#venti playing matchmaker

[100beep]

Solace in a Hopleless Place

“Gorou.”

His name snaps him out of his shock-induced haze. “Yes?”

“The charges are treason, conspiracy to commit high treason, participation in a banned terrorist group, and four counts of manslaughter. How do you plead?”'

As was previously planned, he says “Guilty.”

The judge says “You are hereby exiled from Inazuma. Leave before sunset tomorrow and return on pain of death.” Then she bangs her gavel.

The rest of the trials pass in the same haze. Every important member of the Resistance is there, plus any common soldier that didn’t manage to escape. The leadership is given the same sentence of exile, while the soldiers are let off relatively easy, their only punishment being a few years of hard labor rebuilding the Tenshukaku.

He’s halfway to Dornman Port when he shakes off the last of the shock from the disastrously failed assassination attempt. It was an all-or-nothing bet, he knew, but he didn’t think he’d properly understood what failure truly meant until it happened.

He arrives in Dornman Port in the early afternoon two days after the trial and decides to make the trek to Mondstadt the same day. Unfortunately, it’s longer than he reckoned on, and it’s nearly midnight when he arrives.

Upon arrival in Mondstadt, he explains his situation to one of the Knights at the gate. Visitors are apparently not supposed to enter the city after dark. As he’s arguing with the guard, who seemingly wants to let him in but can’t, a wandering bard comes from the inside, winks at the guard, and pulls Gorou inside. And then drags him off to a tavern to tell his story properly.

Once he’s done the first telling of his story, the bartender asks “What exactly went wrong with your plan?”

“They had a spy,” Gorou almost growls. “They knew we were coming, they knew our every move. And it’s really damn hard to touch the Shogun if she knows you’re there.”

“There are few things that can derail a plan worse than a traitor within your ranks,” the bartender says, as if speaking from experience.

“Did you ever catch whoever did it?” asks one of the tavern’s other patrons - one who’s extremely drunk.

“Of course not! The entire Resistance disintegrated after we failed. We never got the chance.”

“What do you plan to do from here?” asks the bartender, heading off Gorou before he can get any more riled up.

“I have no idea,” answers Gorou. “I’m only here because the first boat I could get on was coming here.”

The bartender nods. “I suppose you need somewhere to stay for the night?”

“I could use one,” Gorou admits.

“I can help with that,” says the bartender. “The tavern’s full, but Barbatos knows I’ve got enough spare rooms for you. Which is probably why he brought you here.”

Someone calls across the room. “Diluc! Not just any stray you take in can replace me!”

The bartender - Diluc, apparently - glares across the room at the shouter, then says “Ignore him. He’s my… was my… it’s complicated.”

Gorou nods. “I won’t ask. But why is it you’re willing to take me in so quickly?”

Diluc sighs. “I’ve had my share of failed assassination attempts.” He doesn’t elaborate.

Later - Gorou thinks it’s about half past one in the morning - Diluc announces last call. A loud chorus of groans follows, and the tavern slowly empties, the last few people being chivvied out by Diluc after fifteen minutes or so.

Leaving the city is a lot easier than entering it. Diluc just nods at the guards and opens a postern gate. Apparently Diluc comes around this late at night regularly.

They walk mostly in silence for about fifteen minutes before Diluc points out the winery mansion.

“You weren’t joking about having a lot of spare rooms,” Gorou says, mildly surprised.

Diluc flushes slightly. “Lucky birth.”

Once he’s shown Gorou to one of the spare rooms, he says “Let one of the maids know if you need anything” and leaves Gorou to collapse on the bed for his first proper sleep since the trial.

Gorou wakes up around noon the next day. He rolls out of bed and does his best to tidy up the room. It’s not like he’d made much of a mess, or that Diluc needs it, given that he has maids, but it’s the principle. He makes his way downstairs and is greeted by one of Diluc’s maids, who seems quite happy for a chance to stop mopping.

“You’re Gorou?” she asks.

He nods.

“I’ve been wondering when you’d show up. Diluc’s out in town - I don’t know what he’s doing. There’s breakfast waiting for you in the dining room… although you should call it lunch.”

Gorou thanks the maid, then calls her back to ask where the dining room is.

In the dining room, he uncovers what amounts to a pile of steak, potato, and cheese, stacked up. There’s a note next to it, from Diluc, which he reads as he eats. He’d spent so long being insanely busy with the Resistance that he’s used to such multitasking.

It’s fairly concise, as Gorou would expect from Diluc. As Gorou was told by the maid, Diluc’s in the city and invites Gorou to join him. He doesn’t say what he’s doing, just that he can’t be missed. He says that Gorou is welcome to stay as long as he needs to, as he’s a person that won’t take advantage of another’s kindness. And he mentions that he’d made the meal and used his Vision to keep it warm. At first, Gorou does a double-take at his ready admission that he has a Vision before remembering that it’s only in Inazuma that they’re banned.

Once he leaves the mansion, he returns to the city, mostly so he can find work. Diluc is entirely right that he doesn’t want to stay for free if he can avoid it.

“Katheryne? What are you doing here?” he exclaims, seeing her at her kiosk at the entrance to the city. She never leaves her desk in Inazuma.

“I have always been here,” she replies.

“What about the Katheryne in Inazuma?” he asks.

“Information on the workings of myself through Teyvat is limited to Adventurer’s Guild members,” she responds as if she’s giving a canned response. “And unfortunately for such a promising young adventurer such as yourself, we do not accept new adventurers during Mondstadt’s harvest season. Even those we previously tried to recruit.”

Gorou shakes his head in confusion. He’d been previously recruited by Katheryne in Inazuma, which means that they’re the same person or they somehow share memories…

He abandons that line of thought. He won’t be able to get any answers out of an uncooperative Katheryne. Instead, he asks “What stops you from hiring during the harvest?”

“Mostly tradition,” answers Katheryne. "The farmers of Mondstadt need as many workers as they can get during the planting and harvest seasons.”

Gorou’s eyes narrow. Adventuring is rather useless if you can’t feed the city, but he wouldn’t expect the Guild to bother with that. He doesn’t pursue it though - again, Katheryne won’t talk about anything that doesn’t suit her. “Can you point me to any of those farmers that are hiring?” he asks instead, not expecting an answer but thinking it’s a better chance and more useful than anything else he can ask.

Katheryne answers nonetheless. “Dawn Winery is currently in the midst of their semiannual hiring spree. In fact, Master Ragnvindr is currently in town for that purpose. He’s in the main square - just go up, you can hardly miss him.”

“Thanks,” Gorou says as he turns and walks up the main stairs of the city. As he climbs, he mutters to himself “So that’s what he meant by ‘can’t be missed.’” Whatever he was expecting, it wasn’t that.

Ten minutes later, a slightly out of breath Gorou makes it to the main square of Mondstadt. The disadvantage of building your city into the side of a hill is that it makes it somewhat more difficult to get around. To his immediate left is a sign advertising for the Good Hunter. Underneath that sign is another sign advertising for work at Dawn Winery. There’s a small crowd - thirty people or so - mostly waiting around for their chance for Diluc to take their name. Gorou takes a seat and waits for Diluc to work through the rest of the crowd.

“Next,” calls a bored-looking Diluc as the current person leaves, looking somewhat annoyed. Someone else walks up to his table and starts talking - for some reason, no one else can hear them.

“How do you know who’s next?” Gorou asks the person sitting next to him.

“Whoever gets up first, mostly” is the answer. “They always hire everyone they can, it’s not like there’s much competition.” Gorou nods.

A moment later, he asks “Are you that Inazuman revolutionary that appeared at Angel’s Share yesterday?”

Gorou blinks in surprise. “That would be me. Why?”

“Is it true that you took the first shot at the Shogun?”

“I’m a… was a general, not an assassin.”

The man nods. After a moment, he asks “Did you take any shots at the Shogun?”

“It’s rather useless to try once she knows we’re there. She can grab arrows out of the air,” Gorou grumbles. “Didn’t stop me from trying, but most of my arrows went to her soldiers.”

Diluc calls “Next,” and Gorou answers the call.

“I thought I’d see you here,” Diluc says. “I suppose the Guild sent you here?”

Gorou nods. “What is your arrangement with the Guild?”

“The Knights mandated it after one year when the entire workforce quit to join the Guild,” Diluc responds. “When neither they nor the owners would back down on their wage demands, the city nearly starved. And despite Barbatos’s calls for a revolution - or so they say - the Knights stepped in and stopped the Guild from hiring anyone new during the harvest.” He shakes his head as though to get rid of an unpleasant memory. “But enough of ancient history. You’re here for work. I assume you’re more interested in actual harvesting rather than the administrative work?”

Gorou agrees. “Tracking supplies and the like was the worst part of the Resistance.”

Diluc holds back a sigh. “Very well.” He briefs Gorou on pay - which is surprisingly generous - duties, hours, and such - long hours this year because of an early winter and limited demand for ice wine - then ends with “You start tomorrow in the vineyard at half past eight.” Then he calls “Next.”

The next three weeks are extremely busy for Gorou. He’s busy the entire day in the vineyard, after which he has little energy for anything else. He’s told that it isn’t normally this busy except after the freeze, but this year’s freeze will be sooner than normal.

Little time for anything else also includes finding another place to live. As convenient as it is to not have to walk into the city every night, now that he has work, he’d like to avoid living on charity.

Gorou and Diluc eat together almost every night, mostly in silence as both of them are too tired for small talk. Most nights, Diluc cooks, which Gorou is almost more grateful for than the room. About twice a week, he’ll get too wrapped up in papers to remember, and twice he falls asleep in those papers, in which case Gorou sighs and throws together dinner for the two of them. And on the one occasion where Diluc goes missing for two days straight - he’s told that it happens occasionally, it’s nothing to worry about - he’ll cook for himself. He’s not a bad cook, he just doesn’t enjoy it much, nor does he have the energy to.

(When asked why he doesn’t let the maids cook, Diluc laughs. He doesn’t trust them to not burn down the house, he says, and it’s far too hard to find a half-decent chef for hire.)

Three days in a row go by when the morning starts with a frost. There’s no effect on the harvest, other than a lot more workers bringing gloves.

The next morning, Gorou wakes up to a howling blizzard. He gets out of bed, noting that the house is somehow warmer than normal, and walks to the kitchen, where he finds Diluc with a cup of coffee.

Diluc greets him, then points out the window. “That is Barbatos thinking he’s being funny.”

Gorou blinks. “Barbatos does things like that?”

Diluc scoffs. “Only to me. I’m convinced that if you could get out of here, you’d see the storm is entirely contained in the vineyard. Shows what I get for asking for a cold snap.”

“Why would you want a cold snap?” Gorou asks.

“An experiment with ice wine,” Diluc answers. “I’m told that if you freeze the grapes before harvesting, it concentrates the juice, which makes for far sweeter wine.”

“And you couldn’t get a Cryo user to freeze them for you?” Gorou asks. “I’d think that would be easier than getting a god to change your weather.”

Diluc sighs. “You underestimate how pliable Barbatos can be. And even if he wasn’t, I have a talent for driving off Cryo Vision holders. Diona hates the entire wine industry. I’d have no chance at convincing Rosaria to take on any additional work, and she’s not leaving the Church anytime soon. Eula hates me for some reason, which she’s passed on to Mika, and Kaeya is… well, he’s Kaeya.”

Gorou nods. He briefly considers asking about Kaeya - he’s heard stories - but decides against it. “It would probably make a better wine from a natural freeze anyways,” he says instead.

“Perhaps,” replies Diluc. “Whatever the case, it’s not going to happen, as convenient as it may be. Are you cold?”

Gorou blinks at the sudden change of topic. “No - I don’t understand it, but I’m actually warmer than before,” he answers.

Diluc nods. “That would be my Vision. I wasn’t sure if it was affecting the entire house - normally, I only bother to keep myself warm. Surprisingly, it’s not that much more effort.”

“Increasing area-of-effect somehow doesn’t increase the power needed,” Gorou replies. “Unless you’re doing something with a lot of precision.”

“I wonder why,” asks Diluc, not expecting an answer. Gorou doesn’t give one - he doesn’t know either.

After a moment’s silence, Diluc says “Well, this day’s going to be completely useless for the both of us. We won’t be able to get out through that storm, either to town or to harvest and I can’t work in the cold - Vision heating is too distracting.”

“I’ll appreciate the day off,” Gorou replies. “Your harvests are rather exhausting.”

“I have been working you rather hard,” Diluc admits. “But winter would be here early regardless of what Barbatos did, and I’m not banking everything on an experiment. Thanks to your work, we only have a day’s worth of harvest or so left.”

“I’m not complaining,” Gorou answers quickly, “but I do need a break.”

The rest of the day is spent mostly quietly. Neither of the maids show up through the storm, which leaves Diluc and Gorou alone together the entire day. They talk more than they have ever since the first night when Gorou showed up in Mondstadt, mostly for lack of anything else to do. Diluc is very interested in the details of the Resistance to the point where Gorou almost suspects him of trying to create his own revolt.

When asked why he’s so interested, Diluc answers “I also had my time as a rebel. My motivations were far more selfish than yours - entirely revenge, to be honest.” And then they’re on to talking about Diluc’s misadventures in Snezhnaya.

“…I managed to actually land a hit on Dottore,” Diluc finishes. “To this day, that’s the closest I’ve come to revenge.”

Gorou nods along. From his one-time dealings with the Fatui, they’re not worth it to work with. Still, he has to ask: “What caused you to go on such a quest for revenge in the first place?”

Diluc grimaces. He doesn’t want the details publicized, but he can tell Gorou is trustworthy. He tells Gorou as much, then begins with the disappearing children. The only part of the story he leaves out is his messy breakup and disownment of Kaeya.

The next morning dawns cold and clear… in the sky, at least. The ground, less so. There’s about a foot of snow on the ground, ending right at the boundary of the vineyard and confirming Diluc’s theory of the localized storm.

The crowd gets to work. They know where the remaining unpicked grapevines are and, almost more importantly, where the already-picked vines are to dump the snow.

About half an hour in, Gorou asks Diluc - who, for the meantime, is working with the other pickers - if he can use his Vision to melt the snow.

“I doubt that I can control it enough to not thaw the grapes,” Diluc answers. “And thawed grapes are completely useless.”

“I might be able to shield them,” Gorou answers. “At least enough to clear the paths.”

Diluc raises an eyebrow. “Care to demonstrate?”

Gorou digs through the snow to the ground, then pulls off a glove and touches the ground. A thin wall of earth erupts through the snow, then curves over the tops of the grapevines.

“Impressive control,” says Diluc. Then he sends a wave of flame down the path, causing a massive cloud of steam and almost entirely clearing the path of snow.

The wall shatters as Gorou releases control over it. Underneath it, the snow covering the grapes remains mostly intact. The top had slightly melted and then refrozen into a somewhat solid chunk of ice, which Diluc picks up and throws onto a pile of waste snow. The grapes underneath are still frozen solid.

Diluc nods in approval and the two move through the vineyard repeating the process. It takes about an hour - there isn’t much vineyard left unharvested, but making such barriers is fairly exhausting for Gorou.

Once they’re done clearing the paths, Diluc leaves to begin the wine processing. This will continue through the night, with only Diluc and a few backup workers, pressing all the grapes before the weather has a chance to warm up.

Diluc comes in at half past four in the morning. He’s not as tired as you’d expect - he does have experience working through the night. But he still collapses on his bed the first chance he gets.

The next night, the entire collection of harvesters is invited to Angel’s Share for a night of free drinks. There’s enough of them to fill the bar, and regardless, it’s closed to everyone else - except that one bard that brought Gorou here when he first arrived.

Diluc, who for tonight is on the other side of the bar, sees the bard and shakes his head at him. Venti, of course, doesn’t leave and instead takes a seat next to Diluc.

“Was the cold snap to your liking?” he asks.

Diluc sighs. “Well, I can’t say it didn’t work.”

“Whatever did the two of you do cooped up together?”

Diluc blushes furiously. “We talked.” Then he looks around for Gorou, who is, thankfully, on the other side of the room and apparently not listening.

Venti laughs. “Oh, I didn’t mean to imply anything… inappropriate. It seems your mind went there all on its own.”

“You knew exactly what you were doing,” Diluc says, face still red.

“Perhaps,” answers Venti. “Although if I did, I’d imagine that it would work better.” Then he walks away, to where Gorou is in a rather heated argument with a few others on how, exactly, a Pyro arrow flies without lighting the entire arrow on fire.

“It doesn’t have time to burn,” Venti interrupts. “Any fool with more arrows than sense can try it, you don’t even need a Vision.”

“Thank you!” someone exclaims to Gorou. “If I wasn’t drunk, I’d show you - you don’t need a Pyro vision, I’ve done it before!”

Gorou throws up his hands. “Fine!”

Venti laughs, then drags off Gorou. “Tell me, what went on during that snowstorm?”

“Very little,” Gorou answers. “I needed a rest, Diluc kept me far too busy. And it’s not like there’s much to do trapped inside by a storm.”

“Oh, I’m sure you could’ve come up with something,” Venti answers. Then he walks away, leaving a very confused Gorou.

Later in the night, Charles announces “Last call,” to an even louder chorus of groans - no one likes the end of free drinks. The trickle out starts with Diluc, as he’d been almost the only one paying attention to the time. Gorou follows soon after - he’d stopped drinking about an hour ago to avoid a hangover.

They walk in silence, as Gorou would expect from Diluc, but this time it feels somewhat more awkward. Eventually, Gorou asks “What exactly did that bard say to you?”

Diluc blushes again, mutters something about “meddling gods,” and doesn’t answer the question.

“I see,” Gorou replies.

“What exactly do you think you see?” Diluc says. “You like someone, but you don’t want to admit it to yourself,” Gorou answers.

“I have no feelings for you, despite what that damned bard might say,” Diluc grumbles.

Gorou stops walking. “It’s me you like?”

Diluc freezes. “That is not what I meant to say.”

Gorou takes a breath and says “But what you wanted to say, I think.”

Diluc tries to deny it as he starts walking again. Gorou says “I like you too,” and Diluc stops again. Then he turns to kiss Gorou.

Gorou hesitates half a second before kissing back.

When they break the kiss, Diluc is smiling for the first time Gorou’s seen.

[dutybcrne]

@voidlesslove said : I'd love to see Kaeya with the traveler as his mate. They'd immediately clock his scent as Inteyvats and depending on which it is would share theirs with him. (Side note I can totally see the traveler as a beta) 『 Related to this || Accepting 』

YES! 🥹

[jellalism]

Genshin men x Reader: Telling the secret

You tell him you’re interested in people of the same gender. How does he react?

Characters: Albedo – Alhaitham – Ayato – Baizhu – Chongyun – Childe – Diluc – Gorou – Heizou – Itto – Kaveh – Kazuha – Kaeya – Tighnari – Venti – Wanderer – Wriothesley – Xiao – Zhongli

Genre: Comfort

Reader's gender: Gender neutral

Word count: 1345

Content warnings: None

Notes: For the purposes of this fic, I take every character here to be straight but supportive. Except Baizhu; I cannot for the life of me imagine him as heterosexual. I put ‘gay’ in between brackets; you can replace it in your mind with whatever your sexuality is. All the characters' reactions are platonic.

Read below or on AO3.

Albedo’s expression doesn’t change. “I see. I’ve heard of people like that. I never had the opportunity to meet one, however… Until you, apparently.”

“Maybe you’ve met one before, and you just didn’t know it?”

He smiles. “You’re right, I shouldn’t make assumptions. In any case, thank you for trusting me with this. That means a lot.”

Alhaitham is unfazed as he looks up from his book. “Okay. I imagine you may be worried about my reaction. But you don’t need to be. I think those who judge others for something harmless like loving someone of the same gender are foolish.” He says it matter-of-factly, like there is no doubt in the world.

“Thanks,” you say and sigh from relief.

“No need to thank me,” he says as he turns towards his book again. “Like I said, it’s foolish to judge people for being [gay]. I’m just doing the bare minimum.”

“But still... you take the effort to reassure me. Thank you.”

He looks up again and gazes at your face for a few moments. “Maybe I underestimated how much this means to you.” He closes his book, makes his way towards you and pulls you into a hug. “You’re a friend of mine. Don’t forget that. If anyone in the Akademiya gives you trouble over your sexuality, let me know. I can cause trouble in return.”

“That’s quite unusual, isn’t it?” says Ayato. “But unusual doesn’t mean wrong. Everyone has their own tastes. I hope you can find someone who makes you happy. And if you need help finding someone, let me know. I think it might be fun to play matchmaker.” He smiles mischievously. It might be prudent not to let him choose a date for you.

Baizhu looks relieved. “Well, finally you told me. Doesn’t it feel like a relief? You know, it’s not healthy to keep all kinds of secrets bottled up.”

“I know, but… this isn’t something easy to share.”

“Oh, I know, y/n. I’m gay myself, but it’s something I’ve learned not to share with just anyone. It makes my work easier. In any case,” he continues, “thank you for trusting me. I think this brought us closer together, hasn’t it?”

Chongyun looks surprised. “That’s possible? I didn’t even know! That’s so cool!” His eyes are full of excitement and curiosity. “How did you know? And do you have a partner?” He wants to know all about it.

After a while, you have to explain to him that some people are homophobic, and that he needs to keep your sexuality a secret. “People think it’s bad to love someone, just because the other person is of the same gender? That’s absurd. Don’t worry, I’ll keep your secret!”

“I didn’t see that coming, comrade, but don’t worry!” Childe winks. “You won’t get any judgment from me. And besides, a bond of comradeship isn’t broken so easily.” He ruffles your hair. “You’ll be stuck with me for a long time.”

Diluc weighs his words carefully and takes a few moments before he starts speaking. “Thank you for telling me this, y/n. I can see that it means a lot to you, and I don’t take your trust in me lightly. Your secret is safe. And—” he takes the time to choose his words carefully “—I don’t judge you, of course. You’re a dear friend, and this won’t change that.”

Gorou is a little surprised, but not much. “Don’t worry about it! I’m an army general, homosexuality abounds here. If I were homophobic, the army would be the wrong place for me,” he says with a chuckle. “That said, not everyone got the memo. Even here there’s plenty of homophobes. But if anyone gives you trouble, let me know. I’ll be sure to have a stern word with them.” He stands up straight, full of confidence. Gorou really is someone you can count on.

Heizou saw it coming. “A little bit of intuition already told me that much. But I didn’t want to creep you out by letting you know earlier. And don’t worry about it: I haven’t told anyone, of course. I’ll keep any secret for you. Except criminal ones.”

“That’s just one more reason you’re always welcome in the Arataki gang,” Itto says enthusiastically. “We’re made up of outcasts! We welcome anyone who’s gone through hard times. And you, compadre, definitely qualify.” Before you know it, he wraps you in a tight hug.

Kaveh seems completely fine. “That’s beautiful. Love is a beautiful thing. You know, I really admire people like you. In loving the same gender despite what other people think, there’s a certain dedication to love.”

Your face flushes.

“Aww, are you embarrassed? No need to be.” He steps towards you and hugs you gently. “Thank you for telling me. You’re amazing, you know that?”

Kazuha doesn’t say a word, just immediately goes in for the hug. His mouth close to your ear, he softly says: “I hear in your voice that it’s been weighing on you. I’m sorry that you had to carry that on your own. I wish I could’ve borne it with you.” He gently rubs your back to reassure you. Everything about his reaction is full of love and warmth, and your tears threaten to spill over.

“Ah, I see.” Kaeya has a mischievous expression and seems on the verge of making a teasing comment. But when he looks at your anxious face, he becomes more serious and concerned. “This… has been hard for you, hasn’t it? I’m glad you told me, y/n. You’re a dear friend of mine, and your trust in me only makes our bond stronger, if you ask me.”

Tighnari is quite direct about it. “Don’t worry, I’m not homophobic. I’m a forest ranger and a scholar from Amurta. If anyone knows just how natural homosexuality is, it’s me. Does that alleviate your fears?”

“What, you think the God of Freedom would somehow have restrictive ideas about sexuality? Absolutely not.” Venti shakes his head vigorously, as if mere words are not enough to dispel the notion. “In fact, I know some songs about same-gender lovers.” And he strikes a chord on his lyre, starting a song.

Wanderer does not care one way or another. “Oh, so you’re like that? Well, it doesn’t concern me. You can just do whatever you like.”

“But…” You want to say something, but the words don’t seem to come.

“What?” He seems annoyed. “I won’t spill your secret to anyone, if that’s what you’re worried about. Not like I’d have anyone to spill it to, even if I wanted to.” Then, with a softer voice: “You’re one of the few people who cares to spend time with me, after all.” You’re not sure you were supposed to hear that.

“Ah, I see. So that’s what has been weighing on you. I had been wondering.” Wriothesley says matter-of-factly. “I’m sorry to hear you didn’t feel safe enough to tell me until now. But I’m glad you told me now. I won’t betray your trust; you can count on me.” His expression tells you all you need to know: it’s full of love for you.

Xiao has lived a long time and seen many things. “It’s ridiculous to me that some mortals still have not gotten over the fact that some people are [gay],” he says, gazing out over the Guili Plains. He turns to face you, looking you straight in the eye with his intense gaze. “Listen to me. You did not deserve the hardships that people have given you over this. If anyone bothers you, let me know. They will listen to an adeptus.”

Zhongli places his hand on top of your head in a reassuring way. “I was aware some worry was weighing you down, but I did not know what it was. Worry not; things such as this don’t faze me.” He places a kiss on your forehead. “Love is beautiful, so I would never wish to oppose that. If ever you encounter trouble, you can depend on me.”

[dead-scorpio]

I want a fic where Furina meets Zhongli and immediately goes "Neuvi is going to like him SO MUCH". And she is right, they do like each (after they clear up the whole usurper archon thing), so Furina proceeds to play a matchmaker for them (Venti helps by annoying Zhongli endlessly until he admits his feelings, because it's entertaining to watch Zhongli and Neuvillette being oblivious idiots in love)

[cluescorner]

MY 3.5 PREDICTIONS

About Caribert:

- Kaeya and Dain DO interact, but only for like 2 minutes. This interaction will reveal that they’ve actually never met each other before. 

- Dainsleif will reveal that he was supposed to be a Schwanenritter, but deserted for whatever reason. 

- More of Celestia’s crimes against humanity will be revealed. 

- There WILL BE a new Khaenri’an NPC, but they will either day before the quest ends or will have been corrupted with the Abyss. 

- When the hilichurl takes its mask off, its face will look alarmingly human. Like, almost human but there’s a specific uncanny valley effect.

- The Cryo Abyss Herald is actually completely irrelevant to the quest. Like, it’s just an enemy who shows up and then you fight it. 

- Our sibling will show up, but only in a flashback or something to do with the mirror we pick up. 

- It will be revealed that a Descender is leading the Abyss Order. 

- it is NOT revealed how exactly our sibling’s fate is being obscured from Irminsul nor why they aren’t considered a descender. 

About Windblume: 

- Collei and Amber’s reunion will make me cry. 

- Kaeya is not involved in any of it due to being in Caribert. 

- Amber and Collei are the ‘main characters’ of this quest 

- Cyno and Lisa interact, Tighnari and Albedo interact 

- Diluc shows up for like 3 seconds to have a brief look of understanding with Collei and Cyno, then immediately leaves. 

- We will play matchmaker between Timaeus and Ying’er. 

- The ‘prophecy’ will be revealed to just be a trick of Venti’s to encourage people to have fun on Windblume. 

- Either Varka or Alice will make a physical appearance, but not both. If it’s Varka, he will have a disappointingly twink-ish appearance and the community backlash will be enough that they will FINALLY FUCKING FINALLY make better and more diverse base models for characters. If it’s Alice, her boobs will be the size of watermelons and she’ll look like a Klee + Lisa hybrid. She’ll make a vague reference to Rukkhadevata, then laugh it off as if it was a joke because only WE REMEMBER RUKKHADEVATA EXISTS. 

About my pulls:

- I will get Dehya within Day 1. 

- I will get Cyno C2, but not C3. 

- I will lose a 50/50 and get a Constellation rather than a new character (weeps in no Keqing or Diluc or Tighnari). 

- My ‘Kaeya is a segment of Pierro’ bullshit will be definitely proven false, so I can properly classify it as an AU. 

- I will finally go full Pepe Sylvia Mode about how Dehya’s kit was designed 

[furinafocalor]

XiaoVen

all of these fics are centered around the ship Xiao (Alatus)/ Venti (Barbatos).

links will be attached to all of them and the names will be underlined.

the ships with a * beside them are my personal favs please go check all of these fics out when you have the time!

atop wangshu inn's peak- by vflxvyr

venti (awfully) tries to sneak up on xiao. cue xiao being whipped and mildly concerned

9/10 A cute and short fic. I don't know why I liked it so much but I loved how their relationship was potrayed. Super adorable!

*Cecilias Smell Sweeter in Summer- by Lantica1317

Camp Seven A is a small summer camp all of the kids in the local town of Teyvat attend at least once. Xiao has just moved to Teyvat and finds himself taking a job at Camp Seven A as a counselor for the Anemo group. His co-counselor Venti is all too happy to teach him the ropes. Why is that dude so friendly?

10/10 O.M.G. I loved this fic so much. I loved the au, the build up, the romance. Ugh! I loved it. It is rated as mature but the author kindly let us know when to avoid that part if you want to. So go read it please!

*Twin Songs and Matching Marks- by Elixiro

Xiao can hear every song his soulmate listens to. Unfortunately for him, his soulmate loves playing rhythm games.

9/10 The cutest soulmate au of them all. Their first meeting was absolutely stunning! I loved everything about this fic! It's about 5,000 words so go check it out!

your smile and the words i didn't know i wanted to hear- by lore_bee

"He's staying in Liyue," Alatus muttered just loud enough for Hu Tao to hear. Hu Tao froze. Her cards dropped from her pale hands as she screamed, "WHAT!?" Her body left the bed as she danced around the room. "Omg! It's meant to be! The archons have blessed you Alatus! Oh what fortune they have bestowed upon you!" Alatus dropped his own cards lying back on his bed. The next few minutes continued with Hu Tao excitedly spinning around the room and Alatus covering his ears with a pillow. or, Alatus is a superhero known as Adeptus Xiao. Barbatos, a heroin from Mondstat, says he's staying in Liyue. Chaos and attraction is becoming the new norm for Alatus. or, Venti lusting after Xiao's abs... for like ten minutes...

10/10 I really adored this au. I don't think I've ever been able to find any genshin superhero fics before so this one was a treat! It's around 12,000 words so it's pretty long. Definitely worth it though!

the history teacher is a married man- by aprilfalls

"Excuse me, mister— I mean Xiao," spoke one particular student in the 4th period before class began. Her lips were stretched into a demon-eating grin, and the look in her eyes screamed potential danger. "Yes, Hu Tao?" Xiao drowns his long-suffering sigh in his throat; a habit formed to not fuel the demonic energy that Hu Tao runs on. Hu Tao swallows, which does nothing to dampen her terrifying smile. "I'm sorry for prying, Mister-I-Mean-Xiao, but is that a ring I see on your hand?" Oh Barbatos, here it comes now. [or: four nosey kids, and the things it takes for them to realize that two of their teachers are married... to each other.]

8/10 AHHHHHHHH. So cute. Go read. Now.

tip me over and pour me out- by pyrochords

It becomes painstakingly obvious that Xiao has a thing for Barbatos, so friends new and old attempt to play matchmaker. They won’t rest until the apple of Xiao’s eye takes up residency in both his heart and his teapot. Venti is far more perceptive than people give him credit for, but thinks you should never meet your heroes. Somehow, they make it work.

7/10 The way they beat up Childe. I loved Venti and Xiao's interactions so, so much. This fic was so good. I promise you won't be dissapointed.

That's the end for right now! Thanks for checking out my post. Follow my blog for more fic recs. I'll be making a masterlist soon and I'll attach the link here. In the meantime, here's the link to my KazuScara fic rec and my ChongQiu fic rec!

[liviavanrouge]

Flower Secret Prologue: Sudden Flowers

Venti popped his head into a house, a wide grin on his face as he tiptoed through, heading straight to the kitchen.

"Hehehehe!" He casted a quick glance around then opened the fridge.

"I KNEW IT, VENTI!!!!"

A laugh of surprise came from him and he turned around, hands innocently behind his back. Dala gave him a look, tapping her foot with arms crossed over her chest.

"WOW, Dala! You've gotten so prettier in one day!"Venti comments doing his best to get himself out of trouble.

Silence followed, Dala raising a brow at him, uncrossing her arms and placing a hand on her hip. "Your thighs have gotten plushy"Venti compliments. Red spread across the girls cheeks, her eyes widening.

"VENTI, YOU SOUND LIKE A PERV!" Laughter erupted from him, ducking down as she swung a fist at him. Dala gave him a small grin, the sound of someone else coming downstairs getting their attention.

"What's going on?"Ganyu yawned a white haired male with gray bangs following behind her.

Dala and Venti stared at her then started laughing, startling their friend. Venti leaned against the girl next to him, pointing at the male behind Ganyu.

Ganyu turned and gasped in surprise, her face turning red as the laughter of her friends continued to fill the air. "Jinxo!" Jinxo smiled in amusement as she pushed him back upstairs.

"I see you got yourself a man, Ganyu! How'd you bag this one?"Venti teased grinning at her. Ganyu pointed a firm finger at him, pushing her boyfriend back up the stairs.

"You both better get dressed! Yoimiya's party is today!"

Dala gasped and quickly hurried to the stairs. Freezing on the fourth step, her attention went to Venti. "I poured out all your alcohol, specifically the ones that drunken you up."

Venti gasped and threw the fridge open, rummaging around as she went up stairs. "DALA YOU MONSTER!!" An evil cackle came upstairs, causing him to laugh.

Summer was nearly over and the group had been having a blast with each other. Well, with everyone's idea except Venti's who suggested they all try the alcohol he brought..stole...from Diluc.

Yun Jin and Yanfei both threw a Karaoke Swimming party at a pool they both convinced Osi and Lingya to lend to them.

Ganyu got them tickets to a concert through Jinxo, who seemed to be her boyfriend now. They all got to see Navia perform with Adiva that day and to say it was a blast since a proposal had occurred at the end of it.

Lumine, with the help of her siblings, threw a small get together where she tried to play matchmaker with a few of them that night.

It was Yoimiya's turn and she was throwing a party with her younger brother, Yulis, which is gonna end with a large firework show.

Then it was Dala's turn some time afterwards and Venti had a sneaking suspicion of what kind of party she was gonna be throwing when the time came.

Venti was snapped out of his thoughts when Dala's phone started to ring. An unknown number popped up onto the screen. "Unknown number? Who's this?"Venti mumbles.

His hand grabbed her phone, answering the call only for a familiar voice to ring through. "Dala? Is this Dala?"

IT WAS XIAO!!?

Venti immediately hung up without thinking, his eyes widening when he realized what he did. "OH NOOOOO!"Venti yells his eyes wide.

He face palmed, sighing at his stupidity. He could have set them up together since Xiao and his buddies were coming to Yoimiya's party as well since Ganyu invited them due to being good friends and family with Xiao.

Xianyun, Ganyu's mother, was close with Zhongli with the two seeing each other as family. Their kids hung out, treating each other like cousins and referring to each other as such.

A knock came from the front door, Jinxo coming down the stairs to open it.

Venti peeked around the corner, noticing black hair with purple highlights. "Hey Murkus." "Is Big sis Ganyu here?"

Jinxo turned around, heading to the stairs. "GANYU!! Your little brother, Murkus, is here!"

Running feet immediately followed the call, Ganyu smiling as she hurried down the stairs, heading over to her little brother. Murkus grunted when she hugged him, looking unamused.

"Mother Xianyun is letting me come out of homeschooling." Venti perked up, having met Xianyun a few times but he could most certainly tell that she was the most protective of her only son for some reason.

"VENTI!! Come here!" That was Lumine, who must've just woken up due to some of the commotion.

Venti hurriedly came up the stairs, narrowly avoiding Murkus who was allowed to come in for a quick chat. The group lived in the house together but Yoimiya wasn't here due to her finishing preparation for the party and Venti who stayed in the dorms alongside a boy named Rexo, who is his roommate.

He walked through the hall, heading to Lumine's room. "RAH!" A girly scream came from him, Lumine clapping as she laughed and walked away. Dala cackled from her spot on the bed, putting her hair up in a bun with a braid around it. Yun Jin turned away as she giggled, trying to muffle it at the sight of Venti's expression.

“LUMINE!”Venti yells laughing. Lumine fell onto her bed, giggling as Venti stepped into the room. He tossed a pillow at her, hitting her right in the face. Yun Jin smacked him with one outside the head, laughter coming from her.

Yanfei opened her eyes, letting out a yawn and looked over curiously. Dala coughed, hitting her chest, smiling at Venti.

Venti had been the one who brought them all together, well, accidentally. He had gotten drunk one time and started singing silly songs in front of them which made them all laugh and they brought him back to his dorm room. The next day he approached them and thanked them for helping him out.

They didn’t see him after that day they became friends until they found him hanging by his cape in a tree. It took them an hour to get him down due to several plans failing. The final time they attempted to get him down, the branch broke and it sent them all falling to the ground, landing in a pile on top of each other.

It was something they laughed about to this day and teased Venti about whenever he tried to bring up something embarrassing about them. “Venti remember that time you were in the tree-“Yanfei asks as she started getting ready.

“Okay! Okay!”Venti laughed waving his hands, stopping them from exposing him further. Dala giggled in amusement then perked up when she noticed her phone in his hand.

“Venti why do you have my phone?”Dala asks curiously, lowering her hands from her hair and tilting her head to the side. A chuckle came from him, nervously passing her back her property. He watched her go through her phone then give him a deadpan look.

“Who called?”Dala demands placing a hand on her hip. “No idea, didn’t recognize the voice, sounded like a guy though”Venti lies, sticking his tongue out at her slightly chuckling. A sigh and an eye roll followed which made him breathe a mental sigh of relief.

Had she found out he hung up on someone she knew, even if she didn’t know them for a long time, she’d have wrungh his neck out and stuffed him in a box, shipping him off to Snezhnaya.

He would prefer to not be shipped off to Snezhnaya where he’d probably freeze to death due to how cold it could be. “Wait, where’s Ganyu?”Yanfei asks looking at them all.

~~~~~~~

Xiao stared at his phone, his friends staring at him since he had been watching it since Dala had hung up on him. “I don’t think she’s gonna call back”Aether comments scratching his cheek looking a bit worried.

A sigh came in response, Xiao leaning back, rubbing his head. He had wanted to talk to her to see if she was really coming, Ganyu had given him her number but he didn’t expect her to hang up as soon as she heard his voice.

He couldn’t lie and say that it didn’t hurt him a little bit. “So, Xiao, what are you gonna do now?”Childe asks. He threw Childe a glare, wondering how in the name of Morax did he become friends with the ginger haired idiot.

“Pantalone invited us to his son’s birthday party! Kuki Shinobu, his babysitter, is going for sure! She loves that kid”Childe chuckles smiling at them all. Scara rolled his eyes in response, already dealing with the upcoming birthday of his little brother, Durin with Nina’s birthday following not too long after that. His mother, Ei, had nearly the rest of the week full, aside from today in which Yoimiya was throwing a party.

Albedo stayed silent, working on an experiment with his twin sister, Goldina. Xiao didn’t know how he became friends with these too. All he remembered was that when he was picking up Xayda after picking up Mei and Gem at Teyvat Elementary, she had came running out of her class with a girl named Klee in which both claimed to be the others best friend.

Albedo had made his way over with his sisters, Goldina, Minata and Elizia alongside his brothers Duron and Dorian. Out of all the siblings, Elizia was the only one who was biologically related to Klee, having the same mom and dad as her.

Childe came next and Xiao nearly beat him to a pulp if it weren’t for two of the males siblings being with him. Teucer and Crystal. Crystal was adopted, having been found by Childe but Teucer was related to Childe by blood.

And due to their younger siblings, Childe thought they were suddenly friends. It was the same story with Scara because Childe had dragged him to join the group due to him being an elder brother with two sisters and two brothers. Nina, Chelsa, Durin and Zaggis.

The story with Aether being his friend was a little funny since the boy had fallen on top of him and he met Aether's two sisters and brother, Lumine, Atlas and Luna. Atlas seemed to despise him though with a passion. It was very different from Luna who would hide behind Aether whenever he visited them all.

And Lumine, he didn't see her around that much due to her hanging with her friends but she was nice from what he's told sometimes.

"I'm leaving, I'll meet you guys at the party."

Scara rose to his feet, making his way to the door of Albedo's place. Childe leapt up and over the couch, shielding the door with his body. "And where do you think you're going now?"Childe grinned.

"Why is that any of your business"Scars demands crossing his arms over his chest. "I saw your phone light up, who's name is Pol with a heart behind it?"Childe smirked.

Xiao perked up when Albedo suddenly decided to hide his phone. "If he's teasing about what we call our girlfriends, I'd rather not let him see what Rumi is nicknamed as on my phone"Albedo mumbles Goldina wheezing beside him as she laughed.

"Honestly are you really nitpicking what I call my girlfriend now, move out of the way"Scara huffed.

Childe grinned at him, looking amused. "Aww Kuni's got a girlfriend!"Childe laughed smiling at him.

"And I'm gonna text Lilla your location if you don't move"Scara threatens pulling his phone back out.

"HOW DO YOU HAVE THAT WITCHES NUMBER!!?" Scara dodged Childe's hands, smirking at him smugly.

They all knew he was terrified of two top things.

1. His girlfriend, Dove

2. Lilla, who seemed to have Childe on her hit list in red

"IF ARLECCHINO'S ELDEST FINDS ME, I'M DONE FOR!!"

Xiao looked up, trying to remember Lilla from what Childe had said about her. Yet, then again, Childe might have been exaggerating.

His phone lit up, his eyes wide at the sight of the alarm. "XAYDA! MEI, GEM!" He shot up having forgotten he had to be out the door BEFORE the alarm since the three had been going to this place for kids to play at and they got out early today.

Albedo suddenly shot up, his eyes wide. "Klee! Elizia!" Goldina leapt up as well, looking alert now.

Scara scoffed, looking unamused as he watched them quickly get ready. "I was already about to leave, Polaris grabbed my siblings for me, if this dunce hadn't blocked the door I'd be on my way!"Scara grumbled looking irritated.

"Well now we go together-" Childe grabbed Scara's arm and snagged him out after him, rushing down the street with the others "-CRYSTAL, TEUCER! I'M COMING!!"

Xiao hurried out only to bump into someone and perked up. "Ganyu?" Ganyu blinked twice in surprise, Murkus and another guy standing with her.

~~

Yoimiya looked up and smiled wide when her friends came. "Guys!" Yoimiya waved to them all, her little brother crouched beside her. Yulis waved to them, holding a few unlit sparklers.

"Hi...Yoimiya...friends.."Yulis greets standing up and walking over. He held out sparklers, smiling up at them.

"Thank you, Yulis!"Venti chuckles patting his head. Yulis nodded then turned around as a few more people came over.

Baizhu waved in greeting, making his way over with his wife beside him, their two kids running around.

Ming ran around with Qiqi, holding her younger sisters hand. Both waved around sparklers. "Ah, that's Childe's little sister"Venti asks gesturing towards Ming.

"She is"Baizhu nods looking at Ming relieved to see her actually smiling and having fun.

"And you're....Gaming! Right?" Gaming nodded to Venti, then looked away, pointing over to a brown haired child.

"That's my little sister, Gilda!" Gilda ran after Ming and Qiqi, laughing as she held her sparkler.

"My Dad and I found her and we adopted her, she's the best little sister!"Gaming chuckles.

"Big brother Gaaaaming!" Gaming laughed and ran over to Gilda, heading to see what she needed from him. "Coming Gigi!"

Baizhu flashed a small smile toward the woman beside her, causing her to gently poke his cheek in a teasing way.

Yanfei turned to the smiling woman, giving her a quick wave, "Hi Ms Shuli! It's so nice to see you again!"

Shuli nodded in greeting, turning fully to face her. "You as well Yanfei, I hope those remedies I always give you for your friends have helped"Shuli chuckles.

"Oh they do! Sorry about them always refusing to come see you"Yanfei grinned.

"Wait, she's the nurse for the girls!"Venti demands looking stunned.

"Yeah she is but sometimes the smell of medicine gets to be too much"Lumine replies.

"Ms, my heart is purple, my arms are inside out-"Venti started. Dala slapped him outside the head, giving him a firm look. Yun Jin giggled but gave Venti a warning poke to the arm.

Baizhu smiles at Venti, sending chills down the boys back. "HEY BOYS!!"Yoimiya calls. Everyone's attention diverted away, finding Aether making his way over.

Dala waved to the boy, knowing him pretty well due to Lumine and because she has a few classes with him. He would bring her a cup of coffee and accompany her when she went to eat at a cafe.

"Dala, you look great!"Aether greets nodding to her outfit.

A small laugh came from her having put this together last minute due to the pillow war Venti had started. She had a white dress and a blue bow along with some accessories and threw it all together.

"Dala! Hey!!"

Mika waved, walking over with his little sister and a girl with tawny red hair. "Mika, hello! Oh and you must be Arlene! The girl that stole his heart"Dala greets the two, beaming at them.

Arlene laughed, smiling, "I wouldn't say I stole his heart, he kinda stole mines at first with how cute he is." Mika rubbed the back of his head, looking embarrassed.

"Here, be careful." Dala looked past the two, noticing one of Aether's friends.

Xiao, right? Was that his name, she hadn't seen up around much due to her just sticking with her friends.

Xiao nodded, crouched down in front of a young boy, showing him how to hold the sparkler. Yoimiya lit the sparkler, smiling as the boy ran off to join the other kids.

"Hello everyone." Rosaria made her way over, Razor and Mayla with her. A young boy clung to Rosaria's outfit, walking close to her, his cheek squished against her side.

Razor grabbed Mayla's hand, running off with his partner to set off smaller fireworks.

"Is this safe?"Rosaria asks, gingerly placing a hand on the child's back, glancing down at him.

"Yep, the adults will handle the bigger fireworks, the middle and high school kids can set off the smaller ones with an adults supervision"Yoimiya nods gesturing to Baizhu who kept an eye on the kids.

"And the little babies get sparklers!"Yoimiya adds offering the shy boy a sparkler.

"It's okay, Calliux, go ahead"Rosaria reassures placing a hand on the boys head.

Calliux reached out, taking the sparkler, his eyes lighting up when Yoimiya lit the tip.

He smiled wide, walking away to join Vixo and the others as more people began to arrive.

Dala looked around then turned and walked away, heading down a small hill to the lake below. She sat by the edge, staring at the water.

"Hey..."

Xiao stood there when she turned around, his eyes intently locked on her. He sat down, looking out towards the water. "Large crowds are too much for you, I'm guessing?"

She forced out a laugh, hugging her knees to her chest. The sound of child laughter came behind them, running feet echoing as the kids played.

"Did I startle you earlier?"

Her gaze landed on the male, looking surprised by his question. Was he talking about just now or something else that she wasn't aware of.

"....what do you mean?"Dala questions blinking twice.

The tip of Xiao's ears turned red, his index finger tapping against his knee. "Ah, you hung up on me when I called you earlier."

Dala gasped, her eyes widening, sitting up straight as the pieces clicked together finally. "VENTIIII!!"

Xiao looked at her, startled with how loud she suddenly got. "Venti?"Xiao mutters frowning now.

"He answered my phone and must've hung up on you when he heard your voice"Dala explains flopping backwards, not wanting to deal with it till she gets home.

Xiao chuckles, getting her attention. A small laugh came from her as she sat up and shook out her hair.

Xiao's hand suddenly reached up, gently plucking out a few leaves and small blades of grass that he came across. He leaned back to get a better view, dusting off the back of her dress.

Dala watched him silently, doing her best to hide how impressed she was with how well he was able to dust everything off and fix her hair. He must have a little sister or two if that was the case. She's seen this a lot with some people and ended up finding out later that they have little sisters.

Xiao looked at her, staring intently for a moment before quickly looking away.

"Xiao!?" Xiao looked back immediately, an alert look on his face at the tiny voice. "Ah, I gotta go, that's one of my sisters."

Bingo. She hit the bullseye, he has sisters.

She stood up, dusting off some of the grass. "I'll come with, I know Yun Jin is gonna start worrying if I'm missing for too long"Dala insists.

Xiao nodded then reached over, helping her dust the grass off her bottom. He froze and snatched his hand away. "Sorry"Xiao mutters heading up the hill.

She followed him, nearly falling over if it wasn't for him grabbing her hand and pulling her after him.

Xiao pulled her up the rest of the way, diverted his gaze and waved down two little girls who made a beeline for him.

"XIAO!!" Both leapt onto him, laughter coming from them.

"Hey Mei, Hey Xayda"Xiao greets letting them both hug him and mess with his hair. "There's ice cream, Mom and Dad said we can get some if you say yes!"Mei beamed.

"Oh and Murkus arrived!"Xayda adds looking up at him. "Oh, there's a flower stand too!"Mei adds that making Xiao look down at her.

Xiao nodded, letting the two girls climb off him before rising to his feet. "I'll see you later Dala"Xiao waved walking away.

She waved, chuckling with how patient he looked with his sisters. "That was absolutely adorable."

Her gaze diverted away from the leaving Xiao, looking around at some of the guests that were running about or relaxing.

Diluc kneeled down, helping a blue haired boy light his sparkler as Kaeya ran after a laughing boy calling out the name Vixo and for him to slow down.

Rosaria stood near Calliux, lighting a small firework for him then both quickly moving back.

Aether and Lumine sat nearby with Atlas and Luna, the four of them sharing some food between them.

Mika smiled as he and Arlene helped Lizzila light up a small firework, Jean and her husband, Kasuke, watching them all with smiles on their faces.

Lyney grinned, his girlfriend sitting beside him as he did magic tricks for the younger kids.

Freminet carried a boy on his shoulders, both looking around for some of the food, perking up when a stern looking woman and a smiling black haired man waved them down.

"Yoimiya really knows how to throw a party for everyone to enjoy"Dala chuckles enjoying the looks of joy that was going around. Her eyes darted to the sky, watching a large firework go off, getting everyone's attention.

"Hey."

Aether sat beside her, smiling as he offered her a candy apple. "I'm good"Dala says beckoning for him to eat it. A chuckle came in response and Aether turned away, giving it to Luna.

He turned back to her. "Luna loves candy apples"Aether smiled. "Well then, she has good taste"Dala comments nudging his arm with her elbow.

A yawn came from her, now wishing she took a nap before she came to this party. "The kids are more awake than you"Aether jokes.

"Ha, Ha! Very funny"Dala teased poking his cheek. Another yawn came from her, feeling her head drop.

Aether perked up, feeling a weight on his shoulder and looked down, finding Dala fast asleep. "I'll take you to Yun Jin"Aether grinned lifting her up, her head against his chest.

Xiao stares with wide eyes, stepping towards them but stopping when he remembered he had his sisters to watch while Zhongli and Yue got some rest.

His eyes narrowed as he looked down, a small sigh coming from him.

Yun Jin smiled at Aether giving him a quick thanks, holding Dala close with Ganyu's help.

"We got it from here"Yun Jin promised Ganyu carrying Dala to the car.

"Oh she fell asleep, that's a shame"Yoimiya says concerned. "But I'm glad we still got to have this party!"Yoimiya adds getting a bright smile from her friends.

"Agreed, I'm going to head back to my sister's and brother, have a goodnight you guys." Aether waved as he made his way back to his waiting siblings.

Xiao looked away then looked back when he heard Childe's terrified yells and the sound of Scara laughing deviously.

Childe ran from an auburn haired girl, the two dodging people. Lynette ran after them with two other girls, calling out the name Lilla.

Alhaitham pulled his wife out of the way, Childe bolting past with Lilla hot on his tail.

Xiao stared, now seeing why Childe's stories seemed so exaggerated now. His friend really was surviving a war with an enemy soldier intent on bringing him to his death.

"Xiao, are you gonna get flowers for your lady friend?"Mei asks looking up at him.

He looked at her, instinctively using a napkin to clean the ice cream off her mouth before answering, "Do you think she'd like flowers?"

Mei nodded, smiling wide. "Dad gets Mom flowers whenever he comes home!"Mei beamed.

"Calliux says his dad, Capitano, brings flowers when they visit his mother's stone"Xayda adds.

Xiao shushed Xayda, shaking his head as a silent reminder to not talk about that incident.

"Sorry"Xayda mumbles glancing around worriedly.

Xiao looked at the flower stand then stood up, making his way over to Lyney's girlfriend, Mila, who was arranging a few flowers.

"Hey Mila"Xiao greets, getting her attention. Mila turned and flashed him a bright smile, "Xiao, hello!"

"Where's Lyney?"Xiao asks since he's always seen Lyney with Mila a lot. Mila pointed to Lyney who was with Lilla and several others, having ice cream together.

"His parents got everyone ice cream, he brought me mine, I finished it and continued with my flowers"Mila explains to Xiao, looking back at her flowers. Xiao nodded, looking over each of the flowers.

"Uh..do you have any recommendations for one sided liking...?"Xiao sighs looking away so she doesn't see his face.

"You mean something like unrequited love?"Mila pries trying to get more info, a smirk on her face. "Do you have a crush?"

Xiao's ears turned pink at the tips, Mila slapping a hand on the stand counter and pointing at him, "AHA, YOU DO!!"

He shushed her, giving her a look. "You have a one sided crush on someone?" Ganyu stood there, Jinxo standing halfway behind her. Xiao glared at Jinxo, not finding him worthy enough of Ganyu and her love.

"Wait, is it Dala?"Ganyu gasped lifting a hand. She gasped and clapped twice, before pointing at him when a look of pure shock flashed across his face. "I knew it! I saw you sitting with her by the lake at the bottom of the hill!"

Xiao groaned, wondering how this went from a simple question to two girls knowing about what was going on.

Mila was gonna pry further until he dropped everything and Ganyu was gonna play matchmaker most definitely now that she knows. Had it been Venti, he wouldn't be surprised but this was his cousin, not Venti, so it was gonna be a surprise around every corner.

"Here!" Blue roses made him perk up. Mila gave him a quick wink, a wide grin on her face. "I can deliver them to her!"Ganyu offers.

"Me and Jinxo are gonna head home." Mila passed the flowers to Ganyu before Xiao could even protest, a sigh coming from him.

"Just...don't tell her they're from me..yet"Xiao grumbled. Ganyu gave him a thumbs up and walked away with Jinxo at her side. Xiao swatted Jinxo's hand with a stick when he noticed where the male was reaching, both glaring at each other.

Mila laughed, burying her face into her arms. "Milaaaa~" Lyney came over, placing his hat on the girl's head. Xiao quickly walked away, not wanting to interrupt their lovey-dovey time.

Freminet walked past, holding the hand of a white haired girl wearing an overly fancy outfit that one normally wouldn't wear at a fireworks party.

"Even he got a girlfriend"Xiao mutters having gotten to know Freminet due to Childe swiping the boy and bringing him over for hangouts.

.......now he sees why Lilla wants to kill Childe and now he is all for it too. He'd be pissed too if someone kept snatching his siblings.

A yawn from Mei caught his eye, a small smile appearing on his face.

"Albedo, Goldina!" The twins simultaneously looked at him, Xiao making his way over. "Me and my siblings are gonna head home"Xiao informs them, gesturing to a yawning Gem and Mei.

Albedo nodded, "See you later then, we're going to Scara's place tomorrow."

Xiao gave a swift nod of understanding, taking his leave from the conversation.

Shinobu stood with Pantalone who carried a sleeping Leif in his arms. "Thanks for taking him while I was busy"Pantalone said as Xiao made his way past the two.

"It was my pleasure!"Shinobu smiled gently touching Leif's hand.

Jean carried a sleeping boy to her and Kasuke's car, gently humming as she set him down in the middle seat.

Barbara stepped into the car from the other side, Kasuke closing the door for her.

"Xiao, can I have a piggyback ride?"Mei asks him, lifting her hands.

Murkus picked Mei up, carrying her in his arms. "I'm heading home too, parties aren't much of my thing." The boy glanced back and huffed.

Shenhe made her way over as well, having only came because she was encouraged to socialize a bit more.

"Let's go"Murkus insists, carrying Mei in one arm and Shuyu on his back.

Xiao walked with them, only stopping to give Xayda a piggyback ride on his back when she got tired.

"So....who were the flowers for?"Shenhe asks causing Xiao's ears to turn red. Murkus cackled, careful to not be too loud since Mei and Shuyu were asleep.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dala opened her eyes and yawned as she sat up. Blue roses immediately caught her attention, Ganyu walking in with a vase that held the flowers. "I put them in water for you!"Ganyu says as she sets the vase down.

Silence followed as she stared at the vase, wondering who brought her flowers. Her friends would but they would've given them to her immediately.

The look on Ganyu's face also gave away that she knew exactly who got these flowers. She looked too happy for them to be a gift from a friend.

"Does someone you know like me or something?"Dala questions crossing her arms.

Ganyu only grinned in response to her question and made her way out of the room.

"Maybe...the guy you talked to last night seemed to really like you, he was a little embarrassing"Ganyu teased walking out of view.

Dala stared after her in shock, her eyes wide. She looked at the flowers, her eyes narrowed at them.

Were these from Aether?

@queen-of-twisted @albedomestic-airline

[redrandomposts]

Zhongzhu, Dendro Archon Baizhu AU; a brief glimpse into a possible timeline.

Baizhu is the dendro archon, who had entanglements with Zhongli before he “died.”

Prior to Khaenri’ah's destruction, he created a machination to be his replacement, sort of like Raiden Ei’s puppet, in preparation to have a domestic life with Zhongli. However, when Khaenri’ah happens, he is severely injured and is sunken into the Earth. Responding to his incapacitated state, the puppet activates – this is how Nahida is formed.

The Earth of Sumeru responds to Baizhu’s state, degrading and eroding. Decades before the traveler is found, his form and mind has eroded into a child’s. This when his parents found him and raised him, before dying and leaving him to his master.

He can’t hope to recover when Nahida’s power is abused by Sumeru, drawing from his own power. Once his master dies and his vision is formed, it’s simply his desperation showing. He takes on the contract that draws from life force, not power. From then on, Sumeru begins to degrade to the state the Traveler finds it in, with almost the entirety of it a desert.

Meanwhile, once Baizhu dies, Zhongli turns his gaze from the other nations in grief. He lives on, knowing that Nahida is just a puppet and hoping that Baizhu will one day show up. Eventually, he grows weary, and plans his fate.

Baizhu awakens the day of the Lantern Rite, his memories going back to him; the immortality he sought for solidifying into his bones. He witnesses Zhongli’s death on a time he is extremely vulnerable.

A series of events leads them to not meet until the Traveler is finished with their journey in Sumeru. Baizhu is in a much better state thanks to the restoration, and that is how Zhongli finds him. A healthy god in mortal skin, behind the counter of the well-known, and expensive, Bubu Pharmacy.

EXTRA NOTES

Venti is the only one left who is aware of their relationship. In the past, he played as matchmaker. After long events, both since when he joined the Archon war up to destroying Khaenri'ah, he has been helping them with their relationship. He's the sole reason they confessed to one another, from being the reason they were even close enough to be friends. After the Lantern Rite, he tried to use his winds to guide them back together. Unfortunately, Zhongli was not in the mood and Baizhu did not have such whimsies to follow the wind. TLDR; Venti was the GOAT.

Zhongli makes the decision to save Qiqi not just because of her tragic fate, but also because it’s what Baizhu would have wanted. He often wallows in sorrow and makes impulsive decisions.

There are many paintings and poems made by Zhongli himself, all in remembrance of the Dendro Archon. They are sealed in his home, some perhaps in ancient ruins, withstanding the tests of time. His memory never fades, but it’s this extra reassurance that keeps him sane.

[erabundus]

anonymous &&. said... Ren believe me when I say that I think you and Heizou would be a cute couple together or you and Xiao. Clearly Kazuha doesn't deserve you because how certain are you that he hasn't cheated on you? He properly has a lover in every region he travels to. I say dumple the maple leaf and open your guys to the guys that are right there.

❝  that's  funny;  i  don't  remember  ASKING  for  your  opinion.  ❞  the  wanderer  crosses  his  arms,  disdain  etched  across  every  inch  of  his  countenance.  kazuha  —  cheating?  the  very  notion  is  so  absurd,  he  isn't  sure  whether  to  laugh  or  feel  incensed  on  his  partner's  behalf.  he  supposes  he'll at least  try  to  be  (  somewhat  )  civil  —  not  because  he  feels  it's  particularly  deserved,  but  rather  because  he  has  a  sneaking  suspicion  the  ronin  wouldn't  be  pleased  to  find  him  picking  fights  on  his  behalf.  a  shame;  he  would  really  like  to.  ❝  you  clearly  don't  know  who  you're  talking  about  if  you  think  he's  the  type.  ❞ his  voice  is  unwavering  as  ever;  each  word  to  leave  him  matter  of  fact  as  they  come.  ren  may  not  need  to  breathe,  but  he  still  deigns  not  to  WASTE  his  breath  explaining  why  he  feels  so  strongly  about  this.  kazuha  would  never  —  because  kazuha  is  his  other  half,  in  a  way  he  doesn't  expect  anyone  who  isn't  them  to  understand.  one  heart,  shared  between  two connected souls.  the  wanderer  knows  it's  absurd,  knows  that  he  would  have  once  been  the  first  to  MOCK  such  a  naïve sentiment. it hardly matters.

❝  i  don't  care  what  your  intentions  are,  ❞  ren  continues  aloud,  ❝  whether  this  is  your  idea  of  expressing  CONCERN  or  stirring the pot ...  i'm  a  little  insulted  you  think  i  would  be  so  easy  to  fool.  ❞   a  lover  in  every  region.  it's  so  cliché,  so  exaggerated  in  all  of  its  provocative  wording  that  he  can't  help  but  think of it like a joke.  one  look  at  how  kazuha  reacts  to  anyone  who  approaches  him  with  lecherous  intent  makes  it  clear  just  how  open  the  ronin  is  to  sharing.  (  ... it's  a  bit  THRILLING,  frankly.  he  likes  to  see  that  side  of  him.  )

his  scowl  deepens  —  the  exaggerated  look  of  disgust  taking  on  an  almost  humorous  tilt.  ❝  and  another  thing.  shikanoin?  seriously?  i'm  not  interested  in  some  stranger  playing  matchmaker,  but  the  least  you  could  do  is  be  reasonable.  ❞  pick  someone  he  hasn't  thought  about  killing  next  time.  (  although,  that  would  leave  them  awfully  strapped  for  options ...  )   ❝  i'm  not  INTERESTED  in  anyone  else at all.  ❞  he  hasn't  been  in  a very  long  time.  it's  a  bit  strange,  honestly  —  like  a  setting  adjusted  in  his  head.  he  can  still register  when  a  face  appeals  to  him,  but  he  has  absolutely  no  desire  to  act  on  it,  nor  any  real  interest  in  appreciating  it  further  than  a  cursory  acknowledgement.  is  that  normal?  ren  isn't  sure.  he's  never  actually  pursued  a  RELATIONSHIP  before.

❝ ... the conqueror of demons is ENGAGED, by the way.  ❞ so, double no. ❝ legally he gets to be venti's problem.  ❞

[seelestia]

lia playing cupid? aaa this is so interesting!! typing this out at 12 am im prepared for a headache tmrw 😼🤝

so a few notable traits of mine.. empathetic, compassionate, creative, ambitious & conscientious!! my love languages are quality time and words of affirmation <3 my hobbies/interests are dance and writing ✍️ (😧 SHOCKER WHO KNEW THAT I WAS INTERESTED IN DANCE?!) and I am an INFJ 🙏✨💗

hope I did this right, I don’t participate in events so this is my first one 🤩💛 super happy to be here hehe!

thank you so much for choosing 1-800-SEELEETIA's speed matchmaking services! the keyword: dulcet is inserted (in a follow-up ask) . . . congratulations, your result is successfully unlocked! [ submissions are closed, event post. ]

lia's note: @yoizhi YONA BELOVED! it is my honor to have this silly event be your first >:D i pick up the crown and place it onto your head gently. (/lh)

「 YOUR MATCH IS . . . KAZUHA! 」

"To feel such peace wash over you like waves of the ocean just by looking at someone is truly a fascinating thing."

T'was a curious statement that earned the wandering ronin several odd glances from members of the Crux. They know very well of KAZUHA's fondness for uttering poetry off of his lips, but what they don't know is that the statement speaks of you.

Emotions come easily to you, so do they to him — but what are emotions if not such fickle little things? Empathy and compassion come at a cost; when you absorb emotions, you risk having trouble differentiating between your own emotions and that of others as if they were two lines blurring into one.

Not just that; conscientiousness and diligence also come at their own costs and seeing you push yourself is the least thing KAZUHA wants.

But when that happens, he will be your anchor to the ground. When you need soothing words to hear, he will give them to you in the form of poems, haikus, anything at all. When you need to go somewhere to cool off your head, he'll take your hand and lead you to a spot only he knows — and perhaps, when you two arrive there, this humble samurai shall offer you his hand and a dance.

KAZUHA's touch feels like feathers on your skin as he asks, "May I have this dance?"

「 RUNNER-UPS: Venti, Xiao. 」

[ventis-prince]

Your delivery from Jupe’s Valentine’s Matchmaking service has arrived. We wish you the most amazing Valentine's Day and hope you enjoy your present.

You’ve received a present from: Venti

It’s a box wrapped in green paper with a dark blue ribbon around it. Inside is a cat plushie and a cecilia flower.

There’s a note for you as well. It reads:

Happy Valentine’s Day!

I’ve seen quite a few of these come and go, but I feel like none of them could ever compare to this one -- This is the first time I get to spend it with you, after all!

I hope you like my present… This might be the only cat I won’t be allergic to, haha. It’s also pretty cute… Just like you!

Would you like to meet me at Windrise later? I’d love nothing more than to sit there with you and enjoy the calm breeze. I could also play a few songs for you! What do you say, wanna have your very own private performance from me?

Either way, I really hope you’ll be there!

Venti

I’m absolutely sobbing this is so sweet— thank you so much 🥹

[watatsumiis]

Sending in for the platonic matchmaking event (which is a great idea, btw!) for an oc of mine! Said oc is a cheerful, energetic, friendly, and playful history-loving bard who absolutely geeks out when it comes to anything historical. She’s especially interested in historical weaponry, but regularly reads up on all sorts of other historical topics. She also loves music (she is a bard) as well as painting. She’s chronically late (she’s prone to getting absorbed in her studies and losing track of the time) but will always show up (even if she’s late), and she’s also really good at imitating others’ voices. She’s also super into hugs, high fives, and other forms of physical affection (platonic).

Thanks, I was pretty pumped for the idea bc tumblrs genshin community seems to lean a lot towards romance stuff (nothing against that of course!) and i think matchmaking events r fun !!

Your OC sounds so sweet!! My first instinct would be to pair her up with Venti (despite how much of an obvious match that is), I think they'd get along really well, Venti would have quite an interest in her history knowledge, and they could play music together (and be late for things together jskhgkfd)

Or, as a secondary option, something about her is giving me the vibes of someone who would get along well with Kaveh! (How i headcanon him anyways) They're both a little nerdy and super into their respective interests but still really sweet! And very physically affectionate with the ones they love too.

This ask and answer is a part of my 'platonic matchmaking' event, which can be found here!

[sparklecryptid]

Ah so basically

Jiang: but what if we DIDNT have this conversation

Xiao: no.

Lumine, about to stab someone if she has to because even though he’s annoying Jiang IS still her friend: what conversation

Jiang: ….one I don’t want to have?

Zhonglie: we’re having it.

Jiang: your an evil, evil man.

BASICALLY!

Jiang: or we could…. Pretend I’m still a rock?

Xiao, Cloud Retainer, Zhongli, everyone other adepti: no

Jiang: T.T lumine save me

Lumine: do you have a contract with Zhongli?

Jiang: I’d say no but that would be a violation of the contract….

Lumine: can’t help you’re on you’re own. Go make up with your family.

Jiang: but lumineeeeeee-

[mazojo]

This

Are you an “I’m the harem protagonist.” kind of Traveler or an “I’m the third wheel in everyone else’s homoerotic A-Plot love stories.” kind of Traveler?

[ciwzing]

profile - smartasses ft. venti

Always ⋄ masterlist

synopsis: xiao has already accepted that he's gonna graduate without telling his feelings to a particular girl but it seems like fate says otherwise, he can't back out now, specially after his friends find out, playing as the matchmaker with the help of old friend google, wikihow to be exact

notes: taglist are open

🖇 @aeongiies @sxiaoul

[stargazer-balladeer]

“Meeting you is a miracle” [Genshin Impact]

Different soulmate au’s

Character(s): Kaeya Alberich, Diluc Ragnvindr, Venti, Childe, Zhongli, Razor, Aether, Xiao, Bennett, Xingqiu & Chongyun + GN! Reader

Notes: This is a self-indulgence hc :3 im also sorry if some of these are completely random and makes no sense. Hope ya’ll like this!

Warning: None

Kaeya Alberich

Red strings of fate; will only appear when both of them reach 16 yrs old

Kaeya isn’t a firm believer in soulmates. He just doesn’t believe in them. But when he received his red string when he reached 16 yrs old, he was frightened by it. He hates the idea of destiny deciding for him, hates the idea that the one destined for him is chosen by fate.

Kaeya is the kind of guy that will try to cut the string. Even though he knows it won’t snap, he still tries. He later gives up, knowing no matter what he does, it won’t be cut. So he just promptly ignores it existence. Even if someone else mentions his soulmate, he would skillfully shift the conversation.

He wouldn’t care whoever his soulmate is, heck, he wishes he’ll never meet them! But it seems like the Archons (Venti 👀) has different plans for him. Because it seems like the wind blows him to you.

At first, he’s amazed by your beauty before snapping out of it. He would introduce himself and flirt with you a bit. You would just giggle at his antics before telling him your name. He swears that your laughter was cute-

After that fateful meeting, you two would be seen hanging out with each other. Not knowing that the red strings were intertwined with each other. Sooner or later, he finds himself falling for you.

When he realized that he’s in love with you, this is the only time he’ll look at the red string on his pinkie. He looks at it longingly before sighing. His thoughts are filled with what-if’s. He thinks that you two aren’t meant to be. His chest hurts whenever his mind drifts to the thought of you finding your fated person.

The very next day however, Kaeya would notice that his string keeps tugging on his pinkie. His brows furrowed together as he stares at the string. He shrugs it off as he continues his knightly duties.

He will only noticed that the strings are connected if you point it out, or simply hug him. He’ll be surprised when you suddenly hugged him, because he didn’t expect it. “What’s got you so excited, love?” And this is the moment when he realized that you two are fated together when you showed him the strings.

Kaeya is actually speechless for once, the only thing he did was to hug you tightly in his chest. Now, he knows that Barbatos wasn’t playing around when choosing soulmates. Kaeya is actually grateful towards whoever matchmake people- “well, this is a surprising turn of events.. say, why don’t we go to the Tavern to get drinks? My treat of course~”

Diluc Ragnvindr

First words that you’ll hear from your soulmate

Diluc was the never the guy who cared about finding his soulmate immediately. He prefers to wait and let the wind guide him towards whoever his fated to be.

Unlike his adopted brother, he believes in soulmates. Even as he went through many things in life, he kept on believing. He doesn’t know why he kept believing though, was it because of his own childishness? Or was it because he long for love and comfort ever since his father died?

Anyway, Diluc would always trace his wrist where the words were located. Even though he hides it with his gloves and outfit, his fingers would find themselves tracing it.

Many women have gathered and tried to guess his words, trying to see if they are his soulmate. But much to their dismay (and Diluc’s relief-), none of them were his soulmate.

You’ll are probably wondering what the words are right? It is,, “Huh, and here I thought that this place only serves wine.” He’ll hate it a bit since it reminds him of a certain someone-

Anyway, it was a normal day. Diluc was in the Tavern right now since its his turn to be the bartender. That’s when his sworn-brother entered, which made Diluc click his tongue. Then he saw you. At first, he was astounded by your beauty before snapping out of it immediately.

He wouldn’t talk as he grabs a glass to pour Grape Juice in and put it in front of Kaeya. Kaeya, ofc, would complain about it. You, who was seated beside him, raise a brow. “Huh, and here I thought that this place only serves wine.”

It didn’t registered in Diluc’s mind immediately as he retorts back. “Well, you thought wrong.” His eyes widened in realization at what you said. He slowly looks at you, only to meet your surprised face *insert surprise pikachu face*

At first, you two didn’t say anything to each other, you two just stare at each other. Kaeya, knowing full well that you two were soulmates (hes Diluc’s wingman okay?-), smirked and left the Tavern immediately.

Needless to say, you two were quite awkward in your first meeting. But slowly, Diluc started to see why the Archon (or whoever does the soulmate system-) gave you to him. You complete him. This is the first time in many years that he’ll smile. “Whoever Archon or God gave you to me, I’m honestly grateful to them. I think they gave you to me to make up the times where I’ve been given lots of hardships in life.”

Venti

Red strings of fate; will only appear when both of them reach 16 yrs old

Even though Venti has lived for thousands of years, never once did he imagine he would get a soulmate. And a mortal! Him, a Wind Archon, being intertwined with fate with a mortal. It blows his mind just by thinking of it.

But he couldn’t deny the giddiness in his chest, the way that his heart is beating fast and a huge smile on his face. He basically looks like someone who won a lottery. He stares at the red string on his pinkie, knowing full well that whoever he’s fated to be has just turned 16.

Even though Venti wants to immediately look for you, he won’t. He would wait and go along with the ride. He knows that one of these days, he would meet you. He just needs to wait patiently. Afterall the wind will eventually guide you to him.

And indeed it has, and Venti is smiling so much, to the point it hurts his cheeks. The wind has answered him and brought you to him, quite literally.

He was chilling under the tree of where Vennessa was buried under, when suddenly- you fall from above. Fortunately, he caught you before you hit the ground thanks to his fast reflexes.

He immediately noticed that the strings he has around his pinkies and yours too were intertwined. His confused yet amused face morph into a childish excited one.

Though in order not to scare you off, he’ll ask teasingly what you’re doing up there. Whatever your response is, he would still laugh and smile. “Well, next time. Don’t go climbing on trees just to fall, okay?”

If you didn’t notice that you were his soulmate, he wouldn’t mention it. Though he would appear everywhere that you would go. To the point that you ask him if he’s stalking you. He’ll just only laugh while shaking his head. He’ll continue to annoy you until you’ll notice that you two were destined to be together.

If you noticed quickly, he would wrap his arms around you and lift you up to spin you two around. When he lets you down, expect him to be peppering your face with kisses. He’s immediately so affectionate towards you, as if you two have known each other for many years when in fact you two just met. If you ask him why is he so affectionate right now- “To make up the time lost, duh! You really thought you’ll get away from letting me wait for many many many years?”

Childe

When two soulmates look at each other, their world becomes colorful

Childe never bothered or cared about the whole soulmate system. He’s always focused on getting stronger and taking care of his family. Oh and also his duties as a Harbinger.

He honestly thinks its better to not meet his fated soulmate. He fears that he’ll only put them in danger if ever you two meet. So whenever he meets someone new, he never looks directly at their eyes. In fear that they are his soulmate (no matter if their a female or male-)

Though he often wonders what the world would look like if he could see the colors. Was the water blue like they said? Was his hair similar to the color of dawn- orange? What about the color of his vision? So many curious questions..

It was an ordinary day. He was in Liyue Harbor, strolling around like normal. When he accidentally bumped into someone. He’ll apologize to them as he offers them a hand. You accepted it as he pulls you up.

Without meeting your eye, he would cheekily say a pick-up line. “I couldn’t help but wonder if you’ve fallen for me?” You snorted. “As if. That was the worst pick-up line I’ve heard.” He would only laugh, already liking you.

He would introduce himself, and you as well. You noticed pretty quickly how he wasn’t meeting your eyes, but you didn’t press him about it. You two immediately parted ways. Though you can’t help but continue to think about him for the rest of the day. You hope that you’ll see him again..

And it seems like the Geo Archon has granted your wish (zhongli?? A matchmaker??-). Cause the very next day, you two meet again. And for some reason, you two would keep bumping into each other for the rest of the week. To the point that Childe teasingly asks you if you’re stalking him-

During these meetings, you two slowly got to know each other. And slowly, you fell in love with him. Childe is in-denial however. He doesn’t want you to be mixed up in his already messy life, and doesn’t want you to be heartbroken when he finally meets his soulmate.

But Childe honestly didn’t think of a possibility that you two were destined for each other. Because when Childe finally allows himself to look you in the eyes, the world around you exploded with different colors. Both of your eyes widened at the sudden colors, no longer living in the monochrome world.

Childe doesn’t know what to do now. He’s at lost. But when you hold his hand gently, he would snap out of it and hug you. Actually a little bit similar to Kaeya’s. Even though he’s scared of the possibility of endangering you, he can’t help but grin in excitement as he hugs you. He might not know what the future holds, but he’ll be damned if he lets you get hurt because of him- “I know that I don’t deserve you and all that sappy stuff, but.. I promise that I’ll try my hardest to keep you safe and be the man you deserve.”

Zhongli

You can hear your soulmate’s voice in your head

Similarly to Venti, he’s very surprised when he found out that he can still have a soulmate even though he’s over thousands of years old (hes a fucking senior citizen-). So when he first hear someone’s voice in his head, he’s really taken aback.

Zhongli doesn’t know why but his heart is beating loudly and fast. Maybe from excitement, he presumes? Though he doesn’t dwell on it very much. All he knows is that whoever that voice in his head belongs to, has a very lovely and soothing voice.

He can honestly listen to your voice everyday, even though sometimes he doesn’t really get what you’re talking about. He loves it whenever you rant about something so passionately, it kinda reminds him of himself actually.

When you two exchange names, he would actually search for you. He’s very curious on who his soulmate is, who the matchmaking Archon/God gave to him. Zhongli finally finds you in Wangshu Inn, seeking shelter after being attacked by a group of Hilichurls.

At first, he wouldn’t give himself away. He would remain in the shadow while he watches you talk with the Innkeeper. It might sound creepy but he doesn’t know that- he also tries his hardest not to think about his location because he knows that you can hear his thoughts as well—

He will only reveal himself when you finally leave the Wangshu Inn, ‘accidentally’ bumping into you. He will apologize to you. You would instantly recognize him because of his description of is own self. (You two exchange names and what you look like-)

Zhongli could feel himself falling deeper in love with you as you gush at how handsome and cute he is. As much as he wants to interrupt you, he wouldn’t do it. Finding you adorable as well.

He wouldn’t want to scare you off so he will resort to holding your hands instead (he rlly wants to kiss and hug you—). He has a fond, small smile on his face as he gazes at you with adoration. If you let him hug or kiss you (since your minds are still interlock), he would smile as he brings you closer to either hug or kiss you.

Honestly, he’s just a cutie— “Now that I’ve finally found you, my dear soulmate. I promise I’ll love you infinitely and unconditionally. So please don’t ever leave me.”

Razor

When two soulmates look at each other, their world becomes colorful

Razor always thought that the monochromic world is normal. Since he’s grown up with wolves, he doesn’t exactly know how the soulmate system works. He only know about it through Lisa (i think its canon that lisa teach razor how to use his vision-).

When Lisa mentions about the whole soulmate system, Razor’s eyes would literally sparkle as he asks Lisa more about the soulmate system (lisa is very happy to explain to him-). Razor is so fascinated by its concept but he’s also confused by it.

So, if his world is monochromic, then he has a soulmate? What if he doesn’t have one? Would his world remain monochromic? What if— basically, Razor’s mind is a mess as he tries to wrap what Lisa said around his head. He also asks her about the colors, since Lisa has already met her soulmate (her soulmate is Jean).

Razor is so excited to meet his soulmate, which is honestly adorable to watch according to Lisa- tho he was a bit worried. I mean, he’s been raised by wolves in his entire life. He doesn’t fit anywhere, whether its his wolf family or the City of Freedom. So he’s worried that you won’t accept him because of him being an outcast.

So during his usual hunt for his Lupical, he heard someone crying for help. He immediately ran towards the cry, wanting to help whoever is there. He quickly noticed you being surrounded by slimes. He quickly delt with them.

After dealing with the slimes, he would immediately turn to ask if you’re okay only to blink and eyes widened when he’s eyes lock into your pair of [E/C] eyes. He blinks a couple of times before looking at his surroundings. It was no longer the black-and-white world he grew up in, it was filled with colors.

His eyes look back at you again, with a smile present on his face. “You..? Are you my soulmate?” He asked in a shy tone. You nodded your head. You honestly squealed mentally at how cute Razor is- Razor has a big smile on his face.

He would bring you into a hug before letting you go, afraid that he scared you off. Just bring him into a hug again then he’ll calm down. He’ll probably tear up when hugging you. Finally,, a home where he’s welcomed. You’re his lupical now. “I.. might not be the perfect. But I try, for you.”

Aether

You can feel the pain that your soulmate is experiencing and vice versa

Aether has been travelling from world to world with his sister, not a single thought of a s/o crossed his mind until now. When he suddenly felt something hit him on the leg even though he was just standing, listening to Paimon.

He never thought he’ll find his soulmate here. And that thought scares him. He knows that he and his sister aren’t welcome here, and that someday he’ll leave this world. But what his soulmate? What would become of them when the time comes?

Aether never felt so scared in his life. He’s happy, yes, but so frightened at the prospect of leaving his soulmate when the time arrives. He might ignore the fact that he has a soulmate actually. Though he will try his best not to get hurt so that whoever his soulmate is doesn’t get hurt. (And believe me when I say that it is easier said than done-)

He’ll feel so guilty though- so he wishes to whoever God (or Archon) that you two will never crossed paths. But it looks like, the Gods/Archons have different plans for them.

While doing a commission for the Adventurer’s Guild, he ran into you. Quite literally. He literally ran into you which results in you two banging your heads and getting thrown to the floor. He will profusely apologize to you.

Though he swears that his head ache two times more than normal- but when he stares at your eyes, he knew instantly that you two were fated. And for some reason, he doesn’t know why, he ran. He quite literally again run away from you.

He should have felt relieved that he found his soulmate, glad or even overjoyed! But all he’s feeling is guilt, ache and sadness. Now that he knows who he’s soulmate is, he doesn’t know what he should do. Should he be with you? But what will happen to you if he has to go away?

He’s honestly crying from all the voices in his head, screaming in his head. Two sides battling in each other, growing louder and louder by the minute. It’s only when Paimon screamed at him when he snaps out of it.

Paimon practically became his wingman as she scolds him for running away. “But.. what will happen to them if I go away—?” “You shouldn’t be thinking like that just yet! You aren’t gone yet, right?! And as if Paimon would just let you go-!”

When Paimon finally drills it in his head that he should worry that later and be with you right now, he’s instantly in his feet as he tries to find you. When he finds you, he’ll bring you into a hug. “I’m so sorry that I ran. I don’t know what came over me- I’m so so sorry. Please forgive me.” You better comfort this man, he’s been through too much ☹️

Xiao

Red strings of fate; will only appear when both of them reach 16 yrs old

When Xiao noticed a red string tied around his pinkie, he would be confused, not exactly familiar with the whole soulmate system. He tries to untie it but it wouldn’t come off. He would get annoyed as he tries to cut it with his spear-

He would only realize that the red string symbolize tha infamous “red strings of fate” if the innkeeper tells him that information. He would literally feel so dumb now-

To be honest, Xiao has mixed feelings about soulmates. He always thought that this sort of system only works for mortals, not Adepti or Archons. His thoughts of having a soulmate sounds like a pain for him, his mind immediately thinks of someone unable to protect themselves as his soulmate-

He’s not particularly excited to meet his soulmate, heck he might even forgot about it- since it is not listed in his important duties as Adepti, so he pushed the soulmate thought at the back of his head.

So imagine his surprise when he felt his string tugging in a direction. He was confused at first. As much as he doesn’t want to follow it, his curiousity got the best of him.

What he saw amazed him. You were there, fighting Hilichurls left and right. It looks like you’re dancing. He’s so mesmerizes by you that he only snaps out of his trance when you’re done clearing the Hilichurls.

He wouldn’t appear before you, he would leave at once before you could see him. The only way to meet him is go to the Wangshu Inn. That’s the only time and place where he’ll appear before you.

Even though you’re his soulmate doesn’t mean he’ll not give you the cold treatment he’s been giving to everyone who greeted him. Though I think that him standing there before you is already a blessing because he usually disappear before a person could see him-

Xiao wouldn’t acknowledge the fact that you two were soulmates unless you mention it. Even then, he wouldn’t open up to you. But you can tell that he’s slowly lowering his guard around you the more you spent time with him.

He wouldn’t admit it but he’s falling deeper in love with you. He would grumble under his breath when he realized this fact. When he does realize it though, he would cup your face and bring your forehead to lean against him (pls disregard his purple diamond thing on his forehead-). “If you’re looking for those sickening-love words, then you’ve got the wrong person. Though, it doesn’t mean I won’t cherish you.”

Bennett

You can feel the pain that your soulmate is experiencing and vice versa

This should be as expected- I mean, this is Bennett we’re talking about. His bad luck and all. So expect to be in the world of pain when you’re his soulmate-

When Bennett finds out he has a soulmate, he honestly felt bad for them. He knows how unlucky he is, constantly getting hurt even though he tries to be careful. As much as he wants to see them, he would be ashamed to see them. I mean, who would want to be with someone who keeps on getting hurt?

But it doesn’t stop from Bennett’s heart from thumping loudly and fast in his chest. Though not many could tell he’s overjoyed except for Katherine and Barbara. They noted that he looks like a lovesick puppy.

When you two meet, it’s honestly an accident and due to his bad luck. So he’s in Mondstadt, just leaving the Cathedral after letting Barbara heal him. New bandages were around his body, some covered his face. His mind couldn’t help but drift to his soulmate. Since he has this kind of wounds, wouldn’t they also be the same?

He didn’t notice that he missed a step so that resulted in him tumbling down the stairs, unluckily (or luckily) you were in the exact spot where Bennett crashes into. Which resulted in you two crashing to the floor.

Bennett quickly gets up as he checks over you to check if you’re injured and asks if you’re okay. He notice that you have wounds on your face and arms, similar to him. But for some reason, it doesn’t click in his head that you’re his soulmate. He probably thought it was a coincidence.

But over the time, he noticed that it wasn’t a coincidence afterall. Whenever he showed up with new wounds, you would also get new wounds. There was one time where he sprained his ankle, but when he healed from that, he heard from Katherine that you also sprained your ankle.

This is the only time where it finally clicks in Bennett’s mind. He’ll immediately try to look for you. When he finally found you, he would tackle you into a hug. Which resulted yet again to the ground, luckily there wasn’t any puddle-

He would be laughing happily as he holds you in his arms. Even though it looks weird to everyone looking at you two, Bennett doesn’t care. He found his soulmate! “I know that I’m the most unluckiest guy in the whole world, but you know what? I think having you as my soulmate is actually pretty lucky-!”

Xingqiu

When you write on your body, it will appear on your soulmate as well

Xingqiu always find himself doodling in his arms whenever he’s bored. Even though he can’t write properly, he can draw pretty well. I think he knows about the soulmate system. So he isn’t that surprise if he sees something appearing on his skin.

He gazes at it fondly before adding something to their drawing (probably horns or mustache-). He snickered as he continues to doodle in his arm.

His thoughts regarding to soulmates? He’s pretty neutral. He’s happy to know that he has a soulmate, but overall he’s probably the most calmest in this list- he’s a bit mischevious when you write a question for him, answering in riddles or quips.

He honestly love it whenever you doodle. Even if their bad or good doesn’t matter. He always cherish all of it as he stare at it, trying to memorize all of its details.

You two probably meet when Xingqiu once again escapes from home. He tries his best to write where you two will meet. Though you might need to a couple of minutes (hour-) to read his handwriting-

When you two finally meet, Xingqiu would have a smile on his face as he closes the book he’s reading. Giving you his full attention. And like a gentlemen, he kisses your hands as he smiles at you gently. “Finally,, finally I meet you, my dear soulmate. I applaud you that you manage to understand my handwriting.”

Chongyun

Meeting your soulmate in a dream

Chongyun doesn’t believe in soulmates at first, probably because he thought that it is unreal and all fantasy. So when it happened to him, he was surprised and amazed.

It was a grassy terrain with Glaze Lillies here and there, with some Qingxin. He would immediately notice you standing there. His guard would immediately be up as he interrogates you on where the heck you two are-

When you explained him about the soulmate system, he wouldn’t believe you at first but gave in. He doesn’t know why but he felt like he should trust you.

His thoughts of soulmates? He honestly hates it. Having someone chosen for him already? That’s so absurd! He wants to choose his s/o without the help of destiny or fate.

So he’s indenial of you being his soulmate. He’ll downright refuse to acknowledge his feelings for you. But he’ll soon give in when he feels the love you’re giving to him.

Chongyun never likes sleeping before but now he do, he’ll honestly sleep early just to meet with you. It feels like paradise. Just you and him. The rest of the world has no more meaning.

When you two meet for the first time in reality, Chongyun has to do a double-take because his mind didn’t process that you’re in front of him. He would definitely give you a hug, his hand behind your head and the other wrapped behind your back.

It feels so right.. you in his arms. Chongyun smiled. He feels like home in your arms. “I know that I’ve treated you coldly during our first meeting, so in order to apologize, why don’t we go buy some ice cream?” (He means well, I swear-)

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