Childe X You - Blog Posts

𝐂𝐎𝐂𝐊𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐆𝐀𝐌𝐄 tartaglia x m!reader — 3.8k words, not proofread, minors do not interact

TO NOTE: amab reader, reader is a dom at first then switches halfway through, reader is mentioned to be wearing lingerie, light feminization (childe says pussy once), use of good boy amongst other pet names, light degradation, praise (for both reader and childe), childe sucks reader's dick, childe also eats reader's ass, cockwarming (childe can't take it LMAO), no aftercare written but it is given, childe licks ur fingers to clean them, mating press, dirty talk. lmk if i missed any!

KAI SAYS: almost 4k words of pure smut haha but like omg i wrote this so late at night with my tip so pls spare me AND!!! this is my return post so...

Tartaglia knows you’re doing it on purpose now, because how can you not be? He whimpers, his cheeks flushing a rosy pink as he feels you clench around him. “Baby, please.” He whines out, nuzzling his face into your neck. “I-I can’t—baby, it’s been thirty minutes.” Thirty minutes he’d been buried to the hilt in you; his dick hard and twitching as it stuffes you full.

Tartaglia whines. He could faintly hear the sound of you taking a deep breath, but that’s not what he was focusing on. No, he was focusing more on the way you squeeze him as you inhale. It was on purpose, he knew you couldn’t just be faking this.

With a deep breath, doing his best to steel his nerves, Tartaglia pressed his thumbs into the joysticks of his console again. “I…” He murmurs softly into the skin of your neck. “I don’ think I can beat this level.”

“No.” You coo in that sickeningly sweet voice of yours. “You can.”

Tartaglia nods his head, your encouragement helping lift his mood somewhat. But, true to his word, he dies yet again. Tartaglia lets out a pathetic whine when he’s greeted with the ‘You Died!’ Screen for the nth time tonight. This bet was made specifically with his torture in mind. You knew he would never beat this level, so to “motivate” him, as you put it, you would sit nice and still on his sensitive cock until he beat it.

“Can’t you move just a little, please.” Tartaglia begs, his dignity long gone. You’re evil for this, he thinks, but all of that is lost when you shift your hips slightly, his mind going blank at just the smallest friction.

He feels his tip bump your prostate, and Tartaglia knows he’s hit it when you moan out, your mouth right by his ear as his fingers press harshly against the buttons of his game console. “P-please!” He whines again. “I-I need you t’move, just a little, just a little, please.”

“Maybe, if you last another thirty minutes, I’ll consider it.” You hum, and Archons Tartaglia thinks he's losing his mind with the way your breath trickles over his ear. “But, if you make it through the level…” Your voice trails off, but Tartaglia knows what you meant.

If he makes it through the level, Tartaglia could finally fuck you. Push you against the bed, wipe that stupid smirk off your face, maybe make you sit on his face until you cry. The options, at least to him, are endless.

You trail your hand over the neck of his shirt, and Tartaglia’s eyes dart from the screen to you. You, all dressed up in your white lace panties and thigh highs, with your chest arched against his chest and here he was, still fully clothed.

Well, only thanks to you.

You, like the cruel man you are, wouldn’t let Tartaglia strip. You’d forced him to watch as you changed, stripping off your pyjamas and slipping on the lace lingerie while he sat there, half sure he was drooling. And then you’d gone and pressed him to the edge of the bed, forcing him to sit as you pulled out his leaking dick, not even bothering to pull his sweats all the way down. Then you sat your pretty hole on his dick, and Tartaglia couldn’t pull his eyes away from the way your ass practically swallowed him whole.

And then, began this whole ordeal of pure torture.

You’re sat on his lap, facing Tartaglia as his arms wrap around your waist and his chin resting on your shoulder as he looks over your body and behind you to the console gripped tightly in his hands.

Tartaglia’s eyes dart to you, and they widen as he watches you shift on his dick, your tip forcing its way over the hem of your panties, now drooling pre all over his shirt. Tartaglia squeezes his eyes shut. You press a kiss right under his ear and Tartaglia twitches inside you. You let out a lewd moan and he doesn’t think he can take it anymore.

Not another thirty minutes, or another five.

Tartaglia’s hands shake, and he’s forced to watch his in-game character die again. “Fuck…” He whispers, trying not to roll his hips into your heat. “I… You’re torturing me. Can’t take this.” He whines.

You shake your head. “C’mon, baby.” You coo, using the nickname Tartaglia always uses for you. It sounds almost mocking the way it slips from your pretty lips, but he doesn’t dwell on it. “You might wanna hurry up, or I’ll have to pull out my old dildo to help me…”

No! Tartaglia thinks, and he voices such thoughts with the aggressive shake of his head against you. I can do better than a stupid dildo!

“P-Please don’t.” he says weakly. “I’m trying, I’m trying.” Tartaglia starts to concentrate on his console once again, doing his best to ignore the squeeze of your ass and the warmth of your walls.

Your tip drools pre across his shirt, twitching gently against the fabric. Tartaglia’s mouth waters. He wants to taste you, wants to bury his face between your thighs and lick every drop up. It’s an indulgence he wants to become reality more than anything.

“Can I at least touch you, please?" he asks desperately, gaze not leaving your tip. Tartaglia wants to be closer to you, to have a hand on your soft skin, to play with your dick that was so close to the cumming. He’s ready to do anything in order to make you cum, to feel you pulse around his dick. He’s losing his mind, and the game was the least of his worries. Tartaglia wants you.

"Touch me before you finish the level, and there'll be consequences." You hum. "And trust me, if you think this is bad, just wait until you see what I have in mind." you press your lips gently against Tartaglia’s neck, trailing from his adam's apple to that sweet spot right under his ear. "I'm sure you'd deprive some sick form of enjoyment from that, though."

Tartaglia whimpers at the threat. He doesn’t know what would be worse: the current situation or the punishment you offer. Sick form of enjoyment… His mind echoes. He would most likely enjoy anything you gave him right now.

And like an answer to his prayers, you shift on his dick again. Tartaglia watches as your tip pokes above the fabric of your lace panties, even higher than before. The used-to-be white was now a dark grey with the way your pre had stained and wet through the fabric. Your panties were completely soaked through, the bulge from your dick covered in pre from your leaking tip, poking just above the hem.

Slowly, you tug your dick out of the panties, making sure to slather your fingers in your precum before pressing them against Tartaglia’s lips. "Clean them up." You whisper, and the sound of your voice almost makes him melt.

The instant your fingers press against his lips, Tartaglia is eagerly licking them into his mouth, his tongue swirling your digits around and coating them in his spit. He didn’t hesitate to continue sucking on your fingers, despite knowing they were already clean enough.

“Such an eager boy,” You murmur as you yank your fingers from Tartaglia's lips. There’s a string of drool that connects your hand to his pouty lips as he gives you another pleading look.

“Will you let me touch you now?” He begs, “Please, I’ve been so good for you!” Tartaglia licks his lips, savouring the faint taste of you. He wants more, he wants to grab you by the waist and bury his face between your thighs and suck you off until you’re nothing but a mess inside his mouth.

You bring your fingers back down to your dick, swiping them over your tip and harshly pressing them against Tartaglia’s mouth. “Suck.” You command in a harsh voice, completely ignoring his previous question.

Tartaglia’s lips go back around your fingers again. He doesn’t need to be told twice when you’re the one telling him. He easterly laps at your fingers, ignoring the drool that threatens to spill from the corner of his lips. You press your fingers down against his tongue and he chokes lightly, lifting his blue eyes to meet yours,

When you finally pull your fingers out of his mouth, Tartaglia buries his head into your neck about to ask to touch you again—only for you to beat him to it. “You get two minutes to touch me, but you can only use your hands.” You start. “And, we have to stay in this position. No pulling out or thrusting." You press a kiss against Tartaglia’s lips. "Think of it as... encouragement to finish the level faster."

Tartaglia nods happily at your words, pulling off your neck to get a better view of you. “Thank you—thank you, baby, needed this.” He slurs as his eyes rake down your exposed body before honing in on your sensitive cock. He wishes you’d let him lick that instead of your fingers, but you were clear on your rules for the two minutes.

Tartaglia has two minutes, a whole two minutes to make you feel good. There’s no way he’s let them go to waste.

He wastes no time when the game is finally paused. Tartaglia cups your balls gently, feeling the weight of them in his palm. He massages them slowly, his thumb rubbing up and down the underside of your dick, feeling the warmth and the leaking pre that slipps down your shaft. Tartaglia knows nothing can make you cum in this position, but he can make you squirm, he can tease you.

His other hand wanders up, his fingers ghosting over your skin, drawing circles around your nipples before pinching them gently. He wants to hear you moan, to see you writhe. Tartaglia needs to know he was pleasing you. He gazes at your face, waiting to see a reaction, anything to show that he’s making you feel good.

Your eyes roll back and your dick twitches hard against Tartaglia’s hand. “T-Tartaglia…!” You moan out, your back arching into his chest. Tartaglia’s fingers pull gently at you nipples, tweaking and twisting the nubs between his thumb and pointer finger. Your eyes roll back and Tartaglia whines at the sight, sliding his thumb faster up and down your dick, rolling it over your tip before sliding it against your slit.

He feels your hole clench around his dick, and Tartaglia has to squeeze his eyes shut in concentration to stop himself from bucking into you. He’s about to roll his hand again when it’s suddenly pushed away from your leaking dick. You yank his hands off your nipples too, panting as you do. “Two minutes have passed.” You mumble.

Tartaglia knows you were close from the way you sounded to the way you jerked your hips into his hand. “I’m sorry.” He whines, sounding like he’s carrying the weight of the world in his heart.

With a deep breath, Tartaglia focuses back on the game again, he hopes that this time he’ll finally beat the level. He’s determined, he wants to make you cum, to please you. He needs to win.

You slump against his shoulder, clearly needy. Tartaglia sucks in a breath. You were so close. He thinks. His focus turns back to the game, moving the joystick and pressing the rounded buttons as skillfully as he can manage with you taking his cock to the hilt,

Tartaglia feels you lean forward, your hands dipping under the hem of his shirt. “I wanna see you…” You whine and his face flushes. Tartaglia doesn’t have time to respond before the game console is slipping from his hands and you’re tugging his shirt off his figure.

Another eternity passes as Tartaglia picks up the console once again, doing his best to beat the level. He closes his eyes—just about to give up when the victory music blasts throughout the bedroom. “Finally—fuck, fuck, baby.” Tartaglia groans, tossing the console and pouncing on you.

His lips press against yours, his tongue sliding over your bottom lip before pushing into your mouth. Tartaglia is kissing you harshly, his lips flush against yours as your tongue gently swirls with his.

He pulls away after a minute, both of your faces flushed and panting. “I-I’m sorry it took me so long.” Tartaglia apologizes. He wants to please you, make you cum, see you lose control just because of him. He was desperate to feel you squirm against him, he wants to see the way your face would twist in pleasure when he fucks you just right.

Tartaglia slowly pulls out, hissing as he leaves your comforting warmth and is met with the harsh, cold outside air.

“Let me take you, please…” He begs, his eyes filled with desire and the need to have you. Tartaglia wanted you—no, needed you. His hand wanders back to your dick, wrapping his palm around your shaft and quickly jerking you up and down at a messy pace.

Tartaglia would do anything to have you come undone on his dick.

“Uh-huh.” You whine, and Tartaglia thinks it’s cute how all your confidence diminishes the instant you're offered some dick.

He watches you twist your body to lay flat against the bed on your back. Slowly, your legs splay into the air before you pull them back and bend them at your knees. Your ass, all empty and clenching around nothing, is now fully exposed to Tartaglia. Your hole is stretched already, from the much too long of a time you spent just sitting on his dick. Your own cock lays across your tummy, twitching and drooling uselessly,

Tartaglia sucks in a breath at the sight of your hole. His dick is throbbing at the sight, pressing angrily against his tummy, so hard and needy. He wants to do nothing more than bury himself inside you, to feel your warm muscle clench around him once more.

Slowly, he lowers himself into a kneeling position right in front of you. Tartaglia dips his head to your ass, pressing light kisses across the curve of your thighs. He trails his mouth down to your dick, taking the tip into his mouth. His eyes roll back at the feeling of finally having you in his mouth. Tartaglia sucks harshly, bobbing his head up and down your length. He runs his tongue over the underside of your shaft.

Tartaglia swirls his tongue around your overly sensitive tip, watching and depriving pure enjoyment of the way your hips buck into his mouth messily. You throw an arm over your face, trying to muffle your breathless moans and flushed face. Tartaglia gives you a harsh suck for warning, letting you know that if you don’t remove your hand now, things would get worse.

You, of course, comply, pushing your hand to the sheets and clenching them in your fist.

Tartaglia hums happily, the vibrations travelling across your shaft. He feels you twitch in his mouth and your legs thrash beside his head, squeezing and pulsing by his ears as he goes faster, making sure to let the drool spill from his lips as he moves his head.

Tartaglia pushes his lips down to your base bringing a hand to fondle your balls gently and you whine, your back arching off the bed. Your hand goes to tangle itself into Tartaglia’s hair, pushing your dick deeper down his throat. “I—holy shit—I’m c-close!” You whine, and that was enough of a signal to pull off your dick.

Tartaglia smears kisses across your ass, ignoring your desperate whines and cries, before eventually leading to your puffy hole, all nice and stretched for him. He’s quick to bury his mouth against you, already feeling his brain go mushy at the feeling. His tongue slips into you easily, and you whine at the feeling.

Tartaglia fucks his tongue into you with great fervour, not even caring for his hard dick. All he can think about is the taste of you on his tongue, the way your hole clenches down so nicely against his mouth and those sweet, sweet moans of: “M-More, please, need you so bad!” That slip from your lips and get his hips rocking his dick into the side of the mattress.

Tartaglia’s tongue pushes and prods into you, again and again until he hears you moan loudly. His eyes dart up, barely able to catch the way your back arches. Your legs shake around him yet again, your thighs squeezing around his ears, which only drives him to thrust his tongue into you further. Drool slips down his chin, but he doesn’t care, all he wants is to taste you again, and again, because, fuck, if he died right here, between your thighs, he would die a happy man.

“Right there!” You cry, Your legs threatening to squeeze tightly on Tartaglia’s head. He pushes his tongue in again, thrusting it in and out of your hole with a scary precision, making sure he hits your prostate every time.

“O-Oh, my—fuck, can’t take it!” You whine and he smirks against your tightening hole. “I need you, please, please, please, pleasepleaseplease!” You’re a complete mess, babbling nonsense as he eats you out, eyes rolling back and legs shaking in ecstasy,

All it took was him shoving a finger in, curling it in time with his tongue, for you to cum. Tartaglia eagerly pulls off your ass, watching as your dick twitches against your tummy and ropes of cum shoot from your member. He waits until you're finished before pressing his face against the mess you just made and licking it clean.

Tartaglia looks up at you from his position against your belly. “I….” He whines. “I’m still hard.” He gives an apologetic smile before going back to his first position in front of the bed, this time standing up. He lifts your collapsed legs, throwing them over his shoulders as he slaps his cock beside your limp one.

As quickly as he can, Tartaglia grabs the bottle of lube from the nightstand and smears it all over his shaft. “Help me out, pretty boy.” He whines and you whimper at the nickname. Slowly, you push yourself onto your elbows just enough to push your hand to his dick and help him spread the lube.

Tartaglia doesn’t even bother to continue once you start, only throwing his head back with a loud groan. “That’s it, o-oh, archons you’re good at this.” His eyes squeeze shut and Tartaglia has to stop himself from cumming on the spot for the nth time tonight. He doesn’t even bother to lube your hole, only murmuring a sweet, “This pussies wet enough for me, right?” before he’s pressing a messy kiss to your neck.

“Not a pussy.” You slur, but he doesn't take any mind.

“D-Don’t worry, baby.” Tartaglia coos as he presses his thick tip against your weak hole. “Promise it’ll feel so good…” He wants to be inside you, to make you come again and again.

And suddenly, he’s halfway in, the thick of Tartaglia’s shaft being swallowed almost whole by your pretty ass was almost enough to make him cum right then and there. You whine lowly, back instinctively arching into him, forcing yourself deeper onto his dick.

“Fuck, baby, look what you do t’me.” He groans, pulling out so it’s just his tip stuck in your pretty, clenching hole. Tartaglia fucks his tip into you, watching it messily slide out then in, then out then in, over and over again until he can’t take it anymore and can’t help but want more.

Tartaglia—like the pathetic man he knows he is—can’t take it anymore. He pushes in fully, but just before he does, spits a large glob of drool from his lips to the tip of your spent cock watching it twitch under the feeling. He laughs, watching your dick twitch back to life. “And to think you get off to me spitting on you.” He murmurs, before finally thrusting in fully, in one, harsh movement.

The moan you let out is so pretty and high, and Tartaglia can feel his balls grow heavy at the sound. Your voice isn’t nearly as loud as the lewd squelch of his dick pressing in, in, in and against your prostate, his tip knocking easily at it.

Tartaglia pistons his hips into you, basking in the moans and pleas for “more, more, more!” that slipped from your pretty lips. He’s pounding into you, and Tartaglia watches your head fall back against the pillow. Your hands shake as you desperately reach out to grab onto the sheets for leverage as he pushes your legs up, leaning down onto your body as he forces you into a mating press.

And, oh, Tartaglia feels like he just slipped so much deeper into you, and with the way your walls squeeze and clench and you moan his name like a mantra—Tartaglia is sure he’s just died and reached heaven.

His thrusts start to lose their rhythm, but they still manage to fill you up so much that, before Tartaglia can process what’s happening, you're crying out, your ass clenching so tightly against him he thinks he sees stars.

“I—I’m close, ‘m so close!” You cry and Tartaglia can’t help but bury his face into your neck as he thrust into your ass.

“Me too, baby.” He whimpers out. Tartaglia reaches for your hand, intertwining your fingers with his much larger ones, before letting out a loud moan. “Together, please, baby, cum together.”

And you’re eagerly nodding your head, a mix of “yes” and “please” leaving your lips. Tartaglia isn’t even pulling out anymore, just knocking his hips against yours—no rhythm or pattern, just instinct as he squeezes his eyes shut.

“Cummin’ o-oh—fuck!” You whine and Tartaglia instantly does too, feeling the way your dick spurts thick ropes of white onto your chest and his only drives him to the edge. He buries himself as deep as he can before collapsing onto you, pressing his full weight onto his hips. Tartaglia shoots a thick load of his seed into your awaiting hole, whining in content as he feels you milk his cock, squeezing down on him.

You’re panting, laying on the bed with Tartaglia pressed on top of you. His arms snake around your waist, tugging and twisting your connected bodies so that he’s spooning you, his chin resting on top of you’re head.

After a minute of rest, Tartaglia’s arms squeeze around your waist. “Love you, so much.” He murmurs tiredly.

“Promise?” You giggle back, despite the feeling of your exhaustion weighing heavy on your eyelids.

“Always an’ forever.” Tartaglia whispers sweetly. His arms encircle your waist, pulling you closer as the two of you bask in the afterglow in each other’s arms. “I’ll love you, always and forever.”

© KISSENTURINE. do not translate, plagiarize, edit, or repost

⁺‧₊˚ ཐི 𝑲𝑰𝑵𝑲𝑻𝑶𝑩𝑬𝑹 ཋྀ ˚₊‧⁺

—༉‧₊˚. “ Whatcha watching? ”

featuring. Childe from Genshin impact MAU | kink. peeking

synopsis. You were heading toward your friend childes dorm room to give him some college hw he missed out on in one of your early morning lectures. When you go to his place however he doesnt respond leaving you no choice but to let yourself in.

authors note. I think I hate this one…but that may just be me…

You knock on Childe's apartment door, waiting to drop off his college homework. After minutes later of no answer, you reached out for the door handle to find out the door was unlocked. Since the two of you knew each other for a while you thought it wouldn’t be that much of an invasion of privacy letting yourself in his apartment without him knowing.

Opening the door, you step inside and head towards his bedroom. As you approached, you heared moans coming from some type of device.

Peeking around the corner of the halfway opened bedroom door, your eyes widen as you saw Childe sitting on his bed, pants around his ankles, stroking his hard cock while watching porn.

The video plays on repeat, showing a girl who looks exactly like you in a skimpy outfit, moaning and pleasuring herself. Childe's eyes are glued to the screen, completely absorbed in the lewd scene. His hand moving rhythmically along his shaft, squeezing and stroking it with increasing intensity.

You watch him for a few moments, mesmerized by his focused expression, the way his muscles flex with each movement. How his orange hair falls messily over his forehead, and how his blue eyes shine with lust as he continues to touch himself.

Noticing your presence, Childe jumped, startled. His face flushed red with embarrassment as he quickly closes the laptop. He scrambles to pull up his sweatpants, trying to hide his still-hard member.

“[Y/N!] What are you doing here? I didn't hear you come in...”

He stammered, clearly flustered by being caught in such a compromising position. His blue eyes dart around nervously, unable to meet your gaze.

“It's not what it looks like, I swear! I was just...uh...researching for a project...”

As he spoke, you noticed a wet spot forming on the front of his pants, betraying his obvious arousal. The sight made you feel all warm and you find yourself getting turned on by what you just saw.

You decide to play along with his story, not wanting to make him feel too uncomfortable.

“Oh, research? That's interesting. What kind of project could possibly require that kind of research…”

You asked with a playful smirk, watching as Childe squirmed under your scrutiny. His cheeks turn an even deeper shade of red, as he fidgets with his hands.

Childe shifts uncomfortably, avoiding your gaze as he tries to come up with a believable excuse. He clears his throat and runs a hand through his hair, messing it further.

“W-well, you know how I've been working on that short story for my creative writing class? I was just trying to get some, uh, inspiration for a particularly steamy scene...”

He trailed off, his voice wavering slightly. His eyes flicker towards you briefly before darting away again, as if he's afraid to look at you directly.

You raise an eyebrow, amused by his state. A mischievous idea began to form in your mind, and you decide to have a little more fun with the situation.

“Oh, I see. Well, since you're in need of inspiration, maybe I could help you out. After all, I am your muse, aren't I?”

You take a step closer to him, your voice taking on a teasing lilt. Childe's eyes widen, and he swallows hard, his Adam's apple bobbing visibly in his throat.

“Y-you? My muse? What..makes you think that?”

Despite his words, you notice his gaze lingering on your curves, taking in the way your clothing hugged your figure in just the right ways.

“Come on, Childe. You know Im not dumb..”

“If you have a thing for me just say it already.”

You reach out and trail a finger along his jawline, feeling the heat of his skin. Childe shudders at your touch, his breath hitching in his throat.

“I... .. fuck.”

Encouraged by his reaction, you press closer to him, your breasts brushing against his chest.

Childe's breath became faster now, his pupils dilating with desire. He seemed to be fighting against his own urges, torn between his shame and his growing need for release.

“What's wrong with a little harmless fun? I promise, it'll be just like in the porno you were watching earlier.”

You let your hand slide down his chest, tracing the contours of his abs through his shirt. Childe's muscles tense under your touch, and a low groan escaped his lips.

“We shouldn't...”

But even as he protests, his body betrayed him. His erection strained against his pants, making it so he can no longer hide his arousal. You can see the internal struggle playing out on his face, as he grapples with his desires and his sense of propriety.

Sensing his weakness, you decide to push him further. You lean in close, your lips brushing against his ear as you whisper.

“Don't you want to know what it feels like? It’ll help tons..with your ‘research’ ”

You nipped gently at his earlobe, Childe shudders, a soft gasp escaping his lips. His hands come to rest on your hips, and you can feel the tension in his body slowly dissipating as he gives in.

“ God, [Y/N]... I want you so bad...”

He finally admits, his voice thick with lust. You smile triumphantly, knowing that you've broken through his defenses. You pull back slightly, your eyes locking with his as you both acknowledge the raging desire between you.

“Then why don't you show me what you've learned from all that research? I'm sure you can teach me a thing or two...”

With that, you press your lips against his in a passionate kiss, your tongue delving into his mouth to taste him fully. Childe responded eagerly, his hands roaming over your body as he explores every curve.

You break the kiss, panting heavily, and start to undo the buttons of your shirt. Childe's eyes widen as more and more skin is revealed to him, and he licks his lips in anticipation.

“You're so beautiful.”

His voice is filled with awe and desire, and it sends a thrill through your body. You finish unbuttoning your shirt and let it fall to the floor, leaving you in just your bra and skirt.

Childe leans in, his lips trailing hot kisses along your collarbone and down to the swell of your breasts. He reaches behind you to unclasp your bra, freeing your breasts from their confines. He groans appreciatively at the sight, his eyes dark with lust.

“Touch me, Childe...”

You guide his hands to your breasts, encouraging him to explore and caress them. Childe doesn't need any more encouragement, and he begins to knead and squeeze your breasts, his thumbs brushing over your nipples, sending jolts of pleasure through your body.

As he continues to worship your breasts, you reach down and start to lower his pants, freeing his rock-hard erection. You wrap your hand around it, stroking him slowly as he groans in pleasure.

“Oh god, [Y/N]... That feels amazing...”

He thrusts into your hand, his hips moving in time with your strokes. You can feel the heat emanating from his member, and it only fuels your own desire.

*You release him from your grip and push him back onto the bed. Straddling him, you grind your hips against his, feeling his hard length pressing against your clothed sex. Childe's hands grip your hips, helping you move against him.

The friction between your bodies builds as you grind against Childe, your clothed sex rubbing against his hard length. Moans of pleasure escape both of your lips as the sensations become more intense.

“Fuck, [Y/N]... You feel so good... I need to be inside you.”

His voice is rough with desire, and you can feel his hips bucking up against you, seeking more contact. You reach down and unzip your skirt, letting it fall to the floor, leaving you in just your lacy panties.

Childe's eyes widen as he takes in the sight of you, his gaze focused on the damp patch on your underwear. He hooks his fingers into the waistband and tugs them aside, exposing your wet folds to his hungry gaze.

You position yourself over him, the tip of his cock brushing against your entrance. Slowly, you sink down onto him, inch by inch, until he's fully sheathed inside you.

A deep moan tears from your throat as you feel him stretching you, filling you completely. Childe grips your hips tightly, his fingers digging into your skin as he fights the urge to thrust up into you.

“Oh fuck, [Y/N]... You're so tight... So perfect...”

He starts to move beneath you, his hips rising to meet your downward motions. The rhythm building between you, growing more intense with each passing second.

You lean forward, bracing your hands on his chest as you ride him harder. Your breasts bounce with each movement, and Childe reaches up to cup them, his thumbs rubbing over your nipples once more.

The combination of sensations is almost too much to bear, and you feel your climax building deep within you. Your inner walls start to flutter around Childe's cock, and he moans in response.

“I'm going to cum, Childe... Don't stop...”

Your words spur him on, and he thrusts up into you harder, faster, his own release approaching. With a final, powerful thrust, you both reach your peaks, crying out.

As your orgasm crashes over you, your body trembles with the force of it. Wave after wave of pleasure washes through you, and you cling to Childe, your nails digging into his chest as you ride out your climax.

Childe's grip on your hips tightens, and his body goes rigid beneath you. With a guttural moan, he releases inside you, his hot seed filling you up. The feeling of his essence pulsing within you sends another shockwave of pleasure through your body, prolonging your orgasm.

For several long moments, you both remain still. Finally, Childe loosens his grip on your hips, and you collapse onto his chest, both of you panting heavily.

You giggle softly, nuzzling into his neck. Childe wraps his arms around you, holding you close as he catches his breath.

“Round two?” Childe joked suppressing a laugh.

© yammpi3 2024. All work belongs to @yammpi3. You can repost if you want to support my blog/writing! Please don't modify, translate, or plagiarize in any way on ANY platform.

Gosh. When are we going to marry Childe?

Chapter 6: The Final Day

📂 – pairing for this chapter : scaramouche x reader and abit of childe x reader

📂 – taglist ( send an ask if u wish to join ! ); @scarahours @mikazukiwrites @beriiov @httpmitsuya @nejibot @elysiagf @thelovelydiviner @xinhar @smashsubs @xxyuixe @zvirblis @hexahydride @sweet-almonds @aromaticism @flannn @rrinsluvr @rowielol @alwaysnotinthemood-blog @narinchan @kuniluvr @hxqlou @lovemechilde

if your username is in pink, i cannot seem to tag you and you may have to put your blog out of being hidden . and if you wish to be removed/added, send me an ask <3

📂 – author’s note : all credit goes to their rightful owner! I do not own anything unfortunately

📂 – word count : 8.7k

previous // masterlist // next

The Empress’ demeanour was as remote and as cold as a glacier. Childe stood dazed as he looked at her profile. Her low, gentle voice captivated his ears but her icy voice even more so. How would it sound if she said his name like that?

Childe swallowed dryly as his imagination made his head spin. He wanted to kneel before that overbearing empress and pour kisses on her hand. He wanted to hear her speak in that cold voice and issue commands to him. How would it feel to obey her orders and then to rebel?

It had started out as curiosity. He was curious about the empress of Inazuma, and so he travelled as far as the palace to see her. Despite rumours that she was made of steel or ice, she was surprisingly soft and charming towards birds.

The rumours weren’t exactly wrong, however, he was surprised to see another side of her. He felt sympathy for the way she put up a strong front while she cried in secret. He heard her talking to herself while trying to hold back her tears. If the people had seen this side of her, they would think she is not the emperor’s beloved empress. 

But to him, she was incredible. He had thought that beneath her strong appearance was a vulnerable figure, but he realised that soon enough that it was false.

The feeling of curiosity and attraction turned into anxiety after actually meeting her. Why did she ignore him when he tried to make himself known? Why did she pretend not to know him? Why wasn’t she trying to look for him? Why didn't she stop Lumine when she was impersonating her? Were the comforts of the letters, the jokes that they had been shared, simply a one-sided feeling? Or perhaps it would hurt her pride if someone were to take care of her.

But as Childe drew closer to her, he became even more angry. He didn’t like seeing the things that burdened her or caused her pain. He knew from experience that controlling one’s reputation was difficult, to the point that he had almost gotten in a fight about it in the past.

“Are you jealous of Lumine, by any chance?”

As the Empress’ jaw hardened at Scaramouche’s insult, Prince Childe was overcome with an even more violent impulse than in the dining room. The frozen empress was charming, but the things that made her that way were definitely not. He could hear Diluc’s voice in his head, repeatedly telling him to not cause an incident involving the Emperor of the Inazuma Empire. It irritated Childe so much that he could not officially stand up to defend the Empress' honour.

“Your Majesty the Emperor. You must be more discerning.”

Eventually, Childe spoke. He knew Diluc would be furious when he found out about this. Their king was bedridden so the court affairs were in chaos. Did he really want to antagonise the Emperor of the Inazuma Empire? Despite this, Childe couldn’t help but speak up.

“This doesn’t concern you, Prince Childe.”

“I’m a witness. How can I keep my nose out of this?”

Childe added a grin as he stood next to the Empress.

“Your Majesty, do not worry. I will be the one to spread rumours about the truth. Your reputation will not be tarnished by this mistake.”

Things could have gotten worse if it were not for Diluc, who came running to Prince Childe’s side and stole him away.

“I heard you say something about reputation. Are you changing course?”

Childe walked in silence to the southern palace as Diluc started to nag at him again.

“Do what you usually do, Prince. Don’t fight from the front, fight from behind instead. Why were you trying to start a fight with someone and with the Inazuma Emperor no less? That could have potentially broke our political affairs with the Inazuma Empire? At this rate, us spying on the Inazuma Empire will be exposed soon enough.”

Diluc’s nagging got worse as soon as he closed the door, yet Childe ignored him and pulled up a chair.

“What are you going to do with the chair? Are you going to hit me?”

“Sit down.”

As Diluc sat down, Childe touched his head and forced some of his delusion into him. With a cry, Diluc had turned into a red bird and the clothes he had worn, tumbled to the ground. Diluc’s eyes widened in confusion when he saw Prince Childe taking out a piece of letter from his desk and tied it to his leg.

 -?

“Deliver this to Ayato.”

– …

“I won’t get myself in trouble, so go and deliver it. I’ll fight from behind, just as you said.” 

.

.

.

“Prince Childe seems to be a completely different person than the rumours suggest.”

Countess Jean, who was playing chess nearby, turned her head at my faintly spoken words.

“Hm? What did you say, Your Highness?”

I turned my book upside down and placed it on my lap. Could I tell them this? Would it sound strange?

My ladies-in-waiting knew I was the real letter friend, and so there was no need for me to say anything more. However, I thought it would be helpful if I could change any of the rumours about Prince Childe with my own words…

“Prince Childe. He seems better than I thought.”

I spoke nonchalantly as I picked up my teacup from the table and took a sip. Yoimiya, who was playing opposite of Countess Jean, surreptitiously changed a horse’s position while the Countess was not looking.

“Right. And he knew that the maid and the slave didn’t write those letters! Ah—that was wrong. Anyway, he found out quickly. Even though he’s a womaniser, he’s more faithful than other nobles.”

Countess Jean had slapped Yoimiya on the back of her hand and restored the horse’s original position on the board.

“Yoimiya is right. Though he may seem like a carefree person, he’s not frivolous.”

A lady-in-waiting sitting comfortably on an armchair gave a vindictive laugh.

“Even more so, I liked it when the slave’s lie came to light.”

Other comments from the other ladies-in-waiting started to spring up as well.

“Did you see how his blood pressure went up when she lied to him so shamelessly?” 

“The foreign nobles who mingle with her must have come to their senses by now.” 

However, Beidou, who was silently standing by the door until now had immediately thrown cold water into the situation.

“I don’t believe so.” 

At Beidou’s certain tone, the ladies-in-waiting all turned to her with questioning expressions. The knight nervously scratched her cheek, as if overwhelmed by the beautiful ladies looking at her all at once.

“Baron Thoma is responsible for Miss Lumine’s affairs, and the way he talks about her is…different.”

“Different? How so?”

Yoimiya's eyes were wide as she questioned her. In curiosity, I had set the now empty cup back on the table and had also turned to look at Beidou .

I knew Baron Thoma—he was Scarmouche’s personal secretary, and quite a brilliant man. Moreover, if he was extremely fond of Lumine, it would only be beneficial for her when Baron Thoma comes forward and turns the rumours around.

“Because of Miss Lumine’s beauty and charm, some say that the Emperor and Prince Childe are fighting over her.”

When two conflicting rumours spread, there would at least cause a commotion between people who believed one story or the other. Baron Thoma had definitely planned this out carefully.

Yoimiya shut the chessboard in frustration.

“I absolutely despise her!”

“Watch your mouth, Yoimiya. You are now a lady-in-waiting of the Empress, and offensive language will only hurt Her Majesty’s image.”

“I am careful with my words in front of others, Countess Jean. Yet still…I have no other way to express my emotions!”

Then, as Yoimiya cried out her frustration, there was a tap on the window.

“Queen!”

It had been several days since he came here last, and I quickly got up and opened the window to let him in. I was so happy to see him after such a long time that I held him tightly.

– !

Queen tried to embrace me with his wings, and Yoimiya had finally calmed down and gave a giggle.

“That bird is so sweet. Look at how he holds Her Majesty. Maybe he’s actually not a bird.”

– !

I scolded the ladies for teasing Queen, then I gently placed him on my lap and stroked his head.

Queen's large purple eyes closed as he started to doze off, but he occasionally got startled and looked at me.

“I missed you.”

I confessed my feelings frankly to him, and he peered at me as if he understood me.

“…”

Strange. Why did this bird remind me of Prince Childe? Well, perhaps it was because Prince Childe was the bird’s owner.

“Ah.”

I almost forgot to check the note on his leg. I took the piece of paper from his leg, and opened it while setting Queen aside .

– I had wagered my identity. Why didn't you want to participate in the bet? 

Did Prince Childe know that I was the letter acquaintance or not? A few hours ago, I told myself that the writer was Prince Childe, but I didn’t even have the time to ask him because Scaramouche and I immediately fought…

I hesitated before writing my response.

– Please keep our friendship by letter only. 

Queen watched me patiently as I wrote. As soon as I lifted my hand from the paper, he checked the contents, then made strange noises and started jumping up and down.

– Gu! Gu! Gu!

He seemed to be criticising me on behalf of his owner.

“Don’t be so upset, Queen. I prefer it this way.”

– Gu!

“If your master and I meet each other, we will be the Inazuma Empress and the Snezhnaya Prince, not as friends that are able to speak casually to each other. We would have to be careful about how we behave with each other in front of other people.”

– …

“I have become a source of entertainment because of Scaramouche and Lumine. Under these circumstances, the rumours will worsen if it’s discovered that I’m exchanging letters with a womaniser.”

Maybe it was because Queen had seemed so intelligent, but before I knew it, I was confessing my true feelings.

Queen’s beak opened as if in surprise. I closed his beak shut and hurriedly added an explanation.

“I know your master is not as bad as the rumours say. I think he’s a good person, in fact. Hm? Ha ha, why are you embarrassed?”

.

.

.

Lumine laid down on the bed in a thin lavender nightgown, hugging a cushion. Lying next to her was Scaramouche, who was running his fingers through her soft blonde hair.

“Prince Childe is known for his cruelty and for being a womaniser. Don’t trust people so blindly from now on.”

 “Lumine didn’t know…”

“It’s alright. Anyone can make mistakes. Just don’t make that same mistake in the future.”

“But this isn’t Lumine’s fault, right?”

“Of course. It was that man who had caused a disturbance.”

Lumine leaned her head against Scaramouche’s shoulder.

“But I’m glad His Majesty protected Lumine.”

“I’m glad too. I hope you’re feeling better.”

“Tomorrow is the special banquet! Let’s just relax and socialise with people! I want to be friends with Princess Amber.”

Lumine smiled and patted the cushion like a drum. Scaramouche, who normally would have smiled at her adoorable behaviour, was suddenly as stiff as a stone.

“What’s wrong, Your Majesty?”

“You…”

“Your Majesty?”

“Lumine, you won’t be able to attend the special banquet tomorrow.”

Lumine stared at Scaramouche with wide eyes. He felt sheepish after giving her the unexpected news, except that was not the way it should be.

“What? Why not, Your Majesty?”

“There can only be twenty special guests.”

“Can’t I be one of them?”

“The Empress and I had invited ten people each, and we’ve already sent out the invitations…”

“You can be flexible and add one more…”

“But Lumine , the moment we are flexible, the special banquet becomes less special.”

Lumine made a shocked, unblinking expression at his refusal, and Scaramouche felt forced to explain.

“As I said, it’s only for those invited. I don’t know why you would think it would suddenly change.”

“Lumine is your concubine. Your lady. Lumine thought she could go without being invited…You should have invited her too.”

Lumine’s face was red as she whimpered.

“Oh goodness, Lumine.”

Scaramouche took out a handkerchief and patted away the tears that had sprung up in her eyes. But the tears gathered again, and the handkerchief was useless.

“Do you really wish to go?”

“I told everyone at the dinner that I would go to the special banquet.” 

“…”

Scaramouche frowned.

“You should’ve asked me.”

“It’s strange to ask. Besides, His Majesty took Lumine to dinner with the special guests, so of course Lumine thought…”

“It’s my fault.”

Scaramouche sighed and rubbed Lumine's shoulder, but she kept crying, waiting for Scaramouche to change his words. However, no matter how long she waited, it did not happen.

“So in the end, you’re not taking me.”

Lumine wept like a child, and Scaramouche clenched his jaw at the innocence of it. Having only seen the court nobles cry silently, he was amazed whenever Lumine expressed her true feelings honestly.

“I’m sorry, Lumine. Don’t cry.”

“You saw what happened today. If Lumine doesn’t go, Prince Childe will say something to the guests. He said he was going to spread rumours.”

Lumine had a point, and Scaramouche sighed again. However, many of the guests consisted of foreign royal family members and powerful nobles, and were considered the most important people of the year. To set aside an important guest to allow a concubine could cause an international problem.

“Don’t worry, I’ll be there. I won’t let Prince Childe say anything strange.”

Lumine’s expression was still morose. After stewing on the subject, Scaramouche finally let out a sigh.

“I will ask the Empress if she can spare a seat. Some of the guests are subjects of this country, so we won’t have to worry about an international problem.” 

.

.

.

The morning sun shone through the thin curtains, casting shadows on the floor in the shape of the window frames.

I yawned and raised myself from the bed. My heart wasn’t heavy despite the incident from yesterday. Perhaps it was because of Prince Childe and Queen…

I patted my face to wake myself up, then went to the bathroom to wash my face. Behind me, my ladies-in-waiting prepared the bathtub with petals and salts. My clothes were removed and I sank into the warm water, allowing my muscles to relax. I closed my eyes and leaned against the bathtub as the ladies-in-waiting massaged my head with careful hands. 

After the bath, I put on a robe and went into the bedroom. As it was the last day of the New Year’s celebration and the day of the special banquet, the dress selected for me was extravagant, but not overly so, and simultaneously captured a sense of calm and elegance.

After getting dressed, I placed on my diamond earrings and crown. The crown wasn’t made for ceremonial purposes, and wasn’t too large and heavy. I looked over my notes on the special guests while the ladies styled my hair to match the crown.

However, before they could finish, one of Scaramouche’s secretaries arrived. As I was already dressed, I allowed him in, and the secretary had conveyed Scaramouche’s words with great embarrassment.

“Your Majesty, the Emperor would like a word with you.”

“Now?” 

“Yes, it’s about the special banquet, so please come quickly—”

It had to be urgent if it was about the special banquet. I nodded and ordered the ladies to quickly finish my hair.

“We’ll put it back together when you get back.”

“Is that alright? I don’t want to bother you twice.”

“It’s fine.”

“Then you may have your breakfast first while I’m gone.”

Various scenarios about the guests ran through my head when I had followed Scaramouche’s secretary to the eastern palace. Did someone suddenly declare war on our Empire? Have one of the foreign guests complained about the country or did one of them offend us? Has anyone suddenly announced their absence?

“What’s going on?” 

I immediately questioned Scaramouche as soon as I entered his room. Lumine was sitting on the bed, but I pretended not to know her. However, I did notice her staring at me—no, staring at the crown on my head, to be more exact.

I frowned in discomfort, but Lumine continued to stare with a bewitched expression and did not look away. Scaramouche was the first to speak.

“Can you make room for one more person?”

“Is something wrong? Are there any reports that Secretary Sucrose or the Chief Magician Albedo are able to attend?”

The secretary and the chief magician were those who originally had reservations. They were invited by Scaramouche, but they did not attend the New Year’s ceremony because they had declined as they were both busy.

“No, it’s not them.”

“Then…?”

Who on earth were we supposed to set up a seat for? I studied Scaramouche closely, who seemed caught in an awkward silence.

“I want to take Lumine with me…”

“…”

“Can you do that?”

“…”

“Empress? Why won’t you talk to me?”

I was going to apologise, but quickly shoved it down my throat as I felt it was not something I should be apologising for nor was it my fault.

“No, Your Majesty.”

Scaramouche’s brow furrowed at my flat refusal.

“One seat is fine. There is surely one or two people the Empress can ask.”

“It’s possible to ask for consent if they agree. But if Secretary Sucrose or the Chief Magician Albedo came, they would be offended by the sudden cancellation of the invitation…for your concubine.”

Scaramouche’s expression turned even colder.

“I have an idea on what your words mean, Empress.”

“The answer would have been the same if it had been my lover, or even if it had been another concubine that was not Lumine.”

“Then why don’t we exclude people such as Duchess Ningguang?”

“Unlike you, I do not wish to hurt the people I cherish, Your Majesty.”

“!”

I could tell that Scaramouche believed that I was a heartless person. It was clear as day by the lines between his brows were more obvious than usual, and the narrowing of his eyes.

“The empress is cold.”

“As I should be.”

“What?”

An international embarrassment could happen if Scaramouche disregarded his guests, and the blame would fall to him. But if I set aside a guest for Lumine, I would be blamed for doing something as simple as this to impress both Lumine and Scaramouche. A similar rumour had already spread after Scaramouche gave Lumine gifts under my name. While that incident was disgraceful on a personal level, disrespecting guests would directly be judged by society.

But Scaramouche’s behaviour wasn’t a mistake. Even at this moment, he was smart. He was forcing me to act this way to protect himself and soothe Lumine’s heart.

“I’m not intentionally being cruel. Lumine is your concubine, not mine. I don’t know why you’re trying to force me to do things even you, the Emperor, cannot do.”

I was too angry to explain it further to him, so I deliberately turned away. Scaramouche’s jaw was clenched and Lumine glanced at me with a frightened look, but I wasn’t feeling any better at all. I gave my farewell as etiquette as I could, and then left the room with a stately walk. 

.

.

.

When I arrived at the western palace, I found the ladies anxiously waiting for me.

“You should have eaten without me.”

“How could we? We wondered if something terrible happened again.”

“You don’t look good whenever you see the Emperor these days.”

After calming them down, we ate breakfast together, but after that meeting with Scaramouche, all my appetite has vanished. However, I managed to slightly fill my stomach with some soup and pudding. 

Afterwards, the ladies-in-waiting went to prepare themselves for the party, so I sat alone at my desk to check the schedule after the New Year’s celebrations. Firstly, I had to see off the foreign guests, as well as accommodate those that wished to stay longer. I had to also handle any reports of incidents thoroughly such as if any foreigner had a legal problem, it had to be settled before they crossed the border.

The day had passed quickly, and it was time for the feast. I took another look of myself in the mirror, and also saw that each of my ladies-in-waiting were splendidly dressed as well.

“Will you come to the party after the special banquet?”

“I don’t know. I have to check the time…what’s wrong, Yoimiya?”

“Ayaka—no, Lady Ayaka is ill and cannot go to the party. If neither you nor her come, I’ll just show my face and leave quickly.”

Yoimiya, who preferred to mingle with her peers, did not seem very interested in socialising with the other noblewomen.

“I’ll be there if you wait for me, Yoimiya.”

I gave her my promise, and Yoimiya smiled with excitement and quickly went to the grand hall for the party. The other ladies-in-waiting also followed suit, while I went to the Red Rose room for the special banquet.

Lively music filled the air, and the special guests were gathered together in groups of three or four. I walked towards Princess Amber, with a casual nod to everyone else, when I came across Grand Duke Dainsleif first, who was holding a champagne glass. A large statue holding a flower basket and sword and a servant carrying champagne bottles stood symmetrically on either side of him, leaving no other way to pass.

“Are you enjoying yourself?”

A nod wouldn’t suffice as he was right in front of me, so I smiled and spoke to him. Before I bowed in greeting, it occurred to me that he ignored both me and Lumine yesterday.

“…Your Majesty.”

Fortunately, Grand Duke Dainsleif did not turn a blind eye to me this time. He didn’t answer my question, however.

“Does the food suit your taste?”

I gave him a small bow for the second time without realising it. Instead of answering me, he stared at me again. His long, sharp eyes were something fierce.

This was Grand Duke Dainsleif’s first invitation to the banquet, and I had never interacted with this man until last year. I had little knowledge of his character. All I knew was that he was a grand duke from a desert country, and had graduated first from a magical academy.

As I waited for his reply, Dainsleif asked me his own question out of nowhere.

“Is this the state of the Eastern Empire?”

“What do you mean?”

“In Khaenri'ah, the King’s and Queen’s emotions are one. ”

“The king and queen as one… That’s amazing.”

” …You know what it means?”

“Not enough to say I’m fluent. Only a few basic words.”

When I lifted my eyebrows, he opened his eyes in surprise and continued.

“If the King’s lover is in front of her, she would be killed immediately.”

“!”

“Are you not able to do that, Your Majesty?”

“I’m afraid that in this great empire I cannot kill a person for no reason, even if I am an empress. A trial must be held first.”

“Foolish that you cannot eat soup out of your own bowl.”

Was he saying that I didn’t have proper control of the Lumine yesterday? However, just as there were the laws in the country of Khaenri'ah, there were the laws of the Inazuma Empire. In my country, concubines were legally approved. And if an empress ever killed an emperor’s mistress? There was the strong possibility of the empress being thrown into prison.

Then what did that leave me? My whole future I had prepared for my whole life, thrown away just for a little excitement? Would I bet my life just to kill a runaway slave that stole my husband? Before giving an answer, however, Grand Duke Dainsleif left with his glass of champagne.

I gave a relieved sigh. He probably thought of me as pathetic.

‘How strange. It was Scaramouche that made Lumine a concubine, so why am I the pathetic woman?’

Unfortunately, Princess Amber seemed to have moved elsewhere in the room. I shook my head and looked around to find another person, when my gaze landed on Duchess Ningguang.

“Queen.”

There was a low voice from behind me. As soon as I turned my head, I found Prince Childe right before me.

“How are you—”

Before I could ask him how he was, he spoke again.

“I’d like to talk to you for a moment.” 

.

.

.

Prince Childe’s expression was a mix of both serious and sad. He didn’t have his usual smile or proud bearing. I motioned for him to speak, remembering that he had helped me.

“It’s alright.” 

Prince Childe picked up two champagne glasses from a passing servant, and with his eyes pointed towards a spot where the music was loudest and would cover our conversation. The open area left no room for the other guests to misunderstand, even if I was with the much-gossiped-about Prince Childe. He was a surprisingly thoughtful man…

As I admired him, Prince Childe extended to me a glass of champagne, which I accepted. He didn’t drink his, however, and simply fiddled with his glass, while I still stood and waited for him to speak. Finally, he carefully opened his mouth.

“I had read your message, Your Majesty. You want to keep our friendship only by letter.”

“You know that it’s me?”

All I had said yesterday was that I knew it was not Lumine. How did he know it was me? When I looked up at him, Prince Childe hurriedly waved his hand and gave an awkward smile.

“Don’t be alarmed. You did not make a mistake.”

“Then …?”

“Both Lady Lumine and her maid knew the contents of the early letters, but not the later ones. So I had thought about it. I found out that a lady-in-waiting named Viscountess Mona had recently transferred from the Empress to Lady Lumine.”

So that’s how he figured it out…

But I was still surprised. Rumours had it that Prince Childe was a womaniser, a cruel man, a person who kept bad company. I had never heard a rumour that he was exceedingly intelligent, and I smiled a little.

But the prince still looked forlorn, and I couldn’t help but wonder if he was disappointed that I was the letter acquaintance, even though I’d rather not have it revealed in the beginning. It would be less embarrassing for the both of us to ignore it. So why was his face so stiff?

“Are you alright? You don’t look very happy.”

Prince Childe sighed as he stared at me.

“How can I be happy? I imagined us as good friends, but you want to pretend not to know me in real life?”

Was that really as coldhearted as it sounds? I would have thought he was exaggerating, but the way he looked so forlorn made me swallow my protest. He downed his champagne glass in one smooth motion.

“In fact, I don’t have many friends to share my thoughts with.”

Prince Childe set his empty glass down on the statue pedestal and continued, his voice thick.

“I know. It’s unexpected, isn’t it? Am I popular? Yes. I have many friends. I always have people around me, so you may think I am not lonely.”

“?”

“But that is only what you see. In fact, I’m very lonely. It’s not that I hate my friends—I have many good ones. However, as the prince of the Snezhnaya, I cannot honestly share my thoughts, and always have to be conscious of others.”

“!”

I looked at him in surprise. Those were almost my exact same thoughts. It was as if—as if Queen listened to me and delivered those words straight to Prince Childe.

“It’s not a problem about the people, but my own, so there’s no way to improve it…”

I stared steadily at Prince Childe, as I realised I wasn’t the only one with those thoughts. I had always believed Prince Childe behaved without regard to what other people thought of him, but it was all an act too…

“I loved being able to talk to someone without them thinking of me as ‘Prince Childe or ‘Crown Prince.’ Our conversations weren’t long, but I was happy to have someone exchange lighthearted letters to.”

“…”

I felt just the same. I became a princess when I was young, and this was the first time since with my family that I felt I could open up my heart. Not because there weren’t good people, but because “a good person” and “a person I can reveal my innermost thoughts to” were not the same.

“I’ve always looked forward to those letters. Honestly, I was even happier when I knew that my letter acquaintance was you, Your Majesty. And I had thought you would feel the same but instead you seemed reluctant and inconvenienced.”

Prince Childe sighed, his eyes becoming moist. As I faced those eyes, I felt a wave of guilt wash over me. I sympathised with everything he said, and felt further shame.

“We had the same thoughts, but different conclusions.”

Prince Childe looked at me with those wet eyes and sighed again, his mysterious violet irises glistening like jewels under the chandelier’s light. There almost seemed to be resentment in his expression. I could either be his friend, or I could end it like this.

“I understand what you feel, Prince Childe.”

“But you still only want to exchange letters?”

“I enjoyed them.”

“Outside of letters, it will be even more enjoyable.”

“…”

“You can just tell me that Scaramouche is a bitch.”

“Keup!”

I choked when Prince Childe tossed all dignity out of the window. Everyone stared at me as I coughed, and Prince Childe lowered his voice once again and whispered, “Scaramouche is a bitch.”

What kind of person…

Prince Childe raised his eyebrows and gave a silly grin.

“There is nothing more funny than watching someone suppress a laugh. Just laugh if you want to. ”

“…”

“If you don’t laugh, your heart will ache.”

Ache? Did he have experience in this?

His smile faded, as did his voice. For a moment, Prince Childe stared at the floor, his forehead furrowed in thought.

“Then, can you do something for me? I’ll keep it a secret you, my Queen, are my letter partner. And I’ll also keep it a secret that we are friends.”

“Are we friends?”

“Don’t you know that we’re friends, Queen?”

He gave a strange smile, then he pressed his lips together and continued.

“Instead, it can be like now. If we meet by chance, please don’t ignore me. And if the two of us happen to be alone, don’t avoid me.”

His voice was playful and the smile around his mouth looked light, but his gaze was serious. It sounded like a joke, but I knew it wasn’t.

He gazed at me with those earnest eyes, and I felt a strange sensation of my heart being squeezed lightly with fingernails.

.

.

.

‘They must be talking about me…’

Lumine stared anxiously at the doorway, where inside was the special banquet. It should go smoothly with Scaramouche there, but she was still apprehensive.

Would Prince Childe say anything strange to anyone? The Empress seemed unlikely to spread rumours, but Lumine couldn’t say the same about Prince Childe. Lumine bit her lip and sighed again.

“You look blue today. Are you feeling well?”

Baron Thoma appeared by her side and smiled at her teasingly.

“In truth, I’m not.”

“You’re very honest.”

Lumine smiled and nodded. After Scaramouche, Baron Thoma was her favourite person in the palace. He did not prejudiced her, and when rumours of her and Prince Childe had spread, she had heard that Baron Thoma stepped up to defend her honour. Lumine couldn’t help but like the older man.

“Rest assured, no matter how unruly Prince Childe is, he has no choice but to yield to our Emperor. Although the Snezhnaya Kingdom has been growing in power, it still cannot eclipse the Inazuma Empire.”

“Yes…”

“I will do whatever I can to protect Lady Lumine’s honour, so go enjoy the last day of the celebrations.”

Lumine nodded, and her mood lifted as she smiled. Those who did not scorn her gathered around her in ones or twos, and before long she was surrounded by people who were close to her or who wanted to be close to her. She preened at their attention, and whether because they were being thoughtful or not, no one asked her why she did not go to the special banquet. Lumine sipped wine that was surely five times older than herself, and happily accepted the praise that the nobles lavished on her.

“The contrast between your silver hair and your dark eyes is so enviable.”

“It gives off the feeling of purity, like a lily-of-the-valley.”

“Duchess Ningguang might need to defend her current reputation.”

Duchess Ningguang wasn’t present, as she was likely attending the special banquet, so today, more and more people approached Lumine instead.

‘Today, I am the butterfly of the social circles.’

Lumine was feeling pleasantly tipsy. Even before she became the emperor’s concubine, she knew beauty could be a poison. It was only after much trial did she learn how to use her own beauty as a weapon, but even then she found herself walking a precarious tightrope, always in danger.

But it was different here. Everyone praised her and loved her. Her protector was the most powerful man on earth, and no one could lay a hand on her.

“But didn’t you say you were going to the special banquet? Why are you here now?”

However, it was only less than half an hour later that someone brought up an uncomfortable question.

Lumine stared at the woman who spoke. She was not a memorable aristocrat, and did not have large possessions or had duties important in the Imperial Palace. This was the first time this particular noblewoman mingled with them. The other nobles turned silent at the question, but despite their curiosity, they did not speak up.

“It’s…”

Lumine quickly arranged her thoughts and made up a story.

“It’s because Lumine said it was alright.”

“Oh, Miss Lumine?”

“Important foreign guests usually go to the banquet. Rather than having Lumine attend, she thought it would be better to have someone who would benefit our country. ”

The nobles were delighted over her answer.

“Miss Lumine is so smart for a concubine.”

“Indeed. Many of the previous concubines only spent money and idled away, and held no interest in international affairs at all. Miss Lumine is certainly different from them.”

Lumine smiled shyly and lowered her eyes. Their admiration was as intoxicating as a drug.

“Lumine should help His Majesty.”

Lumine murmured that she wanted another drink, and a number of noblemen quickly offered her a variety of wine glasses. Lumine chose a flute with a light purple liquor, and the face of the young man she had accepted the drink from lit up.

Suddenly, Lumine caught a glimpse of someone over the young man’s shoulders. Someone who should not have been there.

The flute slipped from her hand, and the glass shattered on the floor.

“Miss Lumine, are you all right?”

“What happened?”

Lumine was unable to answer, and quickly jerked her head. But the one who surprised her was not there anymore.

‘Did I see it wrong?’

Lumine forced her heart to calm. Perhaps it was the effects of the alcohol.

‘I drank too much.’

While the servants placed the broken glass on a tray and wiped the liquor off the floor, Lumine repeatedly glanced back to where she had seen the man.

“What’s wrong, Miss Lumine?”

Baron Thoma noticed her strange behaviour and turned towards where she was looking, and she quickly caught the hem of his robe to stop him.

 “Baron Thoma. I have a question.”

“?”

“For the New Year’s celebrations, if a nobleman doesn’t come on the first day…can they come on the last day?”

“Of course. Some may not be able to come to the festivities immediately.”

Lumine lowered her voice.

“Do rural aristocrats come to the New Year’s celebrations? Rural aristocrats with small estates? Do you not help choose the guests?”

“Yes, I help choose them. And even the nobility of a small estate can be invited.”

“Even if they haven’t attended for years?”

“Even if they haven’t attended for a long time, we still send invitations for that reason. We don’t leave them completely alone.”

Lumine’s lips started to quiver, and Baron Thoma’s expression darkened.

“Miss Lumine, what happened?”

Lumine shook her head, then took in her surroundings again and pushed her glass towards him.

“L-Lumine’s going inside. I think I’m drunk.”

She answered unsteadily and waved her hand to get out of the crowd. There was nothing to worry about if she made a drunken mistake, but if not—it would be dangerous.

That man…Viscount Lawrence. The lord of the estate where she was a slave. He knew Lumine’s face.

As she was leaving, a loud voice behind Lumine proclaimed, “What? Am I seeing right?”

Goose flesh erupted on Lumine’s back. Her face paled, and her eyes darkened in fear.

Lumine was reeling, and Baron Thoma hastened towards her.

“Miss Lumine?”

Baron Thoma called out to her anxiously, but she didn’t answer.

 “‘Miss’ Lumine?”

The loud voice grew closer, dripping in mockery.

“What is this now? Have you changed your identity?”

The surroundings became deathly silent.

“The world is getting better isn't it? A runaway slave gets treated like a lady now? Hm?”

.

.

.

“So you stopped looking for your letter friend?”

“Yes. If they haven’t revealed themselves by now, then they never will.”

“But you wanted it badly enough to go public…”

“I don’t want to make them feel uncomfortable because of me.”

Prince Childe kept his promise. I awkwardly cut a piece of cake across the table where he was talking to a noblewoman. From time to time he looked at me, and I just smiled and nodded, hoping it wouldn’t seem odd.

‘He’s a good man…’

Scaramouche would have cut off Prince Childe if he said anything strange, but the prince said nary a word about Lumine at all.

The conversation went from Prince Childe’s letters to Grand Duke Dainsleif’s Kingdom, his magic, and how it worked in war. The grand duke offered only a few words, and did not speak about magic though he had graduated from a magical academy. He was equally silent on other topics, but my attention turned towards the door when it opened and someone came in. It was the captain of the guard.

‘What’s going on?’

Our eyes met, and he bowed towards me. Scaramouche still hadn’t noticed him, as his eyes were on Prince Childe.

“Your Majesty the Emperor.”

The moment Scaramouche turned his head, the knight delivered his message.

“You need to come to the grand hall.”

His tone sounded serious. There were only twenty people in the room, so everyone could hear what he said. All the guests’ eyes and attention were on him.

“Why is that?”

The captain seemed reluctant to answer in present company, but Scaramouche picked up on it and went outside with the knight.

‘What’s going on?’

I considered following them, but decided against it. If I was needed, then the knight would have spoken to me as well, and I wouldn’t be required if it had to do with Lumine or anything like that.

‘I don’t need to leave.’

I made up my mind and turned towards the guests again. When the time came, I left the Red Rose room and went to the grand banquet hall. I had to check on the other guests as well, and when the sun went down I had to inspect the fireworks.

‘I also made a promise to meet with Yoimiya.’

However, the atmosphere at the grand banquet hall was livelier than I expected.

‘Did something happen?’

People are usually tired out during the last day of the celebration. However, everyone would dress up for the last day, yet the energy was usually not the same as the first. From the entrance, I saw people talking and laughing, and the noise grew louder as I went in. I looked around confusedly, and Yoimiya ran over to me.

“Your Majesty, Her Majesty, did you hear?”

“Did something interesting happen? I’ve been in the Red Rose room, so I don’t know what’s going on.”

“Something very interesting happened.”

Yoimiya said in excitement, and she moved me to a suitable place for conversation. Nearby, there was a spread of crispy fried seafood, small dishes of pumpkin puddings, and milky coffee.

“You can listen while you eat. It’s an appetising story!”

“What happened?”

Yoimiya pushed a mango pudding and a fork towards me.

“Thank you, Yoimiya.”

“Do you remember Lumine?”

It was not a topic I was fond of. I grimaced slightly, but Yoimiya continued, despite knowing that I didn’t like talking about her.

“Do you remember the rumour that she was a runaway slave?”

“Yes, but are we not allowed to speak of it?”

Scaramouche had said he would punish those that did. Could they speak about this in a crowded place? I was worried, but Yoimiya shouted out before I could stop her.

“She really is an escaped slave! Viscount Lawrence arrived at the party for the first time, and he recognised Lumine!”

“Viscount Lawrence?”

“She was his slave, then she ran away!”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. If the Emperor was here he would’ve stopped him. Not only that, the viscount had only been in the capital for a few hours so he didn’t know about the rumours about Lumine or the order not to talk about her. That’s why he openly said Lumine was a slave in public!”

“Ah…”

“Lumine said she was not, but everyone believed him. She looked mortified.”

Yoimiya snorted.

“All the nobles who came up to Lumine must have seen it now.”

“And where are they now?”

“When Lumine fainted, Baron Thoma carried her to her bedroom. Then the captain of the royal guard came and took Viscount Lawrence.”

So that was why the captain was looking for Scaramouche. For a moment, some foreign feeling welled up inside me. Was it…vindication? Yes. It must be. Scaramouche was furious when he suspected I spread false rumours about Lumine as a runaway slave. The resentment and sorrow I felt now turned to satisfaction.

However, there was a small corner in my heart that didn’t feel thrilled. What is this uncomfortable feeling?

“…”

I couldn’t figure it out so I decided to leave it be for now.

Now that I think about it, did Scaramouche not realized Lumine was a runaway slave when he had rescued her? Although, even if he did know, I doubt Scaramouche would hate her. After all, he had brought her here because she was pitiful and that he had a powerful desire to protect her. Whether he fell in love with her then or not, it was their first meeting. And whether Lumine was a commoner or a fugitive slave, Scaramouche would still love her. He would try to protect Lumine from mockery of others.

I didn’t know what would happen nor what is happening, but I did know that whatever it was, I did not want to get involved. 

.

.

.

As usual, it was useless trying to avoid getting entangled with Lumine. Each time, it was either her or Scaramouche that got me involved with them, it was as if they were taking turns to do that to me. However, this time, it was Scaramouche. 

As some of the foreign guests would return to their countries and the rest would stay longer at the southern palace. I returned to the western palace, leaving behind those who wanted to stay up for the drinking and revelry. I wanted to take a warm bath to relieve my fatigue of the day. My ladies-in-waiting also seemed exhausted, so instead of having them follow me, I sent them away to take their rest.

However, before I could even finish drawing the bathwater, Scaramouche’s captain of the guard came to see me. I had a sinking feeling the moment I saw him. For nearly a month, all the times Scaramouche summoned me out of the blue had been unpleasant encounters.

What on earth did he want this time? My mood dropped the more I walked through the long corridors, but I managed to control my expression. I hoped I could maintain it in front of my husband…

Finally, I entered Scaramouche’s bedroom in the eastern palace. Scaramouche was seated on a chair by the bed, and I also noticed that Lumine was on the bed with a towel on her forehead. I turned back to Scaramouche again, who had his eyes fixed on me.

“…I’ll take my leave now.”

The captain closed the door, and the atmosphere became even more oppressive. Scaramouche slowly opened his mouth to speak.

“Do you have anything to say to me?”

His voice was cold.

“Why exactly did you call me here?”

I spoke to him just as bluntly.

“Is that the only thing you can say right now?”

“That’s what I’m most curious about now.”

“You don't even blink at this situation.”

The first thought that came to mind was, ‘I must be doing a good job of controlling my facial expression,’ and the corners of my mouth must have tipped upwards as Scaramouche seemed even more offended.

“Are you happy that everyone thinks Lumine’s a runaway slave?”

“Are you going to take your anger out on me?”

 “Empress.”

“I heard about Miss Lumine at the grand hall. I know you’re upset, but don’t take it out on me.”

“Did you think I called you to vent?”

“Am I wrong?”

“No.”

“Then why did you call me in the first place?”

He did not call me to be angry at me, yet his remarks and tone at me says a lot. He probably assumed I was happy that Lumine was discovered to be a runaway slave.

Scaramouche silently watched Lumine’s sleeping form. The ticking of the clock echoed in the room. Only after some time passed did Scaramouche speak.

“Did you really want to prove that Lumine is a fugitive slave?”

“That story again?”

“The Empress was born with a silver spoon. She had a great aristocratic family, enormous wealth, great power, a beautiful mansion, and a natural wit and beauty. But in spite of that, she still wants to be on top of everyone, including the less fortunate.”

It wasn’t a compliment in this situation. I looked at Scaramouche with narrowed eyes, and he sighed.

“Yet Lumine had nothing. She became a slave and had no memory or her parents or family. No property, no power, no home. She is just like the Empress who is smart and beautiful, she just doesn’t have opportunities for her.”

“…”

“And then she met me, and she had been trying to get these by herself. The chance to be loved, to eat a warm meal, to relax on a comfortable bed, to learn something.”

She also took my husband, but I didn’t say this because my pride was injured. I wanted to ask if he wanted me to sympathise with Lumine, but the words were stuck in my throat. So I just stared at him without a word. I couldn’t understand why he was talking so much—was he asking me to take care of Lumine's problems because she was in trouble? 

“I don’t need you to understand Lumine. But you have the smallest compassion…can you give it?”

“Compassion?”

“The compassion the Empress shows here and there—for example, towards the orphanages, elderly homes, medical centres, shrines, scholarship centres. Why can't you spare that compassion for Lumine instead!”

Scaramouche exploded at me, but then he stopped himself and collapsed back into his chair. Lumine reached out with a groan, and he quickly took her hand. I noticed that she was wearing a shirt with wide sleeves that looked similar to the shirt I had given to Scaramouche for his birthday last year. I didn't want to admit it, but seeing Lumine wearing the shirt I had bought for Scaramouche and that my husband is treating his concubine better than his wife, made me clenched my fist.

“Lumine is your concubine, not mine, so you should take care of her. I’m not looking after her because she’s not my responsibility.”

“Who said you had to look after her? Ha. Don't make me laugh! I don’t want you to take care of her, so please leave her alone! And Don't even come close to her”

“Have I ever provoked her?”

“Yesterday in front of Prince Childe, when he insulted Lumine. Out of the two of them, Prince Childe and Lumine, you should have sided with Lumine if you don’t know who’s telling the truth! You should stand by your subjects!”

“As I said, I knew the truth, and sided with Prince Childe accordingly.”

“So you are saying Lumine lied?”

“It is you who believe in her innocence, not me. And everyone knew she lied so why bother defending her, Your Majesty?”

“Well, that was yesterday. How about today? Why were you trying to undermine her today?”

“You know I never spoke to Miss Lumine today.”

“You didn't. You didn't talk to Lumine herself, but you called Viscount Lawrence from behind her back.”

The air seemed to tense when he made the accusation. I knew it wasn't true, but he made it sound like it. I glared at Scaramouche.

“What are you trying to imply?”

“You wanted to prove that Lumine is a runaway slave, and so you brought Viscount Lawrence.”

“…I invited the viscount because of Miss Lumine?”

What kind of ridiculous assumption was this? I was dumbfounded as Scaramouche let out an exhale.

“Ever since I said that Lumine wasn’t an escaped slave, didn’t you want to prove me otherwise? Were you so offended by everyone loving her?”

“You’re speaking nonsense.”

I forced my voice to sound calm, but I felt ready to burst. Scaramouche stood straight up from his chair, his eyes flashing threateningly.

“Who knows the guest invitations better than the Empress? You must have been working hard. You even invited Viscount Lawrence.”

“Yes, I know the invitations very well because it is my job. However, I invited him weeks before Lumine even came to the palace.”

“He’s not an important guest, so why did you invite him to the celebrations?”

“As I said before…I’m not interested in every single thing concerning Miss Lumine. And you were confident that she was not a runaway slave. Under these circumstances, why would I not send an invitation to Viscount Lawrence? Adding on to that, how was I supposed to find out she was his slave?”

It was true, I didn’t even know that she was his slave. The only connection I knew was that Scaramouche had found her on the hunting grounds near Lawrence’s estate. Since then, I had never heard mention of it, and if Lumine was commoner, then Lawrence’s attendance was irrelevant. Yet somehow, Scaramouche thought I calculated Lumine was Lawrence’s slave? Me? I was dumbfounded. Does he think I'm not busy at all to find out about useless things?

“If you have any consideration—”

“You should take care of her yourself. You can’t expect me to look after her, even if I didn’t know she was Lawrence’s slave.”

“…You’re so heartless.  A woman who has been living in poverty her whole life now wants to stand straight, and you don’t want to see it? You don’t wish to be tarnished? The Empress is such a horrible woman.”

"Maybe this Empress is sick and tired of you blaming her for every bad thing that happens to Lumine." 

The Abyss Within

Mondstadt had always been a city of song, of laughter, and the gentle murmur of wind-blessed freedom. It was a place of safety, a sanctuary from the chaos that roiled beyond its borders. But in the past few months, something had changed. A shadow had fallen over the city, creeping ever closer with each passing night.

It started slowly—a series of mysterious disappearances in the outskirts, rumors of strange creatures lurking in the woods. And then there were the sightings: a figure, tall and broad-shouldered, moving with inhuman speed and brutality, leaving destruction in his wake. Whispers spread through the city like wildfire, and the people of Mondstadt began to grow wary, unsure of what malevolent force was stalking the darkness.

You had heard these rumors, too, though you dismissed them at first. After all, you had your own distractions to deal with—your meetings with him.

You had met Childe, or Tartaglia as he sometimes called himself, by chance during your travels. He was charming, bright-eyed, and seemingly always one step ahead of you with his playful banter and infectious grin. You had taken a liking to him, finding his adventurous spirit and easy smile disarming. And despite the fact that he was a member of the infamous Fatui, you felt something... different in him.

Childe had become a frequent presence in your life, an unexpected friend, even as you knew there was more to him than the affable, mischievous man who walked beside you through Mondstadt’s markets and taverns. There was something dark beneath the surface, something you couldn’t quite place. But he had never shown it to you—until the night everything changed.

It was a crisp evening when you last saw Childe, sitting by the fountain in Mondstadt’s plaza, his usual confident grin plastered across his face as he waved you over. He greeted you as warmly as ever, but there was a tension to him that you couldn’t ignore. His smile didn’t quite reach his eyes, and his usual lively demeanor felt strained.

“You seem... distracted,” you said, watching him carefully as you sat down beside him.

He chuckled, though the sound was hollow. “Do I? Just a lot on my mind, I guess. The Fatui never rest, you know. But you don’t want to hear about my troubles. Let’s talk about you. How have things been? Still stirring up trouble in Mondstadt?”

His teasing tone was there, but there was an edge to it. He was hiding something. You had known Childe long enough to see when he was masking his true feelings.

“Childe... you can tell me if something’s wrong,” you said softly, reaching out to place a hand on his arm. “You don’t have to pretend with me.”

For a moment, something flickered in his expression—a flash of vulnerability, of conflict. But then it was gone, replaced by that familiar cocky smile.

“Nothing’s wrong. I promise,” he said, standing up abruptly. “Actually, there’s something I wanted to show you. Come with me.”

You hesitated for only a second before following him, the unease in your stomach growing stronger with every step. Childe led you out of the city and into the woods beyond, his pace quick, almost hurried. The sky was darkening overhead, and the air was thick with the scent of rain.

“Where are we going?” you asked, glancing around at the shadows stretching across the path.

Childe didn’t answer right away. His shoulders were tense, his eyes focused ahead. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, he spoke.

“There’s something you need to see,” he said, his voice lower now, more serious than you had ever heard it. “Something I haven’t told you.”

The trees grew denser as you followed him deeper into the forest. Your heart was pounding in your chest, a mix of curiosity and fear swirling in your mind. Childe had always been unpredictable, but this felt different—more dangerous.

Finally, he stopped in a small clearing, the moonlight filtering through the canopy above. He turned to face you, his expression unreadable.

“Do you know why I joined the Fatui?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

You shook your head, frowning. He had never talked about it, and you had never pressed him for answers.

“I wasn’t always like this,” he continued, his eyes dark and distant. “There was a time when I was... different. But something changed me. The Abyss—”

He paused, his jaw tightening as if the mere mention of it was painful.

“I fell into it. I became something else. Something... darker.” His gaze shifted, his usual playfulness replaced with a cold intensity. “I’m not just the Childe you know. There’s another part of me. A part I can’t control.”

Your heart sank as his words began to sink in. You had always known there was more to Childe than he let on, but this was something far worse than you had imagined.

Before you could respond, Childe let out a low, humorless laugh. “I thought I could keep it hidden from you. I didn’t want you to see... him.”

“Who is ‘him’?” you asked, your voice trembling as you stepped closer.

Childe’s eyes met yours, and for a moment, the vulnerability you had seen before returned. But it was fleeting, quickly replaced by something darker.

“You’ll see soon enough,” he said, his voice heavy with resignation.

Without warning, Childe doubled over, clutching his chest as a pained groan escaped his lips. You rushed to his side, panic flooding your veins.

“Childe!” you cried, reaching out to steady him.

But he pushed you away, stumbling back as his body began to change. His once warm, blue eyes turned cold and lifeless, glowing with an eerie orange light. His muscles tensed, his posture shifting into something more animalistic, predatory. His breath came in ragged gasps, his grin twisted into something cruel, dangerous.

“I told you...” he rasped, his voice now a guttural growl. “I’m not always the Childe you know.”

The transformation was complete. The man standing before you was no longer the charming, mischievous warrior you had come to care for. This was someone—something—else. His eyes gleamed with a sadistic hunger, and his movements were sharp, calculated, like a predator stalking its prey.

Fear seized your heart as you took a step back. This wasn’t Childe. This was the monster he had warned you about. And now, you were alone with him in the heart of the forest.

“Childe, please,” you whispered, your voice barely audible over the sound of your pounding heart. “You don’t have to do this.”

But the creature that had once been Childe only laughed, a low, chilling sound that sent shivers down your spine.

“Childe?” he repeated mockingly, stepping closer. “That weakling? He’s always fighting me, holding me back. But not tonight. Tonight, I’m in control.”

Your pulse raced as he circled you, his eyes glinting with malice. This was no longer the man you had trusted, the man you had thought you knew. This was a nightmare brought to life.

You stumbled back, your mind racing as you searched for a way out, but he was too fast. In an instant, he was upon you, pinning you against a tree with a strength that left you breathless.

“Don’t look so scared,” he whispered, his lips brushing against your ear. “You should have known this would happen eventually. Did you really think you could get close to someone like me without seeing the truth?”

His words cut deep, the weight of his dual nature pressing down on you. You had seen glimpses of this side of him before—the ruthlessness, the bloodlust—but you had never imagined it would come to this.

As his grip tightened, you fought to keep your fear at bay. Somewhere beneath the monster that had taken control, the Childe you knew still existed. You had to believe that.

“Childe,” you said, your voice shaking but firm. “I know you’re still in there. You’re stronger than this—stronger than him.”

For a moment, his cruel smile faltered, a flicker of doubt crossing his face. But it was gone as quickly as it had appeared, replaced by a snarl of frustration.

“You’re wasting your breath,” he growled, though there was a hint of something—something fragile and fleeting—in his voice. “He can’t save you now.”

But you refused to give up. “I’m not asking him to save me. I’m asking him to save you.”

His eyes widened, and for a brief, agonizing moment, the monster’s grip loosened. You saw the flicker of recognition in his eyes, the faint glimmer of the man you had come to care for. The two halves of Childe’s soul were at war with each other, fighting for control.

And then, with a shuddering gasp, he let you go, stumbling back as if the weight of the conflict was too much to bear. He collapsed to his knees, clutching his head as he fought against the darkness threatening to consume him.

“Go,” he rasped, his voice raw with pain. “Before I...”

You hesitated, torn between the fear that kept you rooted to the spot and the desperate hope that Childe could still be saved. But in the end, you couldn’t leave him like this. Not when he was fighting so hard to hold on to himself.

You knelt beside him, your hand resting gently on his shoulder. “You’re not alone,” you whispered, hoping your words would reach the man trapped within the monster.

For a long moment, there was only silence, the weight of the night pressing down on you both. And then, slowly, Childe’s breathing began to steady, his tense muscles relaxing as the darkness receded.

When he finally looked up at you, his eyes were blue once more, filled with a haunting mix of relief and sorrow.

“I’m sorry,” he murmured, his voice trembling. “I never wanted you to see that side of me.”

You smiled sadly, brushing a strand of hair from his face. “It’s part of who you are. And I’m not afraid of you.”

Childe looked at you, his expression unreadable for a moment before he leaned in, resting his forehead against yours.

“I’ll always be fighting him,” he whispered. “But as long as you’re here... maybe I can win.”

Oak okay okay hear me out now, I've been playing genshin on my new device and I have so many new ideas .

So for some reason I'm a childe simp so what about childe who buys flowers from a florist (you) and it's for his "friend" and he shows up very frequently so at this point the florist just feels bad for him and gives him the flowers on a discount. Okay yeah I gave up on the rest

Childe yandere headcanons where he forces you to get married/want to have kids?

contains yandere themes and mentions of force

you were not directly involved with the harbingers but you were just a small florist which childe got flowers from for his little siblings, you were just so un real to his eyes that he couldn't resist but to ask about you. The way you were so oblivious kills him he would do anything to have you and make you his.

so he does it by pressuring you, making your business run into thin air. You wondered why no one was showing up lately to your shop and that's when childe arrives with a proposal.

"if you marry me i will make sure everything in your life is more perfect then ever, trust me i can make your life heavenly i can give you anything and everything" though, if you don't listen and reject him he will make your life hell to the point you have to accept the offer. It was your fault for making him so enchanted by your charm and looks.

he just has to have you even if he has to push you at your lowest for it.

once you become his spouse he will be happy and treat you everything he promised, that is of course if you behave if you don't then expect him to not care about you he will force you to have kids even if that means violating your privacy, he told you he is a family man and he wants his children in you and if you do not agree he can always resort to other methods..

Ven.exe has stopped working,,

Nsfw-ish except the details aren't rlly mentioned still read at your own risk

What about idol childe who has a one night stand with you but it's all hazy because you were drunk at a party with your best friend who forced you to come just to take a break from all the workload in your office, you agreed and your friend disappeared right after stepping into the pile of crowd the place was illuminated by red. Everyone was either drunk or actually sane in their mind.

You were walking through the crowd to get a drink for yourself to feel relaxed because this place looked anything but "relaxing and calm" as your friend had quoted the night before.

After finishing your 4th drink you felt... Like your world was spinning? All you remember was your friend walking up to you with another drink and after that nothing more as you woke up on someone else's bed.

[I give up on the rest, if someone has any continuation feel free to send!]

꒷꒦ˑ ֗ ִ  T○UCH 

Serving size- 1.4k

Nutritional facts- Gn! Reader + Harbinger!Reader (scara’s part) + established relationship (childe & Sara's part)

Allergy warning- Daggers, attempted assault?? (nothing too serious)

Overview-  Reader has a very good sense of touch + Reader is very strong + love confession (bedo's part) 

Contents- albedo, childe, scara 

Instructions- best read in any mode

Formula- headcanons + fast fic (300 words )

Art credits-@Orange627 twt , stalva on pixiv

“Event master list” “Main master list” “Next"

Albedo

 ▸🧼 absolutely amazed by your enhanced sense, he asks questions about it all this time. Did you inherit it? Were you just born with it? Was it something you acquired overtime? He just wants all the answers! (And maybe it is a little excuse to talk to you a bit more)

▸🧼 He worries about you when got out on commission, because of your enhanced feelings pain would feel way worse and he really just doesn't want you to push yourself that hard.

▸🧼 250 words

"(Name), what's the extent of your 5th sense?"

The question wasn't out of the blue, especially from Bedo, but the time was a bit off. You both were supposed to be on a trip just to hang out. I guess this is what bedo views as hanging out.

"Hm, well generally speaking I can feel stuff through walls, rocks or even people so that's really cool, the bad thing is thought high fives hurt a bit "

"does this also mean that simple forms of contact are more intimate for you?" 

" oh, well yeah I guess you could put it like that!"

He stared at you for quite a while almost as I'd he was looking for something to ask you.

"Can I hug you then?"

"Sure you can!"

His sudden figure holding himself around you with a comforting warmth, you wonder why all of a sudden he was being so intimate for a second, maybe a new experiment?

"Aw is this a new experiment of yours?"

"A little but mostly just because I love you."

You could feel his heart beating faster the more you stared, not even that but his face had the faintest rosy tone. 

"My apologies, it wasn't my intention to make you uncomf-"

Albedo's words were cut off by the feeling of your lips lingering on his, he was hoping for a good outcome but this is much better than anything he could have imagined.

"Can we stay like this for a bit longer?"

Childe

▸🧼 This man has tried to sneak up on you many times and failed, failed so hard. He could be in a whole different room and you'd still be able to sense his presences.

▸🧼 Brags about your skills to the other harbingers all the time, They probably have your name memorized by this point. They value your skills to be honest, they even tried to get you to join the harbingers at one point. Childe was so against the whole idea, talked you out of it even though you weren't going to take the position anyway.

▸🧼 400 words

It's been awhile, childe said he was going to be here soon and know you're sitting at the harbingers base with a mad man who experiments on kids, a sad widow who hates everything and a whiney purple haired brat.

"So your the ginger freaks spouse? I'm so sorry. A shame you have to live with that thing."

Ugh now the purple one is speaking could childe please hurry up with his mission. But I mean the man is waiting for a response, maybe he'll shut up if you give him one.

"Yes childe is my husband, and he's not as intolerable as you make him seem."

"Blinded by your so-called love I see? And here I thought you were a better one."

Better one? Thankfully you could sense childe was in the building, although it felt like something was off with his movements you ignored it.

Strangely enough all the harbingers started starting at you, is there something wrong? I mean yeah childe's standing behind you trying and emphasis on trying to scare you but this wasn't irregular behavior for him at all he tried to sneak up on you at least once a week, his efforts always went to waste though.

"Boo!"

Childe came from behind you now standing in front of you staring at him with a blank expression on your face and a rather disappointed look on his, his attempts to scare you were futile again I see.

"Aww why aren't you scared?"

"Childe I knew you were here since you stepped in the building."

"Did you all hear that? Isn't my lover so impressive!"

They all looked at you with a 'it's the third time this week, we get it your in love' type of look, but there was the purple one who looked as if he had something else to say.

"(Name), have you ever thought about joining the fatui I'm sure I could find some use for your skills."

"No than-"

"No no no! They are not joining I prohibit it, never ever will that happen!"

"Now when since did you have supreme authority over (name)? I never thought of you as the controlling type now."

"What do you mean dear mouchey? I'm not controlling I'm looking out for them, tell him (name)!"

"It's fine scaramouche . I was going to deny the position either way."

"Disappointing."

"Don't listen to him love, he has no idea what he's talking about, ok?"

Scaramouche

▸🧼 would never admit but he truly is impressed by your ability, he's never meet someone like you. He compares his subordinates to you alot.

"If (name) can do it with ease then why can't you? I swear everyone in this facility is illiterate!"

▸🧼 he's so scared of you holding his hand not only because he's very awkward around physical affection but also because he's scared his hand are too cold for you to touch and on top of your ability, it would take a lot of convincing. Don't worry he'll eventually come around to the idea, just be a bit patient with him!

▸🧼 the amount of times his man has thrown bottles,books daggers, weapons basically anything in his vicinity at you is astonishing. He says "it's just to keep your skills sharp". You always catch them though, no worries! Also keeps track of how long it takes you to catch things.

"You caught it 3.7% times faster than average, good job keep it up."

▸🧼 god does he wish you weren't a harbinger, yes he's aware you can hold your own and even better but what if, just what if. You'll have to assure him that you're staying with him forever. 

▸🧼 if you and childe are friends he gets soo jealous, why can't you leave the carrot haired thing alone.

▸🧼 300 words 

You were sitting in your office wondering about how your were going to go about stealing the hydro archons vision not as if you could barge in the place and- 

You sensed an object coming your way, seeing as how the pointed object was thrown it was probably scaramouche. Looking up from your notes about the hydro archon swiftly grabbing the blade, why was your husband so adamant on throwing things at you was beyond you.

"that was 0.7% times slower than average, have you been slacking?"

"Its not that, somethings bothering me!"

"What a pitiful excuse…"

He stared at you waiting for an answer as to what was the matter, although your husband would not admit it verbally he would cease anything or person that dared to bother you and your workflow, you had to to admit it was pretty cute.

"The hydro archon, I still don't know how I'm going to go about retrieving it."

"Leave it to someone else, you got the dendro and pyro archons gnosis, the Tsaritsa needs to understand the concept of being overworked anyway."

"But I know I can do this, I just need a little time!"

"I'm fully aware of your skills, but there this thing called self preservation or are you dumb to grasp the concept?"

You simply gave no answer and rolled your eyes in annoyance, you truly did love the man but if he could be a little bit less suffocating with his overprotective personality that would be great. You'd have to admit it was pretty cute though.

"Why are you staring at me?"

"Oh nothing your just very pretty."

As the words came from your mouth you could the the reddish tint on his face.he's blushing that's so cute, you have no idea how people could see him as ruthless he's just a little stubborn.

"I'm not, stop with your foolish words."

"scara can I tell you something?"

"Make it quick."

You got up from your desk now standing in front of him with a small smile on your face, planting you lips on his, making him even more red than he already was, you could see the cogs turning in his head after what you just did.

"I love you!"

𝐁𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐬💉

Serving size- 1.7k

Nutritional facts- Vampire AU + a hit of Modern AU + Gn! Reader

Allergy warring- blood, slightly suggestive, cursing, childe is referred to as both ajax and childe

Overview- genshin boys blood preference + them feeding of you for the first time

Contents- albedo,kazuah,childe

Instructions- best read in dark mode

Formula- headcanons + a dash of drabbles

Event masterlist🦇 〢main masterlist 🦴〢Next

Albedo

⥽🏮First off would he even tell you?

Yes, this wouldn’t find any reason to not tell you. I mean what is he going to do just hide blood bags from you forever? You’re bound to find out sooner or later so he sees no point in keeping it from you.

⥽🏮How does he get blood?

Although he’s quite aware blood tastes better straight from the source he’d rather drink mediocre blood than harass a random stranger, has artificial blood it doesn’t taste the best but it doesn’t really matter seeing as he drinks to live and not to taste, well I mean that is until he meets you.

⥽🏮 blood preference

Doesn’t mind drinking from blood bags he’s been doing it for most of his life, Bedo honestly doesn’t have that much of a preference but if on the rare occasion he had to choose his favorite blood type would be A positive like I said he doesn’t really mind any blood type but he’d rather not drink B positive, and he really does not understand the whole hype around drinking rare blood types but does share the belief that blood tastes better from the source. He thinks drinking blood from the source is 9/10 immoral and rather disgusted from drinking from an animal

⥽🏮First time feeding off you.

Quite the predicament he got himself into, he was hungry and the next blood supply was until next week. How could he have been so careless? But you were right there outside his office door maybe just one sip, no he can’t he’s better than this of course but then came a loud knock on the door with a familiar voice.

“Bedo! Bedo open the door,please?”

“No, I told you to stay outside of the office didn’t I?”

“Yes but- you know what I’m coming in.”

“[name] do no-”

Words cut off by the slamming off the door he specifically told you not to open, your eyes glance over him with a slightly annoyed face and blonde wisps over his bare face and braid messily done. Admiring his appearance and sliding next to him.

“Is it my words weren’t clear enough for you to hear me?”

“No, I heard I just didn’t want to sit outside the door while my boyfriend is sitting alone in pain.”

“It’s not that bad.”

“It is, now here.”

You shift your shirt slightly off your shoulders revealing your collar bone, he knew what you were trying to insulate you couldn’t make it more obvious, he didn’t want to do it but you were right in front of him and oh so close.

“[name] I’m not going to.”

“Bedo, please.”

“No.im no-”

“For archons sakes!”

Startled by the sudden hands grasping his hair on forcing his fangs to skin into your soft skin, he wanted so much to stop drawing blood from you but mouthwatering liquid dripping from your collarbone that was trickling into his mouth was delightful, it didn’t hurt fact you kind of liked the sensation but as soon as you started to get familiar with the tingling feeling traveling threw your body making your eyes to flutter it stopped, why?

“I- I’m sorry, I lost control and-”

“It’s fine bedo it didn’t hurt, in fact, I kinda liked it.”

“Oh, so that’s the case?”

Eyes staring right at your figure with an ever so menacing look, you don’t know what you were in for, but it was something, surely something.

Childe

⥽🏮would he even tell you?

He would try and keep it from early on in the relationship, but would eventually tell once he knows for sure he can trust you with that information, don’t get me wrong it’s not that he doesn’t trust you it’s about how much you trust him.

⥽🏮How does he get blood?

Kidnapping, look ok I know it sounds bad but this man just absolutely despises blood bags. he‘s so picky with his blood too like if you are not dressed a certain way or your blood doesn’t flow through your veins like he wants he would not even consider drinking from you if he was starving to death.

⥽🏮 blood preference

You would think he would be stuck up about it and only drink AB negative, but no he’s just picky there’s a difference! His favorite blood type is b negative but he absolutely can not stand RH negative and like albedo does not understand the hype around ab negative. Speaking about what he likes drinking from, he shares the popular belief that blood tastes better from the source, disgusted by blood bags and even more disgusted about drinking from an animal

⥽🏮First time feeding off you.

Your husband was no stranger to having to get up at 3 in the morning to do something he really would rather not do you knew this, but this specific pattern of getting out of bed only when in sept like you were asleep was extremely irregular even for childe. I mean who just gets up in the middle of the night then comes back 2 hours later. Well, you were about to find out, it's not as if you didn't trust your husband or something it's that you wanted him to trust you with whatever he’s hiding from you.

So you were going to do the obvious thing and catch him in the act, and well the man was caught red-handed, to say the least, no like literally there’s blood on his hands and his mouth what the fuck.

“Ajax is that…?”

“Look I know it looks bad but I was on a mission a- and”

“So mission huh? That definitely explains the blood in your mouth and you go out at the exact same time and only when im asleep right?”

“I know, but I swear it wasn’t anything that bad, trust me, love.”

“Don’t love me, look ajax if you’re not going to trust me why should I trust you?”

“Ah, well your right I guess it’s time to tell you.”

“Waiting?”

“Im, a vampire.”

“That’s all?”

“I mean yeah, what else would there be?”

“Oh thank archons, I thought you were cheating on me.”

“Love what? I would never do that not even I was held at gunpoint!”

“Well, im glad to know it was nothing serious.”

What a nice moment between you too, carrying you up the stair and to your bedroom draping your figure onto the silk sheets. Childe positioned over your body starting at his features with anticipation.

“Can I?”

You nod your head in agreement with the statement he just made. His teeth submerging into your skin as if he’d tasted nothing better in his whole life, blood trickling down your throat. A sweet mixture of pleasure and pain, it was a long night, yeah let’s leave it at that.

Kazuha

⥽🏮would he even tell you?

Yep, 100x yep this man can’t stand keeping secrets from you and he also doesn’t see the point in not telling you if he’s going to spend the rest of his life with you, you need to know every secret about him.

⥽🏮How does he get blood?

Beido buys blood from him, he was a bit suspicious about the morals of how this blood was acquired but she assures him that everything was consensual. He thinks it tastes fine and would rather drink it than accidentally harm someone He’s picky but the type he likes isn’t rare so it’s not much of a problem.

⥽🏮 blood preference

Picky but not anywhere near to as childe, if you give him something he doesn’t like he’ll normally just wait for beido to buy sum’ more but if he needs it he’ll drink it. His favorite blood type is o positive which is great for him since its the most common one-time beido offered to for him to drink her blood and that is how he found out he really dislikes A negative quite immoral to just drink from random humans especially when it’s not consensual and he just can’t stand the taste of animal blood.

⥽🏮First time feeding off you.

Knowing that Kazuha was a vampire wasn’t a big deal for you, stirring the pot of food wondering about what even has changed, oh right the most that changed is probably just your cooking habits but besides from that everything was the same. There was something that didn't bother per say but you always wondered about-

“Zuha’ love, can you come in the kitchen for a sec?”

“Mhm sure.”

As soon as you spoke you could hear the familiar footsteps of the man you love, you were about to ask him a question that had been on your mind for the last month.

“so, is there something you need dove?”

“no, not necessarily I just wanted to ask you a question, is that all right?”

“Ask away.”

“So u- Uhm why do you never drink from me is it like my blood tastes weird or?”

“Oh, well I wasn't expecting that. I thought you never wanted to since you never asked, would you like me to?”

“Mhm!”

If Kazuha knew you would have that look on your face when he was about to drink from you he’d of done it much sooner, and there his canines digging into the side of your shoulder as the red liquid hit his tongue, he’s never tasted anything better, screw any other blood type yours is the best by far. Oh, how he just never wanted to stop the tension of your skin and his teeth but there was an issue why are your eyes fluttering like that?

“Sorry, I didn't realize I was taking that much forgive me, are you ok?”

“Im fine love! Just a bit light-headed, you should do that more often.”

“I would love to dear, by the way, what are you making it smells good.”

a/n: sorry i was gone i've had my director on my ass about practicing at home

perhaps it's that he gifted you your favorite treats. or maybe it's the handwritten love poems. but it could also be the fact he bought you oh so many bouquets of your favorite flowers..

but none of that matters. none of it is needed. he doesn't physical things to show his love for you.

it's that his kisses are full of hope and dreams. it's how gentle he handles you when your bodies meet as one. it's the fact he dances with you in the stove light to songs of old.

he spins you around and right off your feet. he waltzes with you till the candles are burned and the wine is gone.

and he'll love you till his last breath.

POE, CHUUYA, dazai, LUCIFER, SIMEON, asmodeus, satan, NEUVILLETE, ZHONGLI, DAINSLEIF, childe, SEBASTIAN, NAGITO, togami, and any of your lover boy favorites

A comfort and a warm.

Ft. Childe/Ajax

Cw : Male Reader, Reader's a florist! Story written from Childe/Ajax POV Ooc childe sobs. RUSHED ASF. Not proofread

Summary : Ajax has always been a lonely person who kept his burden all by himself, but not until a certain boy came to his life and lit his hollow soul ablaze.

A/N : its alr the end of the year lol, i just wanna say a lots and tons of sorry for being so inactive, basically school is destroying my sanity and i've been trying to finish my last request (very sorry to the anon) anw im writing this to fill my blog since its so empty

—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–

—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—-

After the abyss incident Ajax could feel that he was nothing but a living corpse that seek nothing but power, even when his family was always by his side and comforting him every night saying how grateful they were that he came back home in one piece, yes he may physically came home in one piece but what about his inner mind? Is he still the cheerful and innocent Ajax they used to know?

Ajax's family were very much aware about his abyss incident, and they were aware about how his mental condition were worsening when he joined the Fatui and yet they said and did nothing about it.

He had it said to himself that the day when the fatui took him in, "This is the end of my youth and the beggining of my day as a warrior, from today onward i promise I'll be stronger to protect those i care about." And thus he left his innocence behind and built himself a mask that he hoped will cover any remant of his childhood self.

Sure the masks of personality he built worked, but at what cost?

Ajax felt as if he was hollow, he wondered to himself if he was still alive at this point, everything he said everything he do felt meaningless even when he came home to the welcoming arm of his family he felt that something inside him were missing, sure he may looked happy but.. is that what he truly felt?

But even after all of that, he remembers one certain incident where... he met a certain boy that changes his view of world.

He remembers vividly, it was a pretty sunny day on liyue, as always ajax was wandering aimlessly whilst admiring the calming and busy atmosphere and even occasionally saying Hi to whoever he met whether it was colleagues or just someone he happens to know, that's until he stumbled upon a very familiar face, You.

—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–— Liyue 2 Years ago.

"Goodmorning comrade, is the flower selling well today?" I said to the person as i fasten up my pace and jumping giddily, a liyuean florist whom i and the other Liyuean people adored, because of his well known calm and reserved demeanor and a sweetest smile he earned a sweet title by the children as a "Sunflower Boy"

"Goodmorning, what should i call you today eh, Maybe young master?" He said while chuckling softly, Sadly unbeknownst to the liyue people He an Fatui Agent, A cold blooded killer hiding behind the sweet smile face that watches all over the Liyue.

"Aw come on (Name), lets put the work aside" ajax turned his gaze towards you while fiddling with the flower on display, "This looked fresh, when did u picked this qingxin?" He asked.

"Last mission, i found a place with lots qingxin so why not harvest it from there?" Heh last mission huh?

"Wasn't the last mission i sent u on was a bloodbath?" I said to him.

Huft... you sighed, "if you want to talk the details about the last mission we better not do it here, Childe."

"Oh? Calling by my codename rather than Tartaglia huh? Interesting" he chuckled, "is it a one step of getting closer?"

Honestly if i could ho and visit you everyday, I would.

"Anyway Childe, what brings you here?" He asked while organizing the flower bouquet.

"Well, i just wanted to see you. Beside i needed a flower for teucer, how much for this one" he said while pointing to a flower bouquet, "that one pretty, im sure teucer would love it."

"Teucer huh? Wait.. Teucer is here??" He turned his gaze at me completely shocked, "How come is he here? Did he run off again."

"Of course not! He said he missed Liyue and Teucer is teucer he begged to go to liyue with me."

"Heh Teucer always like that isn't he? Anyway here's your flower bucket sir, dont forget we have a meeting at 7PM today" he gave the flower bucket to me and grabbed my hand softly "Keep the money, beside i don't want my own superior to pay and dont't forget send my regard to teucer." He smiled fondly.

Somehow something inside my heart is burning truly, i could feel my face heatin up and my heart racing.

"Shit." I cursed down my breath and pulled my hand away from his, "Well ahem!, since we have a meeting today why dont i go treat you some meal before we began our work hm? You've been a really good assistant to me too these days, how about we go for third round knockout?"

"Sounds good! I was getting hungry myself." He said giggling, "but first i need to clean up the flower store." He hurriedly packed the flower away.

"Here let me help you comrade."

–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—-

Even until these day i wondered why you would hold my hand at the first place, Your hand not so fit for a florist, calloused and littered with scars but yet i somehow still adored it, at that time i wished the time could stop. I wished that we could hold hand a little longer.

A lot of people say that my action are getting a little too visible, how i smiled when his face randomly came on my mind or how sometimes he came to my office bringing the paperwork i need to do while smiling brightly, or maybe the time when he take cares of me while i was sick. I remember vividly, he would came to my office bringing me a cup of hot tea while ushing me to take a rest and said that he would take my place for a while, oh how sweet of him.

Even my fellow harbinger friend "Signora" said

"Poor boy tartaglia, can't even confess his feeling to his own assistant? You know that our job is dangerous right? death is not a uncommon thing here, either you will run out of time or..."

"Or what signora." I said my tone coming out coldly

"You know it already tartaglia."

–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—– 1.45 AM Tartaglia Office

I scribbled down the last stack paperwork i needed to fill and submit whilst feeling that in any second my head could've exploded.

Just what time is it? I turned my head over to the clock sitting next to the sofa clearly showing that its past midnight and yet here i am trying to finish of what seem like non ending paperwork, should i just gave up? I have a free schedule tommorow anyway slacking off a little wouldn't hurt right? Right.

Slowly i could feel that my eyes is getting droopy and my body relaxing, i rested my head down to the desk im working at and slowly drifting to slumber.

But clearly before i was completely sleeping i could hear my office door slowly sliding open following with a long sigh of a certain person?? Honestly i was too tired to even look up and checked who it was.

Again before i knew it the next morning i woke up with a jacket draped over my shoulder and a finished paperwork? Half of it are already submitted i wonder, and a little note saying that i shouldn't overworked myself.

Straightening myself up i take off the jacket and inspected it for a little while finding a nametag signed "(Name)" in it. I couldn't help but let out a little laugh, Why do you care so much about me (Name)?

–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—-

After everthing you've done for me, how could i repay you? I remembered one single memory where everything changed, both you and me.

-

Sometimes i could walked down the hallway with a bruised and bloodied body, and yet i never came running down to seek the medical staff, i walked myself to your office, where i know you would stay there and do whatever you needed to do, i know this has been the countless time i did it but yet, you never showed anger you welcomed me with open arms and tended my wound with your gentle hand, a hand that healed my inner self.

I knocked softly on your office door, "(Name) are you there? Its me, i got.. problems."

"Be right there" i could hear a faint shuffling and a rushing steps running to the door.

And the door opened, revealing you with a shocked and somewhat concerned face mixed with "I know this would happen" expression, "Well, good evening comrade as you see uhh i got trouble here." I tried to put my usually bright self.

"Get inside and sit down, let me get my medical kit"

I did as he ordered me to, i sat down to the usualy chair where he tended my wound and maybe sometimes where i would drop in and said Hi to him while he was resting.

"Look Ajax i do not want to hear your reason about this injury, im growing indeed tired of hearing your exact same reason." He said while sitting on a small chair and giving me a gesture to open up my clothes, "Open it i need to see the wounds"

"You know that its better for you to seek the actual medical staff and get yourself patched up there"

"Honestly (Name) my injuries heals faster if the one who patched it up is you" i said while smiling giddily, "But anyway thanks for always doing this though, i know i should've gone to the infirmary but yet i came up running to you"

"Sure yea, this might sting a little stay still."

Sting a little? I couldn't even feel anything when my mind is totally centered to how your hand tended my injuries.

When he patched me up, i stayed silent the rest of the time, i thinked about how he still wants to do this despite scolding me for a thousand time already.

"There and its done" he said while giving my back a little rub, "as i said next time dont overdo it Ajax, anyway here's your clothes the weather is really cold today isnt it?"

"Thank you (Name), and could i ask you something?"

"Ask away Ajax"

"Why do you keep doing this, despite of how many time you said to me that i was a nuisance? And the amount of stuff you did to me. Truly it did leave a mark at my heart, You know that time? When we met and talked at your flower shop and you hold my hand? I swear i couldm't get enough of it, and you know i've been holding myself to say this. I Liked you alot! More than friends if you are wondering, its fine if you dont feel the same, atleast i could get it out of my chest" i poured all the feeling i've been holding on for so many days, secretly i hoped that you would share the same feelings with me.

"And (Name) being with you truly healed my inner self, You did keep me sane the whole time you know that?" I laughed, while trying to hold in the little tears that pooled around the corner of my eye.

"Well Ajax, In fact i did share the same feeling with you, I Liked you too! Way longer than you did, i strucked love when i met you on your recruit days, we were on the same teams that day"

He said while Holding our hand together, but this time it was more genuine.

"I.. how could i not know then?"

"Maybe because you're too busy getting that harbinger title"

"(Name) i do not know how to respond to this, truly thank you, Thank you for everything." I squezzed his hand gently, "Thank You."

I never felt anything more happy than this, That day i feel that he has set my hollow soul ablaze.

–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—-–—-

Bonus lmao :

"Hey (Name)" i turned my sight to him

"Yes?"

"Could i ask you something?"

"Sure."

"Kiss the injuries it helps them heals faster"

"....."

"No"

(Name) proceeds to smother ajax w little kisses and yes it make Ajax giggle and kicks his feet like a damn toddler

–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—–—-

Note : Thanks i know that this cringe but thank you truly.

Presented to my silly babi @adrifts-home

Holiday Special in Liyue

This was written for 2020 Christmas and decided to wait to upload it here. Be warned that characters revealed/released after December 2020 will not show up here.

Not a oneshot. Platonic!

Characters: Baizhu, Childe, Chongyun, Ganyu, Keqing, Ningguang Qiqi, Xianling, Xiao, Xingqui, Xinyan, Zhongli.

You are the traveller.

Spoiler alert: If you have not finished Farewell, Archaic Lord, I suggest you to not read this until you have done so.

Word count: 4.2k

---

The prosperous Liyue Harbor had gone for far too long with sunshine and warmth, so when the cold air of Snezhnaya decided to blow with greater extent, the people immediately seek warmth in buildings and bundling themselves with layers of clothing.

"Wow..! It's snowing in Liyue?" Paimon looks out the window of the room you were staying in, staring at the snow that fell slowly to the ground, amaze at the sight of it. "Well, it is that festive season around Teyvat," you said, smiling at the sight of your companion being so excited at such a small thing. The first snow falling was indeed a sight to see for everyone to get so hyped for the oncoming day that they were most looking forward to- the holidays.

"Oh, we should start looking for gifts, Paimon," you say, counting down the days left. "Ooh! Is it for Paimon?" Paimon asks, turning to look at you with her star-filled eyes. You laughed and shook your head. "You'll have your present too, but I'm talking about giving gifts to our friends."

"Ooh, it's fun giving gifts!" Paimon nods excitedly. You walked over to the desk in the room, pulling out a notepad and pen from its drawer. "Well, any idea what we could buy then?" You looked at your companion. "Food! If Paimon likes food, so will they," she answers. You shook your head with a smile, dismissing her idea and went to decide the gifts yourself, which took a lot of thinking to do and once you were done thinking for Zhongli's- the last person on the list- you and Paimon headed outside.

"Paimon doesn't get it, can't you just pick whatever looks expensive and give it as a gift?" Paimons hovers beside you, watching as you crouch on the sands and pick up shells. The first gift you were picking up was for Childe. He hasn't left Liyue just yet, saying that he wants to loiter around a bit before you two part for a good amount of time.

You shook your head. "Giving a gift to someone must be from the bottom of your heart to truly be special," you say, picking up a beautiful starconch shell that you think that Childe might like. "Hmph, but why that man? He's a Harbinger," Paimon states, which was something you couldn't argue so you just shrug and stood up, a beautiful shell in hand. "That's one thing down. Now, let's go to the market-- a lot of the items could be found there." And indeed were there the many things you were looking for, each gift different from the last.

"Hm? Hey, why if it isn't (Y/N)." Just ahead, in the middle of the streets, was the brunette whom you had fought not long ago. "You guys shopping?" He looks at the bags your were holding curiously, trying to get a peek inside one of them. "A, ah..!" You look towards Paimon who immediately shoved the gifts inside her infinity backpack, Childe staring quizzically at your hasty action. "Yeah, just grocery shopping," you said, partially lying since you did went and buy food for Paimon.

You gulped, seeing as his eyes revealed skepticism, but was relieved when he didn't push on. "Ah, anyway, it's a good thing that I bumped into you, actually," he says, "I was hoping to invite you to dinner for the holiday-- with Mr. Zhongli, of course."

"Hey, what about Paimon!?" Paimon asks, a bit offended at her disregard of presence. "Ah, of course you too, Paimon. I'd figured that if (Y/N) agrees, you'll come along." With that being said, Paimon agrees in your stead, so that you didn't have a say. "I'm glad to hear that. Then, I'll see you quite soon." He waves and disappears into the crowd.

You turn to look at Paimon. "I thought you didn't like Childe," you state, to which your little companion shrugs and giggles awkwardly. She just wanted the free food from the expensive restaurant that was hard for ordinary folks to get in.

And so, when the first snow on that day fell, you two were already up and ready. "Who should we go to first?" Paimon asks, to which you ponder for a quick second before answering, "To Bubu Pharmacy."

Upon arriving, you didn't see anyone at the front counter, but you know all too well by now that there is. "Hello, Qiqi." You walk closer, leaning over the counter to see the little zombie-child. "(Y/N), you are here," she says softly, cranking her head up to look at you and Paimon.

"Heya, Qiqi! What are you doing?" Paimon asks, seeing herbs beside her on the ground. Qiqi notices where she was looking and said, "Oh, Qiqi was arranging these before Dr. Baizhu comes back, but Qiqi can't reach the higher drawers." At the sight of the pouting child, you and Paimon felt pity. "Awe, Qiqi, don't worry. We'll help you," Paimon says, but when she said 'we' she meant you.

Atfter putting the herbs into their proper cabinet, Qiqi thanked you for your help. "Oh? Well, if it isn't (Y/N). Do you need anything? I doubt you came here to play with little Qiqi." Baizhu enters from the front, a warm smile on his face. You greeted the man and suddenly remembered that you came to the pharmacy with a purpose. "Oh? A present?" Baizhu repeats, seeing Paimon take two boxes from her bag. Humming, you nod and hand one of the present over to the doctor-- the one which was larger of the two.

"Would it be alright to open it now?" he asks, eyeing the box in excitement. You nodded. "Be my guess." Hearing this, Baizhu did not wait a second too long and opened it. In it, contained herbs of all sorts across Teyvat, all in their own mini boxes. You had heard of his incurable illness, and wanting to help him find the medicine, you bought many and all sorts of herbs. "Oh my, thank you, (Y/N)." The look in his eyes clearly showed warmth and love. He truly loved the present.

"You're welcome. I hope you like the things I put in there." You smiled and then knelt to the same level as Qiqi. "And this one is for you. I'm sure you'll love it." Qiqi reaches her small hands and took the gift silently and open it. Looking at what was inside, Qiqi gasps and stares up at you. "Coconut milk?" she asks and you nod. Qiqi carefully places the box and wrap her arms around your neck, saying a 'thank you'. You hug her small frame in return and the two of you soon separate. Qiqi went ahead and went to the back to open her drink, leaving you and Baizhu, him thanking you once more.

"Enjoy your holiday," Baizhu bids, seeing you walk down the long set of stairs and disappearing amongst the crowds. The next place you planned on going to was the office occupied by the Qixing. It wasn't as grand as the Jade Chamber that met its end, but regardless, it was still fancy, seeing as this was in Liyue after all.

When you opened the door, you were immediately pushed to the ground-- though not on purpose. "Ah, my apologies. I wasn't looking where I was going." It was an assistant working for the Qixing, and by the looks of her state and those within the building, you could tell that she was stressed.

"Oh, it's no big deal. Here, let's help you." You picked up a file of papers along with the female and stood up, giving her her papers. "Thank you. I'm sorry, but I must be off." She hastily leaves you on the spot, not giving you time to say anything.

"Wow, Lady Ningguang doesn't even rest on holidays," Paimon says, seeing that there was much chaos in the building. Walking further into the building, you met a familiar face, looking quite distressed. "Ganyu!" You called, drawing her to a halt midway and turning to you and Paimon. "Ah, (Y/N), what are you doing here?" she asks, setting down a brown box thag she was carrying onto a nearby table.

"It looks like you guys are quite busy, so I'll make it short. I wanted to give you guys a gift for Christmas," you say and handed her a box, to which she looks to you before taking it. "A gift? Ah, you didn't need to go to such lengths for me," she shyly says, scratching her cheek. You smiled at the adeptus. "You're my friend. Of course, I won't forget about you," you said, earning a smile from her.

"Then, I'm assuming you want to see Lady Ningguang as well?" she asks and you nod. "Well, I can take you to her, but I'm not quite sure if she would be free to have a conversation with you."

"That's fine. I didn't plan to stay long and keep her from her work," you state. Ganyu nods her head and leads you to her office where you both see her behind the desk, eyes glued on a sheet of paper. "Lady Ningguang." Ganyu lightly taps on the door's frame with her knuckles. "Someone would like to see you."

The Tianquan looks up and sees you. "Ah, (Y/N), what brings you here? It is quite nice to see you, but I'm afraid it isn't quite the appropriate time to sit down and have tea." She stands up from her seat and walks around, her stature hovering yours. Ganyu excuses herself and returns to her work. "Um, why don't you and Paimon sit down first?" She ushers the two of you to a cushioned chair as she took the one opposite of yours.

"Forgive me for my rudeness as I don't quite have the things to brew you tea and give you a snack," she says. You shook your head. "No, it's alright. We didn't plan to keep you away from your work for too long," you say. "I noticed how you don't have a lot of assistants today, although you seem to be quite busy."

"Ah, yes, I have sent home the majority of them, seeing as it is Christmas. Those who are in the building right now, do so of their own volition. It is much appreciated," she states, staring out of the open door to see one of her assistants running past the door. "Wait, so, if no one decided to help you, you would still be here doing work?"

She turns to you and smiled. "Of course. There are many things to do since the incident with a past god that if I take a break, I'm afraid that I might have more work to do," she said, seeing your face turn to disbelief. Lady Ningguang is truly one of a kind. She chuckles. "Don't worry about it, (Y/N). Anyway, what did you come here for?"

"Right! I came to give you a gift.." You took out a small, rectangular box that was beautifully wrapped and adorned with a ribbon. "Hm, for me?" She kindly takes the present and stares at it and then to you, who smiled excitedly. "May I?" she asks and you nodded. It was a two-set jaded hairpin of a dragon and pheonix. She was in awe of the present, showing you her sincere love for the gift. You admit, it was quite expensive-- the most expensive gift on your list. It hurt your wallet and soul, but upon seeing her reaction, it made you feel a little better and felt as if it was totally worth it.

"Thank you, (Y/N). I wish to give you something in return--" You cut her off, putting a hand up and shaking your head. "I didn't give you a gift and expect you would give one back," you said and smile. "I'm happy that you like them." You chatted a bit as to not make it seem a bit rude that you were there to just drop off and leave before getting up and leaving the building.

"(Y/N)?" Drawing yours and Paimon's attention to your right, you see the Yuheng of the Qixing. "What were you doing inside the office?" The female draws closer, much relaxed than when the 'death' of Rex Lapis took place.

"Keqing, I was going to look for you just now!" you greet. "Looking for me?" she repeats and you nodded. "I was going to give you a gift, but you weren't inside." You handed her a small, purple box with a single ribbon wrapping it. The girl stare at the box on surprise and looks up at you. "I don't recall ever doing anything that might make you want to give me a gift," she trailed.

You shook your head. "It's a Christmas gift," you said. "Ah, Christmas.. Yes, thank you. Although, you could just have left it to Ganyu to deliver it to me," she states. "But it wouldn't feel more meaningful if I were to do that," you said, smiling. The Yuheng smiles and thanks you once more and waved you off as you went to look for the others, going to the food street that you know one of them is bound to be at.

"Xianling, hey!" The sudden call of her name draws the little chef  to your direction. "Ah, (Y/N)!" She smiles, seeing you and Paimon draw close. "Oh? (Y/N) is here?" Another voice steps in, bringing your attention to one of the tables.

Placing the book that covered the other person's face, they greeted you with a smile. "Xingqui! And Chongyun?" You look to the side of the male and see that his dear friend was also there, greeting you with a quick 'hello'.

"Xiangling had just recently added a new menu for the holiday, so why don't the two of you come and sit down? It'll be my treat," Xingqui gestures to the two remaining seats. "Ooh, yay!" Paimon floats over to one of them, excited for the free meal.

You shook your head, smiling, and joined the three at the table. "Xiangling, I'd like to order two more of what we ordered just now," Xingqui says to the female and she nods. "You got it!" she says and dashes off to the kitchen.

"What are the two of you doing here? I doubt you came seeking for food." Xingqui turns his head away from the disappearing chef and to you. "We actually wanted to give Xiangling a present. And since that the two of you are here, it makes things easier for me since I was about to look for you guys after," you admit, drawing a curious gaze from the two, young males.

"Oh? You've gotten us presents as well? How sweet of you," Xingqui compliments, giving a close-eyed smile. "We can save the gift-giving after we have our food. That way, it feel much more special."

Xiangling returns to the front, balancing a couple of dishes wherever she could and deliver it to your table. "We have not tried the food yet, so let us enjoy it together." Xingqui smiles.

Paimon was the first to dig in, of course, and the first to feel full. Chongyun, however, couldn't quite enjoy the food and created havoc in the restaurant-- Xingqui ordered a meal with spice, not letting his friend know of it. It was always chaotic with this duo.

"Ah, I think this would be the most perfect time to hand out the presents, my liege," Xingqui says, chin resting on the back of his hands and giving you a cheeky, close-eyed smile as he ignore his dear friend running around in the back.

You eyed the bookworm and Chongyun with a semi questioning and worrying look, not sure what to say at that moment. "I'll also hold onto dear Chongyun's present for when he gets better," he adds. "A, ah.. Alright." After handing him his and Chongyun's present, you excused yourself for a bit to hand Xiangling her present. "Oh, wow! A gift for me? Thank you, (Y/N)!" The girl giggles and gave you an earnest smile.

After that, you, Paimon, Xingqui, and the crazed Chongyun stood outside of the restaurant, ready to bid goodbye and part ways. "It was truly an honour to dine with you and I extend my thanks on behalf of Chongyun," Xingqui says, re-adjusting the arm of Chongyun's around his neck. "We better be off now. Have a wonderful time." With that, the second son of some rich family, turns the opposite direction and drags his passed out friend along, disappearing from your sight.

"Who are we going to next?" Paimon asks, feeling satisfied. "Xinyan," you answered. The search for Xinyan wasn't easy, seeing as she has to move around the city to hide from the Milleliths for when she performs.

"Hey, Xinyan!" you called out when you finally found her sitting on a crate in some corner. The girl stopped whatever she was doing and looks up at you. "Oh, hey! Whatcha doin' here? You finally here to see one of my concerts?" She grins, straightening herself up. You chuckled, feeling a bit guilty. "Ah, actually, I can't do that today, sorry," you said, scratching the back of your head and averting your eyes.

"Haha, it's no big deal. I figured that you were here for somethin' else. So, what is it?" she asks, her usual grin unwavering when she asked. Knowing this, you felt a bit relieved, taking out the present meant for her. "This is for you." The girl looks af the gift with a visible expression of surprise. "For me?" she asks, slowly taking the gift from your hand. "Uh, can I open it?" She looks up from the box and to you, looking for permission.

"Well, it is yours," you say. The girl opens and the look of delight glimmer in her eyes. She looks up at you with a semi disbelief in her eyes. "No way, are you sure this is for me? It looks expensive!" And it indeed was, but it wasn't as expensive as the hairpins for Ningguang. "Of course, it's for you. Who else would it be for, if not for you?" you ask. The girl grins and smacks your back hard, causing you to cough. "Thanks for this, mate. I mean it."

"Ah, it's no problem," you hiss, trying to rub your back of the tingling pain. The girl cackles at your actions, knuckles resting on the side of her hips as she does so. "Well, since ya aren't stayin', it means that you have places to be, yeah? Then, you best be off." She pushes you along. "You can always come and see one of my performances later."

You look over your shoulder, and with a smile, you nodded. "Let's go, Paimon," you say to your friend and made your way outside the city to the inn at Dihua Marsh, hoping that the person you want to see will be there.

"Do you think he'll be here?" Paimon asks as you two took the elevator up. "Well, that is what I'm hoping for." With that said, the elevator safely reached the top and you waltz inside to find Verr Goldett behind the counter as always. "Oh? (Y/N), what brings you here?" The boss of the inn greets with a smile.

"Sorry to drop by so suddenly. I am looking for Xiao. Is he here?" you ask. She brought up a finger to her chin and look at the ceiling, thinking. "Mm, I believe he is out right now. Is something the matter?" she asks, facing you. You shook your head. "I just wanted to give him something. Is it alright if I wait for him?"

"Of course." She nods. You made your way up the stairs, Paimon trailing not too far behind, to the highest level of the inn and waited at the balcony that you two had first met. You remembered it not having the best first impression of the adeptus, but the journey certainly changed that.

"What are you doing here?" A cold, monotone voice of a man asks from behind, drawing yours and Paimon's attention.

There stood the yaksha whom you have been excited to meet, crossing his arms as he gave you the look of questioning and solid eyes. "I was waiting for you," you earnestly say. "Waiting for me? For what?" He walks closer to where you stood and rested his arms on the railing, putting all weight on it.

You took out the present, drawing the male's attention away from the scenery to you, a curious gaze as he does so. "To give you this." You outstretched your two arms that held a larger box than the others that you've given. He looks at you quite surprised, but turned to yet another confused look. "Uh, what's this?" he asks, looking from you to the box.

"Don't tell me you don't know that today is the holiday!" you say in almost disbelief. "Huh? Oh, yeah.. Is it that time of year that mortals get excited about?" he questions and you nodded happily and urge him to take the gift- to which he did. "Uh, um.. T, thank you," he utters almost in a whisper, averting his eyes to the ground and covering his mouth with a hand. You notice that his ears was slightly pink, making you chuckle.

"H, hey, what's so funny?" He snaps his head towards your shaking body as you couldn't hold the laugh. "S-sorry, it's just that.. I never thought that an adeptus could get so shy from receiving presents!" you honestly say. Hearing this, he turns his head away, his face much more red.

He clicks his tongue. "I've never received a present from anyone else other than Rex Lapis, okay?" he states, trying to hide his face. Hearing this, you stopped chuckling and stare with a soft gaze at the shy adeptus. "Well, I won't hold much of your time, and I'm sure you wouldn't want us to watch you open the present, so I'll get going now," you say, beginning to walk down the stairs with a wave.

"W, wait!" You stopped on your tracks and look over your shoulder. He turns his body to face you and took a deep breath. "Thank you.. I mean it," Xiao says, eyes still glued to the ground. You huffed a smile. "You're welcome. Happy holidays, Xiao."

"Ooh, are we going to go to the dinner with Childe and Mr. Zhongli now?" Paimon asks excitedly when the two of you got to the bottom, to which you nodded. "We can also give the gifts to them there."

"Hey, (Y/N)!" Childe waves from a far off table once you two stepped inside Luili Pavillion, standing up to greet you excitedly. "I was worried that you forgot about today," he admits, scratching the back of his head as he chuckles.

"Even if I did forget, I'm sure Paimon wouldn't forget it, seeing as you're treating us to a free meal," you laugh and turn to greet Zhongli who greets back. "It is certainly most enjoyable to dine with others on such a day," Zhongli admits, a small smile on his charming face. "The food should be here quite soon. I have ordered a special dish of Liyue that only comes once a year of this month."

"Ooh, Paimon can't wait!" she squeals in her seat. "Ah, I think it would be appropriate to give you guys your gifts now," you say and took out two gifts-- one for each of the male. "Oh? A present?" Zhongli humbly takes his gift, eyeing the box. "It is quite different from offerings," you state.

"Thank you, (Y/N)," Childe says, taking his present off of your hands. "I'm honoured to receive a gift from you." He chuckles. Soon after saying that, two waiters came to your table and placed a hefty amount of food on the table. "Ah, it's finally here! Well, dig in."

"If you should ever want anything else on the menu, please ask away," one of the waiters say. "Hoho! Paimon is sure to ask!" Paimon says and grabs her chopsticks.

The night was full of warmth and chatter, and a crying Childe who asks for a spoon and fork to eat the meal before Paimon could vacuum. What happened on that day was special and felt as if all the chaos that had now passed didn't even happen at all. You were sure to miss Liyue when you depart to Inazuma, a part of you remaining on this special day on repeat.

---

Happy holidays everyone and have a happy new year! ^♡^

~♡~

║Childe║ I Love You

Requested from Wattpad.

Gender-neutral reader.

Fluff?? Angst??

Word count: 600+

All rights reserved.

---

It has been many years since your first encounter together. At that time, you two were young and did not know what it meant to love another outside of your family.

When you two first met, he used to go by Ajax. You two bicker like the children you were. But when he suddenly disappeared to only the Divine knows, you feared that you would never see him again. Such was a heartache, but didn't quite love him. Again, you were young.

When he came back, you felt relieved. You prayed every night that he was safe and would return safe. However, he came back as a different person. He was a monster feared by the people he used to call neighbours, but you did not turn away like the others. You stood by his side. He was grateful for that and showed you the treatment you deserved in doing so.

It was then that you realized, that you have fallen for the once young boy. And so, you continued to stay. No matter what may lie ahead the two of you- be it an obstacle- you two would get through it together.

Fast forward to when he was eighteen and made up the last of the eleven Fatui Harbingers, he confessed his feelings. It was a joyful moment and wondered how much wonderful it would be when he asks your hand in marriage.

At that moment, you vowed to yourself that even though he was a monster in the eyes of others, you would love him all the same and welcome him to your home with open arms. If he was to go through something, you would be there by his side. If he was feeling down, you would be there to cheer him up.

Such was a beautiful story to tell.

-

"Ajax?" you called. He hums in response, pressing your back closer to his chest, resting his chin on top of your head. "Do you remember the day you proposed to me?"

He hums again. "I do," he said afterwards. "It was months ago, yet I still remember the feeling of the sun at that day," you continued. "It was warm.. Nothing that I have ever felt before."

Ajax listened to you quietly and let you play with the ring that wrapped nicely around his finger. An engagement ring.

You smiled at the ring, wishing that it was a marriage ring instead. It was silent until you spoke again. Today, the sun shone brightly through the window like that day, warming your home. It was a perfect day. However..

"Ajax?" you call his name once again and this time, you turned your head to look at him. Today, you seemed to talk endlessly but he does not care, wanting nothing more than to hear your voice as he dwells in your comfort.

"I love you." You smiled, closing your eyes. Ajax felt himself on the verge of crying, but he told himself that he should stay strong and give you this eternal moment full of happiness.

You looked like an angel underneath the sunlight. Ethereal.

"I love you too," he says back. He wraps his arms around your torso tightly and buries his head in the crook of your neck. "I love you so much, Ajax." You move your hands over his, repeating the words he would later long to hear.

He dares not speak, afraid that if he does, it would come out croaked and give away the hint of sadness, although his shaking shoulders goes unnoticed by you.

You sighed, the smile not once wavering as you leaned into his warm embrace-- not that you could even feel the warmth.

"Once I wake up.." you spoke, eyes feeling heavy as the light in them starts to dim. "Let's get married."

~♡~