#STARGLITTERING ; a low-activity multimuse side blog ft. yip gaming of genshin impact. follows from starwardsword. adored by mint. ( she / her, EST, 25+ )
affiliated with: @talesforged ♡
2025 on Tumblr: Trends That Defined the Year

Love Begins

Product Placement
Xuebing Du
Show & Tell
Lint Roller? I Barely Know Her
Monterey Bay Aquarium

Origami Around

★

blake kathryn
hello vonnie

titsay

if i look back, i am lost
occasionally subtle
No title available

No title available
No title available

Kiana Khansmith
DEAR READER

Kaledo Art
seen from United States
seen from Peru
seen from Colombia

seen from Taiwan
seen from Germany
seen from United States

seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from United States

seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from Indonesia
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from Canada

seen from United Kingdom
seen from United States
seen from United States

seen from Malaysia
@starglittering
#STARGLITTERING ; a low-activity multimuse side blog ft. yip gaming of genshin impact. follows from starwardsword. adored by mint. ( she / her, EST, 25+ )
affiliated with: @talesforged ♡
He doesn't know why she's staring at him so intently, but if she's going to keep that up, then he can play that game too. He's curious to see who'll crack first in their 'staring contest.'
Ugh, she’s supposed to be the one doing the staring! Does he really need that irritatingly smug look on his face? She doubles down on her staring, determined to look straight into his dark soul.
@talesforged's Xianyun warns, “Careful, it’s hot. Don’t burn your tongue like last time.”
"Gyahhhh!" The cry cuts through the chilly mountain air.
Unfortunately, Xianyun's warning about the hot soup comes just a little too late. Driven by hunger and cold, Gaming had eagerly taken a gulp, only to feel the scalding broth searing his tongue… the consequences of his impatience.
The lion dancer takes a moment to cool his tongue while fanning the bowl of soup, all while ignoring the judgmental raised eyebrows aimed in his direction. When he finally regains feeling in his tongue (and the bowl is no longer steaming like a kettle), he viciously attacks the noodles with his chopsticks.
"MMMnfghgh," he begins, but realizing he's mumbling nonsense with his mouth full, he quickly swallows his bite of noodles and then clears his throat. "Sorry, Auntie Xianyun! I couldn't help myself... I've been daydreaming about your soup all day!"
The thought of a warm, comforting meal at the end of the day is the only thing that's gotten him through a particularly harsh winter workday.
He sees her...
Her staring intensifies...
She's lurking...
Genshin Impact | 2025 Birthday Artworks & Character Shorts: Gaming
Download Link (Google Drive) | Animated Ver.
WINTER ACTIVITIES - ROLEPLAY STARTERS (ice-cold laughter · warm breath in the air · disasters disguised as fun)
ICE SKATING CHAOS & CLOSENESS
“Don’t laugh— I’m trying my best not to fall on my face.”
“If I slip, you’re falling with me. That’s fair warning.”
“Your hands… hold them steady. I’m trusting you with my life here.”
“I didn’t expect you to be this good on the ice.”
“Stop skating circles around me, you’re showing off.”
BUILDING SNOWMEN & CRUMBLING PATIENCE
“No, no— that’s not how you build the base. Here, let me.”
“Hey! You can’t steal the carrot nose, that’s cheating.”
“I swear this snowman looks like it’s judging us.”
“Stop collapsing it on purpose, I can see you laughing.”
“You’ve got snow on your eyelashes… don’t move.”
SNOWBALL FIGHTS & PLAYFUL WARFARE
“If you throw that, I promise you won’t win this battle.”
“You missed— horribly. Are you even trying?”
“Oh, now you’ve done it. That one actually hurt.”
“Stop gloating and help me up, you menace.”
“You know, tackling me into the snow is basically cheating.”
HOT CHOCOLATE & WARM MOMENTS
“Careful, it’s hot. Don’t burn your tongue like last time.”
“You have whipped cream on your nose… don’t move.”
“Why does hot chocolate taste better when you’re here?”
“Come sit by the window with me. The snow looks pretty from here.”
“Don’t hog the blanket— scoot closer.”
HOLIDAY MARKETS & WINTER CROWDS
“Hold my hand— I don’t want to lose you in this chaos.”
“Look at these lights… feels like another world.”
“Here— try this. I bought two in case you hated it.”
“You’re freezing, aren’t you? Take my coat.”
“Don’t pretend you didn’t stop to look at that. I saw your face.”
SLEDDING DISASTERS
“If we crash, you better promise not to blame me.”
“Sit closer, or we’re both falling off the sled.”
“Okay, that was definitely faster than it looked.”
“I can’t believe we wiped out that hard— are you okay?”
“You’re laughing way too much for someone who face-planted.”
MAKING A FIRE & GETTING WAY TOO CLOSE
“Can you pass me the matches? I think I’m losing feeling in my fingers.”
“Sit closer— the fire won’t reach you from there.”
“You’re shaking. Here… hands.”
“Snow outside, fire inside… feels like a movie, doesn’t it?”
“Your cheeks are red. The fire or me?”
GINGERBREAD & HOLIDAY BAKING
“You can’t just eat the decorations— those were for the roof!”
“Stop stealing the dough, it’s raw!”
“I swear you’re making a mess on purpose.”
“Hold this— no, not like that! Oh no…”
“You’ve got flour in your hair. Come here.”
HOLIDAY MOVIE NIGHT
“If you choose the cheesy one again, I’m leaving.”
“No— don’t fast-forward. That part’s the best.”
“You can lean on me if you’re tired.”
“You fell asleep… and now I can’t feel my arm.”
“We’ve watched this so many times, and you still gasp.”
GETTING SNOWED IN TOGETHER
“Well… we’re definitely not getting out until morning.”
“Stop pacing. Come sit with me before you wear a hole in the floor.”
“You’re cold— here. Blanket.”
“I guess we should talk… unless you want awkward silence.”
“It’s weird— being stuck with you doesn’t feel bad.”
NEW YEAR’S EVE TENSION
“You know the countdown doesn’t require staring at me like that.”
“If you want someone to kiss at midnight, say it.”
“Hey— stay next to me when the fireworks start.”
“The crowds are loud… stick close.”
“Don’t pretend you’re not hoping I’ll ask.”
WINTER HIKES THROUGH THE QUIET
“Careful, it gets icy around this bend.”
“Listen… everything’s so still out here.”
“You okay? You slipped— I’ve got you.”
“Your breath is making little clouds. It’s kind of cute.”
“I didn’t expect the cold to feel this peaceful.”
Gaming can't help but smile mischievously whenever he sees Hu Tao's adorable, pouty expression. Her large, expressive eyes narrowed in mock offense and her exaggerated frowns make him burst into uncontrollable laughter.
Moments like these truly showcase her charming personality; he much prefers this playful Hu Tao to her more serious persona as the director of the funeral parlor.
"H-hey now!" He finally manages to stop laughing, a playful smile still lingering on his lips as he wipes away a glimmer of moisture from the corner of his eye. "Don’t go choking on me!"
Archons know he hadn't had the best of times the other day.
"By the way... you missed somethin'... right... here..." He leans in, still smiling cheekily, and kisses a crumb off her cheek.
Gaming playfully steals a bite of Tao's food, then grins as they lock eyes. / @starglittering
𝐑𝐎𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐂 𝐑𝐏 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐒 . . . ( pt 1. the art of touch ) @starglittering / Gaming
Hold on. Those were -not- her chopsticks that poked and pinched at one of the two remaining crystal shrimp dumplings that were on here plate. Once focused on the stack of poetry work left upon the funeral parlor coffee table, her gaze shifted to the food crime in progress. Gaming wasn't the only one who had a habit of indulging on delicious treats while writing.
Hu Tao's face scrunched up, brows furrowed slightly. Her blossomed hues followed the stolen dumpling that was soon plopped playfully into his mouth. Bewilderment settled in. How dare he. She had been waiting all day to partake in this favorite food. Aiyaaa.
"Two can play at this game!"
Unceremoniously she picked up the remaining dumpling and shoved as much as she could into her mouth. Her own cheeks puffing out a bit and both her hands covered over her lips in an awkward attempt to not have any crumbs escape.
Pffgth. The half held in cough betrayed her attempt to look serious. It maay have been a few agonizing moments, but she managed to swallow back that impulsive bite. No worries the director had herself totally composed, even locking eyes on the 'criminal suspect' from across the table.
I talk with the moon about you, you know?
dice game (Happy Moonchase !) 🌙
@starglittering
when the lover takes the beloved’s hand and presses it against their chest where their heart is. or when the beloved takes the lover’s hand and presses it against their cheek.. i was going somewhere with this
@talesforged's Thoma almost says Ayaka’s name—before stopping himself.
'Aya—I-I mean, milady.'
For a fleeting moment, Ayaka finds herself breathless, her heart racing in the charged silence that follows. Thoma, clearly mortified by his blunder, stands with his head bowed so deeply that she can only catch a glimpse of the tips of his ears, now a deep shade of crimson. The gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze seems to emphasize the awkwardness between them as she processes the unexpected turn of events.
It’s been years since she last heard her name spoken by her beloved retainer, probably before they both grew up and became burdened with endless responsibility. That thought tightens around her heart like a vise, amplifying the ache of her longing for him.
"I-It's okay, Thoma," is what she says, hoping to dismiss his worries over this breach of self-imposed etiquette.
'Say it, Thoma. Please, say my name' is what she truly wants to say, though she doesn't dare to ask that of him.
^ the face of a guy who really hopes he won't get smacked
@starglittering / Gaming
Despite the cool, late winter temperature, it always felt warmer when he was nearby. Perhaps cause they were both pyro vision users? A small bemusement. No.. no...focus, Hu Tao. She had been waiting outside the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor for the past ..few hours? Maybe she lost track of time. Her head was filled with the advice she received earlier during the day. Both from her own consultant and the Yuheng. Both of whom seemed supportive at least.
There was even a few others that seemed to pick up she not only had a secret admirer, but that she herself was yearning, too. There was a twisting tug at her heartstrings. She couldn't inwardly deny it much more. She hoped that whoever sent those gifts were from Gaming. There. Even his name was now solidified on her mind.
In truth, she was beginning to think she wasn't going to receive such affectionate gifts. Sure she had got some from friends. But, after learning what each gem and flower's language were. This time it was much different. It was more than just platonic admiration.
Finally Hu Tao had asked him the oh so exposing question. Technically, it wasn't the first time. She did ask him while they were sharing dim sum earlier. And despite his none answer to help her uncover who that secret admirer was, deep down she wasn't able to accept that. She wanted a more concrete answer. To put her mind at ease.
'Oh...it's okay if you don't know....' those words were then caught in her throat. Halted by his own confession. Hell, she was almost prepared for the rejection. But the acceptance!? There was a brief and somewhat painfully long moment of silence.
"Aiyaaa.... " she cleared her dry throat. "Oh, it was more than just a feeling" she finally admitted, her gaze idly studying over the green and orange patterns on his hoodie. "I... I had hopedthat is-was you!" the confession quickly tumbled out of the director.
There was absolutely no hiding her flustered expression. "It wasn't just then either. Truthfully," she paused leaning over placing her hand just to the side of her own mouth as if she were passing on a playful secret. "I actually feel the same way about you~"
No..wait. He deserved more than just a lighthearted confession. Much more. Gaming had put his whole out there for her. She needed to do the same. "I wanted to tell you how I felt for a long while. And maybe... actually a part of me feared that... heh...it's silly..."
Hu Tao's reply was then stalled when he took hold of her hand. The only that even wore that jade bracelet that -he- had gifted her. It was him. He was her secret admirer. There was absolutely no hiding her flustered expression. Her blossom irised eyes were locked on his hands. Oh, how they felt warm.
A slow exhale followed as she composed herself. "Aiyaa...how dare you, Gaming. Did you think I wouldn't give you my own heart in return?" Her other hand reached up to touch at the side of his face, slipping past the hood he wore.
She then blinked at a realization. "Ah! Don't tell me you got injured again?" she asked as her fingers gingerly ran over those telltale bandages. Regardless a chuckled sigh escaped from her.
"You know... I always said I appreciate the support for my business. But now. Especially now... I much rather have you helping to deliver the coffins rather than being put in one"
Did you think I wouldn't give you my own heart in return?
Gaming's serious demeanor suddenly breaks as a smile spreads across his face. This quickly gives way to a burst of incredulous laughter as he weaves his fingers with those of the hand in his grasp. All this time, Hu Tao had also struggled to find the courage to express her feelings and had yearned for him to be her secret admirer… is this truly real?
As her delicate fingers glide over his battered face, each stroke carries a tenderness that betrays the depth of her care. Many people take her kindness for granted and only see her as an eccentric prankster, her presence often reminding them of the departed. Yet these careful and talented hands have soothed so many troubled souls and led them peacefully to the afterlife. He instinctively leans into her palm, seeking solace in the warmth of her touch, as if her gentle caress has the power to heal not just his wounds, but his weary spirit as well.
“It’s just a bruise, Tao,” he chuckles softly, his golden brown eyes shining as he gazes down at her. Injuries like this are all too familiar for him; compared to his past experiences, this one is relatively mild. “Now that I know you like me, you won’t be rid of me that easy!”
With their feelings out in the open, it feels like the heavy weight that had been resting on his heart for the last few days has finally lifted. There is still one thing, though, that he’d love to do…
“Hey…” His voice trails off.
He gently clasps their joined hands, feeling the warmth of their skin radiating against his chest as he holds them close. Leaning in, he slowly closes the distance between them until his breath mingles with hers. A subtle vulnerability flickers in his eyes as they linger on her scarlet irises for a moment before falling on her lips, revealing his desires.
"Feel free to smack me if you don't want this but..." The air between them crackles with tension, the soft glow of the setting sun casting a warm light around them, heightening the moment's intimacy.
“Can I kiss you?” he finally asks, his voice barely above a whisper.
[ DEFENCE ]: when the sender rushes to defend the receiver against a threat of any description, the receiver takes a moment to consider how they feel about the sender. / from Gaming @starglittering
" WILL THEY, WON'T THEY? " @starglittering / Gaming
A descent into Liyue’s Chasm was never for the faint of heart. At least not during these times. Even in the most upper layers the mind altering miasma coated the rocky ground in unpredictable patches, its poison seeping into the skin and lungs of those who were unlucky to get too close to it. The cave system itself was nearly a nightmare to navigate. Too many tales of miners, soldiers, and adventurers alike getting lost deep within. Some even never being able to see the light of day again. The claustrophobic chambers eventually became their new home.
It wasn’t always like this. It was a popular spot to mine for well sought ore. A way to support themselves and their families. That was until reports of mysterious and even deadly accidents started to crop up. For many years the Chasm was closed off to the public, putting the workers out of their jobs. And yet…
It was the Liyue Qixing that reopened the labyrinth once most of the above ground levels were purified. However, it was heavily advised that there were still some dangerous areas to avoid. Hoping people who adhere to such things are a lot easier said than done. Hence why the funeral director was sent to that very place. Along with her was Gaming. As the Gold-Standard Guard of the Sword and Strongbox Secure Transport Agency, he was insistent that they come with her. To prove they were more than just dance and deliveries. But mostly and importantly, to prove himself to her.
“I appreciate your assistance,” the director stated as they ventured further. Deeper. “I know corpse recovery isn’t an easy job for anyone. So I’m a bit surprised you opted to help,” she added in an almost jesting tone.
In truth, Hu Tao had only heard about the Chasm. It wasn’t fear that kept her away. That was far from it. She was partially curious about what sort of entities dwelled deep within. And yet, her line of work always pulled her elsewhere. As if it was a form of subconscious protection.
This time going on a dangerous mission felt different. It wasn't that long ago since Gaming had made his heartfelt confession. One that she had been hoping to hear. And now? She was guiding someone that she cared for into a place where it was rumored no one could possibly return from. Crazy was putting it lightly.
And yet. She felt she didn't have a choice.
The boundary between life and death around Liyue was fraying about. And death was encroaching upon the living. It was her job to get to the bottom of this. Both literally and figuratively.
For now she directed her fellow undertakers to carefully gather the scattered deceased. Their lifeless bodies were diligently covered with thick, soft sheets. The air was permeated with the stench from decay and miasma.
“Of course, before we even bring any of these remains back to the surface they need to be cleansed” she spoke matter of factly.
“If this is something you aren’t comfortable with you are not required to watch.” she said, turning to Gaming.
As suspected there presence was soon spotted. Something indeed was crawling around the Chasm. The only problem was that whatever it was couldn't not be seen, but only heard. It came from a darkened tunnel nearby. The sounds of growls and scratches against the rock walls. Getting louder with each passing second.
Hu Tao opened her mouth to speak, even gripping onto her own polearm. Seemed like she had a quick thing to take care of before performing the ritual...
❛my first instinct is to protect you, no matter the cost.❜
His words halted her in place. She blinked. Confusion turned into a flustered expression. Archons! Why was she blushing at a time like this??? No..no no... she had to concentrate. But seeing the person she had grown to love rise up to protect her. Mixed emotions swelled within her own heart.
"Aiyaaaaaa, how many times.... " a sigh escaped from her as she reached out her hand to grab onto whatever fabric of clothing she could find. There. She took hold of his arm.
"I won't be happy if I have to drag your butt back to Liyue harbor in a casket!" she exclaimed, her brows furrowing at the wushou dancer.
Thoma spent a good while planning his gift for Ayaka in advance. She has expressed an interest in trying foods from other nations, but due to her position, she isn't able to travel as freely. So, with his connections back in Mondstadt, Thoma was able to get ingredients for Northern Smoked Chicken that he would cook for her tonight. That isn't all he prepared, though. He pulled an all-nighter making different chocolates from other nations, hoping he wouldn't be caught in the process. They were delicately placed in a decorative blue box complete with a light pink ribbon tied off as a bow.
Thoma feels silly at the fluttering going on now in his chest when the time to give it to her comes. Taking a deep breath, he wills the confidence to finally find and bestow his gift to her. He's unable to stop the dusting of pink that inevitably colors his cheeks when he does find her. "Happy Valentine's Day, my lady. I made you an assortment of chocolates based on recipes from other nations. Oh, and I have the makings for a traditional Mondstadt dish that I plan on cooking tonight too!"
Considering Inazuma's traditions, Ayaka isn't expecting to receive any chocolate on Valentine's Day. If Yoimiya brought a box of tomo-choco to share during afternoon tea, she might be able to enjoy some. Otherwise, she would have to wait until the evening to go into town and buy some for herself.
Her thoughts drift away when Thoma intercepts her on the way to the gardens, presenting her with a beautifully wrapped box, its powdery blue paper shimmering beneath the sunlight. The Shirasagi Himegimi stands there, momentarily taken aback, her heart racing with genuine surprise and something else she's too afraid to acknowledge as she stares up at her retainer with wide steel-blue eyes.
"For me? T-Thoma!" A light dusting of pink settles on Ayaka's cheeks as she finally takes the gift box, the semi-sweet scent of chocolate wafting through the air. Though externally she appears poised, she's screaming on the inside. He made her chocolate!
"Thank you very much! I can't wait to try these chocolates.. or tonight's dinner!" She holds the box against her chest like a priceless treasure, her mind racing to find reasons for Thoma's actions. He was right to say she wanted to try foods from other lands, though is that the only reason? That doesn't exactly translate to chocolate on Valentine's Day... so there must be something else, right?
Her trusted friend stands before her, a touch of exhaustion evident in his otherwise sparkling green eyes, yet he retains an undeniable handsomeness that only seems to deepen with his fatigue (or maybe he's just the apple of her eye...) The slight shadows under his eyes hint at a long night spent working inconspicuously, crafting this thoughtful gift just for her.
'What if he likes you?', her traitorous brain unhelpfully provides, and she almost short-circuits. Is it really okay for her to wish that?
"I'd offer you my help but..." She bashfully ducks behind the box of chocolates. "I'm afraid I'd only ruin your masterpiece."