#exile.flower
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TCG - Chase The Mirage
pairing -> Cyno x Adventurer!Reader x Tighnari; poly
word count -> 1.7k+ words
themes -> fluff, established relationship, scenarios and headcanons, lots of card game terminologies
(masterlist) (previous) The two Kings of Invokations, infatuated and hooked to a simple adventurer from the Adventurerβs Guild. Thankfully, in this universe, there is no need to duel each other for your heart.
"What a peculiar move, especially this far in the game already." Looking up from the light novel you picked up from Inazuma in your last trip, you shift your attention to the playing field before you.
"We're testing your new deck, I think it's only appropriate to see how well it works against slow build up players." Tighnari would notice your stare and send you a smile, before concentrating once again to observe Cyno's turn.
Shaking your head with a smile, you go back to reading as their chatters and occasional bickering turn to background noise.
It's one of those rare days where the three of you had the 'day-off' to enjoy time together. Emphasis on day-off seeing as your two lovers are still technically on the clock due to their positions, but here under the shade of a tree in the forest, only you three matter.
And for today's date, Cyno eagerly challenged Tighnari to a Genius Invokation TCG duel to try out his new deck. And the latter decided to humor him.
When it comes to his favorite card game, the General exudes the same seriousness when he deals with Matra work. This thought passes you as you sneak a glance at the way he strokes his chin with squinted eyes.
So focused in fact that he didn't see your hand approach his face until you're shoving the apple slice between his lips. He says a muffled thanks as he eats the slice whole, mirth in his eyes at your antics.
"Hey, why does he get hand-fed when I'm the one winning here?" Tighnari looks at the two of you with a mock glare and pout, prompting you to throw a grape at his face which he expertly evaded with a laugh.
"You're not a winner until you defeat all my charac- oh." Looking at the field, Cyno realized that all of his character cards are indeed defeated. "Must you really finish me with my own card?"
Unlike Cyno, however, Tighnari simply plays the game for fun (or when his lovers ask for a game) while being good at it still. The forest watcher only shrugs in response as he cradles the fruit bowl.
Thinking that would be the end of their game, you yelped when Cyno suddenly yanked you to his side to sit between his legs, book pried out of your hands and laid pages down to save your progress. "What the -"
"Since I lost, then it should be (Y/N)'s turn to duel you, right?" Cards upon cards fall into your grasp in your still confused state. Tighnari who now sits across you scowls at the man behind you. "Don't worry, I'll be assisting you the whole time since you're using my cards."
"And they say I'm the sly vixen here." Tighnari scoffs as he shuffles his deck, this time he seemed to be sitting up straight to show how he's taking this game more seriously now.
"I didn't even-" Your words were interrupted at Cyno's hands offering the 8-sided dice to you. You sigh. "I hate you two." And your hand throws the die to start your turn.
With your combined powers (aka Cyno's relentless backseating), you managed to defeat Tighnari with a score of 2/3. But when he then pulled you to his lap to assist YOU on defeating Cyno, you doubt that you actually won that last round.
"You two are such idiots." You grumbled as you draw the exile artifact card.
"You're also an idiot by association."
You throw the die to whoever said that.
About TCG: Introduction
It was inevitable that you got wrapped up on the TCG scene too when you have Tighnari and Cyno as lovers.
Like some kind of initiation, prerequisite to your relationship, the game was the first thing you were taught after you became official.
However, that doesn't mean you're good at it - then again, those two aren't really the best comparison to your beginner skills. There's just a lot of mental gymnastics involved that you can't keep up with.
So no, just because you're in a relationship with the kings of invokations doesn't guarantee that you're immediately a pro.
Your first deck was actually given to you by their combined cards. Extra cards they pulled or cards that don't fit their meta, it looked like an absolute mess when you knew better.
But it was endearing inheriting their cards, especially when you can see their genuine desire to share this hobby with you. Well, obsession for Cyno.
You realized this as the one who runs into Cyno a lot due to your wandering occupation, he would ALWAYS ask you if you want to play a round whenever you cross paths.
At first, you can't find it in your heart to decline since you're still learning. It wasn't until Tighnari caught wind of what Cyno was doing that he pulled you off to the side, lecturing you and reiterating that you CAN say no.
Turns out Tighnari also deals with Cyno's dueling addiction, and that if he doesn't decline, it would end up with him skipping important forest watcher duties.
To think you were lectured about the importance of consent over a trading card game.
The first time you opened a pack of cards was also a memory worth remembering.
While on a date in the city, Cyno pulled you and Tighnari to Dori after hearing that the merchant had a new batch in stock.
Paying for your respective packs, the three of you made a whole fuss to open up your cards at the same time. Somehow, while their packs were full of mediocre cards and duplicates, when they turned to you -
"What god did you sell your soul to?!" "What?" "This is the first time I've seen three meta cards in one pack!"
As a beginner, you only look at what design looks good or shiny, so you did not understand why they're breaking down on the floor then.
Dubbed as their archon of luck, it became tradition that if you were in the area, they would force you to open their pack for them.
You wish this luck of yours were for something else, honestly.
About TCG: Habits
Before you got into the game, they would always show you their new packs, showing off the beautiful designs and the rarities. At that time, you didn't know how expensive or 'meta' each card was. If it's shiny, it's probably good.
When Tighnari lets you peruse through his deck of unused cards, he would pay great attention to the cards that you took interest in even just by design.
And then he'll let you keep it! Doesn't matter if it's shiny or a really good card, you can have it, keep it in your home or in your wallet if you want.
Even if he only has one copy of a particular card, seeing you happy makes the sacrifice worth it.
It was also hilarious to see Cyno make a fuss about seeing said cards on your person when you catch up when crossing paths.
He'll look at your tiny but growing collection and throw in random facts here and there. "Ohh, you even have this card? What else do I expect from my lover, such good taste." He praises with a nod, exaggeratedly.
They both have their personal playing mats that matches their aesthetic greatly, and one that has the the limited edition Adventurer's Guild design because it reminds them of you! It's not the best looking one out there, but it's special to them.
Mats are pretty bulky so you don't really like bringing one around so when a game is expected, they bring their spare for you to use like the sweethearts that they are.
Cyno, still with his absurd spending habits when it comes to Genius Invokation, commissioned someone for custom deck boxes as a gift to you and Tighnari. It was definitely expensive seeing as he had to save up for it.
When Cyno is crafting a new deck, he urges you to do the same. Spice things up, you know? He likes to hear your opinion despite knowing more than you, to the point that he made a whole other desk made with your favorite cards and play style.
He uses that deck for casual games with the Matra, and they don't fail to notice how he seems to have a wisp of a smile on his face the whole time he plays.
Tighnari, on the other hand, is a meticulous player with a penchant for detail.
All of his cards have sleeves!!!! He likes taking care of his things and that includes his cards, some of them even have double sleeves! You can find him taking his sweet time putting each card in sleeves on a slow day.
Sometimes, you join him on putting sleeves if your hands aren't dirty, at least.
"Do you have a favorite color?" The next time you see him, he gives you a pack of sleeves in that color for your own deck. Do you want him to help you with that, actually? I think he finds it relaxing.
He also has fancy dice of his own which he changes around depending on his mood. Of course, you also get your own! There's a marbled set, a set that's galaxy-themed, oh oh this one refracts light to make a rainbow -
You don't participate in tournaments unlike your boyfriends, but they always encourage you to play with other players besides them for practice.
Tighnari doesn't give Cyno one tho, he's sure that he can buy it himself. Or lends him a set at least, one that's violet with gold accents, and had since 'forgotten' to take it back from him.
But if there's one habit that they share, it's that whenever you're around during a game, they are always guaranteed to win. It's because you're their lucky charm, they say, but it's as simple as wanting to show off when you're cheering for them so supportively.
"No, you shouldn't expend all your energy cards this turn." Your fingers twitched before moving to an artifact card instead.
"Are you sure you want to pull that out now? You're not really attacking this turn."
Your opponent, Amir, stares at you in sympathy as you pinch the bridge of your nose. Behind you, Cyno and Tighnari started a whole new conversation about strategies and what your next move should be.
"Um, do they even realize that they pretty much revealed your hand to me?"
"I think we should reschedule."
Amir let out a horrified gasp when you turned around and smacked your beloveds over the head with your deck box.
Maybe he should exercise how to say no to an invitation, too.
My TCG knowledge from my card game enthusiast seniors back in college has finally been put to use
@chuusposts @ireallylikehamsters @maehemthemisfit
#tighnari x reader#cyno x reader#genshin x reader#genshin impact x reader#exile.flower#gender neutral#chase the mirage#genshin impact fluff#sumeru arc#tighnari#cyno#poly cynonari
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; this is my submission for fluffvember by @maehemthemisfit!
; Tighnari x Reader, fluff, romantic
; When Tighnari was gifted a Kamera by the Traveler, after taking a photo of you by accident, decided how he'd put it to good use.
"Hey, you haven't touched your food!"
"I will in a second."
Already at your wit's end to keep your hunger at bay, you finally bit into the delicious pita pocket Collei had packed for your patrol today.
While Tighnari continued to tinker away at the device in his hand as the cuisine next to him sat neglected. It was a gift from the Traveler from their recent trip to Fontaine, an enhanced(?) version of the Kamera that has the ability to both print the captured photo immediately as well as store the image in data form.
Naturally, scholar that he is, the forest watcher had been poking and pinching the device to fully understand it.
He even brought it with you during your patrol together, it capturing his attention even as you sat on one of the picnic tables scattered around the forest to eat your lunch.
... heh, capturing, captured, Kamera. Oh no, Cyno's infected you -
CLICK. And a flash after almost made you drop your food on the table.
"What the heck?" Desperately rubbing the white spots in your vision, you briefly saw a surprised expression pass by Tighnari's face as his attention still stayed on the device.
"My bad, I guess that's what that button does." He seemed content, you can tell just by looking at his tail that wagged enthusiastically behind him so openly. You were about to groan a complaint at him when the sound of gears and grinding caught you both off-guard.
Leaning close, you both watched as the Kamera began sliding out a piece of white paper. And there in all its glory is your face:
Pita pocket held near your chewing mouth as your cheeks were stuffed, your gaze off to the left signifying your preoccupied thoughts beforehand as a breeze gently swept your strands. Despite the impromptu shoot, somehow it turned out really well.
"Ohhh, that's some high quality print." But before you could take the photograph, his deft hands picked and pocketed the thing. Tighnari was already pulling away from the table as he cleaned up the place.
"The film for this is expensive and exported, every print is precious." He watched as you huffed to yourself, gathering your items into your bag as he reminded you that break time is over. Perfectly oblivious to the cheeky smile he dons as he decides how he would use his new toy.
The patrol continued as usual with the occasional small talk, but it relatively stayed in peaceful silence without much to say. His mind was elsewhere, you can tell by how his brows furrowed and his attention fleeting here and there.
His fingers twitched again when you spoke up. "Sooo, why did you bring the Kamera with you?"
"I was thinking of updating the field guide, perhaps a less comprehensive version, a digest with accompanying images."
Tighnari bit back a smile at the sight of you perking up at the idea, watching you copy his movement earlier to inspect the forest floor for any interesting floras to add into the digest. Flowers, flowers is a good start, can't go wrong with them.
You were always so eager to help, your companion shook his head endearingly as you started mumbling local flowers under your breath, completely enamored by the new task.
Patrol soon became a foraging trip as you lead the way with Tighnari following behind, Kamera already in his hand but not yet taking a photo of anything. Instead, he would point at a flower that looked to be the healthiest in the bunch which you would carefully pluck to join the bundle growing in your arms.
Lotuses, Viparyas, Sumeru Rose, Mint, Padisarahs, huh there's not really a lot of flower variations in the Avidya Forest actually.
"I think I got all of the flowers? Well, I added the mint despite not being a flower." Tighnari looked up from the mushroom he was inspecting to see you grinning at him, flowers overflowing in your arms. "You think we should add mushrooms into this -"
"Can you hold that pose for a second?" His eagerness seeped through his request as he raised the device. Even his ears twitched with excitement.
Nodding, you made sure that all the flowers (and mint) could be viewed in the shot. CLICK!
"Nice, did the flowers look good? I thought it would have been better to lay it out instead." You don't see the printed photograph this time as you focused on bunching up the flowers for an easier hold.
"Yeah, the flowers..." Yet when you looked at him, his attention was on the photo again with a soft and satisfied smile.
The patrol was thankfully uneventful after that. Something as engaging as a spinocrocodile or rishboland tiger encounter wouldn't really be good for a fragile Kamera in hand. You wouldn't be much help to Tighnari if you want to maintain the quality of the flowers you gathered either.
Some of the forest rangers already went back to Ghandarva Ville after their respective patrols well into the early evening, making the place livelier than it was that morning.
Stepping up to the platform, you were pleasantly surprised to see a familiar figure sitting under a lantern outside.
"Ah, Master Tighnari, (Y/N)! Welcome back from your patrol!"
"Why are you out here?" Placing your haul on the table, you took a seat next to Collei while the Forest Watcher sat across. "Studying?"
"Yeah, I can't quite grasp some of the concepts still so I thought a change of scenery would help." Leaning over as Collei tapped her pencil on her notes, Tighnari leaned his cheek to his palm, watching the two of you talk animatedly about the topic at hand.
"Oh, I remember this! Tighnari LOVES to make this topic difficult in his tests," the man in question scoffs and rolls his eyes. "But if you look at it this way -"
Eager to get some help, Collei passed the pencil to your awaiting hand as you started writing a new section in her notes. The way the trainee forest ranger presses against your side to get a closer look, how you make eye contact when emphasizing an important note to which Collei earnestly nods to, when you smile when you sense her progress -
CLICK. The both of you looked up from the study session with wide eyes, just in time to see Tighnari lower the Kamera with a smile.
Shaking your head, you kicked his foot under the table gently. "Precious print, my ass."
"A section highlighting the forest ranger's mentoring capabilities could be good." Was his immediate response, which you scoffed at with an easygoing smile.
"Don't worry about it, Collei." Your attention shifts to the younger female to ease her confusion on the matter. "He's just being a goof. Where were we? Right, so..."
The next day started beautifully for the Chief Officer, happier than when he finished his research, happier than when he ate his favorite mushroom.
How could he not be extra enthusiastic of the day when it started with him looking at the pictures he had taken, now tucked neatly on his table for later perusal. It looked better seeing it under the natural lighting of the morning, almost as if the image sparkles.
And when he saw you waving at him first thing in the morning, the day just got significantly better.
"Good morning, Master Tighnari." His eyes followed the hand that cards through your nicely dried hair. "Oh, you're taking more pictures today?"
"Yes." Eyes flickering between your form and the Kamera in his hand, a bright idea popped in his head. "Actually, can you stand there for a second?"
Confused but compliant, you watched as Tighnari placed the Kamera on a tree stump nearby, adjusting the angle and distance as he looked at you through the lens.
And when he was seemingly satisfied, he left the device there to join you where he left you.
Before you could ask, his lean arm snakes around your waist securely. "I found out that there was a timer option." That wasn't the question in your mind anymore tho!!
It wasn't until he started leaning forward did you finally realize his intention, hand grasping at his sleeves as the feeling of his warm breathe tickles your waiting lips. Your eyes closed with the distance, the gentleness reminiscent of a good morning kiss.
Just as soft as the flower petals you plucked yesterday, as filling as an afternoon meal, as sweet as the happiness of being with him β
CLICK! Your eyes flew open at the sudden flash.
Oh, that sneaky fox! But before you could comment on it, Tighnari leaned over to chase another kiss, his triumphant smirk melding with your lips.
@maehemthemisfit @sonder-paradise @96jnie @komiyaa @scaramouchenumber1fan @linn-a-a @wisteriaflowersss @ineriris @yesntforno @serramii @shadowmist0706 @jmgrule @imeanwatever @c00kie-cat @xtodorokismistressx @ieathairs @endlessmari @strawberryclumsy @serenity-ren-bliss @scarasbaby @1eaf-me-alone @ireallylikehamsters
#fluffvember 2022#genshin x reader#genshin impact x reader#tighnari x reader#exile.flower#sumeru arc#gender neutral#genshin impact fluff#oh wow fluff who would have thought#sorry im not good with fluff aaaaaaaaaa#fluffvember event#fluffvember
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Kunikuzushi and the Spirit of the Cherry Tree
Removed scenes, extras, and explanation of the fic Kintsugi; Scaramouche/Wanderer x First Puppet Reader, heavy spoilers if you haven't read the fic, of course
Shorter Version of the Intro
The dead grass fold and shrivel on the wake of his footsteps, the crunch of old leaves the only accompaniment in this dead town.
He has heard of this town with the sakura tree in old tales, from a bladesmith friend that talked about a statue unearthed by said tree for bedtime stories.
A version where it is a ghost instead, lingering around the tree, awaiting an unknown lover.
And another variation, the one that brought him here, spoken by the old man he's tailing. The guardian of eternal slumber, a puppet that rests between the roots of the beautiful tree who opens its eyes to those worthy of its divine gaze, blessing those with worthy offerings.
Shouki no Kami
"And here I thought I'd finally have some peace."
The Traveler thought he was prepared for the sight of his huge opponent, one of which he had seen a glimpse in the short time he had transferred consciousness with the lesser lord, prepared to fight for his life against a newly born god.
But this? The unexpected sight had him hesitating a bit, had him staring after making sure that Paimon and Nahida were okay from the wind that swept them away.
Inside the constructed form stood the Balladeer, and a figure he had not seen before resting, sleeping in his arms. Even from this distance he could see the gentleness of his hold, a gentleness he never knew Scaramouche was capable of.
"I suppose this arrangement is also acceptable." Leaning down to the unconscious puppet, Scaramouche would close his eyes as he rests his head on top of yours, "When you awaken, there will be no further interruptions as you gaze upon the new world I create."
Only when Scaramouche removed the puppet string attached to your back did the Traveler notice it, their small group silently watching the hand of the Shouki no Kami reach with its palm up in command, and there Scaramouche reaches out to lay you gently.
"What... was that? Who was that?" Paimon finally spoke as the mechanical robot placed your still resting body on one of the elevators, tucking you away from the incoming battle, where he was sure you'd be safe. "Maybe we could -"
"No. That would be unwise." Nahida reasoned as she closed her eyes, hands close to her chest. "We should not stoop so low to use the same tactics as the Fatui, especially someone so innocent. And besides..."
Focusing back on Scaramouche, his gaze on them is full of malice at the realization that they had stared at the direction of where he hid you.
"I can't fathom what terrible calamity he might bring to Sumeru if they were to be harmed."
Mother...?
You watched the intimate moment quietly and a respectable distance away, smiling softly at the sight of Kunikuzushi sharing a heartfelt embrace with the electro archon. Whispers and mumbles you were not privy to were shared with each other.
"I am relieved to see that you have matured in your freedom."
"Don't - " But the puppet pulled away with a measured grimace, stepping back as he gestured an arm towards you. "Do not just forget about (Y/N), why do you not acknowledge them, mama?"
"Kunikuzushi, there's no need for - "
"(Y/N)?" Her wondered gaze looked at you whole, but you can only lower your stare with a slight frown. "I see. It looks like you've found your answers, at least."
"Ma-" You felt your throat tighten as the truth hits you. "You are not my mother." At this, the puppet clad in blue directed his bewildered stare at you, missing the melancholic gaze of Ei.
"Indeed, I am not Makoto." Yet your hand still shook as you gripped the petal close to your chest. "However, I am consoled with the fact that I didn't lose you with her."
Feeling an arm wrap around your shoulder, you turn to find that it was Kunikuzushi by your side, a worried look and a sad smile adorning his beautiful face. The tension leaves your shoulders as you look back at Ei.
"Welcome home, you two."
You two will be all right.
500 years ago
"As expected of my own child."
"Mama? Where are you going?"
Turning away from the red sky, you watch as the electro archon turns to face you, eyes softening at the sight of your yukata for bed. There is a smile on her face as she walks over, adjusting the haori that you seemed to have haphazardly worn to catch up to her.
You must have noticed her presence leaving.
Perhaps, you had also been blessed with visions of soon to be's.
"I am simply fulfilling my duty as the archon, my dear. You should go back to rest."
"Am I not allowed to come with you?" Her giggles were as soft as the wind that brushes past the sakura blooms, as soft as the petal that flutters to her reaching palm, as soft as her hand that cradles your own as she places the blossom on your grip.
"Fate has plans for you, my dear, and it does not end here." The kiss on the crease between your brows coaxes your eyes to close in slumber. "May your future shine as bright as a water moon, my (Y/N)."
The darkness that greets you brings fear in your incoherent mind, stumbling out of the unfamiliar estate in search of her, of your mother.
Her name spills out of your lips desperately as you trip on unfamiliar roots, and yet, she is still not here to wipe the tears away as she always does.
Where is she? Where are you?
Scared and alone, you curl up against the roots of the sakura tree, the lone petal in your hand being your only comfort.
The sky is not red anymore, so why is she not back still?
Bad Ending
"I simply facilitated a long overdue reunion, you can see it for yourself."
And he finds himself where he had been longing to go for years, finally, finally where he had always dreamed every night.
Holding his hat as he descended back to solid ground, Kunikuzushi almost stumbled in his haste to close the distance, hand pressed against the smoking ice to make sure.
Encased in a bed of ice together with the electro gnosis, despite your frozen state, Kuni breathed a sigh of relief. That energy, that connection you two shared is still brimming with life.
You're alive.
"Let's get you out of this uncomfortable place, then." Summoning the winds of his vision, he carefully aimed the slashes to carve away the ice like a sculptor, making sure that he wouldn't accidentally nick you.
Yet before he could make the final cut, cracks appeared on the ice until it exploded in a blizzard, forcing him to step back to shield himself. The cold air would have sent a chill down his spine.
"You're finally awake." He watched as you slowly straightened your form with obvious stiffness to your movements. The cold had always been cruel to you. "I'm here -"
A flash of purple light lit up the room, and the next thing he knew his left sleeve was singed and blown off, missing his body by mere inches. Following the scorched marks on the floor, the root ends on the tip of your sword still pointed at him.
"... Hah. I knew this would happen." If it were the old you, you would have noticed the solemnity in his laugh. But you stared at him with the same coldness he had been subjected to the day he met you in that village. As cold as the ice forming by your feet. "I suppose this is due punishment for all the things I've done, huh?"
"You are trespassing, leave at once. Or else." Your brows furrowed when he took a step closer.
"Or else what?"
A second slash this time chipped at his hip, but he didn't seem bothered by the damage at all. "I end you right where you stand."
You grit your teeth at the sound of his condescending laugh once more, watching him hold his hat down as he almost doubled over in laughter. The empty room filled with nothing but his bitter chuckles, so hollow even as he stopped.
"End me, huh?" Kunikuzushi lifts his head up to reveal a smile, framed by a cascade of tears that seems to never end. "It would be the greatest honor."
The sound of a bell warns the next move, as a slash to your shoulder forces you to stumble back. And the room would glow with bittersweet fury of violets and blues.
"Traveler, I think I found the Wanderer..."
The Traveler and his entourage filed in the room in dreaded silence, taking in the scene in front of them.
Cracks and parts chipped away and falling apart. It was a battle, lacking of blood but still just as gruesome, meant to be fought until the end. Yet it was clear there would be no victor.
But in the face of his demise, Kunikuzushi had a rare smile on his once porcelain face, his exquisite hat discarded as he's slumped forward.
And there on his lap cradled by his broken hands, a puppet lays what's left of its head to rest. Half of its face pulverized in the clash, yet even with the cracks of outlined gold falling apart, your face only reflects what seems to be a dreamer in peace.
At least here, it looks like the both of you had finally escaped your strings.
Details:
This section is focused on some easter eggs and clarifications of the original fic, which you may have already guessed from the scenes written on this post.
First and foremost, yes, you are created by Makoto thousands of years ago. In the second scene in Kintsugi (I), the conversation is between Ei and Makoto during the end of the Archon War. Makoto created you as proof of concept, to test whether she could create life after Ei insisted that she dies so that Makoto could take the throne of the electro archon.
Because of this, you are kept alive by Makoto's essence/consciousness/will, which translates to archonic essence/residue. This is also the reason why the sakura blossom you had throughout the story (from the 500 years ago scene) didn't wilt until you were separated from it. Sandrone and Dottore are the only ones who suspected something is up with you, the latter verifying it during the repairing scene in part 2.
During the lightning strikes, a failsafe of invoking the archon essence inside of you triggers whenever there is potential harm aimed towards you.
So why don't you remember the time between the Archon War and the Cataclysm then? Simple answer: a lil thing called Erosion :) which was showcased in the Bad Ending scene here.
Seeing as Scara/Kuni doesn't know who Makoto was, he believed you were also discarded by Ei, while you thought that the mother/creator/electro archon he was talking about was Makoto.
I also wanted to reflect Makoto and Ei's roles in Scara/Kuni and Reader's story, with how Reader carries the beliefs of Makoto and Scara/Kuni takes on the role of Ei being the shadow/fighter of the twins.
And the "I'm here" dialogues of Scaramouche repeating was actually unintentional at first but I kept it, it looked like a nice way to show the connection he feels between you. It's his way of assuring you that you're not alone, and reinforcing that he would be there for you for eternity.
The title of this post is actually from a play in the Kabuki theatre, Kunikuzushi vs the Spirit of the Cherry Tree (Barrier Gate) which I only found out after writing Kintsugi (I). Ironically, the name of the Kunikuzushi in that play is named Kuronushi, which is Scara's corresponding five kasen image. The coincidence is absolutely uncanny.
I also only remembered about the Dream Sakura (the petal in the dividers) while writing Kintsugi (II) haha.
Immerse yourself with the atmosphere of Kintsugi by listening to this song! It's what I had on loop while writing the fic, together with Scaramouche's boss theme lmao
Some other scene ideas that got scrapped: Scaramouche visiting his friend's funeral before the lightning incident, Columbina's singing reminding Reader of Makoto's lullaby, meeting Albedo in Unreconciled Stars, meeting Dorian/Rubedo, Irodori Festival (originally the timeline of the lightning incident), Dottore check up scene mentioned jn Kintsugi
Thank you again for reading my work, honestly I didn't at all expect the reception of that silly drabble from two months ago but here we are :')) It's such an enjoyable experience, more so your amazing comments and reception upon reading the whole thing <33
The fic was initially meant to end by the kintsugi scene, but I added the ending part after realizing it might be a bad cliffhanger as well as the fact that we got to learn more about him in 3.2 and his drip marketing!
@deepdinosaurwizard @local-mr-frog @angryhope @rowielol @shoujishu @notyuki @asteriacos @willburzone @crystalcosplays @hxqlou @rolo-at-midnight @ireallylikehamsters @crxwned-mxnarch @reveltica @seddiepilled
#exile.flower#exile.feather#sumeru arc#about deepwood#about kintsugi#scaramouche x reader#genshin x reader#genshin impact x reader#genshin impact angst#scaramouche#Kunikuzushi#Kunikuzushi x reader#gender neutral
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(-joining the lonely al haitham simps wagon)
Man, imagine being held by him. Big and strong yet secure arms holding you close to him.. It must feel super safe and warm in his arms fr
Orrrr on the other hand you're the one hugging him. Your significantly smaller body pressing against his, and you arms try to hug him as much of possible (man is thick and a tower tho gl) and although he's showing nothing with that poker face of his, he's internally melting at how fking cute you are
(sorryyyy I just love the trope small little bean x Tol and Stronkβ’)
What a delight to see this after writing nothing but angst
This unlocked my scenario/headcanon idea of him being strong enough to carry you in just one arm, like you can sit on his arm and he'll take you around no problem. But to be hugged by his huge and strong arms matching with his cape, it feels like a big warm hug!
And also trying to hug him fully by wrapping your arms around him ah even better if it's from behind, I feel like it would catch him off-guard more and he won't have to hide his expressions so much since your face is buried on his back.
He almost looked pained (perhaps that's true with how strong his heart beats against his chest) as red dusts his ears and across his cheeks, his hand resting atop yours near his heart. He hopes you don't feel the pounding in his chest.
"Had I not known bother, I would have thought this is an assassination attempt."
#anon#exile.goblet#exile.flower#exile.reader#alhaitham x reader#sumeru arc#yes thank you nonnie for the food#positive Alhaitham towers over a majority of us anyways haha
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Somehow out of spite for the hate being sent towards the archon quest, Tighnari x Nilou headcanons popped up to me while not sleeping last night so I wanted to share: (because I'm sad too that they didn't interact)
Contains spoilers for 3.2 archon quest
- When Cyno, Collei, and Tighnari had their own feast, Tighnari would ask how the celebration went which prompts Cyno to talk about Nilou. This, in turn, has Collei rambling because she saw Nilou's performances before.
- Tighnari, however, would scold Cyno (and Alhaitham by extension since he made the plan) for endangering an innocent dancer by haphazardly getting her involved in the plan.
- Collei, on the other hand, is a bit sad that she didn't get to see Nilou's performance during the feast. Cyno took note of this and conveyed a message next time he saw Nilou.
- Cyno informs Nilou of a certain fan from the forest, as well as talking about Tighnari who fought with them for the rebellion but was too injured and busy to join them back in the feast.
- Having heard that, Nilou thought of making an impromptu show just like she did back in Jnagarbha Day as thank you for the work of the forest rangers, something to make them happy what with all the troubles they have now. Cyno agrees.
- Nilou brought over a huge plate of Tahchin from the Bazaar as a peace offering and Cyno asked permission from Tighnari about the performance when the rangers have free time. Tighnari agreed for Collei and only asked for the music to not be loud.
- Everyone enjoyed the performance and impromptu feast (it was harvest day), especially the theatre fans that never get enough free time to visit the Bazaar. Even the sages who are there for punishment were lenient.
- Tighnari thanked Nilou for boosting morale and for her contributions to Sumeru, urging her to follow the path of her dreams no matter the standpoint of the Akademiya, just like he does. Nilou thanks him for taking care of the forest, to take care of himself, and that she's willing to assist them anyway she can.
- Since then, they have been frequently crossing paths, usually through simple greetings and waves whenever Tighnari visits Sumeru City.
- One time, he heard from Cyno, the Bazaar or Nilou herself that she frequently goes to the desert to practice. Tighnari scolds her for the recklessness of it, saying that the desert is still too dangerous, especially at night!
- "But the oasis is the perfect place for me to practice my dances." "There are far better and safer places in the forest that would suit you, surrounded with beautiful flora. Come, let me show you." Impromptu forest tour!
- Tighnari is so meticulous of the ponds, lakes, and rivers that Nilou could practice in instead. Like how this place isn't infested by dangerous mobs, or this one has a great view of the night sky, oh oh this one is surrounded with flowers and plants like a stage.
- Nilou may not exactly understand some of the jargons he used when he becomes passionate in teaching, but the places are really pretty! Tighnari even made a map and was about to give it to her, but then pulled back,
"If you're going to practice in the forest, make sure to inform me of your whereabouts first. Preferably in advanced, but if I'm not at Ghandarva Ville, make sure to at least alert one of the rangers. Everyone in the forest is our responsibility."
"I'll be sure to alert you ahead of time, Master Tighnari!"
"You - I - you are not my student, Miss Nilou. You can call me by name."
"Then if that's the case, I would appreciate it if you simply call me Nilou, we're friends now!"
- No but after hearing how scared she was of mushrooms after she ate one when she was a child, Tighnari did end up taking her as a mushroom student so she knows better. He even made a whole ass booklet of every possible mushroom found for her to carry with her.
- Somehow she ends up finding new ones.
- Nilou only eats mushroom meals that Tighnari cooks because she's the only one he trusts enough to not kill her with them. They do taste bland sometimes but hey, she can repair it for herself, at least.
- Tighnari also started developing a sweet tooth after Nilou kept bringing sweets to Ghandarva for Collei, especially her Padisarah Pudding. Speaking of, whenever he's on patrol, he makes sure to pick some padisarahs for Nilou as either a simple gift or for cooking.
- Nilou also was granted access to Pardis Dhyai as another dancing spot due to Tighnari's influence. He doesn't know why exactly, but he felt that she fits into the place perfectly.
- It's not rare for Nilou to visit Ghandarva Ville carrying a huge crate filled with freebies from the Bazaar. Although it did scare Tighnari to see the dancer carry such a huge and heavy item while maneuvering through vines, moss and slopes.
- Thankfully her sense of balance and strength kept her safe, but Tighnari is still baffled that she carried all of that from Sumeru City. Cloth, food and ingredients, toys, extra items she thinks would benefit the forest rangers.
- While Tighnari lectures/gushes about plants when Nilou has the focus for it, Nilou in turn helps Tighnari with his stress and emotions, through her body movement therapy she created as well as encouraging words. While the problem is still there, he would at least smile back as she suggested.
- Both of them are curious about each other's horns and ears, Tighnari on the story and structure of the horn, would look baffled when Nilou pretty much just popped off the headdress for him to look at it closely. He wants to wear it - but there's a lot of bits here and there that might hurt or get caught by his ears.
- Nilou always gets distracted by his ears and tails, more obvious than everyone he had met (Collei wasn't kidding when she said the dancer was a bit absent-minded) and he can't help but tease her every time he catches her.
- Unlike the others tho, she would blush, become shy but always, always be honest about her feelings. He likes that in response to the other ones who says sorry and run away, or tries to hide instead of confront him.
- But my goodness when he let her touch his ears, it was so heavenly he had to stop himself from purring. "Have you met Gata from the cafe? You both have such soft ears!" And then he realized his doom, he just handed himself so carelessly to the expert.
- Lastly, when he finds out that Nilou is practicing in the forest, he'll seek out the place once he's free and tap the forest ranger that was her guide for the day, switching places so that he can be the one to watch the exclusive show after a long day.
The moment I saw her voiceline about mushrooms, even before she got released, I already knew I'm down bad for this rare pair, i love my wives, my babygirls
#exile.flower#nilou#tighnari#tighnari x nilou#tighnilou#tighlou#genshin impact fanfiction#genshin impact headcanons#genshin impact#spoiler tag
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Strike 3 on me getting a random writing idea while doing mundane stuff:
(Minors do not interact: you will be blocked)
What if the whole time Kaveh was away in the desert for his architectural project, you were there to accompany him?
What if all this time Alhaitham was scheming with the other heroes he had not seen a glimpse of you?
Even if the reunion after the whole shenanigan was disdainful and filled with arguments, Alhaitham was relieved to see you look well despite having to deal with Kaveh alone for weeks, something the blond smacks him on the arm for.
What if just this once, Kaveh let himself be bribed to not stay the night after seeing the longing and lingering glances Alhaitham had on you? That he dearly missed your presence that Kaveh had greedily kept to himself?
What if you do notice the absence of your other lover but kept your mouth shut at the way your Grand Scribe clings to you so desperately?
"Tell me," his ungloved fingers stroking your jaw coaxed you to open your eyes. "How many times did you two do it on your trip?"
Your eyes inadvertently look away from the sheer embarrassment the question brought, only for him to tilt your head to face him, to see his serious face. He is waiting.
You gulped. "F-Five -" you choked at your own moan at his unexpected thrust. "Seven!" You blurt out in a hurry knowing he had caught you.
"I see." He contemplates like the situation was like any other day. But you know your lover, and you know that when it comes to matters regarding your relationship, he was just as competitive as your architect.
"Then it seems we'll just have to keep going until we double that amount." His hands were already positioning your legs for a more comfortable access.
"Double?!" You were expecting at least one or two more than what was given.
"I think it is only fair." The way his eyes bore into yours confirms he wasn't kidding, and the first round started the moment you felt the need to grip the sheets.
By the fourth position change, you've already lost count.
It was only when the sunrays hit the whole stained glass window did Kaveh finally make his way back home, having hit the hay in an inn after using up the money Alhaitham bribed him with for a little wine party with his fellow Kshahrewars. Oh he's in desperate need of hangover food, or in other words, your home cooking.
But when he smelt nothing but coffee and saw Alhaitham in nothing but pants, his day was already ruined.
"You reek of alcohol, you'll wake them up with your stench." Yet he did not make any moves to stop Kaveh despite his warning.
They both knew you won't be waking up anytime soon.
"I cannot believe you exhausted them to this extent." Kaveh sighed at the sight of your bare self still curled up, knocked out under the covers, letting a smile creep to his face before shooting Alhaitham a glare.
"What?"
"How many times did you two do it?"
Pushing his slightly sweaty bangs back, Alhaitham pulls the coffee mug away from his lips to reveal a challenging smirk, a dangerous glint in his eyes.
Physically cannot write anything serious involving these two
#minors begone#genshin smut#genshin impact smut#exile.flower#not really that bad but just to be safe#alhaitham x reader#kaveh x reader#poly kavetham#al haitham x reader#gender neutral#sumeru arc#exile.reader
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π
π₯π¨π°ππ« π
ππ₯π₯
pairing -> Alhaitham x Reader
word count -> 2249 words
themes : temporary paralysis, physical therapy, angst with comfort, feelings of distress and helplessness, specific description of passing out and weakness, reader discretion is advised, Alhaitham is staying by your side and helping you recover pretty much
A delicate foreign flower encased in a glass case. Unable to resist the gift, this admirer seemed to be too eager for you to open the glass for closer inspection. In the comforts of your home, a simple touch had made you as delicate as the frozen flora. If only Alhaitham had been there sooner. (Cyno ver., Tighnari ver.)
The glass case in your hand was not only heavy but cold, so cold in fact, that you had to pull your sleeves as cover for your freezing hands.
You'd soon find out that the man before you was a mask-less Fatui agent but currently, he is but a Snezhnayan tourist, perhaps a merchant with the exquisite gift he had bestowed upon you. Fatuus are barely seen in Sumeru after all, and they are usually Fatui Skirmishers in the desert side.
You also have a penchant for being unable to say no. At least, an outright refusal.
"Thank you for this." You stated with a forced smile as your eyes darted around, desperately looking for a sign of your silver-haired lover. Of course, the one time you needed him the most, he wasn't there.
"Why are you not opening it? Open it." He was infuriatingly persistent and demanding, so unlike your secret lover. Like there was some sense of urgency. At that time it made sense, in the public's eye you were a free fish in the sea with a lot of hooks thrown in front of you.
"I'm sure it looks pretty, I'm really thankful!" You winced as you adjusted your sleeve to cover more of your skin as one of your fingertip painfully stuck to the cold surface. "But I'm scared I might drop it, and we're in the middle of the street."
You were expecting an offer to perhaps hold the box, maybe open it for you and pass the flower instead but - "Then let me take you somewhere private so you don't have to struggle -"
"On second thought, I just realized I have something urgent to go to!" Red flag, red flag, red flag. You didn't even hesitate to show your defiance as you evade his hand that wanted to hold your wrist, quickly walking backward towards the bazaar's main doors. "Thank you for the gift! We can talk about it next time!"
And you disappeared behind the double doors, steps heavy as you made haste to your home before the stranger could see which direction you went to.
In the safety of your home, you couldn't help but laugh a breathless laugh at what you thought was exaggeration. It's not the first time you met a persistent suitor, nor received an odd gift, but somehow that foreigner just rubbed you wrong.
Perhaps next time you meet, you can offer an apology for your actions. If the gift is good, at least.
Looking at the glass case on your coffee table, you can help but admire it now that you weren't being pressured to. It was thick enough that it might not even break if you were to drop it from shoulder height, but the lid was made of a thinner material to see the content inside - if there wasn't a fog rolling inside it.
Pulling the lid off and quickly putting it down on the table before the frostbite hits your nerves, you watch in awe as the fog inside seemingly spills over the walls of the container on to the tabletop.
The flower itself looked like it was made of a deep blue glass with gold-like pollen surrounding an illuminated pointy crystal in the middle. There are also icy crystals nestled between the other petals. This is definitely from outside of Sumeru, you surmised as you plucked it off the dry ice bedding.
It was cold to the touch, the frostbite biting painfully like pinpricks on your fingertips before it numbed away almost immediately. You only got to admire it for a few seconds before your limbs started to feel heavy.
Bracing yourself on the table, your body started to slump forward against your will until your arms sent the glass and the ice off to your tiled floor. But you didn't hear a single thing when you should have heard the loud clatter, no, instead a piercing ringing sound invaded your ears.
Everything felt so heavy and so cold, yet you could feel your skin breaking out into a sweat. What's happening to you? Trying to focus on your dwindling breathing, your barely open eyes caught sight of your front door opening, a black and white figure entering your home.
It only registered in your mind that everything is washed in monochrome colors. But you know that build anywhere even without color.
Only did you hear Alhaitham's muffled call of your name did you finally feel safe enough to close your eyes.
Investigation
Alhaitham praised himself for following his gut feeling when he passed by your house that day, hearing the muffled but loud sound of items falling on the ground. Then a standstill.
If he had let it go as a mere accident, he wouldn't have been able to see the state you were in and administered the proper first aid: body cold and covered in sweat, nails a purplish blue, heartbeat slow and breathing low, and that darned flower slowly freezing your fingers.
He was admittedly scared beyond insanity, the usually well-kept Scribe was a mess upon arrival, words louder than he wanted as he demanded for a doctor.
Only when you stabilized did they break the news to him: symptoms that match syncope, but with a side effect of paralysis. The recovery is slower than any of the cases they had dealt with and so there was nothing they can do without any leads other than to wait.
Even the best of the Amurta scholars cannot identify the flower when he asked around, careful not to touch the flora itself. The powerful Akasha terminal had nothing to offer either, restricted records exhausted yet yielding no results.
Alhaitham rarely left home at this point, only leaving when there was a lead or something to get when you request it. His work as Grand Scribe was forgotten to focus on his goal, and when the Grand Sage himself visited to reprimand him for his work ethic, the only answer he got was to bring his work to him instead.
Day and night he spent his time glued to his study table with a permanent frown, papers stacking to a tall pile either from the Akademiya or his research, never once stopping until his desk was clear.
Kaveh initially thought that Alhaitham was playing you with a loveless relationship when he first heard of your relationship. But as he stood by the doorway, presence unnoticed by the Scribe as he fought to stay awake for 3 days now, he remembered that the man had always had a strict work setup:
Alhaitham never brought his work home, always putting a boundary between his work and personal life.
Yet here he was, throwing away his stability and vices to help you. Kaveh had never been so convinced that the Scribe was truly in love.
Recovery
The idea of kicking Kaveh out of the house crossed his mind once when he decided that you had to stay under the same roof until you recovered. He didn't have an extra room and the only other room up to his standards would be his -
And so began your confinement to his bedroom. With how you spend more time staying there than him sleeping in his own bed, it may as well have been named your room.
The first few days of recovery passed by quickly on your end, as the fatigue and the lack of freedom to do anything quickly coaxed you to long period of sleep. Your lover stuck by your side the whole time to make sure you at least drank and ate something, even if they are in small increments.
But the situation came crashing down in your mind one day, Alhaitham finding you crying quietly, eyes wide with fear, chest heaving with desperate breaths. You couldn't even squeeze his hand when he held it close, couldn't reply when he asked if you're struggling to breathe. He was also powerless on that situation, unable to do anything but hold you close until you cried yourself to sleep.
It was embarrassing, demeaning even, having to be taken care of like this. Alhaitham became your arms and legs, practically nothing without him, and on more than one occasion the thought affected you more than your condition.
After all, your relationship with Alhaitham is still in a fragile state. Not quite friends yet not quite lovers - before this incident, he was still in the process of courting you. Your wary glances towards him when he's caring for you may be obvious, but whether he noticed or not, he never addressed it.
Ever since the start of your care, Alhaitham had developed a habit you never foresaw: how he's always holding your limp hand. While he's not exactly aversive to physical affection, he was never this confrontational about it.
Every time he's in the room, the first thing he does is hold your hand and only letting go when absolutely necessary. Often you find your eyes lingering there, guilty that you can't squeeze his hand.
One day, with the pillows propped up against the headboard so you can sit up and rest against it, you were in the middle of teasing Alhaitham about the memory of your first date when his head snapped towards his hand.
His eyes were wide and bewildered as he squeezed your hand, and that's when you realized it - your fingers twitched in response to the pressure. "Do that again." And soon, you managed to curl your fingers, loosely wrapping around his own.
Progress, it was progress. With your blurry vision and happy tears, you do not notice the way Alhaitham's eyes glossed over in unshed tears, head bowed as he brushed his lips over your hand.
With your hope reignited and your energy returning from the prospect of recovery, the gloom that hangs over the Scribe's shoulders started to dissipate.
Whenever you feel sore from being in bed all day, he would call up a massage therapist with your consent. A few visits after, instead of the therapist he'll start massaging your arms himself daily.
Daily check-ups are a thing, by the way. Testing your grip and the weight your hand can hold, how high you can lift and twist your arms, at some point he stopped helping you to sit up (not because he's neglecting you now, he simply knows you'd rather not be babied all the time).
And as the road to recovery became clearer, you can see Alhaitham also change with you. More open with his emotions and feelings, doing things out of his norm (reading you story books from Inazuma to pass the time, ESPECIALLY when he started voice acting the lines), and generally just a stark contrast to how he was before the incident.
Your doubts and fears that Alhaitham would leave after taking up the burden of helping you soon disappeared. Leaving nothing but love-stricken smiles and warmth.
Aftermath
You'll never know the full extent of his research and sacrifices to find out your attacker and your illness. So you were surprised to find the General Mahamatra visiting to inform Alhaitham that they had found the suspect.
The Scribe carried you to the Akademiya with Kaveh tagging along. And when you saw the sight of the Snezhnayan merchant, the fatui agent being escorted to his trial in chains, your lover passed you to Kaveh.
Your bubbling fear at the sight of the criminal was replaced by shock as you all watch Alhaitham pull his arm back and deliver a right hook to the man's now broken jaw. No one, not even the Matra, dared to reprimand him.
Everyone knew the crime the criminal committed by now. After all, the whole of Sumeru had seen the Scribe walking around with you in his arms or in crutches, always by your side as you slowly regained control of your lower-half.
Your unfaltering resolve and tireless effort had everyone respecting you, some subtly helping here and there to make things more accessible for you.
In turn, the citizens and scholars of Sumeru began seeing Alhaitham more as a human than just the Akademiya's lunatic.
The flower was an extinct flora once found in Snezhnaya's tundras. It is the only surviving sample and the extent of its effects is still under research in the Amurta. When you asked about the criminal one day, Alhaitham simply said that you didn't need to worry about him anymore.
A full recovery would never be a thing and you accepted that fact long ago. But walks became your favorite past time with Alhaitham after being stuck in his room for months.
And now you only needed a cane to bring to your walks, the one you have now was a gift that he commissioned from Kaveh, its design and gems fashioned to mimic the style of his clothes. It was his gift for your first date after you became stable enough to walk by yourself.
One night, you quietly and carefully tiptoed from your shared room to sneak up behind Alhaitham, slightly making him jump when you wrapped your arms around his shoulders over the back of the couch.
Slightly turning his head, he took note of the absence of your cane. "I love you." His hand on your twitched for a second and you thought for a second that he stopped breathing. But only when he squeezed your hand did he finally reply, "I love you." Exchanging those three words for the first time.
Fun Fact: the flower is actually the flower in the Blizzard Strayer artifact set!
holy shit i did not expect to write this much, actually, i had to hold back a lot in the recovery here. Tighnari is the last one and this mini series would be over wooh!
#genshin impact x reader#genshin x reader#alhaitham x reader#al haitham x reader#exile.flower#gender neutral#sumeru arc#genshin impact angst#alhaitham#al haitham
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The Invention of the Dryer
Alhaitham x Reader x Kaveh; poly
Kaveh wasn't anticipating Alhaitham to open the door, immediately dropping his practiced puppy eyes to mirror his scowl.
"What in the world are you doing?"
"This is not about you."
The Grand Scribe couldn't help the scoff and roll of his eyes, but before he could berate him for his mistakes on the get-go, the feeling of someone behind him halts his words. Crisis not averted, as your head pops up to peek over his shoulder.
Your confused gaze suddenly turned to a cold glare at the sight of your blonde lover. Although there's still a hint of bewilderment at the sight of him dripping wet from head to toe.
Now that you look closely, it's raining. Only over his head.
"My (Y/N)," Alhaitham interjects with a deep grunt of our. At this point, the architect only had his eyes and focus on you. "I've lamented on my actions and truly, I am deeply sorry for what I have said." He sighs solemnly, pushing the wet strands away from his forehead.
Alhaitham scrutinized him greatly. "You called their cooking mid."
"Because I thought it was your cooking!"
"That changes nothing after the fact. More so, you simply made it worse."
Alhaitham, and you too consequently, took a step back from the doorway when Kaveh waved his hand in exasperation from the argument that spewed. The now revealed garden hose in his concealed hand almost splashing the inside of the house.
"What in the world - stop that!" And Kaveh immediately complies by throwing the tool away. So much for scenic sympathy, but if the entryway were to be messy, it would be more work for him.
Because he knows how stubborn Alhaitham would be to leave the slipping hazard there for him to clean after, and if none of them does it, you'd inevitably clean up his mess instead. And he doesn't want to burden you anymore than he already did.
Truly, the both of them is enough of a mess to deal with.
Sighing heavily, he bowed his head and placed a fist to his chest. A shared look with Alhaitham confirmed this isn't an act anymore.
"Please forgive my brashness, know it does not reflect my honest opinions. I only did it to provoke a certain someone." He chose to ignore the glare his other lover sent him. "I love you and everything that you do. I miss you dearly."
Alhaitham turns to the side to look at you properly, anticipating your response and most likely act accordingly. He had always been specially attentive of your feelings when it comes to your relationship. He boasts his emotional intelligence, or dare say lack thereof, to deal with Kaveh's shit everyday.
You're more easily affected by harsh words and fleeting glares in comparison to them. Or more like, as affected as a normal person is.
Although, you're pretty sure him kicking Kaveh out of the house after making an offhanded insult about your cooking was a bit too exaggerated.
Eh, he has much to learn.
"Okay, I forgive you." His red eyes brightened up instantly like a light switch. "But you gotta make up for it."
"Oh, thank you, my benevolent lover, my saint!"
Evading his leap for a hug, you and Alhaitham retreat back inside as Kaveh whined about the rejected hug, not at all understanding your refusal to hug him despite being drenched all over. And now he's leaving trails of water on his walk of shame to the bathroom.
"I don't have anything to wear for our date tonight."
Hearing the man you're using as a pillow scoff above you, you looked up from Alhaitham's lap to peak at Kaveh on the other end of the couch, your legs sprawled over his thighs as he was massaging it for the compensation.
Without his fancy garb of many colors, he was weird to look at with just a gray shirt and pants.
"Definitely your fault for pulling that rain stunt." The blonde whined. "Not like the sun or wind can dry your clothes any faster."
You felt his hands still, look faraway and brows furrowed in deep thought. You know that look.
Kaveh almost shoved you off the couch in his urgency to run to his room, throwing your legs up and off his lap to evade falling off. "Must have had a spark of idea." Alhaitham mumbled before turning to the next page of his book.
^That's your boy right there.
#al haitham x reader#exile.flower#gender neutral#poly kavetham#sumeru arc#genshin impact crack#kaveh x reader#Alhaitham x reader#genshin x reader#genshin impact x reader#that loud house
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Tied Down - Part 2
Tighnari, Dottore with an Unhinged Reader (Alhaitham & Cyno Ver.)
-> Tighnari with your lack of self-preservation skills
Tighnari sat down by his study table to read through the patrol logs as per protocol at this point. Always at the dead of night after his patrols, he would burn time with more duties until he succumbs to rest.
This time he's reading Amir's patrol log:
'Resumed patrol after lunch break on designated path further into Avidya Forest. Heard commotion off the path passing Gandha Hill, upon cheeking, there are five merchants on a stand-off with a Rishboland Tiger.
Found forest ranger (Y/N) trying to get the attention of the tiger. Proceeds to run away with the Tiger running after them, shouting "make sure to escort them to Gandharva!" as they disappear northeast. Escorted the five merchants to Gandharva Ville by 3 PM and reported the encounter to Chief Officer Tighnari. Relieved from patrol duty to escort the lost merchants back to Sumeru City.
End log.'
Letting out a long, audible sigh after he finished reading, Tighnari slowly turns in his seat to look at where you sat.
From your staring contest with his hut's ceiling, you felt eyes on you as you sat up from his bed, making eye contact. "What?"
He didn't answer immediately, no. Instead he openly trailed his eyes over your whole form, emphasizing on the parts covered by layers upon layers of bandages, the same ones he had applied himself earlier.
When he went back up to meet your eyes, you look like you're holding in some kind of diarrhea with how twisted your face looked. "What's the incidence rate this week?"
You hesitate to answer. "Four."
Tighnari dragged a hand over his whole face. "And it's just Wednesday."
Tighnari's job at Ghandarva Ville had been more stressful ever since you joined, and with your tendency to be so reckless, he had kept you from advancing to the Forest Watcher rank.
But even if you have... unorthodox methods for solving problems, he can't exactly deny that you get the job done. Just in the worst way possible.
There must be some god or archon protecting you in a way, otherwise, how are you even alive at this point? It's definitely not luck when you yourself love to throw yourself into danger, and you usually don't walk scrape free every time.
Any kind of mushroom trip doesn't send him the same adrenaline as when you pull your stunts under his presence - like that one time you thought you could jump over the wide ravine with a simple running start.
Tighnari's scream as he jumped after you to the river below could be heard up to Ghandarva Ville. And it all made sense when the residents of Ghandarva saw you being pulled by the ear back home by their scowling Chief Officer.
It was a daily occurrence to the point that the days you don't visit for treatment felt more like omen than a relief. "Where's (Y/N)? Are they dead already?" The forest rangers would sweat at his brashness despite knowing where he's coming from.
Fortunately, or unfortunately, you're still alive. And you wouldn't understand exactly why he's looking at you with pursed lips, crossed arms, and a frantic tail swinging behind him. (He didn't either, at first, only horrifyingly realizing later on that it was because he missed you and you had him genuinely worried)
Tighnari can't even scold you properly at times. Because he knows you know what you're doing - he's taught you well of what every flora and fauna in the forest does, the precautions and the counters, the warning signs.
He'll find you perfectly nonchalant as you hop out of a bush, sending him a salute before going off the beaten path again, four specters following you in their blind rage.
Later, as he's disinfecting the scrapes on your legs, he learns that you were relocating them since they apparently strayed off from their natural habitat. Tighnari could only sigh in defeat.
At one point, a special course of action had been placed just for you. When the rangers were to spot you in the middle of your 'missions', they are tasked to observe from afar and not interfere unless it becomes too dangerous. If there are sustained injuries, they must take you to where he is immediately. If you're safe, they must hit you on the back of the head before continuing their own patrols.
Everyone in Ghandarva Ville had at least hit you upside the head already. Collei had the lightest hit which makes sense considering she didn't really want to do it, always apologizing afterwards and pleading to be careful.
Tighnari had the title of hardest smacker initially but... One time, you crossed paths with him during patrol hours, wincing as you rubbed at the back of your head. "Did something reckless again?" His voice isn't as teasing as before, however. "Yeah, ow, Kamran really did a number on me. Probably the most painful one, aha."
Tighnari tended to your headache that night and the special protocol was lifted for a week. Next time you saw Kamran, he struggled to look you in the eye as he apologized.
-> Zandik with your partner-in-crime attitude
"Yo, Zandik!" The infamous scholar's shoulders tensed for a second before easing up after the owner of the voice registered in his head.
Who else would it be? He rolled his eyes at his own clumsiness. Even if he was in a suspicious area conducting suspicious activities, only one person had the audacity to interrupt him like this.
"What is it? I told you to only call out when - what the fuck is that?!" The man almost dropped the chaos core in his hands when he finally turned to see what you called him for.
"Look at this cute lil guy I found outside!" You tighten your hug around the green shroomkin in your arms. Zandik had half a mind to realize it wasn't aggravated whatsoever.
"(Y/N), that is a Dendro Fungus, they are dangerous. Put that away." Sighing, he watches you drag your feet outside, presumably to free the poor thing.
It was only a few minutes into his ruin guard research when you came back shouting for his attention again. Another sigh, and when he looks over his shoulder, he can't stop his palm from smacking his face.
"This one's adorable, too!" He must admit, the way the hydro fungus seemingly nuzzling your chin was endearing. But that doesn't change anything.
"(Y/N), that is a Floating Hydro Fungus, those are also dangerous." With that, you looked at the shroomkin in your arms as its beady eyes stared back at you. And then you're out again without another word.
By the time he had finished his investigation, it was almost an hour since you had visited. Perhaps you finally focused on keeping watch but the silence started to become unnerving. Not liking nor wanting to dwell on the implications, Zandik packed his bags and started walking out of the Ruin giant.
"(Y/N), I'm done. Let's head back now -"
"I got our ride home!"
"How in the world?! Get down from that Terrorshroom!"
Zandik didn't think himself to be quite the interesting character except for his grandeur and magnificent ideas. If he wanted to be liked, he knows a thing or two about pretending.
But when it comes to the opposite, he had little to none idea except for the murderous route. And somehow you weren't worth the hassle.
He kept you around at first because you were just as curious and fascinated, soon after you were trustworthy and obedient, but now he's griping with the fact that you simply just won't leave him be for entertainment's sake.
Right, you did find the man with the cool hair, cool eyes, and toothy grin to be quite interesting - but now you were entirely hook for all the wrong reasons.
That was your best trait for him at least, your usefulness and lack of sense of danger to question the things he pulls you into just for something fun. Admittedly, he at least shares the sentiment that the Akademiya is quite the killjoy.
Sneaking under the shadows of alleys, holding your breaths in hiding spots, waiting for the footsteps of the Matra to sound far enough. Oh, it's definitely more exciting than burning your eyelashes over a manuscript that's bound to be rejected.
The glint in your eyes both exasperate and thrill him. Just the same as his, except less psychotic and more unrestrained.
Many times he had to bury your face to his chest to muffle your excited giggles while you hide behind the restricted section of the House of Daena, hearing his loud heartbeat from the adrenaline of being found.
At some point down your questionable relationship, he started trusting you enough to send you out on your own to said missions. "Meet this merchant", "Look for this part", "Document this thing." The more interesting it gets the likelier you comply, although adventures together could never compete.
"You're not going?" He finally looks up from the device he was investigating, tilting his head as his eyebrows furrowed from your scowl. Not at all pleased. He thought you'd like this one.
"I've been sending you out alone, you shouldn't have expected that." Rolling up the map, you still don't look quite happy with the assignment. That's bad, your efficiency had always been linked to your interest of the matter.
Which is why you still haven't done any new drafts for your thesis, saying that you'd work at it when the urgency is there. The fact that you can stay in the Akademiya past 30 years of age makes that sentiment not at all helpful.
"Yeah, but we always do stuff together before." At the disappointed tone, Zandik immediately turned the tables and said he'll accompany you without another thought.
Playing fugitive, partner-in-crime, wanted criminals β at some point, even he started to like field work more than huddling in his workshop. And that horrified him.
But he can't exactly deny the spark in his brain when he successfully pulls you away from getting caught, the way his heart stutters when your palm presses against his mouth when his whispers were just a bit too loud, the way his confidence skyrockets when you enthusiastically nod for him to continue his rant about his latest work.
What would he do if he does get caught in the end? To inevitably be expelled from the Akademiya for the crimes that he had accumulated?
Watching you pull out the ancient books you haggled from Dori with a proud grin, he supposed that you tagging along to the ends of Teyvat would be a guarantee.
Perhaps I got carried away on this one hehe especially on Dottore's part, oh it's so weird using his real name but it wouldn't make sense given the setting if I don't, right? I might revisit this in the future for other characters hehe
#genshin x reader#genshin impact x reader#tighnari x reader#dottore x reader#exile.flower#gender neutral#genshin impact fluff#genshin impact crack#sumeru arc#love the header for dottore#i should get more from the fanart program
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Tied Down
Alhaitham, Cyno with an Unhinged Reader; can be seen as platonic or romantic (Tighnari & Dottore ver.)
-> Alhaitham with your out of this world ideas
Your exaggerated gasp immediately took Alhaitham's attention from his book, exquisite eyes only moving a few to look over you.
"I got a hypothesis now."
The Scribe quickly lowered his eyes, silently praying for the gods despite being a skeptic that you leave him be for his own sanity.
But of course, if the gods were unresponsive before, how would today be any different? His defeated sigh was obvious as he sees you making your way over in his peripheral.
"I have a hypothesis!"
"Do you have evidence?"
"Hear me out first!" He sighs again as you take his book, peering on the page he was on before making a disgusted face, chucking it over your shoulder.
He stares at you with no emotion. Not replying, hoping you'd take that as a no and leave him back to his peace. You don't, of course.
"So, you know how I've been studying about the elements and visions, right?" He does, of course. "I think I know the pattern on Anemo vision wielders now!"
"And that is?" His curiosity breaks his silence over the bold statement, and your smirk widened at his facade breaking.
"They all have dead friends!" Immediately after, you're on a tug-of-war as Alhaitham tries to kick you out of his office.
Alhaitham always thought that he was commonly misunderstood. After all, once he got to know you, he was sure the Akademiya lunatic title fits you more than he did.
However, it's that eccentric quality that made you standout to him, even if the way your mind works is more complex than the textbooks he reads in his spare time. And he reads a lot of advanced materials.
Sometimes your ideas are plain old jibberish, outlandish or too ahead of his time. And on better days, it makes him ponder and dissect your thoughts with vigor. So long as you have such a creative outlook, he lets the previous failures go, although you are on thin ice.
Whenever he's on his wit ends with a discovery or theorem he needs more insight on, technically you are his last option, but an option nonetheless. Something new ALWAYS sprouts when talking to you and he wants to make sure he's mentally ready for that roadtrip.
You drive him insane, pretty much, but it's the insane he preaches that makes a scholar a scholar. Instead you took that as a challenge.
Because of your operational symbiotic relationship, Alhaitham gets dragged into your antics or he genuinely supports you in your discoveries if it would help make sense of your plans.
He'll find himself negotiating with the Eremites, observing in obscure places, even putting himself in danger just so that he could take the consequences instead of you. "At what distance does the primal constructs detect approaching enemies?" The next day you'll get your answer, with a pinch on the cheek from an exhausted Alhaitham.
Besides the fact that he likes you for your 'genius', he can't deny that he enjoys your presence. Which is why he makes genuine effort to understand and appease your interests, reading through many materials about your recent hyperfixation just to keep up with the conversation - make your outings entertaining.
Best outcome is the look of pure disbelief and held shock whenever you prove him wrong. Him blinking at you with slightly agape lips while you had your hands on your hips with a wide grin.
"You were right." "Mhmm?" "I've spoken with the traveler about the individuals they met who are Anemo vision wielders, a deceased friend is a common factor. Except for a female alchemist in Mondstadt that only has an enstranged friendship." "An outlier." "Correct." "That friend must be dead by now, surely." "I worry for you sometimes."
-> Cyno with your manic antics
"Prepare for trouble."
"And make it double!"
The large congregation of merchants looks up from the boxes of canned knowledge towards the cliff overlooking their gathering where two silhouettes stood, shadowed by the high rising sun behind them.
"To protect the world from forbidden knowledge." "To unite all people in the land of knowledge!"
The confused people watched as the two suddenly faltered in their gimmicky pose and hiss at each other, the conversation too far to make out before they went back to their previous positions.
"To denounce the world of injustices and evils." "To uphold the rules and purge the illegals!"
Only when the chant of familiar, bone-chilling names did the canned knowledge merchants finally understood the confusing scene in front of them, but was all too late to flee when the judicators of the Akademiya pulled out their weapons and jumped down to the clearing.
"Team Matra will chase you down, day and night."
"Surrender now, or prepare to fight!" But the merchants never had the chance to even surrender as you struck first.
Cyno couldn't really blame you. As the Matra focused on cross-referencing and paperworks, your work isn't as... exciting as his, as you put it.
So at times when there's a rare occurrence where he does need an extra pair of hands, and you look like you're about to pass out from boredom, Cyno lets you tag along. He lives for that smile you give him every time he visits your office.
But that smile is also his doom. And the culprits you'd have to subdue. The General Mahamatra could be seen pulling his headdress down, trying to ignore the looks and pleas for mercy while you went ham on beating them up.
No, it is because of their wrongdoings that got them here in the first place, he has nothing to do with this other than following protocols.
If he's the hunting dog, you're the rabid dog always ready to bite. Actually, you're always the first one to rush straight into battle, and after the hundredth time his warnings to NOT do that had been ignored, he stopped doing so and let it be.
While his name is popular among students of the Akademiya, you're more well-known (feared) by Eremites and suspicious merchants. Scholars would rather be visited by you than the General, and the parallels never fails to amuse him.
It's not that he doesn't care, far from it actually! You have his full trust to finish your battles no matter how reckless your approach is, how your adrenaline-fueled mind and body cannot be deterred by small cuts and wounds.
And if there were rare moments when it's too much to handle, rest assured that the General would have your back to the point that you don't even realize the danger as it was already neutralized by his hands.
Cyno never shies away from complimenting your fighting style, even *complimenting *it with his own so that you two can better synergize in the battlefield. The excitement to have someone to spar with after the unfortunate retirement of his previous partner came back tenfold.
It's those rare times that he can boast his pride in front of you, showing his unmatched strength that you have yet to properly win against.
His job as a Matra and the General Mahamatra had always been a dangerous path to walk, and he greatly appreciates that you can keep up and join him without problems.
Besides, he has a front row seat of just how feral and strong you can be. A side that those used to your office persona will never lay eyes on, his very own privilege.
There was a Tighnari and Dottore version for this but I got too busy with my birthday and my tipsy self cannot be bothered to write more so have this
#genshin impact x reader#genshin x reader#exile.flower#cyno x reader#alhaitham x reader#al haitham x reader#gender neutral#genshin impact#cyno#Alhaitham#genshin impact crack#sumeru arc
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Fall Into Place
: Cyno x Reader short fic
Or, the scholar everyone thinks is deranged for being able to stand the General Mahamatra, despite being reprimanded by him several times already.
"Someone said they spotted the General Mahamatra on campus!"
"What? Cyno's here?" Your casualness and curious tone had the scholars looking at you with obvious bewilderment. Staring at you like you're an undiscovered Aranara.
"You know, it's still baffling how you're... 'close' to the General after everything that's happened." One of your friends finally spoke up as you started gathering your materials, the thought making you snicker from undisclosed memories.
"He's not that bad if you don't do anything bad." They had a retort ready on the tip of their tongues. "'sides, he's just doing his job, right?"
Not wanting to elaborate and hoping to catch up, you lugged your bag over your shoulder and said quick goodbyes, bounding out of the House of Daena with a new goal in mind.
It's not like their suspicions/bewilderment aren't uncalled for, after all the things you've been through with the Matra, your Vahumana friends are starting to suspect you may have been cuckoo from the stress of researching.
But as they are wrong with reading your character, so are they to him.
Really, he wasn't all that bad.
"What have I done wrong?"
A pause. "Your paper."
A blink. Another. And another. Cyno watched as your head shot up from shamefully looking at your lap to stare at him in disbelief, wide-eyed not in fear but in the incredulous emotion you felt upon hearing his words.
He was about to explain the joke after he had felt himself accomplished on making you less aversive - but a muffled snort had made him speechless this time.
There you were sitting across him in the Matra office, covering your face to hide your snorts and wheezes. Cyno now had disbelief clearly written on his face.
"Sorry, sorry." But you didn't have to be, his expertise in judgment knew your reaction was genuine. "You just caught me off-guard, General."
"I'm glad you're loosening up then." There you see the first rare sight of a smirking Cyno, more proud than condescending as he crosses his arms at his achievement. "I know there's more that you want to say, I suggest you not to hold your peace if you think it will do you good on your judgment."
At the resumption of the topic at hand, the ever attentive General watched as your expression turned to that of annoyance. It wasn't out of anger or resentment whatsoever, specifically not towards him either. He knew there was something else at play here in the way you held back your tongue when you wanted it to run.
And now, perhaps with the lighter mood, you'd be more willing to share the details he isn't privy to.
"I just think that this is unfair." You gesture around the office that only held you two, continuing before he could misinterpret. "Why am I the only one apprehended when it's the committee who agreed to my bribery?"
He closed his mouth. To this you continue.
"Clearly, if they had refused such a simple bribe, the crime wouldn't have been a thing, right?" The review committee shouldn't be accepting bribes in the first place. "In all honesty, I wasn't even serious about it. I didn't think they would accept in the first place since it was clearly a joke."
"What exactly was the bribe?" Cyno sits up straighter upon meeting your deadpanned stare, a lingering pause that made him tense in curiousity.
"That I'd cook them some of Mondstadt's mushroom skewers."
A blink. Another. And another. If not for the exasperation in your voice, he would have thought it was a lie - but somehow that made it even more funnier, and now it was you patting yourself on the back for making the General laugh.
"I think -" he wipes a stray tear as he finally caught his breathe. "I think you have been scammed."
"I think so too." Humming to himself, you watched as he pulled out a set of stamps and ink from under the table. "I'm positive they knew the Matra would be able to catch on with how horrible my research is, so they tried to at least gain something from the endeavor."
"I can see the appeal, Mondstadt's delicacies are quite enjoyable." Stamping the paper with a CASE CLOSED, his red eye caught on to how you perked up at his words. The implications you immediately caught on to. Smart. "You must make some mean skewers, but in research writing..."
Your gaze lifts from looking at the paper to his awaiting look, pausing again for the dramatic effect. "It seems you have mushroom for improvement."
The case was easily swept aside without further need for punishment due to how light it was. The review committee had a stern talking to and you focused on a new work.
Cyno had to praise your resilience to bounce back to the groove of things. But you explained that the loss of the half-cooked research wasn't that bad, after all, you only made that under the pressure of passing one.
You've also reasoned that the horrible quality was mostly due to how you dislike the research topic to begin with (but it was the only manuscript they approved).
When Cyno didn't buy it, you made it your mission to prove him wrong by making your next one a success.
Even if you were practically shoving your passed thesis on his face to goad him, he couldn't help the tiny smile creeping to his lips. Both from your achievement and how you're open with him.
The next time you'd seen the General under work-related conditions was on the highest point of Sumeru.
There were reports of illegal climbing and gliding on the Divine Tree but the culprit had yet to be reprimanded. Somehow he had an inkling of who it could be, and as such, he climbed his way up the branches as quietly as possible.
And as he suspected, your back profile greets him as you focused on adjusting the wind glider on your person, looking out at the far horizon of Sumeru.
"This is highly dangerous territory, you know," his firm hand grasps your forearm as you almost slip from the scare. "Especially at night time."
"Cyno?" At the feeling of your hand on his, the General retracts his hand and stands next to you, also looking at where he assumed you were gazing at. From this distance, there isn't really anything he can pinpoint. "Lemme guess, they sent you up here. That doesn't really make sense."
This isn't Matra work, after all.
"Why are you up here?" It wasn't styled like an interrogation but more out of curiosity.
"Well," just from that start alone, he already deciphered that your words would be a lie. "I wanted to see if I can reach Vanarana from here."
That was such an absurd plan and an absurd lie that even Cyno had to look at you with obvious apprehension on his face, his gaze you were too tired to make eye contact with to solidify your lie.
When was the last time he had seen you this close? Despite the scarce lighting filtering through the leaves above and branches below, he could see the darkness under your eyes. The furrow of your eyebrows too deep for something as leisurely as gliding, the tension in your jaw and shoulders too tight for the calming caress of the Sumeru night winds.
He's heard that you've been working on your research after becoming a Dastur and so he made sure not to disturb you when you looked busy. Which was all the time now.
Perhaps, he thought as he looked forward once more, this gliding sessions were your unorthodox way of destressing.
"Who do you think is the slowest glider in Sumeru?" Snapping out of your daze, you tilt your head to level your gaze with Cyno.
"Who?" It was styled and paused the same way he did when telling a joke so you thought none of it.
But when he flashed a smirk at you, you were taken aback when he jumped of the branch and deployed his own wind glider (which you didn't even see he had equipped), waving at you. "You are."
And then it clicked in your mind. With an offended (but fake) gasp, you did a running jump and followed suit, spreading your arms in hopes to overtake him. "How dare you!" You followed with a laugh upon seeing his determination to race you, a smug grin evident even from a far angle.
That night you learned that it was impossible to reach Vanarana from the Divine Tree.
And the next day, Cyno reported to the Akademiya empty-handed, the culprit unseen. He then went on to scold them for even wasting his time for such a 'useless ordinance' and that there were no rules in the cardinal sin that was violated.
While leniency has been offered to your nightly outings, Cyno started suggesting for safer stress-reducing alternatives. Have you heard of TCG before? Ah, no matter, he'll gladly start from scratch.
"General Mahamatra!"
The two Matras conversing turned to your approaching form, waving your arm excitedly to catch their attention more. While the subordinate didn't look too pleased with the interruption, his annoyance was slightly dispelled at the sight of the General waving back.
"Still maintaining that cover up? I told you -"
"Cyno." You corrected with a weary sigh, him looking rather pleased. "I heard you were here. Ah, sorry if I interrupted something important! I was too excited!"
The Matra would have been more irritated about the disturbance if not for the fact that someone, a researcher, just admitted that they were looking forward to meet the General.
As well as the reprimanding look his superior gave him upon reading his next move.
"Nabil, we can continue the conversation later."
"Y-Yes, General." And that was his cue to leave.
It was easy to fall into step with the General as you two conversed about everything that had happened since you last saw each other. While he had more interesting stories than you, he'd always listen attentively when it comes to your progress, whether it be about your curiousities or your deck-building.
"Is it safe to research about the natural behaviors Rishboland Tigers in their natural habitats?"
"If you are asking about whether it is safe to conduct such experiments without risk of being expelled, then it would be so long as the animals are unharmed. In terms of the dangers however, it would be best to consult Tighnari about such affairs."
"Thank you!"
While it was no easy feat to be this close to the General, at the very least, there are perks to it such as confirming the research topics of your friends for their safety from the Matra.
Even if it seemed so unbelievable to the other scholars, it was always refreshing to see Cyno be preoccupied from staring down the students everytime he was there.
Unbeknownst to them, even with his eyes following you closely, he was still ever so vigilant to notice the little things.
Perhaps the right word should be... merciful.
Just whipped this outta my ass so I can post during my birthday, take it and let me rest
#cyno x reader#genshin x reader#genshin impact x reader#exile.flower#gender neutral#genshin impact fluff#sumeru arc#genshin impact#cyno
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It goes left, right, left, right in perpetual motion.
The repeated movement so hypnotic, mesmerizing, to the point that your eyes easily follows its trail.
It only ever stutters when you try to reach out as quickly as you could, but it moves on the opposite direction like oil to water. Never meant to mix.
Another attempt with your hands empty-handed as a result, you can't help but whine loudly at the disappointment, earning a snicker from your boyfriend in front of you.
"Tighnari!" His back was turned to you but it seems he has an eye on the back of his head to skillfully dodge your advances.
"Hey, you're the one who wanted to come." He scolded with a chuckle, putting his journal down when you pounced on his back to hug him from behind. "This is highly crucial for me to document."
"Am I not important to you, too?" His only response was a squeeze on your hand that rests against his chest. And then Tighnari was back to silently noting his observations down.
Huffing, you pulled away and turned around to sit on the ground, leaning your elbows to your knees as you looked around the abundance of green. But there was nothing to distract you here seeing as you've seen this scenery many times by now.
You didn't see the way your lover's tail drooped as you sighed heavily, the way he looked over his shoulder for a second to see the way you're hunched over in defeat.
He felt guilty, after all you joined him in this impromptu research trip due to his already tight schedule. You missed him and he missed you too, so much.
His tail weaving its way under your arm pulls you from watching grass sway, but your happiness on finally getting close to the fine fur immediately disappears when it curls back just to deliver a smack to your face. "Ack - what was that for?!" You hug it tight to make sure it doesn't do that again.
"That's for asking a stupid question you already knew the answer to."
Turning to retaliate his harsh words, you were tongue-tied upon feeling him encase you in a tight hug from behind, over your arms hugging his tail still. "But I know my responsibilities as your lover too. As an apology, why not join me in a picnic over our favorite spot?" He squeezes you tight. "Just the two of us."
"Tonight?" You sounded too hopeful. But you felt his smile against your temple.
"Tonight."
Busy as he may be, Tighnari will always be considerate for your patience to wait for him every time.
Looked at my masterlist and felt the Tighnari content lacking so I gotta fix that fr. As the man who brought me back to reading and writing, fennec fox boy always has a place in my brainrots
#genshin impact x reader#genshin x reader#tighnari x reader#gender neutral#exile.flower#genshin impact fluff#tighnari#genshin impact#sumeru arc
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Sumeru Darshans Headcanons
Here's a silly thought that you can join in: imagine the Sumeru Darshans as Harry Potter Houses where they have their own personalities and stereotypes.
Amurta: (Study of biology, ecology and medicine)
The older scholars play a yearly prank on the new Amurta scholars to pull a vegan diet for their first week as 'initiation' to the darshan.
When cocky Amurta scholars try to approach Tighnari for 'seniorship', he plays this game called Mushroom Roulette.
Haravatat: (study of semiotics, linguistics and ancient runes)
The Haravatat scholars have their own language and writing system which can only be read and written by them. It gets revised everytime it's leaked.
Kshahrewar: (study of technology, architecture and puzzle-solving)
They have their own underground robot cage fight. Rumors says that their Sage actually knows it exists and funds it.
Rtawahist: (study of astronomy and astrology)
Every Rtawahist is obsessed with fortune reading to the point that they get theirs read everyday before the day starts. Even if you weren't originally addicted to readings before, you'll gradually be conditioned after becoming a scholar.
Spantamad: (study of alchemy, elemental science and ley lines)
Spantamad scholars like to use Ley Lines for bullshit excuses. "Ah the Ley Line energy flow is bad today, I'll have to put a rain check on our outing tonight." Fortune-reading obsessed Rtawahists and Ley Line lying Spantamads hate each other.
Vahumana: (study of aetiology, history and social sciences)
They're obsessed with fact-checking everything the scholars from other darshans says, and they do this through the akasha. It is not uncommon for them to stay silent for a few seconds after someone spoke because they're waiting for the akasha search results.
If you want to add your own headcanons either in replies, reblogs, or asks, I'll update this post with your addition and name! Doesn't even have to make sense, make it stupid!
#genshin impact#sumeru arc#genshin impact headcanons#exile.flower#exiled community#I'm being manic again
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ππ‘ππ ππ‘π ππππ«π πππππ«π¬
pairing -> Cyno x Reader; before present timeline
word count -> 4,824 words
themes -> scholar Cyno, pre-trauma Cyno, pining and strangers to friends to crushing, angst, Sumeru racism themes, slight mentions of blood and injury, open ending, origin story of how Cyno got his wolf spirit
(teaser) (summary) His own devotion became his downfall, doomed to pay the price of repeating past mistakes. But to Cyno, you were akin to an oasis in a blazing desert, who is he to refuse his own heart? (fan sequel)
Despite their devotion to the God of Wisdom, the people of the Akademiya and the people of Sumeru in general do not take kindly to desert dwellers.
Even to their fellow scholars who earned their rightful place to be admitted, worked hard for it. This was a hard pill to swallow, but Cyno had expected this treatment from the very beginning, hardened his will for it. Perhaps that was the reason he wasn't so keen with being a zealot; if it was simply the call of wisdom they follow, then there would be no excuse to discriminate when they too share the same vigor for knowledge.
Origins should not be a deterrent when they all share the same goal. And that is the simple pursuit of knowledge.
Cyno may think it abhorrent, but he has kept to himself, not letting the way the crowd parts in his presence like he has his own Wall of Samiel around him bother him.
Doesn't let the empty chairs in his table in the House of Daena distract him.
Doesn't let the unsubtle murmurs and side glances irate him.
So, how exactly does he react when the direct opposite happens?
"-guistic anthropology, the study of human languages..." Subconscious murmurs and the sound of a pencil repeatedly being rolled on the wooden table. "-structure, history and relation to social and cultural contexts..."
Cyno had long lost concentration on his own reading when he felt something tap against his resting hand, looking up to see your pencil roll away until it reached his hand. His red eyes would follow the trail of the rouge object, only to see your hand patting around the table to look for it.
But your divided mind continued to read your book, not noticing the missing writing utensil nor the intense gaze sent your way.
You two haven't introduced yourself to each other officially, but the white-haired scholar knew your name from simple investigation alone (read: it's written on the cover of your notebook in custom calligraphy) and many other details he'd heard out of curiosity.
You're a newly admitted scholar from this year's entrance exam in the same darshan as him, eager to learn and eager to research. Your naivety to the inner workings of Akademiya culture had made you gullible to his reputation, and as such, landed you in this predicament.
It wasn't even an eventful first meeting to begin with, but it was all so important to him. The House of Daena was full of people due to a lot of new books joining the inventory, books so new that it wasn't inputted in the Akasha system yet. Despite the traffic, Cyno found himself alone on his designated table again.
Until you nonchalantly pulled the chair in front of him and made yourself at home. He was sure he looked like he'd seen a ghost upon looking up from his book - disbelief so obvious but easily mistaken as something else by someone who didn't know better.
Meeting your eyes, you gasped at his attention and whispered an apology, believing that you had spooked him from his reading. But before you could mind your own business for good, your eyes widened a fraction as your attention moved higher.
He expected a smile sent his way to be out of pity, the kind he hates the most - but when you gave him a bright smile, that was another outlier to his expectations. Slightly turning your head you giddily pointed at the darshan pin on your scholar's hat and gestured to his.
No words were exchanged that day out of respect for the silence expected in the great library of the Akademiya, but Cyno took more time forcing himself not to obviously stare at you than actually read his book. Fortunately, or unfortunately, you don't seem to notice his poorly concealed glances.
"Hm?" He was pulled out of reminiscing with a quiet gasp as he felt your fingertips brush against his. "Oh, sorry about that." You hummed and took the pencil still resting by his hand, his fingertips twitching at the graze of your cold hand as you do so.
This has gone on for too long. "anThRO-" Take two. Cyno coughs into his hand to hide his high pitched attempt to talk to you. "That's introduction to anthropology, right?" Cyno felt his throat close up when your whole attention landed on him. He found it scorching, just like the sun in a desert without shade.
"Yeah - wait, was I reading outloud again?" But you were no bother. At least, not the kind that you were thinking and he made sure to erase your doubts then.
It was all so foreign to him and you had no clue. The smiles, the chatters, the company. All that was there, all that is you.
But in no way did he regret that day as it started off your friendship. Even if... even if focusing on his reading on that lonely table became harder to do after that. The innocent attention could not be any more endearing now that you weren't being overtly respectful of his boundaries.
Seating across from him changed to seating next to him, sneaky glances became curious looks, pens and pencils shared and exchanged. At one point, you accidentally switched hats after not noticing the passage of time.
The mix-up wasn't that obvious seeing as you have the same pins. But the way the one-size-bigger hat slipped off your head far enough to cover your right eye had him smiling silly. And you openly laugh at the sight of the tiny hat simply placed atop his mop of white hair, seemingly drowning in it.
But he was no fool, and Cyno had prepared himself for the worst possible outcome out of this outlier.
Even if he believed himself to have a good judge of character, he still had you at arm's length if you were to turn your back and tell him you were just playing with him, that you hated him just like the rest of the forest-side scholars. So that he can confidently tell you "I knew it" when you come clean with your intentions - that you were using him.
The worry ate him up so much that at one point he WANTED it to be true. Just so he can let go and go back to how things were. Where it was predictable, explainable, and within his boundaries.
Exploit him, use him, utilize him -
"Can you teach me that?" His hand stills and he once again gives you his full attention (never divided, no matter how hard he tries to have some sense of self-control) only to see you looking at the pencil resting on his knuckles.
"What?"
"The thing - this." Your own pencil finds it way between your index and middle finger, aggressively flipping it repeatedly as a mock replica of his skillful pencil twirling. "It looks cool."
You didn't expect him to laugh openly at the request, the corners of his eyes tearing up from pure, unadulterated mirth. Before you could overthink that he was making fun of you, your mouth shuts when the eraser end of his pencil taps the center of your forehead, his smile and gaze on you endearing.
"You." Cyno's smile widened at the sight of your nose bridge wrinkling when he tapped the pencil again for emphasis. "Are unbelievable."
"The hell does that mean?"
While he's confident in the sincerity of your heart to approach him for his company, he can't say the same for others. Which is why he isn't so keen about group projects.
Or maybe he just hates how incompetent his classmates can be. Or how obvious they were on staying away from him.
Despite the circumstances, Cyno's intellectual capacity is undeniable and he has the merits to show it. Sometimes he thinks that perhaps that could be a part of the apprehension towards him but he can't be too sure, after all, he's no Vahumana scholar.
'Looks like I'm doing this solo again,' Cyno sighs tiredly as he looks around the classroom filled with scholars and loud chatters. A particular desk generating a crowd took his attention easily. The one where you sat.
Through perseverance alone, you've advanced your studies and ended up sharing a subject together. It's nothing unheard of but it doesn't make you less amazing. Unfortunately that easily brought attention to you outside of the library.
He couldn't help but frown at the uneasiness practically radiating from your discomfort and the obliviousness of your crowd to it. Your smile was obviously forced as you try to find words to refuse their suggestions and nudges to partner up. Even veterans of the Haravatat that had been in the Akademiya for years are desperate for the hope that you can help them finally graduate.
Yet he doesn't want to hover over you and turn possible friendships away because of his presence.
But his resolve falters the moment your eyes meet, pleading gaze finding his in the middle of that chaos. Cyno's bored gaze hardened as he kept the eye contact - just say the word, ask for his help, and he will take you away in a heartbeat.
"I'm sorry but I already have a partner in mind." Slipping past the scholars, Cyno found himself reaching out to your outstretched hand as you approached. Your smile becoming more genuine the moment you felt his touch, the kind he couldn't help but give back. "Right, Cyno?"
It seems like this time, he doesn't have to do things alone.
Cyno liked to believe that was where the mistake started.
Because any sooner than that would mean the friendship you had was at fault. It was always... easier to blame himself, to carry the burden instead of blaming others to be responsible.
First, blame himself for being too weak to refuse you.
"I have an idea." You spoke in a tone that made Cyno look at you suspiciously. "It's a GREAT idea, I swear."
"Opening the topic this way doesn't make this appealing from the get-go." He crossed his arms and leveled you with a gaze, but you weren't intimidated as you smacked his arm with your journal, making him drop the teasing facade. "Alright, shoot."
Everything about your interest was poured into this familiar journal. Even before your admission to the Akademiya, you've always been fascinated by the desert and its unexplored ruins, believing of the grandiose stories made up to make said abandoned temples ever so appealing to explore.
Temples of the past filled with untold stories, histories buried in the sand that none of the modern scholars are privy to.
The Temple of Silence.
"From the texts I've gathered from the Akademiya and hearsays of Eremites, it houses great spirits of powerful gods back in the age of the Scarlet King." Cyno has never seen you this passionate. "With the Akademiya's funding, I can finally get funding to at least start an initial exploration into the ruins."
"How sure are you that this isn't a made-up place?" He placed the journal down before he managed to rip it apart with his unusually strong grip.
You're oblivious to his skepticism. "That's why it's initial exploration! If we find it, great! If not, then there are more obvious ruins here and there that we can investigate along the way!"
He took a second too long to reply before you doubled down. The feeling of your breath fanning over his lips, the touch of your fingers intertwined with his, the sight of your pleading eyes so close that he could see his own reflection.
"I know you know the desert more than I do, you're the only one I can trust with this."
If you were exploiting him, using him, utilizing him, things would have been easier. But the sincerity of your heart overshadowed the rational part of his mind, long gone was his will to keep his guard up as he spoke -
"I'll keep you safe."
Later on, Cyno had a dawning realization and he knew he was too far gone by then -
Even if your intentions were impure, he couldn't find it in his heart to refuse you either way.
The Great Red Sands is unfamiliar territory to you, yet your confidence on Cyno made the experience tolerable and less anxiety-inducing. Unbeknownst to you, the three weeks that passed after you've decided to make this trip hadn't been so easy for him.
"Did you bring what I told you to pack?" Cyno hovered over you like a doting parent, adjusting the hood of the black cloak to cover your head from the golden star above. You silently nod as he then adjusts your long sleeves, loose and cotton as instructed. "Are you sure about this?"
It sounded like a simple question, but to him, it was his last attempt to get you to back out. Despite his promise, the desert is still full of dangers that he can't be 100% sure he can account for.
"Yessir! Don't worry, 'keep close and do whatever you say.' I'll be in your care." He should have known you wouldn't be moved so easily. And he does, hence why he'd been meticulously preparing for this trip for the last few weeks, even honing his polearm skills if things did go for the worse.
If things go to plan, you wouldn't even have to camp out in the ruins, perhaps a trip to Aaru Village to spend the night would be feasible. His hometown, he would love to bring you there, too. If this wasn't for educational purposes he would have loved to tour you to cooler sights.
At one point, Cyno silently followed behind you as you changed roles, now guiding him with the map in your hands. Your clear cut focus at least gave him time to recover from the painful squeeze in his heart and lungs. Is now really the right time to be feeling this way? He needs to get ahold of himself.
A few more twists and turns around a huge cliff soon gave way to discovering a passageway between the rocks, the precarious trenches hiding a way deeper down into the sound until the bright sun could reach it no more.
Jumping down the eroded pathway, Cyno couldn't help but be surprised when his feet touched water as it splashed upon his landing. "Careful, don't slip." Taking your backpack, you made your way down the steep incline to join him deeper into the cavern.
This time the both of you were left in silent awe at the sight of what you had just unearthed. A temple stands grandiose in the distance, enticing you both with a flight of stairs leading up to its closed gates. Yet the outside looked just as spectacular.
"How is light filtering through here?" Squinting at the holes on the ceiling were sunlight seeps through, Cyno tries to remember if there were holes in the surface that you passed by. "And the vegetation -"
"Look at the statues!" How did he even miss those? Your white-haired companion felt his jaw slacken at the sight of the sculptures, standing taller than the ones you have seen outside, larger and more imposing. Some had a head resembling an avian, some had crocodiles, and others a goat.
Even without eyes, its ghostly gazes felt like it was staring straight to his soul.
"This should be it. This is it. Cyno, Cyno, it's real." Tugging at your backpack still hanging by his shoulder, he turns for easy access as you pull out your journal and pen, immediately documenting your findings.
Shaking his head with a smile, he grips his polearm and follows your preoccupied self on guard. While it might seem that the place is untouched, it's at this moment where you're vulnerable that he had to step in and keep watch. Even if at times he finds himself meeting eyes with the statues.
It's safe, he'll keep you safe. Cyno soon finds himself climbing the steps closer to the temple - how are these torches lit? "We have places to be, the outside isn't the only place we're investigating." He couldn't help but huff through his nose at the sight of you scrambling to climb the steps after realizing he was already by the temple's entrance.
But as soon as you stepped on the landing where he awaits, a cold gust of wind suddenly blasted over you two, stone grating on stone overwhelming your ears. The temple's gates - it was opening on its own!
Stumbling back from the harsh wind that came from within, the torches lining the grand staircase had been snuffed out by the gale, leaving you both shivering from the cold biting through your thin clothing. Did you end up triggering a mechanism of sorts? "I have a bad feeling about this."
Yet you both made your way inside. Practically invited in. It felt like you couldn't refuse.
The inside was hauntingly beautiful without the aid of the sunlight, but the greenery inside glowed in cold blue and violet colors. How is any of this possible? Following the roots of the colorful trees, your eyes took notice of the glowing glyphs on the walls.
"Ancient Scarlet King script?" Cyno nods in confirmation, scrunching his eyebrows in frustration.
"Both of us haven't mastered reading that yet." Not wanting to freeload, your companion resigned to copying the texts himself. You two can decipher it with a manual back at the Akademiya, at least. It's just unfortunate that there's a lot to note down.
It was only after six pages in when you called out to him, finally snapping him out of his hyperfixation. You were deeper into the temple than he was, overlooking something in the dark distance
It was only after six pages of writing did he finally snap out of his hyper focus, hearing your footsteps approaching with splashes. Even inside, the floor still had a couple inches of water covering it.
"Cyno." Ah, looks like he messed up on that last symbol. "Cyno." He hums but doesn't stop. "Cyno!"
The only warning sign he saw was the sudden intrusion of bright light before he was pushed down to the wet floor, groaning at the pain blooming on his hip from the crash. But he had no time to worry about that now after seeing where the brightness came from.
"Primal Constructs! Shit, we have to get out of here."
"Can't! The entrance is sealed shut when I checked!"
Pulling his eyes away from the ancient technology a good distance away, Cyno's face blanched when he finally got to look at you. Parts of your cloak were singed from the blast, and you were desperately gritting your teeth as your hand gripped your forearm.
You're hurt.
"My staff won't be effective against it and we can't fight while out in the open." Without any other choice, Cyno pulled on your good arm to lead you deeper into the ruins while the enemy was still charging up.
But it seems like in every corner there's always one littering the area, either dormant or active, they were inescapable. Cyno feels his composure slipping more as the bad feeling in his gut resurfaced and heightened. Too many close calls, too many dead ends.
A hiss escapes him as the pointy edge of the triangular technology grazes his side, quickly delivering a blow to its core. "That should be the last one here. Are you okay? Is it deep?"
It's a flesh wound, but damn did it hurt like hell.
"Why are we here?" He hissed out at the feeling of the cotton grazing the inflamed wound, hearing your sorry's as you gently applied the antiseptic solution.
"Because we wanted to investigate the ruins where remains of the spirit of the Scarlet King's retainers -" Another groan, tho it wasn't from the injury this time. That at least shut you up.
Cyno didn't mean to come off as rude or blaming. But the guilt of the predicament won't stop piercing his heart at the sight of bloodied smudges on your cheek and hands. It must have been so obvious when you immediately reacted, quickly patching him up. "None of us anticipated this, you shouldn't -"
"We were expecting enemies, it's the main reason I'm with you."
"Enemies like bandits or maybe scorpions, sure! Not - not ancient tech that shoots out lasers! No weapon can fight against that!" His silence after wasn't out of surrender, however, still falling deeper in his remorse.
Blaming himself for being too weak to keep you out of harm.
You parted your lips to speak and tell him off when a hand cups your cheek instead, the words dying before it even reached your tongue. There was a gentleness in his calloused hand as he wiped the drying blood off your face, worry still evident on his face.
You sigh. "You're hurt too, Cyno."
"Your pain hurts me more than my own." From that one confession alone, your heart stutters under his gaze. The regret in his eyes turned into longing, the pity turned to curious. Never had he looked so resolved.
Yet he couldn't find it in his heart to try fate another time. "Let's go back. We've done enough here." You hide your frown on his palm, the heat of your cheek warming his hand. "Please, I don't want to risk losing you." A cold shiver wracked his frame suddenly.
"Alright." You mumbled quietly, pressing a kiss to his palm. It's not the response he was expecting, but it was a silent nod to his own unspoken feelings from before. "I trust you." It wasn't the appropriate time and place for a confession.
And that makes it even more crucial that he brings you home safe and sound.
The temple's grand halls felt more like wide mazes, obstacles and flooded rooms always forcing you two to turn around to retrace your steps. The routes are dwindling and your hope for escape is starting to dissipate at the sight of another dead end.
Cyno watches as you crouch down near the edge of the broken bridge, the gap too wide to jump for any human. Peering down below, the water that somehow eternally covers the floor flows down to the abyss below like a waterfall. It sounds like a long fall.
The time for idle chatter had long passed after exhaustion ate your energy from speaking. It was something he was used to, Cyno echoed in his head as he kept staring in the darkness below, yet it felt like he wasn't alone. He finds himself looking over his shoulder, gaze lingering on corners where the light doesn't dare touch.
No sounds, no beams, no constructs roaring to life.
The longer he stayed in this temple, the more he could feel his sanity slipping off his fingers. There are no eyes here yet he felt exposed to his own insecurities.
And then his fears turned to worries for you. Were you feeling this way too? Toeing the line of delirium the longer you are in silence? Checking every corner to make sure the violet eyes in your peripheral was just your imagination?
He hasn't seen you smile since you both ran away from the first attack.
He needs to be strong. He has to be.
'Your tenacity is admirable.'
A small glow caught your fatigued minds in confusion, trying to make sense of its existence. Soon the small dot grew larger and closer, the heat emanating from it being the first warning sign - it was a beam from below.
"Another one?!" Cyno jumped back from the explosion, the laser only missing a few feet as it hit the edge of the bridge. Debris flew as the unstable ground shook, and only when he opened his eyes did he realize the direness of it all too late. "Wait, move away from there-"
Another bright ray tore through the darkness, forcing him to close his eyes before it burned his pupils.
One blink and you were gone.
Cyno's mind was too weak to fear that he didn't think twice to jump after you.
It was only when his lungs burned in need of oxygen did he realize he was underwater. Adrenaline pushed his body to move and swim what he assumes is up, grappling at the solid object his hands touched to pull himself up. Not even second guessing the weight that seemingly pulls around his ankles.
And the moment he was finally able to speak, the first thing that came out of his mouth is a frantic scream of your name.
The light from the lit torches in this part of the ruins does not pierce through the water he was in earlier, and despite it being futile, Cyno was almost ready to jump in again just to look for you.
The feeling of eyes on his back pulled him back to his senses. Yet like the instances before, there was nothing to look at when he turns. Except for another set of staircases leading up to another landing -
'Perhaps it was fate who wielded it that the child of the desert remained intact.'
Cyno doesn't remember when he had walked past the discarded bandage left on the stone steps, when he found himself kneeling on the sandstone, when he pulled your body off the pedestal into his arms.
Cold. His calloused hand tried to wipe the water off your face, tucking your drenched hair behind your ear. It felt like he was still underwater, movement heavy and lungs struggling to breathe - he couldn't even hear his own voice as he called out to you.
"(Y/N)," there's a still a faint pulse. "Open your eyes, please. You're okay, you're gonna be okay." He bit back the bile threatening to escape his lips at the sticky feeling behind your head. "We still have to get out of here, and - and celebrate our findings -"
But how could he do that when he was too weak to even stand at this point?
"I can't..." He tries to blink away his blurry vision. "Someone, please. Help us." His cry for help was weak and quiet.
In the Temple of Silence, his only audience are the cold gazes from the statues of the past. His ancestors boring down his weak form, judging him.
'You should have been stronger. There is no place for traitors who cannot keep their oaths here.'
Is this his punishment for your kindness? To taste the rare flavor of love and warmth, to be humbled of your soul, then ripped away from him so painfully.
Call him selfish, broken and cruel, and all the bad things others may say about him - but Cyno worshiped the ground you walked on, never had he taken you for granted. And now, you are cursed to die in his arms.
He didn't deserve you, and you never deserved this.
It was all his fault, right? He was the one who didn't stop you, the one who let you in despite knowing better, the one who loved you first and foremost. So then, why are you the one paying the price?
It should have been him. Take him, trade with him, blame him
"- anything but them."
'Yet the scales do not deem you guilty.' The chill that ran down his spine is not superficial, not when a shadow looms over your forms, almost engulfing your world in shadow. 'Rather, the lightness in your heart rivals that of a feather. It is remorseful to your fate, child, why are you so keen to forgive the people that hurt you?'
In the presence of this being, Cyno couldn't move his lips. Anything he can think to say would never be enough.
Slowly pulling his eyes away from the shadow, he turns his head to peer down at your face instead. Nothing had changed, still almost lifeless in his arms.
Somehow, that was enough of an answer.
'Truly, the influence of the Scarlet King lives on. But where he failed, you will prevail.' Cyno pressed his forehead to yours. 'Know that you cannot reap life anew, leaving nothing left to sow.'
As he seals his promise by grazing his chapped lips to your bloodied ones, your face is the last he sees as he closes his eyes.
"I will sacrifice anything."
Sharp claws wraps around his neck.
'Truly a child of the desert, your devotion makes you blind. You will live soon with open eyes.'
He hides discomfort as he ducks his head deeper into his book, red stare locked on the middle of the page he has long ignored to understand. But his efforts will always be in vain when it comes to you.
"I never took you for a guy that's into chokers."
Cyno steals a glance and regrets it. For even in a teasing tone, the coldness of your once-scorching gaze was a testament to the things he
Lost
Sacrificed
Offered that day.
This took longer than I had anticipated - lemme tell you, the first half is the only thing I'm proud of lmao. I left the ending open to interpretation because I couldn't pick between three possible meanings/endings to it hah
#cyno x reader#genshin x reader#genshin impact x reader#gender neutral#exile.flower#cyno#genshin impact#genshin impact angst#sumeru arc#i need to get better at writing long form#back to drabbles after this haha#heart!cyno
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pairing -> Tighnari x Kshahrewar!Reader
word count -> 3,666
themes : fluff, pining, strangers to friends (to not yet lovers), spoilers to Tighnari's story quest. This is part 1 of 3.
Komorebi - sunlight, filtering through the leaves of trees. Bring to his unknowing heart these specks of warm feelings. Love the vague emotion, the innocence, the memory.
"Kulilu!"
"Paimon and Traveler will make sure to visit you every week, Karkata!"
Sensing the end of the conversation, knowing full well that they're intruding on someone's working hours, the Traveler would turn away from the mechanical crab to look at the forest watcher. Intending to say their goodbyes, his intentions were forgotten at the sight of the fox hybrid deep in thought.
Unalert for once as Tighnari's gaze lingered on the object in his hand. It was one of those pictures, Traveler deduced as he made his way over, the image getting clearer - it's a photo he hasn't seen from the pile the forest watcher had laid out when they barged into Pardis Dhyai.
"I can tell you're wondering about something," Tighnari was quick to cross his arms, photo still dangling between his fingertips. "Well? Out with it already." He was no mind reader, but he can tell what the subject could be with the way the other's golden irises followed the object of interest.
Though neither of them brought it into conversation when the floating companion was quick to open her mouth upon reaching the two, eyes sparkling with unabashed curiousity as she points at the image. "Oh! What's that one? Paimon didn't see that earlier!"
With a defeated sigh, Tighnari simply stretched his hand out to show the picture without much restraint, knowing full well that coming clean would be easier than deflecting or paraphrasing what's in it.
What the duo saw was identical to the other photos - a Sumeru scholar taking a picture with Tighnari. However, this one had obvious changes, something Paimon gasped at and exclaimed in exaggerated surprise. "Woah! Look, Tighnari's smiling in this one, how is that even possible?!" Which prompted the man in question to pull back with an unamused glare. "Oops, did I say that outloud?"
"What did I say about yelling?" Beneath all that, the Traveler continued to mull over the photo even when it was out of their sight already. There's more to it than Tighnari's rare smile. Like the fact that he wasn't in his forest watcher attire, and instead wearing the same uniform as the scholars from the Akademiya. There was also something in the hand of the unknown person, a familiar yellow flower, seemingly held in utmost care while they posed for the picture.
Huh, now that he thought about it - the Traveler zeroes in on a similar flower pinned by Tighnari's right shoulder.
"Alright, alright," the forest watcher raised his hands up in what seems to be defeat, sensing two pairs of eager eyes staring holes through his head. His ears twitched in alertness and an unknown emotion only he is privy to. "I supposed I can indulge on your curiousities seeing as you had been a great help yesterday."
Yet the moment his gaze landed on the photo again, all of him seemed to have melted, calmed in an instant. "Well, where do we start..."
The day he first saw you is permanently etched at the back of his mind, like the symptoms of a hallucination-induced fever, like the blooming pattern of a nilotpala lotus.
Unforgettable, whether he wants it to be or not.
It was one of those days where the Akademiya wasn't being a pain, and his unlikely friend wasn't bombarded with Matra work (although, if it comes to playing cards, he knew the man would make time no matter what), crowded by fellow scholars watching their duel. Genius Invokation TCG.
Tighnari didn't really know what brought him to notice, but there was some kind of pull the moment he caught the figure in his peripheral. A fellow scholar with three books in hand, not even sparing their little crowd a glance as you disappear behind the doors to the Akademiya, robes fluttering in tandem with your hurried steps.
Since then, that brief glance lingered every time he was out by the benches with Cyno, playing mat draped between them as they played. Tighnari didn't even see much other than a simple side profile, yet whenever he raises his stare from the game, he would involuntarily look for some kind of sign.
Despite anticipating and searching, it was still a shock the next time he'd seen you around, in full view for him.
This time you're part of the crowd, spectating their routine game while still being a modest distance away from their space.
You were leaning a bit, trying to look at Cyno's cards over his shoulder. That was an enjoyable experience watching your unsuspecting self look as serious as his opponent, nodding when he assumes that a good card was pulled, shaking your head when it wasn't, and cringing when a particularly bad move was made.
It was even better when Cyno looked quite proud of his turn while you're behind him sputtering; usually when that happens, Tighnari wins the round without fail.
When there's more than two books in your arms during break time, he's come to learn that you wouldn't linger for much longer, or at all.
So on the rare times that you could, the fennec fox hybrid would ask for another round, something that his companion would usually do.
He thought he was being slick.
Even though this impulsive behavior are unexplainable even to him.
Cyno speaking brought him back to reality, prying his attention from your fleeting figure, four books threatening to slip out of your arms.
"Pardon?" The general's fiery gaze was also faraway, until he made eye contact.
Cyno repeated the unfamiliar name. "That's the name of the Kshahrewar scholar you kept looking at."
"How do you know them?" The shock of the information overrode his embarrassment of being caught looking at you.
Placing his cards face down, the white-haired man leaned back on his hands as if preparing for a long conversation. "The Matra investigated them a while ago," his tall ears stand taut at the news, tense. "Something about taking electives for every darshan. The Akademiya thought that they were scheming about distributing the knowledge illegally..."
There was a pause too long after that pushed the normally patient Tighnari to be restless, antsy, so close to choking the information out of the general. "Well?"
Cyno had to fight back a smirk at the edge of his friend's voice. This little - "I quickly realized there wasn't anything bad happening, and the case was closed." A white eyebrow raising in amusement as the Amurta scholar seemed to breathe a loud sigh.
But there were still lingering thoughts in his mind reminiscent of being an Akademiya scholar, card game long forgotten.
"If there's no hidden agenda, then what's the explanation for their behavior?"
You have an obsession, Cyno wanted to reply instead. There were only so much that can occupy Tighnari's mind, and it's usually about flora and fauna. But for his loyal card game opponent, the least he could do was satisfy his curiousity.
"It's quite simple." The general's head turns to the Akademiya doors. "They're indecisive."
He thought it would end with that, with his curiousity satiated and questions half-answered, and things would return back to normal.
But Tighnari never half-assed anything. Never dipped his toes in the water and left it at that.
Was this how it felt like for those scholars who sought after canned knowledge? The addiction for the pursuit of forbidden knowledge? It felt like it, what Cyno unloaded to him, that he it wasn't something the general would normally be so open about.
Perhaps he indulged him just so he could focus on their game again.
Your name fell off his lips like it was a deity he could only worship in private, lynched if he were to be found uttering your name. Under your confused gaze, perhaps he shouldn't have been so casual.
"Oh? You know my name?" Your hand hovered over the back of the chair next to him, intending to take the seat next to him in the fairly empty classroom.
Out of the many times he had seen you walking to and from the Akademiya, seeing each other in his Spantamad elective class as classmates isn't what he imagined to be your first official meeting. His ears stand taut upon realizing his slip-up, the action catching your attention.
At least you're not looking at the tail that won't stop wagging behind him.
"Pardon me, I heard your name here and there. I didn't mean to be rude, my name's -"
"Tighnari, right?" This stupid tail won't chill! "You're pretty famous among the Amurta." The polite smile you offered released the tension in his body in one sweep that his ears almost drooped completely. He would not have been able to explain how he knew your name.
Tighnari graciously took your offered hand and shook it, more enthusiastic than he wanted to come off as. But feeling your hand grip his own finally cemented reality into his mind as if the events prior were but a skeptical dream. You are real and right in front of him.
"Can I take this seat?" Oh right, you're still standing.
"Please." Is that the right answer? "No one's seating there, if that's what you're worried about."
It felt surreal being this close after only ever seeing you from afar. The many books you had in your arms piled on the desk where he can see the titles; the way your hair framed your face and how it sticks out on some places as if you had messed it up in frustration that morning; the Kshahrewar badge on your hat reflecting the light and catching his attention.
His object of wonders in arms length. Everyday for one hour.
With the window of opportunity, glances became greetings, and meetings became much more frequent. Spantamad is a wonderful course but being partnered with a creative seatmate made it all the more entertaining.
Tighnari found out that your father was a mechanic and your mother graduated from the Akademiya before you enrolled. Because of your father's influence, you had been blessed with being able to create your own inventions, but you're still lost on what you really wanted to do with it. If you put your mind into it, you can think of solutions with the aid of machinery, so it wasn't really intelligence that you lack.
"Indecisive, huh..." The Amurta scholar mumbled to himself as he watched the Kshahrewar student hunched over a book at the House of Daena, hours of reading evident with the black bags under your eyes.
The best word to describe you is...
Uninspired.
Tighnari liked hearing you talk, rant, vent, anything that would keep his ears occupied. Even if it wasn't about the courses you're both dealing with, somehow he couldn't help but indulge in your numerous ideas. For once, he felt like he was being taught - as this time the conversation was about the elements and visions - over a course he wasn't so knowledgeable of. Why did he pick a Spantamad elective again?
You didn't have to have groundbreaking ideas to catch his attention that's often divided for his juniors, no, even just talking about random trivias you picked up from reading here and there had him hooked.
He finds it endearing how easy it was to fall into step with you, without having to one up one another or prove anything.
"If you were to get a vision," his eyes followed your fingertips, spinning a 'blank' vision on top of your shared table. "Which one would you want?"
The class you two shared focused on the elements of visions and how certain reactions happen when some elements interact. Each partner was given a blank vision to study and observe, inquire if they could, although there wasn't really anything to work with.
The question had him a bit flustered upon remembering a memory. And your observant eyes caught on to all the signs - his tail that won't stop swaying, his ears that twitched in random intervals, the pink that slowly colored his pale skin - all of which had you sitting straight, looking at him with obvious expectations.
He'd told this tale many times to friends, so why now does he feel embarrassed to say it? "A dendro vision." He spat out with great hesitance, but when you nodded and waited for more, he couldn't help but sigh. You're still curious. "I've always prayed to get one, so that I can make ladders to reach higher up fruits."
A beat or two later, you had to turn away and cover your mouth. Tighnari looked exasperated (tho you couldn't see that) at the way your shoulders bounced in silent laughter. He couldn't even admit that the sight and sound was endearing, focused on his regrets of opening up.
"I can't believe you, I shared a great secret with you and you're laughing."
"Nooo, it was just really, really-" funny. "Unexpected!"
His glare only spurred you on. When your conversation was cut off by the lecturer ending the class, he thought that the conversation would end there, finding a comfortable peace between you as you walked out of the Akademiya together.
There were no plans or routes in his mind, no destination. Tighnari hoped you didn't mind that he was sticking close.
"I think it would suit you," his brown-green irises looked up from watching your arms swing by. "A Dendro vision. They say those that are outstandingly smart or with an honest drive for knowledge gets one. You fit it quite nicely."
You complimented him. Well, not directly, but it can be read that way. He's reading it that way.
"W-Well I think you'd fit a Geo vision then." At this, you stared back at him with pure confusion, forehead creasing even. "Because you're quite attached to inventions? Creations? You know, constructs." His ears drooped when his statement became more and more unconvincing.
He only said those out of the blue without much thought, wanting to compliment back while also sounding smart.
But your skepticism told him he didn't really succeed on his plans. If it were plants, he would have been smoother with his praises.
"I'm not sure." Ah, that felt like a stab to the heart. "After all, Geo doesn't really have any synergy with Dendro."
Tighnari could barely function for the rest of the day then. Cyno, who usually enjoyed their duels together, looked quite irked at how easy the rounds were when fighting with an absent-minded Tighnari. But the scholar couldn't really care about his losses.
He felt like a winner already.
And he thought he was winning, you know.
Between the times you'd cheer him on when he had the time to play his silly card games (he wonders if when he didn't see you before, it was because you were looking over his cards behind him instead), walking to class together (despite only having one similar class), and catching up with one another outside of the Akademiya, he's gotten closer with you to an extent he didn't think he'd reach.
But it wasn't enough, and it dawned on him just how fast time passes. Next thing he knew, the last day of his Spantamad elective approached.
Tighnari can sense your worry at the not so subtle glances you sent to your seatmate. Perhaps it was obvious that there was something on his mind by how tense his tail seemed, but you didn't dare comment as you both listened to your lecturer and his closing statements.
"Visions are not just tools to harness elemental energy. Remember what we had learned from the case study in Inazuma, they carry within it their will, hopes and dreams. Parting from one's Vision can be akin to losing your vision, your motivation in life."
The Dendro Vision hanging by his waist felt heavier than usual.
"It has been an honor teaching you about the basics of ley lines and the elements, especially to those who are not under the Spantamad. May you carry these teachings, this marks the end of our class."
Chatter of gratitude and parting mixed together within the classroom as the professor dismissed everyone early to converse among themselves one last time. Yet despite the want - no, need to talk, Tighnari still had yet to find the right words to say to you.
Call him a pessimist, but he knew that this would perhaps be the last time he would be this close to you. He wanted to make it last, impart his own wisdom, anything that can help you in the trouble you had yet to decide upon.
Indecisive... Yet passionate. His olive brown eyes silently watched as you slowly packed your table, dragging the motion slow as if hesitant, unlike the times you were meticulous about time due to your next class being a major one.
It was only when you turned to look at him with hopeful yet somber eyes did he finally have the courage to speak, although without much thought behind them. "Don't forget what the professor said, keep your vision close and you would not lose your motivation." He turned to fully face you which you followed suit. "I know you can do anything so long as you put your heart to it. So follow that which makes you happy, and I'm sure things will turn out the best for you."
Tighnari barely remembered the words he has just uttered that day. The moment your confusion turned to determination, with the way you smiled gratefully over his sincerity, he knew that he made all the right decision.
"I'm going to miss being seatmates with a genius like you."
"I should be the one saying that." And you both shared a laugh, before inevitably departing in opposite directions.
The arrival of the new semester left Tighnari with nothing but conflicted feelings from his own overthinking, sitting down for his new Amurta class that he had forgotten what was about already. He felt both fulfilled and unsatisfied with the turn of events, even if he knew by heart that this is how it would end.
A scholar's curiosity is endless, but the search will always have its end. The chase, the mystery, all of it had lasted long enough for it to finally reach its finale.
The hybrid sighed. He just wasn't sure if he ended it right.
He sighed again when he heard the chair next to him be pulled, signalling a classmate occupy it for themselves. That's one thing too. Who would have thought he'd be so attached to the idea of who would be seating next to him, now with you as his standard, no one else could compare to being the greatest company β
"Can I take this seat?" His head whipped around so fast that his chin almost fell from his palm, his wide eyes staring into your mirthful ones.
"What are you doing here?" He hoped he sounded more curious than perplexed, but you simply took your seat next to him like you had done many times before. Your gaze refused to leave the blackboard at the front of the classroom, but he can clearly see the quirk in the corner of your lips.
"Just following what makes me happy."
"Ah, to think someone could make me ramble on like this over something that's not related to my profession." Tighnari's smile betrayed his words as he shook his head in a whimsical manner. "Anyways, after graduating, I went to Ghandarva Ville and they were asked to stay in the Akademiya. The rest is history."
The Traveler took time to absorb the heartwarming story, gold gaze lingering on the well-kept photo. Judging by the happiness of scholar Tighnari, they don't really see any reason to doubt the story. However out of character it may be to the forest ranger today.
Is that related perhaps?
"Aww, to think that Tighnari actually has the capacity to be that kind." Paimon mumbled as she looked over the Traveler's shoulder, also examining the photo. "Oh, but wait! Now that Paimon thinks about it, the flower in the photo!"
Tighnari's attention was already divided at this point, looking at Karkata at the other side.
"It looks just like the flower on your outfit! Ohh~ Is that a gift they gave to you? It's so sweet that you kept it!"
"What, this?" The fox gestured to the yellow flower on his person before looking at the two with a nonplussed expression. "You're heavily mistaken, this is a cactus flower only found in the desert. It's a gift from my father."
Well, that does make sense. However, that doesn't exactly explain the overall picture here. Perhaps Nahida had heavily influenced Traveler into overthinking things at this point.
"Oh, but, it's still kind of sad. You two seemed so close..." Looking at the photo one final time, Traveler offered it back to Tighnari who gratefully took it back. This time, it was him looking over it intently. "But because of your different darshans -"
"Oh, you're worried about that?" The fox hybrid couldn't help but laugh as he pocketed the photo ever so carefully. "There's no need to fret, we still see each other from time to time when our schedules align. Now where was I? Right, Karkata and I still have some notes to record while the day is still young. Do you still have any questions?"
Before Paimon can ramble any further, the Traveler simply shook his head and nudged his companion to let up. After all, they've done what they've sought after and took up most of the forest ranger's time already.
That, and he could at least feel that Tighnari isn't so keen to talk more about the matter.
Yet after they said their goodbyes and started leaving, Traveler couldn't help but look back one final time, his ears barely catching Tighnari's voice β
"I'm sure you'd love Karkata." His eyes closed with a long sigh, dropping his crossed arms as Karkata simply tilts its head.
Traveler took his leave before Tighnari could notice him idling by.
Next part will have spoilers to 3.2 archon quest.
@maehemthemisfit @fpyura @lunavixia @ventitto @crxwned-mxnarch @theflatdoorkicker @ropesou0yomu @quintessentialdreaming @angryhope @leena-shii @loyal-mad-dog @heeseung-lover686 @chevalrie
#tighnari x reader#genshin x reader#genshin impact x reader#genshin impact fluff#exile.flower#exile.pocketwatch#gender neutral#tighnari#sumeru arc
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"So you're actually capable of tears." You scoffed with a glare his way.
You were obviously mocking him, but how well did that land when tears are free falling from your eyes too?
He was looking at you with pure hatred now, a seething gaze that flickered to every movement you make. Even with his jaw clenched to physically hold down his emotions, his unstoppable grimace showed the way he grit his teeth. And don't forget, the angry tears that rolled down the side of his cheeks.
He was so tense. Like a predator waiting to pounce on his prey.
Or perhaps, a prey getting ready to run the moment an escape route presents itself.
"What the fuck are you doing to me?" It was the first time you've heard him curse, too. Slowly, you placed a hand on top of his chest, where his heart lies - beating so strongly.
The way he grips your hand tells you he's not gonna let go.
Perhaps he wasn't so out of touch of his emotions as you'd thought.
#exile.flower#random writing#don't mind me just scene testing!#this dialogue had been in my mind all day so i wanted to push it out#don't know who it fits tho#exile.reader
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