#Lily Xiao Speaks Out

[the-final-sentence]

Together with my new bandmates jamming behind me and my entire family cheering me on, I rock out.

Nicole Chen, from Lily Xiao Speaks Out

[primofate]

Where he would propose and how it happens [Genshin Men]

Warnings: haven’t written in a while please excuse and tell me about pronoun slips, I’m sleep deprived, not proofread (this will be my fixed disclaimer as a writing parent, haha)

Notes: All of these were captured by me in game. I just felt like exploring the beauty of Genshin more and this was a great way to do it while mixing it with writing. Note that you may not agree with some of these, and that's totally fine, these are my thoughts and ideas :)

Characters: Aether, Albedo, Alhaitham, Ayato, Baizhu, Cyno, Dainsleif, Diluc, Gorou, Heizou, Itto, Kaeya, Kaveh, Kazuha, Lyney, Neuvillette, Scaramouche, Tartaglia, Thoma, Tighnari, Venti, Wriothesley, Xiao, Zhongli, gn!reader

Aether

Aether is a simple man, and though he plans his proposal he doesn't really think much of the place, somewhere where the two of you frequent, maybe on your daily/nightly walks.

It happens just as the two of you are about to go back, this is where you sit and relax for a while as the sun sets. You can see Mondstadt in the distance and the beautiful orange sky.

As you're about to turn and walk away he catches your wrist and pulls you back into the middle of those tiny pink flowers.

Now that he thinks about it... This is where his journey really started: Starfell Lake, and how perfect would it be to start a new one with you?

"Y/N, I...want you to stay. I mean, forever," the words are simple but it gets across.

Albedo

Also a simple person. You might think Dragonspine when you think Albedo and I agree that all that snow could be romantic but I went for Starsnatch Cliff. It's a good place to see Mondstadt, and he takes you there after the sun has set.

He would probably comment about how you can see a lot of things from here, and how the world is such a great, vast place, full of things to explore and discover.

"...and yet I find myself thinking... how all that I want is right next to me. Would you do me the honour of being my lifelong partner?"

Alhaitham

Something's up and you can tell, this isn't your usual route home, and honestly you've never stopped in these parts of the city. You've passed by it sure, but never with Alhaitham.

You ask him where the two of you are going and if there are some extra errands to run before going home. He only shakes his head and ends up leading you over right next to the glowing Padisarah flower.

He HAS planned this, so why does it feel like he hasn't? Even has a ring in his pocket (granted it is the SIMPLEST ring one could ever imagine, that's just how he is)

Ends up just taking the ring box out and showing it to you while trying to speak "I..." doesn't speak much of his emotions so has a hard time, but feels pathetic afterwards so meets your eyes straight on. "...A promise... That what I feel for you... is everlasting,"

Ayato

That small shrine/garden/sitting area just outside the Kamisato Estate. It's just a bit more private than the sitting area INSIDE the estate.

You wouldn't think anything of it because you do hang out here from time to time.

Ayato might seem like a grand person but in the end he doesn't want to stray far from home.

"I'm...sorry if this is a bit abrupt," fishes out a ring box from his long sleeve. "I've been meaning to ask for a while now, will you share your life with me as my beloved?"

Baizhu

That nice little hill just outside of Bubu Pharmacy, where you can find Glaze Lilies strewn about and the night view is quite nice. It's a place the two of you go just to get some quick, fresh air if Baizhu isn't feeling too well. Changsheng is left at the pharmacy from time to time, this is one of those times.

"I've been thinking...how precious time really is," he looks at you with tenderness in his eyes, yet a lot of uncertainty shrouded in them. "I don't know where this road will lead me... but you alone are my lifelong remedy. Would you accompany me on this journey?"

Cyno

Cyno often comes here to watch the sun set, since he was a student, but he does think it's more beautiful at night.

The two of you are leaning over the railway and looking at Sumeru, just talking about the day.

Cyno doesn't really plan it. He seems to be the type to but when he feels that it's the right time, specially when he feels it strongly, there's no better time than the present.

It's while he's watching you talk enthusiastically about your day, that there's a sudden twist in his heart. This is the person I want to spend the rest of my life with.

"Y/N--" he cuts you off successfully, wonder in his eyes. "What do you say to being intertwined for life?"

Dainsleif

Anywhere where there is an unobstructed view of the stars and night sky, but particularly at the hill of Cape Oath, where the two of you lie side by side on the grass, staring up at the stars.

At this point the two of you have been travelling together for a while, looking for answers to his curse. To Dainsleif, the two of you are pretty much married already, but just to confirm it, every night, he asks "Is this the path that you choose? To bind your fate with mine?"

And every night, like a promise, you say yes.

Diluc

Diluc doesn't stray far from home too. He prefers to stay close to his memories, no matter how painful they are.

He HAS planned it, but ends up proposing at an unexpected time.

It's when he's on the road home and you're waiting right by the lamp post for him. It's late. Later than usual and here you are worrying about how it's a cold night and that he should've worn more.

It's at that moment that it hits him, "Y/N, the thought of being separated...it's not something I'd want to imagine" he grips your hand tightly. "...For the rest of my life, it's you that I want to spend it with,"

Doesn't even have the planned ring on him and apologizes about the word vomit he just did. He was just overcome with emotions right then and there.

Gorou

That small spot next to Bourou Village. Watatsumi Island is beautiful in general, but Gorou knows the good spots.

Is nervous but tries not to show it, but you can totally tell because he's way too stiff.

"Wh-What do you mean? Nothing's wrong!" When asked if everything's fine.

When standing at this spot though, his nervousness seems to go away and for a minute everything is normal until... "H-Hey, Y/N, so..." you look at him and he's fumbling with his hands, unable to meet your gaze. "Y-You, and I--We've been...You know--"

Seems to panic. He is SO uncool right now. Closes his eyes and just blurts it out when he realizes this isn't working out "With all my heart, will you marry me?!"

Heizou

Little secret garden just next to Inazuma city. Quiet place yet you can hear a bit of the hustle and bustle in the city.

Heizou is the type to get on one knee and confidently, directly say it.

He's planned it, and gets you right in the middle of the bridge (has probably asked someone to take a photo as well)

"Y/N, beloved," grins "would you unravel the mysteries of life with me?" (thinks it was such a cool line, then hands you the ring in a box)

Itto

Does not think about it nor plans it. Just happens and it happens because he talks about it casually. You can't really tell if he's serious.

He has this conversation with you in Chinjuu Forest, which is a naturally beautiful place, but he's really only there with you to look for onikabuto.

"You know, it'd be really cool if we could keep doing this huh?"

You ask what he means cause you don't really have any idea. You guys have been doing this for ages. Why would it stop now, is what you think.

"I mean, like, you know, forever," he says this while looking under a rock. "Like if we were just onikabuto fightin' partners forever, get it?"

You stall for a moment and wonder if he knows what he's saying, and you ask if he specifically means he just wants you as an onikabuto fighting partner.

"Oh, well, yea it's ONE of the things I like about you, but I like your kisses too. Hehe," scratches the back of his head then looks like he gets a bright idea. "Oh hey that's an idea! How 'bout we just become partners for life, Y/N?"

Yeah, that's how it happens.

Kaeya

Kaeya keeps it simple, but also romantic. He gets that spot above the gate of Mondstadt, where you can see Barbatos' statue from a distance. He knows how much you love the city and he has a special place in his heart for it too.

The two of you pretty much keep each other warm up there, with him behind you and his arms wrapped around your shoulders.

At some point, as the two of you have been talking for ages and when the perfect silence descends, he leans into your ear and asks you to close your eyes. When you do, you feel him slip something onto your ring finger as he says "A thousand words wouldn't be enough to tell you how I really feel...Would you want to create a thousand and more memories together instead?"

Kaveh

Kaveh thinks its only appropriate to propose at his masterpiece, but he thinks you're even more of a masterpiece than anything he's made or encountered before.

Plus the place just holds a lot of meaning and memories for him. It's beautiful too and you've always said that you're proud of him for completing it.

His is a pretty simple proposal. "I've always thought that something's been missing in my life...I think I've figured out that it's you, Y/N. It's only going to be you,"

Kazuha

Inazuma holds a lot of memories for Kazuha, some that are rather unpleasant. But home is still home and perhaps he wanted to create more good memories there.

Truth be told he could have proposed to you anywhere, and I don't think he had really planned it. It was just something heartfelt that he wanted to say as he sees you climbing up the stairs to the shrine. The sunlight hitting you perfectly and the sakura blossoms just cascading around your form. It's perfect, he thought.

You're a few steps further up from him and it makes him look up at you the slightest bit. With a shine in his eyes and a smile on his face he asks, quite sincerely "Have you ever felt like home was right next to you, Y/N?"

and before you could answer he answers his own question first. "I have, despite the storms and catastrophes I've gone through...Y/N, you're the home that my heart forever needs,"

Lyney

Lyney plans it, but doesn't do it in a grand way. He just wants it to be sincere and special. He thinks this place is cute, what with the little sort of gazebo with a small sitting space to just sit and drink tea.

He proposes to you as the two of you sit, you've never been here before and wonder why the two of you are out here, actually.

"Oh, is it strange? Haha, I just wanted a bit of a change," Rubs the back of his neck and starts to feel nervous.

You explain that you're not complaining, just curious, but you like it!

"Oh, that's a relief. I'm...Uh..." sort of fumbles with something in his coat, really funny seeing as he's a magician and is supposed to be nimble with his fingers. Recovers quite fast and manages to do his classic "flower-behind-your-ear" trick and hands it over to you.

He does the same trick, but this time takes a ring out. "Y/N, you complete me in ways words can't express...will you..." gulps before he continues "marry me?"

Neuvillette

Seems very posh but prefers to keep it simple. He thinks its more special rather than making a super grand gesture. He could of easily proposed in front of the Opera Epiclese, but instead did it at one of the small fountains in Marcotte Station.

The two of you are out on a nightly stroll and this is just where the two of you ended up.

Clears his throat before starting, takes your hand in his, but its his eyes that really do the talking. "I may not be the best in expressing my deepest thoughts and emotions...but there is one single thing that I am quite sure about," he stalls here and seems to look into your soul.

"And it's you, my love. As I take my next steps into this life I lead, I would be honoured if I take them with you by my side,"

Scaramouche

Has it on his mind but doesn't particularly plans when or where he's going to say it. Just knows that he wants to.

While out on an assignment the two of you pass by Mawtiyima Forest. You've always thought it looked like such a magical place. You request to sit on a hill for a bit before moving on.

Scaramouche, as usual, grumbles about this but relents and ends up plopping next to you as well. Truth be told he also liked this particular forest and how quiet yet vibrant it was.

No words are exchanged for a while, just the two of you looking at the view. Scaramouche sneaks a glance at you and you have that stupid, wide eyed look on your face, the glowing blue mushrooms reflecting off of your eyes.

He secretly thinks its cute.

He shows that by aggressively saying. "I don't know what you had in mind when you agreed to come with me, but you're stuck with me till the end now, got it?"

Yes. That's pretty much his proposal.

Tartaglia

Is one who would take you on a vacation off on an isolated, quaint and cute island like Petrichor with wonderful views of Fontaine's waterfalls.

Is the type to get down on one knee while this beautiful background is in sight. Totally plans it and is the cliche, basic proposal. Would totally love the townspeople to clap and cheer while this is happening too.

"Y/N, every day spent with you is a treasure, and I want it to continue for the rest of my life, will you marry me?"

Thoma

Has planned it. Makes sure you have a good time beforehand, probably at some festival and it's when the two of you are winding down, sitting on that rock with the lamp on it that he asks.

"Isn't it magical?" he asks as a starter and you ask what exactly he's talking about. "How it's always a good time and how easy life seems when I'm with you,"

You tell him that's because he always takes good care of you and he laughs heartily at that. "I'm glad to hear it," kisses your forehead and smiles down at you.

"Every day, Y/N, I just fall deeper in love with you...Do you think, maybe, we could spend our whole lives together?"

Tighnari

Plans it and is calm about it. Has everything under control. He chose Pardis Dhyai specifically for its aesthetics and specifically the inside in case it rains. (He doesn't want you to get wet as he proposes, but also doesn't want his ears and tail wet as it happens.)

Clears his throat before he starts, doesn't have a ring because he just doesn't seem the type, for him its more of a pact.

"Rather than talk about emotions alone, I'd want to highlight that you've been quite the mind-stimulating study partner," coughs into his hand "but of course, that's only one aspect of you that I like...it's safe to say that I like you enough to propose the pact of marriage...would that be alright with you?"

Venti

Where else would he think was a good place to propose? Of course he would do it here.

No roundabout way of saying it. Confident in all aspects, partly because he's a God but partly because...what has he got to lose, really?

Doesn't really propose marriage cause...he's not a mortal. Forever might be a thing for him but maybe not for you.

"It's been a while since I've felt really at ease with someone, you know?"

You jokingly say he seems to be at ease with everyone, specially after a few bottles of wine. He laughs out loud at that, and remarks back that no one can make him laugh the way you do.

"It's blossomed into something more beautiful than I thought it would be, Y/N. You, me, and us. Can we stay like this till the end?"

Wriothesley

Has planned it and has stuck to his plan. At a little vacation home at the Southeast of the Beryl Region. The two of you spent a few days relaxing there, under the guise that Wriothesley needed a break.

On the last day he surprised you by revealing that he had asked your family and friends, both from faraway regions and nearby towns to come and celebrate with the two of you.

Celebrate what, you ask.

That's when he gets down on one knee and pops the question "You know, I could still be mistaken," he grins at this but is clearly joking. "but I don't think I am and seeing as you've put up with me, Y/N, I think it's safe to say you're my forever person,"

It was days after when you realize how confident he is of this whole thing when you think about the fact that he had pre planned to invite all your friends and family over to "celebrate"

Xiao

Also a person who doesn't stray far from home. The rooftop of Wangshu Inn is actually quite romantic on quiet nights, with a view of Liyue and a gentle breeze.

To Xiao, marriage isn't really about a ring and signing papers. It's a contract and a promise to each other.

On one of the nights, he just thinks it's the right time to say it.

He's more quiet than usual and you ask if something's wrong.

He pauses for a while before answering. "...Apologies, there's a lot on my mind..."

Xiao has become a lot more open with you through the years.

"...I... just wanted to propose the prospect of being...binded together," you ask what that means cause you're not really familiar, you end up asking if that's the same as marriage.

"M-Marriage? Uh... Yes... I suppose that's what mortals call it... but being binded together is more..." stops talking and gets red in the face. "Let's... just leave it at that,"

I like to think that the process of binding is just that your souls are entwined together...So when one of you passes, you still remember them in your next life, type of thing. Cause if you're a mortal, chances are, you'll die earlier than Xiao. Anyhow, that's a completely different story.

Zhongli

Zhongli prefers the quiet and the nature. This is probably part of your occasional stroll when the two of you need some quiet time.

Zhongli, with how long he has lived, also doesn't see marriage as the normal get-down-on-one-knee-with-a-ring-thing, but for him, it's a contract. It's more binding than anything in the world.

"Y/N, we've walked this path countless of times before," he starts as the two of you continue to stroll. You reply saying that you like this particular area where the bamboos are.

"Is that so?" suddenly stops and looks at you. "In that case, would you care to listen to a proposal I have?"

Clears his throat when you give the approval. "As I've said, we've walked this path countless of times before..." he takes your hand in his "but for me, who has lived longer than you, I've traversed this path for even more times," he closes his eyes. "Yet, with you by my side, this path changes. It transforms into something resplendent. As if...every time had been the first time I've walked through it. It is with you, Y/N, that I discover life anew, despite the thousands of years I've lived. Would you consider forming a contract of lifelong partnership with me, and only me?"

End

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[stcrfeesh]

the secrets of endings and beginnings

Xiao x Reader 

for @mondaymelon​; @favonius-library; exchange gift event

wc. 4101

A retelling of all the secrets the crown prince, Xiao, had to keep about the beginnings and the endings—and all the things he had with you in between.

There were three things the crown prince, Xiao, knew about you. And because he did, he thought you to be rather odd, and yet, at the same time, he found you absolutely intriguing.

One, you liked staying in the palace gardens. You had once told him how you adored the bed of glazed lilies and its fragrance. Though, you would also complain about its authenticity. You would speak as though you were an old hag—during my time, the blue in which they bloomed was purer than that of the springs of Liyue.

Or, something along those lines. He couldn’t exactly remember each specific word, but he remembered the pride on your face. The way your eyes sparkled as you finished speaking. You were silly, and the crown prince found himself not minding it one bit. Perhaps it was some form of subtle prejudice… but it was a secret only he would be privy to. He swore to take it to his grave.

You were funny. Not that he would ever admit that out loud. You spoke as if you were centuries older than him. The people of Liyue lived very, very long lives. Blessed with something akin to immortality, but not quite. But, his point was, he too, remembered how pure the blue of glazed lilies used to be. Of course, he would remember. Glazed lilies were his late mother’s flowers. They sprouted in her wake, blooming on the ground she stepped on. He grew up watching his mother tend to her precious flowers—in the very same palace gardens you have recently taken a liking to.

Nevertheless, the crown prince humoured you anyway.

“You know, when I was younger, glazed lilies used to be bluer than they are now.” You once told him.

The crown prince had long since deduced that you were younger than him. A century younger, if he were to roughly estimate. He knew what glazed lilies looked like as if they were the back of his hand, but he let you talk anyway.

He would let out a hum of acknowledgement, prompting you to continue on. But you don't, and he would always know why. He’d decide to play along, just this once, he would tell himself—and he would continue to tell himself that for the next hundred times.

“Oh?” He had asked, feigning intrigue.

He was almost certain that you were already aware of him and his memories with the said flower, but each time he would let you speak of all the things you knew—things that he, too, already knew by heart. How could he not? He was the crown prince. It was his duty to know these things.

The crown prince was expected to know all the things you spoke of, but he pretended not to because he got to see your face light up. That was enough for him—to keep on pretending. When your face lit up, it would make him feel warm inside. It was like apricity, seeing you smile. It was a smile that radiated joy, and if he were being honest, he felt your joy, too.

Like every other thing he was supposed to know, he knew you loved the palace gardens. And every time, without fail, he would find you waiting for him there. Thus, on one sunny Tuesday morning, he found you in the palace gardens. As always, you were crouching by the bed of glaze lilies—as if staring and squinting at them long enough would return them to their true colours.

“Hullo, your highness.” You would greet him with a clumsy bow once you'd noticed his presence behind you.

Routinely, he would respond with, “You do not have to call me that.”

“Then I would be one disrespectful subject,” You would click your tongue, shaking your pointer finger. “Dear archons, my parents did not raise such a brute.”

The crown prince would always find himself sighing at your antics, saying, “Not referring to me as such does not make you a disrespectful… person.”

“Oh,” You would say in a sing-song voice. “Is it because—”

But, before you could ever continue, he would always cut you off, saying, “That is not what I meant. You need not refer to me by my title because you are my friend.”

“Okay,” You would reply bashfully, and then you’d start to tell him things. You’d tell him about the things you’d learned—about the deep waters, the stars, and many others. You’d talk for an entire afternoon, and the crown prince would patiently listen to every word.

Because… there were three things the crown prince, Xiao, knew about you. And because he did, he would find himself roaming the palace grounds for you—all so he could help you.

Two, you were lost—and stuck, for the most part. You couldn’t tell him how or why, your memories failing you when you needed them most. The crown prince never doubted you, though. You were his friend; while that seemed to make him look like an utter fool, with his entire heart, he knew you were not here to cause him and the court trouble.

One moment you were somewhere else, and the next you found yourself in the palace—or so you told him. He could attest to that too, yes. He did not even know you. Not until he got to know you. Your face was not familiar, nor was your voice. Everything about you was new to him.

The crown prince has never seen you his entire life—ever—until he found you lost within the maze that was the palace. He could not remember one instance in all the centuries he’s lived in the palace where he’s received your acquaintance. He did not know you at all, rendering you a complete stranger to him. But you had looked so confused the first time he saw you, as though you didn’t even know why you were in there or how you got there.

And so, despite his better judgement, he asked if you were alright—well, not exactly asking if you were alright, but it was close enough.

“What are you doing?” He had asked you. His hand rested on the hilt of his sword, ready to unsheath it should you attack him. “Who are you?”

You had looked at him in distress. At that time, the crown prince thought it was the look of someone who was caught in the act of a crime, but now he realised it was as you had seemed. You were disgruntled, confused, and many other things he would dare not pry from you.

“I do not remember,” Was all you had to say about yourself at that time.

The crown prince concluded months later that it was true. You truly did not know your name or how you got there. You had told him you wanted to return home, wherever that might be.

He never truly understood what you meant by that, and he would not understand you for a very long time. How could someone who cannot remember where home was—or how home felt—long for home? How could you want to return home when you do not even remember where it was, or better yet, who it was?

Your sentiments were never questioned, though. He takes everything you say at face value, much to his own chagrin. He should never trust strangers, let alone ones who suddenly appear in the palace without much explanation. And yet, the crown prince trusts you because he listens.

He has heard how much you longed for a faraway place you could not recall. He believed you wanted to return, but you could not. You spoke with such fondness for a place that might not be real, and so, he believed you. He believed in the existence of your home in a faraway land and hoped one day, you’d find your way back.

“I want to go home,” You once told him meekly. “Do you think me to be silly, your highness? Longing for a home I do not remember?”

He shook his head then, in an attempt to reassure you. Your wishes were things anyone with a heart would wish for. Even for you, whose memories were like scattered puzzle pieces. You were allowed to wish for things beyond your reach.

“No, I don’t,” He remembers saying. “I think everyone is bound to long for home, even when they don’t seem to remember it.”

You hummed at his reply, “I wonder what it is like to return home. Do you think I have family waiting for my return? Will I even find my way back?”

The crown prince only shrugged and asked, “Is that what you truly want? To return to your home?”

You had told him it was what you wanted most—at least, what you could recall wanting most since the moment you found yourself lost in the palace. You said, “It feels empty to only have my memories in bits and pieces. There is this hole in my heart, and somehow, it tells me that all I need to fill it in is to find my home. I do not mind if looking for it takes an entire century. So long as I get to return home, then I suppose, that’s what matters most.”

He nods, understanding. He has listened to your yearning, and so had he listened to your dreams. All of which weren’t things that were so inconceivable. You were allowed to have your wishes granted and even fulfilled.

So he does the unthinkable. The crown prince made an oath to himself—and to you, by extension. You were his dear friend, and he swore an oath to always help you. He swore on his honour to bring you home, no matter how long it would take him.

After all, the people of Liyue lived very long lives. He had centuries ahead of him to fulfil your one and only dream. For his dearest friend, though it was unusual of him, he would search the ends of the world to return you home.

He does this all because there were three things the crown prince, Xiao, knew about you. He knew a truth that not many dwellers could ever fathom to understand. It was the key to getting you home—a hint to a puzzling mystery.

Three, the crown prince knew you were dead. It was something the both of you immediately acknowledged the first time you met. But, it was the one thing he could not bring himself to believe the first time around.

He refused to believe that he was seeing a ghost—that he was seeing you. Ghosts weren’t supposed to be real. They were stories parents used to scare their children into leaving the house after dark. And yet, there you were. Right before his eyes, a ghost with no memories.

“Is it so hard to believe?” You had asked him. Then, you took those words back. “Maybe it is. After all, I remember dying, but I do not remember anything before that. But also—your kind are descendants of the imperial dragons. Is it so hard to believe that ghosts may be real too?”

“There are no ghosts in the imperial palace,” The crown prince stubbornly insisted. “At least, there weren’t ghosts in the imperial palace. Why are you here?”

You do not know. That was the same answer you’d tell him time and again—you do not remember anything from your life before. You had told him that you could only remember hopping from place to place. As though there was something pulling you along.

Though you had told him you would never usually admit it, you went ahead and threw yourself under the carriage, saying, “It’s like I’m on some sort of leash. I keep getting dragged around. I haven’t a clue why.”

Your guess was right, he learns months later. You are tethered to something, and it was on the palace grounds. Whatever it was that anchored you in the world of the living needed to be buried, lest you never find your way back home.

The crown prince knew many things. From Liyue’s long and glorious history to spirits and ghosts. Admittedly, he only learned about the latter recently for you. He knew that whatever it was keeping you around was something brought in recently. After all, he had never seen you around until a couple of months ago.

Of course, he could still be wrong… and the crown prince, who never knew how to be selfish, wished there was a chance that he could be wrong. He finds himself with another secret he would take to his grave—he wants you to stay a little while longer.

“I have figured it out,” You had told him one particular afternoon. What exactly you had figured out, the crown prince did not know yet. You had a knack for pointing out the obvious—or at the very least, the obvious things he never seemed to take note of—as he had noticed. He wondered if that was the case this time around. “Whatever’s keeping me here arrived on the same day I appeared.”

That specific information, the crown prince already knew. It was just that; he just never told you that he did.

“You appeared six months ago,” He recalled.

He still remembers the first day he met you; witty, glowing, see-through, and dead. He remembers the first time he saw you pass through a wall as though it were nothing—and the first time you smiled at something that he said. He remembers every first and selfishly hopes there won’t ever have to be a last. But that was just wishful thinking.

“I appeared six months ago,” You repeated in confirmation. “It has been a while, hasn’t it?”

The crown prince remembers the long pause after that. He remembers not knowing the right words to say but knowing what he wanted to tell you. He remembers every moment and every second—the silence that seemed so loud and the unspoken words that begged to be blurted out: he had already figured out what was keeping you within the palace walls.

It started with a random thought—a nonsensical memory.

Since the day you first laid eyes on the palace gardens, the crown prince has noticed how you gravitated towards a potted plant. A glazed lily that was different from all the others. One that remained in bloom in the mornings, and one that you would berate the most. Though flowers were not sentient, you had called it conceited—why must it be potted while the rest are together on the bed? What does it think it is, the emperor?

It was a fairly new addition, and he remembers the gardener mentioning that it was found blooming somewhere in the west of Liyue. It was a rare sight to have glazed lilies blooming in the west. The land in the west was not fertile enough to keep ancient flowers alive, and yet that lone glazed lily stood tall, full of life.

With its rarity, it was uprooted and brought to the palace as a gift—an offering to the late empress. The crown prince spent many months not finding interest in the lone flower. Having only glanced at it every now and then whenever you fumed. He did not care about glazed lilies since the empress had passed. He had no reason to care for a flower his mother had loved, not when she was no longer around.

But then there was you.

You had told him you hated the lone glazed lily. You hated how it was different—how it was alone when it could be somewhere with the others. But you understood why the flower must bloom in solitude. Because it was different, it suffered a lonely fate. The crown prince thought the flower was much like you.

“Why are you showing me this?” You had asked him as you stared the potted flower down as if glaring at it would make it disappear into thin air. “I do not like it. Can we not look at other flowers instead?’

“You know,” He began cryptically—it was unlike him, but some twisted and selfish part of him wanted to keep you here a little while longer. The crown prince was selfish, just this once, he swears. “My father once told me that we resent people and things when we see in them the parts of ourselves that we do not like.”

“I didn’t know you were into philosophy.”

“Because I am not.”

“Huh. Very well, then.”

“You do not sound like you believe me.”

“But I do,”

“Truly?”

You replied with a hum of agreement and a smile. The crown prince wonders then, how could something so beautiful make his heart ache so painfully? Maybe this was what the elders meant when they said that beauty will always come at a price. He gets to see a smile so ethereal, but at the cost of an odd feeling of heartache that he cannot begin to explain.

You hated the lone flower, and you would remind him of this every single time without fail. And yet, despite all your complaints and grievances, you would treat the flower as how one would treat a newborn child—delicately, and with love. Had the crown prince not known any better, he would have assumed that you’d taken a fondness for the flower. Perhaps you did, and your stubbornness stood in the way of admitting it.

You crouched down, just as you had told him you wanted to leave. You stayed, and your hands reached out to touch the flower instead. Your fingers do not pass through its petals; the flower moves, albeit slightly. It sways to your touch and to the breeze that suddenly blows—he watches you quietly, intently, as his mind races with a million and one words.

“I already know how to get you home,” The crown prince suddenly blurted out.

“You do?” You asked.

You did not seem elated as he had hoped you would. You had droned on for months on end about how much you longed for the home you could not remember, but why does your eyes not smile when he tells you this? Why do you remain stoic? Why won’t you jump around and squeal in delight? Have your wishes changed?

Slowly, he nodded and offered you his hand, “Walk with me?”

And you did. You walked with him, side by side, through the palace gardens that the both of you had memorised over the months he’s gotten to know you—at least, the you that he knows, who cannot remember a single thing about their past.

He takes you in circles, dragging this dreaded moment on. You did not complain and only sang a familiar tune he could not put a name to. A tune that reminded him so much of you—one of the many other things about you that he cannot put a name to. You were a familiar mystery, an unanswered prayer and question, one whose ending was coming soon.

You walked with him, and his hand brushed lightly against yours. But he was not so bold as to take it in his, to feel a nonexistent warmth that only his heart could fathom feeling. Archons, no.

“The flower…” Then he trailed off.

The crown prince was many things, but not once in all the centuries he’s lived has he considered himself to be selfish. You were a spirit tethered to a world you no longer belonged to, and as with all that has passed, you deserved to find peace. You deserved to have your soul set free from the mortal chains that bind you to an even more mortal world.

But he tells himself that the people of Liyue lived long lives. Wanting to keep you a while longer should not be an unforgivable sin.

“Is my way home,” You finished for him instead. You had spoken the words he could not get himself to tell you. His steps come to an abrupt stop, and then he gapes at you.

There was silence between you both, and all the prince could hear was the rustling of the leaves and the crunching of grass beneath his feet. He feels your presence, but he feels you fade away all the same. In that very moment, as you stared at him and he stared at you, he decided that you were a contradiction.

Before the silence became too much to bear, you spoke once more, “Why must I be attached to the one flower I despise the most?”

The pieces finally fall into place for the crown prince. You hated the flower because it was you. The flower was you, and it was the one thing that kept you tethered to the world you were unfairly yanked out of.

“Would you like the answer?” He asked.

“No.”

Your walk continues in silence. The silence did not make the crown prince want to run away this time around. In fact, it made him want to stay—and he does. He walks with you, leading you through the maze, through flower arches, past the ginkgo tree, and then back to where you began. Right in front of the potted glazed lily you hated.

“How does this work?” You asked softly. “Do you just throw it away? Destroy it?”

“No, that would erase your soul.” He replied. “We uproot it, I suppose?”

“Do you think the last of my remains are somewhere in its soil?”

“Likely.” He answered. “You’ll be home after all this.”

“So eager to get rid of me?” You teased. “Oh, my dear heart—here I thought you liked my presence!”

“Do you want to return home or not?” His question only hangs in the air.

You bit your lip, inspecting the potted flower, his question now forgotten. “But what if it doesn’t work, what happens then?”

It would work, and the crown prince was certain of that. He looked at you and noticed the hesitation in your eyes. Did you not want to return home?

Bits and pieces of what was supposed to have been apparent to him months ago flood the gates of his mind. You were hesitant because you had known all along. The moment you first touched the lone glaze lily, you already knew your story and your name.

He does not chastise you for this, instead, he reassures you.

“It will work,” He knows it will, and he has never been so certain… and much like you now, he wishes he wasn’t. He wished that somewhere in the order of things, something would fail, but the crown prince reminded himself, seemingly for the last time, that he wasn’t selfish.

The crown prince finds himself with a new secret.

There was one thing you never knew about Xiao, and you might never know about it—or maybe, you already knew. Whether you did or not was a secret you already took with you to your grave. He would no longer be able to ask, and you would never be able to tell.

A bittersweet ending to an equally bittersweet beginning. He was content this way, but still, Xiao loved you.

In the beautiful chaos of meeting, befriending, and loving a lost ghost, Xiao had found a home within you. While you had told him how much you yearned to return home, his selfish heart had built one through you. You were his home, and Xiao loved you. He loved you so much that he allowed his new-found home to crumble before his eyes. His home should not be home when you, in all that made you ethereal to him, were not free.

Xiao loved you, and so he set you free.

The lone glazed lily that you had once loathed no longer had to bloom in solitude; it finally found its way back home amongst the bed of familiar blues. No longer did it need to be conceited because the flower was you, and you were far from conceited. You were many things; cheeky, witty, bright, and a thousand other wonderful things—but never conceited. He would always remember you that way.

Xiao made it a habit to always pass by the palace gardens, at least once every morning. He’d watch your flower dance to the breeze, and it would leave the smallest smile on his face. Of course it would. You were Xiao’s chance encounter, the only one that could make him smile. He was sure to remember you for the millennia to come…

Because Xiao knew many things, but one he would never forget was that he loved you.

This is a gift for a friend and a kind-of-entry for an exchange gift event hosted by the Favonius Library! I had a lot of fun (this claim is false) writing this, and thus, I hope Melon, and everyone else who'll read this, will have fun as well. Hehehehe. Oh! And! I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my beta readers (I'd put a heart emoji here but I'm using HTML to format this).

GENSHIN MASTERLIST  |  KO-FI SUPPORT

© stcrfeesh 2020-2023 — reposts, translations, and any other form of reproduction of my work is prohibited.

[etheartly]

For in her soul, the lily’s grace does dwell, a bloom that speaks of love none can compel.

I, hereby declare, with complete honesty, that I am neither Cheng Xiao (程潇) nor in any way affiliated with YUEHUA Entertainment. This account has been established solely as a medium for creative expression and role-playing, with no intention of pursuing monetary gain or ambitions beyond the fulfillment of artistic endeavors. Any mention of institutions, authorities, or individuals is entirely coincidental and bears no genuine connection to the narrative.

The author predominantly communicates in Indonesia, incorporating English selectively for specific interactions. Direct messages remain open to all, fostering opportunities for dialogue, feedback, or the resolution of concerns.

All visual materials featured within this account are credited to Cheng Xiao, YUEHUA Entertainment, related projects, and brands, as well as to their respective rightful owners where applicable. In this acknowledgment, the author conveys deep gratitude, celebrating the visual elements that contribute to the narrative’s tale of life.

SHE: THE SONNET.

“…” / …

a cue for in-character.

𓂃 ࣪˖ ִֶָ𔓘 . . .

𓂃 ִֶָ𐀔 fleur⠀ ⠀de⠀ ⠀lys.

a cue for out-from-the character.

a cue of a heart-note from the writer.

[poswiecenia]

what poisonous flowering plant are you?

belladonna ---- alhaitham.

This is the poison of falling in love. You taste it and your heart beats fast. Your eyes dilate, you fall into deep delirium. You may be a bit dramatic and impulsive, and it gets you into trouble sometimes, but you just can't help yourself. It's in your blood. You love because it is the truest beauty you've found in this harsh world. Even when it's hurt you before, when it's poisoned you, you still find a way. They may call you naive for still believing in it, or vain for making yourself and your surroundings so meticulously lovely. But to love like this is brave and noble, and I hope you find the beauty you seek. Chances are, it's within and all around you already, if you know where to look.

lily of the valley ---- kaveh.

This is the poison of giving too much. You feel yourself emptying out, dizzying, discoloring-- until you fear you will fade entirely and wither away. You have always had to give. You never had a choice before. They pluck your flowers for their beauty, they trample your leaves carelessly, they pull out your roots by the fistful and berate you for daring to grow. And now that you have a grove to spread out in, your rhizomes tangle and curl in on themselves. When cruelty is all you've ever known, thriving seems impossible. But the answer is not to make yourself small and offer every lovely thing you are to the world in the hopes it will have mercy on you. The answer is to let yourself dare to thrive for thriving's sake, to grow in the wild ways you wish to-- and to do that for yourself for once.

oleander ---- nikita'ain.

This is the poison of stagnation. You grow drowsy. Your heart rate slows, and when you do move you can't seem to stop shaking. It may seem to others that you're lazy, or reticent. Like you avoid hard work on purpose, like you always take the easy way out. But you know deep down that it wouldn't be like this if you weren't so tired, so deeply tired. If you weren't crushed under the weight of sorrow like a mile of water over your head. Nothing brings you peace, except rest and-- though you can hardly dare to ask-- having someone tend to you gently and sweetly. A good gardener speaks to their plants, sings to them, waters them, fertilizes their soil, prunes the dead parts, nurtures the new growth. You yearn to be cared for like that, even though you feel you don't deserve it. The secret is that you do. You always have. And someday, you'll learn that, and receive that care, and the exhaustion won't keep you from growing strong and lovely anymore. You were never the problem. These are simply poor growing conditions for you.

tagged by: stolen from @etherealguard ( thx bestie ) tagging: @inhumanheresy ( childe ), @visionhcld ( morax and / or wrio ), @heartsglass ( xiao ), @lesalut ( lukas ) & anyone else who wanna.

[everlaneptune]

Welcome to the first official post! Enjoy a father-daughter relationship between Zhongli and my own character, Qingxin! Please, do leave feedback!

Credits for the scripted lyrics for "Lover's Oath" goes to hanamiseason on YouTube! They will be italicized towards the end.

Asterisks (*) are disclaimers. These are official songs by Hoyoverse, or HOYO-MiX. All rights go to Hoyoverse for the catalyst (Memory of Dust) displayed in the banner!

•°•

Farewell, Lady of Song

Zhongli

“Look! Morax, look! I found glaze lilies!”

Her voice is a harmonious sound that no musician can replicate. It exceeds the greatest compositions known in Teyvat. Despite being knowledgeable in the Liyuen language, he often hears her speaking in a tongue native to Celestia.

“Lady Guizhong requested that we harvest them for the upcoming banquet with the adepti! Now, I understand why! They will serve as a breathtaking centerpiece!”

The moonlight adores her as it illuminates her skin as white as snow. Her hair is a shade of pink that reminds him of the leaves cradling silk flowers. Long, dainty fingers gently grasp onto the delicate steams of glaze lilies and snips them.

“You must’ve known the reasoning behind her request already, right?”

It takes him a moment to realize that she’s talking to him.

Eyes of cor lapis meet those of light jade, a perfect comparison to the gemstones in Liyue. Teyvat nestles them deep beneath its crust, yet he lifts them to the surface with a flick of his wrist. They are to be harvested by the people of Liyue, crafted into jewelry and traded with other nations.

“My apologies. My mind was elsewhere,” Morax apologizes. “Please, can you repeat what you said?”

“Daydreaming again? You’re getting old, Morax!”

She says his name with a fondness that is worth centuries of companionship. He hopes that she will continue to say his name like that for the rest of eternity.

“I admit,” he confesses. “I heard you talking about Guizhong’s adoration for glaze lilies.”

“So, you were listening!”

She cradles one of the gathered lilies in her hands. Four, royal blue filaments sit in her hand, and dark blue petals settle on top of them. Light blue petals dominate both of these characteristics of the flora, and at the center stands a yellow pistil.

“It’s such a shame that they are an endangered species.”

Melancholy lingers in her voice.

She reaches out to him, glaze lily in hand.

“This one is larger than the others! We should give it to Lady Guizhong. It will compliment her outfit for this Lantern Rite.”

Morax accepts the flower. He holds it with the utmost gentleness while she returns to harvesting the lilies.

“Of course, Lady Qingxin.”

A giggle.

“For the love of the Heavenly Principals, Morax, just call me ‘Qingxin!’”

It has been millennia since he lost her.

The Archon War ended two thousand years ago. Guizhong perished in a battle, while a massive flood forced the Guili Assembly’s inhabitants to migrate south to Liyue Harbor. Qingxin mourned her death as she viewed the God of Dust like a mother. Amidst her despair, she composed songs to commemorate Guizhong’s passing.

‘Adeptus’ Retirement*’ and ‘The Absence of Adepti*’ are what she called them.

A century passed in the blink of an eye. She steadily emerged from her grief and despair, and the people of Liyue welcomed her back with open arms. Qingxin rediscovered the joy that had been lost with Guizhong’s death.

Yet tragedy always strikes at the most joyous of moments.

He remembers Xiao approaching him in Liyue Harbor, his face twisted with despair. Crimson stained his tunic and sleeves, which garnered the attention of passersby. He cradled a bouquet of twelve qingxin with care. He knelt in front of him and presented the bouquet to him, his head bowed in shame.

“My sincerest condolences, my lord,” he said quietly. He barely caught wind of the yaksha’s words. “But Lady Qingxin is…”

Dead.

Morax followed him to the site of her death. Xiao explained that the twelve qingxin were her remains. Upon arriving, they stood by a field of qingxin lying not too far from Wangshuu Inn. The sight astounded them, as qingxin commonly grew in high places.

That is the first time that he witnessed a yaksha weeping.

With encouragement from the other adepti, Morax has founded a new tradition. At Guyun Stone Forest, a forgotten deity’s valuables will be thrown into the sea and join Osial. He refused to party with Guizhong’s last gift to him - ‘Memory of Dust’- and Qingxin’s Dihua flute.

He recalls the display of petals detaching from the bouquet of qingxin. They ascended high into the sky, accompanied by glittering gold. Like the snowflakes in Dragonspine, they steadily drifted down to the engulfing sea. Foreboding waves stilled once her remains graced its surface.

Xiao requested to keep the Dihua flute, and he obliged to his request. Whenever he visits Wangshuu Inn, the instrument is displayed on the top floor.

He unintentionally created a family to love and adore.

Guizhong, the mother…

Qingxin, their daughter…

He has seen eras begin, and he has seen them end.

Sometimes, he wonders. “How long will it be until I am forgotten?”

The Geo Archon abandons the name “Morax” and adopts “Zhongli”.

With his new name, he transforms into a new man. Zhongli works as a consultant for the director of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, Hu Tao. Most of his life goes undisturbed by the adepti, who understand his desire to pursue a life focused on the present rather than the past.

After so long, he restores the long forgotten peace in his life until one fateful day.

A young man approaches him by Wanmin Restaurant. “My lord.”

Zhongli responds not to the title.

The man realizes his mistake and corrects himself. “Pardon me, Mister Zhongli. Do you have a moment to spare?”

“I do,” Zhongli responds. “What do you need?”

“If you do not mind, would you accompany me to my house?” he inquires. “We have a surprise for you.”

Intrigued, he accepts.

He accompanies the man to an extravagant estate on the outskirts of Chihu Rock. Their ability to conduct electricity fascinates him. Noctilucous jade produces light with the siphoning of this elemental energy. The corridors of the estate resemble a peaceful era before the Archon War. Flora imported from Inazuma lines the patio outside.

Together, they journey to the western wing of the estate. The man knocks on the door, to which a maid answers it.

“Welcome, my lord!” the maid greets him. The man of the house glares at her, and it dawns on her; her mistake. “Oh! My apologies, Mister Zhongli.”

“No worries,” he reassures her.

The man executes an elegant motion, a sweep of his hand. A clear sign that Zhongli should enter the room first. He nods in appreciation for the gesture and steps inside.

He halts once a familiar presence envelope his senses.

“When the lilies bloom… at night.”

A woman, presumably the man’s wife, cradles a newborn. Her eyes meet his, and a laugh emanates from her throat. With the assistance of her attendants, she offers the newborn to him.

“My lord,” she calls out to him. “Today marks the day of our goddess’s return.”

“When you see the stars… up high.”

This family devote themselves to the Goddess of Song. Prayers to the Geo Archon, God of Contracts and Trade, have been unanswered for centuries. Zhongli no longer fulfills them as he has retired from that position.

Something or someone gives to them a miracle.

“Shining for you.”

He accepts the wife’s proposal.

Her lady-in-waiting retrieves the newborn from the mother’s arms. She approaches him, gently guiding him into tenderly cradling the newborn correctly.

“As the years start passing by…”

Something trickles down his cheek, a golden ichor that drops onto the floorboards.

A maid attempts to approach him, concerned. The lady of the house stops her as she recognizes a moment that needs to be cherished.

“You will keep the strength, you’ll try.”

A sob retches from his throat, while Zhongli cradles the newborn closer. He tenderly cradles her head to support her; to protect her.

“I’ll watch over you.”

Zhongli has accepted his losses and closed the door to his past.

Now, he opens a singular door that reminisces about the life dearly missed.

A young goddess who always wore a smile on her face; whom always called out to him with such joy. She who possesses hair pigmented with the color of silk flowers, and eyes similar to light jade found in Chenyu Vale.

“Morax!”

Never again will he lose the one he cherished the most.

.

.

.

© everlaneptune 2024

[littleblueberryartist]

OOOOOOO!!!!!

Ty Lily this is very useful 👀 also don't worry about it being contradictory! I'm still in the planning stages so I'm not fully sure what I'm looking for either I welcome more info to throw at the wall XD (also yeah absolutely tell me about the irl allegorical themes of the book)

Actually, speaking of info do you know anything about the second who came? I feel like they were only briefly mentioned in before sun and moon (tho I dunno for sure since it's been a while since I've read it)

I definitely want to explore more of who would know what's going on and who wouldn't! As well as who is affected and how. And regardless of the theory I mentioned and the lore you shared know it seems like Celestia would be somewhat in the know. Also I was always sort of under the impression that Istaroth is either against celestia or at the very least neutral and working seperately of them. So her breaking off from the main group to do her own thing still works out lol (I am sort of considering mashing the two and having celestia maybe change ownership post second who came or just have the other shades + Phanes come into conflict with Istaroth)

I will admit I did always kind of take Istaroth coming to enkanomiya to rule over the people where the others did not as more of "since she is a shade she is part of the collective and could technically be counted as a representation for them all to guide the people" kind of situation which the people might've interpreted otherwise because the concept of shades is more foreign to them. But her just straight up deviating is interesting too!

I do also think it would be quite interesting if Istaroth began working against the heavens of her own accord as something that's taken to be good (I personally think that while celestia is sus as hell there's more to it than just them being the bad guys. I do however still think that we are gonna end up fighting them anyway) but then getting corrupted ending up causing her own set of problems for everyone lol

And yeah teyvat's laws definitely don't affect them as much! For one stuff like xiao's karma tends to affect vision users less, (and like you mentioned the withering too) the traveller can do the same if not more without a vision (and also straight up get elemental powers without a vision) because of whatever they really are (a star? A god? Star god????) I think it's really neat

Also that last paragraph goes so fucking hard???? I dunno if I'll end up exploring it but I am tucking that away for the au corkboard jsndndj (I hope I have the braincells to explore it tbh it's interesting I'm just kind of brain foggy today rip)

We've talked about Venti's love vs Istaroth's and how they parallel one another

But what about the traveller? What about the exception to teyvat's laws? (Also them being an exception to the whole neverending loop of twin/doppelganger deaths maybe lol)

Something something the power of love gets me so what if the unforseen factor is the traveller's love. For teyvat, for their sibling, for their friends.

I mentioned how venti's own love may have sentenced him to his fate. But what if it's the traveller's love that saves him?

Who would be better to bend fate than one who exists outside of it?

[liliesiris]

xiao zhan saying he has a common face

brb going to china to fight xiao zhan

[chococolte]

zhongli as a yandere !!

word count. 966

cw. yandere, unhealthy relationship, possessive & obsessive thoughts/behaviors, etc

Morax is a god. One of war and bloodshed. One who bathed himself in the crimson ichor of his enemies. Though he found no satisfaction in it, he never stopped himself from staining his hands red.

Rex Lapis is an Archon. The oldest of the seven, tired and apprehensive— the god of history and commerce. One who has lived throughout history and witnessed the deaths of his allies, never allowing himself the chance to properly process his emotions. 

Zhongli is nothing but a mortal man, though thinly veiled in his former divinity. A shadow of his previous self, though he still shares a fraction of the power he used to hold.

All of it, rendered meaningless when he is in front of you.

Zhongli is a traditional man. He courts you with glaze lilies and qingxins; cor lapis and noctilucous jade shaped into delicate, intricate jewels. He enjoys the way you stumble over your words when he hands them to you.

You might try to reject them, seeing how clearly expensive they are, but Zhongli reassures you that no price is too high to please you. Any attempts to deny his gifts to you are met with swift refusal.

Zhongli loves it when you wear the things he gives you. It gives him a sense of pride, to see someone as lovely as you wear something he personally picked out. Zhongli is extremely observant, as well, and if he picks up that you dislike any of his gifts— even slightly— he's quick to cast the gift away and never make the same mistake again. The last thing he wants to do is leave you unhappy, either at him or something he did, whether it was his intention or not.

As attentive as he is, you would think he'd be more careful with his tongue. But Zhongli is old, and things are bound to slip. Maybe a remark about something he couldn't have known without you telling him, or something you did the other day when Zhongli wasn't with you.

He'll tell you it's because he has a good eye, that's all. He notices things others don't. He'll say that someone saw what you were doing that day, and they simply told him— no need to get yourself worked up. You believe him, if only because you desperately want that to be the truth.

It's a half-lie, on Zhongli's part. He would never disrespect you so much as to invade your personal privacy himself. However, having someone else do it isn't out of the question for him.

It's Xiao who watches you, though you'd never figure that out yourself. Zhongli has him report everything you do to him. He just can't bear the thought that something might happen to you— he has to know what you're doing all of the time, just in case. 

He'll cater to your needs above his own. You may make a small comment about the way he dresses, and he'll take it to heart. If you mention that you'd like to see him dress more casually, that he doesn't need to be so formal all the time, then Zhongli will do so.

If you talk about the way he speaks, asking why he's so proper all the time, saying that he can relax around you— he will do so, even if you might've been the one who misunderstood that that was simply the way he spoke.

Zhongli puts you above all, even himself. If you ask him to kill someone for you, then he will do so. He will willingly kneel and worship you if you so desire.

Eventually, he will reveal himself to you. It was inevitable. You had your suspicions that Zhongli wasn't who he said he was— with the way he spoke about history as if he had been there to witness it, or how he always looked at you with a far-off look in his eyes as if he didn't really see you for you. 

Him revealing he had someone stalking you for your 'protection' also left a bad taste in your mouth. 

Though Zhongli would never admit it to you, he was worried about whether your view of him would be tainted in some way once he revealed himself to you. He wasn't worried so much that you'd think him lesser, but rather, that the person he'd fallen in love with would feel intimidated and scared in his presence; retreating into their shell whenever around him.

Zhongli is aware that his worries are a little silly, in the sense of why would he worry about what you thought? Had he still been Morax, maybe he wouldn't have cared at all what you felt. But he wasn't Morax anymore; now, he was Zhongli, a mortal man who worked as a consultant of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, and a man who was deeply, deeply in love with you. 

Your thoughts are the most important to him. Anything you asked of him, he would do without a second thought.

You could convince him to become the Geo Archon again if you wanted. All it would take would be your soft touch and the fluttering of your eyelashes for him to become putty in your hands. He'd go to The Tsaritsa and break their contract himself, for you. Something he'd never do for anyone else; only for you.

It's common sense for him. Why would he deny you of anything, when you deserve everything?  Of course, Zhongli is blind to his own hypocrisy. He says he hates lying to you, but then doesn't tell you about his true identity for months. He tells you he's happy to finally have it all off his chest, but then doesn't tell you he's had someone following you around during the entire time you've been together.

[sonder-paradise]

𝐆𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐅𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 — 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭

◊ characters. xiao, kaeya, thoma, zhongli, gn!reader

◊ genre. fluffy fluff

— 𝐗𝐢𝐚𝐨

“could you explain what we’re doing out here again?” xiao asks, watching from the branches of a nearby tree. you sigh, looking up at him with a peeved expression. “i told you i’m looking for this flower.”

the adepti raises an eyebrow, avoiding commentating on your actions once more. he simply relishes in the moment, fondly watching from afar as you search the area.

“found it!” you chirp, holding up the delicate white qingxins you had been searching for. “good. what are they for?” xiao asks, walking to your side to admire the little things.

“for you, of course.” xiao can feel the tips of his ears grow warm as you offer him the little bouquet. he isn’t quite sure what to do with them but he hesitantly takes them still and holds them over his face so you don’t have to see his flustered expression.

— 𝐊𝐚𝐞𝐲𝐚 𝐀𝐥𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐡

there’s a vase on his desk filled with dozens of calla lilies. he admires them often and gently touches the petals whilst daydreaming about you. you know how much he enjoys receiving them.

after a long day of work, kaeya’s unsurprised to see you sneaking into his office, a bouquet of calla lilies in hand, and a grin on your face. “couldn’t wait till i got home, i see.”

you roll your eyes at his comment, approaching the vase to take out the older flowers. kaeya watches you tenderly before taking your hand after you finish arranging them.

the sweet scent lingers on your fingertips and he kisses the insides of your palms gently. “i think i’ve finished up for the evening, shall we go?” he murmurs, standing and sweeping you off your feet with a loving grin.

— 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐚

“oh? and what’s this?” a look of surprise spreads across the man’s face as he feels the slight tug of the carefully picked dendrobiums you place in his hair.

he lays with his head in your lap, admiring the sweet fragrance they give off. you arrange them neatly in his hair, brushing away the loose strands of hair that fall into his pretty eyes. “i thought they’d compliment you.”

“well, were you right?” thoma grins, reaching up to tuck one of the flowers behind your ear as well. you see the slight pink flooding into his cheeks as you smile.

“of course i was. how could i be wrong when you’re surrounded by flowers?” the sincerity of your words has his mind short-circuiting and thoma zeroes in on your lips.

— 𝐙𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐢

“what do you think about glaze lilies?” you inquire, staring out at the liyue landscape before you. a serene morning tea sits before you, steaming with a familiar fragrance.

zhongli pauses, following your gaze out at the rolling mountaintops and the misty clouds. his answer doesn’t come instantaneously but you’re glad he’s thinking about it. “they remind me of someone,” he finally says, a distant look in his eyes.

“why do you ask, my love?” you shrug, twirling the stem of the lily underneath the table. you debate on revealing it to him. finally, you simply don’t and excuse yourself from the table.

zhongli frowns, promising to speak with you again when he gets the chance. but as he’s cleaning the table, he spots the soft petals of a flower underneath your chair.

picking it up with a steady hand, zhongli can put two and two together. a soft smile perks his lips as he tucks the lily into his breast pocket, though not before pressing a kiss to the petals to thank you.

Taglist: @xo-cuteplosion-xo @hanemiso @nonsense-corner @ireallylikehamsters

Wanna join my taglist? Comment under this post or send me an ask <3

[m1d-45]

repentance

summary: xiao is well aware of the threat he poses to others, but fails to recognize that the one he hurts the most is himself. or, my wishes for xiao.

word count: 8.1k what-

-> warnings: massive spoilers for liyue archon quest, spoilers for xiao lore, spoilers for the lantern rite (3.4), hurt no comfort, xiao briefly speaks about himself as a tool/weapon.

-> gn reader (you/yours) and unspecified traveller (they/them). reader has yaoyao n yunjin, and isn’t a traveller main

taglist: @samarill || @thenyxsky || @valeriele3 || @shizunxie || @boba-is-a-soup || @esthelily || @turningfrogsgay

< masterlist >

xiao was happy you were enjoying the lantern rite.

it was… rather unconventional this year, with the music festival making its debut, but you didn’t seem to mind. instead, you were excited, listening to dvorak’s story with rapt attention. you were enthusiastic about helping him, even though you’d just met.

he supposed it was a testament to your kindness.

as with the other times you were in liyue, he followed you closely, ensuring no demons crossed your path. he knew of your team’s strength, and would be a fool to assume you couldn’t safely evacuate if they were outclassed, but still, his spear shattered karma-heavy mitachurls, vanishing the instant before your vessel turned the corner.

even as the karma seeped under his skin and added to his heavy debt, he cursed himself. he should never have allowed such a dangerous enemy to get that close to qingce village. following you was a worthy cause, but shirking his duties for one more than capable of defending themself… it was unwise.

still, he watched until he was certain your party was safe within the boundaries of the harbor, only allowing himself to relax once you met up with ganyu.

with a final look at the lanterns, xiao vanished.

the next time he saw you, he was at mount aocang, collecting some qingxin. though he was rather fond of the flower, they weren’t for him, and instead for verr goldet. he’d heard her complain about how no adventurer wanted to take her commission to collect them due to the rite, and most shops only sold silk flowers or glaze lilies in large amounts due to the same problem. considering the significance of the lantern rite… somebody had to do it.

still, he kept his ears pricked, listening for any calls of distress over the gentle wind. he was cautious to remove all the major threats before he began this task, but he could never be too safe. monsters tended to get more active around lantern rite, and he couldn’t risk-

“help! help!!”

xiao’s hand halted, barely an inch from the stem of a qingxin. the voice… it sounded like paimon, but surely-?

“someone’s drowning!”

in an instant, xiao teleported away, uncaring of the flowers that fluttered from his grasp and down the mountain. he went first to the source of the shout, then dashed to the figure in the water, looping his arm around their chest and taking them with him to shore.

the person coughed and he checked to make sure they weren’t choking, only to be met with the familiar face of the traveller.

he frowned. “what is going on?”

“how do you feel right now?”

xiao blinked and looked away, taking a look at his surroundings for the first time. he was atop mount aocang—what were you doing at cloud retainer’s abode?—next to paimon and ganyu, and a ways away was shenhe, chest heaving in exertion. by the looks of it, she had climbed up the mountain at the disturbance. mentally, he commended her speed.

“ah, shenhe… and the conqueror of demons…”

he stepped away from the traveller, ignoring the way his hand lingered for a moment at their side. your aura seeped from them like tea in a cup, slowly irradiating the air around you. even still, it was not wise to stand so close to them with his debt. it may seek out your light and land within them instead, and he wasn’t sure he could forgive himself if one of your most prized fell ill because of him.

“-looking for an adeptus who's good at being a lifeguard and playing music. but if the adepti aren't gonna stay at home, then how are we supposed to find them?”

even only catching the latter half of paimon’s explanation, xiao knew his time there was done.

“it wasn’t me.”

“ah, yeah, so this adeptus is most likely a woman…”

xiao bit his tongue, but noted the small hint of amusement in shenhe’s voice with a sharp look.

“I am not an adeptus; as you both already know, traveler and paimon.”

paimon nervously laughed, tucking her hands behind herself and swaying side to side. “heh... okay, so this is paimon's fault... no way paimon would've suggested this idea if she'd known how awkward this was gonna be...”

what else did she expect? calling for help after he’d pledged to answer whenever they called, after he swore to assist and ensured they both knew that, and she was still shocked?

…belatedly, xiao realized she never said his name.

“i’m fine. sorry for troubling you both,” the traveller said, giving apologetic looks to the both of them. even though xiao knew they were capable of swimming, he still felt some tense part of him relax.

he nodded, taking half a step back. “glad you’re okay.”

“you’re leaving already?”

“as far as I know, the one you seek is no yaksha. and one last thing...“ he paused, sending paimon a glare. “your actions here caused others a great deal of worry. do not repeat them again in the future.”

he barely gave himself time to see a new wave of guilt wash over her face before he turned and vanished, leaving before he could let himself be swayed into joining your part in your search.

he spoke the truth: you weren’t seeking a yaksha, and he knew the other adepti would be much more help than could be, and without the risk of proximity to his debt.

no matter how many times the traveller privately sought him out after you had left, thanking him for his actions and not-very-subtly implying he answer the stars, he turned them down. he was too much of a risk. perhaps if your team consisted of more gods and less fragile mortals, perhaps if rex lapis finally found a way to keep his karma from latching onto others, then… maybe, maybe he might look to the sky with something more than wistful longing.

finding his eyes beginning to stray higher yet again, xiao shook his head, drawing his spear. even if you did have hardier vessels, he would still be a liability. your light tended to open the soul, to expose and to heal, but with him there it would only result in your team becoming susceptible again, as much so as if they were mortal.

perhaps, he thought, scanning the land for any threats, he was lucky you hadn’t wished upon his stars. he wasn’t sure he could bring himself to deny his god.

with shenhe and cloud retainer by your side, xiao had left you to your own devices, returning to collect qingxin for verr goldet. it was a simple task, one devoid of any distractions, and he returned to the inn before dusk. grabbing a string of ribbon off the large tree encasing the inn—so many people lost their things within its branches, he wondered if it was even worth trying to retrieve them all—and tying them together, he made his way down to the stairs.

she looked up as he approached, having grown familiar with his light footsteps, and smiled at the small bouquet in his hands.

“adeptus xiao,” she greeted, dipping her head as he dropped the flowers on her desk. “what have i done to earn such a gift?”

he crossed his arms. “nothing. i overheard you complaining about not having qingxin flowers, so..” he tilted his head at them. “i collected a few.”

“a few?” the new voice made him jump and he turned towards the source, met with rex lapis’ smiling form. “if i may, i believe that’s quite a bit more than ‘a few’.”

“indeed! i only wanted qingxin as a centerpiece for a few arrangements, but with all of these, i could make twice as many with some to spare!”

xiao’s jaw tensed, but he only gave a sharp nod, turning away. he was halfway enveloped in smoke when morax called his name, forcing him to stay.

he dismissed it, looking over.

“my apologies, but i wish to speak with you. do you have the time?”

xiao nodded again, and followed him up the stairs to the balcony. as he did, he tried to scan his memory for any reason for his sudden visit. he couldn’t remember any significant lapse in his duties, nor anything may have drawn his attention… perhaps he simply wished to warn him about the increase in monsters around lantern rite? but no, the rite’s been happening for years…

a light cough drew his attention, and he blinked, quickly looking up from the floor. “rex-“

“it’s zhongli, xiao. i am a god no longer.”

the need to insist otherwise prickled across his skin, that just because he didn’t have his gnosis and took on a new name didn’t resign him of his status, but he kept that argument quiet. it was one they’d had before.

“zhongli… to what do i owe the visit?”

a satisfied smile crossed his face as he turned to the sky, twisting in search for a specific constellation. “you and i both know why.”

xiao almost wished he was there to chide him about his duties. he could take being told to focus on liyue rather than your capable party, he could take being told to allow you the experience of travel yourself, since he wouldn’t be in other nations, all of those arguments had been quietly and instantly prepared for the moment gold eyes met shimmering amber, but this…

xiao hesitated. zhongli continued.

“i understand any reservations you may have regarding the process, but i must insist any fear you feel has no place here. the first law is more than able to handle one yaksha’s debt-“ arguments sprung to his lips, pushing to be let out “-and while your hesitance would be warranted if it were any other traveling party, this is the exception. please do not show such resistance when the time comes as you do now.”

he crossed his arms, staring firmly at the fake vision of his back to keep his gaze from wandering up, above, wandering to his constellation in the night sky. alatus nemeseos, the bird turned skyward, even as it shone amongst stars.

“who would i be to resist the call of the divine?”

zhongli turned, partially, his profile cast in warm tones from lighting of the balcony. “you tell me, alatus.”

xiao felt his words as a physical hit to his chest, something sharp twisting in his soul. he wasn’t sure why, he knew his argument was reasonable, your party would only be damaged with him there, it wasn’t built for him to slot within it, everybody you travelled with was picked for a reason and who was he to try and-

“xiao.”

“zhongli.”

he turned fully, this time, crossing his arms and leaning against the balcony railing. “they have been awaiting your presence for quite some time now, you know.” he did, ever since he found out how to access his banner he’d been spending more time in it than he probably should, listening to your team travel in search of the primordial gems you cast across the stars. “i expect you to follow their call when it sounds.”

bitter emotions swirled and twisted within him, words he didn’t understand coming to mind as the ones he did know failed him. there wasn’t a word for the sharp conflict within him, no word for the push and pull between the desperate want to be by your side and the need to keep you safe. he’d existed for millennia, and yet even the most flowery of metaphors failed when faced with the overwhelming decision he had to make. how could he choose? how could he pick between disappointing you and poisoning the ones you loved? how could he handle the very real possibility of having to watch as the traveller grit their teeth, as your vessels slowly rotted and decayed, how could he live with that knowledge? that it was his fault, that he had done it, that by simply being near him they were choosing to die?

but how could he live without you?

zhongli had apparently noticed his turmoil and, evidently satisfied with having planted the vine that grappled with his conviction, gave the slightest nod of his head, allowing him to change the subject.

xiao took it in an instant, “it's almost lantern rite, yet you took all the trouble coming here.”

zhongli sighed, an old problem brought back to mind. he’d feel bad about bringing up the rite if he wasn’t horribly uncomfortable with the prior topic. “the director has a way of making it difficult to decline..”

director?

after a moment, he remembered the job he’d taken on. he hadn’t spoken much to the current director of the funeral parlor, but had heard of her eccentricity. “rex lapis-“ zhongli’s eyes sharpened, but he couldn’t bring himself to apologize for the slip when his mind was still fixated on the concept of the divine “-may I ask what troubles you?”

after a moment, he sighed again, taking the conversation towards something called sesame oil he needed to buy. xiao responded when it was appropriate, letting his answers come whenever they were needed as he continued to think.

zhongli had said you were ‘awaiting his presence,’ but… you hadn’t cast any of your stars across the sky. surely, if you were as eager as he made you out to be, you would have tried to wish on his stars? surely you wouldn’t be out and about, enjoying the rite, mastering paper plays and assisting yelan? you wouldn’t be out with the crux, skidding across the sea in your waverider, or enjoying the launching fireworks that shot your vessels high?

(he, privately, hated that last aspect of your spent time. his heart always leapt whenever you were slightly delayed on shooting yourself forward, his hand tight around his polearm as he made sure that your vessels never fell too quickly. there was only one of these… displays? attractions? set up in liyue, for which he was both grateful and resentful. as much as he hated the loud crackles and bright flashes of the gunpowder, obscuring your vessel’s figure long enough for him to draw unsavory conclusions, he would much rather you fly with sparks where he could watch)

still, xiao kept his arms crossed, forcibly tuning back into the conversation if only to hear zhongli excuse his long-winded ramble and brush by him, an expectation in his eyes. he pulled himself from his thoughts, however heavy, and made the choice to draw his polearm once more.

maybe if he protected liyue, maybe if he pulled villagers from the path of mitachurls and stabbed the jade point of his weapon into the masks of lawachurls, maybe you would recognize that he was much better suited to this sort of work. maybe you would understand the threat that was his soul, and allow him to continue assisting from the shadows, never glimpsed but always seen.

wind swept across the empty balcony, the last yaksha having returned to his duties.

the next day was as easier than the last. your party had strayed north, towards mondstat, and though he admittedly missed seeing them around, he would be lying if he said it didn’t make his job easier. he could move swiftly, acting on autopilot, barely allowing the ruin guards to collapse to the floor before he was gone in a flash of teal and black. one could argue it was dangerous to be so automatic in his movements, to not be paying attention to his surroundings, but he would simply reply with a shake of his head. it wasn’t easy to sneak up on the adepti. by the time somebody set their intent to approach him he had already felt their presence on the wind, and had vanished.

which was exactly why, when he overheard verr goldet talking with somebody in an exasperated tone, he knew the recipient would be climbing the stairs to the balcony before they touched the first step.

he moved, with heavy irritation, to the roof of the inn instead, standing in the shadows. hopefully whoever it was would be gone quickly; he couldn’t see the stars very well from under the tree.

the first thing he sees is a hat, decorated with flowers, then two spiraling twin tails of reddish-brown hair. the ornate jacket is next, familiar in a way he doesn’t recognize.

the person stops in the middle of the balcony, pausing for a moment before bringing their hands to their face-

“conqueror of demons! adeptus xiaaaaao!” he winces at the girl’s volume, at the way it amplified over his name. “guardian of wangshu inn! hero of dihua marsh!”

maybe if he just ignored her she would leave? plenty of people knew him, sought him out for one reason or another, surely she would be the same?

she turned in a slow circle, her hands on her hips. “i know you're thereeee!”

he couldn’t stop the way his tongue clicked at her lack of manners, nor the way the sound travelled down to her. one hand held her hat as she searched the shadows above the inn, and he stepped to the edge before she could climb up herself and get hurt.

“quiet! do not disturb the peace.”

she grinned, another flash of familiarity shooting through him at the sight. “sorry! but you wouldn't show up if i didn't yell your name, would you?”

xiao studied her face, searching for a detail to latch onto. her eyes, the design on her hat… her rings.

“i know you,” he said finally. “you're the 77th director of wangsheng funeral parlor…” he weighed his options. the parlor and the yakshas had worked together in the past, and if there was something wrong…

he held back a sigh. “is there something you need?”

the director—hu tao, his mind finally recalled—invited him down with a sweep of her hand, and he dropped off the ledge of the roof before he could make the conscious choice to.

“well, as you know, the funeral parlor has worked closely with the yakshas in the past-“

xiao tuned out her words. she needed a favor, clearly, and if there was one thing he disliked it was people dancing around what they wanted.

‘oh mighty yaksha, please grant us assistance,’ as if they weren’t actively wasting time by not just getting to the point. he understood the need to be respectful, and honored that respect in turn, but this?

he crossed his arms. “get to the point.”

hu tao faltered, but quickly recovered with a smile. “ah, not one for small talk? that’s fair.”

he sharpened his gaze into a glare.

“alright, i get it… in truth, im only here for one thing. just one tiny little favor, in honor of the lantern rite.”

“…which is?”

“are you free in two days? i’m hosting a dinner party with-“

“no.”

she blinked, red eyes owlishly wide. “what? but you haven’t even heard what i was asking!”

“i don’t need to. adepti have more important duties than dinner. even if that weren’t the case, you of all people should know the danger that i pose at any social gatherings.”

her face twisted. pity. “i do know! which is why-“

“i’m not going.”

her eyes hardened. determination.

hu tao crossed her own arms, her voice taking on a sharper tone. “adeptus xiao. on behalf of the wangsheng funeral parlor, i am inviting you to a dinner in two days, at seven at night, at xinyue kiosk, to celebrate the lantern rite. i have made the necessary arrangements prior, and have ensured everybody at the gathering is well acquainted with elemental power. your karma will not be a problem for the length of the dinner, of which i am certain. i must heavily insist that you come.”

her tone surprised him, the sternness with which she spoke almost reminding him of verr goldet.

maybe it was that comparison that made him revisit her words, or maybe it was the stars beginning to shine in the night as it darkened with dusk. maybe it was because he recognized his own amongst them, his unspoken duty written across the sky.

or maybe, by chance, it was her choice of phrasing. ‘acquainted with elemental power,’ not ‘vision wielders.’ functionally, they meant almost the same thing, but…

his eyes flicked to the sky. to his debt, and not the one poisoning his soul.

“in two days.”

and just like that, the stern facade was gone, a giddy smile in its place. “yep! in two days, at seven at night-“

“-at xinyue kiosk. i do not forget such things so easily.”

she nodded excitedly, one hand going to twist the rings on the other. “alright! uh- have a good night, then!”

and without another word, she brused past him, the small wave of warmth from her vision the last remnants of her presence.

xiao walked to the edge of the balcony, setting his hands on the railing. after a long moment, perhaps extending to two, he looked up.

‘acquainted with elemental energy’…

two days passed.

the clock read five past seven.

xiao was not at xinyue kiosk.

in fairness, he didn’t realize the time. immortals experienced it differently, hours slipping by before he could think to reach for them. he’d vanished from the inn at around five, intending to make a final sweep of the nation, starting at the southern edge.

for safety, he told himself, ripping his spear from the nth hilichurl. he couldn’t bear if somebody got hurt because he wished in indulge in the aura of the divine.

for the dinner, he swore, twisting the tip of his spear into the eye of a ruin guard, seeing the power through its body cut off sharply as it fell to the floor. so he could spend as much time as he dared by your side before having to go.

and for the adepti, he muttered, who had enough to mourn around this time anyway, who didn’t need to have something else to worry about.

for your world, which you had so carefully crafted, and everything within it. for you, who he had prayed to before he left, leaving the last remains of his almost tofu at the shrine for you at the inn.

for you, his god.

by the time he noted the hour and hastily returned to the inn, checking the time in his room, the wind had carried him the call of his name.

“adeptus xiaoooo? conqueror of deeemooons? you’re late for dinner!“

he recognized the voice as hu tao, and met her on the balcony. she had her arms crossed, red eyes sharp when they found him.

“there you are! what are you still doing here?”

he didn’t have much of an excuse. “i apologize. i was caught up in my duties and lost track of time.”

it seemed to appease her, her arms falling to her sides. “fine, i guess you’re excused this time. now come on!”

she took a step towards the staircase back down, but he caught her by the arm, ensuring he had a strong grip before teleporting them both just outside xinyue kiosk. the waitress startled and hu tao stumbled, but both seemed fine.

to his surprise, the director recovered quickly, walking up to the doors and pushing them open with far too much force, in xiao’s opinion.

“ta-da! we're here!”

he followed, carefully shutting the door behind him, taking a quick look around the room. it was mostly empty, likely reserved for the dinner, and though hu tao blocked most of the people from his view…

he met zhongli’s eyes, noticing the barely there widening of his eyes in shock. “i see... so the important guest is the conqueror of demons.” it was strange hearing his title on his tongue, the words that hardly meant anything to him anymore spoken by morax himself. “i’ve been looking forward to meeting you. the director didn't mention anything when she invited us. what a pleasant surprise... gathered here with us tonight are not only young and accomplished individuals, but also the protector of liyue’s peace, adeptus alatus. to convene here with all of you is indeed a great honor.”

the uncharacteristic praise was a shock, one that left him scrambling for a response. he shouldn’t have been so affected, he was thanked daily by the people he saved from hilichurls or abyss mages, but here….

he chalked it up to your presence. it made sense he would be on edge so near your vessels, right?

“i’m sure you're exaggerating, zhong-… sir.“

hu tao huffed, and he couldn’t tell if she was out off by him or zhongli. “ugh, there he goes again! enough with the pleasantries. let our guest take a seat.” despite saying this, she didn’t move to sit down. “everyone here today is well-known in their own field and has probably heard about one another to some extent. some of us are even old acquaintances, so there's no need to be this forma…. i heard that the conqueror of demons and traveler are pretty close, no?”

the traveller looked up and nodded with a smile, keeping eye contact with him despite hu tao speaking.

“great! you two sit together!”

he walked and sat besides the traveller, noting the chair between him and zhongli. was somebody else expected?

hu tao sat after asking the host to bring the food, and your aura ebbed from the traveller. they blinked, as if waking from a deep sleep, and everybody greeted them again, saying hello to them instead of you. they exchanged greetings in turn, and xiao forced out a hello when their gaze landed on him. you may have left, leaving them to eat on their own, but his soul still strained for the remnants of you that permeated the traveller. it was an expected side effect of dealing with your first vessel, but not one xiao had ever experienced so intensely. he usually kept his distance, carefully monitoring the flares and floods of his karma, never sitting directly next to them for a meal.

but it’s just a dinner, he told himself, staring down at food he had no intention of eating. just a dinner. an hour, perhaps two, and his heart rate would return to normal. an hour, and he wouldn’t be so distracted when the traveller tried to gently make conversation, perhaps two until his eyes stopped drifting their way.

below the table, his hands flexed into fists.

your presence waxed and waned during the dinner, attention ebbing and flowing as the conversation went on. it spiked when barbatos arrived, leaving xiao struggling to remember what cover story he’d chosen.

‘venti’ had picked it up smoothly, and xiao let himself lapse back into silence. it was difficult to speak at such a gathering with so many, when he had to put up front after front with your golden aura reaching to tear them down. he didn’t want to pretend, to lie, to swallow oddly-textured meals that scraped the edge of edible, but he also didn’t want to lean too far the other way and fall into the divinity at his side.

(it was so tempting. he could feel his skin prickle where the traveller got close, reaching for a plate or to pass one to another. the stain of his soul reached for your cleansing water, begging to slip under the crashing waves and drown with you in his lungs. with every gasp of air, salt soothed his sting, easing his pain breath by breath)

a sharp call of his name drew his attention, and he blinked. the traveller was looking at him, some message in their eyes. he couldn’t decipher it.

“what’s with the urgency?” his mouth said, unbidden.

“are you done eating? could you come take a walk with me?”

“….sure.”

they flashed a quick smile, placating hu tao and paimon before standing, inviting him to do the same. he walked for the door, though they lingered momentarily to speak with the others.

the room was filled with you. even as you were in the opposite corner, talking with hu tao, he could feel your amusement, your joy. you liked seeing them all together like this, and you brightened the room simply by being in it. tensions lessened, arguments ceased, even the most petty of squabbles were reduced to merely a thought on the wind as you swept by-

the traveller pushed open the door, inviting him out with a smile.

in all honesty, xiao barely paid attention to his conversation with the traveller.

he felt the emotions in his words, the intent behind them clear in his mind, but he let the pull of your command guide him to the phrases themselves. the strings of your device, gentle yet firm, twisted his body, crossed his arms, turned him away, all in a careful act of your design. to bend so easily to another’s will would be a sign of weakness if it were anybody else; yet it was you, and even gods were known to kneel.

and so he spoke, even if he did not know the words. he accepted the plate of almost tofu from xiangling, even as the shake in his hands was stilled by your careful light. he let himself sink into your presence, into the brief glimpse he would have of it before you were whisked off to another adventure. another day of commissions, another day of ley lines and ruined domains, another day where xiao sat silently in the shadows, wishing he could be closer even as he knew his place was to watch from afar.

he walked inside with xiangling, stepping into a circle he expected yet didn’t know would be there. he stood, and basked, feeling like no more than a snake curled up on a warm stone, letting itself sink sink sink into the sun. his skin was riddled with goosebumps despite the pick-up in his heart and the slightest of flushes on his skin. even in the warm room—with warm you—a chill travelled down his back, prompting his speech.

“i refuse.”

he said his lines. he passed the torch to the traveller, far more equipped than he to handle your light; perhaps that was why they should light the incense. they took their place as the spot of your attention with grace, the predetermined words slipping from their mouth with ease.

“you, of course. take a look in the mirror.”

natural, easy, their head moving a hair before the strings told them to, their body so attuned to your wishes that they saw them before you did. the light of the room painted a halo around their golden hair, an imitation of the divinity that rolled off them in waves, washing out to latch onto those near you and pull. you did not call them to harm, never, and yet it felt almost painful to resist, as if it went against their very nature.

“i trust the traveller’s judgement.”

though he meant it, he was not the one who said it. xiao was floating at sea, both wishing for an anchor and praying he could sit and bob atop the water for just a little while longer.

perhaps it was selfish to want to be so close when such a deadly force lied inside of him, but now… xiao could not find it in himself to care as much as he should. he let himself stand next to the traveller, as close as he dared, soothing himself with the knowledge that they were more resilient as an outlander. maybe he was even being safer, by being further away from the others?

(it was a fever dream. xiao didn’t want to wake up)

he followed the others outside again, stood in silence as they said their goodbyes, only ever coming out of his thoughts at the sound of zhongli’s voice.

“well then…”

the knowing look he gave immediately made him think he’d missed some important information, “rex lapis-“

“just zhongli will do.” his eyes softened to sympathy, the knowing switching to understanding. “i live as a mortal in liyue harbor now. i am just one among many who begin work at sunrise, and retire to rest at sundown. if we were to consider status and seniority, as zhongli, i should be respectfully referring to you as adeptus xiao.”

“heaven forbid,” he answered immediately, momentarily forgetting about the binds of his actions. for morax, a god, to refer to him by title? no, that was impossible, unthinkable, so many layers of wrong-

“adeptus xiao,” the traveller called, their voice shaded with a laugh. and there, just beneath it, was you, your influence curled around their words.

you chose for them to say that. you chose to address him as if he were an equal.

…it wasn’t often xiao found himself questioning the divine, but he couldn’t help but ask why you were making it so hard for him to keep his distance.

“…but whether to me, streetward rambler, cloud retainer, or younger adepti such as xiao and ganyu, those adepti and gods that may seem extraordinary to humans are something more akin to close companions. this was as true back then as it is right now. just as xiao may seem unapproachable to most, but the traveller has proved otherwise.”

xiao wondered if they ever got tired of hearing ‘the traveller’ in place of their name. he knew zhongli knew it, as did he, but your device never allowed them to say it… it was as if it was a closely kept secret, but only a secret from the traveller themselves.

“there's no need to dwell too much on certain things.”

“rex- i mean, zhongli, what you're saying is...”

he nodded. “it looks like you understood what i meant.”

he didn’t. though he understood that the traveller was closer to him than most, he didn’t know how it related to the conversation at hand. was it his lack of attention to the meal? surely none could blame him for that, for a wounded man to seek out the balm for his ailments..

“hm…” zhongli’s eyes flicked over the group, quietly assessing his options. “the director asked me to accompany you on your return, but i don't think you'll need my protection. i’ll be taking a walk around and admiring the night scenery. after that... it'll be time for me to go back and meet up with the director. goodbye, for now.”

before xiao could protest, he had walked away, leaving them standing outside xinyue kiosk.

paimon waved, “bye, zhongli!” and xiao took notice of the slight bob in zhongli’s shoulders, and the wave over his shoulders that you could not see.

“everyone's gone now... paimon always feels a little empty inside when a lively celebration ends... but at least you'll always stay by paimon's side!”

the traveller’s mouth ticked up in a smile as they crossed their arms, affection in their eyes as they waited for paimon to recognize her slip.

“no- no no, paimon got it mixed up! paimon, the best and most distinguished travel guide, will always stay by your side, traveller!”

the traveller’s eyes unfocused, your presence bleeding through even further. “it’s my honor,” they finally said, “but i’m afraid there'll be a lot to ask of you in the future too, most distinguished paimon.”

the words, though not their own, flowed so easily off their tongue. they were at perfect ease, used to the strings that puppeteered their actions and working alongside them. xiao couldn’t help but allow himself the brief illusion of imagining how it would feel to go into battle with you at the helm; he’d been controlled by you before, briefly, for a moment here or a group of enemies there, but nothing like the reported battles you’d gotten into before. the glimpses of coordination he’d seen from you as you cleared out hilichurls or treasure hoarders were fascinating, but part of him yearned to know what it was like when you battled azhdaha, or challenged childe yet again at the golden house.

“-xiao, is there anything else you wanna do? oh we could take you on a tour of liyue harbor!“

he pulled himself out of the delusion. he already knew that would be deadly for anybody else on your team, so why did he keep allowing it to creep back into his mind?

“no need. i’ve stayed here for much longer than i had expected. the city lights are a fine sight... but it's time for me to leave. the events of today occurred so abruptly.. i appreciate your kindness.”

the traveller listened, receiving orders from heaven itself. when they spoke, xiao could almost believe it was you speaking to him.

“the feeling's mutual. you don't have to thank me every time.”

he nodded, taking a step back. he hated how much he didn’t want to listen to the strings. “okay.”

what kind of vessel could he be, his mind taunted, when he couldn’t even follow the simplest of orders?

the traveller’s face twitched, worry flashing over their features, but he grit out the last few words before they could stop him.

“i’ll see you next time, then.”

he hoped he would, even as he knew he couldn’t.

xiao stood on the balcony of the inn, letting the wind wick some of the heat from his skin. it was warm, partly due to the lanterns and sparklers set up around the inn, but he couldn’t find it in himself to mind.

not when you seemed so happy.

you had loved the rite this year. you had cooed and fawned over the select vision holders that your device allowed you to see, though with careful precision to their dialogue. you walked around liyue, taking in the sights of the paper lanterns. you had appreciated the bit of history, this year, and though he wondered why, he would not question it. your device had a way of turning the most tragic of monologues into a story unfolding before your eyes, and he supposed even the same opera would be interesting with new props.

not for the first time, he looked to the sky, tracing out the twin constellations nearly directly above him. he didn’t know the name of the other one, nor who it was for, but he recognized his own with ease.

alatus nemeseos. winged nemesis. the constellation of a traitor.

he gripped the railing a bit tighter.

he didn’t choose for his constellation to rise, he knew that, but he was choosing to wish, selfishly, that he’d be the subject of your golden stars.

(it was wrong. it was awful. he was wishing death upon those you loved, he was hoping that those at your side would corrupt from his karma and fall, he wanted to chase his desires despite the lethal consequences. he wanted to break his contracts to ‘always serve, always protect,’ to go against everything he’d learned as a yaksha and an adeptus, to drop to his knees and pray that the affection you had shown to him through the traveller was from you and not them. he wanted, so desperately, for your light to shine upon him once more, ignorant of the way his darkness crept into those around you. he was wrong. he was awful. but even as the thoughts plagued his mind, he didn’t want them to stop)

the stairs creaked and he tensed, ready to disappear, but the wave of your aura kept him from leaving.

ah. he should have expected that.

you liked to come up to the inn’s balcony, sometimes, whether to climb onto the roof and view liyue from a different angle, or to inspect the strange rock formation in the pot up here. and after the dinner… it made sense you’d want a quiet place to think.

your vessel walked up besides him and he turned, eyes quickly flicking over their figure. uninjured.

the vessel flashed a smile, an instant before words were pulled from xiao’s mouth.

“yanxiao just came up here with some almond tofu, but... i haven't finished everything xiangling gave me yet... you should try some too. i’m not as experienced in tasting mortal food as you, and i couldn't tell the difference.”

amusement washed off your vessel, their own mouth twitching into a smile, and pride swelled in his chest.

“...there must be many different stories to tell of the hustle and bustle of the mortal world, too. you can tell me. i will listen.”

part of him hoped you would answer, that you’d take the moment to vent off some of your worries and let the night air take them away… but you didn’t. the conversation ended, and he turned back to the balcony, belatedly realizing his turn earlier was calculated.

your vessel walked up besides him, and though your imprint on them was lesser than the traveller, the proximity more than made up for it. the entire side of his body was warm, almost hot, the pain from his karma lessening.

his karma.

xiao’s eyes flew open—how could he forget, how could he be so risky with somebody so important—but your vessel was gone. he wasn’t standing on the inn balcony anymore, the warmth wasn’t solely to one side of his body-

clouds puffed up all around him as he crouched upon an invisible floor, the binds of your device far stronger when he tried to move.

his banner. why was he here?

he hadn’t chosen to come up, to rest amongst-… stars…

blue streaked the sky in front of him, different than the pale shade of the sky.

a wish.

xiao took in a sharp breath, his lungs filling with divine air. he could hear his heart in his ears, his thundering pulse nearly drowning out the sound of the blue stars falling in front of him.

shooting stars. you were making a wish.

upon his constellation.

why? why did you want him? your team was complete, you were doing excellently, your main was more than strong enough to handle what you needed to. you didn’t need him.

blue.

why? surely you knew of his karma, of how dangerous he could be? you had to, the traveller brought it up at dinner, and though your vessels were strictly vision holders, even they would soon succumb to his debt. he couldn’t- you knew he couldnt go, you had to, so why were you wishing on his stars?

blue, and he could have sworn he dropped a few inches.

he knew you had each of the lesser constellations circling his, he saw the excited tears from yaoyao and heard of the break that yun jin’s opera house had to take. you had no reason to cast your stars into the sky except for him, but he couldn’t go. he wanted to, and he was so selfish for yearning for your touch, but he knew he couldn’t go.

he couldn’t poison your team. he couldn’t bear to watch those around him crumble and die because of his mistakes, not again, not when you loved them enough to build them from ash.

blue.

blue.

blue.

with every star that went by, your aura grew stronger, wrapping around his entire being as if you were getting ready to pull. his mind warred with itself, the needs to obey your call and yet protect your vessels tumbling over and over in his mind, a coin flipped into the air in permanent stasis. he didn’t want it to fall, but he needed it to.

what did he do? did he even have a choice? it was impossible to say no to the divine, but he knew that at least for now he had the illusion of choice, a question posed that he didn’t have the answer to.

were you worth it?

(yes. yes. of course you were. he would put a million demons to rest if it meant a glimpse of your hand on his skin, he’d push himself to the brink of death if you would only pull him gently from the edge, whispering carefully in his ear that you were proud of him. he was yours, in all of his entirety, and were it not for your other vessels he would be fighting tooth and claw to answer your call and turn the stars gold. he wanted, so terribly, to present himself in front of you as nothing more than another tool at your disposal, but what weapon tarnished the blades it was kept beside? what were his wants compared to the lives of others, others who had already seen their god and bowed their head, others who you loved and adored and praised and apologized to? what was an adeptus to one bathed in the light of god, what was rotten, rusted steel to a razor-sharp edge, what was xiao to the ones you loved?)

a star formed, bright gold and illuminating the clouds besides it, and xiao froze.

his thoughts were an anxious mess, his normal clear head lost and discarded in the face of the divine. rationality was gone, selfishness warring with selflessness, every lesson he’d ever learned worth nothing more than dust in the face of the star shooting towards him.

the star flew by.

no.

he reached, desperately, pure instinct kicking in as he pushed against the binds of the invisible space he was trapped in. he didn’t want to be here, he wanted to be there, he wanted to be wrapped in the golden light of heaven and fall to earth in your embrace, shielded from the impact of earth on bone as you swept him into your quiet realm of stars.

the star jerked slightly, but did not turn.

xiao watched, helplessly, as it picked up another, his chest heaving. in an instant, both sides of his mind came to a swift conclusion: he had made a mistake.

what did he do? why didn’t he listen? why couldn’t he just go when he was called, why did he doubt your judgement? of course you knew, you always did, he was a fool to think he knew better than the one who knew all, a fool and a heretic to try and apply his narrow world to the keeper of thousands.

he fell from the clouds, stumbling on the wood of the balcony, his hands automatically finding the railing to stabilize him.

what had he done, and why had he chosen to do it?

he turned, seeing your vessel standing there, looking lost for a split second before you returned, their body relaxing again. they looked at him for a short moment, their eyes sad- disappointed? he couldn’t tell, his heart was racing and his thoughts were blurry, every breath one of acid.

when they vanished in a cloud of golden sparks, the first tear fell. he didn’t have the right to cry, he knew, this sadness was of his own doing, but the knowledge didn’t stop the tears. he had driven the blade into his chest and had no right to cry injustice, but his heart still wept, the severity of his actions only hitting once he could no longer repent for them.

all he could hope for was that you would be happy, even without him at your side.

[penguinlop]

Giving Them a Bouquet of Flowers

/// Genshin characters included: Zhongli, Diluc, Kaeya, Childe, Albedo, Xiao, & Ayato

Summary: You surprise them one day by giving them a lovely bouquet.

warnings: slight angst, spoilers for character stories

Zhongli /// Glaze Lilies

Zhongli will be the type to simply take in the delicate elegance of the flowers before he gives you a proper response. He will hum and caress the velvety petals of the Glaze Lilies before gently smiling and offering a warm “thank you” for the precious bouquet. As the former Geo Archon, Zhongli is no stranger to offerings of all sorts, but that doesn’t mean he will take any gift from a loved one for granted. Due to his fear of erosion, Zhongli starts to write down occurrences he yearns to remember for eternity. He believes that this would be that sort of occasion. Something so beautiful as gifting flowers to him will truly make him ponder the nature of life. He will most likely ask you if you would like to sit down and join him for story time and tea. Glaze Lilies have been part of many fond memories for him. Zhongli will like to tell you about these cherished times if you will listen to him. You wholeheartedly agree. As he tells his stories about times when he was younger and much brasher, you can’t help but notice that he keeps looking at you and the bouquet so fondly. Zhongli adores how attentive you are to him when he speaks of his past experiences.

“Ah, yes, Glaze Lilies used to be quite abundant in the past. Those days I had a friend who would sing to them beautifully. However, I do not feel any grief looking at these rarities now, for you have been a brilliant light in my life. I have been alive for more than 6000 years, and yet each day, you surprise me with your joy and love. Thank you, my dear, for showing me what it’s like to be human.”

Diluc /// Cecilias

- Inspired by his Cecilia garden in the Webtoon

As one of Mondstadt’s most handsome and wealthy bachelors, Diluc has received an assortment of presents to try to win him over. However, he rarely receives flowers. Many think they may be too feminine for the young winery owner, but honestly, he loves them. However, when you give him a bouquet of Cecilias, it’s hard to tell from his stoic expression what’s on his mind. His “thank you” is prim and proper but far from what you would expect from someone close. To be short, it will be rather lackluster. Moreover, he may even have to leave quickly since his duties give him quite little time to relax. As the weeks pass, Diluc keeps thinking about your bouquet. The flowers definitely hit something in his jaded heart. As a child, he would scurry around his father’s estate gardens. Those days of carefree laughter are long gone, and those gardens are no more, but you gifting him Cecilias reminded him of that picturesque and lazy era. The Ragnvindr will recreate his father’s gardens and plant many Cecilias. By the time it is done, and the flowers are fully bloomed, they make a breathtaking sea of white. He makes sure you are the first to witness such grace, for Diluc thinks he didn’t express to you how much the bouquet really meant to him.

“I can’t change what has been done. No matter how many battles I endure, nothing will alter the past. Nevertheless, I must press forward…Also, I owe you my sincere gratitude for reminding me of a time that truly seems so far away. Please keep in mind that Dawn Winery will always welcome you with open arms.”

Kaeya /// Calla Lilies

The Cavalry Captain can't help but be flirtatious as you walk up to him and hand him a bouquet of Calla Lilies. The smug smirk that is plastered on his face as he slings his arm around you and coolly says, "It seems my charms really are working. Thank you for the gift, doll. Much appreciated." You can't help but roll your eyes at his incessant teasing. You laugh and hurry off after saying your goodbyes. You don't witness how Kaeya's smirk drops when you're out of view, and he just mindlessly stares at the bouquet. His brother is always the one who receives the frilly gifts, not him. Kaeya is caught off guard for once. As he begins to examine the Calla Lilies, his thoughts drift away quickly. Flowers are everything he is not; they are honest and pure. How can the enigmatic man compete with such faultless beings? Kaeya goes home and places them in a porcelain vase on his nightstand. Every morning he wakes up and feels guilty as he sees them. Khaenri'ah haunts him. He is their last hope, after all. The Cavalry Captain soon notices how the lilies sadly wilt quickly due to his lack of care. Cold guilt seeps into his bloodstream and nips at his heart. He tries his best to revive them, and it works to much of his surprise. He witnesses how they perk back up as he tends to them; it's so utterly therapeutic to him. You visit his home one day, and you notice he has a few flower pots near his windows.

"Seems I have developed a knack for this thing. I have to give it to you, doll. I'm a busy man, but you found a little pastime for me. Isn't it truly fascinating to see how much they blossom under your care? How about I give you my thanks again by taking you to Angel's Share. No? You don't think I'm being serious? When have I been one to fool around when speaking about Death After Noon?"

Childe /// Sweet Flowers

Childe brightens up immediately when you hand him the bouquet. He brings the flowers close, breathes in the fragrant scent, and exhales. Childe becomes Ajax and starts to go on and on about his wonderful family. Those melancholic, blue eyes, always clouded with misery, glisten for a fleeting moment. Sweet flowers are often used in cuisine all over Teyvat. Ajax is reminded of his Mother's cooking. He misses their jubilance, but as he thinks about his family and childhood, he can't help but think about when he fell into the Abyss. You notice how his body tenses and his posture straightens—the Harbinger returns. You attempt to ease him, but he brushes you off. Those Abyssal creatures feasted on his fear and form. He only survived because of his teacher, Skirk. Tartaglia, to distract himself, will run away and slay some enemies nearby. The feeling of complete triumph amplifies his bloodlust. He goes to the spot where he placed the bouquet you gifted him. The fighting has trampled the petals and stems, and they have been tarnished with scarlet blood. Childe will sit down and sigh as he inspects what remains. He thinks about your kindness. Childe comes back to the city in search of you. He notices you are already waiting for him. You invite him over for dinner and make a traditional dish from his seaside village of Morepesok. Childe sees the bud of a Sweet Flower laid atop the mouthwatering dish, and once again, he grins, puffs his chest, and talks about his big family.

"You know, comrade, it's important to eat good meals so you can fight well. My Mother uses Sweet Flowers in some of her dishes. Her cooking is the best, you know! Need proof? Just read some of the letters my sister Tonia writes. You must come with me to visit my hometown, the sea contrasting with the snow is just glorious! Also, everyone wants to know the sweetheart I met overseas. So, what do you say?"

Albedo /// Cecilias

You make sure to give Albedo his present when he is down in Mondstadt. You fear the cold winds and frost of mournful Dragonspine will be too much for the Cecilias, even if they do prosper in harsher winds. Albedo is a bit taken back by the gift but smiles and accepts them. You sheepishly notice how his eyes stay on your form a bit too long and then begin to trace each white petal and green leaf. He has already stated he is pleased with them, but you can’t help but become self-conscious as he silently brings them closer to his gorgeous teal eyes. Albedo will notice your apprehension and swiftly apologize. He merely finds Cecilias so utterly intriguing due to their nature of being rather hard to find since they only grow on cliffs where the wind is unruly. The Chief Alchemist says his goodbyes and heads back to his laboratory. He quickly uses his alchemy to preserve the Cecilias so that they remain exquisitely intact forever. Albedo will leave them in a glass vase on his desk. He loves examining the bouquet each day, for he is reminded of your radiant beauty. Sucrose and Timaeus notice how many of Albedo’s refined paintings share one thing in common now: they all have perfect, fair Cecilias in them. Moreover, Albedo knows the tale of when Dragonspine was once a mountain filled with vast greenery. If Albedo were to have it his way and melt the snow, he would like it to be filled to the brim with Cecilias so that every single step he takes, he will remember the time your face heated as you pulled him over and gave him a lovely bouquet.

“The Anemo Archon, Barbatos, altered Mondstadt geography to change the cold climate that plagued the region. He succeeded because gentle breezes can be found everywhere. However, Cecilias are a captivating species of flowers that enjoy the harsh winds offered on high cliffs, for example, Starsnatch Cliff. They are a delicate rarity, just as you are. On the subject, I would love to paint you with the preserved bouquet. I hope the experience will be as pleasing for you as it will be for me.”

Xiao /// Qingxin

Though the last of the valiant Yakshas, Xiao isn’t too fond of human contact. He can often be found ignoring devoted followers who wish to shower him with offerings. He is adamant in his belief that being close to humans will corrupt their pliant spirit, for his karmic debt is too potent. While a few close to the stern Adeptus know that usually, only Almond Tofu sways the man, this didn’t stop you from picking a plethora of Qingxin and giving them to the aloof Adeptus. Xiao’s reaction is what you may expect it to be. When you greet him one day on the rooftop terrace, his response is sharp and frank. Nevertheless, he is an Adeptus and values manners and traditions, so much like the rest, he will say his thanks, but that may be all you get before he shoos you away. In truth, Verr Goldet may even be the one that places the bouquet in a vase for him. Yet, after a day of fighting demons, the man returns to his room at Wangshu Inn and simply stares at the flowers. Xiao will click his tongue and mutter under his breath scoldings. You could’ve gotten hurt for Qingxin are only found on Liyue’s high peaks and cliffs. Regardless, Xiao will realize your resilience and commend that by giving a slight smile when he knows he is alone. Qingxin is a solitary flower, and because of that, Xiao always thought they were similar. Creatures destined to be lonely. Though seeing you coming into his life has changed his predicament quite a bit.

“For all my vicious slaughter, I deserve to wander this land alone. All the fond dreams that have perished by my hands have left me tainted. But nevertheless, I appreciate your sentiment. You’re an interesting mortal. I suppose I don’t mind your superfluous gifts.”

Ayato /// Dendrobiums

- Possibly ooc as he isn’t out yet

As the head of the esteemed Kamisato Clan, Ayato was brought up with many of Inazuma's fine arts. He is adept at tea ceremonies, calligraphy, and ikebana, the art of flower arrangement. Ayato is known to disguise his wit and slyness with his elegance. You are often one of his victims. However, he drops his act for you when you give him a delightful bouquet of Dendrobiums. He may trick you for a second into thinking he doesn't like the gift with his silence before he amusingly chuckles and reassures you that he treasures anything you give him. Many have tried to sway the young lord with lavish presents, so when a companion gifts something, it is always so spectacular for him. Before you leave, he may lift your chin and place a flower behind your ear as a reminder to come visit him again. He puts his hand on his hip and once again chuckles as you scurry away. Ayato, in his free time, will skillfully use the Dendrobiums in his floral arrangement and have you be his inspiration. He makes sure that everything is done meticulously. The work of art that was birthed from his hands is quite impressive. Yet he isn't too surprised with the results, for he had you in mind the whole time during the process, and he was trained to be the master of the art by his Mother and Father. Ayato requested that the arrangement be proudly laid atop a wooden table near the main entryway. It becomes a striking reminder to those close to Ayato that the Yashiro leader has his eyes on you. Ayato may just cunningly state that the arrangement shows that the Kamisato Clan will be growing to those ignorant of your identity.

"It's a pity I don't have much time to spend with you because the Yashiro Commission's status grew substantially following the war; however, please do come back to my estate. If I may be so bold, will you accompany me while I make another arrangement when I am free of work? I can even teach you a thing or two about the wonderful art of ikebana. Do not fret, love, for I'm sure your crafty hands will produce something splendid. Haha, but we will see if it rivals mine, though."

Thanks for reading!! (ꈍ ᴗ ꈍ✿)

[bukojuiice]

—  genshin boys + their little sibling trying to get the two of you together

ೃ ft. childe, albedo, and xiao x gn! reader (ft. klee, teucer, and qiqi)

ೃ tags: character description spoilers, cute sibling moments, headcanons + short drabble,  future friends to lovers. tooth-rotting fluff

ೃ 200 to 300 words per character.

ೃ genshin masterlist  ♡ mha masterlist  ♡ aot masterlist

ೃ note: if you enjoyed this, please do reblog! and if you want to be a part of my taglist, answer this form! ♡

CHILDE:

-  “(Y/N)! Did you know that not only is big bro the greatest Toymaker in Snezhnaya, but he’s also the greatest love machine in Snezhnaya!?”

- Teucer wholeheartedly believes that you’ll end up with Childe in the future. It’s set in stone. It’s fate. Periodt. Perioditiscm. Periodic Table.  As a little kid who continues to grow up reading Snezhnayan fairy tales, he believes that you and Childe will have your happily ever after.  Soon. Very Very soon. He’s already planning the wedding as we speak. A traditional Snezhnayan wedding in a winter wonderland where you and Childe will complete your wedding ceremony by making snow angels and commencing a snow ball fight? Perfection. Teucer has already scribbled down that plan with his crayons and his lucky pencil. Childe’s got the funds with his Fatui job too! So it was going to be perfect!

- He may not be as wholesomely creative as Klee or as obliviously innocent as Qiqi, but he at least understands why his big bro hasn’t confessed to you yet. (Although he promises to not deal with his crushes and love interests like Childe does in the future) “I want to take things slow with (Y/N), okay Teucer?” were the words of his very own big bro that constantly played in his head over and over again. Since then, Teucer vows to help Childe and soon becomes his self-proclaimed little wingman. He wasn’t being painfully obvious whenever you were around, but sometimes you notice him stare at his big bro indignantly. As if waiting for the older sibling to say something important to you. There was a time when his big brother isn’t too busy with Fatui work, so he drags him to Qingce village to pick and collect some glazed lillies. Not telling his big bro what it’s for, they quietly return to Liyue harbor. As soon as Teucer sees you walking around the harbor, he runs to you with the glazed lillies in his hand. 

“(Y/N)! (Y/N)! This is for you! Big bro picked these out!” He beams, probing you to take the messily wrapped bouquet in his hands. Childe running after him shortly after.

“Thank you, Teucer!” You gingerly take it from his hands and pat him on the head. You then avert your gaze to his older brother, smiling brightly. “Thank you to you too, Childe. These are beautiful.” 

 A faint blush appears on the harbinger’s cheek as he scratches the back of his neck, “It’s n-no problem! A lovely person such as you deserves a-” 

Childe is suddenly cut off by Teucer’s light nudge on his ribs. The older brother gulps, kneeling down to the little one’s height. Teucer whispers into Childe’s ear and they exchange a quiet conversation for a bit whilst you stand there, albeit awkwardly. 

Teucer clears his throat and stands in a dignified pose, his hands resting on his hips. “(Y/N)! Big bro has something to say to you!”

With a heavy sigh, he picks a Glazed Lily from the bouquet and slides it at the side of your ear and into your hair. Admiring your beauty, he then speaks: 

“(Y/N)... I like you a lot. Will you go out with me?”

Safe to say that both Childe and Teucer went home with the biggest smiles plastered on their faces that day.

XIAO:

- Qiqi is the only one who vaguely remembers which of the Liyue Adeptus saved her that fated day. It was none other than the Vigilant Yaksha, Xiao. After all, the incident that befell her was written off of Liyue history. Fast forward to 100 years later, after she had encountered Baizhu and started working at the Bubu Pharmacy, she had finally met the Adepti again after she stumbled upon him in Wangshu inn when she was collecting Silk Flowers. Since then, Qiqi has considered Xiao as her older brother. Not necessarily the word she used but Qiqi calls him “Tofu” as she cannot remember names nor faces, but... she does remember the presence and aura of others. It was the closest name she could use to address her “big brother.”

- Whenever Xiao saw her in the outskirts of Jueyun Karst as she is tasked to find herbs and Qingxin flowers, Xiao gives her piggybacks to ease her struggles in her travels. (Yes, that meant Qiqi is on his back whilst they are climbing up the highest mountains. It was a talent that only Xiao could do. He was the best big brother ever.) During your constant visits to Wangshu Inn, Qiqi had noticed the lovely tension emanating between you and Xiao. Her older brother was absolutely pining over you but couldn’t possibly find a chance to tell you how he feels. If Qiqi was able to feel love from those around her, then her big brother Xiao deserves it too! And although she was not good with conversations, she does know how to make things less awkward with her oblivious sayings and zombie antics. And so on a particular day...

Xiao took you up to Qingyun Peak, the floating island that overlooked the entirety of Liyue. Qiqi tagged along with the two of you, her hand holding yours as the three of you quietly admire the sites below you.

“Xiao, this is beautiful...” You say in awe, Qiqi is tugging at your hand as she continues to sip on her cocogoat milk. “This is nothing like I’ve never seen before.”

“Is it?” Xiao tilts his head to you, his mouth curving into a small smile as soon as he turns to see your blissfully bewildered expression, “I-I hope you like it.”

“Like it!? I love it!” You correct him, your eyes glimmering in wonder. 

Qiqi suddenly puts down her milk then untangles her hand with yours. She stands in the middle between you and Xiao as she grabs your hands and his, clasping them together. “Qiqi thinks you and Tofu love each other. Please get married.”

“Qiqi! That’s not-”

You chuckle heartily at the little girl’s innocent remark, “It’s too early for that Qiqi. I need to know first if Xiao returns the feelings I have for him.” You then look up at Xiao, a tight-lipped smile and a nod greets him as you wait for his answer.

“Y-yes. Yes I do. I like you very v-very much.”

ALBEDO:

- Practically everyone in Mondstadt knows about the adorable sibling relationship between Albedo and Klee. Despite not being blood-related, Albedo will do anything for Klee and Klee would do anything for Albedo. It’s common knowledge at this point. They are one of the cutest siblings to ever walk Teyvat and you’re smiling with glee knowing that you were a welcoming addition to their lives. Klee always invites you to their humble home whenever her big brother isn’t busy because that meant he had time to mingle and possibly find a chance for him to confess to you. It’s not rocket science for Klee to realize how much big of a crush Albedo had on you ever since he met you. She was a smart kid. And although nothing could get in the way of Albedo’s research and experiments, but if it’s for you... he would stop the world if it meant helping and assisting you whenever you were in need.

-Whenever her big bro wasn’t too busy to have dinner and they’d eat Woodland Dream (Albedo’s special dish) from the fish that Klee had bombed earlier that afternoon, the Chalk Prince would babble on and on to his little sister about how much of an amazing and beautiful person you are. You were his muse and he  hopes to find the time to sketch and draw you for his next masterpiece, Klee had decided to take matters into her own hands. When her time in Solitary confinement is done for the day and as Albedo picks her up from the Favonius Headquarters, she finally spots you in front of the library, sighing in relief as she has been looking everywhere for you. 

“(Y/N)! (Y/N)! She approaches you with a cute wave, jumping around and hoisting her backpack on her shoulders, “Me and Dodoco wanna invite you to our drawing and coloring competition! It’s tonight! Big bro Albedo is competing too! You have to be our judge!”

“Oh! Sure! I’d love to be the judge of your competition, Klee!” You giggle at the little girl’s sweet invitation. You then turn to Albedo, shooting him a smile too. “I guess I’ll see the both of you at 7PM?” 

“Yes, of course.” Albedo nods approvingly, trying his best to keep his cool and proper facade. “If you’d like, we’d love to have you for dinner too.” 

“Sure! See you later, then!” You disappear into the library, to continue your work. 

Klee looks at her big bro with a devilish smirk, wrapping him in a big hug. “I hope you’re excited for this, big bro!”

A blush creeps up Albedo’s cheeks as he sighs contentedly, “Yes, I am. Now, let’s get home and get things prepared shall we?” 

And on that night....

“TADA!” Klee playfully presents her artwork to you, as if it was a masterpiece that deserves to be shown in a gallery. You begin to analyze her drawing, noticing that it was an art piece of you, Albedo, and Klee holding hands. You are in the middle and there are hearts drawn around the caricatures of you and her big brother. 

“I’m done too.” Albedo says nonchalantly, trying to get your attention. You turn to him and began to analyze it. It’s practically the same drawing as Klee’s but much more detailed and looking more like it actually came from a gallery. Observing it a little more, you observe the words hovering about the drawing figures.

“(Y/N)... I like you. Is it possible for something to happen between us?”

taglist:  @mignonextte @inlovewithadeptusxiao @duhsies @qimiie @kozu-zumi @volleybloop @latteshinsou @catgirlkomi @reaped-winnower @monaa @dibhachu @sugurus-princess​ @midnightangelfox​ @call-me-moonflower

[withloveajaxx]

hi! congratulations on 500 followers! thank you for sharing your writing with us, they make me feel warm and happy :3 for your event may i request aster, calla lily, and gardenia with xiao? thank you and congratulations again!

❁ prompt/s: "of course i noticed. i notice everything about you." + "wow… you look amazing…" + "the world is lucky to have you." + xiso

❁ warnings: none

❁ summary: xiao knows he isn't the best when it comes to words. but he still tires anyways.

❁ note: HI ANON TYSM FOR ENJOYING MY WORKS ILY HUHU T-T. this is a bit shorter than my usual fics since it's only 500 smthg words :"D but i hope you still enjoy this nonnie ^^ please remember to take care always and have an absolutely amazing day mwah <33

xiao had never been the best with words. despite being in a relationship with you for what he considered to be a fairly long time, he still struggled to say things a normal person could so easily speak. 

he means to compliment you, to tell you how much he loves you and enumerate all the reasons why, but the affectionate words always seem to get caught up in his throat, never truly being able to get them out. he envies how other people compliment and are able to speak to you so freely and easily, even if they weren’t someone you were particularly close to. 

he knows he has to be better for you. he wants to be better at verbally expressing his feelings for you, knowing just how happy it would make you.

(more utc!)

so, xiao decides to act on his desire. 

he somehow musters the courage to ask you out on a date, knowing how you could use this to unwind and spend some time with him. his cheeks were flaming red. he could barely meet your eyes, and he might have stammered over his words a bit, but with the bright smile you give him, he deemed the embarrassment well worth it. 

when he meets with you for the date, he vows to try and grace you with as much compliments as he can manage, no matter how flustered he gets. he swears he's asked zhongli for some basic compliments and he's already had some of them on the tip of his tongue.

but the moment he sees you, his mind goes blank. his mouth is dry and the words he had ready for you disappeared in mere seconds with how stunning you looked. 

"wow…" xiao says, his mind unable to grapple and form coherent words. his warm eyes glance at you from head to toe in what you could clearly tell was adoration. "you look amazing…"

your cheeks flare at the sudden compliment. "why thank you, xiao," you reply, a wide smile making its way onto your features.

"is that new?" he asks suddenly, gesturing to your outfit. taken aback by his keen observance you can only nod.

"it is actually. i'm surprised you noticed." 

"of course i noticed. i notice everything about you," the adeptus states firmly, cheeks growing as dark as yours at his bold proclamation. 

"you're rather wordy today." you chuckle as you both start to walk towards liyue, the back of his hand ever so slightly brushing against your own. "what's up?"

xiao is silent for a few moments. he was never quite good with his feelings either so finding the words to describe how he felt, what his intentions were was proving to be quite the challenge for him. 

"nothing." he keeps his eyes forward as you two walk, figure tense. "it's just… the world is lucky to have you. i'm lucky to have you. i don't say things to make it obvious, but i supposed i could try."

xiao didn't need to look at you to sense the beaming smile on your features in response to his words. 

he feels himself relax when you intertwine your hands with his. a wave of relief crashes into him when you give his hand a reassuring and gentle squeeze as you two continue to trek along the path leading to the city. 

"your effort is all i could ever ask for. it's more than enough for me."

taglist (send an ask to be added or removed): @dawndelion-winery @tiredsleep @codename-hiraeth @mari-san-cant @mininji @artificial-heartache

© withloveajaxx 2022. please do not copy, plagarize, or translate in any way.

[cjtheghost-14]

Prompt 14

“Hey… sorry to just show up like this but I heard you weren’t feeling well so I got you some of your favorite snacks. Oh, and your favorite movie, just in case you were up to watch it with me?”

Characters: Thoma, Diluc, Itto, Xiao

Warnings: Fluff

Requests are open

Thoma

It was the dead of night when he showed up at your doorstep

You were surprised he was still awake, Thoma usually went to bed relativley early

You were even more surprised to see his arms full of different bags of all shapes and sizes, stamps and packing info on them

“Y/N! Hi... hi... I hope I didn’t wake you.” He says out of breath, smiling softly. 

“Thoma?” You ask sleepily, rubbing your eyes.

“I brought your favorite snacks!” He says sheepishly, holding up the bags.

“Why... so late?”

“Oh, uhm... I had heard you weren’t feeling that great... and so I had some authentic Mondstadt food shipped in.”

You couldve sworn you heart skipped a beat.

You and Thoma both grew up in Mondstadt. This gesture was something very important to you, Thoma always knew exactly how to cheer you up

“Oh! I uh, also got your favorite movie!” He exclaims, struggling to hold up a disc along with the bags of food. “I didn’t happen to hear why your upset, and you don’t have to talk about it if you don’t want to! But uh, I’ll be here to cheer you up either way!”

Diluc

You had barley heard the soft knocking on your door over all the loud music you had been playing

But when you opened it you were suprised to see your boyfriend standing there, holding a to-go box and flowers

“Uhm... please excuse me for showing up so suddenly, but... I heard you were unwell, and came bearing gifts.”

Upon closer inspection it was a to-go box from Good Hunter, no doubt your favorite meal. In his other hand was a group of bright Cecilia.

 “Oh, Diluc...” You whisper, smiling softly at the red head in front of you.

He blushes slightly as you gaze at him, shifting his weight. “Oh, don’t look at me like that... I care about you is all, I want to keep you happy.”

That statement only made you smile more, which in turn made his face grow even redder

He sighs heavily, trying to hide his blush with the flowers. “Can I please just come in?”

Itto

When Itto showed up at 3 in the morning it wasn’t that big of a surprise, Itto often showed up without any warning. 

But this time he was carrying an armload full of boxes on his back.

“Hey Y/N!” He says happily.

“Hey... its pretty early you know.”

“Well... yes, yes it is, buuut, I heard you were sick so I thought I would keep you company! I got games, food, movies, oooh, and some pretty big beetles I found yesterday.”

You smile at the gesture before coughing. “I’m sick, Itto, I can’t fight anything right now” You chuckle softly, watching as he stares at you blankly. 

A few seconds pass before the realization dawns on him. “Oh, right, yes, of course... theeen you can watch me fight them!”

You laugh as he pecks your cheek gently. “Can I come in?”

Xiao

Xiao had a tendency to show up out of nowhere, but you hadnt been expecting him too while you were huddled on your couch, crying over Titanic

He politley ignored the current state you were in before speaking up. “Y/N, I heard you were... unwell. I brought you some chocolate from Liyue Harbor, and a few glaze lilies.”

You smile brightly, only tearing up more “Awww...”

He huffs, still not fully used to your affection. 

You hold you arms open in response, making room for him in the blanket drapped over you. “Can you come cuddle?”

He hesitates for a moment, looking around as if to check that no ones watching before climbing into your arms.

You hum softly as he moves closer to you. “This is nice...”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah...”