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yetanotherschuylersister · 3 years

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destiny / aether, genshin impact / modern au, smau: chapter two - destiny

aether finds a website called teyvat in his sister's laptop, and got curious about a woman by the alias of destiny. little did he know, teyvat is an adult live streaming service. and destiny is the most popular cam girl.

relationship: younger man x older woman

note: everyone is of legal age in this fic. everyone is twenty one or older. reader is four years older than aether. she is also taller than aether. there is very little stories about aether so here is my contribution in honor of his character.

author's note: this is a getting-to-know chapter of aether. next is getting-to-know your character. this is my first time writing a smutty themed story so go easy on me. this is a long read so brace yourself. this is unedited.

taglist (open): @mirakeul @kyquu @volleybloop @inlustris-but-obey-me @yeetingthehellaway

(masterlist) (chapter three)

Aether haphazardly tossed his phone away from him, a heavy breath he had no lingering knowledge of suppressing in the duration of his taxing discussions with his friends leaving his lips. His finger pressed firmly against the power button of his mobile device to temporarily idle it with a black screen beside him, but he should have anticipated its fruitlessness – he should have known better than to believe the Kaeya and Venti would drop this conversation by his simple request. Through his periphery vision, he observed how his phone lit up as the two ceaselessly pestered and assailed their remarks and urging inquiries towards Albedo.

Aether was extremely grateful for the sacrifice of the Alchemist had made to draw their attention away from him, and made a mental note to pick up art materials (no matter how outrageously expensive they are) for him, or maybe even simply offering his services whenever he needed one, if his loyal lab partner would be found unavailable. The poor man - Archons know Albedo already has too much in his hand (and some would think someone as intelligent and diligent as him understood where his limits are), with his passion for art and alchemy combined, and having Kaeya and Venti badger him with something that disinterested - and repulsed - him was a sure way for him to short circuit.

Aether was impressed, however. Even with the distance with nothing but their phones to aid their daily communication, Albedo still has a knack for accurately detecting when he felt uncomfortable in a situation, and went out of his way, and pride, to spare him from the impending mortification that was more than likely to come as it included Kaeya and Venti in the equation.

He tried his damnedest to neglect the onslaught of messages the two bombarded in their group chat, continually under the topic he had long abandoned after his sister has sobered his misplaced curiosity - or, at least, he wanted to believe he was over it.

But even with his phone in silent, he cannot seem to tear his eyes and mind off it. He let out a small and aggravated scoff - as his last resort to achieve peace, Aether reached out for his phone and turned it off completely, and then proceeded to hurl it across the other end of the couch.

Aether sunk against the backrest of the couch, yet another sigh escaping from his lips as he closed his eyes. Teyvat - exactly why was Aether so curious about it? And how come everyone in his circle of relationships knows it, all except him? It was a bit of a shock to others when he confessed he had to clue as to what it was and never learned about its existence until recently, because apparently, it was all over social media so avoiding it is an impossible thing to do.

Even with the long, tiring and admittedly embarrassing conversation with Kaeya and Venti earlier, he had only managed to collect a minimal amount of information of what that website was, and just what exactly is the nature of the content it advocates.

All he needed is an answer, a proper and clear answer. Not a vague hint, which everyone seems to be fond of doing. It seemed to him every single person he knew who was familiar with Teyvat has conspired against him and made it their point to keep him at the dark, electing to jab at him and drop suggestive remarks to hint to him, and Aether can never distinguish whether they were being truthful with the meaning behind their small comments, or they were simply fooling him into thinking the mentioned platform held vulgar subjects. Aether can no longer count the times Kaeya and Venti, and at times even his sisters, the two had done that and got him in trouble (it looks like Albedo is the only person who he can completely trust).

“Why do they have to make things hard for me?” He murmured to himself as he surmised the exchange earlier. His eyebrows were wrought together as he pondered. “It’s not hard to say what it is.”

From what he has gathered so far, he can only come to a single inference – it was a website promoting adult motifs in a manner he cannot fully know. A porn site, it’s a porn site. With the way his companions in college share mirthful glances with one another as they conversed about Teyvat in a huddle and soft whispers, with how Kaeya and Venti talked about it with a mischievous glee, with how Albedo and Lumine discouraged him from even contemplating looking into it, his conclusion wasn’t completely egregious. In fact, it was the only plausible answer he can come up with.

Aether cannot help but wince in discomfort at the thought of Teyvat being that sort of website. If it was certainly shaped to accommodate those kinds of things, then his curiosity was all for naught and shame will surely catch up to him in no time.

Aether had never been interested in things of those sorts. Not once in his life has he laid eyes in any adult films (accidentally does not count). It felt wrong simply even thinking of others touching themselves or having sexual intercourse - it just did not sit right with him. Call him names if you want, but there is no way he way he was going to fall in the same rabbit holes as the others.

After all, his curiosity was already too much to handle. What more if he indulged in something he knew others are obsessed with?

He flushed a beautiful rosy pink at his own thoughts and, vigorously shook his head, his braid swaying along with his movements. What am I thinking?

He fluttered his eyes open. If Teyvat really is like that, then . . . - Began Aether - all this time, I’ve been trapping myself into watching . . . those things.

The color painting over his cheeks deepened at the realization. Aether let out a groan and buried his face in his hands, a muffled, “This is so embarrassing,” leaving his lips.

“Ah, I know that face - ” A feminine voice chimed from behind the couch, and looked up back up and turned only to see his twin sister standing behind him, eyes still laced with sleep and hair tousled. It looks like she had just woken up. She was still in her pajamas, and in her right hand was a cup of steaming hot coffee, and the other was holding her laptop to her hip. How he could not hear her tinkering in the kitchen, he had no idea. She eyed him blankly. “ - you’re thinking about that, aren’t you?”

Aether opened his mouth to protest, but ultimately, he clammed up, opting to pout at her instead. It was useless to refute her. She knew him well, as much as he knew her well.

Maybe it’s like a twin thing.

He deflated, cheeks puffing. “Maybe . . . ”

Lumine sighed in exasperation, shoulders drooping. “It would be much, much easier if you aren’t thinking about it all the time.” She chastised tiredly, yawning afterwards. “I knew you weren’t just going to let this go.”

“I can’t help it,” Aether protested as he watched his sister advance to the dining room and set her belongings on the table. “You know I have to know.”

“You and your curiosity . . . I swear, one day, being curious will kill you.” Lumine shook her head. She sat down on one of the chairs in the dining room, took a swig of her coffee, and looked at him pointedly. “Why didn’t you just look it up on the internet? That’s what someone would normally do.”

Aether raised his hand to the back of his neck, an awkward chuckle leaving his lips. “I guess I already had my suspicions about it in the first place.”

She raised an eyebrow. “And nobody told you anything about it?”

Aether was quick to retaliate to his twin. “You aren’t telling me anything either.”

“Trust me, Aether, it’s better that you don’t know anything.” Voiced Lumine, raising a finger in the air as she spoke. “You’ll be living a bliss.”

Aether moved his body off the couch for a moment and knelt down on the cushions. “That won’t work.” Whined Aether. He rested his chin and arms on the top of the backrest, giving his best puppy eyes to his sister. “Come on, Lumine, can’t you tell me a little something about it? Just a little. I have to know.”

“No, you don’t.”

“Yes, I do.”

Lumine played with the liquid inside her mug, eyes screaming with reluctance. Then, she exhaled through her nose and faced him again. “Okay, fine, I’ll tell you something about but only because I want you to stop talking about it.” She sternly stated, and Aether nodded, lifting his chin from the backrest as he eagerly waited for her to continue. “Promise me you’re going to shut up about it after.”

Aether rolled his eyes at her request but still, he straightened his spine as he continued kneeling on the couch and placed his hand over his heart. “I promise.”

“I mean it, Aether. I don’t want to talk about this anymore.”

Aether, then raised his hand to his side, as an obedient boy scout would do. “I promise in the name of the Archons.” He swore and stuck his tongue to her right after.

She returned his action just as childishly, before setting her mug down and starting. “I can’t . . . ” She hesitated, eyes turning sideways. “ . . . exactly call Teyvat that kind of site.” She paused, as though she was trying to choose her next words carefully. “I’m not entirely sure if it can be called that, to be honest. But I suppose there’s no other way to call it.”

Rather than being enlightened by her explanation, Aether can feel the cogs in his mind stutter as perplexity encapsulated him It expanded from his chest to his visage. He frowned deeply, pondering to himself. “So, it’s a porn site – ” Aether saw Lumine recoil at what he had said, to which he silently vowed not to say anymore with her around. “ – which isn’t really like one?”

She opened her mouth as if she was going to say more, but she held her tongue. “T-That’s all I can about Teyvat. Now, drop it.” Lumine averted her gaze from him, a tiny and disapproving frown upon her features. Maybe a hint of shame, as well. Aether was a little quizzical as to why she should have the need to be ashamed. “I don’t like talking about stuff like these, especially with my brother. It’s just - it’s very weird.”

Aether can tell Lumine was uneasy with their discussion. She was avoiding eye contact, and her lips were pursed. He wanted to honor her wishes and just cut the conversation here, but his curiosity got the better of him.

“Okay, I know you don’t want to talk about Teyvat anymore,” Lumine looked up at the ceiling once again, face scrunched with disfavor. Still, he ignored her and continued. “But this means Teyvat isn’t all that bad, right?”

“It sounds to me whatever I say, you’re not going to listen to me.” Uttered Lumine, giving him a reprimanding glare. “I’m not saying that it’s not bad. It’s just that – it’s hard to explain – ” She stuttered, before she relented to a sigh. “- you know what?” She turned away from Aether in a swift motion, her short blonde tresses billowing with her movement. “I’m done with this conversation. If you want to look up Teyvat, it’s up to you. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.” She dragged her laptop from across her to a more accessible proximity. “Now, if you will excuse me, I have work to do - and hopefully, in peace.”

Aether significantly deflated at her words. He wanted to ask her a little more, but he did not want to risk awakening the monstrous anger of his twin (plus, she’s the one who’s going to cook dinner, and he’s not going to risk eating purposely overcooked food). And the last thing he wanted was to make his sister uncomfortable by prolonging their conversation, so he just sighed and propped himself back to his former position on the couch.

Aether let a hum thrum against his throat as he contemplated over what Lumine had said. “I don’t get what she said.” He murmured to himself, lips pursing and eyes closing.

She has confirmed that Teyvat, in some degree at least, is a kind of website he would be better off not looking into but her hesitance has made him throw all his resolve out of the window, and his curiosity has been fanned to an uncontrollable flame.

His parents and teachers have always commended his curiosity and the urge to learn new things, telling him that someday he shall acquire a position that could lead to ground breaking discovery that will help human race in some sort of grave and continual peril (and of course his dumbass five year old self believed that lie and thus successfully pushing him to strive in his studies), and they have encouraged him to nurture it as he grew, and go wherever his curiosity led him. If only they knew where his curiosity has brought him now. What used to be so admirable has become his undoing.

Why exactly was Lumine so reluctant to refer to Teyvat as a site containing indecent content? Why does his associates in college, Kaeya, Venti, and hell, even Albedo, make it believably sound like it was? Is he missing something? Were they messing with him?

Lumine is right – Aether thought as he brought his knees to his chest and crossed his arms – My curiosity will kill me someday.

Aether has chosen to obey his sister and has done everything in his power not to dwell in his thoughts, and constantly sought company, even if it meant just feeling a presence (Lumine) near him, to deter him from thinking about Teyvat and the mysteries shrouded in it. He accomplished all his assigned works and submitted them to his professors, he finished his share of house chores under a full hour - and he must admit, he was tempted to do Lumine’s as well - and just about everything he can do inside the household, he had finished. Which inevitably led him with too much time in his hands, too much opportunities for him to muse to himself.

Aether knew this would be a challenge. There is nothing a person can do other than simmer in their own thoughts and ideas when left with spare time. But he brushed this off - after all, his self restraint was something he prided himself of. How is suppressing himself of his curiosity can be any different?

But goddammit, has he severely overestimated his capabilities.

Resisting quelling his curiosity was a rather exhausting and arduous endeavor. The inkling thought of Teyvat always lingered at the back of his mind, preparing to pounce on him once he was left to his own devices or when his guard is down. It was just there, waiting, and waiting.

Of course, the thought of opening his phone and having a chat with his friends has crossed his mind (multiple times) and many times did he find himself reaching out for his mobile still lying forsaken on the couch whenever he crossed the living room, but recalling Kaeya and Venti and their persistence, he ultimately, and reluctantly, left it alone. He was sure they will stop at nothing to remind him of Teyvat (he wondered how Albedo was faring and if the two has ceased with their harrying).

Aether let out a soft huff as he allowed his build to flop on his bed, chest meeting the mattress and it squeaked at the sudden change of weight it carried. He grabbed the pillow closest to him and buried his nose on it. “Why is it so hard not to think about something?” He asked himself, words smothered by the pillow. The more he resisted, the more he wanted to think about it. This curiosity of his is both a blessing and a curse.

Is this his own cruel way of torturing himself? Why must humans have the tendency to want what they must not?

Aether lifted his face from the pillow and sat his chin upon it instead, eyes lidded. He grumbled to himself, “I blame them for this.”

It wasn’t only out of his own curiosity that he has become increasingly insistent in learning more about Teyvat. Aether didn’t want to admit it to Lumine but he had some outside influence. If she ever knew this, he knew she would calmly ask his friends to fuck off.

Although Aether was well acquainted with nearly every existing friend group in his university, he has grown a little closer to his classmates in Physics. Drew, Allan, and Gerald were down to earth, approachable, and they constantly seek him out and invite him to hang out with them, whether it had something to do with class or not. It did not evade his notice how all of them, at the same time, has picked up a deep interest to a website, which he later learned was called Teyvat.

Naturally, wanting to win their approval and contribute on their conversations, he asked them about it – and boy, were they excited to see him gaining interest on it. But they did not want to introduce him to it, and they urged him to learn about it himself. That threw him off. Why couldn’t they just fill him in about what it was?

Aether, at first, did not bother with going through with it. He can still be friends with them even if he had no interest in one of the things they did or know. But slowly, he felt casted aside as they share this common knowledge between them, and the only thing he can do is listen. Aether tend to listen more than to speak, but at those times, he understood nothing of their reference and felt out of place as they dropped references after another.

He remembered deliberating over this in front of his laptop or as he held his phone. It would only take a few clicks to know about Teyvat, but ultimately, he would simply brush off the urge and go about his way.

With the innuendos his classmates have cited, it wasn’t hard for him to come up with a couple of suppositions. But he doesn’t want to jump the gun. Surely, his friends doesn’t indulge in those sorts of things. They all looked innocent enough.

Then again, there’s Venti.

It felt like electricity coursed through his veins - Aether jerked from his bed, propping himself to a sitting position as realization dawned over him. A light tint of pink dusted over his cheeks, a hand coming to cover his mouth. “I can’t believe . . . ” He trailed off, quivering in abhorrence. “ . . . I’m getting sentimental over something like this.” He whispered under his breath, horror lacing his voice. A groan tumbled from his mouth as he fell forward once more, shoving his face against his mattress. “This is so embarrassing.”

He had never heard of someone getting all mushy over a (suspected) porn site. Except for him.

Aether perked up when he heard his sister’s voice calling to him from downstairs. Immediately, he was drawn out of his trance and lifted himself off his bedding, listening to what she was trying to convey.

“Aether,” She yelled.

He replied, “Yeah? What’s up?”

“I'm going out. I’m need to pick up some materials for my project. I don’t know when I’ll be back, so can you watch the house while I’m gone?”

Aether sat up from his bed, his braid cascading from his shoulder to his back. “It’s not like the house is going anywhere.” Before Lumine can retort to his jest, he carried on. “Yeah, yeah, go ahead and do your stuff!” He casted his gaze to the window, sighting the warm rays of the sun filtering through the glass. “And bring an umbrella with you! It’s hot today!”

“I know what to do!” She hollered back. He can hear her rummaging through cabinets in search of an umbrella. He stifled an amused chuckle when he heard her let out a small cheer when she found one. “I’m going now! Don’t stay upstairs too long!”

“Yeah, yeah, I won’t. Now, just go! And don’t stay out too late like last time! I am not waking up just to let you in in the middle of the night!”

“As if you won’t! Bye, Aether!”

Aether waited in the silence of his room for the sound of the front door opening and closing. When he heard it, he scrambled out of his bed and to his window, peeking from the corner to watch his twin leave. He watched her as she crossed the front yard with her purse and umbrella in hand. He never let his eyes stray from her until she was out of his sight.

Aether exhaled, body easing. “What am I doing? She’s not little anymore.” He told himself, eyes softening. He can never forget those times when she would cling to him whenever they went to play outside like they merely happened yesterday. She’d never let go of his hand and whimper his name to catch his attention when something terrified her. He smiled fondly at the memories.

She even got a job before me.

He went downstairs right after and headed straight to the living room. He knew at some point Lumine will leave the house and go to wherever she normally goes to buy supplies, whether they be groceries or resources for her project. Aether can no longer count the times she left the house to purchase sewing materials this just for this week. (Sometimes, he wondered how busy a Fashion Design student can be). Whenever she left, Aether was happy to have the house all to himself. He still cared for Lumine’s safety, but something about being alone in the house and having more freedom just really appealed to him.

Well, not completely alone.

As if on cue, a pitter patter of feet coming from the staircase reached his ears, and he whirled around as an adorable voice spoke, “Is Lumine gone?”

The blond male appraised the puff of white hair and glittering blue eyes peering from behind the kitchen threshold. Aether glanced at the door for a moment, almost expecting Lumine to come barging back in, before looking back at the small girl. “Yeah, she’s gone.” He affirmed.

A relieved grin appeared on the girl’s face as she stepped away from her hiding spot. “Whew, that’s a relief.” She cooed. “Paimon thought this was going to be another one of those rare days where she doesn’t leave the house to buy stuff.”

Fluffy puff of white hair, big and round hopeful yet mischievous eyes and personality, a small build – that was their adopted little sister, Paimon.

Now the story of how Paimon became part of their family was quite odd. Neither Aether nor Lumine were prepared for her to join their family. Not for any other reason but that they were uninformed of a growing change. It all happened so unexpectedly and so randomly.

Aether can still remember the day it happened. He and Lumine were eight then. They were playing in the living room, pretending to be adventurers in different realms with their wooden swords and everything, when their parents came home carrying a toddler with them who happily made baby noises when she laid her sights on the both of them.

Their parents said nothing, no explanation and merely placed Paimon in his arms and urged both of them to spend time with the toddler (they learned her name was Paimon). Aether and Lumine both thought this mochi looking baby was a daughter of one of their parents’ friends, and they went out of town and asked their parents to take care of her. It wasn't until he asked his parents how long Paimon will be staying with them did he learn they have adopted Paimon, and that she was family now.

Aether produced an awkward chuckle at the memory. Whenever he thought back to that, he can’t help but feel a bit unnerved by his parents’ action. Who in their right minds wouldn’t tell their children beforehand their plan to adopt? They did not even ask how they would feel about it.

I still don’t know how they could have done that without telling me and Lumine.

Aether watched Paimon as she crossed in front of him and hurried over to the coat racket, taking her small and puffy coat and putting it on.

“Whoa, whoa, what are you doing?” Aether asked, confusion palpable on his mien. “You’re not leaving the house.”

“Why not? Lumine is not here to stop Paimon.” Paimon grinned gleefully.

“Well, I’m here to stop you.”

She shook her head. “No, you’re not.” Chimed she. Paimon spun around and aimed a finger at him. “Because you’re coming with Paimon.”

Aether did not skip a beat. “No.”

Paimon puffed her cheeks, but still, she did not drop her finger. “I said, you are coming with Paimon! You’re going to take Paimon outside today!”

“Lumine said we need to watch the house.” Reminded Aether as he walked back to the couch and sat down, pulling his phone to him. “We’re staying here.”

Paimon placed her hands on her hips, pouting. “But Paimon wants to go outside today!”

“And I want to stay home.”

Paimon followed him to the couch and stood in front of him. Aether looked away from his phone and sighed heavily at the sight of her determined expression. He should have known she was not going to take a rejection.

“Then let Paimon go outside by herself! When will you let Paimon do that?” She asked. “Paimon is a grown up now! I can take care of myself.”

Aether deadpanned. “You’re twelve.”

A smug smile formed on her face. “And that’s big girl age.”

“It’s really not.” Aether answered. “Mom and Dad told us not to let you go outside alone. Not until you’re fifteen. Even Lumine agrees.”

“But you’re different from them.” Pleaded Paimon, and Aether swore his heart leaped in his chest when she reached out and took hold of his jersey shorts. He gulped as he eyed his younger sister. Her eyes were shining, begging. It was like a puppy was trying its best to please its owner to be able to get a treat. “Please, Aether. Paimon really wants to go outside.”

This is bad. This is really bad. He thought. Why does she have to be so cute?

Aether will never admit this (and he would rather die than do so) but he was a sucker for his sisters. He loved them dearly, and would pretty much do everything for them, but they didn’t have to know that. He was sure they’ll exploit his fondness towards him. So seeing Paimon giving him her best puppy eyes while clinging to him like how she would when she was still a baby – it was too much for him.

Aether threw his head back, eyelids falling over his golden hues. “I can’t believe this.” He moved his head forward and locked eyes with Paimon, his lips pursing. She was still looking at him so pleadingly. How can he make a clear-headed decision when she’s like this? “Why do you want to go outside so badly today?”

The color of blue shone as her eyes widened. “Well, I’m glad you asked,” With a swift motion of her hand, she brandished a poster seemingly out of nowhere. Aether moved his back a little as Paimon, clumsily, crawled up to his lap. His hands impulsively came to rest at her sides to keep her from falling. With a bright smile on her face, Paimon shoved the poster to his face. With the unbelievably close proximity of the object, his eyes can hardly register the content written on the paper. All he can decipher with his limited vision is a delicious and colorful looking pastry of some sort. Paimon have always had a peculiar taste in food (most of which he had never heard of or wished he has never heard of) so it would be naïve of him to define it other than a dessert.

“Last time, when it was Lumine’s turn to pick up Paimon from school, she took me to this very pretty café! And-And Paimon saw the café was going to sell a very delicious, limited time only dessert! They’re selling it today, and you know Paimon has to go get some!”

Aether removed one hand from her side and snatched the poster she was presenting to him. He examined it in a more applicable distance, and then lifting it up to meet Paimon’s beseeching face, and then back at the poster, to Paimon again (he noticed how she seems to be trying to make herself cuter, and goddamn it, it was working), and back to the poster – Archons, how hard is it to say no?

Aether was in quite a dilemma here. Whatever he chose, he would end up having to wrong someone. If he did say no to Paimon, he will please Lumine but disappoint Paimon. If he did say yes, Paimon will be over the moon, and Lumine will most certainly have his head for breaking his promise and dragging Paimon with him (even if she was the one who persuaded him).

Aether visibly recoils at the thought of a cross Lumine. At least I know what to choose now.

With a heavy heart, Aether put away the poster, setting it to the side and then facing Paimon with a sorry look. “Paimon, look,” He started. “I – ”

But his words fastened inside his throat when he saw his littlest sister with a sheen over her hues. His resolve has been broken the moment he saw tears prodding at the corner of her eyes.

***

“I can’t believe this.” Aether muttered to himself and folded his arms over his chest as the strong aroma of caffeine and sweets wafted around him. He can hear nothing but the gentle hum of the coffee maker from the counter, silverwares scraping along fragile plates, and the idle chatter of strangers all around him.

He looked around the area, welcoming the sight of the crowded café once again. It was a small, cozy café with a several tables littering in the room. If it were not for the amount of people and Lumine having no idea they left the house unattended, Aether would have loved to stay here for a while.

When they arrived here, Paimon was shocked by the amount of people coming in and out, commenting, “There aren’t a lot of people here last time we went here.” It did not take a genius to know these people have been enticed by the new dessert they were selling, but Aether did not tell this to Paimon. If he did, he was sure she was going to throw a tantrum of the possibility it might run out before she can buy one. The queue leading to the counter was long and it did not help that there were people loitering near the cashier to wait for their takeout. However, it did not stop Aether from keeping an eye on Paimon.

Although she looked like a speck within the ocean of adults in the building, it wasn’t hard to spot her. She was happily - and loudly - chirping a tune she composed along their journey here (a song making fun of him for caving in to her so easily and that he will have to face Lumine’s wrath if they did not return before she did) so it was difficult not to lose sight of her. He’s more concerned of the customers who might find Paimon’s singing obnoxious (and may the Archons give him the strength not to incite violence to whoever thinks so) and might come up to her and reprimand her.

Or worse, have them kicked out and he would have to endure a wailing Paimon, while Lumine shakes her head in the background, a non-verbal manner of relaying the message of this is your fault, own up to it.

It was only a miracle Aether succeeded in convincing her to have her order as takeout. She has always been keen on eating her food in the same place she bought it, saying the ambiance added to the experience and flavor. Although he knew Lumine takes too long outside to buy the things she needed, he did not want to risk it. So, rather than grabbing a table, Aether decided to linger by the entrance, patiently waiting for his adopted sister (“Paimon can buy it herself!”).

Aether let out a sigh, a lock of his hair falling over his face. At least it got me distracted from everything.

“Aether, is that you?”

Aether stiffened at the sound of a familiar voice. He shifted his gaze towards the direction of the source of the voice, and approaching him were Drew, Allan, and Gerald. They had bewildered yet pleased smiles painted upon their brims, and within their grasps were brown paper bags containing their bought food. The corner of his lips quirked to flash them a tentative smile as he uncrossed his arms and allowed them to fall to his sides.

“Oh, hey,” He acknowledged.

I spoke too soon.

“Hey, to you too. Fancy running into you here.” Remarked Drew as he raised his hand towards him. Without fail, Aether raised a hand and exchanged high fives with him. Drew slapped his shoulder gently, grinning. “This is the first time I’ve seen you outside university.”

“Yeah, that’s right.” Agreed Allan, pointing a finger Aether. “You always turn down our invitation to hang out. I thought you hated us or something.”

“No, no, not at all.” Aether denied, laughing. “I’m just very busy with my studies, and I have to watch after my sister. It’s hard to find free time lately.”

“Since you’re here, I’m guessing you have time to spare today?” Inserted Gerald, bounding next to him and nudging his side. Aether flinched at his action, rubbing the spot Gerald had thrusted his elbow against. “I’m curious about what you have to say about Teyvat.”

And there it is.

“Lay off him, Gerald. Aether doesn’t have to tell us about what he thinks about Teyvat.” Allan reprimanded as he rolled his eyes.

Gerald raised his arms up in the air in mock surrender. “I just wanted to know.” He stated, snorting. “And don’t act like you’re not curious of what he thinks.”

Before the two could begin bickering, Aether interjected - “Guys, I really want to hang out with you but you got me in a bad time. I’m just here to keep an eye on my sister. She wanted to buy something from here, and then we’ll head back home after.”

“Your sister?” Drew questioned, head tilting to the side. “Wait, which one? The twin or the mochi looking sister?”

Aether bit back a retort. As funny as his comment may have been, he disliked Paimon being made fun of. Only he and Lumine are allowed to tease Paimon of having resemblance to food because of her small frame and poufy cheeks - it’s just sibling privileges.

“The mochi looking one. Her name is Paimon.” Aether stated. “Don’t let her catch you saying that. She hates being called a mochi. You’ll have to deal with her tantrum if she hears you.”

“Fine, I’ll be quiet about it.” Drew laughed. “Oh, by the way, about our report,” He started. “I already submitted them to the professor. He said it was better than the last one we made so he accepted it. We don’t need to redo it anymore.”

A merry smile manifested on Aether’s features. “As he should. We spent an entire day perfecting our reports. I would’ve thrown myself off a roof if he made us do it all over again.”

“That’s all thanks to you, our honorary knight in shining armor.” Allan credited, grinning back. “If you didn’t let us work at your home, we’ll probably still be revising our reports to this very hour.”

A frown made its way to his mien. “But today is supposed to be the deadline.”

“More reason to thank you.” Guffawed Gerald. “It’s way easier working without my parents breathing down my neck and asking if I’m doing everything I’m supposed to do.”

Aether laughed. “Anytime,” He voiced kindly. “But please, the next time you come over, stop staring at my sister.”

The three of them exchanged glances with one another, as if blaming the other for this scolding.

“I know she’s pretty but staring at her makes her uncomfortable.” Aether informed. “And it’s not like I’m going to allow her to date just yet so don’t get your hopes up.”

“But Aether,” Whined Allan, slinging his arm over his shoulder. Aether produced an inaudible huff. “Your sister is - uh, how should I put this . . . ” He feigned contemplation. “ - she’s hot. What you’re asking us to do is impossible.”

Aether stared at him, not a clue of amusement on his features. “You’re talking to her brother, Allan.” Warned Aether. “And we’re twins, so does that make me equally hot as you see Lumine?”

Allan huffed a miffed huff and crossed his arms. “Fine, fine, I get it, I get it.” He relented dismissively. “Your house, your rules. I’ll try not to stare . . . too much - ”

“Ah, it’s the three of you again!”

Aether, along with his classmates, jolted at the sound of a familiar high pitched voice. The four of them whipped their heads to the below and spotted Paimon hurling a scorching glare towards Aether’s classmates.

She went on - “How dare you three show your faces to Paimon again?”

The braided blonde shot a questioning glance towards his classmates, unable to comprehend why his little sister was being hostile - or at least she tried to be - to them. “Paimon,” He began with warning lacing his tone. “That’s not nice.” He berated. He looked down at the paper bag in her hands, and relief washed over him. “Do you already have what you wanted? Come on, let’s get back home before Lumine catches us. Sorry guys, but we need to - ” Aether reached down to take hold of Paimon’s hand but she drew back before his hand can brush against her fingers.

She stumbled back at her swift and careless movement but as soon as she regained her balance, she got on her tippy toes as she glared at them, cheeks ballooning. “Paimon is very, very disappointed and angry at these boys!”

With reluctance, Aether surveyed the room and to his horror, a growing number of spectators whispered amongst themselves as they fixated their curious gazes at them. Aether chuckled anxiously as he regarded all of them, hands shaking in front of him as if trying to diffuse their interest in the situation. “Nothing to see here! Nothing, nothing at all!” Quickly, after they averted their sights from them, Aether knelt down on one knee to get to Paimon’s height, and he mumbled in her ear, “Paimon, keep your voice down. We’re in public. People are staring - ”

But Paimon shook her head at him, strands billowing. She faced him, pouting. “But Aether,” She fought in a complaint. “Paimon can’t let these guys off the hook is yet. Not after what they did to Paimon.”

Aether felt an alarm go off inside of him once registering what Paimon had said. With how she worded her statement, it made Aether think of the worse - that his classmates must have hurt Paimon in some way that made her cross with them. He casted his vision towards the three, warily eyeing them as they stood awkwardly at his sides, avoiding his eyes and his sister.

Okay, calm down. This isn’t the first time Paimon exaggerated things. Thought Aether as he tried to gather his wits. But she’s my sister. If they really did something to her . . .

He looked back at Paimon, asking - “What are you talking about?” When she did not provide him with an answer, instead opting to remain silent and wish to incinerate his classmates with her burning glower (it’s cute to be honest), he heaved out a sigh and stood to his original height, turning to face his three classmates. “Sorry about that. I don’t know what my sister is going on about but, um, I - uh - ”

How was he supposed to approach this situation? If Paimon is somehow uneasy with his classmates, then surely, they must have done something wrong to her. Paimon, despite being referred to as annoying by some, is still a kind and understanding girl. She wouldn’t act this way without a real reason (most of the time).

“I need to ask - have you guys done something to make my sister angry with you?” Aether queried, careful not to sound accusing. The last thing he wanted is to offend and lose his friends over a misunderstanding.

Drew, Allan, and Gerald looked at each other, as if urging one of them to answer for the three of them. It was Drew, in the end, who decided to take the initiative.

“No, no,” He answered, and then hesitantly adding right after, “Not that we know, anyway - ”

“Well,” Aether turned to look at who had interjected. Gerald had his arm resting behind his neck as he chuckled nervously. “I mean - not intentionally.”

Aether narrowed his eyes at him, cautious of his addition. “What do you mean?”

He opened his mouth to give him an answer but Paimon beat him to it. She seized Aether’s hand and tugged him towards her direction ever so gently, face scrunched as she peered up at him. “They’re the ones who made Paimon look at Teyvat!”

Now, Aether had yet to know what was entailed with Teyvat exactly. With what Lumine had said previously, it made him reconsider his initial supposition and muse over other possibilities of what it could be. But right now, whatever he thought of Teyvat was not of importance - with Paimon looking so horrified, he’ll just assume for now that it is a bad site.

Quickly, Aether tightened his hold around Paimon’s and pulled her behind him protectively. She happily took refuge behind his legs and peeked around to stick her tongue out at his friends. Aether shot the three boys a reprimanding glare, and none of them dared look into his eyes, guilty masks encasing their features.

Aether paused briefly, feeling lightheaded with everything that was happening. If we just had stayed home . . .

Regaining his composure, he started sternly, “Why would any of you show my sister - ”

“Okay, before you continue that, let me just say that we didn’t show her anything.” Defended Drew, raisin a finer to silence Aether as he spoke. “We had a small break and just did a little peek at the website, and then - ”

Trepidation filled Aether, and his jaw slackened at the revelation. “You were looking at Teyvat - at Teyvat - ” He emphasized, to which Drew recoiled and averted his gaze. Aether was certain at this point, they had everyone’s attention in the café. But at that moment, he couldn’t care less. He was still processing the fact how they could think it was moral to look at Teyvat in his house while sisters are present. “ - at my house? Really?”

Aether locked gazes with each of them, expecting them to give him an answer – even an unbelievable one as long as he received as answer. But they didn’t say anything.

Aether looked at each of them expectantly, waiting for one of them to say something or try to defend their actions - even an unbelievable reason would be welcomed as long as he received an answer. But they did not say anything, to which he scoffed at.

“You’re really not going to say anything?” Asked Aether, a deadpan expression painted over his mien.

Paimon chimed, “Yeah, say something!”

Aether placed his hand on top of her head, shushing her. “Paimon, please.” He scolded softly and in a whisper, and she relented, albeit stubbornly.

“I - ” Stuttered Allan. “Y-You don’t even know what Teyvat is!”

Does he really need to say it so loudly?

"I think I have an idea.” Stated Aether, frowning.

Behind him, as if she has forgotten her vexation towards the three, Paimon leaped up in the air several times, an arm up in the air. “Ooh, ooh, Paimon knows this!” Exclaimed she, and she grabbed a handful of his trousers and yanking at it to get his attention. “Teyvat is a website – hey, put Paimon down - Aether - ”

Before Paimon can continue with her explanation, Aether was quick to react. He ignored her protests when he picked her up from the ground. Her flailing feet did not sway him as he tucked her under his arm and raced out of the café, leaving behind his classmates and the countless of prying pair of eyes in a haste.

His face was warmth with embarrassment, and it was a miracle he can still functions properly with how scattered his consciousness seem to be at the moment.

Please, let the Archons have mercy on me. I don’t want Lumine knowing about this.

“Wait, wait!” Shouted Paimon, kicking her legs as she struggled to get out of his hold. “Paimon hasn’t given them a bad nickname yet!”

***

Aether watched as his adopted sibling walked back and forth in front of him, mouth running on and on describing just what exactly she had casted her gaze upon her perusal in Teyvat. However, despite her continuous rambling and the volume of her voice, Aether cannot hear a thing from her. He sat on the couch with he legs in a cross, headphones plugged over his ears to drown out every word that rolled out of her tongue. He knew it was rude to be doing such thing. He loved listening to his sisters and having heartfelt conversations with them with whatever they or he found worthy of discussing.

But this whole Teyvat situation – it did not appeal to him anymore, and his curiosity has been significantly reduced because of what had unfolded in the afternoon. If anything, he wanted the day to be over and have life hand him a brand new day where he isn’t in a constant torment of his thoughts.

Paimon spoke her tale with matching gestures and exaggerated expressions – and none of them stepped too far from the sphere of confusion and repugnance – and it was miraculous how she still hadn’t noticed his inattentiveness.

Basing on her expressions alone, Aether has come to a decision to put an end to this business he had with the website. How can he even think of it when his dearest and littlest sister had been on it and has seen the horrors in it? And what’s worse is that his classmates, the very same ones he readily welcomed to his home, were the ones who has introduced her to it. Unintended or not, he was still unimpressed by how bold they can be to open Teyvat at his home when his sisters were present then.

His hazy eyes refocused, his perception clearing when he noticed Paimon hurtling a pout towards his direction, closed fists raised in the air to present her frustration. Immediately, Aether removed his headphones, stowing them far from him and adjusting his posture, as if that could fool her into believing he had been attentive to her the whole time.

Paimon huffed as she dropped her arms to her sides. “You weren’t even listening to Paimon, were you?”

Aether position his palm over the back of his neck, a nervous laugh dribbling from his lips. “I told you already,” He started. “I don’t want to hear anything about that site anymore.”

“But - ”

Paimon tried to protest to his words, but Aether grabbed the nearest pillow and softly hit her on the face with it. Paimon let out an audible “hmp” while her face was still smooshed against the pillow. “Okay, fine, Paimon won’t say anything more about it.” Came her muffled reply.

Mild relief washed over Aether, and he pulled the pillow away from her face. “Thanks, Paimon – ”

“But Paimon is surprised you don’t know about Teyvat.”

Aether suppressed a groan. My life is going to be ruined by this Teyvat shit.

“I think you should be relieved I know nothing about it.” He responded, exasperated.

Paimon hummed, eyes flitting up as she pondered. “Yeah, that’s true. At least Paimon didn’t learn it from you.” She admitted. After a few seconds, she held her chin between her finger, humming. “Actually, now that Paimon thinks about it - ” Aether lifted an eyebrow. “ - I’m not surprised you don’t about Teyvat.”

The groan he had smothered back just mere moments ago finally released from his lips and his head flew back and rested on top of the backrest. “Can we please just stop talking about this?”

Paimon laughed at his antics, amused. “Okay, okay, Paimon will stop talking about it.” She stated.

“You said that just a second ago.” Argued Aether, unimpressed.

She shook her head. “But this time is different. Paimon means it this time. I don’t want to make my dear innocent older brother uncomfortable.”

Aether moved his head off the backrest and fixed his gaze on Paimon, puzzlement tainting his visage. “What? I’m not innocent.”

Somehow, it irked him being referred as that. He didn’t know why but it did. Sure, he may not be engrossed in such lewd things as his friends are, but that doesn’t mean he was completely pure of mind. He desired as any other boy around his age would – the only difference is that he never let it get the better of him and he never once acted upon it. Does that really make him innocent? He can be non-innocent (is that even a word?) if he wanted to be.

Paimon covered her mouth as she tittered, a play smile appearing on her face. “Yeah, you are. It makes sense considering you don’t know about Teyvat. It’s so popular right now, it’s hard not to know about it.” The sang in a teasing manner. “I bet my dear big brother hasn’t kissed a girl yet.”

A flush of red tinted his cheeks. Aether can feel his face growing warmer by the second. He lost count how many times he has been in this state in this day alone. “I-I – ” Paimon stifled a laugh, causing Aether to stumble in his words. He shook his head, humiliation seeping in his veins. “You haven’t kissed anyone either!”

Was he really fighting with his little sister about this?

This is pathetic. Aether thought.

“Aha!” She pointed a finger at him. “So you haven’t kissed anyone yet, which means you haven’t had your first kiss yet! Paimon was just teasing, but it looks like I was right!” Paimon exclaimed, snapping her fingers. Or tried to. Her thumb merely brushed against her forefinger. “And Paimon is just twelve. I still have a lot of time to kiss someone!” Defended she. “But you’re twenty-one, and you still haven’t kissed a girl!”

Aether heaved a sigh. He tried to find words to refute her statement, but he couldn’t. It was true, anyway – he has yet to give away his first kiss – so what the was point of denying it?

Am I seriously being teased by my twelve-year-old sister for not having my first kiss yet? I expected this more from Lumine.

Paimon flashed him a soft and encouraging smile after she has recovered from her laugh. “Aww, I’m sorry Aether. I didn’t mean to make you upset.” She chirped. “But don’t worry. Paimon thinks you’re really handsome!” He flushed a deeper red at her compliment, to which she responded with a small giggle. “I’m sure some girl at your school finds you really cute! They’re just too shy to approach you! Don’t give up hope yet! Paimon can also match you with someone if you want! I do believe I have the right qualifications to be an excellent matchmaker!”

“That won’t be necessary, Paimon, but . . . ” Aether supplied an uneasy chuckle. I don’t really care about those things . . .

Aether sent Paimon a grateful smile. He leaned forward and placed his hand on top of her head, ruffling her hair. She closed her eyes, marveling at the affection he was offering. “ . . . thanks.” He said gratefully. “It’s good to know someone believes me.”

“No problem! But I just have one more question.” Chimed Paimon.

Aether scrunched his face. “What is it?”

A grin appeared on her face, making him falter. “Someone . . . ” She started, prolonging the last syllable teasingly. “ . . . someone has flirted with you before, right, Aether?”

Aether instantly retracted his hand from her head, resolute, shooting her a light glare but she did not sway. In fact, she seemed to be more amused by his reaction. He should have known Paimon would say more things like that.

“Okay, that’s it.” He rose from the couch and loomed over Paimon, arms folded over his chest as he gave her a stern look. “If you don’t stop talking, I’ll steal your food and eat it.”

It only took that threat to seal Paimon’s mouth, and the mirthful smile she wore dropped, now replaced with pure panic. “No, no, not Paimon’s dessert!” She whipped around and raced out of the living room and entering the kitchen where she has left the brown bag containing her sweet.

Aether observed Paimon as stepped foot inside the kitchen and left in a haste, ascending the staircase as if her life depended on it. He wasn’t even giving her a chase, but she was acting like he was.

“You can never get Paimon’s dessert! Never!”

Aether shook his head at her words and antics, a small smile painting over his brims. “Eat quick, okay? And throw away the evidence. We don’t want Lumine to know we went out.” He called as he listened to the series of footsteps padding across the second floor.

“Okay! Got it!”

When he heard the door opening and closing - and locking - Aether returned to sit on the couch, and leaned his entire weight against the backrest. He raised his hand and ran it down his face, sighing.

“My brain is going to rot if I keep thinking like this.”

A wave of fatigue washed over him as he allowed himself to deliberate over the happenings of today. He can feel his thought he has kept at bay for so long, now accompanied by his insecurities, come knocking at his door. But he ignored them as best as he can.

Teyvat has been eliminated from his mind. However, Paimon’s words earlier struck and infected him, replacing the former.

His hand rested over his mouth as he gazed down at the floor, forehead creasing. She’s not wrong.

Aether has never surrendered his first. Aether has no experience with wooing a girl. He had crushes before, sure, but they were nothing serious. It was mere infatuation - the kind that fleets away as quickly as they come. Aether was what Kaeya would call inexperienced and clueless.

Above all - as expected from someone as innocent as him - he has never laid with a woman. Aether was what Venti would call a poor little virgin boy.

Hell, Aether will rue the day if the two ever learned he has never touched himself before. They will never let him live it down.

To him, masturbation - though normal - was uncomfortable to think of. Touching himself in such an indecent manner with an equally indecent intention sent shivers of disgust down his spine. Not to mention he didn’t exactly know what to do or where to begin, and like hell he would ever look for help to do it.

Sex was normal in his age, which makes him feel out of place. Kaeya and Venti has always teased him for being a virgin, but he brushed them off. He didn’t care about these kinds of matters. Or at least, that’s what he keeps telling himself.

Conceited as he may sound, Aether acknowledged that he was - somewhat - attractive. This isn’t a claim without basis. He wasn’t dense as Kaeya claims he was. He has seen girls admire him from afar and others even confidently approach him and blatantly asking for a picture with him. And he knows when someone is flirting with him (he just never responded to those advances), even Venti and Kaeya were impressed with how popular he was among the student body, and they often told him how he was wasting his youth and popularity.

Dating had an appeal to him before, back when he was younger. He’s not going to lie and say he never dreamed of having a partner. But now, he had his brotherly duties and his studies to focus on. His life was already hectic enough without a girlfriend.

Aether dropped his hand to his lap, an exasperated sigh leaving his lips. He knew this was nothing to be ashamed, and yet he can’t help but feel embarrassed.

He shook his head, trying to erase the thoughts that overcame him. It’s like I love making myself suffer. He thought, agitated.

Aether tried his best to return to his normal routine. He brandished his phone from his pocket and turned it on. As he has expected, messages from the group chat came raining down his lock screen. But he ignored all of them and decided to check his messages. Maybe there were people other than Kaeya and Venti who sent him a message when he was off grid. Indeed, there were, and one of them was from Lumine.

Without hesitating, he clicked on it and read the content of her message.

Aether chuckled at what she had responded to him and immediately, after notifying her what the real meal he shall be preparing as she journeyed back to their house, he shut his phone off before Kaeya or Venti could sense him on his phone (because it appeared to him that they knew when he was on his phone or not) and headed straight to the kitchen to get to work.

It did not take Aether long to finish. Although many will not catch him in the kitchen often, Aether knew his way around it quite well. He learned a sufficient amount of knowledge in culinary all by himself. It’s not that he wanted to learn, but more like a necessity. Their parents frequently go out of town to visit friends or relatives or something to do with their work. Aether was always expected to look after his sisters when they were gone. They could have just hired a babysitter or a nanny but they trusted Aether, maybe a little too much.

The smell of meat in the pan lingered in the air as he turned off the stove. Aether wiped a bead of sweat from his temple as he marveled over the delicacy he has made. Taking off his apron and stowing his used utensils in the sink, he took out three plates and three pairs of silverware from the cupboard, and yelled, “Paimon,” His golden eyes darting over to the staircase. “Dinner is almost ready! Can you help me set the table, please?”

A few seconds passed before Paimon responded to him. “Uh, Paimon is kind of busy right now.” She hollered back. Aether knew she wasn’t. She just did not want to help with something as simple as putting plates and other wares on the table - but it was no surprise to him.

He rolled his eyes a little. “Okay, okay, thanks anyway.”

With three plates on one hand, and spoons and forks on the other, Aether carefully made his way to the dining room, tongue sticking out as he gave his best not to lose hold of the wares. He set them all down on the table and just as he was about to distribute them to their respective arrangement, something caught Aether’s attention. To the side, where Lumine usually sat, was her laptop left open.

He clicked his tongue in dismay three times, head shaking softly. “And she wonders why her laptop runs out of battery so fast.”

Aether walked around the table and went over to where the laptop was perched. He grabbed the laptop by the sides and motioned to transfer it to another table, but his feet stuttered in their stance when he heard a loud crash erupting from below him. His eyes trailed down to the ground, under the obstruction of the laptop, and let out a curse once he caught sight of the mouse upon the floor.

“Shit,” He cussed. “I forgot to unplug the mouse first – ” Aether delicately set the laptop back down and picked up the mouse from the ground, studying its current condition by analyzing all sides. His features softened with relief. “Nothing looks broken. Good.”

He placed the object back to the table and moved to close the laptop when he saw its screen now lit, waking up from its inactivity.

“She should really put a password on this – ” His fingers reached for the mouse again. But before he could resume his initial plan to take it away from the table, his figure froze and his eyes dilated in horror and shock. He stared at the screen, his mind unable to process what he was seeing –

Aether instantaneously whirled around, eyes closed and shoulders tense. He did not know what to feel about this. He couldn’t even believe what he was seeing flashed in his sister’s laptop.

Maybe I saw wrong. Aether thought. I mean, that stupid website has been in my mind the whole day. He looked over his shoulder, peering over to the laptop and turning away as quickly as he can, the tips of his ears reddening. No, I didn’t see wrong.

Lumine is his sweet, innocent twin sister. He grew up with her and knew more about her than his parents. He fended her off from bullies and heard all about her secrets which to this day he never forgot or shared. Surely, someone like her wouldn’t dwell in these sorts of website.

And after she told me off for it. Aether thought. No, no, no. There must be a reason she’s looking at it. No way Lumine uses Teyvat. I trust her.

Composing him by taking in a deep breath, Aether whipped back around to look at the laptop, a newfound resolve swathing him.

Enough is enough. He needed to take a look at it. He needed to know what it is. For the sake of his own sanity and curiosity.

Lumine was really right – his curiosity will be his doom someday.

When he felt his finger press against the left button of the mouse, Aether braced himself with an endless stream of pornographic films and videos, and he prepared himself to close his eyes the moment they show up – “Huh?”

Aether paused, blinking.

This can’t be right.

He moved the cursor to the refresh button, and clicked but the results were the same. He leaned back in the slightest, processing what he had seen. There’s nothing.

For a whole minute, Aether gazed at the screen questioningly, taken aback of the bareness of the open the tab and the complete absence of vulgar content. All the website showed is an account of a user and a locked chat box to the right. In the center, it read -

CHILDE [ VIDEO ENDED TWELVE HOURS AGO ]

His forehead creased. This isn’t . . . what I expected.

Aether’s eyebrows furrowed as he scrolled up and down the account, trying to find anything that would make him click away, but it was a clean slate. He did this a few more times, as if not accepting what he was witnessing.

He blinked again, lips parted as he silently stared at the laptop with burrowed brows. Are they trying to make me look stupid? He asked himself, still in a state of disbelief. There’s nothing . . . bad here - wait, what is this -

Aether scrolled down a little as something caught his eye. There sat a small box underneath the chat, and listed upon it are logs after logs of huge amount of money. He browed through them, and each time his eyes widened in disbelief - Donations. These . . . are donations?

He had seen people do this before, in other sites. He knew there were sites which sole purpose was to help people financially. They ask people from all around the world to donate even at least a portion of their money for a noble cause. Could Teyvat be the same kind of platform? If so, why would Lumine and Albedo discourage him, and Kaeya and Venti encourage him? Why would Paimon look so traumatized after looking through it? It made no sense to him.

Just like that, everything Aether thought he knew about Teyvat was thrown out of the window.

He slowly slid down on the chair Lumine had originally occupied, eyes never leaving the screen. He could easily choke in his own spit at the huge sum of money people have donated to this user going by the alias of Childe. These people must be loaded, and so generous. He scanned the account several times, searching for the reason as to why this man had received such outstanding amount of money, for, but he was left emptyhanded. If he got people to donate this much to him, I-I’ll just guess it’s for something good.

He shouldn’t have, he really shouldn’t have.

He was snooping in his sister’s personal belonging. He was violating her privacy. He should have just closed the laptop and left it alone. But he can’t stop himself now, not when this revelation stood against what others were telling him. Dinner forgotten, Aether continued browsing through the website, determined golden eyes almost boring holes against the laptop.

It was right there, sitting in front of his face, completely bare of anything he assumed he would see.

Aether glanced over at the icon at the very far left corner of the page, and he leaned away from the device. Does Lumine . . . have a personal account in Teyvat?

The desire to take a snoop in her account grew increasingly strong, to check her activity and what she had been doing in the site. He already had the cursor hovering over her icon (thankfully it wasn’t a picture of her) but he restrained himself. He was already doing too much invading her privacy online. With how far gone he already was, leaving her account unknown to him was the least he can do.

Instead, he pointed the cursor at the logo of Teyvat and clicked.

Aether, once again, prepared himself for an onslaught of inappropriate content but when the screen presented him with nothing but updates from various popular accounts, and a list of trending the most popular accounts on the right side, it did not astonish him that much anymore.

He leaned back on the chair, humming. “Nothing . . . adult here.”

Aether still can’t wrap his mind around what he was seeing. It can’t be that everyone has lied to him. He can understand Kaeya and Venti doing this, but not his sisters. Something is amiss, and it irritated him that he didn’t know what it was.

Should I ask Albedo?

He could have slapped himself there and then. He rubbed his temples, groaning. “Why would I drag him to something as stupid as this?” He whispered to himself. He looked back up at the open tab, scanning the content once again. “I told myself I’m done with this. So, I’m done with this.” And yet he found himself still seated on the chair and gazing curiously at the laptop, curiosity gnawing at him.

He casted his sight away from the website briefly. There was something gnawing at the pit of his stomach, pushing him, urging him. Maybe . . . a little more look wouldn’t hurt.

Aether hated himself for this.

Reluctantly, he took the mouse back in his hold and scrolled through the most popular users in Teyvat. A frown overcame his visage. Are there really popular users in charity websites?

Aether was not really well versed with charity focused websites. Perhaps there are lists such as this - users with the most donations for whatever the hell it is they need the money for.

He leaned forward to the screen as he read the said list -

1) Destiny (12 MILLION)

2) Signora (7 MILLION)

3) Beidou (5 MILLION)

“Signora and Beidou,” Those names . . . they sounded familiar. He was certain he had heard them before, he just can’t quite pinpoint when. He can only muse that he has picked up on these two women from Kaeya and Venti before, back when he was still completely unaware of Teyvat. That was the only explanation he can think of. Signora and Beidou - they had been the names they constantly dropped in their conversations.

Just by looking at the images the two utilized to affirm their identities, Aether can already tell why Kaeya and Venti would obsess over them.

Signora - with her luscious snow white hair, an elegant gown that hugged her curves and cascaded down to the floor, and an intricate mask upon her mien - a maiden that cannot be easily pleased nor satisfied.

Beidou - with her long auburn tresses, confident smirk, and eyepatch - a woman with an unwavering sense of confidence and dominance.

I can see why Kaeya and Venti would talk about them. They seem their type. Aether thought as he looked over at their pictures again. It’s just weird . . . since these two are just random people in a charity website. I don’t see how they could have stumbled here and start liking them.

But despite their intoxicating appearances which could easily enamor many, Aether did not bat an eye at them. Why would he? He was merely taking a more thorough look in the platform, nothing else.

And yet Aether cannot stop his eyes from straying towards the very name seated above the two - “Destiny.” He murmured under his breath, as though under the influence of a spell.

As he looked at the icon presenting herself, there was not anything particularly outstanding. Unlike Signora, adorning Destiny’s appearance was an elegantly mask one would wear in a masquerade. She left no trace of her true identity and yet Aether found her the most beautiful of the three.

He did not understand why he was so drawn to her, and what exactly was stirring up inside of him as he gazed upon her image.

He didn’t know why he was so drawn to her. His eye wouldn’t tear away from her smirking lips. He stared at them, gulping as the inexplainable feeling within him him deepened.

He averted his gaze from her for a split second. Why does she need to wear a mask anyway?

Aether moved the cursor to exit the website, but he can’t find it in himself to click. He felt himself being pulled towards her, a small voice imploring him to click on her name - and it did not take long until he heeded its call.

Before he can catch himself in what he was doing, the page was already loading.

This is where Aether’s curiosity brought him.

In the very moment the page has successfully displayed the content in which he has subconsciously chosen to partake, as he fixated his sight upon the screen with vacant and uncomprehending hues, Aether was bestowed with the misfortune of incapacitation as the cogs in his mind deteriorated, rendering him unfit to even appropriately process just what exactly was beheld in his virgin sights.

Utmost bewilderment has tainted his countenance as he ever so slowly gathered his wits and endeavor to make event he make the slightest sense of his thoughts, perplexity following its lead without delay. Bewitched in a deep trance, as if his sanity was resolutely refusing to acknowledge the truth that sat right before his eyes - the truth which bore herself in a simplicity of a bedroom and a choker around her throat, her perfect curves adorned with pastel blue lingerie which left everything and yet nothing to the imagination, white lace stockings crawling over her crossed legs, a pair of coal black wrap heels, and a mask that left not even the slightest trace of her ipseity ; all but her lips, gleaming enticingly under fluorescent light.

From the corner of his eye, he observed as a chat box appeared by the right side and was reduced to an endless stream of comments to the point where Aether cannot read any of them to their very last word - some were sincere, kind and utilized pleasant words to convey their delight in her attire, and some absolutely horrendous and concerning.

And yet despite witnessing all these at the same time, still he was yet to understand the weight of everything. It might have been a product of his imagination - he thought - for indeed, it was extremely likely. His thoughts had circulated around what Teyvat could be for almost all the hours in a single day, having it manifest to a mirage was not completely outrageous.

But when he realized this was not the case, when the reality sunk in as he gazed at what Teyvat has offered to him - oh, how his face has sprouted a wonderful and lavish color of vibrant vermillion and a hand of his clasped over his open mouth, displaying his bothered and mortified reflection against the screen.

“Is this . . . ”

He gazed at the woman before him with dilated eyes as she sat quietly on her swivel chair, her leg over the other moving upwards and downwards while her eyes remained fixed on her own computer.

“Did you guys miss me?”

A shiver coursed through his veins at her voice, and the hair on his neck bristled - fuck, she sounded heavenly.

This is . . . Destiny?

A hummed thrummed against the back of her throat as she leaned over to read the chat. “I hope I didn’t make any of you wait. I had something important to do first - but you have no need to worry.” She spoke so softly, so . . . seductively. A short chuckle escaped her lips as she tilted her head to the side, her tresses cascading to the same direction. “You have my undivided attention now.”

Aether turned his head away from the screen the moment she leaned forward. In the way she has positioned herself, she has given him a clear view of cleavage. It did not help the lingerie you dressed yourself with appealed to him.

Aether’s grip on the mouse tightened as he felt a rush of blood course between his legs. He swallowed. What the hell is happening?

Destiny giggled. “Missed anything? No, no, the stream just started. You didn’t miss anything at all.” She closed in on her mic, pressing her lips against the object with a smirk gracing her mien. “I mean, other than me changing into this, of course.” She ran her fingers across her choker, and trailed her index finger down to her breast. Softly, she grabbed her breast and gave it an experimental squeeze, to which Aether responded with his body jolting in the slightest.

Aether knew he should have clicked away the moment he saw Destiny. But he didn’t. He couldn’t. A part of him wanted to stay and watch, so, unable to resist, he did.

Aether’s eyes nearly bulged out of his sockets when he saw a huge sum of money pop up in the chat. Fifteen thousand Mora flashed brightly in bold and golden colors in the screen. “15,000 Mora?” Aether frowned, puzzled. “For what?”

His answer came as quickly as he questioned. Destiny reached for her mouse and clicked a few times, eyes squinting as she read the statement that came along with the donator’s generous pay. “Already? You don’t waste any time, do you? I haven’t even asked all of you about how your day went.” She spoke, sounding very vexed with the idea. “But then again, I did say I only have an hour to spare today to . . . serve all of you. So, let’s not beat around the bush.”

Destiny tucked a lock of her hair behind her ear. “Thank you for the 15,000 Morea, Ajax.” An odd smile conjured on her brims, as if a secret is hidden behind it. “And what does your 15,000 More want me to do - oh!”

Aether looked through the newer comments to read what the donator has added in his donation. Red blossomed over his cheeks opulently, more so than before. He wants her to show more skin? With great reluctance, he raked his eyes over her frame. He understood why men would want to see more of her body, but - Surely, she won’t –

“Show more skin?” You pressed your knuckles gently against your lips as you laughed. “.But of course. Anything for such a generous pay.”

Aether watched in anticipation as your forefingers hooked on your bra straps. Slowly, painfully slow, she slid them down the length of her arms. The cups holding her breasts came looser and looser the more she brought the straps down, and he sucked in a breath as more skin was exposed to his eyes.

He can’t take his eyes off her. He looked down at his crotch, and saw a prominent tent growing beneath his trousers. Crimson colored hi cheeks, embarrassment enveloping him. His hand reached to touch himself, to relieve himself from the pressure building between his legs, but he stopped himself before he could.

I can’t do this.

Aether winced once Destiny’s fingers unhooked from the straps, and the flimsy strings resting around her elbows. Aether held back a curse from spurting out of his mouth, his hands curling as he struggled to tear his eyes from her chest. It did not help she was looking straight at the camera, playfully, teasing him. The cups hung limply on her breasts, her perky nipples showing through the thin fabric. If she moved now, everyone will see them. He bit his lower lip, face heating up. I’ll see them.

His cock twitched at the thought. Why did he find this exciting?

His hand kept wandering over to his hardening cock as his arousal began growing to the point where he was struggling to ignore it. He squeezed his legs together tightly, but all it did was make prominent of his covered tip which poked out between his legs. He pressed his lips tightly firmly, cheeks flushing. Stop it. Stop it. Stop it. Aether did not.

“Will this do it for you?” Her sultry voice echoed in his mind, and he bit back a mewl from leaving his lips. He can see the chat box exploding with firm objection to her statement, and Aether was horrified to realize that he agreed with them.

Destiny hummed at their responses, an amused smile gracing her features. He can almost see her eyes twinkle in delight. “No? Oh, you’re all being so greedy today.” You chuckled. “Then it’s safe to assume you like what I’m wearing. I thought it would be a pleasant surprise for you all, especially since you all just flooded me with your begging to buy this color – ”

His mind began drifting to other thoughts. What else did she wear before?

Without meaning to, the hand which once held the mouse slowly came down and reached for the bulge in his pants. Aether was no stranger to being turned on. This is not the first time he had an erection. All he had done then was wait for his arousal to come to pass, and it was no difficult task for him to resist the urge to play with himself. But today was different. He cannot deny himself of the pleasure he desired to drown in when he’s gazing at the lewd frame Destiny posed in.

A muffled moan broke the silence in the dining room as his hand moved up and down his clothed cock, relief washing over him instantly. His breathing stuttered, his fingers running up and down his tip, teasing himself. “Hgn,” He whimpered, lips pursing. “Ah, fuck.”

This is bad. This is bad. Thought Aether, eyes never leaving the masked beauty. I can’t stop.

For a little sober second, Aether tore his eyes away from the screen, away from Destiny, and fighting the urge to look back, he withdrew his hand from his covered manhood. But it wasn’t long until he found himself resuming his actions, this time with more vigor as the stunted pleasure from his brief pause caught up with him quickly. He swallowed the lump in his throat, holding back the moans that wanted to escape his lips. He can feel a slight dampness beginning to stain his boxers as his essence leaked from his tip. He wouldn’t dare stop again, not when Destiny was sneering at camera, at him.

Aether’s breathing became labored, sweat forming around the crown of his head.

Was she watching him touch himself? Was she laughing at how helpless and pathetic he looked just by seeing her? Was she not disgusted by his display? Because he did – he felt ashamed of his actions, but he can’t stop. It was all too overwhelming, too good.

Aether casted his vision back to the screen, taking in Destiny her in all her glory. Damn it. He cussed, eyebrows knitting together. Why does she have to look so beautiful? And wearing those kinds of clothes too . . . It was all too much for him.

He watched as Destiny eagerly (thought he did not seem to notice, too absorbed rubbing himself and hanging on to what she was about to do) lifted a hand and pulled the bra further down by the middle. Her breasts bounced at her actions, and Aether felt his cock twitch.

“You all know what you need to do if you want to see . . . more – ” Destiny ran her tongue around her lips, leaving behind a glistening sheen behind. “ – of me.”

Aether couldn’t believe what he was seeing after her statement. Mora after mora, it came flooding in the chat. He closed his eyes, gradually recognizing his error. So, these are the donations.

Aether opened his eyes when Destiny’s laughter reached his ears.

“I am never left disappointed with all of you.” She voiced, chuckling. “I simply must return the favor.”

It felt so wrong watching her do things like this, and yet Aether cannot bring himself to stop. He, too, was now anticipating to see more of you offer.

Delicately, Destiny straightened her posture, jutting her chest out as she picked up her bra straps once more. Aether was positively hard now, no longer having control over his hand as it ran over his erection harder and his mouth as he unconsciously let out pathetic whines. He really hoped Paimon won’t come downstairs and see him like this - a pathetic, panting mess; drooling over a woman he did not know.

All he can think about is the pleasure he was feeling and how good you looked in the lingerie.

“Aether, Paimon, I’m home!”

Engrossed with Destiny’s intoxicating performance, Aether failed to hear the front door opening and closing upon his twin’s arrival. His hand came to a halt, his panic overwhelming his frustration and desire. He turned his head towards the living room in horror, half expecting to see Lumine enter the dining room and catch him with his hand between his legs, with a film of a woman stripping playing in her laptop.

Aether glanced down at his hard on, a profanity spilling from his lips. I can’t let Lumine see me like this!

Driven by nothing but adrenaline, Aether exited Teyvat without so much of a second glance at the screen. He knew that this would make Lumine suspicious but this was better than being caught touching himself. He closed the laptop with an anxious slam and tossed it to the couch carelessly, heart hammering against his chest.

Aether stood up on shaky legs, eyes closed tightly as he compose himself, or tried to. No matter what he thinks or do, his dick was still straining against his pants. Aether gritted his teeth, glaring down at his proud erection.

There is no way I can cover this - fuck.

Aether can hear Lumine walking around the living room and setting down paper bags on to the coffee table as she let out a yawn. “Aether, you here?” She sighed. “Didn’t I tell you not to stay upstairs the whole day?”

With a deep sigh, he venture inside the living room, back turned to Lumine. “H-Hey – no, I-I mean – ” Get yourself together! “ – I’m just about to set the table! Sorry, I didn’t hear you come in.”

“Oh, cool! You guys haven’t eaten yet. Guess I’m just right on time then.” Chimed Lumine. “Anyway, can you help me bring to my room everything I bought? They’re so many – ”

Aether was stricken with panic, and he answered a little too quickly, startling Lumine. “No, no!” He cut her off. Realizing he had spoken too soon and too oddly, not to mention uncharacteristically communicating with her with his back to her, he cleared his throat. “I-I mean, maybe later? Because I . . . ” He trailed off. “ . . . I need to do something first!”

Before Lumine can interrogate him, Aether left her behind as he raced to the staircase, and up to his room. When safely locked inside his personal abode, the braided blond pressed his forehead against the door, the breath he did not know he withheld releasing from his lungs.

“That was close.” He murmured. Aether did not want to think how Lumine would react to seeing her brother touching himself using her laptop. He flinched at the thought.

His eyes trailed down to his crotch, and still, the tent in his trousers stood glaringly.

“It’ll go away soon, right?” He muttered. “It has to.”

But ten minutes in his room in agony, battling against the temptation to bring his hand to his erection, it was yet to abate.

His thought circled around Destiny. She consumed his every thought. Her voice, her body, her outfit –

“A-Ah,” Aether let out a groan as his frustration grew.

At least he knows what Teyvat is now.