#yae publishing house

[azullumi]

jealousy — various characters ☆彡

summary — how does jealousy feels for him and how does he deal with it?

characters — kaveh, tighnari, thoma, cyno, wanderer, alhaitham, ayato, kazuha, diluc (w/gender-neutral reader)

tags — kind of fluff, jealousy, possessiveness, i want to kiss diluc so bad, not proof-read; headcanons

words — 1204

note — this was supposed to be longer but my brain is fried and bondee anyone? :D if anyone wants to be neighbors, just tell me

KAVEH — It's obvious when he gets jealous, you could just immediately tell if there's envy and jealousy brewing in his mind whenever he sees you with another person—specifically someone who is obvious with their intentions to you but you're oblivious to it—because of how he shows his emotions and is usually expressive about it. Rolling his eyes as he replies once you have touched upon the topic of what he felt as he knits his eyebrows, and everything, he's conveying it all. However, he would still refuse at the end of it, he won't even admit to it but you'll know. He’ll even lean more on the petty side, making remarks like how you should ask that ‘friend’ you’re so close with but once you’ll go and turn around, he’ll ask you where you’re going and tell you to not leave. 

TIGHNARI — He’s very much open with his emotions to you and doesn’t hide anything from you so when he's feeling something, whether it be sadness, happiness, or anything, you’ll know it immediately. This also applies to that bitter and burning feeling in his chest. At times he doesn’t verbally convey to you about what he feels, he shows it through the subtle actions he makes—wrapping an arm around your waist and pulling you close, showing off that you’re taken and you have him whenever he sees you talking with someone who is showing clear interest to you and giving off a scary presence that he’ll only show towards the people he’s scolding. “I don’t like them,” he’ll say as a remark while donning a calm demeanor, and you’ll either think it’s just that or he’s trying to say something more.

THOMA — Gets extremely affectionate and sweeter than usual. He'll silently beg for more affection from you by being more clingy than he already is—he’ll be all over you like some sort of object or item taped or glued on your body, as if he’s part of the design of your clothing because of just how much he’s sticking to you. The intimacy, fondness, and love that you receive from him on a daily or usual basis? You’ll get triple that amount once he gets jealous, the intimacy and closeness being there but overwhelming. He’ll even bluntly tell you, rubbing it all over your face, that he’s jealous, that he’s really and extremely jealous while pampering you with kisses and what can I say besides you have to deal with it?

CYNO — He places so much faith in you, trusting you and being confident with himself thus he doesn’t get jealous easily. However, when he does—on rare chances— he’s grumpy and much more intimidating than usual. Even if he's known to have a good control with his emotions, dealing with it properly, and placing it where it’s supposed to be, when he gets that feeling, all of those are thrown out of the window and somehow, he find himself twitching his eyebrow and giving death stares to the person acting way too close to you. He does get clingy though, staying closer to you, lingering touches, intertwined hands, and longer gazes, and everything, as if he’s trying to say something through his caresses and strokes on your skin.

WANDERER — Understanding and patience is what you need. He gets irritated or irked off once he gets jealous and you’ll first think if he’s just having his mood swings or something. He’ll leave you thinking and confused, basically not admitting that he’s jealous and would get more irritated if you won’t be able to guess or know what he’s feeling. He just refuses to talk about it, rolling his eyes and turning his back away when you'll ask him if he's jealous or what, and you can’t help but scratch the back of your head upon recognizing the feeling being expressed by him. He’ll be salty for a few days, just give him a little bit of time—he secretly wishes that you'll woo him and give him more of your attention and time instead.

ALHAITHAM — He doesn’t even know it—or more like he just ignores and fans off that feeling in his chest which will slowly grow, as moments pass by. He's the type of person whose jealousy will start really small, letting it pass, until it becomes something he can't completely turn a blind eye to. At first, he could have an inner monologue wherein he’s in conflict with his emotions and thinking him being jealous is impossible but then he imagines you with someone else and he’s irritated. He reasons that perhaps he was envisioning you with Kaveh that’s why he’s displeased so he thinks of another person and the annoyance persists. He tries to create logic out of what he is feeling before giving up and admitting that he is, indeed, jealous.

KAMISATO AYATO — The clingy possessive type of jealousy is what you’ll get from him. Through his actions and simple words, he'll tell the other party to stay away from you before he'll have to deal with them himself and you could and probably would think 'awww, that's so sweet and cute to see that he's jealous.' Not when you'll come home and he's all over you, lips all over your skin, kisses all over your face, and hands all over your body. However, once the two of you are in bed and you have already fallen asleep, he'll admire you for a little bit longer before pulling you close as if he's afraid that you'll leave him, was he being too much? Well, he just can’t help it when he holds so much adoration and love for you.

KAEDEHARA KAZUHA — Communication is the key so when he’s upset or jealous over something, he’ll tell you about it. Not in a way that it feels like he’s reporting some sort of news or topic to you, straightforward and clear—”I am jealous because of this guy that was starting at you,”—but in a roundabout way: asking so much questions, going back and forth a certain event, his mouth lingering on the topic that made him jealous without saying he’s jealous. He just gets repetitive, hoping that you’ll realize and thankfully, due to the fact that he keeps on talking and speaking over something, you’ll eventually realize what’s going on and once he sees that you do, he just laughs nervously and says: “I’m being childish, aren’t I?”

DILUC RAGNVINDR — He silently looms his jealousy over. Silence, silence, silence, that's the only treatment that you will get from him at first except for the short responses and such as he’s busy dealing with his own emotions, his mind muddled with the thoughts that he shouldn’t get jealous over something so small or petty. He just doesn’t know how to act and what to do, resulting in you receiving the silent treatment from him. However, he would then succumb to his emotions after minutes, suffering more from what he’s giving and not talking to you than the feeling of jealousy itself which will lead to him eventually telling you about what he felt and seeing how adorable he is, how he tries to maintain his demeanor and composure, kissing him would be inevitable.

© azullumi — do not plagiarize, copy, repost, nor translate any of my works.

[niiine]

Clingy Scara just because he won't leave my brain alone

°DRABBLE°

It's not foreign for you to wake up at night as the need to use the bathroom arises. You gently removed the limbs tangled onto yours, careful not to wake your lover who's sleeping heavily beside you. It's a challenge, of course, because he has a deathly grip around your waist and his legs are knotted on yours. A solid ten minutes of featherlight wriggling (if that's possible) and you're finally free.

You tiptoed towards the comfort room, making sure that no noise will erupt that would disturb the sleeping man. Even the way you closed the door behind you is shy. A good five minutes have passed 'till you finished your business inside, carefully turning the door knob to minimize any sound. You're so determined to keep any clamor away—until you shrieked the very moment you've opened the door.

There, in front of you, in all his sleepy, annoyed glory, is SCARAMOUCHE. Scowl adorning his face as he muttered "you sure took your time there" all your hardship of keeping him asleep now thrown out of the window.

"Well you could've knocked you know." You stated, thinking that he needs to use the bathroom as well. You proceeds to drag your feet towards your shared bed. Not sparing the man another glance as drowsiness took over your form once again. Not until you heard a pair of feet following close behind, "Thought you gonna use the bathroom?" "No. Idiot. You just took so long so I check up on you" he whispered before yawning, dragging you back to the bed, snaking his arms around your waist once again and placing his legs in between yours. "Now I can go back to sleep"

You snuggled closer to his chest, letting yourself to fall into slumber—but not before you realized something. "So you're awake the whole time?!"

[ryutaria]

When it Rains...

Synopsis: There was scarcely anything that scared Al Haitham... and losing (Y/N) might be one of them...

Word Count: 3.5k+

Tags: alhaitham x f! reader, angst, hurt/comfort, mutual pining, Student Al Haitham! x Student Raeder, sfw, burn out, verbal bullying, false accusations, stressful academic life, Akademiya setting,

A/N: This is my first post so please don't go hard on me..

The warm rays of the setting sun were splayed across the evening sky, casting an ethereal glow over the surroundings, a soft fading luminance evident in the environment. The winds remained soft as they passed through the Avidya forest and encircling the once still Divine Tree, tickling through their leaves in the process as they made their way through the open windows of the Akademiya. A certain calmness prevalent in the environment ... but not resonating with the state her mind chose to remain in...

Her footsteps echoed through the halls of the Akademiya, rushing past the cluster of few students who chose to remain late as she made her way to the House of Daena, struggling as she stumbled with the number of scrolls, files and a couple of hardbound books clutched against her chest, cradling in her fragile arms. Her eyes could see Iris in conversation with her sister and the moment she chose to pass by them - "Y/N!".... People didn't like to leave her alone, do they...

"What do you need Iris?" Her voice snapped: on the verge of breakdown as she struggled to remain civil for she didn't want to project her anger onto someone who wasn't even responsible for it. "Oh... It seems you're busy..."- disappointment laced her tone- "But it's alright! We can always talk tomorrow right" and there was her kind smile. And for the first time in her life (Y/N) felt grateful to all the Archons that she had befriended Iris. Her lips tried to imitate hers as she returned the expression albeit forcibly before scurrying past her. Tomorrow... As if she would even be able to see tomorrow...

(E/C) eyes watered a little as the doors of the greatest library in all of Teyvat came into her view, her breathing turning heavy - rushed even - as her steps picked up their pace. She slowly entered through the giant wooden doors, the quietness in the library which once seemed inviting now sending shivers down her spine. Her eyes scanned through the aisles before landing on her Professor, seated in one of the reserved tables for the teachers and other professionals. She sighed as she readjusted her books only for them to go tumbling down her arms as they broke the silence with a loud thud, attracting the attention of all the patrons inside and a few sneers and cold looks. Quickly squatting down, (Y/N) hurriedly picked her academic materials up, her files crumpling a little in the process - her completed assignments over which she had lost three days' worth of sleep. A stray tear droplet managed to fall upon the floor but she held her ground lest the dam of her bottled up tears broke through her tough façade.

The frustration was evident in her grip as she brushed off her robes before walking towards the Professor.

"Good evening Sir" she greeted politely standing at a respectable distance from him. He chose to ignore her presence at first, his attention remaining on the scroll he held in his hand while slowly sipping his tea. "Sir..." and his head turned to meet her eyes and a smile laced his features and she could tell it was all a pretense just like the other lecturers and higher ups. "I'm here to submit my thesis." and her file replaced the scroll in his hand.

His eyes scanned through her papers with the same scrutinizing gaze, eyebrows raising every few moments indicating he had found an error amongst her work. And then after with a deceitful smile he placed down the file on the table.

"Tsk tsk... Miss (L/N)" the Professor spoke, his torso twisting a little in his chair as he craned his neck to look at her directly in the eyes. "The ruins of Devantaka have already been studied thoroughly by the scholars here." and he dropped her carefully arranged papers to the floor, "And to think that Ley Lines hold a connection to the ruins.... that seems far-fetched."

"But Sir! The energy binding the ruins-"

"Enough of your hazy thoughts (L/N). I've more pressing matters to deal with~" and he got up from his chair with the forgotten scroll in his hands. "Get the thesis rewritten in a week." - the words she had been hearing for over a month. "And I don't want any blasphemous theories again or I might have to fail you... or might as well kick you out of my lecture" And his footsteps faded as he walked away.

(Y/N) could hear the snickers and sneers coming from the surrounding students who happened to be the audience of the interaction. Tears began to well up in her eyes as a lump formed in her throat. With shivering hands, she picked up her papers, her vision becoming blurry as she got to her feet. Yet she held her calm then, walking out of the library before anyone could spot her wiping her eyes on her sleeves. And yet a certain someone in a secluded corner of the library did notice the turmoil she had carefully concealed behind those (E/C) eyes.

Her thoughts were scattered all over the place, depressing thoughts and turmoiled emotions causing a havoc in her mind as she walked out of the Akademiya and onto the city streets.

The night felt inky and cold, dark clouds overcast over the skies and soon thick droplets of water descended from the skies. The residents hurried past her as they avoided the showers of rain but she welcomed them with teary eyes... for she needed something to drown her sorrows in. (Y/N) smiled at her own misery, even the Archons pitied her today. The weight of the world too heavy upon her shoulders as she inhaled sharply.

"Her thesis got rejected for the sixth time, did you know?"

"And to think that Iris told us she was the brightest in Vahumana. Ha! Now her true colors are showing!"

"I bet she'll be expelled this time for sure."

And (Y/N) quickly wiped her tears as she rushed through the rainy streets - her attempts to shield her files and books failing as she found a secluded corner in the streets, an overhanging tree giving her a little shade as she slowly sank down on her knees. She really deserved it all, didn't she? The warnings of her mother must be true...

"Why the Akademiya? You can simply help out your brother with business." And she had held her head high when she said she thrived off knowledge and wished to cultivate more of it. Her father had been her only support but when he too passed away due to Eleazor, the ridicules of her mother and brother became overbearing. In a haste to prove herself she had left home to rent a small apartment close by to the Akademiya. The loneliness was overbearing but she held on, hoping the future would be bright and yet here she was... Her dreams getting crushed under the heavy expectations and ridicules of the world around her and she wondered how long it would be this way...

His breathing became ragged as he rushed out of the Akademiya, his usual calm demeanor fading the moment he saw her leave the House of Daena. "Al Haitham!" and those words fell on deaf ears as Kaveh stared questioningly at him hurrying past the hallways. 'Strange' thought the blonde for he had never seen Al Haitham in such a rush. "It's her isn't it?" Tighnari added as Cyno hummed in approval - the trio staring at the ash-haired male fade away from their vision.

"I'm so annoyed you know. Why can't he just tell her?!" Kaveh said out loud, eyes narrowing as his fingers intertwined behind his head as he walked, Cyno and Tighnari following his pace. "It won't be Al Haitham if he just told her"And they couldn't agree more with Cyno.

And then after what felt like hours of searching - rain be damned - he found her huddled in a corner of the deserted street. He could see the way her eyes seemed lifeless. Her back resting against the overhanging tree's trunk as the books held loosely in her hands got drenched in the rain. (H/C) tresses stuck to her back as she stared lifelessly at the skies. His heart crumpled at the sight of her looking so... broken and empty...

Cautiously Al Haitham approached her, his steps resonating with those of a cat as he stood in front of her and yet she seemed so devoid of emotions, not even flinching as her eyes locked onto his. "Here to mock me again?" and his confidence faded as he kneeled to her level, "Archons no!" He tsked before carefully taking her hands in his larger ones. warmth spreading through her nimble fingers albeit the rain never stopped.

Al Haitham was a prodigy, hailed by the lectures and students alike, the 'Gem of Haravatat'. (Y/N) had first stumbled upon him at the library, turquoise eyes reading through the pages as he sat unbothered at a secluded table in the corner. "D'you mind if I join?" she had asked him and he had grunted in response without even sparing a glance at whoever had interrupted his peaceful afternoon. After an hour and a half when the intruder still remained seated, his patience started running thin. The ruffling of sheets and the scribbles of her quill becoming somewhat hard to ignore as his eyes finally lifted to take in her appearance and Archons, mesmerizing was an understatement.

There wasn't something necessarily captivating about her appearance but he felt drawn to her. A moth to a flame but only this moth... refused to be cauterized. He started noticing her everywhere... The Puspa Cafe where she regularly indulged in Padisarah pudding as she laughed with Iris and her younger sister, the secluded corridors of the Akademiya where she sneaked to sleep whenever she could find time. And he also knew for a fact that she didn't drink for she despised the smell of liquor.

"I can't Iris..." (Y/N) pleaded with her friend Iris at the tavern. "But it'll be so much fun!" added Janaki, another one of her classmates "And besides, Kunikuzushi is here too... I heard he's quite interested in you" and Al Haitham didn't know why his blood boiled at the mention of another man's name. "But you know I hate the smell of alcohol! Its... nauseating, please!"

"Leave her alone would you?" his voice had boomed startling his group of friends which included Kaveh, Tighnari and Cyno. And with a thankful look she had scurried away and out of the tavern, Al Haitham following after her. And that was when he had really talked with (Y/N).

Their meetings weren't necessarily frequent - the Akademiya kept them busy but subtle glances cast each other's way and knowing looks in the House of Daena were enough for the two. An year passed and they became close friends before everything fell apart.

"Did you hear? (Y/N) was suspended for plagiarism." And Al Haitham's ears perked up at the mention of her name.

"Really?"

"Yes! And to think that she would do that to Farahnaz! How evil! " And those words were the last he heard before he walked out of the library to confront (Y/N) only to find her in conversation with the sage of Vahumana himself. Tears pricked at her eyes as she pleaded with him to hear her cause before she was taken away by one of the matras as her screams echoed off the walls. He heard the Sage in conversation with the Mahamatra and his ears couldn't beleive what they heard. Farahnaz had carefully translated the ruin engravings and their energy sources found in the Devantaka. She had trusted (Y/N) to keep her findings safe for she had been suddenly taken ill only to find out that (Y/N) had tried to publish her work under her own name.

He felt betrayed and... yet he couldn't bring himself to walk away and followed after her only to find her sobbing profusely in an empty classroom.

"(Y/N)?" he had questioned cautiously, "You okay?" and she didn't reply. Therefore, he decided to enter inside only to meet a hysterically crying (Y/N) burying her face in his chest. He stayed unmoved, not being able to hold her in his arms as his voice echoed -

"Why did you do that?" the words had slipped out on their own as he met her wide-eyed teary gaze as she slowly lifted her head up to meet his eyes.

"A-Al Haitham, N-No... I...you didn't-" and that was all he ever heard before she pushed him away, backing away from him and out of his reach as she mouthed the last words she ever spoke to him then after as she left him alone in the empty classroom...

"You're all the same..."

Weeks later after fighting through it all on her own, it was discovered that (Y/N) was not the one at fault. Farahnaz had faked her illness before she had bribed a matra to publish those findings under (Y/N)'s name. And turns out that her findings weren't really authentic for after further investigation it was discovered that Farahnaz had indeed carried out Mosaic plagiarism of (Y/N)'s source materials and the scrolls she had kept under investigation. Her last words before expulsion being how she had really hated (Y/N) for outsmarting her and wished to any Archon who would hear her to bestow all the hardships in her life.

"I hope you rot" Farahnaz had spat as she was dragged away on the orders of the General Mahamatra along with the matra who had helped her out.

"I knew she was innocent" Cyno had reminded him yet again that day and he couldn't help but feel regret. How could he not for he had always valued logic and rationality above it all and yet he was... blindsided by mere rumors without diving in deep to uncover the truth. Even the minds of wisest men can get plagued by false rumors at times. After all no one can truly escape the frivolous human nature. Kaveh had cast him a disgusted look, still did as he asked him if he would ever apologize.

Now Al Haitham had tried to make amends with you, a failed attempt to mend the broken thread of friendship he had once held so close to his heart.

"Don't bother 'Haitham... I can't trust you yet again..." and there was no spite in your words, just emptiness and sorrow lacing them and it shattered his peace of mind to see you like this. "I can't face you anymore... not when you're the person I trusted the most..." and she had turned her back to him before mouthing ever so softly "Not when you're the person I loved the most..." and she walked away and out of the House of Daena... not sparing him the look over her shoulders she always did, the last of her words whispered for only his ears to hear "Not when... you're the person who hurt me the most" and his eyes widened with his bleeding heart. She walked out of his sight, disappearing in the crowd of knowledge that was the Akademiya... and he felt (Y/N) might just have crushed him under those delicate steps.

Rationality and logic had provided him the answers to all the questions all this while... And yet his mind refused to accept the fact that he had been the one who had blinded by mere talks of the streets. But then again, the most rational of men at times have been a prey to humane frivolity and reckless thoughts.

And from then onwards Al Haitham swore to protect (Y/N) from all the evils of the world... even if it meant he had to work in the shadows... even when it meant staying away from her for he didn't want to break her heart anymore. However, seeing her in this frenzied state of weighing depression and anxiety broke his heart as if … he had failed to protect her from the demons yet again...

After the upliftment of (Y/N)'s suspension and the restoration of her title as an honorary student of the Akademiya, the rumors had still refused to subside. For three long months are enough for the development and brewing of all sorts of research and modifications to the original case.

"Look it's (Y/N). She does look smug for someone who was in suspension" a random Kshahrewar junior sneered as his peers laughed along with him.

Her footsteps increased their pace as she clutched her books further to her chest, walking to her morning class in a frenzied state. Little did she know, she would be greeted by her peers much harshly.

"Oh look who it is! (Y/N)(L/N)! Here to steal someone else's report?" Nima taunted, another friend of Farahnaz who refused to believe she was innocent.

"Oh please Nima, will you shut up?" said Iris as she glared at the brunette with a malicious look in her eyes. But the girl didn't seem to listen."Get lost before I cut off that tongue. That'll shut you up, yeah?" and the class felt silent when Kunikuzushi spoke up, his voice sending chills down Nima's spine, albeit the whispering never stopped.

"Be careful Kuni. You might be her next victim!"

"You sick little-" but (Y/N) was quick to grab Iris's arm before the venom spewed out. 'It's not worth it' she had said as she guided them to an empty table.

(Y/N) and Iris sat side by side awaiting their professor and she found solace in her only friend. Iris had helped her out with most of the reports and case studies in order to gather evidences against Farahnaz and she had been surprised when Kuni had volunteered to do so too. She was grateful to both of them in so many ways but the weight of the world around her seemed too heavy and Al Haitham seemed too far away... having had left a scar on her chest where her heart belonged, broken yet beating...

She would often sneak glances of him in the House of Daena or in the streets of Sumeru, quick to look away before his turquoise could meet her (E/C). Too broken to reach out... too hurt to let go... But the little things she missed out were filled in by his presence. He still wondered how she failed to notice that he was always around her... looking out for her but never directly and he wondered if she chose to ignore her presence. Nonetheless he was thankful for she would have been more hurt if he still reached out... or so was what the ever rational Al Haitham thought.

He had been observing her conversations with the Professor for a fair few days now. How he had always disregarded her opinions made his blood boil yet he was helpless right then for he couldn't really directly step in when the higher officials and scholars were involved.

"It all seems very vague you know... Not even close to the point" he had laughed as he thrusted the folder in her arms.

"But Sir, here me out! The recent develop-"

"Redone and submitted on my desk. Coming Monday" and again she was left frustrated and with tears.

She longed for someone to help her out and her heart would always call out for a certain ashen-haired male yet her mind would remind her how effortlessly he had broken her. She couldn't ask Iris for she was too busy with her own thesis and Kuni had gone to explore the Avidya Forests for a few days. She felt alone and lifeless and all she wanted was to break down until she heard someone say -

"It'll be okay (Y/N)..." his voice barely above a whisper as he pulled her close to him. And she wailed in his arms, too weak and hurt to push him away as she gave into the instincts of her heart.

"I'll make it all better, I promise" he kept whispered soothing words in her ears as his arms wrapped around hers as if attempting to shield her from all the pain, worries, turmoil and miseries the world had been putting her through. And he regretted that he had been the one who had added to them the most.

"I'm sorry..." he whispered when he felt her breathing calming down, the shiver in her shoulders slowing as she attempted to speak...

"D-Don't leave m-me...p-please" choked words whispered through trembling lips and he embraced her even tighter. Whispers of 'I'm sorry' and 'Never leave you again' echoing in the showers of droplets as they remained in each other's embrace for quite a while...

"Let's get you home (Y/N)" he said but his words fell upon deaf ears. On further coaxing he realized that she had fallen asleep in his embrace, unbothered by the rain as exhaustion took over her body. His heart hurt as he noticed the dark circles and chapped lips. Therefore, he took it upon himself to keep her safe and comforted.

His warm coat was shed off his shoulder, coming around her small frame to wrap her up in his warmth. "Hai...tham... don't go" she whispered in her sleep and his heart skipped a beat yet again.

"Never again (Y/N)" he promised, an oath he was committed to never break until his last breath and he slowly placed a fleeting kiss upon her forehead.

Lifting her up in his arms he made his way to his own home, his coat having had been wrapped around her sleeping form in an attempt to provide warmth as he walked down the city streets, ignoring the whispers when he neared his home for Al Haitham despised idle chatters with a sheer passion after a certain incident almost wrecked his once peaceful world.

However, with (Y/N) in his arms and his embrace he felt he could be at peace again.

Taglist: @teapartyspilled

[poko-no-spoko]

I tried Yae Miko’s trial few months ago and I took a screenshot during her burst and later I saw how it looks...and WHAT WERE THE CHANCES IT WILL LOOK LIKE THIS

The moustache hahshsh 😭

She looks absolutely stellar tho 💅✨

[viviennevermillion]

Them both having a crush on you

notes: had this idea ever I got to know these two. how they act when they're both in love with you, what happens when you pick them and what happens when you reject them for the other. I hurt myself writing this.

characters included: alhaitham, kaveh

contains: character x gn!reader, pining, rejection, jealousy, wingman!kaveh

warnings: angst, unrequited love

dark content blogs dni

Alhaitham:

You got to know Alhaitham because of the whole "saving Sumeru" fiasco, having worked with the Traveler and their team to overthrow the sages and rescue the Dendro Archon.

While you were always impressed with Alhaitham's intelligence, it was refreshing to see a new side to him in calmer moments, like the celebration feast that Nilou organized. You were surprised to hear him talk about how the people of the Grand Bazaar feel joy from the bottom of their hearts, something the people he knew at the Akademiya were foreign to and how he actually enjoyed the atmosphere of the event because of its special meaning. It wasn't a statement you had expected from him but you would lie if you said that you didn't enjoy when he subverted your expectations. That seemed to be something akin to a hobby for the scribe.

Since your chosen career paths made the two of you cross paths every once in a while, Alhaitham became someone you considered a friend, someone you saw occasionally and enjoyed to converse with. Small talk always turned into debates and complex discussions with this man and Alhaitham was enjoying that a lot.

He was actually the reason you met Kaveh in the first place. When he met you, you were suffering from a particularly bad headache and Alhaitham offered to take you to his house to give you a couple of painkillers, since his home was closer than yours. When you entered the house, Kaveh was kneeling next to the living room table, crafting a little house with matchsticks. Alhaitham didn't make much of the stinging feeling in his chest when you went over to his roommate and introduced yourself with a smile and excitedly commented on how much you liked his work. Alhaitham just simply rolled his eyes. "This is my roommate, Kaveh. He rather does little diy projects than try to get his life together."

He hated to see how well you started to get along with Kaveh. That you met him in the afternoons to hang out with him, sometimes more than you did with him. Alhaitham knew he probably gave off the impression that he didn't like spending time with people that much and was very busy with work and his studies. Still, you spending time with Kaveh prompted him to ask you to hang out with him more.

You thought this was simply him warming up to you more and you were happy to see it.

When you weren't around, Alhaitham couldn't help but sometimes look down on his roommate, telling him that he should probably get some money and a stable life first before he thinks of wooing you. Kaveh, however, always had a comeback. Mocking the way Alhaitham didn't seem to understand romantic gestures and how to express love properly. "I may be in a bit of a financial situation right now, but you're one to talk. Do you think y/n would fall for a guy like you? See, so be quiet." Kaveh, just like you, was blissfully unaware of the fact that Alhaitham also had feelings for you.

Alhaitham usually just ignored Kaveh's comments or answered with an amused smirk. However this time it made him wonder if there was some truth to his words. Whether that was what you wanted: a romantic man who brought you flowers and wrote you poetry and always knew how to express what he felt for you. Someone like Kaveh

Alhaitham, being more bitter than usual, happened to "accidentally" take Kaveh's keys more often when he went out, only for that to backfire horribly. He went to knock at your door to ask you if you wanted to grab dinner with him, only for you to open the door and for him to see Kaveh on your living room couch wrapped in a blanket with a tea you made him. You scolded Alhaitham for taking his keys again and explained that Kaveh didn't have a place to go so you let him stay here. "So, what brings you here?", you asked him with a smile. "I just wanted to give you back your pen. You left it at my house", Alhaitham said with a neutral expression as always and chucked Kaveh's key in the direction of the couch, "here's your key. Hopefully you'll move out soon so you won't need it anymore." With a quick comment on how he was busy and had to go, Alhaitham left again, leaving you and Kaveh wondering whether he was in a bad mood or something.

When you choose him:

It was one of the rare evenings, where, even though you now visited Alhaithams house quite regularly, both of the roommates actually decided to spend some time with you. You had come over to play a couple of rounds of Genius Invokation TCG against Alhaitham. Kaveh sat down next to you, giving you tips and making a few teasing remarks towards Alhaitham when you were close to defeating one of his characters.

Alhaitham didn't let that deter him. His strategy made you outmatched even if Kaveh was helping you. If only the two of you teaming up wouldn't make him sit so close to you and joke around with you so much. Since Kaveh wanted to play the game as well, it didn't take long for Alhaitham to grab his book and go outside to read, not wanting to watch Kaveh shamelessly flirting with you any longer. He shouldn't be bothered with this situation.

During a break, you went outside as well to find Alhaitham sitting on a bench in front of his home and reading his book. You didn't know that he was only staring at the pages, unable to internalize any sentence written there. "Why did you leave?", you asked and sat down next to him. You were willing to give Alhaitham the space he needed for his research, but you thought it'd be more fun to have him around. Plus, you were always looking forward to spending time with the man you had a crush on. "I wanted to read more about this topic", Alhaitham gestured towards the book and avoided your gaze, "besides, you don't need me to woo my roommate." He said that so casually in a matter-of-fact way that at first you genuinely thought Alhaitham just misinterpreted the situation but didn't care for the outcome. So you revealed the truth, knowing he wouldn't hold it against you. That you actually fell for Alhaitham and were looking forward to spending more time with him. "Kaveh knew, I guess that's why I've been talking to him that much more than usually...", you awkwardly put a hand in your neck as Alhaitham gave you a confident smile. "I should have seen that coming", he teased you, acting as if he never had any doubt you'd fall in love with a scholar like him, "well, worry not, I'm quite fond of you as well." You smirked back. "Were you jealous of Kaveh?" "Jealousy is for people with too many shortcomings", Alhaitham remarked dryly.

That's how you ended up leaning against Alhaithams chest, discussing how to proceed with your relationship. He talked as calmly and casually as usual and the only thing that gave him away was the rapid beating of his heart. He had an arm wrapped around you and gave you a sweet forehead kiss.

Alhaitham was not above being petty though. He knew exactly what Kaveh felt for you and he had no problem rubbing your love for him into his roommate's face; kissing you passionately in the kitchen while Kaveh was trying to make himself a milkshake. "Do you guys have to do that in our shared living space?", the blond architect sighed as Alhaitham was trailing kisses down your neck, repeatedly pressing soft pecks to the spot below your ear, smiling against your skin triumphantly considering how you hugged him closer and let out a happy sigh. Kaveh mused that this would be a long and miserable couple of months before he got used to this...

When you choose Kaveh:

Alhaithams heart was aching when he saw you kissing his roommate. He cursed the feeling he was experiencing. It was just love, it shouldn't bother him that much. It'd pass eventually, as all things did.

His face showed nothing of what he was feeling inside as Kaveh leaned his forehead against yours and the two of you were giggling about a joke he had made, you playfully hitting the architect with a pillow before Kaveh ripped the pillow from your hands and pulled you into his lap, kissing you tenderly.

To you and your boyfriend, Alhaitham was just as he always was. Calm, confident, a little distant and not very emotionally expressive. The scribe knew you had no idea of his feelings and neither did Kaveh. Maybe that was exactly the problem. Maybe that was why he lost you.

Maybe he should have shown you more that you meant something to him. He would never become a romantic like Kaveh and Alhaitham had no interest in pretending to be something he wasn't, but he could have told you more what he appreciated about you when the situation called for it. Reached out to you more to show you he liked spending time with you. Showed more interest in your passions. He was so caught up with trying to ignore his feelings for you that he didn't notice how deep he had fallen in love until it was too late. He looked at how you kissed Kaveh, how you stared at him like he was the most precious thing you had ever laid eyes on and Alhaitham wished from the bottom of his heart that this could be him.

But the scribe proceeded just as he always did. Focusing on his work and studies, still interacting with you the same way he would with any of his close aquaintances. To Alhaitham, loving you and seeing you love Kaveh was a rollercoaster of emotions. To you, Alhaitham remained the same through it all. No difference in behavior, no hint of feelings; just the usual. Alhaitham had missed the chance to show you he loved you. And now that didn't matter anymore, so he might as well continue as he always had; casually talking to you and trying to ignore the hurt in his chest when you'd lean over to Kaveh to press a kiss to his cheek.

Kaveh:

Kaveh was still trying to process the whole Sumeru fiasco he was absent from. Not only did the sages get overthrown but Alhaitham had friends? People he brought over to his house? Well, it was mainly you and he occasionally saw his roommate talk to the General Mahamatra, Nilou or Dunyarzad but Kaveh was used to Alhaitham being a loner if his work and research didn't involve social interaction in any way.

What surprised the renowned architect was that you weren't nearly as obnoxious as his roommate. In fact, he grew to like you very quickly with the way you showed interest in his creative projects and were willing to discuss the arts with him. How you looked at the novel he was reading and revealed you had actually read it yourself, promptly discussing the most important plot points with Kaveh while Alhaitham was sitting across from you raising an eyebrow.

Kaveh found your presence very pleasant and it didn't take long for him to ask you to spend some time with him. He wanted to take you for a tour around Sumeru, showing you the buildings he had created, leaving the best for last. He felt a sense of pride when you marveled at the Palace of Alcazarzary and asked him questions about its construction process. Something he hadn't felt in a while considering he was broke and Alhaitham would remind him of his failures constantly, even if mocking him wasn't always his intention.

If only you weren't head over heels for the scribe. Kaveh caught feelings for you so fast, he hardly registered what was happening. The architect was a romantic at heart and was unashamed to admit to himself that he had fallen in love with you. You obviously trusted him and cared for him, otherwise you wouldn't have confided in him about your feelings for Alhaitham. Seriously, unrequited love was hard as is, but did it have to be Alhaitham of all people???

Kaveh didn't understand what you saw in the man. Even after you explained it with a chuckle, finding it amusing how the two of them were always bickering and how Kaveh was obviously shocked that you would fall for Alhaitham.

Still, because Kaveh loved you and because he believed that it was in our nature as humans to help others, he decided to put his feelings aside and support you. It would hurt to see you happy with someone else but it would hurt him even more to see you sad.

That's how Kaveh became your unfortunate wingman. Relaying all the information to you about what made Alhaitham tick and what things he liked. Letting you come over to their shared house so it prompted more interactions between you and the scribe. And watching how happy you looked whenever Alhaitham was giving you attention.

It hurt Kaveh but as long as you could be happy, there was nothing else he wanted to ask for from you. He loved you. Deeply and unconditionally. And the only thing he wanted was for you to live without regrets; fortunate and free to follow the path that made you happy.

Still, there was always a sliver of hope left in him. He knew you probably only let him stay with you out of pity that he was locked out of his house (again) but he loved the way you sat with him, wrapped in a blanket and slightly leaning against him (something he convinced himself was totally platonic), after having brought him a hibiscus tea (his favorite). The two of you were reading a play and Kaveh gave you some subtle hints, projecting onto the main character and explaining his feelings for the love interest. When in reality, those were just Kaveh's feelings for you. He didn't know if you caught onto what he was doing or if it was merely wishful thinking, but his heart skipped a beat when you explained how the love interest must be feeling for the main character, who was oddly similar to Kaveh, as well. It was a beautiful romance. One that Kaveh might never have but always dreamed that he would.

When you choose him:

The past few weeks had been hell for Kaveh. The last time he met you, you parted from him with plans to finally confess to Alhaitham. He never knew if you did it. You had been very busy with work and so had Alhaitham. He knew the two of you had met a couple of times since then, but if Alhaitham was your significant other, he sure didn't give any hints when he came home. Maybe the scribe just wanted him to suffer in uncertainty.

Kaveh was glad when you came over to his roommate's house to spend time and play Genius Invokation TCG with the two of them. When Alhaitham left to go outside and read his book, Kaveh finally asked the question that plagued his mind since he last saw you: "So...how did your confession go?"

Your reaction wasn't what he thought it would be. You chuckled and then awkwardly smiled at him. "Actually...funny thing happened", you began and Kaveh noticed how you were fidgeting with your hands, "....uh....I- well, I actually am not in love with Alhaitham anymore." Kaveh's heart started beating rapidly when you said those words. "Why's that?", he asked curiously, simultaneously trying to recover from the sudden turn of events. "Well, you see...over time I started falling in love with someone else", Kaveh's eyes widened when you took his hands into yours and looked at him with an honest smile, "Kaveh, I'm in love with you..."

Play it cool, was his initial thought to himself as his heart started beating even faster. But he was Kaveh and he could never play anything cool so what he did instead was basically throwing himself at you, hugging you and knocking you over onto the couch behind you while Kaveh buried his face in your neck as he was laying on top of you. It wasn't the first time you two had hugged but you could feel the relief Kaveh was experiencing. "Sorry that I made you wait", you softly spoke and pressed a kiss to his forehead, knowing that Kaveh enjoyed physical affection, "I had to sort out a lot of my thoughts." You could hear quiet sobs coming from the architect as he was tightening his hug and mumbled an incoherent "I love you" against your skin. "Hey, don't cry, okay?", you gently caressed the exposed skin of his back with your fingertips as Kaveh gradually calmed down and looked into your eyes, smiling before leaning his forehead against yours.

You held his hand, squeezing it to signal that you were not going to let go. Kaveh cupped your cheek and asked if he could kiss you, to which you nodded in response. Kaveh's kiss was loving and romantic, just as you expected of him and he pulled you into his lap and leaned his head against your shoulder. "I'm glad you came to your senses", he chuckled.

When you choose Alhaitham:

Seeing you kiss Alhaitham made Kaveh's heart sink in his chest. He knew that this was a possibility. He was prepared for this, or so he thought. And yet it hit him like a raging sumpter beast. He had lost you. And to Alhaitham, of all people.

He was happy for you. Somewhere in his aching, shattered heart he was genuinely happy for you. And he knew he would be able to support you as much as you needed to. One day. When his heart would heal.

But for now, he glared at the scribe who knew full well how Kaveh was feeling and made a point of kissing you passionately and and trailing kisses down your neck when Kaveh entered the kitchen. A quick and easy way to make sure Kaveh would leave the two of you alone for the rest of the evening. Instead, Kaveh took his play and went back to his room, locking the door, sitting on the bed and hugging a pillow as he allowed himself to cry into it. His muffled sobs were drowned out by the soft pillow and the sound of the rain hitting Alhaithams windows.

In this moment, Kaveh hated everything. He hated that he had no place of his own; that everything around him belonged to Alhaitham and now even you had given your heart to the scribe while Kaveh was dependant on the man who had no qualms rubbing his new relationship into Kaveh's face.

The unrealistic heart of a dreamer that Kaveh cursed a lot these days hoped that you would knock on the door and comfort him. Explain that it was all a mistake and that you loved only him. That you would hold onto him and stay with him and hold him until his tears would disappear. But the knock never came.

[writerandbaka]

This is me making dumb meme sketches at night to make fun of Gorou like Yae Miko („ಡωಡ„)❤

I really really wish I could have him in my party, but this doggo has not yet come home and redoing a lot of times his hangout event is the only way I have to see him... sigh (╥﹏╥)

(btw the second pic is the meme I used as a reference)

[yaepublishinghouse]

We're back!

New account, same Publishing House.

H/t to @staff for removing the IP ban. Our profuse apologies to everyone else in Hanamizaka who was affected by it.

Unfortunately, the old account is still nuked, so we've lost all your old asks. Please send us questions and feedback!

What books have you enjoyed from Yae Publishing House lately?

Didn't Mod Ringo look fetching in that charity calendar?

What do you like about the magic of reading?

We'll check in on the ask box periodically and do our best to reply.

--Mod Aratani.

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Questions beginning with "[OOC]" will ███ be ████ ██ answered; out of █████████████ ██████ ██ ███ █████ ████ ███████ ████ █████ character█.

ETA: stop asking if Mod Tofu will step on you! Someone has to read that shit! –Ringo

Little ones, remember to use your manners when making requests of your betters. And Gendou, don't be a prude. 🌸 ~Mod Tofu~ 🌸

If you have inappropriate questions please address them directly to Mod Tofu. Please. –Ringo

[cypressmoons]

if is okay, can i pls req kaeya introducing skincare stuff to gn!reader who's very inexperienced with that. he sofly hold ur jaw and coos at u whenever u scruch ur nose when he applies each product 😭

yo anon you can't be doing this to me at such early hours in the morning (it's 1:30pm) i am crying? cause let’s be real he probably has a 10 step routine this man’s skin be GLOWING

also don't ask me why i'm turning up so many posts in the same day i am using writing as a coping mechanism to deal with this fat ass crush i got ok

contents: skincare king!kaeya x gn reader, and obligatory sobbing from me. very short because i don't know much about skincare either oops

word count: 418

"stop moving around!"

you squeal as kaeya applies another cold layer of whatever product it is, struggling to hold the container and your chin in one hand while trying to get you to stay still.

when you agreed to a spa night with him, this is not what you had in mind.

you were thinking warm baths, soft bubbles, candles and rose petals and sparkling champagne, not being subjugated to torture and possibly human experiment from the ten million different creams and serums he has stored in the medicine cabinet. this one’s good for clearing your pores, he had dutifully explained, and this is a nice cleanser to scrub the dirt and oil from your skin. and this - aha, this is my favourite, it hydrates and leaves you smelling super fresh.

“come on, it’s good for you!”

“i don’t think a literal acid is gonna be good for my skin, kaeya.” you glance down at the bottle in his hand, “acid” the only word you could confidently pronounce from the small label.

he snorts at your comment but does not budge, resorting to holding your entire cheek now. the warmth of his hand a stark contrast to the serum, and instinctively you lean into his touch.

this does not escape his notice, of course. a soft smile creeps onto his face at the feeling of you, fitting so perfectly into his hands like puzzle pieces, and he momentarily pauses his movements.

you open your eyes at the sudden lack of rubbing and poking at your face, meeting kaeya’s dark ocean blues.

“what happened?”

he does not answer, only leaning down to gently press a kiss onto your pouted lips.

you smile into the kiss, and when he pulls back you find a grin mirroring yours on your lover’s face.

“can i go now?”

he just stares at you with a dumbfounded grin,

“i love you.”

you hop off from your previous place on the counter, standing on your tiptoes to leave a peck on his cheek before making your way out of the bathroom, all pampered up and glad to be free from this torment.

kaeya only smiles at his own reflection in the mirror, still savouring the sheer happiness from being able to have these moments with you — struggling to hold you still and tuning out your nonstop protests included. he wouldn’t trade it for the world.

and that’s before he suddenly remembers in a panic,

“hey! don’t forget to wash off your face mask!”

requests open! masterlist

[darlingkeqing]

★彡The weather is awful but I still have you

Written as part of the Yae publishing house “Winter themed writing event”

a/n: I haven’t written for Xiao here before so here’s a little modern au Xiao!! I Hope you enjoy <3

XIAO

Xiao hates the cold, freezing weather and the way it makes his fingers turn numb. He hates the fact that he has to bundle up tightly in his multiple layers of clothes. But unfortunately, as usual, you were the one who called him out into the snow to play, so of course he came. (he has a soft spot for you)

He shivered slightly the moment he walked out to meet you, "Xiao!" your voice crisp in the cold,quiet winter morning. You face broke into a smile and cold, misty clouds formed around you as you continued to repetitively call his name.

Xiao's eyebrows raised slightly at the sight of you. Not exactly you, more like your clothes. He removed his scarf from around his neck and huffed disapprovingly " if you don't wear enough layers, you're gonna catch a cold"

"I'll be alrightt" you brushed it off and held his hand. You continued, "your hand is all the warmth i need after all". Sneakily, he holds your hand back loosely, hoping you don't notice the pinkish hue spreading on his cheeks.

"Xiao are you that cold?" You reached out to touch his face, seeing that it has reddened greatly.

"Ack-" he squirmed away from your chilly touch. You giggled slightly at his cute reaction.

Xiao hated the way the snow buried everything in white. He hated the way it made the ground slippery. But the smiles you send his way, makes his heart slightly warm up.

[udretlnea]

Lie Down and Rest A Bit

Summary: You’re a writer and your significant other Rosaria - bless her for working so late at the office - is in the adjacent room sleeping. You’re struggling to write lately, and that’s when the story begins.

Words: 1.3k

The furious clicking of keys being pressed would be music to some, but for this one, they were a testament to how long they were writing without much progress being made. 

With a swift kick, the masked villain went down-

“Stop. Delete. Again.”

The vigilante nun darted forward, pointing her spear at the kidnapper. The hostages cried out, but-

“No. No-no-no. Not optimal. Delete. One more-one more try.”

She squinted her eyes at you, though you couldn’t tell if it was out of suspicion or intrigue; maybe both-

“Idiot. This is the opening statement-the hook! You can’t just start the story in the middle of the plot…!”

“Unless I write how the protagonist got into this situation, then this option is valid!” You mutter to yourself out loud. You lean back, the chair creaking slightly as you carelessly let your hands hit either side of your laptop loudly; you groan in frustration at your plight. With a hiss, you quickly retract them and pray that they didn’t disturb your other half.

“What was that?” A tired-sounding voice trickles out from the room next to you. You suppress a feeling of guilt, though it’s in vain when you hear her getting off of the bed and the footsteps that follow as they come closer to you; you bite your lip even as you turn your chair around to meet her eye-to-eye.

You forgot - almost forgot - how intrinsically gorgeous she was that your mind goes blank for a moment to admire her features. Her pale magenta eyes were usually filled with three things: a casual disdain for her office job, the satisfaction from drinking wine, or - like right now - the soft concern, that honest vulnerability that sometimes frightened you yet touched your heart all the same. That vibrant, choppy wine-red hair you adored so much glows as she stands in the doorway, an effect made by the window to your side. Her white turtleneck sweater fits her body ideally while somehow enhancing her already generous bust; her sweatpants-and-socks combo the finishing touches to her already casual outfit.

Her mouth moves, but no sound comes out; you blink and realize she just called your name.

“Oh…my apologies. I’m fine for the most part. It’s-” and you hesitate to tell her because it’s just a tiny thing - not even a problem. “Just ran into some writer’s block. It’s nothing I can’t handle.”

You smile at her to reassure her that you weren’t in trouble, just your daily torment with your own writing.

She clicks her tongue, a hand on her hip as she studies you; you swear you could feel your soul struggling to keep calm as you stared into those cat-like irises she had. “Hm. Let me take a look. Maybe you could use another perspective.”

“I…can’t. It’s not even finished…!” A slight feeling of anxiety spikes in your stomach and you quickly stamp it out. You smile wider.

“Well then, why don’t I see what you’ve written so far.” A response dies in your throat.

She’s not going to drop this - or rather you’re not going to waste this opportunity, are you? A voice in your head asks. You retort that she’s showing sincerity and that it’s only polite for one to return it with your own; the voice says nothing.

“Sure!” And you slide your chair to the side a bit, inviting her to come take a look at what you’ve created; you turn your head to the screen, though out of the corner of your eye you see the way her hips sway back and forth.

She crouches down enough that she is on the eye-level with you and stares at the screen silently; there wasn’t much on there since you had just started writing, after all. The summary was the only thing that existed and even that was nothing more than a vague idea, poorly articulated with several statements.

On another note, you observe Rosaria’s face, watching for any signs of a reaction; now though it seemed she had her poker face on.

She’s so close. You think as your eyes observe her pale skin; they remind you of imagery of snow.

Suddenly, she huffs and straightens, crossing her arms against her chest.

You absentmindedly fiddle with the black ring on your right middle finger; you suddenly find the walls more fascinating than your partner in front of you.

“Huh, so from what I can parse from your thought process, you were trying to make an anti-hero story with some lighter…what did you call them?” She furrowed her eyebrows as she struggled to remember. Then she snapped her fingers, bringing your attention back to her. “Tropes. You were going to balance out the edginess with those, yeah?”

“Correct,” you reply in a tone lighter than you’d use. You clear your throat and stare at the floor in concentration.  “Anything else? That you’ve observed, I mean. You know how much I value your opinion.”

Rosaria opens her mouth, only to squint at you a moment later.

“What? Is there something on my face?”

“Are you alright? Your face looks flushed.” She takes a second to observe you before placing a hand on your neck. She feels warm for someone whose usual temperature is cool. Then again, she did sleep in a sweater. “You’re awfully cold. Did you go outside?”

“I took a slight walk outside the apartment earlier.”

“ Did you remember to wear a jacket?”

“My-” You bite your lip when you realize all you wore was a beanie; your long-sleeved shirt and sweatpants covered your limbs enough that you thought it was valid enough to go outside, jacket be damned. “No.”

Rosaria clicks her tongue in disapproval and you cringe under her disappointment. Before you can say anything, she speaks again.

“When did you go to sleep last night?”

“Midnight,” you reply easily. 

Rosaria closes her eyes. You assume she’s thinking of what to do next seeing as how she’s muttering to herself.

“You need to lie down. Come with me.”

“But, my story-?”

“Can wait. I’m not going to let the consequences of your idiotic decision to go outside rear its ugly head soon,” she commands in a tone that was both frustrated and intensely worried. Her stare is enough to send a shiver down your spine.“So. Rest. Now.”

With that she grabs your wrist and pulls you out of your chair with enough strength to surprise you. Guiding you to your shared room is the last thing you expect, surely it’d make more sense to-

Your train of thought is interrupted when she pushes you onto the bed and covers you with the blanket before she climbs in and wraps her arms and legs around your frame.

You only now notice how…warm the room is; she must have turned the thermostat up when she got home.

It didn’t take that long for a sense of coziness to attach itself to you. You yawn and rest your chin on top of her chest; you look up to find Rosaria peering down at you. 

“Better?” she asks in a softer tone.

“Mhmm,” you nod slightly.

“Hm.” She places a hand on the back of your head and gently rubs. You wrap your own arms around her and draw yourself closer until your nose is buried in her chest. Rosaria lowers her mouth to your ear and breathes a hot puff of air. “Cuddle slut.”

You make a weak sound of protest and hide your face in between her breasts, too shy and sleepy to properly respond. You feel her chest vibrate as she chuckles at your expense and she rubs your back in a circle with one hand and holds your thigh with the other.

You listen to her heartbeat, the comforting thump-thump slowly lulling you to sleep until you fall unconscious.

[lupical-912]

During Yae Miko’s Character Quest

Miko: We need to write a new novel. You will help.

Also Miko: *Has an entire Publishing House that regularly employs authors*

Traveler: I’ve never written a novel before??

Miko: Go to this writer’s submission event and find readers’ preferences.

Traveler: I’m still not a writer??

[azullumi]

wanderer and tighnari — boyfriend messages ☆彡

summary — phone calls and messages exchanged between you two.

characters — wanderer and tighnari (w/gender-neutral reader)

tags — fluff, modern au, established relationship, no use of emojis in text ; headcanons

word count — 704

note — i wrote this on a different time compared to the first part so the approach in writing is different! ^^ i'll be working on requests later on

WANDERER

Midnight calls. Late night texts. Random crack of the dawn messages. Everything that happens on a whim, you name it. The peak message activity between you two happens late at night until dawn and the time that you two would stop talking will depend on your plans or schedule for the next day—you have classes? You'll either fall asleep in the midst of talking or finish the conversation by 2 in the morning at max. It's the weekend tomorrow? Expect that the two of you would either be awake the whole night, doing something together and talking to each other, or sleeping quite early to make up for the hours lost from the past few days that you should have been asleep.

Being mean is the embodiment of his being and sarcasm is the mother language of his tongue. Even in texts with the restrictions of expression as it's all locked behind and washed down to just simple letters in a rounded-corners rectangle, he is able to express and convey the tone and feeling he wants to show—hatred, disdain, confusion, and everything.

One thing that he loves to do is to just be a little gremlin, sending random images or messages in class that either distracts you because you're trying to think of what it means or because you'll end up talking to him— your attention will be all directed to him and he loves it. He knows the effect he has on you and completely takes advantage of it because why not? The opportunity is there so why not make the most out of it?

Despite all of that, however, he still looks after you. Yes, he might be a little mean at times and he could act like some sort of menace but he cherishes you and loves you. It's just like when you'll mention how you want something on that day and he'll show up later on with that thing that you want in hand, messaging you to open the door even if it's already late at night—he'll end up having to stay over and sleep at your home.

TIGHNARI

Have you eaten already? How about breakfast? Did you drink enough water? Did you skip your meal again? Oftentimes, you find yourself being asked by your own mind if you're talking to your doctor or your boyfriend—though you do appreciate how he looks after and cares for you, making sure that you're eating properly and staying healthy, bringing you food and everything when you didn't get to eat earlier that time because you were busy and didn't have time to, or when he'll look after yourself every single time that you are sick and you have to listen to his nagging especially when he'll learn that you did something which put you in that situation.

He's just always so worried about you that he checks on you as much as he can—much more if you're a reckless and careless type of person. It just feels like it's one of his nature to look after his loved ones, especially you and though it can be overwhelming at first because you might think that you're being bothersome to him, trust me, he doesn't think of you like that, you're not some troublesome thing to him and he's doing everything on his own accord. It just puts his mind at peace and his thoughts silent knowing that you're safe, healthy, or away from harm—and knowing that he's part of the reason for those makes him proud of himself.

Even through his messages, you could feel the gentleness in his tone or way of speaking in general—his choice of words makes up for all of it despite not having the habit of using emojis nor emoticons. Perhaps it was also the way he adds sweet and affectionate messages in between like him telling you that he loves you after greeting you good morning.

He's very considerate of your feelings, always taking it into account before he does something. He's the type to message you and update you on what he's doing, telling and informing you if ever he'll become busy so that you won't wonder why he is not replying to you quickly or answering any of your calls.

© azullumi — do not plagiarize, copy, repost, nor translate any of my works.

[niiine]

𝐒𝐋𝐎𝐖 𝐁𝐔𝐑𝐍

Character(s). Wanderer (Scaramouche)

Synopsis. Wanderer's voice lines (omg talk about redundancy) as your slow burn love story.

Fluff, comfort, CLICHE! CLICHE! CLICHE!

Mentions of Scara being taller than the reader. F! reader (because this is safer. I keep messing up gn reader fics because I always put her or any fem pronouns.)

Surely you don't expect me to proofread, right?

Not all of his voice lines are included, only the few where I can write something I enjoy BUT STILL WHY IS THIS SO LONG? Might do Xiao next but idk.

Babygirl Xiao ver.

NAMES

The first time you met was when lesser Lord Kusanali introduced you to the wanderer as his temporary companion. Something the latter deemed unnecessary as he will be staying under the Dendro Archon's supervision for a while.

It would be nice to have someone to talk to aside from me. The archon mused before leaving the two of you, saying something about discussing a few things with the traveller.

Your eyes travelled towards the lad in front of you, slender figure towering over yours. And his eyes— you couldn't point a finger at the emotions blaring through it, He's scary.

You inquire about his name, trying to start a proper conversation that may make him feel comfortable. But then all he did is stare at you for a good three seconds before clicking his tongue and walks away.

Talk about manners.

A bit irked by his actions, you followed through his steps before yanking his sleeves, "I asked what's your name"

The irritation in your voice and your bold actions amused the lad, if Kusanali thinks it's a good thing to have another companion, then surely she'll not complain if he enjoys himself a little, right?

"I've gone by many names throughout my life—" you noticed how he paused, and a flash of misery waved in his indigo orbs "But you can call me anything you want. Just don't disappoint me by your choices"

It took you days to decide, until you learned from the traveler that he was referred to as SCARAMOUCHE before things happen.

When you told the lad that it is what you plan on addressing him as, he refused right away. But your words struck something in him and somehow, he's glad it is what you've decided to.

"You've had so many unwanted things that relates to this name, and I want to turn it around."

SMALL TALKS

He always looks at you with bored eyes and crossed arms before turning his back at your every attempt to spark little chat.

And when I say every time, it means every time. Your first few days accompanying the lad were just awkward with him denying you any form of conversation.

But don't get me wrong, as much frustration it gave you, the wanderer is enjoying it. How your nose scrunch up, vivid annoyance, etc. He's loving how much entertainment you're giving him.

You've caught up to this, you really do. But you just want to feel the satisfaction of making him talk. Besides, how are you gonna comply to your archon's wishes if you can't talk to him?

That is until you stumbled unto the man in question sleeping. His face drawn in between fear and resentment as his chest heaved heavily, a drop of tears adorns his visage— A nightmare.

You shake the man awake, saving him from further heartbreak the dreamland is serving him.

And when he opened his eyes to look at you—archon's, when he looked at you. The steel emotions are gone, it doesn't looks like he's intimidating or anything alike.

To you, Scaramouche looks like a love deprived child.

His eyes flashed pain and exhaustion boring holes onto yours before he regained composure, the usual wanderer now back.

Yet you noticed how his hands still tremble, so you took it in yours, him wincing in the process. "What are your doing?"

"I don't know, but I'm here" you really don't, yet as he laid his head on your shoulders, shushing you as he do so, you know you're doing something good.

"Don't speak. It's aggravating when you try not to be awkward with silence"

ATTACHMENTS

If he weren't so pretty, you might have bruised his face by now.

Three months have passed after your fated interaction with the wanderer. And in such time, your patience isn't getting any longer.

"What? Gonna cry to Mama Kusanali now and ask to take you away from the meanie?" Scaramouche taunted you, just like yesterday, and the day before, and so on. "Such a crybaby, this is why you've got no lover still"

"Hah?! As if you have one! You're so tactless people will scurry away even before you speak" you spat back, missing the way he flinched at the thought.

"Heh? You think I've got a sharp tongue? I just tell things the way I see it. Isn't your problem that you're too sensitive?"

You end up arguing more, of course. But much to your amusement, and unusual worry, the lad toned down his insults for the following days.

You tried to confront him and his poor attempt at being friendly, but it's Scaramouche we're talking about. There's no way in hell he'll let you have what you want.

"Fine, fine. If you don't want to tell me, then don't" you notice how his face contorts into that of his when he's about to insult you, but then he holds it back.

You're not sure where you'll be shocked at. The way he controls his mouth, or his next choice of words—

"Since—since Buer brought you hear, you will not leave me right away even if I'm a bit tactless—right? "

I'M HERE

You watch his eyes narrow at the painful memory as he recalls what his creator did to him. Scara barely talks, and you appreciate the small moments he decides to tell stories about him self.

But when hurt become evident in his indigo orbs, you feel guilty for asking the wanderer.

He probably guessed your thoughts, flicking your forehead and muttering "I don't need pity, dumbass" before hiding his emotions once again.

"I don't pity you, idiot—" you started, gaining his attention. "You're kind. The world did things that made you mean though" he rolled his eyes at your words, ready to say something but you beat him to it

"But I admire you. You're strong. You've been wronged so many times and yet you're still willing to atone"

Your companion looks at you with confusion adorning his pretty face, words long died down in his throat so you decided to speak more.

"They may leave you, but I won't. If there will be a time that the strong you needs someone to wipe your tears, "

You took his gentle digits into yours, on usual occasion, he may have slap it away, but something tells him not to.

"I'm here. I will be here. " and with that, you have his eternal, undying loyalty.

SPECIAL TREATMENT

"Buer told you to bring an umbrella, didn't she?" you pursed your lips at his words. Your archon did remind you about bringing the said item, but then the sun was all high and mighty earlier today that you decided to neglect her words.

"Yes, but it doesn't look like it's gonna rain today!" you huffed, surely he wouldn't be that drenched if you two share his hat, right?

"But it did. So now, suffer"

Annoyed at the lad, and by the fact that he's right, you proceeds to stomp your feet away from the shed the two of you are currently residing, determined to get back to the city before the downpour comes heavy.

The wanderer watch as you angrily walked away from his direction. His idea of staying a little longer outside with you now in the dumps because your stubborn ass can't get a hint.

Sighing, he unleashes his elemental skill and hover towards you.

You met his indigo eyes, annoyance still vivid in yours. "You act like a five year old sometimes"

His words, as usual, irked you. but then the irritation quickly dissipates when he put his hat on your head and gestures you to climb up his back as he kneeled.

"We don't have the whole day dumbass"

You comfortably settled on his back while he secure your knees.

The journey back to the city was silent until you speak, and archons, the wanderer is grateful that his face is hidden from your sight.

"You smell nice"

CONFESSIONS

"Just do it"

You hesitantly placed your palms on his before he maneuvered your body and carried you princess style.

"Scara not too high!" you warned as he gives you a soft chuckle and called you a scaredy cat.

"Look" you heard him say, gesturing towards the scenery the night of Sumeru City can offer. To say that it was breathtaking was an understatement— the image before you is enchanting.

The flickering lights of the busy streets adorned the darkened city, and the stars above aren't taking any competition into account. The air up high is cold, considering the altitude, but something keeps you warm.

Scaramouche.

"It's beautiful"

The wanderer's gaze flicks towards you and saw how in awe you are at the view. He wonders, will you ever look at him the same way? he'll never know.

"Of course it is." he huffed, proud that he get to show you such a wonderful view. He almost dropped you, though, when you voiced out another thought of you.

"Do you consider me as pretty as this?"

one... two... three seconds and you brushed it off with a laugh. His silence is enough proof that once again, you sound so stupid.

"Kidding. idiot."

You thought that the discussion is over, but then when you were about to wave him good bye for the day, you felt a small tug at your sleeves.

You turned around to see a flustered wanderer, his eyes avoiding yours. "There's only one similarity between you and this city,"

He began, not entirely sure of whether to continue his little speech or not.

"I'm in peace."

Your heart flutters at his words. Maybe he feels the same way about you, maybe he doesn't. But he's an immortal, and you have a lifetime.

[ryutaria]

Tears and Hearts

Synopsis: With Al Haitham by (Y/N)'s side, she would never have to navigate parenthood all alone...Not when his daughter loved his comfort...

Word Count: 3.5k+

Tags: alhaitham x f! reader, comfort, postpartum depression, sfw, Acting Grand Sage Al Haitham, married life, domestic comfort, a teeny tiny CyoNari, father! Al Haitham, parenthood.

A/N: Comfort because we need it.

A prevalent serenity prevailed over the city as the stars twinkled in the distant skies, faint balls of luminance enchanting to the onlookers' eyes. Darkness had engulfed the world just a few hours ago: rendering the mortal beings to seek solace in the street lamps and artificial mechanisms of luminance invented by the research scholars a long time ago. However, as the sands of the hourglass trickled down the ampule, the city dwellers began to retire to their own residences rendering the streets isolated albeit a few birds who could only hoot freely when the world was at peace yet again.

This was only a natural routine for the world, the moon chased the sun yet they never met unless the eclipse aligned them. However, (Y/N) found her calmness in these small things. The little things in everyday life that are taken for granted by so many... and appreciated by only a few. These things seldom mattered for researchers and scholars of the Akademiya, but as a decorated Professor of Rtawahist Darshan, (Y/N) understood the difference between living and surviving... existence. Moving away from the windowsill of her husband's study, her eyes trailed towards the clock on the mantelpiece: a pretty little vintage clock in the form of an hourglass.

12:17 - read the clock.

(Y/N) smiled as she remembered Kaveh who had gifted it on her second anniversary

"It's so pretty Kaveh!" (Y/N0 exclaimed as she hugged the piece closer to her heart much to the dismay of her husband.

"I got it from one of my expeditions in the desert you know. It -"

"It's just a time tracker (Y/N)." And there goes her husband, the ever logical and very rational Al Haitham as he huffed at Kaveh.

And that was the beginning of another teenage quarrel between the two and she couldn't help but giggle. Time sure flied... Here she was now: Married to Al Haitham for five years as she wore the Nagadus emerald studded platinum loop proudly on her ring finger. Recently there had been another addition to their household, a miniature Al Haitham although a girl child who had turned two months old just a week ago. Another reason why she couldn't resume her scholarly duties yet for the newborn needed attention and care and even when Al Haitham had insisted to help she had told him not to worry for (Y/N) was confident she could handle their little one alone.

"But aşkım I could help" Al Haitham said as he tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear tracing her cheek.

"I'll be fine 'Haitham..." (Y/N) called endearingly as she slowly engulfed his larger hands in her much smaller ones.

However, little by little, all the chores were making her stressed and anxious, the post partum depression in full effect. (Y/N) had been a good mother of course but all the tiredness of household chores and looking after the newborn who wouldn't calm down unless Al Haitham held her was making her all the more agitated. If he was busy or not available she would have to resort to talking to her about Al Haitham's adventures and past shenanigans. Another reason why she was awake in the dead of the night when all the citizens of Sumeru had hit the hay for the day...

The postpartum depression only further added onto her stress for her hormones wouldn't remain stable no matter how much she tried. (Y/N) had asked Tighnari for the medicinal herbs to control them of course but...

"Only if it's very urgent okay, or I am telling Al Haitham what you've been doing" Tighnari scolded, his ears twitching in frustration as he thrusted the herbs in her hand. "They're harmful in the long run you know" he added, concern clear in his eyes.

"Thank you 'Nari... I'll tell him eventually..."

"You said that last time too" Cyno peeked up behind Tighnari, bed hair and a cup of coffee in his hand. This made (Y/N)'s and Tighnari's eyes widen as he quickly turned away from his lover to glare at (Y/N).

"You were WHAT?!" And (Y/N) giggled awkwardly as she sighed.

"That's it! I'm telling the sage what his wife has been doing behind his back!" Tighnari said marching towards his home before (Y/N) grabbed his arm.

With empty promises and white lies she still managed to convince the Chief Forest Ranger to keep his lips sealed, glaring at Cyno when he wasn't looking. The Mahamatra who had been quietly observing the exchange from behind lover slowly giggled as he started to move inside before-

"Only THIS time! You hear me? And WHERE DO YOU THINK YOU ARE GOING HUH? YOU DARE GIVE OFF HERBS JUST BECAUSE I TAUGHT YOU ?!" and Cyno was quick to retreat inside the house with Tighnari hot on his heels.

And (Y/N) was sighed in relief as she made her way towards her home praying to the Archons that her daughter would still be asleep at Nilou's.

However, she wouldn't tell this to Al Haitham for (Y/N) knew how taxing his life had recently become. What with the overthrowing of Azar, the restoration of Lesser Lord Kusanali and Al Haitham being promoted to the rank of Acting Grand Sage was already hectic enough for him. Nilou was only aware how many evenings, (Y/N) had broken down and cried on her visits to the Haitham household.

"Just tell him (Y/N), it would be much better that way " the red-head consoled (Y/N) as she stroked her hair to comfort her.

(Y/N) pulled away a little as she shook her head in the negative, wiping away her tears as she hiccupped a little.

"Can't" she chocked. "Can't add onto his stress Nilou" and she broke down again as her friend hugged her again - closely as her shoulders shook with her hiccups. "Don't...wanna...be...burdensome"

And Nilou felt defeated. Only then she wished that her dearest friend would break down in front Al Haitham just so he could know what she was going through. Al Haitham needed to know this no matter how carefully (Y/N) hid the stress behind her eyes.

She slowly made her way to the nursery to find her daughter asleep and she sighed in relief. Maybe she wouldn't need the herbs anymore, after all she had run out of supplies just a day ago. The little emerald on her daughter's chest glimmered in the moonlight as she breathed in peace and that was enough solace for (Y/N), unaware of the turmoil that was waiting to erupt again.

Al Haitham had come home just two hours ago, his voice devoid of any life as he greeted her and she knew that the Acting Grand Sage was tired. She took the off-coat off his tired shoulders as he slowly entered the kitchen for she insisted him not to go to bed on an empty stomach.

"It's not healthy 'Haitham..." she had called as she kissed his cheek lovingly. Nevertheless, she felt a little guilty on the inside, for what she was doing wasn't healthy either..."Just a little, yeah?" and he had leaned further into her touch as he nuzzled his nose in her palm.

"Only if you feed me, aşkım..." and she smiled as he told her how tiring it was to be the Grand Sage.

"Acting Grand Sage" he had corrected (Y/N) and she laughed as she fed him another bite of the meat stew. And then he had retired to bed, too tired to turn off the lamps and she had sighed before kissing him 'Good Night' as she put out the light.

(Y/N) had just gotten done with all the chores: the laundry, the dishes - a little crying as she hurried off to feed their daughter- putting out clothes in the backyard for she had faith they would be dry by the morning (It had been a little windy all day),dusting through Al Haitham's study: a weekend ritual for it was Friday. After admiring the night view from the window in her husband's study she had walked to the nursery to make sure her daughter was still asleep, sighing in relief for she still was... breathing in calmness with her (E/C) eyes closed and her ashen-hair splayed across the cot.

And now that (Y/N) was thinking of a warm bath to wash off the sweat and dust from her body, her eyes widened as they darted to the cot. Her daughter had stirred awake, throwing another teary tantrum as she quickly reached for her daughter in the cot for she knew Al Haitham was a light sleeper and she wouldn't wish to disturb his peace.

Taking the child in her arms, (Y/N) gently cooed at her, cradling her by the window as she pointed at the stars and moons and little trinkets in the nursery. And slowly (Y/N) started narrating the incident when Al Haitham had forgotten his keys at her home.

"Uncle Kaveh hadn't come home and your father had to sit at the - Aww sweetie, no~~"

The wailing started again as the child's eyes teared up and (Y/N) rocked her a little in her arms praying to the Archons for her to quieten down. And before she knew tears started pricking her own eyes...

Al Haitham could hear the little noises in his household, washing away his sleep as he yawned. Turning to his left he frowned when he was greeted by the cold pillows. "(Y/N)?" he called getting up to sit as he yawned and stretched his arms. Turquoise eyes followed the window and he realized that it was the middle of the night. He could see a faint glow in their bedroom and he realized that (Y/N) must be in the nursery.

The ashen-haired male sighed yet again as he got down from the bed. It had now become a nightly routine for him to wake up in the middle of the night to find (Y/N) in the nursery and when he had asked why she hadn't been sleeping early enough she would lie through her teeth and he frowned again for he didn't know why.

"What do you mean? I just woke up 'Haitham" she had told him a few days ago and Al Haitham could clearly see her lying. When on further coaxing (Y/N) repeated the same thing, he left the topic for he didn't want to agitate the young mother any further, their daughter asleep in his arms. He could see how tired she looked and he wondered if (Y/N) had been taking care of her basic needs. Dark circles decorated (Y/N)'s face as she leaned on the windowsill, her body looking frail and he knew she had lost weight, the stress piling up on her. Skipped lunches and late night dinners proof enough for him.

Al Haitham didn't want to coax out a confession for he had already been warned about postpartum depression and thought that she would eventually talk to him...at her own pace...

Nevertheless, here he was yet again awake by the small noises of his crying daughter and he followed into the nursery. However the sight that greeted him was all the confession he needed.

Tears streamed down (Y/N)'s face as she sobbed and hiccupped while cradling the newborn, occasionally wiping her eyes as she cradled and pleaded to their daughter.

"Please sweetie...j-just th-this time please..." she begged as she rocked the infant further, a choked sob flying past her lips.

Al Haitham's eyes widened as he hurried towards his family, taking his daughter in his right arm as he held (Y/N) close to his chest with his left, a zephyr passing by as his daughter and wife cried into his arms and chest. Slowly he rocked their daughter in the stillness of the night, (Y/N)'s chocked sobs echoing through the household as his stroked her hair gently.

Soon enough, the baby was asleep in her father's arms and gently Al Haitham placed her in the cot before taking (Y/N) in his arms as fresh tears flooded her vision yet again

"H-'Haitham..." she whispered as she cried into his arms, pushing her face further into his chest.

"I know aşkım... I know" he placed a kiss on her forehead as his fingers stroked through her (H/C) tresses. Sighing and thanking the Archons that his wife had finally broken down or else she would have never let him know how stressful this was becoming for her.

(Y/N) sobbed quietly all the while Al Haitham held her and when she whispered a small 'I'm sorry', the male frowned as he slowly coaxed her to him.

"I-I couldn't calm h-her and...you wok-"

"No (Y/N)..." He cooed as he held her cheeks, kissing her forehead in reassurance yet again. (Y/N) still sobbed feeling guilty, regret clear in her (E/C) orbs and he hated seeing her tears.

"I knew all along..." and when her eyes widened he told her all about the small nursery he had custom made near his office just so they could be together while he worked at the Akademiya.

"I was the 'Gem of Haravatat' (Y/N), didn't you think I'd notice?" he said as he wiped her tears away with gentle touches. "Semiotics has a lingering psychology to it too... I was just waiting for you to come in terms with your emotions..." and she sighed into his arms yet again, leaning onto his chest as he continued to tell her how he would be on leave for the next few days and when he resumed his duties he would be taking them along to the Akademiya, the arrangements for them customized by Faruzan herself for she was too tired of Nilou complaining to her about his wife's trauma and stubbornness all the time she went to the Grand Bazaar.

And (Y/N) wondered how all the love in her heart was never enough for her husband.

Kissing his daughter for the last time that night, he walked out of the nursery, (Y/N) fast asleep against his chest as he carried her to their room for a good night's rest.

He smiled as he tucked her in before slipping under sheets as he held (Y/N) in his arms that night after a long time. And Al Haitham's world was at peace yet again... The whispers of the winds were the last things he heard before he drifted to a peaceful sleep, his aşkım in his arms.

@teapartyspilled

[thatonejes]

The books in genshin or something like that…. (I wanted to print the books for myself and redrew the covers so enjoy!)

[viviennevermillion]

Bonfire Heart

notes: this one has been requested by @artistlara as part of my 3k followers event! sorry this took so long!

prompt: and I've been looking at the stars for a long, long time, I've been putting out fires all my life, everybody wants a flame, they don't want to get burned and today is our turn; days like these lead to nights like this lead to love like ours; you light the spark in my bonfire heart

song: bonfire heart [james blunt]

contains: dottore x gn!reader, use of what is presumably Dottore's real name

warnings: none

The exiled scholar hardly believed most of the village keepers remembered how they had crossed the boundaries of science in their previous lives. Stripped of their identity, as well as the ability to think straight, he wondered if they even could be bothered to care about their punishment by the Akademiya. He, however, was different. Many would have argued he too was insane. That he had gone mad. However, unlike the village keepers of Aaru Village; he was perfectly aware of his surroundings, of everything he had done and was still doing. Their reaction to his progress in science had been anything but desirable. He was offended.

But most of the time, he had no time to waste on these thoughts. Convinced, that letting him loose on a peaceful village would only bring the Akademiya more trouble, they had simply tossed him to the desert outside of Caravan Ribat to fend for himself. Why they hadn't killed him then and there was still a mystery to him.

The desert was harsh. Survival was almost impossible for someone who had no idea where they were headed and no resources to bring with them. That's why he had found himself wandering through the endless wasteland of sand with no water in sight after just a couple of days. His knowledge of science proved to be useless without the proper resources to apply it to. The scholar fell over, the ruthless sun in the sky blinding him as his eyelids fluttered shut. Sand was caught in his teal hair. If he wouldn't die of thirst, the sun would surely burn him alive. Or at least that was what it had felt like at the time.

And then there was you. You were like an angel; a savior sent from Celestia, completely unaware that he was a man who could never be saved. He greedily swallowed the water you poured into his dry mouth, only half-aware of what was happening. Your voice was ringing in his ears but it was the kindest sound he had heard in an eternity. "Did they just leave you out here? Come on, let's get you home."

Was he dead?

No. When he awoke he was in Aaru Village, safely resting in your quarters. He almost let out a chuckle at how you seemed to pity him. As far as you were concerned, he was just like the other mad scholars, exiled after coming in contact with forbidden knowledge and hardly lucid. Over the course of just a couple of days he learnt about your name, how you lived and the people you knew. As much as he cringed at the idea, playing along with the mad scholar act was, for now, the best option for him. The Akademiya exiling someone completely conscious to the desert was rare and mostly unheard of, since most cases didn't survive for very long. It would raise a lot of unwanted questions.

And so he put up with your countless antics. You provided him with food, clothing and a place to stay and would always talk to him, claiming that talking to the mad scholars might help them a little and make sure that they don't feel alone. Baseless theories, he mused. Yet, he found himself giving the idea an amused smile when you weren't looking.

Basic care turned into you spending more time with him. You took him to see the stars at night, explaining the constellations to him even though he knew them all by heart and never responded anyway. You'd take him to see the street musicians at the village during sunsets and told him about your life. It's not like he could tell your secrets to anyone. Or at least you thought so. He saw no point in doing it either.

On most days, he was bored. So he might as well listen to what you had to say. But with time, he found himself more and more infatuated with you. Sure, you didn't know who he was or what he had done and you were simply giving him hospitality, but never had anyone treated him with such kindness and gentleness. Of course it was all based on a lie but he found himself craving your attention and care. He missed you when you were gone to do your work, your absence made his days seem dull. At the time he had convinced himself that it was simply because he had nothing else to do. In his heart, he knew this wasn't true.

When you thought he was sick and had put your hand on his forehead to check for his temperature, then cupping his cheeks gently to look into his eyes; your touch was a burning sensation to him, yet he wished you would never let go of him.

Something about your presence made him feel more human. Made him feel like for the first time in his life there was a place he belonged and it was by your side. All of his interactions with others had been based on either research or trying to hide his true self from them. Trying to keep his little world from escalating and falling apart, for if he allowed for mistakes it would inevitably lead to ruin. It would lead to him being exiled from his village and from the Akademiya. But it had also led him to you.

You, who was unaware of the monster he truly was, who had welcomed him into your home. You, who treated him as a friend without asking for anything in return. It was too cruel to both you and himself to keep up the illusion.

What he didn't expect was the chuckle you let out when he revealed to you that he was in fact not a mad scholar. "Yeah, I've known for a while now", you smirked at him, "I came home from work to pick up something I had forgotten and I saw you picking out a book from my shelf, reading the titles aloud and starting to read in one of them. I knew then you were fully aware of everything around you. But I gotta say, you're pretty starved for affection, aren't you?"

You remembered how he had leaned into your touch when you held his face in your hands and now you were teasing him about it. But all was forgiven when your hands reached for his face again, your fingertips gently caressing his cheek. "So...would you finally like to tell me your name?"

"Zandik. My name is Zandik."

A couple of centuries had passed since then. The Doctor smiled to himself, reminiscing about those times. You really had caught on pretty early and seen right through him.

"What's got you smiling like that? Successful experiment?", you entered his lab, pulling him into your arms before placing a soft kiss to your lover's lips. He wrapped his arms around you, kissing back tenderly. "I just remembered how we met", he told you between kisses, grateful for the love you had given him. You still looked at him with the same adoring expression you had back then. You still loved him, despite everything he represented.

"I love you", you whispered against his lips before closing the distance between the two of you again, kissing him passionately. His lips tasted like the strawberries you had one of the segments bring to his lab earlier, to ensure that he was eating something.

"I love you too, my dearest. I feel like I don't tell you enough....but I would give you the world", with you he was so uncharacteristically gentle and caring that most of his assistants wouldn't believe their eyes if they were to see the Doctor hold you like this, "I will. I'll give you the entirety of Teyvat."

He sealed his promise with a deep kiss, pouring all his love for you into it. "You're all I need", you squeezed his hand, running your thumb over his wedding ring.