#tomato.writes

You can already feel a scolding incoming when your ears pick up the familiar footsteps approaching your room. Adjusting your jumpsuit and brushing a bit of your hair to look at least decent—though you’re positive that you look like a huge mess—the door finally opens. 

“Goodness me,” you quickly glance away from the vanity to see your assigned doctor entering your quarters. He closes the door as he puts one hand on his hip. He scans you up and down disappointingly, “[Name]… What happened to you? Oh dear. Come here.”

You oblige from his wishes and take a seat on the bed. You avoid his gaze shamefully as he starts pulling out the bandaids, alcohol, and cotton balls from his gladstone bag. “How utterly reckless – how many times did I tell you to be more careful? You have more scratches than before.”

The bed creaks when he sits beside you. A warm hand caresses the side of your cheek, turning you so you can face his evident worried expression. (His concern for your well–being makes your heart do tons of somersaults, even if this is like, the umpteenth time he has visited you.)

Still filled with embarrassment, you refuse to meet his vibrant, enchanting green eyes so you opt to focus on his braids instead. 

However, he did not like this at all and sighs. Your chest flutters when his thumb rubs your supple skin slowly. The doctor leans in and whispers in your ear, “Look at me when I’m talking to you.” 

(Yep. It definitely sent shivers down your spine.)

You shut your eyelids for a moment, to at least regain your composure and prepare yourself, before finally lifting them up. 

Archons. He’s still gorgeous as ever. 

His hair is still majestic with the split ends he garnered the whole afternoon, and his white coat, though wrinkled, makes you want to smoothen them out. Or not. It still looks good on him. 

You’re aware that you’re not the only one the doctor has to take care of, and yes—as much as you hate to admit it—you’re not the only one attracted to him.

That’s why you sometimes wish you’re that high up enough in the ranks to let him be your personal doctor.

So you can have him all to yourself. (You guess that you have to train more, then.)

Wait.

No.

You shake your head frantically.

That is so not professional. 

“…Fine. Sorry, Doc.” You yelp in discomfort when he starts to clean your face aggressively with the wet cotton ball. “Hey! Be gentle!! O–Ow! It stings, you know?!”

He chuckles. He sends you a small smirk, “My warrior is still a baby it seems.”

You immediately burn up from the my. My warrior? Seriously, this doctor that you have… “N–no, you did it on purpose! What did I even do to you to deserve this kind of treatment?”

When the doctor puts the dirty cotton ball away and begins to unpack the bandaids, he rises his chin up and he scoffs, “Well, first of all – I know that you’ve been too hard on yourself. Tiring yourself, overworking yourself… You’re even skipping meals and your sleep! Ah, ah, don’t give me that. You can’t lie to me. I’ve heard from the others.” Then, he huffs, and presses the bandaid on your cheek hardly, making you wince. (Your head even bobbed from his sudden force!)

“Second! Recklessness. Stubbornness. I appreciate your fighting spirit, [Name], but you’re getting way overboard! Not everyone can keep up like you, and you’ll have to remember that you have your limits, too! You just don’t know when to stop, huh?”

You argue, “I need to get stronger, it’s essential for my—” but you don’t continue your statement when he narrows his eyes at you as a warning. He lightly touches your lips with his index finger, shushing you.

“Shh.”

You gulp nervously from the contact.

“…And third, didn’t I tell you to call me Venti when we’re alone?” his words soften, and you feel yourself heat up when he discreetly slips one of his delicate hands into your rough, patched ones.

Ah yes.

You briefly remember that one time when you were at a much worse state, to the point that you cannot even stand up due to the exhaustion and how wrecked your body was from the rigorous and intense training you pushed on yourself. 

When Venti saw you, you would never forget how he dropped all the things he had in his arms and anxiously rushed you to the infirmary. He was so upset that the enthusiastic doctor revealed his tears to you for the first time.

The only way you managed to calm him down was when you called for his name weakly, shocking him, and then reassured him that you were okay. (You would be okay.) You gave him additional comforting touches to remind him that you were still alive – that you were still breathing whenever you saw him shake when he cured your injuries.

Then the rest was history.

Maybe.

Venti presses closer. Fresh cecilias flood your nostrils and he kisses your cheek through the band aid as an apology, before detaching himself from you to stare at you fondly. “Always making me worried… you better make it up to me, love.”

You both still didn’t know what to call your relationship with one another. 

— MONDSTADT CITY

Welcome, Windblume!

Thank you for this secret purchase. We’re grateful for the continuous efforts that you’ve done for the publishing company so we’ve decided to dedicate ourselves to do more research to provide you the best quality information as a gift.

We’ve noticed that you’re still having a great time with your beloved husband, and we’re very happy that your married life is still on the honeymoon phase. Congratulations to you and to Venti!

It’s a common fact that Venti adores happy endings, so in order to reach that, we’ve decided to help you once again!

We hope this next guide will aid you in your journey!

House husband Venti is a sweet, romantic, and affectionate lover.

When he wakes you up, he’ll pepper your face with lots of kisses. It’s either on the forehead, on the cheeks, on the jaw, on your lips (and it’s the most important of all, according to him.)

Morning kisses are essential and aren’t you so lucky to witness Venti’s bedhead? Venti’s braids that are down? Feel free to stroke them, or even just play with them. He enjoys it when you do.

(Also if you do tug on it, these are the possibilities that may happen:

– He will tug your hair too, and it’ll be war! Though make sure to brush his hair afterward, and he’ll do the same for you. Bedheads are nice, and he finds it funny (you both match!), but you both don’t want to have a bad hair day, yes?

– Or he’ll like it. Yes. You’ve read it right. He’ll like it when you pull his hair. This is a dangerous possibility. It may lead you to never getting out of bed. Yes. We are implying what you are thinking, so be careful, soldier.)

And we’ve heard you. Indeed, your ears will be blessed. Venti is known for his siren calls, his beautiful melodies, his soft hummings and wonderful laughs. But his morning voice? Good lord. He can’t help it – it’s out of his control.

If you find it hot, then we recommend you to look at him while he speaks. There’s a high chance that he may be talking to you with half–lidded eyes and a lazy smirk.

But if you have a weak heart, we recommended you to look the other way. Venti has a big effect on people and we wouldn’t want our lovely Windblume to faint.

House husband Venti is actually a bad influence.

Despite saying this a lot of times in the previous issues, you know that we mean well. If you remember issue 79th and issue 82nd, the following paragraphs will perhaps, be a piece of cake to you.

You have work. It’s basic knowledge that Windblume can’t afford to be late. You are diligent, after all, and you have a good attendance record. But Venti knows his power. He knows that you just can’t get enough of Venti’s kisses—and he feels the same way, by the way—and that’s very bad for you. Very, very bad.

The Kissing Venti Addiction or KVA is not curable, but it can be controlled and prevented.

Venti will do everything just for you to not go to work. And if Windblume is still so downbad for him, please remember that you have bills to pay. And wine to pay, in Venti’s case.

It’ll be like this everyday. He’ll dote on you, compliment your appearance, before pulling you closer to his chest for a tender kiss. And then the next thing you know is that you’re both engaged in a heated make out session. When will it end, you wonder? We don’t know. It may take forever.

(“V–Venti—mhm,” you pant, pushing him away for a bit. “i– i have to go, i have work to do—“)

According to issue 11th, it’s already a given that Venti is very needy. And very clingy. He will pout if you both stop. He will whine. You will feel his arms snaking around your waist desperately, and he will give you the biggest puppy eyes. “But windblume…” And yes, he will beg.

He’ll stubbornly kiss you more. He’ll not give you room to talk. He’ll cage you in his arms. He’ll busy himself with you. Even if he’s lithe, even if he has stick arms, Venti is extremely strong so you can’t really get up once he pins you down on the bed.[1] Venti demands more kisses, you hear? He needs to recharge.

(NOTE: Bear in mind that it’ll never be enough. It’ll always never be enough. The only solution? Kiss him deeply. Kiss him so much to make his toes curl and stomach flutter. Kiss him until he can’t breathe. And once you pull away, we guarantee that Venti will be stuck in a lovesick daze – he’s distracted by your suddenness. Remember in issue 1st? Venti loves it so much when you make the first move. So once he’s stuck in that mood, quickly remove yourself away from his grasp.)

(ANOTHER NOTE: Please check issue 16th or our additional footnote in the bottom of the article for more information regarding badass Venti)

Remember, this is a risk that you’ll have to take. It’s either you’ll be successful in running to the bathroom to finally start your morning routine, or Venti will instantly snap out of it. He’s sensitive. If he feels the lack of warmth, he’ll get back to his senses. He’ll only be distracted for a short period of time.

We pray for your future victory. But if you’ve failed, then we humbly ask you to consider it a win. All Windblumes are born with KVA, so who are you to reject Venti’s kisses?

Venti will laugh at your failed attempt—read: think you can get away?—before yanking you down on the sheets for another make out session.

But we sincerely apologize if you turned in late for work because of this. Venti will tighten his hold on you so there is really no escape.

Though you can always follow advice from issue 3rd: Venti has a weak spot. It’s his sides. Tickle him. 

House Husband Venti will always long for your presence.

After giving him one final kiss on the lips, he’ll yearn all day long. Sure, you’ve spoiled him by complimenting his decent cooking skills—Venti’s homemade breakfasts are tasty and very cute, after all (see: Venti’s homemade lunches)—and you’ve given him enough time to smother you again with so much love, but remember: it’ll always never be enough.

He’ll do the chores just to get his mind off of you for a bit, but it’ll be pointless, because everything in your shared apartment (or house) just reminds him of you. You’re everywhere, but you’re not here.

When he’s restocking the fridge, Venti will reminisce about the time when you both recently went to the grocery. Venti loves grocery shopping with you because it’s just so domestic, and also he’ll always deceive you into buying more wine. But as the responsible one, you need to reprimand him. You may poke him (gently) in the forehead or even give him the nastiest glare.

If you did the former, Venti will get whiney again and fake cry. If you did the latter, it’s either Venti will snicker or pout – don’t look at me like that, I’m sorry, Windblume!

When he’s folding the laundry, Venti can’t resist himself so if you ever catch him hogging all your fresh clothes, do not mind him. He really, really likes your smell and your smell brings him closer to you, so again, do not mind him.

Yes, there’s a high possibility that Venti may bury himself in your warmer clothes, like your long–sleeved shirts, hoodies, sweaters, or jackets. He may even wear it. But don’t blame him and call him weird, okay? He really just misses you! And he’s your husband! He has the right to smell and scent your clothes!

And did you know? This is also Venti’s way of marking what is his.

Yes. He intended it for it to happen – for your workmates / colleagues to distinguish the scent of cecilias or the hints of apple fragrance on your clothing.

Venti wants to smell like you, and he wants you to smell like him. You’re taken, you’re MARRIED, and he wants everyone to know that.

When he’s fixing your bed sheets, he’ll simply gush all by himself because he will recall your expressions earlier. (Envision: a giddy Venti plastered on the bed, lying supine on your spot.) A sleepy Windblume is just too cute! He wants to squeeze your cheeks!

Ahh, this makes him miss you even more. Come home soon, love. If he can’t hold it anymore, you can’t stop him from visiting your workplace.

If the above mentioned does happen, please do not ignore him. He may be a hindrance or he’ll interfere with your work, but allow him to at least to just see you! 

You do have to tell him to go home, though (you want him to stay, actually, but your boss will get angry, your colleagues will annoy the hell out of you, and you won’t be able to focus on your job). So, with a heavy heart, you send him off after reassuring him that you’ll be back home soon. Yes. You’ll reassure him lots and lots – it’ll be perfect if he comes home giggling like a high school boy in love. Oh, Windblume.

House Husband Venti is also a good influence.

And man, of course he does! This has been stated many times in the previous issues; he has a good impact on your life and he helped in shaping you to become a better person! He’s still doing it today! 

But yes, he is a good influence. He wants to take care of you, and he wants you to take care of yourself!

When you come home tired from work, Venti will engulf you in a biiiiiiig hug. And yes, his hugs will make you melt. Venti is besotted with you so we’re not going to be surprised if you: 

1.) find yourself laying on his lap;

2.) find yourself sitting on his lap;

3.) find yourself laying your head on his shoulder;

4.) find yourself draped all over his body or, 

5.) find him on top of you 

1. If you find yourself laying on his lap, then feel free to bask in this very moment. Not anyone can get as lucky as you, Windblume. Not anyone can lay their heads on Venti’s famous thighs. They’re softer than your pillows and if you’re not careful, you may pass out once you perch your head on top of it! 

Not to mention how Venti’s constantly praising you for your hard work in whispers or mutters. It’s what you deserve, being sweet talked. This is his reward for all the sacrifices you’ve made. So don’t fall asleep just yet!

There is a theory that if Windblume has a headache and you inform Venti about it, he won’t hesitate to lean down and to press his lips on your forehead. Some accounts say that Venti’s kisses work wonders, so if your headache is gone by the minute, please send us an email ASAP with a brief explanation of how, what, and when it happened to confirm our theory. 

2. If you find yourself sitting on his lap, we hope you’re used to Venti spoiling you because like number one, he’ll also spill sweet and touching words from those lips of his that will undoubtedly make you flustered. Venti has his way with his words, he isn’t one of the best singers in your time for nothing, and if you can’t get a hold of yourself, Venti will drown you lovingly. 

(NOTE: We speculate that Venti may give you kisses on the cheeks as well. Lips are included too.

We also want to point out that if you move too much in his lap, we’re not responsible for what’s about to come. We did tell you that Venti always yearns for you, and he’s needy. Very needy, so we highly suggest for Windblume to stay still.)

3.) If you find yourself laying your head on his shoulder, then it’s okay to take a nap for a bit. Like Venti’s thighs, Venti’s shoulders are good pillows, too. Venti will have an arm around you, will rub your sides for a bit, and our favorite: he will sing you a lullaby or if you want, one of your favorite songs. 

Number three is just pure fluff because all Venti ever wants during this time is to surround you with his affections, and you have to take it all, okay? Take. It. All. Listen to his singing. Relax. Breathe in. Breathe out. Clear your thoughts.

Ahh, it is a calming time, indeed. 

4.) If you find yourself draped all over his body, we will just assume that you are too exhausted to care, for you to collapse so shamelessly on your husband. If you have your head resting in Venti’s chest, you are allowed to nuzzle into it. You will hear him giggle and you will feel him pat your head. This innocent action of yours may deliver different messages to Venti, so again, we are advising you to be observant of what you’re doing. For we are not responsible for what’s about to come. We do, however, will assist in preparing you for the sudden changes that may arise.

Venti can read you like an open book. We will not be shocked if he actually knows everything about you at this point. 

If your aim is to only cuddle with him, then be all tender. Or careful. Or cautious. Spoil him because you are in charge. Interlock your fingers with his, pinch his braids, wallow him in praises. Now that’s an uno reverse that we’d like to see. If you’re lucky and won the 50/50, you may even witness a rare embarrassed Venti!

Embarrassed Venti is hard to catch and if you bring this up to him, he’ll deny it, and blush even more. He will try to hide it, and let him. It’s amusing and adorable to see the Anemo Archon squirm and conceal his flushing cheeks with his braids.

If you continue to tease him, he’ll whimper and cover your eyes instead. (Don’t look. He’s not usually like this!!)

Kisses are okay, but there are some exceptions. Don’t let it lead to passionate kissing sessions, because again, we are reminding you that Venti can misinterpret your actions. 

Here are the safest locations to kiss Venti:

- his head 

- his forehead

- his cheeks

- his lips (without tongue)

But if you are curious about the hotspots (or the not-so-safe locations, or Venti’s favorite spots):

- his neck

- his chest 

- his thighs

- his lips (with tongue)

If it’s all getting heated, then that’s out of our hands, Windblume, which may lead us to number five.

5.) If you find him on top of you, we can deduce that this happened because he missed you really badly or if you kissed his favorite spots. Like from morning earlier, Venti will kiss you and kiss you, as if he’s starving for it. As if it’s his saving grace. As if it’ll be the last kiss you’ll ever share with one another. The kisses will be tripled.

Don’t even think about escaping once more. Now that you’re home, Venti won’t separate himself from you, even if you nudge him about tonight’s dinner. The takeout that you’ve bought will grow cold, and Venti dislikes cold food, but he’s too occupied in devouring Windblume. 

You can shift, search for a way out, but it’s all futile. He has an iron grip on your wrists and he’s holding you down. Venti’s built differently. You can’t free yourself from Venti’s love. You are trapped.

Venti wants you to forget about work. You’re in his arms now so he wants to be your only priority. Focus only on him and him only. Forget about your colleagues. Your boss. The strangers you’ve interacted with on the way home. You’re here now. You are home with him. 

He will get rid of your weariness.

Number five is all the other numbers combined. Venti will praise you, sing to you, touch you, and kiss you. Windblume will definitely and ABSOLUTELY be overwhelmed by Venti’s love.

We’re not sure if you both would eat dinner at this point but we are sure that Venti will seduce you to come join him in your bedroom, whether you like it or not. It’s up to Windblume what happens onward, but it’ll be a long night!

Though we find your progress fortunate, considering you’re both thriving in the sheets nowadays, please feed Venti first. Yes, feed him with a spoon and again, spoil him. He probably skipped his meals just to wait for you. 

Happy marriage!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

We have assembled some of your previous questions and our previous answers in case you’ve lost the articles.

Q1: Venti seems moody lately. I don’t know what I did but he seems to be avoiding me. All I remember is that I invited him for a drink in Mr. Diluc’s bar and then I freestyle danced with some men and women. Help, please! I don’t know how to deal with this! It hurts me that Venti’s giving me the silent treatment!! 

A1: Silly Windblume! It seems that our music–loving lad is jealous. Don’t worry about it too much though, Venti won’t be avoiding you for a long time soon because spoiler alert! He loves you too much! But don’t tell him that. You’re supposed to be the one who should make the first move and the one who first confesses.

Venti wants you to take the first step, and then he’ll follow.

Q12: So I’ve been doing some research and… Is it just me or does Venti look exactly like the Anemo Archon? It’s not just the hair, but the shape of his body as well...

If he truly is the Anemo Archon Barbatos… um. I don’t know what to feel about that.

A12: Oh dear Windblume! We deeply apologize. We cannot answer this matter because we have signed a contract so our mouths are shut. This is actually something we cannot handle. Your best place to start, however, is to talk to Venti himself.

We cannot guarantee if he will answer you seriously. He does have the penchant to stray away from these kinds of topics or even leave the scene with his signature ehe!

But surely, maybe you have a chance for him to give you an honest response. That is, if he trusts you enough to finally open up about his past.

Q27: I want to sing a song for Venti, but I’m too shy. Venti’s just so amazing with his tunes and I’m just… me. I don’t even have an amazing singing voice! How can I even catch his attention when our interests don’t align with one another?

A27: Fear not, Windblume! You don’t have to be shy when it comes to singing, especially if it’s for Venti himself. If you’re afraid that he’ll judge you—he does have the reputation for being one of Mondstadt’s popular bards—Venti is actually kind–hearted. If you want our opinion, Venti’s the best person to go to if you want a shoulder to cry on or to rant about literally anything.

But back to the point, just be yourself! Venti admires people who are real and true to themselves, and you don’t have to change yourself just to impress him.

And as for the interests, there is a saying that opposites attract! Wink wink.

Q49: So this is going to sound very strange, but I can’t find Venti anywhere. And I really, really REALLY need to talk to him. Yet all I can ever see is this one wind wisp that’s following me everywhere I go…

A49: Again, we don’t have the right to answer these kinds of questions because it’s out of our control. Sorry, dearest Windblume, but you’ll just have to be stuck with the cute wind wisp for a while!

Please do update us on what happens next. We’re genuinely curious about the elemental being! Te-hee~!

Here’s a helpful tip: we’ve heard from some reliable sources that the wind wisp who’s accompanying you is fond of apples. Try feeding the cutie the fruit, and maybe you’ll finally know about the truth!

Q65: I’ve made a discovery, and I’m proud of it. Apparently, Venti’s not used to touches, is he? My man is touch–starved and I tried holding his hand… Now he doesn’t want to let go. What to do? He’s sleeping beside me right now in Windrise and I’m shaking as I type this on my phone!

A65: Congratulations! We are very proud of your recent progress, and we encourage you to keep going! Please touch Venti with all your heart’s content, so hold him close, because you are right! We are confirming it, Venti’s touch–starved!

Windblume, you’ll have to talk to him to let go of your hand~ but Venti is obstinate, and once you indulge him, he’ll indulge you back.

And isn’t that just so sweet and metaphorical? Venti doesn’t want to let go!

Q66: You’re right. He did indulge me back because after I told him that my hand was numb—because as much as I want to hold his hand for a bit longer, I have things to do!—Venti just snickered at me and fell asleep again.

So the whole night, we were in Windrise, holding each other’s hand…

A66: The dating stage is always so dreamy~

Q615: Venti’s a kissy freak. Will there ever be a time that Venti will get tired of kissing?

A615: Fortunately, no~ you’ve married Venti, and you’re Venti’s beloved spouse. He loooooooooooooves kissing you!! Do not expect Venti to get tired of kisses so easily because once again: it’s never enough for the Anemo Archon! 

And you have a KVA!! A Kissing Venti Addiction! Don’t ask hypocritical questions like this, Windblume! 

Footnotes

[1] In issue 16th, we’ve discussed badass Venti, and we remember how gobsmacked you were when you found out that Venti knows archery. Venti has a keen eye and you know, do not judge the book by its cover! The Anemo Archon may look gentle and delicate, but he has a history for slicing mountains! 

He was one of the best archers during the Windblume Festival. He’s a proficient marksman. Stick arms, yes, but we recommend Windblume to at least touch his biceps once in a while~

Some Authors’ Notes:

We’ve actually read your comments. We are also proud of Venti’s development, too. If you’re wondering why he’s so responsible now, well, the answer is: it’s because of you. He’s doing this all for you because he loves you. It’s always been you.

Venti’s love can’t be measured, unfortunately, but we have an estimation: it’s beyond us. 

You’re bound to him for eternity (if that’s what you want, and y’know, Venti wants that, too.) 

Drowning in your reviewers and notebooks, you bump your forehead on your study table. 

Ugh. 

This. Is. Too. Much.

They can’t expect us to memorize this all! You glare at the piece of note card you made. You wrote acronyms for this stupid topic just so your brain can get familiar with it, but unfortunately, there are so many! And it’s not even a major subject!

“Hi, my Windblume,” There are arms that encircle your waist, and you take a deep breath. Venti’s voice during this time is able to calm your nerves. He presses his front to your backside. “You seem frustrated! Take a break—just for twenty minutes will suffice.”

You glance by your shoulder with a sly smirk. “You just want me to kiss you, don’t you?”

Venti lets out his signature giggle, “Bingo. Now come on—“ He yanks your hand forcefully, and you topple over with a shriek. Venti’s so strong, sometimes it scares (and amazes) you. For someone his own size, who knew that this delicate looking man can generate so much strength and power?

(Oh, isn’t he part of the archery team or whatever…?)

You return to reality when Venti pokes your waist, making you squeak. “Ah! Venti! Don’t do that!”

“Thinking about other people rather than me?” Venti pinches your cheeks, “I’m hurt~ aren’t I supposed to be your distraction?”

You remove his hands on your face, but you still keep holding it with yours. “I was not thinking of other people. I was thinking about you.” Then, you find out where you’re sitting now—on his lap. “Venti, aren’t I heavy? I should get off.”

Venti firmly squeezes your waist. The way his fingers dip on your skin makes you blush a little. He puffs his cheeks, “No, stay! I want you here. Please, love?”

How can you say no to his puppy eyes? With a defeated sigh, you forfeit. “Okay.”

“Yay!” Venti smiles joyfully. “Kiss me? I will be your stress–reliever! Let it all out to me, Windblume—your frustrations, your irritations, the whirlwind inside of you. Tell me all about it.”

You’re really thankful that you have Venti as a lover. He’s just so sweet, understanding, and supportive. He’s one of the main reasons why you can withstand college.

You’re not reluctant to tilt your head and latch your lips with his. It’s so soft. But instead of sweet candy, there’s a taste of the bitterness of the black coffee he consumed. “I hate my professors.” You kiss him again. He kisses you back this time. “I hate them so much—they’re giving us so many projects when they’re aware that it’s midterms week.”

Venti’s eyelids flutter in content. “Have you talked to your professors about it? Aah, mm—windblume...—“ He murmurs, “If… if there are any problems such as this, it’s better to talk it out with them…hmm…”

“I–It’s futile,” you say, and you kiss Venti again and again. “There’s nothing I— I can do anymore when they’ve already made up their mind…” 

You add with a small pant, “Even Albedo can’t negotiate with them…”

You continue your slow pace when Venti suddenly deepens the kiss. Your toes curl and your heart skips from the abruptness. When you detach away from him, you muster up the courage to say something. Your chest heaves up and down as you whisper a “V–Venti…?” 

He opens his eyelids midway.

What you are witnessing right now—it’s a flushed Venti.

And his eyes… they’re filled with want.

You feel like a prey under a predator’s gaze.

It takes him a while to respond. Both of you are catching your breaths. You’re not sure of what’s happening right now. The way Venti looked at you, surely, he’s not…

The room is so hot right now.

You’re disturbed from your thoughts when Venti buries his whole face on your chest. You can hear his muffled voice— Windblume… 

He sounds a little upset, you think as you feel his hold on you tightens.

“What’s wrong?” You dip your head down to thread your fingers on his hair. You scratch his scalp tenderly, “H-hey. What’s wrong, my needy distraction? Are you finally realizing that I’m stopping the circulation of your blood flow, and that I must get off?”

He makes a noise akin to a scoff. As if, he probably wants to say. Venti clutches you closer. “Stay.”

A demand?

“A–alright.” You smile. “I will. But only for like, sixteen minutes.”

Venti lifts his head a little to reveal his beautiful eyes. He still has his nose and lips dug to your sternum as he speaks. “Thirty minutes.” Though subdued, you manage to understand. 

“I have to study,” you gulp nervously. “Midterms will kill me.”

“But I’m your boyfriend,” Venti nuzzles into you. Archons, he is so needy. “And isn’t it your responsibility to cater my needs?”

You narrow your eyes at him. Very needy indeed. “Amazing. What should I do next, then?”

“Ahaha, kiss me.”

“Again?”

“Yes.”

“You really are distracting me from my studies. Do you want me to fail?”

“Whaf du fu meen yul gow tew de tawsund weends tempol tif lef ot nayt!?” [Name] quickly swallows the cupcake she’s eating when Himmel hushes her to keep her voice down. She glares at him and points him accusingly in the chest. “Shit, dude. Don’t tell me to be quiet ‘cuz this ain’t a private matter!”

It’s currently eleven pm in the evening. A couple of minutes ago, Himmel just simply barged out of his room, wearing some clothes that screamed he’ll be out to go somewhere, with his backpack in tow. He sauntered so casually to the dining room to find [Name] consuming Amos’ homemade cupcakes—and caught her attention by pulling on her sleeve.

Apparently, he was going to announce something.

And this something involved the Thousand Winds Temple.

Himmel sighs and grasps the index finger that belonged to his friend. “[Name], cursing is bad. You better lower your voice or else Mr. Ragnvindr will scold you again. Also, can you please hear me out first? I promise you will be interested!”

[Name] stares at him in disbelief. Himmel. Her crazy nerd friend who’s in love with history (ew, boring), science (convoluted as fuck), and mathematics (barf). Himmel, who excels in every class may it be related to the arts or not, implies that she, [Name], who does not give a fuck about education at all and who prefers just playing around since she’s just still a dumb teenager exploring the world, will be interested in what he’s planning…?

She scoffs, “Don’t say things you’re not sure of! If this is one of those tedious study sessions with you regarding the mechanisms of the Guizhong Ballista or the Sakoku Decree in Inazuma, I swear to the archons, Himmel — I will not hesitate to shove my cupcakes down your throat.”

Himmel giggles amusingly (whispering those don’t belong to you though, they’re for Amos!), and puts both of his hands over [Name]’s shoulders comfortingly. “Please do not attempt that, you know I am already weak—”

“That’s why I can exactly—“

“I’m going underground for the Anemo Archon’s statue.”

[Name] freezes in her position. Interested? Himmel promised that she’ll be interested?

Well, she is now but—

“Okay. I get it. My best friend’s losing his mind.”

Himmel giggles at her once again, before putting on his backpack. [Name] realizes that Himmel is dead serious about this! About visiting (or trespassing?) the underground ruins, where Mondstadt citizens are prohibited to go, but...

For a kid whose wisdom is endless, he’ll find his own ways to break the law just to satisfy his curiosity. [Name] knows that much.

“You are free to join if you want to,” Himmel glances by his shoulder and sends her a gentle smile. “I’d prefer if you were with me.”

“Are you kidding? Of course I’m coming with you, dude!” [Name] pushes her chair backwards, and grabs another cupcake. She pulls her satchel from the coat rack and scowls at him, before putting on her shoes. “You think I’m gonna leave you there all alone? In those ruins that may or may not be cursed? No way in hell, man. Not on my watch!”

Himmel looks happy. When [Name] catches up to him by the door, Himmel smiles even wider. “I knew I can always count on you.”

“Duh. You can always count on me.” [Name] puffs and stretches her arms. “Though, I am reminding you—“

She sways her cupcake with her hand, “We seriously are going to get in biiiig trouble with Jean this time if she finds out. And if Jean finds out, Amos and Mr. Ragnvindr will do, too. That means you’re going to be grounded. And I’m going to be grounded. You know how my mom is literally besties with Amos.”

There’s a twinkle in Himmel’s eye. “Then we will just have to be furtive.”

[Name] is already used to Himmel’s antics.

Well, it is known by the people that [Name] is far more ‘‘troublesome” between them, when it comes to crazy sports activities that involve wind gliding or windtrace. But in actuality, it’s them both.

Himmel can be a little mischief maker too. He will do absolutely everything just for knowledge and [Name] knows that much.

Thankfully though, they have each other – they have each others’ backs when someone is getting lost or maybe a bit too invested with their ordeal. If Himmel is forgetting to take care of himself due to his studies, then [Name] is there to bonk him on the head. If [Name] is pushing herself too far (to her own limits), then Himmel is there to give her the longest lesson about the dangers of over exertion on the human body.

But when they join forces, here’s where no one can predict what happens next.

They will be literally magnets for risks and misfortunes.

Usually, it’s Himmel who follows [Name] around—either to support her or even accompany her—but this time, it’s the opposite. [Name] knows what they’re doing is a bit (or maybe even more) risky but it’s where the fun is. It’s where the thrill is!

Though, she can’t help but be worried over Himmel’s sudden interest regarding the Anemo Archon. She’s figuring it out with her brain, pondering over possible answers. Why, out of all the things in the world, was Himmel intrigued with a god?

So she asks.

“So uh, Himmel,” [Name] calls out, and Himmel hums in response. Right now, they’re inside the Thousand Winds’ Temple underground cave, where, according to the grandfathers and grandmothers, the Anemo Archon’s statue resides. (There’s a story that it sank due to a powerful earthquake, but that’ll be for another time.) “…Yeah. I hate it here. Anyways. What drove you to explore the oh–so holy cavern of the Anemo Archon, huh?”

It was a miracle that she and Himmel had even gotten outside the walls of Mondstadt city without attracting any of the Favonius officers. (She starts to believe that they’re useless, because of a certain red–haired male.) However, she can’t even call it a miracle too when they simply just walked inside the steep entrance of the cave. No one bothers to come here since it’s declared closed to the public, according to Jean.

With their flashlights in hand trying to illuminate the whole area, [Name] inches a little closer to Himmel, who’s just right beside her. Fucking eerie shit. And it’s even quiet! All she can hear is their footsteps echoing through the stone walls.

“Hey. Himmel, answer me.”

There’s a water droplet in the distance. Himmel seems to not be shaken at all. Now the tables have turned – the weakest of the pair is brimming with such courage right now, while the one with the fists and strength is apprehensive. ([Name] should definitely tell him again her fabricated ghost stories so they can be afraid together.)

“Oh, I just want to try something out,” Himmel replies, and they head to the right side. His flashlight reveals an extremely long staircase, where the light can’t reach, so they’ll have no choice but to go down there. [Name] focuses on a graffiti text that said DO NOT ENTER HERE in red. [Name] just cringes and averts her gaze away. Focus on Himmel, focus on Himmel… “And it involves the Anemo Archon Lord Barbatos himself.”

[Name] elbows him on the ribs, hard. Himmel whines from the contact, whimpering how it hurts. If her panic is showing, then so be it. She’s seriously freaking out.

She literally felt a shiver run down her spine when he mentioned their archon—their archon who is still being worshipped, despite being rumored to be gone a long time ago. The famous archon of Mondstadt who’s probably never going to come back anymore.

“Motherf– dude! Come on dude, come on. Don’t make me regret this, dude. Don’t make me regret joining you because I just thought that you wanted a little trip to see the damn Lord Barbatos himself, but nooooo, you’re going to experiment on him!?” She inches closer to his face, “Are you outta your mind!? Remember what the boomers said, we do not mess with the gods. I repeat, we do not mess with the gods. It’s like, the ultimate first commandment of Teyvat! BAH! Who am I kidding? Himmel, I literally don’t give any flying fucks about the archons, but I’m telling you this. Do you know how insane you sound right now?!”

([Name] doesn’t notice how Himmel’s cheeks are flushing faintly.) Himmel puts his hands up in defense sheepishly. “I–I appreciate your concern for me [Name], really, but I got it under control. I– I promise.” His expression turns serious, but there’s still a smile on his lips. “I researched. I would not just go here unprepared! You know that, yes?”

He’s right. Memories come rushing over [Name]’s mind: there are times that their plans almost failed because of external factors but Himmel manages to always find a way. That’s how calculated he is, and it never fails to impress [Name] everytime. Himmel is so damn reliable, even in a life or death situation.

[Name] groans and takes a step back. “Fine, fine. I trust that you have thought this through, but I am still scared of the outcome, okay?” She starts going down the stairs and she wonders where she got her sudden confidence from. Whatever. Everything for Himmel, she guesses. “But if shit goes down, we’re leaving this place, okay? And we will never speak of what happened. Okay?”

It’s illegal to come down here, after all.

“Yes. Also, language please.”

“Okay, so how are we gonna do this?” [Name] questions, a brow raised as she shines over the gigantic statue of the Anemo Archon in front of them. They’ve finally reached the biggest area of this cave — where the statue of Barbatos is located. [Name] can feel the sacredness of the statue so she’s trying to be cautious. Archons only know what could happen if she commits a mistake. “Fuck, it’s dark everywhere…”

“Don’t worry, I brought candles.” Himmel starts bending down and putting on lit candles around the wide space. Even if it’s just a little bit, the candles helped because they can see each other a little better now without the flashlights. [Name] assists him by grabbing more candles from his backpack—this damn nerd brought lots, by the way—and lit up some more.

After a couple of minutes, [Name] finds herself admiring their handiwork. Now the cavern looks like a safe place, but there’s still some creepiness lingering around. [Name] places her hands on her hips and flatly remarks, “Yeah. What we’re doing is literally cult activity. Ugh. This is why I am atheist.”

Himmel motions her to come closer from where he’s standing. “[Name]. Come here.”

She approaches him, and he shows the written symbols beneath Barbatos large feet. They both observe the old writing, and [Name] looks at him questioningly. She’s not that dedicated like him to study the field of linguistics. Himmel lifts on finger, “It's ancient Teyvat language. It translates to: gateway to celestia.”

[Name] is mystified. “Celestia… wait, isn’t that like. Where the highest form of beings live?”

Himmel nods, delighted that his friend is invested. “Indeed! It’s where the supreme beings settle and watch over the whole of Teyvat.”

“Oh, so you want us to go there? Oooookay. And I’m assuming it requires our souls? Damn, dude. You didn’t even tell me that we’re gonna die here—we’re gonna sacrifice our bodies! Well, if we’re going to die here, might as well confess—”

“No, no! Stop, [Name]! Do not say that! We are not going to… also, did you say you are going to confess—?” Himmel stares at her expectantly. Himmel moves closer, who looks more interested than before. “C–confess about—?”

“I’m gonna confess about how I stole your—”

“Alright, alright. Let us talk about that later,” Himmel sighs disappointingly, and [Name] just grins cheekily at him. “Regardless, I am going up there—“

He points at the statue’s cupped hands.

“And I will be performing the ritual.”

“R–ritual— hold on, you didn’t say anything about rituals! Also, no way in hell I’m leaving you out there and you leaving me out here. We’re going together, Himmel.” [Name] flicks him on the forehead. “You’re insane. Now give me your bag.”

Himmel complained a lot, but [Name] just threatened to punch him in the stomach if he wouldn’t shut up. [Name] offered to carry him on her back, because she knew all about his breathing problems. She also didn’t want Himmel to pass out due to exhaustion while climbing the statue. It would even be a bigger problem if he did.

Thankfully, Himmel wrapped his arms around her neck, and his legs around her stomach without any qualms. (For some reason, Himmel immediately accepted the idea and clung to her like a koala. Himmel apologized for being such a burden though, and [Name] reassured him that it was fine. Himmel was light as a feather so it was no biggie.)

It wasn’t an easy feat, because the statue was slim (why is the Anemo Archon petite and slim, anyway?) and [Name] almost fell twice due to her stupidity and due to the statue’s slippery stone clothes. Or robes. Whatever.

It didn’t help that Himmel wasn't a fan of heights either so he just clung himself tighter to her. He whimpered that he didn’t want to fall, not like this, and [Name] did not understand what he meant, so she just did her best to climb over the statue’s body swiftly as possible.

(It would be more of a problem if they both plummeted down the ground. They wouldn’t be able to stand up and go to the Cathedral for some healing if they have fractured bones.)

When [Name] reaches Barbatos’ shoulder, she maneuvers Himmel safely to the other side. Himmel bows her head in gratitude. A tired [Name] just grunts to get over with the ritual already, so after five minutes, they both sit on the statue’s hands.

“Sturdy. We’re not gonna fall, are we?”

“We are not. The statue is built with—”

“No nerdy shit. Explain. Now.”

Himmel shakes his head. “Language…”

[Name] clamors, “Dude, the clock is ticking.”

Himmel snickers. Then, he ducks to unzip his backpack and pulls out two things: one is an apple, and the other… is a bottle of Mondstadt’s speciality.

Dandelion wine. [Name] squints at him suspiciously. “Seriously?”

“We are not going to drink it,” an amused Himmel says. “It is an offering to the Anemo Archon.”

Now it clicks. “Oh. Now I understand why Barbatos is absent… dude’s drunk as hell he can’t even get up.”

“Careful, you may anger the archon, [Name].”

“You know, I am perfectly fine with it. I might even die here anyway so why not seize the moment. You only live once.”

Himmel pouts at her cutely. “Stop that. No one is going to die.” He puts the apple and bottle in front of them—or in the statue’s stoned fingers. Himmel brings his arms over his crossed legs and opens his palms. “Now… my objective here is that we are going to summon the absent archon.”

[Name] doesn’t budge. She glances at the statue’s face for a sec—at least, she tries to—and notices that the head is covered in a hood. “Insane behavior.”

“That is rude, [Name].”

“Am I lying, though? Where and how did you even get this information, huh? About the summoning?” [Name] quips and crosses her arms. “Was it the nuns? Sister Rosaria?”

Himmel closes one eye. “I would love to answer your question, but I am afraid that you will just have to read my paper. It will be in chapter three, and once you are done, you can ask me the questions you desire.”

“Forget it. So, Himmel the Nerd. How are you going to perform this?”

“Hold my hands.”

Easier said than done. Himmel stares at their intertwined fingers for a moment, until [Name] blows a raspberry. Continue, [Name]’s expression says.

Himmel just laughs for the umpteenth time. “Next, we just need to say mea libertas meus canor three times. Though, I presume that it only needs one person for the ritual, but maybe us saying it together will allow the summoning to strengthen.”

“What happens if we say it four times?”

“Mhm, I am not entirely sure. We will find out.”

“Greeaaat, science mixed with divine shit. We seriously are signing ourselves to death.”

Himmel gives her a warning glare—at least, he’s trying to. Himmel’s too much a softie to give someone the stink eye anyway. “[Name]...”

“I’m kidding! Let’s start?”

Himmel nods. He shuts his eyelids. “We’re gonna say it in three.”

[Name] can feel something building up. She guffaws. Himmel looks so damn silly. “Should I, uh, pfft, close my eyes, too?”

“It is up to you. I closed mine for personal reasons, so…”

[Name] doesn’t. It’s better she’s watching in case some stranger things ensue. “Nah. Go start.”

Himmel complies. [Name] knows that what they’re doing is not what teenagers nowadays do unless you’re some part of religious shit. No, what they’re doing is entirely out of pure curiosity and for Himmel’s academics.

Sure, the consequences are unprecedented; they’ve gone through lots of challenges together, but [Name] can surmise that this is definitely the craziest.

Involving themselves with the Archon of their land… man.

[Name] won’t admit it, but she just hopes this summoning won’t work. She’s being a meanie right now, but she doesn’t want anything bad happening to her friend! It’s always bad when gods are included.

“Mea libertas meus canor.” They both say out loud.

They say it again.

And again.

Nothing happens.

It’s silent.

[Name] gulps. Creepy eerie shit fuck. Her eyes check sideways if there’s anything below that seems out of place. Nothing. Just the candles. She returns to Himmel again.

Himmel is not speaking. He still has his eyes closed. Their hands are still latched onto one another.

“It’s not working,” [Name] whispers. Her stomach churns. Now she’s really having a bad feeling. She repeats, “Himmel, it’s not working. Can we go now?”

But Himmel doesn’t reply.

Instead, he grips their fingers. [Name] flinches at this and voices out, “…Himmel?”

“Mea libertas meus canor.”

And just like that, harsh gales of wind gust over the cavern. [Name] quickly scans her surroundings, dumbfounded and utterly confused of what is happening. What the fuck, where did these winds come from?!

She quickly looks back at her friend, who is still somehow inactive (unconscious?) and [Name]’s heart sinks in terror. The bad feeling—! Fuck! She immediately clambers close and removes her hold with his. She starts shaking him, crying out his name, but the winds just get harsher and harsher by the minute.

“Himmel! Hey! You didn’t tell me about this! Himmel, snap out of it! This isn’t funny!”

The candles’ wicks go out, and [Name] watches with wide eyes when Himmel begins to levitate into the air. “Himmel!”

The ends of Himmel’s braided tips begin to glow in a blue light, and other parts of his body begin to brighten as well. In his arms. In his leg. In his neck.

Stunned, [Name] just can’t help but gape at her friend hopelessly in the darkness. She ransacks her mind to figure out what’s truly going on, until—

“Himmel!”

—it abruptly stops.

The candles’ wicks below the statue are mysteriously lit up again. The winds are suddenly gone.

Himmel falls, and [Name] screams his name once more to catch him barely in her arms. Himmel rubs his eyelids as he groans weakly.

[Name] clutches Himmel intimately and tightly to her chest. “You fucker! Don’t do that shit! I was so scared, my heart was about to leap outta my chest! Fuck you!”

“Mhm… that is… some obscene language I’m hearing first thing in the morning,” Himmel croaks out, and [Name] blinks. Wait a second. Huh? Why did it sound… a little different? Is this one of the side–effects of the ritual? Does Himmel have a runny nose or something? Is he sick? Also, morning?

[Name] withdraws herself slightly from him to scrutinize any signs of weirdness, but Himmel remains in her touch.

Himmel yawns, and then opens his eyes slowly—revealing what’s supposed to be cerulean irises, but they’re green. An emerald green. Himmel murmurs weakly, “Is it morning yet, though? If it is, good morning – to whom do I owe the pleasure of cradling me so gently and so lovingly in their arms…?” He smiles sweetly. “And you are…?”

[Name]’s jaw drops.

Signs of weirdness? Forget that. It’s all over him.

Himmel has this under control? He has everything planned?

No.

He doesn’t.

So who the hell is this dude in [Name]’s arms, who’s using Himmel’s body?