#guardian yaksha

[it-happened-one-fic]

A Lover's Oath - Xiao

Author Notes: This one was largely inspired by the song "Lover's Oath" from the Genshin Impact OST and some of Xiao's voice lines which I used within the fic itself. Fun fact: The only place within Genshin Impact that plays "Lover's Oath" that I know of is when you meet Xiao. As usual the reader is gender-neutral.

Type: Fluff/romance implied/perhaps a dash of angst because its Xiao

Word count: 869

“If you awake to a knife at your throat, if monsters dig their claws into you, if death comes knocking at your door, call out my name. Adeptus Xiao. I will be here when you call.” 

They were words I would never forget. A solemn oath that was sure to catch one’s attention and stay in your memory for a lifetime. Perhaps that was why meeting Xiao was a memory that would last for longer than eternity. 

What’s more is that he upheld his promise. A promise that would be impossible for anyone else to keep. If I called for him he was sure to appear in the blink of an eye.

I looked out across the view of Liyue from Wangshu Inn, bathed in the light of the setting sun like it had been that day. That day when I’d first met the ancient being that sat next to me, gazing out across the same landscape that I looked at. The same landscape that he watched over in silent, solitary guardianship. My eyes flicked over to him as shared memories danced through my thoughts.

“I'm willing to protect you. But don't think about getting close, and stay out of my way, or all that awaits you is regret.” 

Such bitter words. But they were why I knew better than to voice my thoughts and affections for him. Xiao’s walls could come up frighteningly fast as he withdrew. Because he was always trying to protect me from himself in the same way he protected me from everything else.

Telling him that he reminded me of my very own guardian angel would only be met with a cold scoff. He more likely thought of himself as a demon trying to atone for the sins that haunted him. Sins he could never atone for even though it was an unjust burden.

And then he would tell me what he always did, “If a day comes where even you are taken by the darkness, it will be up to me. So do not fall prey to the darkness. I have no mercy.

Though perhaps you can stand your ground alone.”

He always looked away just as he finished, not able to meet my eyes when he admitted that I was capable of standing on my own two feet. It always made me wonder if he was afraid of being alone. He’d been alone for so long… And though I wasn’t always around, I liked to think that I eased his loneliness.

Even if he only wanted me to view him as a weapon…. After all that was what his promise was. One that he reminded me of every time I went away to handle a commission or explore some new area.

“I deal in death. If you cannot bring yourself to kill — speak my name.” 

The meaning behind his words was all too obvious and one that pained me whenever I remembered them.

Don’t forget me. And remember that I will always come when you call. Don’t sully your hands when mine are already too stained to ever be cleansed.

It was almost like a plea for help and swift refusal of assistance all at once. Don’t get too close or you’ll get hurt. These are my burdens, not yours. 

 I was accustomed to such thoughts myself, but thinking of him feeling that way…. Well, it was upsetting to say the least. After all, I had learned to accept help. I’d been forced to. Being an adventurer wasn’t always easy. Especially with the Abyss order constantly lurking around every corner.

I looked over at Xiao once more, studying his profile that was shadowed in the dusk of the day’s slow death. Would he ever learn to accept other’s help?

He met my gaze, a solemn look on his face as we silently looked towards each other. Understanding the other’s thoughts without saying anything. It was there, in his golden eyes. The quiet request for me to withdraw. To distance myself from his cursed self. 

I didn’t get to refuse his silent request though as he sighed and began to speak, possibly more to himself than to me, “It's too late. The connection between us is too strong. Even if you wanted to, it's too late to sever it.” 

He paused, his eyebrows arching at my speedy headshake, “Hm? You've never thought to sever it?” I smiled at his correct assumption but that just seemed to exhaust him more as he sighed, a sound of long suffering.

“This eternal dance of demon subjugation... My fight goes on. But I would like to know more about you.” His eyes flicked around, looking at me one second and looking away the next. Almost like he really didn’t know where to look.

I felt my smile widening as I reached out and took his hand, “So you’ll come with me to the lantern festival this year?”

He looked down at our tentatively interlocked hands and flipped his palm over, returning my grip with a gentle squeeze as the faintest of smiles spread across his face. “As If I could refuse. All you need to do is call and I’ll come…. Even if it is something inconsequential.”

#Xiao x reader #genshin impact x reader #genshin impact imagines #xiao imagines #The fact that Lover's Oath is also called Guizhong's Lullaby makes me feel like Zhongli just passed his romance song onto his son #fluff #gender neutral reader #romance #Xiao x y/n #Xiao x you #Genshin impact x y/n #genshin impact x you #Liyue #guardian yaksha #lantern festival mentioned #mywritings #fanfic

[iwasthewind]

why are like thREE PEOPLE TALKING ABOUT THIS

tHAT'S MENOGIAS??? THAT'S LITERALLY. MENOGIAS. XIAO'S DEAD FRIEND AND COMRADE? GENERAL KAPISAS, THE GEO YAKSHA?? He and Bonanus presumably killed one another in battle?? Menogias, the one who designed Zhongli's outfits. I'm sorry I'm not normal about this, it's MENOGIAS

#menogias #general kapisas #4.4 livestream #4.4 trailer #the guardian adepti #PLEASE if there's any lore enthusiasts pls pls #talk to me i NEED to word vomit about this #genshin impact #the five guardian yakshas

[mythysmultiverse]

If I had a nickel for every media where I fixated on a legendary group of 5 people who gave their lives/minds for a greater purpose, of which only one remains as he was, I'd have 2 nickels. Which isn't a lot but it's weird that it happened twice.

#genshin impact #yaksha #the guardian adepti #xiao #bonanus #bosacius #indarias #menogias #honkai star rail #high cloud quintet #dan heng #imbibitor lunae #myths games #jingliu #jing yuan #blade

[haileyywrites]

Summary: Xiao has always been there to save and look after you. One time you take the opportunity to save him in return...

Pairings: Xiao x Gn!reader

Notes/Warnings: Reader is completely gender neutral! POC friendly! Fluff turned into angst! Major angst! Major character death? Talk of wounds and blood - not terribly graphic! Not really proofread, sorry!

Xiao always kept an especially close eye on the people who lived or visited Wangshu Inn, they were the closest to him and thus the easiest to protect. He also wanted to keep the surroundings of Wangshu Inn clear not only for his own peace, but to keep the customers safe and coming to repay Verr Goldet for letting him stay at the Inn.

He knew all of the regulars and those who lived there full time, so of course he noticed you when you moved in. There wasn't any way he couldn't notice you... You just couldn't help but make his life harder by getting into unnecessary trouble at least a few times a day. Sometimes it wasn't the kind of trouble that he needed to intervene in, but sometimes it was the kind that threatened your life.

Despite how many times he or Verr Goldet told you off it never helpped much - perhaps you would be more careful for the rest of the day, but the next morning it was like nothing at all had happened. You were back to getting in trouble and he got another babysitting shift... Honestly you were driving him into the brink of absolute madness with your carelessness! If you weren't so grateful after he saved you he would have thought you to have a death wish.

“I have never met a mortal as clumsy and careless as you. I would like an explanation for it.” The cold voice of the Yaksha called out to you.

“Oh, um... I'm not sure how to respond honestly. I swear I don't mean to cause you or anyone else trouble!” You tried reassuring him to no avail.

“I'm tired of hearing you say that when your behavior never changes.” He coldly responded.

“I'm sorry...” You muttered.

The Conqueror of Demons simply scoffed before dissapearing right before your eyes, leaving you alone at the golden fields not too far from Wangshu Inn. You stood locked still while deep in thought for some time, it too was rather reckless considering the roaming hilichurls but they thankfully didn't notice you. The Yaksha's words didn't leave your head as you thought back on your actions from the previous weeks.

You never used to get in so much trouble... Perhaps it was because of him that you had become so reckless - not that it was his fault. Having someone as powerful looking after you in a way had made you feel invincible in a way. You never had to worry no matter what came your way knowing he would be there to save and ptotect you... You definitely owed him an apology for everything.

You went to Verr Goldet for some help, but decided against just simply ordering some almond tofu which sge recommended. You wanted him to know you actually meant it so you wanted to make the food yourself, even if you weren't the best of cooks it was the thought that counted - right? You were in the kitchen for hours with Smiley Yanxiao instructing and yelling at you ecery time you made a mistake... He wasn't the best or most patient teacher, but the almond tofu wad done the way Xiao liked it.

You nervously climbed to the highest balcony and took in the breathtaking view before firmly calling out Xiao's name. He showed up in milliseconds with his weapon out and ready to attack, but to his surprise you stood before him looking better than ever with a plate of freshly cooked almond tofu... Behind his mask his mouth was agape from the pure shock, he didn't know what to do or say. The silence was rather awkward before you tried breaking it up by coughing and pushing the plate more towards him. Xiao quickly put away his polearm and took of his mask before accepting the plate from you.

“I made it myself. I asked Smiley Yanxiao to teach me how to make it so it should taste how you like it!”

“What is this about?” He asked curiously.

“I want to apologize... I've been causing you so much unnecessary trouble for no good reason, I'm sorry.” You put your two hands together before bowing your head downwards.

“...” Xiao stared in shock once again.

“This is in no way your fault, but it's your protection that's made me be so reckless. Knowing that you'd always come to save me I never have to worry about any kind of trouble. I'm sorry Xiao.” You said sincerely.

“I accept your apology on one condition.”

You raise your head from looking at your feet to look him in his gorgeous golden eyes and wait for him to continue...

“You have to start looking after yourself more. But, if you really need me just call out my name and I'll be there.” He said in a serious tone.

“Okay, sounds more than fair.” You nod with a smile.

“Good. I'll go eat this now, but I'll come tell you later how it tasted.” He awkwardly added.

You simply giggled before waving and leaving him to eat in peace. You would hold true to your apology after it was made and didn't get into trouble anymore - or at least not in the kind that warranted the attention of the Guardian Yaksha. It felt strange not seeing him most days, almost like you missed him in a way... It wasn't like you were close to him or even knew him, but you had grown accustomed to his appearances in your day-to-day life.

You started visiting the upper balcony daily hoping to catch him so you wouldn't call him away from his duties. He wasn't the type to sit around and relax, but he couldn't actually work all day every day - right? One afternoon you reached the top of the stairs and saw a familiar figure with their back turned towards you. You almost stumbled your way over to them from the shock and excitement!

“Xiao!” You called out.

"Hello." He simply replied.

“You actually take breaks sometimes huh?” You couldn't help, but poke fun of him a little.

“Verr Goldet said you'd been looking for me. Why didn't you call out to me?” He looked serious yet slightly concerned.

“Oh, um... It wasn't an emergency or anything! I was just wondering how you've been since I haven't seen you in some time.” You could feel your face heat up lightly.

“I didn't realize you cared about me... You need not consern yourself with my well being.” He too seemed embarrassed.

“Of course I care! And I can't just stop worrying about you if I don't know if you're okay.”

“I see...”

After that awkward "confession" you would occasionally meet up to catch up and see how both of you were doing. You wouldn't say you were friends, but there was something there... You slowly got to know more and more about each other, but it was a slow progress considering how awkward you both were - especially to each other.

You were supposed to meet up tonight too, but you hadn't arrived... Something was wrong - he could feel it in the wind and coursing through every fiber of his being. You were in danger. Do it. Just call out his name and he'll be there. Why are you not calling out for him? He can't help you if you don't. Please, just call out his name!

“X- xiao... Help me!” Before the words fully left your mouth he was already there.

His mask was on and his weapon drawn - ready to cut down his enemies and those who would harm you. He was like a mindless beast as he mercilessly and swiftly destroyed the monsters the had attacked you. His mind was filled with so much rage he was shaking from it, he could only see red and attack anything that wasn't you. When he was done he turned back to look at your shaking form, his attention was on the evident wounds you had.

Suddenly your eyes went wide and you lunged for him, Xiao didn't have time to react before he fell to the ground with you standing over him clutching your stomach. His eyes traveled down to see a weapon piercing through from your front to your back, the tip of the weapon peeking through the flesh of your back and dripping blood along your clothing.

Xiao was completely paralyzed, he couldn't move a muscle, he couldn't breathe. He didn't know what to do but stare in complete horror. Wake up. Please let him wake up from this nightmare - this nightmare has broken him enough with these illusions. Wake him up, please...

When he didn't wake up he set his sights on the monster that caused all of this, it probably couldn't even understand what it had done. It didn't matter. All Xiao could feel in that moment was pure rage as he summoned his polearm and put on his mask again, his knuckles burned white from how hard he was holding onto his weapon. He lunged forward and made sure to give the creature an unnecessarily slow and painful death.

When his rage had been sated he cane back to his senses and rushed over to you. You had dropped down on the ground with your back against the hard ground and your expression twisted from the horrible pain you were feeling. Xiao pulled you closer to him, but stopped as you sobbed in pain from the slight movement.

“What do I do? Please tell me what to do!” He begged.

“It's okay Xiao...” You painfully reached up to cup his face with your bloodied hand.

“I'm glad I was able to protect you for once.” You managed to rasp out.

Your shaking hand caressed his porcelain cheek so gently he almost couldn't feel it, neither did he notice the warm blood your hand accidentally rubbed against his face. His eyes stayed wide from shock as his breath escaped his lungs, he was at a complete loss for words. What could he possibly say in this situation? His mind ran blank as he tried desperately to not believe what was happening right before his eyes.

“You didn't call me... Why didn't you call for me earlier?!” He screamed in agony.

“I'm sorry... I didn't want to be a burden.” You smiled weakly.

“A burden? You're never a burden to me...” He whispered back.

“Thank you, Xiao... Thank you for saving me.”

Was that a joke? Before he could utter another word the light faded from your eyes and the pain left your face, you were gone... He didn't save you. He may not have killed you, but he might as well have done it - it felt like he had. Your blood was all over him and he was holding your lifeless body to his chest as tears fell along his bloodied face. His body was aching from using his powers, but nothing compared to the agony he was feeling inside.

In the time he had known you all you had done was get into trouble, but after your heartfelt apology you had quickly wormed your way in his heart. It was hard to explain, but you had made him feel so normal - so human with the way you treated him. Most people feared or revered, but you talked to him like he was just another human. He never knew how much it meant to him, how much you meant to him before it was too late....

A/N: Angst cus I like hurting my own feelings :'D

#ꕤ #genshin impact x reader #genshin impact #genshin impact fanfics #genshin impact fic #genshin impact fandom #genshin impact x you #genshin impact xiao x you #genshin impact xiao x reader #xiao genshin impact #genshin impact xiao #genshin impact guardian yaksha #conqueror of demons #xiao fanfic #xiao x reader #xiao #genshin impact conqueror of demons #genshin impact alatus #alatus x reader #alatus #alatus x you #alatus xiao #genshin impact alatus x reader #genshin impact alatus x you #genshin impact adeptus #genshin impact adeptus xiao #adeptus xiao #adeptus xiao x reader #adeptus xiao x you #genshin impact adeptus xiao x reader

[yandrness]

Yandere Xiao’s love is Extreme.jpg

Beneath the harsh and rigid exterior of the Guardian Yaksha is a soft, gentle creature who likes eating almond tofu, who holds duty and responsibility close to his heart, who will pick crystalflies for you and go a little pink when you accept them. Here I’m going by the JP and CN Xiao; from his voice alone it’s less moody teenager and you can truly feel like an immortal Adepti is speaking. He is noble and regal, a pure being that you thought existed only in myths. Rational, harsh, cold, distant – this is the same Yaksha who falls in the sinkhole that is you and love.

He blushes from little affection. He almost loses control of his speech. He finds himself yearning for your presence. He wishes to see your smile. He wishes to protect you from harm and make sure you live a life free of malignancy. The Guardian Yaksha who falls in love is a smitten, flustered, lovesick mess who is more dangerous and trigger-happy than he has ever been. 

In a romantic setting where Xiao loves you, loves you, loves you. He’s so in love it drives him quietly insane. He has to know where you are, he has to know if you’re safe and okay, he has to know if you’re happy or sad or lonely and when are you going to look for him again? It used to drive him crazy how pathetic he was to yearn for your visits, but now he’s crazy for you. The insanity is something he isn’t even aware of sometimes, and it’s something that’s not easily seen by everyone. His fellow Adepti do not find it weird to be so “protective”. Humans only see the image of a fearsome Yaksha. You only see a quiet, distant, maybe even shy Adepti offering you crystalflies and Qingxi flowers.

Depending on whether his love interest is a fighter or non-fighter his fear and paranoia can either escalate or straight out consume him. He wants to respect your decisions, but if you’re a fighter, he will quietly worry himself sick and he is high key distressed from any wounds you get. Any life-threatening wounds can set him off into mass murder of anything that harmed you – or collateral of nearby monsters. If you’re a civilian, well, he will make sure to make an extra round on the areas you work in to sweep out the danger. He will worry himself just as much, but his anger can be easier to trigger because you as a civilian are much more fragile.

The thought of never seeing you again terrifies him. It terrifies him more so to be the cause of your death. He wants you to forever smile at him and greet him happily whenever you see him.

Maybe it isn’t karmic debt that will drive him mad. Maybe it will be you.

(Maybe you already did.)

Xiao will still uphold his duty as a Guardian Yaksha, but as a yandere Xiao will go to extreme measures to do so. 

I imagine him to be the kind of Yandere that you consider to be a sweet, loving, if tsundefeish lover, but unknown to you the love that he has for you has reached a terrifying level and there’s not much he wouldn’t do for you. He’s quiet, and that makes it easier to protect you wouldn’t it?

#genshin impact #yandere xiao #yandere #honestly xiao is so cool but at the same time he can be so cute #he tries hard to not be a yandere but fails #I love the stance that adepti had to learn human empathy and morals but they're still quite different from people #xiao is precious #he cares a LOT for his S/O #i love yanderes ok #anyways yeah xiao upheld his duties as the guardian yaksha for millenias and is eternally grateful to Rex Lapis #although he can be bullheaded #so as a yandere Xiao's duty is a part of him already #who would care if a few despicable monsters died? #Xiao might not kill humans though but it's easy to lead them to accidental deaths #the least he can do if his karmic debt affects nearby monsters too much is avenge them if they die right? #anyways he's obsessed #love to the extreme as a yandere but still kinda timid and #feels he doesn't deserve you #sometimes treat you like glass #will freak out over a scratch what if you get infected and die?? #after reservations are over and done with this guy is clingy aff

[mcuntainbcrn]

@mmriesoftvat cont. from here: [x]

"Apologies for troubling you." he had said she could call on him at any time, but still - given the role she knew he filled, there was always the potential she could have pulled him away from active combat to satisfy a curiosity that could have waited.

"I've been feeling a lot of movements around the perimeter of the Karst recently, and have noticed many of what appears to be numerous gifts left in their wake, littering the area, and have heard many voices speaking of lanterns...I can't pretend I'm looped in to this nations customs, but I wanted to speak to you on the matter if such things aren't as benign as they appear to."

Even saying it out loud made her feel a touch ridiculous, but paranoia was something that had, more often than not, navigated her away from danger in the past...better to question someone knowledgable and feel foolish than ignore it and be proven an even greater fool.

"...do you happen to know about what may be the catalyst of such behaviors?"

#mmriesoftvat #guardian yaksha: xiao #v: genshin impact #event: lantern rite 2024

[qiinamii]

five guardian yakshas vs one huge rat

bonus:

huge rat:

#qiiarts #xiao #yakshas #bosacius #bonanus #indarias #menogias #ok but more story i have such bad humor not being able to resist laughing from linearting every sketch #this is also literally the first time i draw the other yakshas and its them being terrified for their lives worse than slaughter and karma #which is very relatable amen #morax #zhongli #guizhong #madame ping #streetward rambler #venti #barbatos #genshin impact

[aaplepii]

I MADE STICKERS OMFAHAJHA :]

#xiao #genshin #vigilant yaksha xiao... guardian of naptime............... #lmfao

[dreamerinthemoonlight]

Good Morning, Beautiful (Zhongli, Ayato, Tartaglia, Xiao)

I think this is one of my favorite hcs from my previous blog and it's a lovely song. I really recommend it

Summary: Mornings with Zhongli, Ayato, Tartaglia, and Xiao

Cw: Fluff

Title from “Good Morning, Beautiful by Brad Paisley”

Zhongli x gn!reader, Ayato x gn!reader, Tartaglia x gn!reader, Xiao x gn!reader

Zhongli

Zhongli is all about the early start

He loves watching the sun rise, listening to the birds start to wake, soon followed by the busy people of the city

When you came into his life, this didn’t change

If you’re a morning person too, he’s happy to wake up with you

but if you’re not, he’s not terribly upset either

He finds a certain amount of happiness watching your sleeping face. Before he leaves the room he brushes a hand over your cheek, smiling when you try to chase it’s warmth

when you wake he has breakfast cooking. It’s always traditional and impeccably made. I really don’t think Zhongli would tolerate subpar work out of himself

Sometimes you wish you could wake up with him, but really it’s a wonderful start to the day

Ayato

Does this guy ever manage to wake up with you?

He’s busy and is up early. He has to be and you don’t begrudge him that. before he leaves he always leaves a beautifully written letter on the pillow next to you, wishing you a good day and saying he’ll see you later. It’s really sweet and you appreciate the thought behind it

Every now and then, however, he has a day off.

You both live for those days. 

On those days he still wakes up early, but he stays in bed. He’ll run gentle fingers through your hair, or just hold you close, reveling in the sound of your slow breathing

On those days you wake up and see him face first thing and it really starts the day off right

When you two are both up he has servants make breakfast (you put your foot down about him cooking, lol, even though I’m sure he’d try if it were for you) and then the day starts in earnest

Tartaglia

He loooves lazy wake up days. And so do you. 

Both of you love the slow drifting awake, reveling in each other’s warmth

He’s also very fond of being handsy in a none “please wake up let’s do it way”. Though, those days do exist.

But your skin is soft and so is your hair and he loves having a moment of the day where he’s not Childe, the 11th fatui harbinger. He loves watching your eyes flutter awake and seeing your soft, sleepy smile when you see him.

Really, he lives for those moments

Once you’re both up and have peeled yourself out of bed, you share breakfast duty. Breakfast includes a lot of laughing and some morning chatter. He’s definitely someone who would shamelessly ask if you dreamt of him, to which you respond with a light smack to his shoulder

Xiao

Last, but never least, is our favorite Yaksha

Honestly, the issue here is that he doesn’t sleep

That being said, you’d never have a more diligent guardian. He’s not creepy about it, but he spends most of the night watching you. It’s a rare pleasure, seeing the peace on your face, the way you cuddle close without knowing it any time he wraps his arms around you

He’s not used to things that make him happy or content. For a long time, I don’t think those words were in his vocabulary. But with you, he starts to see the appeal. And that’s never more true now

It makes him happy to see you slowly stir awake, completely comfortable around him. He doesn’t quite understand it, but your sleepy smile stirs something within him. 

He doesn’t sleep, but he’s ok with that. 

As for breakfast, it’s nothing lovey dovey. He prefers to get up and go, once you’re awake and have finished rubbing your eyes

But you’re ok with that. After all, the Vigilant Yaksha stays with you throughout the night and is the first thing you see in the morning

#I love writing our boys being soft #Zhongli #Zhongli hcs #Zhongli fluff #Kamisato Ayato #kamisato ayato hcs #kamisato ayato fluff #Tartaglia #Childe #Tartaglia hcs #childe hcs #Tartaglia fluff #Childe fluff #Xiao #Xiao hcs #Xiao fluff #Zhongli x reader #Zhongli x gn!reader #kamisato ayato x reader #kamisato ayato x gn!reader #tartaglia x reader #Tartaglia x gn!reader #Childe x reader #Childe x gn!reader #Xiao x reader #xiao x gn!reader #genshin impact #genshin #genshin x reader #genshin fluff

[ryuryuryuyurboat]

'tis the season

synopsis: got the chills? no worries, pull your hand close to the fire!

genre: fluff

characters: kazuha, neuvillette, wanderer, wriothesley, xiao x gn! reader (separately)

warnings: reader referred to in 2nd person, implied romantic rs but can be read platonically

a/n: hihi @dernier-mystere!! i'm your backup secret santa for @2023gisecretsanta's secret santa event! it is way past christmas, so take this as a new year's gift instead! may this year bring you much joy, and hopefully this gift brings you some warmth in this winter :)) || likes, reblogs and comments highly appreciated!!

©2024 ryuryuryuyurboat. do not repost, translate, plagiarise, or modify in any way, shape or form.

masterlist

ah, yes. winter, the notorious hit-or-miss season. while there may be those who love the cold weather, the harsh bite of the blizzards and howling winds in the snowstorms may prove to be too daunting for even the most seasoned warriors in the icy cold. in times like this, what better way is there to wait out the piercing tempest than spending some time holed up with your favourite people?

kazuha smiles a kind smile at you, offering a hand to you. my dove, he calls, won’t you join me by the window? the cold has fogged up the glass of the windowpane, yet you still sit together on the edge of the bed– he gently nudges your head to rest on his shoulder as you listen to the pitter-patter of the snow outside, its gentle rhythm lulling you to sleep. what beautiful scenery, you hear him whisper, but his gaze is fixed on you all the while. “i love when it snows. the world falls completely silent, and we can sleep undisturbed.”

neuvillette, completely absorbed in his paperwork, doesn’t even realise it’s snowing till he shivers when he feels your icy touch on both sides of his neck. the nerve. well, guess it’s a sign for him to take a break! he lets you drag him into the kitchen, where it’s warmer, and watches as you put the pots on the stove. what’re you doing? he asks, and nearly falters at your excited grin as you tell him you’d been wanting to make hot cocoa and share it with him. maybe those documents can wait, he thinks, as he opens his mouth to give the only suggestion on his mind. “snow, in fact, is one of water’s natural self-cleansing mechanisms. but human activity tends to reduce snow’s purity, so do not consume it.”

never tell the wanderer you feel cold. the only reply you’ll get is “well, damn, y/n, i can’t control the weather!” quite the royal treatment. but when you turn away to rub your hands together for some warmth, your nose red from the cold, you feel a comforting weight rest on your shoulders as he grumbles something about “not wanting to deal with a coughing and sneezing you”, and he offers you his wide hat as extra protection from the chilling wind. “i have no need for warmth. save me the trouble and take care of yourself, will you?”

winter with wriothesley, simply put, is warm. it’s homely. with him, it doesn’t matter whether you’re in the comfort of your own home, or if you’re far from your usual lodging — all it takes is the shrill whistling of a kettle a certain someone set on the stove, followed by the gurgling of the water as it’s poured into two patiently waiting mugs, and finally, he pushes a warm mug into your trembling hands. how he managed to find and brew tea that smells exactly like a chocolatey beverage you’re all too familiar with is beyond you. any questions that may have reached your lips are quickly washed away as he clinks his mug with yours and you fight the temptation to down the still-steaming liquid in one go. “cheers, and may the biting frost be melted away by this drink.”

cuddling with xiao? the demon conqueror? the karmic debt-ridden guardian yaksha? why, perish that thought at once! …although, if it keeps you warm, maybe he’ll make an exception. just this once. maybe he’ll entertain your suggestion of building a blanket fort, and maybe he’ll grab the thickest one to drape over you both as you share a bowl of hot soup. the howling wind rattles the windows– he looks out, at the snow falling onto the ground, then back at you. “maybe we can go out soon. the snow looks thick enough to eat.”

taglist: @yinyinggie @lynyluvr @kazemiya @meidnightrain @https-furina (send ask to be added to taglist!)

if you liked this, do consider dropping me a follow for more :>

#astronetwrk #・ nouveau livre ˎˊ˗ #genshin impact x reader #genshin x reader #genshin fluff #genshin impact fluff #kazuha #neuvillette #wanderer #wriothesley #xiao #scaramouche #kazuha x reader #neuvillette x reader #wanderer x reader #wriothesley x reader #xiao x reader #༄the vessel’s voyages #scrolls of yore✒️ᝰ

[sh1-n0bu]

Hello! Hello! Im here to request again.

This time its gonna be sub!Xiao make up sex.

please and thank you. Have a great day, night, or afternoon. See you next ask♡

♡︎ 𝙘𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙜𝙞𝙛𝙩 ♡︎

characters: sub!xiao x nb!dom!reader

warnings: fluff, veerrryyy light angst, sex with feelings, hints of overstimulation, reader is nb so the dick part can be interpreted as a dildo

notes: finally clearing out my inbox. i’m sorry it took so long, i feel ashamed😔 anyways, come get y’all christmas gift❗️

the nation of liyue was loud and buzzing with excitement from an oncoming festival. the guardian yaksha didn’t know what it was but it surely must be a good thing if even his lord, rex lapis, seems happy preparing for this festival as well. sadly, the one person he wanted to spend this unknown festival with was not here. possibly in a far away nation, fighting stronger and stronger opponents to hone their skills.

xiao heaved a sigh before teleporting away from the harbor and into the warm nest/room, filled with the softest blankets and pillows alongside the memories of you two. flopping down onto the soft nest, he dragged the nearest pillow with your shirt on, burying his face into it, hoping that your scent hasn’t completely disappeared. he heaved another sigh when he could no longer smell your comforting, soothing scent. great. this day just kept becoming more and more lonely for the poor adepti.

too caught up in his own sulking, xiao didn’t notice your silent steps walking into you two’s shared nest, nearly summoning his jade spear when you wrapped your arms around him. his tensed muscles relaxed as soon as he realized it was you, his beloved. quickly turning around in your arms to cling to you, the adepti started scolding you about how long you took, how you didn’t call his name once, how worried he was etc etc.

chuckling sheepishly, you leaned down to give him a gentle peck on his forehead, effectively silencing his angered scolding and causing him to pout up at you with the cutest pink blooming on his face.

“aren’t you going to kiss me?” huffing angrily up at you, your sweet boyfriend looked more like a sweet kitten. however you kept him alone and sulking for a long time during your travels. bending down once more to properly kiss him, you can just feel the adepti easily becoming a putty in your arms.

“please…?” tugging on your shirt with the most cutest pout, pink dyed cheeks and glistening golden eyes, how could you ever say no to him.

gently laying him down onto the soft blankets and helping each other take off the clothes covering you both, softly kissing his lips, distracting his mind from the sudden stretch of his hole being filled to the brim with your cock. this was all a very familiar pattern, a welcome back gift, a sought after desire.

whining helplessly when you fully bottomed out inside him, your lovely adepti’s eyes started to swell with tears. soothing him by peppering his face with kisses until he started to grind back against you, moving in and out of his hole swiftly.

“mffgh! nnggh.. [name]~ [n-name]..” moaning your name out loudly over and over like a mantra, xiao’s legs started trembling, his hips twitching. clinging to you tightly as if wanting to merge your bodies and souls together, the yaksha came with a sudden loud wail when your hand stroked his cock.

trying his best to catch his breath, xiao looked up at you with nothing but pure adoration in his hazy, teary eyes. staring up at you with reverence in his mind like you were the one to hang the stars in the night sky. he smiled softly, knowing here in your arms is where he belongs, pulling you down to meet your lips once again.

#nobu.writes #sub!genshin impact #sub!genshin #sub genshin #sub genshin impact #sub!xiao #sub xiao #sub!character #x dom reader #dom reader #dom!reader #genshin x reader #genshin smut #xiao smut #xiao x reader smut

[naomeii]

Shrine of Eternal Sorrow.

—Pairings: Xiao x F!Reader

[a/n: i was scrolling through instagram and got inspired by this, lol, i can see Xiao doing that ngl]

Content : Angst no comfort, tiny spoiler about the archon war, characters' death, obsessive behaviour, drabble.

Synopsis: in the aftermath of the Archon war, Alatus' obsessive devotion to a lost goddess leads to a shrine of shattered memories.

In the ancient times of Teyvat, when the winds whispered secrets and the land bore the weight of divine beings, Y/n, a goddess of serenity, walked alongside Rex Lapis and Guizhong. Despite the disdain from mortals and other Archons alike for the relationship between the Yaksha, Alatus, and an Archon, Y/n's love for him transcended judgment.

Before the Archon War, Y/n shared tender moments with Alatus, weaving dreams that danced with the delicate balance of mortality and divinity. Their connection was a fragile thread woven amidst the chaos that surrounded them. As the war unfolded, tragedy struck when Guizhong perished, leaving a void in their divine trio.

In the climactic moments of the war, as Alatus faced imminent destruction, Y/n, fueled by love, stepped forward to shield him. The fatal blow meant for Alatus claimed her essence, and she dropped dead in an instant, leaving Alatus to grapple with the profound loss.

Millennia passed like fleeting dreams. Rex Lapis, now Zhongli, understanding Alatus', now going by the name of Xiao grief, he witnessed the Yaksha's unwavering dedication. Xiao, like a solitary guardian, erected countless shrines and statues of Y/n, each capturing the essence of his beloved. It was a testament to his love and a haunting reminder of the emptiness that echoed in his heart.

One day, before a statue of Y/n, Xiao crumbled. His stoic facade shattered, and he wept bitterly, his grief echoing through the silent realm. "Why did you leave me?" he cried, his voice a desperate plea. "Was it my karma, the weight of the lives I've taken, that stole you away?"

He traced the delicate features of the statue, as if hoping to conjure her back through sheer will. "I made these for you," he whispered, his voice cracking with sorrow. "Do you see them? Are you proud of my devotion, or do you resent me for the pain I caused?"

In a moment of desperate madness, Xiao pressed his lips to the cold stone of Y/n's statue, as if trying to breathe life back into her memory. The bitter taste of loss lingered on his lips, a cruel reminder of the chasm that separated them.

Falling to his knees before the statue, he clutched at the stone, his fingers trembling with a mix of grief and desperation. "Come back," he pleaded, his voice a broken whisper that echoed through the silent shrine. "Please, don't leave me alone in this endless darkness. I can't bear it."

But the statue remained unmoving, a silent witness to his agony. Xiao's anguished cries filled the shrine, bouncing off the walls like a haunting melody of sorrow. "I would trade my eternity to bring you back," he confessed, his tears mingling with the cold touch of the stone beneath him.

In the solitude of that sacred space, Xiao's heartache became a palpable force. "I can't endure this emptiness," he admitted, his voice raw with emotion. "Without you, the world is a desolate place, and my existence is nothing but an unending nightmare."

The shrine offered no solace, and the statues of Y/n, though carved with meticulous care, remained silent witnesses to his torment. Xiao's devotion had become a prison of his own making, a testament to a love that transcended time but was cruelly severed by the hands of fate.

As Xiao clung to the memory of Y/n, the shrine's hallowed silence swallowed his cries, leaving him to grapple with the abyss of eternity, where his only company was the ghost of a love lost in the sands of time.

#reader insert #genshin imagines #genshin impact #genshin x reader #genshin angst #genshin impact x reader #genshin impact angst #genshin impact x you #genshin xiao #xiao angst #xiao x reader #xiao imagines #alatus #genshin impact imagines #xiao x you #xiao x y/n #xiao x reader angst

[iwasthewind]

I'm so mad about this year's lantern rite lmao. It was centred around Menogias, the Geo Yaksha. Xiao's dead comrade and close friend. His official title was General Kapisas. He's based off Sun Wukong.

And there was nothing about him exept for a few random lines? Barely anything? I don't understand why. This was what Xianyun said about him- completely randomly- and then went back to talking about something else???

"He possessed a singular talent for clothing designs. He had an exquisite eye for not just fabric selection and colour pairing, but also for what accessories could best accentuate a garment's overall styling." (Dialogue one.)

"At a gathering of adepti, Bonanus (hydro Yaksha. She and Menogias went mad with Karmic Debt and killed each other. She and the Pyro Yaksha, Indarius, were presumably close friends. Bonanus' official title was General Chizapus and she seemed to be a gentle person.) once complained in secret to the ladies in attendance that the skirt Menogias made for her was too long and impractical, lamenting that it would only hinder her in battle." (Dialogue two.)

"However, when one asked Menogias his opinion, he remarked that the train of the skirt would serve to enhance her adeptal countenance by exemplifying a certain elegance. Menogias was that type of person. When it came to topics relating to garments and accessories, not even Rex Lapis could best his stubbornness." (Dialogue three.)

AND THAT'S IT?? Menogias designed Zhongli's outfits. Menogias fought in the archon war and was one of the Yakshas that sealed Guizhong away when she passed. He was one of the central figures in Xiao's life and Xiao grieved him terribly after he died. His death along with his siblings' deaths impacts Xiao till this day. He was like a brother to Xiao. Xiao talks in a quest (I don't remember which, sorry) about how Menogias once mentioned wanting to live a peaceful mortal's life-but in the end Menogias lost his sanity for the sake of his nation and his people and killed his sister, someone he held very, very dear. It's tragic. It's heartbreaking. His karmic debt took over his mind and destroyed someone he wanted to protect and live a mortal's life with. Menogias is such a wonderful character? When I saw in the livestream that the main lantern was Menogias, I gasped and sat up. Yaksha lore?! Menogias centric lantern rite?! Instead we dealt with Gaming's fucking family problems. Why couldn't that have been a sub-plot? Why didn't they use Gaming's stubbornness and passion as a parallel to MENOGIAS' stubbornness, passion and ferocity of both mind and body? Why???? Zero stars, I'm admittedly biased as fuck. I love the Yakshas and I wanted Yaksha lore- and this isn't like a "ugh I didn't get what I wanted" thing it's a "this year's lantern rite had so much potential that was absolutely wasted"

Like sure, the Xianyun-Shenhe convo was comedy gold, Gaming running to his dad and hugging him was sweet, but? Couldn't that have been a sub-plot? Menogias was this year's Mingxiao lantern. I don't care if they executed it badly and just brought him up via long winded exposition- the fact that barely anyone knows about Menogias is so sad and it could genuinely have made for such a good story? The fact that Xiao didn't even attend a festival more or less dedicated to him and his family? When "Lantern Rite Festival is a festival celebrated every year, on the day of the first full moon to commemorate heroes of the past."

I wish Xiao could have at least seen the Mingxiao lantern from afar. I wonder how he would have reacted to watch the people he protects honour someone he loved so much. Would he have cried? Could we have gotten a scene where an adeptus comforts Xiao? That was his brother.

Xianyun hangs out with her children, Zhongli with Hu Tao, the Fontaine cast randomly drops in which was kind of nice to see since Furina (<333333) came along. Moon Carver and Mountain Shaper (I cannot believe they got NPC treatment, what the fuck) hung out but Xiao was alone until the traveller releases a lantern with him. On lantern rite. Which is a festival more or less meant to commemorate him. He got what, a minute of screen time?? Two? Three?

In Xianyun's story quest (and obviously this is a spoiler for her story quest) we see just how much the traveller misses their sibling, how desperately they want them back and how much they bottle up their feelings. Xiao must feel the same, right? I can't imagine how guilty he must feel or how much he must wonder what life would be like had they survived. It would even have tied in with Gaming's story- how much he'd want his family to accept him and be there with him on lantern rite. Why didn't we get something about these three? Why was there so much focus on a random four star (I'm sorry if you like Gaming, I love his playstyle but I really don't give a shit about the character).

I feel like they really just want people to pull for Gaming and Xianyun, I really can't explain why they (imo) fumbled this so bad. I expected so much after the Fontaine AQ but man this was so disappointing it literally killed by desire to keep playing the game. I'll just do my dailies and log off, HSR welcomes me with a much warmer embrace

#xianyun #gaming #like the character gaming #xiao #lantern rite 2024 #menogias #the five guardian yakshas #bonanus #bosacius #indarius #genshin impact #i love menogias and #wow that was bad

[elixrr]

“This feels nice, right Xiao?” You sigh and smile at your yaksha boyfriend Xiao, who's currently burying his head in the crook of your neck to hide his face— a telltale sign that he's flustered.

“...Very much so.” Xiao hesitantly placed both his hands at your hips, figuring out a comfortable position until he decided on simply wrapping his arms around you. You did the same for him earlier.

“We should cuddle more often, no?”

“I... I suppose we could. If— if that's what you want.”

Xiao, after a few passing moments, musters up the courage to lift his head up from your neck and look at you, face to face. The position you both picked on the bed made your heads align, as if there was no height difference between the two of you. Xiao smiled internally for being able to see you like this, all snuggled up in the blankets with him.

You faintly blush while gazing into your boyfriend's eyes. He's beautiful, stunning even. With one free hand, you tuck away stray locks of hair on his face. Though, as you loosen your grip on Xiao, he tightens his on you.

To Xiao, you are but a glimpse of the sunlight upon a thousand shades of the night. You are an escape from the darkness and to the light, but he had to work towards coming to you in order to really feel you. Yet, he knows deep down that one day, the clouds will seep in, and his sunshine will be gone.

Xiao was initially afraid. Afraid of getting attached, afraid of stirring up feelings for you, only to be forced to let go in the end. He was, and still is, afraid of losing you. But, you stayed willing for him, and he couldn’t push you away. So, as if you were on an edge, as if you were on the verge of slipping past his fingers and going away, Xiao held you. He held you tightly to prevent you from leaving like that.

“Uh... (Name)?” Xiao mumbles, leaning his head close to your ear.

“Yes, my Xiao?”

“Don't....Don't go. Please.”

Xiao whispers in your ear, the trauma of a hundred deaths welling up in his eyes, only making him hold you tighter each time. You are his sunlight, a break from the cold darkness surrounding him. He feels that the longer he stays with you, the more sunlight he gets, and the less darker his world seems.

Is this okay? Is this okay to be holding you this close? To cling to you so much?

Xiao repeatedly asks himself, though no matter how many times he berates himself for letting himself receive everything you've given him, he doesn't want to let go.

Please, don't let go of me. Not yet.

You wrap your arm around him again and hold him closer.

“You are my safe space, Xiao. My guardian, and my lover. I wouldn't want to go anywhere where you won't ever be.”

You smile at Xiao and place a slow, tender kiss on his lips. Xiao doesn't react in time until the very end, where you begin to pull away, to which he tugs you back in to kiss you properly.

Love, comfort, and you. He didn't realize he needed all that until you gave him all that.

You both pull away.

“Thank you..”

“Of course. But, no need, I love you after all.”

“I...”

He loves you too. Truly, as his love for you is dug deep within the depths of his mending heart. His love for you is like a story only told through acts of kindness, or private acts of intimacy behind closed doors, where only you can hear the tales straight from his heart.

Xiao opens his mouth again.

“I— I..”

You smile at his blushful attempt, but you let him continue. Xiao silences at the sight of your wondrous smile. He then averts his gaze to your loving eyes, which gazes back at him, too. He could almost see the words inscribed in your eyes, and he reads aloud:

“..I love you, too.”

#character x reader #genshin fic #genshin impact fic #genshin x reader #genshin x y/n #xiao x reader #xiao x you #xiao genshin x reader #xiao fanfic #xiao x y/n #character x y/n

[heranubis]

small gift for @eviltits who shared the most precious xiao screenshots with me (utc) and when asked gave me the prompt "xiao showing his soft side when he thinks noone is looking"

Some say he's just as much a demon as the ones he slays. Some say his blood is darker than the night and there are fangs under that mask that could put an oni's to shame. Some say he is benevolent but cold - more a statue than flesh as he stands bravely against the moonlight. But you know better - because you know him.

The guardian yaksha is private in all of his affairs - from eating the tofu you leave (the plate always clean and placed carefully in a corner where it can be seen), or the way you know he keeps guard (qingxin have a unique scent, one that he wears mingled with river water and lotus). But you still know him better than most, bested only by Mr. Zhongli and Ms. Ping. You see him when he is broken and bloody and afraid; you see him when he is healing and scrubbed raw and hesitant.

There are moments Xiao keeps to himself, moments only privy to sharp golden eyes as they watch from rooftops and treebranches. Gloved claws slowly etching scars into treebark as he settles and watches and waits. More than once has a finch or dove come to rest with him, chirping a song so sweetly just for him. Those are the moments you are lucky to see.

There are some nights where he returns late in the night, cold and tired and yet - he still gives the dog a gentle pat and scratches under the cats chin. He does his rounds to make sure all is well, he makes sure Verr has gone to bed and nothing is amiss. And then he makes his way to you. He will say nothing yet he will stand before you and allow himself to be stripped.

Your hands are gentle, healing - his muscles relax and his posture bleeds into something less feral. You hold him close and run fingers through his hair, he nuzzles against your throat. You will shower with him, holding him close and letting him lean against you - some nights you help him wash and others you simply stand until the water runs clear instead of a murky red. You guide him to bed and kiss his eyelids as they flutter shut - you bid him goodnight.

These are all moments Xiao knows you are privy to, but there is one you won't share. He watches as you fall asleep, he has since he started entertaining your company. But when the night is quiet and there is only a distant flute carried on the wind - he begins to sing. It's something ancient and melancholic, something you cannot begin to understand, but you know he sings for you.

His chest rattles and his hums sound more like chirps and croons, but this is pure and unfiltered and unashamed. He sings for you - a lullaby, a lyrical promise of his devotion and love. You are human, you have done nothing significant in his life compared to the long-lived company he keeps - but he loves you, and he sings. Only for you.

#heranubis #genshin impact #xiao x reader

[the-angels-share]

In which Xiao gets the childhood he deserves. A Grandpa Zhongli and Xiao adventure.

Out of all the seasons, Xiao loves summer the best. Not only does he get to stay up an hour later than usual, he gets to do things he normally couldn’t the rest of the year. For example, during summer, Xiao gets to sleep in as late as 10 in morning. He can go to the beach and eat ice cream and build sandcastles without worrying about homework. He can watch TV and play outside for as long as he likes, as long as he gets inside the house by twilight. Most importantly, he gets to stay in Grandpa's house for a whole month.

Xiao's Grandpa is Zhongli. Zhongli is the Geo Archon. That means Xiao's Grandpa is the coolest, most awesome being to ever walk the planet. And Xiao gets to spend thirty (30) days with him. Just him and his Grandpa.

No one else in all of Liyue gets to experience that.

Xiao has spent a total of two days in his Grandpa’s house when he receives his first mission as a Guardian Yaksha.

The mission? Make a new friend. Location: The children’s park.

Xiao’s not gonna lie. He did not expect such a daunting task for his first ever mission. However, if there is one thing that Xiao has learned in his eight years of life, it’s that adepti assignments are to be accepted and seen to completion, whether they are given in Rex Lapis’ office or at the breakfast table over a plate of brown rice and grilled fish.

Which is how Xiao finds himself in the park two hours later, clutching his Grandpa’s slacks like his life depended on it.

Don’t misunderstand, though. Xiao is a brave boy. But sometimes, even brave boys get scared too. He’d much rather stay beside his Grandpa, where he can cling to his leg and be safe from the curious glances of the strange mortals in the sandbox.

“Don’t forget your weapon.”

Ah, yes, his weapon. Xiao wanted to bring one of his Grandpa’s many polearms, but Zhongli told him that the Primordial Jade Winged Spear is simply too long, too heavy, and too sharp for eight-year old boys to carry, even if they were adepti. So, he gave Xiao a jumbo bubble wand instead.

“Go on,” Zhongli tells him once Xiao finally let go of his leg. "Remember the plan."

Right, the plan. Xiao racks his brain for the battle strategy he made with Rex Lapis himself on their way here. Look for your target, wait for an opening, and when you’re ready, engage.

And so, Xiao does exactly that. Tightening his hold on the bubble wand, he takes a step forward and scans his surroundings. There, by the swings, stood two blonde kids around his age, blowing bubbles with their own soapy weapons. Target sighted.

Now for the rest of the plan.

Xiao turns to Zhongli. "Don't leave, okay?"

His Grandpa smiles and pats his head. "I'll be at the bench if you need me."

Xiao nods and walks ahead. Well, here goes nothing.

.

.

.

Ninety minutes later, Xiao goes home with two brand new friends, a play date plan for next week, and a gold coin for a job well done on his first ever mission as one of Liyue's Guardian Yaksha.

As Geo Archon and oldest of The Seven, it is only expected that Xiao’s Grandpa would keep a lot of treasures in his house. And, well, Xiao’s not claiming to be a treasure expert, but you know what they say.

Where there’s treasure, there’s a guardian.

That’s where Azhdy comes in.

Of all the odd things in the Geo Archon’s house, the most peculiar one is Zhongli’s pet, Azhdaha.

Xiao is not sure exactly what kind of animal Azhdaha is. His Grandpa says Azhdy is a dragon, but he looks more like a dog to Xiao. Either way, Xiao thinks Azhdy is the coolest, most awesome pet ever. (Even if his name is a little hard to spell).

Some people think Azhdy is scary, but really, he’s just a clumsy creature who’s a little too spiky and excitable. It’s true! Azhdy has funny eyes that look in opposite directions. He can’t see very well, and that’s why he always bumps into walls or people. But that’s okay, because it doesn't matter where Xiao is in the house—when Xiao says, "Azhdy, come here", the sound of heavy paws on hardwood floor will reverberate in the whole house, becoming louder and louder the closer he gets.

The sight of Azhdy running towards him never fails to make Xiao smile. Which is why he doesn’t understand why most people look just about ready to call the Millelith whenever Azhdy pounces on his little body to give him wet dog kisses.

There are days that hold a special place in Xiao's heart. For him, that day is Thursday. It's not because of any particular event or tradition. No, it's because Thursdays mean one thing: spending the most time with his super-duper amazing Grandpa.

For some reason, Thursdays seem to be the day when Zhongli spends the most time at home, away from his duties as the Geo Archon. And for Xiao, that means having his Grandpa all to himself for the day.

As the evening draws near on Thursdays, Xiao eagerly awaits the highlight of his day: bedtime. Not because it means the end of the day, but because it's the time when Zhongli sits by his bedside, tucking him in with gentle hands, a warm smile, and a pat on the head. Sometimes, Azhdy joins them too.

In those quiet moments, the world outside fades away, and it's just Xiao and Zhongli, and sometimes, Azhdy. While Zhongli spins tales of dragons, warriors, and dumplings, Xiao finds out very quickly that the crinkling of old book pages and Zhongli’s smooth baritone are much more effective sleep aides than the bedtime story itself.

Xiao never knows when he dozes off, if his Grandpa ever finishes his story before he starts dreaming. But every time, he wakes up with Zhongli and Azhdaha gone, replaced by the comforting scent of tea and breakfast in the air. It feels like a warm embrace, like he's loved and safe with Zhongli and Azhdy nearby.

Those Thursday nights (and Friday mornings) are the best.

The big building on Wangshu Street, Xiao learns, is called Wangshu Inn. Inn spelled with two (2) Ns. It means hotel, Grandpa Zhongli tells him one day.

Sometimes, when Xiao has been exceptionally good and Grandpa Zhongli feels particularly nice, they go to Wangshu Inn for a bowl of almond tofu. Xiao loves almond tofu, especially the almond tofu from Wangshu Inn.

How Xiao came to like the sweet treat is actually a funny story.

When Xiao was five, he got lost. It was Lantern Rite and he and his Grandpa were out and about on one of their holiday afternoon walks. Captivated by the vibrant sights and sounds around him, Xiao had wandered off and couldn't find his way back to where his Grandpa was.

Of course, being an adeptus, Xiao hadn't been scared. (He was terrified.) Like a brave and dependable Guardian Yaksha, he took it upon himself to look for the correct way home. (Xiao wandered aimlessly, tears welling up in his eyes.) And just as the day began to turn into night, a calming presence had enveloped him. It was Zhongli, his Grandpa!

He had found him amidst the crowd.

Xiao remembers his Grandpa picking him up from under his arms and rubbing his back to soothe him. Then, he brought them both to Wangshu Inn where they shared a bowl of almond tofu.

"You're okay now," his Grandpa had said. Xiao doesn't remember being not okay, so his Grandpa must have been talking to himself. He must've been super scared when he turned and found Xiao missing! He guesses even cool, strong, Geo Archons like his Grandpa get scared too sometimes. (So, maybe it's okay to say that he felt a little bit scared too when he couldn't see Zhongli anymore back in the harbour.)

Xiao doesn’t remember much of that day, but he does feel a surge of warmth and comfort with every spoonful of the soft sweet treat.

In the neighborhood where his Grandpa lives, there's a girl named Hu Tao. She's a bundle of energy, always running around with a mischievous twinkle in her eye. Hu Tao is Xiao's... not-friend friend, but whenever they meet, she's full of jokes and stories she's read from whatever book she was devouring that week.

She's smart, just like Grandpa Zhongli. She reads those big heavy books he sometimes sees his Grandpa read on quiet afternoons at the den. She says big, hard to say words, like quick sonic (quixotic) and disk consulate (disconsolate). Sometimes, she recites poems with rhymes and more words Xiao doesn't quite understand. It's okay, though, because when she does, she smiles, and when she smiles, Xiao smiles too.

Hu Tao has a pet bunny named Boo Tao. Boo Tao is a fluffy little creature, but too small to play with Azhdaha, so they settle for sitting together in the grass, sniffing flowers and watching the world go by.

Xiao thinks Hu Tao is pretty. He's not quite sure what "pretty" here means, but whenever she laughs, it feels like sunshine breaking through the clouds.

Sometimes, when the sky is gloomy, Grandpa Zhongli takes Xiao to the cemetery.

Xiao’s only seen pictures of Granny Guizhong but with all the stories that Grandpa has told Xiao about her, it’s as if he’s met her too.

He makes sure to water the Qinxin flowers Grandpa keeps on Granny's grave. He'll take care of the flowers so Granny does not get sad.

Next time, he'll add Glaze Lilies too.

Amidst the hustle and bustle, Xiao's hand finds Zhongli's, his small fingers entwining with his grandpa's sturdy grip. His Grandpa smiles down at him, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Shall we see what the harbor has in store for us today, Xiao?"

Xiao nods. He'd be a dummy to say no to Rex Lapis. With a gentle lift, his Grandpa scoops Xiao up into his arms, granting him a bird's-eye view of the lively street below. From this vantage point, Xiao marvels at the vibrant tapestry unfolding before him—the dancers twirling in graceful arcs, the acrobats defying gravity with breathtaking stunts, and the musicians serenading passersby with their melodious tunes.

He thinks he can see Hu Tao and the twins there too.

As the end of summer draws near, the yard of Grandpa's house becomes a haven for crystalflies. Amidst the delicate dance of these enchanted creatures, Xiao clings tightly to Zhongli, his small form nestled in the safety of his Grandpa's embrace.

With each passing moment, the inevitability of parting weighs heavy on Xiao's heart. As his parents arrive to take him home, Xiao buries his face in the crook of Zhongli’s neck, unwilling to let go of the warmth and comfort he finds there. The air is filled with the soft whispers of crystalflies bidding farewell to the departing summer, echoing the bittersweet emotions swirling within Xiao's heart.

Summer has passed, and before Xiao knows it, it's summer again. Out of all the seasons, Xiao loves summer the best. Not only does he get to stay up an hour later than usual, he gets to do things he normally couldn’t the rest of the year. For example, during summer, Xiao can go out on walks with Azhdy while the citizens of Liyue look on with amazement at his very big, very cute pet. He can sit by the park and see if a girl with long pigtails and pretty eyes happens to pass by. Most importantly, he gets to stay in Grandpa's house for a whole month.

Xiao's Grandpa is Zhongli. Zhongli is the Geo Archon. And Xiao's most favorite thing in the whole entire world is him.

#Xiao smushing his face into Zhongli’s tummy #because his scent reminds him of playing hide and seek in the library #and quiet afternoons in Zhongli’s house. #xiao not knowing the word for 'acquaintance' #genshin imagines #genshin impact zhongli #zhongli x reader #genshin impact xiao #xiao x reader #zhongli headcanons #xiao headcanons #hu tao x reader #genshin impact hu tao