warnings! only curses but if u count angst as one...
a/n: oh boy we're back with the famed scene
(click here for the full scene of the art below!)
A short, comfortable small talk envelops your party as Katsuragi guides you both to the village, an ever-present smile on his face.Β
βI seeβ¦ Iβm glad you left that place before the landslide hit.β The man hums thoughtfully. βAnd your friendβ¦β
Katsuragiβs gaze eventually lands on the golden feather that sways from Kuniβs neck, the latter restless under his intense stare.
His dark eyes grow wide at the sight, shocked to see an item of such importance so far from the mainland where Tenshukaku stands. βYou... You have the Plume of Luxury. What affiliation do you have with the Shogunβ¦?βΒ
You stiffen at his words, watching as he quickly notices Kuniβs avoidance in question to the topic behind the feather. Kuni nervously clutches the golden ornament in his palm, moving closer to you.
Pausing, Katsuragi clears his throat, nodding to himself as he averts his attention away.Β βI suppose itβs for the best that you keep your background to yourself.βΒ
Kuni nods quietly, tucking it into his collar.
Your eyes move on from the two, quickly distracted by the plentiful clusters of homes and warmly lit windows emerging in the distance, exposing a much more lively view of Tatarasuna than you were previously familiar with. The buildings were in their prime, the wooden panels worn yet steady under your feet as you made your way into the village under the cover of night.
The aching sensation in your heart grows strong as you take in the prosperous village, knowing what is to come in a matter of years. Guilt, maybe. Hope? Youβre already scared of the butterfly effect that was inevitable with your arrival, but you canβt help but wonder what would happen if you gave a small hint here and there. Would Tatarasuna still be thriving in the future as it is now?Β
Your wandering eyes meet the prototype beside you, who lights up under your attention, still holding onto your sleeve with his firm grasp.
What will happen to him then?
You barely stop yourself from face-planting into a wall of muscle as Katsuragi stops abruptly in front of a small home. He slides the door open and turns around, gesturing inside.
βI will take you both to my superior, Nagamasa.β Katsuragi briefly explains, ushering you both into the warm interior before he heads in himself.
Your shoulders sag at the heat that enveloped your shivering body, noticing a small, dusty fireplace nestled into one of the corners. It seems newly built, you note as you stare into the embers. A couple of leftover stone bricks were still stacked up precariously against the wall.Β
Kuni looks around, starry-eyed as he stands rather close to you despite the extra space, his synthetic skin cool against you. The one room was a little cramped to be housing three people at once, but you couldnβt complain. It was much better than the small cavern you and Kuni had found a few moments ago.
You lift your head, eyes wide at the sound of footsteps approaching.
βAh, Katsuragi. I need your help with something, do you thinkβ¦ Oh?β A man, a little older than Katsuragi walks in from the other room, slipping through the sliding frame doors. He looks a little taken aback by the two strangers who seem just as lost as he. βAndβ¦ whom might they be?β
So this was the man who would later be the one to slay Katsuragi when everything fell apart. You hold back a grimace, the soft murmurs between the two men turning into white noise in your ears as you study Nagamasa discreetly.Β
He hadnβt made an appearance in the game, so you were at least a little curious about what he looked like. Dark brows are drawn into a tight crease, and brown eyes, clear and sharp, flicker from his yoriki to you and Kuni.Β
He rakes a hand through black hair as he nods at Katsuragiβs explanation. The locks were a little unkempt, loose and just barely brushed his shoulders as he moved to face you.Β
βI apologise for the wait. Welcome to Tatarasuna village.β He murmurs, steady gaze flickering between you and Kuni. βKasturagi has explained to me that he found you both while patrolling on Nazuchi Beach.β
It wasnβt really a lie. Katsuragi had found you on the beach as he said but had excluded any mention of you finding Kuni in Shakkei Pavillion.Β
You nod along to Nagamasaβs words as Katsuragi turns to the other man, gesturing to you.
βYes, this isβ¦β Katsuragi paused, looking a little sheepish. βAh, my mistake. I forgot to ask you both for your names in the rush to get you both here.β
You blink. βOh. Right.β
With hidden trepidation, you tell them your name, eyes darting down to your hands. Now your name was out there. You quickly move on from there, turning to the one sitting beside you, staring at you with wide shining eyes. Right, you hadnβt even told him your name.
Kuni whispers your name under his breath, lips curving into a small smile that had you mentally squinting against the pure light that emitted from him.
βAnd you?β Nagamasa quirks his brow, briefly eyeing the expensive-looking fabric that the other had donned.Β
Kuni shuffles uneasily beside you. βI donβt have one.βΒ
The older man gruffly hums, scratching at his chin while Katsuragi frowns. βDonβt have one, you sayβ¦β
Katsuragi thinks for a moment before raising an offer with a subtle tilt of his head. βHow about giving yourself a name? What do you think about that?β
The puppetβs eyes widen. βA nameβ¦ for me?β
"You can think about it as you settle down in our village." Katsuragi leans back, crossing his arms across his chest. He seems pleased at the other's reaction.
The prototype nods as naive hope and admiration blossom in his hollow chest.Β
Nagamasa watches the interaction with an unreadable, neutral expression, clearing his throat.Β
βNow, about living in Tatarasunaβ¦β
After introducing you to his superior, Katsuragi welcomed you both into his own home, offering a place to sleep for the night before they set up a place for you both to live in for the rest of your stay here at Tatarasuna.Β
As you comfortably lay in the warm futon that Katsuragi had so generously laid out for you in a spare room, you absentmindedly stare up at the ceiling. Your new companion was and had been staring at you for quite some time now, sitting on his futon instead of slipping under the covers.Β
You think back to the conversation you had with Nagamasa.Β
The inspector had given you two a chance to start a life in Tatarasuna after you revealed that you had no memory of ending up on the beach. You were to start learning the basics of swordsmithing by tomorrow morning along with Kuni. Despite having eased your worries about meeting Katsuragi and continuing the story as it was planned, you canβt help but feel a lingering concern.Β
Sighing exasperately, you flip to your side, staring back. Innocent indigo eyes blinked at you before a whisper filled the room. βNot sleeping? I thought you said humans needed to sleep?β
βMn. Not tired.β You prop your head up on the pillow to face him better. βWhy donβt you lie down? I know you donβt need sleep but the futon is comfortable.β
You watch Kuni let out a soft βohβ, before sliding into the covers stiffly, unsure of his movements. He glances at you for approval. βItβsβ¦ soft.β
βIsnβt it?β Settling down, you breathe out, the heavy weight on your chest a little lighter after talking to him. βEven if you donβt need to do the things humans do, doesnβt it feel nice to do them anyway?β
A soft shuffling noise comes from Kuni as he turns to you, the covers pulled up to his chin. He nods.
The corners of your lips naturally lift in amusement. βNow go to sleep. Isnβt it boring to stay up doing nothing all night?β
Shifting slightly under the thick blanket, the puppet finally shuts his eyes, letting his body rest like he saw you do before. Itβs a little strange, allowing his body to fall slack when heβs so used to being aware of everything, eyes wanting to take in everything that the world presents him with.Β
Listening to your soft breaths fill the room, he canβt help but make his artificial lungs mimic yours. He knows he doesnβt need to breathe or sleep. But as he finds his body relaxing, his mind goes quiet.
Finally, he lets himself rest in your presence.
Sitting up, you watch with a bittersweet smile as your companion βfalls asleepβ. Moving slowly and quietly, you slip out of the sheets, your steps silent against the tatami mat as you cautiously move towards the doors.
You glance back with finality at the unmoving form under the sheets, your distant eyes skimming over his dark hair splayed out on the pillow to his tranquil resting face.
You had been contemplating executing this plan since you had first met him in the pavilion. Initially, you had thought that you had ruined everything by leaving the domain with him, however, things had worked out in your favour and now things were where they had always been.Β
Now only you were the abnormality in this moment. You werenβt supposed to be here. Staying would only mean you would distort the story more, and the thought of a future you didnβt know frightens you.Β
Feeling the biting wind against your skin, you rip your gaze away, slipping out the doors and closing it behind you with a soft click, walking across the wooden panels of the deck that surrounded the home. You had to leave before your hesitation got the better of you and you ended up making a decision that you would regret.
Your feet touch the grass as you ready yourself to leave.
βWhere are you going..?β
Your heart sank, head whipping around. Shit.
Heβs staring at you with wild, desperate eyes β confusion and terror written all over him. They dart frantically across your face, as if searching for any reason you might have for leaving the room without him.Β
It's almost painful to look at him, his trembling hand gripping so tightly onto his veil.
β...β
You say nothing.
What could you even tell him? That this was for his own good? That you swear that youβll come back to him in the future?... That you were terrified to ruin his life more than it would become?
His expression grows more and more distraught at your silence and he stumbles towards you, desperately clutching at your clothes.
βDo you not like it here?β His thready voice quivers, sounding smaller than ever. βThatβs okay, we can goβ¦!β
The inner turmoil was back again, hitting you in full force. It was for his own good, you think to yourself. Youβd rather carry the burden of leaving him rather thanβ
β... Iβll go with you! Wherever you go! Wherever!β His form shudders with every word, tears pooling in his eyes. βSo...! So... Please... Please, please, please, please.β
β... Donβt leave me.β
You fail to swallow down the building lump in your throat, steeling yourself as you breathe in andβ
β¦
You find yourself back inside, face vacantly fixed up at the ceiling again. The pressure on your heart is replaced with the arms of a desperate puppet clinging onto your body, his futon discarded for your own. Heβs tense, and the extreme closeness is a little stifling but you canβt bring yourself to complain or push him away.Β
His face is buried into your shoulder, and your heart squeezes with immense guilt as you feel him hiccup softly against your shirt.Β
Your plan failed.
Closing your eyes, you exhale slowly as you tentatively reach up and card your fingers through his silken hair. He goes quiet, holding your arm tighter.
HOW YOU GET THE GIRL .α ( a scaramouche x gn!reader smau )
synopsis: breaking up with kuni was one of your biggest regrets yet (however, you'll never actually admit that to anyone). but was it really a wise decision to keep in touch with him even after you broke his (and your) heart?
or in which you and scaramouche are exes but you both stayed in the same friend groupβwhich makes things extremely chaotic.
started on: 10/09/23 | ended on: 01/09/24
genres: college au, exes to lovers trope, crack (an attempt of comedy, really), fluff, angst (mandatory for this trope honestly), profanities + kys jokes, other ships are most likely implied, socmeds with narrations !!
note: inaccurate college depictions for some courses erm. (ποΈ) means the ep has narrations
taglist: closed!
playlist: first half is full of angsty songs mb :,)
I used to be a big genshin impact lore buff, i played, i read, i was on forums, i made fanart, and then i was deeply disrespected by the game itself (this post is about natlan)
People love to tell us that it is just a game, but think again: games are not entitled to disrespect us just because of their nature. We are entitled to complain, to scream, because this is cruelty. You brutalize our image, butcher our names, for what?
When I was younger, I used to look at games with religious imagery very curiously. It was always weird to see the faith of the people I know be used for aesthetic reasons or just because it looks cool. The same has now happened to me, but times worse. People will say anything to justify this mockery and throw excuses to keep playing the product of a corporation that won't ever understand what it means to be us.
BEFORE READING, this includes wandererβs backstory, added scenes, removed scenes, and the timeline would be confusing.
|| NEXTβΆ ||
You were not a god.
You played the game and had your heart flutter, break, and be stolen by many characters; the lack of romantic content would send you to your fantasies filled with what-ifs and imaginations of how characters would act if you do this or do that.
At your first arrival, you were confused about where you were, so what if you played the game? The game was not realistic, it was a 3D game with drawn or modeled items, and when you saw everything, it wasnβt the same as the game.
The difference was huge and so was the troubled feeling in your heart.
Almost everything was handed to you when you started walking around the place; the river was incredibly clean to drink on, the trees always have something to give, and the abandoned places have fabrics to give you.
Still, itβs not that you can actually feel safe in this place, not when everything was not as βmodernβ as your world was, and you never knew how you had come to transport in this kind of place in the first place.
It was only when you stumbled upon a domain at night, the marbled structure with a symbol of three pointed sides, glowing together with the nearby plants that you donβt recall the name of because it was the least of your worries.
Genshin Impact.
You read works like that fandom, canβt say that you were as dedicated as the rest were, but you knew a few, because you tried to study the characters due to their appearance or their interesting personalities.
Alternative universes, and you were transmigrated like that? Unbelievable. You donβt have the power that those alternative universes have in which you were the god, and you didnβt have anything special; you werenβt aether or lumine, you were just you.
Tired, you sat by the tree and hugged your knees to your chest while using the fabrics you found as a way to keep yourself warm; you didnβt feel hopeful. You had no information about where exactly in Teyvat you were, what year, or who were the trustworthy people currently alive.
Frustrated to be away from the place you were used to and comfortable, tears stung your eyes, prompting you to place your palms over them as if youβre trying to shove the liquid back in your eyesβit worked though.
You shed a few tears, only a few, and the glowing light was a comforting feeling to you; itβs only been a day and you canβt help but wish to see a few people that was known in the game so they could be your source of comfort or the reason for you to know where to start.
How could you rest in an unfamiliar place? You closed your eyes, your tears piling up again even if you thought that your mind no longer had thoughts. You pulled the fabrics closer to your body and you tried to rest.
Itβs too cold.
The domain couldnβt be too dangerous, you assumed, because in the game you have to turn on the mechanic to summon the monsters, and you could use the warmth of the placeβit was not like you were in Dragonspine after all.
You looked up and held on the domain doors, pushing it open to have yourself be comforted by the light, but dread filled your body when someone was actually in the domain; you never encountered anyone yet in your travels, animals, sure, but not humans or monsters.
The person had a purple cloak, white clothing, purple hair andβyou recognize him; this was not a person, but the puppet of the Shogun. The character you cried over was just a few meters away from you.
It was canon that he was pretty, he was described to be.
Your heart clenched as you saw him, laying in the middle of the domain that looked like it was taken from a place in Inazuma and shut locked in the domain, like a garden inside a bottleβas far as you know, he had no idea it was a domain.
Even if the trees were pretty and the view was a sight for sore eyes, you canβt help but tear up again; out of all the people you had to see first, it had to be the character your heart broke for so many times.
You now know the year it took place and where you were, and it did not ease the pain in your heart to know he couldβve been here for who knows how long, but you had to wipe your tears.
You wanted to help him, but what can you do? Not even you were from the world, no one knows you here, and you werenβt any different from him. You also didnβt want to change his future, because what if he doesnβt meet Lessor Lord Kusinali?
βScaraββ you said but your mouth clammed.
He has no name yet.
The puppet, however, turned to you, his face of curiosity and yours teary but you smiled regardless. At least you can take him out of the domain earlier than a certain samurai would, but you never knew the details.
You held the worn out fabric close to yourself, the scenery inside the domain being warmer than outside. Youβre not sure what to say as you hesitated to even come near him; you canβt just give him a hug out of nowhere no matter how your heart breaks at his innocent stare.
βIβm sorryβ¦β you whispered. βI did not know you were here and it was just cold outside.β
Your cheeks felt warm, embarrassed, and youβre not even sure if the puppet right now can even talk to you or understand your words because he was someone that wasnβt given a name before he was discarded.
Even your reason felt stupid, you sounded like you were invading someoneβs home when it was a domain that anyone can walk in and walk out ofβor can they?
You looked back and didnβt see the domain door and your heart dropped. This was the kind of domain without exit until you finish what is at the end of the domain, and you donβt remember what was inside this domain because it has been so long.
βAre you okay?β
Your heart nearly fluttered because this was someone who was now a blunt and not really soft-spoken person in the game, so hearing this tone on the character felt different, uncomfortably different.
βOh, yes, uhmβ¦β you said, stuttering your words a little before you hesitantly approached. βIβ¦ Iβm sorry, but do you know whatβs inside this place?β
To your observation though, he looked interested and flustered at the same time; you felt bad, because it was most likely because you were the first person he talked to ever since Ei left him there.
You nodded and then he replied, βNothingβ¦β
βNothing?β your anxiety paused for a moment because you were bewildered, and he just nodded at you.
If there was nothing inside, then why was he still here? He couldβve gotten out on his ownβunless he didnβt know how to get out in the first place or did he not know it was even possible?
βIβ¦ I see,β you muttered. βHeyβ¦ uhmβ¦ Iβll trust you since you said there was nothingβ¦β
What else are you supposed to say? You canβt reveal anything from the game because it could affect the future, you thought of it like that as if you didnβt change the future by being the first person to meet him, and now you were going to attempt exiting the domain.
You felt a little stiff as you smiled at him and waved, the redness of the spot beneath your eyes and nose worrying him for some reason, because he never saw a human before, a human like you, at least.
He followed you, and you didnβt feel uncomfortable with him following you, except for the fact that he was following youβmakes sense?
If you did find the exit, he would leave early too and youβll destroy the timeline hours after you just arrived in Teyvat. You werenβt confident that you could give him a better life than what was ahead of him because you did not pay attention to details.
However, you do know that you can teach him to properly deal with his pain and emotions when the time comes, but you werenβt someone who graduated at psychology or anything that involves mental health; youβre just someone who observes.
βWhat are you doing?β
You can never get used to his tone, but he watches you slide the doors to the side or push them open in an attempt to find the exit, and he even follows you down the ladders and such.
βInvestigatingβ¦?β you said but it sounded like a question, even the puppet was confused about your words, and you felt like you were going to flush again. βIβm just looking.β
You didnβt want to say you wanted to leave, because you didnβt want to hurt his feelings, you were probablyβareβthe first person he had ever met, and if you feel like if you found the exit, you wouldnβt be able to leave him without the shame and guilt building over you.
βIβll go investigate with you,β he said and you felt something punch you in the gut by how innocent and soft-spoken he was. βIβll help you.β
You smiled a little and then you turned around to continue walking.
In just a minute, you realized the puppet had no idea what investigating actually was and he was pushing and sliding doors open as you were earlier, in a way, what he was doing was right, but he looked endearing like that.
Endearingβthe thought made your heart break again for the nth time. This person near you was someone who made you cry for days because you hoped his life would be better, because you felt like you understood his pain even if you hadnβt experienced it in the way he did.
You helped look around for exits, and you often look at drawers as well. You found a few mora and then when he noticed you were keeping circular gold coins, he started giving you the same looking coins whenever he sees one; it felt like you were robbing the place.
βThank you, Kabuββ you clammed your mouth again. βJustβ¦ thank you.β
Clearly, as someone who never really had a social life, the puppet didnβt know how to respond to you, and your heart softened immensely. You continued, βThe response usually isβ¦ βyou are welcomeβ or βyouβre welcomeβ... It also can be βno problemβ if you werenβt burdened by what you were doing or βIβm happy to helpβ.β
βYouβre welcome.β
Your heart warmed up, but then you realized that the reason why the puppet responded that way is because he probably canβt distinguish his own feelings right now; he had no lessons about his feelings and most likely didnβt know if he felt burdened by helping you or if he was happy to help.
You felt like going on your knees, crying and groveling in pain, because you messed up with him each time you opened your mouth to say something.
In the end, the last place you two checked just had to be the exit; you never tried to open it but it was the last door there, so it could be it for real, but you canβt find yourself to open it with the puppet in your presence.
βI realized you were looking for doors,β the puppet says. βAre you leaving?β
You donβt understand why he said leaving as if he didnβt plan to leave himself. You looked at him and whispered, βI really liked your company, even if I want you to come with me, I canβt do anything for you out thereβ¦ I donβt know what will be out there, and I canβt help youβ¦β
It was painful that you had to make the decision for the both of you, because you canβt trust the puppet, who barely had any interactions or say at the start of his life, make a decision; it was like he was a child in your eyes.
βYou donβt know whatβs out there?β he asked, his head tilting to look at you and your expression; he noticed that the redness of your eyes and nose disappeared. βHow did you find me?β
βI wasnβt really looking for you, I was looking for a place to stay because itβs cold outside,β you said before you realized that barely hours had passed so it could still be cold outside. βIβ¦ you won't happen to be bothered if I stay, do you?β
βCan Iβ¦ know more about you?β
He is so cute, once again, you want to grovel and cry about what he was going to go through and the fact you could do something about it but you didnβt want to because you werenβt confident enough to give him a better life.
You nodded before you sat down near the exit, leaning your back on the wall. You smiled at him and then pats the space beside you, at least, you want to try being beside a character you deeply adored.
Perhaps he felt some connection with you.
The puppet asked about your life and the basic information you know about Teyvat; he felt something he couldnβt point out when you told him that you donβt know anyone outside, itβs as if you two are new to the world, but you were human, no?
He doesnβt understand how you donβt know anyone and no one knows you, certainly, youβve been outside longer than he was.
You had to pretend that youβve been sheltered and itβs your first time going outside, which was, in a way in your modern life, true; you were quite introverted. He sensed a connection there.
He suddenly claims that he wants to go outside with you; he wants to experience what it is like outside too, with you, who he felt a connection withβsomeone he could relate toβsomeone he thinks he can trust, even if he wasnβt familiar with that concept yet.
You tried to explain to him that it wonβt be easy, but he still wants to be with you still, you two are exploring the world for the first time, and he likes that thought.
You didnβt try to give him a name, even as he held your hand when you two left the domain after you took a nap to see that the sun was rising.
It wasnβt inevitable, when you entered that domain, you couldβve steeled your heart to go through everything and then leave him, but you couldnβt just ignore him, because for you, he was human.
He wanders around a lot, had you not been holding his hand, you wouldβve lost him already, but you did let go of his hand and let him explore, just hoping he would scream if he ever encountered anythingβnot that you can save him though, but will save him.
You looked at the domain, trying to remember where Tatarasuna was. Maybe, just maybe, if heβs not too attached, you can safely leave him with the first person that ever found him: Kisaragi.
Tatarasuna was near a domain, but this domain, what domain is it? You donβt even remember. If Kisaragi found the puppet, then Tatarasuna must be nearby, no?
You look back to see that if you squint, you can see Seirai Island. You really must be near Tatarasuna, if you keep walking, youβre bound to find itβor if you wait Kisaragi might come by the domain and find you two.
You kneel away from the water and drop all the currency from the pouch; Mora was something you had a lot of in the game before you started leveling up a lot of characters just because you like them.
It can barely be used for food. You barely had 50 Mora with you.
The puppet watches you curiously and he comes back and kneels down beside you, wondering about your expression as your finger circles around the coin, refusing to acknowledge that you barely have money to go on.
You look at the puppet, prompting him to look at you. Heβs so pretty and so carefree since he barely knows anything yet, and you didnβt want to teach him about poverty so early.
βDid you finish looking around?β you ask as you gather the coins and put them back in the pouch, and the pouch didnβt have some sort of void so you can feel its weight.
He nodded and you smiled at him; it wonβt be easy to decide his future. You didnβt want to change his life in the game you were in, but you also didnβt want him to go down the road he did.
βCome onβ¦β you stood up and offered your hand to him, hopefully, you would spot chests or eggs to cook. βLetβs look for a place to stay, but if we canβtβ¦ we might have to go back here and then look around again.β
THIS IS HEIZNX,
IF YOU NEED TO BE MEAN BE MEAN TO ME :((( this is spoiler for the future chapters, ngl i want to put them in one but for some reason i limit myself to 2-3k words per post. im so not over his backstory even though i havent played it yet like i dont wanna break my heart
β synopsis : xiao is immortal while you... aren't. he gets desperate.
β tags : angst, mentions of death, no one actually dies dw, gender neutral reader
β a/n : inspired by The Prophecy by Taylor Swift. this is my pathetic attempt at writing angst (do let me know if i managed to make you sad/cry /hj) likes, comments, and reblogs are appreciated!<3
Xiao is a great man; a great man who endured many hardships in his long life. A great man who is one of the mighty and illuminated adepti, a devotee of Rex Lapis, protector of Liyue, the Vigilant Yaksha, the Conqueror of Demons. He was a great man who did not care for what he believed to be trivial, childish, and pointless human customs. A great man who accepted that he was to be alone, pushing away others to protect them from his karmic debt. A great man who accepted that it was for the better to be left solitude. That is, until he met you.
Amidst through all the darkness and loneliness he drowned himself in, you chose to delve in it. You chose to walk through the fog relentlessly pushing you out, pushing you away from the monster he would inevitably become. You willingly let out your hand, pulling him into a world he never knew he could be a part of. You pulled him into a warm embrace, welcomed him into a world where he isn't just reduced to be a man suffering from endless battles, enduring his curse of karmic debt. When heβs with you, he is Xiao. Just Xiao, his own person. A person with hope and a purpose other than just to endure and suffer, fight and survive.
And then it dawned on himβ he is in love.
Yet with that revelation, a certain unfortunate fact came with it, and perhaps that was the real curse that even you couldnβt stop from flooding and rotting his mind. The fact that one day, you would leave him and join death. The thought of your existence purged by your mortality haunts him. The thought of you succumbing to death, your love you claimed is undying simply turning into fragile memories that eventually only he will remember. The thought of him, despite all his strength and power, not able to do anything to protect you from your unchangeable fate is something he simply can not accept. Not when he loves you this much. How can he look at you in the eyes now, knowing the eventual end of your journey?
His thoughts escalated and came to a realization. What if, along with the loneliness and darkness haunting his heart and mind, it was filled with greed, too? What if it was filled with the burning selfish desire for you to stay? What if he can't sit still with the fact that he will no longer meet your eyes, hear your voice, touch your skin, or feel your warm embrace? What if no one will ever make him feel like him again?
When heβs with you, he is Xiao. Just Xiao, his own person. A person with hope and purpose. But along with that, you also turned him into a man on his knees.
You turned him into a man begging desperately to the Archons above to please, please, please let you stay. To please, let him love you. To please, realign the stars, rewrite your destiny, carve out what is set in stone, redo the prophecy. He doesnβt want to have to painfully reminisce bittersweet memories of you, helplessly hoping to be able to grasp even just a speck of your true existence. He wants to bask in your presence like its the very sun giving him life, the air he needs to breathe. He wants to stand with you hand in hand, survivingβ living in this world. You turned him into a man crumbling in fear, like a once great statue crumbling and caving in into the passage of time, the root of all despair.
If he was the greater man he once was, he would've lost hope and accepted his unfortunate faith with grace. He wouldβve never begged in front of the gods for what he deemed a selfish purpose. Hell, he wouldβve never even let himself love you in the first place.
But he is no longer that man. Now, he is a wretched, miserable man helplessly looking up at the sky, screaming his prayers. What else could he do? Who else could he talk to to give him what he wants? The man never wished for money or fame. The man never prayed for anything grand. Xiao only hopes for one thingβ for you to stay. And he is a fool to think the gods will listen to him despite his sins, but he rather be a fool than a coward who didn't beg for you. He rather be seen a manic howling at the moon, shrieking his hopeless demands. He rather be seen an idiot defying the order of Celestia, wasting his voice to an ear that won't listen, or to a greater power that won't grace him with their blessing. Because he loves you too much not to be a pleading vulnerable man, eyes streaming with tears, fingers digging into the dirt in desperation and anger. He loves you too much to spend so little time with. He loves you too much not to attempt to change the course of faith, not to attempt to escape death himself, just so he can love you more.
if someone gifts an adeptus with flowers, it means you are proposing to them, and if they take it, it means they accept the proposal. unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on who you ask), you werenβt aware of such a custom. or β xiao thinks youβre married, but you just thought flowers would look nice on him.
fluff. comedy-ish. accidental malewife acquisition. featuring reader being clueless, xiao being hopeless, and lumine and hu tao being your biggest supporters
It started with a walk on the road as an acquaintance accompanied you.
Thereβd been a wild flower by the side, with white and lilac petals that youβd thought, rather presumptuously, would suit the dour faced adeptus beside you. So, you plucked it and impulsively handed it to him, a smile on your face and a shocked one on his.
His fingers closed around the flowerβs stem, the stern lines of his face softening as he gazed at the tiny petals that glittered in the sun.
Youβve never been rid of him since.
Your friend Xiao could be described as protective at best and possessive at worst. Itβs not a bad thing, of course! Caring for a friend is always a good thing in your books, but sometimes, you think he takes the word βcaringβ to an almost extreme degree.
Take, for instance, now.
βXiao?β
He hums from his spot on the sill of your window, not even sitting, no, heβs crouched on it, balanced on the thin ledge at the tips of his toes and keeping his eyes (which oddly glowed like a catβs) peeled for any danger. Like this, he almost looks like a bird perched on a branch.
You let out an awkward laugh. βYou know, I appreciate you doing this for me, keeping me safe and all, but I think I can spend the night on my own safely.β
His head whips to you so fast you almost feared heβd get neck cramps, an expression of surprise andβ¦ hurt? on his face.
βYouβ¦ donβt want me here?β
Youβve never backtracked so fast in your life. βNo! I mean, yesβbut not in the way youβre thinking!β
He looks forlorn now, stepping down the windowsill and shoulders hunched in a similar manner to that of a cat pulling its ears down its head. βIs this what the Traveler meant by sleeping on the couch?β
Youβre not sure what to do, but it seems like he wants to sleep on the couch? Puzzled, you smile encouragingly even though you donβt quite understand his words. βEr, if you want to sleep on the couch, youβre welcome to do so?β
His face falls.
β§
βAnd, I donβt know, he just became allβsad? Just, I felt so bad for basically kicking him out of my room, and now that Iβm thinking more on it, I shouldβve just offered to let him sleep beside me. Like a, um, a sleepover!β
Thereβs a distinctly bashful look on your face and, oh god, youβre drawing little circles on the table with your finger, an almost dreamy glint in your eyes.
Sweet Jesus that doesnβt exist in this world, Lumine is going to barf.
She slams her hands on the table, startling you in the process as she leans down and says with an exasperated face, βHave you considered that maybe you actually like him and heββ
βWhat?!β you squawk, mouth open in disbelief and a mortified look contorting your features. βThatβsβdonβt say such things, Lumi!β
She drops back down her chair, leveling you with a look that basically said, are you for real right now?
βItβs written all over your faceββ
You quickly slap both hands on your cheeks, turning your head away. βI donβt like him! How could I everβ¦ heβs an adeptus and Iβ¦β
βAnd you made an adeptus sleep on your couch,β Lumine deadpans.
She can feel the way your face burned at the reminder. You slump over the table, burying your head in your arms and bemoaning your decision. βI didnβt mean to disrespect himβ¦β
βOh, Iβm sure disrespect was the farthest thing you did to him,β she mutters beneath her breath. Broke his heart, shattered his hopes and dreams, devastated himβLumine can name a few more.
But then, you suddenly straighten up, determination lining your face. Thereβs a look in your eyes that tells Lumine she should probably stop you from doing whatever idiotic thingβhowever in good faith it might beβthat youβre about to do.
βI should give him some flowers as an apology. He always gets soβ¦ not exactly happy butβwarm, thatβs it. He feels warmer whenever I give him flowers.β You smile, reminiscing on whatever moments you had with him. You stand up, looking down at the empty plates all over the table before looking at her apologetically. βIβm sorry, could you foot the bill this time?β
Lumine sighs. Sheβs still got money from the last commission Ningguang made her do, so she supposes she can do it. Just this once. βFine, but youβre paying for our next outing!β
You beam, thanking her before running to the nearest flower shop or wherever it is youβre going to be getting those flowers from.
βMake sure to let him sleep on your bed next time!β Lumine yells to your retreating back, ignoring the strange, almost scandalized, looks from nearby patrons.
β§
You find him at your house, completely ignoring how strange it is that a friend has complete access to your house including a spare key and extra clothes on the closet just for him. Itβs simply become the norm, is all. And heβs a goodβyou donβt quite know what to call him, roommate? youβll settle for friendβfriend, helping you with the chores and often accompanying you to the market when you need new groceriesβbut only during the early mornings, of course. You know how much he dislikes crowds.
βIβm home!β
The response comes immediate and, judging by the direction, it came from the kitchen, βWelcome home.β
The large bouquet of glaze lilies interspersed with roses and qingxin flowers is heavy on your arms as you walked to the kitchen. Xiao is there, a broom in hand which he sets aside once he sees you and what youβre carrying.
βHere!β You grin, extending the bouquet forward and into his arms.
He accepts it, a flush to his cheeks and looking distinctly flustered by the gift. βIβ¦ thank you.β
βItβs an apology.β
His eyes snap to yours, iridescent gold piercing through you. Thereβs something almost vulnerable in the way heβs gazing at you, hands tightening around the flowers.
You fiddle with your fingers. βWell, I wanted to say sorry for making you sleep on the couch. If youβd like, you can sleep beside me tonight.β
Something in him relaxes, tension bleeding out of his posture as he smiles, small and near unnoticeable to anyone who didnβt know him so well.
For some reason, the sight of it makes your heart leap.
Lumineβs words repeat in your mind.
Have you considered that maybe you actually like him?
No, you think with dread, absolutely not.
β§
βYes,β Hu Tao crows in delight, βYouβre absolutely in love!β
βSee, thatβs what I tried to say yesterday, but nooo. Oh, Lumi, Xiao is just a friend,β Lumine grouches, imitating your voice and utterly failing because while she may be strong enough to fight monsters and gods, that girl has absolutely no talent when it comes to mimicking.
Your palms cover your face that feels warm to touch. βI do not sound like that. And itβs true, we really are just friends!β
βOf course, because friends do things like living together and sleeping on the same bed and holding handsββ You open your mouth to protest, but Hu Tao doesnβt let you interrupt, ββdonβt deny it! I saw you last week near Liuli Pavilion, and he was holding your hand and carrying a bag of food!β
βHeβs just really helpful! Heβs an adeptus,β you argue, though it sounds weak even to your own ears.
βAnd do all adepti live with a human, do they sleep with themββ
βYou make it sound so lewd, Lumi!β
ββdo they hold their hands and go grocery shopping at five in the morning with them?β Lumine pierces you with those honey gold eyes of hers. βDid you know I barely have anything to do in the Adventurerβs Guild here in Liyue besides babysitting and errands because someoneβnamely, an adeptus who coincidentally goes by the name Xiaoβkeeps killing all the monsters within the area?β
Hu Tao cackles. βHe always asks about you whenever I encounter him at Wuwang Hill.β
You level her with an incredulous look. βWhat were you even doing there?β
βHiding bodies, duh!β At your horrified look, she winks. βJust kidding!β
You shake off Hu Taoβs laughter and pinch your lips together. βLook, itβsβweβre just friends. Thatβs all there is to it.β
Lumine huffs, βYeah, sure, because friends like you two give each other flowers everyday. How does your house still have space in it for more?β
You wouldβve refuted her words, wouldβve argued that no, you donβt give each other flowers everyday, just on a regular basisβbut Hu Taoβs sudden silence concerned you more than what Lumine said. The funeral director turns her head to you with wide eyes.
βYou gave him flowers?β she asks, an odd tone to her voice.
Your brows furrow at her uncharacteristic seriousness. βUm, yes? I do it all the time.β
She leapt forward, grabbing your shoulders and lips twitching into something you could almost call glee. βAnd he accepted it?β
βWhy wouldnβt he?β
Hu Tao lets go of your shoulders to tilt her head back and laugh. Not the nice little giggles she does after a successful prank, no, this is more manic. The kind that wouldnβt make you think, oh how sweet, but instead makes you think, oh this girl belongs in a facility.
Even Lumine seems confused by her reaction, joining you in watching her like sheβs just grown two heads. Hu Tao takes one look at both of your expressions and dissolves into another fit of laughter.
βOh, dear. And you donβt even know what it means!β she says in between laughs.
Lumine, having had enough of being in the dark, grabs Hu Taoβs face with both hands and forces her to look at her in the eye. βWhat does it mean?β
Hu Tao grins, gaze darting to you. βWhen you give an adeptus flowers, it means youβre proposing to them.β
You and Lumine gape, understanding dawning on your heads, though thereβs horror on your part at what it could mean.
But Hu Tao doesnβt stop there, βAnd if they take itβ¦β
You await her next words with bated breath, Lumine seemingly on the edge of her seat as well.
ββ¦It means they accept your proposal.β
Lumineβs screech of delight at this newfound information drowns out the metaphorical sound of your world falling apart and being built anew.
β§
You come home in a daze, eyes blankly staring ahead and unaware of your surroundings until you blink, and suddenly, youβre sitting at the dining table, a plate of steaming shrimp balls being placed in front of you.
Xiao crouches by your chair, examining your face with worried eyes. βAre you well?β
Your throat shrivels up. All the words and arguments youβd been planning to say earlier dying on your tongue. So, instead, you nod. He doesnβt outwardly look relieved, but the softness in his touch belies his care as he places a single stemmed qingxin flower on your palm.
Itβs still fresh, you notice, dew gathering on the petals and the scent still present.
Xiao sits on the chair opposite yours, looking at anything and anywhere but your eyes. βI plucked it from the highest mountains of Jueyun Karst, blessed by Cloud Retainer and said to ward away unwanted dreams.β
You stare down at it, at the white petals that feel soft against the pads of your fingers, heart beating out of your chest and hands clammy and breaths labored, a pleasant twist to your gut as you realized that heβd gone out of his way to climb a mountain and have it blessed by an adeptus just to give it to you. Thereβs being friends, handing each other flowers they saw on the road or bought at a shop, and then, thereβs this.
Your mouth feels dry, your chest feels full, and thereβs something on the tip of your tongue begging to be let out.
βXiao,β you start, finally gaining the courage to look up and meet his eyes. βWhat are we?β
His lips part, eyes widening the slightest amount that tells you heβs unsure what brought this question on and how to answer it.
You shake your head. βNever mind. Just tell me thisβare weβ¦ engaged?β
At this, Xiao seems to relax. βNo.β
You barely have the chance to feel a mix of relief and disappointment, though why youβd feel disappointment at having proof that you and Xiao really are just friendsβ
He smiles, a small one but no less brighter for it. βWe are married, arenβt we?β
And oh.
Oh.
Itβs not until now, with the confirmation of everything you dreaded (everything youβd hoped and wanted and yearned for desperately) that you realize how much youβve longed for something more with himβhow much youβve longed for him.
βXiao,β you say, eyes crinkling at the corners and cheeks aching with the intensity of your smile, βI love you.β
He startles, blinking up at you with wide eyes, red creeping up his cheeks, but before he can say anything you know heβs not quite prepared to say yet, you continue, still a little indignant at discovering youβd been married without a clue.
βBut I demand a proper wedding ceremony!β
word count: 2.2k
edit: the semi part 2 yβall have been asking for
if someone gifts an adeptus with flowers, it means you are proposing to them, and if they take it, it means they accept the proposal. unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on who you ask), you werenβt aware of such a custom. or β xiao thinks youβre married, but you just thought flowers would look nice on him.
fluff. comedy-ish. accidental malewife acquisition. featuring reader being clueless, xiao being hopeless, and lumine and hu tao being your biggest supporters
It started with a walk on the road as an acquaintance accompanied you.
Thereβd been a wild flower by the side, with white and lilac petals that youβd thought, rather presumptuously, would suit the dour faced adeptus beside you. So, you plucked it and impulsively handed it to him, a smile on your face and a shocked one on his.
His fingers closed around the flowerβs stem, the stern lines of his face softening as he gazed at the tiny petals that glittered in the sun.
Youβve never been rid of him since.
Your friend Xiao could be described as protective at best and possessive at worst. Itβs not a bad thing, of course! Caring for a friend is always a good thing in your books, but sometimes, you think he takes the word βcaringβ to an almost extreme degree.
Take, for instance, now.
βXiao?β
He hums from his spot on the sill of your window, not even sitting, no, heβs crouched on it, balanced on the thin ledge at the tips of his toes and keeping his eyes (which oddly glowed like a catβs) peeled for any danger. Like this, he almost looks like a bird perched on a branch.
You let out an awkward laugh. βYou know, I appreciate you doing this for me, keeping me safe and all, but I think I can spend the night on my own safely.β
His head whips to you so fast you almost feared heβd get neck cramps, an expression of surprise andβ¦ hurt? on his face.
βYouβ¦ donβt want me here?β
Youβve never backtracked so fast in your life. βNo! I mean, yesβbut not in the way youβre thinking!β
He looks forlorn now, stepping down the windowsill and shoulders hunched in a similar manner to that of a cat pulling its ears down its head. βIs this what the Traveler meant by sleeping on the couch?β
Youβre not sure what to do, but it seems like he wants to sleep on the couch? Puzzled, you smile encouragingly even though you donβt quite understand his words. βEr, if you want to sleep on the couch, youβre welcome to do so?β
His face falls.
β§
βAnd, I donβt know, he just became allβsad? Just, I felt so bad for basically kicking him out of my room, and now that Iβm thinking more on it, I shouldβve just offered to let him sleep beside me. Like a, um, a sleepover!β
Thereβs a distinctly bashful look on your face and, oh god, youβre drawing little circles on the table with your finger, an almost dreamy glint in your eyes.
Sweet Jesus that doesnβt exist in this world, Lumine is going to barf.
She slams her hands on the table, startling you in the process as she leans down and says with an exasperated face, βHave you considered that maybe you actually like him and heββ
βWhat?!β you squawk, mouth open in disbelief and a mortified look contorting your features. βThatβsβdonβt say such things, Lumi!β
She drops back down her chair, leveling you with a look that basically said, are you for real right now?
βItβs written all over your faceββ
You quickly slap both hands on your cheeks, turning your head away. βI donβt like him! How could I everβ¦ heβs an adeptus and Iβ¦β
βAnd you made an adeptus sleep on your couch,β Lumine deadpans.
She can feel the way your face burned at the reminder. You slump over the table, burying your head in your arms and bemoaning your decision. βI didnβt mean to disrespect himβ¦β
βOh, Iβm sure disrespect was the farthest thing you did to him,β she mutters beneath her breath. Broke his heart, shattered his hopes and dreams, devastated himβLumine can name a few more.
But then, you suddenly straighten up, determination lining your face. Thereβs a look in your eyes that tells Lumine she should probably stop you from doing whatever idiotic thingβhowever in good faith it might beβthat youβre about to do.
βI should give him some flowers as an apology. He always gets soβ¦ not exactly happy butβwarm, thatβs it. He feels warmer whenever I give him flowers.β You smile, reminiscing on whatever moments you had with him. You stand up, looking down at the empty plates all over the table before looking at her apologetically. βIβm sorry, could you foot the bill this time?β
Lumine sighs. Sheβs still got money from the last commission Ningguang made her do, so she supposes she can do it. Just this once. βFine, but youβre paying for our next outing!β
You beam, thanking her before running to the nearest flower shop or wherever it is youβre going to be getting those flowers from.
βMake sure to let him sleep on your bed next time!β Lumine yells to your retreating back, ignoring the strange, almost scandalized, looks from nearby patrons.
β§
You find him at your house, completely ignoring how strange it is that a friend has complete access to your house including a spare key and extra clothes on the closet just for him. Itβs simply become the norm, is all. And heβs a goodβyou donβt quite know what to call him, roommate? youβll settle for friendβfriend, helping you with the chores and often accompanying you to the market when you need new groceriesβbut only during the early mornings, of course. You know how much he dislikes crowds.
βIβm home!β
The response comes immediate and, judging by the direction, it came from the kitchen, βWelcome home.β
The large bouquet of glaze lilies interspersed with roses and qingxin flowers is heavy on your arms as you walked to the kitchen. Xiao is there, a broom in hand which he sets aside once he sees you and what youβre carrying.
βHere!β You grin, extending the bouquet forward and into his arms.
He accepts it, a flush to his cheeks and looking distinctly flustered by the gift. βIβ¦ thank you.β
βItβs an apology.β
His eyes snap to yours, iridescent gold piercing through you. Thereβs something almost vulnerable in the way heβs gazing at you, hands tightening around the flowers.
You fiddle with your fingers. βWell, I wanted to say sorry for making you sleep on the couch. If youβd like, you can sleep beside me tonight.β
Something in him relaxes, tension bleeding out of his posture as he smiles, small and near unnoticeable to anyone who didnβt know him so well.
For some reason, the sight of it makes your heart leap.
Lumineβs words repeat in your mind.
Have you considered that maybe you actually like him?
No, you think with dread, absolutely not.
β§
βYes,β Hu Tao crows in delight, βYouβre absolutely in love!β
βSee, thatβs what I tried to say yesterday, but nooo. Oh, Lumi, Xiao is just a friend,β Lumine grouches, imitating your voice and utterly failing because while she may be strong enough to fight monsters and gods, that girl has absolutely no talent when it comes to mimicking.
Your palms cover your face that feels warm to touch. βI do not sound like that. And itβs true, we really are just friends!β
βOf course, because friends do things like living together and sleeping on the same bed and holding handsββ You open your mouth to protest, but Hu Tao doesnβt let you interrupt, ββdonβt deny it! I saw you last week near Liuli Pavilion, and he was holding your hand and carrying a bag of food!β
βHeβs just really helpful! Heβs an adeptus,β you argue, though it sounds weak even to your own ears.
βAnd do all adepti live with a human, do they sleep with themββ
βYou make it sound so lewd, Lumi!β
ββdo they hold their hands and go grocery shopping at five in the morning with them?β Lumine pierces you with those honey gold eyes of hers. βDid you know I barely have anything to do in the Adventurerβs Guild here in Liyue besides babysitting and errands because someoneβnamely, an adeptus who coincidentally goes by the name Xiaoβkeeps killing all the monsters within the area?β
Hu Tao cackles. βHe always asks about you whenever I encounter him at Wuwang Hill.β
You level her with an incredulous look. βWhat were you even doing there?β
βHiding bodies, duh!β At your horrified look, she winks. βJust kidding!β
You shake off Hu Taoβs laughter and pinch your lips together. βLook, itβsβweβre just friends. Thatβs all there is to it.β
Lumine huffs, βYeah, sure, because friends like you two give each other flowers everyday. How does your house still have space in it for more?β
You wouldβve refuted her words, wouldβve argued that no, you donβt give each other flowers everyday, just on a regular basisβbut Hu Taoβs sudden silence concerned you more than what Lumine said. The funeral director turns her head to you with wide eyes.
βYou gave him flowers?β she asks, an odd tone to her voice.
Your brows furrow at her uncharacteristic seriousness. βUm, yes? I do it all the time.β
She leapt forward, grabbing your shoulders and lips twitching into something you could almost call glee. βAnd he accepted it?β
βWhy wouldnβt he?β
Hu Tao lets go of your shoulders to tilt her head back and laugh. Not the nice little giggles she does after a successful prank, no, this is more manic. The kind that wouldnβt make you think, oh how sweet, but instead makes you think, oh this girl belongs in a facility.
Even Lumine seems confused by her reaction, joining you in watching her like sheβs just grown two heads. Hu Tao takes one look at both of your expressions and dissolves into another fit of laughter.
βOh, dear. And you donβt even know what it means!β she says in between laughs.
Lumine, having had enough of being in the dark, grabs Hu Taoβs face with both hands and forces her to look at her in the eye. βWhat does it mean?β
Hu Tao grins, gaze darting to you. βWhen you give an adeptus flowers, it means youβre proposing to them.β
You and Lumine gape, understanding dawning on your heads, though thereβs horror on your part at what it could mean.
But Hu Tao doesnβt stop there, βAnd if they take itβ¦β
You await her next words with bated breath, Lumine seemingly on the edge of her seat as well.
ββ¦It means they accept your proposal.β
Lumineβs screech of delight at this newfound information drowns out the metaphorical sound of your world falling apart and being built anew.
β§
You come home in a daze, eyes blankly staring ahead and unaware of your surroundings until you blink, and suddenly, youβre sitting at the dining table, a plate of steaming shrimp balls being placed in front of you.
Xiao crouches by your chair, examining your face with worried eyes. βAre you well?β
Your throat shrivels up. All the words and arguments youβd been planning to say earlier dying on your tongue. So, instead, you nod. He doesnβt outwardly look relieved, but the softness in his touch belies his care as he places a single stemmed qingxin flower on your palm.
Itβs still fresh, you notice, dew gathering on the petals and the scent still present.
Xiao sits on the chair opposite yours, looking at anything and anywhere but your eyes. βI plucked it from the highest mountains of Jueyun Karst, blessed by Cloud Retainer and said to ward away unwanted dreams.β
You stare down at it, at the white petals that feel soft against the pads of your fingers, heart beating out of your chest and hands clammy and breaths labored, a pleasant twist to your gut as you realized that heβd gone out of his way to climb a mountain and have it blessed by an adeptus just to give it to you. Thereβs being friends, handing each other flowers they saw on the road or bought at a shop, and then, thereβs this.
Your mouth feels dry, your chest feels full, and thereβs something on the tip of your tongue begging to be let out.
βXiao,β you start, finally gaining the courage to look up and meet his eyes. βWhat are we?β
His lips part, eyes widening the slightest amount that tells you heβs unsure what brought this question on and how to answer it.
You shake your head. βNever mind. Just tell me thisβare weβ¦ engaged?β
At this, Xiao seems to relax. βNo.β
You barely have the chance to feel a mix of relief and disappointment, though why youβd feel disappointment at having proof that you and Xiao really are just friendsβ
He smiles, a small one but no less brighter for it. βWe are married, arenβt we?β
And oh.
Oh.
Itβs not until now, with the confirmation of everything you dreaded (everything youβd hoped and wanted and yearned for desperately) that you realize how much youβve longed for something more with himβhow much youβve longed for him.
βXiao,β you say, eyes crinkling at the corners and cheeks aching with the intensity of your smile, βI love you.β
He startles, blinking up at you with wide eyes, red creeping up his cheeks, but before he can say anything you know heβs not quite prepared to say yet, you continue, still a little indignant at discovering youβd been married without a clue.
βBut I demand a proper wedding ceremony!β
word count: 2.2k
edit: the semi part 2 yβall have been asking for
I avoided playing Genshin Impact for a very very long time because I knew I would like it and unfortunately I was right. Here are two non-human twinks who I think should kiss each other (they have never canonically met)
see all chapters here
tags: fem! reader, heavy warning for violence and blood, overdose, murder, death, hunting, graphic descriptions of injuries, vox being painfully obvious, vox malfunctions (lmao L), allusion to death, valentino warning, alastor's demon form
Rocks and twigs dug into your knees as you crawled forward, the jagged edges cutting your skin as you reached Alastor's side. With trembling hands, you cradled his face against your lap.
"Alastor," you called for him, desperately clutching onto his body, trying to pull him back down to Earth and hold him there "Al, Al, please."
"What did I do? What can I do?" More tears dribbled down your cheeks as you looked down at your husband, leaning in to press tender kisses to the apples of his cheeks. You held him as tightly as you could, careful not to cause him any more pain.
"I can figure out a way to help you, I can. I know I can, baby," you whispered, your voice choked with emotion. Your gaze remained locked with your husband's lifeless eyes, the world spinning around you as panic tightened its grip on your chest, making it difficult to breathe.
"Al. I'm sorry. I'm so sorry."
Λΰ¨ΰ§ββ±
You woke with a startle.
Gasping for breath, your chest heaved with each inhale, the rapid beat of your pulse slamming against your ribcage, the sound hammering in your head. Blinking repeatedly, your vision slowly adjusted to the unfamiliar sight of a ceiling painted with outrageously colorful prints. Faint traces of neon lights filtered through the thin curtains, casting erratic patterns across the room, accompanied by the distant thump of music.
A gentle knocking at the door broke through the haze, accompanied by the muted tones of a familiar voice seeping through the metal barrier.
"Dollface? Are you up?" Vox's voice, though muffled, was unmistakable as it filtered through the door.
Shakily, you pushed yourself up and sat for a while, gathering your composure. The room spun around you, the vibrant colors of the walls and lights blurring into a dizzying kaleidoscope. Eventually, with a deep breath, you pushed yourself into action, moving to open the door.
As you swung it open, Vox stood on the other side, his signature smirk etched onto his features. His mechanical eyes gleamed as they scanned you for any signs of distress or fatigue. And despite your disorientation, you straightened your posture, trying to maintain your usual demeanor in front of him.
"Good morning," Vox greeted smoothly. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything?"
Of course, he wasn't interrupting anything. It was clear to both of you that you had just rolled out of bed. Your hair tousled in disarray, your sleepwear crumpled and creased, and your bed behind you a mess of twisted sheets and pillows.
Still, you forced a polite smile and shook your head.
"No, not at all," you replied.
"Excellent," Vox grinned, stepping a foot past your doorway. "May I come in?"
Despite the internal alarm bells ringing in your mind, you nodded, moving aside to let him in. As he passed by, you couldn't shake the feeling of being scrutinized, like prey under the gaze of a predator before the pounce.
Closing the door, you leaned against it, feeling the cool surface against your back, and turned to face Vox, attempting to hide the unease simmering within.
"What can I help you with?" you asked, keeping your tone steady.
Vox's gaze pierced yours, his mechanical eyes glinting with a hunger that unsettled you.
"I thought of how we could discuss the details of our partnership," he hummed, running his fingers along your dresser. "Over dinner, perhaps?"
The proposal hung in the air, heavy with implications you weren't sure you wanted to explore. Despite your best efforts to hide it, a seething sense of unease bubbled beneath the surface, twisting your features into a grimace.
"Dinner?" The word felt like acid on your tongue as you struggled to maintain your façade, your gaze sharpening into a glare aimed directly at the overlord. "I'm sorry, but⦠I'm not interested."
Vox's laughter cut through the tense atmosphere, but it sounded forced and hollow.
"I meant a professional meeting, love," he covered up with a wave of his hand, the charm in his voice slightly strained. "Let's go over your contract."
Relieved, you nodded, though beneath, a whirlwind of thoughts swirled.
This could be a chance for you to really have a gauge on your situation. Everything had happened so fast, and you found yourself stumbling in the dark. You knew the Vees were a powerhouse in the entertainment district, their influence stretching far and wide, extending into every corner of hell. They were notorious for their employment methods, for their ability to shape destinies and manipulate lives with the stroke of a pen.
Who knows what was even in your contract?
"Wonderful!" Vox's cheerful interruption jolted you from your thoughts as he extended his arm. "Well then, let's not waste any more time. Shall we?"
"Shall we what?" you spoke slowly, your tone guarded.
"Shall we get to your duties, my dear?" Vox clarified smoothly, as if it were the most natural thing in the world, his words laden with expectation. "Velvette is waiting."
"Ohβ" you jolted. Quickly, you gathered yourself, smoothing down the wrinkles of your robe and adjusting your disheveled hair with clumsy fingers.
Taking a deep breath to steady your nerves, you reached out and linked your arm with Vox's. The overlord smirked as he led you out of the room and through the corridors, already launching into conversation about his latest product line.
A part of you found it amusing how similar he was to your husbandβboth of them chatterboxes who couldn't keep their mouths shut if they tried.
Nodding along to Vox's conversation, you fell into step beside him. As you two walked, it was impossible not to notice the subtle shift in demeanor among the demons and imps, who hastily cleared a path for Vox, some even bowing respectfully as you passed by.
"And here we are!"
Arriving at Velvette's office, you entered cautiously, the tension thick in the air. Models lounged around in various states of undress, their statuesque figures draped in luxurious fabrics. Their expressions ranged from curiosity to suspicion as they observed your every move. Some whispered amongst themselves in hushed tones, casting wary glances in your direction, while others maintained an aloof demeanor, their gazes piercing yet blank.
Velvette stood at the front, her figure partially obscured by the tall curtains behind her. Her eyes, sharp and calculating, swept over you with open scorn.
"Finally! Took ya long enough," Velvette scowled. "Edna, will you please go get her dressed?!"
Edna, a tall and slender imp with delicate horns curved against her head, nodded obediently before gliding over to you. With a gentle tug on your arm, she beckoned you to follow her backstage. You stumbled nervously, clutching your robe as you obeyed.
As you stepped away, Vox chuckled, waving you off with a flourish. You offered a cautious wave back before being enveloped by the heavy fabric of the curtains.
"I know what you're trying," Velvette scoffed as she tapped away on her phone, her perfectly manicured nails, painted in a glossy shade of neon pink, clacking against the screen. Vox turned to her, his expression one of exaggerated innocence.
"Whatever do you mean?" he retorted, raising an eyebrow in mock surprise.
"Oh, please don't act as if you weren't sending marionnette over there heart eyes," Velvette accused, her crimson lips forming a thin line of disapproval. "Listen, I don't care what you do with your little girl toy. Just make sure you don't get in the way of my show."
"Wouldn't dream of it," Vox hummed, taking a seat on one of the plush couches.
Velvette turned to him, surprised, her curls bouncing from the abruptness of her movement. "You're staying?"
"Of course. I'm eager to see your dazzling ideas, my dear," Vox replied smoothly, spreading his long legs across the expanse of the couch. "After all, your show is going to be featured on my channels. It's all anyone has been raving about on Voxtagram lately."
"Cut the crap. You just want an excuse to ogle at her," Velvette scoffed.
Vox leaned back against the cushions, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips. "Can you blame me? She's quite the sight to behold."
Before Velvette could snap back, Edna returned, leading you out from behind the curtains. You emerged, feeling somewhat exposed under the scrutinizing gazes of the two overlords.
No surprise, as the main act, you were dressed in one of Velvette's main designs. Black netted stockings hugged your legs as they met the bright red stilettos that adorned your feet. A red corset cinched your waist and emphasized the curve of your hips, accentuating your figure. Below the corset, you wore a dark miniskirt with cream ruffles and lace, its fabric swaying with every step.
You felt abash as you stood in the outfit. In the past, you had been considered a flapper girl with your bold demeanor and penchant for daring fashion choices, but even you couldn't help but feel a twinge of surprise at the lack of modesty of the skirt in this particular outfit. It barely grazed past your crotch, leaving almost nothing to the imagination.
"Let's seeβ¦" Velvette hummed, completely absorbed in her task as she approached you, Vox long forgotten. With a couple of snaps of her fingers, the clothing and accessories you wore began to shift and change, transforming before your eyes.
Velvette's fingers danced through the air, conjuring delicate lace and cascading ruffles that stuck onto the corset. With a flick of her wrist, she summoned a cream fur coat, draping it over your shoulders with a flourish. The colors morphed, the fabrics transformed, until finally, with a satisfied clap of her hands, she took a step back to admire your new look.
"Makeup!"
Suddenly, you yelped as a chair was dragged over, pushing against the back of your knees and causing you to fall right into it. A bunch of imps swarmed around you and they wasted no time in getting to work, dabbing various products onto your face and expertly brushing powder along your cheeks.
Once they were finished, they handed you a mirror, allowing you to inspect their handiwork. Unlike the outfit, the makeup look wasn't as unsettling. Your face was adorned with makeup reminiscent of classic clown makeup, featuring exaggerated lashes, a layer of white face paint, and a bold red lip.
"That's it! That's the one," Velvette grinned, delighted with the makeover. Her grin turned into a smirk as she turned to Vox. "Well, what do you thinkβSatan!"
Vox's screen began to glitch and buffer, emitting sparks of electricity that charred the couch beneath him. The sudden noise startled some of the models, their eyes widening in alarm as they scrambled to move away from the malfunctioning android.
"The hell is wrong with you?" Velvette shouted.
Vox tried to respond, but all that came out was static.
Concerned, you approached him, the clicking of your heels against the floor echoing.
As you settled beside Vox, there was a momentary pause in the static, and he stared at you with wide eyes, the malfunction seemingly halted by your presence.
Part of you screamed at yourself to leave, to let him handle his problems alone. But another part of you remained, despite everything. Somehow, you still felt a sliver of sympathy for the overlord.
Leaning in closer, you furrowed your brow, the red gloss on your lips catching the studio lights. The corset pushed your chest up, and Vox found his eyes shamelessly drifting.
"Are you okay?" you whispered, your voice laced with genuine worry.
But before Vox could respond, he short-circuited, a burst of sparks and smoke emitting from his malfunctioning screen. You recoiled instinctively, your hand reaching out to shield yourself from any potential danger. With a final surge of electricity, he powered down completely, leaving behind a smoldering heap of metal and wires.
"Is he⦠okay?"
Velvette waved a dismissive hand. "He's always doing this. Probably overloaded his circuits again."
"Now, can someone please get this thing out of here?!" she commanded, snapping her fingers and tapping her foot impatiently.
As the models and attendants hurried to comply, you were pulled back up to your feet by the overlord. "He'll reboot eventually. Now, let's get back to work."
Reluctantly tearing your gaze away from Vox, you followed after Velvette as she led the way to a photo studio within the boutique.
The scene before you was akin to a circus, with vibrant hues of bright reds and pinks resembling a Valentine's Day massacre. A carousel in the background spun slowly, its eerie music echoing through the studio. Beating hearts hung suspended from the ceiling, their rhythmic pulses visible as they dripped with blood.
"Alright! Let's get the rehearsal started!" Velvette shouted out as she began to direct the crew. Cameras were adjusted, lights were fine-tuned, and the set was re-arranged to her satisfaction.
Turning to you with a tablet in hand, Velvette tossed it into your hands. You caught the device and quickly read through the document on the screen, realizing it was lyrics to a song. Your eyes rushed to memorize the words, the familiarity of the process washing over you.
Decades in the show industry had honed your skills to perfection, making this routine feel like second nature. A small pang of nostalgia tugged at your heartstrings, reminding you of simpler times before everything went amiss.
βAlright.β
Barely giving you ten minutes to prepare, Velvette deftly plucked the tablet from your hands as she stepped back and settled into a director's chair. The chair creaked softly under her weight as she made herself comfortable, slipping on heart-shaped glasses that glinted in the studio lights.
"Let's see what you've got.β
Lifting the scepter to your lips, you pressed it against your mouth, leaving a trace of red lipstick staining the surface, a stark contrast against the sleek metal. As the lights dimmed, signaling the start of your performance, you took a deep breath and began to recite the lyrics.
I write poems to burn by firelight
Drink champagne and guzzle gin
Good girls call me "the town bicycle"
Don't knock it 'til you've tried my life of sin
With a flick of your hand, you pushed back the curls of your hair, the strands catching the studio lights as you kept your gaze glued to the camera lens. From her chair, Velvette smirked and captured the moment with her phone, the flash briefly blinding the dimly lit set.
Oh, my pimp, knows never mess with me
Last prick did that faded quick to black
I have no idea where to find him, officers
But if you do, please mention that I'd
Like to have returned the pretty knife
That I stuck ten times in his backβ
Before you could even finish, the door burst open with a deafening bang, causing everyone in the room to jump in surprise. Valentino stormed into the boutique, his eyes blazing with unrestrained fury. Without uttering a single word, he launched into a violent rampage, his movements wild and unpredictable.
The air was filled with the sound of crashing props and the desperate, panicked screams of assistants as they scrambled to evade Valentino's wrath. You jerked back instinctively as an arm was thrown in your direction, narrowly avoiding the chaotic fray unfolding around you.
"Damn it, Valentino! What are you doing?!" Velvette shouted over the commotion, her voice strained with anger and disbelief as she dug her fingers into her hair, her perfectly styled locks now in disarray.
"What does it look like I'm doing?" the moth demon screamed back, his voice seething with rage as he held poor Edna by her throat, his grip like a vice around her delicate neck.
"I'm airing out my frustrations!" he spat, his eyes wild with fury.
A sickening tearing sound filled the room as Valentino viciously tore Edna apart, blood splattering across the floor and staining the nearby racks of clothing.
"Fuck!" Velvette cursed under her breath. Fumbling, she retrieved her phone, her fingers tapping against the screen in agitation as she dialed Vox's number.
"My dear," the businessman's smooth voice echoed through the speakers, a calming presence amidst the storm. "What can I do for you?"
"Cut the shit. Are you functioning now?" Velvette's words were clipped, forceful, her tone leaving no room for argument.
"Functioning?" The overlord's response was hesitant, his movements jerky as he twisted his head, the wires on his neck audibly cracking with a spark. "I⦠suppose so."
"Good, because I need you up here now!" Velvette's voice crackled with urgency. "Mothboy is wrecking my department! And I'm waiting for a certain flat-faced prince to come and help!"
Without another word, Vox nodded with a weary groan, the weight of responsibility settling heavily upon him like an oppressive cloak.
"Just another fuckin' day with Val," he scoffed bitterly, his tone tinged with resignation as he pushed himself to his feet with a mechanical whir. "Fuck my life."
In an instant, he transformed into a crackling spark of electricity, zipping up into the CCTV camera before seamlessly teleporting into another one located in Velvette's studio.
"What's going on?" Vox sighed wearily as he materialized, his voice tinged with exhaustion, hands folding behind his back as he surveyed the chaotic scene before him.
"Valentino's lost it again. And he's tearing everything apart," Velvette hissed as her hand shot up, grabbing Vox by the collar of his metallic frame.
Her nails dug into the surface, leaving faint marks as she pulled him down to her eye level. "You need to stop him before he causes any more damage!"
"Consider it done," Vox muttered, rolling his eyes before moving toward Valentino. With a firm grip, he halted the demon mid-carnage, spinning Valentino around to face him. An unsettling grin stretched across Vox's metallic features as he locked eyes with the enraged demon.
"Val! What's got you out of sorts today?"
βThat piece of shit! Can you believe what he did?β Valentino snarled, his voice dripping with venom as he flung a small imp across the room, the helpless girl crashing into a clothing rack. βThe ungrateful whore!β
"Uh huh, which whore are we talking about now?β Vox spoke nonchalantly as he pulled his phone out and idly scrolled through it. Before he could react, Valentino lunged forward, his claws snatching the device from Vox's grasp.
"Who else would I be talking about?!" Valentino spat, his grip tightening around the phone until it crushed in his hands. With a primal scream, he hurled the remains of the tech against a nearby wall, the impact causing the column to crack under the force of the blow.
You watched with a frown as Vox attempted to calm Valentino, but his efforts fell short against the demon's relentless anger. Despite Vox's attempts, Valentino continued to rage, his voice echoing through the room as he screamed about hotels, phone calls, and among other things you didn't bother picking up.
βFuck. Alright, he's not calming down anytime soon,β Velvette scoffed, rolling her eyes. She turned to you and motioned for you to follow as she began storming out. βCome on."
Quickly, you nodded, falling into step behind Velvette as she navigated through the gory scene. Blood stained the bottom of your heels as you stepped past limbs and puddles of blood, bones cracked underfoot, and muscles squished beneath your weight. The overpowering scent of iron filled the air, mingling with the metallic tang of fear.
The overlord guided you out of the room and towards the other side of the building, where a door adorned with your name on a golden plaque awaited.
"This is your dressing room. We'll have another shoot in a few hours, so get yourself prepped in here while I go take care of the piss baby," Velvette scowled, already busying herself with her phone again.
"Will do," you sighed, running a hand through your hair, grateful for the moment of rest.
"Good. I'll see you then," Velvette declared with dramatic flair, her vibrant curls swirling around her face as she turned on her heels and walked away, leaving a trail of her perfume lingering in the air.
As you were about to step into your dressing room, the door beside you suddenly swung open with a creak, revealing a slice of the pink-filled bedroom beyond. To your surprise, you were met with the familiar sight of a fluff of white hair. An accented voice filled the air, screaming into a phone, the sound echoing down the corridor.
"I told ya, I didn't mean toβ," The demon turned to you and froze, his eyes widening as he dropped his cigar in shock. The carpet beneath your feet caught fire from the dropped cigar, but neither of you seemed to care.
He stared at you, wide-eyed.
Hands flying up to your mouth, you stared back.
For a minute, all you could hear was the muted sounds of Valentino's screaming from the phone speaker and the building's hustle and bustle
"Dollface?" Angel Dust finally broke the silence, his voice barely above a whisper as he blinked dumbfounded. "What the hell are you doing here?!"
Your heart dropped like a heavy stone, sinking into the depths of your chest. Tears welled up in your eyes, blurring your vision as you stood there.
Everything was becoming too much to even process. Your body betrayed you as you lost your balance, collapsing and hitting the floor. A high-pitched ringing pierced your ears, drowning out all other sounds, as warmth seeped from them.
"Aw, shit," Angel Dust hissed in panic. Without hesitation, he reached out and pulled you into his arms, dragging you into his room, the door closing behind you with a soft click.
Ending the call, he tossed his phone away and guided you to a plush couch, the fabric soft and inviting beneath your touch as you sank into its embrace. Angel Dust settled beside you, his presence comforting like a warm blanket on a cold night. He offered you a sympathetic smile, though slightly awkward, his eyes filled with understanding.
"Hey, hey, it's okay," he murmured soothingly, his words a gentle caress to your troubled soul.
Opening his arms wide, Angel offered you a hug, and you leaned into his embrace, finding solace in the warmth of his arms as he enveloped you in a comforting hug. Slowly, your senses came together as you nestled against him, the gentle rhythm of his breathing calming the storm of emotions raging within you.
"It's gonna be alright," he whispered softly, his voice a comforting murmur. Moving closer, he wiped away the warm liquid seeping from your ears. You could faintly see his hands moving away, stained with red. "You alright? What happened, mama?"
"A lot," you sighed, raising a hand to massage your temple as you recounted the events of the past 24 hours, from Mimzy's lounge getting busted down to your soul exchange with Vox.
Angel listened intently as you recounted the events, his expression shifting from concern to disbelief as he processed the gravity of what you had experienced.
"Damn, you've been through hell twice. You're one tough cookie, mama," Angel said with a warm smile as he reached for a brush on his vanity and gently ran it through your messed-up hair.
Despite the heaviness of the situation, a hint of laughter escaped you.
"You could say that," you sniffed, feeling a sense of relief wash over you as you let out a long-held sigh. "It's been a while since I've been able to let it all out like this. Most demons aren't exactly the nicest."
Angel Dust chuckled with a shrug, his hands gentle as he worked through the knots in your hair. "Yeah, I've⦠ah, been tryn'a to stay 'good' for a while now. Charlie's been real pushy with the redemption thing, and I thought, what the hell, why not?"
Suddenly, he paused his brushing and gawked at you, his eyes widening in realization. "Charlie! The hotel!"
Your heart skipped a beat as Angel Dust's words sank in. "The hotel," you echoed, the pieces of the puzzle starting to fall into place in your mind.
"Shit!" Angel laughed, running a hand through his hair. "Well, there ya go! I get off shift tonight, and I sure as hell can get my ass over there. Hell, I can leave right this instant if you want!"
"Won't Valentino be pissed?" you asked, a flicker of concern crossing your features. "You'll beβ" Your gaze darted over to his discarded phone on the floor, which was buzzing with calls. "Well, already are in deep shit."
Angel Dust frowned, his expression hardening with resolve. He grabbed your coat and swiftly removed it, tossing it aside to cover the buzzing phone. "Fuck 'im. He can bark all he wants in the studio, but outside of it, he's got no power over me."
The spider leaned in, his touch as gentle as a soft breeze against your skin, his fingers delicate as they brushed a stray hair from your face. "I'll help you. So don't get your pretty little tits in a twist anymore, alright?"
With a heavy heart, you whispered your gratitude, bowing your head as tears continued to stream down your cheeks. Today had been bleak, but a glimmer of hope lingered for a brighter tomorrow.
"But I don't want to get you in trouble, Angel," you said softly, wiping away your tears, exhaustion washing over you. "I can wait until tonight."
Angel Dust's expression softened, a warm smile spreading across his face. "Nah, babe, ain't no trouble for me. Besides, waiting ain't my style, and I ain't about to let you deal with this mess alone."
"Plus," Angel grinned devilishly, his eyes sparkling with mischief, the corners of his lips curling up. "I know your man is going to tear shit down. And I want front row seats to all that drama."
Λΰ¨ΰ§ββ±
"NO!"
Charlie shrieked, her voice piercing the air as she lunged forward, her fingers grasping desperately at Alastor's piece on the gameboard. "Al! You can't just do whatever you want! You have to follow the rules!"
Alastor leaned back in his chair, a low chuckle leaving his lips as he regarded Charlie with amusement. "But my dear, where's the entertainment in that?" he purred as he tilted his head in mock innocence. "Rules are made to be broken, after all. So, I had a little fun with it."
"A little fun?" Vaggie scoffed from her spot on the floor, her brows furrowed in frustration as she idly shuffled the cards.
"Yeah, thanks a lot, dickhead," she muttered, her voice laced with irritation. "That's what you've been doing these past 2 hours. If you don't start playing properly, might as well not play. I meanβwhy did you even bother?"
"For the entertainment!" Alastor cheered, his grin widening as he rolled the dice once the turn landed on him again. With a flourish of his claws, he moved his piece three spaces, landing on an unclaimed building which he quickly purchased. "I came here because I love seeing you wayward souls struggle to accomplish something great, and fail spectacularly!"
Vaggie scoffed and rolled the dice, her hand deftly moving the piece along the board with a flick of her wrist. However, her expression soured noticeably when the piece landed on the Jail panel. She seethed and sank back, silently cursing her streak of horrible luck.
"Ah, like you are doing now!" Alastor smirked down at her like the asshole he was, punctuating his words with a clap of his hand. "Good job!"
Vaggie clenched her jaw tightly, her knuckles whitening as she lifted the board, readying herself to strike Alastor. However, before she could make her move, the door burst open, and Angel Dust rushed in with a gasp. He looked every bit disheveled, as if he had just run through all nine circles of hell.
Charlie's eyes lit up at the sight of him, and she lifted her hand, waving him over excitedly.
"Angel! Perfect timing. We need one more player for Monopurgatory," she exclaimed, gesturing excitedly towards the game board. With a gleeful expression, she plucked a piece from the board and held up a small metal figurine with a wide smile. "You can be the cupcake~!"
"Sorry, princess, I've got business," Angel huffed, brushing his hair back as he turned to Alastor. "Alright, freaks. We need to talk."
Alastor hummed, studying Angel with mild amusement. "My, my, such urgency," he remarked, his smile widening into a grin. "What's got you in such a hurry?"
"It's about Vox," Angel replied, pressing his hands flat against each other. "I need to speak with you in private."
Alastor's grin faded slightly, and he tilted his head, his eyes narrowing at Angel. Well, this was certainly getting very entertaining.
After a moment of contemplation, Alastor shook his head, snapping himself out of whatever daze he had briefly fallen into.
"Vox, you say?" Alastor mused, tapping his chin thoughtfully. With a nonchalant shrug, he pushed himself up, twirling his cane in the air. "Oh, well, in that case, let's chat."
With a flick of his wrist, Alastor moved forward and gestured towards the door, indicating for Angel to follow him. Charlie and Vaggie exchanged puzzled glances, but they remained silent, watching as both men left the room.
"You know, I'd usually never even think of entertaining you, and I'd rather let you deal with your own issues. But you seem to be in a great deal of suffering!β Alastor laughed heartily as he shut the door.
"So, pray tell, what happened? Did you get yourself entangled in another deal from a whim decision? My! I certainly hope you don't bring any of this into the hotel. What will the papers say?"
Angel rolled his eyes and cut Alastor's rambling short, jabbing a gloved finger into the Radio Demon's chest. "It ain't about me. And you're gonna want to listen because it's your missus that's in deep shit right now."
Alastor's eye twitched at the mention of you, a brief flicker of static and symbols dancing in the air. His crimson eyes bore into Angel Dust, his expression unreadable, save for the wide curl of his lips.
Inwardly, Angel smirked. If he didn't have Alastor's attention before, he sure as fuck had it now.
"What does my wife have to do with this?" Alastor quipped sharply, his claws delicately removing Angel Dust's finger from his chest. "I fail to see the connection. Do enlighten me."
"Wanna be enlightened?" Angel waved him over, "Then follow me."
Without waiting for a response, Angel turned on his heels and strode out of the hotel. Alastor followed closely behind, his red-clad figure cutting through the streets of hell like fire against the night.
A few streets later, they approached the border edge of the entertainment district, and Alastor halted abruptly, his gaze narrowing in suspicion.
"I don't particularly fancy this area, and I'd rather not enter," he scoffed, adjusting his coat and brushing away dust from his sleeves with a disdainful flick. "It's rather unsavory."
"Just look," Angel rolled his eyes, gesturing upwards towards the towering Vee tower, where a new advertisement had just been erected.
Alastor's gaze shifted upward, and he froze as he beheld your face plastered across the billboard, larger than life, dominating the skyline of the entertainment district. The vibrant colors of the advertisement clashed with the dark hues of the surrounding buildings, drawing attention like a beacon in the night. Beneath the image, in bold letters, was a sign that read: "Sponsored by VoxTek," stark against the backdrop of your image.
There was silence for a minute, then another, before a sharp crack split the air.
"Angel?" Alastor's chipper voice rang out as he stared up at the billboard with a manic grin. Crackling began to be heard as his limbs lengthened, each movement accompanied by the sound of bones shifting and sinewy muscles stretching beneath his ashen flesh.
"Would you be so kind as toβ¦" His antlers began to grow in size, curling and twisting like the branches of a gnarled tree.
"βexplainβ¦" His eyes darkened, the whites turning to a deep, swirling black, while the pupils glowed with a golden light, resembling the flickering dials of an old radio.
"βwhat exactly am I looking at right now?" His hands elongated into grotesque claws, the fingers stretching and sharpening into razor-sharp blades capable of ripping fleshβor in this case, wiresβwith ease. As his claws extended, they stretched his glove to its limit until it tore right off, revealing the glint of his wedding ring.
"Vox got her soul," Angel replied immediately, his voice steady despite the horrifying sight in front of him. "Screens has her wrapped around his finger, and he's not planning to let go anytime soon."
Alastor's head snapped to the side with a sickening crack accompanying the movement.
"Show me," he snarled, his voice taking on an inhuman quality, heavily filtered by radio waves.
Without hesitation, Angel gestured towards the billboard, his expression blank.
