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rayofsunas · 3 years

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s/o who dies.

A/n: listennnn, I wasn't going to write something dark, but then I unregretfully decided to listen to edgy/dark audios and I was suddenly in the mood to write this so yeah lmao. also, guess what? I'm planning on making a discord server right after posting this! so, be on the lookout for that when I get it all sorted out. also, note for Scaramouche's that the reader inserts tend to lean more femininely versed (I hope that's okay), the only reasons why I do that is because one I simp and I'm female AND two since I am doing a mini-series for Scara, I've kind of based his imagines/fics around that universe (baby daddy universe). I haven't started his yet, but consider these part of that series' universe. anyways as always thank you for requesting anon and enjoy! <333

Summary: you die + how the boys cope afterward.

Parings: Albedo/Gn! Reader, Xiao/Gn! Reader, Scaramouche/Fem! Reader

Warnings: swearing, angst, death, poison, illness/cancer, murder, arson, obsessive behavior

Word count: 2.1k

Albedo

"You need to keep this on your head." Your lover said for the one-hundredth time, placing the cold cloth on your forehead once again after taking it off only seconds earlier.

"This is pointless," You said, no longer wanting to ignore nor hide behind the invisible thick curtains of the obvious death sentence approaching. "My body rejected the medicine the first twice doses, what's a third time going to do?" You asked, knowing Albedo wouldn't answer; your hope was to knock some sense into his thick skull. but he was too worried trying to ignore the obvious as you had previously been doing, not anymore though.

This was saddening to watch, both Albedo's unfolding and the girl who accidentally poisoned you, whimpering into Sucrose's shoulder. She was only a young girl, barely seventeen when she was chosen to work under Sucrose and your boyfriend. She was very good at Alchemy and luckily had a desire to practice the craft. But unfortunately, she hadn't paid much attention when it came to Surcrose's educational poison lesson and had unknowingly mixed up poisonous liquids and materials.

After tipping over some clutter in Albedo's office and knocking over a test tube laying unsealed on the counter, you had realized the contents spilled on your skin, bleaching into your pores. You had been tasked with bringing the famed alchemist and his assistant some vials and materials for the collection of a rare butterfly they had found. It was both telling and obvious that something was wrong when you never showed up with the required materials requested and it was already too late hours later when the chief Alchemist, his assistant, and Alchemist in training came bounding down the stairs of Albedo's home laboratory.

It didn't take long for the trio to realize something was wrong. Sucrose had found the vile on the floor, most of its contents spilled and in a little puddle, plus your state on a nearby lounge chair was obvious; slumped awkwardly, forehead visibly sweating, eyes closed, breathing raspily.

You accepted the first doses of the supposed nullifying medicine without hesitation, just wanting the numbing feeling to go away. But when it never kicked in you decided it would be best to save the medicine, because it wasn't working. Your time was coming.

"Since the medicine is taking immediate effect, you should try to get the contents out of your system," He said, reaching out for you. Badly you wanted to argue that the medicine wasn't working at all, but he wasn't listening and already has his lean arms wrapped around your middle, helping gently lift and guide you over to the sink.

You hear materials being shoved to the side and soon enough you had your head dangling over the sink, shaking hands gripping the metalled edge tightly. Soon enough, Albedo's hand was on your back rubbing up and down, hoping to comfort you, it wasn't working though. You could only think about your death, what the other side would look like. Could there even be heaven or hell, maybe a place in between, maybe nowhere...?

As soon as you felt the urge to vomit, you did, and despite it being utterly disgusting Albedo seemed to welcome it happily. He took this as something good, but it only worried you when you saw the reddish hues in the bile.

"I think they should leave." You muttered acknowledging Sucrose and Elizabeth, the taste of gooey, metal only becoming more apparent. The blonde agreed, nodding and muttering "Okay."

As Sucrose lead Elizabeth towards the stairs, the pair heard you say. "Goodbye Sucrose, Elizabeth." Which only seemed to make the young girl wail louder.

You sighed sadly once the silence was back. Just your thoughts of death, and Albedo's slowly crushing heart.

"You should probably leave soon as well. I don't want you to be here when I go." Albedo frowned at your statement, head shaking.

"Don't say things like that."

Of course, he'd say that. Why did he feel the need to ignore this when it would only come back to hurt him even more later on when you were gone?

"You're the smartest man I know and we both know where this is heading," You said, head feeling much heavier than before. It was getting closer to your time. "I'm going to die, and you can't do anything about it."

"I'm not leaving your side. We promised to stick together through everything, you can't ask me to leave."

"I guess... But promise me this."

"When I go, stop blaming Elizabeth. It was an accident..." You said sincerely. Albedo wanted to make a fuss about it, tell you he'd never been able to forgive her. But for you, he would try. If it was your list desire, your last wish, he'd make it come true. Though it would be difficult. Accidental or not, she was the reason you were leaving him here, alone.

"Okay, I'll try..." He said honestly.

"Thank you," You said, letting out a shaking breath you had been holding for a very long time. Now you felt much more peaceful. "And since I know you stubbornly won't leave," You started, finally turning away from the sink to look into his cerulean eyes. "At least hold my hand."

"Of course, love."

even a year after your death, no matter how hard he tried, there was still this nagging feeling every time he looked at Elizabeth

he wanted too badly forgive her, but he couldn't

she had, although accidental, taken the one person that meant so much to him and he'd never forgive

Albedo is gonna be distant towards everyone he knows and it's completely purposeful

he doesn't like the pitiful gazes that people send his way and he hates that all the captains stared at him at your funeral

obviously, some questioned if he was able to stay in the field

he hadn't taken any time off, even when Jean advised he was welcome and that it would be best

tbh, albedo's going to have a hard time for a while

Xiao

Why did it have to be you? Why not him? He'd feel much better knowing you could live another day, after all, he'd been living a very long time.

But no, the fallen Archons, Gods, Yaksha had chosen you to join them. He wished that weren't the case

Humans and their pathetic vessels... So weak, he thought. Allowing something like cancer to beat them.

No matter how harsh it sounded, he didn't despise you, no. It wasn't your fault. You didn't ask for this. He just knew that if you were a godly being this wouldn't have happened like this or at least not so soon; Xiao had known Gods that had terminal illnesses to live years. Why couldn't you be like them?

He hated watching you lie there in that bed, immobile, sickly, and tired, and all you could say was that everything was going to be alright, that he'd be alright.

But it wasn't. He wouldn't be okay without you. He would struggle daily, fall deeper into a hole. You were the light of his life, the only light in his life. And you were gone, just like that. Turning external scars into internal ones tattered all over his dying heart.

Xiao for the longest time has been by himself, so the people of Liyue know it'll be harder for him to overcome this, no matter what he says or does to prove otherwise

Zhongli in particular knows how hard this will be for his friend

his first and probably last love, dead, gone in the blink of an eye

he'll continue fighting all the monsters he crosses, becoming even more violent when he does so, trying his best to get rid of this stupid sickly feeling of heartbreak

but it won't go away, no matter what he does, no matter how absurd

he just wants the feeling to go away, he despises that feeling so much

if you have a secret place somewhere, like in the mountains, Zhongli often finds him there, wallowing in invisible self-pity

"You know they wouldn't want you to be like this." Zhongli would say, only trying to help

but it doesn't

it only enrages Xiao, even more, fuels him to push everyone out of his life again instead of letting them in like he'd done in your presence

Scaramouche

How dare you. How dare you leave him like this. Alone, nonetheless with a toddler to raise who kept crying for her mommy. He couldn't do this without you, he didn't know how to raise a child, speak to her with the gentle care that you did. That was your expertise but now he'd be doing it solo.

And never again would he entrust someone who he cares about, into ignorant, incompetent arms. Never again will he ever allow any member of the Fatui to watch after his daughter; no matter their rank or position. They had one job while he was away doing business in Liyue. Guard your home twenty-four seven, accompany you into Inazuma's port town should you need anything, watch after his daughter while she plays happily in the luscious Inazuma fields. And they couldn't do that. All he gave them was one simple task, watch and keep you and your daughter safe. Instead, they slacked off, probably drunk in some bar while you were being brutally attacked by murderous mercenaries, left to fend for you and your daughter, only to die protecting her and leave your home to be severely burned.

He knew those idiotic Fatui soldiers were incompetent the moment he stepped foot into the harbor and found that everyone seemed to quiet down. Especially the eerily silent soldiers flanked on each side to welcome him home; he was the highest-ranking soldier in the land of Inazuma after all. Not a single one bothered to step forward and tell him what was wrong, what they all criminally allowed happen. Scaramouche only realized what had happened when he was mere minutes away from arriving home, his daughter had come running from his widowed mother's arms, the sight of smoke rising in the air, from the direction of his home. You were nowhere to be seen.

It all happened so fast, in the blink of an eye. His daughter was clinging to his shirt and his mother only stared with tears of pity.

It didn't take long for the puzzle pieces to be put together and before he knew it, Scaramouche was standing in front of his home, part of it burnt to a crisp and black.

He didn't need to ask what happened, he didn't need to know where you were, because he already knew. What he didn't know was who exactly had done this. But he was going to find out, now.

Incompetent, selfish, bastards. They would all pay for this. The lazy piggish Fatui soldiers who he should've never trusted with such a simple task and the thieves who had murdered you. They all had it rightfully coming.

Scaramouche hates the world after he lost you

he hates it so much and can't understand how this had happened

he's not a good person, so he blames it on karma and those stupid idiots who couldn't protect you

ngl, he's not gonna be around much after your death... his mother would argue that he should be here to raise your daughter, because she's also in pain and doesn't understand that this isn't some game of hide and seek this time

instead, he's focused and driven by revenge

he doesn't listen to a word anybody says, he's much more dangerous than before, and he only trusts his judgment

anyone trying to get him to stop his mission, is someone who doesn't want to see him happy he thinks (though that's not true at all. they hate that he is obsessive over this) but he will personally put a stop to that

and he'll only return home to his daughter and mother when he finds who did this and they along with their bloodline is exterminated

while he's gone, the remainder of his family is relocated somewhere he knows they'll be safe, for example, even though he despises childe, he knows his mom and daughter will be safe with his family

sorry, but Scaramouche will hold this deep-rooted hatred and love for you after you die

yes, he still loves and misses you dearly, but he hates you for leaving him alone, hates that although it wasn't intentional and out of your control, that you were gone

no matter how hard you tried to fight, it was selfish of you to leave him like this

he's not going to stop until he believes whoever was behind this is dead

and in his case, he'll stop believing when he chooses, even if they are innocent/guilty, he'll keep going

3.19.21, rayofsunas

#rayofsunas #genshin impact #genshin impact imagines #genhsin impact scenarios #albedo #albedo x reader #xiao #xiao x reader #scaramouche #scaramouche x reader

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multi-maker · 3 years

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m’lady.

summary. the last time you saw him, he was escaping the wrath of your archon. now, with inazuma being liberated, he has come home.

pairings. kazuha x f! reader.

warnings. not beta read. spelling and grammatical errors may occur. spoilers for inazuma 2.1 archon quest.

inazuma has changed.

no longer were people sulky. the brightness in everyone’s eyes have returned. the thunderstorms that once caged inazuma as a solitude nation has weakened. you have the outlander traveler to thank for that. to go against the might of the electro archon and even beat her — only a feat someone of their caliber could achieve.

the leaves of the tree slowly flutter around you. a gentle smile, one born of kindness yet mischief forms on your face. the wind is gentle as it blows around you, softly tussling your hair. the presence of nature with you makes you think about a certain wandering ronin.

kaedahara kazuha was once your … friend. though, you were pretty sure friends do not exchange feather light kisses to one another, and exchange shy yet loving looks from across the room. you and kazuha were like two pea’s in a pod — and the two of you have never stayed away from each other too long.

until the vision hunt decree came to fruition.

you weren’t a vision holder so you were safe from the wrath of the tenryou commission. though, even if you were one, you were still safe from their prying hands. a noblewoman held in great esteem in inazuma and they will only sign a death sentence should they lay a hand on you.

and yet, your friends weren’t.

especially kazuha.

he fled from inazuma for refuge, after his dear friends timely death. it was horror — you could only watch in horror and fear as tomo was slain. the divine punishment the electro archon gave was brutal, yet the electro user only smiled. it was the glory that he wanted to witness.

kazuha appeared just in time to see his friend fall from the sheer impact, the horror in his red orbs enough to make your world crumble around you.

kazuha disappeared soon, after that. without a word. he left you in your estate, back turned and the dying vision of his friend held on his hand.

despite that, you always trusted the wind to make him come home.

soft footsteps interrupted your musings, making you hum softly.

“did i interrupt something, my muse?”

everything turns to static.

your kimono swished around you harshly due to how hard you turned around. colored orbs meets kazuha’s maple ones, full of gentleness only he could possess. the bandages wrapped wround his hand is new, probably due to grabbing his friend’s vision.

you couldn’t speak — how joyous it must be, to finally reunite with the man who you perhaps, loved. kazuha was a mere wandering ronin, and you were a noblewoman. it was wrong.

yet, why does it feel safe in his arms?

kazuha gently raises his hand, leaving feather light touches on your soft cheek. maple eyes traces your features — it’s been a long time since he’s last seen you, since he’s heard your voice speaking his name, since he’s felt your touches.

kazuha smiles softly, hand cupping your cheek.

“i’m home, my muse.”

silence reigned, before your lips quirked upwards and tears of joy makes your eyes twinkle like the pearls found in watatsumi island.

“welcome home, my ronin.”

#💫 dawn #genshin impact #genshin impact x reader #genshin impact scenarios #genshin inazuma #genshin impact inazuma #genshin impact kazuha #kaedahara kazuha #genshin kazuha x reader #kaedahara kazuha x reader #genshin impact kazuha x reader

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artby-mld · 3 years

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“A Night Together”

(Chilumi)

Summary: Childe and Lumine get caught in a rainstorm and decide to stay at Wangshu Inn for the night and share a room. A room... with one bed.

i posted the AO3 link to this a few days ago but the post seemed to have been shadowbanned (thanks tumblr :’D). so here you go! first chilumi fic :3

☆彡☆彡☆彡☆彡☆彡☆彡☆彡☆彡☆彡☆彡☆

“The sky’s looking pretty dark. Are you sure it isn’t supposed to rain, girlie?”

Lumine turned to see the Harbinger behind her, stopping to look up at the sky. Childe wasn’t wrong. The once clear skies of Liyue were swirling with dark grey clouds, ominous and forewarning. “Paimon told me not to worry about the weather before I went out for commissions. Sure, it was just her gut feeling, but I believe her judgement, you know?”

“Right. Speaking of which, where is your little friend? Does she really not trust me that much still to where she won’t even come along?” Lumine could tell by Childe’s ever-present smirk that he wasn’t really hurt by the idea of her fairy companion not trusting him.

In return, she threw a smirk back at him. “Well, you were the one that almost killed me back at the Golden House.” Childe’s smirk fell, instead averting his gaze over to a sprig of mint growing along the trail. He looks... upset, Lumine thought. “But no, Paimon’s off taste-testing some of Xiangling’s new dishes back in Liyue Harbor. You know how she gets when she hears about food.”

Lumine took out her adventure handbook and flipped to her commissions section. Most of the pages were blank, the others filled front and back with past commissions scribbled down and checked off. “It looks like... we’re helping Hui’an repair the stairs at Wangshu Inn.”

“So no fighting? That’s boring.”

“I’ll have to agree with you on that one.” Lumine closed her handbook and placed it in her bag, then began to lead the way towards Wangshu Inn. No one said a word, the awkward silence being filled in by the sound of footsteps and the swift noise of Childe twirling a hydro dagger between his fingers. Lumine found herself watching him in the corner of her eye. It looked sharp, deadly and dangerous - just like him. It made her think of Childe, even more than she already did. Was Paimon right? Was he really able to be trusted after everything?

And just why was he helping her out of the blue? Didn’t he have Fatui work to deal with? Why did he always find a way to be in her presence? Why did she actually like having him around?

Just as Lumine was going to ask Childe about why he was helping her, a crash of thunder sounded in the distance. A storm’s coming.

“I told you girlie, it’s gonna rain. You should listen to a Hydro user when it comes to storms.”

“Hey! I don’t have to listen to anyone I don’t want to, thank you very-“ Before Lumine could finish her sentence, it began to downpour. She froze still, the cold, hard pattering of rain against her skin surprising her so suddenly.

Childe quickly began unpinning the brooch that held his scarf in place and draped the red fabric over her head and shoulders. “I know it’s not much, I just don’t want you to get sick.” The gesture made Lumine’s face heat up. “Let’s get moving, Wangshu Inn isn’t far from here.”

The two began to run down the muddy trail until the reached the staircase leading to Wangshu Inn. The usual flow of guests had retreated inside as the rain continued to beat down onto the earth. By the time Childe and Lumine reached the lobby’s entryway they were soaked, their hair clinging to their faces.

Lumine spotted Hui’an in the distance and began making her way towards him as quick as possible. Childe looked at her at a loss for words. Is she seriously going to do a commission in this weather?, he wondered to himself. He began to feel amusement towards her determination.

“Hui’an! I’m here to help with the broken staircase. What can I get started on?”

Hui’an turned towards the disheveled young woman. “I’m sorry, traveler, but with the way this storm is coming down I decided to postpone repairs for another day. The rain doesn’t seem to be stopping anytime soon, and probably won’t until tomorrow morning. I suggest you spend a night here in one of the rooms to ensure you’re safe and healthy.”

“But I have a few more commissions-”

“I think you’ve done enough for Liyue to where one night off wouldn’t hurt your reputation. You can talk to Verr over at the reception desk to see if rooms are available.”

Lumine sighed in defeat, nodded her head and walked over to Childe. He perked up when he saw her, a smile forming quickly on his lips.

“Not able to finish your little commissions due to the rain? Such a shame, I was really looking forward to taking care of those Treasure Hunters.”

“Sorry you couldn’t feel the excitement you were looking for.”

“It’s no problem, really. Besides, I have you here, don’t I? I’m fine with anything when I’m with you, pretty girl.” Lumine noticed that Childe’s face was much closer to hers than before. Her cheeks grew pink at their closeness and she started looking away.

“I… We should really talk to Verr over at the reception desk and look for rooms to stay in.”

“You know, we could both save a lot of mora if we just shared a room.”

“And worry about you waking me up in the middle of the night to go fight to the death in the rain? No thank you.”

Childe situated his hands on his hips. “Fine. If you have the mora for your own room, We can part ways and I’ll see you in the morning.”

Lumine’s eyes widened. She’d been running out of mora as of recent thanks to weapon enhancements and Paimon’s insatiable appetite. Slowly, she reached for her coin pouch and opened it up. There were a few coins in the pouch, but not enough to cover a nice room for the night.

The young man in front of Lumine had to stifle a laugh. “Just as I thought. Did Paimon end up eating your mora now, too?”

“She might as well have,” Lumine said with an embarrassed laughter. “Fine, then. Let’s go find a room.” Childe was beaming and took her hand in his, leading them over to the reception desk. Lumine swore her face was as red as Childe’s scarf that was still draped around her.

Verr Goldet looked up at the two from the papers scattered across her desk. “Welcome to Wangshu Inn. How may I help you?”

“We’re looking for a room to stay in for the night.” Lumine looked over her shoulder and saw Childe preoccupied with petting the cat that laid on the end of the desk. She couldn’t help but smile at the sight, but eventually she lightly tugged on his sleeve to have him pay attention.

“Yes, a room… let me check to see what we have available,” Verr said as she dragged her finger across a list of rooms and its occupants. Her finger stopped at one empty slot. “You’re just in luck, we have one more room available.”

Childe and Lumine looked at each other and nodded. “We’ll take it.”

“Okay, a single-bed room would be…”

What?

“A single-bed room?” Lumine felt like she was going to explode in a matter of seconds.

“The only room we have available is on the smaller side and has just one bed. I assumed it wouldn’t be such an issue for a young couple such as yourself.”

WHAT?

“I— we’re not—”

Childe cut her off by handing Verr a good sized pouch of mora. “That’s completely fine with us, isn’t it honey?” Lumine was frozen still. “Here’s everything to cover the cost, you can keep the rest. Good night!” The situation ended faster than Lumine could keep up with. Her mind was spinning. Her and Childe together? As a couple? Sure, she’d admit that the idea has popped up in her dreams one too many times, but that’s all it could ever be. Just a hopeless, made up dream.

Lumine felt Childe once again taking her hand and leading the way up to their room. Archons, that’s probably why she believed we were together, she thought. She looked down at their hands. She never paid attention to it until now, but his gloves were off after being soaked in the rain. Lumine was surprised at how soft his hand felt around hers, with the exception of a small scar or two. She began laughing at herself in her head. Something as minuscule as how well their hands felt together set her heart aflame. But it made her wonder. Why would Childe go along with the idea that they’re together?

By the time Lumine snapped out of her thoughts, they had reached the door to their room. Childe fiddled with the key for a second before the door opened. Verr was right about the room being small, but nonetheless it was still nicely furnished and had anything they needed for a quick stay. A functional bathroom, a window showcasing Wangshu’s beautiful view of the land, and of course… the single bed. It was definitely big enough for two people, with a good amount of soft pillows and a plush comforter for warmth.

Lumine’s chest began to gain that warm, fluttery feeling again. She eyed the chair in the corner of the room. “I can sleep in that chair for the night.”

“What? No, absolutely not. There’s enough room for the both of us on that bed.” Childe locked the door behind them and walked over to the window to look out at the rain. “If you don’t get warmed up you could get sick from being in that weather for as long as we were.”

“I know but… us together is just—”

“Lumine. It’s just a bed, and we’re just sleeping. It’s not like we’re gonna be making out all night.” The serious face Childe wore disappeared. Lumine could practically see the gears turning in his head as a smirk formed. “Unless that’s what you want.”

Lumine choked on her spit. She’ll also admit that with the dreams about them being a couple, that has popped into her mind once or twice. “… No.”

“You hesistated~”

“I said no!”

Childe laughed, raising his hands up in surrender. “Alright, girlie, alright, I’ll stop. But I’m serious about the first part. Just stay here with me and if it makes you so embarrassed, we won’t talk about it ever again after tonight.” Lumine picked up on a tinge of disappointment in his voice as he continued to speak. Why was this man confusing her so much?

“Okay.”

Childe looked her up and down. “Do you have a change of clothes? You’re still soaked.”

“I… don’t. I usually just camp outside, I pack light.”

“I think that’s a little less than packing light. You literally have nothing on you besides a sword and an Adventurer’s Handbook. Here, hold on.” He began unbuttoning his jacket, slipping it off with ease. “As a Hydro user myself, I made sure my clothes have good water resistance. This should be dry,” motioning towards the deep red undershirt he wore.

Childe’s shirt became unbuttoned and he took it off, handing it to her. Oh gods. “It might be a bit big on you, but it’ll be a lot more comfortable than a soaking wet traveling outfit.” Lumine tries so hard to keep looking into his eyes and not look down at his bare skin, littered with battle scars and toned well…

He’s trying to hold back a laugh. Does he find it funny that he’s going to be the death of me?, Lumine thought. Without a word, she took his shirt and made her way to the bathroom.

The shirt was indeed way too big for Lumine. The small slit in the bottom that usually showed off Childe’s Vision had rested at the middle of her thigh. She kept her own undershirt and shorts on; even when buttoning up there was too much visible for her comfort. Lumine looked into a mirror. She was drowning in the fabric, but it felt perfect. It smelt good, too — like clean, fresh water, warm spices and a hint of cologne.

When Lumine walked out to their room, she noticed Childe was already sitting up under the covers on his side. He looked up at her, mouth slightly open.

“What?”

He shook himself out of a daze. “Nothing. That color red just looks well on you, that’s all.” He smiled and patted the spot next to him. Hesitantly, Lumine pulled the covers over her, gently laying down on her side. Soon enough, Childe laid down on his side, propping his head up in the palm of his hand. “See? Isn’t this much warmer than sleeping in a chair?”

Lumine nodded. “Thanks for the shirt.”

“It’s all good. What friend would I be if I didn’t make sure you felt okay?”

Friend. That word made Lumine tense up a little, her mind going back to the thousands of questions she wanted to ask Childe earlier. “Can I ask you something?”

“Anything you’d like to, Lumine.” The way her name sounded softly in his voice sent shivers down her spine. He seemed to like the way it sounded, too, as a genuine smile formed quickly after he was done talking.

“Why have you been so nice to me? How is it that you’ve somehow found your way into everything I do?”

Childe paused for a good second, looking up to the ceiling as he thought to himself. “Well for starters, I want to repay you as much as I can for helping me with Teucer a few months ago. I know he can be a handful, as most kids can be, but he loved spending time with you back in Liyue Harbor. He still asks about if you’re doing well when Tonia and him write letters to me.” He smiled. “Thanks to you going along with my act, he still looks up to me. And that’s something I hope he’s able to do for many more years.”

He looked like he wanted to say more, but struggled within himself. Lumine gave him another question that she’d been struggling to ask herself. “Why did you pretend that we’re a couple tonight?”

Childe laughed lightly. “There wasn’t much to it, really, I just enjoy going along with someone’s ideas. There’s no harm into playing along, I’m sure you know that.” He paused for a moment again, expressing an emotion so foreign for the young man that it took a while for Lumine to realize it was nervousness. “There’s… also the fact that I feel… drawn to you.”

The fluttering came back into Lumine’s chest. “Whenever I hear you’re around, I can’t stop myself from wanting to find you. I find myself wanting to talk to you constantly, Archons, even just seeing you is enough sometimes. Ever since our fight at the Golden House, I’ve felt different. No one’s ever beaten me the way that you did, Lumi. I know I already said I’m not the same man as I used to be, but I really meant it. You’re really one of a kind.” Their gazes locked with each other’s, deep oceans meeting Cor Lapis. Lumine swore she saw a sparkle return to Childe’s eyes.

The Harbinger laughed at himself. “Look at what you’ve done to me; you turned one of the most dangerous people in Teyvat into a complete sap.” He laid down on his back, staring at the ceiling once more. “It’s not like anything could work between us. You’re a hero in the people’s eyes. I have far too much blood on my hands to clean off. I care about you yet I’ve been the reason you’ve almost died.” His words are turning into mumbles as he continued to speak.

Is he…? As if on cue, a clap of thunder boomed outside as Lumine realized how he felt.

Lumine wasn’t sure how it washed over her but she found herself pulling Childe up into a tight hug. His arms were frozen in mid-air around her out of shock, but soon after they found his way around her. Lumine’s own hands rested on his back and tangled in his hair, which Childe seemed to be melting into.

“You care about me?”

“Lumi, I— It would never work—”

She pulled back slightly to look him in the eye. For once in the short time that Lumine knew him, he didn’t look confident at all.

“Forget how people view the both of us. Forget the Fatui, our titles, forget everything. You care about me and I… I do too.”

A radiant smile appeared on Childe’s face. “Well, would you look at that. If you kept saying anything else, I may have thought you’ve completely fallen in love with me.”

A blush scattered across Lumine’s face. “I think you’ve said enough to where I can make my own assumptions on how you feel.”

“Is that so?” Childe’s grip on Lumine’s waist tightened slightly as he shimmied down onto his back, Lumine following suit. He held her close to his chest as she snuggled in. “You’re really something else.”

Lumine could barely register the feather-light kiss he placed on the top of her head as they fell asleep to the sound of the pouring rain.

☆彡☆彡☆彡☆彡☆彡☆彡☆彡☆彡☆彡☆彡☆

in conclusion they’re in love your honor-

i hope you enjoyed! ∩^ω^∩ and i hope to be writing more for these two in the near future :0

#i have chilumi brainrot #i need some milk #they’re too fckcin adORABLE #my fic #genshin impact #chilumi #childe x lumine #lumine x childe #childe #tartaglia #lumine

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thatphatoven · 3 years

Text

At the Beginning

Diluc x Fem! Reader; Anastasia inspired Au

The lost Princess of Fontaine, with vague memories, journeys back to her homeland with the darknight hero trying to discover her past.

Chapter one

AN; This series will set place when Diluc leaves the dawn winery after his dad's death. I apologize if the information is inaccurate or the characters are out of their personality. Also, I used google for translation for some French, so if anyone wants to correct me, feel free.

Word Count; 2,488

Unedited

Like a mystery, the night held infinite uncertainty. The blanket of stars provided the comfort of light to bystanders bustling in the streets. Boisterous waves of laughter mingled with the notes of the viola, while at the same time, the patter of feet dances amongst the cobbled pavement as constant jeers chant words of ambition.

A short and stout plump man clambers on the wooden bar table, raising his pint of beer. "Vive la Fontaine!" He bawls. The swarm of drunkards mimics his gesture, laughably heaving their beers. Everyone adores the late-night festivities of celebrations. Conspicuously for a certain Princesse. All classes of the hierarchy were divulging on her 10th birthday. The common folk paraded in the streets, as the aristocrats partake in the Château. One devotee perched away from the horde, gripping his pint considerably tight. Resentment filled this man to the brim. His eyebrows creased at the carefree atmosphere while his teeth clenched vigorously. His unsettlingly deep brown eyes leered at the ripples of his beer. The Tavener in duty glanced at him, wary of his movements. "Are you not enjoying the night, Monsieur?" he questioned. The cloaked man remained mute, desire to be alone with his brooding. Having enough of the repulsive atmosphere, he pushed the tankard towards the barkeep while fishing out a couple of mora before slamming it against the hard surface.

The barkeep raised a brow at the mug, filled to the brim untouched. "What a waste," he thought, his pupils trailed on that particular individual crashing into other patrons, not until he reached the knob of the entry, but only to slam it vigorously. Not one person wavered at his little act but happily drank more to feeding their drunken state. Outside the Tavern, least people loiter around the city streets. Only the occasional hidden couple is kissing in a dim alleyway as some hasten their journey back to their cozy homes.

Fog swarm the night while the chilly air nipped his skin. In a straight line, rows of oil lamps lit up the murky mist. He begins his stride of pace out of the precinct, and after turning and turning, this section of the city became less active. Only sealed up windows and abandon property lived here. He was passing an unkempt park, with rust and weed growing on the deteriorating swing set. There assigned next to it was where the citizens worship their God. A once tall, beautiful structure is now a decaying building with the statues nation archon, sat in the middle of the courtyard as vines grew on the idol. The wind whistled loudly, fabricating a frightening aura to his personality. Trudging up the cathedral's steps, he swiftly entered the church, in the process of ramming the heavy entree.

Crash.

Shards of a porcelain marble bowl were scattered on the flooring. The heel of his leather shoe crunched against the broken pieces as he stationed himself in front of the altar. Pope Marquis Puissant. A once righteous man was loyal to Fontaine's God, now castaway for betraying the regality and abandonment of faith. A wicked man, they call him. Instead of the common holy word of the Archon, he was preaching of Ursa the Drake. A draconic creature that wasn't a God. That dragon, though it held an intense amount of power, enrapturing his attention. The local faithful became weary of his sudden turn on his faith which his reputation took a turn. Fewer attended the mass and begged the crown to disown him as a Pope. It was a late Sunday morning when the priesthood strips his power as a Vicar. In a rage, he stormed the Palace ground. "You're all nothing but halfwits blinded by power!" pointing at each, and of them, he cursed words of unpleasantries. "You wait, like this poor country excuse of a God, justice will be served."

Ever since then, he took shelter in a deserted church. Where there in the middle of the stone tablet laid a delusion. The Tsaritsa must have pitted the vengeful man, even if he's not part of the fatui. He will gladly serve two Gods. Now on the night of the beloved nation princess, Marquis will commence his revenge scheme, starting on the birthday girl.

"Higher Papa!" a giggle of chortle escape the young girl's lips. The man twirling her oblige, raising her higher in the air to the beat of the ensemble's melody. The puffy maroon gown fitted around her petite body, while the style of her long white hair swayed with every movement. The (e/c) pierced her fathers, carrying mirth of cheekiness. Sitting on the throne mirrored with the same features of the Princess sat a kind queen, with soft eyes smiling at the ridiculous scene of her daughter's ambitions. "Look at my beautiful Granddaughter." grey-haired, tied in a tight bun with a crown, sat snugly on her head. The Grand-mère watched the ballroom flock in high spirit. However, it was the girl that danced with her Father that held all that energy. "Have the Ragnvindr's arrive yet?" she questioned, looking at her daughter. "Not that I'm aware of Mother, but you should stop inquiring for rare alcohol from Master Crepus." "It's not my fault that the family makes splendid wine" The elderly woman hid her smile behind her gloved hand. "Besides, it's the offspring I'm after," they watched (y/n) grinned at her son-in-law, ruffling the girl's hair. "A charming man, with a charming boy. Don't you agree?" The queen let out a sigh at her Mother's antics.

"Grand-mère!" a small cheer escape (y/n). Pulling the layers of cloth, she began to hurry to the pair leaving her Father on the dance floor. Spreading her arms, the elderly accepted her hug and began smothering with small kisses on her round cheeks; her granddaughter laughed. "Look at you, my little lumière. All grown up," she squished her cheeks together, holding tenderness behind her blue eyes. "Now that I'm ten, you're going to teach me how to play poker! Right?" Tiptoeing closer to her, she held the throne seat, giddy of the thought. Her Mother stared at the child and Grandmother in disbelief. Chuckling nervously, she patted her hair. "Maybe wait until you're coming of age." (Y/N) pouted at her answer, leaving her explanation unreasonable. "But I do have a little gift for you instead." Grabbing the tiny Princess's palm, placing a red leather ring box. In a rush, the child swiftly opened the present. A gasp emitted from her. "Oh, Grand-mère! It's beautiful!" (Y/N) cried. A simple golden chain sat in the cushion, with the same colored ore boldly gleaming in the middle. "Together in Fontaine," reading out loud as she deciphers the cursive writing. The two grinned at each other as her Grandmother help put the necklace together around her. "When you wear this, think of an old woman who loves you very, very much." (Y/N) nodded at her words, directing her attention to the lockets words—hugging her once more.

"Your majesty," a rich and velvety tone interrupts the tranquility. "Master Crepus," the aging regal announced. A tall, aristocratic gentleman with charm greeted the family. His attire consisted of a simple charcoal black two-piece suit, and the tie he was sporting matched his fiery red hair. A handsome man he was. "Finally declaring your arrival, it seems." she teased. (Y/N) gape at the lord, intimidated by his scarlet hooded eyes. "Apologies, I was struggling to convince my son to attend the party." Crepus sighed. "Is this the boy you took in? Kaeya was it?" The ensemble's melody began a new tune as she glanced at her associate.

“attentive as ever, your majesty." The older woman smirk at his reply, "when you reached a certain age, you recall every little detail." He let out a deep laugh only after he shakes his head. "Diluc was the one who managed to drag him." "Ah, the little Crepus did it?" "Indeed, he promised that he wouldn't abandon him during the party." Their eyes trailed over to a smaller version of the man, who was currently dragging a bashful blue-haired boy across the room. "That little ball of light does have his ways."

(Y/N) fidget on her spot, feeling increasingly uninterested in the adult's discussions. Aware of her actions, Crepus near the girl and kneeled. "Happy Birthday, your highness." Only to pass his present for her. She lightened up at the gift and hugged it."Thank you, my lord." she smiled at his action while showing a missing tooth in the middle of her teeth. "You must be bored just listening to us old people talk," he spoke. Standing straight, he called to the pair of boys. The bubbly red-haired boy was the first to respond, pulling his brother behind him. The Grand-mère scanned Crepus prized possessions; the boy replenish with enthusiasm did take after his Father. The same color hair, all down to his features. While his adopted brother next to him possessed blue hair and sapphire eyes. Though it was the eyepatch that caught her attention, she raised a brow but didn't question. It was like comparing them to the sun and moon.

"Your highness," The boy greeted as his brother mimic his actions muttering the same sentence. "This is Diluc and Kaeya" Crepus put both of his hands on both children's shoulders. (Y/N) looked at them with awe; she has never come across with blazing hot and cold calm hair. She ponders wanting those colors rather than her dull white hair. "It is an honor to be in your presence," Diluc address. "My, what a sophisticated son you raised." The women applaud. "That's Diluc for you." The group laughs at the small tease. The bold child reached the girl and stared. Uneasy, she dug her hands into the gown, afraid to look at Diluc. "You have pretty eyes," he said, still gazing. (Y/N) blushed at his compliment. "I like you and your brother's hair!" she returned—Kaeya observes behind his adoptive Father's legs, envious of his brother's daring personality. As the two new friends converse, he felt the older man nudge him towards the pair. "Don't be shy now, Kaeya."

As Kaeya approach the Princess and his brother, the girl let out a gasp. "Your eyes have stars!" she inspected closer, now flusters with her bold move. She kept rambling on waves of compliments towards Kaeya. Diluc giggled at the discomposed Kaeya and band in with more teasing. The child lifts his dark hands in defense, trying to calm them. Maybe it was better to stay back at the lodge.

"What's under your eyepatch?"

Kaeya stiffens at her direct question. All of a sudden, the air thickens, and the ambiance of unsettlement quickly replaces the mood. "(Y/N)," her grandmother warns. At once, she felt guilty at her grandmother's tone and the dismal Kaeya. "It's nothing," he whispers. The reflection of his face that the marble flooring held became more interesting. "I'm sorry." tears gathered at the corner of her eyes. She feverishly struggles to hold back the tears, surprising the two boys. "Ah, Princess, don't cry," Diluc reassures, hastily stop her tears with his tie. "But I made him sad! What PrincessPrincess does that to her people!!" Shutting her vision, and her gloves gripped tightly, feeling the harsh material. Diluc looked at both disheartened children; at that moment, he suddenly felt restless. "It's alright, Kaeya doesn't mind that question, right?" looking at his brother for support, he nodded at his words. Then softly smiling at her.

"Don't worry," he whispered.

The girl gape at him then mirrored his smile. Childish laughter once again replaces their sadness. "Princess, even though we live in another nation, the Ragnvindr's will always aid you," Crepus informed. "Yes! Kaeya and I will be your royal knights when you visit Mondstadt." Diluc hooked his arm under Kaeya while puffing his chest proudly. (Y/N) clapped her hands at his proclamation, "But Diluc were not knights yet." his older brother stiffen. "Maybe wait in five years."

The night crowd with freedom. Not one complained or did the fun died down. The triplex of kids, hanging around each other, and befit on being close friends. This night was the most fun the little Princess had as she watches Diluc tease Kaeya again. However, the night holds infinite uncertainty.

An instant gasp and the shatter of a wine glass caused a halt in the ballroom. The music ceased as a gust of wind expelled the chandelier candles. The cloaked man sauntered his way past the frightened crowd, clapping his hand in slow motion. He let out a deep laugh, approaching the family that strips away his power. "How dare you return to the palace!" The king spoke brashly, pushing his daughter behind. (Y/N) shook in fear, watching the mad man plastered a demented smile at her. "But I'm your confidant," he exclaimed. "Confidant? Ha! You are a traitor to Fontaine!" "Get out!"

"You think you can banish me? Pope Marquis Puissant!" he steps closer to him, hiding his delusion in his cloak. As (Y/n) was watching, she felt a slight tug pulling away from them. Diluc stood in front of her, furrowing his small brow. "By the holy power given by the Tsaritsa and Ursa, I'll banish you and your family with a curse!" The chamber gasp at his comment. "Mark my word I will not rest until I see the end of the Rousseau!" Bring out his power; he directed his attack toward the king. A shriek was let out from the queen as he shut his eye tightly, anticipating the attack.

"(Y/N)!"

The Grand-mère cried, flinging herself out of her throne. All eyes direct their attention towards Diluc; he didn't feel the girl's hand. Turning around, she was gone. "What did you do to my daughter!" Her Father roared. Marquis laughed and grinned, not saying a word. "Guards, get him!" he ordered to the once holy man. Laughing again, more mist gathered quickly in the ballroom; as the guard's closed onto him, fire circled his figure, preventing them from entering. The blaze grew quicker; Crepus felt Kaeya stiffen in his arm, watching the delusion in Marquis's hand. The windows exploded in one motion, making the room more in a frenzy while the wind blew harsher. Diluc, in rage, ran towards him. "Diluc, no!" Crepus warned, however, as he passed the flames and mist, he was gone.

The only ashes and embers replace his spot. Marquis was far gone, along with the Princess. "Quickly close all the borders! I don't want anyone leaving Fontaine!" The distraught Father ordered. " I want every house to be searched, every church, alleyway and caves checked!" "Whatever you do, find the Princess and Marquis!". Tears of despair escape the Mother and Grandmother crying for the kidnapped daughter. Diluc silently stood there watching the embers die down.

The once festive night took a turn into a nightmare.

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akachaan · 3 years

Text

the golden-winged king [xiao]

genre: angst

warnings: death, blood

notes: pls im so proud of this writing BYE

The gentle chirps of birds graced Xiao’s ears. He recognized this as a melody of nature, the sunlight cascading a loving warmth onto his pale skin. Lush and rich grass blew in the breeze, one of the few somethings that Xiao actually appreciated from the Wind Archon. He chuckled breathlessly, a feeling of lighthearted mischief settling upon him. Xiao imagined how Venti would pout and scold him for his unbearably disrespect remarks, as he liked to call them. The grass entwined itself into his gloved hand like a silky ribbon. The light, fluffy clouds passed by, drifting away like dandelion seeds floating in the winds.

Xiao’s legs began to ache— the reason unknown —so he’d sat himself down, assuming he’d been basking in the beauty of the flower field for much too long. Ah, flowers. He’d almost forgotten just how intricately designed they were. Well, as a Guardian Yaksha, there’s only so much you can stop and admire. What were the names of these? The petals were pale blue from the bottom fading into a remarkable teal color, four pastel purple strands sprawling out from the top.

Glaze lilies, he recalled. These flowers only bloom once sung to, yes? He remembers this from a certain... human. He smiles fondly at the thought of them. “Xiao, Xiao!” A familiar and soft voice called. Speak of the devil.

Xiao turned to them, and his breath was caught in his throat. It’s like time slowed down, just for them. Just for him. He took a deep breath, his eyes softening, showing vulnerability he’d been hiding for a millennia. Your shining, soft locks framed your face, [c] eyes shining with love and purity. Xiao had seen skies like an ethereal dream, twinkling like sparklers trapped in the deep cerulean sky... But none of those galaxies and any to come would even compare to your radiant image. You were an angel sent from heaven, one to remind him what life can truly bring upon humanity; people like you.

You were like his little secret of sorts. Not a secret of the world. Anyone could meet or find [Name]. He knew anyone could come and sweep you away from him— though he doesn’t enjoy thinking of such ideas —he knew. It could happen. But, he also knew, and he trusted that you wouldn’t truly leave him, after all they’ve been through. He knew that you confined in him just as he did you, he felt like he was finally certain in his eternity of suffering and emptiness. Days that went by where he felt as if he were just existing. He was not living, he never was. Xiao was simply a guardian, assigned to protect Liyue until he drops dead from exhaustion. He was existing as The Guardian Yaksha, Conquerer of Demons.

But with you, he was not any of those. He was not just existing, watching over a nation til his last breath. Your presence alone made him feel warm. Him feeling was already an achievement in itself, after all these years as standing on the sidelines, secluded; no matter how close to Liyue he physically was, he felt so different and disconnected from his people. He’d only be remembered as tale to be told. The way that you made him feel. Not only have you made him feel, you’ve made him feel warm. A ‘warmth’ that he wishes to bask in for the rest of his existence. Warmth. Xiao knew this wasn’t the word to describe how he truly felt. By definition, yes, Xiao admits, albeit hesitantly. But he couldn’t help but feel it was so much deeper than that. You made him feel a warmth that burned his insides. The feeling had words caught in his throat, he often struggled to form a single coherent sentence when you eyes twinkled with a joy he can’t quite grasp. It made him stutter, the way you looked so blissed and euphoric in his company. He loved it. He loved how the butterflies in his stomach never seized, fluttering and flying with each second. His heart raced like a tiger running after its prey, running at miles per minute. He felt so human. So alive. So loved, and he’s finally experienced what it’s like to love. He never wanted it to end.

You laid yourself onto the luxuriant meadow of nature, the blades of green tickling at your cheek. The sun caressed your skin like a mother would her child, giving you an angelic-like glow. Your eyes had drew closed as you listened to what was around you. Distant animals chirping and buzzing filled your ears along with the synchronized breathing of you and the boy next to you. You smiled, your heart thumping against your chest as savored the peace of this moment.

Xiao turned his head to admire the gift the Archons had given him. He saw how amicable this whole ordeal was and how much you were enjoying it. It wasn’t everyday the two of you had the time to lay down and appreciate each other and what the Earth truly had to offer, though I’m sure that’s been made clear. The soft whisper of his name felt like a melody being sang to him, and he couldn’t help but smile.

Another sweet murmur of his name was called. And another. And another. Xiao grew worried. With every purr of his name, he could hear desperation and panic in your tone. That alone had him sick to his stomach. He sat up, his eyes now greeted with an all-too-familiar setting.

The sky was dark with stormy clouds, rain thundering heavily onto the bloodstained ground. The air was no longer crisp and clean but instead reeked of the metallic scent of blood and sweat. He could almost taste the blood on his lips. Xiao looked at his hands, dirtied and course with dried ichor. What was once his peaceful escape of serendipity was now a horrid sight of what he used to be. The murderous machine of what he promised himself to cast away since The Archon War. Screams of retreat, pain, defeat and victory mixed in his head, which was now throbbing from the sudden change in scenery. Why was he here?

More importantly, where were you?

“Xiao... Thank god you’re alive.” Your broken voice chuckled, growing dryer in the passing seconds. His head snapped to you, who was laying on the floor, absolutely beaten up. His heart ached at the sight, and he reached to gently cup your face, as if one wrong move could completely shatter you. You gasped for air before continuing, “I knew you would survive. There’s,” You paused to cough harshly, your body crumbling as the cough was let out, “no way the Xiao I know would loose to anyone.” He pulled you closer to his lap, panic and adrenaline coursing through his veins. He knew there was nothing he could do. But he still tried. He still tried to grasp onto what little hope he had left; it was all happening too quickly.

“Hang on. I’ve got you, okay?” He choked out after the initial shock. The time you have left and the time he would be able to get you proper medical attention were so obviously not in his favor. He picked you up, carrying you on his back. And he just ran. His legs moved like he was going to die if he didn’t hurry. Quite frankly, he would most definitely die emotionally. Xiao couldn’t loose you. Not now, not ever. He wanted to live with you until your died of old age, peacefully where you could’ve smiled on your deathbed. He remembers how you used to get mad at him for carrying you like this. The way your cheeks heated up and you buried your face into his neck always got a goofy smile on his face. But now, you were clinging onto his back as best you could— though it was a loose grip, you used what energy you had left in you to let him know you were still there with him.

But soon, too soon, you wouldn’t be, and you both knew it. “Xiao,” you called weakly.

“I said hang on. I’ll get you medical help soon. Please, keep your eyes open. You still have time.”

“Xiao...”

“You can’t leave me like this. I swore to hold you and protect you and love you for the rest of my life. Out of the many promise I’ve broken I can’t... I can’t break this one.”

“Xiao, listen...” The utter amount of suffering in your voice tore him apart more than the searing pains in his limbs. He knew he wouldn’t be able to make it in time no matter how fast he ran. So he obliged to your request and set you in his lap once again. He stared at your face, covered in dirt and scars. Yet you still looked at beautiful as ever.

“Please. Don’t go. I won’t know what to do without you.”

“I’m always here with you even if...” You trailed off, both from the lack of oxygen you had and the discomfort of finishing your own sentence. You felt tears brimming in your eyes, as you saw Xiao in such a vulnerable and tormented state. “Xiao...”

He caressed your face like a mother would her child. The sting of his heart drowned any physical injuries he had. Nothing would hurt more than the thought of losing you. The grass scratched at your cheek, and you winced at the feeling. Xiao tucked a hair strand behind your ear. As he leaned down to press his forehead against yours.

“Xiao... You are and forever will be my Golden-Winged King.”

And that was when the tears spilled. Your body went cold and limp in his own very hands, your eyes that shone with love and purity where now dark and lifeless. The smile that lit up his world was gone; replaced with a face of sorrow eternally etched onto your features. Xiao wondered. Death was a pitiful punishment, yet somehow so enchanting. You still looked as heavenly as ever. It was only then the pain of truly losing you settled in. You were never going to grace his ears with your melodic voice. You were never going to grace his eyes with your smile. You were never going to grace his senses with your adoring hugs.

You were never to grace his life again.

The Golden-Winged King had a fall from grace, just as you did in his own very arms.

#genshin #Genshin impact #genshin xiao #genshin impact xiao #genshin Xiao x reader #genshin impact Xiao x reader #xiao x reader #genshin imagine #genshin impact imagine #genshin X reader #genshin impact x reader #genshin impact Xiao imagine #genshin Xiao imagine

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xiaomomowrites · 3 years

Text

zhongli, come down

Genshin Impact | TartaLi/ZhongChi

Summary: “When I’m with you, I feel happy,” his eyes are fixated on the ceiling as he speaks. Childe, on the other hand, can’t look anywhere but at him. And although he speaks of his happiness, there are deep waves of sorrow rolling off of him. Zhongli’s makeup had washed off when he took a steaming shower, leaving Tartaglia to see the dark circles under his eyes and the faint wrinkles underneath. The light in his eyes had dulled without the bold presence of his usual red eyeliner, and it seemed as though his face appeared more sunken in when the light hit him at a certain angle.

Childe’s heart pangs in his chest. Sometimes, his husband really looks his age.

Or, Zhongli and Childe visit Snezhnaya, but there’s a certain adeptus on Zhongli’s mind.

Find it on Ao3!

WARNING: this fic contains mentions of death/minor character death. Read at your own risk!

This part takes place between act V and act VI, which is still in the works~

A/N: I had meant to get this out earlier, but I live in Texas so we’ve been having sporadic power outages for the past three or four days. I had spotty connection and it was freezing in my house so this ended up a little delayed! Plus, act VI really just doesn’t wanna be written :( I want it to be perfect before I post it though, I don’t wanna give y’all mediocre Tartali food lol. But I hope you all enjoy, I’ll be adding a little message at the end if you’re interested, so stay tuned. -u.n.

Zhongli felt another full-body shiver rack through him when the wind whistled by again ruthlessly. Archaic divinity and equity aside, he wanted nothing more but to spit and curse the harsh ice beneath his feet. He had all but lost feeling in his fingers and toes as he stood still in the snow, waiting for Childe to finish grabbing them coffee. The Harbinger had offered the drink out of the kindness of his heart when he had seen how badly Zhongli was shivering, as if they hadn’t come here together before. Zhongli accepted the coffee with enthusiasm, knowing it makes Childe happy when he accepts his gifts.

He found himself at the doorstep of Snezhnaya with Childe, visiting his family for the year as they did each November. Unfortunately, November through February seemed to be the harshest that the winters got. The weather would breach zero degrees and drop past negative ten, the wind would lash furiously past parkas and scarves and mittens and kiss bare skin. And Zhongli, in all his divine beauty, would miss the warm summer nights of Liyue so much that he needed to remind himself of how much he loved his husband just to agree to get on the train with him.

Childe, his darling ginger, simply hummed alongside him and tucked Zhongli’s arm beneath his own to keep him from slipping on the ice. His time in Liyue had not shaken his immunity to the cold at all. His other hand sipped at the warm coffee encapsulated in green cardboard, humming a happy noise from the back of his throat. Even if it was a one time occurrence years ago that ended with minor bruising along the ex-Archon’s back, Childe never let him live the moment down and swore to hold onto him every second they found themselves in his hometown. Zhongli had insisted that he need not pace himself just to walk alongside an old man like him, but he had just pinched his cheeks, kissed his nose, and reminded him that he wasn’t that old.

“You’ve got that sexy rich-middle-aged-man thing going on for you. Except, all your money comes from me, and you’re actually six thousand years old,” Tartaglia had told him then, beaming up at him so brightly it made Zhongli blink.

Soon enough, Zhongli finds himself at his in-law’s residence. He takes a deep breath, preparing for the onslaught of Childe’s siblings enthusiasm, and waits for Childe to knock. The Harbinger grins at his anticipation and raps his knuckles against the comforting wood. Not even a beat later and the oak swings open, revealing Teucer, Tonia, and Anthon. They’ve all gotten so big since he last saw them, watching them grow fills the ex-Archon with pride. Zhongli finds himself smiling, squeezing Childe’s hand partially because he’s overwhelmed with joy, and also so he doesn’t slip and fall on his ass too hard when he’s tackled.

Seconds later he finds himself with an armful of red headed siblings. He stumbles, but thankfully Childe’s there to steady him upright. Zhongli squeezes his hand again in thanks.

“Mr. Zhongli!” One of them screeches in his ear, “You’re back! Do you have any presents for us?”

“Mr. Zhongli!” Another one yells, “did you bring me a new book?”

Luckily, Tartaglia’s mother begins barking at her children to reign them back inside and to ‘leave the nice man alone’, so that he has time to readjust and step inside the warmth of their cozy abode. Zhongli smiles, cheeks red and ears redder, and bows as deep as he can.

“Thank you for having me,” the honey-like voice glides against the wooden walls like it belongs there, “it is a pleasure to see you all again.”

“Oh stop,” his mother-in-law gushes, “we’ve seen you every year for years now, honey, drop the formalities!” she waves him off while pulling her own son into a bone crushing hug. “And it’s good to see you too, hun.”

“Hi mom,” Childe responds sheepishly, careful not to squeeze her too hard, lest her back start cracking again. He raises a hand to cradle the back of her head with a fondness reserved only for her. “Where’s dad?”

The question hangs above their heads heavily. A beat of silence passes before she smiles warily and squeezes her son’s cheeks. “He’s at the fireplace, Ajax.”

Childe nods, and eyes the urn sitting high above the crackling fireplace. It’s a beautiful marble urn that Tartaglia paid for in full, with a single ruby gem nestled right beside his father’s name. Even in this state, his father has the largest presence in the house. It is a presence even Zhongli can acknowledge and respect. The thought pushes Zhongli to squeeze his hand and mutter, “Go?”

Tartaglia nods, and swallows hard. Zhongli urges him forward carefully with a gloved hand against the small of his back. His mother watches him go along with sullen and somber eyes. And it is only when Childe is stationed in front of the fire, a single gloved hand covering his mouth, when Zhongli breaks the silence.

“So,” Zhongli begins, turning to his in-law. “The last time we spoke, you promised me a recipe for that delicious meal you served us last year. Were you able to hold up your end of the contract?”

The red-headed woman beams up at him and grabs at his hands. Her hands are so small, so soft and delicate, Zhongli wishes nothing more but to protect this family with his life. And well, that makes two of them.

“Of course, dear,” she says excitedly, “come with me.”

The next hour or so consisted of Zhongli patiently waiting in the kitchen while his mother-in-law bustled around, excitedly explaining the process of dough rolling, frying, meat filling, and then frying again. Zhongli watched with fascination, always one to appreciate cultures from all around the world. He hummed and nodded in confirmation every once in a while when she would turn to him, asking him if he understood, and he smiled.

Tartaglia came padding into the kitchen later, eyes slightly red and puffy, and Zhongli didn’t need to ask if something was wrong to understand what was going on. He knew all too well of his feelings of conflict toward his father in the past. Now that the man himself was gone, Zhongli could only imagine the things Childe was feeling at the moment.

Zhongli never exactly had a family to grieve, anyway. As far as he knew, all the family he had was in this very house alone.

And Xiao, the voice in his head whispered, snapping him out of his reverie. Zhongli blinked the voice away. Now was not the time.

“Talking behind my back, Xiansheng?” Childe teases, coming up behind him to snake his arms around his waist. “That’s not very husband-like of you, you know.”

“Yes, yes,” Zhongli played along, “your mother and I were just discussing how unruly you are in the morning, and how you leave wet towels on the floor after you shower. Truly a horrendous habit, Tartaglia.”

The ginger pouts over his shoulder and leans in to bite his cheek, reveling in the way Zhongli squeezes one eye shut in a faux flinch. He quickly kisses the flesh he sunk his teeth into and settles back against his husband.

“Smells good, mom.”

“It always smells good, Ajax,” she tuts, waving her spoon in his face, “what do you think of your mother, huh?”

“Why am I being attacked,” Tartaglia pouts, the end of the sentence lilting upward in a whine. Zhongli clicks his tongue at his behavior and pats his head reassuringly.

“The food will be ready soon,” he reassures, “besides, she was just telling me all about a soup that I must try my hand at next year.”

Tartaglia groans dramatically and leans all his weight against Zhongli in response.

—

Night falls, and Childe finds himself lighting the fireplace in the room they stay in upstairs, letting the flames embrace the room in an auburn glow. His siblings are tucked in and finally quiet after Zhongli’s endless stories of Liyue. His mother had turned in an hour earlier after smothering the two in kisses, and the couple had stayed in the kitchen for a bit sipping wine and conversing in the moonlight. After downing a good amount and feeling a light buzz through their systems, they called it a night and headed upstairs, pinkies linked as always.

But Zhongli was off during the entire conversation. It may have seemed like he was himself to an outsider, but Tartaglia knew better. He knew when his husband was somewhere else. He had seen it too many times before.

So later, when Zhongli finds himself sitting on their windowsill rather melancholic, watching the snow fall, Childe regards him with a careful stare. The ex-Archon eyes the way the snow falls so tenderly yet so purposefully, as if they all held a secret that even an ancient being like him didn’t understand. He shivers at the cold that seeps in through the windows and kisses his fingertips where they meet the glass, and cradles his hand back to his chest slowly.

“Zhongli,” Childe calls. The said man turns from the window, eyes bright and oddly wet. Oh, Childe knows that look. “C’mere,” he beckons. Zhongli obeys and pads over to where his husband is situated on their bed. He crawls onto the mattress next to him and slumps against the headboard, still deep in his thoughts.

The Harbinger looks at him with concern and squirms over to where Zhongli sits. He uses his chest as a pillow, wrapping his arms around a lithe waist and tucking his nose in the crook of his neck. He breathes deeply the mature scent of silk flowers and feels his heart thump happily in his chest. Childe stays quiet for a moment, and allows himself to focus on the rise and fall of his sturdy chest. Zhongli runs the length of his palm up and down Tartaglia’s side as he ponders.

Childe decides to break the silence before he falls asleep. “What’s wrong?” he asks quietly, voice barely above a whisper. Zhongli’s hand comes up to his hair and scratches at his scalp the way he knows Childe likes it.

“Nothing. I am just… thinking.” His voice trails off pensively.

“Hmm. As usual,” he hums, “what about?” Childe prods gently, knowing there’s a fifty-fifty chance his husband will indulge him.

He’s quiet for a moment. Far too quiet. Childe wonders if he should drop the subject.

“Xiao, actually,” he says suddenly. “I am thinking of Xiao.”

“Xiao,” Childe parrots, confused as to why the legendary adeptus lingers in his beloved’s head at a time like this.

Zhongli sighs, and his shoulders hunch forward, eyebrows furrowing in mild discomfort. “Whenever I am with you, I cannot help but think of him.”

Childe’s eyebrows shoot up to his forehead. “Elaborate?” He’s only mildly offended, but he jests nonetheless in an attempt to lighten the atmosphere.

Zhongli chuckles and pushes a thumb between Childe’s frown. “Not like that. You know there’s no one in my heart except you. Besides, he’s like… family to me. I simply care deeply for his well being.”

Childe offers a wry smile. He knows, he’s just teasing. “So what’s wrong?”

“When I’m with you, I feel happy,” his eyes are fixated on the ceiling as he speaks. Childe, on the other hand, can’t look anywhere but at him. And although he speaks of his happiness, there are deep waves of sorrow rolling off of him. Zhongli’s makeup had washed off when he took a steaming shower, leaving Tartaglia to see the dark circles under his eyes and the faint wrinkles underneath. The light in his eyes had dulled without the bold presence of his usual red eyeliner, and it seemed as though his face appeared more sunken in when the light hit him at a certain angle.

Childe’s heart pangs in his chest. Sometimes, his husband really looks his age.

“When I’m with you, I forget all my troubles. My burdens are made lighter simply by your presence. I forget what it felt like to be a part of the Archon War, or what it was like having so much blood on my hands. When I’m with you, I forget all of that. And I am happy.” Zhongli’s tone of voice certainly does not match the topic he speaks of.

Still, Childe gulps. The ex-Archon can be too sappy for his own good, he might have a heart attack.

“Xiao, on the other hand, carries burdens almost heavier than mine,” he speaks as if it were an irrefutable fact. Although Childe wants to protest, he allows him to continue. “Millennia of suffering. Centuries of torture. Generations worth of karma building up on his plate. And he has no one he can turn to to help him forget; no one to help him bear it. Xiao is… alone.” His voice cracks pathetically.

Ah.

The wind turns colder. There’s a chill that goes through the room, and it seeps into Childe’s bones. The Harbinger’s eyes dart to the fireplace, almost accusing it of not doing its job. He’s mildly aware of the new presence outside of the window that reeks of karma and a heavy heart. The tidal waves of grief and remorse spill into the room, and Tartaglia almost wants to wave a hand in front of his face to waft the energy away. Nevertheless, Childe dismisses it knowing that it is harmless, and turns all of his attention on his partner.

“What about that traveler,” Childe offers, “Xiao seems to be fixated on him.”

Zhongli shakes his head. “Young Traveler is far too free spirited for that, and Xiao is the type to only give his heart when he is certain that the source is stable and everlasting.”

Childe nods in understanding. He’s the same way, after all. “He was right to give his heart to you.”

“And yet I betrayed him, did I not?” Zhongli asks.

Childe frowns once again. He wills his voice to not sound too accusing when he asks, “In what way?”

Zhongli waves his free hand in the air, trying his best to convey the emotions that had been eating at him all evening.

“I am here, parading away with my husband while he still watches over Liyue per my request. Even though our contract ended, he still persists. He still fights the demons of the gods I slayed myself. He still is trapped by the shackles of Liyue, cleaning up my mess, worshipping my name, while I lay here wondering if I want coffee or tea when the sun rises.”

His voice wavers. Childe’s heart tugs. The Harbinger shuffles closer and squeezes him tighter.

“I can’t help but feel as though I am responsible for his suffering. I am the one who summoned him, am I not? The fierce Yakshas… oh how truly amazing they were,” Zhongli rambles, fingers tightening their hold on Childe. “And now they are all…”

“Zhongli.” He cuts him off sternly. The man in question shakes out his reverie, glassy amber eyes meeting cerulean. Childe brings a hand to his cheek to caress the sinfully soft skin there. The ginger leans in, pressing his forehead against his temple and pleads.

“Stop,” he whispers, and then his hand finds purchase on his husband’s neck. “Stop.”

“I am not worthy of it any longer, Ajax,” Zhongli’s voice warbles, “all I want is for Young Xiao to rest and finally find peace. I no longer want him to have nightmares, asleep or not. I want to be the one to be rid of his burdens. I want him to be happy, Ajax, I want—“

“No,” Childe interrupts again, “there is nothing you can do, my love. And I’m so sorry you feel that way. I truly am. But his suffering has nothing to do with you anymore. Xiao looks up to you—“

“But he shouldn’t.”

“Xiao looks up to you,” he persists, “for a reason. He adores you, okay? No matter what you do. No matter what you say. No matter how you look. Even if you’re skin and bone and wrinkly with gray hair, Xiao would still admire you. Your strength has withstood the test of time, and so has his loyalty to you.” He brushes a stray hair from Zhongli’s face and continues.

“You were the one that saved him. Have you ever thought of that, old man? You saved him and named him. I mean, if someone were to pull me out of the abyss and give me a hug for god’s sake, I probably would have turned out different,” Zhongli’s eyes soften even more, but Childe refuses to make this about him. He thumps a fist against Zhongli’s chest in mock petulance. “Xiao respects you because you deserve it. It is as simple as that.”

Zhongli is quiet, pondering, so Tartaglia takes that as an invitation to continue.

“You have served your time bearing your burdens. You have saved souls and you have killed your own share of demons, and you fought to get where you are now. You deserve a break, Zhongli. And you don’t need to feel guilty that someone out there hasn’t been liberated of their own issues. You of all people understand Xiao’s strength. Probably more than Xiao himself, right? So have faith in him, Xiansheng. And know that you don’t have to carry the burden of freedom on your own. Burdens are meant to be shared, and I’m your husband, remember?”

“Oh, how could I forget,” Zhongli chuckles as he jests. His voice still warbles, but Tartaglia will take what he can get. Childe pinches his cheek playfully.

“Sooo,” Childe trails off, running a finger down the length of Zhongli’s pale neck. “With that being said, I think you should enjoy the time you have now, with me, instead of reminiscing about the past.”

Zhongli nods.

“After all, I won’t be here forever-”

“Do not.” Zhongli interrupts, looking away. His chest stops fluctuating, and it takes a moment for Childe to realize he was holding his breath. And just like that, his defensive wall is back up again. Tartaglia looks at him with wide eyes. Obviously he had struck a chord he hadn’t meant to. The grip Zhongli had around the back of his neck tightened like he meant to keep him close to his chest forever; greedy, selfish hands continue to grasp at the back of his shirt.

“Oh,” Tartaglia breathes, “I’m sorry, I was just joking.”

“I know,” Zhongli all but whimpers, “but my brain doesn’t exactly register those kinds of things as jokes.”

Tartaglia nods, unsure of what else to say. So, he ditches the thought of saying anything, and lifts a deft finger to tilt Zhongli’s face back to him. He abandons his words and leans in instead. He captures his God’s lips with his own and presses close, desperate to show him that he’s there. Tartaglia’s alive and well and very much in love, and he’s there. He’s not going anywhere; he wouldn’t even dare to think about going anywhere. Their marriage was more than a contract, it was a covenant. The vows that were sworn on that night kept them glued together, and only ‘til death do they part.

Well, until Ajax’s death, at least.

The thought makes Tartaglia’s head pound, and he shakes the thoughts away with determination.

“I’m here,” he reassures anyway when they part, kiss-bruised lips brush against his cheek as he speaks. “Let me prove it to you.”

Zhongli nods wordlessly, cupping Childe’s face with one hand and dragging the Harbinger onto his lap with the other. They press against each other, nice and close, so that one would not be able to decipher where one began and the other ended.

“I love you,” Tartaglia confesses into the dark, breathless. Zhongli drags him impossibly closer.

Xiao takes that as his cue to leave, the wind chill harsh and no longer gentle as he vanishes into thin air.

A/N: Okayy I’m gonna get a little serious in the end notes hehe so if you wanna skip out on that, thank you so much for reading! And I hope you have a wonderful week :) find me on twitter @/xiaoscribbles and AO3 @/unironicallynapping

I wanted to write this because I’ve been on my own journey to recovery lately. My family suffered many losses in 2020 and since then, I had been struggling to get back on path and find a healthy mindset. But there’s a passage that I read in a book I’ve been reading that covers the guilt we sometimes feel when we recover, knowing and know that there’s someone out there who is suffering, too. The guilt can become unbearable, but it doesn’t need to be felt. You can take your feelings of guilt and turn it into something good. You can enjoy the life of recovery you’re living while still being there for those who need it. You can show someone you love them while also reveling in the happiness that you deserve. You don’t need to feel like you don’t deserve it just because you recovered, and someone else hasn’t. Everyone is on their own path, so rejoice in the fact that you’ve made it to your own happiness!

I hope this fic/message spoke to some of you. It’s a really important message to me, and I just wanted to share :)

#genshin impact #genshin impact fanfiction #zhongli #childe #xiao #tartaglia #character study #domestic bliss #childe x zhongli #rex lapis #tartali #chili #zhongchi

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ritualslaughter · 3 years

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It was quiet under the stars - the sound of waves crashing against the sand as the only thing to ground you. Tartaglia had veered off at one point in search of wood to make a little fire. This is what it was like, traveling with the harbinger - experiencing the world and all its pleasures in the softest of places. Hidden away under the cliff and overlooking the sea side, the world was soft here.

There was no need for blood or for masks - he was simply Tartaglia. And you were simply you. You'd no loyalty to the Tsarista or her wants, but you had loyalty to Him. Him with his eyes as blue as the sky, his cheeks kissed with freckles and chestnut hair that seemed to defy every law known to humanity. He was divinely imperfect - he was all that you loved.

And sometimes, if you were lucky - that twisted grin of his would fade into something sincere, where his teeth were not bared in a threat and his lips could rest in something gentle. You'd dare not call it a smile - Tartaglia never smiled - but it was softer than the snarl he often shared with the world. You knew he didn't like being vulnerable, it was dangerous, laying down your guard was almost a guaranteed death sentence in his world.

But you didn't mind. Because for some forsaken reason, your heart longed for him. You wanted nothing more than to be a home for him, his sanctuary from the world. But you knew him, and you knew that was unlikely. And that was fine. You were ready to accept all that he was willing to give - and if that was simply to know him as Tartaglia or Childe, you'd not give it away for the world.

Your thoughts were broken by the sound of soft footsteps, cushioned by the sand yet loud enough to let you know they were meant to be heard. You could only sigh and give him a weary smile as he plopped down beside you, legs crossed and arms resting over his knees. He looked... lost.

He reminded you of a child - cast into the world and begotten of guidance, left to the cruel hands of fate. And he was. At heart, he was still a little boy fighting through a sea of monsters, holding onto his sanity as tightly as he could, trying to grasp onto what was left of his humanity. It was why you refused to believe in the Gods - what cruel creatures they were, to let such a little thing experience such evil.

It hurt. Deeply. But it was not your place to comfort him - not until he said otherwise. And so you sat in silence by his side, eyes cast aside, watching as the flames danced into the night. Another deep sigh and then you could feel him staring. It was different from his usual stare. This time, it felt like he was... searching... for something. A deep breathe and then you turned to meet his stare head-on.

And the sight that greeted you nearly tore your heart in two. There were tears, small as they were, peaking out in the corners of his eyes. His lips were warbling in a fashion similar to a child holding back sniffles. And before you sat Childe, the man you'd met on your travels, beaten up and left for dead. This was no harbinger, not tonight. No. He was your friend, and he needed comfort.

It was without thought that your hand moved, fingers gliding through that untamed hair, humming softly as he slowly leaned into the touch. This wasn't like him - far from it - and it scared you. As your hand slowly left his hair, it drifted to his cheek and your thumb weakly pet freckled skin. His eyes were tightly shut as he seemed to try and regain his composure.

You said not a word - you'd give him all the time he needed, even if you had to stop the world from spinning with your bare hands. You'd do anything for him. A deep sigh left his lungs, punctuated by warmth drifting across your palm as you continued to observe him.

"I... I don't think... I knew how lonely I was. Until..." he closes his eyes, he inhales and holds it in, nose scrunching as he seems to try and will away his tears. A scarred, freckled hand reaches up to rest atop your own, cradling it - holding it tighter to his cheek as his eyebrows furrowed together.

"... Until I met you."

He does not open his eyes. He cannot bare to see the emotions in your eyes - not when he isn't allowed to feel them himself. He's supposed to be Tartaglia - the brutal and bloodthirsty harbinger, the man who has too much blood on his hands. Whose skin is stained red with every life he has taken. He's supposed to be a machine.

But you. You. You make him feel - safe, supported, loved. Safe. He hasn't felt that in years. Not since he's fallen into the abyss and spent every waking moment fighting for his life. He was not meant for the gentle things in this world - to even be here next to you was more than he could ever dare to ask for. But he was no fool. He knew you loved him. By the Archons, he knew.

And it scared him. He didn't want to let you close - because what if you got hurt, what if they used you against him, what if he hurt you. Not for the first time in his life, but in a very long time, he was terrified. He was not the harbinger Tartaglia or even Childe, he was simply Ajax. In your presence, he could remove his masks and simply exist. And that was terrifying.

So swept away in his thoughts, he almost missed how your free hand came to rest on his opposite cheek, effectively cradling his face. You sat before him, on your knees, forehead pressed against his own. Nuzzling your nose against his, you simply let him exist. And not for the first time, you didn't question his actions. You didn't ask why. You simply let him be. And with a shuddering exhale, he accepted this gentle affection.

"My dear Tartaglia - know that you are enough. Use me to see the good in the world. Know that you will never fight alone. Not while I'm here, not while I love you."

And for perhaps the first time in his life, Ajax felt like he was enough to be used for good.

BESTIE WTF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

#YOU CANT MAKE ME FEEL THINGS THIS EARLY IN THE MORNING!!!!!!!!!!!!#genshin #long post #xobitouya #bones.ask

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