summary: spirits are high and patience is nonexistent during lantern rite, causing a certain adeptus to make a sudden appearance after someone falls from a balcony.
a/n: XIAOXIAO MY BELOVED- in this one reader doesn’t really know who xiao is, so.. yeye :) enjoy!
cw: probably ooc xiao, falling off a balcony, soft!xiao, messed around with time the tiniest bit so i’m very sorry if it’s confusing, lower case intentional!
YOU SWEAR IT was an accident.
you really didn’t mean to fall off the balcony.
- earlier in the evening.
it was a beautiful day, the sun casting its warm rays over the small crowds of people as it sank below the western horizon. you were enjoying lantern rite, trying as many different kinds of food as you could and dashing from stall to stall with your friends, playing games and solving puzzles.
and now you were closing the night off, resting at tables as the tea master liu su weaved a tale of the wrath of haishan. he seemed to be in a good mood, not closing off the story with needless cliffhangers and instead delivering the entirety.
during his narration, a person from a neighboring table called out loudly. “look! they’ve started the fireworks!”
there was a rush to the balcony, even if standing there and sitting at the tables made no huge difference, and you found yourself being pushed and jostled. people moved about behind you, and suddenly you were pressed against the fence.
you truly didn’t mind, either, because the way the lights danced in the sky entranced your vision. but you didn’t notice the people downstairs rushing up, eager for a glimpse as well. another push, another jostle, and suddenly the air was rushing around you, and you heard someone scream- was that you?
and then you were laying on the stone pathway, trembling slightly. someone kneeled beside you, a concerned expression on his face. he had piercing amber eyes framed by red eyeliner, a teardrop marking on his forehead, and dark and light green - or was it teal? you couldn’t tell anymore - hair. his lips were moving, and you felt his hands on your shoulders, shaking you.
“h-huh?” you asked, the ringing in your ears finally stopping. “were you saying something?”
he took a look over you, as if ensuring you were fine, before releasing your shoulders and moving back. “i.. my apologies. my emotions got the best of me,” he said, standing quickly and turning to leave. “be careful. you shouldn’t make a habit of falling off balconies.”
you tilted your head to the side, your mind still racing to catch up. “wait.. wait, i fell? from.. up there?” you asked, glancing up. if you really had fallen from that height, how were you uninjured?
he turned back slightly, eyeing you as you still laid on the floor. you felt your cheeks warm and hurriedly stood back up, dusting yourself off. “yes. there was a rush of people, and you ended up falling off.”
“then.. why didn’t i break anything?” you asked, looking at your limbs, brows furrowed. “there’s no way you caught me all the way down here, either.”
he looked at you curiously, as if he were confused. “you.. never mind. just be careful from now on,” he said, turning and walking away.
“wait!” you said, following after him. “could i at least know your name?”
he continued walking, pretending as if he couldn’t hear you, until; “none of your business.”
“maybe so, but i still want to know,” you said, walking alongside him. “i’ll just keep asking.”
his brows furrowed, like he either wanted to slap you or was just weighing his options. you kept your eyes on his hands, just in case it was the former.
“.. alatus,” he said softly, quiet enough you almost missed it.
“alatus?” you repeated, eyes coming back up to meet his. “that’s a pretty name.”
you pretended you didn’t see the way his cheeks reddened, instead sticking your hand out to shake his. “(y/n).”
he stared at your hand for a moment before shaking it tentatively, as if he was scared to hold it for even a moment. “.. nice name,” he said, looking away. you bit your lip to prevent a chuckle from escaping.
“thank you, alatus,” you said, smiling at him. “do you want to watch the fireworks with me?”
he looked back at you, surprised at your invitation. “.. as long as it’s not on a balcony,” he said, making you laugh softly.
“then why don’t you pick the spot?” you offered, glancing at the fireworks as you both walked through liyue.
he nodded, his gaze flitting over to you. “okay.. this way, then,” he said, leading you off into the night.
it’s a short one, i know, but writing isn’t liking me rn :
also! reasoning behind xiao giving his real name (alatus) instead of just xiao is because.. i don’t know :/ i just find it kinda cute cus he like saves someone but this someone is making him soft and then they ask for his name and he’s like o//~//o and just gives them his real name (i’m pretty sure it’s his real name i need to reread all his lore again) - i’m sorry i’m just so in love with this cutie !!!
(not proofread we die like real men,, stream mitski on spotify 😋😋)
he’d be sleeping over at your house and it’d be in the middle of the night with school the next day;
he’d be half spooning you with one arm under your head and the other around your waist, legs entangled under the thin sheets. There would be moonlight Seeping In the room from the window while you talked in hushed tones, going back and forth about the littlest things, he’d pull you closer and your eyes would meet, and your breath would hitch,
he looks so ethereal, since when did his eyes look so, pretty? They seem to be glowing in this light, Its amber hue bright against the golden undertones and specks of red and orange. He’s so,, pretty.
”what’s on your mind?” Xiao mutters, as he takes his hand to cup your cheek stroking under your eyes with his thumb.
”Your just really pretty” you whisper, as his ears flush
he’d pinch your cheek in a timid manner,
“d-don’t say things like that” he’d respond as you let out a chuckle as a smirk forms on your face,
“oh, but it’s the truth?” you continue, watching as his face grows increasingly red
”honestly it really surprised me when I found out I was your first s/o— I know a bunch of people who have the hots for you y’know” you say as you get ready to fluster your boyfriend even more,
but before your teasing could escalate any further he cuts you off, with a kiss.
you barely have time to process before he lets go of your lips with a soft but audible pop.
”shut it, won’t you” he grumbles, already used to your teasing, surprised when you grab his cheek and pull him into another kiss,
it really doesn’t help that your lips lock with each other so perfectly. one kiss turns into two, then three, then four,
kiss after kiss after kiss, finally pulling away, his forehead resting on yours, wait, when do you two sit up? weren’t you two laying down just now? seems the Fatigue is getting to you, your barely aware of your surroundings.
he smiles just a little, before pulling you in once more, this time its much slower, more sensual than the others.
‘’I could never bring myself to love them, not when I could love you instead.’‘
‘‘I only have eyes for you,’‘ he shrugs with a smug look on his face, now whos the embarrassed one?
✤ — Universe: Tyranny
✤ — Concept: To be the darling Yaksha of the Queen. Oh, how repulsive.
✤ — Characters: Alatus, Bennett
A/N: We pretend it's still April-
Training Grounds, One Night After the Queen's Coronation
“Isn't it your birthday? I've brought you a gift...”
Chartreuse eyes narrow in wariness at the arrival of the newly crowned Queen, who, as always, did not attend the masses despite the night being one of the many traditional festivities in the Kingdom.
No one is present but the two of them, the lot having gone to the cathedral to revere their deity. And maybe pray for mercy now that their sovereign is... that woman...
Discerning the skepticism, she simpers, “Aha, no, you needn't compensate at all. Can't I give a present?”
Certainly not after taking the Crown by force yesterday and massacring the royal family, thinks the Yaksha in contempt. Still, he's in no actual position to spurn the so-called present, so he follows after her.
They needn't go far, actually, their destination ended up being the armory.
The Queen leads him to the very back where they come upon a gilded cabinet in crimson. A fleeting glance is all that she gives before beginning to fiddle with the locks.
Alatus averts his eyes elsewhere, headspace wandering off to yesterday's events. The bloodstained marble... the unmoving bodies... the bloodstained crown...
All of a sudden, the sword on his hip grows heavy and he swallows. I can end her life right here and no one would be indignant.
He reaches for the hilt.
Creak
“Well?”
What's shown within the cabinet pauses his actions, fingers flinching in genuine surprise.
This is... he's a loss for words.
Despite it being dark, he can see it In all its jade glory, scintillating in rich emerald as if it has a light of its own.
“The Winged Spear of Primordial Jade, how do you like it?”
A legendary weapon that's said to have been only used once in a war that's lost to known records and history. It has been enchanted by the clergy for the purpose of reversing evil through bloodshed.
“Of course, this weapon can't just be bequeathed unto someone, for its enchantment only works when held by its chosen wielder,” she proceeds to take it off the cup hooks and hand it to the speechless man's hands.
He's brimmed with suspicion at the information—information he already knows, actually. How was she able to get her hands on this?
“What's with that expression? I thought you'd like it...” the Queen lets out a long sigh, “After all, it rightfully belongs to you. Being the last known descendant of the person who wielded it.”
Alatus tenses. How—
“Did you not enter an allegiance with the noble house Lapis to reclaim the sacred weapon of your forebear?”
He did. Perhaps he just expected the Justiciar to be the one to give him the polearm-... and not the Queen.
“It's truly touching to see someone honor their beloved family, no?”
Still, it is befuddling- just how much does this woman know about him? It is eerie and unsettling.
The polearm glints with a timid glow that's unnoticed by the two.
Alatus once more reaches for his sword with his other hand, eyes fixated on the Queen's profile as he scoffs, “Yes, family. It's something her Majesty wouldn't understand.”
The noble in question flinches—an unexpected reaction, honestly, but what catches the Yaksha off-guard is the sudden sight of grey haze blanketing the atmosphere and the faint... echo of a desperate cry?
Where is it coming from?
The haze appears suffocating. Like a cage.
He has little time to do anything, for in that window of surprise, the Queen is seizing him by the neck with a growl. So sudden, so out of character, so frenzied-
“You—” he sees a pair of gold circles pore against him in the darkness.
“Your Majesty! Sir! Are you here- oh!”
The sudden call proceeds in unison with the clatter of the polearm to the floor and the quick backsteps of the two individuals.
Bennett remains oblivious to all that's come down in the armory before his arrival as he smiles, “I've completed my prayers, so, I can take the post for now!”
Alatus takes a moment to nod at what he's heard, his fingers reaching to touch his neck. When he observes his surroundings again, the haze he's seen a minute before is gone.
The Queen clears her throat with an indifferent tone, far different from the one prior to the squire's arrival.
“Then, have a nice night fulfilling these... traditions.”
Of course, someone like her doesn't have any interest in taking part in the tradition.
Alatus sees the retreating footsteps in his peripheral as he picks up the Primordial Jade with a frown, eyes focused on the odd monster human in front of him. Unsettling, how unsettling.
He feels put off around her.
When he's yet to move out to head to the cathedral, he hears another simper. Far sinister and... amused.
The armory bears no windows, with the only light available coming from the open door. One that streams in an inadequate ray of moonlight.
So when he hears the faintest sound of approaching steps, he can only squint his eyes to try and figure out his distance from the noble lady.
“Dear Alatus, you still seem malcontent even with such a gift from me, oh how crestfallen I am.”
A finger taps his lips and he recoils. When his sight adjusts to the darkness, he goes still.
“Well, if you so wish to have another gift then...” another giggle, suggestive yet oddly foreboding, “You can come to my chambers on the eve of midnight.”
What-
It takes him a hot minute to register the implication behind those words, far too focused on seeing what he previously thought was gold.
“Absolutely not!” he bursts, backpedaling to the laughter.
The Queen strides past him, exiting the atmosphere and bathing under the moonlight where her diverted expression is finally visible.
“My, your face is rather pink,” she all but sighs in satisfaction, “I do wonder what you were thinking of, dear Yaksha.”
The last thing Alatus sees before he's left alone in the training grounds is the faint glow of the Queen's [c] irises.
a/n: how awful it was for xiao bb to celebrate his birthday just after the family he's meant to protect was erased. oh but he's mc's 'darling' for a reason, she came to gift him the spear! this was also another perfect opportunity to slide in some personal lore of him in tyranny~
and hm, what's this, mc is a little strange aha- was she just triggered?
A traveling noble from afar visits the Kingdom of Khemia and wonders about its sovereign. The rumored Bloodthorned Queen, just how is she, really?
Kazuha
✤ — Good afternoon, I've been sent by her Majesty to escort you to the parlor. Shall we-... oh? You ask about our Queen so brazenly...
... Very well. The Queen lives up to her reputation, so I suggest you keep a low profile, if you acquire her attention it'll be difficult to wring your way out of it.
Her Majesty will not care if you are from a neighboring Kingdom—if you, in some way, manage to upset her... the nicest thing she'll do is to let you depart with a warning. In other cases, it'll be... yes.
But don't worry, continue about with your day. Her Majesty is not easily pressed and I am by her side to... lessen casualties, one can say. Even so, she is not rash, she thinks well of the ramifications that may come, after all—so I can assure your safety.
Still, it is best to caution yourself.
Hm? Oh, of course, do not let it concern you. I will keep our conversation a secret from Her Majesty, have a pleasant stay.
Xingqiu
✤ — Greetings, my liege, are you perhaps here on an invitation? It isn't often that the Queen entertains guests from neighboring Kingdoms other than Prince Ragnvindr.
Oh, you are! Then may you have a—... pardon? Please lower your voice, my liege-! It isn't wise to ask such a question in the palace!
You wish to know about the Queen's diplomacy?
... To be frank, although her Majesty's trail is macabre, her wit is unmistakable. Exclude the matter of execution and tyranny, she's beyond exemplary in diplomatic matters. It's almost vexing, to be honet, why couldn't she just be in a single spectrum of devilry?
It's difficult to opine on someone who doesn't hesitate to shed blood yet is meticulous with the handling of her nation.
Our Kingdom has become twice as rich months into her reign after ridding of corruption. Although her people live in fear, they are more than aware that the state of the Kingdom is in good hands... at the very least.
Bennett
✤ — Hey there, sir! Welcome to the Knights' barracks! It's just recently that the Queen opened this for visitors. Would you like to watch some of the squads?
I'm pretty good with the blade myself, hehe! Hm? You're not here to watch-? Oh, you need my help? Sure! In what way can I extend my aid?
... T-the Queen-!? Shoot, that was a little loud, wasn't it? Did someone hear-
Ah no, it's just- unexpected... but you ask about her treatment of us? That came out of nowhere, but, um...
Nothing changed much after her Majesty took the throne other than the strict implementation of our new regime. A lot came forward to grow as knights and even some of the mercenaries in the local guild signed up!
We are handled and paid accordingly without bias. Is... is that enough information for you?
Huh? You want to know more!? We... need to be somewhere without these many ears, if that's the case...
Alatus
✤ — You have quite the courage. Noble or not, are you aware that speaking of the Queen behind her back counts as treason? To think that you came to ask someone such as I, as well.
.. Tsk, don't worry, I was merely jesting. I understand your concern—in fact, it is a good thing that I am the one you have approached out of everyone else.
Now, what about her Majesty.. ? Oh yes. I despise her, that is all you need to know about my personal sentiments.
Each time she entertains a guest from some place, everyone is fearful about the possibility of war. Her Highness does not hold back her words no matter the status of the one she's speaking to, after all.
She's blunt, but strangely careful.
I would've believed that she's yearning for a war had I not accompanied her to Kuni with the intention to solve the problems both Kingdoms had way before she stole the Crown.
Ah? You ask if it's alright for me to be so nonchalant in saying this? Don't be scared on my behalf.
The Queen knows of my hatred, I assure you of it.
Diluc
✤ — This is a sight to see. I'm not expecting to see a familiar face roaming this Palace out of plenty others, pray tell, what are you doing in a place like this?
Invited? I understand. If you so wish, I can join you if it means ridding your anxiety. The Queen is a formidable lady despite the smiles she wears.
... Oh. You've heard of it already, I see. My engagement to her Majesty.
Indeed, I am highly against it, but—there are matters that prevent the nullification of the contract. As of now, I am looking into it myself, for I will do anything to sever my ties with this Kingdom.
Her Majesty is more than cognizant of this predicament of mine, yes... if anything, I'd say she reaps amusement from this accursed issue.
Childe
✤ — Well, well. I hoped I was hearing things, but turns out I wasn't! What's a little rat doing scurrying around asking about her Majesty , [Name]?
That simply won't do! If you are a threat to the Queen, I'll have no choice but to silence you myself. Hm, what's that? Heh.
Her Majesty may appear like so, but that's understandable—shallow people like you and the rest can never understand her. Ultimately, not a single one of you was there to watch her grow into who she is now, yes?
Now, where was I? Ah yes—I wonder what casualty report should be sent into your noble house. You should worry. This will hurt a lot—
.. My Queen! What brings you to this area? I was simply—.... I understand.
Alright, you heard her Majesty, did you not? Scurry back, you fortunate fellow.
A/N: Childe is so obviously pro-MC ajfnawelaeguagr, other than Bennett, Xingqiu, and Kazuha who are in the neutral area- Alatus and Diluc just straight up despises her- ooooh, but is that bound to change?
We'll see in other shorts ;> I have a wonderful plan for this series ohohoho-
It isn’t so rare for you to walk out of meetings unannounced, but leaving this one, in particular, swells your chest with amusement.
Ah, the look on the prince’s face is enough to keep you entertained for a week at most.
Eagerness is seen with each pep of your step towards the parlor, where your esteemed suitor awaits. Oh, who is it now, you wonder?
You’ve run out of people to guess.
The door to the room opens, revealing a certain Yaksha and a squire, both carrying what appears to be a mountain of wrapped gifts in their arms.
You needn’t even count to know that this is the most gifts—you still can’t understand how plenty there are asking for your hand—you’ve received from an admirer.
“I understand Rota, but for you to carry things around, dear Knight of mine?”
You’re certain that the man in question is hiding his annoyance behind the pile of gifts in his arms.
“Lady Yae is in the room, your Majesty,” Alatus grumbles.
That takes your attention, prompting you to glance at the servant at your side who confirms the Yaksha’s words with a nod.
Well, isn’t this interesting?
Definitely not someone to come to mind.
Ah, and you just visited the Kingdom of Kuni a few months ago, surely they aren’t bothered for another meeting?
With little answers to grant satisfaction, you enter the room, only to pause with a growing smile. You think you understand things now.
“Oh?” your entrance draws a pair of eyes towards the entrance and you hum, “I did not expect my suitor to be a lovely lady,”
“S-suitor!?” that’s squire Rota’s exclamation of surprise, followed by another clipped one that you’re assuming to be Alatus’.
The latter is much swifter to recover, though, for he’s already barking a command that they should be on their way to set the gifts in your chambers.
You believe that your servant is on the side of bewilderment as well—he appears much quieter than ever.
A woman garbed in splendid violet clears her throat, blinking out of her daze as you enter the room and sit on the place parallel to her and her lady in waiting.
Kazuha closes the door afterward, granting privacy.
“Oh, that is…” she sounds equally surprised at the term used.
There is also a small falter in the woman’s voice as you slide them a plate of delicacies and tea. Lifting your eyes, you meet her pools of lilac.
Ones that gleam with concealed interest and awe as she utters.
“More of an admirer, but that does not change anything, does it?”
Yae bursts into giggles, “My, your Highness, you’re not even trying to correct yourself anymore,”
“Yae..”
The violet-haired royal shies her sight away in distress, earning your laugh in the process.
Oh, truly, who would’ve thought that this is the surprise awaiting you? Ah, still, the fact that they have come here without notice isn’t something to overlook.
“Worry no longer, I have perfect clarity.”
Your voice slips through the light-hearted atmosphere, smooth and fluid like the sloshing warm tea pouring into the cups.
The women gratefully accept your offer and you lean back on your chair.
It is either something is amiss, or they are bearing news. Or maybe something else I’ve no thoughts over.
“So—what brings you to Khemia, your Royal Highness,”
They wouldn’t have brought such luxurious gifts for nothing.
You take a sip of the tea, the slight bitterness contrasting the sweet silkiness of your voice.
“Princess Ei?”
a/n: you didn't see that one coming didja dears- now what indeed is the purpose of her visit? oohlala~
— ★ Scry: Solar Umbra + Xiao + Mischief AU
— ★ Genre: Romance + Fluff
— ★ Concept: Sometimes, all a seasoned warrior needs is reassurance.
— ★ Words: 2.4k
What is love to a man saturated of war and violence?
Other than thinking it to be a feeling of complete unfamiliarity, it is something unachievable.
For a warrior who has thoroughly seen all facets of the grim and the macabre, one may therefore deduce that his edges have been roughed and hardened.
Walls of impenetrable defense will have risen and thorns are all that will meet a traveler if they do decide to venture and be acquainted with him.
And it isn’t wrong.
The last standing Yaksha is known to be austere, and he lives up to the description.
Although, one who knows him long enough will easily decipher that this distance he keeps between him and the rest of the world is out of the goodness of his own heart.
A heart darkened by yore and ironed by trauma—yet the fact that it’s still a heart capable of altruism and love remains true.
Even a shield with the highest of defenses can shatter, the same concept applies to the stronghold he built for himself.
And when even the slightest of cracks appear, its future crumbling is inevitable.
Xiao never thought he’d be one to experience the sentiments mortals often are intoxicated with; love.
If he learns of this fall a century back, he’d think it’s an absurd joke.
But here he is standing, admiring that one lady who has gone against the impossible. She needn’t even do anything and still, he’d fall for her a thousand times.
Perhaps it’s the way she holds herself differently from other known Adepti?
Without regard for stern formalities and rigidity? Being carefree and casual yet managing to keep the sense of decorum?
Or maybe it’s the way she smiles?
They’re all such sappy things to consider and the Yaksha cringes at the mere thought of it, but he can never deny the pleasant warmth in his chest that it brings.
But he is a warrior who deals with the profane.
Capable as he may be to actually feel love, who’s to say he has the ability to show it?
Such is the center of his fear, the second the Traveler opens to him about an inkling of [Name]’s feelings towards him.
He can’t show affection of his own will—there always has to be some sort of incentive. Even if he tries to, he’s short-circuiting and backing out.
So the remedy comes in, a proposal of the young exorcist; to split himself in two. To bring out that one part in his psyche that’s perfectly able to show all kinds of love—and bring out they did.
The moment Xiao sees him—that man bearing a similar appearance—something inside hollows out.
‘Alatus’, the name his alter ego decided to take, is the very same persona he once was… thousands of years ago.
He knows the counterpart to be much more capable of everything he’s lacking in.
After a series of events that unfolded one after the other, [Name] is then stuck in between the two.
Xiao, comically enough, didn’t think it’s possible to be jealous of himself whenever he sees that alter—with that grin that’s becoming annoying to see—coming a bit too close to the [c]nette for comfort.
It’s crazy.
And the worse part has to be that Alatus refuses to merge back, but then again, that’d be defeating the purpose of why he had been split from the original body in the first place.
There’s no choice but to suck it up. Besides, [Name] doesn’t seem to mind…
To be frank, it’s only him who minds.
“I’m leaving~”
Thank heavens. Mulls the golden-eyed man.
Alatus must’ve known the thought running in the other Adeptus’ head because he’s pouting and giving a half-hearted side-eye.
Oh, it can’t be helped that the crimson-styled alter is the one scheduled for patrol this week.
After a chaste kiss on the [c]nette’s temple, he darts out of sight with a snicker, evading the smack that’s about to come to his shoulder.
Xiao doesn’t waste any time walking towards the female warrior, hearing her flustered grumbles that morph into hums when she sees him approaching.
In an instant, her demeanor flips and she’s smiling impossibly wide with a call of his name. The Yaksha almost pauses in his steps, his heart leaping at the mere call and he sighs.
He’ll never get used to that…
“I haven’t seen you in two days, where have you been?” he remembers exactly why he can’t stand being around the girl for too long when she all but latches onto him by the waist, murmuring, “Alatus refused to let me go and search for you.”
Touch starved—that’s a way to describe this, right?
Or, well, he knows the [c]nette to be playful and physical in nature.
He’s seen how she vibes with his alter on the same flirty wavelength and heavens know Xiao won’t be able to last in their company because of this.
“Where else?” he huffs, “Scouting, purging, doing my duties—“
“That excuse won’t work on me since I know this week is assigned to Alatus. Goodness, Xiao, were you sulking?”
He splutters, pushing the female Adeptus away with an incredulous look on his face.
He doesn’t even have the time to shoot down her words because all of a sudden, she’s intruding in his space, chin on his chest, frowning as she says, “You always have that look whenever Alatus spends too much time with me.”
The Yaksha scowls.
Caught red-handed.
“Judging by your silence, I’m assuming that I’m correct?”
He turns his eyes elsewhere, offering no confirmation that will sully the last fragments of his pride and honor.
Oh, to think that he has built himself a fortress that lasted millenniums… only for it to crumble so easily facing this woman.
A hand taps him on the shoulder and he glances back, guarded and apprehensive.
[Name] grins cheekily—one won’t think of her as a venerated Adeptus.
“Don’t worry, he won’t return until a few more hours. I’m all yours, Xiao, I’ve always been—haven’t I?”
His face erupts into a shade of crimson before he can even react verbally. His eyes are widening as he grows hot.
Is she even aware of her own phrasing!?
Judging by the smile on her face, he assumes she is.
After all, it’s only [Name] who can utter ambiguous—and lowkey provocative—sentences without losing face.
At least, not when Alatus is in the picture—that man is just as good as she is in being suggestive.
He almost can’t believe that the alter is a part of him.
“What do you think you’re doing?” Xiao hisses, fearing he’d turn into mush if he stays a minute longer in the lady warrior’s arms.
[Name] only snuggles into him more with a sigh of content.
The Yaksha stammers in disbelief, questioning almost every known deity in Teyvat why the woman isn’t the least bit concerned about the fact that she’s doing this. In public. For anyone to see.
He’s not even kidding—anyone can walk in on them any moment and he’s stuck in this-
Laughter rings in the air.
“I know what you’re thinking, Xiao. Oh, you’re so adorable.”
Adorable? He scoffs. Out of every possible compliment to raise, this is-
“You’re speaking to the last known Yaksha, and you dare deem me as adorable—!” he realizes that the girl has a knack for inadvertently cutting his responses midway.
The kiss pressed on his cheek takes silences the words that are about to resonate from his throat, and he stands there, frigid and awestruck.
That just happened. It really did just happen.
And he’s suddenly moving an incredible distance away from a still laughing woman, his hand raised over his face as if it’ll hide his red cheeks and shield himself from any more advances.
“Are- are you out of your mind?!” he curses his stammer, “To do such an indecent thing!”
[Name] gasps, her posture becoming stiff as if she’s been dumped with an ice-cold bucket of realization and horror.
If not for the lively gleam in her [c] pools, he’d think he’d have offended her by his statement.
Her parted lips close, tugging down to a conscious frown.
“Indecent? I didn’t think it was wrong to be affectionate towards my lover…”
Nothing can describe the hysteric fluster that flourished in his chest as he zooms forward, hand clamping over the lady’s mouth to prevent her from saying anything else that’s capable of frying his head with fluster.
Xiao takes a wary look around, praying inwardly that no one has heard such things—before sighing, pinks still tinged pink and heart still racing.
“How can you be so forward?”
It’s almost terrifying.
Not to say he isn’t as forward, but to be blunt in the aspect of romance is beyond him.
Aren’t they both, well, new to this? He wonders how the girl has such a capacity to say things without ever faltering.
[Name] blinks, “Are you not my lover?”
Like that!
“I—!”
“Hehe, I’m just teasing you, Xiao. No need to be so worked up over it.”
Worked up is an understatement, though he won’t admit it.
Mildly peeved, Xiao crosses his arms and faces somewhere else.
Towards the marshes, to be specific—as if he’s attempting to divert his attention so that the aftereffect of his fluster can simmer down.
It’s been a long time after stepping into this new chapter of their relationship—well, a long time to the humans, but for them, a blink of an eye has passed—but he’s yet to be used to having a lover.
And experiencing unfiltered love.
“It wasn’t funny.” He mutters.
Maybe it’s because since he thought of love to be impossible for him—yet here he is.
“I know, I know, I’m sorry—I know we’re both new to this, and you’d rather take this slow on your part, and that’s perfectly fine.”
The response has him glancing at his fellow Adeptus in the corner of his eyes, studying the ease on her visage that showed no impatience nor annoyance at all.
Won’t that be unsatisfactory? If you’ve to wait until I’ve adjusted. He thinks.
“…”
After a long, grueling experience in the war and having to help humans out of sheer goodwill, the Yaksha wonders if the [c]nette ever thinks about being selfish for once.
He knows he’s not so easy to adjust in these kinds of situations, his background made it incredibly difficult.
He knows he’s not one to show emotion that's so foreign to him—hence why Alatus was split in the first place—and still, she’s willing to wait?
For him?
Feeling his hand be given a gentle squeeze, golden eyes finally move back to settle against [c]s.
“Having you reciprocate my feelings is enough, and waiting is nothing to me. I admire you for who you are. Even if you chose to split Alatus from your psyche, you’re still the man I fell for.”
Although he cannot respond the way he wants to, he’s grateful.
Oh, he’s so grateful and he’s certain it showed in the intensity of his gaze that has [Name] smiling even more.
“You’re perfect to me.”
His heart can burst out of his chest and he frankly wouldn’t mind at all.
The female Adeptus leans against his shoulder with a content sigh and silence reigns free once more.
Xiao didn’t think it’d feel this nice to be, well, graced with love.
The butterflies, the flutters—ah, is this why mortals search for such an emotion?
Mustering courage, he gives [Name]’s hand a squeeze, as well. It’s probably not much, but the growing smile he sees makes it worth it.
No one speaks for a while. It’s just them looking over the entirety of Dihua Marsh in the quietude and solace of a budding love between scarred warriors.
A burst of anemo is seen somewhere far off to the west, near the region of Minlin, and Xiao is reminded of the existence of his literal half. He has slotted in fairly well between the two’s relationship.
He clears his throat before asking, “… Are you implying that he’s just an addition, then?”
“He’s still you in a sense, albeit different—but you can say that,” [Name] starts, a little surprised since this is the first time she’s asked about her stance on the crimson alter.
“Since he refuses to merge, I hope you do not mind that I divide my attention. That’s not an excuse for you to shy away from me to the point of avoidance, though, I swear—”
“What’s this, what’s this? How unfair to coddle her without me!”
And speak of the devil, the aforementioned person’s voice chimes behind them, prompting the two to look back.
Alatus is sheathing back his jade sword, having just finished off patrolling the last of the known hotspots and conquering any rising evil.
It’s like the speck of his presence in the faraway region of Minlin wasn’t a literal minute ago.
He must’ve sensed someone talking about him, after all, he isn’t entirely different from the man he’s split from.
“This is quite a sight, though, isn’t it?” the chartreuse-eyed alter says in bemusement, striking his gaze towards his counterpart, “Never did I thought you’d have the courage to actually initiate things in my absence.”
Xiao’s brow twitches, though he can’t quite refute such an accurate fact. It’s pretty well known that he’s the most reserved one, so initiation is indeed rare.
“You—!”
“Calm down, you’re only insulting and hurting yourself,” [Name] sighs with a chuckle, patting Xiao’s shoulder before the latter can march up to his half and give him a piece of his mind.
Alatus nods eagerly, coming close to the [c]nette with a tap on his cheek, indicating the want to receive something.
“Right! [Name], I hurt myself, I think I may need a kiss.”
The gall of this—seriously, sometimes, Xiao wonders if this alter truly is a part of him.
“There’s no visible bruise.” He deadpans.
Alatus’ response is quick, paired with a mischievous grin that without a doubt will press his buttons for the nth time again—
“Your pride does.”
Verr Goldet can only apologize to the spooked guest for the sudden noise and chaos that erupts in the balcony.
a/n: I don't know- I find it funny that Xiao clashes with Alatus- sajdaidhuaehfa imagine having two of them, though aiyAAA-
— ★ Scry: Ecliptic Umbra + Lyra + Xiao + Alatus + Violet AU
— ★ Genre: Romance + Fluff & Angst + "Don't you dare leave."
— ★ Concept: A wandering entertainer performs at Wangshu Inn
— ★ Words: 3.8k
A/N: Dear, if you hit me, an indecisive author, with an 'or' in the characters, I'M WRITING BOTH OF THEM AHFUEFUIAWEBFAWF Also, this has gotten long-
Not once have you been given the chance to journey past the islands of Inazuma, not when your life is shackled to helping pay off the debt that deprived your family of the same luxury of freedom.
At least not until your mother—owner of the okiya—allowed you to extend these services to the other neighboring regions, for a set duration, of course. You are one, if not the most, sought after geisha in Inazuma, after all.
One mustn’t stay too long out.
Zeta has expressed his want to accompany you and has been rather insistent when he was turned down the first time. He reasons that he knew the lands more and, well, you can’t refuse such an obvious act.
Additionally, there are dangers all over Teyvat.
He mentions that he would’ve stayed if the reliable Kazuha is present to keep you company along the way, but the ronin had departed some time ago, much like the wind once more—unable to be found.
So, with a few more tweaks to your plan, you packed enough necessities to last a couple of weeks, bid goodbye to the okiya’s patrons, and set off to the sea with Zeta in the Alcor.
It’s a good thing that Captain Beidou is a close acquaintance of Thoma, who has secured you a free ride in the vessel. A unique one at that—for it’s a warship.
Though you can’t quite say it’s free, it’s just that the mode of payment isn’t asked through the usual mora.
“We sure are going to miss that lovely voice of yours, Violet,” Beidou pats your shoulder as she sees you off and your raven-haired companion at the docks.
"If I see Kazuha and say that you’ve been aboard for the week, he’d sulk—but hey! His loss he chose to be dropped off early.”
Giving the Captain a bemused smile that has her pinching your cheeks, you pass a glance towards the crew, who is presently unloading cargo. Whenever a sailor passes by, they will wave you goodbye.
“It has been a gratifying journey at the sea, I’ve much to thank you and the rest for allowing us to hitch a ride. I can only hope that I compensated well with my performances.”
Beidou laughs heartily.
“Don’t worry, it may not seem like it, but you’ve eased all spirits here. Now, I don’t want to hold you up, so take care, yeah? If fares are troubling you, don’t hesitate to come ask for me. I’ll be happy to give you the ride back to Inazuma.”
Oh, that’s a splendid exchange.
Beaming at the offer, you shake her hand several recurring times, promising an even grander show to perform when it’s time to head back.
Then, with a momentary adieu to the Captain and the rest of the Crux, you and your friend made your way through the pier.
Plenty of stares greets you along, which you deem is expected, given your exotic fashion and wandering, awed eyes. To your side, Zeta makes sure to tug you by the wrist as you both maneuver through the crowd.
It’s fairly early in the morning, still, yet plenty is already up and about.
“Liyue harbor is a lively place, isn’t it…” you whisper, the excitement of being able to see new and foreign lands making your heart race.
Zeta hums, nodding. “Very much so. If you’d like, we can take trips here during the day—or in your leisure. Whichever works best.”
The implication that you won’t be staying in the city for your stay has you blinking. It isn’t that you aren’t aware of the plans—you discussed it with him and mother—but there seem to be some revisions that you didn’t know.
Catching the gleam of confusion in your [c]s, the man nods again.
“The Yuheng penned us that we’ll be accommodated someplace else, particularly a place where travelers often stop to. It has been thought over that your services will be excellent there.”
The Yuheng of the Qixing? Oh, you’ve heard of her! You wonder how she has gotten to know of your arrival, though.
Your companion falters for a moment as if trying to recall an important piece of information, and when he does, he snaps his fingers and turns with a small smile.
“Ah yes, the Tianquan requested you to perform at either the Jade Chamber or at Yuehai Pavilion at the end of your stay, which falls under the last day of the Lantern Rite Festival,”
That sounds like an important ceremony of sorts…
”She assured that you will be paid handsomely. Also, it appears that she is aware of ‘Sumire’ and the okiya’s merits from word of mouth coming from those who have visited Inazuma… hence why.”
Baffled, you blink. You didn’t know the okiya is that well known overseas… much less you!? Oh—oh, trying to grasp what to feel is becoming quite difficult.
Deeming it better to get some answers first—there is plenty of time to dwell over your astonishment later—you tug Zeta’s arm. “Come now, don’t leave me in the suspense! Where will we be staying for most of the time?”
He chuckles at your eagerness, and answers.
“Wangshu Inn.”
You wake up to the light of the setting sun, consciousness rushing to your limbs as you yawn and stretch.
Some shuffling sounds prompt you to look at the other side of the room, where Zeta is standing after closing his journal.
“I assume you’re well-rested now,” he approaches, “It’s a mistake on my part to continue the trek. You all but blacked out the moment we arrived.”
Flushing at the reminder, you sit, folding the used blanket and endeavoring to tidy yourself up.
It’s true that you are unused to long walks—you underestimated how far the harbor was from the inn—so it’s a no-brainer that you’re quick to fall asleep after entering the lodgings.
Oh, wait, just how long were you out?!
Without a word uttered, you make haste to your bags, searching for the attire you’ve prepared for tonight’s ensemble.
“You’ve an hour and a half before it’s time to go down,” Zeta informs in the middle of your hustling, “It’s your first time performing in public and not in a personal room, yes? Don’t worry too much, it’s all prepared, along with the koto. I’ll be there playing the flute.”
That makes you laugh, standing in content after the triumphant search for the clothes you’ll be wearing.
“I can’t believe that I didn’t know that you play the flute until a week ago, seriously, Zeta, you’re so mysterious.”
He smiles, waving as he leaves the room to give you privacy, but not before responding with, “There’s a lot of things to uncover, [Name].”
The doors click shut and you shake your head in amusement, later hastening to get ready.
Heaven knows how long it takes to prepare oneself alone… ah, and first impressions! You must make good—no, great!
Great first impressions.
With that in mind, you slip out of your casual clothes and into some more appropriate underlayers. Getting into the kimono is a little complicated, but it’s nowhere near the level of successfully securing your obi.
Thankful for the practice you’ve done basically throughout your entire life, you’re already dressed when three quarters strikes and are by then adding the necessary make-up.
You’ve at least have half an hour left by the time you pinned the last of the elaborate hairpins completing the kanzashi. A sigh of relief expels past your ruby red lips.
It’s twilight now. You’ll perform when the sky has turned navy.
You have some more time to spare. Perhaps you can take a gander first, Zeta surely wouldn’t mind.
With this set, you grab your fan and left the room, feeling a little nervous.
It’s just now that the nerves are getting to you, oh dear—you’ve never felt like this before. What are the odds that it’s because this is a completely new place?
Ambling up the stairs towards the balcony, you purse your lips, chilled.
What if I mess up? That won’t be good.
You’re here to ease the weary and fatigued through music and other arts. You cannot afford even the slightest mishap.
Placing a hand over your chest, hoping that it’ll calm down your racing heart, you stand near the railings of the balcony overlooking the—well, you don’t know what the place is called. But it’s beautiful.
A perfect sight it is, really, to see the sun slowly disappear the ridge of mountains afar. It’s.. breathtakingly glorious.
You can feel your nervousness dissipate bit by bit. Who would’ve thought that this place holds such a view?
It almost feels like I can hold the sun, you muse, reaching your hand out and letting your palm capture the last of the warm rays with an awed smile. It’s amazing!
Way too amazing, actually, that in the midst of being struck with wonder, you fail to notice that you have been leaning a bit too far ahead.
Your seconds before doom is only registered when you feel yourself tipping over and you gasp, heart lurching and—
Someone grabs you by the waist and pulls you back a safe distance away. You exhale a shaky breath.
“Careful.”
Ah!
You swivel, the first few sounds of your thanks coming only to pause when you notice that no one is behind you. Or perhaps there was someone.
Because all you’re seeing now is a trail of black smoke and glowing [teal/crimson] embers—and the atmosphere… ah.. that felt a little oppressing. You weren’t imagining things, were you… ?
“There you are,” Zeta’s sudden appearance makes you jump and he blinks, mildly confused, but pays no mind to it. “It’s almost time, shall we go?”
Looking around the balcony to check for any sign of the one who has stepped in to, quite literally, save you, you nod. There’s no sign of anyone..
“… Yes, yes, we shall.”
You’ll have to go back here later in the night and pay your savior a visit...
Xiao
It has gotten even colder now that it’s late in the night.
Your performance, fortunately, went by without any kind of problems!
It’s a little oppressing when you first noted the large audience that’s watching you closely, but the nervousness all fades away the second you pluck the strings of the koto.
Music always is a nice remedy.
And Zeta plays the flute wonderfully in accompaniment.
The people have been lulled into silence as soon as the melody comes to echo, carried by the wind.
Before you know it, they’re asking encore after encore, taken back with astonishment over the new sounding instrument and the song itself. Of course, you provide, answering to their whims and wishes.
The experience is exhilarating as it is tiring, but you aren’t quite done yet.
Climbing back the stairs to the balcony—the moon is already at its peak—with a more refreshed look, having let down your hair from the pins and your face ridden of the slightly excessive makeup, you take in the night air.
You’re relieved that your first performance had gone by smoothly, but it won’t be complete until you manage to thank your savior.
And there, you’re graced by the sight of someone standing at your previous location. Your breath hitches. Ah.. it’s him!
As if he’s able to sense your presence, he takes look over his shoulder, hums, and makes a move to—oh, he’s leaving!?
“Don’t you dare leave.”
That certainly does the trick.
The figure freezes—scoffs, then turns. You can’t help but blink upon seeing him under the moonlight. Hah, and you thought the landscape is beautiful.
Golden eyes are narrowed into a fierce glare, indicative of his anger. If his gritted teeth aren’t enough evidence. “Do you know who you’re talking to? Giving an order so brazenly…”
Initially floored at the exuding authority from his voice alone, your fingers twitch, but you stand vigilant.
There is absolutely no reason to be afraid of someone like him.
“You saved me,” you step closer, “Let me compensate in return.”
“I don’t need payment. Leave.”
He scoffs, fury dispersing for disbelief as he flicks his hand in a motion to get you going off the balcony. You assume this is his place—oh dear, is this place off-limits!?
Wait no, you mustn’t get sidetracked. You can skedaddle later.
“At least let me sing for you? It feels wrong to walk away having done nothing.”
You must’ve been pressing the right buttons to rile him up—or maybe he’s just not fond of any interactions?—because you definitely can feel yourself shrinking under his pressing golden gaze.
Turning your way fully, he reiterates, accentuating each and every single word like one would do to a toddler.
“I told you, I don’t need anything.”
And as you said a while ago, doing nothing mars your conscience, so you have no intentions of leaving at all.
Without a response, you stand still, keeping the eye contact firm as if it’ll help deliver your message along.
The still-unnamed man quirks an eyebrow at this and he once more scoffs. It feels like he’s getting more bewildered by the second, that when he realizes that you’re not going anywhere and won’t be leaving him alone, he clicks his tongue.
“Fine.”
Wait, that worked!
Surprised, you stroll towards him, taking the spot to his left and clearing your throat when he takes a step away to create some distance.
You’re certain that he’ll just up and vanish like he did a while ago, but now that you’re in the wrong, the suddenness has you mildly panicking.
The koto is downstairs, so there will be no musical accompaniment, just your voice alone.
Surely he wouldn’t mind? You glance his way as discreetly as you could be, catching sight of his furrowed brows.
Oh, you mustn’t waste his time…
That said, you open your lips after having decided on a gentle song, allowing the flow of your voice to echo gently into the night.
At first, as you sing, you think you see him easing—the rigidity of his stance going lax.
For some reason, it appears like he’s so—relaxed. The earlier unsettlement on his visage has mitigated, that you can’t help but drag the song out as long as possible.
And when it does end, with the gentle vibrato fading to silence, you take a glimpse of him—only to see his eyes closed. His breathing has slowed.
Is it possible to fall asleep while standing?
Oh, well… you’ve done your part! You can’t help but stare at him, though… he looks ethereal.
You jolt afterward, the warmth of your cheeks being covered by your hands as you swallow. Relax, it isn’t a crime to deem someone handsome.
You’d hate to stalk around on someone’s space, though, so you withdraw, your steps silent.
Just as you’re at the threshold of the entrance, however, his voice comes up again—timid and straightforward.
“It was nice.”
You spin, blinking. “Pardon?”
Did you hear that right?
“Your singing…” the man still has his back turned to you when he repeats and elaborates, somewhat shy, almost. “It’s nice.”
“O-oh, thank you.”
You feel silly that a simple compliment can warm your cheeks, but alas you stand, bustling with pink cheeks in the now awkward atmosphere.
Twiddling with your fingers and biting the inside of your cheeks, you rock on your heels, pondering. Maybe I should… ah, just say it!
“I can come up here tomorrow night again… if you do not mind?”
You said it—dear heavens, you said it.
Goodness, the silence is killing you—you swear if the suspense won’t, the silence will. Ah, isn’t that the same thing in this context? Oh what are you fussing over-
“Do what you wish.”
…
You blink—once, twice, then you’re clapping in excitement. You didn’t think it’ll work out in the end! You’re worrying over for nothing.
“Wonderful! Then, I’ll see you tomorrow!” a pep to your step follows and you swear a hum might just follow if you’re not careful.
This sensation of mirth is new—and so is the fluttering of butterflies. It doesn’t feel unsettling, though, it’s rather… welcomed. You can’t help the smile on your face as you’re starting to leave-
“.. Xiao.”
You pause, looking at the man—but he’s not looking your way.
Xiao…. His name. You swear your cheeks might as well be the color of maple leaves by now as you giggle. “Good night, Xiao.”
The Adeptus opts to only open his eyes when he detects that he is all alone in the balcony, then, breathing out, he stares at his hand.
One that’s been emanating endless black smoke, manifesting his karma.
Now it has been silenced—and he feels at peace.
Xiao turns his head towards the entrance where the girl—he heard that she’s referred to as a ‘geisha’—has gone through.
Tomorrow, hm…
Ah.
It’s a good night, indeed.
Alatus
You weren’t expecting a handful of people—basically everyone—taking interest in your line of work.
How’s it like? What else do you do? How long did you train for? Where is the establishment located?
They’re a grand lot, but that doesn’t mean you didn’t enjoy wasting the night away conversing with pleasant and respectful people.
It genuinely is a time of merriment, and you’re flattered that most chose to stay for a night more instead of heading to the harbor, just to see you in the morning again.
There are endless tales and stories to tell, one mused.
And well—how can you refuse? So that is a plan for the morning to come.
For now, there is one thing you must still do.
The balcony is empty when you arrive, however, looking just like before when you came up during dusk.
You stuck around for a few more minutes, waiting for any sign of the one who has taken you out of harm’s way.
But there’s none.
Expelling a sigh, you turn to leave, dispirited. Maybe it simply was a figment of your imagination, then…
“Don’t you dare leave,”
You pause. Ah! I was right!
Thrilled, you spin on your heels, already smiling in preparation to give the thanks you were unable to utter a while ago—only for that smile to drop in favor of gawking in surprise.
The man stands up to his height after dropping from the higher rooftops, rolling his shoulders and patting his arms and chest—bare, might you add—of dust and dirt.
Dear heavens, he’s-
“I didn’t mean to depart so quickly, but I wasn’t doing so well.”
He’s completely unaware of the way you hide your red face behind your fan, endeavoring to cover the man’s exposed torso so you can simply look him in the eyes.
You aren’t prepared for this- this shocking sight—looking is rude.. !
Your fingers begin to twitch when he arrives in front of you, smiling.
“So, you’re the singer, hm?” the way his leafy green optics are gleaming implies that he must’ve been aware of the reason for your timidity. “Well? Can I put a name to the face?”
He’s not doing anything about it. Oh, this man’s quite the mischievous one, hm?
Gathering your bearings, you answer, “Vi—[Name], it’s [Name].”
You aren’t ‘in persona’ as of the moment… you suppose it’s fine to give your real name and not your alias. Besides, he saved you—the least you could give him is this.
“I see.” He nods, tipping his head towards the railings, a tiny invitation for you to oversee the land with him.
You accept with a nod, walking with the fan still set over your face. He must’ve seen how your face is the same color as his breastplate by now.
Either way, if he’s aware, it’s nice that he’s not commenting or teasing you about it.
You won’t be unable to handle such a tease.
But still, you came here for a reason—not to be idle and be flustered. So, after boosting your confidence and rebuilding your composure in the moments following the silence, you speak up.
“Earlier, you said you weren’t doing good,” you’re finally able to look at him without flushing, “Are you sick, perhaps?”
“One can phrase it that way. And it comes without a cure, so I need to be away whenever it comes up.”
Oh no, a terminal case? That doesn’t seem to be the case. If anything, his circumstance feels a tad bit magical—you’re not too certain. Or maybe you are.
No simple human being can vanish that quickly.
“Is… there a way to soothe it at least? Your symptoms?”
To this question, he hums, leaning forward and resting his arms on the railings, setting his stare down.
It prompts you to peek, noticing that the view allows a small glimpse of the location where you’ve been performing hours before.
“I suppose there are. Your show a while ago helped a lot.”
“Then you mean—music?”
“You can say that.”
You don’t deem it impossible.
After all, music itself is some method of relaxation and healing! Oh, to think that you were able to abate this person’s pain in some way or another eases the weight in your chest.
The more you look at the smiling man’s face, the more you’re inclined to believe that he’s hiding things—hurtful things—under it.
In the end, isn’t it those who smile the most experience the heaviest of woes?
Snapping your fan shut in a burst of vigor, you hold him by the arm, taking him with shock as he looks at you—eyes wide.
“I’ll sing once more then!” you insist, leaning with an insistent flame lighting in your [c]s. “And I’ll sing for you throughout my stay.”
Alatus can’t help but blink in wonder at the act of benevolence.
At first, he thinks that she’s doing this out of the need to fulfill her conscience—and though he might’ve been correct, he now believes that the [c]nette is doing this out of the goodness of her own heart.
Now, it isn’t too rare for humans to have such a warm heart, but motive and self-gratification often precede goodness. But he can somehow feel it in this lady’s aura.
The genuine want to help.
It does its wonder in rendering him silent, giving pivotal seconds to dwell in the fruit of their encounter. It’s nice, truly.
Not only is there the voice to soothe, but the heart to be sincere. Ponders the Yaksha, the ghost of a smile curling his lips up. You’re rather fascinating, aren’t you?
The standstill must’ve snapped her out of her vigorous fire, because then she’s looking at him—then to the arm she had so suddenly grasped, and she’s retreating.
She’s once again opening her fan to hide her pink face, reddening when she hears him chuckling.
Alatus snickers at the sight. Cute.
Then, with a nod, he responds, “That’d be nice.”
He doesn’t mind having a lovely person sing to him night by night.
a/n: ah this was a ride :'DD can't believe I was able to write it in one sitting. the only angsty bit that i managed to add was about Xiao/Alatus trying to keep his karmic debt under wraps before MC came singing, so i thought the angst is a little nonexistent.
so i will add a short follow-up pertaining to MC's departure! the angst won't be too heavy, but it'll definitely be there~
(I was imagining MC singing this song, please, it's simply- fitting-)
