#hu Tao backstory

[rowen-your-mom]

#genshin impact #qiqi is so cute #hu Tao backstory

[strawberry-mochi-nikki]

🌿1-4. Art by DS_NYA on Instagram

🌿5. Art by Pie/dumbsagee on twitter, Saki's cosplaying Hu Tao 💕

🌿6. Art by yulgurr on Instagram, Chibi Hu Tao cosplay this time 😆 ❤

Today I felt like sharing my Saki commissions on Tumblr again 😆 ❤

#original character #commissioned art #kimetsu no yaiba oc #kimetsu no yaiba original character #kimetsu no yaiba #demon slayer original character #demon slayer oc #demon slayer saki #fujimoto saki #saki fujimoto #kimetsu no yaiba saki #saki formal wear #Dracula inspired #Dracula is a backstory hint #hu tao #hu tao genshin impact #hu tao cosplay

[tenebriism]

I've not done Baizhu's story quest yet ( Hu Tao's questline is currently cockblocking me, since it's a prerequisite ), but the concept of Baizhu potentially becoming immortal is one I may play around with regardless of how canon goes. It's obvious that whatever he has is extremely taxing on his body, and may even, potentially, kill him ( I'm not sure what the intricacies are behind his contract with Changsheng, I'm still exploring. )

If he DOESN'T manage to find a way to become immortal on his own, then I may go with the idea of Zhongli having played a hand in this contract, and thus, having some control over where Baizhu ends up come his mortal departure. Maybe he comes to work alongside Zhongli, personally, in a newly established contract. Would he still be able to live NORMALLY? Who knows, but I figure . . . if Zhongli can find a way to help XIAO, maybe he can find a way to help BAIZHU, too?

I don't know, I just want him to have a long, healthy life ( even better if it's with someone he already, per canon, trusts and works with. )

#[ baizhu thoughts are swirling. i've been batting ideas back and forth with several people. #his backstory is just... very interesting to me. and i can't wait to learn more about him. #y'know... once i kick my ass into gear and get hu tao's stuff out the way OTL ugh. #BLOCKED by my inconsistency with this game. of course. ] #muse ;; BAIZHU ( WISHLIST )

[toraashi]

hey hey tori! who are your current favorite genshin characters?

omg hi okay this is so difficult because i have like the staple favs right? and then i go through phases with the others.

staple favs: kazuha, mona, albedo, hu tao,

current favs: diluc, dain and venti (he literally makes me so sad i want to hold him forever)

#scaramouche is loosely on there but content has been barren lately so #my fixation is dwindling #KAZUHA THO ugh i would throw myself in front of a train for him #and mona too i love her with all of my heart #dain is so close to bumping up to staple favs he's been in my mind for months now #diluc lately i just... him and him only #AND VENTI #his backstory breaks my heart so much #+ i saw a tik tok about it #he's literally so kind :( #hu tao is literally my main girl i've been maining her basically my entire genshin career #her and albedo are my main squad fr

[yanderehsr]

Time for the second reward for 1k followers, it's an event

OC X Character Event

Here are the rules

1. Do not send in the OC as an anonymous, the reason why will be explained in number two

2. Each person may only get one OC written about, you can send in multiple but I will only write for one per person

3. You will have to explain some things about your OC, such as looks, Personality and a bit of backstory, even if you have a link please write this in your request.

4. The OC will NOT be the yandere

5. You can pick if you wanna choose the yanderes or if I will choose them for you, either one works for me

6. How long will this go on? Until the 1 december you will be able to send in requests, any OC requests afterwards will be deleted, if you have written a request before the deadline but I still haven't written about them until after the deadline, I will still post that one.

7. Have fun ^^

Masterlist:

OC: Lukyan Yandere: Childe

OC: Eclipsa Yandere: Furina, Raiden Ei, Nahida and Venti

OC: Aleron Yandere: Venti and Guinaifen

OC: Cyrus Yandere: Welt

OC: Noriku Yandere: Hu Tao and Barbara

OC: Elyna Yandere: Neuvillette

OC: Rosemary Yandere: Blade and Yoimiya

OC: Buraku Yandere: Scaramouche

OC: Shari Yandere: Kaveh

OC: Tobi Yandere: Lumine

OC: Hikaru Yandere: Zhongli

OC: Atalai Yandere: Diluc and Ningguang

OC: Puji Yandere: Topaz and Herta

OC: Marcel Yandere: Jing Yuan, Blade and Huohuo

OC: Isabella Yandere: Xiao

#yandere #yandere honkai star rail #yandere hsr #yandere genshin impact #yandere genshin #yandere danganronpa #yandere fire emblem: three houses #yandere fe3h #yandere male #yandere female #oc #1000 followers #event #oc x canon #oc x character event

[doublebassawareness]

(Non Romantic) Genshin Relationship Headcannons: Zhongli and Hu Tao

Ah, yes, the Liyue counterpart of Furina and Nuevillette... except, kinda different.

You think Zhongli is keeping Hu Tao on a leash? WRONG. If Hu Tao didn't employ him, he would've gotten into some kind old man antics that the entirety of Liyue Harbor would have to pay for.

Zhongli probably like to show affection through gifts, so sometimes, after he's gone shopping Hu Tao might see just a knick knack or historical piece of jewerly, and when she asks about it, Zhongli goes on some long winded spiel about it's backstory, historical significance, and how it reminded him of her.

Hu Tao recites her poetry in front of him first. Zhongli really enjoys it.

From time to time, she gives a thought on what Zhongli's funeral should be like. Like in a 'I think you're gonna die soon' or 'I hope you die soon way', but because she wants it to be perfect just for him. At the same time though, she makes sure that he enjoys life to the fullest (even if it costs a lot of Mora)

They like going to a bunch of artistic performances, like storytelling, opera, or concerts together.

In short, they are kinda like brother and sister, but not in the same way that Furina and Nuevillette are brother and sister, like a different category or brother and sister, you get?

#genshin impact #genshin #zhongli #hu tao #genshin headcanons

[torntoblivion]

I WAS ABOUT TO SLEEP BUT GUESS NOT

MAJOR SPOILERS FOR ARLECCHINO BACKSTORY!!

credits to ayato.leaks on instagram!!

ARLE LORE LETS FUCKING GO!! so thats why her hands are like that so interesing RAHH I NEED MORE

I KNEW IT SHES A SWEETHEART (well was but she still has it in somewhere i know it) i dont understand what "will be played through control" means so explanation would be appreciated but she seems similar to hu tao (pyro polearm hp mechanics) which makes me happy bc i love playing hu tao well thats the case if shes a dps tho i saw a leak that says shes a support but idc idc

#saki talks #im so excited #im both happy and sad that shes the last fontaine five star #happy: bc i get to save #sad: i have to wait for her

[cursedcola]

Prompt: Who would they main in Genshin Impact? (as of 3.0)

A/N: For those of you who don’t know, I have played genshin for quite a long time. Therefore I am qualified to do this and am not taking criticism. My reasoning for these choices is up to your own interpretation. Enjoy my dears <3

Heartslabyul

Riddle Rosehearts = Yanfei

You really shocked by this one? Miss rule book?

Hates domestic disputes, if you know then you know

Ninguang was a close second but he likes burning his enemies to a crisp

Trey Clover = Yae Miko

The plight of cleaning up other people’s messes is one he knows

Her hair looks like candy floss

Wishes he could steal some of her girlboss for himself

Cater Diamond = Albedo

Hear me out

He really is a sucker for the intuitive character with an aura of beauty

Albedo’s origin story > any other

It’s people like Albedo irl that actually frighten Cater the most. Yet he appreciate’s Albedo’s uncanny ability to call people out on their bullshit with no reservations

Ace Trappola = Diluc

Diluc is the closest we have to your stereotypical “superhero,” which Ace always gravitates towards

Appreciates his tomato-red hair and is invested in the brotherly drama with Kaeya

Deuce Spade = Jean

She is responsible, she kicks ass, and is a great leader

Deuce drinks his respect women juice and thinks the actual grandmaster needs an ass whopping for leaving her alone so long

Like bro, all that bs with StormTerror and you still don’t drop by? What kind of irresponsible prick-

Savanaclaw

Leona Kingscholar = Kaeya/Klee

Says he mains Kaeya

Actually mains Klee

Finds her antics amusing and she reminds him of cheka

Ruggie Bucci = Yelan

She knows her shit. Badass. The scene in the one event where she was like “if you know my secrets, i’ll have to kill you,” gave him chills - if yk yk

Ruggie is a masochist and therefore fell for the “step on me” tactic mihoyo did with her advertising

Jack Howl = Xinyan

Likes her can-do attitude and how she doesn’t let other people her tear her down

Make fun of her english VA and he will take it personally

Octavinelle

Azul Ashengrotto = Ganyu

For those of you who know her backstory, he sympathizes

Thinks she is absolutely adorable

Tried to make himself a Zhongli main for the clout and failed

Jade Leech = Tighnari

Mushroom dance, mushroom dance

Has to be special and play the first 5 star dendro

Floyd Leech = Hu Tao

Are we really shocked with this one?

No, seriously. You saw her character quest, right?

As if Floyd would pass on that, you’re nuts

Scarabia

Kalim Al’ Asim = Yoimiya

As if Kalim would not go straight for this literal ball of sunshine?

He loves her idle animation where she twirls around with a sparkler

If he isn’t playing her in co-op then he is a healer because he just wants to help. Has a godly Bennett that Jamil built for him

Jamil Viper = Eula

VEngAnce wILL bE mInE

For real, he loves her lore

And that she dances. Teach him your ways icey momma

Pomefiore

Vil Shoenheit = Sangonomiya Kokomi

She is beauty, she is grace, and she is Vil’s

Prefers to play healer in co-op because he doesn’t have to worry about fighting. Just admires the water jellies ~

Thought he was a cut above all the rest because everyone skipped her premier banner, so he was one if the few who had her (until the re-run that is)

Rook Hunt = Tartaglia

Okay, hear me out on this one

Rook enjoys the dynamic gameplay of swapping between bow/sword and factoring in the timing for your E

Tartag’s lore? If you know then you know. Rook is on the edge of his seat with this shit

C’mon guys. That bloodthirsty thrill of the hunt? Tartag’s addiction to battle? Match made in heaven

Epel Felmeir = Arataki Itto

Another one that I don’t really need to explain?

Itto is himbo beefcake. Epel idolizes himbo beefcakes?

Doesn’t mind that Itto is a niche character because that adds to his charm. Epel is determined to declare superiority with his all-geo team and maximum damage output

Deadass someone make this dude touch some grass because he’s been artifact hunting in Slumbering Court for so long-

Ignihyde

Idia Shroud = Kaedehara Kazuha + Amber

Man only plays meta. Decimates every spiral.

Lowkey agrees that he would get an anemo vision if he was a character bc yk seems trauma is a commonality

Builds a godly Amber just to show off when domain hopping. That’s right. His Amber just did more damage than your shitly built c6 Hu Tao

Also likes Hu Tao. He knows what it’s like to be ostracized for just being yourself

Ortho Shroud = Fischl

Often plays support for his brother and she’s pretty universal

He loves her imagination. Whenever she’s idle and starts doing poses it makes him giggle

Is extremely invested in the immernachtreich lore

Wishes he had a companion like Oz or a Seelie

Don’t worry. Idia builds him one for his birthday

Diasmonia

Malleus Draconia = Zhongli

The actual Zhongli main

Because Malleus is very bad at the game and so defense build is OP

Lilia Vanrouge = Venti and Klee

A drunk god and a child who blows shit up?

Yeah

Waiting for Scaramouche

Silver = Kamisato Ayato

Lazy player. Enjoys being able to hold down his E and do auto attacks (that do tons of damage)

Likes the chivalrous type as well, but does enjoy Ayato’s macabre and mischievous moments

Ayato’s magic boba sleeve won him over

Sebeck Zigvolt = Zhongli/Barbara

Fool only pulls for the same characters as Malleus. Just copies.

Sucks at playing too. Ends up just using the free characters you get early on because that’s what he’s used to

No fun smh

Side Characters

Dire Crowley the cheapskate = Mona

Wizard lady does not have a penny to her name

Jk she does, but just blows it all on books

Likes that

Relates to her past regarding divination. No one understands how hard it is being headmaster and just how generous he is to his beloved students

Grimm the feral cat = Raiden Shogun

Think’s he is hot shit just because he can carry

Nevermind that he’s using one of the most broken supports that Yuu built on his behalf

You know, because he can’t do artifacts on his own

Unrelated but he never does his dailies . Shame him

Mista “got friends on the other side” = Xiao

Fucking fear him

Man has enough money to supply mihoyo on his own. He has c6 Xiao and r5 Jade Spear. He doesn’t even play and only flexes it

Xiao actually speaks a lot about this one’s personality. No, I will not elaborate

Puppy = Traveler

He picked the game up for 5min before deleting and is making you do extra homework for wasting his time

Mickey Mouse = Aloy

Useless to the plot and a cash grab - just like him

Yuu = Qiqi

Shit luck on 50/50 just like in their daily life

Too busy fixing everyone else’s account to play on their own

Can’t game when carrying the weight of multiple overblot trauma on their shoulders

#twst #twisted wonderland #twst x reader #twst imagines #twst scenarios #twisted wonderland x reader #twisted wonderland imagines #twisted wonderland scenarios #genshin impact #genshin imagines #genshin scenarios #heartslabyul #savanaclaw #scarabia #pomefiore #ignihyde #octavinelle #diasmonia

[rhas-writes]

Always - Zhongli x Reader

Spoilers! for Zhongli backstory/lore.

Content? Fluff, angst, hurt. Format? Headcanons/Imagines. Pronouns? You/Your. Relationship? Romantic.

Context: Fallen Archon Reader! - Part 1 - Part 2-

Synopsis: Zhongli has to live on without you and it's all his fault.

---

Zhongli is a man of proper etiquette. Some may call him old-school but he will treat a lady as such. He will hold the door open for her, pull the chair out, compliment her with genial words.

One thing he will never do is kiss the back of a lady's hand. Should a woman reach her hand out accordingly, he will always shake it. He pays no mind to the taken aback stare he receives for doing so. The intimacy of such an act is reserved for you and you alone.

Another thing you will not catch him doing is dancing. Everyone thinks he is being his typically reserved self when he declines the offers. In truth, he declines because oh so long ago he declined you. If he dances with someone when he couldn't dance with his own wife, what kind of husband would that make him?

Zhongli has received many compliments on his face, manners, and wardrobe. He appreciates them all, but he does have his favorites. When Hu Tao compliments his rare smile, he's reminded of yours. He couldn't resist the slight upturn of his lips when you would smile at him so adoringly.

When the elderly lady thanks him for helping her carry her groceries, he thinks you would be proud. He's come so far from being the brutal and merciless Warrior God.

Perhaps his favorite are the compliments directed toward the tasseled earring that sways with his every movement. He agrees that it's a simple and beautiful piece of jewelry. Only made more precious knowing you crafted it with your own hands.

Whenever asked, Zhongli will say "there are so many varieties of tea, how is one to choose a favorite?" However, Madame Ping is experienced in his preferences.

His favorite is white helleborus picked at noon and brewed until the last rays of sun touch the sea. It tastes like home, like comfort, like the perfect amount of sun during spring. Though she longs for the taste, she dares not ask him for a cup of the dwindling stash he keeps. For no helleborus has grown since your light faded.

More often than he'd like to admit, Zhongli finds himself staring expectantly at the northern wharf of the harbor. All who would remember the statue that once stood there have long since been silenced, including him.

Although Zhongli has very little mora to his name, he does in fact have a collection of trinkets bought solely by him - many of which are gifts from grateful Funeral Parlor customers or items he gained through trade.

He restores these items to pristine condition and places them on a shelf in his home. When the day comes where he is finally able to visit your grave, he will leave them for you. Until then, he will continue to collect all the things he knows you would have enjoyed.

On the nights sleep evades Zhongli, he recounts his memories of you. Powerful and ethereal you. Erosion threatens to take every moment he spent with you if he doesn't reminisce.

Oh, what he wouldn't give to burn the contract that keeps his lips sealed on the topic of you. What he wouldn't give to be able to write all that you did for Teyvat. What he wouldn't give to turn back time and re-do one decision.

He's stuck in a game where he's always losing bits and pieces of you. Perhaps, this is the price he pays for shedding so much blood. This is the suffering he inlaid upon others. Even so, you shouldn't have had to pay as well.

Although it's been over 500 years, Zhongli has never once entertained the thought of taking another partner. There are reasons such as, he doesn't deserve one, he fears losing again, etc. But what holds him back more than anything else is he is still in love with you. And he's sure he always will be.

---

Thoughts? Critiques? Share your thoughts

Published: 14 July 2022

#rhas' fallen archon reader #genshin impact #genshin x reader #genshin zhongli #morax x reader #gender neutral reader #reader insert #hurt #fluff #angst #sfw #genshin #zhongli #zhongli x reader #zhongli x y/n #morax #rex lapis #hu tao #madame ping #x reader #drabble #genshin angst #genshin fanfic #genshin imagines #genshin headcanons #zhongli headcanons

[sleepy-vix]

Btw whats ur genshin main?

i currently main hu tao, tho i dont play atm. im actually saving up for wanderer (i have 120 wishes) so im gonna main him when i get him :) (im not a weird wanderer fan 💀💀 i like his flying and i want to make a team with faruzan and i appreciate his backstory 😞)

ty for the ask

#genshin impact #asks

[mejomonster]

Huai dao: 1 i hope Sheng Yao dates KING OF ACTING SHU JIU (who is secretly Hei Xiazi from dmbj i am standing by that)

2 i do think sheng yao and su junzi (and the conflict of su junzi being married) situation aspects was somewhat worked into the 3 persom situation of fei du/luo wenzhou/tao ran in modu. The characters are different, and modu is way more intense about it (all 3 of the modu people have way more trauma and unhealthy coping mechanisms and Intensities to them than sheng yao or su junzi so far). But the fun ideas played with are definitely sparks of excitement during Huai Dao, and i can see why they were worked in modu.

3 i want more jiang hu backstory! Idk about shen yexi having ptsd, as he (as far as i know) had a support network of friend coworkers and has been using fairly normal coping mechanisms for stress that arent like causing any major issues for him. But i do think jiang hu (based on hints so far) has either some childhood trauma or actual past-work trauma. The childhood trauma theory: if this is like modu, then the cases may parallel one or both leads mental states. In that case: jiang hu had a childhood where he was expected to be perfect and fell short/felt guilty, or perhaps he was a victim to something and seeked to appease them to feel in control (like 2nd huai dao case). Which could be adult work trauma and could be very broad frankly: it could instead be that he had an old workplace where his mistakes led to something bad for someone (maybe patients or coworkers) so he took on an unfair amount of guilt he put on himself (or someone im authority blamed him and he believed them in that it was his fault), or he felt so out of control (in any kind of abusive workplace tbh) that he ended up guilty abd scared of Following Orders or Protocol or Superiors and failing to help who he intended (both a corrupt workplace or even just a run of the mill police one/societally normalized stressful workplace) couldve caused it.

I tried to word it before and went on a tangent so im going to try and just quick state what i hope comes across clearly. So i think priest doesnt use mental health terms particularly well in Huai Dao. It gets better in later novels of priests novels (modu handles terms better - including parts where things arent named, which is sometimes more realistic of trauma and levels of it and depression and anxiety and just how like the range of how we cope and what messes us up is vastly different and results in different ways for people, and what deeply affects one person may make no result in another). But in Huai Dao because of specific term labelling, and it being on perpetrators of harm, it can fall into a kind of reinforcing certain ideas - which is my biggest warning if you read. The actual portrayal of characters feels realistic TO each individual characters cirmstances and feels reasonably realistic. So i think priesr doesnt let it affect actual portrayals. But atuff like say a criminal having ocd but no one on the investigation team having ocd... you know. Its like if you have 1 gay character in a story and theyre a villai. Its fine to do a gay villain, but if its ur only gay character then readers as a whole may just reinforce their belief 'gay people are bad' unless you have some other neutrally or well treated gay character to reinforce that your story is not intending to say all X are bad. Idk if that makes sense? (Like... again modu compares childhood abuse cases, in fact a variety from Fei Du and the Su girl forced to harm otjers as children and what theyre like older, to zhang donglai with an absent dad and his own fucked family issues, to various side characters... and because theres people who turn out all kinds of ways, and fei du is a lead wr root for, theres never the feeling of the story seeming to indicare people abused as children are 'bad.' Instead the story just more broadly is showing how things could turn out varyingly, and how a wide spectrum of ppl have lived through that kind of trauma). I think huai dao if it leaned less on labelling terms might have worked better, or some side or main chqracters having similar mental health issues that the writing paints as people we root for or feel sympathy toward like victims. So like. Mm a weak spot for sure. Expected to run into it in tjis genre, its not an uncommon flaw in many a crime novel or show. But it is something to be aware of. while i think if a main cjaracter eventually does reveal they have mental health issues is may help lessen the kind of abrasiveness currently. But qho knows. This is a problem widespread in stories.

I think the characters tjemselves function as you expect ppl to in their situation. So as realistic characters things feel not illogical or so unrealistic it drives me up a wall. But yeah the terms and a bit of the selection of who has what background has some not ideal choices.

#huai dao #lb

[genshinconfessions]

Do you think there's actually any consistent theme on who gets what vision? The most consistent one is probably Pyro, their allogenes mostly being those with bright, bold, and energetic spirits, but aside from that what can there be said about the rest?

I feel like every time someone tries to propose a theory for it based on their backstory, there are glaring holes to be poked because of the similiarities characters have in personality and backstories. Like okay, you say geo is for those who are grounded and focused in their work, but then what does that say about Tighnari, Yanfei, and others with that trait? What does that say about Itto bring all over the place, in comparison to other geo allogenes?

What I'm basically saying is that, I find every allogene to vision theory made so far just, unsatisfactory. Am I the only one who feels this way? I really commend people's efforts but none have just, sat right with me.

the reason there are so many theories floating around is precisely because no one's really satisfied with the other theories so they each put out their own HAHAHA but personally, here's what i think:

minor spoilers for various character backstories!

--

anemo: ppl who used to be trapped in some way but now are free (and generally value their freedom) and have lost loved ones

ex: wanderer's entire backstory, faruzan being trapped in a ruin and solving her way out, kazuha escaping from the oppressive inazuma regime

cryo: ppl who are self-contradictory (and generally who have gone through some tragedy)

ex: kaeya being forced to choose between khaenri'ah and mondstadt, ganyu being stuck between the adeptus world and the human world, diona's hatred for alcohol yet her job is to serve alcohol

dendro: ppl who are wise beyond their years (and typically associated with life/rebirth)

ex: kaveh's trauma-filled life, baizhu's immortality and his views on it, collei maturing from hating the world to wanting to know more about it

electro: ppl who are outcasts of some sort (and generally intelligent and lonely)

ex: keqing not believing in rex lapis despite being a liyue leader, shinobu running away from her family because she didn't want to be a shrine maiden, fischl's entire persona

geo: ppl who work well or prefer to work in a team (and generally more concerned about others rather than themselves)

this one is slightly harder to notice than the others imo, but the recurring theme through every geo character's vision stories is 1. persistence/endurance, and 2. connection with the masses

ex. ningguang sacrificing jade chamber for liyue, noelle always being there for anyone who needs her help, arataki itto sticking by his gang's side even when they get into trouble

hydro: ppl who are hiding a darker side to them (and generally associated with either healing or truth)

ex. tartaglia seeming affable but actually being a big boss man, kokomi being very nice and unassuming but actually the genius leader of an uprising, barbara being the idol of mondstadt but actually gets depressed often

pyro: ppl who are very passionate about what they do and generally stubborn in their ways (also mostly very strong fighters)

ex: diluc upholding justice both before and after crepus's death, hu tao's general passion for both life and death, lyney's beliefs about his family and mission

--

of course, this is just what my little pattern-seeking brain has put together. it's definitely not guaranteed to be right, but i think the criteria i've come up with fits with each respective archon's values quite well

now regarding your main concern: of course you can say that arataki itto is also very passionate about what he does and is a strong fighter, or that tighnari is also persistent and team-focused, or that kokomi is a social outcast and also intelligent, etc, but tbh, i think that's being a little tooooo nitpicky lmao

ppl are complex, and good characters should also be complex; you can't shove ppl into categories based on one generic trait that most ppl exhibit at some point in their lives and call it a day (that was my main beef with the divergent series lmao but that's another story), so i think it's just a matter of what the hoyoverse devs thought fit the character's story or personality best, or what trait/background really set them apart from the other characters

#genshin #genshin impact #genshin confessions #lore #theories #character analysis

[genshinimpactlife]

*breaks through your window* *trips and falls on my face* My friend told me about your blog and its wonderful, so get comfortable Ill be staying here for a while

Do you have any headcannons about a Child!reader who was pretty much adopted by zhongli?

Lets say child!reader is like one of those blue onis and their family fled to Liyue after staying in inazuma for so long. Surprise surprise on the way to Liyue their boat goes plop, everyone dies and child!reader is the only survivor who managed to get to liyue

Zhongli finds this smol child with blue marks and blue horns lying on the coast of liyue and mentally asks "Is anyone gonna adopt the blue child?" and not wait for an answer

(This was originally gonna be a normal shower thought but my mind said 'no add some more trauma' and there the backstory is sad )

Zhongli with Child Oni Reader

You remembered everything about that horrible day. The sound of the storm raging outside, the boat rocking wildly back and forth.

You could hear his mother and father yelling at each other, but once you started crying, they stopped, your mother holding you to calm him.

You had managed to fall asleep but awoke just as a wave taller than the boat crashed into your boat. It ripped the ship in half, and you were separated from your mother, who had been holding you since you were upset.

You managed to grab onto a floating piece of wood and passed out while floating on it, ending up somewhere on Liyue's coast.

Zhongli happened to see the small Oni as he was out on his morning walk, and once he made sure you were breathing, he tried to find your parents. But, to no avail, he carried the young child back to his house.

You were wary of Zhongli when you first woke up, crying for your parents, which Zhongli tried to explain he would find them for you.

He put up found child posters and asked around Liyue, but nobody knew who you were.

"Well… I guess your mine now, kid."

It took you a long time to start opening up and be a cheerful child again, but Zhongli was up for the task.

Every night, Zhongli tells you a new story to lull you to sleep; because of it, you know much about Liyue's past.

You love trying to imitate Zhongli. For example, whenever Zhongli is sipping tea, you get your own cup full of juice. You also get your own book when Zhongli is reading something, even though it's too complicated for you to read.

You love going to work with Zhongli at the funeral parlor and playing with Hu Tao. She's your favorite aunt.

Zhongli doesn't allow anyone to speak badly of you as a blue Oni. The moment someone does, he isn't Zhongli anymore, he's Morax.

The day that you called Zhongli Dad for the first time made him sob for hours.

I accidentally read this as Childe as a child and had to go back and rewrite the entire thing. I'm so glad your friend showed you my blog, i'm always happy when people stick around! I hope you enjoy! <3

Tag List Here

@rainbowleo @okadahimeko @0-kuki-0 @cyberpandas-blog

#Genshin impact imagine #Genshin impact x reader #Genshin impact headcanons #Genshin impact #Zhongli #Zhongli x reader #Zhongli imagine #Zhongli headcanons

[thatringboy]

Didn't you once make a genshin pokemon au? How's that going?

If I had any ounce of artistic ability, I'd be sketching the hell out of this au

For now it's just a list of every genshin character and the pokemon I think they would train based on their design and personality. Some are the same elemental type as the character's Vision while others are based on designs and backstories

And note that these are all personal partner choices!!

had to put everything under the cut because it really is every genshin character

Traveler: Swoobat, Solrock (Aether)/Lunatone (Lumine), Alolan Raichu, Celebi (borrowed!), Dewott

side note, the traveler switches partner when they would switch elements in the game. at times when the traveler can use multiple elements is when they use multiple partners, if that makes sense

Bold means Gym Leader

Italicized means Archon

Khaenri’ah - Psychic Gym? Ghost Gym? What are they??? 

Abyss!Sibling: Giratina

Dainsleif: Unown D

Susbedo: Zoroark

Mondstat - Flying Gym 

Amber: Scorbunny

Kaeya: Vanillish

Lisa: Yamper

Barbara: Alomomola

Diluc: Blaziken

Albedo: Baltoy

Jean: Jumpluff

Fischl: Corviknight

Bennett: Houndour

Noelle: Regirock

Razor: Manectric

Diona: Alolan Sandshrew

Eula: Absol

Mona: Psyduck

Venti: Rayquaza

Klee: Cyndaquil

Sucrose: Drifblim

Rosaria: Weavile

Mika: Delibird

Liyue - Rock Gym 

Qiqi: Froslass

Zhongli: Stonjourner

Ningguang: Diancie

Keqing: Dedenne

Ganyu: Aurorus

Xiao: Golbat

Xinyan: Turtonator

Yunjin: Minior

Xiangling: Darumaka

Xingqiu: Milotic

Chongyun: Clastform

Shenhe: Alolan Ninetales

Hu Tao: Lampent

Baizhu: Serperior

Beidou: Eelektross

Yanfei: Rapidash

Yao Yao: Chikorita

Yelan: Greninja

Inazuma - Electric Gym 

Kazuha: Togekiss

Ei/Raiden Shogun: Ampharos

Ayaka: Frosmoth

Ayato: Empoleon

Itto: Kabuto

Thoma: Delphox

Sara: Toxtricity

Yae: Morpeko

Gorou: Rockruff

Kokomi: Jellicent

Sayu: Rowlet

Yoimiya: Shiny Blacephalon

Heizou: Xatu

Shinobu: Emolga

Kirara: Meowscarada

Snezhnaya - Ice Gym 

Childe: Lapras

Signora: Galarian Darmanitan

Scaramouche: Pincurchin   Who?

Dottore: Rotom

Tsaritsa: Articuno

Arlecchino: Salazzle 

Sumeru - Grass Gym 

Cyno: Luxray

Collei: Salandit Sprigatito

Tighnari: Leavanny

Nahida: Celebi

Alhaitham: Tsareena

Kaveh: Breloom

Deyha: Incineroar

Nilou: Primarina

Candace: Quagsire

Dori: Polteageist

Faruzan: Areodactyl

Wanderer: Rufflet

Layla: Slowbro

Fontaine - Water Gym 

Furina: Quaquaval

Neuvillette: Inteleon

Lyney: Litten

Lynette: Shaymin (Sky Forme)

Freminet: Snom

Wriothesley: Mr. Rime

Charlotte: Eiscue

Clorinde: Magnemite

Navia: Tinkaton

Sigewinne: Happiny

Egeria: Golduck

Natlan - Fire Gym 

Murata: Entei

Iansan: Cubone

Okay so lore time:

Visions = Pokéballs

Archons and other ancient beings, depending on their stories - some of them (at least Venti and Zhongli) - were “Divine” Pokémon that took on human forms once their species died out and now can train Pokémon like regular people 

Unlike other regions where Pokéballs are all over the place, Teyvat only has “Vision Balls” which are gifted to people by the Divine Seven. It’s tricky to explain, but trainers whose Pokémon use Vision Balls can power-up their partners further than just their Pokemon traveling around by their sides 

But because training Pokémon like this was invented by the Divine Seven in this region, the Raiden Shogun is seizing all Pokéballs from her area of jurisdiction so that no trainer may become as powerful as she, the Divine Gym Leader

Of course, other people can have Pokémon without Vision Balls, but those who have been gifted Pokéballs are said to be the most powerful trainers in the region

And then there’s the Traveler who can use the effects of a Vision Ball, but without one

Delusions could be like artificial Vision Balls that boost Pokémons’ abilities a fuck ton, but at the expense of their energy and potentially life force

Vision Balls boost the bond between trainer and Pokémon, Delusions exploit this

I’ve planned that the Abyss Order is corrupting Pokémon across the region using psychic type moves for their own purposes

Teyvat as a region is a giant melting pot of different Pokémon

The Fatui want to bring glory to the Ice Gym, the Abyss Order wants to restore their lost power

And Dainsleif was cursed when the Divine Seven had Khaenri’ah destroyed, just like Genshin lore

What do y'all think?

#genshin impact #genshin impact au #asks #genshin impact pokémon

[banterismylovelanguage]

Childe and Hu Tao are two characters that I can’t help but want to see interact with Venti and Xiao so much.

Like Childe is ready to fight always, but he and Xiao share strong protective instincts; they just need someone to bridge that gap between them (because I am also one of those people that believes Xiao would not like Childe at all upon their first meeting).

Interestingly, I think Childe and Venti could go either way. Either they’re super passive aggressive with each other, or they’re like old chums that rile up everyone else around them.

I want to see Hu Tao and Xiao interact because. Well, he thinks she’s funny and she has a (I feel) similar issue of being misunderstood upon first impression.

Yet, Xiao “tolerates” her.

Could he do something similar for Childe when he sees how much of a family man he is?

I want to see Venti interact with pretty much everyone, but Venti is often typecasted to have a similar personality to Hu Tao and Childe (a bit eccentric, mixed public opinion, loves a good joke, but sticks to you once you’re friends), and (while I often headcanon canonical Venti to be a bit more gentle than some of the more eccentric personalities given to him) I’d love to see the shenanigans the three would get in to.

Childe and Hu Tao could be like my platonic duo (the besties) to my OTP and I wanna see them all make ridiculous decisions with decidedly one brain cell shared between Venti and Xiao and Venti doesn’t care enough to always use it.

Or maybe angsty headcanons where Childe is obviously more ruthless than the other three, despite Hu Tao having no filters when it comes to talking about death, Xiao having some restraint in how he uses his “ruthlessness,” and Venti having witnessed who knows what over having centuries of living experience.

Truthfully, I think they all have angsty sides to them, like personality/life-altering events (tho I haven’t listened to Hu Tao’s backstory much), so I feel there’s just a lot of potential between these four to explore.

#childe #tartaglia #hu tao #venti #xiao #genshin impact #genshin headcanons #this is not my genshin team I’m just rambling about characters again #I also have a thought about a different squad that evens out the personalities a little more but that’s a ramble for another time #xiaoven #mentioned but this could all be platonic it’s just a fun four

[aastarions]

stay gold [three]

Previous Chapter || Series Masterlist || Next Chapter

Pairing: Zhongli x Female!Reader

Series Tags: Eventual Smut (18+), Kinda Slow Burn, Reader has a Backstory/Lore, Heavy Liyue Lore, Lots of Fluff, Strangers to Friends to Lovers, Mutual Pining, Reader uses She/Her Pronouns

Word Count: 5,100+

A/N: Here’s the 3rd chapter! Again, I had already posted these on AO3 so going forth I’ll be posting new chapters on both AO3 and Tumblr around the same time! I’m nearly halfway through writing chapter 4 so thank you in advanced for your patience 💕

It’s been a week since you explored a fraction of Liyue Harbor with your newest acquaintance– friend, Zhongli. Within the past seven days that have passed, you’ve come into contact with the funeral consultant for five of them.

He easily became a regular customer at Kai’s Teashop, stopping in every single morning for a large, hot tea and whichever fresh pastry was highlighted to be the special of the day. The only time you weren’t sure if he swung by was during the weekend, which you’re fortunate enough to have off for.

A routine developed between the two of you, though. One that has you looking forward to going to work specifically because you know you’ll get to witness the heartwarming grin that reaches his gentle, golden eyes as you hand him his goods. On a few occasions, you were even able to hold a brief conversation before the morning rush piled past those glass doors.

So imagine the disappointment that festers in your chest when the afternoon rolls around and you have yet to see him today.

You tell yourself that it’s truly not that big of a deal, attempting to apply your full attention to the last hour of work instead…but your mind keeps wandering, wondering if something might have occurred. He could have fallen ill, or injured himself, or he just didn’t feel the need to stop by today – the possibilities are quite endless.

The next and final hour goes by at a snail’s pace, finding yourself cleaning nearly every inch of the shop’s interior to pass the time while your coworker takes care of the very few customers that walk through. You manage to keep your mind somewhat occupied, at least until the very end of your shift. When a string of words from a patron’s mouth catches your attention.

“Do you happen to know where the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor is? I’ve just come from out of town to meet with Director Hu Tao, but I’m not sure where the building is actually located.”

You listen to your coworker give directions to the lost gentlemen just before you head to the back of the shop to gather your belongings, taking a mental note of the parlor’s location. Never did it occur to you that you actually hadn’t known where his job was located, only that it was in fact somewhere in the harbor.

It’s not until you reach into your tote for your shades – eyes catching on the history book that Zhongli had brought in earlier that week for you to borrow – that you decide you could use this newfound knowledge.

Maybe, just maybe, you could head over to the funeral parlor with the finished non-fiction novel, bringing some fresh pastries alongside as a gift for him – well, if he’s actually there.

Would it be too weird? Or strange? The doubts plague your mind as you teeter back and forth between going through with it or abandoning it altogether.

“Ah, screw it…” You eventually mutter to yourself, hoisting your tote onto your shoulder as you return to the front of the shop. Catching your coworker’s attention, you start to say, “I’m gonna grab a few pastries and some tea, could you ring me up–”

“No need for that, take whatever you’d like!”

The startling voice of your boss, Mr. Kai, has you nearly leaping out of your skin. Spinning on your heels, you turn to face him just as he’s fully stepped inside his shop, “No, it’s okay I can pay–”

“Nonsense!” He insists with a hearty laugh, rounding the counter and making his way over to the many jugs of freshly brewed tea, “So what did you want to get?”

You wind up leaving work with a large container of tea, specifically Zhongli’s go-to, and a dozen assorted pastries – much more than you initially anticipated on bringing with you. Nonetheless, you trudge up the hill through Chihu Rock, carefully balancing the box of sweet-smelling goods in one hand while the other holds tightly onto the heavy jug of hot liquid.

Wangsheng Funeral Parlor is much closer to your apartment than you expected, you think while crossing over the bridge to Feiyun Slope, making an immediate left towards an unmarked building. With both of your hands occupied, you resort to knocking on the wooden door with your foot instead and hope that the directions you eavesdropped on were correct.

The front door swings open violently seconds later, the lost gentleman from the tea shop stumbling past you as though he’s just seen a ghost. Following his trail is a short brunette calling out towards him, “Wait, wait! I was only trying to help you save money!”

“By suggesting I have a joint funeral with my late-brother?! You’re out of your mind, lady! I’ll take my business elsewhere!”

He wastes no time in storming off while muttering expletives under his breath, heading as far away as possible from the funeral parlor, at least that’s what you assume. You can only watch in complete and utter confusion, eyebrows knitting together as you recall what was shouted only seconds prior.

Something along the lines of a joint funeral…with his brother–

“Hiya! Sorry about that guy, come on in!” The young woman who’s name you have yet to learn suddenly ushers you into the building before you get a chance to fully comprehend what just transpired, “Welcome to the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, I’m Hu Tao, the current director. Were you looking to arrange a funeral?”

The interior is exactly how one would expect a funeral parlor to look like. Dark wooden paneling on the walls, a crimson colored carpet lining through the center of the narrow hallway, vintage looking furniture that compliments the dreary atmosphere one often feels when stepping inside a place like this. An overall stark contrast to the bubbly personality that emanates from the Director you now know as Hu Tao.

You eventually shake your head, placing the pastries and tea on the nearest surface before your arms truly begin to ache, “No, actually–”

“Were you just looking for a casket, then? We have a huge selection of all shapes, sizes, colors, finishes–”

The sound of a door creaking down the hallway catches both of your attention, watching none other than Zhongli make his way over while interrupting with, “Director, would you please practice some self-restraint when speaking to new clients–”

“Hi, not a new client…unfortunately?” You send a shy wave in his direction, the visible signs of agitation that plagued his features dissipating as those golden eyes land on you.

“Oh, what a pleasant surprise,” Zhongli halts in his tracks only a few feet away, your name falling from his lips before he asks, “What brings you here? Is everything alright?”

Nodding, you begin your longer-than-necessary explanation, “Yeah, everything’s fine, you just uh…you didn’t come by this morning for your usual tea so I thought maybe something happened…like you were sick or got hurt so I thought I’d come by with some tea and pastries…though I guess if you were sick you wouldn’t be here – anyways…my boss gave me much more than I originally asked for–”

His raspy chuckle echoes through the narrow space, a much needed interruption to your rambling, “That is quite a hefty amount of tea, thank you for thinking of me, though I am quite alright. The Director and I had an early morning consultation in one of the nearby villages so I was unable to fetch my usual breakfast. My apologies for worrying you.”

“You know…” Your gaze swaps to Hu Tao, who’s currently sporting a rather mischievous grin on her lips, “We have an amazing friends and family discount. Since you seem to be close with Zhongli and all, how about fifteen percent off the purchase of one of our luxurious satin-lined caskets–”

“Director.”

“Okay, okay! I’ll stop, promise.” She insists, though that cheeky smile never wavers, “It’s a pleasure to meet you, any friend of Zhongli is a friend of mine!”

In the midst of shaking the eccentric brunette’s hand you quickly learn her alternative intentions, “And since we’re friends, you don’t mind if I take a snack or two right? I’m starving.”

Zhongli scoffs at her blunt attitude, but you can’t help but let out a few laughs at the entire ordeal.

“That’s fine, there’s plenty to go around!”

It’s not long after that you find yourself in Zhongli’s office, an assortment of documents pushed to the side in favor of his makeshift lunch. You glance around, any personal touches nowhere to be found. Only a wooden desk crafted with what appears to be sandbearer wood, a few chairs, and a filing cabinet make up the small space.

“It’s rather bland, isn’t it?” He notices your gaze follow around the room, “This office is a stark contrast to my abode – I’ve begun to run out of shelving for my books and antiques.”

“Oh! That reminds me!” You turn to grab your tote that’s hanging on the corner of the seat, fishing out the novel he had let you borrow and placing it atop the desk, “I, uh, I finished reading it.”

Zhongli appears surprised by your words, “That was certainly quick, I take it that you enjoyed Verses of Equilibrium?”

“I did! I’ve never had the chance to explore historical books before, especially one with such a poetic format…Rex Lapis did a lot to keep his people safe, the adepti too! You can tell how much the people here adore their Archon…it used to be like that in Fontaine, too…”

“I faintly recall overhearing about the original Hydro Archon’s passing, having been replaced with the God of Justice.” He says after a few bites of the sugary-sweet pastry, “I imagine it’s difficult for people to accept a new ruler without cause for concern.”

“Liyue seems to be handling the loss of their God better than Fontaine, just from what I’ve seen since living here.” You mention, thinking back to your conversation with him a week prior. Where he explained how the Liyue Qixing and the people themselves are in control of their own nation, rather than the God they once relied so heavily on.

Zhongli nods in agreement, “The Qixing have done a divine job of governing the nation both before and after Rex Lapis’ passing, using everything he taught them alongside their own beliefs in what will better this prosperous nation.

“I’m glad that you found the reading to your liking,” he continues, “If you’re interested, I can head upstairs and allow you to borrow another–”

“Upstairs?” You raise an eyebrow.

He nods once more, “Indeed, Director Hu was kind enough to allow me to rent the space above the parlor, though she certainly uses it to her advantage by occasionally pestering me on my days off.”

Despite only having known Hu Tao for all of a few minutes, this doesn’t surprise you in the slightest. If anything, it’s entirely befitting of the personality she exudes only seconds after meeting her.

“You don’t have to grab it right this second, actually I hope I’m not intruding with this sudden visit while you’re working–”

“Nonsense,” Zhongli reassures you, “I had intended on fetching something to eat soon anyways…besides, I find your company to be most enjoyable.”

The instant warmth that envelopes your complexion betrays you, exposing your inability to receive any and all compliments without turning into a flustered mess. Whether or not the man in front of you picks up on it, you’re unaware, the lower half of his face shielded by the cup of tea he’s brought to his lips.

“What do you do for work here anyways? Is it really just preparing funerals all day?” You ask, changing the subject.

“Not entirely,” he goes on to explain, “though I occasionally assist with every day funeral proceedings when needed, I’m mostly hired contractually through Wangsheng for my rather extensive knowledge on Liyue, specifically its history and traditions.”

“So…like a hitman, but for knowledge instead of killing.”

The loud laughter that spills from his lips is unexpected, watching pure and utter amusement adorn his usually stoic features. He sets the cup down before potentially soiling his paperwork with warm tea, responding after a much needed intake of breath, “That is quite a strange way to define it, but sure.”

For a little while longer, the both of you continue to talk about rather trivial, but enjoyable topics. Conversation with Zhongli comes so naturally – it genuinely feels as though he’s someone you’ve known for weeks, or months, rather than a measly single week.

Although he tends to go on long tangents about topics that interest him, he also knows when to press his lips together and avidly listen. Something many men of higher status in Fontaine lack, at least the ones that you had the misfortune of meeting.

It’s in the middle of one of your own tangents that you’re interrupted by three knocks at his door, your shoulders flinching at the sudden sound. When the door creaks open, you’re met with the familiar eyes of Hu Tao.

“Oi, Zhongli, did you forget we have to head to Bubu Pharmacy?”

“Ah, yes, we best make haste,” Zhongli begins to rise from his seat before glancing back over at you, “I apologize, we should continue our conversation another–”

Hu Tao interrupts once more, also turning to face you, “Why don’t you come with us? It’s not like it's top secret business, we’re just looking for ghosts.”

“Ghosts?” Your eyes widen, making sure you didn’t mishear.

She nods as though it’s nothing, “Yep! Since the usual exorcist is out of town, we’ve been asked to investigate some strange activity for quite a hefty amount of Mora, so what do ya say?”

You can’t help but look over at Zhongli for his opinion, only to find a small smile on his lips, “As long as it’s not intruding on the rest of your day, of course.”

“I really didn’t have any plans…'' This impromptu trip to the funeral parlor was anything but orchestrated in advance. The only thing you considered doing today was wandering around the harbor and taking some photos with your Kamera, but you could save that for another time, “Sure, why not?”

The three of you set off for Bubu Pharmacy only minutes later, walking through the entirety of Feiyun Slope until you’ve reached a part of the harbor you haven’t gotten a chance to visit before. Crossing a small stone bridge, you turn right towards the large building that’s settled atop a long and tall staircase.

There’s two people in the pharmacy…scratch that, one person? You’re not entirely sure.

You’re about to consider the purple-haired child with the pale complexion to be the ghost they’re after until she finally speaks with narrowed eyes at Hu Tao, “Oh. It’s you. I don’t like you.”

“Qiqi, Director Hu is here to help us!” The young man behind the counter nervously says, “Sorry about that, thank you for coming on such short notice, if Baizhu finds out we’ve lost merchandise while he’s away in Sumeru…”

“Don’t sweat it!” Hu Tao laughs, entirely unphased, “Now would you or the zombie mind telling me what’s going on here?”

“...zombie?” Just when things couldn’t get any more confusing; you fear your eyes might quite literally pop out of your head.

Zhongli nods, “Indeed, through the power of the adepti, Qiqi was resurrected, though zombies cannot function in the same manner as a mortal–”

“And it’s still outside of the natural order, but we have more important matters to deal with today!”

The Director urges the gentleman behind the counter to finish his explanation of the mysterious occurrences that have been going on within the pharmacy. You try your best to pay attention, though you still have a myriad of questions regarding this newfound information about zombies.

“Well, it started a day or two after Baizhu had left for Sumeru…”

He goes on to explain how their daily inventory numbers no longer match up with the amount of ingredients they’re using in their medicines – ingredients like milk and lavender melons are missing in excess.

“The milk isn’t as big of a deal, but we just had the lavender melons imported from Inazuma and we don’t have another shipment scheduled for a few weeks…” Perspiration settles on the young man’s forehead, his eyes frantically darting between all of you, “There haven't been any strange visitors either, so it has to be the work of a ghost!”

“Milk, you say?” Zhongli grasps his chin between two fingers, appearing lost in thought, “Sir, have you considered asking the only other employee who has access to the back of your store?”

He shakes his head, “Qiqi likes coconut milk, remember–”

“No coconut milk, we ran out. I drink the other milk instead.”

There’s silence for a solid ten seconds, before the one gentleman asks, “What about the lavender melons then?”

“I ate them.”

Silence again.

“Well would ya look at that! We solved the issue in less than five minutes. The Wangsheng Funeral Parlor continues to exceed people’s expectations.” Hu Tao claps before deviously rubbing her palms together, “I hope that you will hold yourself to your end of our contract now, yes?”

While the young man meticulously counts a large sum of Mora, you take a glance over at Zhongli and say, “So…that’s it?”

“I suppose so,” he muses, letting out a light chuckle. “Not nearly as exciting as witnessing a ghost, I presume?”

“Actually, I think I can live the rest of my life without seeing a ghost, thanks.”

“Ghosts aren’t that scary! I’ll introduce one to you next time.” Hu Tao turns on her heels, a decent-sized bag of Mora between her polished fingernails, “I’m heading to Wanmin for some dinner, I’ll catch ya later Zhongli!”

She then flickers her gaze onto you, “It was a pleasure to meet you! Don’t be a stranger, okay?”

With that, she’s off. Rushing down the stairs before either of you could respond. After wishing both Qiqi and the rather perturbed young man a good rest of their day, the both of you descend the large staircase, too.

“I’m assuming this ghost hunt was the last thing on your agenda today?” You ask, assuming that if Zhongli had more work on his plate he’d have long since left for the funeral parlor already.

“You would be correct,” he agrees, “I had not anticipated that we would solve their issue within such a short span of time…it’s a tad comical, wouldn’t you think–”

He cuts himself off suddenly, reaching towards you until his fingers hook under the straps of your tote that had begun to roll down your arm. You can only stand in place as he drags it back up and settles it onto your shoulder once more.

“Wow I didn’t even notice…thank you, I’d hate if anything happened to my Kamera the one time I bring it with me.”

“Oh? I recall you mentioning that you own one of those fascinating devices.” Zhongli appears intrigued at the mention of it, eager to see it for himself.

So you slip your hand into your bag, grabbing tightly onto the Kamera and exposing it to his curious stare, “I was actually thinking about taking some photos with it today…would you maybe want to join me?”

“I’d love to,” that tender smile returns to his lips, “though I’m not entirely aware of how they work.”

“My father told me it’s like painting on a canvas, only you can capture any moment in seconds instead of hours. I mostly like taking photos of flowers, though, oh and wildlife.”

Zhongli absorbs the newfound knowledge, listening intently before responding with, “The Yujing Terrace is home to a few native species of flora, allow me to guide us there.”

Once you agree, the two of you are off, walking towards another set of stairs opposite of Bubu Pharmacy. While following his lead your mind begins to wander, more specifically in regards to your aforementioned father. The man who gifted you this Kamera in the first place.

He had gone out of his way to procure one for you a few months after you saw one in use for the first time on a trip to the capital. Citizens were lining the narrow streets to have their portrait taken with the brand-new, exclusive Kamera and shops who were fortunate enough to sell them did so at a fortune.

After relentless pleading on your end, tied together with the promise of taking on extra responsibilities, the device was very soon in your own palms. Funny how only another few months would pass and you’d choose to abandon both your duties and your home altogether.

You start to wonder if the letter you received from Fontaine might be specifically from your father, or someone else from your family’s estate. Ever since the evening you received it, the letter remains tossed aside on your kitchen counter.

If it is in fact your father’s penmanship that decorates the pages, you can already gather what its contents will entail. The same way you begged for the Kamera, he’ll beg for you to return home.

If only it were that easy, if only returning home didn’t equate to tossing aside your freedom in the process–

Thud!

Having been so lost in your thoughts, you hadn’t noticed that Zhongli stopped in his tracks, not until you collide directly into his back of course. Your complexion blooms with warmth, taking a step back from the tall male just as he turns to face you, asking, “Are you alright?”

“Yeah, sorry, I was a bit distracted, sorry about that.” You attempt to wave him off, laughing through the waves of embarrassment.

Unconvinced, his concerned visage never wavers. Rather his eyebrows draw tighter together as he lays a gloved palm over your shoulder, “I won’t pry, but if you require someone to provide an ear, I’m happy to oblige.”

“Thank you, I’ll uh…I’ll keep that in mind,” your fingers curl against the Kamera that you fortunately hadn’t dropped in your daze as Zhongli allows his arm to fall back at his side, remembering the whole reason the two of you trekked up here in the first place.

Glancing around, you take quick notice of how secluded this upper level of Liyue Harbor feels in comparison to the busy main street of Feiyun Slope and the rambunctious crowds of Chihu Rock, “Are you sure we’re allowed to be up here?”

The dark-haired male in front of you chuckles before answering, “Yes, you’ll find that Yuehai Pavilion only truly sees heavy traffic when the Tianquan holds her occasional auctions or the Qixing gather for their regularly scheduled meetings. Prior to Rex Lapis’ death, citizens would also congregate here for the Rite of Descension.”

“Rite of Descension?”

He nods, explaining further, “Once a year, Rex Lapis would provide the people of Liyue with a prophecy, a guide if you will of the economic path the people should follow.”

“There’s so much tradition and history in Liyue…” You say more so to yourself. Of course, your nation has its own history, but it feels barren in comparison to all that you’ve learned already from Zhongli.

“For the record,” he captures your attention again, “If you ever find yourself uninterested, feel free to interrupt me. I will not take any offense.”

A frown settles on your lips at his words – though you’ve never been one to dwell too heavily into the subject in the past, you have yet to grow tired of listening to history from the highly knowledgeable consultant.

“I…like listening to you talk actually…” You admit in a quiet murmur, but you know he hears you when a rather large smile overtakes his features.

“That’s quite a relief, I’ve often been told that I put others to sleep when I ramble on about what many consider to be…boring topics.”

Further digging yourself into a hole of abashment, you say, “It’s not boring when it’s coming from you.”

“Ah, you flatter me too much…” Zhongli appears amused, “I am well aware it is not everyone’s cup of tea, but I appreciate your kind words nonetheless.”

It’s not long after that he guides you towards a section of well-manicured grass with colorful flora blooming along it. You first look at the small red bushes, noticing a pair of puffy, pink flowers protruding from them.

Just as you angle your Kamera towards the beautiful arrangement, Zhongli begins to explain what exactly you’re photographing, “These are Silk Flowers, one of many flora native to Liyue. They’re often used to create fabric, though most of that manufacturing is done by the Feiyun Commerce Guild.

“I’ve also been told that they make for a rather saccharine concoction when cooked with Sweet Flowers.”

The shutter of your camera clicks twice and you watch as the printing paper slowly slides out from the small opening at the bottom of the device. You know it takes a moment for the image to fully appear on the special parchment, but Zhongli stares at the blank results with a slight, albeit cute, pout, “Is the device malfunctioning?”

“No, nothing like that, it just takes a few minutes for the photo to show up.”

“Interesting…” He examines the slowly developing photo after you hand one over, gold eyes ignited with innate fascination.

The next flower your eyes land on is on the opposite side of the color spectrum – a pair of soft blue tones decorate the petals of this closed-off plant. While aiming the lens, you quickly learn of this one’s origin, too.

“Glaze Lilies once inhabited the plains of Liyue in great numbers until they were overpicked due to their beauty. The ones that appear to bloom in this harbor are artificially planted; only very few of them can be found within the wild anymore.”

You watch as Zhongli leans over and plucks the Glaze Lily out of the earth, spinning the flower’s stem between his fingers as he examines it further, “One might believe that these are real at first appearance, but the smell is slightly off.”

“The smell? Have you…seen a real one before?” It shouldn’t surprise you at all, but if they’re as rare as he states, you can only imagine the price one would have to pay to get their hands on one.

“A long time ago, yes,” he continues to examine the artificial flower with an unreadable, yet soft expression.

Click!

Zhongli glances up to find the Kamera pointed in his direction as the device slowly pushes out the eventual photograph. A sense of realization washes over you, an apology immediately tumbling from your lips, “Sorry, I should have asked you first–”

“I don’t mind, I’m quite curious to see the results, actually.”

Those results, along with the other photographs you’ve taken this afternoon, wind up fully developing within the next five minutes. By that point, the two of you decided to find a nearby bench to sit on as you watch the color bloom onto the unique paper.

“Truly remarkable,” Zhongli comments as he holds the array of photos between his fingers, “What a wonderful way of capturing memories, I imagine many historians would be interested in such a device as well to preserve and document their findings…”

“In Fontaine, they’re mostly used to photograph friends and family, at least that’s how they advertised it in the capital. It’s so much faster than standing for a painter.” You mention – remembering the gross sweat you broke out in having to dress in multiple layers of your finest clothing for a family portrait.

Although nothing can compare to the artistic styling of one’s own caliber, not having to pose for hours on end is a definite plus in your books.

“Oh, do you want to try using–”

The moment you put the question out there, Zhongli’s already nodding with an unexpected zeal, “I’d love to, after a lesson on how to properly use it, of course.”

You give a quick explanation of the Kamera, watching him fiddle with it between his fingers as you teach him of each component.

Bringing the device up to his complexion to peek through the small, square hole, he immediately points it in your direction and before you even realize–

Click!

“Wait! I didn’t know you were gonna take a photo of me!” You shout, already fearing the results, “I would have smiled or something!”

Zhongli chuckles, grabbing the paper from the Kamera that will eventually have your complexion plastered all over it, “It’s only fair you took one of me earlier, no?”

“Okay, fine.” He laughs once more at the narrowed glance you send his way.

Although you wish for this afternoon to never end, the feeling of your stomach churning in hunger grounds you in reality, “I…should probably get home now and make some dinner, thank you for joining me today, I had fun.”

“It is my honor and as I’ve stated once before, I thoroughly enjoy your company.” Zhongli stands from the bench after handing you back the Kamera, holding out a gloved palm to aid you in standing, too, “Allow me to walk you home.”

As the two of you travel from one end of Liyue Harbor to the other, your mind goes back to your previous thoughts of your family, more specifically the unopened letter. All this talk of Fontaine and your past has you undoubtedly a tad homesick, but you fear that the letter might just play into that.

You continue to teeter back and forth on your decision all the way to your home where Zhongli bids you a good night, promising to bring another book for you to borrow the next time he comes by your job. As he walks off towards the funeral parlor, you notice he takes something out of his pocket to glance down at, but you can’t tell from such a distance what exactly it is.

Once within the confines of your home, you head straight towards the letter that’s gathered a light coat of dust in the week it sat in place. With shaky fingertips, you bite the bullet and remove the royal blue seal, unfolding the paper and gazing down at the handwriting that decorates the page. Here we go…you think, beginning to read the words laid out in front of you.

To My Dearest Child,

I beg of you, please come home…

#zhongli x reader #genshin x reader #zhongli x you #n.writings