Gahh, We're Both At 50/50. >□< I'll Be Setting Up A Ritual For The Both Of Us And Pray Extremely Hard.

║Childe║So Long

Zhongli is here as well.

Angst.

Word count: 2k

---

"I don't think I can keep up with this.." The words that came out of his mouth made your heart ache and worried. You didn't understand what he was getting at, or maybe you did know what he was saying but just didn't want to admit it. "What are you saying, Tartaglia?" you asked to make sure, feeling your heart slowly deteriorate. You reached your soft hands and cupped his face, trying to make him look at you.

"I know you're smart, (Y/N)." He looked up at you with cold eyes, no love could be seen in them at all. "I'm breaking up with you."

Those words. The words you so desperately wished you never heard from the person you loved came out of his mouth without hesitation. At that moment, your whole world came crumbling down as easily as the Anemo Archon blowing the snow of Pilos Peek away.

"You're not serious, are you? This is one of your pranks, right?" You clutched his collar and looked desperately in his eyes, to look for any signs of his mischievous glimmer. He avoids looking at your now tearful eyes. When you couldn't, you pleaded and pleaded for him to be joking and saying that it wasn't a funny joke. Then, "(Y/N)." The call of your name in his cold tone and the hand on your wrist said it all to you.

On that beautiful morning, you got up to make breakfast, expecting Tartaglia home from his work as a Harbinger with bags underneath his eyes. Who knew that that bright blue sky above you had something else in store for you. Instead of it greeting you, it was there to comfort you of what was to come that day.

You let go of his collar, staring down at the ground as you watch your tears hit the wooden floor. "I see.. I'll pack my things." You packed your stuff in less than half an hour and was at the door with your belongings- which was only your clothing in a bag since you thought it would be best to leave home items with him. "I've made you breakfast.. Make sure you eat it and get some rest."

"So long, Tartaglia."

That was the last time you last spoke to him and the last time you saw him. You returned to your parents for a couple of months before disappearing one night to Liyue, not giving them a single clue as to where their beloved child went.

When you arrived at Liyue, you started a whole new life of independence and to get away from the place that holds the most memories of Tartaglia and you, forever.

Although you had a lot of mora- considering as you are from Snezhnaya- you didn't want to spend too much on a place to sleep. Finding shelter was the easy part, it was finding a job that was the most difficult part of a independent life, especially in Liyue. It wasn't until one bright day, when you were out shopping, that you landed yourself a job at Wangsheng Funeral Parlour.

You saw a tall, ombre-haired, and well-dressed man fumbling around in his pockets and an impatient look of another person just a few metres away. Curious, you walked closer. "I, I'm sorry. Could you please hold on to that as I come back with my wallet?" the well-dressed man says, almost pleading to the one behind the stall.

"I'm sorry, sir, but we have a lot of customers; we can't simply wait for you to come back," they answered, crossing their arms. You see that the ombre-haired male looked a bit saddened and out of the kindness of your heart, you intervened. "Oh, hey, there you are," you greet, acting as if you knew the male. You pretend to curiously look at the items and acted as if you knew what was happening. "Ah, did you forget your wallet again? Here, let me pay for his things."

You took out your wallet and paid for the things the male brought, which wasn't that much. Again, you're from Snezhnaya. When you two were far away from the eyes of the impatient person, the man thanked you. "Oh, it's no problem. I just felt kind of bad and wanted to help," you said, smiling.

"Is there any way I can repay you? I can get my wallet from my house and-" You waved him off. "It's fine, trust me. I really just wanted to help," you reassure the man.

He stares at you in silence with his unique eyes, inspecting you from head to toe before finally saying something. "You're not from around here, are you?" he asks. You shook your head and answered, "No. I actually moved here not too long ago."

You see the male's eyes light up. "Then, I'm assuming you don't have a job, am I correct?" he says to which you nod. "This works well with me. Then, come to Wangsheng Funeral Parlour tomorrow." He didn't give you a chance to say anything as he quickly bids goodbye, leaving you questioning until the next day.

It wasn't hard to find the funeral parlour with the help of locals to point you to the right direction. When you got there, you see a woman in Liyue esque clothing in front of the door. "Um, excuse me." You walked closer to the female, getting her to turn her head towards you. "I was told by someone to come here today."

With just those words, the woman's eyes lit up and gave a small smile. "Ah, I've heard about you from Mr. Zhongli." You gave her a quizzical look. Was that his name, you thought. "He said that the person who comes to me in your description and looking for him, to hire you on the spot." It felt surreal to you, but the woman reassured you that what she said is true.

Since then you and Zhongli have gotten closer and passed the point of acquaintance and co-workers. In just a couple of months, you two became lovers and in years, you were engaged. You thought you would never have the heart to love anybody else but Tartaglia. Who knew that your fated person was just a sea away? You two were very happy, but then he came into your life again and the still healing heart cracked a bit.

Zhongli said that he would be leaving the house earlier today, but that he'll see you at work. You didn't question him and gave a quick kiss on the lips before he left. After a few hours, it was time for you to also get out of the house and go to work.

You expected to see Zhongli already at the parlour, but when you asked the female at the front, she said that Zhongli hadn't entered the building once. You didn't mind it, of course, and went to do your things. It wasn't until lunch break that you went searching for Zhongli.

It wasn't hard to spot him out on the streets since he was very tall. His back was facing you and could see that there was a person in front of him, seeing a bit of their shoulders. A smile tugs your lips at the sight of him and jog towards him. "Zhongli!" you called out. The male turns around and a smile soon appears on his charming face. "Ah, good afternoon, my dear," he says, cupping your face and kissed your forehead. "Sorry, have I made you worried by not showing up at work?" You shook your head, knowing that you have full trust in him. "Ah.. This is awkward.." The voice that was soon to be a whisper in the wind suddenly howls back into your ears.

Zhongli slightly turns his body so that you could see the person whom he had been talking to. Your eyes widened and felt your heart drop into the pit of your stomach and many questions arose. "Tar-"

"Oh, right. This is Childe," Zhongli says, cutting you from your soft whisper. You look at Zhongli and knew that he knows nothing of the past history between you and Tartaglia and you decided to keep it that way by not saying anything about it. "Childe, this is (Y/N), the one whom I'm happy with."

You didn't want to talk to him, but if you said nothing, Zhongli might be suspicious. "Ah, hello, I'm (Y/N)," you greet, putting on a forced smile full of bitterness and hate towards the male. "Hey, I'm Childe." He puts on a smile which made you wanna gag. "I've heard about you from Mr. Zhongli over here."

"I'll join you for lunch after I'm done talking to Childe here, alright, my dear?" Zhongli says and you nod quietly and stood beside him, counting seconds until they were done and had to part.

You didn't want to bring Tartaglia up once in your new and happy relationship with Zhongli so you talked about different things that won't be tied anywhere close to the man who broke your heart many moons ago. It was difficult though, since Zhongli has been talking to him more often and he's freely walking the streets where you two might cross.

You thought you could keep it up, until one evening, when you were passing by the harbour. You see Tartaglia by the docks, staring out at the vast, blue see before him, eyes dimmed as if he was staring off to space. It was very unfortunate that you had to walk pass the male but you had to go home. "(Y/N)."

The call of your name from his mouth made you stop on your tracks. He turns around and stares at your side profile. You bit the inside of your cheeks and stare at the ground. "Hey, listen, can we talk?" he asks. There was a tone in his voice that made you want to hear him out, but you thought to yourself of the day he broke up with you in a cold tone. "Please?"

You sighed and walked towards him, head still not meeting his eyes. You too just stood there as your head remained on the ground and his eyes were staring off into the distance. Then, "I guess I should congratulate you in your engagement," he starts off, his voice soft. You hummed in response.

"Uhm, your family is worried about you in Snezhnaya, you know? They came to my house and asked where you were," he said. You didn't know where he was getting at but let him continue. "They are still looking for you even after so many years."

"Why are you saying all this, Tartaglia?" you say his name with venom, finally meeting his eyes with hate. However, his was gentle and soft. "Ah, I, I don't really know," he says and looks at the ground slightly, putting his hands in his pocket. "If we're done here, I'm leaving." You turn around and walked away, but then stop to look over your shoulders at the male whose body was faced towards you, eyes reflecting the moon and stars above.

"Forget that we were ever a thing and pretend that we are no more than mere acquaintances. Isn't the reason why you broke up with me is because you were tired? Well, I've done the moving on and wish nothing more to never have met you." It was your turn to stare at the man before you with cold eyes and devoid of light. "After you're done here, leave. So long, Tartaglia."

Looking at your back that will never turn around to look at him with the same eyes, Tartaglia knew that what he did many years ago really broke you. He never wanted this to happen and when he knew of your engagement with Zhongli, his heart broke. If only he was stronger back then to protect you, you two would be the one with rings meant as promises to each other.

"So long, my love."

---

║Zhongli║Happy Birthday

This is requested by me as a gift for you and Zhongli’s birthday.

A/N: This was posted on Wattpad for Zhongli’s birthday but came here late so it’s late.

Gender-neutral.

Fluff. A bit suggestive.

Word count: 2.5k

---

It was the coldest time of the year as December rolls on by, bringing the gift of white, little snowflakes along with it. This, no matter how beautiful, was cold to the touch and the people of Liyue bundled up for the season, dressing in extra layers. It may not be as cold like in Snezhnaya, but it certainly was cold for the locals.

And during this time, the streets would be less crowded, seeing as they want to be inside a building that gives them warmth and shelter from the snow. The holiday was long gone, leaving as soon as it came. However, there was something else to be more excited about that isn't the New Year-- that's in February. What you're going on about is Zhongli's birthday.

He may be an Archon, but he certainly must have been born into the world-- even if it's just created into the world by little specs of matter.

The sun was just peeking out in the horizon, its light shining through the little gaps of your curtains.

Sounds of fabric against fabric rustles and a deep groan made its way to your ears before feeling an arm wrap around your waist, strong and firm, not wanting to let go of you any time soon. You would shot up wide awake, very alarmed, if you didn't know who it was-- if, might I highlight.

You groan into their chest, just feeling the weight of sleep lift from your eyelids. Slowly just waking up, you were suddenly aware of the cold air that surrounded you and so, you reflexively drew closer to the person that emitted warmth, touching their bare skin that was left exposed from events the night prior.

"Good morning," the person croaks, making you melt at the sound of their voice. You hummed in response, then feeling their lips on your forehead, giving you a good morning kiss. "It's time to get up, my dear."

"Just a couple more minutes," you say, burying your face further into their chest. A low, yet deep chuckle reverberates from them and pulls away from you. "I'm afraid I can't stay much longer, my love. I have to go to work."

You opened your eyes, showing how upset you were. "Can't you call a day off, just for today?" you plead. "And beside that, I think you owe me a massage from yesterday.."

There was no reason to be alarmed, just as said before because the person in bed with you was no other than your lover, Zhongli.

Amber eyes glowed, reflecting in amusement of your attempt, but he was not easily swayed. However, he did lean in for a kiss that you took as another opportunity to make him stay, wrapping your arms around his neck to draw him closer.

You shifted on top of him, trapping him underneath you as you continue to kiss him, slipping your tongue inside his mouth, tongues now intertwining with each other.

His hands started to wander until it got down to your thighs and rubbing it. The heat from last night certainly have not died down just yet, but Zhongli knew better than to let you continue this, pushing you away and leaving a thin line of saliva that connected your lips to his.

You eyes was filled with visible lust from last night just starting a new flame of desire. Zhongli couldn't help but admit that he, too, was feeling his own flame being ignited once again. He would love to pin you down and do you over again, but he must restrain himself. Chuckling, he spoke, "I think you are more than able to walk, my dearest." He kissed your forehead before leaving your warmth.

"So, it's decided then, huh?" You pouted. He smiles down at your bare state, loving every inch of you. "I'm afraid so. And don't you have an errand to run with that boy today?" he says, referring to the ginger who goes by the alias of "Childe".

"Oh, right.. I forgot about him," you mumbled. "Did I possibly cause that?" he jokingly says, making his way to the bathroom. "Yeah, you did, so you owe it to me," you said, though knowing it was hopeless.

He turns the doorknob to the bathroom, but stops and looks over his shoulders at you. "Care to join me, my dear?" he asks and it took you no more than a second to answer happily, joining him in the bath.

After breakfast, you two went your separate ways, but not before kissing each other a good bye for now.

Although it may sound awfully suspicious about how you were going on an errand with Childe, Zhongli has an infinite amount of trust in you and the both of your relationship-- the two of you are married, after all.

"(Y/N), good morning," Childe greets, seeing you approach him. "Good morning. Did I make you wait long?" you ask. He shook his head almost immediately. "I just came. Anyway, what did you call me out here for?" he ask.

"First, did you reserve a table at Luili Pavillion?" you ask. He nods. He was quite curious when you approached him out of the blue to ask for a reservation, but he complied and waited for the day you'll explain. "Good. Thank you so much, Childe. You know, it's Zhongli's birthday today."

"Oh, is that so? I didn't think the Geo Archon would be interested in remembering his own birthday," Childe states quite jokingly. He wad still irritated about the fact that Zhongli toyed with him on his mission to retrieve the Gnosis and it certainly showed in his tone. "He forgets his birthday, so that is why we have to make him remember!" you exclaim.

"The reservation is during dinner time, so we'll have enough time to look for gifts! Come, Childe, we must not delay."

During the long gap until dinner, you had certainly chosen a lot of presents for his special day. Yes, you have given him quite the handful of gifts for Christmas, but that was for then-- the presents of now were for his birthday.

If you think about it, you and Zhongli were similar to your spending habits, but unlike him, you knew how to play to make the price go your way, and you never forget your wallet.

"I'm sure Mr. Zhongli will be fine with one gift as long as it came from you," Childe states, looking at the stack of boxes that were wrapped perfectly in his hands. You called Childe today to join him for Zhongli's birthday, but also because you knew you won't be able to carry the presents with just you alone. "Mm, I guess you're right, but you haven't chosen a gift yet, have you? We'll go choose yours and then we'll wait it out until dinner."

"Ah, but before we do that, could we possibly get lunch?" Childe ask. It was quarter to one and Childe felt like he was about to collapse any time soon if he doesn't get something to eat. "Oh, right, let's go to Wanmin Restaurant. My treat," you say.

"Could I possibly ask for a spoon and fork?" Childe asks Xiangling when the two of you got there. "Eh? Oh, of course!" Xiangling says and made a dash to get a spoon and fork for the male.

You laughed. "If I was Zhongli, I wouldn't dare let you get a spoon or a fork," you state, knowing how cruel Zhongli can be when it comes to teasing. "Yeah, and that's why I'm glad you're here instead of him," Childe admits, scratching his head and awkwardly laughing.

After getting Childe stuffed up, it was his turn to pick a present. To your questioning gaze, he only picks one present. "You're quite excited about his birthday, huh?" Childe says, tone neutral. It was understandable for Childe as he loves to spoil his family as well, being that they are his loved ones.

You nod. "Zhongli didn't get much free time like as now, being occupied of the status as Archon," you confess. "Now, I have much more time to spend every waking day with him.. I want to spoil him just this once."

Childe smiles at your earnest words and turned to face ahead, eyes widening when his eyes laid upon a familiar male.

He was about to tell you, but Zhongli was quick to turn his head and look your way, soon walking up to the two of you.

"M- Mr. Zhongli, hi!" Childe greets, soon getting you to panic. "Greetings, Childe." Zhongli nods to the young Harbinger and turns to you. "Hello, my dear, how are you faring this afternoon? I assume you have had your lunch?" Zhongli greets.

"Oh, ah, Z- Zhongli, fancy running into you here!" you stammered, eyeing the boxes. "Hm? Are you alright, dearest? You are aware that the funeral parlour is right over there, right?" Zhongli points to his workplace that was indeed a few metres away from the three of you.

You and Childe stare at each other from the corner of each of your eyes, eyes questiong the other what to do with the things in your hands, sweat dropping excessively.

Zhongli notices the awkward glares to the other, quite clueless. "I see that you are carrying wrapped presents.. I don't assume that there is a second holiday, one is there?" He examines the presents, finger on his chin as he does so.

"Oh, no, there isn't! These are for um.." you trailed, looking at Childe to urge him to help you. "These are for my siblings!" Childe steps in, saving the day. "Yes, for my siblings.. You know how much I love my sibilings." He chuckles forcefully.

"Ah, I see.." You two let out a silent sigh of relief. You weren't sure if it was a good thing or a bad thing how clueless he could be, but as for now, you think it was a good thing. "So, uh, I'll see you at home, Zhongli." You waved to the male and walk away, Childe trailing just as hastily as you were.

"Right, so, I'll just keep the presents safe and bring them to the restaurant, correct?" Childe asks and you nod. "Thank you for helping out, Childe."

"Haha, it's no problem. I'm quite excited for tonight. Well, I'll see you then," Childe says, and waves you off.

You went home and spent the rest of the time entertaining yourself until Zhongli was finished with work. "Welcome home," you greet, closing the book that occupied your time, and standing up from your seat, making your way to him.

You brought him into a kiss, wrapping your arms around his neck, which he took to a deeper measure by wrapping his around your waist. The kiss was long and loving, but he soon pulls away, smiling.

"Might I ask how you have been, my dear?" Zhongli asks, pulling you close as you both stood at the front door. "Mm, it was okay. Oh, in fact, we should leave right now!" you say, almost revealing your great enthusiasm.

"Oh? Where to?" he asks as you take him by the hand and drag him outside. "You'll just have to find out!" is all you said, making your way to Luili Pavillion.

Upon arriving there, your eyes make contact with Childe who waved you over smilingly. "Hey, it's about time you guys came!" Childe greets, eyes following as the two of you sat down, Zhobgli looking quite clueless.

"I've already ordered the dishes you said, (Y/N), and placed a custom made order to the place you said to go," Childe says, leaving Zhongli in the dark. You nod, thanking him.

"Might I ask for an explanation?" Zhongli asks, turning his gaze onto you. "I knew you'd forget.. But before I tell you, want to take a guess?" You grin at the male.

"Hm, there isn't a second Christmas nor is it the Lantern Rite Festival.." Zhongli hums, bringing his fingers to his chin as he deeply thought it through.

He gave no answer and asks you to tell him. "Nuh-uh, I guess you'll have to wait and find out later," you said, making Zhongli much left out in the secret.

Soon, the dishes came, filling the once empty table with delicious food. The aroma was so strong that anyone passing the restaurant would soon hear their stomach growling. "Ah, but before we eat, there's another one that's still yet to come!" you state, and as if on cue, the last waitress came, holding the most delicious and well decorated cake, placing it in front of Zhongli.

"Hm? Care to tell me now, my dear?" he asks, not connecting the dots. He could be so dumb, but that was sort of his charm. You sighed, though not out of annoyance, and finally helped him out. "Happy birthday, Zhongli!" you cheer.

"Ah, so today is the day of my birth. I quite forgot," Zhongli says, eyes fixed on the candles on the cake that almost emitted the same colour as his eyes. "I can't believe you actually forgot, Mr. Zhongli," Childe laughs at the Archon.

"Mm, come on, make a wish and blow it out!" you excitedly say. "What do I wish for?" he asks, eyes tearing away from the candle and to you.

"Whatever your heart desires," you say. Zhongli stares back at the cake, silent for a while before closing his eyes to mutter a wish in his head. After that, he opens his eyes and looks over to you once more. "Now, you blow out the candles!" you instructed and watch as he does so.

You and Childe claps, smiles adorning both of your faces at the oldest Archon. Before, you'd celebrate his birthday just enjoying a cup of tea and hear him speak, but now that he was living the life of a mortal, you decided to celebrate his special day like that of a mortal.

"Oh, right, the presents!" Childe says, standing up to talk to a nearby waitress who went to the back and soon return with an extra person, both carrying the wrapped presents, bringing it over to the table.

"And you know about the gifts from earlier? Well, they were for you," Childe says. "Most of them are from (Y/N)."

Surprise was seen reflecting in Zhongli's eyes and turns his head away from the presents to you who was smiling. "I thank you, my dear, but you didn't need to spend so much for me," he says kissing your forehead and letting his lips linger on it.

"But I wanted to," you say, melting from his kiss. Childe coughs awkwardly, a bit embarrassed to see two people getting so affectionate in front of him, seeing as he was a bachelor.

You both chuckled at the young male. "Well, let's enjoy the dishes that I know you like!" you exclaim.

After the pleasant evening, you and Zhongli returned home, now cuddling in bed, his head resting on your chest as you played with his hair. "This has been most joyous, and I thank you once again, dearest," Zhongli says.

You hummed. "I'm happy you think so," you said, closing your eyes as a smile spread across your face. "Let me say this again.."

"Happy birthday, Zhongli."

---

║Jean║A Defeated Battle

Warning: Hints towards s*ic*d*.

Female reader.

Angst.

Word count: 1.1k

---

Your heart beat with inconsistency everytime you looked at her. From her graceful movements as she diligently does each tasks to small things such as staring at her eyes, lips, and nose-- they were all beautiful to you and you don't think that you would ever get tired of her even after years invested into the relationship.

However, no matter how beautiful she looked, a frown crept up your face as you watch her talk to the Cavalry Captain right outside of the Knights of Favonius' headquarters. She looked drained of energy-- no, she is drained of energy and the bags under her eyes proved that.

Lately, work has started to took a toll on her, but she couldn't rest just yet. However, she has made sure to eat something once every couple of hours to get some temporary energy boost. It was something you reminded her time and time again, all in a light tone since even if she did forget to eat, you would bring her homemade food and force feed her.

"Oh, right, I should probably get going.." you mumbled, remembering that you still had something to do and can't loiter around and watch Jean at work.

With one more glance, you walked away from the scene and soon, out of the city's walls. What you had to do dealt with you going all the way to Starsnatch Cliff.

The breeze was perfect with it not being too cold and when you got there you stood near the edge of the cliff, looking at the green below. It would be a frightening thing to do but to you, it made you feel free. You extended your arms on your sides and closed your eyes, a smile appearing on your face.

You stood there for a while before turning around, eyes landing on a large rock that was surrounded with cecilias. Walking closer to it, one will see that there was a gravestone to it. Crouching down in front of it, you extended your arms to touch the stone, your fingertips tracing the outlined words that was engraved into it.

A sigh escaped your mouth unknowingly and your smile hid no longer that bitterness you held when you look at the stone. "How long..?" you muttered.

You didn't want to stay long so with one more lingering stare, you stood up and brush any dirt off of you and return to the city.

Walking past crowds of people, you returned to the headquarters. Quietly, you opened the door to Jean's office and smiled when you saw her asleep on her desk. It wasn't the best of places to sleep, but at least she was sleeping.

Walking around the desk, you reach your arms towards the sleeping female, but stopped when you saw tears streaming down her face. "(Y/N).." she sniffles. Your heart ached, suddenly feeling bitter.

You forced a smile, although it did nothing to mask your sadness. However, what was done was done and you could not revive the dead.

Yes, you are dead and have been for quite some time.

Memories of time not long ago suddenly came and reminded you of the happy times you spent with the female. The memories leading up to your death was not a happy one, however. It consisted of fighting and battling an inevitable end.

You closed your eyes and remembered the events that occurred just moments before your death. It was full of tears that night.

"I can't take it anymore, (Y/N)!" the blonde shouted, grabbing your shoulders harshly. "Can't you do it for me? Can't you try to fight for me!?"

You averted your eyes to the ground, tears streaming down both of your faces. "We can do it together!" "Don't you love me?" You remained silent, taking all the words she had once said as your heart continued to break. Then, "I do love you.." you said. "Then why can't you try..?" She fell on her knees and cried onto you, gripping your shirt tightly, fearing that you would leave at that moment.

That night was full of tears and sobs were the only sound to be heard in that house that night. Hesitantly, you gently tried to pick her up. "Hey.. Let's go to sleep now, okay?" you whispered gently, getting her to look at you. "I promise I'll try, but I'm feeling tired right now so can we pick this up tomorrow?" Oh how it was such an obvious lie that the blonde easily fell for.

Sniffling, she stood up and nod, energy drained from the constant battle she had to go through with you. That night, she held you tightly and she buried her head on your chest.

Afraid that you would leave that night, she stayed awake. "You'll try.." she croaked, her mouth dry from the shouting. "You'll get past this, (Y/N), so please try.."

You brushed her hair, also awake deep into the night. "I'll try.. For you.." It was yet another lie that rolled off your tongue so easily and she believed it.

The next day, you knew you could no longer make her go through your own battle with you. She had a bright future ahead while you were lost in the dark. You were too blind to see that light that was in front of you-- the one who was helping you fight the monsters that tried to- who eventually succeeded- get you.

When Jean was at work, you took that chance and took what was to be your last stroll all the way to the top of Starsnatch Cliff-- the last place you were seen.

You looked at the ground below, feeling your heart flutter at the thought of finally being free. With one step forward and another, you knew that it would be your last steps in the waking world.

Feeling the rush of wind blowing past you, you closed your eyes and smiled widely. You came to a conclusion that even if a place was called the City of Freedom, it could not free one's self from the void that chased behind them all their life. The City of Freedom could not protect people from their own darkness.

It was selfish of you. You had made someone love you and gave all their love to you, but you took it for granted.

Now, you had to watch the blonde work diligently during the day with obvious fatigue and cry during night, sometimes crying at your gravestone that was placed on top of the cliff. And you couldn't do a single thing-- not even able to comfort her.

Even knowing this, you put your ghostly hands on her shoulders and leaned to kiss her head.

"Sleep well, my love."

---

✩̣̣̣̣̣ͯ┄•͙✧⃝•͙┄✩ͯ•͙͙✧⃝•͙͙✩ͯ✩̣̣̣̣̣ͯ┄•͙✧⃝•͙┄✩ͯ•͙͙✧⃝•͙͙✩ͯ┄•͙✩̣̣̣̣̣ͯ┄•͙✧⃝•͙┄✩ͯ•͙͙

✦❘༻𝚁𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝙼𝚢 𝙷𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚝༺❘✦

Malleus Draconia x fem!reader

Summary: Congratulations! Out of all the noble ladies that were in line to become a princess and soon-to-be queen consort, you had been chosen. Oh, what's this? But you aren't married off to your kingdom and is, in fact, married to another country whom raged war with yours for decades on end?

You find yourself face-to-face with an enemy of your homeland, hands held in marriage and surrounded in a pretty little illusion of a happy wedding with flowers and smiles of all whom watched. You begin to wonder if your life had already ended the moment you stepped foot outside your homeland, taking a gulp at the frightening look on the prince of this twisted kingdom that you'll be ruling alongside him. Maybe you should try to get to know him and make peace.. Maybe he might turn out to be not so scary after all.

⊰♤⊱⊰◇⊱⊰♡⊱⊰☆⊱⊰♧⊱⊰♤⊱⊰◇⊱⊰♡⊱⊰☆⊱⊰♧⊱

Chapter 1 - The Beginning of an End

Chapter 2 - The Day I've Been Betrothed

Chapter 3 - Teas, Cakes, and the Sleeping Beauty

Chapter 3.5 - A Step Into the Social Circle

Chapter 4 - Here Comes the Red Prince

Chapter 4.5 - First Strike of the Consequence (Coming soon)

•••

⊰♤⊱⊰◇⊱⊰♡⊱⊰☆⊱⊰♧⊱⊰♤⊱⊰◇⊱⊰♡⊱⊰☆⊱⊰♧⊱

Tags: If you wish to be notified when I upload a chapter, please let me know in the comment section of this post.

⊰♤⊱⊰◇⊱⊰♡⊱⊰☆⊱⊰♧⊱⊰♤⊱⊰◇⊱⊰♡⊱⊰☆⊱⊰♧⊱

Updates will be slow since I want to try to push forth quality content so it might help you to get notified!

✩̣̣̣̣̣ͯ┄•͙✧⃝•͙┄✩ͯ•͙͙✧⃝•͙͙✩ͯ✩̣̣̣̣̣ͯ┄•͙✧⃝•͙┄✩ͯ•͙͙✧⃝•͙͙✩ͯ┄•͙✩̣̣̣̣̣ͯ┄•͙✧⃝•͙┄✩ͯ•͙͙

Belated Happy Birthday! I hope your year ahead will be filled with new opportunities and blessings!

Hey! I remember you. :} Thank you so much for the blessings— I really appreciate it. <3

I have too many things to do and I don't know where to start. I seriously need to start writing on that original story because I signed a contract.. >○< Hnng-- I didn't think anybody would contact me, let alone a well-known company(?) too.

I have a surprise, belated birthday party today. <3

║Diluc║Found You 1

I was reading this oneshot in Tumblr (I forgot who it was from T^T) and wanted to write my take on how I imagined it would end.

Angst at first, I guess?

Word count: 2.8k

---

You left like you were never there- there in Mondstadt, there in Angel's Share, there in Dawn Winery, and in his heart.

Travelling across Teyvat to run away from home, you encountered a fiery-haired young man dressed in foreign clothing. It wasn't a nice encounter in the beginning, of course; You stumbled upon the City of Freedom to hide for a while from the man who you had known as your father and had some encounters with the red-headed man that didn't create the best to be engraved in one's memories.

You later found yourself about to run out of mora thus you seeked out for a job. The job was at a tavern called Angel's Share. You really didn't know anything then but you regretted it once knowing who else was there. It was awkward at first and you certainly despised him. But soon, you found yourself enjoying his company. It started as a small, awkward conversation that slowly began to progress into a longer, and much enjoyable, conversation.

You went by an alias in the City of Freedom in fear that your father's men would find you. "What is your reason for being here?" he had asked one-time when it was just the two of you left at the tavern, cleaning glasses that the customers had drank out of. "Just a break," you had lied. He could tell that there was something more than that but didn't press further, guessing that you'll open up to him someday. Someday. If only that day hadn't come, you would've told him.

One night, you had been found hiding in Mondstadt by one of your father's men. They didn't directly approach you, no. Instead, a letter was given to you by the owner of the inn, saying that they were tasked to hand it to you. One look at it, you felt something drop in the pit of your stomach. There was only two words written in that letter which ended everything for you: found you.

You knew you had to move sooner or else you would have been caught, but because of the fiery-red head, you stayed and now you were found. It was pointless to run away now since you were most likely being watched nearby as you re-read the words.

Stuffing back the sheet of paper into the envelope and then tossing it in the garbage, you went to Angel's Share as usual with him there, waiting, unbeknownst of the eyes that secretly followed you to the tavern; you knew, of course.

You chatted with him as if it was another one of your normal days in hiding going under by your alias. When it was time for closing, you walked with him to the inn and asked if he wanted to come into the room you booked. He agreed blindly. There, you confessed since you were away from the eyes and ears that followed you all day. You confessed that you had been in hiding and that you were found. He knew what it meant and begged you to stay, gripping your shoulders harshly. Tears welled up in your eyes as yoy look away from his teary ones and breaking as you hear him plead, voice cracking up for the first time.

When he found out that pleading didn't work, he did the only he could do at this breaking moment; he kissed you. You stood there paralyzed and felt your heart breaking at his attempt of making you stay. The kiss escalated from that but you didn't stop him.

When all had died down and he fell asleep, head buried into your chest and arms wrapping tightly around you, afraid that you would disappear that night, you played with his hair. It was the first time you had touched his hair and had him touch you in a way you would never let anyone else do, but it would be the last time as well. "I'm sorry, Diluc," you softly whisper. Kissing the top of his head, you waited for the opportune moment where his grip loosened enough for you to escape his grasp without waking him up.

You picked up your clothes that decorated the floor and packed up what little things you had in a suitcase. When you were reaching to open the door, you took one last look back at the sleeping male. You quickly looked away as you were feeling guilty of leaving him after he gave you all of him.

When you walked out of the inn, the man who had followed you throughout the day stepped out of the shadows and greeted you with respect. "Master, the carriage is park just outside of Springvale. We must make haste before your father gets even more furious." You didn't answer him as your gaze remain on the ground before you. Nevertheless, you followed silently to Springvale and entered the carriage.

You departed in the silence of the night, leaving no trace for the red to find you.

-

How long has it been since then, you thought to yourself, staring blankly at the blue sky that seems to mock you in your gloomy state.

You sat alone at a table for one on your balcony, a tall tree in front of the house helping block out most of the sunlight and keep you cool in the heat. "Master/Miss, here's your grape juice and pastry that you wanted." A servant had entered your private room and set down a drink and a sweet for you. "Thanks, you may leave," you ordered in a cold tone. Ever since your return, you acted much different than before you left for Mondstadt. All you had been drinking was either water or grape juice and was feeling more tired by the day. You had completely lost the ball of energy that all of the servants once knew and loved.

You look down at the book on your lap and decided whether or not you wanted to continue reading it. You chose to close the book and wanted to take a nap in this weather. Slowly, you close your eyes but not before catching glimpses of someone in foreign clothing passing by aimlessly in the crowd.

When you awoke, you were gently being tapped on the shoulders by a maid. "Master/Miss, it's getting late and cold so you shouldn't be out here." They helped you straightened up and lead you inside. "I'll be skipping dinner tonight," you said and flopped on your bed, not bothering to change your clothes. The maid said a quick yes and left the room to give you your rest.

Since returning, you barely said a word to your father and ate breakfast, lunch, and dinner in your room. He didn't say anything about it as well so you continued to do just that.

Your hands dug underneath your pillow and felt something cold and hard. You straightened up and pulled it out; it was a red pendant that was given by Diluc many months ago. A smile cracked from your usually frowny lips at the thought of Diluc. Only he could make you smile now.

-

"Master, shouldn't we tell your father that you'll be heading out?" A butler that you had tasked to follow you around today asks, fearing that he would be the one to blame for not telling him. "Tch. He probably knows I'm out right now," you say, exasperated that he had to bring it up.

You wanted a stroll, that was it, but the butler just had to ruin the walk by mentioning your father. You aimlessly wandered the streets and looked at things that you found eye catching before continuing your walk. You speeded up your walk to sort of run away from your butler's worrying questions to save yourself the annoyance.

Amidst the crowd, that seemed to blur around you as they make haste for the place they needed to be, you had caught glimpse of a bright, red hair that made you stop and draw your attention to them. In that moment, you felt something in you drop as well as feel your heart starting to beat faster. It couldn't possibly be..

The thought was soon answered when the back of the fiery-haired male turned around, seeming to look for something or someone.

Your eyes widened and you stood there, stupefied to do anything and felt your throat run dry. Diluc. Why was he here, you asked yourself. Could it have been that he found out where you lived? But, that's highly impossible since you hadn't told him where you were from nor gave hints through your speech and actions that would help distinguish you from others.

Diluc's wandering gaze soon stopped when it landed on you. His cold look soon melted away like ice being melted by the heat when his were on you. As you two hold your ground, metres away from each other, you felt the need to run into his arms and let him take you away, but it was impossible to do that when you can't even go out without having at least one person trailing you from behind.

He slowly reaches his arm out as if he was expecting you to run to him anytime soon and grab his extended hand. "Master/Miss(Y/N)!" Your butler had finally caught up with you and you avert your focus away from him. "Master/Miss, you shouldn't leave my sight like this or else your father will scold you!" You dismissed his statement and mumbled a quick 'let's go' and turned to walk in the opposite direction that Diluc stood.

You were kind of relief that your butler had come at the right time and called you by your name since maybe that'll help with hiding your identity you used in Mondstadt. It crushed you to do this to him but the person he is most likely searching for had gone in the whispers of the night, leaving no trace of existence. You were not the you in Mondstadt that he knew and loved to the point he'd travel across Teyvat just to search for.

-

"Who gave you the right to issue your own orders?" you bellowed as you glare down at the maid who was on her knees. The maid had been working in the household before you had ran away to know you weren't the same anymore. "I'm sorry, Master/Miss, please forgive me," she said, staring at the ground, afraid to stare at your menacing eyes.

Instead of beating her up like a terrible person, you huffed and turned to walk out of the door. No one dared to follow you out in your fuming fit, albeit they might receive a scolding from your father.

You were hoping to see Diluc again but you weren't sure if he had come here for you or for some other matter. He probably hated your guts the moment he woke up in that bright morning to see his lover gone the very night when he pleaded for your stay. It was understandable and you didn't oppose to him being angry with you since you would probably be hurt and angry if you were in his shoes. Oh how cold and selfish of you to do that.

You smiled bitterly as you closed your eyes and recall the night that made you who you are now. Then, without knowing, you walked straight into the person you thought wouldn't loiter around the place till today- Diluc.

He grabbed you by the shoulders gently so that you wouldn't have fallen backwards and hurt yourself. Your eyes widened at the sight of the blanked-face male who towered over you with a menacing gaze far worse than the one you gave the maid.

"Um, my apologies, I-" "Zion?" You felt as if your heart suddenly stopped beating at the call of your alias. Your mind raced and panicked of what to do. Then, "I beg your pardon?" you said, playing him for a fool. Surely, he had heard the butler from your last outing call out your name and not Zion so you pretend to not understand.

Diluc stares at you for a couple more seconds before letting go of your shoulders. "Apologies. You look like someone I know," Diluc says, eyes slightly focusing on the ground. He bought it. But, you also now know that the reason he's here was to search for you- the one who broke him. You really wanted to just hug him at that moment but you knew better since you won't be able to escape with him now that your father knew you hid in Mondstadt.

"Oh, is that so?" you say lowly, slightly feeling yourself feel lighter. You wanted to run from thie situation, but then he'd find out. "Um, I'm sorry that I won't be able to help you. I must be going now.. I wish you luck in finding that person." You hurriedly waved him goodbye as you made a speedy walk away. Diluc, who stood at the same spot as he watched you disappear, had his frown replaced by a smirk and eyes soften from his cold ones. He had found something amusing.

You made a dash past everybody and locked yourself in your room, back leaning against the door. It felt suffocating when you talked with him; his intoxicating smell that you craved for so long suddenly engulfing you, your mind lost it.

-

You stayed home for two weeks, hoping that Diluc would be gone by now, before going out on a gloomy day. The clouds were darker in colour and looked like it was about to rain, but it didn't look like rain clouds. You strolled in the quiet streets early in the morning. It was a perfect time to take a stroll for anybody, really. The air was light of breeze and it wasn't bright-- the perfect whether for thoughts like yours.

"Found you."

The words that escaped from the familiar voice stopped you on your tracks and felt as if your heart was glass that slipped between one's hand. That intoxicating smell immediately wrapped around you as you slowly turn your head to look over your shoulders. There, the man who had been chasing you for months stood there with his stoic face.

He walks closer to you and left no more than a couple centimetres of gap between you and him. His lips cracks into a smile, taking in your pale-faced expression.

"How did you.." You gulped back a lump in your throat. "How did you figure me out?" Your eyes looked as if they were pleading as you stared into his eyes.

"It's what you said to me two weeks ago," he said. "Um, I'm sorry that I won't be able to help you. I must be going now.. I wish you luck in finding that person." That's when Diluc knew that you were the one who he had been looking for. "I didn't say that I was looking for someone, yet you assumed it without asking questions. You slipped up."

Your body now turned to him, your head droop down since you couldn't bear to look at his eyes, feeling the guilt come onto you harder. "I'm really a selfish and cold person, aren't I?" You chuckled, smiling bitterly at the ground. When he didn't say anything, you burst into anger, staring at him with your pleading eyes, grabbing him by the collar. "Please, say something- anything!"

"You're right."

Those two words calmed you down, letting go of him and backing away a little, your eyes returning to the ground. "You showed up in Mondstadt, showed me beautiful parts of you, giving me all of you, but disappeared silently just as you came.. You really are heartless, (Y/N)," Diluc said, crushing you even more. "But.."

Diluc then wrapped an arm around your waist and placed your chin between his index finger and his thumb, giving you no way of avoiding his face. "But, I still love you."

Tears were falling down the side of your face from the build up of many emotions from the moment you left that night. Diluc smiled which made you smile through the tears.

He placed his lips onto yours with the love he'd been wanting to give you and you kissed back with the equal love he gave. When you parted, Diluc said, "Please, come home with me. I know of your father and your situation but I can promise you that I'll protect you."

Without hesitation, you nodded. He escorted you to a carriage that was parked closed by and disappeared from the place you no longer called home as silently as you did when you left him in that inn.

"How did you know where I was?" you asked, a bright smile on your face. He smiles and held your hand tighter. "It took a while but I had distributed people across Teyvat and one of them found someone that fit an exact description of you here." The words warmed your heart and you rested your head on his shoulders.

"I found you, (Y/N), and I'm never letting you go."

---

Part two.

✩̣̣̣̣̣ͯ┄•͙✧⃝•͙┄✩ͯ•͙͙✧⃝•͙͙✩ͯ✩̣̣̣̣̣ͯ┄•͙✧⃝•͙┄✩ͯ•͙͙✧⃝•͙͙✩ͯ┄•͙✩̣̣̣̣̣ͯ┄•͙✧⃝•͙┄✩ͯ•͙͙

✦❘༻𝚁𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝙼𝚢 𝙷𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚝༺❘✦

Malleus Draconia x reader

Summary: Congratulations! Out of all the noble ladies that were in line to become a princess and soon-to-be queen consort, you had been chosen. Oh, what's this? But you aren't married off to your kingdom and is, in fact, married to another country whom raged war with yours for decades on end?

You find yourself face-to-face with an enemy of your homeland, hands held in marriage and surrounded in a pretty little illusion of a happy wedding with flowers and smiles of all whom watched. You begin to wonder if your life had already ended the moment you stepped foot outside your homeland, taking a gulp at the frightening look on the prince of this twisted kingdom that you'll be ruling alongside him. Maybe you should try to get to know him and make peace.. Maybe he might turn out to be not so scary after all.

⊰♤⊱⊰◇⊱⊰♡⊱⊰☆⊱⊰♧⊱⊰♤⊱⊰◇⊱⊰♡⊱⊰☆⊱⊰♧⊱

Chapter 1: The Beginning of an End (TBD)

•••

⊰♤⊱⊰◇⊱⊰♡⊱⊰☆⊱⊰♧⊱⊰♤⊱⊰◇⊱⊰♡⊱⊰☆⊱⊰♧⊱

Tags: If you wish to be notified when I upload a chapter, please let me know in the comment section of this post.

⊰♤⊱⊰◇⊱⊰♡⊱⊰☆⊱⊰♧⊱⊰♤⊱⊰◇⊱⊰♡⊱⊰☆⊱⊰♧⊱

Updates will be slow since I want to try to push forth quality content so it might help you to get notified!

✩̣̣̣̣̣ͯ┄•͙✧⃝•͙┄✩ͯ•͙͙✧⃝•͙͙✩ͯ✩̣̣̣̣̣ͯ┄•͙✧⃝•͙┄✩ͯ•͙͙✧⃝•͙͙✩ͯ┄•͙✩̣̣̣̣̣ͯ┄•͙✧⃝•͙┄✩ͯ•͙͙

I'd like to request some yandere-themed fluff if possible, yandere Lilia x reader. It would be something like Lilia scaring the reader to the point of making her cry, only to later be the one to comfort her.

Lilia Vanrouge x reader

Reader: Suggestion of afab reader. No mention of pronounce (I couldn't find a place to put one).

Warning(s): Yandere themes

Word count: 900+

All rights reserved. Do not steal/copy and paste and upload it anywhere.

—

Note: I’ve realized that I added Japanese honorifics midway writing this.. Please just ignore that. ^^;;

—

How cute you were.. So young.. Naive.. And awfully too trusting of others for your own good. But maybe– just maybe– that’s what made him so fond of you. It would be too boring, really, to have someone buy in every word you say but Lilia didn’t think so; you were just O’ so fun to be around with. Could you being magicless and from another world be a factor? That, he doesn’t know. But, why fret the details? All one really needs to know is how crazy he is for you.

If you’re unfortunate enough, you might have accidentally looked over at the ancient fae unknowingly and be met terror-stricken at just how his eyes seem to swirl in unrecoverable madness.

You were heavily dependent on your friends when it came to protection so trust and without them, he noticed, you were just a helpless bunny stuck in a cage full of wolves. Though, admittedly, there really was just one wolf out to get you.. But if it turns out that there is another, well.. Now there was one.

Ah, why should he compare you to a helpless bunny? You weren’t truly that naive and oblivious like one, no. He can see that in you when you trech through the dark hallways– presumably kept up in the library studying– of Night Raven and kept your guard up and intune with your senses. Unlike a bunny, at least you know of the dangers being alone at night.

What are you so defensive about, my dear? Oh? Looking over your shoulder? Is someone.. Or something following you? Ah, that shouldn’t be the case. After all, he was there watching your every move and your surroundings.

With deep crimson-coloured eyes that seemed to pierce through the darkness, he would be able to see if anyone was around you and right now, he can confidently say it was just you.. And him of course.

Watching you from a far off branch of a tree– protecting you– this dead of the night where not a single, weary soul lies awake.. See how wonderful he is? He’s up because he’s worried about you!

Oh! What was that? Did you hear something? Perhaps.. A purposely dropped object? Fufufu, that sudden fright must have seriously gotten to you. Now look at how you’re mumbling to yourself about just being overly sensitive and paranoid. You are just so cute! He was almost about to snatch you up right then and there and lock you up in a tower in the Valley of Thorns.

But, alas, he couldn’t do it right now. After all, his prince must finish his years in Night Raven and since he was his guardian, he must see it through. It wasn’t that long of a wait though, and when it was time to go back to the kingdom, he’s sure to take you with him.

He would really love to create a family with you once he gets back home– and he’s sure you’ll love the idea as well! Just imagine how much joy it would be to see both of your half-fae children running around in the manor!

Amidst his daydreaming– or night dreaming, you could say– he hasn’t realized how his heels clacking on the hard, cold floor have gotten rather loudly and obvious that you weren’t alone.

You called out for him– anyone– in the dark, tears pricking your eyes. You were completely frozen on the spot once you realized that there was no way of outrunning him.

Now you were looking like a helpless bunny. He almost felt bad for scaring you so– almost. Ah, but he doesn’t want you to cry because of him..

“[Name]-chan?” A familiar voice draws your attention behind you and not at the monster in front of you. Well, if it was still there. “L, Lilia..”

Oh dear. He must have truly scared you out of your wits this time. Your tears were now freely trickling down your cheeks as you ran up to hug him– seek comfort in him. “There, there.. No need to cry now,” he said, stroking your head lovingly as if he didn’t find a sickening joy in scarring you. “There’s no one here but us here, so dry your tears and let me see you smile.”

He moves slightly back to take a proper look at your tear-stained face that he found beautiful on you and cups your face between his hands. It was at this point that you noticed that the monster’s gaze seemed to vanish and relax, giving your senior a smile.

“Why are you here, Lilia-san?” you asked and wiped your face from the tears. “I was taking a stroll around the place and noticed that someone was inside so I came to check what they were up to.. I must say, I really am a curious one, huh?” He chuckles, eyes close as he continues to stroke the top of your head.

You gave a dry laugh of your own, heart feeling lighter unlike a few moments ago where you felt your heart thumping against your chest– frantic and screaming for you to hurry up and leave the building.

“Hehe.. Next time that you are alone or wish for a different company, don’t hesitate to call for me,” Lilia said. He opened his eyes, a dark shadow was cast over them but was pierced by his glowing orbs. He darkly said something just below an acceptable normal voice that you also heard and made alarm bells go off, “Though, I’m all you need anyway.”

~♡~