Did you see the moon dust last night? It took my breath away. One day, there will be that person who will look at us the same way we admire the moon from afar.
✦ ⟡ ⟡ About Me ⟡ ⟡ ✦
Hi! I am Athanasia, a writer of the moon’s epistles. Inspirations, dreams, and emotions, they all blend with the words I letter.
I pen stories from Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail, as I am an avid player and fan of the games! If you ever need a friend to talk to about it or play coop, don’t hesitate to send me a DM! I play in the Asia Server.
✦ ⟡ ⟡ Requests ⟡ ⟡ ✦
I am open for Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail requests! Just click the small button on my profile and send me a scenario. I love to see ideas blossom in people’s minds. I wonder what you’ve been dreaming of?
Maybe you have a letter for the moon to read?
Please keep in mind that I restrict my work from incest, pedophilia, rape, or extremely sensitive topics that should not be romanticized.
✦ ⟡ ⟡ Masterlist ⟡ ⟡ ✦
I have written a few stories whenever I feel the inspiration coming. You may see the list by clicking the link below.
Repository: Travail Echoes
Recent Work: Fontaine - Lost In You
Please do not copy or repost my stories, but notes and reblogs are always appreciated!
ıllı Synopsis: Lost in your eyes, in your voice, and in your touch. Even with a simple turn, these men are captivated. For them, there is only you.
ıllı Genre: Fluff, Slight Angst-Comfort
ıllı Notes: Gender-neutral reader
ıllı Warnings: Sensitive content in Lyney’s story. Tread carefully.
ıllı Author’s Note: I’m so rusty! Finishing this draft sitting in my phone. It’s a bit cringe, but I’m still trying to get back to writing.
🍁NEUVILLETTE — LEVIATHAN JUDICATOR
Palais Mermonia was once again swamped with work, especially right after Fontaine was plunged into the dark, cold waters that could vanquish a whole race. The memory of the ‘fulfilled’ prophecy was still fresh in everyone’s mind, and it was no wonder that despite the hustle of work, many still looked antsy. However, the person who held onto that memory the most was the Iudex, absently signing the papers on his desk without rest. Every Melusine working in the palace was worried for his health, so they reached out to the only person they knew would bring their ‘Father’ out of his stupor. His beloved partner.
What better solution than the care and comfort of your most cherished person?
With a skip to her sole, Sedene made it to your home, but as she knocked on the door, there was no sound indicating you were ever home. It confused the poor Melusine, so she checked the backyard, but you were not there. A disappointed sigh left her, wondering what she would tell the others once she returned empty-handed.
“Hm? Hello, Sedene! What are you doing here, dear?” She heard from behind, and that was when she saw you holding two paper bags. Beside you was a familiar figure that the Melusine could not help but bow in respect.
“Good day, Mx. (Y/N) and Lady Furina! I hope you two have been doing well. I see that you two just came from the market, but may I kindly ask if you could accompany me for a moment, Mx. (Y/N)? The Iudex is currently… troubled, and we do not know what to do.” Sedene asked, borderline begged by the look in her eyes. However, before you could answer, a tug on your shirt caught your attention. It was from Furina, looking unsure and quite scared.
It was not the first you saw this expression on her face. In fact, before the incident with Fontaine being flooded, you would notice this look on her as if heaven and earth had forsaken her. When you asked her to confide in you, she reverted to her haughty attitude, a wall she put up for years. In the end, you let yourself become a friend she could rest and forget the world with.
You gently held the young woman’s hand and squeezed it. A silent promise that you will be back for her. She wanted to protest, but the pleading look in your eyes made her nod in understanding.
“I promise to be back, okay, Furina? Why don’t you wait inside? I have some krones, macarons, and la lettre by the table, so help yourself. Don’t worry about imposing, you are never imposing on me, my husband, or anybody else. All right?” You assured the former god. She reluctantly accepted your hospitality and led her inside. Sedene helped out with the grocery for which you thank the Melusine.
Once done, you bid your farewell to the young lady and headed for Palais Mermonia where you were amicably greeted by the staff. You gave them a wave before stopping by the doors where your beloved was working. From your inventory, you conjured up the consomme, coffee bavarois, and water from Mondstadt for him to delight in.
With three small knocks on the door, you heard the Iudex give his consent to come in. The room inside was as spacious as you remembered, but his working table was a mess. There was a towering amount of paperwork to his left that you wondered if he would ever get it done by the end of the day or he would be spending the night in the office again.
“I’m sorry, dear Sedene, but could you please put the new papers by the small table? I’m afraid there are no more spaces in here. Apolo- Wait, (Y/N)? What are you doing here, mon coeur?” He gasped in surprise, standing up from his chair to greet you. A small sigh escaped your lips as you sat the food down.
“Sedene came to our home, dearest. She told me that you’ve been absent-minded in your work. Even the other Melusines have noticed your behavior.” You confessed. He stopped in his tracks and retracted his stretched hand that was ready to embrace your figure. You walked towards him instead and guided him to the couch.
“I think I know why you are like this. Is this because of Furina and Focalors? I don’t have the full details yet, and I will not ask you until you are ready, but trust me on this. The decision they made, they had the people’s best interest in mind. Although you may not believe in all the gods, I know that you can see the love reflected in their actions. They treasure the people you’re currently reigning in now. So, don’t think for even one second that you are useless. That you couldn’t even see through their acts. They did it because of love. So chin up, mon beau.” You grinned, stretching his frowning lips to resemble a smile. Although unusual, Neuvillette let out a tear or two after hearing your words. He held onto your hand before embracing you tightly, nuzzling his head on your delicate neck.
“There, there. You’re safe, you’re all right. Everything is going to be fine, Neuvillette, I promise.” You swore. The warmth you gave was enough to make him woozy. Chuckling, you shifted to a better position and laid his head on your lap, curling your fingers around his hair as a form of relaxation. He let out a sigh of contentment.
“Also, if you are worried about Furina after leaving the Court, don’t be. She is starting a new life, a much happier one than before. And I- we will be there with her. In fact, she’s at home, indulging herself with sweets! I swear that lady needs some nutrition in her body. I better cook her some later. If… If you can’t come home, don’t worry, I’ll be back again with your favorites, vegetables and fruits later. So, rest for now.” He heard as his mind started to doze off. He was unsure how he was this lucky to have you as his spouse. He was grateful you were his haven amongst the plethora of worlds.
🍁WRIOTHESLEY — CERBERUS
“All right, that should be the rest of it. Juriue, apologies, but could I see the calculations again? Just wanted to make sure we chose the right size of meter for this pipe. I don’t need the fortress to be spending unnecessary money for power.” You reasoned. The Fontainian researcher had no queries and handed out the printed sheets sent to the vendor.
Sitting down at your desk, you compared the paper to the ones on your desktop. After ensuring that it was the same, you returned the papers and urged him to seek Wriothesley for approval. However, before he could leave, you noticed a familiar silhouette approaching your office. You gave an exasperated huff.
“You sure have a lot of free time it seems, Mr. Warden?” You voiced, raising an eyebrow at his unexpected visit. He only chuckled before notifying Juriue to leave what needed to be signed on his desk. The researcher simply nodded and left, knowing that Wriothesley was there again on his usual… escapade, as others would call it.
“So, are you done checking the piping system, Mx. Engineer?” He asked, lilt evident in his tone. You gave him a dead stare then urged him to get a chair which he obediently did. You opened a few documents on your computer and showed the papers to him, explaining the current status of your work.
The piping system down the Fortress of Meropide was working well, but they will be needing maintenance soon, one which slightly worried you as there will be new schedules to hand out for what looked like will take two weeks. Sigewinne would have to recheck the workers' health often as well.
“Did you get all of that, Your Grace? Quite a lot of papers coming to you… and Neuvillette by the looks of it. Can’t have you two collapsing on us engineers now.” You smirked. He scoffed and told you that it would just be two weeks of being cooped up in the office. Afterward, he would be able to feel the joy of tea and relax again.
“As if you’re not already doing that, dummy.” You muttered. He gave you a playful glare.
“I’ll have you know, Mx. Engineer, I’m not slacking. Just taking the work at my own pace. I need to look after my health too. Otherwise, our dear nurse might just chase me down the fortress. Now, that would be horrible.” He acted. The mental image of Sigewinne chasing him with a huge needle made you snort, one that you immediately hid as how unsightly it might be. Wriothesley, however, found it adorable.
You coughed to hide your amusement then readied yourself to meet your students. Aside from being the senior engineer of the fortress, you made it your responsibility to teach the children (and a couple of adults) in the stronghold basic math and language. At the very least, if they decide to explore the overworld, they would not be wide-eyed and naive to the latest trend and system of Fontaine.
It might be debatable to some and reason out that the learned knowledge could be leveraged to devise devious escape methods, but you assured them that the current Duke was no moron. He might seem a little laid-back, but when it counted, Wriothesley was the most trustworthy leader there is. He promised and already made the Fortress of Meropide a better place (it was still open to some improvements in your opinion, but that would be for future discussions). You trusted him as much as you would your own life. Not to mention, you believed that everyone should be granted the right and sources to learn. If you could provide even an ounce of wisdom, you would gladly do so.
“Wrio, I have math class with my students soon. Do you want to stop by and see their progress?” You asked while gathering the remaining papers back to the folders they belong to.
“I don’t mind. Do you have another class after? Clorinde brought me new teas from Inazuma this time, and I was wondering if you want to try some with me.” He casually asked, inviting you to his office. You blinked in surprise before nodding enthusiastically. Although you did not want to give meaning to it, Wriothesley often sought your company whether it was to drink tea or simply listen to music. Some of the convicts would even tease you about it and call it a “tea date”. However, you just shook your head at the thought.
“You still have my cup in your office, right? I wonder if Clorinde also bought Hojicha. The last time I drank one was a couple of years ago before I got… arrested.” You mumbled the last sentence to yourself, but the Duke heard you all clear. He stood next to you and ruffled your hair a little.
“Hey!”
Wriothesley grinned before exiting your office, opting to wait for you outside. Although it messed up your combed hair, his strange gesture erased the memories of the past creeping into your mind. Whether a fair judgment was passed or not, the past must remain in the past.
Once you were done, you met him outside. A small smile made its way to your face as he reached out an arm for you to hold.
“What a gentleman, Your Grace.” You teased.
“Only for you, mon coeur.” He whispered, causing a red tint to spread across your cheeks. You playfully jabbed him in the sides, making him laugh out loud at your adorable expression.
🍁LYNEY — FELIS FUSCUS
Arlecchino was never fond of requesting assistance from her co-harbingers particularly on the dealings of the House of the Heart. This stemmed from the past interactions of the former head of the institution, Crucabena, with Dottore as children were sent as payment. Only a few exceptions would escape her grasp and that would be when a mission is beyond her children’s capabilities.
Hence, on one chilly afternoon, the Fourth Fatui Harbinger sought out the cooperation of the Eleventh’s assistant on one of their “business” at Fontaine. Tartaglia was reluctant to lend his subordinate once more as he needed your expertise in his mission, but he knew that working under the Fourth would further your espionage and infiltration experience considering the reputation of the House of the Hearth.
“I don’t really want to let you join their mission as we have something to see through in Nod-Krai, but Arlecchino has given me her word. If she ever gives you a difficult time, don’t hesitate to send me a letter or come back here immediately, understood? I’ll deal with the aftermath.” He whispered while you gave him a blank stare. Tartaglia often worries for your well-being as you tend to push yourself to the limit to accomplish tasks given to you, and day-by-day, he seemed to take the role of your older brother. As strange as it may sound, you did not dislike the thought.
“Master, Lady Fourth is not asking me to destroy the abyss but to join her children in an investigation and finish the necessary. No need to fuss over me.” You mildly reprimanded. The ginger head pouted at your words but resigned to his fate. He knew you had a strict streak in your bones, and that was exactly why he fretted over you.
“I know, but I’m also aware of your antics, (Y/N). Come back in one piece, all right? I’ll also be facing the Traveler for our usual weekly battle, so I need you to patch me up after!” He enthusiastically exclaimed to which you replied with a dead stare and a silent message ‘Do something stupid, and I’ll send you to Master Dottore instead’. He shivered at the threat before sending you off.
Once you arrived at Fontaine, you were immediately greeted by Lyney, excitement glimmering in his lavender eyes. His siblings, Lyney and Freminet, gave him an exasperated look which was returned with a confused glance of your own. They took your luggage and guided you inside, but not without prying the magician’s face that got close to yours.
“Too close, Lyney. Thank you for taking my bags, Lynette, Freminet. I hope you all have been well since the last time we saw each other.” You voiced. The two nodded with gentle smiles, while Lyney was pouting at the side as you failed to notice his new look. His siblings merely shook their heads before heading inside leaving you two by the hallway.
“You look great, mon ange. No need to pout.” You whispered in his ear then began following his siblings inside. Lyney stopped in his tracks, let out a cough and hid his face with his hat, one which did not escape your eyes. Predictable yet adorable.
Freminet walked down to your pace and ushered you to the Fourth Harbinger’s office, cozy yet foreboding. He knocked, and Arlecchino permitted them to enter. Inside, the harbinger was signing papers away. She looked up with a teasing smile.
“It’s nice to see you again, (Y/N). I’m ecstatic to find that Tartaglia has let you join our mission easily this time around. No fuss or anything.” She uttered.
“He made a fuss, don’t let his cool exterior fool you. However, Master is aware that you keep to your word, Lady Fourth.” You replied. Arlecchino merely shook her head and urged you to take a seat after dismissing Freminet. She gave you the full details of the mission as well as your ultimate role in it.
According to her, there had been rumors of young children disappearing and returning to their homes with no memories pertaining to their abduction. However, there had been visible marks on their bodies such as bruises and injection marks. Fortunately, no signs of sexual harassment. No patterns were found aside from the age range of 7 to 14 years old. It was odd, but Arlecchino already had a hunch as to why after her own investigation. It was up to you four now to see the mission through.
“As the Lady Fourth wises. I’ll keep to the back and ensure that nobody escapes. I assume that this mission will start tomorrow?” You inquired.
“Correct. Ensure that this problem is resolved. I will contact the Fortress of Meropede and Maison Gardiennage for the arrest once Lyney sends the signal. I wish you four the best of luck.” She bid before leading you out of the office.
Over the night, you had an in-depth discourse about the mission you will undertake with the trio. Soon, all that was left was to ease the creases out.
“If the worst comes to worst, I will use my vision to encase the whole place. You have three minutes until the whole place is engulfed, so can I count on you three to be fine?” You asked, a firm necessity that they will be able to secure their safety. Lyney wanted to protest, but you gave him a look.
“We can.” He gritted.
“All right. That’s more than enough.” You nodded, sending a thankful gaze his way.
The following day, you headed out to the suspected location of the laboratory. It was situated a distance from the city, in fact, it was in the Morte Region, somewhere around Fort Charybdis Ruins. Arlecchino had predicted its location accurately based on behavioral observation alone. Criminals, driven mad by science and history, often find solace in areas related to their discoveries or motives.
“I could hear several footsteps from the right. Hide, but be careful around potential traps.” Lyney forewarned. You used your cryo abilities to conceal your presence, while the three hid in their respective corner. Manifesting a mirror to spy on the source of the footsteps, you observed the figures and recognized one of the men as the main suspect. What caught your attention were the tank containers they were carrying. Enclosed in them were vivid azure liquids which you could surmise as either the substance they inject on the children or an ingredient to it.
“Ly—“ You were about to ask the magician when a scream erupted through the cavern. It came from the inner chambers. With a nod, the four of you rushed towards it, still hidden from the criminals. A singular medical table could be seen in the middle, but one alarming element was the blood dribbling down the table. It belonged to a child no older than 10. She was crying for help, but the man slapped her.
“Quiet! Nobody will hear you, so just accept this gift. After all, you are nothing but a sacrifice for my daughter. If what the ancient book says is true, my little darling will be back. Hahaha!” He sneered. Your eyes narrowed after hearing the reason for the experimentation.
Nathan Moreau, a document controller in the Maison Gardiennage. His daughter was reported to have a long-life disease that has no cure yet. Resorting to such means meant he was prepared to throw away his humanity for his blood kin. A soft sigh escaped your lips.
Soon, the same men carrying the tanks came in. He called for one of his lackeys to make the girl unconscious. He brutally slapped her, which you suspected would cause her to have a concussion. You four had to act fast. With a nod from Lyney, the trio went out of their hiding. Lynette immediately stationed herself near the captured children while Freminet used Pers as a distraction to cut the straps of the child and take her far from them. The lackeys growled and stomped towards them but Lyney fired his arrow and used his card to prevent them from coming any closer.
“Pesky little-! Who are you?! Better yet, who the heck sent you?!” Nathan roared. Lyney simply smiled and then used his magic to vanish from their eyes before taking down the lackeys. One of them was about to sneak away with Nathan, but you stepped out of hiding and tugged on the crystal rope you made.
“Not so fast. Nathan Moreau, you are to be sent to stand trial under the Iudex’s judgment. Struggle is futile.” You voiced. Nathan scoffed before rushing back to his desk and combining two liquids. You readied your daggers and launched them at his hands, cutting them.
Nathan let out a blood-curdling scream, but you took out the cards on the ground that Lyney left and used them to embed his foot by the ground.
“I told you. Struggle is futile.” You were about to knock him unconscious when the whole area suddenly rumbled. Soon, you found water engulfing the whole area.
“Lyney! Get yourself out of here!” You took a deep breath and used your vision to quickly engulf the place in ice. You were no god nor some powerful being, but you were able to master how to efficiently use your cryo vision on a large scale.
Noticing Nathan and his lackey slowly moving away from the scene, you manifested a cryo rope and tied them up before shutting their mouths with ice. A deathly glare peered at them, no words were said, but there was an imminent threat in your eyes. A single promise that if they move one more inch, they will not hesitate to do the worst possible.
As Lyney and the others ran out while holding the rescued children, he could not help but glance back in worry. The extent of your ability gradually crawled towards them, but it was taking its time with the water pouring inside. He sped up and kicked the door open before helping his siblings and the children up. Once that was done, he hesitated to go back without you.
“Believe in them, Brother. (Y/N) is not somebody who does their job half-assed.” Lynette assured.
“I know. It’s just… They can be reckless.” He muttered.
Not a moment later, the whole area was engulfed in ice. You walked out of the place with the two criminals in tow, quite exhausted from unleashing a widespread cryo energy. Lyney swiftly raced down to meet you and hold you in his arms.
“You’re all right. No scratches. Thank the archons.” He mumbled, a hint of relief and fear mixed in his voice. He reminded you of your master, a strange worrywart.
“I’m fine, Lyney, but these two need to be sent to the Maison.” You uttered, tugging hard on their ropes.
The magician could only sigh before sending a signal. Soon, the criminals were arrested, and the children were saved and given proper medical care. You let out a relieved sigh, especially for the child that was brutally slapped in front of you. As a small gift, you manifested an ice flower with a get-well-soon message on the paper (and maybe a short encouraging message). Trauma can take a lot of people to places, not the best ones.
“You’ll be all right. You’re safe now.” You whispered.
After reporting back to Arlecchino, you were given a two-day off by your master. One which you used to get some shopping done before settling yourself out of the bustling city to watch the night sky at Erinnyes. The twinkling sky reminded you of Snezhnaya and the life you once had before it was ravaged by the abyss. Distracted, you almost did not notice the figure treading towards you. The familiar whiff of rainbow rose and vanilla bombarded your nose. It was Lyney.
Suddenly in the mood for reminiscing, you told him about your old home and how much you miss it. He did not miss the sadness hidden behind your stoic stature. Unable to stop himself, he placed a hand on top of your head and rubbed it in comfort.
Ah, sorry, did not mean to. But I admire that silent strength, (Y/n). No matter the circumstance, you kept the very place you miss the most in your heart as motivation. I almost feel envious. Nonetheless, I have a feeling you will be fine. After all, you are one of the kindest people I know.” He confessed, smiling bashfully.
Your eyes widened at his words, ears reddening as you averted your gaze away from the lavender eyes that held so much warmth.
‘He’s so… I can’t believe this guy.’ You pouted. Raising your hand to caress his left cheek, Lyney suddenly felt coldness in his ear.
“Perfect.” A cryo rainbow rose was formed to decorate his face. He looked so ethereal in your eyes you could not help it. Lyney blushed and hid his face behind his hand. You grinned. Lyney was truly adorable.
Please do not copy or repost my stories, but notes and reblogs are always appreciated!
It’s been so long since I’ve written something. Life has been stressful especially at work. I plan to try and write something for Kaveh, Venti and Neuvillette! I’m also going to update the masterlist this weekend to open up Fontaine! 🪸💧 I’m really looking forward to the new patch!
synopsis: Kaveh reluctantly takes on a project for a demanding client, (Y/N). Initially irritated by her criticisms and requests for changes, Kaveh's perspective shifts as he discovers a hidden depth within her.
pairing: Kaveh x f!reader
tags: alcohol, mentions of death, angst, fluff, kissing, arguments,
Kaveh slouched in his chair at Lambad's Tavern, his fingers idly swirling the deep crimson liquid in his glass. The rich aroma of Lambad's specialty wine filled his senses, momentarily distracting him from his frustrating day. It had been one of those days where nothing seemed to go right, leaving him with a bitter taste in his mouth, both figuratively and literally. He had just lost a project, and the sting of rejection clung to him like a persistent shadow. His vision, his artistic sensibilities, had clashed with the client's limited budget, and Kaveh had refused to compromise. He prided himself on his unwavering commitment to aesthetic integrity, but lately, he wondered if he was being too rigid, too stubborn in his pursuit of perfection.
"What's the point of being an artist if I can't bring my visions to life?" he grumbled to himself, the words escaping his lips in a hushed murmur. His brow furrowed, deep in thought, as he pondered the state of his career. The patrons around him chattered and laughed, their voices merging into a dull hum that only served to amplify his solitude.
Lost in his contemplation, Kaveh's mind wandered to his monthly financials, a source of constant worry. The weight of his debts and the lack of new projects had forced him to continue living with Al Haitham, an arrangement born out of desperation. While Al Haitham was a good person, their ideologies clashed far too often, leading to heated debates and a tense living environment. Kaveh yearned for a place of his own, a sanctuary where he could fully immerse himself in his art, but it seemed like an unattainable dream for now. As he stared at the swirling wine in his glass, its ruby hues mesmerizing, a voice called his name, pulling him out of his reverie. He looked up to find a woman standing before him, radiating confidence. Her eyes sparkled with an infectious energy, and her smile seemed to light up the room.
“Kaveh, I presume?” she asked with excitement. “Do you have some time to speak with me, if not could we arrange a meeting in the coming days? I really would like to talk to you.”
Kaveh nodded, acknowledging that he had some time to spare. "Please, take a seat," he said, gesturing to the chair opposite him. As she settled into the chair opposite him, she ordered the same wine he was drinking, indicating a shared appreciation for Lambad's specialty. Resting her elbows on the table, she fixed her gaze on Kaveh, as if scrutinizing him. He couldn't help but feel slightly unnerved by her intense focus. Was she studying him? Did she see something in him that others didn't? These thoughts swirled in his mind as he waited for her to introduce herself.
"Thank you for agreeing to speak with me, Kaveh," she began. "My name is [Y/N] [L/N]. I've heard of your remarkable work, and I believe I have a project that would be a perfect fit for someone of your caliber."
Kaveh observed her closely. She exuded an air of confidence that he couldn't deny, but there was also a simplicity to her, as if she found beauty in the minimalist approach to life. Her attire was elegant yet understated, and her posture reflected an unpretentious charm. Although skeptical about the compatibility of their artistic visions, Kaveh found himself intrigued by the woman sitting before him. He leaned forward, his curiosity overcoming his initial skepticism. "Tell me more about this project you have in mind." He wondered if her simplistic approach might hinder the depth and complexity he sought in his creations.
She spoke eloquently, her words painting a vivid picture in his mind. She envisioned a place on the outskirts of Sumeru city, a sanctuary for a small community of 20 to 25 people. A recreational living space where people could stay, a place that would motivate individuals and would inspire them. She spoke of open spaces that would invite nature to intertwine with the architecture, creating a harmonious blend of tranquility and functionality. Her desire for sustainable practices and a deep appreciation for the surrounding environment resonated with Kaveh, stirring a flicker of interest within him. Kaveh found himself drawn to [Y/N]'s genuine passion for her project. She possessed a clarity of purpose that both fascinated and challenged him.
Kaveh's skepticism began to waver as [Y/N]'s words painted a vivid picture of her idea. The project she described appealed to his sensibilities, merging nature with architecture in a way that would inspire and motivate those who inhabited the space. It spoke to his belief in the transformative power of design. Unable to resist the pull of inspiration, Kaveh grabbed a pen from his pocket and seized a nearby paper napkin. With practiced precision, he began to doodle, his hand moving effortlessly across the surface. The lines took shape, forming the picture of the building, reflecting the location [Y/N] had described. Silence enveloped them as [Y/N] watched Kaveh masterfully bring his vision to life on the napkin. As he pushed it towards her, he met her gaze, awaiting her reaction.
"This is how I envision the outer facade of the building," Kaveh explained. "Of course, it's just a rough sketch for now, but it captures the essence of what we discussed."
[Y/N]'s eyes studied the doodle intently, and a smile spread across her face. "Kaveh, your reputation as Kshahrewar's light is well founded. The picture in my mind was more or less similar to this."
Kaveh couldn't help but feel flustered at her words. He masked the heat creeping up to his face by a cough as he looked away from her. Kaveh's heart swelled with pride, yet he couldn't help but feel a pang of hesitation. He couldn't ignore the financial implications that such a project would entail. He leaned back in his chair, contemplating the costs involved. "Building something of this magnitude and bringing this building to life will require substantial resources," Kaveh stated with a touch of concern. "Even if I were to slash my fee and profit margins, it won't come cheap."
[Y/N] shook her head, her expression resolute. "Kaveh, I don't want you to compromise on your worth. Quote me the full price, without any reductions. I believe in the value of your expertise, and I'm willing to invest in this."
Surprise and a sense of appreciation flooded Kaveh's features. Here was someone who truly understood the value of his work, who recognized the immense effort and talent that went into creating a masterpiece. "Thank you, [Y/N]. I will visit the location in the coming days, immerse myself in its surroundings, and then create the first draft. We can discuss the pricing further then."
[Y/N] rose from her seat, a sense of purpose radiating from her. She approached the bar, gracefully settling the bill for their drinks. Turning back to Kaveh, she smiled and said, "I look forward to seeing you soon, Kaveh. Thank you for considering this project.”
With those parting words, she made her way towards the exit, leaving Kaveh sitting at the table, a whirlwind of emotions swirling within him. As he watched [Y/N] leave, he couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of purpose and anticipation. The weight of his previous disappointment had lifted, replaced by the opportunity to embark on a project that held the promise of artistic fulfillment. Kaveh sat there for a moment, basking in the warmth of this newfound possibility. His mind teemed with ideas and aspirations, eager to bring [Y/N]'s vision to life. With renewed vigor, he picked up the napkin, carefully folding it and tucking it into his pocket —a symbol of the journey that lay ahead.
In the days that followed, Kaveh's life became a whirlwind of activity. He found himself immersed in the project, devoting every waking moment to design the building. Armed with his trusty Mehrak and a stack of meticulously drawn plans, he ventured out to the site, meticulously surveying every inch of the land. With every step, he could feel the energy of the place, envisioning how the architecture would seamlessly blend with its surroundings. Back in his studio, Kaveh delved into the process of drafting the design. He spent countless late nights hunched over his desk, pouring his heart and soul into the project. His hands flew across the drafting table, sketching and refining, constantly seeking the perfect balance between form and function. He considered every aspect of the building—the interiors, the materials, the facade, the floor plans—each decision made with careful consideration and artistic flair. Mehrak became Kaveh's constant companion, assisting him in mapping and surveying tasks, capturing and projecting his building designs onto the screen with precision and clarity. The tool allowed him to explore every angle, to scrutinize the tiniest of details, ensuring that every aspect of the design met [Y/N]'s expectations.
Finally, after days of meticulous planning and sleepless nights, Kaveh completed the first draft of the design. It was a moment of triumph and relief, a realization of his artistic vision and the embodiment of [Y/N]'s dreams. The building stood proudly on the blueprint, its lines and curves a testament to the careful balance of aesthetic beauty and functional purpose.
Kaveh and [Y/N] had agreed to meet at Puspa Cafe, a charming little establishment nestled in the heart of Sumeru city. As he walked into the cafe, he spotted [Y/N] sitting at a corner table, her eyes lighting up with anticipation as she saw him approach.
“Kaveh!” [Y/N] waved at him, her face lighting up with giddy excitement as he took a seat opposite her at the corner table in Puspa Cafe. Kaveh couldn't help but feel a warm surge of happiness at the sight of her genuine joy.
Before Kaveh could show his plans, [Y/N] gently interrupted him, a playful smile dancing on her lips. "Let's not rush, Kaveh. First, let's order something." Her words were accompanied by a slight tilt of her head, and Kaveh couldn't help but chuckle at his own eagerness. "You're right, [Y/N]. My apologies," he said sheepishly, a hint of embarrassment coloring his cheeks.
They called the waiter and ordered their coffee, deciding to indulge in a plate of baklava to share. As they waited for their order, [Y/N] took the opportunity to get to know Kaveh better. She asked about his interests, his hobbies, and the stories behind his architectural projects. The conversation flowed effortlessly between them, as if they were old friends catching up after a long separation. Kaveh shared his passion for the arts, his love for music and literature, and the inspiration he found in the world around him. He spoke of his favorite architects, the ones who had shaped his own artistic journey, and the ideas and philosophies that guided his work.
As their coffee arrived, accompanied by the tantalizing aroma of freshly brewed beans, [Y/N] asked Kaveh about his family. Kaveh's expression softened, and he took a moment to gather his thoughts before answering. "My father passed away when I was young, and my mother now lives in Fontaine with her new husband," he explained.
A flicker of sympathy crossed [Y/N]'s eyes. “I am sorry Kaveh, I shouldn’t have brought up such a sensitive topic.”
Kaveh, however, reassured her with a gentle smile. "Please don't feel bad for me, [Y/N]. Life has its ups and downs, and I've learned to accept that. But now, let me show you what I’ve come up with for your little project.” Kaveh said with a warm smile, reaching into his bag to retrieve the carefully prepared plans. Kaveh set up Mehrak, projecting the design plans, and laid out a set of detailed sheets on the table. Kaveh began his explanation, using Mehrak to navigate through the various sections of the design.
"The central idea behind the design is to create spaces that seamlessly integrate with the natural surroundings," Kaveh began with enthusiasm. "I've utilized large windows and skylights to maximize natural light, bringing warmth and brightness into the common areas. Residents will be able to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature from every corner of the building."
As he spoke, Kaveh pulled out sheets of paper with detailed floor plans and interior designs. He pointed out the purposefully designed rooms for different activities, emphasizing the functionality and flexibility of the spaces.
"The ground floor houses the communal areas, such as the library, art studio, and shared kitchen, providing opportunities for interaction and collaboration among the residents," Kaveh continued. "The second and third floors consist of private living spaces, each uniquely designed to cater to the needs and preferences of the inhabitants. The fourth floor features a rooftop garden, where residents can immerse themselves in the serenity of nature."
As Kaveh explained the intricate details of his design, he couldn't help but notice [Y/N]'s intense focus. Her brows furrowed in concentration as she poured over the plans, her eyes tracing every line and curve. Occasionally, she would bite her lip, lost in thought as she studied the interior layouts. Kaveh found himself captivated by her genuine interest and the subtle beauty that radiated from her in that moment.
When [Y/N] finally looked up, she nodded, her expression filled with satisfaction. "Kaveh, I'm truly impressed with what you've created. You've managed to capture the essence of my vision while infusing it with your unique artistic touch. "Kaveh's face brightened at her words, but before he could fully bask in the praise, [Y/N] continued. "However, I do have a few suggestions and changes that I'd like you to incorporate," she added with a thoughtful look.
A flash of annoyance momentarily passed over Kaveh's face, but he quickly caught himself, reminding himself of the collaborative nature of their project. "Of course, [Y/N]. I'm open to your input. Please, go ahead," he responded, his voice laced with trepidation.
“For instance, I think we could optimize the use of space on the second floor, perhaps by reconfiguring the rooms to create a more harmonious flow. I’d like the private living spaces to be similar to one another.”
Kaveh listened attentively as [Y/N] shared her suggestions for the design, but when she mentioned wanting the private living spaces to be similar, he couldn't help but react with surprise. "Having the private living spaces be similar would reduce the artistic value of the building," Kaveh exclaimed. "Each resident deserves a unique and personalized living space that reflects their individuality. It's what adds character and charm to the building."
[Y/N] let out a sigh, her expression understanding yet determined. "I understand your perspective, Kaveh, and I appreciate your commitment to artistic integrity. However, for the intended purpose of this project, uniformity in the private living spaces is essential," she explained, her voice steady.
Kaveh felt a sense of frustration bubbling within him, conflicted between his artistic ideals and [Y/N]'s vision for the project. He had always strived to create unique, one-of-a-kind spaces that reflected the individuality of each resident. However, he also recognized the importance of compromise and understanding the purpose behind [Y/N]'s request.
After a moment of contemplation, Kaveh reluctantly conceded reluctantly. "I understand the intent behind your suggestion, [Y/N]. This project is yours, and I'll respect that. If uniformity is what you desire, then I will find a way to create a cohesive design that still allows for personal touches within each living space."
A glimmer of satisfaction crossed [Y/N]'s eyes as she nodded in appreciation. "Thank you, Kaveh. I appreciate your willingness to accommodate my request. I know it may not align with your usual approach, but I believe it's necessary for this particular project. I want you to know that I trust your creativity and expertise, and I want you to have the freedom to experiment with other aspects of the building design." Leaning forward, [Y/N] directed her gaze towards Kaveh, her eyes unwavering. "Now, let's talk about the financials. I need a detailed breakdown of the estimated costs, including your price and margin, as well as the projected costs for vendors and labor. I want to have a clear understanding of the financial aspects before we proceed."
Kaveh reached for a notebook and a pen, ready to jot down the figures. He appreciated [Y/N]'s straightforwardness, even though the topic of finances always stirred a hint of discomfort within him. As he carefully calculated the estimated costs, he provided [Y/N] with a detailed breakdown, ensuring transparency in his pricing. "The total estimated cost, including my fee and margin, along with the projected costs for vendors and labor, would amount to 18 million Mora," Kaveh explained, his voice steady and composed. "This figure takes into account the quality of materials and the level of craftsmanship necessary to bring your vision to life."
As Kaveh presented the estimated cost to [Y/N], he couldn't help but feel a twinge of anxiety in the pit of his stomach. The amount he quoted was significant, reflecting the scale and ambition of the project [Y/N] had in mind. He anxiously waited for her response, hoping that she would understand the financial implications.
A flash of uncertainty flickered across [Y/N]'s face, but after a moment of contemplation, she nodded. "Kaveh, I trust your math and expertise in this matter. Let's proceed with drafting a contract based on the estimated costs."
Relief washed over Kaveh as he realized that [Y/N] was willing to move forward despite the substantial investment required. He acknowledged her trust with a nod, appreciating her willingness to take this project to the next stage.
"There is one thing we should consider," Kaveh interjected, his voice measured. "While the majority of the costs can be fixed, a part of it will have to be variable. It depends on the availability of materials, any unforeseen circumstances, and the choices of vendors we select. I propose that we set aside a portion of the budget as a variable cost, ensuring that we have flexibility to adapt to any changes." [Y/N] nodded in understanding, her eyes focused on Kaveh as he continued. "I suggest allocating no more than 1 million Mora as the variable cost, to account for any fluctuations in pricing or unforeseen circumstances. This way, we can manage the budget effectively while still allowing for adjustments if needed."
A thoughtful expression crossed [Y/N]'s face, contemplating Kaveh's suggestion. After a brief pause, she replied, "I understand the need for flexibility, Kaveh. Let's include the provision for the variable cost in the contract, but I trust you to exercise prudence in managing it and ensure that it doesn't exceed the agreed limit."
Kaveh couldn't help but admire [Y/N]'s attention to detail and her commitment to maintaining a balance between financial responsibility and creative freedom. As they delved into the terms of the contract, discussing milestones, timelines, and deliverables, Kaveh realized that [Y/N] wanted to be involved in every step of the process. While he appreciated her meticulousness, he also worried that such close involvement might restrict his artistic freedom. Throughout the discussion, Kaveh found himself occasionally pushing back on [Y/N]'s suggestions, stubbornly defending his artistic choices. However, [Y/N] remained unrelenting, presenting her own perspective and challenging Kaveh to reconsider his stance. Their conversations occasionally grew heated, fueled by their shared passion and determination. Kaveh marveled at [Y/N]'s unwavering commitment to the project, even as their discussions verged on argumentative. He admired her ability to stand her ground, pushing him to excel and refining his ideas. It was a delicate balance between collaboration and asserting their individual idealogies, but he couldn't deny the underlying respect and shared purpose that fueled their spirited debates.
After the contract was drafted, [Y/N] handed Kaveh her address, a gesture that implied their increased interaction. "You'll be seeing more of me now," she said with a smile. "If you ever need to reach me, you can find me here."
And so, the project for the building began. [Y/N] and Kaveh would often meet at the site location, where conversations flowed more informally between them. Kaveh found himself at ease around [Y/N], their interactions becoming a blend of work and personal connection. She greeted him with a warm smile, and they seamlessly dived into their tasks. While Kaveh oversaw the construction and ensured the design was being executed as planned, [Y/N] would monitor the progress, occasionally lending a helping hand to the laborers.
Lunchtime became a cherished ritual for Kaveh and [Y/N]. She would bring lunch not only for herself but also for Kaveh, as they sat on a cozy blanket, enjoying the delicious meals she had prepared. These moments provided an opportunity for them to relax and share more about their lives, the events happening in Sumeru, and their personal interests. Through these lunches, Kaveh discovered more about [Y/N]'s tastes and preferences. He learned about her favorite books, her hobbies, and even her culinary skills. They engaged in discussions about art, culture, and their shared love for the natural beauty that surrounded them.
Over the course of the project, Kaveh and [Y/N] found themselves engaged in numerous arguments and debates, each representing their strong-willed personalities and their unwavering dedication to their respective opinions. These disagreements spanned across different aspects of the building design, reflecting their differing opinions and perspectives.
Over the course of the project, Kaveh and [Y/N] found themselves engaged in numerous passionate debates and arguments, reflecting their divergent opinions and stubbornness. These disagreements spanned a wide range of topics, from materials and interior design pieces to the selection of plants. The arguments were not isolated incidents but occurred intermittently over a span of weeks and months, as the project progressed.
One day, while discussing the choice of wood for the building's structure, Kaveh and [Y/N] found themselves embroiled in a spirited disagreement. Kaveh with conviction, stated, "Cedar wood is the superior choice, [Y/N]. Its natural oils make it resistant to decay and insect damage. Moreover, its rich, warm hues add a touch of elegance to the structure. We should prioritize quality and longevity over cost."
But [Y/N], equally determined, responded, "I understand the benefits of cedar wood, Kaveh, but we must consider the project's budget as well. Fir wood provides a more cost-effective solution without compromising on strength. We can allocate the saved funds to other essential aspects of the building."
Their disagreement continued, each passionately defending their viewpoint. Kaveh, frustrated by what he perceived as compromising his artistic vision, would often storm off from the site in a fit of exasperation. However, the unwavering determination of [Y/N] would eventually bring him back, reminding him of the shared purpose and the need to find a middle ground.
On another occasion, the topic of interior design pieces sparked a fiery discussion between them. [Y/N] advocated for the use of natural vines inside the building, believing that it would enhance the connection between the residents and nature. Kaveh, however, had reservations about the practicality and maintenance challenges posed by vines. Their conversation unfolded as follows:
"[Y/N], I understand your desire to incorporate nature into the interior, but we must consider the long-term impact. Vines require meticulous care and can cause damage to the building if not properly maintained. Perhaps we can explore alternative ways of incorporating natural elements? Tall plants are a better choice. They add greenery to the ambience but will also highlight the high ceilings and openness of the main area."
But [Y/N], unyielding in her stance, replied, "Kaveh, I appreciate your concern, but the presence of vines will create a harmonious and organic atmosphere within the building. We can work with horticulturists to ensure proper maintenance and minimize any potential damage."
The arguments persisted, with Kaveh expressing his concerns and [Y/N] presenting counterarguments to defend her suggestion. The clash of their viewpoints added tension to their working relationship, but it also fueled their creative energy, pushing them to refine their ideas and find innovative solutions. Amidst these passionate debates, Kaveh witnessed [Y/N]'s unwavering commitment and determination to see her vision come to life. He admired her resilience and willingness to challenge his perspectives, even as it occasionally tested his patience. And while their arguments sometimes grew heated, they never lost sight of the shared purpose that brought them together.
However, there came a day when a particularly heated argument left Kaveh and [Y/N] at odds. It centered around [Y/N]'s insistence on neutral colors for the private living spaces, while Kaveh believed it would clash with the overall ambiance of the building. The disagreement escalated rapidly, with emotions running high and tempers flaring:
"I can't believe you're being so stubborn about this, [Y/N]! White or beige would be jarring and bland within the context of the entire building," Kaveh exclaimed, frustration seeping into his voice.
[Y/N], hurt by his dismissive tone, took a deep breath, her eyes welling up with tears. "You're being stubborn, Kaveh not me. I've respected your creative freedom throughout this project, and now you refuse to consider my perspective.
Kaveh, momentarily caught off guard by [Y/N]'s tears, softened his tone. "I... I didn't mean to hurt you. But I've always envisioned a vibrant and diverse color palette that reflects the spirit of the building."
[Y/N], her voice trembling, responded, "I understand your intentions, Kaveh, but we must find a balance. The private living spaces need to provide a sense of calm and tranquility. Please, let's reconsider."
In the heat of the moment, Kaveh's frustration got the best of him. "Maybe I should have trusted my first impression," he blurted out. "Your minimalistic view clashes with my own, and perhaps I made a mistake by taking on this project."
The hurt flashed across [Y/N]'s face, her tears now streaming down her cheeks. She took a deep breath, visibly gathering her composure. "You're being unfair, Kaveh," she finally managed to say.
Fueled by anger and frustration, Kaveh shook his head in disbelief as he glared at [Y/N]. "I need to go," he muttered through gritted teeth, his voice laced with exasperation. Without another word, he turned and stormed away, his footsteps echoing through the building site.
His anger propelled him through the bustling streets of Sumeru city, his mind consumed by the argument that had just taken place. His legs carried him almost instinctively towards Lambad's, a nearby tavern known for its soothing ambience and fine selection of wines. Kaveh sought solace in the bottom of a wine bottle, hoping to drown out the turmoil within him. As he sipped his first glass, memories of [Y/N]'s hurt face and tear-stained cheeks flooded his mind. A pang of guilt twisted his stomach, marring the initial satisfaction he had felt in venting his frustration. The wine did little to numb the ache in his heart.
Why did it affect him so deeply? He pondered this question, the noise of the tavern fading into the background. He considered their relationship, the camaraderie they had developed over the course of the project. [Y/N] was more than just a client; she was a friend who had seen his highs and lows, his artistic triumphs and financial struggles. He remembered the moments they had shared, the casual conversations during their lunches, the way she greeted him with a smile that radiated warmth. He had been so consumed by the project, by their differences, that he hadn't recognized the growing bond between them. It was a realization tinged with romantic angst, a revelation he hadn't expected.
As he finished one bottle of wine and reached for another, the wine serving as a temporary salve for his wounded pride, Kaveh couldn't escape the memory of [Y/N]'s quivering lips and tear-stained cheeks. It cut through his defenses, piercing his heart with an unfamiliar ache.
As Kaveh sat at the table, nursing his second bottle of wine, his friends Cyno, Tighnari, and Al Haitham joined him. They settled in, the familiar banter of their camaraderie filling the air. Tighnari, always perceptive, glanced at Kaveh and mused, "Another rough day at the building site, Kaveh?"
Kaveh nodded, his gaze fixed on the wineglass in front of him. "Something like that," he muttered, his voice tinged with exhaustion and frustration. Cyno poured wine for everyone, the deep red liquid filling their glasses, before leaning in with a mischievous grin. "So, what was the argument with the client this time that has got you all worked up more than usual?"
Kaveh let out a sigh. "It was about the color schemes for the private quarters," he replied betraying a hint of exasperation. "She insisted on neutral colors, while I believed it would clash with the overall ambiance of the building."
Al Haitham, often the silent observer, fixed his gaze on Kaveh. "And what is the intended purpose of this building, Kaveh?" he asked calmly. Kaveh paused, taken aback by the question. "It's meant to be a communal space for living, for about 20-25 people," he answered, his tone uncertain.
Al Haitham nodded thoughtfully. "Yes, that much was clear from your constant whining about the project these past months," he remarked with a hint of amusement. "But what I meant was, who are these people? Where do they come from?"
Kaveh's brow furrowed as he contemplated the question. He had been so consumed by the design and the clashes with [Y/N] that he had never taken the time to delve into the deeper purpose of the project. "I... I'm not sure," he admitted, a tinge of embarrassment coloring his voice. "I assumed it was for creative collaboration and such." He had been so consumed by his own frustrations and artistic ideals that he had neglected to understand the true purpose behind [Y/N]'s vision. He took a moment to gather his thoughts before responding, "I... I never asked. I assumed I knew.”
Al Haitham blinked at Kaveh a few times, his expression a mixture of amusement and bemusement. "Kaveh," he said, his tone sly. “Your intelligence may be superior to most, but it seems to pale in comparison to even Mehrak. Perhaps it's time to acknowledge that emotional intelligence is not your strong suit as you often claim it to be."
Kaveh bristled at Al Haitham's remark, his stubborn nature itching to engage in a verbal sparring match. But as he opened his mouth to respond, he found himself at a loss for words. Al Haitham's observation struck a chord.
Tighnari, sensing Kaveh's turmoil, reached out to console him. "Hey, Kaveh, don't be too hard on yourself. You can talk to [Y/N] tomorrow when you go back to the site. You two always work things out, don't you?"
Kaveh's head hung low with remorse and frustration. "No, Tighnari, this time... I really fucked up," he muttered, his words laced with regret. He recounted the argument self-reproach. "For all the months I've known her, she's always exuded confidence. No matter how challenging things got on the site, she stood strong and unwavering. Whether it was dealing with fussy vendors or unfavorable circumstances, she always was ready for it. But today... today, I saw her cry, and it was because of what I said."
He had always been quick to defend his artistic choices, to push back against any perceived compromise. But in doing so, he had failed to recognize the impact his words could have on [Y/N]. It was a humbling moment, a reminder that beneath the artistic clashes and disagreements, a deeper connection had formed. The realization of his own shortcomings in understanding [Y/N], both as a client and as a person, washed over him with a wave of regret.
As the weight of his regret settled upon Kaveh's shoulders, he mustered the resolve to make amends. With a sigh, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a bag of Mora, placing it on the table. Cyno glanced at him quizzically and asked, "What are you doing, Kaveh?"
Kaveh looked at his friends with resignation. "This should cover the wine," he said, his voice tinged with a hint of urgency. "I need to make things right."
Without waiting for further questions or objections, Kaveh hurriedly rose from his seat, leaving the tavern behind. The Sumeru city, now immersed in the night, enveloped him with its cool breeze and the soft glow of street lamps. The bustling sounds of the day were replaced by a tranquil hush as Kaveh's feet carried him swiftly through the winding streets. As he reached into his pocket to pull out the slip of paper containing [Y/N]'s address, Kaveh's heart raced with anticipation. He had never been to her place before, never had the need to venture beyond the site where they had worked together so closely. The slip of paper felt foreign in his hands.
Running through the streets, Kaveh found himself apologizing to passersby as he accidentally collided with them in his haste. The city, adorned with twinkling lights and the occasional glimpse of starlit sky, served as a backdrop to his determined journey. Each step carried him closer to [Y/N], his mind consumed with thoughts of reconciliation and the desire to mend the fracture that had formed between them.
As he arrived at the address, Kaveh's heart pounded in his chest. He took a deep breath and knocked on the door, the sound reverberating through the silence of the night. Moments passed, and when the door finally opened, Kaveh was met with the gaze of a grumpy, middle-aged man who appeared to be [Y/N]'s father.
"What do you want?" the man grumbled, his tone laced with irritation. Kaveh, somewhat taken aback by the man's demeanor, managed to find his voice. "Does [Y/N] live here?" he asked, hoping for a positive response.
The man's expression softened slightly, and he nodded. "Yes, she does," he replied curtly. "But she's not here." Kaveh's heart sank at the news, but he wasn't ready to give up just yet. "Do you happen to know where she might be?" he inquired with urgency and desperation.
The man shrugged dismissively, clearly uninterested. He pointed toward a set of stairs at the side of the house. "I don’t make it a habit to keep a tab on my tenants’ whereabouts. Next time you want to meet [Y/N], use those stairs. They lead up to her room," he said before closing the door, leaving Kaveh standing outside with a swirl of emotions and unanswered questions.
Confusion swirled within Kaveh's mind. Tenant? Was she living in a rental property? He assumed she was wealthy given the amount she was investing in her project. The realization that [Y/N] had not disclosed the nature of her living situation to him hit him like a wave of revelation. His assumptions about her life and background crumbled, leaving him with a newfound curiosity and a burning desire to understand her more deeply.
With one last wistful glance toward [Y/N]'s room, Kaveh left the place, the weight of his unspoken apology lingering in the air. He made a mental note of the room number, committing it to memory as he walked away, his steps leading him back toward the building site. As he approached the outskirts of Sumeru city, the urban landscape slowly gave way to the serene beauty of nature, the night sky sprinkled with stars that danced in the velvety darkness.
The half-constructed building stood before him, a beacon of potential and dreams yet to be realized. Kaveh's gaze swept across the structure, envisioning the final result and the impact it would have on those who would call it home. He stepped inside, his voice echoing through the open space as he called out for [Y/N], hope and concern mingling in his tone.
" [Y/N], are you here?" he called out, his words hanging in the air. Silence greeted him, amplifying his growing sense of anxiety. He called out again, the urgency in his voice rising with each repetition. " [Y/N]!" But the building remained still, its walls holding the secrets of her whereabouts. Uncertainty gnawed at him, and a sense of unease settled deep within his chest.
His footsteps quickened as he made his way to the makeshift camp that the construction workers had established nearby. Confusion clouded his mind as he approached the camp, the dimly lit area dotted with tents and the sounds of weary laborers seeking respite. Kaveh's eyes darted around, searching for any sign of [Y/N]. He approached a group of workers huddled together, their faces etched with exhaustion and the glow of a crackling fire.
"Excuse me," Kaveh called out, his voice tinged with urgency. "Have any of you seen [Y/N]? I've been looking for her."
One of the workers, a burly man with dirt-streaked clothing, shook his head. "Nah, Habibi, haven't seen her around," he replied weary from a day of hard labor. "She was here earlier, but she left a while ago. Said something about needing to clear her head. She should be home by now, not here.”
Dread tightened its grip on Kaveh's heart. "She wasn’t at home, I checked. Do you know where she went?" he asked with genuine worry.
The laborer shook his head. "Sorry, mate. She didn't mention where she was going. But she seemed troubled. Maybe she needed some time alone."
Confusion mingled with concern as Kaveh surveyed the area, his eyes scanning the surroundings in search of any trace of [Y/N]. He couldn't shake off the worry that gnawed at his insides. It was dangerous for anyone, especially a woman, to be wandering alone at night. He hadn't encountered her on his way from the city to the building site, leaving him with a sinking feeling that she was somewhere out there, lost in her thoughts. As he moved through the outskirts of Sumeru city, Kaveh's footsteps echoed in the stillness of the night. The cool breeze rustled through the leaves, creating a symphony of nature's whispers that intermingled with his anxious thoughts. He scoured the surroundings, hoping for a glimpse of [Y/N], a flicker of her presence that would assure him of her safety.
The logical part of Kaveh's mind knew that waiting at her home or the building site would be the rational course of action, as Al Haitham would likely suggest. But Kaveh couldn't bring himself to adhere to reason alone. His heart yearned to find [Y/N], to ensure she was okay, regardless of the path's logicality.
He continued his search, the shadows cast by the moonlight and street lamps playing tricks on his weary eyes. He called out her name once again, the desperation in his voice lacing the air. " [Y/N]! Where are you?" Each plea hung in the silence, lingering like an unanswered prayer.
As Kaveh's desperate search led him closer to the riverbank, a figure caught his attention. It was just a silhouette against the moonlit backdrop, but his heart recognized it instantly—it was [Y/N]. Without hesitation, he rushed toward her, his footsteps quickening with worry. As he drew nearer, the features of [Y/N]'s huddled form became clearer. She sat by the riverbank, her knees pressed tightly against her chest, her arms wrapped around them, and her head resting on the back of a rock. She appeared lost in slumber, her tear-stained face illuminated by the soft moonlight. Kaveh's heart broke at the sight of her vulnerability.
Kneeling down beside her, Kaveh spoke her name in a gentle whisper, hoping to rouse her from her sleep. But there was no response, only the serenity of her rest. He reached out, his touch light as a feather, to gently wake her from her troubled dreams. As his fingers brushed against her cheek, he flinched at the icy chill that clung to her skin. The realization hit him like a wave—she had been alone by the riverbank on this chilly night, her body left to bear the brunt of the elements.
Without hesitation, Kaveh quickly removed his winged cape and draped it over her, covering her shivering form with the warmth it offered. The cape, once a symbol of validation for his appreciation of the fine arts, now served as a shield against the cold that threatened to pierce her fragile frame. He hoped it would bring her a modicum of comfort, a small gesture to show that he cared.
As his hand lingered near her cheek, Kaveh couldn't help but marvel at the delicate features that had captured his attention from the moment they met. Kaveh's heart swelled with tenderness and concern as he watched over her. How was she affording all of this? Not once had Kaveh seen her flaunt her wealth and now he was even more befuddled after visiting her address. She had paid for all the materials up front and there hadn’t been a single payment delay yet. But when it came to herself, she wore simple fabrics and barely any jewelry.
Lost in his thoughts, Kaveh found himself contemplating the enigma of [Y/N]'s modest lifestyle juxtaposed against her extravagant project. He couldn't comprehend how she managed to finance it all without displaying any signs of wealth in her personal life. The mysteries of her choices and priorities swirled through his mind, a puzzle he longed to unravel. His musings were interrupted abruptly as a loud thrashing noise echoed from the water—a spinocrocodile, its presence a jolt to his senses. Startled, Kaveh jumped back, his heart racing with a mix of fear and surprise.
The commotion broke [Y/N]'s slumber, and she stirred, her eyes fluttering open with a sense of disorientation. As her gaze settled upon Kaveh, she quickly wiped away the slight drool trailing from the corner of her mouth, a tinge of embarrassment coloring her features. Kaveh couldn't help but find the sight endearing, a subtle smile gracing his lips.
"What are you doing here?" [Y/N] asked in surprise and confusion.
Kaveh's grip tightened around her hand, a warm touch that brought a sense of comfort. "I was looking for you," he replied, his tone sincere. "I was worried when I couldn't find you at the site or at your home. And," he continued, his gaze softening, "you looked so cold that I couldn't leave you alone by the riverbank."
A mix of surprise and gratitude flickered across [Y/N]'s face as she glanced down at the cape draped around her shoulders. She moved to remove the cape he had draped over her, her intention to return it evident in her actions. However, before she could complete the motion, Kaveh gently gripped her hand, stopping her mid-action.
"No, don't," Kaveh spoke softly with genuine concern. "You're cold, [Y/N], and you could fall sick. Keep it on until we return to Sumeru." His grip on her hand tightened slightly.
As [Y/N] nodded in acknowledgment, she tightened the cape around her, seeking its warmth to stave off the lingering chill. Kaveh, standing up from the riverbank, extended his hand toward her. She hesitated for a moment, her eyes meeting his, before she finally reached out and grasped his hand. With a gentle pull, Kaveh helped her to her feet, their fingers entwined, their touch conveying a silent understanding.
"Let's just go back," Kaveh suggested softly, his voice filled with relief.
Silently, [Y/N] followed his lead, her footsteps matching his as they retraced their path toward Sumeru. The night surrounded them, a tapestry of stars overhead casting a shimmering glow upon their journey. [Y/N] remained silent, seemingly lost in her own thoughts, while Kaveh's mind buzzed with words he longed to express.
As they walked, Kaveh's grip on her hand subtly tightened, his heart yearning to break the silence that enveloped them. But before he could find the right words, [Y/N] spoke, her voice soft yet determined. "Starting tomorrow, I'll stay away from the site," [Y/N] began, her words laced with a sense of realization. "I've been too involved in this project, too consumed by my own ideals. I need to trust your choices, Kaveh. It's your expertise that will bring my vision to life, not the other way around."
Kaveh paused in his steps, turning to face [Y/N], his gaze locked with hers. What was she saying? She wouldn’t be coming to the site anymore? Before [Y/N] could continue, he gently pressed his forefinger against her lips, shushing her softly.
"Stop," Kaveh interrupted. "I was looking for you to apologize because I've been an ass. You have been one of the best people I've worked with in recent times, [Y/N]. I should have been more open-minded and receptive to your ideas. It's your project, your dream, and as an architect, it's my responsibility to bring that vision to life, rather than imposing my own onto yours."
(Y/N) blinked, taken aback by his unexpected admission. Her lips parted, but Kaveh continued speaking, his voice filled with sincerity. “I was rude to you today and said some things that I can’t take back. I really feel awful for saying that to you. I hope you can forgive me for it someday.”
"I appreciate your words, Kaveh," she finally spoke softly. "And I'm sorry too, for not communicating my needs clearly. We can work together, and I trust that we can create something truly remarkable."
Kaveh hesitated for a moment, his curiosity gnawing at him. He took a deep breath, mustering the courage to ask the question that had been lingering in his mind. "Can I ask you something?" he stammered, his voice tinged with nervousness.
(Y/N) looked at him, her eyes filled with curiosity. "Of course," she replied softly, encouraging him to continue.
"I... I went to the address you gave me," Kaveh began, his words tumbling out in a rush. "And I found out that you live in a rental. I mean, how... how have you been affording all this?" He paused, his gaze searching hers, hoping to unravel the mystery that had baffled him.
A faint, sad smile tugged at the corners of (Y/N)'s lips. She seemed to anticipate the question, her eyes holding a profound depth. "The building... it's not just for me," she explained gently. "It's a place I envision for the homeless, for academically burnt-out students, for anyone who needs an affordable place to stay. A place that can provide them shelter and, more importantly, help them find the motivation to rediscover their dreams and passions."
Kaveh's eyes widened in awe, his heart stirring with admiration for her philanthropy. "But... how are you paying for all of it?" he asked with genuine curiosity.
"It was my dream, a shared dream between me and my father," (Y/N) continued with a hint of nostalgia. "He passed away a few years ago, and this project is not only my inheritance but also the culmination of our hopes and dreams. The money comes from his savings, my inheritance, a loan, and my own savings. While we were working together, I've been working tirelessly to gather more funds to pay off the loan and invest in this project."
Kaveh felt a mixture of awe and respect wash over him. [Y/N]'s dedication and selflessness struck a chord within him. She had poured her heart, her financial resources, and her energy into a project that aimed to uplift others, to create a sanctuary for those in need.
"That's incredible," Kaveh finally spoke, his voice filled with genuine admiration. "To have such a noble purpose behind this project, to give back to those who have fallen on hard times... it's truly remarkable."
"You've been carrying this burden all alone," Kaveh murmured in both wonder and empathy.
(Y/N) nodded, her gaze meeting his. "It hasn't been easy, but I believe in this project, in the impact it can have on people's lives. And now, with your expertise and understanding, I believe we can make it a reality." As the moonlight bathed them in its soft glow, (Y/N) continued to share her intentions behind the design of the living spaces within the building. "I want the rooms to be impersonal, almost blank," she explained, her voice filled with conviction. "It's not because I want them to feel uncomfortable, but rather to remind them that this is a temporary space. I want them to know that this is a stepping stone, a place where they can gather themselves, regain their strength, and eventually move on to create a better future."
Kaveh listened intently, captivated by her determination and the depth of her compassion. He couldn't help but interject, expressing a concern that had crossed his mind. "But won't some people get too comfortable and take advantage of the housing?" he asked, a hint of worry in his voice.
(Y/N) nodded, acknowledging the risk inherent in her approach. "Yes, that's a possibility," she admitted. "But I believe it's a risk worth taking. By providing this opportunity, we can uplift the lives of many, even if a few take advantage. The majority who truly need it will find solace and a chance to rebuild their lives."
A sense of alignment washed over Kaveh, his heart feeling full as he realized how closely their values aligned. (Y/N) wasn't simply seeking a profitable venture; she genuinely cared about making a difference in the lives of others. It was a puzzle piece that fit perfectly with his own beliefs and aspirations.
"It was never about profits for me," Kaveh confessed, his voice laced with sincerity. "I wanted to create something meaningful, something that could positively impact people's lives. And now, seeing your dedication and selflessness, I feel like we're on the same wavelength. Our visions, our values—they align so beautifully."
A subtle warmth filled the air between them as they exchanged glances, their eyes reflecting the shared passion that burned within. The walk back to Sumeru was a transformative journey for Kaveh and (Y/N). With each step, their communication deepened, and the barriers that once stood between them seemed to dissolve. (Y/N) spoke openly about her life, her experiences, and the challenges she had faced. She revealed that as a child, her family had once been homeless, but her father had worked tirelessly to rebuild their lives. Unfortunately, he had later succumbed to a terminal illness, leaving (Y/N) with a profound appreciation for the value of shelter and the impact it could have on a person's well-being. Kaveh listened attentively, his heart aching with empathy as he learned about the hardships (Y/N) had endured. The simplicity that he had mistaken for choice earlier now resonated as a testament to her resilience and determination. The words he had used against her during their disagreement stung him deeper, igniting a desire within him to make amends and to support her in any way he could.
As they reached (Y/N)'s house, Kaveh bid her goodnight, a newfound tenderness evident in his voice. "I'll see you tomorrow at the construction site," he said, his words carrying a touch of anticipation. “You better be there!”
(Y/N) called out after him, her voice carrying a playful tone. “Oh I will. Who else will I experiment my new roti roll recipe on?”
His heart fluttered at the thought, cherishing the connection they had forged. With a small smile playing on his lips, he took his leave, feeling a sense of longing and hope intertwine within him.
In the following months, Kaveh immersed himself fully in the project. Without (Y/N)'s knowledge, he quietly began reducing his profit margin, seeking to ease her financial burden. Behind the scenes, he haggled with vendors, persuading them to lower prices on materials, items, and decorative pieces. Every decision he made was driven by his growing admiration and affection for (Y/N), a desire to support her dream in every way he could.
Throughout the process, (Y/N) faithfully visited the construction site, their lunch routines continuing as they bonded over their shared vision. Unbeknownst to her, Kaveh's gestures of generosity were fueled by an emerging realization—their connection surpassed professionalism and friendship. He found himself drawn to (Y/N) in ways he hadn't experienced before, a magnetic pull that went beyond the confines of their project. Being around (Y/N) proved to be both a joy and a challenge for Kaveh. Her presence had a way of unraveling his carefully guarded emotions, making it difficult for him to keep his feelings in check. It was as if she possessed a sixth sense, effortlessly finding ways to surprise him and leave him flustered, teetering on the edge of revealing his true affections. Every moment spent together only solidified Kaveh's growing affection, his heart whispering the words he longed to say.
One day, as Kaveh sat sketching the intricate interiors for the building, (Y/N) approached him with a mischievous glint in her eyes. Without warning, she placed a vibrant red rose in his hair, delicately tucking it behind his ear. He froze, his heart pounding in his chest as her fingers grazed his hair. "You look so pretty," she murmured, her innocent words causing his cheeks to flush with warmth. In that moment, Kaveh found himself at a loss for words, his mind racing with the desire to express the depth of his feelings. He excused himself, hastily conjuring up a reason to meet with a contractor, needing to regain his composure in private.
Yet, Kaveh knew that he had to exercise caution. The building needed to be completed before he could openly express his romantic intentions. He maintained a sense of decorum, treating their interactions with professionalism, while his heart yearned for the day he could court (Y/N) in a way that honored their journey.
On yet another occasion, Kaveh accidentally bumped his head against a low-hanging beam, his vision momentarily blurred by the impact. (Y/N) rushed to his side, her worry evident in her eyes as she examined him for any signs of injury. She stood so close to him that he could hear her soft breaths, feel the warmth of her presence. (Y/N) didn't release him until she was certain he was unharmed, her touch lingering a moment longer than necessary. He found himself captivated by her close presence, his senses overwhelmed by the scent of her and the steady rhythm of her heartbeat. The desire to pull her close, to press his lips against hers, surged within him, but he fought to suppress it. Once satisfied with her thorough examination, she released him, leaving Kaveh in a state of flustered longing. He excused himself for the rest of the day, seeking solace in solitude as he wrestled with his emotions.
Each encounter fueled Kaveh's desire to confess his love to (Y/N), but he knew that the timing had to be right. He yearned for the day when he could bare his heart to her, to share his poetic declarations of affection. But for now, he cherished these stolen moments of intimacy, weaving them into the fabric of their connection, knowing that one day soon, the time would be perfect for him to express his feelings.
The project they had poured their hearts into was nearing its final stage, with just a few minor details left to be added. Kaveh's architectural skills shone throughout the building, every space reflecting his expertise and dedication. The opening of the building had been announced, just a few days away, and a sense of pride swelled within both Kaveh and (Y/N). Their hard work, dedication, and shared vision had brought them to this point.
With happiness reflecting in her eyes, (Y/N) walked alongside Kaveh, exploring the building they had poured their hearts into. They traversed the hallways, admiring the library with its shelves waiting to be filled with books, the communal kitchen that would soon witness laughter and shared meals, and the muted living spaces that exuded a sense of tranquility. The recreational areas beckoned, promising moments of respite and connection for those who would soon call this place home.
Their footsteps echoed through the building until they reached the rooftop garden. The wind danced around them, playfully tugging at (Y/N)'s hair, causing her to giggle. Kaveh's heart quickened at the sight—the joy radiating from her was a sight to behold. It was as if a painting had come to life, vibrant and full of life, and he knew that no brushstroke could capture the essence of this moment as beautifully as the real thing. (Y/N) turned her gaze back to Kaveh, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. Her eyes sparkled with a childlike innocence, drawing him in further. Kaveh found himself captivated by her presence, his heart pounding in his chest as he fought against the realization that he was falling deeply, irreversibly, in love with her.
Unable to contain her gratitude any longer, she took a step closer to Kaveh, her eyes shimmering with appreciation. Without hesitation, she pulled him into a tight embrace, her arms enveloping him in a warmth that felt like home. Kaveh's face flushed, his heart pounding in his chest as he instinctively wrapped his arms around her, savoring the sensation of her softness and warmth. In that moment, time seemed to stand still, their connection intensifying with each passing second.
"Kaveh, I... I can't thank you enough," (Y/N) rambled. "Thank you for accepting this project, for understanding my aspirations, and for everything you've done to make it a reality. I couldn't have done it without you."
Kaveh's voice caught in his throat, his arms instinctively tightened around her. Kaveh's mind whirled with disbelief, his senses intoxicated by her proximity and the sweet scent that emanated from her. He relished the feeling of her in his arms, reveling in the delicate dance of their embrace.
He cleared his throat, his voice a little raspy as he attempted to mask his flustered reaction. "Thank you, (Y/N)," he managed to ay sincerly. "It has been an honor to work with you. Seeing your vision come to life has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career." He tried to compose himself, his gaze lingering on her for a moment longer before he shifted the topic, hoping to distract himself from the intensity of his feelings. "By the way, what do you plan to wear for the opening?" Kaveh asked.
(Y/N) appeared confused, her brow furrowing slightly. "I didn't think I needed to dress up for it," she replied honestly, her tone tinged with surprise.
Kaveh rolled his eyes playfully, a grin tugging at the corners of his lips. "Of course, you need to dress up," he exclaimed, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. "You're the visionary behind this building, the heart and soul of it. You need to look the part, (Y/N)."
Without waiting for a response, Kaveh took hold of her arm, a playful determination in his eyes. "Come on," he declared, a touch of excitement lacing his words. "We're going shopping."
(Y/N) blinked in surprise, her confusion evident as she asked, "Shopping? But where are we going?"
“Treasures street.” Kaveh continues to walk towards Sumeru city with (Y/N) in tow. “I know a very good tailor. I am sure he can make you look the part. Trust me, it'll be fun. And I won't take no for an answer.”
As Kaveh and (Y/N) entered Treasures Street, a sense of anticipation filled the air. (Y/N) seemed slightly anxious, uncertain of what lay ahead. Kaveh led her confidently towards a small tailor shop, its entrance adorned with vibrant fabrics and elegant dress designs. The tailor, a seasoned artisan, took one look at (Y/N) and nodded at Kaveh, acknowledging their presence. Kaveh wasted no time in explaining his idea, his words flowing effortlessly as he described the dress he envisioned for (Y/N).
"I want the dress to be simple, yet elegant," Kaveh began, his eyes alight with passion. "Intricate details on the fabric, perhaps a touch of embroidery or delicate patterns. I want it to reflect her beauty and grace, to make her feel like the extraordinary woman she is."
The tailor listened intently, nodding in understanding as Kaveh's words painted a vivid picture of his desired design. With a skilled eye, the tailor presented Kaveh with various fabrics, each more exquisite than the last. Kaveh's gaze settled on a fabric that resembled the color of his cape.
"This one," Kaveh said with certainty as he pointed to the fabric. "This is perfect. It captures her essence."
The tailor, well-versed in his craft, nodded in agreement. He took precise measurements of (Y/N), her compliance evident as she understood the significance of the occasion. "The dress will be ready in three days," the tailor said, his voice conveying a sense of importance. "It is a special request made by you, Kaveh, and I assure you, we will work on it together."
(Y/N) hesitated for a moment she turned to the tailor with a sense of unease. "How much will it cost?”
Kaveh shook his head, his eyes filled with sincerity as he reached out to gently touch her arm. "Consider it a present from me," he replied softly. "A small token of gratitude for all those free lunches.”
A mixture of surprise and gratitude washed over (Y/N)'s face, her eyes sparkling with appreciation. "Thank you, Kaveh," she murmured. "You've already done so much for this project, and now this... It means a lot to me."
Kaveh met her gaze, a tinge of shyness creeping into his eyes. "You mean a lot to me," he whispered, the words slipping out before he could catch them. He quickly masked his vulnerability with a playful smile, extending his arm to (Y/N). “Now, on to footwear.” He took her hand in his again and led the way to the shoemaker.
On the day of the grand opening, Kaveh was a flurry of activity at the construction site, ensuring that everything was in perfect order. He meticulously checked every detail, making sure that each corner of the building exuded the same excellence they had strived for throughout the project. Yet, his mind couldn't help but wander to (Y/N), knowing that she was preparing for the evening ahead. After all, she had to dress up for the occasion. His hands found solace in his pant pockets, feeling the weight of the small box he carried—a necklace he had carefully chosen for her.
As the evening approached, Kaveh made the final arrangements, his anticipation growing with each passing moment. He had asked (Y/N) to prepare, not revealing the surprise that awaited her. He knew she wouldn't accessorize for the evening, considering her humble nature, and he thought the necklace would be the perfect opening ceremony gift—a symbol of his appreciation and the blossoming emotions he held for her.
Finally, the time came, and Kaveh found himself waiting for (Y/N) at the entrance of the building. His heart fluttered with a mix of excitement and nervousness; his mind consumed by thoughts of her. He took a deep breath, composing himself, as he glanced at his surroundings, ensuring that everything was in place. Then, he caught a glimpse of movement—a figure descending the stairs from the second floor. As (Y/N) walked towards him, Kaveh couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. Time seemed to slow, and his breath caught in his throat as he took in her appearance. She was wearing the dress he had chosen, and it suited her perfectly. The fabric gracefully draped over her figure, accentuating her natural beauty. Her hair, intricately styled, framed her face, adding to her radiant aura. She looked fidgety, her nerves palpable in the way she adjusted her attire.
"(Y/N)," Kaveh whispered, his voice barely audible as he stood there, momentarily speechless. She called out his name, breaking him from his trance. Composing himself, he cleared his throat, his eyes gleamed with adoration. "You look absolutely beautiful," he finally managed to say, his voice filled with genuine awe.
A hint of blush spread across (Y/N)'s cheeks as she looked down, feeling a bit self-conscious. "Do you think it's too much?" she asked.
Kaveh's eyes never wavered from her, a gentle smile playing on his lips. "No, not at all," he assured her. "It's perfect.”
She unexpectedly hugged him, and Kaveh's body tensed for a moment, taken aback by the warmth and closeness she initiated. Did she realize the effect she had on him? His mind raced, his heart pounding in his chest, as he carefully reciprocated the embrace, his trembling hands finding their place around her. She stayed nestled against him, her head resting against his chest, blissfully unaware of the profound effect she had on him.
They stood there for a moment, Kaveh's heart raced, his mind swimming with a whirlwind of emotions. He prayed silently that (Y/N) couldn't hear the rapid beats, hoping to conceal the depth of his affection.
Finally, (Y/N) broke the silence, her voice soft and filled with gratitude. "Kaveh, I'm so glad it was you who decided to work on this project," she confessed, her words resonating with sincerity. "I never told you this, but I admired how you rejuvenated the lighthouse at Port Ormos. I used to work there, and I witnessed the transformation firsthand. The way you breathed new life into the port city was remarkable."
Kaveh's eyes widened in surprise, his grip on her tightening ever so slightly.
"But that's not the sole reason I sought you out for this project," (Y/N) continued, her voice growing softer. "There's something else that drew me to you. You see, I used to visit Lambad's Tavern whenever I was in Sumeru. It was a lively place with good food and drinks, but when I came back after a long absence, I found that the second floor had been completely transformed. It felt warmer and more welcoming, adding a new layer to the ambiance of the tavern. It felt... cozy, like a home away from home. I couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort whenever I was there, regardless of the occasion.” She looks up at him as she was still in his embrace. “They told me it was redesigned by you. And that's when I knew I wanted you to work on this project."
Kaveh's breath hitched at her confession, his heart pounding louder than ever. Her words resonated deep within him, a testament to the connection they shared. He pulled back slightly, his gaze meeting hers. "You have no idea how much your words mean to me," he whispered.
A tender smile played on (Y/N)'s lips, her eyes shining with a mix of gratitude and something he couldn't quite decipher. "It's true," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "You have a gift, Kaveh. And I'm grateful that you've shared it with me."
As (Y/N) stood in Kaveh's embrace, she could sense the subtle shift in his demeanor. Something seemed to have changed in the atmosphere, as if an unspoken tension hung in the air. In a moment of spontaneity, she stood on her tiptoes, her lips grazing his cheek in a soft, lingering kiss. Kaveh gasped in surprise, his cheeks turning a shade of pink that matched the blush on hers. His heart skipped a beat, his mind reeling with the realization that the boundaries of their friendship had been blurred.
As she slowly pulled away, Kaveh's trembling hands instinctively moved to cup her cheek, his touch gentle and full of affection. "You have no idea how much I appreciate your openness," he murmured. "From the beginning of this project, you've allowed me to be my true self, to wear my emotions on my sleeve. With you, I can be open and vulnerable, and it's a gift I cherish."
He paused for a moment, his eyes locked with hers, the weight of his confession hanging in the air. "But there's something I've been hiding from you," he continued. "Something I've been waiting for this opening ceremony to end to tell you." His voice trembled slightly. "I constantly crave your presence, (Y/N)," Kaveh confessed, his words flowing like a gentle melody. "To see your smile light up a room, to witness the realization of your dreams, and to savor every delicious meal you prepare. You ground me, (Y/N), in ways I never thought possible. I want to support your burdens as if they were my own, to whine about my own troubles as you comfort me with your wisdom. I want a connection that transcends business partners, one that goes beyond mere friendship.”
Kaveh's hands moved from her cheek to his pocket, pulling out a small box. His fingers trembled as he opened it, revealing a delicate necklace—a thin, elegant chain adorned with an intricate small key pendant. He took a deep breath, his eyes failing to meet hers. "I was going to give you this necklace as a symbol that you are the key to this sanctuary," Kaveh confessed. "But as I stand here, as I gaze into your eyes, I realize that you are more than just a key. You are my sanctuary, (Y/N). In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, you bring me peace. You give me a refuge from the storm that consumes my mind."
He gently took the necklace from the box and held it out to her, his hands finally steady despite the tumultuous emotions swirling within him. As (Y/N) traced her trembling fingers over the intricate pendant of the necklace, Kaveh couldn't help but observe her closely. His heart skipped a beat, his mind racing with a whirlwind of thoughts. He couldn't ignore the tears that glistened in her eyes, mistaking them for tears of sadness. Panic welled up within him, and he began to apologize. "I'm sorry, (Y/N), I didn't mean to upset you..."
Before he could finish his sentence, (Y/N) cut him off, her voice firm yet gentle. "Don't," she whispered, her voice laced with emotion. "Please, don't apologize for telling me the truth. It's a beautiful truth, Kaveh.”
Kaveh's eyes widened in surprise, his gaze locked with (Y/N)'s sparkling eyes. He could see the tears more clearly now, but they were not tears of sadness; they were tears of overwhelming happiness. A single tear escaped her eye, rolling down her cheek, and he instinctively reached out, brushing it away.
"This is the second time I've made you cry," Kaveh murmured.
(Y/N) smiled through her tears, her hand holding his that had brushed away the tear. She brought it to her cheek, pressing it against her skin. "This time," she whispered. "These are tears of happiness, Kaveh. My heart feels so full and overjoyed because of you."
The words had barely left (Y/N)'s mouth before Kaveh, overcome with an overwhelming surge of emotions, yanked her toward him. In an instant, their lips collided, igniting a fire that burned with fierce intensity. It wasn't a gentle, leisurely kiss. It was raw, passionate, and filled with all the unspoken desires he had kept hidden for so long. It was a kiss that conveyed a sense of urgency, of a hunger that had been simmering beneath the surface.
As their lips moved in perfect sync, a shudder of relief rippled through Kaveh's body. He hadn't realized how tense he had been, how his longing for (Y/N) had consumed him until this moment. With each stolen breath, he reveled in the taste of her, in the intoxicating scent that surrounded them. It was everything he had yearned for and more.
Breaking the kiss, their foreheads rested against each other, their breaths mingling in the hushed silence. Kaveh's voice was a husky whisper, "You know there's no getting rid of me now," he warned, his voice laced with playful affection.
(Y/N) smiled, her voice barely above a whisper as she replied, "I wouldn't even dream of it." Her fingers gently traced the contours of his face, cherishing the moment of connection. “Will you help me put the necklace on?”
As the words escaped (Y/N)'s lips, a surge of warmth filled Kaveh's heart, and he nodded in response to her request. Taking a step back, (Y/N) turned around, her hair cascading down her back, exposing the delicate nape of her neck. It was an intimate moment, one that made Kaveh's breath catch in his throat. With gentle hands, Kaveh carefully placed the necklace around (Y/N)'s neck, the cool metal gliding against her warm skin. His fingertips brushed against the nape of her neck as he worked to secure the clasp, his touch sending a shiver down her spine.
As Kaveh fastened the old-fashioned clasp at the back of her neck with his teeth, goosebumps rose on her skin. He burned this image into his memory, savoring the intimacy of the moment. Unable to contain his desire any longer, Kaveh pressed a soft kiss to the exposed skin of (Y/N)'s shoulder, a silent promise of the love and affection he held for her. With a deep breath, he looked into (Y/N)'s eyes with anticipation. "Let's open the doors to this place, shall we?" he suggested, his hand reaching out to intertwine with hers. As their fingers laced together, they took their first steps toward the door.
They stood before the grand double doors, a threshold between two worlds. (Y/N) turned her head, taking in the sight of the beautifully designed interior that Kaveh had poured his heart and soul into. The anticipation in the air was palpable, as their guests and the world beyond eagerly awaited the unveiling of Kaveh's masterpiece. A smile graced her lips as she looked at Kaveh, her eyes shining with excitement. "This is it," she said.
Kaveh met her gaze, his own eyes reflecting her joy. "Ready when you are," he replied, his voice a gentle caress of encouragement. With a nod, (Y/N) took a deep breath. With synchronized movements, (Y/N) and Kaveh pushed the door open, revealing the expanse of light that spilled into the room. As they stepped forward, Kaveh's hand found its place on the small of her back, offering support and comfort. In that moment, he realized that while he might have been the architect of this sanctuary, this was (Y/N)'s moment, her dream, her stage to claim. Gently guiding her forward, Kaveh marveled at the way she radiated with a sense of purpose and grace, just as she had when she approached him at the Tavern. He watched as the light danced in her eyes, mirroring the glow that emanated from within her. As they crossed the threshold and embraced the fading sunlight, Kaveh couldn't help but muse to himself that this was just the beginning of a lifetime of shared dreams.
🌱 This is a bit late post, but I’m just really happy and quite overwhelmed to get a teaser from Hoyo for Fontaine! It is so surreal how last year, we just got Sumeru, and it possessed quality stories most particularly the Archon Quests. They improved with their writing considering that Inazuma was not expounded properly.
The side quests such as the Aranara, Golden Slumber, Dirge of Bilqis, and Khavarena of Good and Evil were also notable. Although not voiced, for lore enthusiasts, the stories enlightened missing portions of lore read only through books or articles scattered around the region. I particularly like the Aranara Quest despite its lengthy missions.
🌱 Moving on to Fontaine, we get a glimpse of the characters who will play major roles in the quest.
💧Freminet — Cryo Claymore — Automaton
Hoyo introduced this character first, and we see that he’s a diver of some sort based on his appearance. Lyney also mentioned that he is his older brother. Whether it would be by blood or not, we will know in the future.
💧 Lynette — Anemo Sword — Felis Alba
Next we see are the twins, Lyney and Lynette. Lynette appeared to be more robotic in a sense, and on the drip marketing, she was mentioned as Lyney’s assistant who seemed to prefer keeping to herself. She preferred Lyney to do the talking than anything else. For what reason? Still unknown to many.
It’s interesting really because Lyney seemed to care for his siblings a lot, and others may have already known but they were from the House of the Hearth headed by Arlecchino “The Knave”.
💧 Lyney — Pyro Bow — Felis Fuscus
As for Lyney, he was the narrator for the teaser, and he has been hinting about the current situation in Fontaine. I’m really excited to see how things will go from here on out especially since Sumeru was a blast!
Other notable characters we see in the trailer are:
💧Navia — Geo ???
💧 Charlotte — Cryo ???
💧 Sigewinne — ??? And Wriothesley — ???
By the way, they look so cute here! Wrio looks like he’s teasing her with choosing the tea instead of the other drink! It’s still unsure what their relationship is, but they look like siblings huhuhu
💧 Clorinde — Electro ???
As I’m looking at her, I’m also desperate for Hoyo to have a gun shooting character. Like a gun weapon type, but I’m not sure if they’ll ever introduce another weapon type because Mika has cross-bow, and not even a new type. A big sigh of disappointment leaves my lips.
She’s so cool though! Aaah! I’m so excited to see what’s her relationship or occupation in the Court of Fontaine!
🌱 Arlecchino — The Knave
Then we got Arlecchino looking so hot and ominous at the same time! The way she talked about Lyney and Lynette as well as the traits of a good actor makes me wonder if she’s treating the situation in Fontaine as nothing more but a trivial play.
🌱 Last but not the least, we get Furina and Neuvilette.
💧 Furina — ???
💧 Neuvillette — ???
If others may have remembered, we already heard of Neuvillette from Nahida’s drip marketing. He’s the Chief Justice in Fontaine and the one to head any cases in the court. He also mentioned once how he admired the Dendro Archon unlike his, but I think he has some sense of respect to his archon.
He also has some theories already speculated by the mass such as him being a Khaenri’ahn because of the eyes while others think he’s an oceanid in human form. Whatever he may be, we’ll know soon. I’m definitely pulling for this daddy man 😋
As for Furina, one thing that comes to mind is she’s definitely the Hydro Archon. This is not coming from leaks or whatsoever, but from pure reasoning alone. Nahida mentioned that the Hydro Archon loved to immerse herself in the feeling of the courtroom but not engaging in it. So it means that she’s usually seen just hanging around the court and never interacting with anyone. In the trailer, she’s seeking a surprise to finally come her way. This makes me think that maybe that surprise she’s looking for will involve the Fatui and Traveler. Whatever conflict it may be, Furina wanted to find delight in that.
🌱 Anyways, that’s all! I just really want to talk about it. I may not be making sense at some parts, but I try. One more patch, and we’re finally seeing our fifth region. I’m so excited!
ıllı Synopsis: Lost in your eyes, in your voice, and in your touch. Even with a simple turn, these men are captivated. For them, there is only you.
ıllı Genre: Fluff, Romance, Slight Angst-Comfort
ıllı Notes: Gender Neutral Reader
ıllı Warnings: Use of pet names
ıllı A/N: It’s been so long since I wrote, and this is quite short. I hope I still did them justice. Enjoy!
🍁 BAIZHU — LAGENARIA
Winter was quite heavy this year, an unexpected affliction to the season. Liyue was covered in soft blankets of white in the morning with children playing outside much to their content. In the evening, snow would pelt down harshly, barring anyone from exiting their homes to travel or do work. Quite a predicament for adventurers and herb gatherers who longed to travel at night due to their commissions’ specifications or because certain herbs only bloom once the sun sat down. However, it did not deter you or Baizhu from going nonetheless.
With heavy coats and mittens on your person, you three (Changsheng included) ended up stuck in a cave as you wait for the wintry winds to pass. The road outside was impossible to see, and the thick coats could only handle so much. It was wise to let the snowstorm die down first before trotting the route ahead. While waiting, Changsheng and you fell asleep while Baizhu insisted on staying up to read his patient’s prescriptions. A worried look was plastered on your face, but he assured you that doing this relaxed him. Plus, he wished to see your peaceful face which caused your face to erupt in hundred shades of red.
“Seriously… Don’t worry, I’ll just take a short nap then I’ll be in charge after. Good…night.” You yawned, resting your body close to him. The greenhead smiled softly and pulled the blanket over to your neck. Changsheng hissed a goodnight as well before slithering from his left to your side for warmth. Baizhu lightly chuckled before kissing the crown of your head.
“Rest well, Darling.”
Time passed, and by the time you opened your eyes, dawn was just breaking out. Rising from your position, you turned to the man beside you, and it seemed like he must have fallen halfway through his reading. His notebook laid on his chest, and his eyeglasses were still on. You reached out to take it off and place the blanket on his person instead. Changsheng, who was around your neck, nuzzled on your cheeks and looked at her contractor. She snickered at how ridiculous his position was.
“Tssss, this guy. What a stubborn lover you have, (Y/N). Hayst, hmm, could you take me outside, Dear? The sun would feel wonderful on our skin.” The snake asked. You obliged and went out to meet the new day.
The sun had not fully risen, and the wind was biting as ever, but the rays slowly warmed up your and Changsheng’s skins. It was a nice feeling, and the gorgeous view of the mountain caused you to appreciate Liyue even more.
“I wish Baizhu could see this amazing view. Qiqi would have also loved this. Don’t you think so?” You asked your companion.
“Maybe. This view is nothing new to me, but seeing this with a dear friend makes me think this is the first time I’ve seen it. You really have a strange effect on others, (Y/N).” Changsheng replied, slithering around your stomach, causing you to giggle at how ticklish it felt. You two bathed in the sunlight for a long time before a rustle was heard from behind. You turned your head and saw Baizhu stretching, his hair flowing out like rivers. Not to mention, the ray enhanced his beauty.
‘I can’t believe I have such a hot man for my lover! Thank you, gods, for this blessing!’ You giddily thought. Smiling, you reached out to his arm and pulled him to your position to show the view outside.
“A beauty, right? Next time, maybe in spring, let’s come here again!” You grinned. He nodded and tucked a loose hair in your face before turning to stretch around. What he missed was the way your cheeks flushed at that. Changsheng simply snickered before slithering back to Baizhu who remained oblivious to your predicament.
“What a lovestruck fool. Tssss~ But what can I say, they’re a cute couple. Hehe~”
🍁 XIAO — ALATUS NEMEOSES
“Hmm? Qingyun Peak, Mount Aocang, and Huaguang Forest. The last one should be Mount Hulao for Jueyun Karst. After that, I can head to Luhua Pool!” You cheered, seeing that you were still on schedule with collecting regional specialties around Liyue for your journal.
“What are you doing here?” A cool voice from behind asked.
“Holy sh— Xiao!? You scared the Archons out of me. Please make some noise when you appear.” You heaved out a frightened sigh. He merely gave you a blank look before raising his question again. Blinking, you happily told him about the reason you were in Jueyun Karst.
Adepti and gods alike had lived for hundreds and thousands of years. They trudged through several civilizations with the responsibility to guide and lead. As an interstellar adeptus, it was your duty to guide and protect the people of Liyue at night using the wind and moonlight as your medium. Xiao had been your companion throughout those times. As memorable as it was, time progressed, and those little moments soon began to fade like wind brewing against dandelion flowers. You realized that with the ever-changing world, only by seeing through one’s own eyes and carrying pieces of those moments would they be preserved. Needless to say, memories also carried tragedy in their wake. The grief and loss brought by war still laced the mind, but you had already come to terms with them. Albeit not easily as it took centuries to fully move on.
Zhongli did once say that each being we meet along the way will shine like gold in our memories. He was right. Guizhong, Sky Bracer, Marchosius, and other gods lost to time left an impact on your mind.
“That’s why, I hope that with every piece I collect and put in this little scrapbook of mine, I get to remember the past. Oh, here, do you remember this sketch, Xiao? Hehehe~ I remember pestering a human to create this for me in memories of Menogias.” You recalled, softly smiling at the memories of the Geo General elaborating his design. Bosacius and Alatus barely listened while Bonanus and Indarias were busy picking out their favorites.
Just the thought of them squeezed your heart. The sound of their joyful peals of laughter rang in your ears, and tears immediately formed in your eyes. However, before one could fall, a finger gently wiped it away.
“Their dream of living as mortals may have been deserted, but protecting this very land until their very end was their pride and joy. What they shared with us will be our greatest treasure and this present, we should cherish. I hope that brought you a little comfort.” He voiced, lips turning upwards at the thought of his family wishing for them to see the future for what it was worth. The contented look plastered on his face caused you to break into a smile as well.
‘They’re smiling now. What a relief.’ He thought to himself.
Suddenly, a gust of wind blew, and the page of the scrapbook turned to another item you forgot you placed there. You gently caressed the item like it was a fragile object, which was definitely how it was considering the passage of time. Gently closing it, you turned to Xiao and pulled him down the mountain.
“I’m going to Mount Hulao to get some Qingxin flowers. Come with me.” You urged, pulling him with a grin. Startled, he let himself be dragged to the said place.
“Hey, slow down!”
“Thank you for everything, Xiao!” You shouted as you two fell. He shook his head at your antics before shifting your positions and carrying you in his arms.
“Reckless as always, but it’s because of that that I adore you.” He whispered in your ear, causing you to flush. Words like that were rarely uttered, and they would always make you feel like crystalflies fluttered inside your stomach.
🍁 ZHONGLI — LAPIS DEI
Night in Liyue Harbor remained bustling with people as the day merchants call out to sell the last of their products. Evening shops began to open and local diners started to become full as customers flood their establishments. On such night, the moon shone brightly on her people.
“All right! One more bottle, Master!” You shouted as you swing the empty bottle in your hand with vigor. Cheeks flushed and mind dazed in alcohol, you did not see a slight disappointment (and amusement) dancing in your companion’s eyes.
“Now, now, (Y/N). You might want to slow down on your alcohol. It’s not wise to get drunk when you’ve barely eaten anything.” Zhongli advised, gently taking the cup from your hands while signaling the master for a cup of water instead. You lightly pouted and told him that you ate a few fried vegetables here and there, but he knew better. The plate of the said dish was barely gobbled.
Laying your head on your right hand, your eyes drifted to the harbor below. Flickering lights danced in your eyes, and watching the people shop around joyfully warmed your heart.
“I’m so happy the people of Liyue are thriving well on their own. The Qixing did a good job leading them toward progress. But… do you regret living your post, dear Morax?” You asked, a lilt in your tone.
The refined man sipped his tea calmly before his piercing eyes reached yours. A small smile made its way to his face, a forlorn one that carried resignation. He replied that his ‘death’ might have been abrupt, ending his reign, but it was for Liyue’s sake. It was important for them to be able to stand on their own feet. After all, life was unpredictable and even a god like him could be slain with the right weapon.
“Hmm. I guess you are right. However, I must say, this is a nice change. No wonder Ping decided to live with the mortals.” You joked, stirring the cup in your hand.
Zhongli grabbed a fried lotus when the waiter came in to give your order which was fried squid. You immediately saw the way he recoiled at the dish making you laugh out loud. Taking your chopsticks out, you grabbed one and savored the taste. The seasonings were just right, and they ensured it did not taste fishy.
“Yum~ You’re missing out on these savories, Dearie. They taste absolutely fantastic.” You teased, but you were met with silence. Zhongli, who had his mouth lightly open, was astounded. The endearment you gave him was a first. Usually, you would not call him anything other than Li, Zhongli, Rex, or Stoney.
Glancing back, your eyes squinted at the flush present on his cheeks. Despite how muddled your mind was, the gears still worked, and a chuckle erupted from your lips.
“Li, Dear. Are you flustered because of that? Hayaa… So cute. Maybe, I should call you that just to get that adorable reaction!” You cheekily voiced, liking the unexpected outcome of your words. Unfortunately, you did not notice the way Zhongli stood up and face you until you felt something warm on your lips and the squid disappearing from your mouth.
“I am right. It still tastes awful as I remember, but it was quite bearable coming from you. Oh, Master, another cup of Jasmine Tea please.” He innocently called to the man of the establishment. It was now your turn to blush at his boldness. Immediately, you covered your face with your arms and even tried to hide it by resting your head above the table.
‘This idiot! That was uncalled for!’
Zhongli noticed it and simply chuckled. You were and would always be adorable in his eyes. He wished the master would hasten his brewing though. The squid was too rubbery for his liking.
Please do not copy or repost my stories, but notes and reblogs are always appreciated!
All right, so I re-read the latest one that I posted and noticed quite a LOT of errors huhuhu! I’m so sorry! I should have read it first before publishing it. I revised it already, but because of this, the next one which is Lost In You Liyue Edition might not be released soon. I just don’t feel like what I wrote for Xiao is good enough. It also doesn’t sit well with me.
Anyways! I hope you guys still enjoyed Tighnari’s story despite the scuff writing. Thank you so much for reading my stories!
Link to those who want to re-read it: Tighnari - In His Nightmares
ıllı Synopsis: Nightmares can impact a person’s state of mind. It often terrorize us even in the waking world. For the calm and collected Tighnari, how would he face the night terrors that displayed his greatest fears?
ıllı A/N: I’m sorry it took this long to finish and publish this one. Work had been hectic these days, and it was difficult to adjust to new places. Still, I’m glad I finally finished this! Oh, and goodluck to those who will be pulling for this patch!
Dreams are images and stories the mind creates when people sleep. They are manifestations of the unconscious desires, fears, and wishes for the present.
For the people of Sumeru, they prided themselves on the fact that they did not dream and treated it as a sign of maturity— leaving behind traces of their childish selves. However, that notion changed when the Dendro Archon was saved by the infamous Traveler from the clutches of the scheming Sages. The all-knowing leaders of the Akademiya were far too ambitious that they forgot the true meaning of wisdom. They were forced to vacate their positions and repent for their sins of locking up their god to act in her stead and abusing the Akasha System. With them gone, the young goddess decided to halt the operation of the Akasha to prevent similar incidents in the future and let the people of Sumeru seek true knowledge and wisdom by themselves.
Like a newly born fowl, the people of Sumeru had difficulty finding their footing at the loss of a convenient tool. It took time to adjust to the changes established in the nation. Students started to extensively utilize the library, gathering tons of books back to their tables to search for notable information for their theses. Merchants and buyers were no different, but fortunate as it is, public libraries were readily available for their perusal.
The Nation of Wisdom changed not only in its government and economy, but also with dreams. Their sleep was now accompanied by dreams. In the vivid world of their mind, they could envision ideas they could not in the waking world. Adults who found themselves exhausted at the end of the day found solace in their rest. However, not all dreams were rose-colored. Those who did not escape the clutches of nightmare were plunged into the darkness where they come face-to-face with their trepidation.
Forest Watcher Tighnari was one of its victims.
“Tighnari! Look out!” The fennec fox heard from behind. Before he could process what was happening, a hand shoved him to the ground followed by an agonizing scream. His eyes turned to the person who pushed him away and saw your electrified figure. The pain was evident in your eyes as you desperately tried to keep your consciousness up. However, your vision slowly darkened, and you lost feeling in your arms and legs.
“(Y/N)!” Tighnari called, catching your body in his arms. He could feel the electricity bite him, but he did not care. He shouted your name once more, but it fell on deaf ears. Patches of scorched skin littered your body, and his hands shook in fear. This scene was all too familiar.
‘T-This… Is this what happened back in Pardis Dhyai?’ He thought to himself. His dual-toned orbs quickly glanced around. Dead Fatui soldiers could be seen ahead, but the glass-stained dome of Pardis Dhyai and the Padisarahs around confirmed his assumption.
Tighnari bit his lips in dread and reached out to check for your pulse. It was weak. His heart constricted at the sight of your fallen body. Losing you was and would never be an option. Immediately, he took out his first aid kid and started working on your injuries. Weakly opening your eyes, you gently held his left cheek.
“I… I’m sorry, ‘Nari. I think… this is it for…me.” Tighnari lost it. He clutched your hand and assured you that he would treat you. That you two would be home in no time, safe and sound. A small smile made its way to your lips before your hold debilitated. He sought to save you, but it was too late.
‘No… No! No! Please no!’
The Forest Watcher woke up with a start, huffing out as he searched for your figure beside him. There you were, sleeping soundly as the night went on. He let out a shaky relieved sigh before settling back into bed and pulling you closer to his chest. His hands were clammy, but having you in his arms was enough to calm him down. Feeling the heat, you opened your eyes and noticed the uneasy look on your lover’s face.
“‘Nari…? Are you all right?” You rasped, holding his right cheek in worry. His ears twitched at your voice but opted to nuzzle in your warmth. He simply continued his ministrations. Unable to fully understand his actions, you let him be.
“I’m all right. Sleep some more, Little Lotus. I’ll always be here.” He muttered. Eventually, you drifted back to sleep with the help of the sound of steady heartbeat. Tighnari smiled and kissed the crown of your head.
You were here. Alive in his arms.
The following day, you were met with a finicky Tighnari who accompanied you on patrols and fussed over the smallest of injuries. It was unlike him to be overprotective, but it felt like a switch had been flipped for him to act as such. You did not know where it stemmed from, so you let the fennec fox worry but not without assuring him that your injuries were nothing to be upset with. Nonetheless, he still applied ointments to the scratches and light wounds on your arms and shin.
“Thanks, Love. It really doesn’t hurt, but let’s go home and help out Collei with her homework. I could tell you left her a challenging one.” You teased. He sighed and let a small smile paint his lips. Dragging him home, you swiftly called out to the young lady that you would help her out with the task Tighnari assigned for the day.
Days later, you met up with a junior from your Darshan who was curious about the Forest Ranger’s responsibilities. It seemed like she had been having difficulties deciding whether she should continue with her current course or shift to another. It had been a lengthy discussion, and at one point, she even considered joining the Adventurer’s Guild instead. You urged her to take a three-day immersion with the guild, rangers, and research facility of the other Darshan she had been contemplating shifting to.
Tighnari heard about it and was curious about what you would do if you were in her position. You pondered about it.
“If I’m in the Adventurer’s Guild, I’ll be able to meet new people along the way. I get to travel far and wide despite the dangerous missions I may receive. Not to mention, Cyno told me that they hold interesting events every now and then. If I recall correctly, he said that they’re holding the King of Invocation event this year. Isn’t that interesting? ‘Nari, do you— Why do you look like a constipated Kaveh?” You raised an eyebrow in concern. His ears were up, his tail was raised, his forehead was scrunched up, and the frown on his lips was like that of Kaveh’s whenever he was frustrated with Alhaitham.
“Being a Forest Ranger is better. I’m sure you’ve seen that. We get to interact with nature, help out people who traverse the forest, protect the fauna and flora of Sumeru, and even research interesting stuff from the desert.” He chided. You tilted your head in confusion.
“Uh-huh… Where is this coming from?”
“I’m not yet done. The Forest Rangers also get to eat fresh fruits and vegetables. That’s with the consideration of overconsumption in line too. Also, we—“ You figured he must have misunderstood your answer that you would shift to being an adventurer instead. Holding his hand, you asked him to sit down for a while.
“I’m not considering it, Love. Being a Forest Ranger with you here is a blessing for me. Why would I ask for more? So you don’t have to feel queasy about it.” You replied. Tighnari was silent for a moment before apologizing.
Shaking your head, you took out a scroll from your hand and laid it on his lap. It was a layout of the giant ruin guard in Mount Devantaka. Strangely enough, a cyan Aranara appeared before you and gladly assisted you around. You got to see the flourishing plants underground and even explore the insides of the magnificent structure residing in the mountain.
“I still can’t believe an Aranara appeared before you. When will it be my turn?” He pouted. You laughed and patted his head.
“Maybe next time, ‘Nari. Maybe.”
The following weeks had been uneventful for the both of you. Wake up, eat breakfast, shower, go on patrol, come home, cook, shower, and sleep again. This mundane cycle along with occasional visits from Cyno and Kaveh repeated itself like a Samsara. It soon changed when the scholars from the Akademiya nominated your lover as Amurta’s representative for the InterDarshan Competition.
Tighnari was reluctant to accept such proposition as he seemed to see no benefit from it aside from spending time with his friends, but you pointed out that it could serve as a catalyst to spread the word about the seminar on Sumeru’s fauna you two had cooked up days prior. You presumed that people might have already gotten bored of the usual talk on plants, so why not tackle the discourse on animals considering that there were quite a number of people interested in keeping pets around the city. They just lacked the information on how to properly take care of them.
“I guess you’re right. Well then, I’ll participate in the games, but I honestly don’t expect to win. Just spreading the word about our upcoming seminar is enough. Maybe you could invite Candace and Dehya to our talk too?” He urged. Your eyes lit up at the idea and immediately planned the date go personally travel to Aaru Village.
“Oh, I should bring some cookies for them! Dehya had been bugging me about it.” You grinned. Tighnari shook his head and kissed the crown of your head. You were too adorable for him.
“Sure, Little Lotus. Let’s go to sleep?” He asked. You nodded your head and pulled him to bed. He curled his tail around you and not even five minutes have passed, you were out like light. The warmth he exuded comforted you, a reminder that he would always be there. That he loved you to bits.
Tighnari’s eyes lingered a bit longer on your relaxed figure. His thoughts made him question what he did to be this lucky to have you as his partner. When he was still a student, entering into a relationship did not cross his mind. He was simply focused on the goal of graduating. His parents would ask him here and there, but it was extremely rare. Only when he spent time with you in your final year did he find love.
“You don’t know how grateful I am to have you, (Y/N). You make every day worth it.” He whispered, sleep finally creeping into his mind.
‘I can’t envision a world without you in it.’
Time ticked slowly that night. Seconds turned to minutes before they turned to hours. Tighnari had been in a relaxed state, unknowing of the night terror ready to visit him. His dream that night started off normal with you and him visiting Vimara Village to inspect a leyline problem around it. Nothing seemed to be wrong until you met up with Alhaitham in Port Ormos for a special package from the desert.
You appeared normal to him, holding the same soft smile he admired, but Alhaitham had a different look. He suspected something was wrong when the man clad in green dipped down and whispered in your ear. It was too quiet for him to pick up, but based on the reaction on your face, it was something serious. You nervously gazed at Tighnari’s dual-toned eyes, gulping down the nervousness and grabbing his hand to pull him to a secluded area.
“I… Tighnari, I— I’m sorry. I think we should break up.” You finally revealed. The Forest Watcher was stomped. He calmly demanded the reason for it.
“Care to tell me the reason, Little Lotus? Why are you suddenly pulling this stunt?” His voice lightly cracked at the end of it. Tears trailed down your cheeks.
“I just don’t see the future I wanted with you anymore. I’ve grown tired and—“
“And you think that future is now with Alhaitham? Is that what you mean to say, (Y/N)?” A dangerous glint in his eyes shone, and your voice hitched at the intense gaze. The words you wished to voice died in your lips, but courage allowed you to at least respond with a weak nod.
Tighnari was stunned. He did not expect to see the person he loved for nearly five years slowly drift away from his arms and move to a new person. He did not know where it went wrong. He did not recognize the signs. Heck, it felt like his reality was distorted by his fears.
“I’m sorry.”
“(Y/N), don’t—!” He reached out, only to wake up in the real world. Sweat rolled down his forehead as he breathed out heavily. His hair stuck to his forehead, so he pushed them back before glancing at you. His mind was still transfixed at the dream he witnessed, too surreal for his heart.
‘I… They’re not going to leave me, right? They promised me, and I vowed the same. But what if they were already suffocating without me knowing? What if—‘ His thoughts raged on for the night. Unconsciously, he kept a tight hold on your hand. Sleep evaded him, and even when he felt exhausted, he feared closing his eyes. He presumed that if he were to fall into a dream state again, he would truly lose you.
Soon, the sun came and met the horizon, lighting the room you two shared. A stray light hit your face, and you were forced to wake up. You thought Tighnari would still be asleep, but there he was, looking disheartened and worried. You groggily sat up and asked what was wrong. The fennec fox reluctantly looked at you before nuzzling his head to your neck.
“A nightmare. A very bad one.” He muttered. It was distressing to see him act like a hurt kit, so you gently combed through his hair and assured him that it was just a dream, a figment. He wanted to believe it, he really did, but somewhere deep in his heart, he had doubts.
“I’ll go get us some warm milk. Stay here for a moment, okay, Love?” You incited, but your lover remained firm with his grip, so, with no choice, you slowly dragged him with you to the kitchen. He littered feather kisses on your neck while his tail wrapped itself around your shin. It tickled you, causing bouts of chuckles to erupt from your lips. Tighnari smiled hearing your laughter. It was music to his ears.
After drinking the warm milk you prepared and eating a light breakfast, you two went out on patrol. There were a few rangers you had to send to the desert to help out with the Akademiya’s plan regarding the educational establishments to be placed in Aaru Village. They were there along with Kshahrewar graduates to help identify the best locations to build the school and library. After receiving the reports, you had to deliver them personally to Alhaitham (he was about to step down in two days, so everybody in position was doing the best they could to use his assistance).
The fennec fox felt conflicted. He remembered his dream again, but he could not let his irrationality get the best of him. The Acting Grand Sage was still his friend, and he knew that Alhaitham would never do such a thing. Reluctantly, he came along with you.
“I presume everything is going well in the desert? If that’s so, we should be able to start the construction soon. Have you and Tighnari contacted Kaveh about this?” The gray-head asked. You glanced back at Tighnari who seemed distracted.
“Tighnari? Is there something wrong?” You asked. As if pulled out of his stupor, the Forest Watcher stammered an answer and asked Alhaitham to repeat his question. Not minding, he asked if they contacted Kaveh to help with the construction.
“I sent him a mail two days ago. I’m still waiting for his response considering that he went to the desert a week before we could confirm the list of rangers we could dispatch to the desert. We’ll get back to you once we get his answer. Is there anything else we need to remember for this project?” He inquired. You watched the Forest Watcher’s behavior intently. He still seemed distracted and worried about something. It would not be good to have him like this, and if you were, to be honest, it felt like if you did not ask him what the problem was, he would drift away. Some place far from your grasp.
So, after your talk with Alhaitham, you pulled Tighnari back to Ghandarva Ville. And as if the gods were on your side, you spotted Collei and Amir not far from the hut. You asked them to take charge for a moment while you tended to your lover. They raised an eyebrow at your words, but you told them that the Forest Watcher had not been feeling well.
“Is Master all right, (Y/N)? He’s not… sick is he?” Collei asked. You smiled and patted her head.
“He’s not, but I think he’s mentally exhausted. I’ll leave the rest of the tasks to you two. If you need help, don’t hesitate to call me. I’ll go. You hear me?” They nodded. With a nod, you returned to Tighnari who was in a daze again.
“Let’s go inside, ‘Nari. I’ll prepare the incense to help out with your anxiety. If… If you’re all right with it, please tell me what is troubling you.” You urged.
You had the Forest Watcher sit down and talk to you about his problems. He was hesitant, saying that it was stupid and ridiculous, but you assured him that you would listen to his concern no matter what.
“It’s… really just a stupid nightmare. It’s not even worth mentioning.” He replied.
“Love, you would not feel this distracted if it was just that. Plus, you know that I’m your partner. I share whatever burdens you have.” You retorted, placing your right hand on his cheek. He unconsciously held it closer to him before finally elaborating on the content of dreams. A small smile erupted from your face, happy that he was willing to open up.
As you listened intently to his dream, you could see just how insecure and fearful it made him. The thought of you leaving him like that perturbed him. So as gently as possible, you placed a soft kiss on his lips, cheeks, and forehead before nudging your nose into his.
“Thank you for telling me your fears, ‘Nari. I really appreciate the trust you have given me. It must have been scary, but know this, Love. There’s no way I’ll ever leave you. You’re stuck with me for eternity. Not like I’ll let you leave. Tighnari, you have my heart and being. I am all yours, and there is nobody in this world I would love except you. After all, whose sass did I love to bits? Whose smart and beauty did I revere? Nothing but yours. These dreams of yours? They could go to hell for all I care. I love you, Tighnari. Don’t ever forget that.” You voiced, adoration decorating your face. Tighnari almost teared up at your words. He could not believe that you were truly his as he was yours. Your kindness and patience knew no bounds, and he was grateful for it.
“Thank you, Little Lotus, for loving me and staying with me. I could not ask for anyone better than you. I love you too.” He muttered, embracing your figure against him. You smiled and kissed his nose once again.
“Next time, don’t hide things like this from me, all right? I’ll worry.” He smiled and nodded. He forgot that communication was the key to a healthy relationship. You were a great listener and would never think of even the smallest fear he had as stupid. He was right to love you with all of his being.
Please do not copy or repost my stories, but notes and reblogs are always appreciated!
ıllı A/N: I had been thinking of a short sequel to the ‘Small Wish’ I wrote for Tighnari. Thank you @koukiasterin for the idea! Please enjoy! Also something to post before the Tighnari one.
ıllı Part 1: Wanderer/Scaramouche - Small Wish
'Not to interrupt this ending, (Y/N), but you might want to tell Tighnari that you're a living person. I think you spook the living mushrooms out of him after Little Collei asked who he was talking to from your last visit.' Nahida urged. You blinked owlishly at her words before shouting at Wanderer to wait for you as you rushed back to your shared room to change.
Wanderer raised an eyebrow at your antics but waited for you to come back. It had not been long, but the moment you came out, he thought to himself how lucky he was to be your lover.
“You’re dressed fashionably? Off to somewhere?” He asked, mildly concerned about your getup. You combed the stray hair back and relayed the Dendro Archon’s message earlier. He scoffed and held your waist to his, nuzzling his head to the nape of your neck. You flushed red at the affection.
“Don’t worry, I’ll come back soon enough. I’ll also visit the Aranaras on the way.” You whispered, the soft tone lacing your voice melting him. It took a few seconds before he let go.
“I’ll come with you to Vanarana. I hope the stupid blue vegetable won’t toss my hat again to Archon knows where.” He groaned, already imagining how Ararycan would appear from behind and grab his hat. The Aranara had a strange attachment to his hat and loved to play frisbee with it. You lightly chuckled before kissing his cheeks and pulling him out of the house.
After locking the door, Wanderer insisted that he would accompany you to the entrance of the city before going to the Sanctuary of Surasthana. You sulked and informed him there was no need, but could you blame the man? He did not want to part from you after your reconciliation. If he was given a choice, he would rather spend it on your lap, lazing like a cat. Oh, how he wished he was one.
“All right. I’ll go back here after my talk with Tighnari then we can go together to Vanarana. I’ll see you later, Kuni. Love you!” You grinned, sprinting away before he could even react. However, you knew that your words alone flustered him to Celestia. It was an amusing sight.
The path from Sumeru City to Gandharva Ville was short. It only took nearly an hour and a half to reach it on foot. The moment you entered the village, you were greeted by an elder and a mercenary. You immediately inquired about the availability of the Forest Watcher. This caught the attention of a forest ranger by the name of Amir.
“You’re looking for our Forest Watchleader? May I kindly ask what business you have with him?” He asked. You sheepishly smiled and replied that you were a friend he made outside of Sumeru and forgot to send him a letter that you would be visiting for a couple of days.
“If I really liked it here, I might even settle down in Sumeru City. So… Is he here?” You hoped, fidgeting with the creases of your clothes. Amir, who appeared relieved, led you to his hut.
Tighnari had just finished his report and was about to head out to check on the village’s supplies when he saw Amir escorting you to his place. He froze. Remembering Collei’s words, he squinted his eyes and examined your visage for any peculiar traits that caused the others not to see you. However, there was nothing. Not to mention, Amir was animatedly talking to you.
‘Just what the heck is happening?!’ He exhausted.
At the corner of your eyes, you noticed Tighnari’s strange gaze. It took a few seconds to understand what was happening, and when you recalled the Dendro Archon’s words, you chuckled lightly.
“Tighnari! It’s been so long. How are you doing these days?” You feigned innocence. Tighnari glared at you, but you remained unfazed, even challenging the fennec fox to figure things out. Amir saw the apprehension and was about to say something when Tighnari pulled you inside his hut and informed the forest ranger he would take it from there. Amir reluctantly left.
“Hmm? Nothing’s changed since the last time I visited. Oh, wait. Reports about Withering Zone. Interesting.” You mumbled. Tighnari coughed and your attention was on him again.
“You’re… not a ghost, are you? A vengeful spirit or something more? Please tell me why you’re hunting this village. Although I doubt you’re really a supernatural being, but I can’t assume.” He voiced. You sat down by his chair and grinned.
“So what if I am a ghost? What will you do, Forest Watcher?” You asked menacingly. The hairs on Tighnari’s neck stood up, chilled by your voice, but he noticed something in your eyes. There was mirth.
“Oh, come on. You’re better than that. Now, what are you really?” He pushed. You laughed and relayed what happened the past days excluding your lover’s past. It was better to keep that to yourself. After all, Wanderer did not want others to fuss or pity him for what happened.
Tighnari, finally understanding the situation, let out a loud sigh of relief. It was good you were not a ghost or something, else he might have to call an exorcist from Liyue. That would have been embarrassing on his part. He plopped down on his bed and asked if you had gotten used to your body. A wry smile marred your face. You confessed that it was strange to feel your limbs and not have the light feeling you had as a spirit. It would definitely take time to get used to it.
“I’m just happy that I have someone by my side to help me adjust. Although, he can get a bit snarky with people. He’s still cute though!” You claimed, giggling at the thought of a certain purple head.
Tighnari shook his head at your lovestruck visage before asking where you were heading after this. Pulled out of your stupor, you informed him of your planned itinerary. He hummed in acknowledgment before standing up to hand you a summary of the report he made on the Withering Zones.
“I hope this isn’t a problem. Do you mind if you give it to Lesser Lord Kusanali? It might help the Aranaras if you break this out to them in simpler terms.” He urged. You did not mind helping him out, so you placed it in your bag and prepared to leave. It was when you noticed two Aranaras beside him. You paused.
‘What the… I thought they fear you!? Is this a new development?’ You thought. They were charmed by his swishing tail. These Aranaras, really.
“So that’s how it is.” You let out loud.
“Is there a problem, (Y/N)?” Tighnari queried.
“No, no. Just an interesting finding on my part. Anyways, I have to go now, ‘Nari! Do tell Little Collei that I’m not a ghost. Hahaha! Don’t miss me too much!” You boldly stated. The fennec fox lightly hit your head with the scroll he was holding, flustered at your words. You sheepishly grinned before leaving, feeling happy that everything was cleared up.
‘How do I make Kuni wear cat ears and tail for my experiment? I don’t know what to bribe him. Maybe a kiss?’ You cheekily thought, already curious about the outcome of the experiment you wished to conduct with him and the Aranara. From afar, you could hear a light laugh coming from a certain Archon.
“The heck are you laughing at, Buer?”
“Nothing. Just a curious mind I heard. Ah! Please don’t put it there. I still have to make adjustments to that portion.”
Please do not copy or repost my stories, but notes and reblogs are always appreciated!
I’m honestly excited to finish this one! I’m still halfway but it gets me pumping just thinking about how cute this is. This is a Tighnari story! I’m also working on Lost In You version for Liyue, and I must say, I’m giggling at Baizhu’s part aaahhhh
SNEAK PEAK:
A small smile erupted from your face before you held his cheek in your hand. You placed a soft kiss on his lips, cheeks and forehead before nudging your nose on his.
“… You have my heart and being. I am all yours. There is nobody I would love except you. After all, who’s sass did I love to bits?”
Aaahhh! I’m so happy with today’s pulls! Kaveh literally blessed me today. I got his C6, and yes, I haven’t activated his last constellation yet because I might use him on hyperbloom mostly until I get a good hydro AOE (or at least test any from my roster). Baizhu also came with him!
I hope everybody’s pulls had been good! Goodluck for those who are still pulling!
ıllı Synopsis: Against his overwhelming guilt, how willing is Kaveh to take in your affection? Push. Pull. Such is the relationship between you two, yet you remained patient. You hoped that one day, he will finally open his heart again.
ıllı Genre: Angst, Comfort, Romance
ıllı Notes: Gender Neutral Reader
ıllı Warnings: Spoilers for Kaveh’s Character Story and Khvarena of Good and Evil World Quest, Mention of blood, Cursing
ıllı A/N: This story has been plaguing my mind since I read Kaveh’s character story. I knew I just had to write something about. I’m really happy with how it turned out. (P.S: I love this man so much!)
“I’m sorry! I’m sorry… I shouldn’t have— It should have been me! It’s all my fault! If only I didn’t wish for anything.” He cried, reaching his hand to the forgotten past. Tears streamed down his cheeks as his eyes searched around for hope, but there was nothing.
I stood behind his quivering visage, the words dying on my lips. It was not because I did not know what to say, but the fact that whatever I utter would never reach his ears. From experience, I already knew this was a dream, a memory I garnered from that man.
“Time stops for no one. Not even for him. Hopes and dreams twinkle in every being, but his has started to dim. Reality will catch up to him, one way or another. He cannot turn a blind eye to it for so long.” A gentle voice remarked. I turned to the small figure hovering beside me and greeted her with a nod.
We watched until the memory faded away like sands blown by the wind. It was an indicator of the dream ending. My companion flew in front of me and wiped the tears that had unknowingly trickled down my cheeks.
“Your heart is too pure, (Y/N). I hope you would not lose sight of what is important.” She muttered. I could only offer a small smile to which she returned with an exasperated sigh.
As customary, Sumeru City (known as the Central Hub of Knowledge and Wisdom) was bustling with activity. Students from the Akademiya rushed out to get their businesses and research outside done while others chatted with their friends about topics that were discussed by distinguished professors of the institution. Merchants, on the other hand, hollered the prices of their goods, enticing the common people with the benefits their products bring. There were also children and travelers littering the street of the city. What a mundane scene it was.
Currently, you were trudging up the path to the Sanctuary of Surasthana to report to the Dendro Archon. Lesser Lord Kusanali personally requested your assistance with an issue in the Vourukasha Oasis. According to her, the Traveler had come in contact with the Order of Skeptics (Nagarjunites) and the Pari who required their cooperation with regard to the Sign of Apaosha, which was the sealing in the hole in the sky. The beautiful shade of purple and green in the sky might look captivating to adventurers and travelers, but it held a foreboding essence that kept anyone near it on their toes. In fact, for those who were aware, the Harvisptokhm (the tree emitting the green light) prevented the abyssal power from crashing down on the desert of Sumeru.
“I can’t believe Zurvan and Fedhri kept these from me. I would have aided them should they— I swear, they’re treating me like a child too much.” You rasped. A frown marred your face at the thought of their actions. Before you could ponder more, you reached the sanctuary. It exuded an ethereal aura that you could not help but stand in awe.
Entering in caution, you spotted the person you were looking for. Nahida turned around after hearing the door open and greeted you with a smile. Her companion courteously nodded his head to which you returned with a bow. Taking out the report, you informed her of the current status of the area. Similar to what you gained from the Traveler, the seal at the Tunigi Hollow was indeed weakening. It was only a matter of time before it collapsed. You were unsure how many Pari were left in the oasis due to the inability to visit them, but they might have decreased in number considering the number of plumes of light scattered in Gavireh Lajavard alone.
“Singly from your assessment, the situation must be dire. I’d advise waiting out a report from the Traveler before joining them on their journey. A part of you must be concerned as to why the Pari kept this from you, right?”Nahida started. You looked down in contempt, unable to deny her words. It hurt that they hid it from you, but there must be a reason behind it. As much as you wished to join the Traveler immediately, it would be better if they continue with their progress first to get a better hold of the affair at hand.
“All right. You may dispatch me when you deem it safe for me to go. And don’t worry. I also feel like it’s my duty to see this through.” You grinned at the archon. Nahida returned the gesture before pivoting to her companion, whom you remembered as Wanderer, to give out orders. He did not bat an eye at your stature, but you knew he was aware of your presence. And maybe more.
Stepping out of the sanctuary, you were met with the cool breeze sweeping through your hair. It slowly calmed your nerves, allowing you to take in the sight of the vast rainforest ahead. Somehow, it reminded you of the first time you came into Teyvat. The slightly cold yet inviting waters of the Amrita streamed down your immaculate skin as your lunar eyes skimmed through the vibrant flora that surrounded your visage. The Pari were the first beings who greeted you, and they were the ones who introduced everything Teyvat had to offer. Albeit, it was not the best time years ago, they still did their utmost best.
“Got another mission from the Lesser Lord?” A baritone voice asked, cutting through your thoughts. You glanced to the side and saw Alhaitham walking up while reading his physics book. You were definitely sure he read that particular book several times already.
“Yep! But I have to wait for a couple more days for the Traveler to report back to Nahi— I mean Lesser Lord Kusanali.” You coughed. He shook his head at your cover-up. It was no secret that you have a unique relationship with the Dendro Archon. However, you did not fancy the misconception others might procure should you call her so familiarly, so you opted to call the young goddess by her title.
Alhaitham settled beside you and hummed in acknowledgment. The mission did not involve him, so there was no need for a fuss. The Lesser Lord trusted your capabilities enough to request your support. Small talks were added here and there until you asked him a peculiar question.
“How is Kaveh these days?” The Acting Grand Sage was caught off-guard. He presumed you would implore if Kaveh was available for dinner, walk, or another activity to drag the man into. A chuckle escaped your lips at his stupefied face, already guessing what was running through his head.
“Hmph. Can’t say much, but he’s been the same as usual. Loud and obnoxious. Last time, he even nagged about the dusty books in the living room while I had guests around. The audacity of that guy.” He huffed indignantly, quite agitated by his roommate.
There it was, Alhaitham’s infamous sharp tongue. It always amused you how they could tell each other’s flaws and strengths out loud without mercy (much so with the gray-haired male). One saw a reality he could not perceive for himself, while the other the guilt he had been running away from. Through constant understanding of each other, they forged a path only they could tread.
“Of course, you’ll say that. However, I’m glad that I can finally see diverse emotions on your face now. It seems like Kaveh is a good influence on you. Maybe not the gullible part, but you get what I mean.” You teased. Alhaitham gave you a deadpan look, shaking his head at your antics.
“And how about you? Aren’t you going to invite Kaveh somewhere? You’ve always been on his tail for as long as I recall.” He voiced. You smiled wryly and told him that your current mission needed to be prioritized. It still bothered you why the elder Pari kept the issue in the oasis from you. Alhaitham might not know the whole story about your past, but he understood that the situation may be appalling for you to be making such faces. However, he also had no intention to meddle in supernatural beings’ problems. It would be better to leave it in your hands, knowing that in no time, it would be resolved.
After chatting for a little bit more, you bid him farewell and went to the Grand Bazaar. Nilou was, once again, performing a spectacular dance up on the stage. Her fans kept growing every single day since art was unbanned from the Akademiya. It elated you to see the theatre flourish and have more people appreciate art.
“Hmm? Is that Faruzan?” You mumbled, tilting your head in confusion as to why the Haravatat scholar was in the area.
Walking towards her, you noticed unique books and scrolls being sold by an old man casually sipping tea. They all appeared ancient and valuable, so you decided to check around as well. Faruzan, who was finally out of her stupor, greeted you with vigor. She informed you that the items being sold were famous a hundred years ago, during her time. It piqued your interest, and as you scanned the booth, you found two blueprints from the desert. Kaveh would love it, you thought.
“Is that for Kaveh?” Faruzan asked.
“Why is he the first thing you’d ask? It could be for myself.” You defended. She gave you a blank stare and reasoned out that there was no way you would study complicated prints like that. Rather, you would choose research on elements or pastime novels to scrutinize.
Sighing, you conceded and admitted that it was indeed for the Kshahrewar graduate. She grinned and then paid for her stuff before asking you to join her window shop and eat dinner. Although you would prefer to spend the rest of the day alone, it would help clear your head of worries by frolicking with the cyan-haired scholar around.
“Let’s go! I’ve got a lot to talk about. Let’s start with my latest one. Do you remember Tamimi? So, the Traveler and I went to the desert to….” You let her trail, happy to listen to her rambles.
Kaveh never anticipated his life to end up like this. The memories of his father passing and his mother remarrying in Fontaine (leaving the blond alone) still hunted him to this day. He thought that with compassion and hard work, he would be happy once more, but chasing after a fantasy he called dreams brought him despondency and frustration.
Soon, Kaveh found himself in debt after finishing his magnum opus, the Palace of Alcazarzaray. It became the talk of the town, but hearsays neglected the story behind it. The Light of Ksharehwar (a title that did not sway him) had to pour out his whole savings after an unfortunate event, including his old home (if he could even call a building whose warmth has long extinguished home that is). It cost him arms and legs to finish the project, but he was a martyr who offered his entire fortune to the altar of ideals.
When the Kshahrewar graduate lost his home, he entered a period of melancholy. He was directionless, empty even. Lambad's Tavern became his temporary home. Searching for inspiration became his excuse whenever his acquaintances found him sitting at a lone table by the tavern. When discussing life matters, you and Alhaitham were the hot topic of their talks. He remembered the Scribe due to their joint research years ago, but he did not recognize you. His associates only had a few things to say about you, but they were always about your peculiar aura, behavior, and understanding of the world. That fact flew over his head as the alcohol distorted his thoughts.
Coincidentally, Kaveh met you and Alhaitham in the tavern days later. The latter hoped to have a well-deserved dinner and alcohol. Both of you could tell that he was in a bad situation, and that faithful night, Kaveh poured out his woes. Alhaitham listened intently to his words. On the other hand, you attempted to converse with the blond, who already seemed drunk from a few cups of rose wine.
"Then, how has realizing your ideals gone for you?" The Scribe asked. Kaveh was silent. He did not know what reality to accept anymore. What he yearned for was a fantasy, but in your eyes, it was stupid altruism that only hurt him. Still, he firmly believed in his ideals, even at the cost of losing himself. It was out of instinct, but you found yourself reaching out a hand to sweep away the tears that slid down his cheeks. His will drew you to the man. Alhaitham noticed the strange gesture and turned to you in confusion, but he found you floored and shedding tears.
"Hey, are you all right?" He asked, concerned about your well-being.
"His... His memories hit me hard. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have touched him so carelessly." You groaned, feeling dizzy at the barrage of memories. As for the blond, he was already passed out on the table, unaware of the predicament he caused. Taking out the handkerchief, you wiped away the dampness in your cheeks. At that moment, the seed of affection had already grown in your heart.
The following day, Alhaitham offered his home to the blond. It was your suggestion, and he found himself agreeing. Most likely because he saw in Kaveh a mirror of himself, projecting what he both possessed and lacked. He had a part of the Scribe that he once imagined, one of the truths he had been searching for. The way he expressed his emotion so openly, his strange intellect and perseverance, as well as his humility amidst illusory altruism drew him in. But in no way would he let Kaveh know any of that lest he inflated his nonexistent ego.
Kaveh continued to live as he was before, but now, with a house to come back to. He would now connect with his friends with an ecstatic aura around him. However, there was one enigma that he could not fathom, more like he could not accept because of trepidation. It was you.
Kaveh believed he should not fall in love because how could he when he only hurt those people around him? Even when he drank and shared moments with Alhaitham, Cyno, and Tighnari, he kept a part of him at arm's length from them. But you? You kept on reaching out to him. Inviting him to stroll around the Avidya Forest, asking him out for dinner in Lambad's Tavern, and enticing him with rare blueprints from the desert that he had not seen before. He realized your intentions, and if he was to be honest, he also learned to like you. Your radiant aura charmed him, but it felt wrong for him.
He surmised it to be the guilt that never left his side.
"Hey, Kaveh! Your head is in the clouds again. The food's getting cold! Eat up." Tighnari nagged. Kaveh blinked owlishly before sheepishly grabbing one panipuri and dipping it in the sauce. He took his wine and watched Alhaitham and Cyno play. The match was heating up, and none of them seemed ready to give up any time soon.
"So, I heard that (Y/N) fancies you? What do you say about that?" The Forest Watcher teased. The blond choked on his wine and reddened, spouting that he could never accept your affection. Tighnari raised an eyebrow at that.
"And why is that?" He pushed.
"It's better if they choose another person than me. I admit that (Y/N) is an outstanding person, but they're too much for me. I... Sometimes, it feels like they know me too much. It's unsettling, but maybe it's just me. I don't want to lead them on." He confessed, keeping the truth to himself. It was better for him to take that secret to the grave.
Alhaitham, with half of his mind in the game, furrowed his eyebrows at his roommate's words. He wanted to voice out his opinions, but your secrets were yours to tell. As for Tighnari, he was about to argue against it when his eyes zeroed in on your stunned figure. His eyes widened in realization. Surely, you heard Kaveh considering you were just a few tables away. Kaveh was confused by his expression until he turned around. There you were, fiddling with your fingers while sporting a pained smile.
Faruzan glanced at you in worry, but you meekly laughed and walked towards their table. Alhaitham was about to greet you when you shook your head and set down the blueprints you found in the bazaar.
"It must have been disturbing. I'm sorry about that. Please take this as my last gift. I'll stay out of your sight for your sake." You murmured. Kaveh flinched and stammered an answer. Under normal circumstances, this would have made you laugh, but your lips quivered from the ache your heart endured. If you say anything else, you were afraid you would break down eventually. Without hesitation, you bowed down and left the tavern.
The Haravatat female whipped her head back to the younger male and glared at him. She gritted her teeth in anger, ready to speak her mind, but she chose to rush out of the building and catch up to you. Kaveh winced at his mistake and abruptly stood from his chair to see if he could apologize, but there was no sign of you outside. Only the buzz of the insects and the murmur of people in the tavern surrounded him.
'You idiot! How could you be so... Ugh!'
Kaveh went back inside solemnly, unable to erase the disheartened look on your face. His heart was heavy with guilt, another misfortune to add to his increasing list. Tighnari noticed the forlorn gleam in his eyes and discerned that his friend failed to apologize and explain himself. Suddenly, a loud sigh could be heard from beside them. Alhaitham precipitously stood up and glowered at him.
“I’m opposed to taking sides in arguments, but how could you let your mouth run like that? And unsettling, you say? You know none of what they’ve been through, fool. Ugh, you irritate me. Don’t even bother coming home.” He spat, leaving the tavern bitterly. It was the first time the Kshahrewar graduate saw his roommate mad. Their usual banter could not even compare to the intensity the Acting Grand Sage exuded.
Cyno turned to Kaveh and consoled him that he could stay in his home in Gandharve Ville for tonight. It was best to reflect on his words before confronting you and Alhaitham about it. Stunned, he could only nod. Tighnari, who was confused by the ordeal, inferred that there was more to you than meets the eye. Based on Alhaitham's claims, he clearly knew something they did not.
“I… I’ll go look for them tomorrow and ask for their forgiveness. They did not deserve that and… Alhaitham's right. How could I call them creepy? I’m so stupid.” He ruefully laughed. The two eyed each other in worry.
The following day, Kaveh roamed the city in search of you. His first stop was the Akademiya. His stomach squeezed in discomfort at the sight of the institution looming over his figure. Memories of his academic days resurfaced, and it was anything but happy. With a heavy sigh, he entered the place and asked the students present in the hall.
"Hi, I hope it's not a bother to ask, but do you know (Y/N)? Is it possible if you could tell me where they are right now?" He adjured.
"(Y/N)? Umm... Oh, is it that creepy senior?" One of the students piped. Kaveh furrowed his eyebrows in confusion and perturbation. Another student recognized the name and confirmed that it was indeed the same person.
"What do you mean?" Kaveh muttered. The young ones before him glanced at each other before recalling their experience with you. It was a year ago when one of them had the opportunity to work with you. As a graduate of your desired Darshan, you did not mind having a junior join you in your research and work outside the Akademiya. However, it was during your journey with them that they noticed your strange behavior which included weirdly knowing their likes and dislikes (they did not explicitly say anything), understanding their emotions, and reading them like an open book. Although there were times when they see you wear gloves or refuse to come into contact with others. You would use the excuse that you were dirty or sick when it did not look the part.
"I still can't believe I survived working under them. I still feel shivers down my spine for how eerie they were. Why are they even part of the Akademiya?" The younger male pointed. Kaveh had enough of his ill words and shook his head. He gave them a cold thanks and left, but not before leaving aggravated words to his juniors.
"You shouldn't bad-mouth your seniors like that just because they could read you like an open book. Your emotions show in your face, stupid."
To say they were flabbergasted by Kaveh's change in attitude was an understatement, but he was too irritated to care. The lack of disrespect did not sit well with him. You worked diligently and would always dedicate a portion of your time to assisting your juniors. How could they treat you as such just because you were not like the others?
"Maybe the professors will know." He mumbled, but even the instructors in the Akademiya shrugged their shoulders, oblivious to your whereabouts. So, he decided to check the Grand Bazaar for any sightings only to come up empty-handed. It was when he noticed a familiar item being sold by an old man casually eating candied nuts.
"Ho? Why hello there, young man. Are you interested in these? Aya, you remind me of the youngster who brought the pricey ones yesterday. They were with a friend who teased them about it. Something about gifting it to the person they fancied? Hohoho, how youthful." He cheered. Kaveh pieced his words together and realized that it was you he was talking about. In his mind, he questioned why you were willing to go to lengths just to receive his affection. It did not make sense to him, and his curiosity pushed him to seek you.
"I'm... taking this one, please. And they sound like a wonderful person." He responded. The old man guffawed once more.
"They are, indeed. What a blessing for me to see a young spirit like them. Hohoho!" He murmured, a flicker of nostalgia present in his sunken eyes. Kaveh caught his words and was about to ask if he could expound on it, but the old man was gone as well as the things he sold. It was like he did not exist in the first place.
'What the....' He was sure he slept well and did not take any strange medications from Tighnari. Was it the stress?
No one from the bazaar seemed to notice what happened, so he merely shook his head and slowly backed away from the place. He carried on with his search for you. However, it was as if you disappeared that night without anyone's knowledge.
Three days later, he sought and asked Faruzan for your whereabouts despite her displeasure with him. She let out an exasperated sigh and meekly answered that she did not catch up to you. When she visited your home, you were not there. Fear crept up in his heart. He did not know where to look for you anymore, then he recalled another person he could consult.
Three knocks on the door, and a 'Come in' echoed from the other side.
"Tch. Now, what brings you here?" Alhaitham sneered. Kaveh winced internally at his temper.
"(Y/N), please tell me where they are." He begged. The Acting Grand Sage placed the quill down and bore his eyes in his own. The architect could feel himself crumble under his intense gaze but remained firm. An apology was in order, and there was no excuse not to do so.
"Why? So that you could hurt them again as those bastards did? So that their heart will be torn once again? Tell me, Kaveh, why should I tell you where they are?" He challenged. Kaveh bit his lower lip in frustration. He disliked Alhaitham's protective nature over you, but he understood where he was coming from. The only question in his mind was what the Acting Grand Sage meant by hurting you again. What happened years ago? For now, he should justify himself in front of the man.
"I... have no excuse. I indeed found how they know me so well disturbing. I don't know how or why, but I want to find out. I also want to apologize. No matter what, they did not deserve that. I feel so guilty, Alhaitham. Please understand that there are a lot of things I'm scared to face. I—" He stopped. Clenching his fist tightly nicked his skin, and blood stained his palm. A loud sigh was heard from the man in front of him.
"Vourukasha Oasis. They briefly mentioned it after begging the Dendro Archon to send them to the desert earlier than planned. Now get out of my office. You've wasted enough of my time." Alhaitham glared. Kaveh, although with difficulty, expressed his gratitude and left immediately.
'Did I do the right thing?' Alhaitham thought to himself. He picked up his quill and resumed his work. It would be up to you whether you would talk to Kaveh or not anyway.
The architect, eager to see you, asked Mehrak for the quickest route to the oasis. His eyes bulged at the distance. He would have to cross the Desert of Hadramaveth and pass Gavireh Lajavard before reaching the Realm of Farakhkert. It was a mystery to him how you reached the oasis in such a small amount of time.
"All right. There's no time to lose!" He muttered, encouraging himself.
The Desert of Hadramaveth seemed clearer to tread now unlike before. He recalled the sandstorm in the region to be harsh and dangerous. Mehrak beeped and warned him that there were Eremites ahead of them. He prepared his weapon and battled his way through. It took him a day and a half just to reach the Sands of Three Canals.
"Mehrak, map please." Kaveh requested, huffing in exhaustion from the long walk they did. Mehrak chimed and projected the map of Sumeru. His eyes squinted at the sight of the Tunigi Hollow and recalled the rumors of a lost Darshan present in the area. From what he remembered, they were called the Order of Skeptics, and they split from the Akademiya due to an incident years ago. There were rumors of internal conflict within the Order, and he wondered what made several of their members side with the Abyss. Desires fueled by evil intent would only result in downfall.
After mapping his route, he resumed his journey. The sand was getting in his shoes, but he shrugged it off and glanced around for danger. It was until he reached the Temir Mountains did he notice the Traveler, Paimon, and another strange creature in the distance. Paimon creased her forehead at his figure and realized it was their architect friend.
"Oh! It's Kaveh. Hey, what are you doing here?" She asked.
"It's nice to see you again. I'm looking for someone. They're a scholar from the Akademiya who goes by the name (Y/N). Have you, in any possible case, encountered them?" Kaveh hoped. The three peered at each other, immediately recognizing your name.
"Why are you looking for (Y/N)? They are back in the oasis, helping out the Pari. By them, I mean this little one over here." Traveler responded, pointing at the scarlet avian-like creature beside them. Before Kaveh could say a thing, another Pari came rushing in. She seemed to be panicking, and by the time she reached them, she poured her worries about you fighting off a bunch of Fatui soldiers.
"(Y/N) is fighting a lot of bad people! It was so scary! I am not sure if they could handle it. Please, Sister Sorush, Yasnapati, Pale Floaty, you've got to save them!" She cried. Kaveh, alarmed by it, pleaded to the Pari to guide him instead. She tilted her head in confusion and demanded who he was.
"Kaveh, my name is Kaveh. I am their friend. Please let me help them." He sought. Sefana examined the architect and ascertained his sincerity. Unlike the humans she encountered, the man before her was earnest and willing to help. She meekly nodded and flew off. Kaveh followed suit, not bothering to listen to the Traveler.
Kaveh arrived at the site only to see a deserted camp, empty of the claimed ferocious Fatui soldiers. Turning to the side, he found you wiping the dust out of your clothes. He blinked owlishly at the sight, confused by the whole ordeal.
"Now, let's go back and ask Zurvan what in Teyvat she was thinking of keeping these from me." You huffed out loud, extinguishing the Hvarna in your hand. But when you spun around, your eyes met that of his crimson ones. You flinched and asked what they were doing in such a dangerous place.
"Especially you, Sefana. Zurvan is going to scold Sorush and me should you stay here. Don't worry about me, I'll be back in a few." You assured the Pari. She rushed to you and hugged your head before heading back to the oasis.
Once she was gone, you gazed back to Kaveh. You sheepishly apologized that he caught sight of you again, so you walked away before he could utter anything. Suddenly, you felt a tight grip on your wrist. You were about to ask what was wrong when he stammered a response. A moment of silence reigned over you two before he found his voice.
"I'm truly sorry about what I said. I... I was just confused and scared because how do you know so much about me? How do you know what to say? I already lost a lot in my life, (Y/N). If it's not evident enough, I'm as miserable as there is. I feel so guilty receiving your affection, so please, just hate me." He begged. You were stunned until you could not hold the amusement in your lips. He was confused by your outburst before you utilized the power of Hvarna and projected your ability.
"I could never despise you, Kaveh. Not in a million or thousand years." You replied, mirth dancing in your eyes.
Bubbles of memories appeared before him. He saw his own and was astonished by the sight. You floated by his side and pointed at one of the memories that made you fall in love with him. It was the time he poured out blood and tears to finish the Palace of Alcazarzaray even when Dori sneered at him for wasting her time and Mora.
"What are you, (Y/N)?" He genuinely asked.
"Hmm, are you sure you can handle what I am, Light of Kshahrewar?" You teased, a lilt echoing in your words. He nodded, eager to understand you.
With a satisfied sigh, you dispersed the bubble of memories and presented your own recollection, mostly those that you remember. Time was cruel. It eroded a number of your beautiful memories.
"I am a Lunar Spirit born from the Amrita, it's the pure water present in the Vourushka Oasis. I grew alongside the Pari, guardians of the oasis meant to protect Sumeru from the Abyss. We have a duty to purify those affected by abyssal corrosion. However, centuries ago, I asked the elder Pari to let me roam Teyvat and learn about the world. I settled in Sumeru for some time. Several people knew my identity such as the Lesser Lord Kusanali, Alhaitham, Wanderer, Traveler, Paimon, and now, you. To answer why I knew so much of you is because of my power as an empath." You explained. Because of your origin, your ability as an empath was amplified. It allowed you to see several memories when you touch people. Kaveh's eyes widened. Now, he discerned the reason for your actions.
"At first, it was just to help you get over your guilt, but eventually, I fell in love with you. I wanted you to know that you also deserve love and happiness and that there is no need for pain to lighten the guilt. I am sure that your family also wishes for you to be happy, Kaveh. What happened in the past was not your fault. Fate... can be fickle, that's all I can say. Your journey as of now may not have been the smoothest, and you remained firm with your ideals. That's the beauty of living. So, I hope that... with my help, you'll open your heart again. Allow yourself to truly feel." You sullenly voiced. Kaveh stared at your form and then at the oasis not far from them. It was strange to have someone figure out the truth he had been running away from. Maybe it was time for him to give his happiness a chance. It might take him a long time, but he would like to take the risk.
Gaining a bit of courage, he turned to you and inquired.
"Will it be all right if I tread this path with you by my side?" This time, it was your turn to flush red at his confession.
"Are you all right having a strange significant other like me?" Anxiety laced your tone. Kaveh reached for your hand and intertwined it with his.
"I couldn't have asked for more."
BONUS:
After your sincere apologies and heartfelt confession, you two returned to the oasis and met up with Zurvan. You demanded an explanation from the elder Pari why they hid it from you, and she explained that your duty was to purify the Amrita pool and energize the Harvisptokhm once it had been healed. She thought that it was not yet the time to do it until Sorush came rushing back with the need to purge the problem.
Moments later, Traveler, Paimon, and Sorush arrived, the latter having a deadpan look on her face. They were right that Sefana failed to assess the situation properly and quickly ran to them for help. Mere Fatui soldiers would not be enough to bring you down.
"Speaking of them. Hey, Traveler, Paimon, Sorush! Over here! I see you've attacked the source of the problem. Thank you!" You cheered. Paimon floated to you and asked if they have to do more.
"Don't worry. Leave the last part to me. You can stand there with Kaveh and the others." You directed.
After walking a few feet from them, you concentrated the Hvarna in your chest. A power, unknown to those watching, accumulated until it burst and went underground. The flora around them became vibrant. Kaveh witnessed a spectacular sight, but one scene that would forever be etched in his mind was your divine look under the mystical glow of the oasis.
Zurvan recognized the look in Kaveh's crimson eyes and asked if he could truly love somebody like you. He was caught off guard by the elder Pari, but he took a deep breath and firmly stated that he would cherish you. The guilt harboring in his heart had been released, and you were the reason for it. It was time he let go of that and choose his happiness this time.
"How bold, human. However, I shall permit. Take care of our Little Lily. They deserve every ounce of love there is to offer." She said.
"That they do." Kaveh agreed, watching the scene before him with contentment.
"Kaveh! Come here! We can bring this home according to Sefana." You gleefully claimed, taking in two Sunyata flower stalks in your arms.
'Home, huh? It's been such a long time since I heard that word earnestly, but with you in it? Yes, I would love to call wherever you are my home.' He thought before joining you, his happiness.
Please do not copy or repost my stories, but notes and reblogs are always appreciated!
ıllı Synopsis: Can broken hearts be mended? If a chance shows itself in front of you, will it be all right to take it and hold your hand once again?
ıllı Genre: Angst, Comfort, Modern AU
ıllı Notes: Gender Neutral Reader
ıllı Warnings: Cursing, Drinking, Depression
ıllı A/N: This story had been sitting rent free in my mind for days, and I finally had the courage to write it! I can’t believe it took me so long because I don’t want to feel the paint, but please enjoy! (P.S. I’m spoiling this guy along with Kaveh)
Scaramouche had never felt so empty and numb. Not even when his mother neglected him nor when he lost two of his childhood friends to accidents. No, he was as hollow as a dead twig the moment you two broke up because of his arrogance, insensitivity, and obduracy.
Everything returned to how it was before he became yours. It was mundane, boring, and tiring. When his electrifying gaze bore at the outside world, it was black and white. Too monotone for his liking. It was as if you took away with you the colors that allowed him to see the beauty of his surroundings.
‘…Why am I like this?’ He exhausted, mindlessly writing the professor’s words in his notebook. He felt like a puppet. Somebody subjected to the musings of the world, one they could toy with and throw away afterward. He lost his own will.
The change in Scaramouche’s mood did not go unnoticed by his blockmates. In fact, those who knew his temper strayed away from his path, not bothering to interact with the man. He did not mind. Not one bit, but he missed you. So much that he felt like dying.
When lunch came, Tartaglia and Aether came to his classroom and inquired about their friend. Kindly enough, two of his classmates told him that Scaramouche already left. Presumably somewhere quiet to eat. The two glanced at each other in worry. The moment they noticed the sullen shift in their friend’s mood, they immediately asked what happened. The reply they got was that you two broke up because of him. He said words he did not mean to and would not be able to take them back due to his reasoning. That he deserved it after the pain you endured just to keep your relationship afloat.
“Hey, Aether. How is (Y/N) doing anyway? I failed to get their contact details back then, so I have no way to contact them. I doubt they even open the request section of the messenger.” Tartaglia huffed. The blond recalled his conversation with his sister who was your friend. She did not want to disclose anything. Not when she knew how Scaramouche hurt you.
“Oh, man. Scara is the type to mull over things, and if this goes on, who knows what will happen to that guy.” The ginger muttered. Aether could only nod in agreement.
As for Scaramouche, he was at the gardens where you two would eat together. Despite the differences in your schedules, you two made it work out and have a meal together. It might not be always, but the thought of spending time together to energize you before another draining class was enough act of love for him. Right now, he could not sense that happiness and tranquility. It was only the cold wind that accompanied his figure.
‘…I wonder what you’re doing right now. I miss you.’ He thought to himself, lightly brushing the place you would always sit at.
“If I could turn back time, I would take back all that I said. I would say I love you as many times as you want. I would kiss you as many times as I could. I would cherish you for the longest time possible.” He muttered. His hands quivered. The tears he held back threatened to escape his eyes, but he wiped them away again. He did not deserve to cry.
When class ended, he swiftly grabbed his bag and left for your once-shared home. It was just an empty room now, but the comforting scent you carried with you lingered in the air. It was a combination of jasmine, vanilla, and mint. Whenever he felt a panic attack coming or the stress chowing at him, he would shyly ask to be held in your arms. It was endearing that he let you see his vulnerable side, and a smile would bloom on your face the moment he relaxed.
“It feels so cold without you here.”
The following days repeated themselves. Wake up, eat breakfast, go to university, then go home and sleep. It was a nightmarish Samsara he could not escape. It slowly drove him crazy. The walls felt like they were closing on him, and the noise from his blockmates’ chatters was deafening. At one point, he might have lost his mind by drinking bottles of wine to drown his sorrows away. He did not come to class for two days. The moment he came back, he despised the gossip he accidentally heard from Tartaglia and Aether.
“Diluc asked them out!? You mean that rich redhead from Mondstadt who is the heir to Angel’s Share?” Tartaglia gasped. Aether looked at his phone and reread the message he got from his sister, whom you confined about the matter.
“What did they say? They must have agreed considering he’s the richest bachelor in the area. Not to mention, they will be treated well by the man.” The ginger claimed. Although at the back of his mind, he worried about his friend's reaction should he learn of this. Scaramouche lost all feelings and left before he could hear Aether’s reply. He did not want to hear how happy you must have become. What Scaramouche did not know was that you turned down the man.
“What!? They turned him down? Why?” Tartaglia thought that it was such a waste, but the blond knew why. His eyes softened at the text he got from you.
“I don’t think I’ll be able to move on, Ae. Not when I love Scaramouche so much. He’s the only person I’ll ever love, be it now or in another life. - (Y/N)”
Everything was going to be fine.
When Scaramouche returned to class, he did not bother listening to the professor. All that he could feel was bitter loneliness and frustration. The instructor tried to gain his attention but to no avail. His blockmates whispered amongst each other about what could have set his bad mood, but eventually left him to his own devices. The man was smart enough to pass the subject, and hearsays did not bother him. Nothing but you could bother him.
After another weary day, Scaramouche did not go home early. He swiftly made his way to a convenience store and buy cans of beer. It was time to drown his feelings away and just feel happy. Even if it was imaginary.
Scaramouche went to the park he spent his last moment with you and sat on the bench facing the playground. He vividly remembered the day you two broke up. It was your anniversary, and you wanted to spend time with him stargazing, a hobby you developed to ease your stress. However, it was also that time when he heard from his mother. Her assistant, Yae Miko, contacted him and wished for the man to change university and course. They wanted him to be their puppet and succeed in the family business. He declined, but he was threatened that they would stop funding his schooling. Anger bubbled through his stomach, and your carefree attitude blew him off. He ended up shouting his frustrations at you.
“You will never understand the pain I endured! I really can’t stand the likes of you.” He seethed.
“…So, this is really it? I-I see. Then… thank you, and I’m sorry for everything.” You mumbled, leaving him in the dark to his thoughts. By the time he regained his senses, you were gone. He could not contact you nor did he ever see you. You avoided him at all cost. Eventually, he gave up and wallowed in his self-pity.
Returning to the present, Scaramouche grabbed one can and drank it without stopping. One after another, he emptied the beers and muttered curses about his arrogance and stupidity. He babbled about how he hated his assurance that you would not leave him despite keeping you at arm’s length. He disliked that he could embrace your kindness, and now that you were gone, he longed for it. He despised himself for being a coward, for not telling you that he was afraid to love because he might hurt you as he did to his friends.
“L-Look at where it got you, idiot? Isolated. Alone. Cold. And they’re not coming back. Ha…Hahaha! Stupid! Stupid! You stupid coward.” He cried. One lone tear trickled down his cheek, then another, and another. He was a sobbing mess by the time he was done. The night sky twinkled above him, and it felt like they were mocking his misery.
“I just miss them. Please return them to me.” He begged pitifully.
Suddenly, light footsteps could be heard from behind. His upset gaze met your fatigued ones. Time seemed to have stopped for a moment. His breath hitched as he tried to discern if he was simply dreaming or not. He lightly laughed and muttered that there was no way you would be here.
“I’m finally going crazy, huh? Hahaha. How low of me.” You heard. Carefully, you walked towards him and held his hands. With a wry smile, you wiped his tears with your handkerchief.
“This is the first time I saw you drink and break down like this. Come on. Let’s get you home.” You urged, ready to pull him up. Scaramouche, who was stunned, quickly clutched the sides of your clothes and shook his head.
“I don’t… I don’t want to go home without you, (Y/N). I don’t want to remember that cold room. Please let me stay where you are. I—“ He implored, his throat closing up at the fear of going home without you, of finally letting go. He could not—did not want that.
Realization dawned on you, so in a comforting tone, you crouched down and held his quivering figure. You caressed his lavender tresses carefully until he calmed down. And when he did, you pulled from his embrace and cupped his cheeks. He wanted to cry again and just remain in your arms, but there were important things he needed to say.
“I’m sorry. I’m sorry, (Y/N). I did not mean anything. I… I love you so much, so please. Please don’t leave me.” He was crying again, and you were about to as well. Your breakup did not bode well for you, and every day felt like torture without him. Suffocating even. You understood that he might be harsh on the side, but he also had his tender moments.
“If… If we return to how we were back then, will things be different? Will you still keep me at arm’s length?” You inquired with a tint of loneliness. Scaramouche stared at you and shook his head no. He realized his mistake and would like to start again.
“I want to… show you all of me. If you will let me.” He mumbled. Happy with his response, you wiped the rest of his tears and embraced him.
“Then let’s go home. I’ll cook your favorite. Plus, you need to take a bath. You reek!” You teased. He huffed indignantly but returned the loving gesture.
“Let’s stay like this for a while, please.” You lightly chuckled at the request but did not let go. It had been so long without him by your side. This was the reassurance you needed to secure that you made the right decision.
“Of course. I missed you too.”
BONUS:
“Hey, I heard some guy named Diluc asked you out on a date. I— You’re not going anymore, right?” Scaramouche mumbled against your neck. He looked like a cat nuzzling his master for food from your point of view, making you lightly chuckle.
“I already turned him down. He was a cool guy and did not make a fuss about it. Don’t worry, I’m all yours, Scara.” You responded, squeezing his hand. He smiled and nearly dozed off from relief.
“I love you, (Y/N).”
“I love you too.”
Please do not copy or repost my stories, but notes and reblogs are always appreciated!
I finally finished the next one! I can’t wait to post it once Kaveh is out. Yes, I made another story for him. I just love the guy so much! I’m posting it at later date because it contains spoilers. At least at later dates, it’s safe to release spoilers about him.
SNEAK PEEK:
“…I'll stay out of your sight for your sake." You murmured. Kaveh flinched and stammered an answer.
“…If it's not evident enough, I'm as miserable as there is. I feel so guilty receiving your affection, so please, just hate me." He begged.
‘'Home, huh? It's been such a long time since I heard that word earnestly’
ıllı Synopsis: Kabukimono, Kunikuzushi, Scaramouche, and Wanderer. His life was a beauty in tragedy, and between those pages lies his encounter with you. Yet, where did you go?
ıllı Genre: Romance, Slight Angst
ıllı Notes: Gender Neutral Reader
ıllı Warning: Mention of death
ıllı A/N: I’ve finally finished it! I’m not sure if I gave him justice, but I love how this turned out. It’s a bit long, but I had to place things here and there to make sense. Please enjoy!
ıllı Part 2: Wanderer/Scaramouche - Heard Wish
"Who are you?" It is the same question I ask every time I dream of you.
I remember the comforting smile on your face, the warm hand that held mine, and the soft kisses you gave. Yet, I can't remember how you looked. I don't recall the person I fell in love with. Instead, I drown in the nightmares fueled by the whispers that say you are nothing but an illusion. It hurts. I want to see you, to remember you.
"Maybe we can be together for eternity in your next life." You mutter, holding my hand tightly. Salty tears trickle down your cheeks, but I can't wipe them away.
Why?
Because I know I died before you. I left you alone. I broke my promise to you.
Blinking the sleep away from your bleary eyes, you were met with the rattan roof that sheltered your slumbering form from the cold wind. Soft shuffles could be heard from below, so you rose from your bed and peaked at the source. It was Araja, waddling away with radishes in his arms. It seemed too much for the Aranara, so you rushed to his side and grabbed it for him. Ignoring his startled stance, you asked where the vegetables would be placed.
"Thank you, Nara (Y/N). I was about to bring these to Arapacati. Please help me carry the ingredients to their home." It was a simple request that you happily obliged. There were also tomatoes, sweet flowers, and mushrooms outside. Quickly drifting to Arapacati's home, you turned to her brothers. They were discussing about the unique dish they planned to serve to everyone. Araphala noticed you and waved at you to come closer.
"Will Nara (Y/N) taste our new invention once you return?" He inquired. It might not be evident because of their facial expression, but you could hear the hopeful tone laced in the Aranara's voice. You nodded, but you turned to Arasaka and warned him not to put too much 'taste of happiness' (sugar) in the dish if he planned to use it. The aforementioned Aranara deflated, but it was for the best. Arasaka had the tendency to oversweet dishes, even those that were meant to be savory.
After praying to the Dendro Archon for the success of the Aranara's dish, you wandered into the forest to see its condition. The fauna and flora were thriving, and only minimal problems were present such as weakened plants and pestering fungi. News was that the Withering Zone had decreased significantly after a certain Traveler rescued the Dendro Archon and healed the Irminsul. You had the opportunity to meet them, and they were kind, as Araja and Arapacati mentioned. Paimon was gluttonous, but she was the best travel companion the Traveler could ask for.
Only the fungi, hilichurls, and ruin machines littered the forest. There were occasional sightings of Eremites and Fatui, but they did not harm the forest. In turn, you left them to their own devices. It was for the people in the city to handle as it was their business. Your role was to assist in guarding Vanarana. As such, you found yourself eradicating several ruin sentinels from the underground ruin that came near the Vanarana. Arabalika was also beside you, using his Ararakalari to take down the weak points of the machines. He once mentioned that it was an excellent exercise to strengthen his power, but at the cost of memories, so there were times when you had to re-introduce yourself to him.
"You're not getting away this time!" You concentrated the dendro energy in your hand and hit the center point of the ruin hunter. It crackled before falling unceremoniously. Leaping in the air, you slowly descended to check for your Aranara companion. Just a few meters from your position, Arabalika was hitting the other sentinels with his weapon. As if they were mere toys, the enemies disintegrated into dust. The forest was peaceful once more.
"Nara (Y/N), strong as always, but Arabalika noticed that your speed had dwindled. Is Nara (Y/N) sick?" He asked, trotting toward you. Your eyes widened at his sharp observation. The facade you put up crumbled, and you confessed that you had been having nightmares that exhausted your body and mind.
The Aranara hummed in thought before floating up to your stature. He touched your forehead and used his power. He noticed a blockage at the back of your mind and advised that you talk to Araja about it. You raised an eyebrow at that. Arama once mentioned that there were memories he could not access, like it was purposely sealed inside you. Although you wished for the Aranara to further elaborate his statement, he had long departed to Sarva.
"All right, I'll go back to Vanarana and talk with Araja. See you there, Arabalika. Stay safe!"You bid him farewell. He waved his arm before disappearing underground, most likely to hunt more ruin machines in the Ruins of Dahri.
Shaking your head at his antics, you vanished back to Vanarana. The moment your eyes landed on its sky, you could not help but gawk in awe. The mystical shade of purple and vermillion never failed to astound you, even to this day. There were no moon, sun, or stars in Vanarana as if it was suspended in time. It was also filled with unique flora only the Aranara could reproduce. They said that the memories of the forest brought forth the vegetation in the area. If Sumeru had the Padisarah, Vanarana had the Viparyas, a dazzling seedless flower created using Vasmrti and the forest's memory.
Trudging back to Araja's house, you found yourself humming the Song of Great Dream. It was the last gift Arama gave you.
"Ho? You're back early, Nara (Y/N). Sit down. I'll prepare some tea." Araja mused, motioning to the chair on the ground floor. You gladly took it before voicing your concern.
"Araja, I've been dreaming strange things lately. I always find myself with a man I don't know. Deep inside me, I have an inkling that I know him. There are feelings of happiness and regret whenever I dream." Araja floated toward you and placed the tea on your lap. You thanked him before he positioned himself atop the table.
"I can only surmise that those are your memories, Nara (Y/N). Remember when we found you, a part of your memories were sealed. We did not have enough power to unseal them, but we believe you can unlock them by finding the right trigger. Nara (Y/N), these dreams might mean that fate is with you, preparing you for what you hid from yourself." He responded. You sipped your tea in silence, thinking about the Aranara's words.
It had been nearly two centuries since Araja and Arama found you in the Fane of Ashvattha. They said you stood absentmindedly in front of the first Vasara Tree before collapsing like a withered log. Luckily, the tree remained active and cushioned your fall with leaves and flowers. The tree asked the two to nurse you, but you were like a blank slate when you opened your eyes. No memories of anything. Both you and the Aranara feared each other. You because of being with strangers, and them due to a human entering the Vanarana, which served as their safe haven. Building trust between the two parties took time, but you were thankful for their patience. One day, you overheard Arana, who had just returned from her journey, inquire about your state. Araja said it was amnesia, and when Arama checked your memories, it blocked him. The seal harbored no ill will, but it seemed like you were the one who placed it there. For what reason? None of you know.
“Thank you, Araja. To be honest, I am scared of my memories. What if I was a bad person? What if I hurt you and the others?” You muttered, anxiety coursing through your veins. The Aranara chief floated to your trembling figure and patted your head.
“I believe Nara (Y/N) was a kind Nara even before we took you. I saw the warm treatment and patience you gave to every one of us here in Vanarana. Even when Arasaka put too much zaytun peach jam on your food, you did not complain and finished everything. Nara (Y/N) is a gentle Nara.” He comforted. Tears welled up in your eyes before nodding, enjoying the head pats the Aranara chief gave.
The next day, you were greeted by a bowl of delicious-smelling food held by Arasaka. You blinked owlishly before he gave you a spoon to eat it. He said that they noticed the scent of ‘sadness’ emitting from you yesterday and wanted to comfort you with food. A smile erupted from your lips, and then you began munching on the dish they made. There was a vast improvement in the flavor.
Once breakfast was done, you informed the Aranara chief that you would be visiting Tighnari in Gandharva Ville to learn more about the Withering Zones and the status of the other forests in Sumeru. Arasaka waddled over to you and queried why you were not scared of the Forest Watcher. You were aware that they feared Tighnari because he was a descendant of Valushka Shuna (desert dogs). You crouched down and assured him that the fennec fox would never hurt you or them. He was reluctant to believe your words, but he trusted your strength. With a smile, you left the village.
Gandharva Ville was hours away from Vanarana by foot, but the forest had been kind to you and provided you ease in transportation across lands as long as you remained in their sight. Transporting yourself to the ville, you instantly found yourself in front of Tighnari's office.
"Tighnari? Are you home?" You asked, peeking at the leaf curtain of the hut. The Forest Watcher turned his head from his work, eyes widening at the surprise visit.
"(Y/N)? Well, this is a nice surprise. Come inside." He offered. You gladly followed in and sat on a spare chair in his office. He inquired about your whereabouts the past few days, which you indulged in. An upset frown marred his face at the facet of endangering yourself, but you promised him that you had Arabalika backing you up when you go around fighting.
Tighnari sighed. He decided to get to the main agenda of your visit, which was to explain the declining number of Withering Zones and its impact on the ecosystem. He started with the effects of Irminsul being healed and how it cut the source for the zones to pester. Without the withering, the forest would recover slowly from the detrimental impacts. Plants might need assistance, but it should not pose an issue to you or the forest rangers. The leylines would also start to stabilize, so fewer overflow effects on fauna and flora in Sumeru were expected.
Digesting the information he laid out, you adjusted your itinerary for the day. For now, assistance in revitalizing wilting vegetation was the best option while the forest rangers eliminated the remaining zones. You might help occasionally, but you were confident that Tighnari and his rangers would do the job just fine. Happy with your findings, you thanked the fennec fox and left his hut with a promise to visit again soon. Tighnari shook his head before returning to his work, but a shuffling outside interrupted his thoughts.
"Hmm? Oh, it's you, Collei. What's wrong?" There was worry evident on his junior's face. Collei huffed out a shaky sigh.
"Who were you talking to just now, Master? There was no one there." She replied. Tighnari froze in his spot.
The common areas you patrolled as self-proclaimed guardian of Vanarana included the Fane of Ashvattha, Yasna Monument, and Chatrakam Cave. Araja admonished them never to enter the Old Vanarana without him or Arabalika as dangerous monsters loitered the deserted region. You heeded his words gravely.
Jumping down the short cliff in Chatkram Cave, you landed on another group of wilting plants. You concentrated the dendro energy in your hand and set it underground. The color of the leaves brightened as they swayed in the wind, overjoyed by the new life given to them. Suddenly, you heard a series of footsteps coming your way. Indigo orbs met your stupefied ones. He looked extremely familiar, like a bygone breeze meeting an old friend.
"Who are you, and what are you doing around this area? Didn't the forest rangers warn the citizens of Sumeru not to wander deep in the forest?" You demanded. The indigo-haired male scoffed at your indignant words before moving past your figure. Offended by his actions, you huffed out that you would not be responsible for any danger that came his way.
"Not to mention, I don't want to be responsible for burying your body. That would be a pain." You murmured, but he heard it loud and clear. Now, it was his turn to be aggrieved.
"Ho? How foolish. You think I'm feeble I can barely lift a rock, is that it?" There was a dangerous glint dancing in his eyes. Not minding the challenge, you replied.
"If the shoe fits." Wanderer was dumbfounded by the sass you showed him. However, he was more bewildered by the lack of recognition from you. A frown marred his face.
Glancing back at the man, you noticed a conflicting expression on his face. You urged the man to move to another area, but it was immediately shot down. He said he had some important business to care for, which he deemed none of your business. He waved goodbye after that and moved ahead.
There was no way for him to enter Vanarana without a special instrument, so you let him be. However, a creeping intuition told you to check on him later, so after aiding the withered plants, you scanned the area for his silhouette. You found a familiar ascetic garb and hat standing just outside the Vanarana. He was deep in thought.
"Who are you really, and what are you here for? As the forest guardian, I can't permit you to trespass this area." You warned again. He gave you a blank look and then sighed. There were no Aranaras in sight, and the Dendro Archon failed to inform him of such problems.
"Look, Lesser Lord Kusanali requested that I inspect this area. Got a problem with that?" He replied. The way your eyes squinted in suspicions was well-known to him, so he shook his head. There was no way for you to believe his words without evidence.
"You won't believe any of my words, so why don't you bring one of those stupid vegetables here? They'll recognize me." He simply said, sitting down on the rock to rest. You were displeased by his attitude but disappeared from his vision nonetheless. He knew you were most likely involved with the Aranaras, considering your protective nature on the said place.
Wanderer let out a shaky sigh the moment you left. After years of losing you, he did not expect to see you in Sumeru, of all places. Why were you here? Never in his life did he wish to quickly return to Nahida and demand if she knew all this time that you would be here. It felt like a cruel mockery of his past, one that he longed to move forward. However, he knew he could never let go of his last betrayal.
"Just how...?"
Moments later, you reappeared outside Vanarana where the young man clad in blue was waiting. Beside you were Araja and Ararycan (he wanted to tag along and see another human). The Aranara chief saw Wanderer and nodded that it was indeed the young man the Dendro Archon brought with her the last time they met. His hat stood out the most, genuinely recognizable even from afar. There was still distrust in your heart, but you opted to give him a chance.
Materializing a wooden lyre designed by the Aranara, you taught him the Song of Great Dreams. You snickered internally at his disgruntled look. He plucked the strings, and the Vanarana in front of you changed to the state you had grown used to. The Aranara around squealed at the sight of Wanderer, while the others peaked curiously from their houses.
"Araja, Ararycan, I will be with Arasaka and Araphala. Call me once you three are done." You waved goodbye to them.
Wanderer watched you go, an uneasy feeling welling up in his chest. Araja cleared his throat to gain his attention before urging them inside his abode. Ararycan sat on one of the stomps and stared at his figure, enamored by the massive hat on his hut. The indigo-haired male was bothered by his stare but decided to relay the Dendro Archon's message to the Aranara chief. They diligently discussed the Irminsul, Tree of Dreams, and the new Ashvattha Tree in the underground of the Old Vanarana.
"Arama will always be with the forest, right? Ararycan can't wait to see Arama again in Sarva. Ararycan will tell him many stories, especially the Golden Nara who helped with the big iron chunks!" The cyan Aranara intercepted. Araja chuckled while Wanderer had an undecipherable glaze in his eyes. Was it pity or empathy? He was not sure.
"I'll report this to the Dendro Archon. We'll personally visit the Old Vanarana. Maybe further in the desert after we resolved the minor issues in the Akademiya." Wanderer voiced. Araja brightened at the news.
"You have my utmost gratitude, Blue Nara. Hmmm? What is that in your hands, Nara (Y/N)?" They all turned to you. In your hands was a tray with three bowls. It smelled delicious.
Placing the tray down, you told them it was Arasaka's newest invention. You taste-tested the dish, so you assured them that it was good. Not too sweet and not too savory, just the perfect balance. Wanderer was reluctant to eat the dish, so you grabbed a spoon and walked to him. He was about to protest, but you shoved it in his mouth. He did not wish to admit it, but you were right.
"Not bad, right? Anyways, sorry if I'm interrupting. I did not want Arasaka's effort to go to waste. I'll be going to the Fane of Ashvattha, Araja. If you ever need me, I'm one teleport away. Sorry if I can't escort you out, uhh... Wanderer, right?" You apologized with a hint of questioning tone at the end of your sentence, uncertain if you got it right. The indigo-haired male winced at the name, not liking the fact that you called him that instead of—Nevermind. It was not yet the time. The three watched you disappear from their sight. Once you were gone, Wanderer also decided to leave the area.
"Thank you for your hospitality, Aranara Chief." He tipped his hat respectfully before going to the Silapna to play the Song of the Great Dream. Like before, he was back in the real world. He glanced around, hoping to catch your figure, but it was impossible to get anything from you. Not when you did not even remember him.
The puppet returned to the Sanctuary of Surasthana, where he reported about the Aranara's situation. Nahida understood the situation and already formulated a plan to assist the children of the forest with the changes brought by the Irminsul. Before she could go, the puppet stopped her in her tracks.
"Buer, why the fuck are they there, and why is it that they don't remember me?" She could hear the frustration in his voice, but an honest answer was all she could give.
"They've been in a state of limbo, you could say. They're not exactly dead, but their spirit had been lost in the transition due to our interference with the Irminsul. I dug up this information. You remember the reason and how they died, right?" She questioned. He nodded.
You two argued about the Doctor's cruel experiments on his body. The distaste you held for the harbinger angered the puppet because it seemed like you were not happy with the path he chose. He thought that you were there to hinder him from reaching godhood. However, you knew better. The Doctor desired to break Wanderer, so you confronted him. It led from one thing to another, and his last memory of you was the moment he saved you from falling down the snowy cliff in Snezhnaya. Your body had long gone cold.
Without knowing the confrontation, Wanderer begged Dottore to save you. He did not know that the Doctor used your body for experiments. He was curious about your constitution and the runes engraved on your wrist. After researching, he found that it was meant to lengthen your life, but your spirit escaped his grasp. Wanderer learned the truth after he tampered with the Divine Tree. It was one of the things he would not forgive Dottore for. Currently, your battered body remained in a special room in Bimarstan, suspended in time and slowly coping.
"Is there a way to get them back?" He asked.
"You have to make them remember. Slowly. Going by what you mentioned earlier, there must be memories sealed at the back of their mind that they could not access alone. At least not with the right stimuli." She responded. Wanderer froze, torn by the decision he had to make. Letting you remember meant recognizing his god-awful attitude. An exhausted sigh escaped his lips.
"Are you scared?" Nahida tilted her head, confused by his hesitation. Embarrassed, he turned his head, but the young god was not far from it. The puppet was terrified. He just found you, and if you were to know his past, you might run away and leave him for good.
"Hmm. Now that's a surprise. I thought you would not mind because they did not seem special to you. However, there must be a change of heart along the way. Interesting. You're shrouded with guilt and now favors them. Don't worry, I think they can handle it. They must be looking for those memories as well." She voiced. Wanderer did not reply and left the sanctuary quietly.
The following day, he marched back to Vanarana. It was a difficult decision on his end, but the feeling of emptiness in your heart must have been excruciating. It was only fair to give you the right triggers to unlock those memories.
“Wanderer? What are you doing back here? Did Lesser Lord Kusanali say anything?” You asked, placing down the timbers you collected for cooking. The Aranara with you squeaked in fear, but you petted its head and assured it that the Nara with them meant no harm. Wanderer was perturbed by the creature’s reaction. He also crouched down and apologized.
“I’m sorry for startling you. And no, I just came to spend time in Vanarana while awaiting the Dendro Archon’s next order.” He returned. Your eyes widened at the tenderness of his voice, almost as if the person you met yesterday was a stranger.
“Are you really Wanderer? Why are you not scoffing or huffing indignantly?” You questioned, trembling at the strange behavior he exuded. He gave you his infamous dead eyes before standing up.
“Don’t get me wrong. I can still insult you whenever I want. I just needed some time away from my duties.” The sincerity in his words made you trust him a little bit. You directed your attention to the Aranara beside you and whispered. It nodded before floating away with the timbers in its hand.
Wanderer raised an eyebrow at its action, but his thoughts were soon occupied by your hand pulling him above Vanarana. It was a sight to behold. He sat down by the cliff and listened to you talk about the place. It seemed like you had grown accustomed to life with the children of the forest. Unconsciously speaking out loud, you confirmed his speculations.
“They’ve become my family. Still, my heart yearns for the past I hid from myself. You might be confused, but the Aranaras rescued me. I had no memories of my life before, and even if I tried to remember, I ended up getting hurt. The migraines I get from pushing my mind were no laughing matter, but I still want to know. Was I a good person? Did I leave the world happily? Did someone cry for my death?” You wistfully said.
Pursing his lips, the puppet released a shaky sigh. Yes, this would be his gift to you. He would gladly take it to his grave if you hate him afterward.
The Dendro Archon’s assistant became a frequent visitor in the Vanarana. A few of the Aranaras learned to interact with him, and they found him tolerable. As for the indigo head, he hated that Ararycan would find opportunities to steal his hat and throw it around like a frisbee. It would make you laugh at the incredulity of the situation, but you made sure to grab it for him and have the Aranara apologize. Not like the cyan Aranara would not do it again.
At some point, he became a staple part of your life. You would go in patrols and come home to see him there. He would say that the Dendro Archon requested him to inspect the area, but you rarely see him go anywhere. It was amusing, to say the least. However, his visits also brought stranger dreams. The man's silhouette started to clear up, but before you could fully see him, the dream would turn into nightmares. There would be a doctor, and you would hear yourself tell him to stop with the experiments.
“You’ve done enough! Can’t you see that you’re killing him?”
“A toy? He’s not a toy for you to play and discard after!”
“You’re a horrible man, Doctor.”
It was always the same, and you would be drenched in sweat by the time you woke up. Araja noticed your disorderly state and advised that you get out of Vanarana. Take in a new surrounding, breathe and forget about your duties for once in a while. Somehow, you ended up in front of the first Ashvattha Tree, where Araja and Arama first found you.
“Lesser Lord Kusanali wants to talk with you, Chief Araja. Maybe she could come here next week?” Wanderer asked, back again in the Aranara’s home to discuss Nahida’s request. The chief gladly accepted the meeting. Before the puppet went, he inquired about your whereabouts.
“Nara (Y/N) left Vanarana to clear their head. It seemed like nightmares began claiming their sleep. I have not seen Nara (Y/N) get a good night's sleep, so this change of pace might help.” He confessed.
Wanderer thanked him and left to find you. Nahida could wait, but he had an inkling that you needed somebody to understand what you were going through right now. Was he the right person for it? Maybe not, but he could care less.
‘Where are they?’ He searched high and low for you, even going into caves to see if you would be in them. However, there was no trace of you. He was about to give up and ask Nahida when he found a strange glow in the Fane of Ashvattha. There, he found your slumbering figure leaning against the tree. It pulsated as you dozed off. He was about to walk towards you when the vines around him reacted as if protecting you.
“Don’t worry, I’m just here to talk to them. I’m a… friend. They’re safe with me.” He was unsure if he was going insane by talking to a tree, but this was Teyvat, where even the most insane thing existed. The vines retracted and revealed your figure. Wanderer carefully trod the path laid out for him.
“Hey, why are you dozing off here in the cold, idiot?” He nudged. You opened your eyes at his voice and yawned. There was no recollection of when you fell asleep, but you could tell this was the best slumber you had in days.
There was a moment of silence between you two until you noticed he was waiting for an answer. Stupefied, you stammered a response saying that sleep evaded you. Not to mention, the nightmares kept you up almost everyday. You followed Araja's suggestion and took in new sceneries. Although, in the end, you still wound up in the Ashvattha Tree.
"Those dreams, have you ever presumed that they could be memories? They said you could attain the past you lost with the right stimuli. Scaramouche, Dottore, Fatui, don't they ring a bell?" Hope and desperation gleamed in his eyes, and you could not fathom the reason for it. His eyes told a thousand words. Before you could utter a thing, an excruciating headache hit your head.
“Hngh! It hurts!” You moaned, clutching your head in pain. It felt like your head was splitting into two as tears gathered at the corner of your eyes. You bit your lips until they bled just to prevent yourself from screaming. The atmosphere around you turned colder, and Wanderer squinted his eyes at what was happening to you. Even if it meant hurting you, he knew you had to remember.
Familiar silhouettes appeared in your mind. There was the doctor named Dottore and a man— No, a puppet named Scaramouche. Both were harbingers of the Fatui, and your fate had been entangled with theirs for some reasons you could not recall.
“What…? I—“ You huffed, your body still trembling. There was no continuation after that, but the remnants of the headache made you dizzy. You wanted to puke, empty your stomach to the bottom, but Wanderer held you against him in comfort. He took your hand and sternly asked for your permission.
“I know that you have many questions right now, but (Y/N), I know about you. If you are willing, I can take you to a place where we can restore your memories." He assured. You peered at him, incredulity coating your orbs. Fear engulfed your body. How could a stranger you had only known for days know more about you? You tried to push him away, but you were too weak.
"W-Who are you, Wanderer? What do you mean? I—" You lurched to the side and emptied the contents of your stomach. He held a pained expression before reaching for you again. Wanderer asked if you could trust him once more. He rambled about how it was for your own good. The confident yet sullen glimmer in his eyes said it all. You slowly nodded, then collapsed on him.
The puppet fussed over your weakened state, but you promised him that it was the stress eating you up. Reluctantly, he carried you to Nahida.
The moment you arrived at the Sanctuary of Surasthana, you were in awe. It was a sacred place you could not help but feel unwelcome. However, the Dendro Archon warmly welcomed you. She gave Wanderer a disappointed gaze, but he brushed it off and asked that she give you your memories back. Nahida glanced at you and asked if you were ready to face what you hid from yourself.
"I may not be, but... I want to face the me of the past and owe up to what I did." Your words reflected those that Wanderer said when he was still as lost as you. He could not help but smile. He was proud of what you had become.
Nahida tilted her head before nodding. She opened up a space, and it swallowed you two. You instinctively closed your eyes in dread of where it would take you. Wanderer remained unfazed, but when the area cleared up, he came face to face with your body. The Dendro Archon asked you to open your eyes and touch the slumbering form before you.
'Is this... my body?' You thought. Wanderer carefully placed you down as you slowly approached your body. It opened its eyes and gazed at you. There was a smile on the body's lips before it embraced you, the soul its missing for centuries. You froze in your place as memories flashed before your eyes. The seal at the back of your mind dispersed, and you watched each day pass by.
The first memory was the kind Kabukimono who Niwa took under his wings. He first met you below the Sakura Tree in one of the villages near the mines. The thunder sakura enhanced the beauty you possessed, and he fell in love for the first time. He did not recognize what emotion it was, but to you, it was adoration. You loved his indigo orbs that seemed to reflect the night sky. However, you were not formally introduced to each other until he saw you again with the sick child.
As if arranged by fate, the child pulled you towards the Kabukimono. His indigo eyes widened at the sight, but he smiled and introduced himself. This time, he hoped to learn about you. Kabukimono would go out of town to work, while you remained at home to care for the child. It was like a little family in a deserted place despite you three not having the same blood. The puppet learned to cherish and love you two, but tragedy struck. The child perished away from death. The puppet did not understand why he broke his promise. He could not discern death. You tried to explain to him its concept.
"Are they always fated to die? Does that mean you will also leave me? You will break your promise?" He was desperate. He did not want to be alone. You could only look to the side, unable to answer him truthfully. Kabukimono wistfully laughed.
"Don't die on me, (Y/N). You have to promise you will do everything not to die. Don't betray me as they did!" He hissed. You reached for his hand, but the tears trickling down his face stopped you. Nodding your head, you assured him that you would live for him. Yet you knew that it was only a matter of time.
Days passed by, and Kabukimono changed his name to Kunikuzushi. He wreaked havoc amongst the Raiden Gokaden. Blood was spilled, yet you could only watch in horror. You still loved the man, but he longed for an impossible revenge and power. Soon, the Fatui reached out to him. He was recruited and renamed Scaramouche "The Balladeer". Snezhnaya was a frigid place, and their plans frightened you. Scaramouche sought to keep you in the dark, but some things slipped here and there.
At one point, the Doctor was intrigued by his constitution and implored to conduct experiments on his person. Scaramouche was repulsed initially, but Dottore assured him it would help with his revenge on the Electro Archon. He would be cut up, injected with strange serums, and connected to machines that destroyed his body, but Scaramouche remained resilient. You could not stand how he strived to reach his dreams and confronted him.
"What do you know?! You're just a lowly mortal, (Y/N). Remember that you will leave me too. I have prepared myself." He coldly stated.
"I promised you that I would remain alive, did I not? I am also researching ways to extend my life, Kuni—" He held your wrist tightly and threw you to the side. It was a silent warning not to mention that name. You feared the Scaramouche in front of you. He could kill you if he wanted but chose not to.
The only option you had was to confront the Doctor. The harbinger only laughed at your attempt. He mocked your efforts to protect Scaramouche, but he proposed an option. It was to use your body in his experiment. He noticed the runes on your wrist and desired to uncover the secrets behind them. You declined his offer. It was one of the arts taught to you by a dying adepti during your research to lengthen your life. There was no way you would willingly give it away. The Doctor clicked his tongue in distaste before turning his head away.
"Then amuse me, (Y/N). At what lengths are you willing to protect your lover? Will he be happy with your interference?" He scorned. You clenched your fists tightly before leaving his laboratory. Dottore chuckled at your stubborn nature.
"One way or another, I will have you." He uttered, satisfied by the turn of events.
Scaramouche continued with his ordeal with the Doctor. As much as he despised the man, he was his key to reaching godhood. On the other hand, you were determined to impede Dottore's experiment. He was initially amused until you discovered his human experimentation on god residues and Delusions. He sighed at the unfortunate turn of events. Because of your stubborn nature, death was the only option for you. He could not waste his 'materials' anymore after all. Not to mention, your body seemed worthy of his attention.
"In the end, you could not protect him. Hilarious. You could have just accepted my terms, and I would have been lenient with the Balladeer. How pitiful." He chaffed. You tightly held onto his wrist, desperate to pull the scalpel out of your heart, but Dottore pushed further. Your vision blurred as your breathing slowed down.
"Y-You'll get your karma soon...bastard." He dismissed your threats and threw you off the snowy cliffs. You watched his figure disappear in the snowstorm. Thoughts of Scaramouche filled your mind, pained apologies uttered in the howling winds. Your memories ended bittersweetly.
As you opened your eyes, your gaze landed on Wanderer (Scaramouche, Kunikuzushi, or Kabukimono, his names overwhelmed you). He gently held your figure against him, and the kind act warmed your insides. Yet, the guilt in your person coated your heart.
"I'm sorry... for leaving you..." You muttered, holding his hand tightly. Tears gathered at the corner of your eyes until they fell one by one. Soon, you were a sobbing mess. He smiled ruefully and kissed your forehead.
"I should be the one who's sorry, stupid. You endured my god-awful attitude and even had to deal with the Doctor. Ha! The nerve of that narcissistic bastard." He replied. You weakly chuckled before resting your body against him in exhaustion.
"You know I'm willing to do everything for you. It was all for you." You mumbled before your consciousness absconded.
The space around you dispersed. Nahida appeared and greeted you with a smile. She noticed your fatigued figure and let you relax for the time being. The Dendro Archon focused her attention on Wanderer and inquired about what occurred inside. He scoffed and turned his back to her.
"They got their memories back, and... we were able to reconcile. There are still many things to discuss, so we will take our leave. You have my gratitude, wise god." He fixed your figure against his hold and left the Sanctuary of Surasthana. Nahida shook her head and remembered that Wanderer forgot to give his report about the Tree of Dreams.
"I'll just pull him back here tomorrow. I'm sure (Y/N) will understand if I take their lover away for a while." She giggled.
The following day was filled with reticent apologies and assurance. Wanderer with his attitude while you with the broken promise. It was out of character for him to be affectionate, but this was his chance to make up for what he made you go through. Once that was fulfilled, he whispered that you were free to leave him and have a happy life, but you immediately opposed it.
"This time, this time, don't let me go, Kuni." You begged. His eyes widened, and his fingers trembled against yours. To him, you were too nice for the cruel world he knew. If possible, he would like to hide you from the ugly things of Teyvat, but you would surely be angry at him.
"You're right. I'm the stupid one. Then this time, we will be together for eternity. I'll make sure this small wish will be ours to fulfill." You smiled at his words.
"By the way, if I recall correctly, weren't you supposed to report to Lord Nahida about the Tree of Dreams? I recall Araja talking about the progress of the plan about it." You uttered. Wanderer froze. He totally forgot about it after the incident yesterday.
'She's right. I believe you have to come to my office now, Wanderer. Or do you want me to drag you back to the sanctuary in front of your lover?' A gentle voice resonated around his home. He scowled before standing up to prepare. You lightly laughed.
Standing up, you picked up his hat and placed it on his head. He was surprised but more taken aback when you kissed his cheeks. The sudden affection made him flustered.
"We have an eternity to compensate for the lost time." You whispered. He gently held your hand and nuzzled it. It was this warmth you had been chasing in your dreams. You finally remember the person you fell in love with, and the promise between you two was forged anew.
'Not to interrupt this ending, (Y/N), but you might want to tell Tighnari that you're a living person. I think you spook the living mushrooms out of him after Little Collei asked who he was talking to from your last visit.' Nahida urged. You blinked owlishly before following Wanderer outside. You did have some explaining to do, and you might as well visit Araja and the others while you were at it.
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