#syns stuff

Aether laid comfortably in his bed, curled up in the white blanket that was definitely too big for the mattress itself. After staying up late in Liyue doing the simplest things people could have done themselves, he was tired out. But so tired that he slept all the way to lunch? Paimon wasn't so sure..

To be fair, Paimon had only woken up around an hour before.. but that doesn't count! She was used to Aether being her personal alarm clock. She had decided that he could sleep until she got some food for a late breakfast.. But when she came back into the room, he hadn't shifted in the slightest bit.

“Traveller!” She huffed, floating over just above his figure and shook his shoulder. “Come on, up!”

Aether groaned, swatting her hand away and pulling the covers over his head. “Ugh, stop..” His floating companion unfortunately didn't give up, but took a different approach. She sat on the side of the bed, tilting her head at him.

“Paimon’s disappointed! But.. there's no other choice. Paimon’s gonna do the unthinkable!” She exclaimed, standing up on the bed proudly before screeching out her next words;

“XIAAAOOOO!!!!!–”

“Shut up, shut up!” Aether gasped, jolting awake and slapping a hand over the other's mouth. “Paimon! He's probably busy!”

“It got you up though~” She teased after Aether removed his hand, smirking smugly. “Well.. lucky, I don’t think Xiao heard Paimon anyways.”

“..Huh. I guess so. ..well, in that case–” The blonde flopped back onto the pillows, turning away from the now floating Paimon. “Hey!! Traveller! Get up, or Paimon’s gonna-”

“You called..?”

She gasped dramatically, her whole body jolting around in a panic. When she realised who it was, she sighed in relief. “Xiao! You always pop up so randomly, you know that?”

“But.. you're the one who called my name. I don't see how that's very ‘random’, Paimon..” He replied, his arms crossing over his chest in the familiar stance.

“Whatever! Just- help Paimon already! The traveller’s being lazy again!” She whined, tapping where Aether’s shoulder would be under the blanket. “He was awake just a few moments ago, Paimon doesn’t know how he does it.”

Xiao took a few steps over, peering over at the other’s sleeping state. “..Why don’t you just do it?” He asked softly, gently taking ahold of the blanket and dragging it down just so Aether’s face was visible.

“Oh believe me, Paimon’s tried.” She sighed softly, shaking her head. “Well.. This is your problem now. Tell him that Paimon’s in Mondstadt! Bye Xiaaoo~”

Before he could object, Paimon had disappeared into the hall and out the teapot. He huffed quietly, sitting on the edge of the mattress with his legs crossed. He stared for a few seconds, before gently nudging his arm. “Traveller.”

With no response, he repeated the motion. “It's late..”

“..I saw you last night, you know.” Be began, after realising that small movements weren’t doing anything. “Running around for people you don't even know. It's.. admirable, I suppose. But you shouldn’t be doing it. If mortals like yourself don't take the breaks they require, things like this happen.”

He perked up at the small breath the other huffed out, rubbing his eyes with the back of his knuckles. “..I know..” He mumbled, a soft giggle leaving his lips. “You're so poetic without realising it.”

“A-Ah.. I have little knowledge, nor talent for poetry.” Xiao spoke, his hands moving absentmindedly to sit in his own lap.

“Uhuh..” Aether mumbled in response, yawning softly before stretching his arms up. “..Hey, what are you doing here? Did- ohh..”

Seemingly just processing the events that happened, his eyes fluttered open to look up at the adeptus. “Sorry that Paimon called you. I didn’t.. I guess I was being slightly stubborn.”

The claim made Xiao huff a chuckle out, shrugging. “It's fine, I wasn’t particularly busy.”

“That's good..” He whispered, moving to lay on his back. He let out a few sleepy noises, his eyes drooping back shut. He should be getting him awake and out of bed.. but..

“Half an hour, okay?” The adeptus sighed, softening slightly at the pleased sound the other expressed.

And soon that half hour passed, causing Xiao to enter back into the warm room. He was slightly tempted to explore the house Aether resided in, but decided against it after some thought. Instead, he spent the time taking a look around the nature of the realm.

“Aether.” He called quietly, leaning on the door frame before fully welcoming himself in. “Come on, up.”

“Ugh, no..” He whined, turning around to face away from the other figure. “Later.”

“It’s almost two in the afternoon, and figuring Paimon’s been out for a bit..” he trailed off, returning to his previous position on the mattress. “What I'm trying to say is.. would you rather wake up to me or a screaming Paimon?

“..Good point.” Aether mumbled, “But I really, really don't want to.”

“Just come on. It's not the end of Teyvat y'know.” He replied, nudging the traveller somewhere on his torso, it was hard to tell under the blanket.

To Xiao’s surprise, he felt the other jolt away from his hand huff. “Mmph, dohont.. come onn, im tired~..”

“..Are you hurt?” He asked, gently moving the blanket to his upper thighs and poking around the area he had before. Considering the crop top, it didn't provide a lot of protection.

“hah.. noho, Xiao-” Aether giggled, shifting his position on the bed. “stop it..”

“You don't seem hurt.. you're laughing, after all.” Xiao thought out loud, tilting his head to the side. “Are you just pretending?”

“Xiao, it tickles.” Aether finally whispered, his knees curling in at the thought of it. “..Oh.” The adeptus said with a now understanding tone. “Good.”

“Good?” Aether repeated with a playful scoff, “How is that good?”

“Good because you're not in pain, like I previously expected.” He corrected himself. “Now.. Up. You have your daily commissions, don't you?”

The traveller groaned, crossing his arms over his face to block the sunlight from his eyes. “ugh, don't remind me..”

“Aether.” Xiao repeated sternly, “Last chance until I have to get you up myself. It’s too late to call this just ‘sleeping in’.”

“Boooo,” He mumbled, “Do your worst..”

Aether didn't really expect Xiao to do what he did.. After all, he didn't really have a great understanding of it, he forgot what it was just a few moments ago!

..So which is why he was surprised when he felt cold fingertips skitter up his side.

He yelped, his arms immediately shooting down and reaching for the attacker's hand. Of course, he was too sleepy to remember that Xiao was a literal adepti, and stopping his hand from reaching his own was probably the easiest thing in the world. “Xiahahao-” He whined, kicking his legs out from their previously curled position. “Cohome ohon!”

“If you just sat up, you could prevent this.” Xiao mumbled, pressing the said fingers into his lower tummy. The movement resulted in a loud yelp, rapid giggles flowing from the other’s throat.

“Yohou could prevehent this too! ju- jehesus chrihist!” He gasped, his hands still on a futile attempt to push the other’s away.

“Jesus who?” He asked, a confused look on his face. “You must be delirious..”

“Ahahm nohot!” He claimed, pushing his back into the mattress like that would do anything to ease the sensations. “if ihi am, ihits yohour fahault!”

“Hm. If you say so.” Xiao shrugged it off, seemingly careless. He began to move his hand down the side of his torso, latching onto his hip and squeezing softly. “Is this convincing you?”

“Ihits nohot!” Aether exclaimed, “Ihits- ihits making… yohou..- ugh, yohour impohossible!”

“I'm impossible?” He asked sarcastically, “Well, I'm not the one who overworked himself all night.. Honestly, Traveller.. I wish to know your thought process when you decided that was a good idea.”

“Cahan yohou shuhut uhuhup?!” He bucked slightly into the other’s hand, a small gasp leaving his lips before another round of giggles.

“Can you get up?” Xiao repeated, feeling an unusual amount of playfulness in the moment. Unusual.. but, welcomed. Especially when it turned the oh-so powerful Traveller into mush.

“Buhut I dohont wahant too!” He repeated himself, his head leaning back into the pillow, digging his heels into the bed. Xiao looked up, catching a glimpse of Aether’s face.

His fingers slowed to a stop as he stared at him, taking in his expression. “Hah.. x-xiao? What's wrong?” He asked in a giggly tone, his arms moving to cross over his tingling torso.

“..Nothing.” Xiao mumbled, blinking his gaze away from his face. “Your blushing~” He smiled smugly, tilting his head down. “What happe- xihihao!”

“You seem to have forgotten your current position, Aether.” He chuckled softly, letting his hand squeeze up from his lip to his stomach.

“Have you had enough yet? I trust you’ll get up eventually.” He mumbled, using his nails to scribble just above his navel.

“Ihi wihill, ihi wihill!” He whined, small breathy giggles leaving his lips at the aftermath of Xiao stilling his fingers.

“..In a second.” He finished his sentence, feeling a genuine laugh escaping him at the look Xiao gave him.

Without a second thought, The fingertips travelled up his ribcage and gently scritched in between the bones.

"You- ugh.."

Aether hummed, his feet moving to the pace of the city. Friday nights in Mondstadt were especially busy, and even though it was half past 11, various lights and lanterns kept the village lit as people made their way around the place for personal needs and what not. His floating travel companion had tapped out this time, claiming she was too tired to go out on any favours.

The honorary knight walked down the paths near Flora's flower store set up, eventually reaching the lower levels of Mondstadt near the tavern. Glancing at the barrels in front, he quickly decided that going in for a few hello’s wouldn’t be too bad. With a quiet bell chime, the Angels Share noise set into his ears. With tables full and bard playing a lyre at the back. It set a nice ambiance, as he walked up to the ba-

“Traveller! Wha- *hic* Are you doing here?”

recognising the high pitched voice. He turned to meet the eyes of Mondstadt’s famous bard. Venti quickly spinned the chair around and stumbled off. Though, immediately falling into his dear friend wasn't quite what he was trying to do. But it didn't matter, he wrapped his arms around the knight tightly as Aether tried to pull him up to prevent him from falling.

“Ehe~! Aether..*hic* where.. Where have you beenn~? I haven- *hic* seen you in Mon- Monstadt for like.. ever. ehe..” he slightly rambled, huffing as the traveller finally stabilised his stance. “Venti.. who let you get this drunk?”

“I’m not drrun- drunk! jus- *hic* just happyyy~ ehehe.. Aether i'm all spinny.. you- can you pass my me-.. wait.. me my drink? yeah..” He giggled out, whining as aether threw their hand over his shoulder and led his arm around to their’s. “Come on, let's get you home okay?”

Venti gasped loudly, though not to be looked at twice with all the commotion in the tavern. “Whaaat? no!- nonono.. I still.. need to drink the rest..! Ae- tther.. pleasee? ill tell you a secret if you do!” he insisted, leaning over to the others ear and cupping his hands around his mouth as he spoke-

“I’m.. actually Barbatos. shhh.. you can't tell aannybody okay? its a secre- a secret.” He took his hands away and looked into his eyes waiting for a reaction. Aether couldn’t help but laugh a bit, faking a surprised expression. “Wow, really?” he gasped, his voice dripping in sarcasm. He reached into his back pocket and slipped a couple mora bills under the half filled glass. But knowing Venti, that wouldn’t be nearly enough to cover his tab. Poor master Diluc...

“ye- *hic* yeah! I'm like.. alot old. what's the word.. chemistry?” he mumbled, in deep thought. Which is probably why he didn't notice when Aether slowly led him out the tavern and got his own teapot out, because archons know where Venti spends his nights.

“Cen.. centuries! Yeah.. yeah that- that's the word. it means like.. centurie- oh! that was fast.. you're a fast walker..” he slurred his words, leaning his head on Aether’s shoulder.. “I’ll take you to bed, come on.” he insisted softly, leading him up the stairs and into his bedroom. Within seconds of noticing the bed, he tilted his head up all the way and reached out to it only for his arm to slump back down lazily.

Aether complied, sitting him up on the bed and reaching over to the side table to get a bottle of water. “..you- you're not gonna make me drink that. right?”

….

“..right?”

with a loud groan Venti flopped onto his back and turned away. “Nooo- sont- dont make *hic* -make me..”

“Come on, if you don’t drink this now you're gonna feel especially sick in the morning. Trust me, it's not fun..” he shuttered slightly, remembering the feeling of a particularly bad hangover.

“I don’t care! you- you're bad! you're a bad bad man Aether- you're the worst! i'm not- *hic!* touching your weird, clear, tasteless drink!!”

Aether sighed, setting the bottle back. “..You're drinking it, whether you like it or not. And if it means I have to take some drastic measures, so be it." He said, a serious facade on his face.

The drunkard bard seemingly taking it seriously had wide eyes and a small smile as he spoke;“Huh?! dr- *hic!* drastic! what are you gon- AH! Aethther! dohont- dohohnt yohou dahahare!”

In a swift motion, Aether hand gently moved his hands to scribble across Venti’s upper ribs, giggling softly along with him.

“Oh, I do dare. You know how to make it stop Venti~” The traveller smiled softly, his hands skilfully scratching in between the little bones all the way down to his waist. Venti dug his head into the mattress, kicking his feet out behind him as he squirmed. “ahahE!- noho! Ihi dohon’t wahahant to! goHo awahay!” His hands pressed into the mattress with all the strength he could muster up while like this (Which in all honesty wasnt alot, especially for an archon..) , his wide smile on display.

“Awh, Venti.. Has anyone ever told you that you have a very pretty smile?” He said softly, his fingers massaging into the other’s waist over the lazily tied corset. Venti let out a loud hiccup in between his giggling, shaking his head left to right. “eheno! stohhop teheasing meheee!”

Aether chuckled with a gentle tone in his voice, blunt nails dragging down to where his hips met his thighs, digging in between. “Oh, but I would never tease you, wouldn't even dream of it, Venti.”

Okay, now he was definitely teasing..

Venti’s legs continued kicking, his hands shot up at Aether’s shoulders with a tight grip. “What, you don't like it here? Right here?” The blonde spoke, scribbling his fingers along his lower hips.

“Aehetherrrr~! ihi am- I aham a archon!”

“Yeah, a very giggly one in your case.”

“Aham nohot!” He argued back even through the said giggles, denying any sort of claims. “A drunk one?” Aether counter-offered, his hands travelling down to squish at the sides of his thighs.

“Nohot druhunk! juhust hahappy! I alreheady said that, I thi- wahait wait!” He repeated his phrase from earlier before jolting, his knees trying to curl up to his chest. “What, hm? You're gonna drink some water now?” He asked, fingertips momentarily stilling but continuing to rest on the spot.

“Waihit- juhust wahait..” He insisted, letting out soft breathy giggles as he caught his breath. “Thahats- thats not fair.”

“Ihits not fair?” The traveller repeated, a slight laugh of his own leaving his lips. “And why is that?”

“Because- behecause I have my things on! And thats- its soho bad, so you can’t.” He explained drunkenly, a hand pulling at his own tights to give further example.

“Oh I can’t?” He pressed his finger pads into the small diamonds on the patterned tights, enlightening a giggly gasp from the other. “Are you sure I can’t?”

“..No.” Venti mumbled, a soft squeal escaping his throat when he felt the hands suddenly attach themselves onto his knees and squeeze.

“You're so stubborn, just give upp~ I need to get you to bed, yknow.” Aether shrugged, talking like he was completely oblivious to what he was doing.

Venti didn’t reply, maybe a few babbles about how ‘he wasn’t a baby’, which the blonde simply countered with the reminder that he had his head thrown back because he was just that childishly ticklish. He honestly had never seen him shut up so quickly.. he's definitely gonna use this for blackmail.

“Okahay okay!” He exclaimed dramatically inbetween his squeals, “Stohop, ihim gohonna die!”

“Dramatic, but okay.” He chuckled, rubbing the left over tingles away. “You're done with your little tantrum? You’ll drink it?”

“..I want apple juice.”

Xiao materialises silently on the balcony behind him, arms crossed. “Hmph, it’s you,” He murmurs, his voice barely audible.

“It is,” Aether said, waving him over as he leaned against the rails. Xiao complied, moving himself to stand next to the traveller. “So, is Liyue big on new years? It seems like it..”

Xiao’s gaze shifts to the bustling streets below, his eyes narrowing slightly. “Yes, Liyue is known for its grand celebrations during the lantern rite. Mortals gather to welcome the new year, hoping for good fortune and prosperity.” He turns his attention back to the figure beside him, his expression softening ever so slightly. “Is there a reason you ask..?”

“Not necessarily.. I was more asking if you were big on it.” Aether admitted, smiling softly at the city.

Xiao's eyes flicker with a hint of surprise, as if caught off guard by his question. "I... I suppose I don’t partake in such festivities," he admits, his voice tinged with a touch of melancholy. "As an adeptus, I have always maintained a certain distance from mortal affairs. My duty lies in protecting Liyue and its people, but I have never been one to revel in celebrations or seek personal enjoyment. It’s not in my nature."

He pauses for a moment, then adds, "However, I am willing to make an exception, if it is your wish to experience these festivities together."

Aether chuckled at the offer, shaking his head. "You don’t have to do that, Xiao, I know you’d rather not. But if you want.. we can stay up here for a bit?” He asked, tilting his head. “Please?”

Xiao's gaze shifts back to the lively streets below, watching as the crowds grow larger and the excitement mounts. "I appreciate your consideration.”

He turns his attention back to the blonde, his eyes meeting his. "If you wish to join me in this seclusion, I would be honoured to spend this time with you." He gestures to the balcony, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

He smiled widely, “Thank you~..” He lowered himself to the ground, his legs criss-crossed around each other.

Xiao follows Aether’s lead, lowering himself to the ground beside him and crossing his legs in a similar fashion. He glances at him, his smile a rare sight. “I hear your back from your travels in Fountaine, correct?”

“Yeah, it was.. well, Fountaine.” He laughed softly, his eyes trailing down his arm before he noticed something. “The ocean was amazing though, they-.. Hm.”

“..What is it?” The adeptus asked, a confused expression on his face as Aether’s fingers reached out to his skin. With anybody else he’d flinch away, but he's learnt to accept the travellers touch. “You're bruised.”

“I.. suppose I am,” He stated, seemingly not paying much mind to it. “Mere consequence of my battles.. You shouldn’t worry, There's probably many more to come. But.. they will heal due to time.”

“I know, it doesn't mean I like it.” He muttered, huffing quietly. “Yknow, if you ever need me to patch you up all you need to do is ask.”

“No need,” Xiao insisted, “But.. If it comes to it, I’ll remember that.”

“I’m glad.” Aether smiled, satisfied with the answer he received. His fingers dragged down the skin until he reached the end, his hand moving to rest on top of the other’s. -which of course would’ve been fine, but..

His fingertips trailing down his forearm made Xiao gasp, reflexively flinching back a bit. “A-Ah.. apologies, Aether. You just..”

“It's okay,” He replied, softly cutting the other off from speaking any more excuses. “My fault.”

The two sat like that for a few minutes in silence, simply enjoying each other's company. Well, it was simple until the blonde’s hand began to shift, nails drifting across his wrist an-

“Aether,” he spoke in a faked stern tone, turning to look at him.

“Uhuh,” He replied calmly, his nails grazing the same sensitive spot. “I'm just making sure you're not hiding any more injuries from me. What if you're in a critical condition and I didnt even know, hm?”

“Ihim- i’m not..?” a soft yelp left his lips, dare he even say– a giggle? “You’d know..”

“How am I supposed to believe that though? You're a very secretive person, Xiao. Now, I insist, stay still.” Aether smiled smugly, speaking whatever excuses came into his head first as he sneaked a hand to the adepti’s torso and latched onto his side.

“A-Ah! Aetheher..” He let out a shaky breath, restraining himself. “Don't just-..”

“Don't just what?” Aether tilted his head with a fake confused expression, his hand perfectly still.

“I.. ugh, your childish, Traveler.” Xiao sighed, turning his head away. Aether simply laughed softly, letting his fingers wiggle gently up his ribs. “I’m funny, excuse you.” He huffed, “I'm sure you’ll find me funny in a few minutes too.”

“I will no-hot!” He gasped, desperately trying to keep a straight face. He debated hiding with his mask on, but knowing Aether he’d probably give him hell for it..

“You’re no fun.. Come on, you're supposed to be laughing.” He whined, a playful smile shining on his lips.

“I don’t laugh.” He states, biting the inside of his cheek to keep his composure. “I’m an adeptus, it's un- hah.. unprofessional..”

“Sure you can, giggles. I’ll even help you!” Aether teased, gently pressing his thumbs into the bone.

“Don’t cahall me thahat!" He tried to grumble the best that he could, but he couldn't refrain from the small giggles that started bubbling from his chest.

“What, giggles? But it's cute! And you are giggling, y’know.” He pointed out, his hand darting to the others mid section and rubbing circles into his hip bones.

Finally, the dam broke with a gasp and breathy giggles, the shorter ducking his head down. “Thahats- nohot the pohohint..”

Aether cooed at the sight, shifting his position a little to be able to reach over and use both his hands. “Awh, Xiao~ I can think of a different point. Maybe about how you aren’t pushing me away?”

“I.. do nohot wihish to huhurt yohou.” Xiao mumbled out, his hands squeezed in fists to restrain himself. “Hm.. Excuses, excuses~” He sighed dramatically, giving his torso a couple last squeezes. “Alright, alright.. I’m done, sorry.”

As he regained his composure, he sighed softly, arms crossing over his chest idly. “It's.. fine. I suppose.”

“I bet.” Aether replied in a monotone voice, a knowing expression on his face. “No more tricks, ‘kay?” He promised, slinging an arm around his shoulders as a truce.

Tighnari sighed as he looked at the other, who was currently laid out on the small cot they kept in the infirmary. He thanked the archons that Collei had found the well-known Traveller on the paths of the forest momentarily after he had passed out. He was waiting for him to awake before he did any serious examinations, but from what he saw from glancing along the vital areas he could say with confidence he’ll be fine. (Atleast, that's what he told a worried Collei..)

His ears straightened up immediately when he heard Aether stirr, his eyes fluttering half open with a groan. He moved to sit up, too quickly he may add, pressing a hand to his temple.

Tighnari stood up and moved over to his side, gently placing a hand on his shoulder to steady the fragile figure. “Hey, easy..” he murmured soothingly, his voice filled with concern. “Collei tells me you took quite a fall. Are you dizzy at all?”

Aether paused for a second, processing the recent events. “..um, a bit, I think?"

The fox thought for a moment, before reaching for the cup of water he had prepared when the other was brought in. “Here, take a sip. It’ll help with the lingering dizziness.”

“Thanks..” The blonde spoke, taking the glass with both hands in fear it’ll spill. He took a slow sip, blinking away the blurriness in his eyes. Tighnari nodded, taking the glass back with ease. “Now.. more importantly, do you remember what happened?”

“Yeah, it.. just..- sorry.” He chuckled, trying to speak and form his thoughts into words at the same time. He was still adjusting, after all. “I was looking for materials, these flowers. I think I just stood up too fast, and I started to see black dots.. yknow?”

Tighnari listened attentively, his brows furrowing with concern as he pieced together what happened. “Hm.. I’ve heard that a few times, actually. Well.. that isn’t surprising, because I assure you I’ve heard it all.”

Aether laughed softly, “I’m sure you have, ‘nari.” As he was talking, he shifted himself to sit facing the other.

“But.. It sounds like you're describing a combination of a sudden change of position and low blood sugar. Can I ask the last time you’ve eaten?”

“I-.. huh.” He began to speak before cutting himself off, thinking for a moment. “Yesterday.. midday-ish?”

Tighnari sighed, his ears twitching. “Now, that plays a part of the problem. You have to make sure you're taking care of yourself before you go out on your adventures, or things like this happen.”

“In my defence, I wasn’t ad-.. Okay, okay.” He paused when he looked up to see Tighnari staring at him with a specific look, putting his hands up in defence.

“So, what now? You’ve given me your little lecture, I'm not dizzy anymore.. I can go, right?” He said as he let his arms fall to his sides, leaning forward a bit.

“Hah, funny.” Tighnari half-scoffed, standing up straight before continuing. “I still have to make sure you're completely okay, physically. It's one of the many, many rules here.”

“Is that necessary? I mean.. aren’t you a botanist?” Aether tilted his head in confusion, a part of him trying to convince Tighnari to forget about the technicalities.

“Oh trust me, I know.” He huffed, turning to pick up a piece of paper behind him. “I majored in botany, and helping people grow a brain is not my area of expertise.”

“Rude, but fair.” Is all he replied with, watching as the fox turned back around with the said paper in his hands as he skimmed the information. “So.. You fell, which means I have to check your head, and limbs. Fun, right?”

“I’m ecstatic right now, can’t you tell?” Aether said in a deadpanned tone, glancing off for a second before returning his attention to the other. “Yeah? Well, maybe It’ll convince you to take better care of yourself.”

“Okay.. tilt your head down for me.” Not giving him a chance to reply to his comment, he carded a hand through the other hand in search of any dried blood or cuts. “A headache is to be expected.. but are you experiencing any other sort of pain?”

“Not really.” He shifted slightly, but stayed mostly still. “If you mess my hair up, you're redoing it.”

Tighnari simply laughed at his comment, rolling his eyes. “Uhuh..” However, Aether barely heard him and was more focused on his hand. The soft touch travelled to the back of his head, dangerously close to the back of his neck. In response, his back tensed up as he tilted his head back up. “Sohorry- it just felt weird.”

The other looked at him with a knowing look, a smug smile forming on his face. “Just weird?” He asked, before picking up the paper again and jotting something down. “Mhm.”

“I’m sure.. put your arms out.” Aether did as he was told, holding his arms out with his wrists facing up. “Any pain?”

“No- ow!” He yelped, pulling his arm back as soon as Tighnari began gently squeezing starting from the top. “Okay, a little pain.."

“Hm..” He hummed, inspecting the area. “It’s only a bruise, no need to fret.”

“I wasn’t, you just scared the shit out of me-hah! - Nahari!” He yelped as he felt a hand squeeze his side, jolting back. “Watch your language, I’m not sure where Collei is.”

“Obviously not here- wait! Sorry, I'm sohorry!” he gasped as the hand inched closer again, causing him to giggle in anticipation.

“That's what I thought. Now, stay still. You're squirming a awful lot for somebody who wants this over and done with.” Tighnari said smugly, continuing down his arms before leading them to lay down to his torso.

“Everything seems okay.. Can you stand?” He moved back so the traveller could get up, watching as he stood with ease. “Hm.. No, don't think so.” Aether replied, looking at Tighnari with a faked look of confusion.

“You're hilarious.” All the other said in response, rolling his eyes half-heartedly. “I know, right? Am I as funny as Cyno, Tighnari?”

“hah.. you're just as immature as he can be, Aether.”

“But you still laughed~” Aether teased, crossing his arms over his chest with that stupid, smug smile on his face.

“I can think of a couple of ways to make you join me.” He said in a calm and collected tone, watching as the other stuttered slightly at his words. “Oh, so now you're a comedian?”

“Did you think that I’m joking?” Tighnari looked up with that glint in his eyes, before writing a few more things down that Aether couldn’t be bothered to snoop at.

“Annd.. done. You're free to go.”

“..What?”

“I said you're done. Apologies for holding you up.” He said, folding the paper and setting it on the chair. “But you said that-..”

“What? Were you expecting something, perhaps?” Aether huffed under his breath, glancing away momentarily to collect himself. “Tighnari.”

With a laugh, Tighnari rolled his eyes and took a step closer. “I’m kidding, I'm kidding.. come here."

“..Stop looking at me like that.” He replied but still took a step forward. “Well, you just asked me to tickle you, so I have to look at you some way.”

“I did nohot-!” He yelped softly when he felt sharp nails scratching up his hips, unfortunately Tighnari was careful not to dig into him.. which in response just produced a barely-there tingling sensation.

He flinched forward, deciding if he was gonna end up falling over he’d drag the fox down with him. After jolting into the other’s hold, he pressed his face into hiding. this is his fault after all. Him and his stupid nails, and smug smile.. Aether was gonna get him back, just.. not right now. Convenient, right?

“Don't deny it,” He laughed softly at Aether’s attempt, pressing his thumb into the back of his ribs as his fingers wiggled into the front of the bones. “You definitely did.”

“Thahats- nohot fair! Yohour a liar! Lying!” He wailed, his frantic giggled morphing into intoxicating laughter at the change of spots. “No need to be so defensive.. Laughing is good for you, actually. When you laugh, it relieves your stress re-”

“I dohohon’t cahahare!” Aether cut him off, his hands finding Tighnari’s wrists and holding them in place. Tighnari simply sighed, before moving his nails to spider down his stomach. The movement resulted in a sudden cackle, ceasing any backtalk entirely.

“As I was saying before I was interrupted..” He said with a tone of fake annoyance, before continuing to speak on the matter. It only lasted a minute, maybe two, before Aether pushed at his chest as hard as he could in his position.

“so- oh, hello again. What's so funny?” He asked with a knowing tone, stilling his hands momentarily. “I.. hahahahate yohohou..” He giggles, taking in heavy breaths of air.

“I’m sure you do.” Tighnari chuckled, “but here you are."

“sahahadly, yes.” He sighed happily, his relief cut off before the soft touch started up again and scribbled along his mid-back and up his spine.

The gentle sensation sent shivers through his body, rocking himself left to right slightly to try and rid of them. "yohohour nails ahare hohorible, by the wahay."

"For you, maybe. I can see why, it would be a lot bearable if they were shorter." Tighnari assessed, drawing soft circles with his fingertips.

"noho shihit," Aether replied sassily, but his rapid giggling made sure it came off with no ill intent.

Soon enough the fingers came to a stop, replaced with a palm rubbing the ghost tickles away. "Hm.. Well, I can't let you laugh too hard.. you could get lightheaded. You've had enough, surely?"

Lyney flared out the stack of playing cards, smiling smugly at the traveler standing in-front of him.

"Traveler~ Be a dear and pick a card for me, will you?" He asked, holding said cards out to him.

Aether simply tilted his head after being stopped in his tracks, shrugging before sliding out a card from the middle. "Hello to you to, I guess."

"Ah, my apologies.. Hello, Aether. Remember that card, yes?" He corrected himself, confirming Aether had a memory of his pick before taking the card back.

"Now, prepare to be amazed, dear traveler!" Lyney exclaimed, shuffling the cards in a way that told Aether he had done this many times before. "Was.. this your card?"

As he spoke, he pulled a card from the top of the deck and flipped it to Aether's view dramatically. The black diamond card glistened slightly, and the shorter just chuckled. "It might've been."

"Ta-da~" Lyney hummed, sliding his cards into a pocket.

"You know, ive been practicing my own magic lately, Lyney." Aether replied, huffing a laugh at the excited expression the other showed.

"You have?" He gasped, "Well, I've obviously taken a toll on you! Who else would you get inspiration from, hm?"

"Lynette." The traveler cut him off slightly, watching the magician's face drop. "Pfft, relax.. I was just kidding, it was you."

"You tease.." Lyney crossed his arms over his chest, before his smile returned. "Though, you'll have to do a trick for me. And maybe if your lucky, I can teach you a thing or two~"

"Isn't that against the magicians code?" Aether joked, laughing softly before taking a few steps closer to him. "I can show you a trick. You'll have to close your eyes though."

"Well, how could I ever say no to a offer like that?" Lyney smirked, letting his arms fall to his sides and closing his eyes.

"Thats good," The shorter praised, moving to stand behind him. "Prepare to be amazed, Lyney~"

With that, he dug his fingers into the backs of Lyney's ribs and wiggled his nails gently into the skin. The taller gasped loudly, falling back into Aether's chest on reflex as he laughed.

"Aether!" is the only word he managed to get out before he was cut off by his own giggles. "stohohop thahat! Thahats uhunfair!"

"Well, I think its pretty fair." He replied in a unbothered tone, like he was completely oblivious to his hands that were now spidering down to his hips.

"Wehell Ihi- don't!" He yelped when he felt Aether's hand linger towards the side of his thigh, barely grazing over the fabric of his tights. He tried to move forward out of his grasp, but the traveler held a firm arm around his waist to keep him as still as he could. "Ihi'll fall!.."

"Huh.." Aether pretended to be deep in thought, before scribbling his fingers into the squishy surface. "Not gonna lie.. that kind of sounds like a you problem. I'd be happy to help though, if you'd do something for me."

The squeal the magician let out earned a few strange looks from the passerby's, his knees buckling slightly before he pushed them back straight. "Whahat do yohou wahant?"

"Well, thats no way to ask is it?" He asked rhetorically, sensing that Lyney might actually fall if he continued in that particular spot for any longer.. So with that logic, he moved up to squish pouch of skin at his sides.

"people ahare staharing! I hahave a reputation yohou know!" He argued, squirming back into the figure behind him like that would make the sensation any less unbearable. "Juhust tehell me!"

"Well.. its simple really, all you have to do is.." Aether paused, moving to whisper in the other's ear. "-admit that you like this."

Lyney gasped and moved his head away, squeezing his already shut eyes. "Wihill- will yohou stohop?"

"Probably not." The traveller shrugged, laughing at the whine that tore from Lyney's throat. "Okay, okay! I will.."

"Yohou behetter.." His laugh turned to soft breathy giggles as aether switched his squeezing to soft in poking and prodding.

"Ihi guess.. I guess its not horrible?" He whispered, his cheeks flushing up in embarrassment. "Now.. let me go! I have a show soon y'know, I'm a magician, not a toy.."

"Alright, alright~ I had my fun." Aether sighed happily, releasing him from his grasp. "And before you ask, yes, I'll come to your show."

"You know me too well, dear Traveler.." Lyney turned around, a genuine smile on his face. "Now, I'll be taking my leave. I'll be searching for you in the audience~"

“Windblume..?”

You opened your eyes halfway, turning your head to look up. To see your favourite wind-wielding archon looking down at you, you couldn’t have had a better start to your morning. But, you had to admit.. it did seem a bit early. Looking out the windows of your teapot, you could see it was barely sunrise.

At this moment, you knew you wouldn’t be able to muster enough energy to talk at all. So instead of using your words, you decided to climb onto him and huddle yourself into his chest. Hearing him let out his signature giggle, you knew he approved.

“Love, it's only 6.. go back to sleep.” he murmured, stroking your hair. melting into the touch, you gave him a sleepy kiss on the cheek. “What.. what day is- is it?..” you said with a yawn, tucking your head under his chin. “its Wednesday.. why?”

“Wednesday…” you repeated, thinking to yourself for a second. Wednesday.. Wednesday…..

..oh.

God fucking damm-

You fully opened your eyes, letting out a long wine. “Windblume?.. What's wrong?” Your beloved asked, looking down at you for a moment.

As much as you wanted to lay in your lover's arms for the rest of time, you started to make your way to the door. Or.. tried to.

As soon as he heard you about to shift, he tightened his arms around you. “Huh?.. Where are you going love?” he asked, turning your face to meet his eyes.

“Just commissions.. and.. Lisa wanted me to help organise the library. Oh, and i agreed to help Jean with some knight work.. and-”

Suddenly, a finger pressed up to your lips. “Shh.. that's enough.” Venti hushed, “All of that stuff can wait until at least 10 in the morning, right?”

You sighed, “It can’t.. I still have to help Albedo with his experiment afterwards too, so I might take a bit.” You moved to get out from his hold, giving him a knowing glance when he didn't let go

“I’ll be back around 10-ish, okay?” You leaned in to kiss him again, this time on the lips. He melted under your touch, moving his cape to rest along your shoulders. “Now you have to stay in for a bit. C’mon.. just a few hours?...please?”

of course, you were honoured to be wanted by the anemo archon. In your defence, you really did need the primogems..

You sigh, turning your body towards him and hugging the god tightly. “I’m sorry Ven.. I really do need to go though. I’ll finish up as soon as I can, okay? I promise.”

Honestly, looking back at it,

you don't know why you thought that would work at all.

Him and you both knew that he was stubborn, and even more adorably grumpy when he's just waking up. Venti simply gave a grunt of disapproval, slipping his arms under yours and returning the embrace.

The bard tapped your back softly, alerting you to look up at him. You did as requested, only to be met with dove eyes looking back at you. “..Please? Come on.. please? pllleeeaasee? pleasepleaseplea-”

“Venti.”

You chuckled, pulling away to cup his head in your hands. “You know I love you, but you really can't reason with this. It's final, even your puppy eyes can't change fate.” you hummed, peppering kisses all around his face.

He quickly scrunched his nose up, smiling widely. “ehe- stohoap..” he giggled at the stupidness of his partner, his eyes squinting at you. You pulled back, returning the stupid smile. “Okay, now I really have to go. Want your cape back or am I leaving with it? Then, all of Mondstadt can know I'm yours~”

The archon blushed at the thought, looking back at you after averting his eyes on reflex. “You.. don’t know how much i’d love that..” he mumbled out, “But maybe.. you could just.. stay? only for a few hours..?”

You rolled your eyes playfully, “How many times have I said this? You can’t convince me Ven. People need help, and I’m here to serve their needs. I'm not called “honorary knight” for nothing you know..”

A small noise of dissatisfaction left Venti’s mouth, as he began to talk out his offer. “Just.. 10 minutes. Please? I won't whine anymore I promise!”

You thought about it for a moment, before giggling to yourself. “I suppose.. But, if I’m late I’m blaming it aaallll on my favourite bard you know~.”

Your partner shushed you, adjusting the both of you to lay back down as he wrapped you in his arms. “Is your plan to make me fall back asleep again? Because.. it's working..” you laid back, melting back into the pillow under your head.

Your partner moved closer, resting his head near your collarbone and leaned up to place small kisses around the area. Your shoulders slightly scrunched up, tightening your arms around the archon.

“hm.? ..oh. sorry, i forgot how ticklish you are~..”

The word sent a shiver down your spine, causing you to arch your back ever so slightly. Venti cooed quietly, “Don’t worry, don’t worry.. I’m not planning on completely attacking you. Just relax, okay?"

You couldn’t help but smile at him, well, literally, as he continued to dot his lips all around your neck and shoulders. “mmhp- Vehehenti..”

“Yess, my lovee~?” He giggled softly, pulling back and huddling you against his chest. Once he knew you were comfortable, his hands slowly moved to rub up and down your sides. “Yohohou..” Is all you could say in response, your brain short-circuiting from his movements.

“Awh.. are the tickles making your pretty little head all foggy, huh? You really need to relax more, you know..” He suggested, unknowingly teasing you. At his words, you let out a soft whine and tightened your grip around him; he's right, he was making your head all fuzzy..

His hands finally slipped under your shirt, causing you to gasp gently. You couldn’t help but try to twist away as you felt his hands curl into your sides, fighting the urge to slap a hand over your lover's mouth after he giggled at your antics.

“My dearest.. You really are rather cute, you do realise that.. right?” He said in a certain tone of voice that made you wanna hide under the covers and never come out, archons, he always knew didn't he?

“mmmph nohoho..” You whispered , unable to stop the sounds coming out of your throat. One of your hands held onto the back of his nightshirt, making sure your face was hidden into his chest and tucked away from his view.

“No? Are you sure?” He asked, taking on a fake confused tone. His nails began to trace circles around your sides, teasing the bottom of your tummy ever so slightly. You felt your body jump, unable to stop the giggles that poured out of your mouth.

“Fuhuck! Vehenti!-” You couldn’t help but yelp at his fingers, your body involuntarily squirming away. To no avail, he simply held you tighter to keep you in place to be able to continue. “That's me, your favourite bard~ How can I help you, sweetheart?”

You groaned in between your giggles, “Yohour so mean..” Is all you said, running out of things to say. “Oh, I’m the meanest am I? I'm just sooo evil, almost as evil as trying to leave me for 4 hours? Do you even realise how long that is? Hm?”

“Ihi dihidn’t mean to! I’m just buhusy todahAH-” You let out a loud sound of suprise, his nails trailing onto your stomach. One of his hands traced squiggly lines around the space and the other circled around your navel area.

“nonohEhaha!- fuhuck! Ihi’m sohorryy!-” You said, your body in a slight shock from the sensations. “plehehease! Ihi’m too tihired for this!”

“Your tired? Great! That means you’ll stay in today right?” He asked, not expecting an answer. After all, you knew that wasn’t a question, but instead a statement. “Buhut.. I have stuhuff to do..”

“I’ll take care of it, If they have a problem with you taking a rest for once then they can take it up with me.” He said, his index finger gently tracing just around your navel causing you to let out a soft squeal.

“VeheEhen! Ihi dohon’t knohow! Lehehet me thIHink!-” Your own laughter cut you off, trying to twist out of his hold. “Come on.. Just say yeess~” He giggled, using his other hand to move up to your ribs and digged in.

“FUHuck!- Ohokay! Whahatever! plehehease!” You resorted, moving both of your hands that you’ve been restraining the whole time to grab ahold of his. Finally, his hands slipped out from under your shirt and moved to hold you close.

“You work too hard, my love.. I know you don't think you want it, but your body needs this break. So.. Just this once?” He looked down at you with puppy eyes, his head tilting into the pillow.

“..I can’t say no, can I?”

“Precisely."

You sighed happily, rolling your eyes. “Fine, just this once.”

When people have bad days, they usually don't like to make it known to people. But.. when Gwen swung into the window and slammed it shut behind her, it wasn’t too hard to tell.

“You ‘right, Gwenny?” Hobie asked with a curious tone, glancing up from.. whatever he was doing. It was hard to tell with the mess of mechanical parts scattered across the table.

“I'm great. Amazing, even.” She grumbled, bending down and untying the shoes she borrowed from her temporary roommate.

“If you say so.” The taller shrugged, going back to fiddling with the robotical parts in front of him. He was interested, dare say worried.. but, he wasn't one to push it. Gwen looked back, siding her mask off before sitting down on the busted up couch next to Hobie.

“..What are you doing, anyways?” The spider-ghost asked, staring at the bits and bobs he had. “Stuff.” He shrugged, seemingly a bit distracted. “Did ‘ya wanna talk ‘bout it, then?”

“Nothing to talk about, just.. bad day. Like, really bad.” She admitted quietly, pulling her knees up to her chest. Hobie let out an understanding hum, before wrapping an arm around her shoulders. He was still mostly focused on his little project, sneaking glances at the girl once and a while before speaking up.

“So what, you jus’ wanna watch me? Bit stalker-ish, don't ‘ou think?” The comment made Gwen chuckle softly, rolling her eyes. “See, that's why we can’t have nice things.”

“Whatdou’ you mean by that, huh? You sayin’ that we’ve never had good times? I beg to differ.”

“You're putting words in my mouth!” She exclaimed, shoving his torso with her elbow. Even with the playful banter going on, Hobie noticed she was at least laughing.

“Yeah, and ‘our the one laughin’ ‘bout it, ay? Bit rude I think.” He responded, finally pulling his arms away from his work and pulling Gwen closer to him.

“Yeah, whatever yo-..” Gwen paused at the rare affection, letting a final laugh out before dropping her weight onto him. “Whatever you say.”

For once in her life, she didn't hear a snarky come back from Hobie like she usually would. She looked up with a concerned look, tilting her head. “..Your looking at me weird.”

“Yknow, you don't need to worry about me– wait. hobie, no.” Her worry soon morphed into a giddy expression, shoving his hands away from her torso. She knew that look too well to do nothing.

“I ain’t even done nothin’ yet!” Hobie laughed, holding her in place. “If ‘our not gonna talk ‘bout it, I gotta find a way to cheer you up don’t I?”

“Ihi’m fine!” She assured him, “amazing, actually!”

“That's what ‘ou said when you walked in, remember? Can’t be usin’ the same old excuses Gwendy, cohome out of it now.” He let out a chuckle at the playfulness, his fingers curling up against her sides.

“Hohobie!” She giggled loudly, half from the anticipation and the other half from the sensations. He was barely touching her, too.

“Yeah, what?” He asked, more focused on his hands than her words. His hands laid flat out on either side of her ribs, his fingers gently scratching over the spider suit. “See, this is what I’ve been teachin’ that Miles kid. use your whole hand, not just your fingers. You heard from him?”

“Stohop!” She whined, pulling her hood over her face to end just below her bottom lip. “Come on, can’t just leave me hangin’ like that. Answer my question, yeah?”

“Ihi hahave! Yehesterday- that's so bahad Hobie!” Gwen arched her back away, squirming in his hold, “Sohomewhere else!”

“Is it stop or somewhere else? You gotta pick one, can’t do both can I?” He replied snarkily, but still complied and switched to spider his fingertips down to her hips.

Her laugh died down a bit, but not to a complete stop. “Hah.. yohour hohorible!” She giggled, “evil, evehen.”

“I'm evil? I'm Spiderman. I think I'm angelic, actually.” He said with a scoff, squeezing her sides. “And, ‘our pretty rude yourself yknow. You slammed my window!”

“Ihi didnt mean too! Juhust- cahan you stohop that?” Gwen rolled her eyes, her body repeatedly flinching away everytime Hobie played out the motion of swiping his thumbs up to reach her stomach before travelling back down.

“Nah, don’t think I will. I’m comfy like this, thanks though Gwendy.” Hobie said as if her request was merely an offer to him, before moving up to scratch his nails in the middle of her tummy.

The girl gasped, her giggles shortly turning into a full blown laugh after. “This your spot then, ay Gwen? Ironic.”

“fuhuhuck yohou– shihit!” She whined, her legs kicking out against the arm of the couch

“HohobiHIE! stohopstohop- Yohou fuhuhucker!”

“you fuckkkeer!” Hobie mocked her American accent, “You non-brits have the most shittest insults yknow. Honestly, I’d rather you call me a twat.”

Soon his fingers came to a stop, moving to pull her hood back down to her neck to make it easier for her to take the air in. “You ‘ight there, luv?”

“Yeheah,” She replied, breathy giggles still escaping her. “Thanks.”