#Huai’an

[teabreaking]

if ten different people call out xiao’s name when in danger at the exact same time does he go to his favorite person first or does he just explode on the spot?

#cuts to innkeeper huai’an sweeping the shattered pieces of xiao into a dustpan #whoops they broke him

[dand-elle-ion]

Genshin + When you get injured

With: Xiao

Words: 1,3k

Warnings: Blood, injuries, slight angst

Note: The reader is Gender Neutral, enjoy :)

Albedo ver. I Kazuha ver. I Scaramouche ver.

The left side of your shirt is already soaked in blood, leaving a nasty smell of metal in your nose. Though, the wound isn’t deep at all, it stings like a bitch and just wouldn’t stop bleeding.

Wangshu Inn - now more than ever, making you feel like a safe haven – towers mesmerizing and mighty as usual above you.

You made it. Finally.

Pulling the jacket tighter around your upper body to cover the blood, you decide to avoid the stairs for your own sake and thank Celestia that Huai’an had built the elevator instead.

Upstairs Verr Goldet is occupying her usual place behind the counter, greeting you with a welcoming smile, when she notices you approaching.

“Y/N, welcome back,” she says. “Was your journey successful?”

You take some steps closer to her, subtly supporting yourself with your hand placed against the outer counter. “Fortunately, it was, yes. Though, they gave me a hard time.” You glance towards the balcony. “Has he already arrived?”

Xiao.

If he has already returned from his own trip, you could immediately scrap trying to avoid him. There is no chance he out of all people wouldn’t notice your injuries.

“No, I haven’t seen him since last morning, when you both embarked on your travels. But, Y/N, you should get some rest. You look rather pale.”

Excellent. That means you have free space to patch yourself up with the medicines Xiao has stored in his, well, now kinda your shared room.

“Y/N? Still there?”

You blink surprised, you didn’t notice how you were already zooming out. So, to not get any more attention you smile apologetically at the woman. “Yeah, haha, sorry. Just a little tired. I’ll get my rest now, don’t worry.”

Unfortunately taking the stairs up to your room appears to be quiet a defiance. Though there aren’t a lot of steps, you couldn’t help but hiss painfully when you move.

Step after step you slowly reach the right floor, sneaking to your room.

Inside you check once again his absence, just to be sure, before you gather some medicinal stuff and lock yourself inside the bathroom.

The reason for your secrecy, the reason why you hadn’t called Xiao’s name was simple: He was a worried man, actually the most worried you know. And giving it was barely a scratch it isn’t worth to trouble him and feed his distress even more.

Only that when you take off your jacket and pull up your shirt you register, it may not be that small of a wound.

“Oh, shit.”

These treasure hoarders sure did a better job than you judged them for. It was kind of a stupid accident, which could have been avoided if you had been a tight bit more careful. But what’s done is done, your leaking blood is clear evidence for that

“Y/N?”

Oh no. No, no, not yet. Realllllly not the best timing, love.

“Y/N, are you in there?” Xiao’s voice comes from the other side of the bathroom door.

“Y-yes, it’s me,” you exclaimed in slight panic. “I’ll be out in a minute.”

The smell of the remedy used for disinfection stings in your nose. Leaning against the wall for support, you hesitate for just a second before you pour the liquid over the wound.

For a moment you nearly black out from the pain, gasping for air. But the next moment you immediately clasp your hand over your mouth when you register what you’ve just done.

A gush of winds and golden eyes are already roaming over your whole body, widening when they see the blood. Then narrowing once they fly back up to yours.

“Is it that hard to ask for help?”

You stare at him for a few seconds, until a sudden feeling of guilt overcomes you. You bend your head a little, avoiding his gaze.

“I just…” you blink a few times to focus your sudden blurry getting vision. “- need some of…of your bandages… please?”

You straighten yourself a bit, trying to grab the wall for support, but instead there is Xiao’s arm instead, holding you firmly.

Without saying anything else he slips a hand under your legs and another behind your back, picking you up easily.

The next thing you know, you are already sitting on the bed. Xiao vanishes and returns a few times more before getting back to your side.

With a clenched jaw he spreads some of the medicine around the bed. His cold gaze nearly sends shivers down your spine, but not once does he look at you.

“It’s nothing! Just a scratch, I promise it looks a lot worse than it is,” you try to lighten up the tensed mood, smiling loosely as if your body doesn’t feel like it’s on fire.

Xiao remains silence. Lips pressed to a thin line, he examines your wound, the disinfection leaking alongside with some blood.

“No stitches needed, see? It’s all fine!”

He gives you a hard look. Clearly not approving of your humour.

“Cut the crap and tell me what happened,” he demands.

In contrast to his sharp voice and dark eyes, his hands are extremely soft while he is tending your injury.

Your eyes follow his hands, while your mind starts feeling a little cloudier. “I was… They came out of nowhere. Treasure hoarders, I mean,” you explain, your voice coming out a lot weaker than you anticipated. “I reacted too late.”

“Why didn’t you call me? Why?”

You don’t answer for some moments. Causing him to snap his eyes to you, and that is when you notice the amount of utter concern and… fear that he is looking at you with.

“There wasn’t… I thought-“your voice cracks a little. Nothing but a mere whisper escapes your lips. “It was just a cut…”

Xiao regards you for a moment longer, eyes lingering on yours. “Foolish mortal,” he mutters but his tone has softened.

Then his focus is back on your injury. Brows furrowed deeply he takes the bandages and soaks it with some liquid you don’t know.

“This might sting a little...”

"It’s fine, you've got a gentle touch,” you replay, making him scoff in return.

Maybe your body is numb already, maybe it’s just Xiao’s skill or his mere presence that makes the pain more bearable. But you remain quiet and hold still while he bandages up your torso, making sure it’s not too tight but still doing its job.

After he is done, he remains still for a while, his glassy gaze locked onto your bandages. It is exactly then when you notice that his hands are slightly trembling.

Of course, you think, he had returned home only to find his love locked in the bathroom, covered in their own blood, and gasping out of pain.

He has always feared for your life, your mortal life which is so much more fragile than his own. He had literally stumbled upon one of his nightmares.

Of course he was shaken.

Careful you lift one hand, softly striking a hairstreak out of his worried eyes. “I’m sorry.”

Xiao lifts his gaze to look at you. “What were you thinking? You could have killed yourself.”

“I’m sorry,” you whispered again. As there was nothing other you could say in the moment.

Xiao lets himself rest against your body, hiding his face in your neck. “Don’t ever do that again.”

“I won’t. Promised”

A tired sight escapes him. “Stay in bed today.”

“I’m not that-“

“Please.” Xiao musters you with such intense emotions in his eyes that your protests halter.

“Alright,” you breathe. “But… can you stay with me?”

Careful not to accidently hurt you, he reaches his fingers out to strike gently through your hair

“Always.”

thanks for reading! :) comments and reblogs are appreciated <3

#genshin x reader #Genshin Imagine #Xiao x reader #genshin xiao #xiao x you #xiao x y/n #Xiao fic #imagine #Genshin Impact #xiao x gn reader #genshin x gn reader #xiao fluff #genshin impact x reader

[taromolktea]

▀▄▀▄▀▄ ｏ𝐏ｅ𝓡άｔⒾ𝔬Ｎ: 🄵🄾🅄🄽🄳 🄵🄰🄼🄸🄻🅈 ▄▀▄▀▄▀ (a Spy X Family AU) Chapter 3: Prepare for the Interview

Xiao X fem!Reader (2nd person)

word count: 5.8k

content: that uwu shit hehe, how many references to other characters can you find? some more mandarin in this chapter bc i couldn’t help myself- i’m v fond of xiao and qiqi’s chinese voices <3 my mandarin may not be the most accurate tho, but i did my best! i’m really happy w how this extra long chapter turned out and i hope you enjoy it, too!! what song do you think is playing at the end? hehe it could be any favorite of yours that you like to dance to, i personally think it’s shut up and dance (the acoustic version)

chapter 1: operation strix, chapter 2: secure a wife

tag list (message to be added/removed) 🏷 @citrussaurus @danibby @icedthoma @bajifairyy @lunavixia @random-names-stuff @crowsbirds @xoyumiqls @rul-of-demise @meowlumi @shineigami @cotton-eee @calxz @kaz3yo @yuuriihiime @yukanazz @xiaoscult @cnoxx @nottyyneysatall @strawberrykittyv

｡🌠 🎀 𝓇𝑒𝒷𝓁🌞𝑔𝓈 & 𝒸😍𝓂𝓂𝑒𝓃𝓉𝓈 𝒶𝓇𝑒 𝒽𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓁𝓎 𝒶𝓅𝓅𝓇𝑒𝒸𝒾𝒶𝓉𝑒𝒹❢ 𝓌𝑒'𝒹 𝓁❤𝓋𝑒 𝓉💙 𝓀𝓃🍑𝓌 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓎🌺𝓊 𝓁🍩𝓋𝑒𝒹 𝒶𝒷💍𝓊𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈❣❣ 🎀 🌠｡

You step out of the taxi cab at the foot of your new home. It doesn’t take long to unload your packed boxes from the trunk. Truthfully, you don’t own many things to begin with. 

Xiao meets you at the foot of the stairs shortly afterwards. His smile is sweet and relaxed as he helps you bring in your belongings. You’re sure his late wife was a very fortunate woman to have enjoyed his presence in her life. 

It’s not until you unpack your bedding that you hug them close to your flushed face as the thought strikes you, “Xiao um… about the sleeping arrangements…”

Xiao waves his hand reassuringly, “We’ll be in separate rooms. Anytime we have guests over though, we’ll share one for appearances’ sake.”

You nod, ignoring the twinge of disappointment you couldn’t help but feel. Why? You weren’t sure. And trying to get an answer made your skin feel warm. 

Xiao recalled his realtor, Verr Goldet, who helped him find this new home. She took her responsibility under Morax to always find him suitable accommodations for his missions very seriously, and expressed her indignation with a mock hurt look when he told her he found the first apartment through a realtor that wasn’t her.

“You see what happens when you don’t let me help you? You barricade your daughter in the living room and end up having to move out because she got kidnapped!” She sighs, “This new complex is very homely though, perfect for you and your family. I think the three of you will be very comfortable here.”

Xiao shakes his head fondly. Verr was right though, and she truly outdid herself with the selection. Truthfully, he had only neglected to ask her for accommodations out of consideration because the start of Operation Strix happened to be Verr’s tenth anniversary with her husband, Huai’an. The two of them had always been kind to him.

Qiqi’s soft but enthusiastic greeting pulled him from his reminiscence, “Welcome to Qiqi’s home.” 

You smile, Xiao’s daughter gets more and more adorable every time I see her! To think I get to play the role of a mother to such a cute little girl!

“Thank you for the lovely welcome, Qiqi xiaojie.” 

Indeed, it was a lovely welcome into the strange family Qiqi called home. With a spy for a father and an assassin for a mother, it was certainly odd- but she wouldn’t have it any other way. She folds her small hands as a prayer of thanks to the love that found her.

“Qiqi is so happy to have a mama now.”

Your heart feels fluffy in your chest. Mama…!

Qiqi picks up one of the smaller boxes in hopes of helping you settle in while Xiao adds, “By the way, about our… contract, I had a friend of mine who’s a judge make it so we got married a year ago.” That is to say, she forged it. For someone who’s so well-versed in law, I guess it’s only natural that Yanfei knows every possible way around it. “We can figure out why we lived separately and what to tell your brother later.”

“Alright, thank you.” 

Of course, Xiao considered the school’s suspicions over the two of you getting married conveniently before the interview, hence the forged papers. But the thought still lingered- the thought of really being married to you for a year’s worth of time. It seemed more like a dream than anything else, to have that stability for so long.

You were eternally grateful to Ningguang for her heartfelt permission and blessing. While you explained that your marriage to Xiao was… simply a coverup, she looked more amused than convinced. Beidou herself laughed openly as she was in the room when you told her.

Qiqi watched yours and Xiao’s brief interaction with delight. Although you had all just met, she had never felt more affection and adoration, even if it was still mostly hidden beneath the surface. She was quick to assume the duty of your tour guide for your new home.

“This is the kitchen.” She states matter-of-factly, “Papa is a very good cook.”

“Really?” You echo, “How wonderful!”

Xiao’s ears grow warm from her praise and he’s grateful he’s on the other side of the room cleaning and putting away your things. Truthfully, he only knew how to make a few different meals for his own sake. 

For Qiqi however, he took up reading cookbooks and found recipes to be quite similar to missions. Each step is an objective to be accomplished, and the yield is hopefully something delicious. It seems Qiqi considered his efforts a success.

Qiqi leads you to the bathroom and stands up on her tippy toes to flick on the light switch, “This is the bathroom. This is the toilet. And this is the bathtub.” She scurried over to the sink and pulls out a wooden stool from underneath it, “Qiqi can wash her face all by herself.”

You clap your hands in amazement, “You’re such a big girl, Qiqi!”

You eye the two little cups on the shelf above the sink. Green for Xiao, and purple for Qiqi. How cute!

Despite Qiqi’s naturally monotone voice, her enthusiasm peaked when she opened the door to her room, “Welcome to Qiqi’s bedroom!”

Charming purple wallpaper made the space feel truly childlike and precious. Before Xiao, Qiqi never had toys to call her own. Now she had not only one, but two finch plushes keep her company in her large bed fit for a princess. She shows them to you with pride.

“She is Violet, and he is Grass.” Qiqi imitates their voices as she places them on her lap, “我是 Violet，我是 Grass. 见到你很荣幸，妈妈.” (“I am Violet, I am Grass. It’s an honor to meet you, Mama.”)

You bow your head politely, “也见到你们很荣幸. 我是七七妈妈.” (“It’s an honor to meet you both too. I am Qiqi’s mama.”)

Qiqi looked very pleased, then neatly put away Violet and Grass and led you down the hall, “This is Papa’s room.”

Although Qiqi let herself in, you remained in the doorway and nodded, “Very nice.”

Finally, Qiqi led you to the last room in between hers and Xiao’s, “This is your room, Mama. 进来, 进来.” (“Come in, come in.”)

You gasped when you took it all in, “This is really my room? It’s wonderful!”

Xiao appeared with the last of your bedroom’s boxes in the doorway, “I’m glad it’s to your liking. This should be everything. I just finished cleaning up.”

Qiqi hugged your leg and said, “Qiqi helped clean, too.”

You’re truly touched, “Really? You’re both so thoughtful, thank you!”

“Is Qiqi a good girl?”

Xiao rolled his eyes and laughed under his breath as he patted her head, “Aside from tripping and spilling the bucket of water everywhere, yes. You are.”

Qiqi pouted, unsure of how to accept his backhanded compliment. You couldn’t help giggling and as you turned to take in the beauty of your room once more, Xiao found himself smiling at you.

“It’s so lovely…” You said airily, “I don’t know what to do with myself!”

“It’s your home now too so… make yourself comfortable. I’ll take away your empty boxes when you’re done.” He starts to walk off but you’re already done in just a few seconds, “You’re… very efficient. Oh. Is this your younger brother?”

He examines the portrait of you two and you nod, “Yes, he’s also a civil servant like me but he’s been so busy lately, I can only catch him via phone calls.”

“I see. The two of you look very similar. Once Qiqi’s entrance exam is over, I’ll be sure to introduce myself properly to him.”

You fold your hands shyly, “O-Oh, about that… I’m afraid I don’t have anything nice enough for the interview.”

“Then let’s go to the tailor today.”

Qiqi spots an unopened box in the corner and rushes to help. The moment you hear its content shuffle around though, you rush even faster to get her away.

“A-Ah! Qiqi, I’ll take care of that! Please, don’t worry yourself over it!”

That’s all of my work equipment- there’s enough weapons and poison to take down an elephant!

Ack.

Qiqi steps away cautiously. The three of you make your way to the kitchen and soon enough, the smell of coffee fills the air. You learn that Xiao likes his coffee black, and that Qiqi likes her hot cocoa cold with extra milk and sugar. It’s peculiar to like a hot drink served cold but who are you to judge? You made sure the cocoa powder was mixed thoroughly so there weren’t any lumps.

You set the drinks down on the coffee table and Qiqi quickly cuddles up to your side. Xiao sets down a plate of almond cookies shortly afterwards. It all smells aromatically sweet, just like a bakery!

“Even your cookies are homemade? You’re quite the kitchen talent,  Xiao.”

He blushes and looks away while Qiqi helps herself to them, “It’s… only my first time ever making them. I just followed a recipe from a cookbook so they should be… decent.“

His heart pounds unreasonably hard as he watches you eat one up in a single bite, “Mm, delicious! It looks like marrying you comes with more benefits than I could’ve ever thought.”

Xiao hides his ever-reddening face behind his cup of coffee, “I-It’s not that impressive, really.”

Qiqi has helped herself to at least a dozen cookies at this point and points out, “Qiqi helped bake the cookies, too.”

“You got flour everywhere and ended up snaking on peanuts because you didn’t want to try cracking an egg.”

“Qiqi did not want to kill the baby finch inside. Not even for cookies.”

“For the last time, they’re not finch eggs!”

You laugh at their bickering as the three of you enjoy your morning snack. Afterwards, Xiao begins the mock interview practice. He whips out a pair of glasses and pushes his hair back absentmindedly as if to get into character. 

Wow, he looks really pretty like that… did he always have a purple diamond on his forehead?

You’re pretty sure you missed half his explanation of the interview because of your starry-eyed staring. Thankfully, the interrogation- ah, interview- starts with Qiqi.

“Please state your full name and address.”

Qiqi tilts her head, “Qiqi is… Gui Qiqi. Add…ress?”

“The place we’re at right now.”

She smiles, “Qiqi’s home.”

“That’s not what I…” Xiao sighs, “Qiqi xiaojie, how do you spend your days off?”

“Papa orders Qiqi to stay home so Qiqi watches TV all day all alone.”

Shit.

He clears his throat, “Let’s… try something else.” He glances at you and you straighten up immediately, “Why did you choose Sumeru Academia and how do you plan to pass this exam?”

H-How do people usually pass? Hm… pass… passing. Oh!

“Cardiac arrest.” You reply plainly, “Or perhaps, excessive bleeding? There is also the method of compound fractures throughout the body or even caving in their skull.”

While Xiao internally agrees that… in terms of passing away, those are certainly plausible, but his face says kill me now. Meanwhile, Qiqi looks like she’s seen a ghost from your graphic description. Xiao continues the interview, though he is starting to become less optimistic. And he’s already rarely, if ever, optimistic to begin with.

“What are your parenting methods?”

You tap your chin, “Strike first and be victorious?”

How did your brother turn out normal and decent, and you… turned out as yourself?

Xiao sighs and stands up, “It’s pointless to continue trying to survive the interview like this.” His tone is stern at first but he bypasses his brooding and gives you and Qiqi a smile, “Let’s go out for a bit instead.”

Broadening horizons, becoming well-versed in what is normal for an upperclass family, and getting on the same page. Surely that would increase the likelihood of passing the interview. Xiao walks alongside you as Qiqi leads the way down the sidewalk before she extends her hand to you.

“Mama, please hold Qiqi’s hand.”

You nearly tear up and nod enthusiastically, “Okay!”

Xiao feels the pressure of his mission lighten as he watches you both. It warms his heart to see Qiqi adore you so much, considering she didn’t like Hu Tao or even Yanfei at first. Likewise, you’re over the Moon to have won Qiqi’s affections.

This reminds me of when my little brother was small and adorable like her… 

Hehe…!

And that one time I hugged him so hard I accidentally broke two of his ribs. Ehe, I should be more careful with little ones.

Eh?

Qiqi freed herself immediately and scurried off behind the flower planter. Wait, what? Maybe not. Xiao was pretty sure he could pinpoint the second your heart ripped in half.

“B-By the way,” You sniffle, clearly dejected, “Where are we headed again?”

Xiao retrieves three shiny slips of paper from his jacket pocket, “My connections at… work gave me some tickets to things for us to enjoy today.”

You examined them closely, finding them ever so prettily designed, “Oh! Yun Jin of the Yun-Han Opera Troupe and Heyu Tea House?”

While you had never attended an opera before, you’d heard all about the talented Yun Jin from Lady Ningguang. In fact, Yun Jin performed at the Jade Chamber many times for special occasions, including but not limited to Ningguang and Beidou’s wedding.

Unbeknownst to you, Xiao had also never attended an opera before, but had heard of the Stage Lucida’s stardom through Morax and actually got the tickets from him. She was quite a gifted storyteller and playwright, and the Heyu Tea House was one of Morax’s favorite establishments. 

The two of you enjoyed Yun Jin’s stellar performance of “The Divine Damsel of Devastation”, although, Qiqi had dozed off on the armrest. Next was the local but illustrious museum, per Ganyu’s recommendation. She seemed to greatly enjoy spending time there, reminiscing on the history as though she was actually there when it happened. Then again, she was there when it happened.

Xiao specifically asked Qiqi not to raise her voice indoors, but that didn’t stop her commentary on practically every piece she looked at.

“Tiddies.”

Archons.

“Decapitated.”

Qiqi.

“Body’s been choppy-chopped off.”

Please stop.

Not that you were much better. Xiao supposed everyone had their interests, but what was it about old world guillotines that fascinated you so much? Eventually, the three of you come across a children’s play area with large whiteboards and plenty of markers.

“Qiqi wants to draw.”

Xiao nods, “Go ahead. [ 🧸 ], let’s take a seat for a bit.”

You follow his suggestion and he goes to get you both water cups from the indoor cafe. Qiqi calls upon her greatest artistic vision to put onto the whiteboard. 

Qiqi’s house is a big castle. The bosses of the secret organization are Violet zhuren and Grass zhuren. Papa is a spy, pew pew. Mama is an assassin, slash slash.

By the time she’s finished, you and Xiao came over to see her work. Qiqi feels goosebumps rise on her skin. If Mama and Papa see this, they’ll know about Qiqi’s powers…! Her little body does absolutely nothing to cover up her drawing on the large whiteboard but it doesn’t stop her from trying.

“Quite a masterpiece.” Comments Xiao, “Is… that a wild boar in the mountains?”

“It’s Violet and Grass in the castle.”

“I see. And… Goldwing is there too. From your spy cartoon.”

“Mhm.”

“And that must be the princess. Is… she dying? Or killing someone?” Regardless, that’s a lot of red. 

“…”

“The cat is very cute, Qiqi.”

“It’s a puppy.”

“Sorry.”

Qiqi breathes a sigh of relief as Xiao ushers her over to the two of you. The next stop is the tailor to get you a new dress for the interview.

“Thank you for doing this on your day off, Xiao.” You mumble, “I hope it isn’t too much trouble.”

“It’s not.”

As straightforward as ever but that quality of his is reassuring. 

“Qiqi loves her new clothes. Qiqi thinks… this shop is wonderful. Qiqi loves this shop.”

The seamstress laughs as Qiqi twirls around in her periwinkle dress. She tied the ribbon on her dark purple cardigan all by herself when they were getting ready to leave. The ribbon was pink, and it matched the puffballs on her low heels. She loved the click-clack! sound they made when she hopped around.

“This is Qiqi’s first time wearing her new clothes, it makes Qiqi very happy.”

The seamstress nodded, “I’m glad! Today must be a very special occasion.”

“Today celebrates… Qiqi’s outing with Mama and Papa.”

You tug on Xiao’s sleeve and gesture to the portraits of well-dress customers on the walls, “Why don’t we stop by the photography studio nearby?”

“Okay.”

The seamstress recommended a rich navy blue to suit the semi-formal occasion of the interview, but you had expressed a preference for red and or black. Xiao affirmed that you indeed looked very lovely in those colors, although, he meant to say it in his head- not out loud.

The seamstress and the other employees in the boutique giggled at you both as your face heated up, “T-Thank you, Xiao. I’m glad you think so.”

“I- what? I mean, yes… y-you’re welcome.”

This color is nice-looking, but it would show bloodstains so easily… 

Qiqi gawked at you from behind your back. At the photography studio, Xiao rediscovered that hates cameras but he sucks it up for you and Qiqi. He admittedly looks a little uncomfortable in the final product but makes no comment on it. Really, he’s just happy you and Qiqi love it so much. 

Your new outfits will be ready by the time of the interview, and Xiao is sure they will look especially beautiful on you, too, “You got me so many new clothes…”

He shrugs, “I… wanted to. B-Besides… we’ll be going out together more often anyway.”

“Thank you, Xiao.”

The three of you happen to pass by a patriotic crowd on the way to Wanmin Restaurant. Xiao heard the chef is a very talented young lady, also per Ganyu’s recommendation. Participating in politics was far from his favorite pastime but as a spy, it was vital to staying in the know. You of course, thought the same. Both your lines of work called for information so, even with your shared dislike of loud places, you did what you had to.

Qiqi however, hid herself in the crook of Xiao’s neck. The unspoken opinions of the crowd were just as loud as the ones they were yelling with fervor. Their sorrows, resentment, and demands for action flooded her head until her nose started bleeding.

“Mama… Papa… Qiqi doesn’t like it here.” 

You noticed the trickle of blood and immediately cleaned it up with your handkerchief, “Xiao, we should get going.”

He nods, “You’re right. This is an intense environment.”

Upon arriving at the Wanmin Restaurant, Qiqi starts to calm down. You spotted an adorable Guoba teddy for sale alongside many copies in a corner with many other Wanmin-related merchandise, and are quick to purchase one. The cashier, an older gentleman who proudly announces being the father of the chef, explains to you that the Guoba teddies can even be heated up or iced. Perfect!

Wanmin Restaurant serves many family-style dishes. Since you had rushed off to buy a Guoba teddy for Qiqi, Xiao could only take a guess at what you might want to eat. Thankfully, the menu had a section of the bestsellers like boiled fish, shrimp dumplings, and bamboo shoot soup, all of which he ordered. The almond tofu in the dessert section also caught his eye.

“Qiqi,” You call gently as she holds your handkerchief against her nose to stop the bleeding, “I have a surprise for you- tadah!”

Her cerise eyes go wide as you knelt down beside her and present Guoba, “So cute… thank you, Mama. Qiqi loves it.”

She reaches out to Guoba as you snuggle her with him and hugs him close. Xiao’s heart lightens at the sight. You tuck her long lavender hair behind her ears before taking your seat. It doesn’t take long for the food to arrive. Like Qiqi, your eyes also go wide at the delicious choices before you. Xiao is also quick to serve Qiqi her portion and cut up any pieces that may be too big for her. In short, lunch is delightful!

The chef herself comes out and greets you personally when you’ve finished your food, “Hello! My name is Xiangling! I hope you enjoyed your dishes!”

Xiao nods, “All the praise Wanmin Restaurant gets is well-deserved.”

“You’re too kind! I’m honored you and your lovely wife and daughter decided to have lunch here. Can I interest you three in dessert?”

You and Xiao flush pink. It was the first time someone had referred to the two of you as being married with a kid. Qiqi, despite her aversion to strangers, held up the menu to Xiangling and pointed to one of the items.

“Qiqi wants almond tofu please, with cocogoat milk.”

Xiangling tilts her head in confusion, “Cocogoat? Is that a new kind of milk I haven’t heard of?”

“She means coconut.” Xiao replies.

“Ohhh!” Laughs Xiangling, “I got excited. Well, if there really is a cocogoat out there, I’ll be the first to serve something with it!”

Qiqi smiles, “Qiqi is… excited. Qiqi hopes you find a cocogoat.”

“Qiqi? What a cute name! And your dress is so pretty! Anyway, I’ll get that almond tofu whipped up for you three.”

When she scurries back into the kitchen, you can’t help but giggle, “Cocogoat sure sounds like some magical and mythical animal.” 

“It does.” Xiao agrees.

“Good job ordering dessert for us, Qiqi! I had my eye on the almond tofu, too.”

“Me too.”

Qiqi hugs Guoba closer to her, “Qiqi is happy Mama and Papa are happy.”

The almond tofu is creamy and cold and sweet. Even Xiao doesn’t hide an approving hum on the first bite. Cute! After dessert, the three of you decide to walk off lunch before heading home for the day. You spot a nearby park that you love spending time at on your days off. Xiao, holding a drowsy Qiqi, follows your lead.

“It’s quiet and calm up here.” He says when you reach the top, “I didn’t know there was a place like this.”

A gentle breeze rustles the grass as the three of you lean on the railing and take in the view, “It’s my favorite spot to relax. Oh, look Qiqi! A finch nest.”

Qiqi, now very much awake, follows your pointed finger to three finches in a tree, “Ah… finches… there’s a mama finch and a papa finch…”

“Mhm! And a cute little baby finch too!”

“There are eggs in the nest.” Comments Xiao.

Qiqi tugs on the collar of his jacket, “More baby finches. Mama, Papa… will you make Qiqi more babies, please?”

Both of your faces bloom pink like the nearby bushels of silk flowers. You know she means buy more finch plushes for her room. Yes, you know that has to be what she means! At least, that’s what you and Xiao tell yourselves to keep from a public, spontaneous combustion. 

“G-Guoba is your new baby, Qiqi.” You manage to say, “One baby at a time… okay?”

“Okay.”

Xiao, who is very intent on focusing on anything and everything that isn’t looking at you, people watches to calm himself down. It seems you have the same idea. People at the foot of the hill flit by on their daily routes like crystalflies. One person in particular though, catches your shared attention. He has a strange gait, and his features are suspiciously difficult to distinguish because of his sunglasses, mask, and hat. You and Xiao frown. He takes off in the next moment after a startled yelp from an old woman.

“Help!” She cries, “Thief!”

Xiao holds Qiqi tightly against him as he prepares to vault the railing, but before he can even place his hand on it, you’re already sprinting down the hill with fire in your eyes. While he wants to catch up to you as quickly as possible, ultimately, he takes the stairs to avoid startling Qiqi as she clings to his neck.

You grit your teeth as you chase the thief into a maze of alleyways, fists balled up when you can no longer spot him anywhere. With the high ground, Xiao has a better view of passersby, but the culprit was a clever one. Tch, he’s blending in with the crowd. His piercing gaze searches the crowd for the strange gait, all the while holding Qiqi close as she too looks into the seas of people. The collective thoughts begin to overwhelm her again, but she is determined to listen for the thief.

Score! That old hag was loaded!

Qiqi gasps, her eyes locked onto him. Xiao hadn’t seen him yet. How to direct his attention…? 

“Xiao, Qiqi!” You call, catching up to them, “Ugh… I lost him.”

“Me too.” He scoffs.

Qiqi keeps her eyes locked onto the thief, raises Guoba up, and launches him off the side of the hill, “Guoba! Get him!”

Startled by Qiqi raising her voice, and also the fact that she threw the Guoba plush you had bought her into the crowd, Xiao’s eyes follow where he lands. Conveniently, on the head of the thief with the strange manner of walking. There you are.

“[ 🧸 ], watch after Qiqi.”

He quickly passes her to you and the sudden gust of wind makes you and Qiqi shut your eyes. Quick as a flash, Xiao appears above the thief and plunges his foot into his back. Bystanders are shocked, but not as shocked as the thief who is now likely suffering a concussion and a spinal injury. Although drawing attention to himself goes against what he was taught, Xiao keeps the thief pinned against the cobblestone.

“Hand this purse snatcher over to the police.” He says flatly.

And just like that, he departs. You and Qiqi had gone to check in on the older woman when he reconvenes with you both, purse in hand. Much to your relief, she is unharmed, but you insist on personally escorting her to the nearby hospital.

“Thank you so much, you were a big help!” She says in earnest as she shakes your hand, “I had money in my purse to get my granddaughter a gift for her birthday.”

You smile and shake your head, “Actually, my husband was the real hero. He’s the one who got your purse back from the thief.”

Xiao looks at the ground, “You took off after him before I could even think about it, [ 🧸 ]. You deserve the praise.”

The grateful woman takes his hand in both of hers and smiles, “What a fine gentleman you are. Ah, but where are my manners? You can just call me Old Lady Ping. I run a flower shop in the city. I am deeply indebted to you both. Please, come by the store next time you get the chance. It’s not much, and maybe the younger generation doesn’t appreciate flowers anymore, but it’s the least I can do for your efforts.”

He wasn’t used to being put on the spot like this, let alone receiving such enthusiastic and heartfelt gratitude. In the past, Xiao completed his missions as Alatus, the Vigilant Yaksha, without any recognition. His mask always hid his face, but right here and right now, he had no way to hide the effect of someone’s thankfulness. 

Xiao cleared his throat bashfully. This… this is nice. Receiving thanks every once in a while… 

Qiqi giggled quietly. Papa is a softie…

“[ 🧸 ],” he says after composing himself, “Today was… an adventure. I’m glad we got to spend it together. You… you inspire me.”

He looks at you with an unexpected fondness that makes your heart leap. Those golden eyes of his, usually so calm and even fierce as you’ve seen today, gaze upon you gently and endearingly. Like the warmth of the sun without burn or glare. Any words to try and refute his praise are caught up in your throat. You can only smile at the ground sheepishly as Qiqi’s eyes dart between you and Xiao.

“Mama and Papa are flirting.” 

Hot red blush erupts on your faces as you and Xiao yelp, “We are not!” 

That wasn’t- I wasn’t…! I… I don’t f-flirt with anyone. I was just… 

He was just being nice! That… he wasn’t- b-but if he was…

The two of you try to distance yourselves from standing so close together the moment. 

Unperturbed, Qiqi pokes her chin and asks, “Does Qiqi get a thank you, too?”

Xiao coughs, grateful for the change of topic, “I suppose so. But did you have to throw Guoba off the ledge? [ 🧸 ] got him for you. You should be more considerate of your belongings.”

“Then again,” You intervene, “It’s thanks to Qiqi and Guoba that you found the thief. You’re a very good girl, Qiqi.”

Ping smiles at the three of you, “What a lovely family you are. Please, I insist coming by my flower shop on your next outing. I’ll have a lovely thank-you bouquet of glaze lilies ready. But until then, here’s some candy. My granddaughter, Feifei, loves them. I hope you like them, too!”

Feifei… Yanfei? Huh… it is her birthday soon. Must be a coincidence.

Qiqi accepts the candy, “Delicious…”

You laugh, “Make sure you say, ‘thank you’, Qiqi.”

.

.

.

At the end of a long and lovely outing, you, Xiao, and Qiqi return home. The joy of your precious family warms your heart as you hope for more and more times like these.

“Mama, Qiqi wants cold cocoa, please.”

You nod, “Of course.”

Xiao reexamines the interview questions while Qiqi watches you prepare her drink, “Qiqi, why don’t we try again with the interview.”

“‘Kay.”

“How do you spend your days off, Qiqi xiaojie?”

Qiqi ponders on it for a moment, “Mama and Papa and Qiqi go… to the opera, and… the museum… and we eat delicious food at the Wanmin Restaurant.”

He nods, “Very good. If you’re asked this question, think back to today. Now… what do you do if you see your friend do something naughty?”

Qiqi squishes and tugs at Guoba’s cheeks, “Qiqi would… throw Guoba at them. And jump on them. And beat them up.”

Your bright laughter resounds from the kitchen, “That’s a great answer.”

Xiao stares at the ceiling and covers his eyes behind his hand, “Maybe… pretend you never saw that.”

Qiqi frowns and hops over to him, reaching up to tug his hand away, “Papa was so cool.”

“He sure was.” You agree as you set three mugs down on the coffee table.

Qiqi manages to take Xiao’s hand in hers and whoosh it around like a weapon, “Evil shall be dispersed… lament! Hehe… that’s what Goldwing says on TV.”

“Those are some cool catchphrases. Why don’t you give those a try, Xiao?”

Xiao glares at you with the ferociousness of a kitten, blushing from ear to ear. Eventually, you and Qiqi stop embarrassing him as the two of you sit together on the couch. Qiqi takes a big gulp from her mug before cozying up to your side.

“Mama makes the best cold cocoa.”

You loop your arm loosely around her, “I’m glad you like it.”

The scene before him is one Xiao commits to memory. To think that the three of you convinced a kindly older woman that you were a family. Maybe the interview could be pulled off after all. He takes a sip of his evening tea as you reach for remote for the speaker to play some music. 

Qiqi kicks her feet along to the song happily, “Mama, Qiqi wants to dance. Please dance with Qiqi.”

“Huh? Oh, I-I don’t da-”

Xiao smirks at you, “You wouldn’t say no to a request from Qiqi, would you, [ 🧸 ]?”

Qiqi slides off the couch and tugs earnestly at your hands. Of course you can’t refuse her. You’re an assassin, not a monster. The song is plenty upbeat. One of your favorites actually. You’re overjoyed that Qiqi likes it so much as she hops in circles around your legs as you sway to the lyrics, though you can’t help the self-conscious butterflies in your stomach knowing Xiao is watching. 

“W-Won’t you join us?” You ask meekly.

He shakes his head a little too quickly, “I’m content just watching you tw-”

Qiqi twirls over to him and hugs his legs, “Papa, dance with Mama and Qiqi. Please?”

Those eyes would be the death of him as he sighs and you giggle, “You wouldn’t say no to a request from Qiqi, would you, Xiao?”

You extend your hands to him and the two of you manage a clumsy but cheerful waltz in the middle of the living room. Xiao finds that he can only maintain eye contact with you so… intimately… for so long. He backs away somewhat abruptly as warmth travels up his neck but hides it by crouching down to lift Qiqi and spin her around, passing her to you after a few turns. When the three of you are tired out, as in, when Qiqi is tired out, you and Xiao tuck her into bed and bid each other good night. 

Before going to sleep, Xiao rediscovers the written address to Ping’s flower shop in his jacket pocket. She had given it to him before she was taken into the hospital for a checkup. He places it next to his phone on his nightstand, determined to take you and Qiqi to there next time. It had nothing to do with his mission. It accomplished none of his objectives, and didn’t further any of his goals… but for the first time in a long time, Xiao decides he wants to do it anyway. Just to see the look on yours and Qiqi’s face.

｡🌠 🎀 𝓇𝑒𝒷𝓁🌞𝑔𝓈 & 𝒸😍𝓂𝓂𝑒𝓃𝓉𝓈 𝒶𝓇𝑒 𝒽𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓁𝓎 𝒶𝓅𝓅𝓇𝑒𝒸𝒾𝒶𝓉𝑒𝒹❢ 𝓌𝑒'𝒹 𝓁❤𝓋𝑒 𝓉💙 𝓀𝓃🍑𝓌 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓎🌺𝓊 𝓁🍩𝓋𝑒𝒹 𝒶𝒷💍𝓊𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈❣❣ 🎀 🌠｡

#genshin impact imagines #genshin modern au #genshin imagines #genshin impact x reader #genshin x reader #xiao comfort #xiao fluff #xiao x reader #xiao x you #genshin qiqi #qiqi fluff #incoming telepathy 🔮 #operation: found family 🪺

[refridgerators]

xiao oneshot - ”a spy in the glistering sun”

not prof read, gn!reader, fluff, sick!reader (i think), mayb ooc xiao?? idk??

”how’s it coming along? all clear?”

”all clear.”

”great. thanks a lot, here’s your payment.”

you were doing your daily commissions and had just completed a very long patrol commissioned by huai’an.

”are you alright?” huai’an asked. ”do you need any water?” he fumbled with his bag.

it was a hot afternoon in the middle of summer and the sun was shining like never before. maybe it was because you weren’t native, but you swore you could feel yourself melting. that and the fact that you had been doing errands for the whole day and hadn’t had any lunch or water.

”what? no, i’m fine. i’ll be done with my errands soon, so there’s no need to worry, sir.”

”if you say so, young traveler.” he replied. ”don’t come crying to me if you get heat stroke though.”

you said your goodbyes and set off to do your last commission. the sun had started to fall but that didn’t help with your hotness at all. in fact, you had started to feel much worse. your eyes were starting to shake slightly and you seemed to move more wobbly and unbalanced. ’no matter,’ you thought. ’there’s just one commission left. i’ll take it easy on this one.’

the last errand was a simple one really, you just had to pick apples for a little boy outside of qingce village.

when you finally found a tree after a while of searching, everything started to shake more uncontrollably now. you couldn’t stand up anymore, so you sat down and the sun was burning your skin more than ever.

’shit, maybe i should’ve accepted the water from before…’ you thought, before your unconciousness took over. you didn’t have time to call for help, but you still felt a small gust of air land by your side before you passed out.

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

”…i knew this would happen! god damn…”

”…oh? wait, let me make mint juice for them…”

you opened your eyes and was greeted by a familiar face in front of you.

”ah, good morning!” verr goldet greeted you with an excited smile.” oh, please drink this.”

she forced down a bitter and cold drink in your throat that made you shiver.

”do you feel any better?”

actually, you did. the drink made your body cool down very quickly.

”yeah, i’m good.” you sat and thought for a minute before speaking up. ”how did i get here?”

verr goldet stood up and walked out of the door. someone even more familiar stepped into the room.

”xiao?? what are you doing here?”

he looked you dead in the eyes and sat down on the stool next to your bed.

”i heard from huai’an that you were feeling… not so great but you were still doing your commissions so i watched over you.” he looked down. ”i cannot have you walking around all alone while injured. it does not sit right with me.” he refused to look at you.

”oh.” you cleared your throat. ”i’m… grateful. thank you for watching over me.”

awkward silence struck you both for a minute or two.

”so… how can i thank you?” you asked.

”…what?”

”yeah, you know… now that you’ve done something for me, what can i do to show you my gratitude?”

”um, that’s not needed.” he looked at you. ”it’s my duty as the last sworn yak-”

”i’ll take you out to dinner.” you blurted out. ”we can go to wanmin restaurant, on me of course. whaddya say?”

you looked over to xiao and he looked… perplexed to say the least.

”y-yeah, okay. that sounds good.” he looked over to you and you locked eyes.

#literally what am i doing lmaoo #brainrot #xiao #xiao x reader #genshin impact

[mikazukinika]

VII. Dream Eater

“THE PLACE WHERE YOU ARE” TAGS & ABOUT → Summary: Helping Wangshu Inn's staff with repairing the stairs earns Lumine and Paimon a complimentary overnight stay. After what happened the last time she visited, however, the traveler feels a bit awkward… (continuation from scene v). Scene Rating: T (night-crawling) Scene Length: 2.4k words, about 9 minutes NEXT → READ ON AO3 → MORE FROM THIS AUTHOR →

“I can’t believe it!” Paimon cried happily. “We’re staying at Wangshu Inn for free!”

Lumine chuckled at her side as they stepped onto the elevator. “It sure was nice of Verr Goldet to offer after all that work we did today.”

“I never want to help fix the stairs again!” Paimon groaned.

“You didn’t do anything,” Lumine pointed out. “Just followed me around as usual.”

“Hey! I helped find the planks of wood we needed, didn’t I?”

The pair continued to bicker until they arrived at the reception desk where the boss greeted them warmly. Huai’an, the innkeeper they had assisted throughout most of the day, immediately called out to them with a wave.

“Welcome!” he beamed. “Let me lead you to your room first. Yanxiao is preparing the kitchen for tonight’s dinner as we speak. You can make your orders downstairs once you’re settled.”

Feeling a little giddy, Lumine exchanged glances with Paimon. The traveler frequented Wangshu Inn, but she had never thought to enjoy an overnight stay herself when she usually just found somewhere safe enough to camp out. “It kind of feels like a sleepover, doesn’t it?” she said to Paimon as they climbed the stairs.

But the fairy wasn’t listening to her. “Grilled tiger fish, stir-fried filet, Jueyun chili chicken, jewelry soup…!” Paimon’s eyes glittered with excitement, her voice rising in a crescendo.

Seeing the cringe in Huai’an’s shoulders ahead, Lumine smiled slyly. “Zhongyuan chop suey, bamboo shoot soup, lotus flower crisps, golden crab?” she went on, tone playful.

Paimon cheered. “As expected of my partner, you have the best taste!”

“Yanxiao, godspeed…”

The traveler's laughter caused Paimon to shoot her confused glances, but before she could even bother to explain, Huai’an led them into a corridor they had previously never visited. Admiring the decor as they walked, Lumine noted that the red and gold color scheme of the inn persisted in this area as well. Eventually, the innkeeper stopped in front of a seemingly random door on the right, unlocking it and bowing respectfully as they were let inside.

The room was spacious and just as lovely as the rest of the inn. An ink painting on a hanging scroll decorated one wall, from which she recognized the landscape of Huaguang Stone Forest. In another corner sat an elegant jade vase, its green color glimmering in the low lighting. The traveler and her little companion gasped and sighed in admiration, carefully entering the space as if it were fragile.

“I take it the room is to your liking, then?” Huai’an smiled, pride tickling the edges of his mouth.

“It’s amazing!” Paimon answered for her. “Imagine how much Mora that vase is worth…”

Lumine chuckled nervously, ignoring the greedy fairy. “It’s a lovely room. Thank you, Huai’an.”

“It’s the least we could do to repay you. If you hadn’t been here, who knows how many days it would’ve taken to repair the inn’s steps!” he shook his head tiredly. “But let’s put such talk aside for now. If you go downstairs, you can place your dinner orders with the waitress, Yuhua.”

At the mention of food, Paimon immediately regained her earlier excitement. “Yay! Lumine, let’s go down right away!”

Huai’an laughed, bowing his head once more as he stepped away from the doorway. “Now then, please enjoy your stay, traveler.”

“We will,” Lumine smiled.

The much-anticipated dinner was a hit with them both, but Paimon especially, whose stomach became so swollen that Lumine wondered if she would be able to continue floating.

One day, she’ll drop to the ground like a dead weight, Lumine thought to herself as she finished off a plate of Qingce stir fry. Paimon chatted ceaselessly in her ear about the food, sprinkling her own anecdotes about their recipes between rave reviews, though Lumine tuned most of it out to watch their surroundings. Dinner under the lanterns that glowed so warmly was a delightful experience on its own, and she could hardly imagine what other services the inn extended to its guests.

It felt nice to slowly enjoy the place rather than rush from here to there as she was usually forced to do.

“Paimon, will you be able to get into the baths?” Lumine asked once they returned to their room. She wasn’t trying to imply that her 'trusty traveling partner' would sink to the bottom after all the food she just ate but was pointing out how sleepy she looked instead.

A wobbly descent had the fairy sinking to the ground and resting her head on the low table in the room. “I think I’m going into a food coma…”

Lumine snorted, shaking her head in disappointment before leaving her to sleep. She headed for the baths alone, but wasn’t bothered by that fact since she appreciated the peace and quiet after their tiring day. A staff member even kindly offered to have her clothes washed and dried while she relaxed. How could it get any better than this?

One idea came to mind as her eyes lingered on the amber-colored lotus candles floating in the bathwater, but she pushed it aside. Still, throughout her bath, the thought kept returning as a bird returned to its nest, and so she resigned herself to making one last stop before the night came to an end.

The traveler stretched and sighed happily once she was out of the baths, making her way toward Smiley Yanxiao’s kitchen for a visit. She sat on a chair at the table laden with ingredients, watching as he worked.

“Oh, traveler!” he jumped in surprise. “Don’t scare me like that! For a second I thought you were a… a…”

“Ghost?” Lumine finished for him, grinning.

“No! I mean, yes!” He crossed his arms and pursed his lips as she laughed, but quickly returned to his friendly attitude once more. “More importantly, I heard from the boss you’re staying here for the night. How is it?”

“It’s wonderful,” Lumine sighed, leaning on the table comfortably. “I can tell everyone really loves this place,” she added a moment later.

Yanxiao nodded sentimentally at her words. “Boss took me in when I had no place to go. Almost everyone here didn’t expect to wind up in a place like this, but no one’s complaining!” Lumine chuckled at that, watching him move from shelf to stove and back again. “Ugh, too salty… Anyway, traveler, should I make you a plate of almond tofu?”

She resisted the urge to scratch the back of her head in embarrassment the way she always saw her brother do. “…Was I that obvious? But no, thank you, Yanxiao. I’ll make some myself if I’m not bothering you.”

The chef shook his head, a knowing smile on his lips. “Not a problem.”

Lumine said her goodbyes for the night once she was finished, once again repeating her ritual of walking up each step to the highest terrace of the inn. Verr Goldet shot her a thumbs-up sign as she passed, and the traveler struggled to hold back a flaming blush. Luckily, Paimon was asleep in their room, otherwise, she would have been interrogated.

He won’t be there, anyway, Lumine told herself. The sun has already gone down, so he must be out hunting. I’ll just leave this plate there and head back to my room to sleep…

She had convinced herself of this much, but somehow, it was still disappointing when the person she wanted to see most at this inn really did fail to appear on the balcony. Lumine set the plate down, mentally berating herself as she hesitated, watching the scenery anxiously before sighing in resignation.

It’s getting late. I should go back and sleep before Paimon comes looking for me.

Mind made up, she left the terrace and returned to the elegant room. Paimon was still fast asleep, so she removed her boots and nestled into bed, leaving their window’s shades open to allow the moonlight in and navigate the room. Come morning, the sun would wake them as they always trusted it to do.

She had yet to speak to the inn’s resident Yaksha after their awkward argument the last time they met, though she continued to stop by. Lumine wanted so badly to apologize for the things she said, for sticking her nose so deeply into his business. She was sure he was upset with her over it. If he never wanted to see her again, she wouldn’t blame him.

Lumine had spent the entire day tensely waiting for her chance to apologize, and not being able to do so stung more than she expected. But in the end, she reminded herself, she was only traveling around Teyvat for the sake of finding her brother. If anything she would apologize and make things between them into what they used to be when Xiao returned in the morning. Then, it would no longer be awkward.

Nodding to herself, the traveler decided this was for the best and finally closed her eyes to sleep. Her rest was fitful, sprinkled with dreams and memories alike. She often saw the previous worlds she had visited with her brother in her dreams. Sometimes, she saw the war-ravaged landscape of Teyvat from her memories. The nights when she would be forced to watch her brother disappear from her sight hurt, but not as bad as what her mind imagined happened next.

“Lumine… hurry, please, find me,” her brother wheezed, tone colored with pain. She could hear the jingle of chains in the darkness. “Find me, and let’s leave this place, okay?”

It hurt. It hurt to imagine what kind of things Aether might have endured all this time that they have been separated. Even if he was safe, which she dearly hoped was true, he too would feel this gaping hole created by her absence. She felt it every day. At the start of her journey, she would catch herself turning to show something interesting - a flower, a slime, hilichurls dancing - to someone who was no longer there. This was part of the reason why she appreciated having Paimon as a guide - it meant she still had someone to share these experiences with.

The lonely traveler tossed and turned throughout the night, trapezing the fine line between the waking world and that of her dreams. Though she could not quite lift her eyelids, though her mind was showing her the sprawling fields of Mondstadt and the figure of her brother running through them freely, she was still aware of herself and the space around her.

So when the bed dipped under a new weight, she ripped her eyelids open and summoned her sword to her hand, only for a loud clang to ring throughout the room.

“Wha-?! Huh?! What’s goin’ on?!” Paimon slurred, waking immediately.

Lumine was still, her rapid pulse pounding at the base of her throat. Clouds had covered the moon outside of the window, thus all she could see was a pair of cat-like, amber eyes close enough to touch. They were glowing.

“…Xiao?”

Realizing there was no danger, Paimon huffed angrily at her sleep being interrupted and disappeared into her pocket realm. Lumine, for her part, was sword-to-spear with the Adeptus she couldn’t meet earlier that night. As the clouds passed, the room filled with moonlight once more, and she could finally take him in.

The Adeptus moved first, stepping off of her bed silently and waving his spear away. Lumine did the same with her sword, sitting up and quickly wiping stray tears from her eyes. Xiao calmly sat at the low table, as if he hadn’t just snuck into someone's room in the middle of the night.

“What are you doing here?” Lumine asked, her tone a cross between curiosity and exhaustion. Peeking out of the window, she could see the horizon beginning to lighten. He probably just came back from performing his duties.

“I found the almond tofu on the terrace and knew you had arrived,” he said calmly. “I only intended to see if you were awake since you keep odd hours, but you seemed to be suffering in your sleep.”

Lumine failed to compute how this led to him hovering over her as she slept. “So you were going to…?” she prompted.

Xiao averted his gaze, finally showing a hint of embarrassment. “Take your nightmares,” he muttered.

Stunned silent, Lumine simply stared at the Yaksha until it all clicked. She remembered the past she had heard from various people during her travels in Liyue, and why he enjoyed almond tofu more than any other dish created by humans. She wanted to laugh, but the urge was overpowered by how moved she felt.

“You were going to help me even after all the things I said…?” she murmured weakly.

At these words, Xiao met her gaze once more, brow furrowing. “I don’t follow.”

“Last time!” Lumine leaned forward, clutching the sheets with urgency. “I was so rude and I still haven’t apologized for it. I was sure you never wanted to see me again, but I still-”

Xiao closed his eyes. “You spoke the truth.”

“What? But…” The traveler stalled at this, unsure of what to say.

His eyelids lifted slightly as his gaze remained downcast, directed toward the wood of the table and away from her. “I knew you were only speaking on the matter for my sake.”

Lumine fell silent, feeling wave after wave of relief wash over her like the light of the sun's gradual dawn. Xiao's presence and words soothed her far more than she anticipated. It felt ridiculous now, to have been convincing herself not to get involved in his path when she already had. Lumine understood him warrior-to-warrior, immortal-to-immortal. But how could she understand the details of his duty, his culture? Her insolence had led her to speak against the life he'd led for thousands of years, and yet he still…

The traveler rose from the bed and came to the table with soft steps, folding her legs beneath herself as she sat across from the Yaksha. He tracked all of her movements calmly, his aura utterly undisturbed. In the quiet of the low-lit room, seated at the same table, she felt that they were finally back on the same wavelength.

Even so, she had to ask with a hesitant smile, “Then… am I forgiven?”

Xiao seemed to want to roll his eyes, but his amusement overtook his pretenses. “Have I not been saying all this time that there is nothing to forgive?”

NEXT →

NOTES: 夜這い (Yobai - "night crawling") - an ancient custom practiced by unmarried Japanese people. Basically, it's sneaking into each other's rooms at night 💀

#nika snippets #tpwur #xiaolumi #lumine x xiao #traveler x xiao #genshin xiao #genshin impact fanfic #genshin impact

[gardenofdreams]

When You First Called My Name (Xiao x Reader) (GN)

Tags: Xiao x Reader, lots of pining, comfort, Xiao takes care of you, the romantic tension could be cut with a knife, Xiao doesn’t understand emotions/feelings/mortals, reader is gender neutral,

Summary: Xiao gets lost in his memories of when you first called his name. He recounts finding you in the rain and how you made his heart feel alive again. It was a moment to remember for the both of you. The only conclusion he could draw is that he wanted to be with you for as long as he could. 

Words: 1567

The winds never changed as they flowed through his teal locks. His feet dangled over the edge of the Adeptus Gate that you had built for him. It had been a few months since they first met. The adeptus found you in every fleeting shadow. Xiao recalled the moment you became a ghost in his daydreams, haunting him every moment you were apart.

Your body was wet with rain, his name barely escaped your lips as the looming shadows surrounded your near unconscious body. He remembered the way his heart lurched painfully as he dispatched all the surrounding enemies with murderous precision.

“You…came…” Your voice had caught him off guard, but undeterred Xiao rushed to your side, cradling you against him. You were so cold in his arms. You should have trembled, shook, anything yet the only sign of life you delivered him was your soft breath, condensation against the light drizzle of raindrops.

“You idiot.” Were the last words you heard before succumbing into the darkness. Though you did not make use of his promise, you were glad that this was the moment that you had decided to ask for his help. His golden eyes pooled with concern as he clutched your rain-soaked body against his white shirt.

“I’m taking you to Wangshu Inn” His voice was heavy with emotion, the words sorrowful as they barely escaped his frown. It was a simple sentence that held the weight of his world. Peering up at him through muddied lashes, you couldn’t help but smile. He was so gentle, a side that not many had the pleasure of knowing. It wasn’t nearly your time to go but if this were the last thing you saw, your one regret would be the reason he was frowning at you. It was different to the one he usually liked to wear. The frown that was meant to keep everyone at arm’s length and no closer.

Though Adepti didn’t need to sleep, some partook in it for pleasure while others viewed it as another form of meditation. Protecting the lands surrounding the inn naturally earned the respect of its inhabitants. Xiao never cared much for the gifts in exchange for his protection, it was his duty. Yet now more than ever he was grateful for the spare room that Huai’an had reserved for him.

His hands trembled as he lay your still body against the silk flower mattress. Xiao ran a nervous hand through his rain kissed hair. In the many thousands of years of his life he had never once cared for a mortal and embarrassingly he had no idea where to start. Your body was like ice, your clothes sapping more heat than they should have given. Without thinking Xiao found his gloved hands peeling back the icy layers, throwing them in a pile nearby the Cuihua wardrobe. He would use his powers to dry them later, for now he concentrated the power of anemo. Wisps of teal winds fluttered around you, as he dried you off. He wished that he could change elements like you could, a pyro vision would have been far more useful but he prayed to Morax that this would be enough.

“W-where?” You clenched your jaw, stuttering the words out as you nuzzled closer to his warmth, “W-where am I?” Perhaps you were dreaming but the way that Xiao held you was so tender, you’d never seen this side of him before. Even the way he quietened your lips with his finger felt stranger. It only took you overworking your body to see him this way. You promised yourself that you wouldn’t make this a habit of yours but-

“You're colder than a cryo slime…” Xiao held your cheek softly before catching himself. “You fool, your mortal, you need to take care of yourself.” He mumbled pitching your cheek for emphasis. Your whimper caught him off guard as he immediately let go, eyes dancing away from your form as he stared around the room. “You need to warm up before you really do get sick…”

Fighting the urge to tease him, you nodded. It hadn’t been your intention to stay out in the thunderstorm, but with all the errands and odd jobs that you had received that day there was a fire in you that was determined to finish them all. Your memories were a little blurred in the thunderstorm. All you remembered was the growing numbness as the splattering of raindrops danced between feeling like shards of ice and momentary annoyances. Hilichurls alongside a cryo abyss mage had ambushed you on your journey back to the city of freedom. It wasn’t until darkness crept into the edges of your vision that you finally relented and called for the Vigilant Yaksha.

Without thinking you reached for the warmest thing. You clung to his arm with what little strength that remained, stopping the Yaksha from leaving your side. His skin felt so warm against yours, a little blush scattered over your cheeks as you realised the state that you were in. Clutching the arm against your chest you couldn’t help but look away. “What happened to my clothes?” You shivered against his forearm. His light breaths traced your collarbone as his golden eyes searched your expression.

“They were wet.” He stated simply, completely ignoring the compromising position you had put yourself in. “So I removed them.” Xiao stated as a matter of factly as if his arm wasn’t lodged in between your-

“I was going to get you a blanket.” He interrupted your thoughts and in that moment you were grateful though he made no effort to move. Something of a conflicted emotion flickered across his expression as he moved. You looked so comfortable around his arm, but he couldn’t let his own thoughts interrupt him. The blanket was soft against your skin as you watched him light the fireplace, his spear had been cast aside in his hurry. It was quiet as you listened to the fire crackle. The flickering shadows draped themselves elegantly against his face as he fiercely glared at the flames, as if threatening them not to go out. 

“Thank you for saving me Xiao. I didn’t mean to scare you.” 

“I wasn’t scared.” The Adeptus shot back immediately. Noticing your flinch he bit his tongue. “Forget it I didn’t…” He sighed. 

“It’s ok, I can feel my fingers now.” You smiled softly. You weren’t offended with the way he was reacting. For the Yaksha this must have been the longest conversation he had had with a mortal in a long time. Though he was gentle, sometimes he reminded you of a stray cat. Xiao always meant well, he just didn’t know how to express it outside of protection and duty. 

The Adeptus opened his mouth as if to say something before looking away, crossing his arms. “Next time make sure to look after yourself. It would worry everyone if you always push yourself like this...” 

“I’ll try…I just hope that you can pick me-” No sooner had those words left your lips, you felt the familiar strong arms cradle you as he carried you towards the fireplace. Placing you and the rug, his gloved hands tugged the edges of the blanket so that you were properly covered. 

“If you wanted to be closer to the fire, you should have asked sooner.” He tilted his head at your stunned silence. “What?”

“I…I meant you can pick me up whenever I run into trouble.”

“Oh.” His lips almost formed a pout, disappearing just as quickly as he looked away. Was he embarrassed? It was at this moment where you couldn’t help but laugh at this entire situation. The exhaustion finally catching up to your body as you started to warm up. Sleepily leaning against his shoulder, you felt safe. 

Xiao never knew the heavenly chimes of Celestia were woven into your laughter. If your smile was the sun, then your laughter was the stars in a moonless night and he could not believe that such beauty lived in one such as you. 

Xiao did not realise that his soul would miss your sounds as you left the next day. His favourite sweet almond tofu was not the same without you there. And as time passed he learnt to realise that nothing would ever fill the emptiness that you had snuggled into his heart. 

“Xiao!” Your melodic voice lured him back out of his memories as he watched you call out his name from atop a pavilion you had created. Within a flash, the adeptus appeared next to you within a cloud of dark shadows and mist. When he realised you were standing right before him with another one of your affectionate smiles, he could only feel himself being pulled in by it all.

“You called.” He took a step forward, eyes locked onto yours, losing himself in you, only to stop himself once more. 

“I promised you we could do today's commissions together, are you ready?” With a nod, you wove your hand with his, leading him towards the exit of the teapot. Yet with such a busy day ahead he could only think of you and how he wished he could follow you wherever you went. 

For now the best he could manage was to protect you whenever you ventured to Liyue and to always come when you called. That way perhaps he had a chance at uncovering the strange feelings that you had planted within him. 

Masterlist

#xiao #genshin impact #genshin xiao #genshin impact xiao #genshin x reader #xiao x reader #alatus x reader #pining #gender neutral #gender neutral y/n #xiao pining #genshin xiao x reader #xiao imagines #xiao headcanons #talking to mortals is confusing #character study #xiao fluff #xiao x y/n #xiao x traveler #xiao x traveller #xiao x you #alatus x y/n #alatus x traveler #genshin imagines #adeptus xiao

[morverenmaybewrites]

Silk Flowers (Jealous!Xiao x Reader)

Pairing: Jealous! Xiao x Reader Warnings: Implied NSFW Summary: It was the silk flowers. In summer time, they are practically given away: to seamstresses, to scribes, or perhaps, woven into the hair of a well-known customer. The token of a bargain well-struck. Xiao claims not to be bothered by them, that adepti are above petty mortal concerns like jealousy. Perhaps he is right, and you are reading too much into it. But perhaps, as you are slowly learning, adepti are closer to humans than they’d like to admit. You decide to test this theory. "Xiao, if you hate the flowers so much," you say, smiling. "Why not take them off?" Read on AO3

It was the silk flowers.

Summer in Liyue is the time of bloom. It is the time of harvest, when chefs leave their kitchens to harvest fat Jueyin chilies that grow on the side of the road. Nimble adventurers climb mountains to pluck buds of violetgrass from cliff sides.

And of course, the silk flowers. They grow so thick in Liyue that in the summertime, merchants struggle to sell all of their wares.

They sell it to seamstresses, first of all, who will weave them into thread for their looms.

Others will press them into scrolls of rice paper to sell to passing scribes.

And, in your case, they will sometimes give them to customers: a symbol of a deal well struck.

The merchant had twisted their stems in your hair to braid them together, so that the flowers rest on your head like a crown. It is similar to the ones you see in Mondstadt: children connecting bunches of windwheel asters flower to stem to make wreaths to wear as they play.

Here is a crown for a princess, to be saved from a band of hilichurls.

Here is a bracelet to be worn by two friends who swear never to part.

Here is a ring, as a symbol of pure, childish love.

The silk flowers are fragrant, and they make you think of home. You touch the petals that rest on your head and smile.

The petals are still wet from having been sprayed earlier, and droplets of water drip down your neck as you make your way up Wangshu Inn. The chill of it makes you shiver, though the sensation itself is not unpleasant, the days have been oppressively hot ever since the summer months started.

The floor creaks under your feet as you make your way up the inn. You remember once hearing a rumor that the wood that makes up the walls and planks of Wangshu Inn were cut from trees that no longer existed. This place is ancient, and it is there in the food and rice wine they serve, unchanged from how they were made centuries ago. It is there in the massive tree whose trunk twists around its walls like a climbing vine.

It is there, you think, in its secret. One that Wangshu Inn has kept for ages.

Huai’an catches your eye as he bustles around the floor, serving cups of steaming jasmine tea to scholars, bent over yellowed scrolls and moth-eaten books. When you wave at him, he smiles at you in return.

When you reach the top floor, you have to pause, the way you always do. The view on the top of Wangshu Inn is beautiful, and in your opinion, no other sight in Tevyat compares to it. From there, you could see Mt. Qingce, its peak stretching out towards the sky. The amber glow of one of its cliff faces, made entirely out of cor lapis.

You could see Jueyun Karst, cursed and forbidden to mortals.

“You’re late.”

You blink, the words pulling you out of your reverie. Xiao doesn’t even bother turning to look at you, and you wonder how he knows it is you. Still, the sound of his voice makes you smile.

”Sorry, Xiao. They were selling a lot of things down there. I guess I got carried away.” You pause and adjust the bundle in your arm. “I bought a few things for you, too.”

You know his answer before he even says it.

“Adepti have no need for mortal wares.”

It is something he says often, and the words are as familiar to you as a well-worn shirt. Once, you may have let it bother you, upset by the ever-present reminder of how different the two of you are. But that was before you have seen the look on his face as he watched thousands of lanterns light up the skies above Liyue. The way he would watch ships dock into the harbor, as the sailors, still smelling of salt and sea, disembark to mingle with the fishmongers and merchants.

Or even the way he would watch the travelers who stop by the inn for the night, their clothes dusty from days of hard travel.

For all that Xiao claims not to be interested in mortals and their daily lives, he watches them with a longing that borders on thirst.

From your pile of wares, you pull out a paper crane. You toy with its wings experimentally, as if trying to see if it will take flight.

“Ever seen anything like this, Xiao?” you ask. “The merchant said that this one was made in Inazuma. Apparently, a thousand of them can make a wish come true.”

Whether it was your forced conversation or his own curiosity, Xiao finally turns away from the window with a sigh.

“Mortal myths,” he says with a scowl. “A thousand anything can’t make a wish come true.”

He stops and pauses. But you are too busy playing with the crane to take notice.

“Oh, you don’t know that. Maybe it will. Do you think that I can learn to make these myself? There’s apparently a trick to folding them.”

“Where did you get this?” he asks, and it is the softness in his voice that makes you look up.

“I got it from the store next to Li Lan’s. You know her, right? She was the one who sold us lanterns--”

“Not the crane.” He cuts you off. “The flowers.”

“Oh.”

You had all but forgotten about the wreath of flowers that sits on your head like a crown. But now, Xiao stares at it--you--with open curiosity.

“The merchant downstairs gave them to me. Same one I got this crane from.”

You lift the toy for him to see, but Xiao does not respond. He has always been hard to read, even at the best of times. His expressions had always been...less, more muted than a human’s. It had disturbed you, during the first few days of your relationship: the unnatural stillness.

And yet, over time, you had learned to read him, the way a scholar learns to read an old scroll or the way a fisherman learns to read the sky. You learned to see the hesitance in his face whenever he asks a question, the way his lips would curve as if forcing himself to speak instead of remaining quiet.

“Why?”

And still, for all your experience, sometimes he would catch you off-guard.

“Well, he says that it was a token of a good bargain. Honestly, I think he just wanted to get rid of some of this stuff.”

You pause, apprehension bubbling in your gut. He rarely brings up what clothes you wear, except to comment when he finds them impractical for a day’s worth of travel. The thought that he noticed makes you feel shy.

“Do you like it?”

Silence. He frowns, as if thinking about your question.

It is something you’ve always loved about him, the slow, solemn way he regarded your questions before answering. As if everything you say is of great importance.

And yet, this time, he surprises you again by responding with a question of his own.

“Do you believe him?”

You blink. “Who?”

“The merchant.”

“I see no reason not to. Although I’m pretty sure he fleeced me on some of the prices. Sunsettias can’t be that expensive. Stalls used to give them away for free back home–”

“Were there others he gave flowers to?” he interrupts impatiently. “Did you see?”

“I..” You are not sure where this line of questioning is going. “I’m not quite sure, perhaps he did?”

Once, you had come across a bundle of glaze lilies, their petals open despite the fact that it was midday. You ignored Xiao’s warnings only for it to be the sprouts of several Whopperflowers.

It had taken several weeks for the bruises to fade, though Xiao’s dark grumblings whenever he saw them was the worst of the situation.

“Is there something wrong, Xiao?” you asked. “Are they dangerous?”

“No. It’s just...never mind.”

He isn’t on edge, the way he was back with the Whopperflowers, but still there was an odd tension around his shoulders.

You had seen it countless times before, during your painfully short trips to Liyue Harbor. When a hawker tries to get you to play a game at the Jade Mystery or when an old woman sells you a set of colorful kites, cut into the form of Rex Lapis, gold thread running along the outline of his scales.

It is a look of half-fascination and half an emotion you had never been able to name.

You hesitate, but reach out for him, anyway. “Is everything all right, Xiao?”

“Yes.”

He says it too quickly for you to believe him. His eyes flick to your face then to the flowers that sit atop your head like a crown.

He pauses before speaking again, clearly hesitant. “Is it some mortal tradition? To give flowers?”

“I…”

In Mondstadt, people would give flowers to their loved ones during the Windblume Festivals. Dandelions freshly picked from the fields beyond the city gates, windwheel asters picked from Windrise, for lovers who wished to be blessed by Barbatos. Cecilias that grew only near Springvale and on the shores of beaches around Dawn Winery. But you had no idea if Liyue shared the same traditions.

But Xiao seems to have mistaken your silence for approval, because he continued, his voice quiet and sullen, “I’ve seen mortals give flowers to their lovers.”

The notion is so sudden, so strangely normal for an adepti, that it makes you burst out laughing.

His scowl deepens in response. “You mock me.”

“No! Well, maybe. I just never thought I’d see you jealous.”

“Jealous?” He sounds out the word slowly, like rolling a new spice around in his tongue.

Then, he shakes his head, “Adepti are above such petty mortal concerns.”

Perhaps he is right. But perhaps, as you are slowly learning, adepti are closer to humans than they’d like to admit.

“And yet, you hate the flowers,” you say.

Xiao’s eyes narrow as you adjust the stems tangled in your hair. Droplets of water fall from the petals, one runs down your cheek like tears. The water feels wonderfully cool.

You had long since traded the heavy wool and furs of Mondstadt for the silk and cotton clothes of Liyue. This summer had been particularly hot, and it had been fashion to wear silk garments, with exposed shoulders or open backs.

Maybe it was your imagination, but Xiao’s eyes seem to follow a particular droplet’s path as it slides down your neck to rest on your bare shoulder.

He scowls again, then turns away. “Think what you want. I am done with this conversation.”

You grin. If he is truly angry, then he wouldn’t have bothered to walk away.

He is adepti, after all, and could have willed himself to anywhere in Liyue if he wishes. To the Peaks of Jueyun Karst, where mortals are forbidden to tread. Or silent Wuwang Hill, which everyone avoids for fear of ghosts.

Or, even to one of the few statues of the Geo Lord, where it is said that one could still feel the presence of Rex Lapis. More than once, you had found him near his statues. And though Xiao had never been much for words, there was something worshipful about his silence.

Xiao had known him. He had told you that much.

But Xiao did not go to any of those places, instead, he resumes his place at the window. And this, more than anything, tells that he is not angry.

You have seen this sort of behavior before.

He isn’t angry, he’s embarrassed.

“Xiao,” you call.

“What?”

“If you hate the flowers so much,” you say, smiling. “Why not take them off?”

You have seated yourself on one of the tables, sandaled feet kicking the air. Hua’ian had once told you that it was carved wholly from a giant block of noctilous jade, and if you looked, the surface of the table contained all the constellations in the sky.

Xiao hated it when you sat on that table.

But when he turns around to face you, there was no harsh reprimand to use one of the chairs instead. Instead, his face is eerily still.

“What?”

There is none of his usual haughtiness this time, no dismissive comment. Xiao looks at you as if he isn’t quite sure he heard you correctly.

“If you hate the flowers so much,” you repeat, feeling wicked. “Why not take them off?”

He frowns. “Wear what you want. It doesn’t matter to me.”

“Okay,” you say, airily, teasingly. “Perhaps I will wear it for longer, then. Perhaps I will come back to the merchant and ask for more.”

His hand touches one of your braids, one of the silk flower stems is tied around it. Xiao’s presence makes you jump a little. You had seen this particular skill of his before, and yet at times, it still takes you by surprise. One moment he had been at the window, the next he is right in front of you. No human could have moved so fast.

And he does it as easily as breathing. Another reminder of the space between your races.

And yet Xiao does not seem to notice your reaction; his attention is focused solely on the flowers nesting in your hair.

“They’re ugly. They don’t suit you.”

“Then,” you say, softly and for the third time. “Take them off.”

He looks at you, and there is something like fear in his eyes. You know what he is thinking, and it is a word as familiar to you as Xiao himself.

Karma.

The essence of dead gods, thick as smoke and heavy as the sky. A burden Xiao carries with him wherever he goes. You had seen wood burn at his touch. Sleeping hilichurls change into the strange, twisting monsters in his presence, their bones cracking as they are reshaped into something new and monstrous and terrible.

You had seen him reach out to touch a wreath of glaze lilies, only for the flowers to wilt away from his fingers.

He wears the same expression now as he did back then: resignation. It is like watching a curtain being drawn behind his eyes. Perhaps it is the worst thing of the burdens he must bear–the devastating isolation of being unable to interact with the world without harming it.

You will not let him think of such things. At least not today, not over some silk flowers.

“Xiao.”

Your voice seems to break him out of his thoughts. And you take his hand, frozen in the moment of touching your braid, and draw it to your mouth. You kiss him there: the cup of his palm, as if you are handing him a gift, the back of his hand, and the tips of each of his fingers.

You can feel it, karma clinging to your lips when you kiss his skin. It feels oily, almost stings with a sort of not-pain.

Xiao once told you that karma attacks one’s soul, rather than their body.

And yet, how can you care, when all you can see is the way Xiao closes his eyes in pure pleasure? At the way his breathing seems to slow and deepen?

You wonder if anyone before you has ever touched him like this. Or even touched him at all.

You can watch him like this forever.

“It’s all right, Xiao.”

He opens his eyes when you speak, and his gaze is lidded and half-focused.

“You can touch them. It doesn’t matter. After all,” you grin. “They’re ugly and they don’t suit me.”

He stares at you for a long time, before he utters two words.

“Very well.”

His expression changes to one of utter concentration, and you love that about him, too. The way he does things with a sort of single-minded devotion.

It makes him wonderfully easy to tease.

The merchant had taken his time with the flowers, carefully braiding together your hair and the stems, as if one or the other was a climbing vine, seeking sunlight. Xiao is going to have a time trying to remove them.

His hands are gentle, the way they always are with you. He obviously doesn’t want to tangle or pull at your hair, despite his initial annoyance with the silk flowers. There is something so sweet about that. So much of his life is violence, and yet he touches you like you are glass.

Almost unconsciously, you run a finger across his arm. His skin is smooth, almost like porcelain. Once, he told you that most adepti did not bear scars. They healed too quickly for it. And there is something sad in that, too, to live a life of hardship and yet not have it mark you. You can feel muscles tense underneath his skin, but other than that, Xiao makes no other reaction.

He frees one braid, and a single flower falls from your head to rest on your lap. You pick it up, studying it. They really are beautiful. Perhaps when Xiao is done, you will weave them into a wreath for him. You put it back on your lap, thinking to collect them as they fall.

He moves on to a second, and this time it is not so easy. You can hear the rustle of petals crumpling.

You giggle, “Careful there.”

He glares down at you. “How can I be careful when you insist on–”

He cuts himself off, and clenches his jaw and says nothing more.

“When I insist on…?” you question, though you already know what the answer is.

“Nothing. Be still.”

Obeying him is the last thing on your mind. Instead, you continue your exploration. This time, tracing the tattoo on his right arm. Even in daylight, it seems to glow with its own strange power. It runs hotter than the rest of him.

His breath catches when you trace it, first with your fingers, then with your nails. You can see the stutter of his chest, as if he has forgotten how to breathe.

The skin there had always seemed especially sensitive.

“Something wrong?” you ask innocently.

He narrows his eyes at you.

“No.”

Another petal falls down to rest on the hollow of your throat. Xiao clicks his tongue in annoyance.

“These silk flowers are too fragile. They tear.”

“So rip them off,” you offer.

He looks at you as if you are crazy.

“That would hurt you.”

In Liyue, it is fashion to grow one’s hair long, and to keep it in braids or to gather it up in a bun while keeping the rest loose. The buns were held in place by combs carved out of the wood of a sandbearer tree, known far and wide for its ability to endure weather, be it drought or winter or storm. Flowers made out of noctilus jade or magical crystal were used to decorate the comb. Or maybe instead of combs, one would use pins instead, made out of hammered gold or cor lapis.

Once, Verr Goldet had offered to tie your hair in the style of of Liyue, though the way she had pulled and tugged at your hair made tears collect at the corners of your eyes. You had spent the rest of the day complaining to Xiao how Verr Goldet had clearly meant to pull your scalp from your skull.

It is sweet, now, that Xiao seems to remember your petty complaints. He barely even seems to notice what he had said, and instead has gone back to trying to disentangle the flowers from your hair.

You think you should thank him for being so gentle, even when he thinks nothing of it. Finally, when he sighs and pulls off another silk flower, you turn your head to kiss the inside of his wrist. You do it slowly, deliberately, as if you are tasting him.

You can feel his pulse quicken underneath your lips.

This time, he jumps back with a scowl. You can feel another flower tumble from your head to land behind you. Your hair feels looser now, cooler from where the petals and the flowers have touched, the water drying on your skin.

“Do you mean to keep doing this?” Xiao demands.

“Doing what?” you ask, trying and failing to hide your smile.

The skin of his shoulders are a soft pink, his ears too. His breathing is unsteady. It is always a marvel to you: the effect you have on him.

“Distracting me.” He practically spits out the word.

“Would you like me to stop?”

“Ye–”

He cuts himself off again, this time even his cheeks are red. There is a tension in his shoulders that tells you he is embarrassed.

The next words he speaks are spoken through gritted teeth.

“Do what you want.”

He resumes his task, and there is a stubborn set in his jaw that you have seen before: he means to see this through.

And yet you can feel his fingers shaking; they are not as precise as they once were. Petals fall on you like rain, it brushes your cheek, the tip of your nose. One rests on the curve of your shoulder. Another flutters by your lips, and the surface of the petals feels like velvet against them. A stem gets stuck just behind your ear. You giggle as you pull it off.

“I’m sorry,” you coo.

You are almost remorseful.

“No, you’re not.”

“Would you like me to be?”

Xiao gives you another look. His eyes have always been strangely beautiful to you. More avian than human, with a strange golden glow that makes him look otherworldly. It is same shade of the geo crystalflies, that you have only ever seen near the statues of Rex Lapis. You always jump to try and catch them, for their cores are a precious resource for travelers, but you had always failed.

Finally, he says again, slowly, softly, as if he means every word, “Do what you want.”

And you think, here, here is something more precious than a crystalfly. And you did not even have to jump to catch it: his love and his trust, willingly given, lying in the curve of your cupped palms.

You make a noise like humming, can feel it in the back of your throat, and you lean forward so you can rest your head on his shoulder, an almost-hug that he can pull away from whenever he wants. This time, Xiao does not speak, does not reprimand. Instead, he stops what he is doing, so he can cup the back of your head and hold you close to him.

And then there is nothing but the warmth of his skin, and the sound of his breathing, and the kiss he presses on the top of your head.

You would be happy, you think, if this moment lasted a thousand, thousand years.

If one day, Xiao decides to leave you–for being too different, too strange, too mortal, or if his karma wears you down to nothing, like a river wearing down stones, if you could have nothing else but this–still, you would be happy.

Finally, Xiao pulls away. And he hands you a silk flower, the last one that the merchant has braided in your hair.

You take it, feeling disappointed. You were enjoying your little game far too much for it to end so quickly.

“Is it over?” you ask. “If we can do that every time you get jealous, perhaps I should go downstairs and get more–”

“You will do no such thing.”

But when he says it, Xiao is not scowling. He is looking at you, almost as if appraising you. He tilts his head in a manner that is almost birdlike.

“I don’t like seeing that merchant’s flowers on you,” he finally says.

“I got that impression,” you respond impishly.

“Or any of this.” He picks up the petal that had been resting on your shoulder, then flicks it away dismissively.

“I did get a lot of them on me, didn’t I? Just give me a second and I’ll–”

Your words die in your throat when Xiao moves to kiss your shoulder, at the exact spot where the petal once lay. You feel the scrape of his teeth against your skin, the hot lave of his tongue afterwards, as if in apology.

But when Xiao pulls back, there is no remorse on his face.

You pout childishly to hide your embarrassment. “That was unfair. You took me by surprise.”

He lifts his hand to rest two fingers on your cheek. You remember that one of the petals had fallen there, too. Though Xiao is still, you can almost feel your skin tingle. You can feel the heat of his fingers.

You had been kissing them earlier. You want to kiss them again, and yet, you are sure Xiao won’t let you this time.

“Would you like me to stop?” he asks.

Your throat feels dry. When did this turn into his game?

You meet his eyes, and they are, as always, strange and avian and golden. If you ask him to, he will stop. Just like you would have stopped if he had asked, no matter how fun the teasing was.

But you don’t want him to, and then there is nothing left to say but–

“Do what you want.”

The corners of his lips lift slightly, and the next word drips from his lips like honey.

“Good.”

His hands cup your face, and he cradles you as if you are made of glass, and it is achingly sweet, the way he treasures you. You think your heart will break at the way he kisses the soft flesh of your cheeks, your forehead, the thin skin of your closed eyelids.

Xiao has always treated you like you are made of glass. As if you are wood that, when grasped, will burn under his cursed fingertips.

And yet–

There is desperation there, too. It is there, in the way his fingers tremble as he holds you. It is there, in the way his breathing shakes as you leans on you, forehead to forehead, as if he too, wishes for this moment to last a thousand, thousand years.

You wonder again, if anyone before you has ever touched him like this. Or even touched him at all. You wonder what must it feel like after a life of being unable to interact with the world without harming it, for someone to finally reach out and take your hand.

Will you take it and cradle it, gently, as if it is made of glass or wood that, when grasped, will burn under cursed fingertips?

Or will you grasp it tight and hold it close, as if to let go will make you explode into a thousand pieces? If so much of your life is violence, will you drink in affection the way a dying man drinks rainwater?

When Xiao pulls himself back to gaze at you, the look in his eyes is something like hunger, something like thirst.

His thumb rests on your lips, the slightest hint of pressure, and you remember the way the silk flower petals felt like velvet against them.

“Xiao,” you murmur, and you watch him swallow at the mention of his name. “It’s okay.”

This time, he is not gentle.

This time, he kisses you like you are rainwater.

Teeth clash, his tongue feels too hot against yours. He pulls you closer to him, as if he wishes to leave no space between you, as if to let go will make him explode into a thousand pieces. He separates from you only long enough to find the hollow of your throat and kiss there, too. A finger traces the shell of your ear, and you shiver. You had always been sensitive there.

Finally, when Xiao pulls away, you are breathing hard. You wish to glare at him for turning the tables on you so thoroughly, but somehow, you can’t. You gather whatever shreds of dignity you have left to speak.

“Think you got them all?” you ask, trying and failing to sound nonchalant.

Your voice sounds weak, it even shakes a little.

This time, you cannot read the expression on Xiao’s face when he speaks.

“I didn’t.”

“I’m pretty sure you did.”

“I didn’t.”

“Then, where…”

You trail off as Xiao carefully picks up the silk flower lying on your lap, at the juncture between your thighs. The first one he had disentangled from your hair. Then, just as carefully, he places it back. Its petals gleamed wetly from the water the merchant had sprayed it with. It leaves a dark spot on your clothes where it lay.

His eyes are, as always, strange and avian and golden, and they hold you spellbound as he sinks to his knees in front of you.

His sleeve drapes across the floor as he kneels, red and white and blue against the scattered petals and broken stems. The sight is almost obscene.

Somehow, you find your voice.

“Xiao!” you hiss.

“Yes?”

“I-it’s day time!”

“Yes.”

He looks as if he does not care, and he leans forward so he can rest head against your knee. If you are still wearing the clothes of Mondstadt–thick wool and fur to ward away the cold, the gesture would have been innocent enough. But you had long ago switched to the silk garments of Liyue, and the cloth is so thin that you can feel the heat of his breath ghost against your thighs.

Though Xiao always stays at the highest floor of Wangshu Inn, sound travels well enough even here. You can hear the clink of fine porcelain, the murmur of conversation from the dining room downstairs. You can even hear the voices of merchants, hawking their wares to travelers.

Perhaps if you listen closely, you can hear the voice of the merchant who had given you the silk flowers.

You can feel your face burning at the thought.

“Someone can come up here, I didn’t even lock the door–”

For once, Xiao looks amused. “No one is allowed up here except you. You know this.”

You do know it, know that Verr Goldet and her husband have always been fiercely protective of Xiao, and almost nobody is allowed on the top floor. But it is rapidly becoming hard to think with the way Xiao is looking at you, and his breath ghosting over your thighs.

As you are looking for another excuse, Xiao turns his head to kiss you, the soft flesh of your thighs. He does it slowly, deliberately, as if he is tasting you already, and you nearly choke on your next set of words.

“I can…hear people all the way in the courtyard. And if I can hear them, then they can hear me…us.”

This time, Xiao leans away, frowning. You breathe a sigh of relief at having convinced him. But he doesn’t rise from his position. Instead, he is looking at the scattered petals in the room. The broken stems. Your unbraided hair.

Finally, his eyes shift to the silk flower still resting on your lap, at the juncture between your thighs.

“Perhaps,” he says quietly. “I would like that merchant to hear.

#xiao x reader #xiao x you #xiao #genshin impact x reader #genshin impact

[cetaceous]

Producing Lift Rollers at a Factory Huai’an, Jiangsu Province, China image credit: AFP via: The Guardian

[muses-archive]

whispers of old #4

If Huai’an could see them now, the poor innkeeper would be having a heartattack. Guests - well, mostly Aether - jumping off the edge to glide down instead of using the elevator was one headache. Guests also deciding to climb to the roof of Wangshu Inn would be another. Today’s problem is the latter, but it’s okay. What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him. The tiles are quite uncomfortable to sit on, so they’re on the thick branches of the tree which houses the inn. It’s a shame the foliage blocks an otherwise clear view they’d get if they stayed on the upper platforms where they should be. 

It’s somewhat late into the night, the only sounds being the rustling of the leaves, some faint snoring below, some disconnected humming from his friend here. Barbatos’ braids emit a soft glow, dimly lighting his face. The shade reminds him of fireflies. They watched them together in a field of glaze lilies a long time ago, the flowers blooming with his voice, the insects dancing upon their petals. The fragrance of the flowers was intoxicating: far too sweet, yet, he hadn’t wanted the moment to end. 

Guizhong had teased him for being starstruck, then sighed in disappointment when she realized he didn’t understand. It’s taken him millennia for him to consider that maybe, just maybe , there’s something there.

“You sleepy already, Morax? You sure are getting on in age.”

“Barbatos, please.”

He giggles from his perch, swinging his legs. “If you don’t drink faster there’ll be nothing left for you~”

“I am appreciating it.”

“Sure, sure. That doesn’t leave any more booze for you though.” As though to further prove his point, Barbatos - alternatively, Venti - takes a large swig from the bottle of wine he clutches, sighing with satisfaction. Morax, also Zhongli, glances at the 5 other bottles they’ve carried up here, snugly but haphazardly placed in the gaps of the roof tiles. He is under no delusion that this could last any longer than, say, an hour at best. For his part, he wants to properly enjoy the taste. Of course the tasteless bard had to ruin the little pleasures. 

The moonlight filters through the leaves, another source of illumination for them. The canopy prevents him from seeing the moon reflected in his goblet, another shame. For a moment, he thought that Barbatos had his wings in the pale moonlight, but it was just the wind playing with his cape. The glowing braids dance with the wind, and he’s struck with the thought of wanting to simply hold them in his hands.

“... even if you look at me like that, you’re not getting this bottle, you know,” Barbatos sticks out his tongue.

“Wouldn’t dream of it,” he replies, deadpan. 

Without anyone else around, it only felt right to call each other by their Archon names. It’s the sense of familiarity, ever tip-toeing around the edges of how they would describe their relationship. It’s the kind of feeling that, after so long, you feel complacent and assume they would always be there for each other. He had thrown himself into his work all this time that he now belatedly realizes he was probably quite lonely for millennia. 

He sips thoughtfully from his goblet, one he made however many aeons ago. Six others of these still remain in his sole possession, to conjure should he have the associated guest in his company, each personalized with their element. Barbatos isn’t using his right now, since he’s merrily gulping down alcohol like water directly from the bottles. How uncouth. He must have known what he was thinking, as Barbatos lightly bumps his head with an empty bottle as he climbs down to sit beside him.

“Fine, I’ll slow down on my drinking, just for you,” he drawls, leaning into him.

He shakes his head in disbelief, smiling in spite of it. Swirling a serving of nostalgic taste in his hand, with the weight and warmth of a friend beside him… this feeling is nothing short of… comfortable . Between him and Barbatos, could you really call them just friends, though? He’d wondered about this aloud to Aether, discussing their informal contract of sorts. Aether had just given him an unreadable look, sighing heavily. After measuring worth in promises and bonds, he knows of emotions and sentiment, but not how to appropriately name them.

Love, the domain of the Tsarista. Barbatos would say he made a deal with a devil. Would he forgive him for being selfish for this ‘final’ contract?

“Are you asleep?”

“How could I fall asleep on someone this dense?” is the immediate retort. 

“You haven’t complained before,” he points out. He quite likes having Barbatos in his arms. An elbow digs painfully into his ribs. 

Would knowing someone for so long be a curse or a blessing? He closes his eyes as he rests his head on the other’s, the smell of alcohol present, but light enough. “You should stop drinking,” he says, out of habit, dismissing his own goblet.

“Pfft, who do you think you’re talking to?”

A new bottle isn’t opened despite that. The humming picks up again, a melody from a long time ago. A lullaby, one that can put even gods to sleep. He feels himself gently being rested on Barbatos’ lap, as the song continues. Fingers thread through his hair, lulling him further into slumber. “Stop thinking and go to sleep.”

In defiance, he opens his eyes, reaching out to touch one of those braids. “Hey now, old man, you’ve got your own glowing hair, you know.”

“Aren’t you going to sleep?”

“Well, I’m waiting for you to, so that I can keep drinking. Get the hint.”

He does laugh at that. “You never change, do you?”

“Yes, yes, we’ve established that, I think. Goodnight, Morax ,” he says, firmly.

So be it then. “Goodnight, Barbatos.”

And so the lullaby continues, carrying far into the still air, telling all who would listen about the tales of yore. The last of the old gods may well fade into the night, but so long there is someone who remembers them, then they too, will live on forever.

#musearchive whispers #zhongven

[fishareglorious]

This is such a funny picture for me. Just imagining Yelan hiding behind a plant and going ‘psst have any commissions for me?’ to Huai’an or something

I only have to set myself of fire, step on some water, and electrocute myself for 60 primogems? Hell yeah gimme them kazuha funds

Bertrand.

Okay maybe we’re in for Betrand backstory and Fontaine lore but is my man Bert okay

I see I see. I do wonder what’s the energy system there in Fontaine, considering it seems to be the one with the most advanced technology of all the nations. I’m thinking electro slimes because I played Childe’s story quest yesterday but that’s prolly not it.

what.

Okay this kinda reminds me of a mechanic on an old MMO I used to play.

Rest in peace Errant: Hunter’s Soul i have no idea what happened to you

Genshin are you mocking me for the fact I haven’t gotten a single Millelith’s Tenacity artifact in 3 runs

Also the artifacts for Yelan are absolutely not for her but are the ones I yoinked off Keqing. The poor girl can’t win she has the worst artifacts because of that. Also I’ve been farming the vinegar domain for a while and still no good artifacts for Yelan I hate it here

#genshin impact #playing genshin #doing those vouchers things for the event feels realy boring for me so i'll probably not do it #but that fireowl thing is kinda cute #reminds me of diluc lmaoo #doing yelan's skill is so fun but in some cases i use it and she gets stuck on a pebble or something #girl are you kidding me there's a fucking lawachurl behind you RUN

[marshed-mello]

no more nightmares [a xiaoxgn!reader one-shot]

character(s) - xiao

scenario - xiao comforts you after you have a nightmare

warning(s) - none

special condition(s) - gender neutral reader, fluff, slight angst if you squint

☆*: .｡. . . .

it was like any other day at wangshu inn. wake up, get ready, help verr goldet and huai’an with any tasks they hand to you, then head down to the kitchens by the end of the day. ‘why the kitchens?’ you may ask. well, that’s because your last job of the day is to make almond tofu for the inn’s resident adeptus; xiao. 

you and xiao have been friends for about three months; half the time you’ve been working at the inn. it took him a while to open up to you but now, he’s less reserved and doesn’t immediately disappear when he receives his food. that’s a win in your book, even is xiao doesn’t quite understand the mortal concept of ‘friends’. 

~

walking up the steps to the highest balcony, a gentle breeze flew past your face and ruffled your hair. you smiled because you knew that he’d arrived just in time for dinner. you soon laid eyes on the adeptus as you reached the top, gently setting the plate of almond tofu on the small table to the side and joining him at the balcony railing. 

“good evening, xiao” you kept your voice mellow and soft, so as to not disturb the peaceful night. xiao hummed to acknowledge your words. and after watching the sun set, you said goodnight and walked back to your room, not aware of the amber eyes that had turned to watch you. 

his arm was stretched out towards you, as if he was trying to stop you from leaving. why, though? why did he want to stop you? he retracted his arm and shook his head of the many questions running amok. he simply took the plate of tofu and whisked atop the roof of the inn, watching as the stars slowly started appearing in the night sky. 

he didn’t know how long it’d been since he sat up there, but he realized that he’d fallen asleep. 

wait.

he fell asleep?? how could he have let his guard down so easily? he then thought of you and your sweet smile that sometimes turned into a sly smirk when you got an evil idea. your hands, though small, and how they’d fit perfectly into his own if he had the boldness to hold them. your eyes, and how they sparkled when you saw a couple walking their puppy down the street. 

‘what is this feeling...?’  he thought. 

he thought of everything, and how he loved every small detail. though, while lost in his thoughts, he failed to notice light footsteps approaching the balcony. it was only when you appeared on the roof next to him that he snapped his head in your direction. the tips of his ears were burning and bright shade of vermillion, and he was about to scold you for still being awake before he looked at you in shock. 

there were fresh tears streaming down your cheeks and your eyes were red and slightly puffy. a small ‘sorry’ left your lips as you turned your gaze to the floor. at this point, he didn’t care that he’d let his guard down or that he might have looked ridiculous as he swiftly pulled you close and wrapped his arms around your waist. 

you couldn’t hold it in anymore as the tears kept coming. you cried into his shoulder as his grip around you tightened. his eyes clenched closed as he sensed the nightmare-ish aura around you. voices whispering and screaming. shadows dancing across your mind and himself as he looked for the source of the dream. 

finally, he came across a small child weeping on the floor as tall shadows around them were yelling and screaming strings of never-ending curses. xiao had finally had enough, and, adorning his mask, he purged the evil spirits within your mind. he felt you calm down as your body loosened against his, and you melted into his embrace. 

the feeling of his gloved hand stroking your hair further calmed you, until your breathing slowed along with your heart. xiao’s eyes suddenly opened, and he pulled away from you slightly. his eyes rested just above your head, and you lifted your gaze to see what had caught his attention. your eyes widened as a glowing cryo vision slowly wavered down into your hands. 

it was cool to the touch and oddly comforting. not only was it calming to you, but also to the adeptus holding you. the cold from the vision seemed to lessen the pain of his karmic debt that weighed upon his shoulders. but not only was the vision affecting him, but you were as well. 

a smile crept onto your face as you looked back up at him. but it was replaced with a look of surprise when you saw him smiling gently at you. he looked into your eyes, a silent plea within his amber hues swirling with a multitude of emotions. confusion, happiness, comfort, love, and many more. and with that, his lips gently pressed against yours. 

under the endless sky and the glowing moon, was a promise made between two completely different individuals. though no words were spoken, as none had to be. 

it truly was a timeless union beneath the stars. 

                                                                                                               . . . .｡.:*☆

#genshin impact #genshin xiao #fluff #genshin one shots

[bluesilver]

The History of Xiao From Genshin Impact

Genshin Impact is an action role-playing game developed and published by miHoYo. It can be played on PC or mobile. In the game, players act as the Traveler. While embarking on grand adventures, players explore a beautiful open-world as they interact with other characters and their epic stories. One of the many characters in the franchise is Xiao. He’s a reserved individual shrouded in mystery. Due to this, Xiao’s history will be covered. Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers to the game.

Alatus is an illuminated beast who’s lived for over two thousand years. In his youth, an ancient god used his weakness to enslave him into preforming cruel acts. During the Archon War, the Geo Archon, Morax, ended the god and freed Alatus by bestowing him the name “Xiao” to protect him. When Morax rallied the yakshas to suppress the grudges of fallen gods, Xiao, under Alatus, was one of the five Yaksha Guardians. He fought alongside many junior yakshas too, like his best friend, Pervases.

Over the ages, the hatred the yakshas’ had to suppress tainted their souls and mired them in karmic debt. This incurred enormous physical and psychological pain. Between battle casualties, madness and desertion; the yakshas dwindled. Soon, only Xiao remained and the reservations towards the loss of his allies caused him to develop a callous demeanor. Because of this, Xiao is distant and prefers to be alone.

Despite possessing a high resilient towards its alluring corruption, Xiao nearly succumbed to his karmic debt at one point. Fortunately, he was saved by Venti, the Ameno Archon. During one of his visits to Liyue, Venti decided to play the dihua flute and its music eased Xiao’s soul.

Out of immense loyally to the Geo Archon, Xiao formed a contract with Morax for saving him when he was young. In exchange, Xiao dedicates his life to protecting Liyue and doesn’t like anyone speaking ill of Morax. In Liyue, he’s only known as the Vigilant Yaksha. With his karmic debt tainting his surroundings, humans are less robust than adepti’s souls. Thus, Xiao typically avoids humans with little intention of being close to them. In the few times Xiao has to be involved in mortal affairs, he asks they get to the point before they’re corrupted by the darkness from his karma-ridden constitution. As a result, few know much about him, but those who do respectfully call him the Conqueror of Demons.

Since Xiao holds a high level of seniority among adepti, the Liyue Qixing built the Wangshu Inn for him to stay and rest while carrying out his duty. It’s run by their agents Verr Goldet and Huai’an. There, he entrusted Dusky Ming to them, while they cover his unintended destructive tendencies and expresses concern for him during Lantern Rite. With Liyue’s citizens beginning to self-govern and other adepti withdrawing their presence, Xiao currently continues defending Liyue while making more attempts to understand its people.

#article #genshin impact #xiao #liyue #anime #hoyoverse

[projectourworld]

Huai’an, China. This woman is better sheltered than her dog in the eastern Jiangsu province. Photograph: AFP/Getty / Guardian Newspaper #winter #snow

[vietnamstar]

IMF expects new housing demand in China to drop by around 50% in the next decade

Pictured here is a real estate project under construction in Huai’an, China, on Jan. 21, 2024. Nurphoto | Nurphoto | Getty Images BEIJING — Demand for new housing in China is set to drop by around 50% over the next decade, making it harder for Beijing to quickly bolster the country’s overall growth. That’s according to the International Monetary Fund’s latest staff report on China, completed in…

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#Asia News #CNBC #Vietnam Star News

[asiainsider]

IMF expects new housing demand in China to drop by around 50% in the next decade

Pictured here is a real estate project under construction in Huai’an, China, on Jan. 21, 2024. Nurphoto | Nurphoto | Getty Images BEIJING — Demand for new housing in China is set to drop by around 50% over the next decade, making it harder for Beijing to quickly bolster the country’s overall growth. That’s according to the International Monetary Fund’s latest staff report on China, completed in…

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#Asia Insider #Asia News #CNBC

[thesunshinereporter]

Food Ambassador Unlocks New Culinary Experience in Huai’an

http://dlvr.it/T0PYns