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dawndelilah · 1 year

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THE PROMISE I FAILED TO KEEP

chapter two: the closure that i needed

summary: after four years, Diluc had finally stepped a foot back into his hometown. what he didn't know, is that the church of favonious have celebrated a union between two prominent figures of the nation.

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It took Diluc four painful years of battle and bloodbath for him to finally step a foot in his nation again. Four agonizingly slow years of avenging his father's passing. Four years of regret after leaving the woman he loved the most in shambles. Even after four years, he was still hung up on her. He thought he was already over her— but is he really? Just the mere thought of her blonde hair flying along with the wind brought a whole butterfly zoo in his stomach. Her sweet smile never failed to make him feel a hundred times better on bad days. He cannot help but wonder.

‘It's been four years- did she move on with someone else?’

He's had nightmares of (y/n) slipping away further from his grasp and into the arms of another man. He would find himself waking up, heart thumping loudly in his chest with a tear falling down his cheeks. Sometimes, he would even dash out to find (y/n), only to realize that she is not with him anymore. And that caused an unexplainable pain in his chest. Yeah.

He is surely not over her yet.

But it's impossible. It's been four years since he had left Mondstadt– since he had left her. It is not possible that she would still wait up for him. After all, it was him who broke things off between them. As he sat in front of the fire on the hilichurl camp that he had previously invaded, Diluc spurted curses after curses at himself. With his hand on his head, he allowed the salty tears to roll against his cheeks.

He deserved this.

He should have given her the closure she needed, at least. He can still remember the night before he had left for Snezhnaya. He was at the Starsnatch Cliff, giving himself a breath of air when he hear her voice call out to him. The voice that he so loved– he surely would not get sick of hearing her voice all over again. “Diluc- wait!” She called, panting. She had run all the way from the Knights of Favonius Headquarters after seeing him pass by without sparing her a glance. She was worried; she had heard the news from Kaeya himself and he too, was distraught. “What do you want, (y/n)?” he asked, voice cold. (y/n) took a few breaths before looking at Diluc's back. He refused to turn and look at her.

“Where are you heading off to?”

“Away. Away from this nation. There are things I should settle in Snezhnaya.”

“This is about Mister Crepus, isn't it?”

“And what of it, (y/n)? What can a person such as yourself do about it? Go away. I do not wish to see anyone at the moment.” He spat, finally turning his body to face (y/n). What a mistake. From there, he can see her look at him with pain in her eyes. Damn it. Hurting her was the last thing he swore to do– but now, he had done it. Because of his own selfish reasons and desires.

“So you're going to throw everything away that easily, huh? Tell me, Diluc. Did you even take our relationship seriously? I've told you that you do not have to shoulder every burden because I am here to help you! Kaeya, too!”

“I DO NOT need help, (y/n)! Why can't you understand?”

"Allow me to even aid you emotionally! I may not be the best fighter around here, but please!"

"You are weak, (y/n). You'll only keep me behind."

“So that's how it is. Well then, I shall leave you by yourself, Sir Diluc.”

He could only watch as (y/n) slowly walked away from him, her shoulders shaking from all the crying. He... He had now lost everyone he holds dear.

But maybe... Maybe he did deserve it. What can a weak man such as himself do to fight against fate, anyway? Sure, in combat, he may be strong; he had trained day and night since Crepus' passing, and now, he is much more confident with his fighting prowess. But also because of his past, he was weakened.

Oh, how he wished he ran up to her and pulled her in his arms and shower her with apologies. Then maybe, maybe he would still be the man that stood beside her, eyes gleaming in happiness. Had he pushed his anger away, then maybe he wouldn't be drowning in sorrow and misery. Had he decided not to put their relationship down the drain, then maybe he wouldn't be as miserable as he was today.

The bells of the Church of Favonius rang as two familiar figures exited the massive doors of the Cathedral. The townspeople of Mondstadt gathered and cheered, congratulating the newly wedded couple with smiles on their faces. It was once his dream from his youth. To be wedded to the person he loved. He once dreamed to be wedded to (y/n). To either take her surname or have her take his surname. He once dreamed to live a happy married life with her. To see the silver glint of the wedding ring that was supposed to be on his finger.

Clad in a white gown that emphasized her youthful glow, (y/n) took her sisters, Jean and Barbara in her arms in a loving hug. He could not hear what the younger had stated, but he can see her say something to (y/n). Giggles from the women were heard from the vicinity about how lucky she was tk be married to a man like him as a gloved hand snaked itself around (y/n)'s waist, making her look up at her groom with love.

That should have been me.

It was supposed to be him who planted a loving kiss on her temple. It was supposed to be him who was wedded to her. It was supposed to be his torso that (y/n) wrapped her arms around. It was supposed to be him and her standing in front of the altar. He was supposed to be the one who shared vows with her. He was supposed to be the one to slip the ring on her finger and seal it with a kiss.

It should have been us that the citizens of Mondstadt are congratulating.

Not you and Kaeya.

Ah, Kaeya and (y/n). The two people that he had left because of his own selfishness.

The two people he used to secretly care for are now bound in front of the altar. They are now bound by the rings wrapped around their finger in front of the holy presence of their God, Barbatos. Despite the pain he felt in his heart, Diluc knew that it is better for (y/n) to find another man suitable enough for her to love, and give her the love she deserved. A man that isn't going to push her away when she approaches;

a man that isn't him.

To think of it, Kaeya and (y/n) would make a better pair.

Better than they were.

Seeing that (y/n) is happily married to Kaeya, diluc thought that maybe, this could be his eye-opener. (y/n) is finally happy, free from despair- and he should be, as well. It is now his time to leave the past behind, love another woman, and not repeat the same mistake again.

But can he do it, if (y/n) had become a great influence in his life? Can he do it if his life once revolved around (y/n)?

The sight was too much for him to handle. He shook his head at himself and decided to approach the newlywed couple. No one knew the reason for the break up except for him and (y/n) themselves- probably Kaeya, too. Mustering up his 'confident' façade, he stopped in front of the two. (y/n) caught his gaze, and was taken aback at his sudden appearance. She cautiously glanced up at Kaeya who only nodded with a small smile in return. (y/n) turned back to Diluc and accpeted the gift he had in his hand. One that he would've given her if she remained single along with a heartfelt apology and perhaps some kisses if she forgave him.

"Look-"

"It's okay, Diluc. I have long forgiven and forgotten the past. You don't have to carry the guilt anymore. I know you've had it for years."

She's right. He doesn't have to be guilty anymore. Contented with the closure he needed, he excused himself and retired back into the Dawn Winery.

Crying.

Crying because the realization of not being able to wake up next to her had dawned on him. Crying because he will have to do things alone again, and that (y/n) would not be there to help him with it.

He's crying because the woman he had been in love for years is no longer within his grasp, and is in a loving marriage with the person he used to consider as his brother.

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤdawndelilah, 2023.

credits:

https://twitter.com/raiu_81/status/1542184278594928643?t=ToJNFMwuorEEimb2LLdtTw&s=19

The Roses of Heliogabalus, Lawrence Alma-Tadema

#genshin impact #diluc ragnivindr x reader #diluc x y/n #my writing #writers on tumblr #diluc angst #diluc ragnvindr #fiction #genshin diluc #dawndelilah #diluc x you series #dawndelilah: the promise i failed to keep

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meili-sheep · 2 years

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For vigilante au where noone knows who they are--

Kaeya: archons, this "darknight hero" guy is becoming a real pain in my ass-- i mean, dont get me wrong, love that hes protecting Mond in his own way but Jean keeps trying to get me to recruit him for the knights when its so clear that he doesnt want to be... i guess, restrained? by the knights and her adamancy abt him "needing to be in the knights to properly protect Mondstat" is getting on my nerves

Diluc, the darknight hero, also hounded by Jean to try and figure out how the darknight hero is: tell me about it.

Kaeya, agreeing for the completely wrong reasons: right?! Because i really love and respect her, dont get me wrong, but theres just a point where it becomes a little infuriating. And adding on to that, the darknight hero is so hard to catch as well. It almost like hes toying with the knights or something. Or, not to be a bit of a braggart or anything, toying with specfically me

Diluc, toying with specifically Kaeya as the darknight hero: oh? Tell me more

Kaeya: i cant help but be annoyed? But also not? Since hes possibly one of the best fighters ive ever seen. And i dont give this praise lightly, especially because he uses a catalyst since most if not all catalyst users usually stay out of the line of fire and cast whatever spells are in their books but this guy-- this guy just goes in arms blazing!

Diluc, preening a little at the praise: oh really? What else would you say about him?

Kaeya: he throws around fire like its no big deal! Each punch, each kick, each movement is accentuated by it-- its honestly a beautiful display of his mastery over it. Oh right, i havent told you about his fighting style yet-- this guy literally just-- hand to hand combat. This man goes us against swordsmen, pikemen, greatswords, bows, and whatever weapons the fatui or the monsters around Mond uses by the dozen with nothing but his catalyst and his hands and he wins every time. Its honestly intimidating sometimes. I genuinely think that he might actually be too restrained in the knights.

Diluc, absolutely bathing in praise: oh wow, this darknight hero guy sounds like a real piece of work. He must be a really swell guy and you know what kaeya? I agree, he really would be too restrained in the knights. Hes just too much for the knights to handle. Such a strong, intimidating guy must be an incredible person under that mask

Kaeya, misunderstanding him and thinking Diluc just called the darknight hero hot: i mean ive never seen him without that bird mask, other than the time i saw him with a fatui mask but--

Kaeya, overprotective brother mode on: uhhhh... diluc? Would you uh-- would you say that you harbor some sort of uhhhh... attraction? To the darknight hero??

Diluc, fucking appalled that Kaeya just asked him if he had a crush on hIMSELF: what--

I imagine Kaeya tend to take a lot of things the wrong way with inregardes to Diluc's relationship status. Because he's paranoid and lives in fear that someone is gonna trick his naive romantic brother.

So know he's on a special extra watch to make sure Diluc and the Darknight hero never interact. And you know what I think he does a pretty good job because you never see them together.

#kaeya #kaeya alberich #diluc ragnvindr #diluc #Bully the Fatui Brigade #bully brigade vigilantes

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qtipcottonbuds · 2 years

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𝘼𝙐 𝘼𝙐𝙂𝙐𝙎𝙏 '𝟮𝟮 𝙀𝙑𝙀𝙉𝙏

new event >:D, i can’t find the credited blog at the moment, but at a later date i’ll tag it here !!

DAY ONE // ART STUDENT AU

WITH KENTARO KYOTANI

DAY TWO // AVIAN AU

WITH KEIGO TAKAMI

DAY THREE // APOCALYPSE AU

WITH BAKUGOU KATSUKI

DAY FOUR // BAKERY AU

WITH DIMITRI ALEXANDRE BLAIDDYD

DAY FIVE // BAND AU

WITH RAIHAN

DAY SIX // BLIND DATE AU

WITH SYLVAIN JOSE GAUTIER,,

DAY SEVEN // BOOK STORE AU

WITH SATAN,,

DAY EIGHT // CHOREOGRAPHER AU

WITH KAEYA

DAY NINE // COWORKER AU

WITH MAMMON,,

DAY TEN // DEAF AU

WITH BAKUGOU KATSUKI,,

DAY ELEVEN // DEMON HUNTER AU

WITH OIKAWA TOORU,,

DAY TWELVE // EX AU

WITH DILUC

DAY THIRTEEN // FIRE FIGHTER AU

WITH KIRISHIMA EIJIROU,,

DAY FOURTEEN // GARDENING AU

WITH TAMAKI AMAJIKI,,

DAY FIFTEEN // HIGH SCHOOL REUNION AU

WITH IZUKU MIDORIYA,,

DAY SIXTEEN // HOSPITAL AU

With ERASERHEAD,,

DAY SEVENTEEN // KIDNAPPER AU

WITH TOMURA SHIGARAKI,,

DAY EIGHTEEN // LIFEGUARD AU

WITH LEVIATHAN,,

DAY NINETEEN // MECHANIC AU

WITH TOJI FUSHIGURO,,

DAY TWENTY // MONSTER HUNTER AU

WITH CLAUDE VON RIEGAN,,

DAY TWENTYONE // NEIGHBOUR AU

WITH FELIX HUGO FRALDARIUS,,

DAY TWENTYTWO // OMEGAVERSE AU

WITH BAKUGOU KATSUKI,,

DAY TWENTYTHIRD // PET STORE AU

WITH SEBASTIAN,,

DAY TWENTYFOUR // ROOM MATE AU

WITH ITTO ARATAKI,,

DAY TWENTYFIVE // SCIENTIST AU

WITH KUROO TETSUROU,,

DAY TWENTYSIX // SPACE AU

WITH KENMA KOZUME,,

DAY TWENTYSEVEN // TATTOO SHOP AU

WITH UKAI KENSHIN,,

DAY TWENTYEIGHT // VAMPIRE AU

WITH LEON,,

DAY TWENTYNINE // WEREWOLF AU

WITH DIMITRI ALEXANDRE BLAIDDYD,,

DAY THIRTY // WILD WEST

WITH FATGUM,,

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shveris · 2 years

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luxiem + shoto in teyvat

nsfw

hydro vision holder, singer and novelist ike eveland. he is from mondstadt, gives singing lessons to barbara, enjoys the fine wine diluc would gift him, meets up with lisa in the library to go over his notes for his next books, reading to the children on the plaza with venti’s soft tunes in the background. he likes to travel since it gives him inspiration for his novels, especially inazuma and sumeru caught his interest.

vox akuma, once a renowned sword fighter for the royal guard of khaenri’ah, now the curse has made him more reckless. he fled to inazuma after the war was settled, hoping to regenerate his powers in peace. the people in a nearby village claimed he was a demon when they saw him using his “magic” without a vision. the people started to worship him — much to the shogunate’s dismay. they attacked akuma village and thought he was dead for good (and oh were they wrong).

shoto is the vice leader of the shuumatsuban, a skilled rouge that answers to every of ayato’s words like a puppy. his excellent skills are a combination of the training he received during his childhood, the anemo vision around his neck and the blessings of the gods above. his multiple attempts of trying to kill vox, the so called evil, often get interrupted by a certain detective butting his way into shoto’s life.

mysta’s life is scarred with hardship and challenges, the gods visibly pitying him, judging by the cryo vision he always tried to hide in the pocket of his pants. it’s widely known what the cold stone symbolizes and mysta hates all these looks on people’s faces when they see him using the so called “blessing”.

luca kaneshiro, the fiery and loud head of the yakuza, would often get into (drastically escalating) banter with itto. to the oni’s luck, fire couldn’t do much against his brick walls — to his dismay the boss somehow found out about his bean allergy and always carries a small pouch of them around.

prince shu yamino, another one of the archons’ puppets. to ei’s surprise his heart became a warm and friendly home and she’d let him live after yae found a liking to the boy. she announced him royalty and the people adore the prince; his soft voice, the honey-laughter and heart melting smile on his lips.

before the decree, shu would spend a lot of time at the shrine with yae and morax (mostly because of morax) and learn about everything the archon knew. barbatos would occasionally join them if he wasn’t busy being passed out drunk somewhere in the woods of mondstadt. together shu and him would sing for the other two, discovering his newfound hobby in music thanks to the wind spirit.

ike and shu became good friends after yae dragged him along for a meeting with her writers, editors and publishers. she likes hearing shu’s input because it amazes her how a puppet of her beloved god was so much more different than it was intended.

yae liked playthings, shu was the perfect toy for her amusement. seeing contrasts and unforeseen occurrences was nothing unusual coming from shu — turns out ike thought highly of shu’s opinions on certain topics as he found him fascinating too.

it wasn’t a rare occurrence to see them leave together, ike always claiming he had unreviewed notes for a new book at his inn and would really appreciate shu’s thoughts on them. who would’ve thought shu would inspect those said notes really closely, laying on top of them, moaning and gasping under ike’s hands.

mysta was called to an emergency situation because two (apparently) buff men were beating the living soul out of a man on the open street, under broad daylight — weirdly enough the police didn’t feel like involving at all, just turned their heads around and heizou was on watatsumi for some weird dog attraction (that’s how he said it, don’t blame mysta). the two men beating up one single one were vox and luca.

they told mysta the guy was harassing a young girl on the street, trying to touch her and even suggested to give her candy if she’d come with him.

vox, having abnormal senses, had witnessed everything from the very start but the last one finally send him.

luca was naturally good at perceiving imperceivable things. it was normal for his underground senses to pick up such disgusting actions.

the police knew luca and vox well enough to save their own skin from being taken right there and now.

mysta turning all three of them into solid ice blocks not only surprised everyone, it also cooled down luca’s heat immediately. the harasser went to jail, the little girl got a small keychain from mysta (a fox out of ice, it would only melt if the maker dies), vox and luca were taken to his office.

which was a bad idea because the two taller men ended up fucking mysta into his desk, making him moan like the little slut luca called him and being a good boy — just how vox liked it.

vox got whipped by ike the second he saw him with yae and shu at the publishing house. he was on the look out for shoto (the little rouge had left after their sparring session with vox’ hairclip still in his hair and vox really wanted it back now).

he found the perfect time to butt into their conversation, smooth and cunning; being thousands of years olds finally paid off. not only did he spark ike’s interest with his way of expressing himself, yae and shu were curious about this strange man with the deep voice and knowledge as old as yae herself.

shu has never met someone as experienced in history except for the archons and his oneesan (yae), his eyes basically glued to vox’ lips, his mind finding his voice addicting.

another thing he would learn to find addicting was vox and ike buried deep inside him, hands and teeth and lips and sweat driving his once so pure mind into oblivion. the moans coming out of his sore throat (vox was very much into choking) and the tears on his rosy cheeks glistening in the dim light were the perfect invitation for luca and mysta, who just arrived and did not expect two additional members to their usual dynamic.

#genshin impact #luxiem #nijisanji en #alternative universe #shxtou

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dcviated · 4 months

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emoji headcanon asks :: open

@snowbelled sent: 💢 ( Dogi ), 👊 ( Diluc ), 🥞 ( Enforcer ), &. 🌺 ( Tenzou )

💢 ANGER - what are some habits they have that will take some getting used to?

Look, as great as the guy is in short bursts and to hang around with- I truly believe there are... difficulties in the long run. Could I run this long form or short form? Lets see-

Loud. Dogi's capable of indoor voices but is nevertheless a chatterbox. Commenting on things around him and letting some of his internal monologuing out for those around.

Defeatist. Oh ye of little confidence. For all of his capability Dogi is quick to get down on himself or let others take the helm of things. Set back and let others do something if they're 'better.'

Crass. Maybe this goes with the loud. But sometimes his choice of words can be less than pleasant. Not so much cursing but improper. Maybe a little offensive? Mileage may vary.

Also he eats a lot. And many things.

👊 PUNCH - are they quick to violence?

I'm still always chuffed that Diluc's story quest in genpact had him tormenting an abyss mage with his pyro vision. Torturing them with fire to the point they (can) pass out from the pain. I'd say that overall... yes, Diluc can and will use violence as an option. He's physical, aggressive, and dominant in the situations he chooses himself to be present in.

I don't think he defaults to using violence first though. At least not if the other person hasn't flaunted something physical. Wordplay will stay as wordplay. But if he's being challenged then oh please know that this man will not hesitate to put you into a wall.

🥞 PANCAKE - what is their comfort breakfast?

COFFEE!!!

Nah, well, actually yes there's coffee but that goes for Ezell's entire day forget just breakfast.

But Sankta are built different, and Enforcer is no different. Their sugar consumption is off the charts and we all hate them for it. As if we don't hate them enough for the racism and utopia they live in...

Ezell is not unique or special among the Sankta (tho he do be strong). He's a normal guy who loves his sweets, crepes, pastries, and other sugary treats. He even learns how to whip up some of his own! But for breakfast he'll take a .... you ready for this? Coffee cake. Or some muffins with eggs (over easy) and potato fries.

🌺 HIBISCUS - do they have any allergies?

Nope! Unless you count allergies to girls touching him. Man is he bad with that. For a fighter he's very sensitive to touch.

#inbox :: answered hc #snowbelled #muse :: dogi #muse :: diluc #muse :: enforcer #muse :: tenzou #ahhhh thanks for these :')#fun to answer

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solarflaretm · 2 years

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@sageofjustice asked — [ CATCH ] for Diluc

[ CATCH ]: sender, noticing the receiver’s legs beginning to give out beneath them, rushes over to them and catches them before they collapse to the ground.

he never seems to learn . he always has to prove himself and his worth , show that he’s more than just a winemaker or a successful business owner . he’s a fighter , he’s flames , retribution .

because of this desperate need for approval , he winds up over - doing it , as proven after today’s mission .

it had been another eventful night for the darknight hero and his new companion , flames and ash and smoke taking the scene as they knock enemy after enemy . he hadn’t realized how badly he strained himself until the dust finally settles .

he takes a deep breath as he straightens up , only to wince in pain when his ribs scream in agony . his lungs feel as if they’re on fire . he fights through it , refusing to go down like this . it would be pathetic if he passed out from just a little too much exertion .

he braves through it , certain that he’s ready to continue . he turns to face angel to let him know they can move on when the world sways in his vision . unable to stop himself , he stumbles , bracing for his knees to make impact with the hard ground when arms catch him .

#sageofjustice #* ∙ ✰ ◞ a penny for your thoughts but a dollar for your insides ♡︎ ‘ 𝐀𝐍𝐒𝐖𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐃 . ’#* ∙ ✰ ◞ my insides are copper & i’d kill to make them gold ♡︎ ‘ 𝐈𝐍 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐑 . ’#🔥°̥࿐﹕𝐑𝐀𝐆𝐍𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐑 ‚ 𝐝𝐢𝐥𝐮𝐜 » ‘ i won’t let go til i burn beyond control ! ’#* ∙ ✰ ◞ he tastes like queue only sweeter ♡︎ ‘ 𝐐𝐔𝐄𝐔𝐄 . ’

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nolawritesfanfics-deactive · 3 years

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Hello! Can i ask for an argument hurt/comfort with Diluc, Childe and Xiao? Take your time and please take care of yourself! I love your writing a lot<3

Hello!! I love this idea sm- I’ve been wanting to write something like this for a while, so it might have turned out a little more angsty than intended 😅

(Also tysm! I’m so happy that you like my stuff and really appreciate your support!! I hope that you’re taking care yourself as well! /(T0T)/💖💖💖)

Lmk if there are any mistakes!

{..*_★} How Diluc, Childe, and Xiao fight with you + when they make you cry

Warnings: Fighting, arguing, mentions of self neglect, injury, insults

Pairings: Diluc x Gn!reader, Childe x Gn!reader, Xiao x Gn!reader

Genre: Angst, Hurt/Comfort

Diluc is a calm and serious fighter. Once you get him fired up, he lets the fire he was cursed with take over. This happens not only on the battlefield, but also in arguments.

Diluc will make sure to keep his voice adamant and low the whole time, only showing aggression through his tone. Fights may not happen often for you two, but when they do, you can expect Diluc’s insults to hit too close to home.

But, if you start crying, a shot of anxiety will rush through his stomach, and he’ll cringe at his own mistakes. He starts having an internal panic attack, because he never, ever, meant to hurt you so badly. He really never meant to hurt you at all.

He’ll open his arms to you and understand if you need some space. But when you’re ready, let him know, and he’ll come running back to you.

The dimly lit corner of yours and Diluc’s room made you feel so empty, so alone. Crickets could be heard from the outside of the Winery, the silence that followed their chirps making you feel sick. It was late, far too late for anyone to be awake. But, you always had a hard time sleeping when Diluc wasn’t with you.

Every night for the last two weeks, Diluc would work until the early hours of the morning. No matter how many times you tried to get him to sleep, he would scoff and brush off your complaints, leaving you to fall asleep alone. You were sick of it.

You couldn’t just ignore how the sheets beside you were always cold, and how the scent of your lover was almost gone from his side of the bed. A mix of hatred and loneliness settled in the pit of your stomach as you ran a hand over where he would usually fall asleep. You hated how you missed him.

It truly was selfish, wasn’t it? He was working so hard, but you- you couldn’t do anything but watch as mounds of paperwork and missions eroded his existence into dust. And even if you were lonely without him, it hurt much more to watch him neglect himself like this.

You huffed, finally fed up. You threw the blankets off, and climbed out of bed, clenching your fists as your feet met the cold wooden floor. The floor creaked slightly with every step you took. You opened the door, and came face to face with Diluc, who was still glued to his desk signing papers.

Dark circles had accumulated under his eyelids, and a sleepy mist seemed to cloud his eyes. Stacks of paper were scattered everywhere, and a cold cup of coffee sat dejectedly at the corner of the desk. The maids were nowhere to be seen, so you assumed that they had all given up trying to get Diluc to relax, leaving him to his own devices.

As you entered the room, Diluc’s head shot up. A concerned expression replaced the focused look he previously had.

“(Y/n), what are you doing awake? You should go to sleep.” He murmured, his voice gravely from exhaustion.

“No, Diluc. I can't do this anymore. You can't do this anymore.” You pinched the bridge of your nose in irritation, only growing more aggravated at his weakened state. Couldn’t he bear to take care of himself, at least once?

“What?”

“Diluc, you’re a mess. You’ve hardly spoken to anyone today, much less me-“

“Is that what this is about?” Diluc cut you off, exhaustion and anger lacing every syllable that left his mouth. He gripped the edge of the desk, using it as a crutch to stand up. “(Y/n), I told you earlier, I don’t have time for this.”

“Listen, I’m sorry, but you need to take better care of yourself Diluc. I can't just stand by and watch you do this yourself!” You raised your voice, not caring if you were being too loud. The soft light decorating the room felt suffocating, a thin sheet of sweat now coating both of your bodies.

“Archons, why are you like this?! All I ever ask for is some peace and quiet, but you never listen because your problems are, apparently- so much more important than mine!”

Diluc’s voice was much louder than yours was, and adrenaline and stress had taken his place in the argument. He knew this too, but couldn’t hold himself back. He hadn’t let anything out for days, and he was just too exhausted to filter himself. You knew this, but everything he said still felt like razor blades against your skin.

“I need to stay on top of things, and I can’t let anyone waste my time.” Diluc closed his eyes, as silence filled the room. “Especially not you.”

His gloved hands clenched around nothing. Time was starting to kick in again, and his body started feeling heavier with every passing second. Everything he had just said was starting to register in his brain, and a sickening feeling settled in his stomach. He thought that you were alright- that he hadn’t gone too far. But, that was until a small, guttural sob erupted from your lips.

Were you really just a waste of time to him?

Diluc opened his eyes, the uneasiness in stomach morphing into terror, the feeling spreading through every crevice of his heart. He had never made you cry before. It had never gone this far.

Oh god, he thought. Oh god no- nononononono- he didn’t mean to hurt you, he—

Now, tears were starting to fill his own eyes. He wanted to sob, to get on his knees and beg for forgiveness, but he knew that wouldn’t be fair to you. Instead, he held out his hand. It was a silent offering, a mere suggestion. You had every right to refuse.

He didn’t know why, but you slowly padded into his embrace, choking out apologies. More confusion and panic filled his mind as he encased his arms around you. If anyone should be apologizing, it’s him. You felt so warm in his arms, he truly did not deserve you.

“I- I’m so sorry, love.” He stammered. “Please, don’t apologize, I never meant to hurt you.”

“I just- I just want you to be okay, Diluc! Nothing else matters.” You cried, burying your face into his chest. Diluc held you tighter, placing soft, airy kisses on the top of your head. He rubbed circles into your back and let you sob your heart out in his embrace.

“I know, my darling, I know.” He whispered, voice breaking halfway through his sentence. “You- you were just being kind, and I took everything out on you.”

His left hand supported your waist as his right was lifted to cradle the back of your head.

“Please… forgive me.”

The atmosphere had cooled down, the suffocating feeling that the air delivered being replaced by a gentle, cool breeze. Soon enough, you and Diluc started swaying back and forth, wallowing in the unusual calmness of the winery.

You nodded against his skin, pressing a tiny kiss to his palm. The silence had resumed, the silence and swaying of your bodies lulling both you and Diluc to sleep. You continued to place soft kisses along the Darkknight hero’s neck, causing him to sigh in relief.

After a few minutes, you finally spoke up once more.

“Will you come to bed now? I’ll help you with your work in the morning.” You mumbled.

“There’s no need for that, my love….”

You shot him a glare.

“A-ah, If you insist.” A nervous chuckle leaves Diluc’s throat at your response, deciding to leave the subject alone for tonight. Diluc intertwines your fingers and leads you to the bedroom.

“Let’s get some sleep, now.” He whispers.

He opens the door, and gives you one last love-drunk smile before lying down beside you. You don’t even have time to blink before he’s out like a light, nuzzling his face into your neck.

Childe is a ruthless fighter. He will do what is needed to survive at all costs.

By the time he’s done with his enemy, they’re practically unrecognizable. But at the end of your fights, (which are very rare- Childe won’t pick a fight if there’s an easy solution.) he’s the one who is unrecognizable to you.

The words that have tumbled from his lips make him seem like a monster to you, every point he made hitting way too close to home.

Childe will act like he doesn’t care, but when he shows up the next day at your doorstep with flowers and tears rolling down his cheeks, you know that he does.

If you accept his apology, he’ll smile and wipe the tears from his face, utterly grateful that he could redeem himself. But, he’ll be extra careful with what he says for a while after. He doesn’t want to lose you.

Another day, another beginning. Another day, another night where Childe comes home half dead.

It was almost one in the morning now, and you had been waiting for him to return home. You were exhausted, but your distress managed to overpower your fatigue, making it way too hard to fall asleep. You tried to execute different techniques to calm yourself down, but none of them worked. Your mind always kept drifting back to him.

Where was he? Was he okay? How damaged would he be when he arrived? Is he still alive, or did the claws of death drag him six feet under already?

The bright kitchen lights made your head fuzzy as you paced around out of sheer worry. Your mind felt like it was a sheet of glass, little shards being chipped away every time he got hurt. Did he not understand how scared he made you every time he left?

He would always disappear at the most inconvenient times, and even though you knew he loved you, you knew that his own ego would screw him over eventually. Nights like these would always consist of fear, relief, and anger, passing through your chest as you treated the wounds on his body.

Thankfully, you had learned to treat every single one. The bruises on his arms and hips would need ice. The slashes on his stomach, which were as deep and bloody as the abyss, would need ointment and bandages, and every element used on him would have to be treated, or extracted, by a specialist.

You felt so useless having to watch as he dealt with the burdens of being a part of the Fatui. God, everything he had to do was so dangerous, but you were forbidden to help with anything except healing. The information you had to hide- no, the information that he had to hide from you- the thought of it made you sick.

You were strong, and you could handle yourself. The monsters you had beaten were strong, arguably as strong as the atrocities that Childe had to destroy daily. You hated when he felt he couldn’t confide in you because he thought you couldn’t take it. It seemed as if he didn’t trust you.

A crack of lightning interrupted your spiral, the sudden noise making you jump. Rain started beating against your windows, as the loud beating of thunder rumbled through the sky. The thunder sent vibrations through your chest, the image of your lover’s dead body flashing through your mind. A strangled gasp escaped your throat as your panic worsened.

Everything fell silent, except for the rain. Your hands were as clammy as the weather outside, and small beads of sweat were starting to form at your temples. Suddenly, the front door clicked open, and heavy breathing filled your house.

“Damnit… haah….” The familiar voice of the Harbinger registered in your brain immediately, and in seconds, your panic morphed into anger. He was dripping with water and sweat, and, as usual, he was heavily injured. His elbow was propped up against the doorframe for support. You rushed over to him to try and help him stand.

“What happened to you? Where the hell have you been?” You asked, shutting the door and frantically trying to shield him from the outside world.

“I-I’m fine, (Y/n), don’t be so uptight.” He gasped, trying to walk to the bathroom. You retracted your hands at his remark, concern washing over your features. You opted to forget about what he had said, even if it stung. Even if he was in a bad mood, he still needed treatment, and his physical state was in critical condition.

You raced ahead of him, and flung open the bathroom cabinet, scrambling to find a roll of gauze. Childe was trailing behind you, aggravation practically radiating off of him. A sharp sigh escaped his lips as he watched you panic. After the countless Ruin Guards he had to deal with, having to make you feel better was something he didn’t want to deal with.

“Do you have any idea how much it hurts when you do this?” You said, voice wavering in both sadness and anger.

“Can we not do this right now?” The harbinger replied, clinging to the wall out of exhaustion.

You turned to face him, seething with anger. The audacity of this man was beyond your belief. You backed away from him to look him in the eyes. “No, Childe. We have to.” You gestured to his wounds and the blood drying on his stomach. “Do you have any idea how much it hurts to see you do this to yourself?”

Childe groaned into his palms. He ran a hand through his hair, the aggravation boiling in his stomach was growing hotter by the second. Every word that you spoke was bound to set him off. The stress of the day was about to explode if he didn’t leave now. “Oh right- you. It’s always about you.”

“That’s not what I-“

“You have no idea what I have to deal with everyday. There are things in this world that you couldn’t even comprehend.” He glared at you, venom seeping into his words. Your heart was breaking- no, it had broken long ago. It had broken the moment he came through the door, covered in cuts. You knew he was right, but only partially. You also knew that there were things stronger than him as well, and you felt that he shouldn't have to carry that burden in solitude.

“I-I know, but that’s not something you should have to deal with alone.” You practically whimpered your retaliation. It felt like the walls were closing in on you. The tension in the air was thick and the rain and wind could be heard picking up in the background. “Just let me help you.”

Childe pushed off of the wall, staggering as the muscles in his body tensed. He looked directly at you, the fire he had held in his chest finally exploding, leaving wounds on your soul that may never heal. You can’t. You can’t help me because you’re weak. You’re useless, so just stop trying.”

A final crack of lightning resounded through the hallway as he spoke. A quiet sob tore from your throat as you stared at him through wide, watery eyes. Your hands were folded over your chest, a way to try to suppress your anguish. You yanked at your collar while frantically trying to pull yourself together.

He attacked the very thing that you hated most about yourself- the fact that you couldn’t protect him.

“F-fine then,” you responded, voice shaking with grief. “I’ll let you take care of yourself since I’m so- so useless to you.”

It seemed that Childe was surprised at his own words, since his eyes were teary as well. He hated the fact that he said that to you. He never meant it, but that didn’t make it okay for him to say such a horrible, horrible thing to the person he loved the most in this world. Childe raised his hands to his mouth as massive tears streamed down his face.

“Oh god- (Y/n), I’m so sor-“

“Just leave, Ajax.” You used his real name. You never used his real name. It was the name that he was given, the name that he hated so very much. The name that he was given before being thrown into the abyss. Childe knew then, how much he had truly messed up.

“I…I-“

“Get out.” You growled, slamming your fist against the wall. Childe nodded solemnly before slowly turning away, and heading back towards the front door. He tried thinking of places he could sleep as he wiped his tears. Maybe he would ask Zhongli for a place to stay. Perhaps the archon could offer him some advice as well.

The door finally clicked shut, and you were alone with rain once more. You sank to your knees, and sobbed your heart out. Loud, heart wrenching cries ripped from your lungs, releasing the all of pain that you had endured. By the time you calmed down, your knuckles were aching from how hard you had been gripping your clothing, and your eyes were stinging from wiping them so much.

You lazily got up, and stumbled to your bedroom. You laid down, and let your mind go blank. The next you knew, you were greeted with bright sunlight and soft blankets. You must’ve been so exhausted last night that you forgot to close your curtains. You groaned at the lights, and tried to hide under the covers again.

Then, the events from last night started flooding into your head. An empty, hollow pain dug its way into your chest, and tears started welling up in your eyes again. You let out a shaky breath as you sat up and wiped your eyes. Hurriedly, you got out of bed and went to take a shower as a distraction.

Today was the same as every other day, except everything seemed… duller. The previously sparkling sun had turned cold and pale. Every burst of color had been drained from your world leaving you cracked and hopeless. As much as you wanted that color back, you didn’t know if you could take that risk. Your pride was much more important to you than anything else, and you swore that you would never grovel for someone who didn’t deserve it.

However, your mind kept drifting back to Childe. What was he doing now? Was he in the state that you were- or had he already moved on? One question still lingered in your mind longer than the others- what were you now that your fight had happened? You snapped yourself out of your thoughts, and scolded yourself for thinking about him- since it was something you knew only made you sadder.

Fortunately, all of your questions were answered at sunset.

You were about to retreat to your room for the night when you heard a quiet knock at your door. You walked over to the door and opened it, confused. There stood Childe, who, unsurprisingly, looked far worse than you did. Tears were already gathering in his eyes as he looked up at you. He looked worried, almost terrified of what your reaction would be.

In his hands, the Harbinger held three glaze lilies. They were your favorite flower, and whenever he was away from you for a long amount of time, he would try to find glaze lilies. They reminded him of you. Their scent made him feel like he was back home, being cuddled and doted on by you.

Childe extended his hands out to you, giving you the flowers. He hung his head in shame, silently hoping that you’d forgive him. He expected you to send him away, to cry and yell at him, because you had every right to after what he had done- but instead, you embraced him, sobbing.

“I’m so- I’m so sorry my love, truly…I didn’t mean a word I said.” Childe choked out between each kiss he placed on your head. He snaked his arms around your waist, making sure to rub comforting circles into your skin. He rested his head in the crook of your neck and nuzzled into your warmth. “It will never happen again. I swear to the Archons- I promise it won’t.”

You smiled at his actions and wiped the tears from your eyes. You ran your fingers through his soft hair and kissed the spot just below his ear. “I’ll take your word for it.” You giggled, “You have to keep your promise though- I’m dead serious.” The sudden drop in your voice sent shivers up Childe’s spine, prompting him to nod frantically in response.

“Don’t worry darling, I won’t.”

And he never did.

Xiao is an aggressive fighter. His tone and demeanor completely change when a challenge is presented.

Xiao hates fighting with you, but the walls he has up around his heart makes it hard to avoid. He has a temper similar to a raging gust of wind- his anger comes out all at once, and destroys everything in its path.

No physical harm will come to you during your fights- hell, it hurts Xiao to even see you feeling anything other than joy. But, once he has an outburst of anger and the reality of what he just said finally sets in, he is horrified.

He tries to avoid you, he tries to give you space. This only makes you feel even worse, and when Xiao sees that, he finally reveals himself. When he sees how much of a mess you are, he finally breaks down and apologizes.

If you forgive him, he’ll inch closer to you, and wrap his arms around your body, crying. The wind has finally calmed down, and both of you promise to rebuild everything together.

Early morning light peeked through the windows of the Wangshu Inn. The hallways were quiet, except for the clattering of plates from Smiley Yanxiao, who had gotten up early to prepare for new customers. The chirping of birds could also be heard in the background, each squawk signaling that the world would start to wake up soon.

Most of the sky was still blanketed with stars, but the golden light painting the horizon made the night sky start to morph into a pleasant pale blue. A light, cool breeze rustled through the trees, and drifted into your room. Your curtains flew upwards in the wind, letting copious amounts of light hit your face.

A loud groan ripped from your throat, as sunlight filled your room faster than the wind did. You slapped your hands over your eyes and rolled onto your stomach. After a few minutes of trying desperately to get back to sleep, you decided that it was a lost cause. After fully awakening from your state of rest, you sat up and looked at your half empty bed.

‘So he didn’t come after all.’ You thought.

You and Xiao had plans to watch the stars on the roof last night. It was something that you used to do with him often, it was how you met in the first place. Constellations were one of your favorite things, and Xiao seemed to enjoy how you rambled on about how beautiful they were.

But lately, Xiao hadn’t been showing up to your dates. He still checked in every now and then, making sure that you were alright, but that was just about all you did anymore. Check in. You ran a hand through your hair, defeated. You knew that Xiao was busy, but he couldn’t just neglect you like this.

You loved him, and you were sure that he loved you, but the fact he was gone all the time made you question that.

He had stood you up one too many times, and you were getting tired of it. You missed being able to wrap yourself around him as you slept, and you missed how flustered he would get if you did so much as hold his hand. After all, you were dating- was it too much to ask if you could see him every now and then?

You climbed out of bed and opened your curtains, looking out over Liyue. Another soft breeze hit you, making you wonder if your beloved could see you right now. You were tempted to call out for him, to say his name, even though you weren’t in imminent danger- but you didn’t want to be any trouble for him, given the fact that he was out protecting Liyue right now.

So, you decided that today, you would forget about Xiao, and distract yourself. You were disappointed in him, but it would be silly to let that ruin your day. If you saw him, you would confront him about your troubles then. You walked over to the desk laying near your bed, and picked up your clothes, which were folded neatly on its surface.

After you pulled your clothes on, you decided to ask Yanxiao if he needed any help. Your heart ached when you thought of being alone, but you had no choice. You flung the door open, and bounded down the stairs to talk to Wangshu’s famous chef. When you made it to the Kitchen, Yanxiao smiled and gave you a list of ingredients to fetch from outside. He said that there was a big event being held at the Inn, and a lot of food and ingredients would be required.

So, you smiled back, and excitedly hurried down the steps. As the day passed, your mind kept drifting back to Xiao’s absence. You were supposed to forget about him today, but it seemed that would be impossible. You kept thinking about how stupidly unfair it was for him to keep you waiting without any warnings whatsoever. And every time you thought about it, your ears and neck would grow hot with anger.

By the end of the night, you were furious with Xiao. You wouldn’t allow yourself to be forgotten by the one who claimed they cared the most for you. What made you even angrier was that he never warned you that he wouldn’t be able to come. It made you feel like an object to him.

After the last dish had been completed, you trudged up the stairs to your room. You were just about to turn the doorknob, but the door swung open before you could get to it. There stood the Vigilant Adeptus himself, dirt and scrapes littered on his skin.

“Xiao?” You mumbled, stepping inside of your shared bedroom. “Where were you last night?” You asked, your voice lined with annoyance.

Xiao turned away and scoffed. He grit his teeth as he responded. “You mortals are far too sensitive for my liking.”

The mix of anxiety and anger in your stomach worsened at his tone. Xiao wasn’t normally like this- yes, he was mean and clueless at times, but this was completely out of the ordinary for him. Something bad must’ve happened, but both of you knew that it wasn’t alright for him to act like this. You clenched your fists as he looked at you. “What does it matter?”

“Xiao, I waited up for you. You could’ve at least told me that you weren’t going to show up.” You replied. The Yaksha was glaring daggers at you as you spoke. The pain in Xiao’s chest was worsening by the second, and the demons he had slain earlier today continued to plague his mind. Everything made him beyond irritated right now.

The look you gave him was almost as if you couldn’t recognize who he was. Your brows were furrowed, and the corners of your lips were turned downwards.

“If you’re having trouble with anything, come to me, Xiao.” You pleaded, gently placing a hand on his shoulder. Though you were disappointed, you only just wanted to see him more often, not fight with him. “Please, why are you avoiding me?”

“Avoid you?” He growled. He brushed your hand off of his shoulder, and looked at you, seemingly disgusted with you. You opened your mouth to say something, but stopped when you saw how he was looking at you. His expression made your eyes fill with tears. Cold, putrid dread spread through your heart.

“L-Listen, Xiao, I-“

“Of course I would avoid you. You’re annoying. Maybe if you weren’t so clingy then I would be more inclined to tolerate you.” He hissed.

Silence filled the room. You stared at the man in front of you, absolutely shocked. You held your arm up to your eyes to wipe the tears from them, sniffling softly as sobs threatened to escape your throat. Your other arm was clawing at your chest, the pain of nails on your skin grounding you.

“What is- what is wrong with you?!” You cried, desperately gasping for air, his words practically knocking the wind out of you.

Xiao stumbled backwards, horror morphing on his face as he realized what he had said. He didn’t mean it. He didn’t mean it- He didn’t mean any of it. In his mind, the only thing he was doing was begging you not to leave him. So, as expected of a person who has no experience with emotions, he did the worst thing that someone could possibly do in that situation.

Leave.

Xiao left, a strong gust of wind blowing through the room as he dissolved into thin air, leaving you to cry yourself to sleep. Out of shame and guilt, Xiao ran away from you. He ran until his legs gave out, and and stayed away from the Inn for as long as possible.

It had been two days since your fight with Xiao, and you hadn’t heard anything from him. You had no idea if he truly meant those words, and the look of terror on his face after he said that only confused you more. You were a mess, you had barely slept at all, and the anxiety constantly boiling in your stomach kept you from eating full meals.

Xiao had checked in on you in secret, watching as your own confusion and low self esteem eroded you from the inside out. He had vented to Verr Goldet about how bad he felt, and in return, she scolded him for running away, saying that he needed to go and apologize as soon as possible. He had sworn not to go near you again, but he couldn’t stand to see you like this any longer.

On the afternoon of the third day after your fight, you heard a knock on your door. You sat up, groaning as your head pulsed with dizziness. You opened the door, only to come face to face with Xiao. As you observed him, you noticed that he didn’t seem to be doing much better than you. Dark circles had formed under his eyes, matching the ones that had appeared under your own.

Xiao let out a breath and opened his mouth to speak.

‘Don't run away, you idiot.’ He grit his teeth as he remembered what Verr said to him. ‘Don't run away.’

But no matter how hard he tried, no words came out. So, out of impulse, Xiao reached forward and pulled you into a hug. He knew that it was selfish of him to do this, but he didn’t know what to say. No words could describe how much he hated that he hurt you. A part of him wanted you to push him away, to kick him out and never speak to him again, because he knew that he deserved it- but instead, you only hugged him back.

Soft cries rose from Xiao’s throat, as he held you close to his chest. Every apology he meant to utter that day escaped him now, and every plea for your forgiveness finally reached your ears.

“I’m sorry, (Y/n)… I’m so sorry.” He whimpered. You nuzzled your face into his neck and gently stroked his hair. You leaned back and kissed his forehead. The familiar scent of almond and Qingxin flowers drifted off of him, making you lean into his touch.

“I know- I… I know.” You whispered. “But never, ever, do anything like that to me again.” Xiao nodded and linked his pinky finger with yours, giving you a genuine, teary smile.

You reached up to wipe his tears before intertwining your fingers with his. Suddenly, Xiao dragged you into your room, a soft smile playing on his lips. The door shut behind you as you sat on the bed. You quirked your head in confusion. Soon enough, you were laying on Xiao’s chest, his arms wrapped around your waist.

Xiao promised to make it up to you, no matter how many times he had to try.

#self insert #genshin x reader #genshinimpact #reader insert #x reader #diluc x you #diluc x reader #diluc x y/n #childe x reader #ajax x reader #childe x you #childe x y/n #ajax x y/n #ajax x you #xiao x y/n #xiao x you #xiao x reader #adeptus xiao #tartagalia x reader

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suddencolds · 2 years

Text

Seasonal Affliction | Genshin Impact

ft. Childe with the kink, Diluc w/ allergies, and sparring. I said I’d write for 10 minutes, and then this fic took hold of me and held me hostage 😭

—

Sparring with Diluc is a welcome change of pace.

It’s a different fight—facing him, as compared to facing his Fatui recruits. Diluc is not the only one with a weapon heavier than Childe’s, though Childe’s hydro blades are sharper and more resilient than most people expect them to be, deceptively thin for their strength. Diluc, though, has all of the traits of a practiced fighter. Childe noticed it the first time they’d fought, because how could he not?

Diluc lifts his claymore as if it’s nothing, even though Childe knows—from the force of it against his own blades—how much it must weigh. His grasp on his vision, too, is impressive—and dangerous, flames high enough to set forests alight—though Childe can’t say he’s ever been dissuaded from playing with fire.

Spring this year hums warm on the breeze. The open field they’re standing in is, Childe thinks, the kind of field he’d like to take his younger siblings to picnic on; yellow and white flowers thread through the blades of grass, newly blooming. Liyue is a foreign sight as compared to Snezhnaya’s inhospitable mountains, its relentless ice and snow.

Childe is pleased whenever they fall into a rhythm. It’s indicative of a good fight—when he no longer has the luxury of calculating, when Diluc strikes so deftly that Childe’s entire focus is relegated to finding the quickest way to dodge. Sparring with Diluc has always been a test of his agility—Diluc is as good at leaving no openings as Childe is at forcing them.

It’s a few minutes into the fight when Diluc twists away suddenly.

His grip slackens on the claymore as he veers away, craning his head over his shoulder. He’s left himself completely open—unguarded, vulnerable—it’s a mistake Childe would gladly take advantage of, except.

Except.

Diluc isn’t usually this careless.

Childe opens his mouth to ask a question. Then—

Diluc’s head dips. His hair, tied out of his face, jumps at the motion. Childe looks up just in time to see his eyes squeezing shut.

“hiIh’nG-kT—-!”

It’s well-contained, barely vocal, but the way Diluc lets go of his claymore with one hand to lift a hand up to his face—

“Hiih… hih-NNG-T!” Childe feels heat settle in his stomach. Out of all of the things he expected, this certainly hasn’t made the list. “...Bless you!” He says, though he’s becoming suddenly, terribly aware of how dry his throat is suddenly. He can only hope his voice doesn’t give him away.

Diluc sniffles. There’s a slight crease to his eyebrows, now—whatever’s bothering him must not have been dealt with completely, Childe realizes. Which means…

Suddenly, sparring with Diluc is the last thing on his mind.

Diluc straightens, lowers his hand from his face. “...Thadk you,” he says haltingly, as if it pains him to say it. As if he hadn’t wanted Childe to acknowledge him at all. Unlucky for him, Childe doesn’t think he’s paid so much attention to something in his life.

“I don’t think I’ve ever heard you sneeze,” he says conversationally, resummoning his hydro blades as Diluc picks up his claymore. Is Diluc not feeling well? It isn’t Childe’s style to go easy on anyone—not even his newest recruits—but if Diluc is ill…

“It won’t happen again,” Diluc says dismissively, lunging forward for the first hit.

They fall into the spar again quickly enough. But it’s only a few minutes later when Childe sees Diluc’s expression go hazy. There’s thin sheen of water that’s gathered in his eyes, and he keeps ducking away to rub his nose against his shoulder, though he always does it just quickly enough that it doesn’t seem particularly gentle, and his nose is starting, minute after minute, to evidence just how much care Diluc has been wiping it with.

It’s… well.

Distracting, to say the least.

They’re both breathing hard, but Diluc’s gasps when he gears up to sneeze are different—breathier, more erratic, breaking the line of his shoulders. So it’s no surprise when his eyes squeeze shut again, in preparation for—

Childe knows he shouldn’t.

But this time, he presses forward with his blades. Diluc counters easily with his claymore, even distracted, which is to be expected. But if Diluc is preoccupied, Childe knows—a bit guiltily—that he won’t have his hands free to silence the upcoming—

“hiiih’ISHH-uhH-!!”

The sneeze—unstifled, desperate—jerks Diluc forward. He doesn’t drop his claymore, but it’s a close thing.

Childe doesn’t know why he’d thought that pushing his limits just once would be enough to satisfy him. It isn’t. When Diluc emerges, teary-eyed, his nose red, Childe feels the heat in his stomach sharpen a notch.

“Bless you, firefly,” he says again. It’s only a sheer product of luck that his voice doesn’t crack down the sentence. He retracts his hydro blades. “Are you not feeling well?”

Diluc shakes his head. “...I’m fide. This is mberely…” Diluc looks away, lowering his claymore only a fraction. “...a seasonal affliction.” that admission is quiet, as if it pains him to admit it.

Allergies, then. Childe looks around. “To what?”

But Diluc doesn’t answer. When Childe looks over again, he’s met with the sight of—

Diluc, his face turned up towards the sunlight, his eyes brimming with allergic tears. “hAhh…”

Archons above. Childe is glad Diluc is too distracted to look at him right now. Diluc sniffles, reaches up to rub his nose again, though it doesn’t seem like that does anything to help.

“hhHah…”

“Bless you,” Childe says, early. But Diluc merely shakes his head, his eyebrows furrowing harder, his eyelashes fluttering. Childe doesn’t think he’s ever seen a more gorgeous sight.

“hAHh…” Diluc’s shoulders raise. He slams a hand over his mouth. “hh-HAHH’IKKTsh—uhh!”

Childe shudders.

It’s more forceful than the last, the sound of it distinctly wet, perhaps louder than Diluc intends it to be. Diluc sniffles, ducking into his shoulder for— “hiiH’IiiiZCH-hHu—uh-!!”

Childe should bless him again, he knows. He should say something. But it’s all he can do to stand, frozen, and stare, as Diluc fishes through his pockets for a handkerchief he hasn’t brought, then—begrudgingly, his cheeks flushing—wipes his nose on the back of his gloves.

“Today is not your day,” Childe says, when he finally finds it in him to speak again. “...is it?” He neglects to mention what every second of Diluc’s misery translates to in his experience.

Diluc doesn’t meet his eyes. “You’re disgusted,” he says.

Childe is so startled he lets out a sudden laugh. Is that really what he thinks? “Not at all, firefly. On the contrary, I find it quite—”

Endearing, he means to say, but Diluc interrupts him with a sudden, “hIIH’ISH-h-Uu!”

It’s pitched higher than his normal speaking voice, slightly breathy on the end of it. Childe stares, suppressing another well-hidden shiver. Endearing certainly doesn’t cover it.

“...Ah,” Diluc says. His expression takes on an entirely different edge as he looks Childe over. Childe doesn’t know what he sees, but the embarrassed, self-conscious slight-frown vanishes. “You… snf-!... edjoy this.”

#snz fic #snzfic #snz kink #sneeze kink #sneeze fic #snz #gen/sh/in imp/ac/t #thanks to the group chat for manifesting this

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outivv · 3 years

Text

Synopsis: y/n is a master of the sword, but believes Diluc/kaeya/childe/zhongli is using them as a tool.

Warnings: spoilers for liyue story quest, and swearing in kaeyas part, also mentions of injuries in kaeyas part

Game/ fandom: genshin impact

Characters: Diluc, zhongli, kaeya, and childe

Tag: thank you @drippyfrog for requesting!

Pronouns for reader: gender neutral/ not mentioned

Note: I left it blank when it mentions what kind of vision you have in zhongli’s part so you get to choose :D

A/n: hello, and thank you for requesting! I tried my best to make this slightly angsty, but a bit more comforting at the end, it was a tough request but I had a lot of fun writing it! I hope you enjoy and have a good day/afternoon/ night! <3

— zhongli —

Zhongli has been with you for a while, and has never shown any signs at being powerful in a fighting sense. Unbeknownst to you though, that was completely untrue. Zhongli was a god, why would he need the protection of a human? You still couldn’t shake the inkling feeling that he was using you.

This was brought up when you were attacked by hilichurls. Zhongli was just standing by as you fought them off using your ___ vision and sword. Though he only did that because he didn’t get a chance to step in, for you dealt with them so quickly that they were gone in a flash.

You felt your anger rising to the surface as you turned around to see zhongli standing there, he thanked you and commented on your excellent swordsmanship.

“Zhongli. Can I ask you a serious question?” You said, your eyes shooting daggers at the man. “Are you using me?” Your words shocked the former archon. He laughed a little and said “y/n? Whatever do you mean?”

“You stood by and did nothing as I protected you. And This wasn’t the first time you’ve done this.” You said growing more frustrated. Ah. This is what you were mad about. Zhongli wasn’t sure how to react. He hasn’t told you about how he’s morax yet... and he didn’t plan on doing that for a while. But maybe it was time to come clean. He placed a hand on your lower back guiding you away from liyue to tell you everything.

— childe —

It was no secret that childe was strong when it came to fighting. He maybe wasn’t skilled with a sword, but he knew how to fight especially well. Since being with childe you’ve been tasked with doing jobs for the fatui, and you could help but feel like he was using you.

You sat on top of a hill in liyue, your final night there before being sent off to another mission with the harbinger. You couldn’t rid of the creeping feeling that childe was using you. Leaned away from him and said, “Childe, are you using me?” Childe was shocked by your bluntness, and laughed for a second. He wasn’t sure how to respond to that.

“Aha... where is this coming from?” You asked the worry and shock clear on his face. “I just... ever since we started dating I’ve been doing jobs for the fatui. I wasn’t associated with them before so why now. Why do they want me now that I’m with you.” You said looking off upon liyue.

Childe placed a hand on your shoulder and said, “I would never use you. You’re important to me, and I wouldn’t manipulate you like that. Alright?” Sometimes childe knew exactly what to say to desire you. He knows the fatui aren’t great, but he stays working for them. He wishes you didn’t have to as well.

— kaeya —

Kaeya never really thought about having some sort of protection. He’s jumped into dangerous situations without a second thought many times before, protection was always an afterthought.

You typically had to help him in those situations, helping him barely get out with his life. Helping his troops get out alive as well. You felt like he was using you to he reckless, and go off and do whatever he wanted.

After one particular incident with a ruin grader, you finally snapped. “What the hell was that?! You could’ve gotten everyone killed!” You said storming over to him after helping a member of the troop you had with you. “Yes but we didn’t! And it was all thanks to your excellent skills love!” He said walking over to you, a smile that was a cause of pure adrenaline running through his veins was plastered on his face.

When he got close to you, you shoved him away saying, “you dipshit we barely made it out alive! That was reckless and idiotic, and you know it.” Now he was shocked. He immediately turned worried and a bit concerned, but tried to play it off saying, “I know I know, but you did marvelous helping us out back there.”

Now you were pissed. “Kaeya are you using me. Are you using me so I’ll save your ass every time you want to go and do something reckless?” You said the fire, and harshness in your voice was clear. The whole troop around you went silent. Wanting the situation unfold. Many of them were glaring at kaeya, while others were looking at him apologetically.

Kaeya sighed and said, “no, I’m not using you, I’m sorry. I didn’t think it would be that bad.” He words seemed to mean nothing though as you said, “sorry? Sorry?! Damn right you are! Archons...” you sighed “we need to get the injured back to mondstadt. We should make haste back before their wounds become worse.” His apology seemed fake, his words seemed to hold no meaning as you helped some of the injured up, and back to mondstadt. Was he using you? It was a thought that plagued his mind the whole way back.

— Diluc —

(I kinda left this one on a weird not so I apologize about that 🥲)

It was known that all over mondstadt that Diluc was an excellent fighter. He was the youngest ever cavalry captain in the knights of favonius, so sure my he had to have some sort of skill. Though he seemed to be issuing you for his darknight hero work.

Another night of fighting abyss mages made you realize what he might’ve been doing, so you spoke up saying, “Diluc... are you using me to protect mondstadt...” you were still panting from the previous fight. Your words caught Diluc off guard, as he turned around to look you in the eyes. “What? Whatever would make you think that...?” He said confused.

“You make me help you with darknight hero work almost every night. It just feels like you’re using me...” you said sadly. How long have you been feeling this way? He wasn’t going to force you to help him if you didn’t want to... he appreciates everything you do for him but he’s not going to force you to do anything.

“I... I apologize if that’s how I come off. I do appreciate everything that you do, and I would hope that you’d continue to help me but you don’t have to I suppose.” He said feeling ashamed. He didn’t know he made you feel like this, so he was genuinely apologetic. “It’s alright Diluc... I appreciate the apology.” You said and slightly smiled. Your smile desired him, and made him feel a bit better.

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ikaroux · 3 years

Text

Diluc: Love at first sight (part 1)(EN)

f!reader

I'm trying an English version, even though it's not my native language! Sorry in advance for the mistakes :,D

Masterlist

Part 2

It was almost 7pm, the rain was in full swing on this spring evening and the wind was freezing. The streets of Mondstadt were empty because of the bad weather. It was a quiet evening at the Angel's Share Tavern, Diluc, who was at the counter to replace his bartender, Charles, was taking advantage of this moment of respite to take care of the business' finances. The sound of an approaching storm echoed through the room, startling the few tipsy patrons in the tavern. Diluc glanced out the window in annoyance, tonight the "Dark night hero" would probably not have much to eat.

"This nickname is so ridiculous...", thought Diluc. The people of Mondstadt felt the need to put a name to this masked character, who braved danger to protect the people of the town. Diluc sighed, looking again at the bills scattered on the counter, a few more hours and he would close the tavern. A few more hours and he would do what the Knights of Favonius were incapable of doing: protect the people of Mondstadt.

You were a traveller from the snowy lands of Snezhnaya. Life there had hardened you. You learned to fight with a spear at an early age and received an Electro vision from your nation. You wanted to see the world, its riches, its beauty. You wanted above all to visit the nation of freedom. It was known to be green and full of life, poets and artists praised its beauty. Its inhabitants were like their archon, Barbatos, free and limitless. Mondstadt was the exact opposite of your homeland, which was as cold on the inside as the snow that fell there.

Well, except for today... By the seven, you had to arrive in Mondstadt on a violent stormy day! The wind was freezing and the rain did not help, you had to find a place to stay as soon as possible or you would end up freezing.

"Damn! I can't see anything in this rain." The wind blew harder, as if in response to your annoyance. With your arm in front of your eyes to avoid being lashed by the rain, you didn't notice the mud puddle on the path. You were certainly an excellent fighter and a fine strategist, but by the archons, how clumsy you were. The landscape quickly tilted back and forth before you hit the ground, splattered with mud. Exasperated, exhausted, dirty and now with a sore back, you hit the ground screaming. After spitting out your hatred, you took the time to breathe before getting up. You looked around, not far from you was a statue of the seven Barbatos representatives in the middle of a lake.

According to your map (or at least what was left of it) you were at Lake Tombétoile, a few more hours of walking and you would soon be in the city.

"Well, we still have to go through the Whispering Wood, maybe I'll find some shelter from the storm in the meantime..." The sky rumbled overhead as you studied the soaked piece of paper. You didn't notice the electro-laden area forming right between you and the apple tree beside you.

Diluc was running along the path in the Whispering Wood, claymore in hand. He was chasing a mage of the abyss who was fleeing towards Lake Tombétoile, eliminating along the way any threatening creatures who had the misfortune to cross his path. The mage seemed to be amused by him, blowing a laugh near his ear before teleporting a few meters away. The creature's behaviour was unusual and it annoyed him even more. Diluc came to an abrupt halt, using his dominant leg to slow his run. His claymore over his shoulder, flames covering it completely, he violently lowered his weapon in front of him, throwing a phoenix of flame at his opponent. The abyssal mage was caught in the flames, screaming in pain before disappearing in a black cloud. Diluc caught his breath, looking around at the flames swallowing the vegetation. He quickly relaxed when he saw that the rain washed away all traces of the fire.

Running his hand through his hair, washing away the few drops of rain that poured down his face, he made his sword disappear from his hand. His ember gaze lingered on the exit of the path leading to the lake, a sigh escaped him, he was exhausted. He closed his eyes for a moment and lifted his face to the storm-blackened sky, the rain slipping off the mask he wore so as not to be recognized. He slowly opened his eyes, it was time for him to return to Dawn Winery.

Just as he took a step to return home, a cry from the lake rang in his ears, the voice sounded like it belonged to a human, a woman to be precise. He turned back, running at full speed towards the source of the scream. As he emerged from the woods, he could see a young woman with hair (colour) in the distance, dressed in a mud-stained travelling outfit, a hood covering her head, she seemed to be recovering from a recent fall. She was taking out of her bag a soaked piece of paper, probably a map. Diluc quickly concluded that you weren't from here. He wasn't sure what to do, should he leave you to fend for yourself?

Should he take off his mask and offer you help? The rain was in full swing and you seemed to be on the verge of exhaustion. Diluc waited a while, hiding behind a tree and some bushes, watching you. Were you an enemy, a thief or a fatui? Or were you just a traveller? He didn't have time to wonder further when he noticed the electro area beside you, indicating that a bolt of lightning would soon strike the ground, probably killing you instantly.

He ran at full speed in your direction.

Look out! He lunged at you, grabbing you in his arms, pulling you away from the impact of the lightning. You screamed in surprise and fear, your eyes closing rapidly.

You were both lying on the soaked grass, Diluc on top of you. He leaned quickly on his forearms to check that you were not hurt. No sound came out of his mouth, he was standing over you, staring at you with wide eyes behind his mask, his cheeks turning a slight shade of red. He thought your eyes (colour) were beautiful... More than that, he thought you were so beautiful that he was at a loss for words, his heart was beating so hard in his chest that he felt like it was going to burst out of his rib cage.

You looked into each other's eyes, silent, your hand trembling slightly from shock and cold, slowly reached up to caress first his ebony mask, then his warm cheeks and finally your hand lingered in his crimson hair pulled up into a ponytail. He obediently let himself be touched, hypnotised by your movements. You thought he was beautiful, even with that mask hiding part of his face.

"Thank you." A smile lit up your face. His cheeks took on a darker hue.

It took him a few moments to remember that he was lying on top of you, and he quickly stood up, holding out his hand to help you up.

"You're not hurt?"

"No, thanks to you."

"Good... I-I'll leave you then" He quickly turned back around.

Diluc thought he was a fool, you were clearly lost and some part of him didn't want to leave you alone.

"No wait!"

You had grabbed his hand before he left. Diluc turned his blazing gaze towards you. You had a desperate expression. You were exhausted, frozen, but next to him you were warm, terribly warm.

You didn't want him to go.

He wouldn't leave you alone.

He squeezed your hand in return. He walked on slowly, dragging you along with him, slowly, at your own pace. You were behind him, a warm smile on your lips. From time to time Diluc would glance over to check on you. He liked to see your gentle smile, which made him feel warm and peaceful, feelings he hadn't felt since his father died. He unconsciously clasped your hand in his, protectively. What was he doing? He didn't know you, he didn't even know your name, and yet everything inside him was screaming at him to never let go of that tiny hand in his... He shouldn't get attached, not with the life he was leading... Yet he couldn't deny this feeling inside him. He had literally fallen in love with you at first sight.

#genshin impact diluc #genshin impact x reader #genshin impact #genshin imagines #diluc x you #diluc x reader #diluc fluff #genshin diluc x reader #diluc ragnvindr #diluc #diluc ragnivindr x reader #genshin fluff #genshin fanfic

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dannystheone · 2 years

Note

Hi hi are you taking hc requests? If you are can we pleease have lee and ler diluc?

Hi hi hi thank you for your question!

This is super cute I love Diluc I used to main him lol

Ler Diluc -

Typical Dad tickles, of course, a big teddy bear making the littler ones smile and squeal out. Not even the smaller ones sometimes, just anyone in real need of a pick-me-up. Best in-game father figure B)

His tickling style is very predictable when they're pick-me-up tickles, his hands are always visible and usually, just light pokes and scribbles. Maybe some light humming and "Oh, right here? Interesting." Very cute and light-hearted to draw some out smiles.

When he's feeling vengeful though (coughcoughkaeyarevengecough) he can be particularly ruthless. He'll claw and target your worst spots, and he's good at finding them too. (Interrogation Diluc when he set that Ice Mage on fire lives in my brain to this day) He knows exactly what methods and techniques to use against you, even if he's never tickled you before. You DON'T want to see that particular side of the DarkKnight Hero.

Lee Diluc -

If I could see anyone from the game be tickled, like a thorough session, Diluc would be one of them. Ugh imagine breaking him down from his tough exterior into a giggly twitching puddle UUUGH

Anyway yes you know the drill if you're a follower of me HOT MEN ALWAYS HAVE TICKLISH HIPS it's a cardinal rule I don't make them I just follow them.

And Diluc is no exception, his hips are so ticklish they're practically warm to the touch with their nerve endings. Diluc is one of those people where if they are tickled they can feel everything but they can keep it inside extremely well. No tells or anything. But if you catch him off-guard in a super good spot, then suddenly he's ticklish all over his body, even in places that weren't ticklish before.

He's not much of a fighter, tickles paralyze him and he hates it. That's why he avoids getting tickles as much as he can because he knows that he can't do much to stop it AND he needs a lot of recovery time afterward. Not to mention his laugh is so light and bubbly for someone with such a dark exterior. What a horrible blow to his reputation this would be if it were to get out~

Also if you could see that I adore the trope where characters have the exact opposite ticklish personality than their regular personality, no you didn't <3

I hope you like this! :)

#lee diluc #ler diluc #genshin impact #genshin impact tickles #ask danny

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synchodai · 3 years

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Monstadt Drabbles

- Venti has seen what happens when Mondstadt aristocracy goes unchecked. And so he keeps a close eye on Diluc, taking a marginal chunk from his business by drinking so much every night to prevent the rise of a tyrannical monopoly.

- Childe came to Mondstadt after hearing rumors that their greatest fighter can level mountains. When his skirmishers brought him a child at the Goth Grand Hotel, he just assumed it was a mistake. Alas, he spent the rest of the day trying to keep the building from catching on fire.

- Kaeya set up Donna and Diluc on an evening date, partially as a favor to Donna and partially because he was trying to get Diluc to reveal his secret identity as the Dark Knight Hero.

- Albedo is permanently exiled to Dragonspine because he encourages Klee to blow stuff up for "research".

- Fischl and Bennett regularly take commissions together. Fischl believes it's her duty to look after this unfortunate peasant and Bennett is one of the view adventurers who hasn't grown tired of Fischl's monologues. In fact, he is absolutely enthralled by her tales of her far-off homeland.

- Razor always avoided the city, but he managed to make friends with the outrider knight who frequently scouted Wolvendom. One day, he asks Amber if she could accompany him for his first time in the city. She was more than excited to show him around Mondstadt but was a little surprised how the first place he wanted to visit was the library.

#Genshin Impact #Drabbles #Mondstadt #venti #diluc #kaeya #childe #klee #razor #bennett #fischl #amber #albedo

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wannaholdhandswithfictionalmen · 4 years

Text

(My) Sanctuary;

A/n: First Ever Fic for Genshin Impact Fandom. A fic no one asked for but the idea was living in my head rent free, so what's a girl to do except play more Genshin Impact and work on this fic. (Listened to Sanctuary & Don't think twice by Hikaru Utada while writing this -- hence my inspired and very unoriginal title for this fic because I am horrible at thinking of titles.)

Genre: Mostly Fluff really, a pinch or two of Angst.

Warning: Implied underage drinking. Brief description of Violence. Of age drinking.

Summary: Childhood friends with history. Unspoken feelings. Mutual pining. Circumstances and life have forced you and Diluc on different paths, but you always return to Mondstadt and Diluc always makes time for you.

Word count: 3,128

The busy streets of Mondstadt. How long had it been this time? The absence of your presence from these cobblestone paths; four, five? No. Six months. Commissions to fight greater, fierce foes across Teyvat demanded your blades and lightning. Not that it mattered much how far or long you ventured from your former home. There was only one person who meant a great deal, important even if you could not sort through all the emotions attached to him in your own heart or even dare to give voice to those emotions.

Diluc Ragnvindr.

And despite the inner twisted, festering turmoil (of your own making) cradled in your heart for Mondstadt, Favonius Knights, The Fatui 'diplomats'. Diluc was always a reason to return.

In fact you aren't at all surprised when you stop by Good Hunter, offering up a handful of Mora for a meal. Sitting down at a table, closing your eyes. You took in a deep breath, the air here felt different to you. Thanks to the Anemo god, Barbatos. You swear it truly is the sense, embodiment of freedom that fills your lungs and soothes you even if for a few seconds.

A savory blend of mushrooms, chicken and noodles is your lunch for the day. After thirty minutes have passed since your arrival in Mondstadt. And Diluc is sliding into the chair across from your own, elbows on the table, arms folded. Crimson eyes silently taking in the features of you.

"Hm. You're slacking. That's ten minutes later than before, what took your little informants so long to whisper in your ear word of me being back?" You don't even spare a look at him, taking another bite, chewing a mouthful as you wait for his reply.

"I do have a winery to run and the protection of Mondstadt to ensure, I can't not always come rushing away for personal affairs." Diluc holds a evident edge of underlying frustration in his smooth voice.

Your own gaze trails up and over him, taking in the exasperation and exhaustion that furrows the brow of his otherwise stoic expression-- you want to ask when he last got a full night's rest? If he was still doing his lone warrior, Darknight Hero routine? If he was as stubborn as ever shouldering the burden of his fervor desire to defend and protect. Oh, how you worry, worry and worry the weight of it all on your tongue, tightening your throat-- who takes care of you? Who stands by your side? Who defends you? Who protects you? Who lov-

Once upon a time it had been you but a vortex of mourning, sorrow, rage swallowed up your old life. Until you wanted nothing more than to never see the walls of Mondstadt ever again. One day leaving it all behind. Time was a cruel mistress, one day swiftly grew to years. The first time you returned from what would become regular disappearances--adventures.

Damage had been done. Diluc was the one who reached out to savage your friendship and you had welcomed the chance to have him back in your life even if it would never be anything more.

"Should I be honored that the gentleman Ragnvindr can even grace me with his company?" It's a hollow jest as you pick at your half eaten plate of food.

"No," His dismissal of the notion is soft yet firm. "Just Diluc, a friend, who is glad to see you well again." It's never his straight-forward or blunt nature that catches you off guard, it's when the subtle but clear sincerity creeps to the surface. Open, unwavering in his honesty.

You huff, looking down feigning disinterest yet the twitch of your lips is undeniable. Warmth, simple, gentle curls in your chest. Happiness. Flickering embers outside of the stone walls of your heart that would make Rex Lapis proud. Diluc had always been able to slip past your defenses, so easily lingering in your thoughts, in your heart. Whether he was aware of it or not.

"I suppose I am glad to see you too. Saved me a few bottles of my favorite wine?" You ask glancing up to catch his watchful gaze, biting your bottom lip as a wide smile threatened to spread on your face. Dulic's sudden raised eyebrow says it all-- do you really need to ask?

"Four pristine bottles of aged mixed sunsettia, valberry wine." Prideful is subtle and delicate in his voice as if Diluc would ever forget your favorite wine. Funny enough to think about how even as the unspoken king of the winery industry, he doesn't enjoy alcohol himself. Still keeping a stock of your favorite in his manor.

"You never let me pay you and we can't really share a few glasses together, so," you hum, slowly wired up with nervous yet excited anticipation as you reach down into the bag hanging off your shoulder. Shifting through the items and materials you carried with you for cooking and crafting you find it! Grabbing a slender jug of a bottle, wrapped in cloth. Swiftly placed on the table in front of Diluc. "I brought something for you."

It's not like grape juice is such a hard find or something Diluc could not afford himself with his abundance of wealth but you had commissioned a famous brewer to make a special blend of grapes and other berries to create a rich and sweet juice. With your own Mora to spare after a few jobs, and you had a feeling your wandering would lead back to Mondstadt.

Diluc is steady, slow with peeling back the cloth to stare at the deep, dark purple liquid filling the glass bottle. Uncorking the bottle, Diluc takes a whiff, closing his eyes, the smile that graces his face. It's everything and so much more. "It smells delicious. Thank you, I can't wait to taste it."

"Then we should begin our walk to the manor? I can hear my wine calling me." You leave a few Mora coins as a tip, standing up, Diluc presses the cork back into the bottle and hands it back to you for safe keeping.

"Alright," Diluc nods, following, matching your stride with ease. "Adelinde was asking about you the other day, you know she always makes sure your room is tidy, spotless in fact."

Stupid. How one little phrase has your stomach full of crystal flies like you are a teenager all over again. And the mention of the kind maid who still fusses over Diluc and you on occasion makes you happy. It is a nice reprieve from nights of solitude, you are content to travel alone but loneliness is a creature that waits, and waits until the right moment to sink its claws and fangs into you on the road.

The walk from Mondstadt isn't far but you aren't expecting a fully pleasant and peaceful walk with Diluc. Outside of the gates of the city and a few minutes down the dirt road, the sight of Hilichurls is predictable.

Small pack of fighters, five Hilichurls carrying clubs and one hulking Mitachurl with a shield. This should be fun.

"Make sure to show me how playing the part of the nighttime hero has kept your skills sharp!" You yell with a laugh, grinning as you summon your sword, forged of dragon bone, jagged, fierce blade. Rushing forward you dodge past the throw Pyro slimes.

You let yourself run a little wild, your Electro vision surge through you, bolts of lightning crash down on the charging Hilichurls. Shocking and stunning the monsters for a moment, that's all you need to unleash a flurry of fast slashes.

A loud, enraged howl, crashing stomps approach from your back. Anyone else would need to worry or doubt--you don't. The familiar roar and rumble of flames fills the air, the scorning heat of it nipping behind you. Diluc doesn't even let that Mitcahurl so much as graze you, his grunts and shouts clash with its growl and howls as his flame imbued blade breaks and burns through the beast's wooden shield. Leaving ashes flying in the air and the heavy smell of smoke and fire.

You electrify the Hilichurls, slowing, paralyzing the small beasts until they are left vulnerable and weak against you. The perfect targets. You cleave one's head off, stab straight through the mask of another, impale the chest of another. Delivering killing blows with precision and force. Wiping them out, you turn in time to see the beauty of Diluc.

Rapid, graceful, relentless, ferocity embraced in unyielding flames. The towering giant Hilichurl is left staggering, stumbling under the strikes of Diluc's claymore left all too unprotected without its shield to hide behind. Diluc turns up the heat quite literally, the soaring, blazing phoenix that emerged from his own vision and will, his flames destroy the Mitcahurl, wiping out its pitiful existence effortlessly.

Diluc shakes a bit of lingering flames and smoke off the steel of his blade with a sweeping slash at the air, standing among darkened, black grass, a gust of wind sways his hair and he looks over his shoulder. It is surely a moment deserving of immortalizing in portrait, his bright red hair blowing in the wind, holding his greatsword in one hand, sunlight giving him an ethereal glow, gazing at you.

Giving a slow applause, you whistle and laugh. "Flashy as ever, Diluc."

"The pyro element leaves little room for anything else. Still it's efficient and powerful," Diluc turns to face you, letting go of the hilt of his sword as it vanishes, unneeded outside of battle. "However, it's not something you could critique me on, when anyone for miles could see your lightning."

"Fair enough."

Besides a few stray slimes, the rest of your walk is undisturbed, reaching the winery as nightfall, the sun dipping below the horizon.

"(Name) it is good to see you well." Adelinde smiles upon seeing you as Diluc opens the front door and holds it open for you to walk in first. She hugs you, it's hard not to melt into her tight cradle.

"Have you been eating well? Sleeping accordingly? Not just naps. Taking breaks in between all your monster hunting?" Her lovingly stern questions always feel comforting in a way that is odd to describe and felt deeply.

"I am still standing, Adelinde, fully rested and my stomach is full at the moment."

"You would do well to keep it as such." Adelinde levels you with a motherly look of if you do not take care of yourself, I will which should be hard to make look threatening but the older woman handles it with years of expertise. She has worried over guests, Diluc, Kaeya, you for many, many years in the pact and many to come you are certain.

"Adelinde, please have the bottles of sunsettia, valberry wine brought up, we-"

"One step ahead of you, Master Diluc. Hillie and Moco brought them up a short while ago, I hope you two enjoy your time together." Adelinde leaves the manor, you aren't sure what work needs to be done on the grounds, you know for a fact Adeline specifically tries to do outside chores during daylight hours. It's an obvious tell for someone who knows her, she is ensuring you and Diluc remain alone for now. An avid supporter of your friendship you suppose.

Diluc barely gets to call out a 'thank you!' as she is shutting the door.

You stroll across the room, not much has changed at all. Your destination is the furniture set by the fireplace, the small, round table paired with two cushioned chairs. Pulling out the bottle of juice to place on the table top next to the bottles of wine, to cups awaiting you both.

Pouring your first cup, you are eager, excited to taste the almost sickeningly sweet flavor of the wine. It never seems to taste the same from any other winery or brewery or even in the company of others.

Moments of comfortable quiet drift by as you slowly, steadily sip and savory the wine.

When Diluc takes the first taste of your gift and his low moan of approval as he swallows. Oh. You could listen to that again and again. All husky, raspy delight that sends shivers down your spine. It feels good to bring any kind of bliss to Diluc, even the simplest kind by providing him a drink he loves.

You get the mutual feeling of being watched as you drink, sighing and smiling at the taste, the feeling of nostalgia creeps up on you.

"I remember the first time I tasted this wine. We were barely teenagers sneaking down into the cellar. I badly wanted to try the wine everyone in Mondstadt wouldn't shut up about," you recall it interrupting yourself with short, full breaths of levity. Far too amused by the memory to contain your laughter. "I- I asked. No- begged you to come down with me while your father was gone, saying I'd bring Kaeya instead if you didn't come, bluffing and you got as red as a flaming flower, grabbed my hand and pulled me all the way to the cellar and downstairs."

Diluc huffs, crossing his arms over his chest, leaning back into the cushions of the sofa. "You knew how to push my buttons too well, half of the stuff I let you talk me into was completely foolish." Staring into the lit fire as he listened to you.

"Just half?"

"Fine. All of the escapades I let you drag me along on were absurd."

"Your welcome as I recall you had a lot of fun."

"At the risk of a lot of trouble, you tested the lengths of even my father's generous patience." Diluc shook his head, the fondness in expression was plain as day.

"Oh, remember the night after getting my gliding license, I dared you to join me on top of the cathedral to see which of us could get farther across the city, and you landed in a bush!" Several glasses of wine, one empty bottle of the tart and sweet berry alcohol and you felt even more relaxed, comfortable in the company of Diluc.

"I, at the very least, remained dry. You were the one who crash-landed right into the fountain." Diluc smirked, sharp, sly as he chuckled, lightly tugging and adjusting the fabric of his gloves. Idle gestures as his cup stays on the table after a few sips.

"I would rate my dive undoubtedly ten out of ten." By the Archons, it had been a miracle you both escaped from the knights of Favonius night patrol with the commotion you made, wet leather boots on stone top made you slip a few times in your dash to escape discovery. Diluc had kept a firm grip on your arm, tugging you back up and refusing to leave you behind.

Then you remember, hiding away, pressed chest to chest, the chill of your soaked clothes clinging to you, the rise and fall of heavy, labored breaths. How close Diluc had been, that smokey, fiery scent that having pyro vision gifted him along with faint aroma of fruit thanks to the orchard of the dawn winery, he worked with his father on occasion. If you had just tilted your head up, leaned in--

"I know Kaeya was always jealous. I could talk you into anything but you refused his antics left and right."

"It's different. I actually like you and spending time with you." Diluc's deadpan response pulls a ugly snort-laugh from you. His relationship with Kaeya is an odd one but you know deep down he cares for his brother even if things aren't exactly civil between them.

"I feel so special."

"As you should, I don't like people." His sarcasm, that is half-joke, half-truth keeps you laughing.

The first wave of tiredness hits you, letting out an involuntary yawn. Your travels, the trek and fight from earlier catch up with you. Combined with the consumption of alcohol.

"I think the wine is getting to me, I feel a little sleepy." You finish off your glass with one gulp, smooth like silk down your throat, the lack of burn makes it far too easy to want to empty all the bottles. Four. You'd certainly regret that in the morning.

"I noticed." Diluc gets up first, three steps towards you, he is holding out his hand to you.

"I can walk myself, I am not that drunk." You protest his offer while reaching out and taking his hand, entwining your fingers without a second thought. Diluc gives your hand a squeeze, his slender fingers lightly caressing the back of your hand. He guides you upstairs to your room as if you don't know the way by heart as if your room would ever change.

"You would never ask for help yourself and you did break a vase the last time, even the smallest bit of intoxication seems to make you clumsier." Diluc gives his clear and absolutely unfair opinion. It happened one time!

It is really not necessary either to open the door for you, letting go of your hand only to press the large, warm palm of his hand against your back. Nor does Diluc need to kneel before you as you sit on the edge of the bed, unfastening your boots, removing your satchel and placing your belongings on the bedside table.

"It is hilarious to hear you of all people, calling me out of not asking for help. Mister Darknight."

Dliuc 'tsks' at the mention of his beloved hero name. "I am aware, that can be a little hypocritical."

"A little?"

"(Name)," Diluc speaks your name so tenderly, softly, as if the word itself is precious. "I simply want to help you, to car-" He clears his throat cutting off that train of thought. Pausing for seconds of silence pass, crimson eyes staring into your own. "If there was anyone I would accept help from it would be you."

That is dangerously close to an admission of something else. And all every moment of the past, all the maybe(s), what-ifs, almost(s) flash through your mind. You could take the leap or let this become another memory to turn over and over in your head, wondering, wanting, yearning.

"Get some rest." Diluc walks over to the door, standing in the open threshold of the room, hand gripping the door knob.

"Diluc, wait" It's barely a whisper, so hushed and subdued. So low, he doesn't hear it and when Diluc looks over his shoulder, the short-lived courage in you has diminished and you can't bring yourself to voice all the longing, desire, love trapped in your heart.

"Goodnight, Diluc."

"Goodnight, (Name)."

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