#( cyro captain ic. ) 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐚 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐬?

[intcritus]

It's always a little difficult to plan the perfect birthday, let alone the perfect birthday gift when one's mora doesn't quite live up to the name he has made for himself throughout Sumeru, Teyvat for all that matter. But of course, what would an architect be without his creativity (and horrible sleep schedule) than yet another fool unwilling to go a little extra further to ensure that there'll at least be something offered to the charming smile he loves so dearly, hands tucked firmly around Kaeya's as Kaveh guides him into the studio they have spent so many hours within.

"Don't, don't open your eyes," he pleads warmly as he steps backwards into the studio, glancing back at the setting behind him.

Surely, Kaeya can already smell the dishes prepared as well as the wine lingering in the air. Potentially the flowers Kaveh has gathered and arranged into various bouqets, but a part of him hopes that he does not smell them, at least not yet; " just a little further, okay, I promise it will be all worth it, at least... I hope it is? I wasn't sure what to figure out for your birthday as you keep telling me that you - watch your step - already have everything you could've asked for, so," and he'd guide him further, onto a blanket sprawled on the floor of the studio where he soon enough tells Kaeya to sit.

Sit and don't peek, not yet.

For there are still some things he needs to put in order, some smaller gifts that need to be in order such as the box he gathers from the counter of the kitchen before scurrying back over to him. Jewlery clinks as Kaveh positions himself in front of Kaeya, knees tucked under him as he places the box in the other's lap so freed hand can reach upwards and caress his cheek.

"Open your eyes," and in doing so there'd be possibly hundreds of flowers put neatly around the room, some put as decorations dangling from the roof, the entire studio dimmed with a few lanterns lighting it up; "I know you're not too fond of the sand in your clothes, and I for one don't enjoy the bugs during the evening so I wanted to bring the beautiful sight of nature inside with us, and... I wasn't quite sure what to get you as a gift, but I hope that the contents of the box is enough."

Once opened, there'd be a key within (to no other place than the studio, a welcoming gift for the captain to come and go as he'd please) alongside an earring crafted in a similar manner to the one Kaveh wore. Though, where his sported red and green, Kaeya's held bright, beautiful blue and purple, polished brightly.

"Happy birthday," he'd add in a hushed whisper, smiling as he'd lean over to offer a kiss against his cheek; "I hope I made the earrings in the right size, I forgot to measure them."

      Two surprises in one day ? First Beorn, now Kaveh. It makes him chuckle, even as he tries to keep his balance as Kaveh guides him. He hadn’t been kidding when he told the love of his life that he had everything he wanted. There’s nothing physically he needs for his birthday. Kaveh’s kisses ? Maybe being able to spend the rest of his life by the architect’s side being silly and in love ? Heh, he likes the thought of just being old and grey with Kaveh. Archons, even grey, Kaeya is sure Kaveh would be fucking stunning. ❝ ━ I’m sure it’s more than worth it.❞ What Kaveh will come to understand about Kaeya is that the very thought that the architect put something together for him at all ? That he thought of him ? That would always be worth it to the Captain, it was almost enough to make him emotional. 

The subtle scent of flour puzzles him, but the smell of food ? His mouth waters. He’s so ready to eat whatever it is he’s smelling. Like right now. Oh. Something is placed in his lap and he leans into the hand caressing his cheek, nuzzling his lover’s palm for a brief second with a content hum. At Kaveh’s prompting, lone eye looks around, realizing the reason he’d been smelling flora and it was gorgeous.❝ ━ This is… ❞ Even inside, it reminded him of being outside, by the water, surrounded by nature and oh, it was incredibly thoughtful and creative. The Captain takes it in, the emotions bubbling up in his chest threatening to choke him.

❝ ━ You did all of this for me ?  ❞ It’s truly the thought of Kaveh arranging this flora, bringing the beauty of nature inside for both of them to enjoy that really makes him emotional, the ball in his throat tightening. ❝ ━ You don’t have to convince me you adore me, y’know ? This is enough to make me chain myself to your– ❞ He pauses as he opens the box in his lap, brow wing upward. Fingers curl around the key, thumb brushing over it as he looks from said key to Kaveh then back again. Oh. ❝ ━ Really ? ❞ His voice cracks and the Captain has to clear his throat. A key to Kaveh’s studio ? It’s a show of trust, and it brings tears to Kaeya’s gaze, swallowing past the emotion choking him. But no less than the earring that he picks up out of the box.They’re gorgeous.

Placing the items back in the box, he sets it to the side, ❝ ━ These gifts, the thought you put behind all of this ? It was more than worth it, in fact, it was more than I could have asked or hoped for. Thank you, Kaveh, for making this a memorable birthday. ❞ Hands reach out to cradle Kaveh’s features, pulling him in for a tender kiss,a smile on his lips as one kiss turns to two, pressing his forehead to the architect’s, ❝ ━ I really love the earrings, I’ll probably never take them off. As for the key ? It means a lot that you trust me with that, I won’t break your trust in me. Now, are you going to feed the birthday boy or will I have to put out more kisses? ❞ He murmurs, cheekily.

kaeya's bday2k24. | @avaere

[intcritus]

"What are you smiling about?" kaveh to kaeya ...

whether it be moonlight or sunshine, kaveh was utterly stunning. even the dim backdrop and being handfed lunch, there was nothing to detract from that fact. kaeya is guilty of many things, but being distracted by his partner when he should be listening was always at the top of the list. kaveh made it difficult, those pretty eyes settled on him and for some reason, his thoughts emptied out of his skull. he catches snippets of justified complaints and other things kaveh can scold him for later. but instead of answering, he reaches out, gently cupping kaveh's jaw, thumb gently wiping away food from the corner of the architect's mouth.

❝ ━ i love how passionate you get about what you do, ❞ he shrugs, taking his hand away and sucking at his thumb. ❝ ━ some clients can be extremely particular, but i think you take it to the heart because you want it to be perfect, to their tastes and something you can be proud of. i jave faith this will resolve itself, because you're wonderful and creative. take a breath, sleep on it and start over with a fresh mind, love. ❞

love and faith for his fave person in the world. | @avaere

[intcritus]

"i gave you culture… literature… water." i just had to throw venti at poor kaeya

❝ ━ do i seem ungrateful to all that you have granted me, venti? are you displeased with me ? ❞ there's a brief seriousness to his tone, before he snorts into his cup, letting his elbows rest on the table. poor manners it might be, but this is his third drink, and it settles warmly in his belly. ❝ ━ i've been granted the freedom to wallow in my choices and my losses. ❞ laughter leaves him, a humored grin curling across his flushed features. kaeya chooses not to take himself to serious, nor will he take venti serious, simply because he doesn't want such a thing to ruin the taste of his drink.

letting his head hang, rings rub at the rim of his glass, a quicksilver grin gracing the archon before allowing lashes to slip close over lone eye. ❝ ━ you've drank more than me tonight, what did you come here to drown away ?❞

contemplative yet playful. | @avaere

[intcritus]

Beorn's heard from Kaveh, the birthday of the ages it seemed in the workshop but for him. He did his best to get something worthy of a being that wasn't an any old thing. According to some fishwives, he was presenting a basket of rare Sumeru fruits and a fanciful quill made from the feathers of a local bird. "Great Celebrations, I'll take away Kaveh's workload, so don't let him escape with that excuse." Wink.

If it hadn't been for Kaveh, Kaeya would probably be somewhere in Mondstat, probably on a high hilltop and overlooking thr ocean, just reminescing on his life thus far, wishing for a hard reset while also just settling into another year that he was alive. It's nice though, being thought about on a day where Adelaide would've came to find him and drag him to the Winery to celebrate a day he doesn't think about often. He avoids the Winery for personal reasons and truthfully, only goes whenever he knows the Master of the Winery will be away. Cowardly ? Probably but he's okay with that.

Allowing the thoughts to be fleeting as the wind in his hair, Kaeya finds himself sipping some chair, a hum of delight on hsi tongue. It isn't as delicious as Kaveh's but it'll do. Puspa Café offers a modicum of great atmosphere and the low, white noise soothes him. Lashes dip low over his lone eye, taking another sip. He mourns the thought of having to go back to Mondstat, but in the meantime, he'll treasure this. Sumeru is a world away, it's where his love is and why would he ever want to leave that? His head tips back a little when he sees someone approaching and a warm, fond smile curls his lips at Beorn's presence.

Ah, his precious friend ! Seemed Kaveh had told someone else. His chest warms as he gets to his feet, taking the basket with care, ❝ ━ My, my, look at you getting me something for this silly day. You truly didn't have to, but I appreciate it nonetheless. ❞ His words are sincere, eye closing as he grinned, looking down into the basket. Archons, he couldn't wait to try these with Kaveh. Maybe because it was his birthday he could get his lover to feed them to him ? ❝ ━ Will you join me for an early lunch ? I haven't eaten anything and food taste better with friends. ❞

kaeya's bday2k24. | @nvrcmplt

[intcritus]

❛ you are too well tangled in my soul ❜ kaveh to kaeya !

When Kaeya thought of love, Kaveh’s maroon gaze came to mind. His mother’s love was something he thought about a lot. Crepus’s love for both he and Diluc comes to mind as well, but it’s not the same. It’s something he hadn’t deserved in the slightest. But he likes to think that he deserves the love that Kaveh is willing to give him, even a crumb of it.

The truth was, for Kaeya, a man of secrets was more shy about love than he was about being with someone in an unofficial capacity. He treats it like treasure ; true love, the kind that makes his heart full, the one that has his stomach fluttering with proverbial butterflies ? Yeah, it’s something sacred. He’s a sinner, he doesn’t deserve that, but he yearns for it with both hands outstretched. 

For the Captain, love doesn’t come to him in grand gestures, it’s Kaveh being passionate about what he does. How excited he gets sharing fruit platters, feeding him with his hands, on silly dances by the riverside where they first kissed. A fond smile curls his lips as he sips on his chai, Kaveh in his shirt shouldn’t make his chest warm. Some part of him is aware that his hair is a mess, hanging tousled around his shoulders and down his back but if it gets the architect to run his fingers through it again during morning kisses, how can he complain? 

❝ ━ I don’t think you quite understand how mutual that feeling is, ❞ the words are quiet, arm slipping around Kaveh and pulling the man flush against him, placing a kiss upon his nose. ❝ ━The place my soul is…it’s been empty a long time. And yet, here you are, vacating that very space with pretty eyes and sweet kisses. ❞ Soft laughter escapes him, pressing his forehead against his pretty architect’s. Joke as he might, emotion swells his throat, tears stinging his lashes. Archons, how lucky was a sinner like him to have someone so beautiful and genuine in his life ? / @avaere

[intcritus]

absolutely divine. archons, he loves that man.

[intcritus]

And water would shift as the architect guided the captain's bare body closer to his own, the tub just about big enough for the two to share back at the little studio of his. Outside one of the many rain-filled days of Sumeru washed over them, a small window open to allow the slightly colder draft to pass on through the steamy bathroom. Drops would hammer delicately on top of the roof, Kaveh's arms dipping into the water and around's Kaeya's waist as he, with gentle kisses pressed against damp neck, would encourage him to lean back into his embrace. There'd be no commissions, or missions, today.

"I should've tied your hair up better," Kaveh chuckled gently against the back of Kaeya's neck, allow lips to leave a trace of kisses up against the shell of his ear. Darker strands escaped from the knot he had helped the other with, some braids and borrowed pins attempting their best to hold back the longer locks. "I'm mostly used to doing my own, not someone else's ... If you'd like me to wash it later, I can."

More so of an excuse to invade Kaeya's personal space, Kaveh would gently come to hook onto one of the captain's hands, fingers sliding in between knuckles as he'd bring their hands on top of the edge of the tub, thumb caressing Kaeya's own slowly. As warm as the water might've been, there was something even warmer about the way their hands fit so neatly together, a sight that nurtured forth a loving, smitten smile on the architect's features there'd tilt their hands back and forth with subtle movements. He had held many hands, truly, but none that felt as right in between his own fingers as Kaeya.

It was a happy sight, yet a curious one.

Kaveh knew how many hands he had held, perhaps not as lovingly as Kaeya's, but he knew. He was also aware of how many times his heart had felt the slight tingle of affection, though nowhere near as strong as it'd blaze around him. But, how many had his hand held?

A coy smile crept forth, Kaveh leaning his cheek against Kaeya's temple as soon his body would rest against his own. "Have you had many lovers ? I'm asking out of curiosity ... You seem so well-adapted to the pursuit of someone's heart, I can't help but to wonder..." not a tinge of uncertainty, simply an architect being nosy. "You don't have to share the details, of course..."

Voice, however, lowered, maroon eyes turning to Kaeya's chest whereas lips settled for a whipser by his ear; " ... surely I've already outdone them by now."

Kaeya will be the first to admit, that Kaveh is the first person he’s ever shared a bath with before. To be bare like this, it’s intimate and vulnerable in a way that no one has had with him. There’s a rhyme and reason for that, but mostly the Captain never wants to get that close to anyone. Sex was one thing, intimacy ? That’s a whole other game that he had never wanted for himself until it came to Kaveh. It’s easy to feel loved, cared for and hopelessly spoiled when one considers the many firsts he’s had with Kaveh. And being spoiled – accepting being spoiled is new. His mind wants to protests but he utterly melts because it’s Kaveh doing so. 

And this is how he finds himself, in a bath, leaning back against his lover with a small, pleasured hum in his throat. There’s no thoughts of missions, or requests or anything outside this bath tub, becoming nothing more than lax limbs and a headful of adoring thoughts. ❝ ━ I would love if you washed it actually. ❞ Fingers in his hair, against his scalp with his lover close enough that he could touch him ? Oh yeah, Kaeya is all about that.

Then again, when it came to Kaveh, he was always going to say yes. A helpless kind of abandon that asks for nothing but his time. Languid gaze settles on the way their hands fit together, the finger brushes over his knuckles so tenderly and it makes his heart trip over itself.

❝ ━ Mm. ❞ A curious round of inquiries, one he would normally avoid with clever wording but it’s easy to be honest in this instance. He shifts, nuzzling his nose into Kaveh’s cheek, bringing their hands to his chest, resting over his heart. ❝ ━ Not many honestly.  Only three. I find myself not getting into a romantic mood with people I can’t open up to. Some things are a first for me. Sex is one thing, it's what's expected, but the elderly couples in Mondstat are who I learned from. Their love, so out in the open, so unconditional is something I had always craved. ❞ 

To be so open to holding someone’s hand,loving them, to stroll and laugh with them. Maybe that old school type of love is something he’d been striving for, and he was able to use that to woo the person he wanted. ❝ ━ With you, I feel like I was stumbling like a fawn, trying to give you bits and pieces of me, wondering if you would want me as I wanted you or if you’d be turned off by my dramatics. ❞

At the words whispered against his ear, his heart stops, a dark blush flushing high on his cheeks. What in the world ? Why did this cheeky architect do something so dangerous ? Did he know how much havoc he wreaked against his heart? Lashes dip shut over his gaze, grin threatening to split his features as warm, husky laughter escapes him. ❝ ━ Oh, my my, Kaveh. You’re the only one who's managed to capture my heart and soul. There’s never going to be anyone after you since you’ve become the one I orbit around. ❞ 

He sobers up though, wanting his cheeky architect to know how serious he is. Bringing their joined hands to his mouth, lips brush over kuckles then turn them over to kiss palms. ❝ ━ You hold my heart in your hands, Kaveh. I've told you things no one knows about, not even my brother. Everything you know about me is laid bare before you. I've never trusted someone like I trust you. And I've never cared for someone in the depths I do for you. So trust me when I say, you've surpassed anyone who would've ever dared try.❞

in which, kaveh is his first and only love. | @avaere

[intcritus]

 Kaeya had spent a long time, living in the guilt of being a spy, of infiltrating Mondstat, but after all these years, he realizes it’s good to let go. To  live in the moment, have a little fun and never take life too seriously. The Cavalry Captain finds himself smiling, always enamored by Kaveh, even when he’s giving Kaeya the stink eye.

It’s another late night, Sumeru’s back ways and long pathways quiet, sans the occasional twitter from birds and wildlife. No more melons have been stolen, not yet atleast and if his thoughts seem to seep from him, the architect’s pointed look only makes him grin coyly, one hand reaching out to pull the other toward him, arm slipping around his waist to keep him close. 

❝ ━ Come now, Sunshine, you’re gonna make me feel bad. It was only one time,❞  It’d definitely happen again. How else can he convince his stunning companion to relax ? ❝ ━ Archons, I love your eyes. ❞  Free hand cups Kaveh’s cheek, thumb brushing along his bottom lip with an appreciative hum, ❝ ━ Every time you look at me, the color fascinates me. It’s like you’re looking into me, seeing all my secrets. ❞

A chuckle before he leans in to steal a quick kiss, ❝ ━ Thankfully, you’re welcome to all my secrets. I don’t think I’d want to hide anything from you. ❞  Which is a weird admittance for someone who simply didn’t tell anyone anything worth its weight in salt.

They’re secluded now, by the river, ripples in the water from frogs and moonbeams through the leaves giving the water an ethereal glow. It’s pretty but the person in his arms is far prettier, and he hardly wants to take his eyes away.

❝ ━ Let’s do something silly, yeah ? Dance with me. I’ll sing for you. ❞ He keeps his arm around Kaveh, but his free hand captures the blond’s, bringing it to his mouth so the Captain can brush a kiss over knuckles. It’s something he used to do as a kid, dancing while standing on his mother’s feet, waltzing around in the grass.

But he only leads now, keeping Kaveh close, cheek to cheek as they sway in the moonlight, Kaveh’s voice a melodic tenor as he softly sings to Kaveh. It’s only them, the moonlight and the sound of swaying grass as they dance over the blades.

He hadn’t realized what this emotion in his chest is – when he’s with Kaveh, it lingers there, expanding until his smiles are genuine, until he can no longer keep his besotted anywhere but the pretty architect. It feels a lot like warmth, like being frozen, lonely then getting to feel the first rays of sunshine, of the warmth that cradles him: it’s contentment. Soul-deep contentment and Kaveh will never see the dampness of Kaeya’s lashes but he’ll feel how he holds him a little tighter, that his voice mellows out, and the smile against his temple, and for Kaeya, this is worth letting his own walls down. Kaveh, he was so worth it.

in which, even ice needs to melt sometimes. / @avaere

[intcritus]

sometimes love transcends morning light.

Somehow, it always comes as a bit of surprise when Kaveh is the one lavishing him with affection as opposed to the other way around. Kaeya still always finds himself feeling a bit out of his element when he realizes that Kaveh wants to touch him, to kiss him, to hold him. But oh, Kaeya never questions it, because it means that he’s wanted, that Kaveh does it willingly, instead of it just being some twisted reciprocity out of obligation. The Captain never has to doubt this because the architect ( his pretty architect ) always shows him the error of his ways. 

Early morning comes too soon, after their exhilarating night out ( yes, they happened to get caught stealing more melons, but Kaeya sweet talked their way out of it, acting as though it were his fault and not Kaveh’s, he was an innocent bystander, sir ! ), he stands at the window, chai in hand and not really all that awake. The weight of azure strands unbound from their braid, brushes his shoulders and down his back and he can still smell Kaveh on his skin. A sleepy, satisfied smile curls his lips as he brings a cup to his lips, taking a leisurely sip. Mm, perfect as always. 

He can see his own reflection in the mirror, a mismatched gaze ( one bright blue and the other gold and dull, scarred ) staring back at him. It doesn’t linger long when Kaveh comes up behind him and the Captain feels a fond smile curl his lips soon after, there he is. Kaeya loves the way Kaveh looks at him, like there’s no one else in the room, with fond, pretty eyes. Archons, he’ll never tire of how warm those eyes are.

Fingers touch his hair, gently brushing it from his neck, where a tender kiss is then pressed to the nape of his neck, arms slipping around him, hand on his chest, right over his heart. It’s not there, you already own it, silly. Yet, it trips over itself at the affection of the architect, lashes fluttering low over his gaze. ❝ ━ Morning, sweetheart. All this affection just for me ? My, my, I might just melt. ❞ A soft grin as he shifts, lips brushing against Kaveh’s cheek, ❝ ━ Too late, I am now a puddle, now you have to hold me in your hands. No worries, you’re more than capable. ❞

early morning affection w/ @avaere

[intcritus]

for while the architect has a way with his things in the studio, there are few things that can compete with a starry night witnessed from the bed; " - grab that end," he'd instruct kaeya, the two of them soon found in the middle of adjusting the bed. why ? because kaveh wanted to place it under the large window for them to see instead of seeking to the damp grass outside where bugs would thrive on his person.

it'd squeak a few times, the two making eye contact upon the noise and sharing a little laughter; " oh hush, it hasn't sounded like that before." who knows what they are talking about, surely nothing... too steamy.

but with the adjustment came the beautiful price, a hand of kaveh's tugging kaeya down with him onto the bed so they could see the stars together. there'd be no lights in the studio, not now, not when the night proved itself so endlessly beautiful. stars reached far and wide over the dark sky of sumeru city, the small fickle lights of nearby homes not causing too much of a disturbance, certainly not for the architect who would reach over to kaeya's hand. slowly, he'd bring it to his lips, leave tender kisses over his knuckles.

"told you it would be worth it," kaveh whispered against his hand, eyes switching between the sky and his captain. "i've always found stars quite remarkable, though, i have to admit that... looking up on the night sky for a longer period of time makes me feel so... small? the universe is so large, there could be endless of planets out there and... i am one small architect... does that make sense? i still find it beautiful..."

there'd be a small silence from the architect, fingers interlacing with kaeya's; "... does mondstadt have clear skies like these? are they clearer? do you have a spot where you can go see them?" perhaps one question too many, but blonde locks would spread as the architect flopped onto his side, admiring his company.

The moonlight often reminds Kaeya of the silver streaks in his mother’s hair, how it shines so bright against azure curls. It makes his chest ache with the remembrance of the loss of her. But he’s ever grateful to remember her gentle smile, the soft of her hands holding him and the sound of her voice soothing him to sleep. It’s moments like this where he finds himself yearning for what he lost. Regardless, he’s somewhat soothed when he gets to spend more time with Kaveh, a pretty architect who’d stolen his heart and probably didn’t realize it. Life was strange, wasn’t it ? ❝ ━ The moonlight reminds me of my mom. She had the prettiest silver streaks in her curls. ❞ Archons, he missed her.

Smirk curls his lips at the kisses to his knuckles, having someone so affectionate called to his own nature, wanting to capture Kaveh in his arms and kiss him, stars be damned. But he refrains for the moment, letting his gaze wander back to the Sumeru’s night sky. ❝ ━ In the grand scheme of things, it does make me feel small. Like you’ve yet to discover everything, that there’s so much more out there...❞

He smiles softly, thumb gently tapping Kaveh’s nose, ❝ ━ We’re tiny, significant specks of dust in the universe but there’s always going to be time for you to go out and discover more of this world, I believe you will. ❞ Mondstat might have trees, and forests but most of it is sky. So much sky that spans for miles that Kaeya had often found himself waiting til the sun dipped below the horizon so he can sit on the hill just above the Dawn Winery and watch the sky. And he envisioned himself capturing a star, wondering if it could give him the power to turn back the hands of time so he can undo what had already happened. Where would he be if he hadn’t been abandoned in Mondstat.

❝ ━ There’s so many cliffs and high places to sit to see the stars a little closer. I’m the daredevil sort, so I go up a little higher than most. There’s this spot in Starfell Valley, where you can sit on the edge and it reminds me of being up too high, like traversing the paths of Dragonspine and seeing your breath frost up. It’s a little further out, but I enjoy it because it’s quiet. ❞

There’s something about Kaveh’s curiosity that’s endearing because Kaeya doesn’t mind answering questions, especially because it’s Kaveh. Turning to lay on his side, arm curls around the architect, pulling him close so he can lean down and steal a tender kiss, ❝ ━ If you ever come to Mondstat, I’ll take you there and maybe we can make a date of it. ❞ Archons, Kaveh is so beautiful and wasn’t the Captain lucky enough to hold him like this, to kiss him like he’s the most precious person in the world ? / @avaere

[intcritus]

while the architect had insisted that he didn't need company for the road to today's meeting , the captain had been persistent as usual and therefore hard to dismiss even for kaveh. for as it so happened kaeya had a way with words after all, and being subjected to those words had proven to be a weakness of the architect, the way his gaze would linger and lips would move. impossible, truly so. he had a hard time denying kaeya, and the thought of having someone to travel alongside was far more tempting than what kaveh - potentially - wished to admit.

but maybe kaeya saw through that as they were heading back for the evening, side by side as they were walking along dirt paths leading back to the studio found within the bustling city. hand in hand, the architect's fingers has intertwined with his, shoulder nudging against kaeya's.

"what's it like growing up in mondstadt?" he's soon inquire, maroon shifting towards the side of the captain, kaveh gazing curiously at the man he found himself calling his as of late. as much as they had shared, there was still thoughts and questions he had. "i have only ever known the comfort of sumeru, and despite certain turns and twists to my childhood, i've had it rather comfortable. are the winters harsh? i've never seen snow before, at least not in person."

Kaeya is nothing if not perceptive. He doesn’t need a brain to see that Kaveh would’ve liked company, even if he was stubborn about it. But even if he never said anything, the Captain would’ve joined him. And why not ? The chance to hold hands on the way back was far too enticing. He likes the feeling of Kaveh’s hand in his, of being able to brush his thumb along the architect’s knuckles as he hums in contemplation.

❝ ━ Mondstat was a second home to me, actually. But growing up there was busy. It was...fun ? There were so many people I didn’t know. It was foreign to me, but everyone was nice. ❞ He recalls their gentle smiles whenever Crepus had introduced him to the people, even as he hid behind the man’s knee. It was something of a fond, but conflicted memory. ❝ ━ Between the festivals and then exploring the forests surrounding Mondstat, I think I developed a bit of an adventurous spirit. There was always so much to explore. ❞ 

He thinks of the winters, of the unbearable cold on Dragonspine then in the city and finds himself grinning. The Captain has grown fond of the cold so he cannot hope to complain much about it, ❝ ━ They can be. Mostly on the mountains if you’re not properly prepared. But I like the snow, it’s cold but you can make shapes with it if shaped correctly. I think you would enjoy it a bit. Atleast for a little while. Maybe the children there would throw snowballs at you given the chance, they’re quite mischievous. ❞ 

He chuckles softly, bringing their joined hands to his mouth, pressing a kiss to the back of Kaveh’s hand. Being able to freely give affection to someone he thinks of as his, fills Kaeya with the sort of satisfaction of someone who’d shot the perfect arrow and caught a wild boar. ❝ ━ Your nose would be so red. I’d have to find some way to warm you. ❞ 

There’s a moment’s silence as he closes his eyes, enjoying the evening breeze and the warmth that flows over his skin, in the feel of Kaveh’s hand in his. His nearness is so pleasant. Could he keep a hold of Kaveh ? Could he grasp onto this for a little longer before having to go back to Mondstat ? Archons, how would he get anything done while yearning to be back in the architect’s presence ? It makes his heart cinch painfully just thinking about it.

❝ ━ There is something about Mondstat that embodies freedom that made it comfortable. That it made me want to protect it when dark days plagued it. Not out of obligation, but because freedom comes at a cost, but it shouldn’t suffer because I darkened it’s doorstep. ❞  A wry smile curves his lips and he shrugs, ❝ ━ Its lovely, busy and there’s so many people there who would welcome you warmly, I can’t imagine you wouldn’t fit right in. ❞ / @avaere

[intcritus]

he glows, softly in the morning sunlight...

Morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a halo over Kaveh. In some ways, he was like an angel – Kaeya knew he wasn’t perfect but that didn’t matter. Someone so sweet had every right to experience anger, grief, sadness, outrage. It simply made him human. And maybe those imperfections are often what make Kaeya smile. He was just as dramatic as Kaeya was, and made a muted laugh rumble in his chest.

He stays quiet, shifting to a sitting position before reaching out to comb his hair through Kaveh’s bedhead, but really, wanting to feel the strands tickle his palms. 

A forgotten lullaby leaves his lips, head resting back against the wall, fingers playing with blond strands and the weight of his emotions easing from his chest. For some reason, it’s always easy to feel, to know that everything that’s hidden behind the iron wall of his heart meant something to someone.

That for these brief moments, Kaveh makes him feel seen, heard. To someone, it sounds so trivial but Kaeya likes the feeling. It’s warm and tender, and at times, he’ll shy away, waiting for the other shoe to drop but the architect was genuine, a veritable sweetheart that makes him melt with his subtle touches and pretty smile. 

Eyepatch sits on the bedside table and his free hand rubs at that eye, blinking down at the architect, fondness easing over his expression. What did he have to hide ? Nothing. Part of him wants to get up. To make breakfast, or at least something with caffeine to wake him up properly but now there’s arms around his waist, features nuzzling into his stomach and well, now he’s effectively trapped and honestly, it’s the best place to be.

Sleepy and clingy Kaveh was a cute Kaveh and Kaeya couldn’t help but melt, shifting so he was laying back down, more than happy to have this silly architect curling around him. It felt like heaven, his own personal peace.

...and like the moonlight, he'd hide to see him shine.

@avaere

[intcritus]

"It's better when you eat it like this," kaveh laughs, reaching over to Kaeya's plate to gather up a small amount of assorted sauces and sides, bundling them up against soft bread local to sumeru. A subtle glance would be offered across the table hand soon holding out the arranged portion up to Kaeya; "... it'll be messier if you grab onto it yourself, so if you trust me I'd almost suggest you eating it from my fingers. It might be a little spicy, just a heads up."

    Experiencing Sumeru cuisine through Kaveh was something Kaeya found himself enjoying even more than he realized. He was the adventurous sort when it came to food, so he’s always willing to try something different than what he’s used to.So it’s kinda funny as he watches the architect craft the seemingly perfect bite and it makes the Knight curious to see what it would taste like. And when it came to food, well who else was going to feed him from their fingers ? Maybe this made the connection to food deeper ?

Regardless, he grinned before leaning in, lips parting to take the food from Kaveh’s fingers. The flavors are expertly married and yes – chewing, there’s a hum of appreciation sounding from him, and yes, there’s a kick to it, but it burns so good. To Kaeya, it merely gives more depth to the flavor. Tongue peeked out to lick over his lips, meeting Kaveh’s gaze, appreciation brimming in his own, ❝ ━ Oh, that was delicious. Though, I can’t really just have one bite. Wanna feed me another ? ❞ Chuckling, he leans in on his forearms, ❝ ━  Thank you, for sharing this with me. You’ve made it an enjoyable experience. ❞ His words were genuine, his smile even more so. / @avaere

[intcritus]

❝ i don’t want you to be alone tonight and honestly, i don’t really wanna be alone either. ❞ but kaveh saying this in a friendly, warm tone to kaeya honestly because hey, maybe being on your own for once isn't all that cool

It was a melancholic kind of night. The warm weather in Sumeru was kind to him, kissing his skin and the breeze moving through his hair. In some strange way, it was like a home away from home. The thought of traveling back to Mondstat, had a hole in his chest, and what else can he do but fill it with spicy cuisine, a sweet wine that settled warmly in his tummy ?  The day comes and goes, the night dimming the light between leaves and taking the sun with it. Lone eye moves from the sky when his attention is captured by blond strands. Like liquid gold, a brief sunlight hardly dimmed by the darkening sky. 

Slouching back in his seat, a charming grin is spared for the architect. Kaeya had heard a great many things about him, even while here on business. But then, he’d taken a few more days, a personal expense he’d surely have to explain later. But it mattered little when he’d never felt quite so at ease. ❝ ━ Guess I’m not the only one needing to take the edge off tonight. ❞

A light chuckle before head cants upward, taking in Kaveh listening to his voice, and wonders what sort of things ails him, just what sort of woes he has to let go of towards the end of the day. Probably plenty, people can be so demanding. There’s a pleasant buzz that settles down to the marrow of his bones as he stands, then he blinks as he ruminates on words spoken. 

❝ i’m not expecting anything, i just, thought it’d be nice to keep you company tonight. ❞

Kaeya smirks, though there’s a dull edge to it. Did Kaveh take his silence as rejection? Ah, as if the Knight would turn down some company. He was feeling raw, cut to the quick and while he could continue to sulk and engorging on good food, company certainly sounded better. Someone without a bias, someone who didn’t know him.

Shoulders slump, his smirk turning into a somewhat sheepish smile, ❝ ━ I get what you mean. I…I would like that honestly. Being alone right now, especially tonight, seems foolish, doesn’t it ?  ❞ Stretching his arms over his head, lashes flutter over his lone eye as a quiet sort of exhaustion settles over him.

Maybe he’d been forcing his facade too long, but something about Kaveh being so warm and friendly and genuine ? Kaeya truly no longer wanted to be alone. Gesturing with his hand, they began to walk alongside one another,  ❝ ━ Would you rather go back to my room to escape the nosy little rabbits hanging about ?  ❞ Lips cant up at the corners, , ❝ ━ Or will a stroll suit us, more ? My legs are feeling rather wobbly, I’m afraid carrying me might be in our best interest. ❞ No, it wouldn’t, but charm is his go to even when he’s feeling like an open wound.

[intcritus]

luckiest captain in the world. his significant other is prettier than yours !

[intcritus]

❛ don’t bleed on my floors ❜ tighnari to kaeya omg maybe he came to kaeya's rescue out in sumeru or something

❝ ━ Ah yes, I’ll make sure to tell my blood to jump back into my body, can’t stand your wooden floors, who knows if it’ll come out, ❞  Kaeya retorts with a quiet wheeze, fingers tightening around his side, blood seeping through the gaps.

While traversing Sumeru’s forests, and exploring as he usually did, what does the Captain do ? Be clumsy because why are the trees so tall ? The creatures are vicious. And hey if he bumped into a poisonous plant or two, what should he do ? Lay there and perish ? Yes, because while the streets were one thing, the forests were definitely something else entirely.  ❝ ━ Thanks for your charming personality. I just love suffering from blood loss. A needle and thread would be amazing, I could just patch myself up. ❞

Running his mouth while in pain ? Definitely the Captain at his finest. But honestly, he’s immensely grateful, for if it weren’t for Tighnari, and his excellent skills as a forest ranger, and skill with a bow, Kaeya would’ve been lost to the denizens of the towering trees and its inhabitants. Letting out a wheezing laugh, he presses his hand tighter against his side, ❝ ━ No seriously, thank you. I don’t think I’ll ever get used to the forests here. ❞ / @avaere