#wuthering waves rover x reader

[fefern]

✧˖° first dates with them. | lingyang, m!rover, jiyan headcanons.

⋆ ˚☁️ ⁀➴ synopsis: going on a first date is always nerve wracking, yet can also be exciting! what's it like for these boys to take you out on your first date together?

⋆ ˚☁️ ⁀➴ characters involved (separate): lingyang, male rover, jiyan, and a gender neutral reader.

⋆ ˚☁️ ⁀➴ warnings: none!

⋆ ˚☁️ ⁀➴ notes: hello! coming to you live with my first post for wuwa! just some cute little headcanons with the boys on first dates with you because i love planning dates out ;;!! requests are open if you want to talk or have me write something!! ( ˘͈ ᵕ ˘͈♡)

Lingyang

Lingyang has never been more excited or nervous to hang out with someone, even more so since this was his first date with you. 

As someone who always seemed to fear being different from the humans around him, he felt extra self-conscious when he looked in the mirror and adjusted his outfit. Did he look alright? Were you going to enjoy this as much as he thought he would? Will everything go well? What if you decided you changed your mind and didn’t want to date someone of his species?

His first date gift for you would be a small lion plushie. Cute and fluffy with vibrant colors, he’d hold it out in front of him and shut his eyes tight, anxiety flowing through him. “These are for you! That way, when you miss me, you can hug this! If you want to, no pressure!” 

He’d be ecstatic when you took it into your hands and held it throughout your date together, happily looking between you and the plush and feeling his cheeks turn a rosy pink that you two were going out together. 

He’d probably take you to the best food spots all around Jinzhou, ranting about which dishes to try or who had his favorite foods. He’d want to get to know you more, curious and nervous as he’s asking you about your likes, dislikes, what your daily life is like in Jinzhou. Lingyang would walk and eat with you along the way, practically enamored by anything you did or said. 

His tail would swish fast back and forth whenever you were talking. Even if it’s something you found mundane, he couldn’t help but be happy just listening to you speak. His ears will also be very reactive around you, usually up but always reacting accordingly to whenever you’d tell a story or joke with him. 

He’ll let you pet him if you want to, he trusts you after all. His cheeks flush a soft pink and he lets out a small purr when you do so, finding himself growing a bit shyer at the sweet touch. He also feels a tad embarrassed by it, so you’ll have to pry his hands away as he childishly hides the way he’s turning red from you. 

He seems a little bit sad when you two do have to part, but when you ask him when the next one would be, a hopeful look emerges in his eyes as he begins to excitedly make plans to see you again and take you on another date. 

Other Points:  - Will jump in place when super excited to tell you something while on the date.  - Would point to some random cute things on your walk and go, “That reminds me of you!” - Happy to talk about lion dancing with you, and if you show more interest in it, he’ll offer to give you your own personal show one day!

Rover (Male)

Considering he is a person that just woke up in a strange world with no memories of his past or who he is, he is a bit lost on the idea of what to do during a date with you. Were there rules he had to follow? Did people in Jinzhou have certain taboos or ways that they executed dates?

He’d most likely ask all around the city in order to find out what to do or where to take you. He wanted to make sure the experience was good after all, not something that the both of you would dread. 

When he meets up with you, his hair is a bit more put together than usual and he stands up tall, giving you a small smile as he gently takes your arm and links it with his. 

“Take me around the city. Show me how you see the world through your eyes.”

His first date gift would be a small box of candy. I could definitely see Rover as being a person who likes small sweet treats as a guilty pleasure, and he’d want to share them with you as a way of connecting you with something that you love. 

He’s calm throughout most of your stroll, browsing through stores or looking around in quiet curiosity as you show him little nooks and crannies of the city. He enjoyed hearing how you would describe stores or fixate on different areas of the city that he hadn’t thought to really pay attention to before. 

He makes a mental note of the places that you like so that for your next date, you two could come back to them. Rover is already a few steps ahead in terms of thinking where he wants to go with you or what he wants to do. 

When you’re done showing him the city, he’ll give you a kind, endearing look and smile at you. He’ll take a moment to just admire you, shifting some of your hair out of your face and enjoy being in your presence before ultimately, it is time to part ways. He’ll wave you off, thanking you for everything and giving him a tour, before he smiles to himself like a fool and turns to head back to his quarters. 

Other Points: - Probably would be looking at you more than the city.  - Fast walker, so you’d have to keep up the pace. Apologies if he’s going too fast and happens to catch you struggling. - Will inquire about certain places just to listen to you talk. 

Jiyan

As the general of the Midnight Rangers that conducts himself in a poised, righteous manner, he’d be the most classy out of all the people to take you out on a date. 

Jiyan’s got a busy schedule as the head of such an important group in Jinzhou, but after bonding with you and asking you out he wanted to ensure that he carved out time in advance for just you and him to spend an afternoon together. 

He’d take you to a fancy restaurant in Jinzhou, the best money can buy. He’d be sure to pick you up from your place and walk with you to the restaurant. When you open the door, he’s standing in front of you with his hair slicked back and ponytail waving a bit in the wind, his clothes pristine and ironed out to look his absolute best in front of you. 

His present for you is a bouquet of flowers he made himself. He enlisted the help of his mom for this one, catching up with her about medical practices as he puts together the best pecok, irises, and poppies that he could find when he was out on his rounds into a pretty bouquet just for you. It’s wrapped up with brown paper and has a nice aqua bow on it, matching his hair.

When you get to the restaurant, he’ll look at the menu with you and ask you to order anything your heart desires. He already knows what he wants to eat, and will quietly look at you with a softened expression as you begin choosing what you want. He finds the way you handle yourself beautiful, even if it’s through simple things like ordering food. 

Jiyan will happily eat anything you don’t end up finishing. He doesn’t want to waste money, and he also cannot deny that the way you ask him to finish your plate was cute. He’ll work it off anyways with the amount of fighting and training he does, so he doesn’t mind. 

Will pay for the meal. No splitting or you paying, as much as you might plead and beg.

Will take you back to your place and entertain any questions you may have for him, whether it be about his past, missions he’s been on, or just about his duties as general of the Midnight Rangers. When he drops you off, he’d take the back of your hand and gently place a kiss on it before standing up straight and giving you a small smile, wishing you a goodnight. 

Other Points: - Will hold all your belongings so your hands are free and light. Does not matter how heavy or how much you have, he will refuse to let you “labor” like that, as he puts it.  - Admires your personality and the way you hold yourself when you speak. - Has a strong desire to protect you; always subconsciously keeping an eye out for any danger even though it’s daylight out.

[unabashednightmarepizza]

Here is yet another ramble of mine as if I don't have a million things I need to write down.

A SAWuWa Universe where you are just a silly little human travelling through every universe. You had met a lot of people and beings, made some friends and even confusing romantic relationships you are still unsure whether it was a good idea or not.

There was Teyvat, with their vision system and Archons and Gods and every other magical thing where you battled literal gods to bring freedom to the people. You happen to be great friends with the Traveller in the end, promising to keep in touch through the weird bond you created between each other , and some more friends even if they annoyed you at times. It was always bitter to leave them to continue your journey of travelling through the worlds, often met by cryings from the younger ones and the silent begging eyes of the older ones as they held onto your form, afraid to loose you for good.

They didn't tell it out loud, not wanting to make you feel bad for doing what you loved to do (especially since you helped them in the Great War even when it wasn't your responsibility), but... They were afraid of not seeing you again, not in this life at least if you were to keep exploring the vast universe.

Who knew when it would be their turn once again to be the planet you visited?

Time worked much slower for you, after all. They didn't know when they would see you again, if they would see you once more before they died and they so badly wanted it. Maybe, once you were done... You would settle down on a now peaceful Teyvat and spend your life with them, in this or another life time.

Then there was the Trailblazer who was just a chaotic mess by the amount of times they digged in trashcans and looked through the manholes, saying there would be a treasure for you two as they dragged you from planet to planet.

Not gonna lie Belobog was great, minus the cold ass weather which froze you to your bones, Xianzhou Luofu was... something else with many political problems so much that you almost pitied the ever hardworking "dozing" General for how much he had to deal with...and yet managed to smile and be kind after all he had been through, after witnessing the fall of his friends and constantly fighting against that dark urge Mara eventually brought.

You trully admired the diligent and undeniably handsome General as he showed you all around Luofu, every scenery, delicacy, item and food that made their culture, his arm bent so that you could loop yours into his as you two peacefuly strolled around, the people's stare hard on your form with jealousy, for you or the gentle giant next to you, you didn't know.

(Some might specalute that you did it for your own selfish needs, and perhaps to some extent, it was true but the General would beg to differ as he finally listened to your gentle yet assertive request, your demand, after seeing him so worked up because of the paperwork, playfully chiding him about his "self-destructive methods". He wishes to ask you how he was supposed to live peacefully as if nothing is wrong with him, when his life was all about destruction, when... He was nearing a fate every Xianzhou native eventually met but still fought with his inner self every day? How could he stop "fighting" when it was all he knew and he was scared of what would happen if he let go of his habits?

He didn't say any of it, didn't dare to sadden you with a burden that didn't belong to you and instead welcomed your positivism and smiles lighten hım and his soul even for a brief moment as you listened to him earnestly, with widened and mesmerized, curious eyes, talk about lotus flowers and what the best way to take care of them was.)

Did your friends, mainly March and the Trailblazer, tease the hell out of you for openly simping for the General? Yes, but who cared? No one! It wasn't like you were a small child, you could admire the God's creation openly! Besides, were you supposed to care about the words of a man who claimed to have social anxiety yet head dived into trashcans?

You definetly didn't believe and heed the words of someone who claimed to be the Ruler of the Seven Great Manholes of Penacony as they dragged you to meet their "subjects", you weren't that insane.

There were some others where you met some alien robots, some witches and wizards, even dragonriders and so on with every one of them being more exciting, and traumatising, than the other.

Damn the politics, always make things more complicated than needed... Can they not chill the fuck out?

But it didn't mean you didn't get to have amazing companions and some possible romances, although you tried so hard not to catch feelings and give the other person false hope for you would continue to travel, and probably not settle down. You loved the excitement of it all, the dangers, the friends you made, the other different faces of people...

You couldn't easily let go of it.

However... However, even with all your experiences in different styles of death in different universes... You seemed not to pass by one single beginning.

"Seriously? You see me, a damsel in distress in an unknown place practically unarmed, and your first instinct is to fight me?"

And it was to be threatened by either a sword or a blade against your neck... At least every time that happened, it was someone pretty doing that.

And it didn't matter if that was a man twice or maybe even thrice your size who could easily kill you, a pretty man was always a pretty man, no?

"Do you have a death wish, woman?"

"Only if you're the one granting it—got something exciting in mind?"

"You better talk before I take out your tongue for speaking in disrespect to our leader-"

They were too stunned to speak...at seeing their fearless, ruthless leader subtly flushing an... "endearing red" as you shamelessly called it, while being pinned down to the hard and sandy surface of the outside of their base, him looming over you with his thin yet deadly blade he rarely used.

What you said next shocked even them.

"Practically speaking, I died many times in many forms: Burning alive, choking, drowning, being thrown out of a rocket, bullets, eaten alive by a dragon, beheading... My bucket list is pretty damn long and I need to say, dying by swords, especially from the neck, is not my favourite thing."

Okay, maybe you were too straightforward and sassy, but could anyone blame you when you had to deal with many planetary crises even when it had nothing to do with you?

A well-meaning alien offering you their local delicacy, which turns out to be a wriggling, glowing creature that seems to be trying to talk, You try to decline politely, but it’s considered rude, so you awkwardly pretend eating it while hiding it in your armor and now it asks for rent?

Check.

A mistranslation of “hello” causes you to accidentally challenge the leader of a planet to a duel, The duel involves juggling flaming spheres while standing on one foot, and other weird circus stuff and winning it makes you the ruler so now you have an intergalactic Empire to rule?

Check.

You’re invited to a celebration where it’s customary to exchange gifts. You give a thoughtful Earth trinket, but the aliens gift you a pulsating, gooey object that seems...alive, the object hatches, revealing a tiny alien that immediately latches onto you as its “parent" and now you have a baby you need to take care of?

Also check.

"What exactly the fuck have you encountered to end up with a parasite living on you and asking for rent and become a parent with intergalactic duties?!"

Well, now that you thought about it as you sat dining with the two cuties who turned out to be working as Midnight Rangers while a hot, noncholant looking lady and an equally hot and noncholant red-head examined you... What the fuck you actually went through?

"Alright, so you know how people say, ‘One bad decision won’t ruin your life’? Yeah, turns out that’s a lie." You leant over Chixia's face with a completely serious face as you urged her to stare in your eyes, hands gesturing around you as you focused her stare on your own.

"First, I accepted what I thought was a cool, glowing and albeit weird, dish that I would love—spoiler alert, it was not just a meal. It was a highly intelligent parasite that now lives on my shoulder and complains about my posture. Then, I agreed to ‘help’ an interstellar diplomat, offering my greetings first, which somehow translated into ‘Congratulations, you’re now legally challenging me and the challenger is to be a circus show.' And as if that wasn't enough-"

"You don't get sad over the other traumatic shits you went through but these?? Seriously woman, what the fuck is wrong with you- Can you feed that child already?! She had been running around all day, my brain hurts!"

Apparently, that goo like alien was also as sassy as you are, but a bit more mean as it crawled over your armor and shaped into a balloon above your head... In the form of a huge teddy bear, which eventually calmed the baby as it cooed and reached her hands towards it, to which Baizhi let out an "interesting" as she wrote that down.

Sentimental goo from outer space with a soft heart for younglings... What strange things had you brought with yourself?

"your brain is made of goo, you little shit! And stop complaining over my daughter, I know you love her~ At least my kid can levitate objects, so that’s been handy for grabbing snacks and toys off high shelves. " a tentacle like whip erupted from your back, made of light, as it gently wrapped around the waist of your child and lifted her up to land on your lap, making her laugh histerically as she clasped your cheeks and smushed them.

"no, I don't! Which hallucination gave you the idea?! You god damn mammal! Do you use your kid for your selfish benefit?!" Your goo friend said from your armor as it extended its body to stare at you humorlessly, not liking to be seen as weak... Even when a part of its body formed in your baby's favourite toy to keep her occupied.

"Yeah, yeah, sure it was a hallucination..."

Okay, maybe you were often seen as a soft, mother-figure-like person to those around you as you strolled inside Jinzhou and on the outskirts of Huanglong and yeah, for most part you were, you trully were!

You loved talking and entertaining the children, even more than the actual adults. Besides, most of them were impressed and had star-shaped eyes when you nearly crash landed on the planet with that Express of yours and ended up reprimanding and beating a Threnodian as if it weighted nothing for you with that glowing green-hued spear that was way too identical to their General's...

Now that you mentioned it...

"HAHAHAH! JUE, YOU OLD, GRUMPY NOODLE, YOU STILL ALIVE?! LOL I THOUGHT YOU HIT THE END OF THE ROAD WHEN THAT WAR HAPPENED!"

Rover, Jinshi and Jiyan all but gaped at you as the huge sentinel only huffed angrily in front of you as they laid on the soft Snow of Mount Firmament, where their lair resided after learning that... You were techniqually Jiyan's ancestor from hundreds of years ago who fell in love with a "mortal Man" here, who turned out to be the literal sentinel they worshipped and that Jinshi also was a distant relative to both you and Jiyan.

"Mind your words and tone, General..." The old Sentinel grumbled annoyed, trying its best to act as if it didn't miss your presence but the three audience couldnt miss the signs of affection from their time as Rover giggled while the other two continued to look shocked at the revelations.

Too much information at the same day...

"Why? Because you are sensitive and could cry?" You wheezed out with a hand over your torso, slapping the nearest person next to you which happened to be the poor new general, who was looking like he might have gone to the other world by how pale he was. Jue only growled angrily as their tail swished behind them with a hint of longing as it slowly slithered towards you.

They really didn't miss this teasing, playful and noncaring... being they had fallen for. Someone who usually didn't give a single fuck to those around them, someone for whom life was just yet another play in stage...

But Jue, for all their centuries of wisdom and stoicism, was a terrible liar.

The great dragon sat perched atop a jagged stone outcrop, silver-blue scales gleaming under the moonlight. Their molten gold eyes flickered with something unreadable, though their tail betrayed them, curling slightly toward you as if drawn by instinct.

"You’ve grown bold," they rumbled, voice deep and edged with something suspiciously close to fondness. "To return after all this time."

You tilted your head, lips curving into a slow, knowing smile. A sad, affectionate tone came over as your heart finally relented to the feelings you had been surpassing for all this time. "Missed me, Jue?"

"Tch," he huffed, looking away. "Hardly. The wind is simply quieter without your incessant chatter."

It had been so cold and lonely without you, my light... For there was no you that would accompany me.

Your breath hitched as Jue’s tail curled around you, firm yet careful, like they were afraid you’d slip away again. Their warmth seeped into your skin, a stark contrast to the night’s chill where you stood with Jiyan, Jinshi and Rover in their lair, and for a moment, you just stood there, lost in the feeling.

It wasn’t just their touch—it was everything. The way their molten gold eyes softened, the way their breathing stilled as if savoring your presence, the way they spoke your name like it was something sacred. Much like the many nights you two spent together under the stars of Solaris, the times where you would serenade each other like some sickly in-love fools.

Just like now, when they refused to show their weakness in front of everyone but... But only you, their dear mate, could hear the true longing in their heart and soul.

You could feel it.

The longing woven into every second of your absence. The way they had searched for you in the wind, in the stars, in the empty spaces where you used to stand.

And the pain—deep, unspoken, the kind that lingered in the hollow of his chest every time he reached for you and found nothing but air.

You stepped closer, deliberately slow, just enough to see the way their pupils dilated slightly at your approach. "Oh? So you do notice when I’m gone. You usually claim you don't care about such trivial things..."

They exhaled sharply through their nose, but the slight twitch of their claws against the rock betrayed their irritation—they missed you really badly.

"You are insufferable... Makes me wonder what made me so fond of you."

They didn't want to admit it, as the prideful dragon-Sentinel they were... Stubborn as usual, no changes in demanour yet...

"And yet, you haven’t flown away." You smiled, reaching out, your fingers barely grazing the smooth curve of their snout as the three watched with silent reverie at the intimate moment that stretched before them, as if they were watching their divorced parents who were still in love with each other reunite after so long.

They had been hurt...trapped...waiting for you, for the master they served and the mate they worshipped...

“Oh, Jue…” Your voice came out softer than you intended, full of emotion you couldn’t contain. Your hand trembled slightly as you pressed your palm against their scales, feeling the slow, steady rise and fall of his breath.

They didn’t pull away. If anything, they leaned in, eyes slipping shut at the contact of your soft skin, like they were afraid this was just another dream their mind conjured as they hibernated, bleeding and in pain as their growls were the only thing they heard and not your soft voice, which often sang a mysterious rhyme.

“I’m here,” you whispered, voice thick with something tender. Your voice brought them back to the present, closing their eyes “I’m here, Jue.”

For a moment, there was nothing else—no burdens, no ghosts of the past clawing at the edges of their mind where they were tortured by all the carnage and blood of humans. Just warmth. Just you.

Jue’s snout parted, as if searching for the right words, but in the end, they only tightened their tail's grip on you, pressing their forehead against yours softly.

A whisper, barely audible, escaped them.

“…I know.”

.....

And that, my friends, was how everything started with you adopting like 20 teens and young adults to bring what little peace they had like you used to hundreds of years ago to fend of the tacet discorda, all the while trying to make your once-leader remember who they used to be after giving themselves amnesia because it was a fun idea after they conquered the worlds.

[moonflowergirlsworld]

A dear anon Requested; Yandere Rover with unlucky reader.

While thinking about how to write it, I remembered a request in my Wattpad; Yandere Male Rover with an Isekai'd simp reader.

The ideas opened the flood gates and I combined the two to write it, But accidentally I posted the half written Oneshot instead of saving in drafts, in a panic I deleted the whole thing and then lost the anon Ask.

(⁠╥⁠﹏⁠╥⁠) ༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ

After having a meltdown, I got back the motivation and wrote it from scratch.

Yandere M! Rover x unlucky simp isekai'd F!Reader

This was the blueprint / reference sheet for this oneshot.

Slowburn

12k words (was having so much fun writing this I didn't even notice the word count.)

Wuwa Version 2.0 Rinascita spoilers

Rinascita was never ready for your thirst.

You were losing your mind. Not in a metaphorical, “haha I love this game” way—no, actually losing it. Right there on your bed, wrapped in a blanket burrito, your phone inches from your face, you screamed at a pixelated man who had no idea the chokehold he had on your soul.

“YESSSSS! 100K DAMAGE! GO OFF, KING!”

Your screen was a whirlwind of Havoc energy—your Rover dodging as your fingers maneuvered with precision on your phone screen. With a flick of his fingers, the Umbra bar pulsed to max, you clicked the resonance Liberation.

His voice came:

“You will Obey!”

“AHHHH I SWEAR TO GOD YOU COULD MURDER ME AND I’D THANK YOU—”

Dark Surge erupted. His scythe formed from a pulse of void-black resonance, and in a single sweep, the TD was gone. Like, deleted. A 100K crit damage number splashed across the screen and you collapsed backward like it had personally hit you.

You clutched your phone above your head, grinning like a madman, heart pounding like you'd just been proposed to. “This is it. This is peak gaming.”

Then gravity remembered you existed. The phone slipped from your fingers and smacked you right on the nose. You yelped, hands flailing, dignity nowhere in sight.

Peak gaming? More like peak misfortune.

After picking up your phone, you started to do your dailies. The dailies were easy. With him by your side, you finished off everything with a grin. You tried to act normal—keyword tried. But you still found yourself whispering, “Look at my man gooo~” every time he did that spinning blade combo.

"Now, I just need to finish the Rinascita quest and Aero Rover is mine!" you declared dramatically, just as your phone clung to life at a tragic 5%. You stared at it like it had personally betrayed you. With the sigh of someone who's been wronged by fate itself, you slapped it onto the charger.

When you finally logged out, you sighed long and hard, rolling onto your stomach.

“God, I wish I was there,” you muttered. “Like, not even in a weird way.” You rolled around on the bed, talking to yourself like any sane person would. “Okay, maybe a little weird, but I just wanna meet him. I’d totally be chill, right? I’d be cool. He wouldn't know I'm mentally married to him. I can fake normal.” You stared up at the ceiling.

“Just one chance, universe. One chance.”

Like the protagonist of every isekai anime ever, you fell asleep like that, mind filled with daydreams about him. Blanket half on the floor. Still mumbling about scythe physics and “how hot it is when he says anything in that voice of his.”

You woke up mid-scream.

Not because you were in danger. You were falling. Your body was currently plummeting through the air like a sack of potatoes. A flash of green, a swirl of clouds, and now—face-first into a patch of moss.

“Mmfh—ow—oof—my back…” you groaned, rolling over with all the grace of a flipped turtle. Leaves stuck to your cheek. Something—probably a bug—buzzed suspiciously near your ear. You slapped it away with a shriek and scrambled up, wobbling like a newborn deer.

What the hell?

You looked around, eyes wide. The trees swayed gently above you. As you looked up, a breathtaking sight unfolded—towering trees and jagged mountains pierced through the clouds. Ancient ruins peeked through the foliage, whispering tales of a bygone era. The air was thick with the scent of moss and hummed with strange frequencies.

Everything shimmered faintly, like the game’s graphics got injected with magic steroids. Except... this wasn’t your screen. This was real.

You smacked your own cheek once. Twice. “Ow—okay. Okay. This is happening.”

Your heart thundered. You spun in a circle, awe and panic slamming into each other like bumper cars. “This is Rinascita. This is actually Rinascita—holy SHIT I’m IN the GAME.”

You shrieked and tripped over a tree root you definitely should’ve seen, collapsing into a bush. It scratched the hell out of your arm, but the pain was just proof: real, not a dream.

And then you heard footsteps. You froze, your butt still plopped on the bush.

Crunch. Crunch.

Shadows danced across the moss. A low hum of resonance energy vibrated through the air, in a way that sent goosebumps down your spine.

As he came into view, your lungs forgot how to function for a second as your gaze collided with his. Broad shoulders, lean waist. Black belts/straps wrapped around his hips and chest—he looked very dreamy up front.

And those eyes, so magnetic. “I love you,” you blurted out without even letting the thought cook in your brain.

The silence was loud, as he paused, shocked by the abruptness and genuineness of your tone. Even the wind paused like, girl.

You clamped your hands over your mouth, eyes wide in horror. “I—I mean—not like that—I mean yes like that but not in a weird way—well, okay, maybe a little weird, but—oh god, I just—I swear I’m normal. Sometimes... Fuck.”

Rover tilted his head, stepping closer, his eyes zoning in on the cut on your arm. “Are you injured?”

“Yes—no—I mean emotionally, yes. Physically... just my ego,” you mumbled the last part, still embarrassed.

You tried to stand, but your foot caught the same cursed root and you fell again, this time right at his feet. Like a peasant paying tribute.

You groaned into the dirt. “This is why I can’t have nice things. My unlucky streak is at it again...”

He didn’t laugh. Of course not. He is a gentleman through and through. Instead, he crouched down beside you.

You stared up at him from the ground, limbs tangled and expression fully dead inside. “You’re even hotter in person. That’s not helping.”

Pause, try not to be so obvious. you scold yourself, reminding yourself to keep the fangirling to a minimum.

He held his hand in front of you to help you get up, voice low and calm. “You seem... disoriented. Are you actually alright?”

You shook your head, took his offer with the kind of reverence usually reserved for divine intervention, allowing him to pull you up. He didn’t comment on the way you tripped again immediately after and used his jacket to steady yourself.

“I am sorry,” you whispered, gripping the fabric like a lifeline. “I’m not usually like this...”

He helped you be steady on your feet. His eyes didn’t leave your face. “That’s difficult to believe,” he said softly.

You couldn’t tell if he meant it as sarcasm or observation—but either way, damn, it did things to you, and he was so close.

You feel the lingering warmth of his hand on yours.

Not metaphorical warmth, Not the “he touched me, oh my God I’m swooning” kind. Actual heat, like a campfire still flickering in your veins. You glance down at your fingers You’d clung to him like he was the last thread tethering you to sanity—because maybe, he is.

He hasn’t stepped away, still hovering near. You guess he’s staying close so you don’t trip again. aw, how nice of him!

You’re still staring at that hand of yours. It’s shaking, combined with the sting of the scratch on your arm.

You blink down at your fingers. Curl them. Uncurl. You press your thumb into your palm like you’re trying to wake up—you already know the answer but you are still in denial. Nothing happens. The world doesn’t blur. There’s no logout button hovering over your peripheral vision.

Your throat tightens.

“I’m in Wuthering Waves,” you whisper, voice barely carried by the air. “The game. This is the game.”

You blink up at the sky—those shattered clouds, the hazy blue, the orange-tinged light that never feels quite right. It’s too beautiful to be real, and that’s the problem.

“I’m in the fucking game.” Your legs go stiff. You can’t look at Rover. Not yet. You can feel him beside you though. “Wait, wasn’t Truck-kun in charge of Isekai?! I mean, I love this game and I’m in it… I was happy a moment ago, but now I suddenly feel anxious!”

“I can’t even run two miles without gasping like a dying fish,” you mumble, voice catching on a breath. “I sprain my ankle walking too fast in socks. And now I’m here… in a post-apocalyptic monster hellscape…”

A breath escapes your lips. It sounds like a laugh, but it’s broken. It doesn’t make it past your teeth.

“I’m going to die here,” you whisper, almost stunned by your own words. “Of course this happened to me. Of course, knowing my luck. My life is just a string of bad RNG. And now in a game that would have me killed in less than a second!”

Your knees feel unsteady. The nausea creeps in like a slow wave, curling into your gut. Rover silently stands beside you, So completely unaware that you are currently having a mental breakdown in HD 4K resolution.

Maybe he knows but doesn't want to interrupt, ah, you are too far gone to think about that. You inhale shakily, Try to joke it off. “Haha, yeah, I’m sure I’ll be fine,” you whisper but Your voice cracks.

Cool. Cool. Everything is fine.

You stare at him, Then you ask, “Have you met Cartethyia yet?”

He tilts his head. “...Who?”

You laugh. It’s the kind that sounds like it’s trying to crawl its way out of your throat, a panicky exhale.

You start mumbling.

“Montelli family… yeah, you’re supposed to team up with Carlotta. There’s this whole bit where you join the Troupe of Fools? Fight against Phrolova but make it look like a carnival performance. And then you receive the Laurel from Cartethyia, the Maiden. You meet her when she is dancing on water.”

You rub your temple, your brain short-circuiting, You crouch on the ground, slowly curling in on yourself, arms tightening around your knees.

“I don’t want to die,” you whisper, too soft. “I don’t even know how to hold a sword. I can’t fight monsters. I can’t run.”

Seeing someone fall, Rover quickly ran to help the said person. He had noticed you long before you realized he was watching.

Not just the way you stood awkwardly in this world—your posture not matching the other inhabitants, not aligning with the rhythm of this reality—but the way your eyes followed him. That slow trail of longing, like your gaze held a history no one had written yet.

He sees people look at him all the time. Wanting something. Needing something. Dressing up desperation in flattery.

But you blinked at him like someone seeing a memory in flesh. Like someone who couldn’t quite believe he existed. And then—“I love you.”

The words landed with a sincerity so bare, so vulnerable, it made his breath still for half a second.

Not lust. Not seduction. No angled smile or slanted voice. Just a truth, trembling at the base of your tongue, so unfiltered it didn’t even wait for permission.

His mind locked onto you like a puzzle piece with edges that didn’t match anything else in the box.

Flirting—he’d seen it all. It was currency here, like pain or adrenaline. Everyone tried it. A hand brushed too long, a compliment too smooth, a feigned stumble into his chest. It was the unspoken agreement of survivors: flatter the strong, and they might protect you.

He’d grown immune to it. So when you said you loved him?

He waited for the follow-up. The manipulation. The ask. The trade. But it never came.

You just stood there, awkward and pink in the cheeks, with eyes darting like you regretted speaking too loudly in church.

He noted the way you bit your lip, then tried to backtrack. The fumble of your fingers, the way you kept glancing away like maybe if you looked somewhere else long enough, time would rewind itself and un-say what you’d said.

Cute. He found you cute.

He’d catalogued emotions a thousand times. Studied expressions for lies, eyes for betrayal, postures for threat.

But yours didn't fit any category.

And then came the dump.

The babble of a girl who knew too much. Who said names like passwords, dropped references like prophecy.

At first, he assumed you were delirious. Shell shock, maybe. Madness. The kind that comes after a concussion, you did appear out of nowhere from the sky.

But the more you spoke, the more specific it all became.

You told him he was a character. That you had played through this world, and he was at the center of it.

He didn’t believe it.

But the clarity of your voice, the ache in it, the precision with which you whispered names—it didn’t match a lie. It matched conviction.

He stored it. Like a tracker tagging something rare. Slid the information into a mental folder and filed it next to things he wasn’t supposed to understand yet.

Later. He’d circle back to it later.

He watched as your body began to tremble. As you sank into yourself, shoulders hunched, head bowed like the weight of this world and the other one you came from had finally crashed together.

“You’re still alive, see,” Rover finally spoke, making you look up at him from your knees. He crouched down beside you again.

“Let me help you. We should definitely go somewhere safer. The forest is filled with TDs.”

Offering you his hand again, he watched as you stared at him like a deer in headlights.

“I’ll ask Zani to accommodate a place for you to stay. It seems you’ve lost your way.”

You blink rapidly. Rover watched you with a calm, unreadable gaze, waiting for you to take his hand. It seemed you had finally calmed down—or perhaps he’d distracted you—because the last trembles of your meltdown were fading.

“So,” he said, voice smooth like worn velvet, giving you a small smile. “What is your name?”

You, still high off panic and full simp-mode, blurted, “You can call me your wife.”

Instant regret. Your eyes went wide. “Wait, I didn’t mean—I mean—I don’t mind if you do, but I didn’t mean to—oh god, I’m making this worse—sorry—ah, I’ll stop!”

You buried your face in your hands, wanting the ground to open up and swallow your simp soul. “Forget I said anything. Please.”

Rover couldn’t help the amused glint in his eyes. He wanted to test something. The edge of his voice dipped, smooth and amused, just enough to tilt the world sideways.

“...Would you tell me your name, or should I start calling you ‘my wife’ ?”

You squealed internally. Your soul left your body. Your mind short-circuited. “That would be nice,” you said in a dazed whisper.

Rover chuckled softly. You were quite fun to tease.

Your eyes flew open. “Ah! No! I mean—sorry! My name is [Name]!”

You finally took his hand as he helped you stand. You let go quickly, already embarrassed and internally cringing at your slip-ups. You wanted to keep your fangirling side locked up, so you took a step away from him.

“I’ll guide you back to Ragunna City and help you settle,” Rover said, already walking ahead.

You stayed frozen in place.

Noticing you weren’t following, Rover glanced back. “Stay close,” he said calmly.

Startled, stumbling a bit before quickly jogging to catch up, falling into step beside him.

Oh god. You are so fucked.

You and Rover have been walking for… you don’t even know how long. Not to mention, as you two were walking out of the forest, there were so many TDs that attacked. Thank god Rover took care of all of them, and you were happily cheering him on from the back.

The misfortunate situation is not lost on you, knowing how your luck is, you were kinda expecting to run into more trouble after that. But this journey so far has been peaceful, and now you really don’t want to jinx it.

Oh, thinking about how peaceful it is might jinx it. I should stop. You shake your head to dispel the thought.

The weather’s nice too. Sunny, but not too much. The clouds, thick, cottony ones, hide the sun occasionally. Just the right kind of sky to take a walk and touch some grass.

Reaching a set of stone stairs, you notice a Resonance Nexus nearby. Rinascita Nexuses are shaped like the lower part of a fish’s tail, it’s unique. And on your left side… is a cave. A very dark one.

“Do you know this place?” Rover’s smooth voice comes from just beside you, making you snap out of your daze.

“Umm… I don’t know much of the map of Rinascita since I just started playing and then got dumped here. Well, I already know about the port part, where Brant and his crew leave you and then you meet Zani. I think… My memory’s a little fuzzy. Wait, no! You meet Phoebe first… now that I think more about it, you meet an NPC called Cristopopo. No, um… what was his name?”

You ramble on, words slipping faster than your common sense.

“Cristoforo…” Rover answers, his eyes narrowing as he watches you with a sharpened gaze. “How did you know all this?”

At first, he chalked off your ramblings as a possible concussion response. But now? You know how he arrived here. Who he met. Too much, actually. All of this is starting to feel very suspicious.

“Because I was the one behind the screen, Rover!” you chuckle, then pause.

Wait…Your brain stutters. Shouldn’t I be hiding the fact that I know too much? I’ve seen enough isekai anime to know this is a red flag move.

“Oh shit…” You slowly meet Rover’s gaze and smile as innocently as possible. “I am a normal human… who’s a little crazy. Yep! I think I actually got a concussion by falling from the sky! Weird… hahaha…”

You laugh nervously, trying to lighten the mood, where was your common sense when you needed it the most?!

But those golden eyes, glint with something unreadable. The air suddenly feels thick with tension.

Rover nods slowly, and you exhale a breath you didn’t know you were holding. “This is the way to the city square.” he says, pointing toward the cave.

…?No way. If you remember correctly, this actually leads to the Cathedral—the Order’s base.

Still, you follow him into the cave. He walks a few steps ahead while you lag behind. It’s dim, lit only by candles on either side, on the ground, shadows licking the stone walls. The air is cold and damp.

It’s so dark that if someone were to murder anyone in here… no one would know.

You chuckle to yourself.

Imagine if Rover brought you here to murder you because you’re suspicious. Hahaha… funny.

Rover pauses mid-step as if he heard that thought.

You freeze.

He turns to look at you and you swear his eyes are glowing.

“There are stone stairs up ahead. I think I should guide you from here, knowing how you can trip unprompted.” he says, offering his hand.

Aw, how nice! But wait, did he just make fun of you?

Eh, whatever. You can’t focus on that when Rover just remembered something so trivial about you! Your heart does a little flip as you take his hand without hesitation.

He helps you walk down the stairs, and the cave opens into a half-balcony area. From here, you can see the structure of the place more clearly.

There’s an opening to your left where the stairs lead down to a wide area with a fountain in the center. Another balcony lies to the right, and what looks like an elevator structure stands to the left.

Oh! you know this place.

“Rover! This is the Cathedral area, not the city square. The elevator leads down to the entrance of the Cathedral and…”

You walk to the balcony that overlooks the Cathedral’s massive dome.

“And I remember doing an Echo Challenge: Flight VI here!”

You turn to face Rover. “So why did you—” Your voice dies inside your throat as you see the look on his face.

He’s smiling, The I-just-confirmed-my-suspicion kind of smile.

And he looks so hot.

“…you know a lot more than you let on,” he says, casually.

You raise both your hands in surrender. “Look, I’m from another universe who got dropped into this one out of nowhere! And then I met my future husb—”

Rover raises an eyebrow. You panic and pivot mid-sentence.

“I mean, I told you everything I know! I’m no threat! I can’t even fight or anything!”

You’re really selling this like a bad NPC, and the delivery is getting desperate. A true Oscar performance.

Rover nods again, as if still processing your info. Then he lifts his chin toward the landscape. “That’s Ragunna City. But you already know that, don’t you?”

You look out across the scenery. In the game, it’s beautiful but in real life? It’s stunning.

“Are we gonna take the elevator, then a boat to the city?” you ask, excited.

“No,” Rover says. And suddenly, he’s standing right in front of you.

You gulp.

His eyelashes are so long. His lips look kissable as hell

Focus!

“—Ready?”

“Huh?”

Before you can even process it, Rover’s hand wraps around your waist and pulls you close as he jumps off the balcony.

His Flight wings appear just in time, catching the wind, and the two of you are soaring through the air. The wind rushes past you, your heart threatening to beat right out of your chest.

Down below, the city opens up in all its glory. It’s breathtaking.

Rover lands gracefully on the city square, letting go of you immediately. You wobble, regaining your footing, eyes wide.

“You should’ve warned me first!” you exclaim. “But that was awesome! It’s such a bummer you can only use this utility in Rinascita and not in Huanglong.”

Rover frowns slightly, but then smirks. “I did tell you we were about to fly down to the city square.” He leans closer to your eye level. “Seems like, you were lost in that head of yours.”

Ugh. This man. Why is he so……illegally attractive?

Ragunna City in all its glory, where the architecture immediately captivates with its harmonious blend of form and function. Buildings rise in warm hues of beige, ivory, and terracotta, their facades adorned with intricate carvings and ornate balconies that seem like something straight out of a dream.

Canals weave through the city like veins, crossed by arched stone bridges that connect various districts. Along these waterways, colonnaded walkways provide shaded paths, their columns supporting overhanging terraces lush with greenery.

"Wow!" You’re blown away by how breathtaking the city is. “It’s about time Zani called…” Rover murmurs just as his terminal rings.

“Unfortunately, bad news, I did connect with the places around, but there aren’t any rooms available in any of the hotels in the city,” Zani says over the call. Rover had asked her if she could arrange a room for you.

What surprises you more is that Rover didn’t mention a single thing about how he found you, where you're from, or any of your wildly suspicious ramblings. He simply stated you were someone important to him and that Zani should treat you like she treats him.

Weird… but you don’t dwell on it.

“I’ve told some of my people to keep searching. This is uncanny to say the least,” Zani continues, and Rover hums in response.

“If we can’t find anything,” Rover says, turning his gaze to you and calling your name, “you can stay with me.”

You blink. Spending a night with Rover? In a room? Alone?! Count me in.

After the call ends, you’re busy ogling the streets—your eyes wide as you try to soak everything in.

“Would you like to look around the city?” Rover asks, voice smooth as silk.

“Can we?! Don’t you have to, like… go meet the head of the Montelli family? Maybe a certain troop of fools to plan the Carnival performance?”

There you go again, digging your own grave with the shovel. Might as well throw in a few flowers while you’re at it, because Rover is clearly locked onto you again.

“…”

“Ah—I would love to! Let’s look around the city!” you shout, immediately speed-walking toward the Tub Tacet Discord to distract him.

“Hey Rover, she is very suspicious…”

“Shh…Abby, now is not a good time.”

Rover simply follows, letting you lead the way, subtly steering you through the city like he’s indulging you… or observing. Either way, you're too thrilled to care.

The shops are narrow but deep, with arched doorways and canvas shades overhead. The lighting is dim but golden, bouncing off copper lanterns and polished wood counters. Markets are open-air, scattered through the city like hidden gems.

You’re definitely enjoying yourself. Doesn’t this feel like...a date?

And to think—your mother luck has finally shown up for you, because nothing bad has happened so far. This whole exploration? Solid 10/10.

“I won’t be coming back to the hotel tonight, so the room’s all yours. I have some things to take care of. We might see each other in the morning.” Rover says as the two of you finally arrive at the hotel he’s staying at.

Might…? You blink. Right, it’s probably the quest time. Maybe he’s off to meet the Troop of Fools or something. It is nighttime, after all.

“We won’t see each other in the morning?” you ask, the disappointment slipping out before you can stop it.

“Maybe, maybe not. It Depends.” Rover gives you a smile and with that, Rover walks off after handing you the room key.

You enter the room and plop onto the bed with a dramatic sigh. So tired. Your legs are aching like you walked across the entire map. Rolling back and forth on the mattress, you try to find a comfortable position.

“I wonder… why didn’t Abby appear when I met Rover? In the Rinascita quest, Abby was always out and about…”

With that final thought, sleep takes you, deep and heavy, completely unaware that, somewhere out there, you had already slipped beneath their skin, settled into their thoughts.

The next morning, you're already up and about, practically skipping through the sun-dappled streets of Ragunna City. How could you not? You're in the world of Wuthering Waves! The most logical thing to do? Soak in every glorious detail.

Well, after that nervous breakdown yesterday, you’ve come up with a brilliant idea—you're going to settle in Ragunna City, find a job, and live a comfortable life, far away from the wild and hostile Tacet Discords.

You gasp, the memory of the Phrolova fight and its breathtaking cutscene flooding back. Oh. My. God. You're so ready.

You race toward the gathering crowd, the air buzzing with anticipation. Brant sits atop a high platform. But where's Rover? Maybe he's with Carlotta, preparing for the performance.

Suddenly, red petals begin to drift from above, catching the sunlight as they fall. You look up, and there she is.

Phrolova.

Your heart skips a beat. The sky parts like a curtain, revealing a scene that's both eerie and mesmerizing. The atmosphere is tinged with an otherworldly aura, sending a thrill down your spine.

The crowd's cheers swell as Phrolova begins to speak, her voice resonating through the square. She gracefully settles onto a circular hoop suspended in the air, exuding an ethereal elegance.

It's about to begin!!!

You watch, enraptured, as Carlotta and Rover take the stage, battling wave after wave of Tacet Discords. Brant narrates the scene like a grand play, his words weaving the action into a captivating story.

The climax arrives with a burst of fireworks as Rover slices through Phrolova's wand with his scythe. He lands on the stage, the remnants of Phrolova's domain dissipating around him. A laurel materializes, crowning his head.

You're practically bouncing with joy. Witnessing this in real life is beyond anything you could have imagined. It's absolutely magnificent.

Suddenly, a feeling wraps around you like a hug, it's suffocating.

You feel Eyes on you.

You glance around and find Rover staring directly at you, his golden eyes burning with an intensity that sends a shiver down your spine. There's something in his gaze, so unnerving.

Instinctively, you feel an urge to hide, to escape those hauntingly beautiful eyes.

Without thinking, you turn and weave through the crowd, slipping into the narrow alleys of Ragunna City, your heart pounding in your chest.

After the Carnival, Rover walks into the hotel, footsteps soft on the polished floors. He’s greeted instantly.

“Mister Rover, another room has been prepared for you. Here’s the key,” the receptionist says with a practiced smile.

He smiles back, taking it without a word, fingers curling around the cool metal. Once inside his suite, the door clicks shut behind him.

Not a single thought passed through his head, just the static buzz of your voice echoing in some unreachable corner of his mind.

With a heavy exhale, he dropped down onto the edge of the bed. he sat with both feet planted wide on the ground, knees spread, forearms resting atop them.

One hand slid through his hair, slow, rough, pulling at the strands like he could rake the thoughts from his skull.

“I’m in the fucking game.”

“Have you met Cartethyia yet?”

“Montelli family… yeah, you’re supposed to team up with Carlotta. There’s this whole bit where you join the Troupe of Fools? Fight against Phrolova but make it look like a carnival performance. And then you receive the Laurel from Cartethyia, the Maiden. You meet her when she is dancing on water.”

“Umm… I don’t know much of the map of Rinascita since I just started playing and then got dumped here. Well, I already know about the port part, where Brant and his crew leave you and then you meet Zani. I think… My memory’s a little fuzzy. Wait, no! You meet Phoebe first… now that I think more about it, you meet an NPC called Cristopopo. No, um… what was his name?”

“But that was awesome! It’s such a bummer you can only use this utility in Rinascita and not in Huanglong.”

“Because I am the one behind the screen, Rover.”

Your previous conversations loop around in that big brain of Rover's. He rests his chin on his clasped hands, elbows propped on his knees, eyes glued to the wall.

The pulse in his temple beats a little too hard.

“She said I’m a character,” he whispered, eyes narrowing. “This world isn’t real.”

A sharp breath rattled into his lungs as he closed his eyes, tilting his head slightly, as if listening to some whisper only he could hear.

“She knows Huanglong. She knows Rinascita. She talks like she has known me since the beginning of my journey...”

“I love you.”

The moment it replayed in his mind, something fractured beneath the surface.

Abby burst from the Tacet mark, crackling into the air with a spark of gold light. “What if all she’s saying is nonsense?”

It pouted when Rover didn't say anything. “Rover, don’t we have to meet Carlotta, Brant and Roccia for the celebration tomorrow? Let's just sleep!”

He didn’t move. His eyes were still on the wall, still seeing the shape of your smile in the cracks of the paint.

“Abby… what’s her frequency like?”

Abby blinked, startled by the question. “Eh? I mean—it’s normal. Kind of weirdly low, actually. But it’s got this… this vibe to it. Hard to explain.”

Abby floated in slow, thoughtful circles, frowning in concentration. “It just feels…”

Rover’s gaze finally broke from the wall, softening when turning to Abby.

“Out of this world!” Abby said suddenly, snapping its little paw-fingers. “That’s it!”

He nodded. “Otherworldly,” he murmured, almost to himself. Then his voice dropped. “Can you absorb her?”

Abby jerked in mid-air, appalled. “Ew! No! She’s sweet! Like aggressively sweet! I’d get indigestion.”

A slow exhale left Rover’s mouth. He stood without another word, walking to the door, movement fluid, like the weight of his thoughts no longer held him down.

“Will we go to the party tomorrow?” Abby zipped after him, in an excited spiral. “Umm..where are we going?”

Rover nods, smiling softly at Abby. “Yes we will. For now I just need some fresh air.” Abby floats beside his shoulder. “What about the strange girl?”

He pauses at the threshold, a shadow stretching long behind him from the hallway lights.

“I must keep her close.”

You weave through the streets, your steps slowing to a casual stroll despite the frantic beat of your heart.

It felt like… no, you don’t want to finish that thought.

There’s no reason to. Rover would never—he’s gentle, thoughtful, the kind of man who's Carring and always waits for your answer. He’s your Rover.

The sun has long dipped below the skyline, shadows stretching like claws across the cobblestones. The streets are lit by eerie blue lamps, that give off that weird hypnotic sound.

The occasional flutter of a curtain from open windows, or the low creak of Ragunna City's buildings, the distinct sound of people are the only thing keeping you company, You have walked towards the empty part of the city.

You’re not walking with any direction, just letting your feet take you through the winding alleys, marveling at how this place feels so much like Rome. So beautiful, so rich with history and yet, so easy to get lost in.

The wind howls through the upper levels, curling around the rooftops like a predator circling in silence.

And then it hits you, that feeling. That dreadful, skin-prickling, breath-snatching feeling. Something is watching you.

You lift your gaze, heartbeat stalling.

Two glowing purple orbs, blink into existence atop a rooftop. They shift, jump, moving roof to roof, always staying just far enough to make you doubt…

but close enough that you know they’re watching. And they’re getting closer.

No. No, no, no.

One single word cuts through every thought Run.

And so you do.

You bolt through the city, panic clawing at your throat, your shoes skidding on the stone paths as you turn corner after corner, blindly sprinting down alleyways and corners that all look the same.

The wind behind you screams. You don’t dare look back. You don’t need to. The orbs are above you now, gliding overhead like phantoms. They’re keeping up, very easily.

Your lungs are burning. Your legs ache. But still, you run.

You make a sharp turn, too sharp and slam headfirst into something solid. You stagger back, the impact jarring your senses.

And in your dazed panic you hear the person in front of you whisper your name softly, Spoken like a question, and yet it cuts through your fear like a blade. You’d know that voice anywhere.

“Rover!” you gasp, your voice a ragged mess of relief and exhaustion. “Oh thank god, Rover, I think I was being chased! There were these orbs, like, ghost things, jumping over rooftops!” You point up, frantic, your breath hitching.

But there’s nothing. Your outstretched finger trembles. You blink up at the empty rooftops.

Rover steps closer, brows furrowed with visible concern. “You didn’t return to the hotel,” he says, voice soft but serious. “I got a little worried…”

The way he says it, that makes guilt wrap tightly around your chest. You hadn’t thought about that. You’d gotten so swept up in the fear of getting away from him, but he was the only one who came to your rescue.

Before you can respond, a sharp, slightly indignant voice cuts in.

"Meh! She better have a good explanation! You wasted my precious time!"

Your heart leaps with recognition.

“Abby!!” you squeal, spotting the tiny, cat-like Echo floating indignantly beside Rover’s shoulder.

You lunge forward and scoop it into your arms before it can float away, smothering it in your excitement. “Oh my god, you're so fluffy in real life! You’re adorable! So cute!!”

“Let. Me. Go!” Abby grumbles, squirming and kicking its little limbs in protest. It floats upward with an angry wobble as soon as you loosen your grip, glaring at you with narrowed eyes.

You pout. “Ok, ok sorry! I know I didn’t ask before hugging you but I got hit with cuteness aggression! You can’t hold that against me.”

The little Echo huffs and sticks its tongue out at you without missing a beat, you stick yours right back.

Rover watches the interaction in silence, noticing how easy it is to distract you.… but that earlier intensity still lingers at the very edges of his expression.

After that long, nightmare-like night, you returned to the hotel with Rover. Morning came too soon, walking out of your room you catch a glimpse of familiar dark fabric moving past you, Your heart jumps.

Quickly, You follow him along the hallway, Rover is already walking ahead, his silhouette framed by golden light from the lobby windows.

“Rover!” you call out, voice echoing softly across the corridor.

He pauses mid-step, turning just slightly. That warm, boyish smile spreads across his face—“Good Morning.” and that breathy softness of his tone. The kind that makes your chest squeeze painfully and your legs feel weak.

It’s stupid how fast he can do that to you.

You greet him back with enthusiasm, falling into step beside him, trying to ignore the butterflies in your stomach. It's too early to be simping again, gotta make your brain think of something else.

“You know, I was thinking... I’m going to stay in Ragunna City. Maybe get a job, settle in a bit. That way I don’t have to run into any Tacet Discords...and honestly...I really don’t want to learn how to fight.”

Rover’s eyes flick toward you as he opens the front entrance of the hotel. The door glides smoothly, and he holds it open without a word, letting you step through first.

“That’s smart thinking,” he murmurs, and for a second, you swear there’s something weightier behind his tone.

Your heart does a flip. Rover just called me smart. He thinks I’m smart! Heh!

You glance up at him, beaming, but the smile on his face has vanished. He’s watching you now. A stillness in him, like the air before lightning strikes.

“But,” he says slowly, and starts walking again, now the two of you are walking down the streets. “You told me about what happened last night… and it sounds like Ragunna City might not be as safe as you think.”

You blink at him. “Wait… you believe me?” The shock is real, raw. You hadn’t expected him to take your words seriously.

He stops walking and Turns. His golden eyes meet yours, catching the sunlight just right, there’s a glimmer in them that feels too sharp to be soft, too intense to be gentle.

“Yes, I do,” he says, voice smooth, measured. “Every single word since we met… I’ve believed you.” He leans in slightly, lowering his tone to something quieter, something softer that curls beneath your skin. “You wouldn’t have a reason to lie to me. Right?”

There’s no threat in his voice. None at all. Only kindness. Too much kindness. It floods over you, sweet and heavy. You gulp.

But then you see it. That unwavering focus in his eyes. Like he’s not just hearing you but memorizing every syllable, and every feature of yours.

Still, your smile returns, hesitant but hopeful. He believed you, About the ghost. You weren’t crazy, and somehow that felt like everything.

“Yep! I was serious about that.” you say, a little breathless. “Thank you.”

Right then, his terminal buzzes.

But Rover doesn’t reach for it immediately, His eyes linger on you, longer than necessary, longer than what should be polite. like the interruption has offended him somehow.

Only when the buzzing repeats does he finally pick it up.

“Were you awake, Rover? I trust you had a restful sleep?” a woman’s voice purrs from the other end.

You slap a hand over your mouth to stifle the squeal building in your throat, eyes going wide. Oh my god. It's Carlotta! This is it! This is where he goes to meet with Brant, Roccia. You're practically vibrating with excitement, quietly giggling into your hand like a lovesick person.

“Psst! What are you giggling about!?” a tiny voice snaps beside you.

You blink, turn your head and flinch. “Abby!? When did you get out of Rover’s Tacet mark? You’re still weak, you shouldn’t be out!”

Abby floats right into your face, squinting suspiciously. “You’re weird. You know things only me and Rover should know. I’m watching you.” It squints harder, doing the two fingers motion from its eyes to yours, then promptly zips back into Rover’s Tacet mark like a gremlin vanishing into shadow.

The call ends with a soft beep.

Rover turns back to you, but there’s something unreadable in his gaze, like he’s thinking too much. Or not thinking at all. “Don’t mind Abby,” he says. “Would you like to come with me?”

You blink. “Where?”

He raises an eyebrow, as his lips quirk up slightly. “You already know the answer. So why ask?”

You huff, flustered, watching as Rover turns his back to you, walking ahead with a casual confidence. Like he already knows you’ll follow.

The space you arrive in is open and tastefully decorated, big plush couches arranged around a low table, soft lighting casting warm glows over the area.

And your breath catches.

Because there they are—Brant, Carlotta, and Roccia. In the flesh. Living, breathing, talking. Not just pixels or dialogue boxes. You practically light up, your eyes going wide and sparkling like you’ve stepped into a dream made real.

You barely register the soft click of Rover’s boots behind you.

He watches you. Watches the way your mouth parts just a little in awe, the way your body angles forward in excitement.

He drinks in every detail like he’s parched...

but it’s not enough. Because for the first time since you met… you’re not looking at him.

You’re looking at them.

And he doesn’t like it.

Not one bit.

There’s a weight in his chest, something sharp and unfamiliar. A prickling tightness blooming behind his ribs like thorns.

He clears his throat softly, a warning disguised in civility.

You blink, glancing back at him. He’s smiling But something in his eyes is off.

Rover gestures toward the trio and some other people from the troop of fools with a tilt of his head, silently urging you forward. You step ahead with a nervous bounce, and he trails just behind you.

His eyes never leave you.

Not even for a second.

“Raise your glasses! Shout it loud, friends! To us! To the carneval! And to our very own Laureate!” Brant cheered, his voice a bit too loud and his steps more than a little wobbly. He looked absolutely wasted, swaying on his feet as he raised his drink high into the air with a proud grin.

You paused, standing just a few feet away from him, trying not to let your expression reveal the internal screeching happening inside your head. Rover stepped forward slightly, close enough that his shoulder nearly brushed yours. “Please, stop,” he murmured. “You’re making me feel embarrassed.”

Brant gave Rover a sloppy, closed-eyed smile, completely unbothered by the scolding. Then his gaze shifted and landed on you and he lit up like a firework. “Oh! The Laureate's Maiden!” he exclaimed, voice cracking with excitement as he stumbled a little. “You were the one Rover left so early for, aren't you?”

He extended his drink toward you in a cheerful toast, and you froze. Your heart practically stuttered at the title, ‘Laureate’s Maiden.’ The words echoed in your mind like a prophecy.

Rover said nothing. He only lifted a hand to his forehead while shaking his head.

Carlotta’s sharp, observant eyes flicked toward you in curiosity. Meanwhile, Roccia leaned in toward her and whispered, “He’s drunk again,” before offering you a small, apologetic smile, in her shy demeanor.

You were losing your goddamn mind.

You stood there, barely holding it together, silently screaming. You were watching Brant be an absolute mess, Roccia being adorable, and Carlotta giving you the “I see you” stare. And then it hit you again how real everything is.

Your inner fangirl was one step away from combusting.

You felt it building up—your excitement almost boiling over your lips.

A hand wrapped around your wrist.

Your head snapped up, eyes locking with Rover’s. His face didn’t betray much, but the look in his golden eyes was enough—sharp, steady, and entirely too aware of what was happening inside you.

Somehow, he knew.

That you were about to slip, about to fangirl out loud and shatter the whole illusion. You didn’t even get how, but he caught it. As if he was tuned to your every breath.

You swallowed your squeal and took a deep, steadying breath. Then gave him a small, sheepish nod.

But he didn’t let go of your wrist and you could feel it in the pressure of his touch, the way he refused to release you.

Carlotta’s gaze softened, her attention drifting from Rover’s hand on you to your expression.

She smiled, and looked down for a moment, then patted the empty space beside her on the couch. It wasn’t direct, no announcement or fanfare, but the invitation was clear in her casual, elegant way. Just a subtle gesture, as if saying; Come sit. Let’s talk. You’re welcome here.

Carlotta rose gracefully, lifting her glass with a quiet confidence that commanded attention. “A toast, everyone!” she called, her voice ringing clear across the space. “drink freely and celebrate without restraint—everything’s on me.”

A ripple of cheers followed, glasses raised, laughter blooming in the air like fireworks.

You giggled to yourself, heart warm, eyes sparkling as the atmosphere buzzed around you. Slipping from Rover’s grasp—fingers parting with a reluctant drag—you moved to sit beside Carlotta on the plush sofa, feeling a soft thrill.

Carlotta turned to you, her expression calm but kind. “Welcome,” she said smoothly, folding one leg over the other. “You’re Rover’s special person. You’ll be treated as such.”

Your chest gave a small, involuntary flutter. You blinked at her, caught off guard by her directness. “Ah—Thank you! Um… but I don’t know about being special…” Your voice trailed into a mumble as you tucked a strand of hair behind your ear, cheeks heating. “I want to be, though…”

Carlotta tilted her head, repeating your words with an airy lilt, “You’re not?” a flicker of relief, so subtle it almost slipped past you.

Before you could open your mouth and spill something mortifying —your unfiltered thoughts like, ‘Rover's fingers felt like silk ropes and I think I stopped breathing for three seconds’—a sudden shift interrupted.

Rover moved, Just strode forward and sat himself directly between you and Carlotta, his body sliding into the space. His shoulder pressed lightly against yours, and you had no choice but to scoot slightly to the side—caught off guard by the smoothness of the maneuver.

Carlotta blinked in mild surprise, eyebrows raising ever so slightly. Your own eyes widened too. The tension was brief but palpable, like the quiet before a lightning strike.

Carlotta adjusted her posture with ease and offered no protest. She simply redirected the flow of conversation, her tone shifting into something professional as she began discussing details about the event.

Rover and Carlotta kept talking, their tones low and deliberate as Roccia chimed in now and then. You stayed quiet, content to observe. but the heat at your side was impossible to ignore.

Rover’s leg brushed against yours, now settled there, beside yours. His hand settled near his knee, close enough that you felt the weight of it, even without touch. There was less to no distance between you two.

Whatever that gesture meant, it was received. Even the Order’s acolyte, who was spying from afar noticed it.

No one would approach you. Not now. Not with him right there.

It would be reported to Primus, an unexpected detail they’d soon turn into a calculated advantage.

You’re alone again.

The wind cuts soft against your skin as you stand on the balcony—that balcony. The one Rover brought you to the cave opened up into a place, Order's Cathedral.

He got summoned by the Primus. Some urgent request, diplomatic bullshit. You didn’t want to go inside. So you told him you’d wait here—where it all began. Where you both first touched Regunna’s sky.

The elevator hums behind you.

Ding.

“Excuse me, Miss. Are you with Rover?”

You blink, caught mid-thought. When you turn, you find an acolyte standing just a few feet away, the fountain splashing steadily behind him.

“Yes?” you say slowly, confused. Why the hell is one of them talking to you?

“With the Primus’ request, we’d like to give you a tour of the Order’s wildlife.”

Huuuh!?

You stare at him, deadpan. “Does Rover know about this?”

He doesn’t answer, Instead, his hand appears from behind his back, holding out a bouquet. A beautiful one. Flowers in shades that don’t exist in Regunna’s natural palette, arranged like a bribe wrapped in silk.

“For you, my lady,” he says with a thin smile. “A gift from the Primus. As a welcome.”

Huuuuuuuhhhhh?!

You feel your social anxiety flare like a damn solar flare. You grab the bouquet on instinct just to make this weirdo stop looking at you. The scent hits you immediately—sweet, heady, with something underneath, Faint and Strange.

Rot?

No. It’s not bad. Just…

“Would you please follow me?”

You don’t want to.

You don’t want to.

You want to ask more questions. Call Rover. Push this guy into the railing and run. But your body… it’s moving. Feet light, legs slow, floating forward.

The bouquet trembles in your hands.

Your throat tightens. “Ro...ver…” you try, but your mouth opens soundlessly. Not a whisper, not a wheeze. Nothing.

Inside, you’re screaming. You are begging for your voice. For control of your body.

Help me.

But all you can do is follow.

You’re in a field now.

Wide, open, The sky is dimmer here. Or maybe you’re imagining it. You blink—your vision sharpens. The man’s walking away, saying nothing. His silhouette fades into the distant treeline like he was never there.

And just like that, you drop the bouquet.

It hits the ground with a soft thump, and suddenly—it’s like you can breathe again. Like some part of your soul just clawed its way back into your chest.

Your hands shake.

“That bastard,” you hiss, furious. You want to run back, grab someone—anyone—by the collar and scream at them, What the fuck was that?!

But… who would believe you?

Then a voice, warm and steady, echoes in your memory.

“Every single word since we met… I’ve believed you.”

Rover.

Your breath hitches. Yeah. He would believe you.

But first, you need to get the hell out of here.

You spin around, scanning the field. You don’t even know where you are. There’s grass. Rocks. A distant shimmer of trees. You have no idea which way is back to the city. And of course, the second you realize how alone you are, The air shifts.

It gets cold. And then you hear it. Skittering. Growling. Clicking. Then, like stars in a nightmare sky, they appear—one by one. Tacet Discords...At least twenty of them.

All shapes. All sizes. Some teddy bear like. Some Grotesque silhouettes against the horizon—elongated limbs, blinking eyes, wet jaws, razor-wings.

The air hums with primal danger.

Your heart drops straight into your gut.

“Nonononono! fuck me sideways...” you breathe, taking a shaky step back.

Then they move, Fast. All at once. You run.

There’s no plan. No direction. Just sheer, animal panic. You dodge a spiked tail that slams into the ground where you stood a second ago. The impact makes the earth tremble, and you scream—loud, raw.

Your luck is absolute shit—no, scratch that, it's cosmically cursed. You were having such a good time.

And now? Thrown into this mess.

Funny how things go to hell the moment Rover isn’t by your side. When he’s around, your luck feels blessed, like the universe has your back. The second he’s gone? Boom—chaos and now apparently a welcoming bouquet laced with “fuck-you” energy.

Branches whip at your arms as you dive into whatever passes for cover here—rocks, shallow dips, ruins of something ancient and forgotten. You keep going, because stopping means dying.

You trip once. Twice. A claw nearly catches your ankle. You don’t look back.

Your legs burn. Your lungs are begging for mercy.

Your brain is just screaming: You’re going to die here.

You’re not built for this. You never trained. You’re not a Resonator. You don’t belong in the middle of a Tacet Discord bloodbath.

All you have is your decent sense of sarcasm, and what you hope is enough spite to fuel your survival.

“Great!” you shout breathlessly. “This is fantastic! You guys didn't even ask me on a date and now I’m on the fucking menu?!”

A Tacet Discord shrieks behind you in response. You scream back, middle finger raised in pure survival-mode insanity.

They’re everywhere. Every direction you turn..You can't outrun them. You know that.

But you’ll damn well try.

Because dying like this—alone, devoured in the dirt like trash?

Not on your list of acceptable Tuesday activities, wait is it Tuesday here? Nevermind.

And if you’re going down... at least one of these freaks is gonna have indigestion afterward.

The air is thick with dread.

Your legs are jelly, lungs burning, and the cacophony of Tacet Discords closing in is deafening. Each breath feels like a countdown to oblivion.

Suddenly, a blinding light pierces the gloom.

A shockwave erupts, sending Tacet Discords flying like ragdolls. The ground trembles beneath you, and for a moment, the world holds its breath.

From the epicenter of the blast, a figure emerges—Rover.

But this isn't the Rover you know. His eyes blaze with an otherworldly light, and an aura of raw power radiates from him. The very air around him seems to bend, acknowledging his dominance.

He moves with lethal grace, each step purposeful. With a mere gesture, he summons ethereal weapons, dispatching Tacet Discords with surgical precision. The creatures, once so terrifying, have become his playthings.

His eyes glow—brighter than the stars, colder than space.

The frequency thickens around him like a cloak of shadows alive and hungry. His Spectro resonance still hums at the core, pulsing in rhythm with his heartbeat like a ticking bomb.

In a blur of movement, Rover twists—hand slicing the TDs clean and efficiently, like a surgeon cutting through rotten flesh.

More surround him. A pulse of Havoc ignites—Dark Surge expanding. He warps forward, vanishing for a half second—then reappears behind them mid-spin, hurling his scythe from both hands. The Tacet Discords shudder before collapsing, torsos sliced clean.

You blink—and two more Tacet Discords have already fallen. You can’t even see how he did it.

You sigh in relief but damn it, he looks terrifyingly hot. That dark gleam in his eyes, the effortless precision, the sheer dominance in every move…

Yeah, you’re shaken, but a part of you? Still hopelessly down bad.

The adrenaline drains from your body like a snapped string. You can finally let go, but your limbs tremble uncontrollably. Now that the fear has passed, your body finally realizes just how close you came to dying.

A sharp crunch pulls your attention up.

Rover steps forward, walking toward your crouched form with slow, steady steps. The ground doesn’t quake beneath him anymore, and that unbearable frequency that had screamed around him moments ago has vanished. The pressure lifts.

Your Rover is back.

You wrap your arms tightly around yourself, heart pounding like a war drum as you watch him approach. He crouches in front of you, and for a moment, it’s like déjà vu—just like when you first met. That same soft smile curves his lips, like the battlefield around you doesn’t exist.

He extends a hand.

That’s it. You can’t hold it in anymore.

Tears spill over your cheeks—hot, heavy, unstoppable. The sob rips from your throat before you can even stop it. You were going to die. You were so close to being torn apart and—

You don’t even register him moving until his arms are around you, pulling you into a firm, grounding hug.

You bury your face in his chest, fists clutching the undershirt beneath his jacket like it’s the only thing anchoring you to reality.

One of his hands moves slowly over your back, tracing calming circles. The other cradles the back of your head gently, like you’re fragile glass and he’s terrified of cracking you.

And in that moment, you feel safe. Safe like never before. Not because the danger is gone.

But because he is here.

Your sobs have finally faded to sniffles. You rub your puffy eyes, shifting just a little away from his chest but still firmly in his embrace.

“I actually thought I was going to die,” you mutter, voice scratchy. “Like! I know I broke my personal record of staying alive for a week, which is amazing, but I still didn’t wanna die, you know?”

Rover hums softly, his gloved fingers gently threading through your hair. The motion is rhythmic, soothing. “You’re still alive,” he says, voice calm and warm. “See?” And there it is, that smile. Soft. Sweet. Heart-melting.

You’d fight twenty more Tacet Discords for that smile. Urm… hide behind him while he fights.

“Yeah… thanks to you,” you reply, trying to gently pry yourself from his hold.

Keyword: try.

His arms don’t budge.

“Rover… I think I’m okay now,” you laugh awkwardly. “We can head back to the city?”

You’re not sure why it came out as a question but somehow, when it comes to him, you feel like you need permission to even breathe.

Rover finally nods and lets go, though his eyes linger on you, scanning, calculating, checking every tiny tremble in your limbs.

You stand beside him, brushing dust off yourself as he steps ahead, leading the way. The silence is easy… until he speaks, like it’s casual small talk.

“I met with Primus. Can you guess what happened?”

He’s smiling, but... something’s off. You glance down and see his fists clenched so tight.

“Oh yeah!” you perk up, totally missing the tension. “I remember that quest—kind of. Doesn’t he like, talk in riddles about ‘The Maiden’ or whatever?”

You ramble, voice light and airy now, blissfully unaware that your words aren’t answering his question so much as distracting yourself.

“Mostly accurate, but he mentioned you as well. And threatened me, indirectly.”

You don’t notice how Rover’s gentle tone shifts—how frustration slips into the spaces between his words, how tightly he’s reining it in.

“Wait! Wait! Wait, what?! Am I ruining the plot?!” you blurt, wide-eyed. “No way! I don’t wanna get involved, nope. Rover, can you like—send me to Jinzhou? That place is super peaceful right now and it’d be perfect for me to start a new life in. Like then I won't have acolytes luring me into a place filled with Tds...”

Rover stops walking. There’s so much in your words that bugs him. The way you talk about leaving like it’s that simple...like he could ever let you go.

“So,” he mutters, as if confirming something to himself, “that’s what happened…”

Then louder, firm enough to cut through your spiral. “It’s okay. Nothing will happen to you.”

And he says it with such unshakable certainty, it doesn’t feel like reassurance, it feels like a threat to the universe itself. this is his vow to you.

You exhale. “Thank you…” The walk continues, and there’s a light brush of Rover’s hand against yours.

You hesitate, then test it, fingers creeping toward his, shy and slow. Like you’re asking a question without words.

And rather quickly, Rover answers.

He intertwines his fingers with yours, firm and grounding. No hesitation. Just his hand, holding yours, like he’s always meant to.

You grin to yourself, giggling inwardly like a little gremlin. Heheh, holding hands before marriage. How scandalous.

Well, you muse dramatically, we’ve held hands before… but this is different. This is sacred. Because I initiated it.

You beam with inner pride, your silly little heart puffing. Because yes, this moment matters. Because yes, you’re holding your husband’s hand.

Husband as in: you married him in your daydreams. Details, details.

As you and Rover entered Ragunna City again, you were immediately met with Carlotta. it seemed like she had been waiting for the two of you.

“Rover!” she called out, striding toward you both. Her expression brightened, then faltered the moment her gaze landed on you. Concern twisted across her face like a storm cloud. “Are you okay?! My goodness...”

“It was the Order,” Rover replied, his tone calm but clipped. Then, turning to Carlotta, he made a quiet request—asking for her help. His eyes found yours again. “I need to take care of something. Carlotta can be trusted, don’t worry. I’ll be back before you know it.”

Your hands were still interlocked—his grip firm, grounding. Then, with a final squeeze, he let go and walked away, his figure disappearing like a tether snapping loose.

You turned to Carlotta, awkwardly brushing back your disheveled hair. “Um… sorry for how I look? I feel like I offended you somehow.”

Carlotta blinked, clearly startled. “No, no! Please, be at ease. As I said before—Rover’s special person will be treated with the utmost care and respect. Please, follow me.”

She led you to her estate and provided a guest room stocked with fresh clothes. After a soothing shower and a change into soft, clean fabric, you collapsed into the bed like a soul exorcised of fatigue.

It wasn’t long before a gentle knock on the door pulled you from your nap. “Come in!”

Carlotta entered, a composed smile on her face, followed by a butler carrying a silver tray. Your mouth practically watered on reflex. The far end of the room revealed a small table and chairs. The butler wordlessly placed the tray down and exited with the elegance of a ghost. Carlotta gestured for you to sit with her, settling into one of the chairs with regal ease.

You took the seat across from her, and she offered you a genuine smile. “Don’t mind me. Please, dig in.”

You didn’t need to be told twice. The food was warm and familiar, like a safety blanket in edible form.

Finally relaxed, your guard temporarily down, you decided to bring up the thought that had been gnawing at your mind.

“So, I was thinking of going to Jinzhou. You know, that city in Huanglong...”

Carlotta tilted her head with interest, eyes glinting. “May I ask why?”

“I don’t feel safe in Ragunna City after the...” you hesitated, poking at your food, “You know... and Jinzhou is, like, very peaceful right now. A perfect place to not get attacked by anything!”

Carlotta nodded, leaning back and folding one leg over the other with the poise of a queen. “I can help you with that. Arrange transportation. I’ll make sure you arrive safely and are well taken care of once you’re inside the city.”

You gasped, hand pressed to your chest dramatically. “Omg! You would do that? Thank you so much!”

Carlotta nodded, her smile never faltering but her eyes held something calculating beneath the warmth. Of course, she had her own reasons. She was a woman of business, after all. And every investment had its return.

Carlotta had escorted you back to the hotel after receiving a message from Rover—he wouldn't be able to pick you up himself. You didn’t think much of it. Maybe he got caught up in something.

You made small talk with Carlotta.

Once you reached the hotel entrance, you turned to her with a small smile.

“Thanks... for walking with me. And for, well, everything,” you murmured, scratching your cheek awkwardly.

Carlotta smiled, her gaze softening. “Of course. Take care of yourself.”

You waved her goodbye, entering the building and making your way up the stairs, shoes clicking softly against the polished floor. As you reached your floor, something odd caught your eye. You noticed a door, just beside yours, was slightly ajar.

Curiosity won over common sense, and like the nosy little gremlin you were, you peeked.

And immediately regretted it. Who are you lying to? You didn't regret it a slightest bit.

Rover stood inside, his back to you, just as he was taking off his jacket. Then came the gloves, tossed onto a nearby chair. The strap across his chest followed, sliding off in one smooth motion. Then he reached for the hem of his shirt. That clingy, perfectly-fitted grey undershirt. He was halfway through tugging it off when your soul panicked.

You panicked, raising your fist and knocking loudly. Your eyes widened. Your cheeks caught fire.

Rover turned his head slightly, catching you in the corner of his eye, shirt now caught at his ribs, he lets go of it.

Your face flushed immediately.

He looked unfairly good like this—hair slightly tousled, collarbone peeking out, that necklace glinting against his skin like a silent warning.

“Oh, you’re back... safe and sound.” he said, voice dipped in honeyed relief. His eyes roamed over you, then lingered just a second too long. “Good.”

You cleared your throat and stepped inside like a guilty cat caught knocking over a vase. “I—uh—y-yeah, I just—sorry, I didn’t mean to peek or anything, I just—your door—it was open and—uh—” You were absolutely malfunctioning. “Your shirt is committing war crimes.”

Rover chuckled softly and didn’t press it. His smile was warm, and yet something about it felt strained, like there was static just under the surface. As he turned fully, the soft lighting dancing across his face, the shirt clinging to his muscles.

You cleared your throat, You sat down on the arm of a chair, legs swinging slightly. You figured now was a good time to talk. “Anyway, I wanted to talk to you... about something.”

He tilted his head, eyebrows lifting as he leaned against the table. “I’m listening.”

“So… I kinda had a conversation with Carlotta while I was stuffing my face with food. And, well…” you paused, watching his hands still, You smiled awkwardly. “So... I talked to Carlotta. And she said she could help me get to Jinzhou. You know, because Ragunna’s not exactly ‘let’s settle down and bake cookies’ levels of safe.”

Rover’s smile didn’t vanish—it simply froze, like a painted expression.

“Oh?” he said, with an almost imperceptible pause.

His tone stayed even. “And why would you want to go there?”

“Like I told you before..” You shrugged. “I don’t feel safe here. I mean, what happened in the field? That’s not something I want a round two of. And Jinzhou's got, like… zen energy. I can heal a bit. And I think... I need that. I think I’d feel better there. You could come visit too, of course.” You grinned at him, clearly trying to keep the conversation light, because the strange, tense atmosphere is becoming suffocating.

“I see,” Rover said softly. He took a step closer. “Leaving is the right choice?”

“I mean… yeah?” you answered with a sheepish grin. “Don’t get me wrong, I’d miss you. A lot. You’re like the world’s best emotional support. Like—seriously. Who gave you permission to look that good covered in dust?”

That got a small laugh out of him but the tension didn’t fade. His fingers flexed slightly at his side.

Then your eyes caught something, on the edge of his undershirt sleeve, just beneath the fabric...

Your heart jumped, Blood. A faint, dark smear near the hem of his shirt.

Your lightheartedness fizzled. “Wait… are you hurt?” You stood, frowning. “Did something happen?”

Rover tilted his head, then looked down like he’d forgotten the evidence on him. “No,” he said quickly. “Not my blood.”

That did not make it better. Not his? You blinked. “Then whose—?”

“It’s nothing you need to worry about,” he said with a gentle smile, the kind that felt... wrong now. “You’re safe. That’s what matters.”

That strange calm in his voice made your skin crawl in the oddest way. You tried to shake it off. Your body stiffened instinctively.

After a pause, he looked at you again—this time softer, almost vulnerable.

“Will you stay?”

You hesitated. He waited. You shook your head slowly. “No. I mean, I care about you, and I have made that clear, I guess very clear… but I just don’t want to stay here anymore. It doesn’t feel right. I need space. Maybe you can come visit me in Jinzhou when you get a break or something?”

You smiled gently and stepped toward the door.

But it shut before you could touch the handle.

A hand pressed flat against the wood in front of you, and heat rushed down your spine. Rover was behind you now, close enough that you felt the weight of his presence in your bones.

“That,” he whispered, voice no longer gentle but absolute, “is not an option.”

Your breath caught in your throat.

You turned your head slightly, only to find his face right there, cheek against your hair, mouth near your ear.

“I didn’t believe you at first,” he began, voice barely above a whisper. “When you said all those things. About me. About this world. I thought you were just being poetic. But I listened. Every word. Every little slip. You’ve known me since the beginning, haven’t you?”

You slowly turned to face him. His eyes weren’t wide with madness. No. They were too calm. Too lucid. And that was so much worse. You backed up slightly but there was nowhere to go, Your back pressing against the door.

“You talk like you’ve always known me. From the beginning of my journey. Every choice I’ve made...you understand it before I even speak…”

He exhaled a laugh—short, humorless. “I started noticing things after I met you. Things I shouldn’t notice. The way the world shifts around us. The way time bends. The way... none of it feels real anymore.”

You blinked. “What are you talking about—?”

“I see it now,” he breathed. “The repetition. The scripted kindness. The way people pause just long enough for you to speak. I am in a story. I wholeheartedly believe you now...And you…”

He leans closer, his elbow bending, caging you gently between him and the door.

“You are the only unpredictable thing in this world. The only one who looks at me like I’m more than lines of code. The only one that feels real. Because you are the only one anchoring me to the real world.”

You could hear the tremble building under his voice, like a crack in the earth before the quake.

“I started wondering—what am I? A character in a story? A game? Made for people’s amusement?”

His voice broke, briefly. “Am I real, or just code wrapped in skin?”

You tried to speak, but the words caught in your throat.

“You’re the only thing that makes sense now,” he continued. “You’re the only one who doesn’t glitch. The only one who talks like she’s seen me.”

“Rover—”

“No. Listen. Do you understand what that means?” His hand cupped your cheek—soft, reverent, yet trembling with obsession barely restrained. “You are my anchor. Without you, this world dissolves. Without you, I become... just another piece of fiction.”

His forehead pressed against yours.

“I don’t want to forget how your voice sounds. I don’t want to wake up and realize I imagined you. I don't want to go back to a loop where you never existed.”

You felt his breath tremble against your lips.

“I need to know that I’m not just a story you’ll get tired of.”

Your heart thundered in your chest—part fear, part something far too complicated to name.

“I fucked up...” you whisper to yourself, barely audible.

Rover smiles.

That soft, puppy-like smile. The kind that used to melt your heart, the kind that once made you believe he could never hurt you. The kind that now feels like a mask.

He steps away for a moment—only to hook his fingers around your wrist with a gentle tug, pulling you back. You stumble, breath catching, and the back of your knees meets the edge of the bed with a muted thud.

“I notice everything about you,” he murmurs. “The way you dote on me... those little moments? They don’t go unnoticed.”

He extends his hand—like he always has. From the moment you met until now, it has always been there, waiting. Waiting for you to take it.

And you always did. With no hesitation. Sometimes even with joy.

But now...

Now you hesitate.

His hair is slightly disheveled, a few strands falling into his eyes. There’s a faint smear of blood at the hem of his grey shirt—crimson staining cotton like paint across canvas. When he tilts his head, the necklace he always wears catches the light, swinging like a pendulum.

Even now, in this moment, he looks so...Beautiful. Unreal.

“Don’t you want to be my wife?” His voice is low, coaxing. “Why hesitate now...?”

He says your name like a lover's prayer. Or a spell. Like the idea of you slipping away is unbearable. And it makes you ache to take his hand again.

“You said you loved me. Remember?”

His eyes widen. The desperation in them is stark, unhidden, raw. Wild. Like a man teetering on the edge of a cliff and calling it faith. Like falling is a choice... and dragging you down with him is a promise.

Then, in a voice so quiet it makes your stomach twist.

“So prove it.”

Your breath stutters. He was patient. He gave you your space, didn’t he? Gave you time to think. To breathe. He waited...

But patience is fragile.

And even if you run, it won’t matter. he’s the main character of this world. He knows that. he knows this world bends to him.

You can’t escape.

Everyone loves him, adores him. They always will. He’ll use that love, twist it into a cage so soft you won’t even know you’re inside it.

He sees it now, your fear. Sees the way your body tenses like a trembling leaf. He exhales, slow and measured, and steps into your space until there’s nothing left between you.

“Jinzhou,” he repeats, like he’s tasting the word. “You want to go there?”

You nod quickly, reflexively. Any wrong move could shift the moment. Could turn gentleness into something else entirely.

His hands lift, hovering in the air, waiting, Would you flinch? He would never do something that would push him away from you.

But you don’t flinch. You don’t move.

So he cups your cheeks with such tenderness it makes your skin crawl.

“There,” he whispers. “Relax. You can go to Jinzhou. I won’t stop you.”

You shiver. His voice is calm, but his eyes... those eyes aren’t the ones you fell in love with. They’re deeper now, darker, bottomless pits that don’t reflect light, only swallow it.

Because this world already belongs to me. I don’t need to lock you up to keep you.

“Don’t worry,” he soothes, fingers brushing along your jaw. “You’re safe. I’ll make sure of that.”

And you nod.

You lean into his touch because, in this world—whether you like it or not—he’s the only one who can protect you. The only one who won’t let you go.

Because This isn't pure love.

This is love born from obsession.

[the-moons-tears]

His siren

Brant x f!siren!reader (spicy but not full nsfw) Wuwa

Evening! This was the top voted prompt from the poll sorry it took so long I had many tests to take and study for 🫠

I’m so ready to pull for him omgggg

Preview: he continued, “I must believe it to be true, as I can’t stop thinking about whether you feel soft to hold, to kiss…”

Scales shimmered in the moonlight, jingling on a rope from the rhythm of waves that jostled the ship. “Siren” scales, so the old man that sold them claimed to the curious sailor. They were so enchanting where they hung in the corner of a large bay window in Brant’s quarters. The light reflected off them, casting the scale’s color along the walls and other items that captured his interest. A myth, he told himself, but ended up paying for the trinket anyway. Sometimes he could swear a certain jostle would cause the scales to create a melody as they touched. The sounds would return in his dreams, so much so that the urge to search for this “myth” became too much. It wouldn’t hurt to look, as the sea often hid many secrets. Glancing again at the scales, drink in hand, he thought of an idea. If he wanted to find something in the sea, he’d have to offer something in return.

You cursed as you stared at your reflection from atop the rock. The waves weren’t the best source of a mirror, but you could still tell where the healing wound was on your beautiful but not so flawless anymore tail. You were missing more than seven scales. Seven! They took ages to grow back, and they were missing all in one spot from a fisherman’s spear throw that happened to strike true. The embarrassment you felt was huge, although there were no other sirens around to make fun of you for it. The worst part was that you couldn’t find your missing scales. You liked to keep them, make jewelry from your own beauty by putting it in your hair, on your ears, or to your breast coverings, but after scraping the sea floor and coming up empty handed, you gave up on looking.

It frustrated you. Clearly you underestimated the old man’s sight as you swam closer than usual under a boat. You guess he had seen your shadow and immediately thrown his weapon. It hurt of course, and you panicked, swimming quickly downward and out of sight, bleeding from your tail as seven precious scales floated up to the surface.

Sighing, you turned away from the water, resting your head on your palm. The air was nice, something you couldn’t feel under water. The small retractable gills under your jaw helped filter oxygen through water, but having another set of lungs allowed you to breathe air like a human above the sea. Often you’d think about the human’s and their activities on the ocean. Pirates were the most interesting to you. You’d heard that in the distant past, pirates used to hunt for your kind, keeping them as treasures among their hoards of wealth. Crazy as it might have sounded, you were curious about their treasures. Pirates seemed to have the same taste in all things that glittered under the sun as you did. Would it be so bad to be a pirate’s beloved treasure that they tended to be so possessive over?

In exploring the shipwrecks that had sunken to the depths, you always found the captain, clad in gold and shimmering gems that were still in those skeletal hands. They all seemed to love their treasure, dying covered in it with their ship. A fascinating attachment to their material things you thought. Some even had gems embedded in their teeth, many of those teeth hanging around your neck as decor now.

Your fingers ran over the sensitive barred flesh where your scales were missing, annoyed at the absence of the hard sheen that coated the entirety of your tail. The beautiful fins attached to your back and tail end flopped on the rock, much like an annoyed cat thumped its own tail on the ground to let it be known they were frustrated.

What could you do to lift your spirits? Spirits?…drinks…Sometimes when rummaging through sunken pirate treasure, you’d find closely sealed bottles that hadn’t broken under the pressure of the water, containing some dark colored liquid that made you feel hot and funny. You really liked those when you drank them on your rock, and since they were pretty hard to find, you usually kept them for rare occasions. This seemed like a very important occasion you reasoned with yourself, and quickly retreated back into the depths to gather a bottle to bring back up.

After several minutes of turning your fingers red trying to get the damn cork off, the bottle popped, little drops of the liquid flying out. The tang of it hit your tongue nicely, and soon the bottle was almost gone. You kind of forgot about your scale dilemma, singing to yourself your favorite songs that the sea had taught you.

In the middle of your one siren performance, you heard a familiar chime. It was too distant to come from your own scale made trinkets, but you knew the sound well. They were yours. Shaking your head from the heat of the drink, you set down the now empty bottle haphazardly. You were going to get those scales back. The sound of your body crashing into the water was muffled by the waves bashing up on cliffs and rocks, your water dynamic form cruising through the deep. You could hear the sounds underwater, the uncanny magic of your own scales calling out to you. There, they were hanging from a string above a ship. Swimming closer to the surface, you noticed other shimmering items beside your scales, glittering like the gold and jewels found on pirate captain remains. Your eyes gleamed with want, so quickly you dive deep before dashing upward with your tail, preparing to make the leap above.

Brant wasn’t planning on making contact with a siren, even seeing the shadow of one drawn by the sound of what was hopefully its scales would be enough to satiate his curiosity. The last thing he wanted to do was take a mythical creature captive for his own gain. Holding out the scales on a string, he let the wind do its work, moving the shards against each other to create the sound that haunted his dreams. The myths seemed to lead him to believe that siren’s were quite possessive over their things, often vain with carefully put together visages to attract sailors. Brant didn’t know if it was true, all he knew was that the song enchanted him, though no voice came from the scales.

Looking down in the waters, he saw it, a human-fish like shadow that moved fluidly. It disappeared just as quickly, retreating to the depths. A smile spread on his face, and his hand almost went to drop the scales, returning them to their owner, but before his fingers could fully loosen, a giant splash of water came from below. The sound prompted him to look quickly, quickly enough to see you, a beautiful real creature coming up to him, eyes locked with the string that had the same colors as your tail. Your momentum sent you tumbling into his, your giant tail over his legs with you on top of his chest.

The human’s chest had a very strange mark along it, and touching it let your fingers feel a bit of a hum, like the sensation of a current. The skin was soft and warm, but what attracted you most were the sparkling trinkets adorning him. There were shining circles that punctured his ears, and a big square like piece on his waist. Your hands went to fiddle with it, to which the man made an embarrassed yelp, trying to slide away. The weight of you on top held him down, your tail a bigger weight due to your years in the sea. Before you messed with it more, you heard a slight clink on the deck right beside his shoulders. Quickly your hand shot out to grab the string of scales, your scales.

“Beautiful siren, do you speak?” The human man below you voiced, a wide incredulous smile gracing his handsome features, like this encounter was the most magical thing that ever happened to him. Holding your scales close, you eyed him up and down narrowly. This man was not the one that attacked you, so how did he have them? In the end, you thought, it didn’t matter as long as you got them back. Your movements caused the many decor pieces on you to jingle, catching light on your already graceful form. His eyes sparkled, widening when you respond,

“I am familiar with many human languages.” You brought your hands up, adjusting your wet hair now that you were above water. When he looked as if to carry a conversation, you turned sharply, hearing whispers. The pirate under you was cautious, telling the crewman and others who were attracted to the strange sight to back up as you sat there unhappy at the people interrupting your time with your handsome new fascination. A short girl with pink and violet hair shooed the crowd away with the help of a box, knowing a creature like you probably didn’t want that kind of distraction when you were focused on the thing, or man, of your interest. Mythical creatures deserved respect. The annoyance faded quickly, as your attention returned to the man you had below you. Leaning down, your chests touched as your hand fidgeted with one of his earrings. “Do you have many of these shining things? I want to see them.”

“Yes, our fool’s troupe has many wonders! I…never expected they would grace the sight of a mythical siren. Captain Brant at your service miss…” He paused, allowing you to tell your name. you told him, the origin sounding foreign to the rinascitan man. The captain seemed theatrical, a fiery personality that you hoped kept some shiny treasures. Your hand left his earring to reach for his hat, holding it up and inspecting it. You didn’t know what it was, but copied how he wore it. Brant laughed lightly in disbelief at your curious behavior, but you were getting a little impatient. You wanted to see the hoards of pirate treasure that must have been stowed away somewhere.

As Brant sat up carefully, you threw your arms over him, causing him to steady you both a little awkwardly, one of his hands supporting your side. His warmth was very attractive to you, a contrast to the waters that were often very cold where there wasn’t much sun. “Do siren’s drink?” The captain sounded surprised, the smell of alcohol defined now that you were so close. You couldn’t tell what he meant, too focused on the strange anatomy of the man below you, and how his warm hand felt on your hip.

The gills on your neck had retracted into your skin to suit your lungs breathing in oxygen outside of water. Brant’s clothes were soaked, sticking to him from where you landed on him, which was almost his whole body. Accounting for tail length, you would have beaten his height by many inches if you laid side by side to compare. Brant took a breath before speaking to let you know he was going to lift you up. “Alright, let’s get you up then.”

Brant adjusted his hand on your waist, the other hand coming under your tail to position you more in his lap. With your arms around him as added support, he lifted you up before using his long legs to get a stance on the deck. Your shimmering tail hang low with the lustrous fins almost touching the wood deck, but the pirate captain made it seem like no big deal. His expression was curious, the texture of your tail certainly something new to him. The hat on your head was still secure as he walked down stairs in the giant ship, briefly pausing to put his back to the doors to his quarters.

The smell of the sea was still present even in the room. Jeweled trinkets hung from different places, and different vases had gold almost woven into the ceramic. There were chests, open and full of necklaces and fabrics. Closest to you, was a little moving creature. It looked like the other ceramic things, but it was filled with water, and gave a little bark like an animal when you were carried in.

“I figured you can’t be out of water too long, so I had one of my crewmates bring a tubpup down full of seawater. You don’t mind if I set you in it do you?”

You nodded, still taking in the different aspects of the room, eyes landing on the bed like structure covered in intricately designed pillows and metalwork of the frame. You also noticed several bottles laying around, asking, “are those bottles that have the dark liquid? They make you feel warm.” Brant glanced at them as he lowered you into the water, hands slipping away from you.

“So you do drink wine! Where would you get things like that in the sea?”

“Many sunken ships have tightly sealed chests which have ‘wine, and they are quite good, although the pressure makes most of them break, making them a rare find.” Watching closely, your eyes followed Brant’s movements to grab two glass cups and the bottle of what you now knew as wine. He brought them over, setting them down before pulling a chest full of gems over. Your finger went in quickly, pulling out a handful of sparkly things. A jeweled necklace with rubies like his eyes, earrings that were wire wrapped around polished peridot gems, and a silver cup with embedded citrine gemstones.

Coins fell from your handfull into the tub, metal reflecting off your scales while Brant poured the dark wine into the two glasses. The shimmer caught Brant’s eyes, and he moved closer to look. Your tail hung out of the tub a bit, too long for the whole tub to fit, but it wasn’t uncomfortable for you. His eyes sparkled with curiosity about your scales, the glistening seeming to entrance him the same way when he had your string of scales. Handing you a glass full of your favorite drink, he took a sip of his own and rested his arm on the top of the tub, simply looking at your tail and uniquely strung together jewelry. The seven missing scales were tied to a string you wore, probably to be taken off later for some other purpose.

His hat was still on your head, so he figured you quite liked it. Your cup was empty before he could fully take you in, and you handed it to him for him to fill it again, your lower fins moving contently under the water in the tub. After handing you a second glass, the captain asked softly, “would it be intruding to ask your permission to touch your tail?”

Lifting much of your tail out of the water, you let the larger fins and scaled parts land practically in his hands, making him have to move his glass away so as to not drop it from the sudden weight. The iridescence was fascinating, and the rays from outside cast an ethereal glow on your already luminous form. His calloused hands ran over your scales gently, fingers tracing the pattern they made to protect the flesh beneath. Tilting the glass all the way up, you downed your second large glass, small murmurs coming from your throat.

“Captain Brant, do you sing well?” You sighed out, fins flexing and moving in his grasp. Gently putting your tail back in the tub, he drank the rest of his own share, fingers wiping a stray drop from his lip to answer, “I have my fair share of practice in it. Being on the sea would be a little dull without a song wouldn’t it? I enjoyed the song your scales sang to me particularly before I returned them if I could be so honest.”

“Mm yes, what folk songs do you know that pirates sing? I have never heard any before.” You watched him down a third glass before standing, bowing and turning his back to you. Suddenly he broke out into character, recounting a story he had heard, which then turned into a folk tale you began to quickly like. His theatrical voice and playful tone had you smiling and raising another glass to his wild whimsy. The wine had made you both tipsy, you giving a little hiccup as you started singing the chorus with him after hearing him sing it before.

The behavior was wild and full of merry joy, Brant decorating you with more jewels like a character he described in another story. The festive bonding between the siren and pirate captain lasted for an hour or two more, until you both sang yourselves to near sundown. Being the treasure of a pirate was the best, you thought as you nearly fell out of the tub, your head swimming from the wine. Brant was on the floor beside it laying over soft fabrics, clothes still damp. Adjusting the hat on your head, you climbed over, falling onto him with the rest of your tail landing with a thump on the floor. Your head sought to bury itself into his neck as your hands searched for warmth from his body.

Brant grunted, cheeks flushed from wine and the proximity you shared. His words slurred as he spoke, “beautiful siren, is it true you can enchant sailors to fall in love at first sight?”

Pulling back to peer down at him, you noticed with the boldness the wine gave you how kissable a pirate looked. His lips were wet, and his mouth slightly parted, chest rising heavily as he looked up at your form. “I…” he continued, “I must believe it to be true, as I can’t stop thinking about whether you feel soft to hold, to kiss…”

His eyes were sparkling, holding adventure and a desire for things unknown to him, like the woman above him. Sitting forward from his flat down position with you on him, he tilted his face up, his hands coming where you guided them, up the small of your back and below your shoulder blades. With slow, teasing motions, you peeled the billowy shirt and jacket down, revealing glistening skin where the water hadn’t dried from your encounter.

“I have no such magic, captain…” you whispered back in a subtle tone, encouraging him to keep going. Your hands lightly ran over the black mark over his chest, feeling the hum it made as well as the fast beating heart underneath. He sighed, pleased at how your hand danced on his skin, coming up to tilt his jaw. His eyes open briefly to catch you smiling, before pulling you closer, closing the distance between you. Those lips were indeed soft, warm as every part of him was.

Pushing him back down, you used the movement to open his mouth, allowing your kiss to turn heated. The tang of wine hit you as your tongues met, Brant giving a small whimper like grunt beneath you. His hat had fallen off the the side, forgotten in your desire for more of him. It felt strange, to want something other than shiny things and trinkets. A siren and a pirate intertwined on the floor. His hand was feather light along your curves, gentle and careful in his caresses, dipping down to your side to feel the scales again.

“Brant…” you whispered against his lips, words slurred by the burning heat of the wine in your bodies. His eyes glimmered when his name fell from your mouth, fingers twitching at the syllables. His breath was hot, lips pressing into your neck, jingling the jewels and strings of gold and silver. Time passed slow, and you were sure you’d come to find other treasures he was hiding besides gems and pearls, helping him sing in other ways. Being with a pirate didn’t sound too bad.

[gifimay]

brant headcannons pt2

brant who would call you princess and kiss your knuckles while on one knee

brant who would hold your chin with his hand before smirking and kissing you

brant who would drown you in butterfly kisses and laugh when you try to squirm away

brant who would convince a bunch of echos to pretend to kidnap you and take you to a surprise party he threw for you

brant who would wink at you all the time for no reason whatsoever

brant who would put a lot of effort into hygiene for you(pirates usually didn't have good hygiene due to not having the supplies for it) because he doesn't want to smell bad around you

brant who would either be the most confident flirty motherflipper ever or the awkwardest little guy around you. depends on the day(and how drunk he is)

brant who would do that cheesy thing where he says he can hold the whole world in his hands and cup your cheeks, claiming 'your his whole world'

brant who would absolutely dance with you, doing ball dances and twirls

brant who wouldn't mind if you didn't really want children, I actually think he'd prefer to adopt, he'd rather give a home to children already in this cruel world.

brant who would cling to you in his sleep and wouldn't let go no matter how much you try to get out of his hold

brant who would give you hickeys not because he's jealous but because he loves the artistry of them

and brant who would turn into a soft cuddly marshmallowy mess whenever he's jealous. pouting like a hurt puppy until you turn your attention back onto him

(and thats all I got for now. more brant hcs probably soon. god damn do him and female rover have a hold on my heart.

have a good day/night/morning/evening!)

[n0tamused]

Jiyaaaan request coming your way~

While training his soldiers, one of them accidentally calls him 'Dad'. This leads to the reader teasing them but Jiyan teases back by calling them 'Mom' (or the gender neutral for it?)

(Was reading tv tropes and Jiyan had the 'A Father to his Men' tropes in his character tab lol)

A/n: Anon this request was so sweet, thank you sm for sending it in! Jiyan the father of an army fr.. I do hope I executed it well. Enjoy!

Content: Jiyan x F!Reader, fluff and playful stuff, nothing more

The morning sun had long since shifted its axis towards the center of the sky, blazing down through cotton clouds that sailed the azure skies. Below them, in the open fields, west of the main base cacophony sounded, consisting of commands, groans and other sounds of effort as the Midnight Ranger performed their training. And today Jiyan had come to overlook the session himself, although it wouldn’t be the first time. He was often so preoccupied with tasks at the front lines that he didn’t have the time to be leading drills too frequently, but when he did get the chance to do so he would take it. While it wasn’t a full reprieve from the battle, it was still a stark contrast to the grotesque and twisted fates he’d see daily on the battlefield.

Jiyan was noticeably more disheveled by the end, hair messy and hanging in strands and clinging to his sweaty forehead, hands on his hips as his voice rose to meet all ears present. You have just been passing by, helping carry supplies that just came in, and loading old and empty boxes back to be refilled in the city. For once there was no rush that would make your legs ache or your lungs hurt, allowing you all the precious time to bask in the views, the soft chatter and, of course, your dear lover.

The sun caught his figure and formed a golden aura around him, his skin glistening, and you couldn’t help but take a seat at one of many big boxes at the side of the training grounds after you had finished your task. In passing you caught a few looks, and a few smiles of the soldiers you knew from before. They looked much  more lively, despite the rigorous training they just went through. It made your heart warm seeing them in better spirits, wishing nothing more than to see them prevail and be happy. And just as you had recognized a bunch of familiar faces did Jiyan conclude his small speech, about to dismiss everyone with advice of rest hanging on every word. He had spotted you from the start, when you were going by with supplies in arms and soon he’d have a chance to speak to you too, he thought.

“General Jiyan! General Jiyan, a word or two- if I may?” 

It was a voice of one of the new recruits, Jiyan noted as he gazed at the face of the youth, a boy of twenty or so years by the looks of it, and eyes full of curiosity and admiration. He had come up to Jiyan just as he had turned towards you, prompting him to stay rooted in his spot a little longer. A few more young rangers came up behind the recruit, sharing the same curiosity but also being aware of whatever the recruit had on his mind.

“Yes? Is there something you need?” Jiyan questioned, looking at the young man. From his peripheral vision he spotted you moving down from the boxes and joining his side, staying quiet after a short word of greeting towards his Rangers, but your presence felt like a cool breeze under this sun, and he appreciated it all the more.

“I just wanted to say how great today’s training session was, we learned so much more than we did with our drill sergeant” he praised, smiling up at Jiyan all the while, “And I just wanted to ask whether or not you’ll be leading our training session tomorrow as well? Or any other day that is, we would really benefit from your teaching. I mean, you've seen it all for yourself at the front lines!"

The other few with him nodded along, prompting a small smile of pride to form on your face from seeing their fascination with Jiyan. To them he was everything they aspired to be - strong, enduring, tough but not lacking kindness or knowledge. There were times where they were scared to approach him, not knowing how he’d react to their questions, but from observing his interactions with others they warmed up to the idea and plucked all their courage. 

A polite smile curled up on Jiyan’s face as he regarded the youth with gentle golden eyes. His presence as the drill sergeant today wasn’t due to his availability, but a simple coincidence and necessity to fill the shoes of their drill sergeant that had been injured due to Tacet Discords, and Jiyan just happened to be able to be there. “Ah, you have my thanks, rangers. If a replacement for your drill sergeant does not arrive tomorrow and I am not required to be at the front lines, then I will be leading your training tomorrow as well” he told them, which pleased them greatly to hear.  “Although I’m sure Sargent Jin’xi has much more to teach you, something much more important for your sound development in this profession. You cannot take his method lightly. He has seen everything I have, as well. His knowledge is as valuable to your growth, and even more so than mine. You need the good foundation he can give you” He was aware of how confusing or hard it could be to listen to Jin’xi, as the sergeant had quite the eye for details and slow progress in lessons due to his meticulous nature - but that also made him all the better for his station. He was observant and could pluck out bad behavior and mistakes like weeds, and that is better to be done here, than in the middle of battle.

“We know, general, but sergeant Jin’xi is just so hard on us.. sometimes it really seems like he has no limit” one of the women standing behind voiced, earning a look from Jiyan that spoke of his understanding but also his disagreement with the subtle message they were trying to send - please, replace sergeant Jin’xi, or, save us.

“Yeah! One time I accidentally mixed up the weapons in the storage room and he had me do everything on my own again, saying how such mistakes can’t happen on the front lines, how it all means life or death” the first young man said, brushing his fingers through his hair and sighing. “I understand it, but we just got here..” he added and looked at his comrades. 

What was supposed to be a short chit-chat turned swiftly into a gossip galore about Jin’xi. Had Jiyan been any different from the man he was currently, he would’ve scolded them, taken offense at how they spoke about his colleague, but he was in their shoes once, always on edge around the higher ups, and he wished not to bring that same unease to them. He didn’t fail to remind them to not speak like this in front of everyone, and to respect sergeant Jin’xi when he does eventually return, and they gave him their word.

The first young man that approached looked at Jiyan after their discussion, both hands on his hips and looking more relaxed. “We won’t forget that, I promise on my last name! Still, we appreciate your kindness, and one more thing dad- I MEAN- GENERAL!” His entire face crumbled into a look of terror, and all eyes of the group shot to him, looks of surprise and amusement appearing before several of them erupted into laughter after taking a wary glance at Jiyan - who was not offended.

“General Jiyan! Oh god- I apologize, general, I don’t know where that came from-” he stammered, shaking his head and his hands, face flushed from sheer embarrassment. More choked words tumbled out of his mouth, desperate to excuse himself and forget about this. 

Jiyan can’t help but chuckle, the corners of his lips twitching in a failed attempt to hold back his smile. “At ease, recruit. You have not done any crime” he nods at the other, his eyes softening and not showing any sign that he’s about to dish out some punishment - that’d be ridiculous. 

You can’t help but crack a laugh too, covering your lips with your hand as to stifle the sound, but your mirth was evident in your eyes. “Have I missed a chapter? I didn’t know you had kids, general Jiyan” you teased, earning a few shocked but heavily amused looks from the group. Giggles erupted once more, all stifled as they waited for Jiyan to respond to the quip.

Jiyan turns his head to look at you, his eyes boring into yours and questioning your intentions - you can read the thoughts going through your head and your smile only widens in a silent call to a challenge of wits. He didn’t expect you to say something like that, but he could only huff, hiding his amusement under an abrupt guise of confusion.

“Kids?.. Why, I had hoped you’d recognize your own kids, Miss (L/N)” he shot back instantly, making your jaw drop at his rebuttal, a gasp flying past your mouth. “General” you said, accusations plenty heard in your tone as the atmosphere melted into one of jest and play.

Many eyes flickered between you and him, taking in the easy way you conversed with one another.

“Yes? What’s the surprise for? The recruits look up to you too, if you fail to notice. You can confirm with them right now” he is shifting the spotlight to you, and the recruits are quick to jump in too. “It is right, miss. Personally I haven’t been around you for long, no longer than I interacted with the General, but you two are alike, you treat us new ones with a firm but kind hand” a young woman said, smiling at you, and you feel your heart climb into your throat. 

“Can we really be surprised, they’re always together too-” "Aren't they married?" Whispering is heard amidst the group, and Jiyan looks amidst the faces to catch the one that said that but fails to do so, or refuses to weed out the individuals, and his eyes go back to you to catch your response. It’d be a lie to say your relationship with him was a secret, everyone knew there was something deeper between the two of you, something you didn’t show in public due to the war and status, but it was undeniably there. Still, hearing it loud and clear like this was like a splash of cold water. Despite their chatter, the group remained respectful, sweet in their musings.

“Ah, quiet, I do not want to hear it. This is about you, General”

“Ah, don’t run from it now. You’re the one that started this” he commented, rolling his eyes as he folded his arms over his chest. “Anyway, you’re all dismissed. I have a word with.. mother over here. Off you all go. I will see you all in the morning for another training drill. Get some rest” he speaks to the group, gazing upon their faces, only to see how they looked at him with some sort of childhood wonder, and that’s when he realized he must be flushed too. A sheepish smile bloomed on his face. 

“Alright! Awesome-” “Yes, sir!"

“Have a good day, General! And you too, Miss!” 

He watched them leave, bidding them all farewell, and when he turned to face you again he saw you pinching the bridge of your nose, hiding away the biggest smile of the day, the apples of your cheeks redder than before. The Midnight Rangers were undeniably close in connection, having spent so many nights and days huddled together for warmth or laughs or protection, and this small exchange only warmed Jiyan’s heart, to witness how positively they felt around him - and you. 

“Didn’t think we’d become parents so soon. Have we gotten that old already?” Jiyan commented, tone softer in a way he only addressed you when you were alone, and there was no one near the training grounds to hear you.

“Oh, shut up, Jiyan-” you playfully snapped, biting your lip as you looked up at him, stifling a giggle. “You are unbelievable!”

“Hm? Did you expect me to stay quiet today or ignore your quips?” he smiled bigger and you have to admire the little dimples in his cheeks as the smile reaches his eyes, making them squint at you softly.

“I don’t know what I expected, but your response was certainly the last thing I expected” you replied and shook your head, as if that would shake off the redness tinting your skin, imitating him now by crossing your arms. The two of you were looking at each other, wordlessly admiring your red faces while throwing these little quips at one another. 

“Ah.. you’ll get used to it, dearest wife”

Ⓒ n0tamused. Do not repost, translate, edit, and/or copy any of my works. Likes, comments, and reblogs are appreciated.

[idyllwave]

self aware!m!rover x fem!reader

For a long time he felt alone, until you came along. The moment he could sense you take control of some of his movements and dialogue, he felt ... at peace. It was a feeling that he had been longing for.

He wasn't alone when he was traveling now, he didn't have to worry about companions that would come and go, and most importantly you would remain a constant during his journey, well, until he felt someone else take control.

He knew this person, your brother, you had complained about frequently when he would get on your nerves.

"Don't change my builds, ok? I just got Rover how I want him."

"You still main rover," your brother sounded surprised and a bit teasing as he moved rover around on the screen, much to Rover's dismay.

"He's my favorite character!"

"And here i thought it was Jiyan," your brother stated as he moved to a group of enemies.

Rover could see and hear your hesitation as your brother pressed down on the attack button.

"Well, Jiyan is pretty cool too," you muttered.

And rover could understand, to be honest, he always felt like he was competing for your attention anytime the general showed up on screen.

But moving on, Rover was starting to get tired of your brother. He didn't have the skills as you did. You were always careful to dodge and make sure a hit never landed on him, but your brother played with reckless abandon to the point that Rover's hp bar only a third full.

"Whatever you say, sis- Ow! The fuck?!"

He dropped the controller as you frowned and picked it up.

"What is it?"

"Your damn controller shocked me!"

Your brother rubbed his hand as he stood up to go "nurse" his hand. But you didn't see anything wrong with it anyway.

You rolled your eyes, "what a baby."

Turning to the screen, you hit the map button to teleport so Rover could be at full health.

Rover was glad you were in control again.

[hxiiraeth]

❝Fool for you❞ — M!Rover x Reader

(is it criminal to use this specific screenshot of him? probably.)

It was harmless at first, just an ordinary conversation shared between two friends beneath the soft orange glow of the setting sun. The view was spectacular from up the hill, with the two of you lingering a little too long after finishing a job together, neither wanting to break the fragile peace the evening had to offer.

You laughed at something he said, head ducking instinctively as a familiar warmth rose to your cheeks. His voice, steady and low, had a way of curling around you, making the world softer, quieter. You felt a familiar ache settling in your chest, one that you'd been trying to ignore for quite a while now since it's made its first appearance — the first time you'd realized you were falling for the man in front of you. It made you feel foolish, like a lovestruck fool, catching feelings for a man whose gaze could undo you so quickly.

And then.. you felt it. Warm fingertips brushing against your hair, tucking a stray lock behind your ear. His touch lingered, just for a second too long. The pad of his thumb ghosting along your cheekbone, his eyes never leaving yours. That gaze — so gentle and steady — like you were something worth looking at, the only thing worth his gaze in the world.

"Your hair was in your eyes," he murmured, voice barely above a whisper as he pulled his hand away.

You felt it then — the remnants of his touch searing into your skin, the warmth pooling in your stomach as your heart hammered against your ribcage. He offered you a small smile, and you managed a shy, breathless one in return.

When he walked you home and left, you stood at your doorstep for a while, fingers caressing the spot where he'd touched you. The air still seemed thick with him — his scent, his warmth and the echo of his presence were clinging to you like a memory you weren't ready to let go of. And gods, you were feeling like a fool for the way that your heart skipped at every stolen glance, for the way his closeness made your pulse race and how you'd be caught smiling at nothing, just remembering the way he looked at you as if you mattered.

Sleep didn't come easy that night. Woken up by the memories of him, haunted by the ghost of his touch. Every time you close your eyes, you see him and the way his hand holds yours — firm, steady, protective. The way his voice softened when he spoke your name.

You were falling, and you didn't even know when it started. It was too late for you to run away, to back out now. You were a fool for him, hopelessly and helplessly, and you didn't mind one bit. Albeit it being a little overwhelming and scary.

...

Rover wasn't oblivious, no. He's noticed the way your laughter lingered a little longer around him, the way your eyes darted away when he caught you staring, and the way you shivered, not from the cold, but from his touch on your skin.

He wasn't proud of the way he reached out for you without reason — a hand steadying you by your elbow when the ground is uneven, his palm warm against yours as you move through the crowded streets, and tucking a stray strand of hair that got in your eyes (simply to admire you a little longer). He can lie to himself, saying that it was on instinct, a reflex, habit even, but it wasn't. He knew it goes deeper than that.

He saw the way your lashes fluttered, how your cheeks would flush so prettily over something so simple, how your breath would hitch when he gets even a step closer, a touch on your skin.

When he had left you by your doorstep, he couldn't help but turn around to have one last look at you for the night, until he caught you still standing there with your head down, fingers brushing your own cheek as if you were chasing the memory of his touch.

He found himself lying awake at night, tracing the phantom memory of your hand in his, wondering if you could feel it too. And it hit him.

He's watched the way you'd been absentmindedly tucking your hair behind your ear in the same motion he'd used on you before. Seeing the faint gesture made his chest ache in a way that startled him.

And he realized. It's you. It's always been you — the reason his world felt a little less heavy, the reason he felt that restless ache in his chest whenever you looked at him like he'd hung the stars, like you didn't quite know what to do with yourself, like you were feeling something.

He smiled then — soft, pained too as he realized how much of a fool he was becoming.

A fool for the way you made him feel like something gentle in a world that had long since stopped being kind. For every time he made excuses just to be near you, for the way your smile always made his heart stutter and the familiar warmth creeping up his cheeks.

And when your eyes met his across the room with that shy smile of yours like you were afraid of your own heart — he knew. He was already yours.

[euphemmia]

Hiii! May I request Male!Rover saving non-Resonator S/O from an ambush by Tacet Discords? Or maybe making sure his S/O is okay after saving them?

Thank you and I hope you're having a good day! ✌️

M!Rover x reader

Warnings: small injuries

Summary: You had an expedition to complete, but there was no one to help you, so you took everything into your hands.

A/N: hope you like it <3

The day was not going your way. Times like these always made you feel useless. But still, you didn’t let those thoughts get the better of you. As a researcher at the Huaxu Academy, you were sometimes sent out to collect materials for upcoming research—but the assignments were never too far from the academy, since you were a non-Resonator.

You often wished you had the same powers your colleagues possessed. They never struggled with fieldwork like you did. And today, it seemed like fate had made up its mind to make your life harder than ever. You needed the materials by tomorrow morning, and it was already 5 PM. The trip would take at least six hours if you were lucky.

You had tried asking around, hoping someone could take the task off your hands. But no one was available. Half the researchers had been sent to the site of a massive Tacet Discord attack, and the other half were stuck inside the academy, drowning in leftover assignments.

You were out of options. But then, you remembered.

There was still one person you could ask.

Rover.

You felt your stomach twist with embarrassment just thinking about it. Still, you couldn’t afford to get fired or yelled at by your superiors again. Swallowing your pride, you made your way home.

As you stepped into your shared apartment, you were met with the sight of a clearly exhausted Rover. He looked like he was about to head out.

“Are you leaving?” you asked, trying not to sound too disappointed.

Rover didn’t even raise his head. He was focused on tying his shoes faster. “Yeah. There was another Tacet Discord attack. The general asked me to assist them and who am I to disagree?”

“Oh…”

You were absolutely cooked. This was your last shot and it was gone.

After finishing up, Rover finally looked at you. “If everything goes as planned, I should be back by midnight. Maybe a bit later.” He reached for the door handle.

You panicked slightly. “I… I’ll also be back by then. There’s a research project I need to finish.”

He paused for a moment, looking at you with a small smile. “Don’t stay out too long,” he said gently before slipping out the door.

“You too…” you mumbled, though he was already gone.

Now there were truly no options left.

It was just you, yourself and you alone.

Perfect.

Time felt like it was flying faster than ever, as it always did when you were racing against it. You scrambled to grab everything you needed for the expedition and practically jumped into your shoes. There was no time to waste, you had to get back before Rover returned. If he found out, you’d be in for a long, exhausting lecture.

Just the thought made your back shiver.

Finally, you stepped out of the house. The sunset painted the sky in brilliant hues, golden hour, as people liked to call it. You paused just long enough to check the time.

Five hours left.

Definitely not enough. But somehow, you had to make it work.

“Stop right there!”

A guard’s shout snapped you out of your thoughts.

“Do you have permission to leave? It’s dangerous out there!”

With a heavy sigh, you handed over your clearance card, official permission to leave the city. But even with that, the guard kept trying to convince you to stay inside. The Tacet Discord threat had everyone on edge.

What a waste of time. You didn’t even want to know how many precious minutes had been lost arguing with him.

Eventually, you made it past the gates and into the wild. After about an hour of walking, you were finally halfway to your destination. But today was tougher than usual, Tacet Discords were more active, more alert. Sneaking around them took twice the effort.

By the time you had gathered everything you needed, you were drenched in sweat and utterly drained. You checked the time again.

One hour left.

You were going to be late. No doubt about it.

Picking up your pace, you carefully made your way back, trying to stay hidden in the shadows. The darkness around you made everything feel more threatening. You could hear the Tacet Discords, but couldn’t see them.

You didn’t stop.

Your eyes stayed locked ahead. Just keep moving.

Then it happened.

A sudden gust of wind brushed past your head.

Thunk.

You froze.

That was no wind. That was an arrow.

Slowly, you turned around, dread sinking in your stomach like a stone.

There they were.

Two massive Tacet Discords, looming in the darkness.

Rover’s POV:

A tired smile lingered on his face. The mission was finally over.

Now, standing with the general and going over the final report, Rover’s mind had already wandered elsewhere. He could barely focus. All he could think about was getting home to you. The image played in his head like a comforting dream: the two of you collapsing onto the couch after a long day of work, maybe sharing a hot meal, saying nothing but enjoying each other’s presence. That thought alone gave him the motivation to wrap everything up as quickly as possible.

After finishing his debrief, he left without wasting a second, walking back toward the city gates. As he approached, he noticed a small group of guards gathered near the entrance, whispering urgently to each other. Their faces looked tense, concerned.

They barely noticed him at first. It wasn’t until he passed by them that one of the guards finally called out.

“Mister! Wait!”

Curious, Rover turned around to face them. “What is it?”

One of the guards jogged up to him, out of breath. “Did you, by any chance, come across a female researcher on your way back? She left about six hours ago and still hasn’t returned.”

Rover went completely still.

Six hours ago?

His heart sank. A cold, uneasy feeling spread through his chest.

You had mentioned earlier that you had research to finish, but you hadn’t said where. And you’d also said you'd be back around midnight.

His voice dropped low. “Do you know where she went?”

The guard hesitated. Rover stepped closer and grabbed him by the shoulder, locking eyes with an intensity that made the guard flinch. “Where did she go?”

“N-near the Central Plains,” the guard stammered. “A little past that - close to the Desorock Highlands. That’s what was written on her assignment board. But-“

The guard didn’t get to finish his sentence.

Rover was already gone.

His feet moved on instinct, muscles moving him forward fast. His mind was racing just as quickly.

‘Why didn’t she tell me?’

‘Why would she go that far alone?’

‘What was she thinking?’

His breath grew louder, harsher. He didn’t even notice. The only thing he noticed now was the forest blurring past him, the distant cries of Tacet Discords, and the mounting pressure in his chest.

Anything that dared to stand in his way didn’t last long. Tacet Discords that wandered too close were dealt with swiftly, almost automatically. He wasn’t paying attention to the fight. Only to the path.

Time blurred. He couldn’t tell how long was he running. He didn’t care.

He was going to find you.

No matter what.

Your pov:

Your heart pounded in your chest, wild and unsteady. You could barely think straight, breathing ragged, limbs running on instinct.

But every step you took seemed to only make things worse. The Tacet Discords were multiplying. More and more had caught on to your presence, and now it wasn’t just two chasing you, it was a whole group. You didn’t dare look back to count how many.

Your knees were scraped and bruised, your clothes dirtied, your entire body slick with sweat. Exhaustion weighed down every move, and every breath burned your lungs. There was no way, absolutely no way you could lead these monsters back toward the city.

Your vision blurred. You wished this would end. You couldn’t keep running. Everything ached. Your legs felt like jelly, and you were sure they’d be swollen by morning.

Just as you reached a corner of a crumbling old building, hoping to lose them with a sharp turn, a flash of steel nearly grazed your face. A sword, so close you could hear the sharp whistle of air it sliced through, it almost cut your head off. You barely managed to dodge, but the movement made you lose your balance.

You slipped and crashed hard onto your back.

Dazed, you lifted your head and froze.

Bright golden eyes stared down at you.

There was a pause, a tense silence that lasted just long enough for your shame to creep in. Then, finally, he spoke and he did not sound happy.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?!”

Rover stormed toward you, voice sharp with anger. Before you could even answer, he reached down and yanked you back to your feet.

“Do you have a death wi—”

He didn’t get to finish. The same Tacet Discords that had been hunting you down had finally caught up.

Rover immediately pulled you behind him, positioning himself between you and the oncoming threat. His body tensed, sword already drawn. He didn’t need words to make it clear - he was furious.

And he wasn’t going to let this one slide.

You stood in silence, barely able to breathe as you watched him move. His strikes were clean, fast, and brutal. The creatures didn’t stand a chance.

You were already trying to think of excuses.

When the last Discord finally fell, Rover slowly turned back to you, placing his blade in its place.

“Are you injured?” he asked, voice calmer now but still edged with frustration.

You looked down, unable to meet his eyes. “No…”

It was humiliating. You hated feeling weak and standing in front of someone like him, someone so capable and strong, only made it worse. He was respected, admired by those in high positions. And you? You’d just caused more trouble than you were worth.

You felt a warm hand rest gently on your shoulder.

“Let’s go home.”

You still didn’t look up. You knew the moment your eyes met his, you’d see disappointment and that would hurt more than any scolding.

As the city gates came into view, you finally whispered, “I’m sorry…”

Rover let out a slow sigh, his gaze softening.

“I still don’t get it,” he muttered. “Why didn’t you just tell me? Or at least ask someone else to go with you? No… what I really want to know is why today of all days?”

He glanced at you again, eyes catching the exhaustion on your face, the slight limp in your steps. You were trying to hide it, but he noticed.

And just like that, you were off the ground.

Your eyes widened in shock as he effortlessly lifted you into his arms. “H-Hey!”

Now forced to look up at him, your eyes met his for the first time. His golden gaze burned into yours, but not with anger. Not anymore. His frown had softened into a smirk.

“You don’t have to carry me. I can walk,” you mumbled, flustered.

“Sure,” he said, chuckling under his breath. “The only thing you can do when I’m not around is run straight into trouble. So, sorry, but tonight, I’m not letting you go.”

The rest of the night passed quietly.

Well, after the inevitable scolding and the careful patching up of your injuries, of course.

But once that was done, it was just the two of you again lost in your own little world. Sharing soft words, quiet glances, and the comfort of each other’s presence.

The next morning?

Let’s just say Rover had quite a thorough conversation with your superiors.

[venusinthesun]

Fem Rover can honestly get it lowkey??

I need you to imagine being a scientist at the black shores who caught her attention, she’s always hanging around you, keeping her hand on your lower back.

She practically towers over you, always having to crane your neck upward to look at her!! Not only is she taller, she’s also incredibly strong?! You’ve seen her take out groups of tacet discords one handed, pretty much effortlessly taking care of them before coming back to you snd asking if your okay.

She doesn’t spend much time at the black shores anymore, she’s busy saving the world again or something, but when she does come back she always makes time for you <3

She has you moaning into her neck just as effortlessly with her fingers. You’re literally seeing stars, desperately grasping onto her for stability—meanwhile she’s just enjoy the view of you. Your pretty sure you can hear her chuckle something about “how your so cute” but your brain is already mush :(

You won’t be able to walk tomorrow, but at least she is strong enough to carry you!

[self-awared]

The Discovery

Tw/Cw: Using Male MC, mentions of sleep paralysis, kind of short

Rover always knew there was someone watching him.

He figured it out when he felt his body move without his control. His suspicions were confirmed when, while he was trying to figure out what this controlling force was, was suddenly teleported to a rock in the middle of no where.

His head was forced to turn and stare in a random direction, where he saw you for the first time. You weren't a person, just a floating ball of light. But he could hear you...

He could hear your mumbles of how long something was taking to load, and how aggravated you were about forgetting a password.

Finally, he heard your little squeal, and his hand was forced to raise in your direction.

He was shocked when the light came closer and closer to his hand, before entering his body, and he was teleported back to where he was before. This time, he wasn't in control again.

When he felt your presence leave his body, he quickly informed Baizhi of what the hell had just happened.

Rumors spread like wildfire. More and more people began to experience your presence taking control of their body.

It started with the people that Rover had come in contact with when he first woke up. Then, more people that he had interacted with began seeing the little light in their peripheral vision.

A news article did an interview with Rover, and published the following in a newspaper:

Reporter: "What is it like to be controlled by this strange light?"

Rover: "It's hard to describe. It's almost like you're aware of what you're doing, and what's going on around you, but you have no control over your body."

Reporter: "Could it be described as a sort of sleep paralysis?"

Rover: "Precisely."

Reporter: "Do you see the light when you're in this state?"

Rover: "Yes. I see it in my peripheral vision. It's like the light is controlling me in a sort of third-person perspective."

Reporter: "Do you think this light has any bad intentions?"

Rover: "No, I don't. One thing I've noticed is that they're always helping me, whether it helping me achieve some big goal, or just collecting flowers."

Reporter: "Can the light speak?"

Rover laughs.

Rover: Of course. I hear it all the time. Especially whenever I meet someone new.

Reporter: "Are they good or bad things?"

Rover: "...you don't want to know."

[moonflowergirlsworld]

Yandere Drabble

Rover

Rover as a yandere? Oh, lovely, this is a goldmine.

With their mix of power, mystery, and layered personality traits offered in the dialogue option in game, Rover would exude a unique type of obsession that feels like being caught in a storm—inescapable, overwhelming, yet eerily calm at its core.

Depending on the facet of their personality that emerges, their behavior could range from silently watching over you to asserting their dominance with a cheeky smirk or ensuring your safety with ruthless precision.

Rover’s yandere tendencies would stem from their need to anchor themselves in a world they barely understand.

Their amnesia and mysterious origins add an air of unpredictability to their obsession, making their actions fluctuate between tender care, cold determination, and playful possessiveness.

With no memories or past to guide them, you’d become their one constant, their reason for existing.

Their obsession would manifest in unshakable protectiveness, coupled with a refusal to let you stray too far—both physically and emotionally.

Rover's love for you transcends typical boundaries, fueled by a deep-seated need to protect and possess you as the one constant in their otherwise unstable existence.

Rover’s kindness wouldn’t falter, even as they quietly dismantle every threat around you.

Rover approaches you with a gentle and considerate demeanor.

They respect your space and preferences, always phrasing their controlling tendencies as concern for your well-being.

“I apologize if my presence feels overwhelming, but I cannot bear the thought of something happening to you.”

Imagine them with a neutral face as they casually tell someone who upset you, “You won’t make that mistake again, will you?” Their tone leaves no room for argument.

Their serious side ensures that everything about your life is meticulously managed, whether you realize it or not.

When this side of Rover takes over, they become an unyielding force, determined to keep you safe no matter the cost.

They view the world and everyone in it as a potential threat, acting with calculated efficiency to eliminate any danger.

“Stay where I can see you. The world is unpredictable, and I refuse to take unnecessary risks with you.”

They’d never yell or act impulsively; instead, their actions would be precise and inescapable.

Oh, when they’re in the mood, Rover would let their overconfidence shine.

In this mode, Rover is playful and assertive, using their charm and wit to keep you close.

They enjoy teasing you about your reliance on them, all while ensuring that you remain firmly within their grasp.

“Admit it—you need me.”

Polite, respectful, and almost detached, as if they’re unaffected by anything. People admire their composure and view them as an untouchable enigma.

With you, the mask slips. They’re intensely focused, their every word and action laced with quiet devotion—and just a hint of something you feel trapped by.

Rover’s multifaceted nature makes them unpredictable. You never know which side of them you’ll encounter, leaving you constantly on edge.

“The past may be lost to me, but you are my present, my future, my everything.”

Their obsession is undeniable, but the way they express it shifts like a kaleidoscope, making it impossible to anticipate their next move.

Rover’s obsession is rooted in their identity crisis.

You’re their anchor, and losing you would unravel the fragile sense of self they’ve built.

“I exist for you. Without you, what’s left of me?”

Whether through kindness, cold calculation, or playful manipulation, they ensure that you come to see them as indispensable. They don’t need to rely on overt force; their multifaceted approach makes resistance futile.

You are the anchor that grounds their fragmented identity, and they will never let you go.

To others, Rover might appear as a mysterious, amnesiac wanderer, but to you, they are an enigma of love, devotion. Their presence is both comforting and suffocating, their love a paradoxical blend of tenderness and obsession.

After all, how can you fight someone who has no limits, no weaknesses, and no greater purpose than you?

[bluubunbun]

ROVER NATION IS STARVED AND WE ARE ON OUR KNEES FOR ANY SORT OF FOOD TO GET BY 😭😭😭 I loved your rover hcs post oh my goodness!! so I couldn't help but come by to drop some ingredients 💛💛

MRover whose resting face is just that damn puppy eyes like his (spiritual) tail is perpetually wagging...Reader cannot handle it with their cuteness aggression and ends up pinching the hell out of his cheeks!! Rover playfully fights back but you know, Lord Arbiter and Mighty Godkiller and all that he easily overpowers them without thinking...which ends in them mutually flustered 🤯🤯🤯

- RoverGlazer9000 💚

𝐂𝐔𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐀𝐆𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍

Probably OOC, swearing, Rover being a cutie, misspelling,

HELLO SORRY THIS IS A BIT LATE I HAD STATE EXAMS BUT I'M FREE NOW‼️ Also this is so cute. I'M SORRY ROVERGLAZER9000 IF I GOT THIS WRONG OR IF IT'S NOT TO YOUR LIKING I TRIED MY BEST💔. Also real cause why is there no Rover things.

Travelling with Rover was certainly something. Adventurous for sure, caught up with a lot of drama and finding out who he was and what he did. Because what do you mean you're standing besides the founder of Jinzhou and the Black shores??

Anyways, it was difficult to believe such things. Especially when you as much as glance at him, a hard task to keep a straight face when serious situations happen. All because he was too..

Cute.

And it's not only because you had happen to like him, he was generally pleasing to the eye (in your opinion at least), but it was the way his resting face made you notice that he resembled a puppy, especially around you. Sometimes you even think he actually had a tail when you ask him for something, you have to blink a few times or subtly pinch yourself just to make sure you weren't going crazy. Most of the time, he would stare at nothing in particular while he was thinking, his face would relax and it would simply remind you of a puppy.

Maybe it was just your imagination.

So here you are, walking besides him while you stare at his face. He was staring ahead, yet he couldn't help but start to wonder why you were suddenly so fixated on him. Was there something on his face? Did you want him to start a conversation?

It wasn't until you got a hold of his arm, making him stop on his tracks while he turned his head towards you. Your blank face beginning to make him nervous, were you made at him?

"Whats wrong?" He asked as he maintaining his composure. And for a moment, for a split moment you swear you saw dog ears droop and the tail stop wagging.

"..." You only stared and stared, it was starting to get him more nervous than he already was.

"[Name]..?"

You let go of his arm, reaching up to his face with both hands before cupping his cheeks. His eyes widened, and right there and then the tail starting wagging fast as his ears perked up.

His puppy demeanor had enchanted you.

"You're so.." You inhaled, eyebrows furrowed. He was so cute. Why was he like this? It was like he had bewitched you so you could look at him and never tear your gaze away. Like it was intentional to have your attention and eyes on him at all times.

"Wha— ACK!" He flinched when you suddenly started pinching his cheeks. Stretching them and making them sting by the slightest, his hands coming up to your wrists and holding them. But he didn't tear them away, not yet at least.

"[Namesh]! T-that shtings!" He whined, he had absolutely no idea what had gotten into you. You started moving his head around gently, your eyebrows pressed together as your lips pressed into a thin line.

"You're too cute!! WHO GAVE YOU THE RIGHT TO BE SO CUTE??!" You began to shake him a bit, a difficult task to keep your emotions in check as you try not to make him fall.

You suddenly feel hands hold your cheeks, stretching them the same as you were to Rover. He managed to grab yours in return, now both of you pinching each others cheeks.

"Letsh go.."

"Yoh firsht.."

A battle amongst you both in who would release first. You? Or the all mighty God killer.

It didn't take long before you both started shaking each other, not enough to make you both stumble to the ground, but enough to show the gentle aggression held for one another.

It didn't take long before Rover was the one who managed to get control of the situation, coming out as the victory when you let go of his cheeks and held onto his wrists.

"Yeah doesn't feel so good now does it??" With a playful jest, it was his turn to shake you a bit. His cheeks still stung but he ignored it, a small price to pay.

"I'm shorrryy.." You whined, eyes shut as he tormented you cheeks while he chuckled.

It didn't take long before his cuteness aggression died down (not really) and he let go of your face. You held your face with a small whimper as it stung, consequences of your actions.

"Sorry sorry.. I didn't hurt you right?" He chuckled again.

"Other than pulling on my cheeks as if they were made out of rubber.. No, you did not" you sent a playful glare at his direction.

"A haha..." He cleared his throat, avoiding you gaze as his cheeks were coated in a red. Most likely from pinching them, you think.

"So.. You think I'm cute?" He asked.

"Huh?" You blinker once, twice. Then it hit.

Oh my God you called him cute without even thinking. You might as well as kill yourself on the spot got letting that slip out.

"Uhm.. I mean, y-yeah? Well you're cute in general— I'M NOT SAYING YOU'RE NOT TO ME!! I just meant it like— everyone finds you cute yeah!—"

"I'm glad."

"..?" You blinked, looking at him as his head was turned away from you. Yet you managed to spot the bright red color on his ears. Now it was your turn to be red, face and all, head to toes.

[vividraft]

physical contact head cannons ! *ੈ✩‧₊˚

⇢ ˗ˏˋ characters: Yinlin, Rover (female), Jinhsi, Calcharo, Aalto, Rover (male), Jiyan, Mortefi

⇢ ˗ˏˋ readers gender not specified !

⇢ ˗ˏˋ important note: Mortefi might be a little ooc, I forced myself to write for him for you guys... also none of my posts are proofread or anything the like

⇢ ˗ˏˋ a/n: thank you for all the likes and reblogs on the previous post! I really didn't expect that much support on my first post ever!

masterlist

Yinlin: 

In all honesty, Yinlin is not that big of a cuddling person

Sure she hugs you, but she is more the kind of person to have you lay your head down on her lap, or the other way around

also big on holding hands

like very big on holding hands

will drag you around anywhere, holding your hand clinging onto it like her life depends on it

also forehead kisses omll

kiss here kiss there kiss on top of your head

if she is taller than you, os that she has to bend down to give you a kiss on the lips, she will make you ask for one

she just likes to hear that you like her kisses okay

Rover (female):

she plays with your hair

anywhere and everywhere there is a hand in your hair

or head pats SHE IS HUGE ON HEAD PATS

she is kind of really protective of you, so hand holding as well to make sure you don’t get lost

when you guys are sitting down somewhere she always has her head on your shoulder

she crawls your back. Yes she does, let me dream. 

imagine you and her sitting somewhere in Jinzhou at night, her head on your shoulder and a hand traveling (rovering) over your back AAA

she is attached to you, because she loves you, and she is scared of ending up alone so how bout y’all glue each other together

Jinhsi: 

let’s face it, she doesn’t know how to initiate any physical contact

and she is scared of making you uncomfortable

except for, once again, holding hands

she loves to hold your hand as a reminder that you’re still there

but other than that you’re going to have to initiate the physical contact

don’t get me wrong, she definitely wants to hug your or so, but she is just kind of scared

she very clearly remembers the first time you hugged her from behind, and ever since, she started doing it too

very rarely has a chance to relax, so cuddling is going to be an utterly rare occasion

you guys basically live off of kisses on the cheeks from each other

Calcharo: 

does NOT hug you. or touch you. 

I am not kidding at the start of your relationship it’s like he’s allergic to you (omg guys should I write an enemies to lovers calcharo fic??)

you have to start all the physical contact in your relationship

when you at first hug him, he is STIFF AS A BOARD. 

he does not move away, and does not say anything. Just stands there like he was frozen

also your first kiss with him AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

you were contemplating if you should do it at all, but you just ended up giving him a kiss on the cheek

he did start blushing, and he couldn’t even look at you. He also didn’t say anything. No reaction whatsoever and you even thought he was mad at you

until he gave you a kiss on the cheek as well and that was basically the beginning of physical touch being normalized for you two

Aalto: 

IS IN FACT GLUED TO YOU

does not let go of you, unless he absolutely has to 

always has like an arm around your waist

also absolutely, 100%, definitely, shows you off

you’re his most prized possession, what can I say? 

he definitely give you piggy back rides. He started doing it with encore, and now he is giving them to you as well

he has this random habit of placing his hand on your back, when he wants to keep moving 

he probably cannot sit still, UNLESS, you fall asleep in his arms or so

bro turns into a statue, and you have the best sleep of your entire life

Rover (male): 

not as protective as female rover, but still always has an eye on you

both of them hold your hand, argue with the wall

also likes to put his hand around you, and on your shoulder

can I please say that he definitely hugs you a lot 

like A LOT

also the moment you show signs of being even slightly exhausted from anything, he hoists you up into his arms and you’re being carried

and you can’t even talk him out of it

does it count as affectionate physical contact if he gives you boosts, so that you don’t have to climb as much? 

the princess treatment is unreal

Jiyan: 

he is always on the go, there is barely any time for physical contact

kisses on the lips are mandatory and there is no way around them

not like anybody would want to skip a kiss on the lips from Jiyan

if you guys are sleeping in one bed together, he is clinging to you

like you’re a teddybear

I’m so serious when I tell you that you cannot get out of his grip when he is cuddling with you

also carries you bridal style, whenever he is given the chance

HUGS FROM BEHIND AND KISSES ON THE BACK OF YOUR KNECK

also he buries his face in the crook of you neck

Mortefi: 

also does not touch you

almost kind of refuses to

the first time that you give him a hug, he is literally APPALLED. 

like who dares to enter my personal space??? (everyone who is in a two meter distance of him enters his personal space apparently) 

he brushes that hug off and pretends it doesn’t happen

until he starts thinking about that hug. A lot. 

and then one day when you hug him again, he even pats you (kind of awkwardly) on the back! 

but it’s not like he would ever ask for a hug from you… or a kiss…

until he does.

[gifimay]

Lord Arbiter

Was scrolling on tik tok and saw people refer to rover as lord arbiter(a name I forgot they had) and the inspiration hit me.

(both female and male rover are referred too as lord as i think its cooler)

Lord arbiter who would rewrite history for you so you could have a happy ending

Lord arbiter who would kill a god For you

Lord arbiter who would hug you so tightly as if any less would cause you to disappear

Lord arbiter who created the black shores not only to protect the world but also you.

Lord arbiter who likes to watch you, just subtly as you work or do everyday things

Lord arbiter who’d have you sit on their lap as they give out orders to be blackshore members

Lord arbiter who thinks it’s very cute when you and shorekeeper hang out together

Lord arbiter who’d personally create sentinels to protect you

Lord arbiter who is low key a yandere-so like a soft yandere

Lord arbiter whose jealousy can end lives

Lord arbiter whose kisses are either powerful and dominate or soft and yearnfull- theres no in between

Lord arbiter’s whose biggest fear is losing you

And finally, lord arbiter who wishes to spend the rest of eternity with you

[n0tamused]

Have you by any chance seen someone on Twitter posting a translated version of Xiangli Yao's daily schedule? How about writing something like what his schedule would be with the reader (already in a relationship) maybe on a day off? Something like: 8:00 AM - get up and start day 10:00-12:00 AM snuggled in bed with y/n as a result. Or - 4:00 PM - prosthetic maintenance. ambushed from behind. (Imagine nuzzling him from behind while he tinkers with his hand 🥺) Something like a bunch of small drabbles in 1 work? I guess finding someone to write for him awakened something in my brain, I'msorry.

A/n: I have heard of this schedule but tbh I didn't see it myself before I got this request lol, I really find the idea sweet so I hope I did it justice! And no need to apologize, I am happy to write for Xangli Yao

Contents: Xiangli Yao x GN!Reader, fluff, short drabbles, established relationship not proofread

Saturday:

08:30 - Wake up

It’s been many years since Xiangli Yao has practiced this continuous cycle of waking up at certain times, to the point he did not need an alarm clock anymore. It was 8:14 when he came to his senses, morning light sleeping through the blinds and softly caressing his eyelids to open. He turns away from them, shifting sluggishly underneath the blankets, knowing that work wasn’t waiting on him today. 

He is greeted by your sleeping face, relaxed and soft as the few spots of light from the blinds danced over your cheeks and lips. The light didn’t seem to disturb you, something he was thankful for as he shuffled closer and wrapped his good arm around you, bringing you closer to his warmth as he nuzzled his nose into the top of your head, breathing in your scent as your hair tickled his skin. He feels you mold into his shape, your sleep heavy arm going underneath his and over his side, the blanket keeping your shared warmth trapped, shielding you from the chilly morning.

09:30 - make breakfast with my beloved :) 

Well, it may have been 9:10 by the time you both willed yourself to leave the comforts of eachothers arms. It was hunger that pulled you both from bed, stumbling into the bathroom. Xiangli Yao was next to you as you washed your face while he brushed his teeth. He handed you your toothbrush after you blindly found the towel next to the sink and brushed your face dry. 

Although he had gotten used to being the one to prepare breakfast for both of you during workdays, the weekends did allow more time, and so Yao did try to listen to you more when you said you wanted to help or do more of the work since you don’t usually get the chance to do so. He did convince you some times before, letting you so simply sit aside and look pretty while he whips you up your favorite, but today wasn’t that day. You woke up with more energy and a craving for good quality time and to get your hands busy.

What ends up happening is a table full of food, a big but balanced breakfast of veggies and fruit and needed protein. While you were setting up the table, Xiangli Yao poured you both the juice you made the weekend. He may not think about it too often, but he always feels like the richest man in the world when he shares mornings like these with you.

13:00 - go to the market, restock groceries

His prosthetic arm is holding the basket while the fingers of his other hand are intertwined with yours. Xiangli Yao was yet to become truly used to these public displays of affection, but he never disliked them. The thing was that such little acts of affection flustered him so much at first and he’d rather not catch someone ogling him while his cheeks are red as the tomatoes you were looking at now. He was used to it, he tells himself as he slowly lets your fingers slip from his hold when you say you can use some of the tomatoes. He remembers you mentioning a recipe some time ago that required a good amount of tomatoes. He helps you pick out the best ones and he adds it to the basket after the purchase is done. Although today’s shopping trip ended with more bags than either of you expected, Xiangli Yao vehemently refused to  allow you to carry any of the bags.

You ended up stopping at the local dessert shop, purchasing a few sweet goods for home. You mentioned how the chocolate cake he got looked oddly similar to Xiang-LEE. Now he couldn’t unsee it..

16:00 - prosthetic maintenance(p.s. keep your back guarded!)

How oddly homely it felt to have your arms around him while he tinkered away on his mechanical arm..

Although at first you only observed him from the doorway, he chose to skillfully ignore you when you began to sneak closer, almost as if he couldn’t see you from the corner of his eye. 

You knew he knew too, but it's a game you both chose to play every evening when the sun began to lean in to kiss the mountains. 

You hum as you put your chin on top of his head, peering down at the assortment of open wires and metal plating scattered about on the table. There's a screwdriver in his good hand, and he's clearly doing something, but you're unsure what. Perhaps you'd ask one day, tell him to explain how his arm really works, but that is not today.

He feels you leaning in and kissing his cheek and then his temple.

“The meal is soon to be done. Don't keep me waiting all alone at the table, Xiangli Yao”

19:00 - Free activities 

Xiangli Yao can't help the chuckle that escapes him as he witnesses your scowl and furrowed brows, and all for the little board game with black and white pieces. You've won the round from last night and he deemed it appropriate to ask for a rematch, although he only wished to make you blow off the steam. You've been rather stressed this week, perhaps some back and forth of the game could allow a reprieve.

“You've been thinking about your next move for quite some time now, my love…” he tries, a smile plastered on his lips, both amused and sympathetic.

“...I got it…shh” you return, pushing your chin into the heel of your palm. He hums in response, and another few heartbeats of silence pass before he sees your face light up, as if a star had whispered the next act into your ear. Your fingers deftly move across the board and move your piece across the checkerboard.

“Checkmate!” 

He laughs, his chest shaking with joy as you beam at him. You beat him. Again.

22:30 - bedtime

Mornings are where Xiangli Yao thrives. He is a morning person to the last bone in his body and on work days it is not rare for him to rise before you and his alarm, but they don’t bring him nearly as much relief and joy as bedtime does. Your sleepy face as you go to brush your teeth and change into your bedwear always has his heart softening, his own movements slowing down as his entire body yawns for the comforts of the mattress and comfortable blankets.

He is sitting at the edge of the bed, tinkering with his prosthetic arm for the last time and setting it aside on the table right next to his side of the bed. His prosthetic is cold and rather uncomfortable to sleep with for both of you. From behind he hears you exiting the bathroom and the sound of your bare feet against the floor hurrying up has him turning around to see how you crash into the bed, your face buried into your pillow with a low groan, a breath of relief as weight is taken off your feet.

He shuffles, telling you to get under the blankets while he turns off the lights. Once he remembered you both joking about being afraid of the dark, and although it was all just a joke - Xiangli Yao has been the one to turn off the lights since then. 

He hums as he returns, sliding under the blankets and finding the warmth of your body with searching fingers, pulling himself closer until he was wrapped around you. He buries his nose into your hair, inhaling your scent before laying a lingering kiss to your cheek, bidding you goodnight. 

Ⓒ n0tamused. Do not repost, translate, edit, and/or copy any of my works. Likes, comments, and reblogs are appreciated.