#crepus x reader

[asexual-but]

Hello if you dont have a problem with it coud you write something about the reader in crepus fic being younger like a teen and another fic about the reader having mental health problems and needing medication ( I have recently been diagnosed with depression and severe anxiety its been thought)and the acolytes and parental crepus freaking out cos they don’t know what to do and then comes albeido and recreates the medicine

Abyss anon🌌

Diluc, for all the horrors he had seen, could not remember a darker day.

His father had been hidden away in the room belonging to the Divine Creator, Diluc's beloved younger sibling. For quite some time now...

The skies of Teyvat were a deep purple, shrouded with dark clouds which collected near Mondstadt most prominently. The plants were beginning to wither and the animals were all more flighty than one might expect.

The Divine Creator was in distress, and there was nothing anyone could do about it.

Diluc watched from the window as clouds swirled and crawled across the sky, hoping that somehow this would all end.

Crepus' heart ached.

Disheveled and more than disheartened, was his child. Creator or not, an innocent creature who did not deserve the suffering they had been through. Crepus comfortingly smoothed out their hair.

It had been a few weeks now. Sometimes their Grace hardly had energy to eat, other times they were near hysterics. Going over possibilities of doom over and over again, clinging to him as though Crepus would disappear if they let go. Two such afflictions didn't fit together, but this child suffered all the same.

After the initial confusion and excitement of getting settled in Teyvat, a small capsule was found, and The Creator scooped it up in recognition. This was medicine, meant to help them regulate their mood.

It only lasted about a week, unfortunately, as some of the greatest scientific minds were dipping their hands in, taking more and more in an attempt to understand and recreate the compound.

Chief Alchemist Albedo of the Knights of Favonius, Forest Watcher Tighnari, Second of the Fatui Harbingers, Doctor Baizhu of Bubu Pharmacy. Each and every one searching for the answer. Teyvat may not have all the same compounds, but surely their could make an equivalent.

But the process was taking a long time. Even with as great of minds as theirs, there just wasn't anything to speed along the process.

The Creator insisted that it would be fine, that they could go a little while without their meds. But a little while turned into a month, a month turned to two, and they simply couldn't hold out any longer.

Their Grace whispered an apology to Crepus, hardly noticing the shaky breath their father took before he took their hand in his.

"Don't apologize, this isn't your fault, none of this is your fault."

.

.

.

Albedo burst through the doors of The Angel's Share, his frazzled state an odd sight to the staff who had volunteered to keep the space clean whilst the tavern remained closed to the public. Diluc whirled to face him.

"I've done it, hurry, bring me to-" Albedo hadn't even finished his sentence before Diluc had grabbed his arm and started dragging him away. The two men running frantically towards the gates of the city. The few citizens who were out and about watching with curious gazes.

In what felt like hours of non stop running, Albedo was stood in front of the Ragnvindr Manor, it felt especially cold there. Nervously he glances at Diluc who nodded and gave him a quick shove to usher him inside. Albedo followed closely as Diluc led him to The Creator's room.

"Your Grace?" Albedo asked, hardly receiving any reaction. Crepus fixed his eyes on Albedo, and the little bundle he had in his hand.

"Your Grace, I have brought you some medicine... It should be just like the one from before. I..." Albedo found himself at a loss for words when Diluc gave him another rough shove.

He approached the bed, seeing his god bundled under the blankets with a look that could only be described as exhausted on their face. Crepus stood and went to fetch water.

Crepus leaving caught their full attention, and they sat up, watching after him. "Dad?"

The voice they called him with broke each heart in the room. Small and vulnerable. Crepus didn't want to leave their side. He didn't want them to be afraid or alone. This wasn't just his god. It was his child. His baby. "I'll be right back, I'm just going to get you some water." Crepus soothed, though it took everything in him to stop his voice from wobbling with anxiety. His footsteps echoed throughout the halls as he retreated into the vast home.

Albedo hadn't ever been in the Ragnvindr Manor. He assumed it wasn't usually this dreary. Or... maybe it was considering how Diluc usually was. But the deep pit in his stomach was artificial. It was just an extension of the pain that Their Grace was in. How could one being feel anything so deeply? Albedo's mouth felt dry as he and Diluc waited in silence for Crepus to return. "Your Grace... how are you feeling?" Diluc was reluctant to ask. He knew how they were feeling, he could feel it too. It dragged at his very soul, calling him to lay in the abyss and never emerge again.

And usually, they would correct him. They didn't much like being called by such a respectful name by him or Kaeya. But when they spoke it was not to chastise him.

"Fine." They lied. They lied and it broke Diluc's heart. Did they know how much their misery was torturing him? Should they know? There weren't any words spoken as Crepus returned with the water, he guided The Creator to take the medicine. Diluc and Albedo waiting on baited breath. This had to be it. This had to fix it. And it didn't. That heavy, suffocating feeling remained. Diluc was about to turn to Albedo. Bark something or other about his incompetency. But Albedo just closed his eyes and nodded. "It will take a few weeks of consistent doses for this to clear up... but their body isn't rejecting the compound so far..." Albedo trailed off, mumbling something under his breath as Crepus and Diluc watched The Divine One closely. It was going to take some time... But Crepus was going to be there along the whole way.

I'm sorry this is so late, Abyss Anon!

[myfanfic-urfantrash]

I went through my drafts and found the makings of a cute little story idea(from ages ago omg 😭) I had planned it was a Crepus x Reader set when Kaeya and Diluc are just kiddos and like they keep seeing Crepus hang out with his 'friend' that makes him smile so much so they do some investigating and by that I mean just spying on them from behind the nearest big object because they are baby and Kaeya pieces together that Crepus and his 'friend' are actually dating because he caught them kissing once and Diluc is completely oblivious to them being together until they announce their engagement or something very silly cute and light hearted oh and it's all written from the perspective of Diluc and or Kaeya because that'd be a nice challenge and I definitely want a cute scene where Diluc is talking with Jean about his dad's 'friend' while they hang out with Kaeya and Barbara looking at flowers as she shows him how to make flower bracelets idk I want cute wholesome

[mermaid-trash]

Dear Crepus

Crepus Ragnvindr x fem!reader

Summary: After being missing for three years, Master Diluc had returned to Mondstadt. The entire city was thrilled to have their beloved Ragnvindr home once again, but for you, his return brought back only bittersweet memories that you preferred to forget.

Warnings: slightly suggestive at times if you squint, angst, reader was in a secret relationship with Crepus and Diluc finds out after his return :/

Wordcount: 1.9k

The city of freedom was once again buzzing with a sudden rush of excitement. Hushed whispers reverberated around the quaint cobblestone streets, every citizen seemingly taking it upon themselves to spread the word; after being missing for three years, Master Diluc had finally returned to Mondstadt.

He looked older, they said. More mature. They wondered where he had been, what he had been doing for three long years, each person coming up with theories that were more unlikely than the last. You couldn't bring yourself to participate in the speculation, however; wherever Master Diluc had been, you wished he had stayed there and never returned to Mond.

For three years, you had struggled to swallow correctly past the ever present lump in your throat. For three years, you had slept restlessly every night on tearstained pillows. For three years, you had tried desperately to forget the pain. Now, with the young Ragnvindr walking the streets of Mondstadt again, the wound that had just barely begun to heal had been torn open once again. Every glimpse of that painfully familiar scarlet hair was a sharp stab of pain to the gaping hole in your chest.

Thankfully, Master Diluc proved fairly easy to avoid. For weeks after his sudden reappearance, you remained determinedly focused on the peaceful life you had carved out for yourself in a secluded corner of Springvale. He never ventured out in that direction on his daily journeys between the winery and the city, and so your still new home remained untouched with memories.

Until one morning a month after his return, when a quiet yet firm knock at your door pierced the stagnant silence that pervaded your home.

There he stood on the doorstep, taller and broader than you remembered, yet his face still had that boyish look, and you were overcome with the sudden urge to wrap your arms around him, to hold the boy close and cry with him as you had never had the chance to- but you refrained, for despite the resolute set of his shoulders, he still looked as though he may run away at any moment. His eyes, red, so different from his father's, could not meet yours.

In one of his hands, gloved in leather and clenched by his sides, was a small bundle of parchments, folded neatly and secured with a silk ribbon. Instantly, you recognised them.

"Master Diluc," you greeted the young man as calmly as you could, despite the growing pit in your stomach, "it's wonderful to see you again."

It was your best attempt at maintaining a polite appearance, but the words felt hollow on your tongue. Of course, you were relieved that the boy you had loved was home and safe once again, but having him here, on your doorstop, was bringing the bitterest memories out of the shadowy recesses of your mind and into the harsh sunlight.

Then, Diluc finally met your gaze, and with that one look it was clear that you both already knew why he was here.

"May I come in?" he requested quietly. Without a word, you stepped aside, allowing the young nobleman to enter your home, to walk around your tiny kitchen and tarnish it with the dull ache you associated with the past.

Diluc stood in place beside your dining table silently for a moment, brows furrowed and seemingly deep in thought, while the dread in your stomach steadily fermented. Before he spoke, he cleared his throat gently, and your heart broke again for because even his cough sounded just like Crepus's.

"Forgive me for my sudden arrival, I won't take up much of your time." He began, and despite his nonchalant tone, you were sure that this would be an uncomfortable conversation for the both of you once he found the words to begin it. "I was sorting through some of my father's belongings in the winery. There was a locked drawer in his desk which contained…these."

He placed the bundle of parchment gingerly on the wooden tabletop, as though it were an impossibly valuable ancient relic. Or perhaps he knew that to you, they were. Scrawled across the pages was your own handwriting, the ink forming words which you could hardly recall almost five years after writing them. Crepus's responses, however, remained fresh in your mind, as though you had received them just yesterday. As though the pain of the last three years had never happened.

For several moments the room was quiet, Diluc unsure of how to proceed and you too embarrassed to know what to say.

"Did…did you read them?" You managed to ask weakly. The pink that tinged the tips of his ears gave you the answer that his thinly-pressed lips refused to voice. "Master Diluc, I'm-"

"Please," he cut you off with an almost exasperated sigh, "just Diluc."

With sudden clarity, you recalled a conversation you had had with his father years prior to this moment. Despite your connection to the Master of the family, you were ultimately still one of the common folk. Due to this unavoidable fact, you had insisted on referring to the two Ragnvindr boys as 'the young Masters', out of politeness.

"How have the young Masters been lately?"

"I bumped into the young Masters in the city earlier today."

"You look tired, Crepus. Have the young Masters been giving you trouble?"

Until one night in the Ragnvindr manor, amidst the impenetrable serenity that always enveloped your rare moments alone together, you had used their title. Then, loosened by the bottle of wine you had shared, Crepus had laughed at you, that charmingly handsome smile creating beautiful lines around his eyes.

"Dear, don't you think you know us well enough by now to refer to them by name?"

A bashful smile had bloomed on your lips at the gentle teasing, and with heat growing in your cheeks, you had teased back, "Oh no, Master Ragnvindr, the last thing I would want to do is offend such a noble family."

His responding laugh still rang in your ears now, as you suddenly remembered Diluc standing in your kitchen, watching attentively as you came out of your reverie. The sensation of roughened yet tender hands cupping your cheeks faded into familiar numbness.

"Diluc," you said, but the informality tasted even stranger after three years of unfamiliarity, "I'm very sorry you had to find out like this."

With trembling fingers, you reached for the letters, tracing carefully over the deep red ribbon fastened around them in an elegant bow. The paper was in pristine condition, folded and pressed into a neat bundle, obviously well-preserved in the empty winery for the past several years. Crepus had preserved these letters far better than you had preserved his, you realised with a jolt of guilt; his own letters, penned whilst he was away on business trips or vacations with the boys, were crumpled from falling asleep with his words clutched tight against your chest, and teardrops stained the paper and blurred the ink in places.

"I didn't know he'd kept them." You admitted quietly, ignoring the way your lip trembled.

By his sides, the leather gloves Diluc wore squeaked slightly as his fists clenched.

"I thought you might like to know that he had." Was all he said, before he made as though to leave.

Panic flared in you as soon as he turned to leave; despite having complicated feelings about Diluc's return to Mondstadt, the thought of him walking out of your life once again so soon made your chest ache.

"Wait!" you exclaimed, your hand reaching out to grab onto his arm and somehow prevent him from leaving, before shrinking back when he came to a sudden halt.

"I…I have his letters, if you'd like to…" you voice wavered only slightly as he cast a look over his shoulder at you, before tapering off into silence.

The young Master turned hesitantly, peering at you curiously with those intensely stern eyes. They were far less warm than his father's. The blazing red irises were fiery and passionate, yet lacked the softness that you considered home for a while. Just below the surface of his gaze, you recognised the multitude of emotions that he had not yet mastered the art of masking as well as Crepus had; or perhaps, you had spent so long watching Diluc grow into the man he was now, that reading his emotions was like second nature to you. It had taken years for you to recognise the emotions which Crepus chose to keep hidden- the subtle tightness of his jaw when he was irritated, the slight twitch in his lips when laughter threatened to break free, the soft creases around his eyes whenever his gaze fell on you.

In Diluc's eyes, bitterness swirled like a tempestuous wind, and with another guilty pang, you realised that you couldn't blame him for feeling that way. Perhaps it had been wrong of you to hide your relationship with his father for so long, even after the man's sudden death, but at the time you simply hadn't wanted the attention of the city on you as the new Mrs Ragnvindr. So, other than Adelinde, who had helped to smuggle you out of the winery before the family's breakfast could take place one too many times, no one in Mondstadt was aware of the extent of your familiarity with the nobleman. Then, after his death, the idea of coming clean felt…wrong, as though you would be trying to gain from your connection to the noble family. At least, that was what you told yourself.

Truthfully, you were just too much of a coward to deal with the questions that would arise. So, you kept the truth to yourself, and ignored the rumours that filled the city at your sudden despondency. The funeral had been a horrid affair; rows upon rows of Mondstadt citizens wore black and mourned the loss of their icon, the symbol of their home. You kept to yourself at the back of the congregation, and avoided the questioning gaze of the one remaining Ragnvindr, Kaeya. His one sapphire eye was sure to see through your half-hearted lies. So, you retreated to Springvale, and hoped that he would never question you on the rumours he undoubtedly heard.

He never did.

"No," Diluc answered eventually, meeting your gaze with an honourable certainty. "My father's romantic history is none of my business. You should keep those memories for yourself."

He hesitated for a moment, opening and closing his mouth once, before glancing away and selecting his next words with apparent carefulness.

"I am simply relieved that he was happy. And…should you ever need anything, you will always be welcome at the Winery."

And he turned to leave once again, departing the claustrophobic kitchen as quickly as he could and leaving you to choke on the knowledge that you and Crepus had been real. Time had worn the few memories you allowed to slip through into hazy, dreamlike sequences that you could not even be certain were real. But with Diluc's tentative validation, they seemed suddenly brighter, more clear. The red of Crepus's hair had been so like Diluc's.

You remembered now that amidst the secrecy and clever lies, the hushed whispers and hesitant touches behind closed doors, there had been moments of true happiness. Lying in each other's arms and basking in the glow of a lit fireplace on winter nights, bare skin pressed against bare skin as he made some excuse about 'conserving warmth'. Tasting the sweet headiness of dandelion wine on each other's lips as you danced around the kitchen late at night while the boys slept, unaware of the small piece of Celestia you were building in their home.

And for the first time in years, you wanted to remember. Perhaps Diluc was right, and those memories were best kept in pristine condition, locked away inside your heart, bundled together lovingly with a beautiful ribbon.

[pearlywritings]

I could also imagine that Crepus' admirers, nobles and commoners alike were mostly in for his wealth and status, some were too young for him but their family members tried to set them up, or widows with children older than his kids who could dispute the cash but who knows. Perhaps part of him was afraid if his dealings with the fatui were exposed, but genshin never cared to elaborate why he had a broken delusion, if some fatui member just gifted him that under the order of the doctor or if he had shadier dealings with them.

As much as I don't like Crepus pushing Diluc to fulfill his dreams in his stead, I still can't deny I find his character very intriguing (and he is also a hot dilf who we haven't even seen eyes of)

But I bet that the person he could've ended up with should be truly extraordinary to spark his interest. I think biggest green flag for him would be his potential future wife's interaction with the kids, fully accepting not only his bio kid, but also the adopted one and being OH SO PATIENT with shit the two used to pull when they were little and in teens.

I think it'd be a funny combo though how she is not that much interested in money, but he showers her with gifts when they finally on the further steps in a relationship.

"I assumed you wouldn't like someone enjoying what your wealth can provide?"

"Well, I am glad to know you enjoy it despite all those times you told me 'it's unnecessary to give me this'. And you phrased it not quite correctly: i wouldn't like wrong people chasing after my wealth, I'd like to spend it on the right one."

it's unclear how he got that delusion and I am not sure how his now wife would react if she found out - but I know she will eventually. But I strongly feel like the first thing she'd do is sit him down and demand him tell her everything. And listen what reasonings he has to share. And then, given what personality you'd give your reader, it could go different paths.

That's why I love such complex characters like him hehe

[valdemarismynonbinarylove]

Windblume Festival

Something I wrote as backstory to Nighthawk (which I don’t think I’ll ever finish, my bad lol) but the side stories I had written were some of my favorite writing I’ve ever done and I do want to share them.

Aurelius is a character I made up in place of Diluc’s mother (whom in the game we never hear about at all) This is simply some backstory of her and Crepus.

—————————————————————————

The wind blew softly through the air as the sun shined down on the city of Mondstadt. The cheers from citizens were louder today as streamers and flowers were paraded around the plaza. Food vendors set up shop, and marketers began lowering prices as they all got ready for the Windblume Festival.

Most would think the son of the winery owner would be working hard, trying to learn the ways of business and marketing. Possibly creating new recipes to quickly empty the pockets of passing drunkards. But alas, here he was, standing on the porch of a woman’s house. A smile on his face as he looked at her, a woman he had grown well accustomed to over the years... in a few different ways.

“Crepus, I’ve been standing here for two minutes. What is it you want to say?” Aurelius spoke, seemingly irritated for being interrupted from the adventurous tale of star-crossed lovers that she had been reading.

“Are you still reading that book?” Laughing, the redhead snatched the book from her hands. “I don’t know how you can read such nonsense.”

With a quick movement, she plucked it from his grasp. “Love isn't nonsense, I happen to like it a lot.”

“From experience, darling, I know.” He winked.

The apples of her cheeks turned red as she averted her gaze from the man in front of her. “Just tell me what you came here to ask.”

“I was wondering if you would like to accompany me to the Windblume Festival.” He folded his hands together, giving her a smile.

“Shame you didn’t ask earlier, Crepus. I already have a date.”

“I doubt it. Who else willingly would want to put up with you?” He leaned against her door frame, a smirk on his face. There was no harshness in his words, she knew that. Even if there was, gazing at how his bangs fell in his face, or how his eyes seemed to hold the stars in them... she could never think to be mad at him.

“How rude of you. I guess I’ll truly say no to that handsome face of yours.” She huffed, giving him a side glance.

Laughing he gave her a shrug. “I guess I’ll have to find another woman to share my mint jelly with.”

“Ah, tempting offer.” Aurelius pretended to think about his offer. “I’m in, I’ll go with you.”

“Quite hurtful that the only way to convince you to spend time with me is when I bring you food.” He crossed his arms with a scoff.

“I am a lady with simple needs.” She shrugged, giving him a small smile.

“Simple needs indeed, but I’ve seen the things you do. You are hardly a lady.” Crepus winked, raking his eyes over her form.

“Then that makes you hardly any gentleman.” She threw her arms around his neck, leaning in close. “I doubt most men would ever beg for a woman like you do. Pleading on your knees like a dog, you’re lucky I indulge you.”

The tips of his ears turned red as he sputtered, “That was one time, Aurelius.”

“One time still counts.” She kissed the tip of his nose. “Meet me at the gates at six.” Pulling away and smoothing out his coat, she fixing his shirt collar.

“Okay, gates at six.” He repeated, nodding his head. “Got it.”

“Wonderful, see you then.” She smiled softly, leaning against the door frame.

“See you then.” He tilted her chin up, kissing her sweetly. He returned her smile and turned, walking off her porch.

Aurelius shut the door and let out a gentle laugh.

What a pain in the ass that man was.

—————————————————————————

Aurelius wasn’t exactly the richest person in Mondstadt. If anything, her family landed somewhere in the lower class region.

Food was scarce amongst them, her father was a Bard, but one of the many bards who wandered the streets late at night and ended up passed out with a barrel of ale as his pillow. He wasn’t able to make a lot of money, but she supported her father no matter what. After all, he did buy her the most gorgeous dress he could afford for her 16th birthday.

It was red, reached down to her ankles, small vines of golden fabric swirled up the sides and around her bust. She thought it was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen, she hoped Crepus thought the same thing.

Aurelius spent an hour in the bath, scrubbing her skin to make sure it was spotless, lathering her hair in soap to make it smell nice. She swiped her mother’s red lipstick on her lips, and put a little on her cheeks, mimicking how the older women of Mondstat do it.

She slipped on her dress and shoes, grabbing a small pouch of mora which she’d saved for such an occasion, and began making her way downstairs.

“Papa?” She called, dashing over to where her father stood. “I’m leaving to meet Crepus for the festival. Are you going to enjoy it with Mother?”

“Your Mother and I will be staying here tonight, enjoy yourself with Crepus.” He sent her out of the house with an amicable grin. “Don’t come back too late, and if he tries anything let me know. He may be rich but if he hurts you, I’m not afraid to knock some sense into him.”

Aurelius laughed, “He won’t try anything, I promise. I’ll be back a little after sundown, okay?”

“Stay safe.”

“You too.”

She ran out towards the gates, hoping she wasn’t late. She saw a familiar ponytail of fiery red and knew it was Crepus; who else had such a wonderfully unique hair color?

“Crepus!” She called, jogging up to him with a smile. “You look handsome!”

He turned at the sound of her voice, smiling at the sight of her. “You look gorgeous. Was this the dress your father gave you? He has good taste.”

“You flatter me,” she winked, grabbing his hand. “Well, come on. Take me around the festival, don’t stand and stare at me.”

“You look so devilishly tempting…” he trailed off, his eyes racking over her figure.

“I know, you said that.” Aurelius teased, blushing lightly as she continued on. “You look good yourself, handsome even. Yes, handsome is the word. You look incredibly handsome in your coat.”

“Now who’s embarrassed, hm?” He teased back.

“Ah, come on!” She elbowed him. “Impress me with this date, Crepus.”

“I won’t disappoint.” He grabbed her hand.

“I believe you.”

He led her up across the bridge, the sound of music filling their ears as he laced their fingers together.

“So, why did you ask me to the festival with you? Hoping to get some afterwards?” She raised a brow.

“We grew up together, why wouldn’t I ask you? No one else gets along with me as well as you do.”

“That’s all? Not because you love me?” She looked up at him, “Did I spend all that time with you for nothing?”

“If I took you places just because I loved you, I’d be taking you everywhere I go.”

“You do.”

“…touché.”

He squeezed her hand with a laugh, she gazed at him with soft eyes, watching his nose crinkle in amusement and his tongue slightly poke out from his teeth.

The streets of Mondstat were painted with white and blue flowers, dandelions floated through the air as people bustled in crowds. Children munched on the sweets of the festival, many women tasted the new wines offered just around this part of the year.

“Aurelius.” Crepus spoke, gently grabbing her attention. “Do you remember when we came here as children?”

“Of course, they’re the brightest memories I own.”

“I want to make wine again, like we did when we were younger.”

“Our wine tasted awful, and yet your father owns the most successful winery business in Teyvat. How come you didn’t have some kind of knowledge about how to make good wine, hm?”

“I was twelve.”

“So? I could play lyre at twelve.”

“Wine and Lyres are very different. We’ll make a good wine this time, we won’t shove every ingredient into it”

She laughed, “Yes, perhaps we should leave the slime condensate out of our brew.”

“How about a dandelion wine? We could try and find a good recipe for my father to try out.”

“Sure, we can attempt a dandelion wine, but I doubt the ingredients given to us are as good as the ones your father buys.”

“It could be a prototype.”

“You really want to impress him, don’t you?”

“I want him to know that I’m responsible enough to take over the business. He’ll be giving it to me soon, I just want to ease his worries.”

“You’ll be a great owner, it’s in your blood.” The blonde hummed thoughtfully.

He sighed, squeezing her hand lightly. “Thank you, Aurelius.”

—————————————————————————

“This wine tastes disgusting.” Aurelius muttered, spitting the drink back into the cup she had taken a sip out of.

“Well I told you that you went too heavy on the wolfhook. It’s not something you should abuse.” Crepus muttered, looking down at his own cup.

“I hardly abused it.”

“I think four cups of it is abuse, do you want to try mine?” He gently held out his cup.

“Oh no, I’m alright.”

“Not even a sip?”

“No, I think I should try and drink less wine.”

“...are you feeling well?” He questioned.

“Yes, Crepus, just because I don’t want to drink wine doesn’t mean I’m sick.”

“It’s just odd is all.”

“Am I that much of an alcoholic for you to say such things? You wound me, darling.”

He laughed, “I guess maybe I am being harsh, come, let’s see what else there is to do.” He placed an arm around her waist.

“I can serenade you if you wish, I’ll sing about my eternal love for you. I’ll praise your name as if it were an Archon’s.” She whispered, gently moving in front of him to brush a strand of hair behind his ear, she wrapped an arm around his waist. “I’ll sing of our nights together, tangled limbs out in the fresh grass under the moonlight.”

Crepus blushed, “As much as I would love to hear you sing of such things, does your voice not hurt from singing to me last week? You reached quite a high pitch.” He teased, “You seemed quite hoarse afterwards.” He whispered, gently kissing her nose.

She smacked his chest, “I’m trying to be romantic, you bastard.”

“You brought it up first.” He squeezed her waist, a teasing smile on his face.

She blushed, “Not right now, there are far too many layers on this dress.”

“I could make quick work of them.”

“Not right now.” She repeated, “Please?”

“Of course, I’m only jesting, Aurelius.” He kissed her forehead and pulled her further into the festival.

They spent the day laughing, holding each other in their arms as they felt a sense of peace between them. A feeling of true enjoyment in life, staring into the eyes of someone who looked at you like you were their entire world. In this case it was true, an example of true love, you could say.

—————————————————————————

Aurelius leaned her head on Crepus’ shoulder, their backs against one of the pillars behind the cathedral. The sun was slowly going down, a gentle breeze brushed against them as they shared a small cup of juice.

“The sky is gorgeous tonight.” Crepus spoke, looking up at the soft orange and pink hues.

Aurelius hummed in response, her eyes more fixated on the loose string on her dress.

He looked down at her, “Are you alright?”

“...no.” She whispered. “I haven’t been completely honest with you.”

“Aurelius?” He questioned.

“I’m sorry, Crepus.” Tears welled up in her eyes, she grasped his hand in hers, “Please forgive me for what I’m about to say.”

“Aur—“ He tried, once more.

“—I’m pregnant.” She choked out, a feeling of nausea rushed over her. Anxiety began to crawl through her skin as she stared at the man in front of her. The anticipation of his words made her want to vomit.

He couldn’t speak, the words settled at the bottom of his stomach. His eyes seemed twice the size, he turned from her. He swallowed hard, “Are you sure?”

“Yes, I’m sure.”

He fumbled with his hands for a minute, before shoving his hand in her face. Between his fingers was a ring, his ring. It shined brightly as the gentle sunlight hit it, his hand was shaking.

“Marry me.”

“I—What?”

“Marry me, Aurelius.” He grasped a hand in hers, “I know this is not a proper ring, but it’s all I have at the moment. Please, say yes. This has me thinking, about us, you getting pregnant only makes the next step easier. I love you, and I want to have this baby with you.”

I love you.

The words rang in Aurelius' head as she stared at the pleading man; he was anxious, she noted. Seeing his hand shake in fear of rejection, in fear that if she declined that his title would be destroyed by the birth of a bastard child.

No, no, Crepus could care less of his title, this was real emotion.

He loved her.

“Yes.” Was all she could manage to choke out in that moment, she felt his lips press against hers as her back hit the pavement below them. She smiled gently, tangling her hands in his hair as she kissed him passionately. “I love you.” She whispered, cupping his face. “I love you so much, more than you could ever know.”

He smiled brightly, laughing gently. “You fill me with an indescribable feeling, one that even love can’t explain. It’s bigger than anything I’ve ever felt, and I hope it never goes away.” He slipped his ring onto her finger, it was big, of course. She moved it to her thumb, hoping it wouldn’t slide off.

“We have to tell our parents. Everyone.” She laughed, “I want to scream it from the roof that I’m engaged to the most wonderful man that the Archons could give me, the one I am allowed to call mine for the rest of eternity.”

“Let’s go home.” He pulled her up off the ground. “We can tell your parents first, I should apologize to your father for not asking for his blessing first. Though, this was quite a situation.”

“Let’s not mention the child at first, I would rather him not drop dead at the thought.” She laughed.

“Good idea.” He nods, grabbing her hand and rushing towards her house. She laughed, smiling at him with an immeasurable amount of glee, one that soon was replaced with a frown as a hand covered her eyes.

A shaky voice beside her, Crepus, wasn’t he just laughing? Why was he scared? Why wasn’t she laughing anymore?

Drip. Drip.

She felt tears hit her neck, the hand around her eyes was shaking. “Don’t look, Aurelius, please.” His voice was desperate, it screamed of fear and disgust.

“Crepus…” she reached to take his hands off her eyes, only for him to pull her out of the house.

“Please, Aurelius, your parents…” he gasped out, “I’m so sorry…”

She stood still, she took note of the slight splotch of red on Crepus’ boot. “No…”

“Aurelius—“

“—No!” She yelled, pushing past him and running into the house. Her eyes widened as she dropped to her knees, she heaved, feeling like she was going to wretch. She gagged, placing a hand over her mouth.

They were both covered in red, the house was splattered in the damn color. She could see the inside of her father’s stomach laid across the couch. The head of her mother was laying feet from her body. She didn’t scream, she couldn’t, she just stared in horror at the grotesque scene before her.

She felt herself be hauled up, the hand returned over her eyes as Crepus tried to get through to her. He yelled her name, she was rigid. She choked on her words, her legs felt like jelly. Crepus took his hand off her eyes. “Aurelius…”

She let out a sob, she collapsed into his arms. She was crying so hard she had begun to feel nauseous. Crepus picked her up in his arms, “I’ll take you back to the Winery, I’ll alert the knights.” He whispered. “I’m so sorry, Aurelius.”

She could only cry in response to his words, tears fell down his face as well. They were like parents to him, a mother and a father who didn’t push him to act a certain way. Freedom is what it was, they gave him what he longed for.

Crepus carried Aurelius to the Winery, informing his parents of the circumstances. They took Aurelius in, making sure she would be okay. She couldn’t move, she gripped the fabric of Crepus’ white shirt tightly, her knuckles beginning to match the shade.

“Crepus…” she cried, “Please don’t leave me.”

“I’m not going to leave, I’m right here.” He held her tight, “I’m not going anywhere.” He whispered.

“Why them? They were harmless…” she sobbed.

“I don’t know, darling, I don’t.” He picked her up. “Let me take you upstairs, wash you off.”

“Okay…” she whispered, nodding her head. “Mhm.”

He turned to a maid, asking her to get a warm bath started. He carried Aurelius up the stairs taking her into his bedroom to find clothes for her to wear...ones that weren’t covered in blood.

He placed her on the bed, taking a step back to go into his closet when he felt a tug on his arm.

“Don’t leave.” Aurelius begged.

“I’m stepping away to the closet, that’s it. I’ll still be in the room.”

“Crepus please…” she cried.

He took her hand off his sleeve, “Of course…”

He helped her up back onto her feet, moving her towards the closet. He grabbed a sweater, something that would hopefully bring her some warmth and comfort. Aurelius shook with every step that she took, her eyes not focused on anything but her feet.

“There’s blood on them,” she whispered, “On my shoes, on your boots.”

Crepus followed her gaze down, then put a finger under her chin, tilting her head up to meet his eyes. “I’ll have them cleaned, I promise. Just focus on me right now, okay?” He whispered, voice choking quietly.

Without another word, he led her into the washroom, dismissing the maid and beginning to unlace her dress. Once the fabric pooled around her feet, he guided her to sit in the bathtub, kneeling down beside her.

“Crepus?” She whispered, bringing her knees to her chest.

“Yes, darling?” He responded at the same level, wetting a small towel to wipe the blood off her hands.

She gulped, letting out a small cry. “Thank you.” She sniffled loudly, turning her head towards him. “Thank you…”

He stood on his knees, leaning forward and pressing a kiss to her head. “I’m here with you as long as you need me…after you’re washed…I’ll lay with you in bed. How does that sound?”

“That sounds nice…can I wear your jacket while we do?”

“Of course, anything you want.” He gave her a small smile, though the tears in his eyes betrayed his happy look. He put on a brave face for her, not wanting to overwhelm her anymore.

Crepus washed her down, placing her in the comfy sweater and a soft pair of pants he tied a ribbon around to keep hold around her hips. He took off his jacket, placing it on her shoulders. He wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her tightly.

She looped her arms around his neck, burying her face in his chest. “All I have left of home is you.”

“I’m sorry, Aurelius…I grieve them as much as you…”

“They loved you…just like a son…my father was always grateful for your kindness towards me…his…” she choked on her words, gripping the back of his shirt, “…his little nightingale.”

“You can let it out, my love, I won’t judge you for it. Just scream, cry, kick, I don’t care…let it out.” He encouraged, giving her hip a reassuring squeeze. “I’m here for you, every step of the way.”

“Can we move to the bed, please?” She whispered, “I’m just…very tired. My brain is screaming but my body can’t move.”

Crepus led her over to the bed, laying her down and pulling the covers over her before laying on the other side. “Sleep as long as you want, I won’t wake you for breakfast.”

“But you’ll save me some, right?”

“I’d never let you starve.” He smiled softly, wrapping an arm around her. “Now rest, please, you need it.”

“Goodnight, Crepus…I love you.” Aurelius muttered, burying her face in his chest.

“I love you too.” He kissed the top of her head, closing his eyes.

—————————————————————————

Feel free to reblog, I’ve got a shit ton of other side stories if this one peaks anyone’s interest.

[madametrashbin]

Gentle Dusk

Side stories!... In which this will be how I spend my time with the series while I wait for the Main Story to be updated after I finish Veil of Starlight. :D

These are just... moments with the characters, maybe an insight for you guys to just understand what they’re like in this particular storyline because, y’know, dead characters aren’t necessarily dead here (and I refuse to accept Mihoyo made these beautiful characters to die... like, why are they so pretty?! Explain yourselves, Mihoyo!!)

Today’s spotlight character is...! Uhh... Actually, I’ll just let you guys read it and see. 

(I wanted to post this Wednesday but Wifi went out and my phone is kind of ass when it comes to writing on Tumblr, so I had to delay it... unfortunately. I’ll get my brain back to work on Veil of Starlight now.)

Today’s a good day.

Crepus immediately thinks as the weather was at the perfect temperature, probably because a certain Exalted figure was coming today. He’s rather ecstatic to spend some time with them today, a chance to get to know his savior in person... he won’t say it to many people, but he wasn’t a fan of how possessive the Archons were.

He could tell a lot of the other worshippers weren’t as happy about it either, thinking the manner of how the Archons treated their statuses over the rest of them was unfair. 

The Creator treated all equally, so why do they believe they hold the right to keep the Creator’s attention on them more than anyone else?

“Father.”

Crepus turns away from the sky, looking back to his son who stood at the stairway from where he was,

“Their Grace has arrived. It’s best you get there quickly before Barbatos drags them away again.”

“Alright. Thank you, Diluc.”

His son, ever so quiet compared to his brother, only nods in response before Crepus heads off... although he does ruffle the young man’s hair quickly and jogs away to the gate before the young man could react.

As he made his way closer to the gate, the tingling feeling within him that bursts like those fireworks from Inazuma grew more prominent, setting his body ablaze with a warmth that gave him a sense of enlightenment. The Creator’s blessings are within everyone, but very rarely do individuals ever hold enough to feel that connection more prominently.

Crepus felt blessed to be one of those rare individuals himself.

“Your Grace.”

He finally spotted them at the entrance of the city, the familiar white silk outfit that was wrapped around their perfect form... The unmistakable light of stardust that shimmers from behind them as they stood at the gate with a relatively relaxed expression.

Seeing their bright eyes of stars look towards him, he feels his breath taken away yet again... truly, to have them look at him no matter how many times it happens, it still makes him lose his composure and find himself rendered speechless with awe and adoration.

“Crepus.”

“Ah, my apologies... I cannot get used to how beautiful you are, Your Grace.”

He finds himself back to reality at the call of his name, and nearly forgets to respond when he sees them looking at him still. He couldn’t really help himself though! How could he, when an existence so wonderful has arrived and graced the world with their presence?

“O-Oh... Is that so?”

Crepus is graced with the twinge of red from their cheeks, the infamous shy nature their Exalted God held was shown as he finds himself entranced yet again. How very humble his divine savior was...

He couldn’t help but be endeared by the sight, as he gently took their hand (making sure to ask permission first, unlike the Archons who just forcefully dragged them around without ever being considerate of what they wanted) and soon led them around Mondstadt.

Crepus is a gentleman as he is an honest man.

Finally getting the chance to know him better without any of the Archons forcefully butting into everything like usual for your attention, you find yourself understanding just how Crepus easily influenced the people around him, and the respect held by many people who knew him (when he was dead in the storyline you knew).

While he still isn’t a part of the Knights of Favonius in this world, he still lent a hand to the city when they needed him... never once did treat his status as one of the rare blessed people as leverage over the others.

You can see why Diluc had been so eager to make his father proud, and why Kaeya had struggled to decide his allegiance between his homeland of birth and the land that took him in... you would’ve been the same if you were in their shoes.

(Even so, you still cannot understand how someone wonderful like him consider you as beautiful to the point of rendering him speechless. As far as you were certain, you just looked like some ordinary civilian... if you ignored the unnatural light you were constantly emitting with no end in sight, that is.)

“Is there anything you want, Your Grace?”

Out of all the other wealthier people, Crepus is surprisingly tamed when it comes to spending his money... unlike Childe or Ningguang who would pull out their wallets at the second you look at something for a second too long, Crepus only buys something when you actually do want something.

Which, if you had to be honest, makes you relax around him a lot more easily compared to the rest... and his devotion for you is generally more relaxing. He isn’t pressuring you to do anything, so you find yourself truly enjoying his company without being too exhausted. 

(It’s not that you don’t like everyone else... it’s just a bit too much sometimes when they’re all pushing you behind their looks and words that are kind of demanding you to do something even when you just wanted to sit and relax.)

“I’m... feeling a little hungry.”

“Is that so? Then let us find a place to eat. Any place in particular that you wish to go to, Your Grace?”

Okay, yeah. Being with Crepus is a lot less stressful than most others. You’d say he ranks the same as Thoma, with the amount of patience and consideration of what you want.

He’s a new favorite, not that you’d say it out loud to anyone... you’re kind of worried about that, having witnessed some less-than-pleasant moments between your “worshippers” before and saw the disasters that unfolded in front of you.

You don’t want Crepus to deal with those messes, let alone get caught up in them now that you got to know him better than what little you knew of him.

Now then... here’s to hoping that the others who are not dead are like him...

[sucrosia]

— FOREVER, UNTIL THE END

he loves you, you love him (general headcanons)

crepus

let's start off with, drumroll please, love language! first of all, crepus has money. he has a lot, so i feel like that he'd enjoy spoiling you rotten with gifts. whether they be small, large, or nonetheless just a gift - it'll always be meaningful and usually somewhat expensive. hey, only the best for you, right? i feel that quality time is also a big one for him. he lo-oves spending time with you, whether it just be you keeping him company as he cleans up the tavern or just watching a movie together. either way, he loves it.

date nights are always fun with this man. he'll never take you to the same place in a row. crepus is willing to always put you first in dates and just in general. sometimes, date nights are helping him take care of diluc. it's fun i promise, maybe, perhaps, it may dissolve into chaos but you two enjoy it.

to crepus, dates are just spending special time with the love of your life and he's already found it. so long as you two have fun and enjoy the date, crepus will be more than happy to take you on more dates.

cuddles? you know it. being the small spoon or big spoon really depends on crepus' mood (like father like son). most ot the time, crepus is the big spoon. he loves holding you, and feeling like he could protect you from all dangers. shhh don't tell him i told you this but crepus is really insecure about the fact that he may not be able to protect you and eventually lose you so being the bigger spoon gives him a slight ego booster and tons of relief. sometimes though, crepus just wants to desperately be held by you. something about your touch makes this man go crazy. it's like a drug, he will never be able to get enough. let this man smother his face in your chest while you hold his head pls

what would crepus love about you? well, in short, everything. he loves running his hands through your soft hair, the color of your eyes and the way he can stare into them for forever, your huggable and absolutely stunning body, he loves the way your hand fits perfectly into his, the way your face is so cuppsble, the way your cheeks get red and hot whenever he compliments you, and so on and so on. you must get the hint by now: he quite literally adores you. if you were to ask him specifically, he'd say your lips. he loves kissing them. insecure? dude, just hit my man up and you'll get an ego boost immediately.

would you guys have more than just one kid? slim chance but he wouldn't be opposed. i feel like he'd love love love the image of having a family with you, i just don't think (considering how old he is), that he can really handle more than one kid. plus he's off busying himself with work, barely having the time. yeah he has maids but he wants to watch your guys' kids grow up, not just be an absentee father (like mine /hj). so, it was a blessing and a curse when kaeya arrived at your guys' doorstep.

crepus would be slow with the relationship, not wanting to immediately rush you into something you may not be prepared for. and honestly, he also has to prepare himself, not in a bad way though. to think that he'd spend the rest of his life with you, a beautiful, stunning, smart person, is enough to give him butterflies.

after notes... CREPUS MY BELOWVD <3 anyway, if you've seen me on my main lingering with cal, talking about dilf!crepus shhhh... speaking of cal, @cxlrose helped me (and got some spoilers too..) with this somewhat <33

taglist... @darlingxannie

[sohyuki]

BEYOND THIS TOWN LIES A LIFE MUCH SADDER.

I would know you anywhere. i once loved you, 

now i don’t know you at all ; 

feat : crepus 

warnings :  angst 

notes : title inspired by orville peck, quote[s] by eaven boland and anna carson

@3rdgymbros​ : this is payback for the dn jokes >:( the amount of time i spent on this is embarrassing and i hate that i kinda had fun with it too. it was a lot of 1 am writing but finally, finally, it’s done. enjoy :D / thank you so much to the discord server and @marius-z​​​ for brainstorming with me when i got stuck, ilu <33

You meet him in autumn. 

Crepus Ragnvindr is tall and lithe and the picture of nobility. His hair, fiery like the breath of a phoenix, is tied back with a leather cord and drapes across his shoulder. There is a hint of mirth and mischief in his eyes (A dimmed shade of red, you think. Something that reminds you of the last sparks of a dying fire. The loss of lustre in the facets of a ruby. The last moments of a sunset.) But they speak of kindness and warmth as well. Of rooms filled with light and laughter. Of gentle hands and careful movements. And sometimes, you think they might speak of love. 

The Ragnvindr family of Mondstadt holds a banquet on the first day of autumn to celebrate the coming of age of their heir. The streets are rife with activity as Mondstadt and its residents  prepare for the banquet: street performers weave through the crowds, silk and the jingle of bells  dancing in the air; bards sing hymns and poems of tales long past, of heroes etched in stone and of the wind and its god; children run through cobblestone alleyways, carrying baskets of rose petals to scatter into the wind. 

It’s safe to say that the family blessed by fire is well-loved by the people of Mondstadt. Everywhere you turn, there is excitement and anticipation, joy and laughter. Though you don’t understand what all the fuss is about — Crepus Ragnvindr may be the heir to the city of freedom, but he is no god. Nor is he someone chosen by them, He’s human. Mortal. Just like the young son of the blacksmith. Just like the old couple from Good Hunter’s. Just like you. 

“Done daydreamin’ schnucki?” 

The rolling pin clatters out of your hands as Ines Lavigne knocks the back of your legs with her broom. She lets out a chuckle at your surprise, the corners of her eyes crinkling at your indignation. “What’re you thinking of in that head of yours?” 

You shrug, avoiding her inquisitive gaze. She leans over your shoulder, and you can almost feel the delight radiating from her. Ines Lavigne — proud owner of Fait Maison, Fontaine’s only outpost bakery— is no one if not a chronic gossip. There are few who can compete with her skills of sniffing out a good story, or prying as much information from her victims as Ines can. You, unfortunately, have been subject to her inquisition one too many times (The time you mused about how the Gunnhildr's first son had eyes as blue as Lamp Grass. The accidental sigh you let out while people-watching through the window of the bakery, only for Ines to appear just as the Lady of the Lawrence clan walked by.) that even the slightest quirk of her lips sets off the alarm bells in your head. 

“Oh, ho! Has spring come early to Mondstadt?” She teases, taking in the grimace on your face with unconcealed glee. She laughs as you brush past her, sliding a tray of cookies into the rack by the oven. The window of the bakery is open, and you hear the sounds of laughter and conversation fill the world beyond the four brick walls you’ve come to call home. Music filters in, a bard or a band playing the Song of Vennessa somewhere in the city, a voice singing the tale of the Dandelion Knight.  

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” You say, sending her a pointed look before dusting your flour-ridden hands on your apron. The cloth feels rough against your hands; the ends fray into tiny threads, the patchwork pattern is now worn and faded and you think it’s definitely seen better days. 

She scoffs, brushing a hand across her forehead. “Right,” she drags, “As if you weren’t staring dreamily out the window. The only thing in that general direction is — Ah ha! Is it the carpenter’s boy? He’s a darling, lapin! Green eyes, and a gentle kind of face. Mrs. Huber from the tavern said he’s just the sweetest thing you’ll ever meet. Lukas — you remember him, right? The adventurer with the scar on his arm — told me the boy once —” 

“Ines! There is no one. I was just admiring the city square. That’s all.”

Even with your back to her, you know she’s sending you the stink eye. She’s not convinced and you can feel it. But there truly is no one, you think. Mondstadt has been all you’ve known your entire life. You know the cobblestone paths and the trees like the back of your hand. You know the change in the wind and the scent of wind asters the same way you know the smell of baked bread and an oven fire. You’ve never been one to think, to dream or contemplate the idea that one day, you’d know someone more than you know your home. That one day, there would be someone as familiar to you as the toll of the church bell or the taste of dandelion wine after a day’s work. 

The jingle of the bakery bell breaks into the silence, snapping you out of your thoughts. You don’t register the gasp Ines lets out until you meet a pair of inquisitive ruby eyes. (They’re brighter than you imagined. There is wisdom and youth beneath the obvious warmth, and you’re reminded of the first rays of a sunrise. Stunning, a part of your mind whispers)

Crepus Ragnvindr stands in the tiny cornerstone bakery, looking every bit the heir to the uncrowned rulers of Mondstadt. His eyes (Too-knowing. Too aware) dart between you and Ines before resigning himself with a breathy chuckle. He bows, at the waist with an incline of his head, and you can’t help the way your body stiffens when he holds out his palm for your hand. 

“It is a pleasure to be in the company of such lovely people,” he says, peeking at you from under the locks of his fringe, “To whom do I owe the pleasure on this fine morning?” 

Ines squeals, loud and utterly obvious, and nudges you with her shoulder. There is an unmistakable flush on her cheeks and the glint in her eyes remind you too much of a predator eyeing their newfound prey. 

“The pleasure is all ours, Master Ragnvindr!” she exclaims, nudging you harder while jerking her head towards his still-outstretched palm. Crepus Ragnvindr smiles, and it takes everything in you not to turn away and run. Because something deep in your being trembles, cowers at the flutter in your chest and the tightness of your cheeks. The corner of his mouth tilts upwards a fraction more. 

“A-ah, yes. Thank you for your patronage, Master Ragnvindr.” You offer him your hand, albeit just a tad bit reluctant and introduce yourself. (A shiver shoots down your spine when his lips brush against your skin. You can feel the upturned corners of his smile and for a second, your mind wanders what it might feel like against yours)

“What can we do for you, Master Ragnvindr?” Ines beams at him. 

“Rumour has it this is the best bakery in Mondstadt,” he says. “I thought I’d sneak away for a few moments to see for myself.”

“You flatter us too much, Master Ragnvin—” 

“Crepus, my lady. Just Crepus is fine.” 

Calling a noble by their given name? As commoners, you and Ines could never. Probably would never even try to. Even though Mondstadt is a changed city from the days of the Lawrence clan’s tyranny, there is still a fine line drawn between nobility and commoners. What would the townspeople think if you called out to him in familiarity? Would they think you presumptuous? Would they scorn you in hushed whispers and sidelong glances? Would they think you were friends? (Lovers?) 

(Crepus. Crepus. Crepus — You want to say. You want to feel the syllables of his name against your lips. You want to hear the syllables of yours on his.)

Ines looks like she wants to protest, maybe insist on calling him at least ‘Master Crepus’ but he holds up a hand to stop her. The expression on his face is sheepish, almost embarrassed. His eyes seem to implore the two of you silently, and it stuns you for a moment because suddenly, he looks every bit the young boy he is supposed to be. Not Crepus Ragnvindr, heir to the House of Ragnvindr. Not Crepus Ragnvindr, son of Nox Ragnvindr, Teyvat’s leading business tycoon. 

Right now, as the sound of revelry flows in through the open window, he is just Crepus. Crepus, who snuck away for a few moments of reprise. Crepus, who stands before you, blushing and nervous. Crepus, who craves companionship over loyalty. Crepus, who stutters when you hold out a hand to shake.

“I’ve told you my name, and now you’ve told me yours. That makes us acquaintances — if that’s what you want, Crepus.” 

You feel the same shiver in your spine when he takes your hand. His palm is warm against your skin, soft but you can feel the calluses. It’s nice, you think. You like how your hands fit, how sure you feel when his skin touches yours. You like this. (You like him.) 

“Thank you,” he says, beaming back at you. “I hope this is the start of a wonderful journey, my friend.” 

“Friend? I like the sound of that.” 

If only you knew what you were getting into.

He leaves you in winter. 

You’re older and so is he. The seasons have come and gone and Mondstadt ushers in a quiet winter. The tiny bakery you once called home now houses a general goods store, the puff of smoke from the chimney no longer permeating into the air. Ines had bid you goodbye the night before, her hands clasped around yours and the glimmer of tears in her eyes. Home calls, she had said, brushing a hand down your face. I will miss you, my dearest. 

You hate goodbyes. Hate them like you hate the tartness of lemons. The humidity in the air after rain. The colour red. The softness of touch. His lips. His hands. The leather cord by your bedside. The roses in your garden. The weight of his head on your lap. The sigh against your neck. The quietness of your home. The way he smiles at her. The ache in your chest. Him. Crepus. Him. Him. Him. 

You hate the night he said goodbye, the tremble in his fingers as he broke your heart with every word coming out of that stupid mouth of his. (You’ve tasted those lips. You know what they feel like. What they mean to you.) He spoke of his family, of his obligation as the heir, his duty to continue and ensure the survival of the Ragnvindr house. What about us, you had said. What about our love. What about the years we’ve spent together. What about me.

(You who knew only of the feel of his hands and no one else’s. You who counted the stars in the sky and the constellations in his eyes. You who remembered the curve of his spine, the calluses of his hands, the threads of his hair. You who was marked, imprinted, wholly his.) 

His bride is beautiful. She is delicate, like a fairy amongst mortals. Her skin is snow pale and there is an ever-present flush on her cheeks. Her movements are graceful, beautiful, gentle. She smiles and you think even Celestia could be brought to its knees. You want to hate her. You want to hate and scream and curse her because she is everything you are not. She is lovely and kind and noble and Crepus looks at her the way he used to look at you and it hurts. It hurts because you should have been there. You should have been where she was, where she is. You should have been the one to hold his hand, to take his name, to be his family. But nothing will change the fact that Crepus chose her over you. Chose duty over you. 

You haven’t seen him in months, not since the day he kissed your tears under a cloudless sky and left without another word. The roses in your garden are left unattended and you let them die without a second thought. Mondstadt starts to feel more like a prison of memories than home. (The time you danced in the square together on Ludi Harpastum. The time he snuck into your room in the middle of the night, only to steal you away to Starsnatch Cliff. The first time he told you he loved you.) 

The day you spot a tuft of red hair over his shoulder is the day you decide to leave. The child is small, barely a year old but his eyes are as knowing as his father’s. His hair is a shade brighter but his face reminds you too much of his mother. He has her nose and her mouth and her pale skin and her loveliness. Even though she is gone, her shadow is permanent. Her child is his heir, his son. Her child will rule the city of wind. There will never be a day where you are not reminded of the duty Crepus spoke of because it now sleeps in his arms, quiet and small and fragile. 

Home calls, Ines had once told you. Home calls and I must return. You remember the wistful, far-off look in her eyes. You remember the way she reminisced about the lights of Fontaine and the sweetness of the air. The flowers. The rush of water. Home. But what happens when the only home you’ve known was Crepus. What happens when Crepus and Mondstadt are one and the same. What happens when the ghost of his bride’s smiles at you from the face of his child. What happens when you can no longer think of home as home. 

Home calls. But not to you. 

Home calls. But you cannot return. 

Home calls. But he’s no longer there. 

Home fades and you fade with it.