#'someday both of us are leaving here... but for now i'll just bring the sea to you...' 🥺

[chrisbangs]

😞 everything goes on reminds me of chan so much like... it's such a chan coded song like 😓 it has so much softness and love in it but it's such a hopeful and almost sad song at the same time... idk 😓 it's just so... soulmates.. star crossed lovers... etc etc

[ourocorvus]

Someday both of us are leaving here But for now, I'll just bring to the sea to you

[hm-nr]

Don't try to make yourself remember, darling

Don't look for me, I'm just a story you've been told

So let's pretend a little longer

'Cause when we're gone

Everything goes on

Well, you were staring at the window

And I said, "I wanna take you to the sea"

And when I'm better, we'll do everything

I gotta stop making promises I can't keep

But if I was gone tomorrow, won't the waves crash on?

Is it selfish that I'm happy as we pass the setting sun?

Someday I'll be overcast, but you won't have to cry

'Cause we'll do the grieving while I'm by your side

I said

Don't try to make yourself remember, darling

Don't look for me, I'm just a story you've been told

So let's pretend a little longer

'Cause when we're gone

Everything goes on

And I'm so scared of getting used to this

All the vines that keep you tethered in your room

Someday both of us are leaving here

But for now, I'll just bring to the sea to you, ooh

When you meet me in the daylight like we did before

Then I felt you on my shoulder, and you weren't suffering anymore

You said, "I'm sorry that you worry, but don't apologize"

I told you to forget me, but you stayed by my side

When I said

Don't try to make yourself remember, darling

Don't look for me, I'm just a story you've been told

So let's pretend a little longer

And when we're gone, ah

Everything goes on

[afterthefallnoendings]

Everything Goes On

Well, you were staring at the window And I said, "I wanna take you to the sea" And when I'm better, we'll do everything I gotta stop making promises I can't keep

But if I was gone tomorrow won't the waves crash on? Is it selfish that I'm happy as we pass the setting sun? Someday I'll be overcast but you won't have to cry 'Cause we'll do the grieving while I'm by your side

And I'm so scared of getting used to this All the vines that keep you tethered in your room Someday both of us are leaving here But for now, I'll just bring to the sea to you

When you meet me in the daylight like we did before Then I felt you on my shoulder, and you weren't suffering anymore You said "I'm sorry that you worry, but don't apologize" I told you to forget me but you stayed by my side

When I said

Don't try to make yourself remember, darling~ Don't look for me, I'm just a story you've been told So let's pretend a little longer 'Cause when we're gone Everything goes on

Everything Goes On - Porter Robinson

[stellarhistoria]

because my songs are my life rn and I want people to know what my life has been the past while:

Orlain Orthos: Middle Finger - Bohnes

you show me love and then spit in my face making your money off all of my pain you put an eagle inside of a cage and you think i'm not strong enough to escape

Luka Cytos: Rule #23 Birds of a Feather - Momento Mori

We would charge as a pack, you could never hold us back We are fierce and grew with each battle, it etched inside our veins The hardships we've gained, we've become a myth unraveled

Aryin Cytos: Rule #1 Magic - Momento Mori

I believe in all of you I believe that we can make this Into lo-o-ove, some call it lo-o-ove, lo-o-ove Pass it along, pass it along I'm just the messenger giving a wake up call Pass it along, pass it along I wanna speak to your soul, this is the conversation starter

Darius Libra: The Curse of the Fold - Shawn James

Although you may feel like giving up, It's not the only road The path less often traveled Holds the highest, the highest of hopes

Kairos Serif: Everything Goes On (Acoustic) - kameko

So let's pretend for a little longer Cause when we're gone, everything goes on And I'm so scared of getting used to this All the vines that keep you tethered in your room Someday both of us are leaving here But for now, I'll just bring the sea to you, ooh

[so-so-oboro]

"Cuz when you're gone, everything goes on."~Oboro x GN! Reader

Summary: Moving on from grief

A/N: Ok first off, this made me cry SO HARD!! I LOVE THIS MAN! Also, sorry it takes me a while to get these out! Also this is my first music fic I guess? And once again, spoilers for Vigilantes

Don't try to make yourself remember, darling

Don't look for me, I'm just a story you've been told

You smile as you yell out Oboro's name, catching his attention. He turns, smiling as he sees you running up to him. You hug him tightly while the two of you laugh. "You trying to go to school without me?" You tease. "Of course not, Y/N!" He replies with his bright warm smile before the two of you continued to school.

So let's pretend a little longer

'Cause when we're gone, everything goes on

You two take your seats and chat away as class hasn't started yet. After a moment, Hizashi and Shota joined you two. You two talked about random stuff like homework, what to do after school, cats, etc. Shortly after, the bell rings and everyone takes their seat as class begins.

Well, you were staring at the window

And I said,

In the middle of class, a paper airplane lands onto your desk. You glance over at Oboro with a knowing smirk who was pretending he didn't do anything. You opened it up and it read, "I wanna take you to the sea." You silently giggle and then meet his gaze, giving him a small nod.

And when I'm better, we'll do everything"

I gotta stop makin' promises I can't keep

Homeroom finally rolls around and while some of the students stayed behind, others like you, Oboro, Shota, and Hizashi headed out to your internships. You happily chat away with Oboro and Shota as you three make your way to the agency you were interning with. Hizashi went his separate way because he was chosen by a different one.

But if I was gone tomorrow, won't the waves crash on?

Is it selfish that I'm happy as we pass the setting sun?

While you three were out on patrol, you run into a small class of preschool kids and their teacher out and about. The kids all cheered and got happy as they ran over to you three, shouting "Heroes!! Cool heroes!" Over and over, making you chuckle. They were so cute!

Someday I'll be overcast, but you won't have to cry

'Cause we'll do the grieving while I'm by your side, I said

As you said goodbye, a loud crash is heard and a gigantic villain had crashed through some houses and buildings. You three quickly go to help evacuate the kids and their teacher.

"Don't try to make yourself remember, darling

Don't look for me, I'm just a story you've been told"

So let's pretend a little longer

That's when the villain caused a giant nearby building to start crumbling down. Oboro acted quickly. "Cloud!" He shouted as he spawned a blue cloud over the kids and teacher to protect them from the falling debris, causing it to bounce off.

'Cause when we're gone, everything goes on

Before you knew it, you and Shota had looked over at the boy just to see a large piece of debris crash down and hit his head, causing him to fall down. Tears and horror filled your eyes as you and Shota watched your friend and boyfriend get buried underneath the debris. "SHIRAKUMO!!!!" You both scream, feeling a pain in your chest.

And I'm so scared of getting used to this

All the vines that keep you tethered in your room

Aizawa was fighting the villain, telling himself that he had to be rational, listening to the voice of his friend cheering him on. While you had ran over to the pile, crying and screaming his name as you try to unbury him but the debris was too heavy for you.

Well, someday both of us are leaving here

But for now, I'll just bring the sea to you, oh

A wave of rationality washes over you as you realize that the students and teacher were still here. So you glance at the pile before running over to them and continued to evacuate them. Oboro would get them to safety! So I will do that too! You thought, hearing your boyfriend's voice guiding you.

Will you meet me in the daylight like we did before?

Then I felt you on my shoulder and you weren't suffering anymore

After everything was taken care of and Shota took down the villain, the rain started to patter down, starting as a sprinkle. You see Hizashi and Nemuri had arrived. Her back was turned to you while Hizashi seemed to look down at Oboro's busted speaker. "What's the matter, Hizashi?" You ask as he doesn't respond. You look over to where your boyfriend laid, the heartbreak and sorrow returning as you saw a white sheet covering him. You could barely even register what Nemuri had been saying. "You three should come inside. You'll catch a cold."

"Thanks," Hizashi replies. "But the rain kinda fits our vibe right now.."

You said

it'd been a year since his passing. You stood in front of the gravestone where Oboro was laid to rest. You didn't get to go to the sea with him now. "I'm sorry that you worried," You mutter as tears started to fall down your face again. It was almost like you could feel your boyfriend hugging you from behind.

but don't apologize

I told you to forget me, but you stayed by my side when I said

"Don't try to make yourself remember, darling

Don't look for me, I'm just a story you've been told" It was almost like you could hear him say, causing you to try and wipe your tears away.

So let's pretend a little longer

And when we're gone, oh

"Everything goes on."

[stelliyue-cafe]

╰┄┄┄┄┄┄┄┄┄┄┄┄┄┄╮

꒰🕰꒱ [ 𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞 ] I'm the Words and You're the Tune

꒰📦꒱ [ 𝐒𝐲𝐧𝐨𝐩𝐬𝐢𝐬 ] Genshin Men as Songs on my Spotify Repeat

꒰☕️꒱ [ 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫/𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 ] Zhongli / Venti / Diluc x GN! Reader (separately)

꒰📔꒱ [ 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 ] ANGST ; HURT/NO COMFORT ; modern-ish AU; slight canon compliance ; long post ; barely proofread tbh ; implied mc death for Zhongli and Venti's stories

꒰🌟꒱ [ 𝐌𝐞𝐢’𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 ] These honestly could’ve been their own separate posts, but too lazy to change it now XD ALSO, MORE GENSHIN CONTENT??? Enjoy my ramblings!! If you want more to this series, uh… let me know! Before you ask, yes I'm okay XD

ALSO!!! Please have your age somewhere visible, like your bio or pinned post or on your "about me" page. If I don't see your age, I'll just assume that you're a minor and WILL block on sight. Thank you!!

My Heart Is Buried In Venice - Ricky Montgomery

Zhongli’s heart is buried in the sands of the beach just off the side of Guili Plains.

The burdens of being an Archon took a toll on him, and with Zhongli being the oldest, that's a lot of trauma and baggage for one person to hold. Yet when he tells you the tales of his past, you smile.

“Yes you've done things that you now regret, but we're in the present. Times change and so do people. You are no exception.”

You knew that your time was limited. You tried to suppress the coughing, constant nausea, and fevers. Despite that, you always made time for him. Going to the beach was something you would do to pass time and relax. The both of you would walk along the shore, the water hitting your feet. Occasionally, he’d look back at the trail you left, though his footprints remained in the sand. A silly little analogy that reminded him that you would leave him someday, whilst he continued living.

“Come rest next to me, my love. And toss all your thoughts to the sea,” You said, patting the spot in the sand next to you. With you, he wasn’t Rex Lapis. With you, he wasn’t Morax. With you, he was just Zhongli.

You laughed- a sound that was music to his ears. “Let’s get lost in the sea.” There, you could throw away your worries and just be in the moment with him. With each visit, you almost confessed to him but decided against it every single time.

Losing you was something that Zhongli expected to be in the cards he was given. He just didn’t expect it to be so soon. He scoffs, more at himself than at you. How could he not see the signs of your sickness? He would’ve provided funds, anything- everything, to make sure you got better. It was selfish to ask the gods for more time with you, but he'd be lying if he said that he didn't pray for that exact thing to anyone that would listen.

“Why didn't you tell me-”

“Zhongli, please… I don't want our last memory to be of us fighting…”

“I love you,” He blurted.

Zhongli’s heart is buried at a beach just to the side of Guili Plains, waiting for someone to take it home, but that someone is long gone.

Return - Alexander Rybak

Lord Barbatos, Venti- as the world knows him now, experiences the flow of time differently. The days were mere seconds in his life of eternity.

“Don’t go!”

“I have to. Lord Barbatos-

“You’ll die out there!”

“I’ll return to you, I promise,”

“I swear I’ll stay right here, until you return.”

Centuries have passed since then. Forgetting events was inevitable. Forgetting people was inevitable. But Venti could never forget about you. How could he? He made a promise.

You were afraid to ride on Dvalin’s back the first time he offered. But one ride later and you were hooked. The night skies were so inviting when he used to fly with you. The moon and stars shined so bright, but never as bright as you. If he was the moon then you were his sun. His winds carried your laugh and sometimes he swore he could hear it in the echoes. But he’s brought back to the present when he turns to the direction and sees that you’re not there. He doesn’t fly anymore, the excitement it used to bring faded every year without you.

Humans were such fragile things, yet they somehow made most of their existence. You taught him how to appreciate mundane things. So when he found himself enjoying the little things in life, he wondered if you would find joy in them as well. The curse of being the Anemo Archon. The wind was always with him, but the wind always reminded him of you.

It’s way past midnight and he should be sleeping, but he aimlessly roams the empty streets of Mondstadt. He looks up in the night sky, the moon shining so brightly.

“Where could you be?” He whispered, the wind carrying his words.

He ends up at the Statue of the Seven, the one under the tree where you left him. The same tree that he promised he'd stay at until you returned. Looking up at the stars, he cries because he's reminded of just how much he misses you.

Breakfast in the Park - Scotty Sire

Being with Diluc was a dream. Both of you, being 19, so young. ‘Too young to fall in love,’ Diluc thought, but he fell in love anyways.

With his dad six feet under, and his brother doing gods-knows-what, his life was lonely. It was difficult to adjust to living by himself, but he got the hang of it. Loneliness became a friend rather than a burden. And that’s when you came into his life. Constantly bumping into each other in the library, seeing each other during passing, you had finally asked him to go out for some coffee. After months of hanging out with each other, he finally opened up to you. You listened to him talk about his past, his present, and his goals for the future. And in turn, he listened to yours.

You had started dating in your last year of university. One day, during one of your study sessions, you had shifted the subject to your personal lives- more specifically, the romantic aspect. “Then… let’s be lonely together.” You said, playing it off as a joke just in case he didn’t reciprocate your feelings. “Sure.” He replied.

Being in a relationship with you was different- a good different! Diluc didn’t have to do all the house things by himself anymore. He had you and that made the weight of the world on his shoulders feel a little lighter. In the beginning, things felt perfect. Walking each other to and from class, getting meals together. You know, your typical “honeymoon phase”.

After graduating, Diluc had started his own business and it was a huge success. Moving in together was another big step in your relationship, but despite that, you saw him less and less. “I’ll make it up to you, I promise,” was his excuse, every time. You were both 28 now, and the loneliness you felt all those years ago was starting to creep up on you. You broke things off, just a little past your anniversary, and Diluc took the break up pretty well. It was mutual so no hard feelings there.

You moved away, and he stayed- simple as that. 5 years had passed and moving back to Mondstadt wasn’t something you planned on doing, but alas, there you were, moving into the place your grandparents had left you in their will before they died. You smiled, the cool breeze passing through as you walked the streets that held so many memories of your university days.

Just when you thought that you could completely forget about Diluc, the thought of him randomly pops up. You’d pass by Angel’s Share but never enter it. Anxiety bubbled in your stomach every time you tried. Was he still there? Would he remember you? Or would you just be another patron? After days of procrastinating, you settled to just calling him. When he saw your name pop up on the screen, he picked up instantly. “Hello-”

“Breakfast in the park?”

You and Diluc tried- TRIED to make things work again. “Let’s spend forever together.” He muttered against your lips before kissing you. It felt nostalgic, being in his arms again. This time you both were older- no longer young adults who were fresh out of college. You could only nod before kissing him back, running your fingers through his hair. With this fresh start and full hearts, you two made amends. But old habits die hard. Countless nights of you sleeping alone, missed dinner dates, and empty promises. Old problems kept resurfacing and once more you broke up.

This time, it hurt. You were so close to your happy ending with him. So close, yet the happy ending you were desperately chasing after was so far. You stayed far away from him. Drowning yourself in work and your hobbies to ensure that your thoughts wouldn’t drift to the memories of what could’ve- no, should’ve been.

When the feeling passed and your heart healed, you called him. “Breakfast in the park?” You asked.

You walked to your usual meeting spot, a picnic table under a tree. This would be your last time eating breakfast with Diluc, maybe your last time seeing him ever. As the both of you were eating, as friends do when they hang out, you laugh and reminisce about the years that slipped by. Happiness, melancholy, anger, and forgiveness. So many emotions held in one seating, it felt like a fever dream.

“So… you’re leaving again?”

“Yeah…” ‘And I don’t plan on coming back this time.’

“T-To where?”

“Liyue. I got a job offer there. It pays well.”

“Ah… I see. I’ll miss you. Keep in touch.”

“I will.”

And so, all good things must come to an end. When there was nothing left to say, you both packed your things and went your separate ways. You sighed taking in one last look at the picnic table, the park, the buildings of Mondstadt, and lastly, Diluc.

Diluc Ragnvindr; your college best friend turned lover. Now he was just a stranger who knew all your secrets. In the end, maybe you and Diluc weren’t meant to be.

stelliyue-cafe © 2022 | all content and its rights belong to me. please do not modify or repost.

[umnvatra]

take me with you [zhongli]

fem! reader, fluff.

word count: 2.2k words

warning: contains spoilers of 1.1 story quest, "A New Star Approaches".

notes: wanted to post something before Zhongli's banner officially gets released in game! To my fellow travelers who are pulling for him, goodluck. Ad astra abyssosque. May the archons be with you. I haven't written in a long, long time so i apologize if the fic seems rushed or smth shdjdjsjdj

The winds on the harbor are as gentle as ever, brushing his hair lightly as he stood waiting. For some reason as always, he couldn't stop his heart from beating fast in his chest, anticipation eating away at him. It gave him the urge to pace back and forth, but he held himself back. It's been awhile since he's felt an emotion this strong before.

The feeling of awaiting someone's return.

Unconsciously, he held a hand up to his chest, where he could feel his own heart beating wildly. Calm, he thought to himself. Well, he supposes that it couldn't be helped. He missed you so, so much after all.

He knew he could not come with you on your adventures. As much as it pained him to part with you, he had a job at the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor and you had a quest to fulfill. However, on your time away from him, he could not stop feeling anxious, worried, and most of all, melancholic. Your presence was something that he got used to, to the point where going on everyday without you made him feel as if something was amiss with his day.

When the silhouette of The Crux appeared on the distance, he felt his heart beat faster and he finds that he couldn't stop himself from smiling. Finally...

Without thinking, he immediately steps down into the docks of the harbor, awaiting for the ship to set anchor in Liyue.

The sight of you and Paimon's floating figure appears on top of the ship, with Beidou following shortly after. He could see you waving at him enthusiastically from afar, making his smile widen more than it's supposed to. It's silly, of course. How Zhongli himself acted so differently around you.

When the ship drew nearer, it seemed that you couldn't contain your excitement anymore as you immediately climbed the sides of the ship and jumped, your glider spreading its wings as if they were your own. Zhongli couldn't help but chuckle at the surprised exclaim that came out of Beidou and Paimon at your actions, but it didn't seem like you cared. After all, you had your eyes on him. The pixie immediately followed after you dejectedly as the captain couldn't help but break into an exasperated smile.

He came closer to the edge of the dock, spreading his arms out. He already knew your habits. And if so, he knew that at this moment, you wanted him to...

"Catch me!" You shouted, before retracting your glider. As you fell towards him, Zhongli had already readied himself for impact only to catch you on his arms in time. He struggles to regain balance for a little only to have laughter erupt from you both, your arms automatically wrapping around his neck.

After a month, you have finally returned from Inazuma.

"You lovebirds sure missed each other that much, huh?" Beidou teased, stepping out as The Crux anchored. She looked highly amused at you and Zhongli as she made her way towards you both. Zhongli gave her an appreciative smile in return.

"Beidou. Allow me to express my gratitude for escorting [Name] back safely to Liyue," he says, to which the woman playfully rolls her eyes.

"Oh, don't sweat it. Besides, it was fun to bring [Name] aboard the Crux," she says, casting a grin towards you. "She is... a strong spirit. I gotta say, i'm impressed, Zhongli. The electro archon had lifted the Vision Hunt Decree because of [Name] over here."

At that, Zhongli's eyes strayed back towards your face, who now gave him a shy smile. A feeling of pride bloomed in his chest, and he couldn't help but smile warmly down at you. "Indeed, she is."

"Well! I'll be going to get dinner for myself then. I heard that Xiangling will be cooking in Wanmin today. See you two lovebirds," Beidou said. Paimon lets out a sound of dissatisfaction as she places a hand on her stomach.

"Uuuuugh. Paimon is hungry too. I could really really use some food right now," she says, looking towards you for approval. Zhongli sets you down on the ground as you dusted yourself off.

"Right. I'm hungry too," you say before casting a glance at Zhongli. For some reason, you felt shy around him right now. He looked handsome and elegant as ever, and you looked a little disheveled from your trip from Inazuma. Anywho, his beauty is still enough to make you flustered. "Zhongli? Do you want to come with us?"

"Let it be my treat," he says, making you and Paimon look at each other hesitantly. Before any of you can question him, he brings out a wallet that, surprisingly, had mora in them. "I bought mora with me this time."

"Just so you know, i don't have all day," Beidou calls out, catching all three of your attention. You and Paimon look at each other excitedly before nodding.

You intertwine your fingers with Zhongli's, giving it a squeeze. He looks at you then, and couldn't help but notice the new bandages and scratches that were on your body. You smelled like sea salt and the earthy tones of wood, but he did not mind. In his eyes, you still looked as beautiful as ever. Especially when you smile at him so lovingly like that.

"Let's go," you said softly, tugging his arm.

In order to celebrate, Xiangling overdid herself by whipping up a deliciously cooked Adeptus Temptation for you and Zhongli, and Tianshu Meat for Beidou. Paimon gets the to share with you and Zhongli much to her dismay, as she absolutely does not like how both of you dote on each other and feed each other occasionally. The four of you dine together, laughing and conversing with each other with Xiangling constantly popping up to join in on the conversations too. It was quite a strange sight to behold, having the captain of The Crux dine with the consultant of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor and the Traveler who aided in saving Liyue from Osial.

None of you cared though. Especially Zhongli, who was basking in the present, feeding you food and gazing at your face from time to time. Even with you here, his heart trembles with such longing.

When you're finished eating, Beidou ruffles your hair and laughs at the sight of your pout. "Unfortunately, i have to go and tend to some business now." She sighs. "Sport, take good care of yourself. And you too, parlor man. I'll see you two when i see ya," she says, clapping a hand on your shoulder. Both of you bid her goodbye and watch as she disappears amidst the throng of people in the harbor.

Zhongli takes your hand in his and smiles. "Should we go then, my dear? You look like you need some rest."

You flush at the nickname and nod, squeezing his hand again. Paimon sighs quietly behind you, a hand on her head. Oh bother, here you both go again.

And just like that, you all make it back to the guesthouse where Zhongli stayed in. As soon as the door closes behind him, he eyes each of the scars and fresh bandages on your form.

"...And that's Paimon's cue to leave," she says, looking unamused as she fades into trails of constellations. You let out a light laugh at her comment, making the tall gentleman near you relax visibly at the sound. Perhaps you should apologize to Paimon someday for making her the unintentional third wheel on your relationship.

"How was it?" Zhongli asks, clearly referring to Inazuma.

You squeezed his hand, excitement evident in your eyes as a large smile appeared on your face.

"You wouldn't believe it. Inazuma.. it was... crazy," you said.

He leads you towards the couch as you tell him animatedly about your adventures in Inazuma. Raiden, how her rule affected the people in Inazuma, the technology they had, and about a certain vagrant who turned out to be a Fatui harbinger. He carefully combs and unknots your messy hair with his own fingers, listening attentively to your stories. In his mind's eye, he could picture out your journey in trying, and surviving Inazuma. All the piece of history, the emotions of the shogun herself, and the power of the seemingly innocent Harbinger stood so clearly in his head. By the time you were recounting your battle with the fatui, your voice was already slightly hoarse from the amount of talking you've done.

Your adventures always sounded enjoyable and full of wonder to him. With your goal, you are slowly uncovering each and every mystery there was to find in Teyvat. Although you expressed some sadness about the gnosis of the electro archon, Zhongli kisses the crown of your head tenderly, his actions so genuine that it made you relax immediately.

"You've already done the best you could. I am sure the thought counts to Raiden," he says, drawing soothing circles on your palm. You turned towards him with a smile before suddenly enveloping him into a tight hug. He gets taken aback at first, but he slowly relaxes and hugs you back just as tight. He inhales your scent and holds you close, the emotions that he'd been holding off for so many weeks finally spilling over.

"I... missed you," he says into your hair, voice uncharacteristically vulnerable. You chuckle, the vibrations running through his chest and his stomach.

"I missed you too. You have no idea how much i.. couldn't stop thinking about you when i was in Inazuma," you said, your voice becoming low. "When i was trapped in there, i was afraid for a moment. I thought... i couldn't see you anymore. But then i repelled those thoughts away. I told myself that if i fought hard enough, i could see you again for sure."

He squeezes you. That was certainly a terrifying possibility. One that he only realized on his days apart from you. He almost berated himself from letting you go too easily. After all, he knew how dangerous Inazuma was.

But there was no need to worry anymore, as you returned to him safely. Alive. And healthy.

"I wouldn't want to imagine what would happen if you could not come out..." he confesses. At his words, you run your fingers through his hair in hopes of comforting him.

He wouldn't say that he'd let you go so easily again though.

"I would never let that happen. When i faced off with the harbinger, all i had to think about was my brother... and you," You said, making him break out into a smile again. Empowering. Your words always empowered him. No matter how simple.

"Where is your next destination?" He found himself asking, even though he already had an idea.

You break away from the hug, staring at his intense amber ones.

"I have to go to Sumeru next before the fatui can stir up problems again," you respond, your eyes set in determination. Zhongli nods his head in understanding. Of course the shogun directed you next to the Archon of Wisdom next. It was only natural.

"Then... could you take me with you?" He asks, voice almost sheepish. He looked expectant and openly searched your own reaction, but before you can even respond, he opens his mouth again and the words stumble out. "I find that without you here, i get rather... lonely. I feel that something is amiss— " he pauses, exhaling. Goodness, he wasn't good with expressing his emotions.

"...And i decided that i wanted to take on your journey with you. To fight alongside you, no matter what happens. I want to explore what Teyvat has to offer with you, even if it's dangerous, i- oof —"

He gets interrupted by you enveloping him into an incredibly tight hug that made him feel as if his bones were going to get crushed. Zhongli fidgets uncomfortably, not used to you hugging him this tight when you speak again.

"I thought you'd never ask," you murmur, smiling into his skin. For a long, long time, you'd been worried that you'd have to leave him always just to reach the rest of the regions. Of course you knew that being in a relationship while having a quest such as yours was going to be one full of hardship.

But everything is okay, especially when Zhongli carefully breaks the embrace and cups your face with his hands slowly.

He already made arrangements and talked with Hu Tao. She was willing enough to let him go of his position on the parlor. Leaving Liyue would possibly make him homesick, as he knows no other region like the back of his hand other than it, but he knew that he wanted to go with you no matter what, or where. And he was prepared to take on this journey with you.

It would be of no easy task. He knew an adventure could mean so many things. Joy, rage, curiosity, conflict...

And yet he wanted nothing more than to go with you. And possibly even come with you to your own world.

He leans in, capturing your lips in a slow, sensual kiss that would mark his gratitude.

From the entirety of Teyvat, up until the stars.

[writer-kerbecs]

I'm so scared of getting used to this

All the vines that keep you tethered in your room. Someday both of us are leaving here, But for now, I'll just bring to the sea to you, When you meet me in the daylight like we did before, Then I felt you on my shoulder, and you weren't suffering anymore, You said, "I'm sorry that you worry, but don't apologize",I told you to forget me, but you stayed by my side.

[vixxscifiwritings]

The Foxglove Meadow (9/?)

Summary - In which a single summer in Derbyshire becomes a learning experience for the people involved. In which Wonshik finds his love is not who he expected it to be, Taekwoon struggles with coming to terms with his past while finding he can love again, Jaehwan parts with a long standing affection, Minah learns how society influences lives in a way that’s complicated and Haneul learns that sensibility is harder practiced than preached.

Story Masterpost

Tag List - @blossomtearsleo @tomatoholmes @merlionmen @seraphistols  @k-craze-97

Chapter 9 - The Kims Of Chatsworth

"Hannie, you look like you survived the seven seas and returned home after being shipwrecked" Sanghyuk told Haneul. 

"I suppose I do look awful, don't I?" Haneul said with a sigh. She stared at her reflection in the mirror. Her hair was frizzy from the humidity and her dark circles had begun to show. She had lost some weight too apparently for she could take an inch off her corset and dresses that were snug before summer hung a little looser.

"I do look shipwrecked" she laughed. 

"However, I don't think Mama would approve of me being a pirate" she added, ruffling his hair. 

"Perhaps I can be a pirate when I grow up" Sanghyuk said. 

"Maybe. If we have some time then I will make you a pirate's hat later" Haneul promised. Sanghyuk cheered and hugged her before running off to tell Minah. 

Sanghyuk descended the stairs in a great rush. "Be careful!" Soojung exclaimed when he almost skidded into the drawing room. Soojung had been instructing Minah before the interruption and Sanghyuk groaned when he realized that it would be his turn soon.

"Like I said, you must dress well. Tie your unruly hair up. And remember your manners. Flatter Mrs Kim, but subtlety and sensibility is key" she reminded Minah. 

"I understand" Minah said. Her tone was clipped for there was no use in going over this argument again. Soojung had made it clear in no simple words that Kim Wonshik was to be a potential suitor and Minah was to 'assist' him in this endeavour. Minah's own views were quite contrary but apparently irrelevant. 

"Han Sanghyuk" Soojung started. 

Minah tuned out while Soojung quizzed Sanghyuk on proper etiquette. She excused herself and decided to go upstairs to her room. She came across Haneul who was tying up the cords of her corset. Minah wordlessly helped her wear her dress.

"Haneul" she started and stopped, unsure of how to phrase her question. 

"Yes?" Haneul asked. 

"I've been wondering. Do you remember when I asked you if you ever had a suitor?" Minah asked carefully. 

"I do. What about it?" Haneul asked. 

"How did you handle unwanted attention? Rather, what if the attention was not from someone you despised or so, but just unwanted" Minah asked. Haneul bit her lip. The question had hit close to home for it resembled her situation with Jaehwan greatly.

"I suppose, you must draw a line somewhere. If it gets too over bearing then you must say no in clear terms. But it becomes difficult to assess when and where" she told Minah. 

"Do you remember when you said you didn't want to marry Jaehwan? Well, I don't want Kim Wonshik to court me" Minah wanted to say. But she nodded and held her silence. She had no idea of his intentions and it was best not discussed till she knew.

-

"Let me introduce you to my mother, Kim Jinsil. And this is my sister, Kim Sooyeon" Wonshik said, introducing his family. The families curtseyed and bowed as introductions were exchanged. 

"Minah, you must sit by me. I have heard a lot about you and I can't wait to know you more" Sooyeon said excitedly. 

"As excitable as you are darling, you are being rude to our present company" Jinsil told her daughter. Sooyeon blushed apologetically. 

"I do suppose that the girls can be excused. I'm afraid our conversations will only bore them" Hyunshik said gently. 

"May I be excused as well?" Sanghyuk piped up, causing the company to laugh. 

"We don't wish to be rude" Minah said once the company had settled. 

"I don't think it a problem. Do take a turn of the gardens" Jinsil encouraged. Sooyeon, Minah and Sanghyuk took their leave with Sooyeon leading the way. Soojung eyed the group satisfied by the turn of events.

"I have heard so much about you from Wonshik. It is a pleasure to meet you in person" Jinsil said. 

"Only good things I hope. He is a fine gentleman and we are glad to make this acquaintance" Hyunshik said. 

"You flatter me, Mr Kim. Sooyeon in particular was rather taken with Minah. Rather strange that we should reside in London but meet in Derbyshire" Jinsil said. 

"Strange indeed" Soojung agreed.

"Tell me more about yourself Haneul" Jinsil asked. 

"Haneul is quite an accomplished painter Ma" Wonshik said. 

"I proudly concur" Hyunshik said heartily. 

"These are exaggerations Madam" Haneul said modestly. 

"You must excuse her modest nature Ma'am. But Haneul is quite accomplished in various home making activities" Minjun added.

"Both the sisters are well versed in the arts. Minah plays the piano" Soojung told her. 

"Indeed, she knows a vast range of songs" Haneul agreed. Out of the corner of her eye, she could see her mother stiffen imperceptibly. 

"Well, I must invite her to play some time" Jinsil agreed. They were interrupted by the servant who had come in to announce that tea was ready.

"If you'll excuse me, I'll go look for Minah" Haneul requested. 

"Let me accompany you" Wonshik said. 

"Perhaps you'll be able to find your sister faster. Sooyeon usually walks around a fair bit" Jinsil said with a sigh. 

"I don't believe that Sanghyuk and Minah would have problems keeping up" Hyunshik said in a good natured tone. 

"I suppose not" Soojung agreed.

-

"I do believe we will find them in the gardens" Wonshik said. 

"Minah loves gardens. I guess Sooyeon is no different" Haneul said with a smile. 

"Pardon the intrusion, but are you keeping well my lady?" Wonshik asked. 

"You are kind to worry about my health, sir. I am keeping well" she assured him.

"Have you painted anything new lately?" he asked. 

"Simple landscapes, I am afraid" she replied. 

"Maybe someday I will boldly ask you for one of the estate" he laughed. Haneul chuckled as well. 

"I must confess that as a child I would some times sketch the estate's gardens from afar. I doubt I have improved since then" she admitted. 

"I must see these sketches some day" he asked conspiratorially. 

"Whether you see my sketches or not, you must invite Minah to play the pianoforte someday. She is quite skilled at it" Haneul told him. 

"I look forward to it" he said. 

"Do you remember Mr Jung?" he asked her. 

"I do indeed. How is he?" she asked. 

"In good health fortunately. He has decided to stay at the estate for the rest of the season. I expect him to arrive next week" Wonshik told her. 

"That is quite fortunate. I don't believe you have much company in the way of other young gentlemen" Haneul told him. 

"I don't think it is my company he desires" Wonshik laughed. Haneul frowned at the statement. 

"I do believe that I can trust you with a secret" he admitted. 

"Mama believes that Taekwoon intends to court Sooyeon when she comes of age" he confided. 

"I don't think you should be telling me this" Haneul said, stepping back a little.

"I have reasons to believe this to be untrue. I think he intends to court you" Wonshik said plainly. 

"You must be mistaken sir. He has declared no such intentions to me and I don't believe he ever will" Haneul insisted. 

"Taekwoon is the type to admire in silence. He won't openly declare his affections till he believes he has secured yours. That is his falling and I can only beg you to understand his heart" Wonshik told her.

"This was my only design in asking for your company. I only ask you to pay attention to his feelings. Taekwoon may not be as bold" he put in. 

"I am afraid you have been rather bold in announcing his intentions" Haneul said firmly. "Mr Jung is a fine gentleman but I firmly believe you are mistaken in interpreting his actions. He has no intentions of courting me and I beg of you not to bring this topic up again. Now if you will excuse me, we have been away for long enough for it to be improper."

Wonshik hesitated, as Haneul walked further. He followed her silently, with neither party speaking a word till they reached the gardens.

"Haneul! Do join us" Minah said happily. She frowned when she noticed a palpable tension between Wonshik and her cousin. But Haneul smiled and Minah knew not to pursue it further. 

"Sanghyuk has been telling us stories of his adventures across the sea. He is a well travelled pirate" Sooyeon said proudly.

"Hannie knows. She even promised to make me a pirate's hat" Sanghyuk told them. 

"Haneul is quite skilled at embroidery. You will have the best pirate's hat in the land" Minah declared. 

"You must teach me. I could never sit still for the lessons and now I regret it" Sooyeon admitted. 

"Haneul is a good teacher. She taught me how to play the piano" Minah said. 

"I had no idea you played the piano as well" Wonshik said, genuinely surprised. 

"I suppose we must correct for that. You must spend your evenings at the estate for the sake of our acquaintance" Sooyeon said. 

"Of course" Haneul agreed. Sooyeon smiled and went back to discussing Sanghyuk’s adventures. Minah noticed Haneul firmly avoiding Wonshik and frowned. Something was amiss here.

-