hand resting in his, of your bare skin pressed against him while a lazy finger draws circles on his chest, and the ring he placed there casts life across the bedroom. he hears the sound of your laugh as you pour out your gleeful reply to the question he never thought he’d ask. he sees your outstretched hand reach for him - just for him. he blinks but his thoughts never drift far from you.

past down from generation to generation, this familial bond has always been a treasure and now he gets to share it forever with the ring of his mother and the love that was always meant for you. what a fool in love ...

Ajax of Snezhnaya is absolutely smitten, he’ll never let you go.

---

diluc (feel first life)

the ring he’s chosen matches you so well. it took him months of searching, travels all across the lands to find the perfect stone and the perfect band. it’s imperative that its exactly right for it has to rest, for an eternity, on the finger of the love of his life's - he’s spared no thought, nor expense to find it 

he holds your hand so delicately as if it’ll shatter in his grip. it carries so much of his future that he can’t bear the thought of being it’s downfall. the ring flashes in the light and it makes his stomach flip, it catches on his thumb as he runs his finger across your own, affirming the love he’s known all along. he can’t take his eyes off the symbol circling your finger, the promise to be his. 

at times it draws his attention when he should be focused on something else. you wave goodbye to regular patrons and he sees it resting, perfectly, on your finger. you’re jotting down a note, some fleeting thought that comes and goes, but he notices the way it stays steady, prominent. he kisses you goodbye while you’re sleeping soundly and he can’t stop himself from resting his fingertips on yours for just a few seconds more. 

he remembers the day he met you, the day you shared his feelings, the day you said yes with tears in your eyes and a smile so bright it would put the stars to shame. he remembers every second of his life with you and, now, he has the priviliage of being yours forever until the end of time. he is in love, so in love ...

Diluc Ragnvindr is absolutely smitten, he’ll never let you go. 

---

kaeya (the misty veil of may)

the ring he’s chosen is a reflection of his love for you. the star shaped diamonds that encircle a gem of radiant blue have been specially crafted to fit you. the band is cold in his hand but when it rests on your finger it burns so intensely he can feel it in his heart - he’s speechless, for the first time in his life 

you reach for his cheek and he captures your hand so easily. yearning lips press against the fingertips you’ve offered him. he catches sight of the ring you accepted and his mind races; new questions left to answer, decisions to be made by a pair and not just one, promises, vows to swear and keep forever. he adjusts your wrist so he can see the shimmering gems reminding him you are his, and he hides his joyful tears in the cracks of your fingers. 

it makes him insatiable to see you hold a glass, when you to touch your fingers to your lips every time you’re lost in thought, the way you cover your eyes when annoyed by his games. you huff, but the glittering ice on your ring finger tells him that, no matter how far he pushes, you’ve promised to stay. so he relents and wraps his arms around you hoping you can’t read his insecurities through the tightness of his hug. 

he still can’t believe it’s true - he never thought he’d have someone like you - and now his world has grown a little larger. the family he always dreamed of can finally take root in the rings you both wear.

Kaeya Alberich is aboslutely smitten, he’ll never let you go. 

---

zhongli (mysterium)

the ring he’s chosen is the most lavish of it’s kind. forgo the price, damn the payment plan, Zhongli has purchased the most extravagant ring he can find. they say a three months salary but he’s paid the price of a mountain to spoil you  - a rock this size could damage the hull of a ship (maybe that’s why you haven’t been invited to the Ocean Pearl in sometime) 

he’s rather proud of the way your head has lifted, at the way you brighten up each time someone gawks at your ring. zhongli doesn’t mind helping hold it in the safety of his hand while you offer thanks to the flurry of congratulations. he wants it known you have been securely taken. even when he’s not around. though he would never bring it up himself, he’s not shy to the surprised exclamations when they appear - a simple bow of his head is enough to hide the smile tugging at his lips and the intensity of his pounding heart. 

when you wrap your arm around his so he can escort you, his eyes flash to the ring, to your face where his desires to kiss you become so strong he may take a detour just to indulge for a moment. when he helps you get ready in the morning, assists with meals, retrieves the book high on the shelf; he simply adores taking your hand. each time he’s allowed, it provides him reassurance that his proposal to have it forever has been secured. 

partnership is a commitment, marriage is a bond. you know who he is, but it’s never held you back, and, now, he desires to take you completely in - this ring is a contract of his devotion and as soon as you accept it ... 

Zhongli, the great Archon Rex Lapis, will be absolutely smitten, he’ll never let you go.

---

xiao (Varoeldur)

the ring he’s chosen is simple, but irreplaceable. its a collection of all the most meaningful parts of him bound together in a circlet that reminds him of you. the box that holds it was shaped from the wood of the tree where you first met, the stuffing keeping it safe are the same flowers you once placed in his hair. the band is a piece of his spear shaped and enchanted with his protection, the bead that rests in the middle is a part of his soul - to be bound with it’s mate in this, incredible lifetime

the path has always been narrow; just enough space for him to walk forward. darting lights destined to be snuffed out until the world returns to the dark familiarity he knows, but now the road is wider, larger, because of the radiant one who called out his name. it’s soft, beckoning glow showed him there was more than this diligent path he swore to follow - bands of color, shades of hue completely new to the lonely yaksha were brought forth because of you. he sees your light even from afar. it beats in his heart, it engulfs his memories, it takes root in his soul and now he has been swallowed up by the comforting calm of your love. 

xiao is always surprised by the quickness of his eyes as they flash to your hand. he’s unsettled by how incredible it feels when you touch him - a caress of his back, a soft, ‘im here’ against his arm, dancing fingers running through his hair. he’s melting into you and the feeling is so overwhelming but each time he notices the ring on your finger, he becomes grounded, solid, whole, once again. 

even though he may not show just how much you mean to him, there is no doubt that if the world were to turn to darkness tomorrow, you would be there to bring back the light. 

Xiao, the Vigilant Yaksha, is absolutely smitten, he’ll never let you go. 

[hyacinthian-chateau]

Hello!

Congratulations on 200 followers!!! ₍ᐢ. ̫.ᐢ₎ ♡

Can I request a matchup please?

I’m gemini, ISFP and i can describe myself as a person who have trust issues, so it’s hard for me to open up to people at first. Despite of this i love affections in various expressions. Compliments, hugs, smooches - I really like to show attachment to my family and friends! Even if it seems so clingy tbh.

Sometimes i'm overwhelmed by emotions and i became rude and harsh in communication, for which I later regret. Let's says my mood always changes by unexplained reasons, yeah…

I'm a bit sarcastic and also unconsciously criticize myself by making self-destructive jokes, thanks to my past, but however my small circle of closed friends says that I mostly looks like a chihuahua - just as small, chaotic and bitey in a good way tho. Even if i more on introverted side i'm eccentric and active in some ways. I mean who one day came to work with invoices mustache and beard just because wanted to? Yep, me. A little weird me.

I have specific tastes in everything from eating french fries with ice cream as sauce to non-standard combination of clothes and colors. It maybe sounds oddly but i like strange and absurd memes, dumb puns and black humour, and i quite often use them in conversations.

I adore astrology and mysticism. Some kind of mystery of the world attracts me, gives me ground for reflection, thereby forcing me to spend almost all my free time on it, and I find it really interesting. I also like everything related to maritime culture and mythology. Warm rainy days, autumn season and evening time of day when the sun slowly sets over the horizon. And I also really like such simple little things as cute pebbles that can be found not only on the beach, but also on an ordinary street, key rings and other seemingly unnecessary trinkets.

What about dislikes? Well, at first it’s wasps. Thank God that I didn't have to come into close contact with them. In my opinion, it's better to run from a flock of geese than from a gang of wasps. The second is acute. I can't and don't like too spicy food and dishes. One day I ate very spicy noodles and my lips cried from burning for half an hour. Not a very good feeling, especially when they are cracked...

When I was a little girl, I attended every school circle, but I didn't stay in any of them due to my frequent variability in both character and interests, and it's a little difficult for me to understand which hobby has sunk into my soul more, heh. I knitted, drew, and excelled in sports - everything in a row, but a little. If singing in the bathroom is considered a hobby, then this is one of them that stayed with me throughout my growing up, ha ha. I will give preference to drawing and writing more, perhaps.

I'm sorry, if it came out quite a lot, but I was happy to share! Thank you for your work, I hope you have a lovely day! ( ⸝⸝´꒳`⸝⸝)

Kaeya, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆

You and Kaeya unintentionally become entangled with each other.

The Cavalry Captain is an admired figure within the City of Freedom. People who have had the pleasure of either meeting or working with him would describe him as a charismatic and skillful man who could charm anyone. And yet behind the handsome face and flirtatious smile lies much more once when you dig deeper.

Kaeya would have mistaken you for an adventurer when you first met as you dressed so differently--stylishly, if he says so himself--compared to your scholarly counterparts. In the beginning, the eye-patched man barely had the opportunity to speak to you as you were mainly either conducting an experiment, assisting both Albedo and Sucrose in the lab, or busy collecting data in the field.

At first, you've remained cautious of the eye-patched man and maintained a cordial relationship with him like everyone else, that is, until you finally snapped one day. The said man enjoyed stretching your patience as he constantly pokes fun at your shorter stature, which earns him a sarcastic response. At the same time, you attempt to avoid his attempt to use your head as an armrest. From there on, Kaeya decides that you are someone he wishes to banter with more often; He's found another person to annoy, next to Diluc.

Despite all your ribbing, the two of you get along quite well, and the navy-blue-haired male has taken the initiative to become your close associate. He is mindful and learns of your tendency to be moody, leading you to become agitated. He exercises patience and tries to cheer you up in various ways: From treating you to some Sticky Honey Roast, to telling an outlandish story that leaves you doubting the credibility of it all, or inviting you to go for a walk along Cider Lake when twilight approaches. At some point, you had suspected that he had left the Windwheel Asters on your workbench after a hectic work week.

It's sooner rather than later that Kaeya becomes a kindred soul and dubs you a 'Genius' when he gets to taste the mix of alcohol you had been concocting. The two of you also tend to frequent the various taverns with either Rosaria or Venti within the city walls. Despite his relatively high tolerance for alcohol, the sword wielder tries his best to listen when you go on a tangent about Ancient Maritime countries within Teyvat. Still, he can't seem to concentrate on your words when you look so animated under the dim tavern lights; He can't help but think you're absolutely striking as he shoots you a cheeky smile.

The slight change in the Cavalry Captain doesn't go unnoticed. Jean has caught her subordinate staring at you from a distance while you were busy speaking to Mona, a frequent visitor who became your fast friend. She's glad he's taken a liking to you but gently reprimands him when he takes too long to focus back on the task at hand. The resident librarian is also well aware of the fondness Kaeya has for you. Lisa, being the prodigy that she is, has roped several female members of the knights, which even included Outrider Amber and even Captain Eula, into creating a secret couple name if you two ever decide to get together.

The tanned man always offers to let you work within his office when he discerns the first signs of exhaustion on your pretty face. You've always been a lively person, but it's during this time that he doesn't talk much but instead lets you share what's on your mind--Whatever the circumstances are, the said man is more than happy to receive you if you ever decide to visit. By the end of your visit, he finds himself enveloped in a brief hug and a light peck on his cheek as you give him your thanks….If you ever bothered to look back, you would have been greeted by the sight of the usually confident Cavalry Captain's ruddy cheeks as he attempts to process what exactly had just happened.

It is somewhere along the line that Kaeya can't help but feel an odd sensation bubbling in his chest when he thinks about you; He's been experiencing it constantly nowadays. He's observant and calm, but he can't help but dive head first when it concerns you. He knows that despite building a façade, he unconsciously drifts toward you and doesn't understand why exactly. He's also somewhat changed as he allows himself to be genuine with his words and actions while wishing to be the closest to you. Slowly but surely, he's unsure when exactly you started to become a part of him.

There are a lot of hurdles to overcome, but your slight air-headedness whenever he tries to flirt with you somewhat dampens his spirits. Maybe he'll invite you to watch the stars at Starsnatch Cliff tonight. And perhaps even adopt a more direct approach this time around?

Huh? You say he's been acting a bit odd lately? Oho~!☆ Then you should speak to him about it if you're so worried.

Oh, but don't worry. You don't need to search too hard…

╰ ☆☆☆☆╮

[risustravelogue]

How Do I Know

Summary:

How do you know if you're in love with someone?

Featuring:

Alhaitham, friend!Kaveh, gn!Reader (they/them pronouns used)

Tone:

Crack-ish, fluff.

Note:

My second-half entry for @soleillunne's saudade milestone event! First half was written by @kazumist. I changed the capitalization, hope you don't mind >.< P.S. We love ourselves an idiot Haitham don't we lmao-

🔗 masterlist 🔗

What does it mean to fall in love?

No, scratch that.

How do you know if you’re in love with someone?

Alhaitham has been asking himself that question lately.

Believe him, he had never actually thought that much about love, and he had never fallen in love in his life. So it’s safe to say that yes, Alhaitham is pretty much an idiot when it comes to romance and the like. 

Kaveh feels hopeless for him; he knows—hell, everyone knows at this point! You could just see it in how Alhaitham looks at you. There’s just something in his eyes that says it all for him. That he had helplessly fallen head over heels for you. Don’t even get his roommate started on how he’s been acting lately.

He and Alhaitham had a rule that they’d go on an alternative schedule for grocery shopping. But when it was Alhaitham’s turn, he had you tag along! (Don’t get him wrong, Kaveh thinks you’re a lovely person. But was there really a need to bring you along? Then again, if that’s what his roommate is happy with, who is he to interfere?)

Archons, there’s also the fact that of all, or at least the majority, of the conversations that Kaveh shared with Alhaitham, he’s sure that at least 97% of them were about you.

And Kaveh knew it was going to happen again right now.

“Are flowers really a good gift for someone?” Alhaitham asks, and Kaveh almost spits out his drink.

“What?”

“I said what I said.”

“I mean, why do you ask?”

“(Name) said it’s a nice gift to receive, but I disagree with it since what if the one you gifted it to can’t take care of plants? Wouldn’t that be troublesome for them?”

There he goes again, the architect thinks.

Kaveh is surprised that, for a smart person like Alhaitham, he’s really an idiot in love.

“Hey,” Kaveh drawls, giving his glass a swirl.

“What is it?”

“Have you ever considered the possibility that you’re in love?”

Alhaitham feels paralyzed. No, that thought has never crossed his mind. Not once, not until now, when his roommate had opened the topic. But now that he has, the gears in his mind start gearing as he connects some dots. He isn’t stupid or slow (or so he says), yet... for once in his life, he isn’t quite sure if he’s right in his answer.

“I haven’t.”

“You’ve got to be kidding me.”

How do you know if you’re in love with someone?

Alhaitham’s answer to this predicament is “Alright, Mr. Love Expert, so give me a list of things I need to check.”

“Huh?” Kaveh sputters in disbelief.

Alhaitham sighs. “Give me a checklist is what I’m saying.”

“No, no, I get that, but why ask me instead of love advice books?”

“The House of Daena doesn’t have those kinds of books,” Alhaitham says with a deadpan expression.

Kaveh grumbles. “You’re such an– ugh, fine!” The blond architect grabs a small piece of scrap paper and a pen. He starts scribbling on the paper carelessly, as if he wants it to be over already.

“Keep in mind that I’m giving you this only because it’s becoming increasingly painful to see the great Akademiya Scribe being such a dumbass,” he says, handing over the checklist to his old friend.

A small smile creeps onto Alhaitham’s lips as he reads the checklist.

1. Your heartbeat speeds up whenever they’re around. 2. You smile a lot when talking with them. 3. They are in your last thoughts before you fall asleep. 4. Their opinions weigh a lot in your mind. 5. You feel jealous whenever you see them getting physically intimate with another person. 6. You walk toward them hastily, as if impatient to interact with them. 7. You have thought about spending the rest of your life with them.

The scribe nods in approval. “Thanks. This will be really helpful.”

Kaveh’s mouth goes agape. “Are you actually being sincere with me right now?”

“Shut it.”

That night, Alhaitham puts a check mark after number three.

—

By the end of the work week, Alhaitham thinks that Kaveh is sorely mistaken.

He takes out the worn scrap of paper out of the book he’s currently reading and sighs. His handwriting litters the gaps on the paper.

1. Your heartbeat speeds up whenever they’re around. Normal heart rate. Invalid. 2. You smile a lot when talking with them. Is once every conversation a lot? 3. They are in your last thoughts before you fall asleep. ✓ 4. Their opinions weigh a lot in your mind. Nonsense. Every opinion must be weighed objectively. 5. You feel jealous whenever you see them getting physically intimate with another person. This never happens. 6. You walk toward them hastily, as if impatient to interact with them. I do that, but not because I’m impatient. 7. You have thought about spending the rest of your life with them.

Leaning back into his work chair, he lifts the paper until it’s mere inches from his nose and stares hard at number seven. Kaveh’s tired words from this morning echoes in his mind.

“Alhaitham, if you checked number 7, you can consider all the others checked and confess. To. (Name). Already.”

Really? Alhaitham thinks. Spending the rest of your life with one person? Do people really make foolish promises like that?

As Kaveh’s hasty handwriting starts to swirl, he pinches the bridge of his nose.

But then… that doesn’t sound so foolish if it’s with you…

He takes a deep breath and gets up from his work chair, stuffing the list back into his book with a sigh. It’s time to meet with you in the House of Daena.

… How do I know if I’m really in love with you, (name)?

The question floats around in the silver-haired scribe’s mind as he walks into the majestic library with his headphones off, his sensitive ears searching for the sound of your voice. Once he hears your exasperated sigh, he quickly walks toward your direction and sits beside you.

“I see the formula is as tough as ever,” he says, a smirk on his face.

“It is!” you hiss, banging your forehead onto the wooden desk. “I enrolled in this course to get away from numbers, and what I got is a super complicated formula to calculate substance release for the final assignment,” you pout. You ramble on to complain, and all Alhaitham can think is how adorable you look when you’re irritated.

I wouldn’t mind hearing you complain for the rest of my life, he thinks.

You stop and turn to face him, your eyebrows frowning in disbelief. “... What did you just say?”

Alhaitham blinks. “Did I say anything?”

“You just said you wouldn’t mind…”

“… hearing you complain for the rest of my life, yes.”

Several seconds of silence hangs in the air while every gear in his head snaps into place.

“Ah. So that’s how it is,” he smiles. Before you can respond, he takes your hands into his and tugs your fingers gently.

“(Name)... it looks like I’m in love with you,” he declares, his gaze meeting yours, both the relief of realization and the flames of excitement twinkling in his eyes. You feel a blush blooming across your face.

“You idiot…” you mutter, averting your gaze away from him. “Confessing in the middle of the library, and so loud, too…”

“But Kaveh said–”

“That doesn’t mean you have to say it so loudly in here! You could’ve taken me out to a nice dinner first… or something…”

“Oh, sorry.”

He tries to pull his hands away. Try being the keyword, as you pull them back to keep them in place.

“That said, I’ll forgive you, since I love you too,” you say with a smile.

His lips then meet yours in a tender kiss, as if uttering a silent promise.

Now I know, and I won’t know any other.

© @risustravelogue 2023 • no to reposting, yes to reblogging. feel free to send an ask to suggest, chat, etc. :)

[sugawarassoccerlover]

dating Kaeya Alberich isn't always the pretty, glamorous life everyone assumed it would be. he isn't the "no problems" man he pretends to be. he tries to keep his baggage, his hurts, in, but it always came out. some days it looked like you coming home and finding your bedroom a mess. things thrown around, a wine bottle broken and spilled on the ground. but the saddest sight of all being Kaeya curled up into himself in the corner, shaking. when you walk over to him, he looks up at you, tears streaming down his face without stopping. and it breaks you. his eyes have the look of a heartbroken child, with the vunerability of a newborn. when you crouch down to hug him, he immediately goes into your arms, wrapping his own around your waist, pulling you into his lap so he can bury his face in your chest. he's sobbing now, tears staining your shirt, not that you minded. shaky hands reach up to grab onto your back, clenching your shirt as if you'd disappear if he didn't hold tight enough. he continued to cry openly into your chest as you stroked his hair softly, your other arm around his back securely. it wasn't always pretty to be in love with Kaeya Alberich, but you wouldn't have it any other way. he trusted you with his everything, his soul, his life, his past, and you'd be damned to break that trust.

[tragedynoir]

— introducing 007: READY, SET + [ link ]

∗ in collaboration with NOTORIOUSAESTHETICS.

a google doc template that looks like a video game user interface, inspired by genshin impact! this template affords a substantial amount of space for writing, and the background and UI colours can be easily changed to fit your character's style through google drawings. the template alone comes with four PSDs for you to customize the first page image, header elements and navigation buttons. moreover, as a collaboration piece, this template will also work in tandem with @notoriousaesthetics' accompanying graphic pack! you may easily upgrade the look of the template using her templates, as seen in the preview transitions, while also using her graphics elsewhere such as in your pinned post or discord channels! the template and a better page-by-page preview can be found in the link above or in the source code.

features:

6 unique 14" x 8.5" pages that look like a game interface, with statistics and ability score bars, a few mid-length sections and a space for connections

main aspects of the user interface that can be fully customized in google drawings

4 PSDs to further customize the template elements!

terms of use:

you may edit to your heart’s desire. Change the colours, replace, add or remove elements and images etc.

you may remix pages with pages from my other templates.

you may not remove the credit from the templates.

you may not copy, sell or redistribute my templates whether wholesale, in part (i.e. taking out certain pages) or remixed (i.e. modified).

you will also receive an additional guide with images on how to use and edit google doc templates! if you have any problems or issues, feel free to leave an ask or join our discord server.

I hope you like this template as this was so much fun making as a collab piece. as always, your likes + reblogs are always appreciated. ♡