#xiao: but who likes to fly kites??

[protect-namine]

no way. we also got hu tao and xiao interactions again (well... by proxy) in this year's lantern rite? yayyyy maybe we can see xiao around the funeral parlor more often

[clovdgyu]

hii just a small request. father!zongli x adoptedson!reader (preferably age 10)? like reader came home after a bad day and he doesn't really show it but zhongli can tell something's wrong and just a lot of nice father and son fluff

#father!zhongli x son!reader #fluff #zhongli being the best father

#xiao and reader are brothers, xiao is biologically zhongli's son, bullying, zhongli is still considered an "archon" or of some sort

#hello, anon! idrk if this what you expected or if this meets your expectations but i hope you'll like it <3

for the nth time that day, you sighed again, playing with the food zhongli has set up for you on the table with your fork. at first, your father thought it was just you being tired after a long day at school but he's heard you sigh for several times. something was wrong. "m/n? buddy? is something the matter? you seem a little upset," zhongli asked, worry evident in his eyes.

you looked at your father and pursed your lips, hesitating. thoughts swirled around your mind before you eventually shook your head and answered a small "no". xiao, who was seated next to you, stopped eating his favorite almond tofu and offered it to you, answering him with a small smile before shaking your head.

zhongli tilted his head before sitting in front of you, your brother taking this as a sign to get you two some alone time. "m/n, what happened at school today? did…something bad happen? tell me," he coaxed, tears suddenly flowing down your eyes after you placed your utensils down.

"it's…just. the other kids in my class kept bullying me because i don't look like xiao. i mean, i obviously won't but i didn't know how to answer it which got me frustrated. in the end, i stuck bubble gum to his hair…the person who started it," you explained with a frown, hoping your father wouldn't get mad at you. "are you disappointed in me?"

"what? no, no i'm not. why would i ever be disappointed in my own son? sure, what you did was…surprising, but he deserved it," zhongli answered with a chuckle, a smile on his face. you reflected the smile on yours and laughed. "look, m/n. i know it's hard for you, but just know that you're not alone. you have a father and an older brother."

you nodded at him and continued to eat your meal. zhongli smiled at you and patted your hair. "dad, i want to eat ice cream," you stated after you've finished your meal, your father nodding as he removed the apron he was wearing.

as you and zhongli got ready, xiao came down from the stairs with an empty plate in his hands. "where are you going?" he asked you while your father was cleaning in the kitchen. you looked up at your brother.

"to get ice cream. wanna come?" you offered. it was tempting, but he heard the whole conversation you had with zhongli so he shook his head, thinking it was best for you and your father to spend some more quality time.

besides, xiao has already experienced being spoiled by zhongli back when he was just as little as you. this time, it was your turn to feel his fatherly love. "it's alright. thanks," xiao answered, a blank expression on his face before turning towards the kitchen where the sink was.

you and zhongli walked side by side in liyue harbor, buying things that seemed interesting to you. the brunette would watch you with a smile as you looked at the kites in the sky. "wow, so pretty," you muttered, eyes practically twinkling.

"do you want to fly one, m/n?" he asked which got your attention as you turned your head towards him and nodded eagerly. zhongli smiled and walked towards a stall nearby, you following beside him like a little chick.

the lady in the stall offered a welcoming grin and clasped her hands together. "good day, mr. zhongli. oh, you're with your son? must be a father-and-son hangout. what may i be of service?" she asked.

your eyes were glued on the crane-like kite, your hands on top of the counter as you stared at the kite with interest. "mhm? it seems the little one like this kite," she stated, you nodding and looked up at your father.

"it looks like auntie xianyun, dad!" you pointed out, zhongli coughing as he smiled awkwardly at the lady and paid for the kite, the woman in front of you two nodding before watching you two walk towards an area to fly the kite.

the brunette looked at the place before he crouched down and looked at you. "this is a good place to set the kite," he stated before standing back up then connected the string to the kite, you watching in excitement.

after, zhongli raised it, waiting for the wind to take it high up in the sky. luckily, the area was super windy so it was easy to get the kite up. you looked at it then held onto the hem of your father's shirt. "pretty," you mumbled.

then, when he finally had enough of it, zhongli gave the string to you and watched you. you took the string from him and let out a happy chuckle when you controlled it, loving the way the kite flew. "dad! i'm flying a kite!"

zhongli nodded as he silently picture your smile and chuckles in his brain, wanting to treasure it forever. "you're doing great, m/n. even better than xiao," zhongli uttered which made you purse your lips as you looked at your father.

"xiao wouldn't want to hear that, dad," you pointed out before focusing back on the kite. your dad chuckled at your words then agreed with a small "you're right".

as the day progressed, you and zhongli formed a much deeper father-and-son relationship. honestly, you felt like you were accepted by both your brother and your father no matter how far you looked like from them.

you realized that you weren't alone and that you have people who'd trust you to an extent.

the day was spent with sharing stories, exploring the town, buying things, laughters, and such. it was fun if you had to be honest. back at the orphanage, the only place you've always visited was the convent and the greenhouse that was located at the back of the convent.

the world was actually big and you had so much to explore. zhongli was the best father you could ever ask for. "huh? traveler, look! it's zhongli." upon hearing your father's name, your ears perked and looked up to see who called him.

mentioned male looked towards the direction of the person who called. "ah, it's paimon and the traveler," zhongli said, your eyes turning curious as you looked at your father.

"what are you doing here, zhongli? and…" the blond male who was sheathing his sword looked down at you and his eyes literally sparkled. "woah! zhongli, who's this cute little fella?" he asked as he crouched down to level your height. "i'm aether, but others prefer to call me the traveler. and the one beside me is the best companion, paimon."

you looked at the male and offered a sweet smile, offering a hand for him to shake. "hello, my name's m/n. zhongli's my dad. nice to meet you," you said, aether's sparkling eyes turning wide as well as paimon's.

both aether and paimon looked at zhongli then back at you. paimon flew swiftly beside the blonde male and hummed. "zhongli, we didn't know you had a younger son," she said, a smile on her lips as she looked at you.

aether shook your hand and stood back up. "how come you never told us about m/n? you know, we would have been more than willing to babysit him if you were busy at the wangsheng funeral parlor."

"actually, i'm adopted," you opened up, both paimon and aether letting out a surprised 'oh'. "is there something wrong?"

the blonde male shook his head and patted your head. "no, nothing's wrong with that. we just didn't know zhongli had an adopted son. yet, you don't look as gloomy as xiao. which is a good thing honestly. xiao would obviously need some sunshine in his life."

you smiled at him and looked back at zhongli who showed you the same sweet smile. "well, m/n and zhongli, we don't want to interrupt your family bonding so we should go," paimon stated, smiling before patting your head with her small hands. "we'll see you again soon, m/n!" she exclaimed as she and aether went towards the docks.

"seems like the traveler and paimon took a liking to you, m/n," zhongli spoke up, your heart beating in excitement, wanting to see the two of them again. "hm, i feel like we're forgetting something."

"ice cream! let's buy almond tofu ice cream for xiao, dad!"

"sure, anything for my little one."

after buying the desserts you oh-so love, you and zhongli finally made your way towards your home where xiao was probably waiting. "i had fun today, dad. i like the meeting with mr. aether and ms. paimon! i want them to visit soon," you opened up, a smile on your face after eating the last bite of your favorite popsicle ice cream.

the brunette smiled and hummed. "they will, m/n. but ptobably not soon. the traveler and paimon have lots of wonders to explore around teyvat," he reasoned out. he expected you to feel sad but you only chuckled and nodded at his statement.

"it's alright. i'll be waiting for them here in liyue," you answered with a smile etched on your face. upon seeing your house nearby, you ran towards the direction of your humble abode and knocked, waiting for xiao to open the door.

a few seconds after, the door creaked open and you were engulfed in a tight hug by your older brother. "hm? xiao? did something happen while dad and i was gone?" you asked the taller boy before zhongli joined and hugged you both. at that, you felt the warmth of your family's love.

though you may not be related to them by blood, their love for you was strong enough to tell you that you belonged, that you were their family.

[xiaoaetherposts]

All Lantern Rite event, but it's XiaoTher

Summary of Xiao x Aether content in every Lantern Rite event so far.

Lantern Rite 1.3 event (2021):

☆ Aether helped Xiao perform various tasks.

☆ Aether visited Xiao in Wangshu Inn.

Aether: "You wouldn't go to the festival, so we brought the festival to you."

Xiao: "Does is serve any grander purpose?"

Aether: "This way you can take part in Lantern Rite."

☆ Aether prepared a dinner for Xiao and helped organize a small Lantern Rite celebration at Wangshu Inn.

☆ Xiao accompanied Aether to Liyue Harbor.

Aether: "O Vigilant Yaksha, please escort us safely to the city."

Xiao: "So be it. I shall accept your proposal."

Xiao: (...) Speak my name. Anywhere. Anytime."

☆ Xiao watched the lanterns and smiled.

I know, it sounds like two characters dating. It was like that. Sometimes even I'm surprised how canonically the Xiao x Traveler ship is treated by HoYo.

Lantern Rite 2.4 event (2022):

☆ Xiao invited Aether to Wangshu Inn.

Xiao: "When this matter is resolved, come to Wangshu Inn. In previous years, the Mingxiao Lantern has been visible even from there."

☆ Aether visited Xiao and bring him food and other presents.

☆ Xiao said Aether that:

Xiao: "If anyone wishes to see me, I know they'll come and find me"

implying that he would like Aether to do this.

☆ Xiao watched the lanterns smiling again.

What was especially cute was that when Aether arrived at Wangshu Inn, Xiao right away went up to him without Aether's calling and asked if he could help.

This happened at the first meeting and even during the Waterborne Poetry event, but it's rare when Xiao takes the initiative.

Lantern Rite 3.4 event (2023):

☆ Xiao saved Aether from the water and was very worried about him.🥹

*Someone carries you ashore, so quickly that you don't catch who it is...*

Xiao: "Glad you're okay."

Xiao: "...Your actions here caused caused others a great deal of worry. Do not repeat them again in the future."

☆ Xiao finally went to the Lantern Rite festival in Liyue Harbor because of Aether.

Xiao: "She told me that all the guests today would be "acquainted with elemental power." and I knew that you would be here."

☆ Xiao sat down next to Aether at the dinner table and then escorted him out.

Aether: "I ate too much. Could you come take a walk with me?"

Xiao: "Sure."

☆ Xiao and Aether talked lovingly in private:

Xiao: "Whenever I think of the ordinary conversations I've had with you, it feels... strangely novel."

Aether: "Strange in a good way?"

Xiao: "Yes." *little smile*

☆ Xiao chose Aether to be "the most distinguished guest." (so that even Zhongli was there, whom he deeply respects)

Everyone: "Who is the most distinguished guest here?"

Xiao: "One person here is well-acquainted with everyone else."

Aether: "(...Hm?)"

☆ Zhongli approved Xiao and Aether's relationship and gave advice to Xiao.

Zhongli: "Just as Xiao may seem unapproachable to most, but Aether has proved otherwise."

Xiao: "Rex La- I mean, Zhongli, what you're saying is..."

Zhongli: "Haha I meant what I said."

Xiao: "General Kapasis always said that we should live in the present and enjoy every little pleasant surprise. Perhaps that's what I should do with what I'm feeling now."

Zhongli: "It looks like you understood what I meant."

Xiao to Aether: "I appreciate your kindness. See you next time, then."⬇️

☆ Xiao and Aether finally watched the lanterns together.😍

Lantern Rite 4.4 event:

☆ Zhongli took Aether on purpose to the place where he knew Xiao was and wanted them stay together alone and fly a kite together.🪁

"Uh, why did you have us walk all this way?"

Zhongli: "I'll leave these two kites with you. Perhaps you can find a few friends with which you partake in the activity. You might find it to be enjoyable use of your time."

Flustered Xiao: "Oh, uh... Wait, who enjoy kite-flying?"

Zhongli: "Well, I would imagine some of your talent and wisdom is more the capable of finding out."

Xiao: Aether, when the Lantern Rite is over, come find me near Pervases' temple if you have the time.

Aether: "Absolutely."

Xiao: "Mmm." 😊

Zhongli: *plan succeed*

☆ Xiao invited Aether to visit him at the usual place and they released together the lantern that Xiao made.

Xiao: "Aether."

Aether: "It's just as I thought... You stopped short of stepping into the city again."

Xiao: "Being in the city isn't the only way for me to appreciate the lights and beauty of Lantern Rite. Look... Liyue Harbor lies just beyond this mountain."

Xiao: "As long as I stand at this vantage point, I may freely behold the sight of all the kites slowly ascending into the sky. ...For me, that is enough."

Aether: "Alright."

Xiao: "I invited you here because there is something I would like to do. I want to release a Xiao Lantern, and... I'd like you to be there for it."

Aether: "Did you make it yourself?"

Xiao: "Yes. I apologize for its crude appearance... I have little skill in that regard."

Aether: "No, no! It's amazing!"

Xiao: "...You're very kind, as usual."

Xiao: "Alright, it's time."

*they release the lantern together*

☆ With a nice metaphorical expression that Xiao said, it was hinted that Aether is the one who brings peace to Xiao.

Xiao symbolizes the lantern itself (to which the name Xiao Lantern refers), and Aether is the sky (his name means this in all languages).

Xiao: "Although, watching a kite gradually ascend into the sky does bring me a certain peace of mind. ...Perhaps they are a bit like Xiao Lanterns in that way."

This expresses Xiao's longing for Aether, which is also indicated by his idle animation (when he tries to reach the little light that goes towards the sky with his hand).

When he asks Aether to release the lantern into the sky together to bring the two things closer together symbolizes this beautifully.

Aether: "As the Xiao Lantern slowly disappears into the tranquil night sky, Xiao's expression softens."

Xiao: "... Aether. ... Thank you."

So as the Xiao lantern approaches the sky in a symbolic sense, as Xiao approaches Aether (which is referred to by the meaning of their names), as they have become closer and closer to each other over the years, and this has brought him calm and peace.

Twitter(X): @xiaoaetherposts

[kaeyachi]

I HAVE SO MANY EMOTIONS FOR LANTERN RITE

Spoilers below

First of all, I spent the entire time dreading what pain Gaming's plotline would have brought me. I was stressing the entire time! I'm sure the plotline is hitting too close to home for some of us...

Which brings me to the ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS GROUP OF THOUSAND YEAR OLDS (and their children) BEING CHAOTIC MESSES

Moon Carver and Mountain Shaper are the comedic duo i did not anticipate, but the moment they did their dialogue to distract Gaming, I couldn't stop cackling. Please, they're both stupidly hilarious! THE DUST THEY WERE MAKING AS THEY RAN WAS SO COMICAL. I love their npc looking asses lmaaaooooo

Zhongli randomly appearing surprised me! But you know what surprised me even more? XIAO (the amount of screenshots I took when he appeared...). I am absolutely sure Zhongli went all the way to Wangshu just to get Xiao to meet with him. We gotta appreciate Zhongli managing to get Xiao to consider visiting him more (pls visit Zhongli more often Xiao)

BUT THAT BEGS THE QUESTION: Do we have a date tomorrow??? With Xiao? Please let it be us Xiao. We love kite flying (also thanks again Zhongli for promting this) HOYO PLEASE LET THIS BE ANOTHER XIAO DATE!

Another comedic duo I did not expect are Shenhe and Xianyun! While Cloud Retainer does not sound natural in her speeches (shes trying!), Shenhe absolutely obliterated the sanity of the entire conversation just by being herself! (they got Gaming to think theyre purposely making themselves look bad lmao)

Yip Tak's "aiya" spoke to my soul. Please save this NPC dad from everyone else.

The cutscene for the actual lantern rite? Spectacular. Absolutely beautiful. Gaming's performance brings me back to my childhood (yearly, lion dancers would enter my school and perform for us. It was magical then, it's still magical now)

Unexpectedly made me wonder about Keqing x Charlotte though! (Charqing?) They're actually cute! They got Charlotte casually taking pics of Keqing while an entire event was on going lmao (she did it multiple times pfft) Gotta respect using up your film like that Charlotte.

Yaoyao and Qiqi! They soften my heart so fast! More of them too, please hoyo!

Finally, Gaming running to hug his dad (who he probably hasnt hugged in such a long time at that) made me tear up. They're not perfect, but they are on better terms, and that's way more than many of us would ever have...

Im very soft and mushy at the moment (and a bit jealous of Gaming coz that fr went so well...naol), so I guess my final thought on this matter is HAPPY LANTERN RITE

[finalyaksha]

Xiao's Birthday Letters Always Feel Like Sprinkles of Xiaoqing

Someone at Hoyoverse is clearly out to drive me mad with how they do this every year.

Like you have Xiao writing a letter talking about taking strolls when Keqing has a voiceline where she mentions taking a stroll when she has nothing else to do?? Hmm suspicious.

And then (credit to Anty for pointing this out) in the birthday art where he says "only you could find such a place" Eeerrrrrmmmm hmmm like the Yuheng who's memorized the entirely of Liyue's layout?? UNHINGED.

Also the fact that he says he has a Qingxin to use for decoration really hearkens back to the fact that Keqing is always super minimalist and would probably only want something small and simple to decorate her home with??? WILDING.

Not to mention he had a little chibi art flying a kite likeeeee @ my last post where I talk about Keqing going hardcore in this year's Lantern Rite wanting more people to care about kite flying and HE ACTUALLY DOES??? BRUH THEY'RE NOT EVEN HIDING IT ANYMORE.

They're secretly dating, I'm convinced.

If they don't fly kites together next year, what's the actual point?

Shout out to the Xiaoqing Discord, my conspiracy theorist partners in crime.

[arcanekai]

The Forgotten Hero | Xiao X Platonic! Reader

--------------------------

cw | angst, a happy ending

wc | ~600

an | My sister's youngest bunny passed away today and she feels guilty even though she did everything she could to save him. I wanted to write something to get it off my chest. Rest in peace little buddy.

🩷🐇🩷

--------------------------

It's all my fault.

I should have come sooner.

Why did they have to go?

Why couldn't it have been me instead?

All these thoughts were running in Xiao's mind as he sat in front of the stone statue that was once his childhood friend. However, not one tear was shed having found out about his friend's demise. Perhaps it was because he knew that this would happen regardless of what he did. His friend was stubborn and never took no for an answer. Even he had a hard time convincing them to change their mind on certain topics, not like he cared for those things all that much anyway.

Xiao remembered the time they met, before Rex Lapis and even before his capture. Two young adepti coming across one another in a field of glaze lilies. They had only met that one time, but that meeting had a big impact on both of them. However, soon after, Xiao was captured and forced to do awful acts of violence against innocent people. It was only after being rescued by Rex Lapis that he met his friend again. They had become an exorcist who was able to cleanse god remains, but having to do so took a toll on their body. After centuries of performing exorcisms, they had dark markings all over their body and had lost their eyesight completely. This was the point where Xiao noticed their change in demeanor. They were still stubborn as hell, but they became soft spoken, started to talk to themself more often, and would go off into the mountains to just sit.

There was a time Xiao had decided to join them on the mountain top when they kept muttering under their breath,

“A sacrifice must be made.”

At the time, Xiao believed that they had gone crazy, but now sitting in front of their statue that was made with their corpse, it had never been more clear. His friend could see the future and knew the outcome was not in Rex Lapis's favor. To prevent such calamity, his friend needed to seal the lingering god souls into a host so that they could have a physical form. However, in order to completely get rid of them, his friend would also need to kill the host. Not willing to kill another adeptus, they decided to become the host and perform the exorcism, killing themselves in the process. Their sacrifice saved everyone, but in the end, they didn't get the recognition of being a hero, they were forgotten.

--------------

The sun was high in the sky, its rays of light grazing the land of Liyue. People were already out and about starting to work, but not everyone. The young adeptus was on a mountain top, paying his respect to his friend. His friend's statue has been long gone as erosion took its course. All that is left of it is a small lotus censor.

Lighting three incense, he bowed three times, and placed them into the censor. As he finished his prayer, he looked out to the city below.

Children running freely on the streets, flying their kites in the ever vast blue of the sky. Merchants calling to any passerby that might be interested in their wares. Elderly, strolling through the gardens while reminiscing their younger years. It was peaceful.

“Is this what you wanted to show me?” Xiao whispered into the wind. With a final bow and a small smile on his face, Xiao bid farewell to his friend.

“May you rest in peace for the next millennia as well.”

[jasmineandpepper]

"Perhaps you can find a few friends with which to partake in the activity."

Perhaps someone who could enjoy kite-flying. He was more than capable of finding someone like that in the end. His body was trembling, but not with anticipation. The invisible border between Liuye and Mondstadt stretched in the distance, decorated with ponds and lush vegetation. Xiao unconsciously tightened his grip on the kites. The last, anxious thought tried to convince him to return to Wangshu Inn. But the breeze blew softly, fragrant, promising.

"Barbatos?" He said, and the wind carried away his formal, flat voice. Delicate lotus flowers were swaying in the air. Space was filled with the rustling sound of grass and trees.

Nothing happened.

Of course.

He pressed his lips together and slightly lowered his head. Of course he would do that. Xiao sighed and took a breath in again, shyness tingling his cheeks.

"Venti."

The name turned out so soft, so quiet, he couldn't help but feel the embarrassment creeping lower down his neck. He gulped, correcting his grip on the kites. It would be a shame to crease the delicate material–

"You called?“

He shivered, hearing joyful, teasing almost questions behind his back. He quickly turned around, noticing a familiar figure on the nearby boulder. Venti was sitting with his legs swaying back and forth. A tiny smile was dancing on his lips and he was looking– oh the way he was looking filled Xiao with a desire to run and hide and never be seen like that again. But he stayed, pierced down and speechless, with only his heart racing, shaking his whole body with its rhythm.

"I thought you would never show yourself again," started Venti, and Xiao shrunk into himself, searching for disappointment in Anemo Archon's voice. "Who could guess my poem would be a mighty yaksha weakness?"

The warmth got unbearable. His face was burning, so he lowered his head so much, he could only see grass and his trembling hands on the kites. How could his facade crumble so quickly? He shouldn't have tried this. But how else was he supposed to break months of silence?

"What do you got here?" Venti's voice sounded closer. Soon enough other hands entered his field of view, grabbing his own in a gentle hold. "Are those the famous Liuye kites?"

Maybe a few months were not that much for immortals.

"One of them is modified with a fontainian invention." His voice was so, so quiet, barely audible. His eyes were fixed on the pale hands, now gently caressing his own. "Rex La– Zhongli asked me to enjoy them with friends."

"And you chose me from all the people around you? I'm flattered." And even though Venti's voice was light as always, Xiao couldn't help but fear. What if he ended up offending Venti? The touch was not enough. He let out a shaky breath. Inch after inch, he raised his eyes.

Venti was so close. So close, it was hard to breathe when their eyes met.

"Hello." Only a whisper could fit into the space between them. "I missed you." 

"I'm sorry."

Venti beamed as only the sun could. Not even the most hidden part of Xiao's existence could remain frozen cold.

"Don't be. I would wait a thousand years for you."

Months, years, decades, all was nothing for the immortals.

But not for him. Not with death following his footsteps. Not with sins tainting his soul. Not with–

Not with a gentle hand pulling his chin.

"Whenever my love is too much for you, I will wait. Always."

His eyelids almost fell. The kites fell for sure. His voice was lost, somewhere, anywhere. Those merciless eyes again. Soft, understanding, loving. He was stuck in place again.

"No," he whispered, and Venti's sigh brushed his lips. "I'm already here."

He no longer had any reason to run and hide.

[residentskeletoninthecloset]

I finished Lantern Rite '24 in the nick of time before it goes away on the NA servers and I'm so glad I did. Hoyoverse have a good record with this event and it was another spectacular one this year.

I did think Paimon is picking up a horrible habit being so rude. I remember some complaints about as much for Furina's story quest and it unfortunately seems to have continued. I don't usually mind Paimon and I even kind of like the little flying exposition fairy most of the time but she was super rude with some of the dialogue this year. Hopefully isn't an issue next year!

I really enjoyed Zhongli's appearance and immediate understanding of the not-so-elaborate plan the gang had cooked up. It's also really funny to think he was just out and about flying kites as the former Lord of Geo does. It was also really sweet that he and Ciao got to share the moment they did. Not often we get development between those two.

On that note I was especially glad I went to see Xiao after the Lantern Rite like he asked. Really cute and wholesome moment between the Traveler and Xiao. I don't get too into shipping but pairing the Traveler with Xiao has always been one of my favorites.

Back to the Lantern Rite itself I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed Gaming's focus for this year's story quests. I was already a fan of Gaming's personality and play style so I knew I was going to like it but it was even better than I expected. As someone that had similar familial issues and unresolved issues with my own father this year got me good. I'm really happy for Gaming, even though he's a fictional character, and I'm glad for anyone else who maybe by some stretch were able to work through some of their own familial issues in part thanks to this year's Lantern Rite. Stranger things have happened, maybe this silly little beautiful gacha game story can be a catalyst for good for some folks.

[3m0t10nal-cr1s1s]

Very curious about what the Mu third gen personalities are like, there designs are very cute and pretty

Hiii thanks for the question!! I worked really hard on their designs and colors so I'm really glad you like them! Personality ramble under the cut cause it's quite long. Also, spoilers ahead for the FMC storyline.

From oldest to youngest:

Mu Beiyan: In my mind, a lot of pressure has been put on Beiyan ever since he was a kid, and even more so after he became the crown prince. He feels obligated to succeed, not only for his parents and family, but for the empire as well, so he always tries to finish his assignments and solve problems as effectively and efficiently as possible. As his father would have.

Even though, deep in his heart, he doesn't want to be emperor and wants to go back to those days of playing with Lingxi and flying kites, he knows that those days are over, and he needs to grow up if he's going to inherit the throne. He's still playful and a bit childish buried deep underneath the more responsible, serious, and often sleep deprived exterior. Even though he's been praised from every direction, Beiyan still feels inadequate and feels that other officials and even Xiurong would make a better emperor than he would.

Mu Lingxi: Lingxi's Doukou redesign is what kickstarted this whole thing. I imagine she's more refined and more confident than she was as a child. A true lady that her mom would be proud of. She greatly respects Ling Ruo and Xu Rongyuan and is often torn inbetween becoming a female official and being a physician.

She still loves tanghulu and bunnies and is kind and cheerful and still a bit of a cry baby. She also misses the days when she was a child and things were simpler, but she also understands that she has grown a lot. Mostly, she misses Beiyan. He's grown so busy that they can't see each other as often as they once did. She often tries to have tea parties with he cousins but the only ones who show up consistently are Jinghua, Jingfei and Hualing.

Mu Jinghua: Jinghua is the oldest of the two twins, mostly referred to as A-hua by her mother and brother. She comes off as mean-spirited and haughty at first, using her appearance as a leverage and generally acting above many of the nobles, but it's all an act she puts on as she's wary of other palace folk. Her branch of the family is looked down upon because of the stunts her father tried to pull to take the throne.

If you get to know her, she's actually kind and clumsy. The definition of sweet, if a bit gloomy. She feels that she's stifled as a noble lady and wants to do more with her life, but she's scared of change and wonders if anyone will accept her, even if she's the daughter of Mu Lingfeng. She wants to be something, anything, other than his daughter.

Mu Jingfei: Jingfei is the younger of the two twins, mostly referred to as A-fei by his mother and sister. Jingfei doesn't put on the same mean exterior Jinghua does. He mostly spends his time at the Ginkgo institution, being mentored by Xiao Qian and Xu Rongyuan so he's not around nobles as often as his sister is. Most people coming in don't care about his parentage and just wants to be treated.

He's a giant sap and always wants the best for his patients. He often worries about them long after his shift had ended. He's definitely more sensitive than Jinghua. Even still, he resents his father greatly and refuses to address him as 'father' at all. He's seen how the burden of the throne weighs on Beiyan and questions if that was what Mu Lingfeng wanted, and if he had successfully taken the throne, would Jingfei be put in Beiyan's position? Would Jinghua be in Lingxi's?

Mu Xiurong: From a young age, Xiurong has been taught by her mother how to think critically, get out of messy situations with her words and deal with court affairs and drama. At the same time, she was being taught by her father on how to ride a horse, wield a weapon and how to defend herself. For these reasons, she's always kept to herself and put on a blank face to prevent people from predicting her next move, whether that be mental or physical. She wants to make both her parents proud, even if she's young.

She's very loving and worries about her younger brother and Beiyan often. Since she's aiming to become a court official like her mother, she's often the one by Beiyan's side during the day and deal with situations with him. Xiurong doesn't like to think of the relationship between her and her brother as a rivalry, but occasionally will give Renshu a reason to keep trying to surpass her in skill, just because it's funny. She actually can't participate in much strenuous activity since she has a bad leg.

Mu Renshu: Growing up, Renshu was given all of the same opportunities as his older sister was, but whenever his mother taught him he quickly became bored and would want to go outside to train. That quickly changed when his mother mentioned something about Xiurong being easier to teach for both her and Lingchuan and suddenly, Renshu was determined to surpass his sister in something. Even though they have a three year age difference and he'll have a lot of catching up to do.

He's stubborn and unrelenting, if a bit childish and immature. Even though he knows he wields a sword better than Xiurong, it doesn't change the fact that she can ride horses better and has better handwriting. His one sided rivalry is mostly in good fun, but sometimes, he does get discouraged that Xiurong is looked upon more favorably than he is. Still, he worries about her and often asks how her health is.

Mu Hualing: Hualing was adopted by Xu Rongyuan in an impulse decision. A patient of his had died in childbirth and her family was unwilling to take the baby, since it was illegitimate. Rongyuan and Linghao is trying to raise Hualing the best they can, asn she loves them, and recognizes them as her dads. She's unaware of her actual parentage but she knows she's adopted.

Hualing, or 'Lingling' (as in the sound of a bell) as nicknamed by her family, often follows her cousins around if she's not in school or doing homework. If she's following her cousins around, it often means she's avoiding school work. She curious and inquisitive with a love of Osmanthus cake and anything that could be made into a percussion instrument. She finds Jinghua quite fascinating, copying hairstyles in an attempt to be close to her. Jinghua things it's adorable.

Also these alignment charts I made because I thought it'd be funny

[taxcrimesspeaks]

Xiaoven Week Day III - Injury/Illness

“Xiao~! Where are you?” Venti calls gleefully, his lyre in hand as he plucks a new tune. He doesn’t play long however, as the Yaksha appears before him. Or more accurately, behind him.

“Ah, there you are! Now, I have a- Xiao? Are you alright?” The god’s voice is edged with panic, and rightfully so.

“Xiao… why are you injured?”

That soft inquiry is all it takes for Xiao to fall into Venti’s hands. He’s not wounded badly, a few minor scrapes and scratches that he could heal easily. His knees wobble slightly, relying on Venti to hold him up. The god’s hand falls to his hair, gently stroking it and hushing the Adeptus. Carefully they both sink to the ground, with Venti moving Xiao’s tired form into his lap.

“Who did this to you?” Xiao has never heard him like this, so cold. His Venti was always so sunny and bright, befitting of the God of Freedom. He can’t help but to answer.

“Those who wished to tarnish your name.”

“Mondstadters?”

“No, Liyuens.”

“Xiao, you didn’t hurt them did you?”

“No, I simply warned them not to speak ill of the god that let their children fly kites and carried the lanterns of the New Year.”

“So they attacked you?”

“One thought it might be amusing to throw a rock at my head. When that missed they all started throwing stones. I’m alright Venti.”

Venti sighs, the Anemo energy having built up in his braids dissipating as quickly as it appeared.

“Alright, I’ll believe you. But please Xiao,” he takes both of his protectors hands into his own, kissing the tops of them, “you don’t need to defend my name. If they wish to speak I’ll of me, let Morax handle them. You know he will. Don’t let yourself be hurt for my sake.”

The Yaksha limbs felt both lighter and heavier all at once, with his wounds slowly being healed by the light teal magic emanating from Venti’s fingertips. He nods at his ward’s request, gently slipping into a dreamless slumber in his lap.

“Rest now, my Yaksha. I will be here when you wake.”

—————

i still have four more days to write help

[mistypurplespark]

Chapter 44: Lone Fight

Chapter 44.1: Lone Fight

Translator(s): Elestrea

Editor(s): juurensha, namio

This battle could easily be called the pinnacle of Xiang Shu's life. One lone man challenging 60,000 men; it was comparable to that unbeatable Martial God who had charged alone seven times through the enemy's ranks in the ancient battlefield of Dangyang nearly two hundred years ago. No matter how many he had killed, the Rouran cavalry just kept coming and coming, and Xiang Shu, who had been fighting alone, was losing his strength. When he heard Chen Xing's words "You can't beat them all, just run!" it was like there was a mouthful of blood inside his chest. Contrary to the words' original intention, they instead stirred up the blood all over his body. He wasn't afraid of death and once again went all out at the bottom of the cliff!

Chen Xing climbed up with both his hands and feet, and from below, he could see Xiao Shan trying to pry up the stone pillar; his whole person jumped up and down on his claws, and he was using all his strength to step on them. But then, Che Luofeng picked up his blade and aimed it straight towards Chen Xing who was still climbing! Chen Xing dared not shout, fearing it would distract Xiang Shu, so he had no choice but to grit his teeth and swing on the cliff.

Che Luofeng was fuming with rage: "Han dog, the time of your death…"

Then the stone pillar on the platform fell over and smashed into Che Luofeng's waist.

Before Chen Xing could clearly see what had happened, he felt something flash before his eyes. He saw Che Luofeng with open arms and a stone pillar following behind him directly fly towards him. Che Luofeng's face looked ferocious as he fell past Chen Xing.

Chen Xing: "???"

Chen Xing immediately looked up and shouted: "Xiao——"

He had yet to finish when the thousands of jin stone pillar dragged the iron chain down with it and woosh! —— Chen Xing also got pulled down and flew straight to the bottom of the cliff! Chen Xing felt the sudden pull must've distorted his facial expression.

Chen Xing: "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA——"

Xiang Shu's right hand was trembling from exhaustion, so he switched the sword to his left. When he was about to urge his horse to go up the mountain, he saw a stone pillar rolling down from behind the Rouran army. It made the ground tremble as it dragged the chained Chen Xing down the cliff!

"Beware of falling stones…" Chen Xing, who was dragged by the chain like a kite drifting in the wind, shouted from a distance.

Zhou Zhen, who was commanding the army, suddenly turned his head only to see a massive stone rolling down and crushing nearly ten thousand Rouran cavalry. This turn of events wasn't good at all, so he quickly dodged away to avoid that huge pillar that was falling from the top of the mountain. Xiao Shan had immediately gone after it, and Sima Wei, with black armor covering his whole body, rushed down from the top to chase after him. Desperate, Sima Wei detached and threw his black shield. It spun as it flew over, aligning perfectly with Chen Xing's feet.

"AAAAAAAAAA——" Chen Xing's tongue almost flew out in the wind. With the pillar still dragging him downhill, he stepped on the shield and began to ski down: slide to the left, avoid to the right —— all while still handcuffed. The pillar crushed anything it ran into, and there wasn't enough time for the Rouran cavalry to dodge it. Just like a rolling pin, the pillar flattened both riders and horses into meat pancakes.

Xiang Shu: "…"

Chen Xing felt dizzy for a moment and kept changing directions while Xiao Shan kept trying to throw himself on him several times. Luckily, not only did he not fall, he even managed to stabilize himself. Preoccupied with dodging, Zhou Zhen unexpectedly had forgotten for a moment that Xiang

Shu was still right there. Panicking, he rushed into the canyon. Xiang Shu once again flipped over to get on his horse and chased after Zhou Zhen.

Zhou Zhen changed his horse's direction and came face-to-face with Xiang Shu.

"Heart Lamp!" Xiang Shu roared.

Chen Xing was dazed from all the dragging, and he kept seeing stars in front of his eyes. When he heard Xiang Shu's shout, he instinctively started the Heart Lamp.

The Heart Lamp's brilliant light flashed inside the dark canyon. Xiang Shu lifted up his broadsword and pointed towards the horizon. From it, white light burst out and swept across the surroundings; the blade of the sword shone bright, each character of the Nine Syllables of Tao appearing on it in succession——

——Zhou Zhen's eyes opened wide. When he was met with Xiang Shu's sword glare, he raised his hand to block out the light.

"Go back to wherever you came from," Xiang Shu's voice sounded in his ear. Then, the sword split him down. Amidst his loud scream, Zhou Zhen suddenly burst into glimmering dust before scattering in all directions.

Meanwhile, the stone pillar dragging Chen Xing rolled into the forest before crashing into a big boulder —— it immediately shattered into almost ten pieces.

Along the way, whenever Chen Xing wasn't being obstructed by branches, he was sliding in the snow. He had almost fallen to the side but managed to step on the shield again and avoid danger, unexpectedly stopping without the slightest injury. Then, he kicked the shield up and caught it with his hands. His hands were still bound by the iron chain and now he was tied to a huge stone pillar's remains that still weighed around 60 or 70 jin; his whole face turned pale, and he gasped for breath.

When Xiang Shu eventually caught up with Chen Xing, he suddenly grabbed his hands. He was covered with black blood from head to toe. They

both didn't say anything.

"You… you…" Chen Xing looked at Xiang Shu and didn't know what to say.

"Me, me what?" Xiang Shu grabbed Chen Xing's wrist and wouldn't let go

—— unconsciously hurting him a little. Looking around, he could only see chaos everywhere. Most of the Rouran cavalry had been taken care of by Chen Xing's Iuppiter and was now regrouping in a panicked rush. He quickly said: "Now is not the time to talk, let's go!"

Chen Xing: "Xiao Shan…"

Xiang Shu: "He can protect himself!"

Chen Xing also thought that Xiao Shan's speed was indeed very fast. Since Sima Wei couldn't catch him, Xiao Shan should be able to protect his own life without much trouble. Now, the most important thing was that he couldn't fall into the enemy's hands and become a hostage again, or else it would only put Xiao Shan and Xiang Shu at more of a disadvantage.

Chen Xing ran until he was out of breath. In the depths of the woods, a cave appeared.

"Ah!" Chen Xing was about to say "Nice!" when Xiang Shu pressed his head down and motioned him not to speak. The two of them went in.

The cave was pitch-black, and it was covered with frost. Chen Xing lit up a small area with the Heart Lamp.

"Why is it just the two of you?" Chen Xing asked.

Xiang Shu: "I didn't let Xiao Shan come! He followed me! Am I alone not enough to save you?"

Xiang Shu was practically furious with Xiao Shan. Back then, he had been ready to rescue Chen Xing, but Xiao Shan kept following him around. So, Xiang Shu had to change his plans. He challenged the enemy head-on to distract their attention while Xiao Shan climbed up the peak to quietly

rescue Chen Xing. The end result: Xiao Shan went up, went wild, and made such a big mess in the end.

"How about Karakorum?" Chen Xing asked.

"It's guarded." Xiang Shu walked ahead, one hand carrying the boulder and pulling the chain along. He vigilantly looked around, watching for an ambush.

Chen Xing finally calmed down. He frowned and said: "You're taking too much risk. You came here alone?"

Xiang Shu: "I don't want my people to risk or even lose their lives just because they followed me to save you. You have a problem with that?"

Chen Xing felt a little guilty when he heard this, and he didn't know why, but he felt very stuffy when he looked at Xiang Shu. If I hadn't helped defend the city for you people to begin with, would I have been caught? But this was merely a passing thought. Looking at Xiang Shu's armor that was covered with black blood and his disheveled hair, he looked more like a ghost who had crawled straight out of the underworld —— it made Chen Xing slightly uncomfortable.

He had wanted to reply with: "Then why did you still come?", but he faintly picked out something else from Xiang Shu's words. The feeling was the same as when one plucked out a string; it gave out a barely audible, hard-to- discern vibrato. He wanted to listen attentively, only to discover that the guqin sound had long been gone and what remained was just the echo —— feeling similar to the feeling that appeared when one was tasting an illusion of reciprocated love.

They both went silent again for a moment.

"Are you feeling better?" Xiang Shu asked harshly. "What?" Chen Xing was at a loss. "I've always been fine."

"Bullshit!" Xiang Shu turned around and said angrily, "You were vomiting blood!"

Chen Xing then realized that Xiang Shu was talking about the time when he had fainted because he had exhausted his heart's power for the Heart Lamp. He felt as if he had been slapped hard, so he hurriedly said, "It's nothing. It was just because back then, I had overused the Heart Lamp's power, it made me unable to breathe for a while… Let's just go ah! Or you're going to hit me now?"

Xiang Shu carried the boulder and dragged down the chain. The two walked towards the windy part of the cave and in less than a quarter of an hour, they saw a light. They had unexpectedly entered a spacious ravine in the heart of Yin Mountains.

This ravine had weapons and armor scattered everywhere. Chen Xing murmured, "Where is this?"

"The sinners' pit." Xiang Shu looked around. He saw that the ravine was in the shape of a half-moon; it was surrounded by several peaks and in the distance, there was a dense forest covered in snow. He said: "Inside the Chi Le Covenant, people who have committed a crime are not granted sky burials and must be buried instead. This is where they are all buried."

Chen Xing looked towards the sky. The sky was so overcast that he couldn't even tell the difference between east, west, south, and north. How could they leave the mountain? While he was pondering that over, the sound of a stone falling to the ground suddenly came from the side. Xiang Shu supported himself with his sword as he slightly gasped for breath. It was clear that the battle had taken a toll on him, and he couldn't walk anymore.

Chen Xing hurriedly made Xiang Shu sit down and undid his armor. There were bloodstains inside and out, and even the garment inside the leather armor had been soaked purple and black by blood.

"How many did you defeat?" Chen Xing recalled that astonishing scene.

"I don't know." Xiang Shu leaned against a big tree with his eyes closed as he replied coldly, "No time to count. Help me take off my armor."

>Xiang Shu wore a Tiele heavy armor. Not long after he had entered the canyon, the warhorse was shot by an arrow and it couldn't hold on. This

armor was made of hardened steel by the Tieles' and the Rourans' craftsmen. It was deformed from all the arrows and swords, but it had still protected his body well.

Chen Xing bared Xiang Shu's chest. Xiang Shu took a deep breath and gasped for more air.

"Have a rest," Xiang Shu sat under the tree and with his back against it, he closed his eyes then said, "Guwang is too tired, too tired…"

Translator's Comment:

Guwang is too tired, Guwang’s wife keeps running away

namio will help us edit from now on! You might’ve seen her already as she does many cursed beautiful arts of Dinghai, just like that… Ducksheng… and one more, we also have a new translator coming in, ice will translate starting from Chapter 50! Welcome, everyone!

Chapter 44.2: Lone Fight

Translator(s): Elestrea

Editor(s): juurensha, namio

Chen Xing was still chained, and with much difficulty, he tore off his robe to cover Xiang Shu's upper body. Looking at Xiang Shu's tired and bloodstained face, he thought that he was still so handsome. He couldn't help but want to reach out and touch Xiang Shu's face. At that moment, his mind gave birth to an idea, seemingly urging him to do something to express his gratitude towards Xiang Shu.

"How far is it from Karakorum to here?" Chen Xing said. "One day and one night," Xiang Shu replied.

Chen Xing thought: Did you come to save me as soon as I was caught?

"You want something to eat ma?" Chen Xing asked once again, "Are you hungry?"

"Eat what?" Xiang Shu indifferently said, "Can you even find me something to eat? Eat you? How many liangs of meat do you think you have?"

Chen Xing had to drop the subject.

Xiang Shu's breathing stabilized, and he no longer talked, clearly asleep. Chen  Xing  sat  down  on  his  side,  slightly  leaned  against  him.  His surroundings were quiet; the only sound he could hear was the rustling of the wind passing through the mountains and forests. At that moment, it was as if all dangers had distanced themselves away from them, and in the whole world, there was only this peaceful snow and lofty mountains.

I'm sorry, Chen Xing said in his heart.

If I hadn't one-sidedly made you my Protector, I wouldn't have caused you so much trouble ba. Chen Xing sighed in his heart, but regarding this matter, he was very confused. Now and then, Chen Xing went as far as

treating Xiang Shu as his last hope, because when he had been kidnapped, Xiang Shu had fought hard and risked his life for him.

Chen Xing was only leaning slightly on him, but Xiang Shu, eyes still closed, raised an arm and draped it around Chen Xing's shoulders, pulling him a little closer to himself. This action seemed to fill Chen Xing with endless courage, his momentary frustration vanishing like smoke in thin air.

Chen Xing slowly leaned down. Resting his head on Xiang Shu's body, he looked at the desolate graves in front of him.

"What?" Xiang Shu said suddenly. "What?" Chen Xing asked blankly. "Heart Lamp," Xiang Shu said concisely.

Chen Xing said, "Heart Lamp? But I'm not using it?"

Xiang Shu opened his eyes and doubtfully said: "I feel it. It's like you're glowing all over."

"Me?" Chen Xing raised his head, but Xiang Shu pressed it down so that his head still laid on his body. Leaning on him, Chen Xing felt better, but he couldn't tell why.

"Did you see Che Luofeng?" Xiang Shu changed the subject and asked.

"En," Chen Xing gave a rough outline of the events. Xiang Shu frowned and said, "Zhou Zhen became a living corpse shortly after his death and so did Youduo. Where have they been hiding all these years?"

This was also the point that Chen Xing was puzzled over the most. If the world's spiritual qi was still there, they might have been able to ask the yaos who could be found everywhere in the mountains or other areas.

"What are you going to do with Che Luofeng?" Chen Xing asked.

"I'm going to take him back," Xiang Shu said in a low voice, "or finish him here. It's my fault."

Chen Xing had originally wanted to say that you shouldn't hand over the responsibility of guarding Chi Le Chuan to Che Luofeng, but what was the use of saying that now? Besides, thinking about the circumstances at that time, even if Xiang Shu hadn't handed over the responsibility to his Anda, if Che Luofeng were to take over Chi Le Chuan and kill people anyway, there still would have been no one who could subdue him. Xiang Shu's decision to leave Chi Le Chuan was a mistake, and this mistake was caused by Chen Xing himself.

"Before I left, he promised me," Xiang Shu murmured, "that he wouldn't take revenge on the Akeles and that he would protect Chi Le Chuan for me. That night, surrounded by the clan chiefs, the two of us came to an agreement."

Chen Xing suddenly recalled the night when King Akele had waited outside his tent and offered to take him north. King Akele must've also felt that the argument between Xiang Shu and Che Luofeng was endless. He didn't want to drag the whole Chi Le Chuan into danger because of himself, and also didn't want the Great Chanyu to abandon the whole Chi Le Chuan for the sake of the Akeles, so he left without permission in the middle of the argument and came to assist Chen Xing on his own.

"Che Luofeng isn't that kind of person. Some words were said just because he let his emotions take over him in the heat of the moment. Once he calms down, he'll eventually get the big picture. It's Zhou Zhen and Shi Hai…" Xiang Shu murmured, "It was the medicine Shi Hai gave him that changed his temperament."

"Forget it," Chen Xing said, feeling a little uncomfortable. Xiang Shu said, "Can you save him again?"

Chen Xing replied, "It's hard to say. If the spiritual qi of heaven and earth were still there, I could've attempted to dispel the influence of the Devil God's blood."

Xiang Shu: "It's impossible for him to be forgiven. I just want him to regain his dignity and then die."

"For what crime?" A hoarse voice said, "Shulü Kong, the one who should ask for forgiveness is you."

Chen Xing suddenly looked up. Xiang Shu however, seemed to have known that Che Luofeng was coming. He casually patted Chen Xing, indicating for him to get up, before standing up himself, using his sword for support. "Drop it, explain yourself."

Che Luofeng had been pummeled beyond recognition. When he fell off the cliff, his head was knocked until it became dented, the armor and clothes on his whole body had shredded into rags, and one of his hands was broken and hung free at his side.

Che Luofeng's eyes were opened wide, looking at Xiang Shu. "My Anda, you should remember the consequence of going back on your words."

"Don't move a zhang away from this tree." Xiang Shu picked up his sword and slowly walked away from Chen Xing. His upper body was bare, showing the scar left behind from that time in Chang'an not too long ago where he had blocked an arrow for Chen Xing. His lower body was still covered with iron armor. He held the sword horizontally, blocking Che Luofeng's way.</p<

There was a small noise coming in from all directions —— a powerful resentment was spreading quietly in this ancient burial ground.

Sima Yue appeared from inside the forest. Holding an antler staff, he stood on high ground, overlooking the three men in the graveyard.

Chen Xing raised his head to look at Sima Yue, noticing that the antler staff was commanding the resentment around it. After a while, it grew by leaps and bounds, and all of the resentment beyond the Great Wall rushed into the graveyard, pouring into the ravine like running water!

"Sima Yue!" Chen Xing said in a deep voice, "Let your master come out and speak!"

"Exorcist," Sima Yue, standing above them, said in an aloof and cold voice. "You will see him soon enough. I'll give you a chance: Give up all

resistance and come with me. That way, you'll naturally have an opportunity to ask him everything."

At that moment, Chen Xing had an idea: If I pretended to lose and be caught, what would happen?  It was obvious that these two resurrected living corpses who were called "Drought Fiend Kings" had received an order from their superior to capture him alive.

But Chen Xing immediately gave up on that idea. Shi Hai wanted to see him, so they would keep him alive, but the same couldn't be said for Xiang Shu. It was too risky to try, and it really wasn't worth it.

"I have no interest in negotiating with him." Chen Xing lifted his chain and confronted the enemy on the high ground. Showing no emotions, not even the slightest hint of fear, he said, "Go back and tell him: My mission is to annihilate him and send him back to samsara, to the place where the dead ought to go."

Sima Yue burst out into a hoarse, frantic laugh. "You alone? I'd like to see, with the Silence of All Magic, what a weak and defenseless exorcist can do!"

The moment his voice fell, Sima Yue thrusted the staff in his hand into the ground, and the overflowing resentment snapped into a frenzy! Cold winds howled in the ancient graveyard, as if their surroundings had transformed into the underworld!

When he saw this, Chen Xing muttered: "Not good." Like the Yin Yang Mirror and the Zheng Drum, this magical artifact had been refined with resentment! The resentment in the magical artifact, coupled with that caused by the war and the massacre in Chi Le Chuan, had begun to stir the earth vein of this gloomy place. This situation was even more dangerous than Chang'an City!

At first, he didn't think much about it as there weren't many people living in Chi Le Chuan, and there had been no large-scale war for so many years. So, even if there were resentment hovering around, it would dissipate very quickly. However, what he didn't expect was that what Chi Le Chuan lacked

the most if compared to Chang'an City was the most important factor: People.

The fewer the number of living people, the weaker the yang qi would become, which slowed down the neutralization of the resentment borne by death. Sima Yue had brought this magical artifact containing powerful resentment out of nowhere and was now forcibly urging and releasing its power. In an instant, dark clouds surged in the sky above, blood-red lightning also faintly visible.

Numerous shadows appeared from within the mountain range, surrounding that tall and ancient tree in the graveyard.

"Shulü Kong…" Che Luofeng roared from inside the dark clouds. "I've given you almost everything I have, and all these years, I've never owed you anything..."

Che Luofeng slowly emerged from the dense resentment. Chen Xing looked around the graveyard and found that countless animals had become corrupted —— deer, wolves, wild dogs, foxes, vultures… A horde of dead animals with exposed, eerie white bones and muddy eyes stared at them as they limped towards the graveyard.

"My Anda is already dead," Xiang Shu said, holding his broadsword. "The monster standing in front of me is nobody."

Chen Xing forced himself to calm down. He could see that Che Luofeng's broken and torn body was, to his surprise, being slowly mended inside the dense resentment. Looking up at the darkened sky, he then activated the Heart Lamp. This thick aura was interfering with the light of Xiang Shu's sword, dimming it down.

The resentment was so heavy it gnawed away the power of Heart Lamp by the minute.

"Shulü Kong," Che Luofeng said, trembling. "You selfish, ungrateful, vile man. I've seen through you, just die! Return everything I've given you!"

Chen Xing shouted: "Xiang Shu! Don't get too far away from me! The Heart Lamp's mana has been weakened!"

Chen Xing rushed into the battlefield, and Xiang Shu moved back. Incomparable resentment was enveloping Che Luofeng; he was even more unreconciled than Feng Qianyi. He revealed a bone whip from his left hand and pounced on Xiang Shu!

Translator's Comment:

Ah, Che Luofeng, you’re one of the characters I shall never truly hate or like. I like how Feitian made him such a conflicted person. But I guess, there’s no redemption for you this time.

Anyway, the glossary is now updated until Chapter 44.

[hulijingemperor2]

It's a few years later.

Ruhua, Xuanli's second child is 6 and the twins, Ruxuan and Ruming are 5.

Now Zixuan and children came to spend a day with A-Yao in Jingjing.

Ruhua is a pampered and confident little girl, who knows that she's living a life of glamor. She's also a daddy's girl, so most of the time She'll be accompanying Zixuan~ even in his imperial court.

She would sit on his lap and say, "you heard HuangDie!!" Ruhua is in fact a female Zixuan. She also has beautiful peacock feathers (like the rest)

Ruhua's first words was Diedie and gold.

Ruxuan is like his brother Jinling.

He loves spending time with his uncle, A-Yao, and his twin sister.

Some say his first word was Foxy.

Ruming is Yanli. She loves lotuses and calm delicate things, and Yunmeng lotus pier is her favorite place.

Jinling has to carry Ruming with him to lotus pier, in which he doesn't mind doing

Ruming is also Jiang cheng and Wei wuxian's favourite~ because they could pretend that they're older than Yanli, lol.

Ruhua is afraid of insects whereas Ruming wouldn't hesitate to hold one.

Her first word was Niang.

All three children loves pranking Jinling.

And they refer to their uncles and elders like this:

Yao~ uncle Foxy/ Xiao shushu.

Mo xuanyu ~ uncle mo.

Jiang cheng ~ grape Jiujiu.

Wei wuxian ~ Xian da jiu.

Lan zhan ~ ice uncle.

Lan xichen~ uncle smiles.

Nie mingjue ~ tall Shushu.

Huaisang ~ maid Shushu

Xue yang ~ candy uncle

Su she ~ uncle Sushi.

Meng Shi~ Meng Nainai.

Madam Jin~ Jin Nainai!!!

Rusong and Jinling: Song and Ling gege!!!

~~~

Yao: *in his study, with Ruxuan on his lap.

His fox tail was also resting on his little nephew, as that was something Ruxuan is fond of*

Ruxuan: *hugs his fluffy tail* uncle Foxy. *points* what's that? On your desk?

Yao: ink. *smile*

Ruxuan: what's that used for?

Yao: to write and draw with.

Ruxuan: can uncle Foxy draw?

Yao: hmm, maybe if I try. But I feel that you're a better artist than me.

Ruxuan: mnnn. *points* what's that?

Yao: a brush holder.

Ruxuan: what's that used for?

Yao: to hold pens, Xuanxuan.

Ruxuan: ohh. Uncle Foxy, do you like hats?

Yao: mhm.

Ruxuan: why?

Yao: because it's stylish.

Ruxuan: I want to wear it!

Yao: hmm. *takes it off, and puts it on his head*

Ruxuan: i can't see! Uncle Foxy, am I blind?

Yao: no darling. *lifts the hat* see!

Perhaps the hat is too big for you.

Ruxuan: why?

Yao: *laughing*

Xuan, don't worry. I'll get you a hat that's your size.

Ruxuan: I thought you were tiny. We all call you Xiao shushu. Which is little uncle. You're really tiny.

Yao: but you're tinier *pinches cheeks*

Ruxuan: *gasps* tinier than Xiao shushu?!!!!

Yao: yup.

Ruxuan: uncle Foxy.

Yao: mn?

Ruxuan: why do you and Song gege have dimples?

Yao: we were born with it, dear.

Ruxuan: is everyone born with dimples? Why aren't I born with dimples.

Yao: genetics dear.

Ruxuan: that's a big, funny sounding word, uncle Foxy.

What's that? Is that a bug? Or a disease.

Yao: no *laughing* it's like how you're a peacock spirit because your A-Die is also a peacock spirit.

Thats due to genetics.

Ruxuan: ohh. I feel very smart now.

Yao: baby, you're always smart.

Ruxuan: uncle Foxy. Song gege and Ling gege are going to make a kite for me later.

Yao: well that's lovely!

And today is an excellent day to fly a kite.

Ruxuan: yea!

Ruming: uncle Foxy, what are you doing?

Yao: stamping some documents, darling *yawns*. I'm almost done.

Ruming: are you sleepy? If A-Die and A-niang didn't ban me from making tea, I would have prepared it for you. I almost burnt my fingers while trying.

Yao: omg! Mingming! You should be careful.

Ruming: I was!

Yao: you're still very small, dear.

Ruming: ok, uncle Foxy.

Yao: good.

Xiying: Huangdi.

Yao: yes. They're respectively approved, filled and stamped.

Get them to the ministers.

Xiying: certainly huangdi.

Xiying: just a reminder, tomorrow you have a meeting with the empress of Phoenix spirits.

Yao: excellent.

Xiying: and the complementary gifts are arranged.

Yao: tell the rest of the staff that they're doing a wonderful job.

Xiying: will do, Huangdi. And we love to be in your aid.

Yao: *smile*

Ruming: are you an emperor? A-Die is an emperor too.

Yao: yes I am. *gasps* your A-Die is also a Huangdi.

Ruming: he didn't tell you?

Yao: no. Why did he hide it from me? This makes me sad.

Ruming: I'll talk to him! He should have told you his secret.

Yao: who else knows? Does my Mingming know?

Ruming: yes I do! Ling gege,  Hua jiejie, and Ruxuan gege too!

And A-niang!

One time I saw A-niang kissing the emperor. Is it right to kiss the emperor like that?

Yao: oh my.

Jinling: *enters* guys! Xiao shushu is working. Why are you troubling him?

I was looking for you all over and couldn't find you.

Ruxuan: that's the point. We didn't want to get caught. Right Ruming?

Ruming: Right! Ling gege. What are you doing here?

Jinling: *pouts* He's my Xiao shushu too. I can meet him whenever I want.

Ruming: you're the one who's disturbing him, Ling gege!

Ruxuan: Ling gege, uncle Foxy is working.

Jinling: have some manners for your gege.

Yao: babies. Stop arguing. A-ling, you're sounding like Jiang cheng.

Jinling: *terrified* oh no! I can't be!

I'm sorry, Xiao shushu.

I don't want to be cranky like Jiujiu!!!

Yao: *pats his head lovingly*

Jinling: *kneels by his side* love you, Xiao shushu.

But are they bothering you? 

Yao: not at all. *kisses him on his forehead* A-ling. I could multitask. Also I'm almost done.

Jinling: how?

Yao: practice! When you and Song'er were around this age, I used to do the same.

I would have both of you on my lap, while doing my work.

Jinling: wow Xiao shushu.

Zixuan: *walking in with little Ruhua*

Ruhua: Dié, I loved feeding uncle Foxy's koi. Dié, why are his koi so big?

Zixuan: because they eat a lot, darling.

Ruhua: I want some more koi.

The princess of peacock spirits needs more koi, Diedie.

Zixuan: *smile* as you wish.

Ruming and Ruxuan: A-DIE!!!!

Zixuan: my babies!! *kisses them*

Ruhua: uncle Foxy! We're back! I want a koi from your pond.

Yao: oh you want koi fish? Baby princess.

Ruhua: mhm.

Yao: how about I give you two!

Ruhua: *jumping up and down* thank you uncle Foxy!!

Zixuan: hmm. Looks like Ruxuan was questioning you, huh?!

Yao: he has all rights to question me.

Ruxuan: A-die, uncle Foxy thought me a new word!!

Zixuan: aw really?! What's that?

Ruxuan: gen.....gen..tic.

Uncle Foxy help me.

Yao: genetics.

Ruxuan: yea that one!

Zixuan: my baby has a big vocabulary now.

Ruxuan: yup!

Zixuan: little Ruming.

Ruming: A-Die! I'm upset with you. You didn't tell uncle Foxy that you're an emperor.

Zixuan: *gasps* you know you're right.

Yao: *pouting*

Zixuan: I wanted to surprise him. But I guess you told him everything.

Ruming: yes! I look out for uncle Foxy.

Ruxuan: me too!!

Ruhua: me three!!

If they upset you, I'll throw them in jail.

But I won't do that to A-Die.

Rusong: *enters* guys, do you still want to make kites?! I got the paper, string and ribbons.

Ruxuan: YAAYYYY!!!!!

Ruming: Ruxuan, Ruxuan, let's go!! Let's go!!

Ruxuan: uncle Foxy, I gotta go. *climbing off his lap*

Yao: be careful.

Rusong: Diedie. *hugs*

Yao: *kisses him on his dimple* Song. You're excellent with children.

Rusong: learnt from you.

Ruhua: Song gege, did you get shiny ribbons too??

Rusong: of course I did!

Jinling: let's go guys. *holds their hands*

Rusong: did you get the paint and other material?

Jinling: yup.

Zixuan: we have such a happy family.

Yao: yess! We sure do!

Zixuan: now it's time to think about the future.

Yao: I agree. Well Rusong and Jinling have their future set.

Now we have to plan for these three.

Zixuan: they can do whatever. Once it makes them happy.

Yao: that's how it's supposed to be.

I want them to be successful in life.

Zixuan: same.

~~~

Next day, a special someone came to meet A-Yao.

~ Due to toxic rumors going around the jianghu (except for the hulijing empire), A-Yao and Qin Su once decided to divorce. Because Ayao didn't Qin Su's reputation to be ruined.

At that time, Rusong was 6.

Now Qin Su, who's a half hulijing lives in her Laoling Mansion, as she runs the sect until Rusong succeeds her. Rusong and A-Yao however meets her during the Fall season~

..............

Xiying: Huangdi, someone special is here to meet you.

Yao: ah, bring them in.

Qin su: *entering with a few maids*

Yao: A-Su?

Qin su: Yao huangdi.

Yao: what a surprise! How have you been?

Qin Su: I'm good. What about you and our Song'er?

Yao: we're fine. please, have a seat.

Qin su: thank you..*sits*

Qin Su: I came to tell you something important. Well I was contemplating on this for a long time.

Yao: tell me.

Qin Su: I think  we should go back together.

Yao: aww A-Su, that's music to my ears!

I missed you dear.

Qin Su: I missed you too!!

And despite being away from Jingjing, I knew what was going on.

Yao: that's great.

But if we reunite, would you be happy?

Qin su: Yao huangdi, obviously I would.  I have you and Song'er. And now jingyi!

Team dimple and my goddess mother-in-law.

Yao: ah yes. And Zewu Jun too.

Qin su: nah I don't like him.

Besides, we'll be happy.

Yao: once it pleases you. Also I love you a lot.

Qin su: I love you too.

Yao: I'm glad you're back.

Yao: come A-Su. Our children are busy practicing music cultivation. Let's go surprise them.

Qin Su: mn.

Yao: I have some many things to tell you

I don't know where to start.

Qin su: same here.

Laoling was a bit in a crisis because of the Jin Sect.

Remember, they fund us.

Yao: right. Jin guangshan hasn't done many things.

Hoarding his money.

Qin Su: yes.

Yao: Zixuan and I will deal with him. Rest assured.

Qin Su: fortunately our son will also be the Laoling sect leader.

Yao: yes.

Also I won't let guangshan trouble him and A-ling.

.

On the other side,

Rusong: *playing the Xiao, which manipulated some wind into a tornado.*

*then golden strings came out and pulled whatever was in its way~ sucking it within itself*

Jingyi: *playing his guqin, which tore a few of xue yang's fierce corpses apart.

Jingyi: you're awesome! Where did you learn that tornado thing?!

Rusong: thanks to Shizun. And I learnt guqin string feature is from A-Die.

Jingyi: what happens when the golden strings pull them into the tornado?

Rusong: they get severed by the stings, and disoriented by the tornado.

Jingyi: wow.

Rusong: You're a amazing too, didi.

Jingyi: are you sure Xue yang won't be phased that we used four of his fierce. I can't be paying him for fierce corpse damage.

Rusong: my and my cute Dianxia privileged face asked him. And he said go for it mini boss Dianxia.

Jingyi: niceeee!

Jingyi: Rusong,  show me how to shoot an arrow using a guqin.

Rusong: sure.

You just have to hold your quqin like this and~~~ shoot.

Qin Su and A-Yao: *clapping*

Rusong: *turns around* A-niang!! A-Die!!

Jingyi: A-Die's wife?

Rusong: *hugs Qin Su*

Qin Su: Rusong Rusong Rusong! *showers him with kisses*

My baby is all grown up! Baby Rusong!

A-Yao, baby Rusong.

Yao: *smiling* yes our baby has become so mature and elegant! *strokes Rusong's hair*

Rusong: A-niang, I miss you.

Qin Su: awww. How are you, Song'er?

Rusong: I'm great, A-niang.

Jingyi: niangniang.

Qin su: Yi'er! *hugs*

Jingyi: *emotional* waw. I never felt so much love from parents before.

Qin Su: *cups face* don't worry. A-Yao and I would give you so much love.

Yao: Song'er, Yi'er.

Your A-niang is here to stay.

Both: really?!

Yao: mhm.

Rusong: I'm so happy!! I'm happy that I have you both and A-Yi. *pats head*

Jingyi: Rusong.

I'm not a baby.

Rusong: but I'm older. *smile*

[sepulchrally-handsome]

This scene was so short and light-hearted, but it awakened all kinds of turmoil in me.

Part of me is so happy that Zhongli clearly wants to spend time with Xiao, and that he’s carefully thought up a way to do that which Xiao will be able to tolerate without his discomfort in Zhongli’s presence causing him to flee. Part of me delights in how well Zhongli knows Xiao would never agree to fly kites with him simply for pleasure, so he deliberately frames his request to Xiao as “come help me with this experiment,” knowing Xiao wants nothing more than to be useful and so will easily acquiesce, because Zhongli wants to spend time with Xiao just that much. Part of me is happy that Zhongli avoids issuing Xiao any kind of direct request for Xiao to come visit him, knowing that Xiao would reflexively obey any command of any kind that came from Zhongli’s mouth, so instead he just makes a gentle suggestion.

HOWEVER. Part of me is already angry at Zhongli on Xiao’s behalf for utterly and irrevocably changing the nature of Xiao’s relationship with him, with no input or consent from Xiao. And it kills me (though this makes sense for him as a character) that he doesn’t see any hypocrisy at all in his unilateral decision to change Xiao’s relationship with him and to tell Xiao to stop using titles and honorifics with him, again without any input or consent from Xiao, all the while insisting that he and Xiao are equals.

This is not how you treat an equal. Zhongli is still acting like Xiao’s lord and god, expecting Xiao to obey his wishes, without discussion or negotiation.

Anyway, so this scene, while it makes part of me happy, also bothers me on another level. Zhongli is being manipulative. Zhongli is not asking Xiao to fly kites with him in a neutral way, which would allow Xiao the freedom to say yes or no — he’s carefully choosing the way that Xiao would be most likely feel compelled to say yes to, banking on Xiao’s eagerness to be made useful. Zhongli is not clearly stating his intentions in an emotionally open and honest way — like, “I miss you and would like to see you more often” — no, he says that Xiao “should” visit “the Parlor” (not “me” — more psychological distancing) more often, which implies that Xiao is being remiss in some way by not visiting as often as he “should.” He’s guilt-tripping Xiao. He must surely know that it will hurt Xiao to hear this, Xiao who for 2000 years has gladly suffered insanity-inducing agony in devoted service to his god. COME ON. Zhongli, you absolute ASS.

And then there’s the use of the phrase, “grace [us] with your presence,” which is usually used facetiously or bitterly……okay, honestly, between this and the word “should,” I’m now wondering what the Chinese original wording/tone is and how much is an English translation quirk. Maybe it’s better for my blood-pressure to believe the entire conversation is a translation quirk, idk.

ALSO HOWEVER. All of the above is why their relationship is so fascinating to me, and why even my dismay at Zhongli in this scene is still so enjoyable on a different level. I love all the issues their relationship asks us to consider: their journey as they transition from an extreme power imbalance to something closer to equality….what does freedom of will vs. compulsory obedience look like at all stages of this journey…..can someone who has always had extraordinary power ever understand what it means to enthusiastically consent to obedience…can someone who has always been under the command of a master ever be at peace with no master above him…

[All this especially interesting to me because I am fundamentally repulsed by power imbalances (personally and politically) and am deeply uncomfortable playing either a dominant or submissive role in relationships myself. What I love most about Zhongli and Xiao is that they are in this ambiguous transition period, clumsily moving away from the power imbalance toward equality, which gives them and us the space to reflect on all this at every stage of the transition. I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t find them nearly as compelling if we had met them when they squarely in their god/lord & devotee/retainer stage.]

…If you ask someone to visit you, and he does, does this means he misses you as much as you miss him……if he doesn’t visit you, is that better or worse than if he visited you only because you asked….what if you know you could never know what he feels for you because you know he’s shut down all his feelings even from himself, in order to be of more perfect service to you….how much responsibility do you feel for his loneliness, for his grief, for the agony you and he both know will one day drive him insane….how much of the freedom from you that you want him to enjoy is for his own benefit, and how much is it for yours, so you can be relieved of your guilt….

…What if he needs you to ask him to visit you because he’s afraid you don’t want to see him, afraid that since you no longer need his service, you don’t think of him at all……what if he would never dare visit you without you asking because when you hurled yourself down from your pedestal, you also hurled him away from you, and he can’t imagine you would want to see him if he’s only going to remind you of everything you now most emphatically reject……what if he doesn’t know how to tell you how much he loves you except through obeying your commands, and you have told him you no longer need or want his obedience…..what if he doesn’t know how to live without you commanding him, and now only lives because of your command to live without his command….

Just….ashgjhdhajhsh…. THEM.

i still haven't moved on.

if we consider in the fact that hu tao didn't send zhongli to whangshu inn for sesame oil at last year's lantern rite, zhongli bringing this up a whole year later implies to me that he's curious if xiao has figured out that he's teasing him. but xiao hasn't seen through zhongli because he still holds zhongli in reverence.¹ xiao takes his every word seriously² because zhongli is still someone who should be listened to earnestly. xiao's "about zhongli" voiceline makes this very obvious. no matter what zhongli does, there must be a greater meaning to it all.

i can't believe that every zx interaction challenges the power imbalance of their previous relationship, as well as xiao's own view of it. hyv writers put their all into these two.

zhongli gently but firmly reminds xiao each lantern rite that he's no longer a god and shouldn't be addressed as such. last year, xiao still struggled with this. now, he corrected himself even though he was just thinking!

sure, he didn't drop the 'daren' but still a huge step forward.

¹aka world's slowest slow burn. they aren't even friends yet. well. in xiao's eyes at least

²last year, when zhongli teased him about how he should be the one referring to xiao by a formal title, xiao immediately shut it down ("heaven forbid!" hahaha)

[xiaoaetherposts]

Zhongli the XiaoTher shipper

Zhongli took Aether on purpose to the place where he knew Xiao was and wanted them stay together alone and fly a kite together.

Aether: "Uh, why did you have us walk all this way?"

Zhongli to Xiao: "I'll leave these two kites with you. Perhaps you can find a few friends with which you partake in the activity. You might find it to be enjoyable use of your time."

Flustered Xiao: Oh, uh... Wait, who enjoy kite-flying?

Zhongli to Xiao: "Well, I would imagine some of your talent and wisdom is more the capable of finding out."

Xiao: "Aether, when the Lantern Rite is over, come find me near Pervases' temple if you have the time."

Aether: "Absolutely."

Xiao: "Mmm." 😊

Zhongli: *plan succeed*

With a nice metaphorical expression that Xiao said, it was hinted that Aether is the one who brings peace to Xiao.

Xiao symbolizes the lantern itself (to which the name Xiao Lantern refers), and Aether is the sky (his name means it in all languages).

Xiao: "Although, watching a kite gradually ascend into the sky does bring me a certain peace of mind. ...Perhaps they are a bit like Xiao Lanterns in that way."

This expresses Xiao's longing for Aether, which is also indicated by his idle animation (when he tries to reach the little light that goes towards the sky with his hand).

When Xiao asks Aether to release the lantern into the sky together to bring the two things closer together symbolizes this beautifully.

Aether: "As the Xiao Lantern slowly disappears into the tranquil night sky, Xiao's expression softens."

Xiao: "... Aether. ... Thank you."

Twitter(X): @xiaoaetherposts

[accio-victuuri]

sugar rush 2022: part one

Hello everyone! it’s that time of the year where I round-up the candies brought to us from January-June 2022. I have purposely added ones that captured the eyes of fans. I have also included some meta posts I made during these months in the mix for some good old throwback cpn explanations. Enjoy looking back at some of the most fun moments in the fandom and a reminder of why turtles live the sweetest life. 🤍

JANUARY 2022

* The “toy plane” held by Yibo in his NYE photoshoot is the same as what GG played with in his Kite flying vlog. What are the chances? Come on! Plus the fact that this is the only shot that is in black and white, meaning we can’t confirm that this is the blue one that GG used. Tho we all know it’s the same kind of toy plane. The song he performed, NIAN has nothing to do with flying. So what is the reference? His movie King of the Sky? ✈️

* Same Chongya pose that they both love doing. GG took his customary photo in this pose for his new year content and Yibo did it during his live performance.

* During the Hunan TV NYE show when they were all lined up for the countdown — people were lipreading that they were asking Yibo who is the “red” for since there was apparently a person who was wearing a wangxiao headband.

* GG announced as SAIC Audi Endorser, so they are now both part of the AUDI Family. 🤍

* Rufeng’s repo post about GG washing clothes for Yibo and more domestic drama.

* In an XZS Vlog, GG talked alot about garlic and went off an unnecessary tangent. Why is that? I explain that over here.

* Someone in GG’s team was wearing a Monster Energy cap. FYI, Monster don’t just sell their goods.

* Same but different colors of clothes for their endorsement.

* GG’s clothes has a collab with Loverboy. Just something interesting.

* In Ace Troops, the school that GG’s adopted son will attend is called Bo Jin Ye Xiao. Sounds familiar?

* An explanation of why people think the information that Web says in his XMLY episodes are from an encyclopedia that GG has.

* In one of the BTS for Ace Troops, you can see GG mouthing “wow” which is what they usually say.

* In an Alexvi photo gallery exhibit, the actual account posted some photos sent by fans who took a photo. One featured are Bobi + Zanbi + Suo! Sadly, it was deleted.

* 01162022 LRLG rumor 🤍

* GG using green highlight

* They are both feeling “Calm”, this is the word they used to describe what they feel. I’m so happy that they are in the same wavelength.

One word to describe how you currently feel?

Yibo: calm

What do you hope to be in the future?

GG : calm

* CHUNZHEN STRIKES AGAIN. This brand really doesn’t give a fuck. Lol. First, their new campaign with Yibo was posted at 10:05, which is known to be GG’s number.

and if that wasn’t enough, for the new commercial it seems like Bobo was going on a double date picnic. The other couple was het, in the meantime, he was with a “bro” 😂

* What looks like a massage chair in GG’s trailer. We are clowning that it’s rotai.

* In a photo shared by YBO for Luoyang wrap-up, Bobo was shown with what looks like green roses. BXGs feel like this was referenced in a previous LRLG rumor.

* Another Ximalaya finding. Part 5.

* Same white shoes - I guess at this point it’s clear that their stylists are dating.

* Yinzheng ( Bobo’s friend ) posting a photo of a roseonly x peace elite merch.

* Steamed Pork featured in GG’s CNY spread and the same dish Bobo mentioned as one that tastes good.

* Just a comparison of how Bobo holds his copy of the song when he records, he uses his right hand. Except for that one time he was recording with GG and they were obviously holding hands.

* A mini CPN post that talks about a Kaomoji and why YBO suddenly posted content from Web’s 10/05 shared

* All the Clowning from the CNY celebration 🤍

Boxiao in 2017 - a few candies from that year.

FEBRUARY 2022

• All the CPN in Yibo’s new year “selfie”

• There was an orange ornament found in Bobo’s car, orange which GG posted about constantly in his NY photos. And who do we know between the two loves to follow customs.

• Stairwell posing! 🤍

and what looks like a Motorcycle, why was this added in his set of photos? We know how careful his team is in what they post and sometimes even blurring things, so was this deliberate?

• Same lines used.

• Little prince merch caught GG’s eyes in his USMILE event.

• Alexvi weibo managed to pick a pair cosplaying BoXiao and featured them. Hahahahahaha!

• GG allegedly found with a Winter Olympics toy from China Unicom and we know who endorses that. Possible wash is the Unicom dolls were featured in that CCTV postcards thing where GG/Web were both a part of. So he could have received one because of that and not due to Yibo being their endorser.

• Exchanging emoticons.

• CQL is trending.

• New first table read BTS from WOWOW special feature.

• A BTS audio where Web says he won’t make GG ( wwx ) cry again. 🥲

MARCH 2022

This month will be in the BXG history books for the amount of candies we got. Thank you to Xiao laoshi for providing us with the sweets and coaxing us when he didn’t really have to. Links provided for the round-ups I did and I will indicate what specifics one are in there to make looking it up easier. It might look like a short list but most of the links have lots of candies in it.

• YBO releasing a very short “vlog” that has similar style to XZS. like that distorted voice and the subject of the vlog acting like he’s just doing his usual routine and is not being filmed.

• GG posts a photo for Spring, with the place looking like the one where Bazaar took photos of GG/Web individually.

• Same brand of clothes STAFF ONLY

• Similar header of their studios, water themed.

• Both on the hot search

• Same way of taking photo from OOL trailer and how GG does it to Web in real life

• All the 3/15 ( OOL airing ) candies : centering around GG’s weibo post and the photos as well as kadians

• Using green highlighter

• Clip on earring CPN

• All about the Iceberg jacket

• Assorted candies - includes 11.11 hotpot clue, fake rumor, XZS/YBO similar posts and clues @ GG’s Tencent OOL interview

• Throwback CPN : White windmill

• GG bday 2019 clues from OOL BTS

• Same energy of jealous GG

• Clowning post - more OOL content where more cpns are uncovered 🤣

• Overload of Candy ✌🏼 - Wuji recording 3rd Anniversary sweetness!  

• Hand ( allegedly yibo ) CPN

• CPN on tidbits and analyzing GG’s exclusive SINA interview

• Soda tabs and Douyin post

• Times when GG acted like he knows nothing. Sly little Fox!

• OOL Finale special CPN post. Lol.

• A visual of how Web’s Oasis interaction points suddenly increase when GG posts on Oasis. Weibo Link.

APRIL 2022

• Mini round up that explains their old wechat avatars and some clues in GG’s interview about blue skies and his thoughts on GW

• Proof of their batch recording similarity

• Pepsi

• Green highlighter crying hours lol

• Possible new evidence for the clip on earring

• Explanation of GG’s 4/1 Oasis post and it’s relation to Leslie Cheung

• Same designer FENG CHEN WANG

• Proof that their 2019 tencent starlight dressing room was only divided by what looks like a plastic film.

• Possible selfie for CQL anniversary

• Throwback : GG made a talisman for Bobo

• Mini round up : new era hat, martine rose, li ning logo, new clue @ little prince drawing and double standards

• SDC 3 clues revisited : heart with a mole and 10:05

• During the lockdown in SH, they both donated to elderly communities that are often overlooked. They are the vulnerable ones cause most of them live alone and don’t have phones to order online. This is not CPN, it’s just so nice to see how they think the same way. They have the same values 🤍

• New LRLG - poem

• A cold wall brand

• Both in entertainment hot search for CQL

• Boneless clothing brand

• Clowning compilation 4/23 LRLG post and the poem GG read

• Both looking good in gray suits

• A WangXian clue in their post 4 years ago

• Bobo’s expression pack

• Similar pose and styling

MAY 2022

* Moto Shirt worn by GG in his Douyin video ( care of Li-Ning )

* The importance of the Number 16 to Yibo

* Making Sashimi 🍣

* Aurora borealis on the cover for Web’s Youth Day song

* Shu Uemura clues

* Same brand - Sean Suen

* Youku showing a clip and GG/Web are included

* GG getting asked a starry sky

* Weekend sweets - stuff to pay attention to @ Mendale livestream

* Suing the same company 1.0

* More info on suing

* Same security detail

* COVID TESTS:

I didn’t make a separate post about this whole “Beijing Fiasco” that happened partly because it crossed the line of privacy. However I wanted it here for archiving purposes and just a disclaimer that this is still CPN. People said there were photographic evidence and all that but remember that those can be faked as well. Like I always say, we don’t need to go too far when it comes to candies. Especially when it’s personal information already. I made some vague posts just describing what all the talk was about but not in detail. I would hate for us to get caught up in search of candies that we end up hurting them. Don’t forget that our priority will always be to protect the boys and that means we keep quiet.

The gist is, Yibo went back to Beijing 5/13 after finishing his filming of King of The Sky. He drove to Beijing and remember before this, there were talks of him heading to Hangzhou and not Beijing but everyone were wrong— he was photographed in Beijing. We would have been so happy with that news since they are finally in the same city. Plus if Beijing goes on lockdown, they can be together and tbh Web had alot of work to do in BJ too. But wait— there’s more...

Here comes the privacy part, It was said ( allegedly ) that GG/Web got their COVID tests 2 hours apart and got the results 5 minutes apart. It was on the same batch. GG is still doing work for his drama and he went with his Team, so why was Web taking it too close to his time? And not only that, People who live in BJ were saying they have testing centers every 2km. So they were pretty close to each other. Dare I say, together. It gets even more sus because they allegedly gave the same mobile phone number ( a generic one i think ) to be contacted once the results are available. After that, rumors of Web visiting the set of GG’s drama started floating around. I’m not even making this up, even MTJJs know and their reasoning is Web might be visiting Yangxia. Lol. Sure bro. It’s Yangxia— whatever makes you sleep at night i guess...

* More Li-ning clues

* A short compilation of photos and gifs of them looking at each other with hearts eyes!

* Love that goes both ways @ BREO and ROTAI Ad

* Dove x Chunzhen Collab

* Linhai and LQR Actor 520 clues (?)

* Bubly Red and Green CP

* Old rumor : There is nothing wrong with blueberry pie

* 520 / 521 History

* 520/ 521 Clues video

https://starsxinxthexbluexsky.tumblr.com/post/685063015988658176

* Oasis experience points increased from 0 to 1 for both of them right when GG left Beijing

* Clues from the Bubly Ad and the drawing

* Hengdian to Hangzhou + One and Only Douyin post has Something Just Like This as the BGM

* Puppy + Bunny drawing ( JD and Breo )

* Douyin post similarities 5/27 ( One and Only Movie )

* Old candy : Web’s Shibuya inspired Nike shoes and their views on Love & Forgetting.

* GG’s 5/31 Oasis post - reduce swelling & liberation notes tv series

* Some candies in GG’s 5/31 breo press conference livestream

JUNE 2022

CPN Clues in Yibo-Official’s Children’s Day post

More clownery in the Himalaya account sharing speculation

* In GG’s Children’s Day Douyin, he did that jump and twirl action that he did when he was playing with Bobo during CQL shooting.

Also that “punch” reminded us of Bobo’s redmi Ad.

* Same look. Remember that Chunzhen is under Mengniu 🤍

* 6/3 - Dragon Boat Festival candies

part one

part two

Shiying x Baili 🤍🤍🤍

* Same panel background and clowning that it’s proof they were at the same hotel at some point.

* The Moon is GG’s oasis post

* Ositerm makes another appearance

* Where Dreams Begin wrap up dinner CPN

* Hibiscus flower & GUCCI bag strap

* BLOOMING SHANGHAI ARTWORK CPN 🌸

similarity to hengdian | paper plane ✈️

This initiative is by GUCCI and everyone is encouraged to make their own artworks that will be exhibited in the Shanghai event. GG, being one of the ambassadors made his to promote the event. Of course, the first thing we notice is blue sky and clouds. Which is his favorite things to take photos of. It’s what I like about GG, casual fans will think that this is expected but the clowns in us GETS IT. Especially the specific look he went for is very close to CQL. Also the paper plane that was in YBO’s art for Children’s Day, which was their most recent post is somehow similar to this one by GG. What are the chances?

Also, GG’s is different from the other ones who first shared their “art”.

* ANTA Orange Skate shoes 🍊

* new ox-head necklace tidbit

* Sauced Beef Saga 🥩

* SDC 3 clue ( was GG caught on camera? ) - read the replies in the post cause people contributed their thoughts too.

* Shiying and LWJ same movement

* Umbrella from that summer in 2018 was spotted during YGY shoot :

• More information on the Hibiscus CPN as well as some clowning with XZ x Tod’s capsule collection 🌺

• Another Hibiscus coincidence ( Yibo’s 2020 shirt)

• Someone who worked on CQL’s OST posted a tidbit about Yibo and how he cried during WWX golden core. This is just an example of why it’s truly zhenqingshingan for Yibo. 🤍

• A really nice 627 video made by fansite BY YOUR SIDE that show what kind of relationship XZ/WYB have. Features all the simping they did for each other.

• On 6/28, photos of Yibo were released for his Chanel x Wanted campaign ( which were glorious ) and he was wearing a Coco Crush necklace. Some BXGs pointed out that the C is the same as GG’s Cough n Vain bday necklace. I know Chanel is sponsored, but we CPN that the rings have a more personal meaning to him. Also, that C can also resemble the moon.

• 6/29, a video of GG started going around of him leaving a hotpot restaurant alone. The whole gist of the post is that he went to hotpot after work and it’s just him in Beijing. Funny enough, it’s the same place he mentioned to Yibo back during CQL filming when he was listing all the places he wanted to go and eat. He looks so FIT. I am also surprised that paps were able to film him in his private time but he is still very careful. BXGs are happy cause he is eating and if Bobo goes on Weibo, he will see it. Lol. I hope they can eat hotpot together someday 😊 Here is also a CPN for the shirt he was wearing.

• Similarity between the YBO chanel photoshoot video and XZS Vlog 🎥

This is not meant to be a comprehensive list that details each and every single candy that came about for the first half of year— because that’s just impossible and I find is not a good way to catalogue these things. That’s because if you clown hard enough, anything can be connected. from kadian to other things. I added ones that made people question things or give it a second glance. If you wanna add a few of your favorites then feel free to reply or RB but I won’t add it in this main post. I understand the novelty of obscure candies so go ahead or just say what your favorite was from the past months.

See you next year for Part 2! ✌🏼

[golden-wingseos]

"and all of a sudden, it was about you."

when they realize they're in love.

featuring —

✧ xiao, venti, kazuha, chongyun (separate) x gn!reader

warnings ―

✧ not proofread, written before kazuha release

notes ―

✧ kazuha nation...

xiao realizes he's in love while holding you in his arms. safe and sound, quiet and peaceful. most nights were cold, but here, where you were—xiao realizes he's not cold at all

for someone like him. someone who has killed and sinned so much, love is not something he'd ever experience. seeing others happy made him bitter, for they'd never understand what he went through

so he wondered. why? why you? not that he'd want someone else, of course... but why were you the one who accepted him? when it took so long for him to accept you?

you deserve someone better, xiao thinks. he tells himself that so often, yet he can't bring himself to let you go.

this is selfishness. he's selfish, he's so selfish for loving you and so selfish to think that he could ever love

love comes with bitter emotions for the yaksha-adeptus. he falls into a pit of despair and a hurricane of pent up hatred for himself and who he once was

sometimes, xiao's grip on you tightens. as if you're a kite and he's scared you'll fly away. he holds you so delicately, like a bird that he can only hope will come back home

so please. don't leave.

don't leave him with these feelings to deal with alone.

when the traveler asked venti to sing him a tune, the bard's brain went blank as soon as he realized: every song he could remember—was a love song for you

at first, he'd dismiss it as a mere coincidence. so what he was interested in you? who wouldn't be?

yet each time he plays a chord or merely plucks one string, he's filled with an array of ideas of future songs dedicated to you

now unlike xiao, venti is accepting and aware of love. it may not be an emotion he's experienced romantically before, but he definitely knows what love is and how it feels in tall tales

so venti falls in love like the soft breeze at sea. it carries the scent of the ocean and the everlasting feelings that only grows as days go by

like the seashells that you press up to your ear, sometimes the wind blows past your ears in a quiet tune of "how are you?", an emblem of him wherever you go

can you hear it?

off at sea and across teyvat, kazuha seems to see every little thing as you

you seemed to be so far, yet he held you close like a summer leaf during the fall. he sees your favorite colored plushies and charms, your most-bought food, and frequented restaurants. and while you may be oceans away, the pain in his heart lessens—even if it's just a little

do you remember him? kazuha hopes you hadn't forgotten him already, he doesn't know what he'd do if you did.

so as he visits every nation and stumbles upon every city, he brings a little something home to you—just in case he sees you again

kazuha most definitely loves adventure and the ocean. so when he comes home—which he will—he will bring home the finest souvenirs that reminded him of you

this lone samurai falls in love like how someone sees the pink cherry blossoms of spring for the first time. it takes his breath away, yet even if this sight grows old, even if he swears he's seen you a million times and beyond— it feels as if it's the first

chongyun falls in love like he's coming back home after a long vacation elsewhere

he's always suppressing his emotions, dwindling the flames of passion that sprouts in his stomach and heart because he must. yet when he's with you, he feels a bit more comfortable than before

like a baby listening to it's mothers heartbeat, or a tired person finally being able to drift off to sleep—chongyun lowers his guard and embraces this warm, different feeling that he's so not used to

but he's still a bit hesitant. is this right? is this feeling right? what if he embarrasses himself in front of you? what if you realize he's boring?

so many questions spur up in his mind as he drifts away from home, out to exorcise whatever he sees fit for today (or tries to)

though, he still finds himself coming back home to—well, home. to you. some kind of magnetic force always drags him up and back because somewhere in that little heart of his—he knows.

—this. this is love.