#ALBETHER

[ahbeduo]

That one Hannibal scene cuz a moot on TWT shared it and now it lives in my head rent free

[rinbedo]

Happy birthday, Albedo 💖 "Citrinitas" (7 pages)

I was hesitating to post on tumblr for the first time so I'm posting this comic a bit late 😭

[otomiyaa]

A/N: Posting the long-ass thing I gifted to @ticklygiggles during the holidays with her fav pairings!

Summary: Mondstadt's Winter Festival has arrived, and Aether has made it his job to make sure everyone is having fun… among other things! (Also on AO3)

Word Count: 10K

Prologue

Winter season was here, and this time again, it seemed that Mondstadt was all for exceeding the previous year’s traditions and festivities. 

A spectacular festival, with musical performances, special treats just for the season, attracting friends from all over Teyvat to spend the cold days right here in the City of Freedom. 

With the start of the event just around the corner, Aether and Paimon were helping out a lot. Aether assisted with the decorations with his practical use of all elements, and his Serenitea Pot could offer additional lodgings when all hotels and inns were fully booked. Paimon especially helped a lot at the food stalls, and no, hehe, not only by eating everything. Although, pre-tasting food was definitely part of her joyful duties.

Most of all… Aether was here to help out Albedo who was experimenting at home for the first festive alchemy show of Mondstadt. Inspired by Lyney’s magic show and Gaming’s dance, Aether had made the suggestion that Mondstadt could add some exciting entertainment as well, apart from the musical performances, especially for the enjoyment of the youth. 

He did not expect this would become the task of his very own boyfriend, Albedo, and although the sweet alchemist was reluctant at first, he had been enjoying some new types of experiments recently. Sometimes these went well, and sometimes they didn’t. And well, today….

“I’m home,” Aether announced as he entered Albedo’s chambers. He then gasped when confronted with the mess inside. 

Today’s experiments didn’t seem to be going well!

Albedo x Aether

Albedo didn’t appear very worried about his predicament, however the moment he saw Aether, his face brightened.

“Welcome home,” he greeted casually. Aether snorted. There was a strange sticky slime all over the place, and apparently Albedo found himself stuck underneath the substance as well.

“What happened?” Aether asked, carefully stepping around the slimy disaster. Albedo hummed.

“I am not sure. When I tried another trick for the alchemy show, this happened. Please don’t tell Paimon about this.” 

Pffft hehe. Paimon would’ve made an even bigger scene of this. Panic, maybe even hysterical laughter. Aether wasn’t sure. But Albedo was so calm. He wasn’t even squirming.

“Are you… Are you stuck?” Aether asked, finally reaching Albedo. He lay in a funny position on the floor, covered with the bright green slime. His legs and head were sticking out, and that was about all that was visible of him.

“I am. It would be great if you could help me get out.” 

He was the cutest. Aether had no idea for how long he’d been like this, but Albedo looked so at ease. He probably trusted that Aether would be here to help him. 

Chuckling, Aether grabbed Albedo’s notepad that was on the table. With only a few splashes of slime on it, the notes were safe from harm, and Aether checked them out.

“Uhuh. So, how do I get you out?” he asked when he didn’t understand the notes. Albedo shrugged.

“Maybe you can use some water? Or cut away the slime,” Albedo suggested. Looking at him again, Aether couldn’t help but giggle.

“Is it me or do you seem rather comfortable over there?” he asked. The lack of concern coming from Albedo was kind of hilarious. He was just lying there and not being very helpful. 

“Well, I can’t move after all,” Albedo said. Walking back towards him, Aether kneeled by his legs and poked them.

“What about these? They are still pretty slimeless,” he said. Albedo kicked.

“What can my legs do, then?” he asked. Aether shrugged.

“I’m not sure. It’s just funny to see you’re so relaxed.”

“Well, apart from the fact that we have to clean all this, there’s not much to be concerned ab-OH!” Albedo let out a funny yelp.

“We have to clean? I think it’s you who made this mess, Bedo. Not me,” Aether said, tickling the back of Albedo’s knee with one finger. The trapped alchemist now did start to squirm a little. His relaxed attitude changed.

“The shohow was your ideahehe, w-we cahan clean togetheher ahah!”

Aether tickled him more now and smirked. “I didn’t know you’d be getting yourself into trouble like this,” he teased, now tickling Albedo’s knees with both hands. Albedo started to kick and struggle, but his arms really seemed to be stuck to his torso underneath the slime. 

While his relaxed attitude had Aether doubt it before, he was now pretty sure he was as helpless as he claimed. And that…. Well. That gave him only more desire to make his precious boyfriend laugh until he couldn’t breathe.

“AHahaether! Dohohon’t! R-relehease me fihihirst!” Albedo kicked his legs weakly, but Aether sat on his calves and used all fingers to scribble behind his knees and all over those sweet sensitive thighs.

“If I’m going to tickle your pretty legs, I’m obviously doing it when you still can’t move, Bedo.”

“Juhust because you cahahan doesn’t mehean you should! Nahaha!” Albedo threw his head back, and Aether felt enchanted by how cute and charming he looked. Despite his predicament, covered with sticky slime and tickled to death, Albedo was as dazzling as ever.

“Ahaether! Nohhoho! Thihis is so chihildish- stohohop!” 

After tickling and teasing him for as long as he pleased, Aether finally gave his breathless lover a break and looked for a way to free him from the slime. Water didn’t seem to work, so in the end he indeed had to use a knife and carefully cut through the thick substance until it freed Albedo. Not without an ‘accidental’ tickle with his finger here, and a little ticklish scratch there, of course. 

“That was about time,” Albedo said when he was finally free.

“Pardon?” Aether poked him, making him jump, and Albedo caught his hand and pouted.

“The tickling part was rather unnecessary,” he said with a cute blush. Aether giggled and hugged him. Even though Albedo was still sticky and had a strange chemical smell on him, he was still his lovely huggable boyfriend.

“Was it that unnecessary? Trust me, anyone would’ve used the opportunity to use some tickling to make you laugh when you were that helplessly stuck.” 

“Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should,” Albedo lectured.

“You already said that. I’m serious, when presented with the opportunity, anyone would tickle their partner. It’s that simple.”

“No. I think it’s just you. Tickling is for the youth. Not everyone is so immature,” Albedo said with a playful smile. 

“Wanna bet?” Aether suggested.

“.....I don’t see the point.” 

“There is none. I’ll just prove it to you.”

“No need.” 

“Still, I’ll do it.”

“You’re being so silly.”

“Yup. Your silly.” 

While they cleaned up the room, they argued back and forth, and meanwhile Aether came up with his little plan. Not only was it going to prove to Albedo he was right. It was also going to make this festive week so much more fun! 

Wanderer x Sethos 

“....... How convenient.”

While Wanderer didn’t seem too delighted, Sethos was dying from happiness. Thank you, Traveler! Thank you! 

Due to the crowded hotels and inns, Aether had added his Serenitea Realm as an additional place for many guests to stay during Mondstadt’s Winter Festival, and Sethos was lucky to share a room with Wanderer. And not by accident, he assumed.

Pretty much everyone, including Aether and Wanderer himself, knew about Sethos and his schoolboy-crush on the mysterious scholar. He knew Wanderer didn’t necessarily dislike him, but he had never really responded to his advances so far. They were just friends, and nothing more.

So now that they were roommates for the week, Sethos was so excited. 

“He even left us this,” Wanderer sighed as if it was a problem. On both their beds, a gift was wrapped to celebrate the festive season.

“That’s so kind!” Sethos chirped. Before he opened his gift, Wanderer already opened his own and read the card to go along with it.

“To Wanderer: A festive hat to wear this week. Be sure to wear it, or I will make you. From Aether,” he read, and he looked at the red and green colored hat. 

“Well, how nice,” he sighed, but Sethos already rushed towards him and grabbed the hat.

 “That looks lovely! Put it on, please!” 

Wanderer rolled his eyes but did take his hat off so that Sethos could put the new one on. He looked really adorable like this. 

“You look great,” he whispered. Wanderer blushed a little and shrugged.

“So, what’s in yours? Don’t tell me we’ll be wearing matching hats,” he said. Sethos turned around and quickly returned to his gift.

“That’s right! Let’s see…” He excitedly tore away the paper and revealed… 

“A book?” Both he and Wanderer said at the same time. Sethos studied the cover.

“A special book of treasures for my dear friend Sethos…. From the Traveler…” he read out loud. 

“Treasures? What’s that supposed to mean,” Wanderer asked. Sethos wondered too and opened it. His eyes then widened. 

“T-this…” He blushed. They were very detailed research notes and observations, about something very specific.

“W-Wanderer’s tickle spots,” he whispered. 

“Hm? Pardon?” Wanderer stood by his side and tried to peek at the book, but Sethos quickly stepped away with a blush.

“What is it? Let me see,” Wanderer demanded impatiently, but Sethos quickly held the book in front of his face and scanned the pages.

This was indeed valuable information. Out of nowhere! What a mischievous thing to do! Sethos hadn’t tickled Wanderer before. Sure he had some tickle fights with Cyno and with Aether before, but the thought of tickling his one and only crush just flustered him greatly. 

To think Aether would give him such a major push in that direction. His eyes found the first notes:

Always tell him you will tickle him. He’ll get flustered and deny he’s ticklish, making for the perfect build-up towards his demise. Try to catch him from behind, it will make him more vulnerable. Start with his sides.

So detailed… Sethos kept stepping away to avoid Wanderer’s curious grabby hands, and then suddenly he stopped and looked at him. He smirked.

“Wanderer. I’m going to tickle you,” he announced as was instructed.

“H-huh?!” He indeed got flustered immediately. “What are you s-suddenly…?!” 

“I’m going to tickle you,” Sethos repeated, pressing the notebook between his elbow and side so he had both hands to use. 

“That’s ridiculous! I’m not ticklish, you’ll be wasting your time,” Wanderer claimed as was expected. Sethos giggled.

“Oh, well if you’re not ticklish, you surely wouldn’t mind~!” 

He had hoped Wanderer would turn around and run as soon as Sethos wiggled his fingers at him, but it wasn’t going to be that easy. He raised his hands defiantly and was ready for a struggle, but luckily Sethos had sparred a little too much lately with Cyno and was proud to have gained some skill and agility. 

So he grabbed one of Wanderer’s arms and spun him around, pulling his arm behind his back. Then with his free hand he began to tickle his side with gentle squeezes and slow finger-wiggles. It proved to be effective immediately.

“Gahah! D-don’t you dahare!” Wanderer howled, squirming slightly while Sethos continued to tickle.

“I thought you weren’t ticklish? Then why are you laughing?” he asked. He realized it might’ve been better if he read the full notebook first before immediately attacking. He had gotten a little too excited. Now with his hands occupied it was a little hard to take out the notebook again and read the next steps. So he was going to have to take gambles for his next attacks.

“Ahahaa you -! I’ll gehehet you for thihis!” Wanderer laughed. Sethos blushed a little. He wouldn’t mind getting got by his crush. But still, he was now tickling him for the first time and hearing that unique laugh. He would love to hear more.

“Maybe heeere…” He moved his wiggling fingers from his sides to his stomach and dug in. Wanderer bucked wildly and threw his head back, causing his hat to fall off.

“Look what you’re doing now. It doesn’t tickle and yet you’re making a mess!” Sethos teased. He managed to push Wanderer in the direction of his bed and tried to push him down, but that wasn’t as simple as he had hoped. Before he could succeed, the roles had suddenly reversed and he ended up on his back with Wanderer pinning him down.

“Now why would you play with fire like that, huh?” Wanderer said, and he grabbed the book that was still squeezed between Sethos’ arm and side so he could take a look. With one hand he pinned Sethos’ wrists together above his head, and he used his free hand to peek into the notebook.

“That wicked….”  he mumbled with a blush.

“Please - it was Traveler’s gift to me! I didn’t even go further than the first step!” he whined. Wanderer chuckled and put away the book.

“Oh really now? Well guess what? I wouldn’t need any research notes to kill you. I’ll just follow my instincts.” 

Well, using the term ‘killing’ seemed rather dark, but Sethos could confirm that he was indeed dying of many things very soon. Laughter, that was for sure. And also from the butterflies that swarmed inside his lovesick stomach. What was also killing was the thought that after all this, his romantic feelings towards Wanderer may have doubled, making him explode, while remaining unrequited! 

“WHaahaha-Wandeheheer plehehease! Aaahahaha!” 

“Geez, you’re so easy, Sethos~”  

Then again… It was only the first day of a festive week together in Mondstadt. Who knows what might happen after today’s tickly exchange….

Alhaitham x Kaveh

The streets were decorated beautifully. The lights on the buildings were even more impressive. So this was Mondstadt at the start of its Winter Festival. 

Together with Alhaitham, Kaveh arrived in their room. It seemed they were lucky to get a room at the inn. With so many guests visiting, all lodgings had been fully booked, and Aether even had to use his Serenitea Pot to offer additional space. 

Over time it seemed that Mondstadt’s Winter Festival had become even more popular than its famous Windblume Festival, which was rather impressive. But seeing it up close like this, Kaveh could understand why.

“Oh, what is this?” They noticed two gifts on their bed with ‘Alhaitham and Kaveh’ on it. There was a little card as well, and Alhaitham opened it and read it out loud:

“Dear Alhaitham an Kaveh, welcome to Mondstadt. You must be tired after the long trip. Enjoy a nice hot drink and a meal first, you can find my recommendations at the bottom of this card. Then when you’re back at the inn, enjoy a relaxing night together with these gifts I got for you. Enjoy your week in Mondstadt and thank you for coming here to celebrate the Winter Festival.”

Kaveh had to chuckle a bit since Aether’s words were so kind and warm, and yet Alhaitham read them in such a dry voice.

“That’s so kind of him,” Kaveh said and he opened his gift. “Ooooh!” He revealed a set of very soft and warm pajamas, in the color red. Alhaitham opened his own and had a matching one, in green color.

“I suppose he figured we would not bring fitting clothing for these temperatures,” he said fondly. Kaveh chuckled.

“This will definitely keep me warm tonight.”

“Well then, let’s eat something first.” They studied Aether’s recommendations and enjoyed a lovely meal at a restaurant nearby. When they were outside they could already enjoy some more of the festivities which would officially start with the Winter Festival’s opening ceremony tomorrow.

After a good meal and a stroll around the city, they were back at their inn. While Alhaitham sat down in one of the comfy chairs to read his book, Kaveh went to change into the warm pajamas in advance. Feeling the fluffy fabric he just couldn’t wait.

“Suits you.” 

Kaveh looked up and saw that Alhaitham didn’t even look away from his book, but he surely had checked him out when he didn’t notice. He blushed slightly and sighed. 

“I’m not sure if I should take that as a compliment, coming from you. You should wear yours too. It’s really nice and warm,” he said, walking over towards Alhaitham and handing him the PJ’s. 

“Hm - wait,” Alhaitham said just as Kaveh turned away from him.

“What?” Kaveh asked and turned back again to face him. Alhaitham put away his book and got out of his chair. He approached Kaveh until he stood pretty close, making Kaveh hold his breath.

“Turn around,” Alhaitham said. Rather than a request, it was almost a firm command. What was he so serious about?

“I-is there something on me? Are the PJ’s torn? Is something wrong?” he asked. Alhaitham didn’t say a single word while Kaveh turned his back towards him.

“Alhaitham?” Kaveh asked, feeling curious and impatient. Then… without warning… 

“AYah!” Kaveh jolted when he suddenly felt two pairs of hands on his sides, with fingers digging in slightly, enough for it to tickle. 

Kaveh immediately tried to grab Alhaitham’s hands, but he failed to pull them off as those fingers continued to dig in, wiggling and dancing playfully.

“Ahhahalhaitham wha-what are you dohoing! Wahaha!” he laughed. They would tickle each other from time to time, it wasn’t that uncommon in their relationship, no matter how odd it may seem. But usually there would be at least a little bit of a reason. This time it was so random Kaveh got completely overwhelmed. 

“Dohohon’t!” He stumbled forward, trying to escape Alhaitham’s clutches, but he was followed all the way through the small room, and they ended up on bed; Kaveh pinned underneath Alhaitham’s heavy weight, laughing and squealing for his life.

“AHAHA nooooo dohohon’t!” He blushed like crazy - he wasn’t sure how thin these walls were. This was humiliating, what if other guests would hear this noise! 

Without saying a word, Alhaitham looked at Kaveh’s face while he tickled the hell out of him. Kaveh squirmed and struggled, kicked and flailed, but in the end there wasn’t much he could do except laugh until he was out of breath. 

Then, Alhaitham gave him a short, gentle kiss on his lips and got up again, returning to his seat to continue reading.

“W-w-what was… that… for,” Kaveh said breathlessly. He was all shaky as he got up again. The warm pajamas were now more like an obstacle rather than his savior. He felt too warm after getting tickled mercilessly like that. He took off the top and folded it while he caught his breath. But then…

“Hmm?” He turned the shirt around and saw what was on the back.

Tickle me ♡

….. Kaveh stared at the text. It was subtle, not too big. But yes, these PJ’s definitely invited the other to tickle them. He watched Alhaitham in shock. He couldn’t believe Alhaitham would get tempted by something so silly.

“That Traveler, really….” Kaveh mumbled. He was too tired and flustered to say more to Alhaitham about this, but there was still one thing on his mind: if this text was on his shirt, then maybe it was also on Alhaitham’s. Not that he could just carelessly tickle Alhaitham whenever, without risking a similar treatment like just now. But still….

“Challenge accepted,” he whispered softly. Somewhere this week, he would get his well-earned revenge!

Zhongli x Diluc

“It was great!” 

“It was so amazing. Did you see, did you see?”

“Even better than last year!” 

Diluc didn’t care much that everyone was talking about the Winter Festival’s opening ceremony which he had missed. Instead of feeling disappointed that he missed it, he felt embarrassed. He had gotten so carried away cleaning up his tavern’s storage that he completely lost track of time and missed it unintentionally…

“Yo~” Diluc looked up to see Kaeya enter. 

“We didn’t see you at the ceremony. Traveler asked me to give this to you,” he said, and he handed him a gift. 

“Oh…?” Diluc accepted it and studied the wrapped package.

“Where were you anyway?” Kaeya asked.

“I was…. busy,” Diluc said. It was obviously a lie, it wasn’t crowded yet at all because everyone was enjoying the start of the festival with so many things to do. Skating at the ice rink, buying food and drinks at the various stalls, having fun with workshops, games, performances, shopping. Most people would come to the Angel’s Share later that day. 

Luckily Kaeya didn’t say anything else. “Well then. Enjoy the festival too when you can~!” 

He left the tavern, and Diluc finally opened the gift and revealed a small bottle. On the card was written: 

Dear Diluc, 

You’re probably going to be very busy during this festival. I wanted to give you this special gift. It’s the result of a little experiment Albedo did the other day. With a few drips of this magical potion, you will feel very happy. So happy it will make you laugh. You can drink it yourself, or present it to grumpy customers. No worries: it’s completely harmless. If you want the effect to wear off sooner, there is one way to do it: more laughter! If someone’s there to give a little tickle, that’ll work best.

Warm regards,Aether

“Hrmph…” Diluc studied the bottle. Why would he give him this thing. He had no need for ‘feeling happy’ and even though he indeed complained about some irritating customers once in a while, he doubted whether he should give them something of this, uh…. He studied the label. Happiness potion? Pfft. 

But the gesture was nice. He studied the bottle some more. Then he took a glass and poured some wine in it, and added a few drips, just to experiment if it was anything visible at all. It wasn’t visible.

He just wondered about the taste of it, what the effect would really be like and if it would be best to throw this wine-tester away instead of trying to drink it when he heard a sudden noise from the storage. Huh? He went inside and to his horror found a sneaky bard attempting to raid his storage.

“When did you get here, hey!” 

“Surpriiiise noooo!” Venti wailed as Diluc caught him and tried to drag him out. He changed his mind. If anyone would be his test subject for that mysterious potion, it should be Venti. If it was harmless, Diluc needed to see what would happen if- eh? 

“Hello.” Entering the tavern again while dragging Venti by his collar, Diluc stared at a polite looking customer who was sitting at the bar.

“Zhongli! Good to see you! So you love Diluc’s drinks too huh!” Venti chirped, struggling in Diluc’s grip. 

“You know him?” Diluc meant to ask Zhongli about knowing the little thief Venti, but the merry bard already gave an unwelcome response: “Of course I know him! He’s a very old friend of mine! Zhongli, so good to see you here all the way from Liyue! Are you enjoying the Winter Festival?” 

Zhongli only smiled at them and chuckled. “Hello. Hehehe…” Diluc may have heard about this Zhongli person from Aether, but it was actually his first time meeting him. He seemed rather… What was the word… Goofy? And that while Diluc had the impression from Aether’s stories that he was a rather serious person.

“I am ehenjoying myself, indeed. The wihine is so good, too hehe.” 

Diluc’s eyes widened and he quickly looked for the happiness-tester he had poured just now. Gone. Instead, Zhongli had a glass in his hand that looked a lot like it, and aaaah he took another sip!

“Ahah yes, I apologize. It wahas here ahalready, and it looked so g-good hehe. Of course I will pay for it, one mohoment.” 

Zhongli’s giggly words were laughed at by Venti who threw his head back and cackled. “What’s the matter with you? Never seen you so giggly before!” 

Diluc sighed. At this moment people should be enjoying the many parts of the Winter Festival, and instead he was dealing with this remarkable pair of guests, and one of them had sipped from Aether’s stupid happiness potion unknowingly! 

“I am just feeling hehe, very good,” Zhongli said as he leaned some more over the bar so he could slide some mora Diluc’s way. He was sitting in such a strange position while laughing like that.

“Thanks pal! And thanks for the drinks!” Venti the little thief took the mora and two bottles from the bar before bolting out.

“I’ll pay you back soon!” he promised. Geez… That little shit. Besides the mora, Venti was now on the loose with: 1) the happiness potion and 2) the bottle of wine Diluc had used to make his tester with, which had been consumed by the man before him.

Zhongli smiled at him. “Very eheh pleheased to meet you.” Diluc sighed and decided to worry less about Venti and more about the charming man in front of him. And since the Traveler was the culprit of all this and also was their mutual friend, maybe Diluc should be honest with him.

“I am sorry if the way you are feeling right now is a bit strange. Here, this might explain,” Diluc said, and he gave Zhongli the card. Zhongli read Aether’s handwriting while giggling, and then he let out a deep sigh.

“T-that trahaveler. I wonder h-how long this will tahake,” he laughed. Diluc nodded.

“Diluc, was it, yehes?” Zhongli asked. Diluc straightened himself and nodded again.

“Yes?” he said. Zhongli’s random giggles were a bit awkward to him too.

“P-please hehe. Please tickle me.”

Diluc’s eyes widened. He remembered the last part of Aether’s card and he groaned.

“W-what did you say?” he asked.

Zhongli merely giggled some more before repeating: “Tickle me, plehease. I would lihike to hahave a proper c-conversation wihith you, b-buhut I cahan’t when I’m like thihis,” Zhongli giggled. Poor Zhongli. Diluc felt already tired just by watching him. Ugh it was to be expected of the mischievous Traveler and his alchemist boyfriend to come up with something like this. 

Diluc sighed and awkwardly stepped from behind the bar and circled around Zhongli’s giggling figure. He felt weird to do it, but maybe it was even worse to do nothing and let him sit here and suffer from endless giggles for who knew how long? 

“Then please excuse me,” Diluc said as he stiffly put both his hands on Zhongli’s sides.

“Are you ticklish here?” he asked first to make sure he wouldn’t touch an inappropriate place if it wasn’t even going to work.

Zhongli nodded. “Yehes, it will tickle,” he confirmed. Oof, that was kind of cute. Diluc shook the thought out of his head and dug his fingers into Zhongli’s sides. The man jumped slightly and his soft monotonous giggles got their first little pitch.

“HEeheh!” Diluc almost stopped promptly, but he had a feeling it wouldn’t be enough. So he tickled Zhongli’s sides until the giggles turned into laughter.

“D-dohoon’t mind me struggling-heheh! Y-you mahay continuehehehe!” Zhongli laughed. Diluc didn’t know Zhongli very well and wasn’t sure how much of this funny personality was influenced by the happiness potion. But he started to feel rather fond towards it. 

The handsome, strict-looking man in his neat uniform was giggling and laughing while Diluc tickled him, and he could only pray that no one would enter the tavern and disturb this moment. For eh, you know, privacy sake, and not to humiliate them. Not to humiliate poor Zhongli in particular, of course. Yes. 

“M-more…?” Diluc asked, wondering if the potion’s effect was wearing off. He wouldn’t know if he kept tickling him, but Zhongli was pretty clear: 

“Yehehes! Plehehease!” 

Well, that was very clear. Diluc wondered if Zhongli would get used to the tickles on his sides. Remembering his embarrassing tickle fights with Kaeya, of which many he shamefully lost, he recalled a spot that would make Diluc himself lose his mind. He let his fingers climb up and clawed gently at Zhongli’s ribs. 

“Ahhhahahaha!” The gentle bubbly laughter changed pitch again. Lower, but louder. Diluc moved his fingers up even higher until he reached the spot right below Zhongli’s underarms.

“I apologize,” Diluc said before tickling that well-known killer spot with everything he had. Zhongi’s laughter definitely got more hysterical and he almost fell back. Diluc caught him, and while Zhongli squirmed and laughed in his arms, Diluc felt himself heat up at the close proximity.

“Plehehease!” Zhongli laughed. Not sure whether he meant please tickle more, or at last, please stop, Diluc settled with the second one and finally stopped tickling. Zhongli continued to rest against him and gasped for air. Although he was breathing heavily, Diluc was pretty sure he had stopped giggling,

“Did it…. Did it work?” he asked. Zhongli smiled and nodded.

“I-it worked. I apologize for that,” he said. Diluc helped him back in a proper sitting position and returned to his spot behind the bar.

“N-no I should be the one to apologize. It was Aether’s gift, I left it here carelessly and…” To his surprise, Zhongli reached over the bar and grabbed his hand to make him stop sputtering.

“Let’s not apologize. Could I please order a glass of your finest wine? I’ll pay you double, since a certain someone stole my previous payment.” 

With that humble smile and his cheeks still colored slightly, Zhongli smoothly ordered his drink, making Diluc blush even more.

“Y-yes sure… and don’t worry about t-the eh, about the money…” He wasn’t sure if it was because of the silly situation because of Aether’s potion, but the mood was definitely a little weird in here, and he found himself wishing for Zhongli to hang around at the tavern for a little while longer.

Ningguang x Beidou

Luxurious. Aether definitely saved his best room for them. Beidou was secretly relieved that Mondstadt couldn’t provide more rooms to stay. Thanks to that, she and Ningguang had the honor of staying at one of the spacious mansions in Aether’s Serenitea Pot realm, and although it wasn’t winter over there and it wasn’t like the true festive atmosphere as in Mondstadt City, they got such a beautiful and fancy room. It was amazing and magical.

“Feeling like royalty here,” Beidou chimed. Ningguang giggled.

“Oh my queen,” she sang. Beidou playfully stuck her tongue out at her girlfriend and headed towards the bed to try out how soft it was.

“Are you going to skip this part?” Ningguang asked. Beidou turned around and saw that she had missed an important detail. There was a beautiful coffee table made from glass, with on top of it a neatly wrapped gift.

“Dear Ningguang and Beidou, I hope you will enjoy the Winter Festival in Mondstadt. Please accept this humble gift. May it fill you with love and warmth at all times, whether you’re together or apart. Always. Warm regards, Aether,” Ningguang read out loud.

“Aw, that’s so sweet,” she said. She opened the gift while Beidou relaxed on top of the comfy bed.

“Tell me what’s in it!” she chirped.

“It’s…. oh. It’s… us?” Ningguang wondered. Beidou got up and joined her girlfriend, wrapping her arms around her middle and leaning her chin on her shoulder. She noted the dolls in Ningguang’s hand. One resembled Ningguang, and one resembled Beidou. But there was one remarkable thing. On both dolls there was a little text: tickle doll. 

Beidou and Ningguang looked at each other in confusion, then back at the dolls. “You mean, they’re like voodoo dolls? If I tickle this one, will you feel it?” Beidou took the Ningguang doll and tickled it playfully. Ningguang gave no reaction.

“I’m not feeling anything.”

She lifted Beidou’s doll and tickled it. “That’s… disappointing,” Beidou said when she didn’t feel anything either.

“I think the text is just for show. Don’t be mean towards the generous Traveler. The dolls are cute, right? Especially yours,” Ningguang teased. Beidou pouted and turned the Ningguang doll around and tried to tickle it in various places. The doll was definitely cute, but there was no effect to tickling it. Ningguang didn’t even smile or giggle. She just walked away and put the Beidou-doll aside. 

“So, how soft was that bed, hm?” she sang as she approached the bed. Beidou put the Ningguang-doll down and wiggled her fingers. The damage was done. The doll had tempted her, and didn’t give her what she wanted. Well then, she had to solve this herself, hmm?

“Ah, that does feel pretty soft and- Beidou wah!” Ningguang squeaked when Beidou suddenly pounced on top of her. Ningguang stared up at her with those beautiful eyes. She then seemed to relax, obviously thinking of different things as she was pinned down on their comfortable bed.

“You couldn’t wait?” she asked. Beidou chuckled.

“Definitely couldn’t.” Then without warning she tickled Ningguang, playing her ribs like a musical instrument, and oh, she definitely made music. The best music in the world.

“Hohold on, nohoho!” Ningguang giggled in the cutest way.

“See it as a belated effect of the tickle doll, sweetie. Does it feel any ticklish now? Well?” Beidou taunted. Her fingers moved expertly all over her lover’s soft and sensitive areas. Ningguang squirmed and laughed charmingly. She didn’t even struggle much, indicating only how much she actually enjoyed it. Beidou smiled fondly. Tickling Ningguang and watching those beautiful reactions would never get old.

“Hehehe ohohoh you- hehehe!” Ningguang giggled when Beidou tickled her neck. Charmed and intoxicated by her beauty, Beidou found herself leaning closer and closer until she could kiss those smiley lips and drink those melodious giggles. What she didn’t expect however was that a very animal-like sound of her own interrupted Ningguang’s beautiful sounds - caused by the sudden tickle she felt under her arms.

“HNGHHah!” Beidou pulled away and immediately crumbled when Ningguang tickled her more. 

“You always let your guard down, don’t you sweetie?” Ningguang teased. She always seemed so calm and radiant, but those fingers with their gentle touches were absolutely killing. Beidou collapsed on top of Ningguang and howled, much less charmingly than her gorgeous girlfriend.

“Nihihing ahahaha not thahahat!” she cackled. Ningguang managed to move from under her and switched their positions. She took one of Beidou’s arms and pinned it above her head, and with her free hand she tickled her underarm in a way that made her screech.

“NIHIHING Ahhahah dohohon’t!” Beidou shrieked. She kicked her legs wildly and shook her head from side to side, but Ning was as strong as ever.

“What’s the matter, my precious tickle doll? Don’t tell me you can’t handle this?”

Most of the time, Beidou was the one to tickle first. When she wanted to tease Ningguang, when she wanted to flirt with her, when she wanted to get her attention. And after hearing those pretty angelic giggles, she’d always forget the villain-traits Ning would show whenever she turned the tables and got into absolute sexy revenge mode. They were the best actually.

With only five fingers she tickled Beidou’s underarm until she thought she’d pass out, all while smirking down at her.

“Plehehease I gihihive! You win ahahahah!” Beidou begged. As evil as she was, the tickling was always unbearable very very soon, and even then Ningguang did tickle her for a little bit longer after that. After some more hysterical pleas for mercy, they finally ended up cuddling comfortably while they both recovered from that… sort-of tickle fight.

“Maybe the Traveler wanted us to have fun like this. Why else would he give us tickle dolls that don’t work?” Beidou said breathlessly.

Ningguang shrugged. “Who knows. No one ever knows what he is really thinking. He’s a mystery.”

“Not as mysterious as you are,” Beidou teased. When Ningguang turned her head and smirked, Beidou immediately squeaked and tried to move away.

“I didn’t mean that as an insult dehehear no wahahait this isn’t fahahair!” she cried when Ningguang tickled her once again. Well no matter what Aether really meant with those gifts, Beidou was actually thankful for them!

Cyno x Tighnari

Mondstadt’s Winter Festival was absolutely amazing. So many fantastic decorations, performances, the most delicious food, many fun games and activities. Cyno felt overwhelmed. No offense, but he felt that returning to Sumeru was going to be such a bummer after having so much fun.

“How about we finally make use of Aether’s gift, hmm?” Tighnari asked. Upon arrival they both received a voucher for free drinks and a surprise activity at The Cat’s Tail. 

“You’re right. Let’s see if they’ve got a table for us,” Cyno said. They had been wandering around the festival all day. Tighnari had participated in a fun archery game, and they even tried a round at the ice rink together. To relax and have a drink somewhere sounded good.

“I wonder what the surprise activity is.” 

The moment they entered the Cat’s Tail, they were embraced by warmth and pleasant scents of food and hot drinks, and engulfed by the noise of loud chatter and laughter. 

“Is that… a cat?” Tighnari asked when they saw the black cat at the counter.

“Hello Mr. Cat. We are here to exchange these vouchers,” Cyno said, and he held up Aether’s gifts. Right at that moment they heard a “hey!” and a small girl came running towards them. A cat girl! 

“Traveler’s vouchers, is that right?” she said. Tighnari and Cyno nodded.

“Uh, yes.”

“Great! We’ve been expecting you. I’m Diona, follow me to your table!” She ripped the vouchers from Cyno’s hand and pranced into the tavern. It seemed pretty crowded, all tables were occupied, but she guided them into a private room behind closed doors. Wow. 

The moment the doors closed the noise surrounding them was much less. The room was festively decorated, and there was a side table with a collection of pretty hourglasses. Interesting. 

“Wow, this room is for us?” Cyno asked when Diona gestured towards the sofa. 

“Yes it is. Special request from your friend, the Traveler. I’ll be getting you our Winter Festival special drink for free.” 

Before Cyno and Tighnari could say anything, she left already, and they both sat down in awkward silence. It was so quiet all of a sudden.

“Such luxury,” Cyno said.

“Very generous of the Traveler,” Tighnari said with a nod.

“What about the surprise activity?” Cyno wondered, and Tighnari shrugged.

“I’m sure we’ll hear it later.” 

Diona came back with the delicious-looking drinks and she put them on the table. 

“Two specials for you! Don’t ask what’s in it, secret Cat’s Tail recipe,” she said with a cheeky smile. “As for your surprise activity, here.” Diona put a little box on the table. 

“Genius Invokation TCG, the limited Winter Festival edition. These are special cards for you to play, specially arranged by the Traveler. The winner of the game wins a second free drink. After your game, just come back to the bar. Alright? Good luck!” 

She left again and they were all alone in their quiet private room with their fancy drinks and special cards.

“That’s amazing.” Tighnari opened the books and read the rules.

“For this game, you can only use these cards. Shuffle them and divide them between the two of you. May the best player win. Aether,” he read, and he gave it to Cyno so he could read as well.

“P.S. You may keep these cards after the game. That’s what it says, Nari. You’re missing the most important part,” he said. 

Tighnari giggled. “Well, let’s see what kind of cards they are then.” He shuffled the deck and handed each a few cards.

“It’s Mondstadt themed. Of course,” Cyno said as soon as he gave his cards a first glance, noticing some familiar faces, meals and locations.

“Yes- and….” Tighnari paused and made a face.

“What?” Cyno asked. He didn’t notice anything strange in his cards yet, except that they were all related to Mondstadt somehow.

“Never mind. Let’s play.”

They played like they normally would. That was until Tighnari suddenly played a card. He looked very smug about it.

“The feather. Roll the elemental dice. Each anemo die counts as one minute. You may tickle the opponent for the total amount of minutes.” 

Cyno’s eyes widened and he grabbed the card to read it. It was exactly that. “Wait, what? N-no way!” he cried. Tighnari chuckled and wiggled his fingers. 

“I can now understand what’s so special about this game. That’s so typical of Aether,” he said, and he rolled the dice.

“T-that’s three times anemo…” Cyno said with a pout. Tighnari clapped his hands and got up.

“Yep! Three precious minutes to tickle you.” They noted that’s why there were hourglasses for them to use. Tighnari took the one of three minutes and put it down in the middle of the table.

“Gotta follow the rules, Cyno. Are you ready?”

“No.” 

Despite Cyno’s answer, Tighnari did start to playfully tickle him. He started by aiming for his stomach with one hand while his other hand went to his side. Cyno immediately tensed up and giggled uncontrollably.

“You dohohon’t hahave to do thihihis!” he laughed. Tighnari hummed.

“I may do it, so I will. We have to play the game as Aether intended for us to do, right?” 

“Yehehes buhuhut- ahhahah!” Cyno squirmed and wriggled around. Tighnari really wasn’t going easy on him. Luckily three minutes went by fast when you were having fun and- eh, well yes. Cyno felt flustered when he realized he was indeed having fun getting tickled, and then Tighnari finally stopped. 

“O-oof. Well, that definitely shook me. B-but don’t think you’ll win now,” Cyno said, grabbing his cards. They played a few more turns until Cyno pulled a ‘special’ card as well. His eyes widened with wonder. Even though there was another card he could play right now in his advantage, this special card was the one he wanted to play instead, because:

“Tickle Monster!” He proudly put the card down and then read: “Deal 5 minutes of Tickle DMG to the opponent.” He pointed at Tighnari.

“You’re in for it now.”

Tighnari smiled. “That isn’t really fair, but alright. Let’s go.” He quickly surrendered and took one of the 5-minute hourglasses. 

“Ready?” he asked.

“That should be my question to you, Nari,” Cyno said, wiggling his fingers eagerly. The five minutes of tickling Tighnari for this game were a pure delight. Tighnari was as ticklish as ever, giggling and squirming while Cyno tickled all of those lovely spots. 

“Just one more minute I think,” Cyno sang when he was busy tickling Tighnari’s thigh. He held his leg trapped with one hand and danced five fingers all over his thigh, making the cute Tighnari squeal.

“Heehehehe ahahalright!” he laughed adorably. Tighnari took the 5-minute tickle monster attack like a champ, and a little bit more of that since they both got carried away and lost track of time.

“That was all you got hm?” was Tighnari’s cocky remark when the tickle attack ended. Cyno smirked. He would’ve loved to make him pay for that attitude with some more tickles, but he was curious to see what the rest of the game would bring them.

“I’m saving your breath for later,” Cyno said with confidence. Meanwhile they almost forgot to drink their delicious specials which had already gotten cold. They were that much invested in the card game. 

With both of them flustered as well as determined to beat the other, they were now doing all they could to draw more cards. Rather than defeating each other’s characters, they kept playing cards that would allow them to obtain new cards. More tickle cards to be specific. 

During the game, Tighnari got another shot at Cyno with the so called ‘Flower of Laughter’ card which specifically gave him an X amount of minutes to tickle Cyno’s feet. He rolled the dice and ended up with only one minute, but he didn’t make it an easy minute  for Cyno. 

Cyno was the luckier one with at least 3 more tickle cards in his hand until the game ended. Before he finally beat Tighnari, he got to use the Winner’s Weakness card which allowed him to tickle one single spot of Tighnari’s own choice for 1 minute. Flustered as hell, Tighnari chose his tummy, thinking he could handle that best, but with Cyno focusing all of his attention on that lovely tummy, Tighnari was squealing helplessly pretty soon. 

Another tickle card Cyno got to use on him was the ‘Tickler’s Meal’ which allowed him to tickle Tighnari for the full round, even during Tighnari’s turn. Watching him giggle and squirm while he rolled the dice and made his move was the cutest thing.

And then his favorite card was the ‘TICKLE FREEZE’ card which made Tighnari hold his arms up while Cyno tickled him for 2 lovely minutes. 

This was the best game ever. Now finally out of breath, 200% flustered and no longer determined to win, Tighnari’s final character lost its life and Cyno turned out to be the winner.

“I’m the winner,” he said proudly. Tighnari was almost too tired to congratulate him, but he smiled and gave a thumbs up.

“G-good for you,” he panted. Cyno grinned and leaned closer.

“Do I get my prize?” 

“Y-yeah. At the bar - hmph!” Tighnari squeaked when Cyno pulled him closer for a kiss. As far as he knew, Aether didn’t even know they were romantically involved, and even if they weren’t, he surely would’ve fallen in love with him after tickling him so much in this playful match. 

“Shall we share the prize together?” he asked after kissing Tighnari’s lips again. Tighnari blushed sweetly and nodded.

“A-alright.” 

Cyno nodded and grabbed his hand, and as much as he would’ve loved to stay alone here with him, he did want to reward Tighnari as well for sharing so much of his sweet laughter all because the rules of a game said so. He really was the cutest boyfriend ever! 

Xiao x Venti

Xiao wasn’t much of a people person. So naturally, he wasn’t too thrilled when Aether invited him to visit Mondstadt’s Winter Festival. However, rather than convincing, Aether had been a little annoying about it. Enough to make Xiao curious. 

Especially curious to see this ‘special Winter Alchemy Show’ which was prepared by Mondstadt’s alchemists with Aether’s partner Albedo in the lead. 

Aether was mean enough to give him the wrong information about the show, causing Xiao to arrive in Mondstadt too early. It appeared the alchemy show was also part of the closing ceremony. Last day, at the end of the festival.

Although he could’ve simply teleported the hell out of here, there was something that made him linger around. He had wandered around the busy streets of the city, watched some activities from afar and tasted a snack or two. 

Aether and Paimon were so busy helping Mondstadt by organizing this festival that they hardly had time to hang around, but Xiao did run into Hu Tao, of all people, who was enjoying the festivities together with her good friend Yoimiya from Inazuma. Also something-something about a fabulous fireworks show which Xiao had missed. 

Xiao even saw Zhongli among the crowds and followed him around sometimes. 

But most of the time he chose to hide himself and enjoy the festival quietly, and once in a while when it got too much, he wandered around the surrounding areas outside Mondstadt and traveled to places such as Springvale, the Whispering Woods and Wolvendom.

Tonight he found himself sitting on the hands of the Anemo Archon statue, admiring all the Winter Festival festivities from a safe distance. 

He could hear some music from here too, and all in all, it wasn’t too bad to be here. He felt the warmth and joy even from such a distance. Xiao smiled. Mondstadt really was the City of Freedom, hmm.

“Oi! Xiao, it’s you!” 

Xiao sighed when he heard a familiar voice, belonging to someone he had also definitely seen a few times in the crowds. Someone he avoided for… vague reasons, even to himself. 

“That’s my spot, you know!” 

It was Venti, of course, and now he was sitting right beside him. He carried a funky bag with him and he looked pretty cute- eh, pretty…. different, in his wintery outfit. He was wearing a red scarf and a winter hat to keep his head warm. His cheeks were rosy from the cold and Xiao could clearly see his breath when he spoke.

“Is it?” Xiao asked. Yeah… For some reason the Anemo Archon’s presence always made him feel funny. He wasn’t sure why, but also not too eager to find out more about it.

“Want something tasty? Look at my stash,” Venti said, opening his bag and showing some things. A bottle of wine. A couple of waffles wrapped in napkins. Some cute souvenirs.

“Look, isn’t this nice?” Venti took out a reusable drinking bottle. “Aether gave it to me as a gift. It’s the best. I can just refill this at the tavern if I want. Well, with the bartender’s permission of course. Aether has a gift for you too, you know. You gotta find him later,” he rambled. Xiao took note of his last comment and nodded.

“I will.” It wasn’t like he hadn’t tried to see Aether before, but that was beside the point. 

“This wine is from Diluc’s tavern. You know Diluc, right? Of Dawn Winery. Want some?” Venti asked. 

“No, thank you.”

“Maybe some of this? Some sort of juice or something, also from Angel’s Share. Pretty sure there’s no alcohol,” Venti said, holding out a smaller bottle. Xiao rolled his eyes and to make sure the archon wouldn’t annoy him more with that stupid wine bottle or any other unwelcome liquor, he accepted the smaller juice bottle and took a sip. And another. 

“It doesn’t really have a taste.”

“Is that so?” Venti also took it and tasted it as well. He took a big sip, and another, and another. He shrugged and studied the label. There were very tiny handwritten letters on it. He squinted his eyes.

“Can you read this?” He gave it to Xiao. While feeling a little distracted because of the sudden urge to laugh (?) Xiao studied the label on the bottle. 

“H….Happiness potion?” he read. Meanwhile he was having a harder time holding back his giggles. What was happening? 

“H-hehe, hold on, is this…? Nohoho…” Xiao tried to fight back the giggles. Since Venti drank it later, it seemed he was still safe from its effect and he quickly grabbed the bottle from Xiao’s hand and tried to read it again.

“Happiness potion, experiment by Chief Alchemist Albedo. Dose: a few drips, mix in drink. Effect: laughter. Cure: laughter + tickling.”

A few drips? Mixed?! No way, they both drank it straight, and not just a little sip! And what about that cure - that didn’t make any sense!!!

“Whahahat hahahave you dohohone!” Xiao asked angrily through hysterical giggles. This was tiring already, he couldn’t stop!

“I dohohon’t knohohow! I’m sohohorry! It wahahas at Dihihiluc’s tahahavern!” 

This was ridiculous. The label didn’t say how long it would last. 

“Shahahall I tihihickle you theheen?” Venti asked. 

Xiao shook his head, but the bard moved closer and grabbed him. “Wehehe’re going to lahahaugh ahahanyway!” 

Oof, it wasn’t the same. Xiao didn’t feel like being tickled, but he also didn’t feel like laughing forever.

“Ahahalright thehen!” 

Venti curled his fingers against his lower sides and started to tickle. Xiao jumped because of the electrifying sensations. He’d occasionally forget how ticklish he actually was.

“AHh!” Although he was already laughing because of the potion, he felt a different sort of laugh getting through as soon as Venti tickled him.

“Wahahait, not thehehere!” Xiao whined when Venti tickled his ribs. He squirmed weakly and tried to gasp for air. He hadn’t experienced such a tough challenge in a while.

“Thehehen whehehere?” Venti giggled. Xiao had no idea where he could get tickled and make it bearable. Without getting his answer, the cheeky Archon moved his fingers down and squeezed his hips. Xiao squeaked and jerked heavily, but Venti pulled him closer and had to hold him tightly to prevent him from tumbling off the statue.

“D-don’t wohorrehehe, I’ve got you hehehe,” Venti laughed. Xiao wasn’t sure if he did well by agreeing to this. Venti’s tickling only made him laugh more than he already was. Obviously. 

“H-how aahahabout hehere?” Venti reached up and wiggled his fingers under Xiao’s arms. Xiao’s eyes widened and he suddenly bolted to the side, but Venti followed him and managed to tackle him. Now straddling Xiao, Venti wiggled his fingers eagerly and smirked - or well, tried to, he was still laughing pretty much.

“Hehehere I cohohome,” Venti laughed smugly. He tickled Xiao like he hadn’t been tickled in ages. 

“HAAHhh Vehehenti- nohoho ahaha wahahait!” Xiao felt miserable. It was embarrassing to be overpowered by laughter from two sides. The potion, and the tickling. 

Was the tickling really going to work? Venti only made him laugh more and more. He laughed until his stomach ached and was about to just force Venti to stop when he finally felt a noticeable difference. 

“Stohohop hehehe- STAHap!” Xiao warned abruptly, and Venti actually did so. Xiao waited for more laughter to come, but he was done.

“I-it worked,” he huffed. Venti giggled. 

“I’m glahahad. Then nohow you tihickle mehehe~” 

Xiao frowned. “Tickle you?” Oh. Of course. They were both suffering from this condition. It was just that with Venti it seemed more… natural. The giggles did suit him after all.

“Yehehes!” Venti sat before him and raised his arms. “Do it plehease!” 

Xiao blinked. He thought laughing uncontrollably for a mysterious amount of time was exhausting. But he wondered if Venti really minded it that much. It did seem that he was excited about getting tickled, and even though Xiao didn’t want to indulge him, he also didn’t want to be too harsh. 

“AAahahha!” Venti almost fell backwards and Xiao immediately stopped right after tickling him just briefly.

“Moooore ahahah!” Venti begged. Xiao blushed. This was so embarrassing…

He awkwardly ran his fingers up and down Venti’s outstretched underarms. Venti threw his head back and squealed.

“AHhh!” He sounded like he was having the time of his life. But still, Xiao continued to tickle him. He felt the blush on his own face grow and tried to focus on the wiggling movements of his fingers and the considerations about adding more pressure, like digging his fingers in or pinching and squeezing lightly. 

For an archon, Venti’s body was surprisingly delicate. The slightest touch could tickle him and make him squeak loudly. 

In the end it didn’t matter where and how Xiao tickled him. Venti reacted to the tickles in almost the same cute, hysterical way. No wait, not cute. Weird. Yes.

“Xiahahao!” 

“What,” Xiao hissed, almost exploding because of the embarrassment and strange tingly feelings that surged inside his chest.

“Dohohon’t stohohop! Aahahaha!”

That’s it, enough. Xiao stopped tickling him, it was too much. 

Even when he was the one who was already cured and not suffering from the potion and tickling, he was the one who couldn’t deal with this anymore.

“You know what, you’ll be fine. You’re laughing in any case,” Xiao growled.

“Noooooo not fahahair! Xiao pleheeease tickle me moooore!”  

Xiao felt like teleporting out of here. But he found himself staying by Venti’s side, just in case, like, yeah, just in case he’d be laughing too much after all. If he would be getting out of breath, if it would get harmful, too painful and too uncomfortable, Xiao might try to help him out some more…

But he didn’t need to. In the end after a while longer, Venti stopped laughing on his own. “Phew!” He fell on his back and sighed.

“That’s what you get for stealing unknown drinks,” Xiao lectured.

“Stealing? No no, I borrowed it from the Angel’s Share, I was there when…” Venti made a face. “Wait, actually I think Zhongli drank it too. I now remember he was laughing. So unlike him, hehehe.”  

Xiao hummed. Zhongli did….? He snorted. “Pfft. I can’t imagine it.” 

“Riiight?” They both giggled at the thought. As they both stopped giggling, their eyes found each other’s, and Xiao noticed he once again felt so funny, as if his insides felt ticklish, except he wasn’t sure about the cause. 

“Sorry I….” Xiao paused before he finished talking. What was he about to say? He wasn’t sure.

“Sorry you didn’t tickle me more? Apology accepted. I’m too cute when I’m tickled, I’m told often,” Venti said cockily. Pffft.

Xiao rolled his eyes fondly. 

“You’re even cuter though. You should laugh more, Xiao~” Venti sang. 

Right, enough of this. 

“I have somewhere to be.” 

Xiao got up and teleported right when Venti cried out: “No wa-!” But Xiao was already gone. Pfffft, his cheeks were burning. He should’ve left sooner! 

That crazy Venti. Why did the most ridiculous things always happen when he was around, and why did it set Xiao’s entire body on fire? At least, that was what it felt like! Wah! He teleported himself outside Mondstadt’s gates so he could cool down in peace and quiet. 

Xiao knew he would definitely be back by tomorrow night for the closing ceremony and the alchemy show. 

Until then, he needed some time off, away from Mondstadt and most importantly, away from that whirlwind of an Anemo Archon, the crazy bard, the silliest guy he knew - far away from Venti!

Epilogue

The applause was so loud Aether thought his ears were going to burst. Albedo had a huge, adorable smile on his face. Sucrose was beaming while she bowed multiple times. Timaeus stood in the middle of the other alchemists and trainees and they all held hands as they made a final bow together.

The alchemy show to conclude the Winter Festival was truly amazing. Epic. A unique spectacle. The crowd loved it, not only the children but also the adults. 

“Amazing!” they all yelled.  

Although he and Paimon had been stage assistants, they didn’t bow with the performers since Aether felt like this should really be Mondstadt’s celebration, and Albedo’s moment. Still, he clapped as loud as he could from the side. 

He felt that Albedo was made for this, more than he would think. Albedo had always been smart and artistic, and to use this trait to make crowds happy like this… He wondered if he should introduce him to Lyney. They could collaborate to give a Magic x Alchemy show in Fontaine. It’d be even more of a success if they combined their strengths. But anyway, eh, Aether was getting ahead of himself. One step at a time.

“You were great!” Aether kissed Albedo when they finally met backstage.

“Thanks.” Albedo seemed a little overwhelmed, but he was definitely smiling and still feeling the thrill. Aether grinned.

“And?” he said. 

Albedo cocked his head. “And what?” 

“Was I right?” Aether asked. He could see the realization on Albedo’s face.

“A-ah, that…” Yes. That. 

As a part of his show, Aether had requested him to include a question to the audience: whether anyone had felt ticklish lately. More specifically, if they were tickled by anyone during this Winter Festival. Albedo could smoothly relate it to the closing ceremony and put the spotlight on the audience, and Aether had glanced at the front rows where his friends were seated. 

To his surprise, more people than those he’d expected raised their hands. 

Sethos proudly raised his hand and probed Wanderer with his elbow that he should too. Hehe, cute. 

Kaveh and Alhaitham both didn’t raise their hand but Kaveh was blushing and Alhaitham had a funny expression. Even when they didn’t raise their hand, Aether thought they were so obvious.

Ningguang and Beidou charmingly raised a hand, both looking rather smug. 

Cyno and Tighnari both did too, with Cyno looking more proud and Tighnari more embarrassed. 

Zhongli held up a finger, and to Aether’s surprise, Venti shamelessly raised both hands. He waved his arms excitedly, and Xiao next to him held his arms crossed, and judging from the way Venti mumbled in his direction, Aether had the idea that maybe Xiao got tickled too. 

That was even more than what he intended with his little gifts, or well, pranks! And aside from his friends, quite some people in the audience raised their hands.

“There were a lot. But you can’t prove it was because of what you did,” Albedo argued.

Aether remembered his own words and repeated: “No I can’t. But see? When presented with the opportunity, anyone would tickle their partner. Or friend! Or family. It’s not just me.”

When Albedo was too speechless, Aether imitated him: “Just because you can doesn’t mean you should! Well, if it concerns tickling, I think most people will, because they enjoy it. It’s not just childish. It’s fun, uplifting, and it connects,” he spoke proudly.

His boyfriend finally chuckled. “Alright, alright! I get it now. I get it. Oh wise tickle-know-it-all.” He then smirked. “If you wanted it that badly, you could’ve just asked, instead of putting up that whole show.”

“What do you mean I-AHH!” Aether yelped when Albedo suddenly grabbed him. The flustered traveler tried to spin around and flee, but he couldn’t stop his clever alchemist boyfriend from digging his little claws into his sides to tickle him mercilessly.

“HWHAAHAH!” Aether wasn’t as charming as Albedo about it. He flailed his arms and exaggerated a little about it, but he was also just very very ticklish.

“Everything alright there?” Sucrose asked as she came passing by. Albedo nodded.

“All good, thank you Sucrose. And good work today,” Albedo said. Sucrose smiled sweetly.

“You too! Have a good night! You too, Traveler!” She didn’t seem too awkward about leaving Aether to get tickled to death.

“Nohohoo wahahait hehehelp me, ahahah!” 

Maybe Aether deserved that a little. Maybe he had put too much effort in his tickly pranks for his friends. But hey? It worked! He successfully helped by spreading joy and most people got to laugh a little, which made this Winter Festival even more special! 

[blueinkjpeg]

Listen to me ramble about traveler ships bc they’re silly!!

Albedo

Both Albedo and the Traveler have a scientific curiosity about the world and how it works, as well as humanity, which they are both not a part of. While Traveler finds enjoyment out of living among them, Albedo prefers studying them from a distance.

This also transcends into curiosity about each other, since they’re both different kinds of immortal ageless entities, they intrigue each other. (Albedo talks about wanting to “study” the Traveler.) They’re brought together by mutual curiosity— Traveler by Sucrose’s description of a gentlyman-ly scholar with much knowledge of Teyvat, and Albedo by tales of the interstellar Traveler with unique abilities and knowledge of other worlds.

They feel a sort of kinship for each other, as they’re both not really of Teyvat. Because of this, Albedo only trusts the Traveler to stop him if he should lose control one day and destroy Mondstat. He also talks about trusting the Traveler around his experiments, and having faith in their “exceptional talents.” He also trusts Travaler with Festering Desire, a sword with the remains of Durin (who was created by the same person as Albedo). Albedo specifically sought out the Traveler help him research the power within the sword, correctly guessing that Traveler (with their purifying ability) would be the only being able to wield it, which Sucrose remarks as odd and a great display of trust.

A final display of trust and perhaps the greatest of all; during the Shadows Amidst Snowstorms Event, Albedo decides to tell Traveler about his creation and relation to Durin, which he has not told to anyone else up to this point. Traveler’s response is to reassure Albedo that they’re not going anywhere, that they’re going to stay with Albedo on dragonspine and make sure to help him find his imposter.

About us, Assistant: Would you oblige me by serving as my assistant? After observing so many experiments, you surely know a good deal about alchemy by now. Relax, we will work together. I don't think you will have any problems. I have faith in my ability to instruct you, and even more faith in your exceptional talents.

Ascension 2: Albedo is the step in which change begins. Clearing away the excess so we can take on all the knowledge that is available. Would you like to investigate this world with me?

Ascension 3: Rubedo in alchemy refers to the refining of feeling. I feel the refining of my own emotions is also thanks to you.

Is there anything else you're interested in?

Albedo: Hmm, anything else...?

Albedo: Probably you.

Albedo: At first, it was because you carry the aura of the stars.

Albedo: But now... it seems that there is more to it.

Albedo: Why is this? Give me some time and I can conduct experiments to find out.

Is there anything you'd like to do?

Albedo: Heh, where should I begin...?

Albedo: In your company, I never lack inspiration.

For drawing?

For experiments?

Albedo: It's good for both drawing and experiments.

Albedo: And not just for these, but for many other things.

Albedo: Speaking of which... I used to think interaction with others was a waste of time.

Albedo: But after meeting you, I'd rather spend my time on you than other matters.

Albedo: This is a unique anomaly. I think I likely know the reason why.

Albedo: So can you also... give me more of your time?

Albedo (during The Chalk Prince and the Dragon Event): I mean that the time that I've spent traveling with you in the mountains was a valuable journey for me. In the future... If the need arises... Can I solicit your help again?

Traveler: Sure, even if you just want some company, find me anytime.

Albedo: Well… Glad I can count on you.

Albedo: Those born of earth are bound by its imperfections, but those born of chalk and free of impurities... You and I are alike, both composed of a substance that has yet to be fully defined... If one day, I lose control... Destroy Mondstadt... Destroy everything... Can I rely on you to stop me?

Albedo (Golden Archipelago quest): Communicating with others can be a taxing affair, but if I were to choose someone to talk to, I would pick you. You're intelligent, and I like to talk to intelligent people.

Albedo (The Chalk Prince and the Dragon Event): But if you want to know why I trust you... It might be because… The unusual ones like us share a certain degree of understanding.

Traveler: “Unusual ones?”

Albedo: Lonely individuals... Those who aren't like ordinary people, Just like... you and me

Traveler: (Is he implying something?)

+(whatever the hell this look is):

(And being weirdly flirty)

Xiao

Xiao has been cursed with bad karma, while the Traveler has purifying abilities. Xiao talks about how being around them makes him calmer somehow. Maybe because of these purifying abilities, more likely because the Traveler is so universally warm and friendly. Two immortal beings, Xiao has spent his long life tied to his nation while the Traveler has been almost everywhere.

While Xiao has a rough exterior, he is actually curious about humanity and has a great love for them, something Traveler understands and shares. He’s just weary of his karmic debt and history of violence bringing the Liyuan people bad luck, or preventing him from fitting in should he mingle among them. The Traveler likewise does not fit in, but is still beloved. And so, Xiao has expressed that he would be willing to attempt going to Liyue Harbor to learn about the people if the Traveler accompanied him. It’s likely Xiao admires Traveler for their pursuit of understanding Teyvat and its people— something Xiao is naturally bad at— and they make him feel comfortable to pursue it as well.

Xiao has sworn to come whenever the Traveler calls his name. He has done so seconds after being called every time the has Traveler called for him, except when Xiao was so injured he couldn’t hear it. He seems notably protective of Traveler, more so than other characters (remember in 2023 lanturn rite when Traveler “drowned” and Xiao showed up IMMEDIATELY to “save” them, and the second he found out they were just faking it, told Traveler not to do that again because “there’s people who worry about you’?) During the Perilous Trail story quest, Xiao refuses to meet up with the main cast of characters, even after being injured, in fear of bringing danger to them, and only agrees to join them when he hears Traveler might be in danger. (Similarly, during the Windborne poetry event, no character could convince Xiao to join in until Venti mentioned the Traveler will be there. As well as 2023 lantern rite where Xiao mentions he came to Hu Tao’s dinner because he assumed Traveler would be there too.) Voice lines imply he is guarded because he assumes his karma will poison Traveler, and he doesn’t want to hurt them. Despite this guarded roughness, Traveler rightly characterized him as a deeply caring individual, seeing Xiao to the core of who he is, and treats him as such.

Also, Traveler has shown to be dedicated to becoming someone Xiao can trust and relax around. In some of Xiao’s voice lines, it’s implied that Traveler has been trying to come up with ways to help soothe Xiao’s pain, such as; suggesting Xiao try poetry to get out “words unsaid”, asking Baizhu about pain medication, intervening to help Xiao out when he’s overwhelmed. Traveler sees Xiao trying to manage his grief and interact with the people of Liyue more, and presents non-optional support for him. (Learning more to honor Pervases and Bosacius [it should be noted that Xiao willingly gave information about his deceased friends to the Traveler because he wanted to share the memory with them, as well as bringing them up in casual conversation (2023 lantern rite) with Traveler], bringing Lantern Rite to Xiao when he’s too hesitant to attend, making tofu for him since other foods bother him, etc.)

They have a tradition of releasing Xiao Lanterns during Lanturn Rite. [ex1] [ex2] Xiao has given the Traveler crystalflies for their hair for his own birthday, brought Traveler flowers on a few occasions, and has talked about how since knowing the Traveler, Xiao has been blessed with sweet peaceful dreams of the two of them going on strolls, wondering if he deserves something so nice.

In a poetry event, the Traveler has created poetry to show their admiration towards Xiao for his endless watch over Liyue. Maybe Traveler admires it because they’ve never had such devotion over something for so long, and Xiao admires Traveler for the opposite reason, and for being brave. They’ve been notes by many other characters to be close. [x]

About Shenhe: It seems Shenhe places a great deal of trust in you. Well, how could she not. There are few people in the world as kind and good-natured as you.

More about Xiao V: It's too late. The connection between us is too strong. Even if you wanted to, it's too late to sever it. Hm? You've never thought to sever it? *sigh* This eternal dance of demon subjugation... My fight goes on. But I would like to know more about you.

Ascension: Countless souls have fallen prey to these hands. I too have been swallowed by the darkness — and yet you dare to drive me on. You may think of me as... your companion. You seek to find me salvation? ...You... really are a difficult being to comprehend.

Xiao: ...I don't know if it's related to you, but recently, the pain from my karmic debt has been less excruciating.

Xiao: It's much easier to bear than before.

Xiao: If you have free time, we can go to Liyue Harbor together...

Xiao: If not... never mind.

Of course we can.

Xiao: Uh... alright.

Finally decided to integrate into city life?

Xiao: Ahem...

Xiao: I have no intention of getting close to the lives of mortals.

Xiao: But I know that you often enter and leave the city, walking amidst the crowd.

Xiao: The stories of these times, or their joys... If I don't experience such things myself, it'll be hard to understand your thoughts.

So... you're doing this for me?

Xiao: Yes, to understand you.

Xiao: I had a feeling that it would be difficult, but after having such thoughts, I can't simply sit back and do nothing.

Xiao: I will control myself while I am in the city.

Xiao: I'll try to speak... as little as possible.

I'll be with you.

You can say whatever you want. I'll bail you out.

Xiao: Hmm...

Xiao: Let me know when you're ready to go.

Xiao (Perilous Trails story quest): I've said so much today. But I don't need to hold back as much when I talk to you.

Shenhe about Xiao: My first impression of him was that he's not one to smile. After meeting him again more recently, however, he's still as reserved as ever, but... he seems a lot more relaxed now. Maybe he... met someone special.

Yenfei (Perilous Trail story quest): By the way, um... You and Xiao seem pretty close, huh?

Zhongli (3.4 lantern rite): Just as Xiao may seem unapproachable to most, but [Traveler] has proved otherwise.

Xiao (during 2023’s Lantern Rite): Whenever I think of the ordinary conversations I've had with you, it feels... strangely novel.

Traveler: Strange in a good way?

Xiao: Yes.

Ayaka

Ayaka’s character story 5: “Ayaka is still waiting for a friend to emerge who can walk alongside her on equal footing and stand by her side. That person cannot see her as a member of the Yashiro Commission, or as the Shirasagi Himegimi, nor will their conduct towards her be bound by decorum or status. And if possible, they might also be well-versed in a great many fields of study, and have witnessed all manner of interesting things... and perhaps they might even be able to tell her a story in a pinch. Only such a person might become Ayaka's bosom friend.”

The Traveler is Ayaka’s ideal companion, the exact kind of person she has been waiting for, possibly the only person who truly has the ability to understand her outside of Inazuman society’s perception of her. She finds Traveler interesting and exciting, a stark difference from her everyday life.

When they first met, the Traveler was disillusioned in their travels after briefly reuniting with their sibling, who dismissed them. Ayaka makes the effort to show them and remind them why they began their travels in the first place; the world and humanity is complex and interesting and beautiful, and it’s a worthwhile endeavor to understand and protect them. Ayaka regularly reminds the Traveler of this by being complex and interesting and beautiful herself. Traveler then goes to great lengths to protect Ayaka’s people, because they understand why they’re important to her.

Ayaka is trapped in Inazuma, while the Traveler has been all over the world. Traveler sends Ayaka things while on their travels, and Ayaka makes sure to keep and treasure them. Things that Ayaka has seen a million times are new and wonderful to the Traveler, showing these things in a new light to Ayaka. It makes Ayaka feel like a “regular girl,” something she wishes she could be more often. Traveler indulges Ayaka’s curiosity about the world outside Inazuma, and Ayaka is fascinated by how the Traveler sees the world. During the Warriors Spirit Event, Ayaka and Traveler both talk about how easy and natural it is to fight alongside one another. She says that Traveler always listens to her worries, but she feels like she’s losing in their relationship by not listening enough to Traveler’s issues. A trusted retainer, sensing how close Traveler and Ayaka are, asks Traveler to look out for her. The Traveler is shown to feel most comfortable with Ayaka and her family while in Inazuma. They both understand what it’s like to feel distant from a sibling.

Good Morning: Oh, good morning, Traveler. ...Whenever I see you in the morning, somehow, it makes me feel like... today is going to be a good day.

Aspiration: Today, as in the past, I aspire to be somebody whom everyone can trust. But what motivates me is no longer the responsibilities I shoulder, or the expectations of other people. Rather, it is the fact that you are this kind of person, too.

More about Kamisato Ayaka V: […] unless I am mistaken, I trust that you will not take issue with this slight departure from convention on my part… That is to say... I'm a little tired, may I rest my head on your shoulder? Just for a moment.

Desires: […] But even so, shouldn't I still follow my dreams? Shouldn't I... share my true feelings with you?

Ascension: Our time together has been so pleasant that I am fearful of losing what I have gained. I'm sorry, I must compose myself.

Kamisato Ayaka: At least, that's a romantic way of approaching this topic [poetry].

Traveler: I feel the same way.

Kamisato Ayaka: More importantly... I hope that, between the two of us, we need not be concerned with our identities...

Kamisato Ayaka: I'll just think of you as... my closest confidant.

Kamisato Ayaka: Being able to enjoy tea with my closest confidant — it feels like I'm in a dream...

(Closest confidant...)

Kamisato Ayaka: ...

Kamisato Ayaka: Can I... Hold your hand?

Ayaka (during her story quest): I will always be here for you as your... Ahem! As your friend. I will always support you.

Ayaka (during her story quest): I need to explain myself. I got a little nervous back there and... -I just made up any old excuse. But don't think of this as me taking you sight-seeing, please! I brought you here because… because I genuinely wanted to spend time with you.

Ayaka (during the Warrior’s Spirit Event): [Explaining that she was stressed out about a situation, but had decided against sending a letter to Traveler to ask their opinion on it.]

Traveler: We're friends, you can have my advice anytime. / I'd be happy to help however I can.

Ayaka: You've helped me many times before, and you've always lent me your ear when I speak about my troubles. But if I'm always turning to you for help, it almost feels like you're somehow besting me. Hehe, is it strange for a friend to think that way?

Traveler: Not at all. / I understand how you feel.

Ayaka: Thank you. I was really delighted to learn that you also entered the competition…

Traveler (during the Warrior’s Spirit Event, after Ayaka shows them her Fontaine outfit): This look really suits you. / It's a beautiful outfit and it suits you perfectly.

Ayaka: (during the Warrior’s Spirit Event, about a duel they just won together): Although the audience members might not have noticed, there were many moments where I would've been in trouble if it weren't for you by my side drawing away the opponent's attacks. Without you, it would've been impossible for me to win on my own. It's just as I expected, my swordsmanship is still far from your level.

Traveler: Ayaka, you helped me many times as well. / You're being too modest, Ayaka.

Ayaka: Really? Hearing you say that makes me want to spar with you all of a sudden. To tell you the truth, l've been hoping for an opportunity to spar with you ever since we first met. That wish was half fulfilled today at the exhibition match.

Traveler: Next time, we'll find a chance to go a few rounds.

Ayaka: Sure. But... until then, make sure you take good care of your sword. If I ever manage to steal it one day, your life will also be in my hands. Hehe... I've always wanted to say something like that. Did it sound strange?

Traveler: It sounded very much like Miss Orlith. / It was cute.

Ayaka: […] It's precisely because we're friends that we should spar often and learn from each other.

(Also, hoyoverse did NOT need to frame their conversation like this. Between the setting sun???? Crazy.)

Wanderer

The Traveler and the Wanderer are both parallels and ideological foils. They have both been betrayed and abandoned by family and loved ones, doomed to travel and wander the world in order to understand it better because of that.

But the Wanderer has learned humanity’s cruelty during these travels, mostly in the Fatui. He believes humans to be evil and self-serving, and so he acts that way too. And as an immortal, finds mortal limited lifespans cruel and unfair, clutching onto his grief and anger in a means to cope with what he cannot control.

Meanwhile, the Traveler has learned the beauty of humanity during their travels. They believe in the inherent goodness in everyone, and so they act that way. Curious and sensitive, like Wanderer before his three betrayals, even though Traveler has arguably been through just as much hardship as Wanderer (which may be a reason Wanderer held contempt for Traveler in the past). The Traveler is also an immortal being and knows of the reality of limited mortal lives. But instead of seeing it as cruel, Traveler sees the beauty in mortals living free and learning and growing in their limited lifetimes.

Their ideologies are in direct conflict. The Traveler’s ideology has led them to getting hurt often, while the Wanderer’s ideology has led him to being isolated. They have a lot to learn from one another. They have parallel scenes of saving one another in Wanderer’s story quest, maybe to allude to this.

AND, with the Wanderer having erased himself from everyone’s memory except the Traveler, the Traveler now is the only person to know the real Wanderer. Not only do they know all the evil Wanderer has done, (led to the death of Teppi which Traveler was famously angry about, tried to kill Nahida, etc), they know Wanderer’s history (seeing the flashbacks in Wanderer’s archon quest), and briefly met a version of Wanderer that is most like his personality before the betrayals. Traveler knows all sides of Wanderer, and is still his friend. Wanderer is perplexed by this, often expressing it in voicelines. But this means Traveler knows him the most, they own part of his identity as well, as Wander has allowed them to give him a new name. A new name that he has not let anyone use except the Traveler, preferring to go by “Hat Guy” in the Akademia.

The Summertide Scales and Tales events seems to have tipped Wanderer and Traveler over from reluctant allies, to friendly rivalry. While still being weary of him, the Traveler can’t help but seek Wanderer’s presence because they enjoy learning about his vastly differing perspectives on life. The Wanderer respects them because of their vast strength and knowledge. He has also presented Traveler with flowers once. Wanderer got his vision— the embodiment of his sense of freedom, the vessel of his new life— by saving the Traveler. Only by saving them did he free himself from his past and was able to start over. That’s kinda crazy lowkey.

About us, Rivals: So, you're still stewing over our run-ins from before? Huh. Well, what are you going to do about it? Take your time. I'm in no hurry.

(“Oooo you wanna kiss me so bad ooooo I’m in your head”)

About us, Collaborators: I'll never be one of the good guys. I'm just here to pay my dues after what you've done for me. But what about you? Shouldn't you come up with some excuse for our meetings? If one of your friends mistakes you for collaborating with the enemy, you're on your own.

(He makes the same excuses to be around Nahida, though his lore explains he does truly admire her. Just saying.)

About Damselette: Let me ask: what should you do if you were to encounter a "damsel" who is oblivious and innocent at any given time, and unconcerned and unfeeling in any given situation? If it were me, I could at least challenge her to a fight. But if it were you... with your conscience, I would stay away from her.

(He’s calling Traveler kind-hearted, calling out their optimistic ideology, and warding them away from danger with his more grounded/pessimistic ideology.)

Birthday: Give me your hand. Heh, there's no need to be nervous. I'm just taking you to a vantage point. How is it? The scenery here should be quite breathtaking. There's no need to thank me — I see little point in it.

(Wanderer): Thank you for trying to look out for me. Go get some rest.

Wanderer (his story quest): All you have to do is keep your pretty eyes open, and try not to fall behind.

Traveler (main Sumeru Archon quest, while they’re still enemies): Even if it means losing yourself, would you still want to become a god?

Wanderer: Hmph, those words almost make you sound like a friend who actually cares.

Wanderer, Imaginarium theatre: No, I don't want to "chat.” What are you making that face for? I thought you knew my deal by now. … *sigh*, Fine. You can talk, and I'll sit over there and listen. Happy now? .

Wanderer, after saving Traveler from falling to their death in the 4.8 summertide scales and tales event: Hmph, passed out from a little fall, did you? How fragile...

Wanderer, once Traveler woke up: Morning, sunshine. You were having a nice little dream there, weren't you? Not gonna lie, it was kind of adorable.

Jeht

Through the Golden Slumber world quest, it’s made very clear that the NPC Jeht is significantly [romantically] closer to the female Traveler Lumine. In the quest, they travel together for a time and become close. In a moment of crisis involving the Fatui, Jeht is ordered to kill Lumine, but refuses out of affection for her. She takes the punishment instead, and is offered to a Fatui scientist for experiments by her tribe. Jeht was told it was Lumine that betrayed her, and Lumine was told Jeht had betrayed the tribe, but neither of them chose to believe something bad about the other.

At the end of it all, Jeht chooses to fight by Lumine’s side over her other friends. Inspired by Lumine, Jeht decides to go on her own journey. Their goodbye is tearful. There is also White Day art of her giving Traveler a gift.

Lyney

Lyney has only known the Traveler for a short time, but they already have a checkered history. The Traveler trusts Lyney and his sister immediately after meeting them, hangs out with him for a few days, and defends him in murder trial. Only for it to be revealed Lyney was part of the Fatui, who the Traveler has an even worse history with, having killed their friends and put Traveler and their companions in mortal peril many times.

Lyney offers an apology and some of the truth, but the Traveler is still cold with him and brushes him off, believing themselves to be betrayed (and likely influenced by mixed feelings of seeing such close twins). Despite openly admitting to having difficulty with opening up, Lyney makes the effort to be open and truthful with the Traveler during his story quest, rebuilding trust between them. Lyney puts in extra effort to be honest, because he truly wants the Traveler to like him. He gives the Traveler a rainbow rose by the end of it, which even his sister marks as odd, because it represents passion and romantic love in Fontaine. His sister asks the Traveler to “protect that flower for her,” likely alluding to Lyney.

The Traveler trusts him after this enough to include him in the main quest again. Lyney remarks multiple times about how he feels close with the Traveler, how he enjoys talking with them, how the Traveler’s eyes shine like topaz and Lyney could never lie to such beauty. There’s also official White Day art of Lyney giving the Traveler chocolates.

In Arlecchino's story quest, he’s implied to have talked in detail about the Traveler to his other siblings, and is eager for the Traveler to like them. He is hesitant to involve the Traveler in family business, wanting to keep them safe and saying he will protect the Traveler with his life. The Traveler similarly shows the desire to protect Lyney, stepping in between him and his Father during conflict.

They resonate with one another concerning their twin siblings. Lyney having almost lost Lynette, and the Traveler being separated from their sibling. For the Traveler, this grew from jealousy to admiration, as they see Lyney caring so greatly for his family, a trait Traveler shares. Traveler understands and respects Lynsey’s loyalty to his (fatui) family, and would not be surprised if and when that loyalty drives them apart.

While they are close now after much effort rebuilding trust, they are both silently aware their friendship has an expiration date. Traveler’s goals contradict the Fatui. And with Lyney declaring his loyalty to the Knave as her successor, and this mysterious Fatui scheme the House of the Hearth have been roped into, they both know it’s just a matter of time before circumstance sees them on opposing sides of the battlefield. Though it remains unaddressed for now as they try to enjoy the time they have left together.

Hello: […] Well... Hmm, your eyes are like topaz, precious, pure, and lovely. I like them!

When it snows: Achoo! Phew... I've heard some say that when you sneeze, it means that someone's thinking about you. Is it Lynette, I wonder? Or... is it you?

Good Morning: C'mon, just five more minutes... Huh? Oh! It's you! I thought it was the radiance of the sunlight on my skin that I felt — turns out it was your radiance all along!

About Lyney, sweet talker: I should probably emphasize again that I'm rarely so open with anyone — I guess it's because you're not just anyone.

More about Lyney I: It seems we're both keenly interested in each other. Well, know that the honor is mine! Haha, relax. I couldn't ever tell lies to your mesmerizing eyes — not even if I tried!

More about Lyney V: […] Sometimes I think people would feel sorry for the real me. Do you? *sigh* Or do you find my little games absurd?

(Awwe he cares about what Traveler thinks.)

Ascension: Doing all this for me... Are you trying to steal this magician's heart, by any chance? Well, in that case, congratulations, my dear apprentice — or should I say, "companion." For you have succeeded!

Lyney: It's almost impossible for me to lie to your face... Maybe it's because I can't bear to see that hurt expression of yours.

Lyney: Say, why don’t you look at my hat? Do you see anything different about it?

Huh... Don't think there's any difference.

Lyney: Ah, but that just means you need to look at it more carefully! Just come a bit closer.

Well, alright then.

Lyney: […] No, the whole thing was misdirection.

Lyney: I just played a little trick, and stole something of yours. And after that, I also slipped a card into your bag.

Lyney: Now, can you guess what I stole from you?

My heart?

Lyney: A most unexpected answer! I have to say, even my heart has begun to race too.

Lyney: What I actually stole, however, was your "attention." Even though it's not nearly as valuable as your heart, it's still very important to us magicians nonetheless!

Lyney: […] Anyway, I just want to find a warm, free, and peaceful home for all of my animal assistants.

Lyney: A place where they'll always enjoy care and being lovingly looked after, with no need to worry about food or shelter...

Lyney: To be perfectly honest with you, this [Traveler’s teapot home] is by far the best choice for them that I know of... but I wouldn't want you to feel pressured to take them in, or to persuade you using honeyed words.

Lyney: Good morning, (Traveler)!

Lyney: It would be great if I could see you every morning.

Lyney (during Arleccino’s story quest when Traveler says they’re staying to help): I... just... Thank you. I was really hoping to keep you out of it, but even if I could think of some other reason to turn you away, I'm not sure I could convince you. I know things could turn dangerous, so I promise you this from now on, I'll protect you like my life depends on it.

Lyney (main Fontaine archon quest): Traveler, Paimon, I hope you enjoy the rest of the show. There may be a lot of people watching tonight, but you alone are my true witnesses.

Lyney (Receiver of Friends From Afar Event): Hehe, or maybe your cooking is simply too delicious to resist. The next time our paths cross in Fontaine, you'll have to fire up your cooking skills for my other siblings as well. How does that sound, oh great master chef?

Traveler: Whatever you say, oh great magician. / Whenever you're free, just set date!

Lyney: Oh yeah? Well then, I'll have to clear my schedule.

Lyney (his story quest I think?): I'll believe anything as long as it comes from you. So, please prove your prowess to me once again.

[jokemato]

some albether sketches for comfort <3

[purraah]

Today we have tv girl Albether

[melina-mellow]

Lynette: yeah so this place is very popular with couples, especially newlyweds.

Me getting ready to force my friend to do a million photoshoots with all my favorite genshin ships: you don't say.... *evil laughter*

[flufflymacaron]

"These guys are such a handful..."

[pruwinkle]

“If I am a sunflower, then you must be the sun.”

[onkpilled]

GENSHIN IMPACT ANGSTIEST SHIP STATISTICS

(A ship appearing here does not mean that I ship it. Please do not harass me.)

Based on % of AO3 fics tagged as angst per ship. It's only the top 50 ships in the fandom because I'm lazy. (x reader excluded)

[ahbeduo]

Short comic I drew for an Aebether zine

[mimizybylazia]

"How many stomachs do you think he has ?"

( They're watching a Mukbang after learning how to use a phone )

[ghironda7]

Let it snow ✨🌨️

[austeretrav]

they live in my brain rent free

[jokemato]

Lonely individuals

[mothbiite]

polycule ship chart + hcs