amira

“Good Morning Master Diluc! What flowers would you like to pick today?” You cheered, a bright smile plastering your features as your gaze met the man in front of you.

“Good Morning to you as well, Y/N.” The way he said your name felt like cold water on a hot day, it send tingles down your spine as your eyes locked.

“How have you been? You haven’t come around these past few days.” You started conversation. It was true, he hadn’t appeared at your shop for around three days. Of course, you were worried.

“I have been…busy. You do not need to worry yourself with my dealings. How have you been?” His eyes never left yours and you felt like you were drowning in red.

If you had been anyone else watching your interaction, you’d see a lovesick fool and a man who was too oblivious to realise the very obvious affection being displayed before him.

“Of course, Master Diluc, as mysterious as ever,” You started, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear, “I have been lovely, business has been slow but nonetheless fruitful, thank you for asking.” You smiled up at him and your heart almost caved at the slight smile playing on his lips.

“I’m glad to hear you have been well, I’ll take the usual.” He announced before handing you a bag of mora, in which you tucked away before handing him a bouquet of Lamp Grass flowers.

They had a soft glow to them due to the daylight, but they were still beautiful nonetheless. You tied a careful bow around the base to hold them together before handing them to the man before you.

Your hands brushed against one another as you passed it to him, sending a jolt of warmth through your body. You played it off, not wanting to make it obvious that the small action affected you.

“You have my thanks Y/N, they’re as beautiful as ever.” Oh how you wished he had spoke of you like that.

“No need to thank me Master Diluc, I was just-“ You were cut off as your fellow coworker stormed onto the scene, her face bright red with a big smile on her face as she stepped in front of you.

“I actually hand-picked those myself and set them up for you prior to this encounter, Master Diluc. I also ensured that they stayed in great condition for you, I know how much you value quality.” Donna.

The reason for your jealousy and the source of your rage. She made up lies to impress him, took advantage of your hard labour and stole your spotlight.

Yet, she was still your coworker and your boss, there was nothing you could do but sit back and watch as she slowly whisks away the man of your dreams.

You had known Diluc as a child, but due to his status as a Ragnvindr, you two never met. Secretly tho, you watched from afar as he play fought with his brother, Kaeya.

You watched him grow up into the man he was today. He had always had a certain charm to him, attracting all kinds of people regardless of their status.

Even tho he came off cold, his aura pulled people in, inviting them into the warmth of his presence for even a mere moment. He was charming, yet clueless of this characteristic of his.

However even through his charm, he was still cold.

“Thank you, Donna, however I believe I was speaking to Y/N before you unkindly interrupted. I would like to resume our conversation.” His words were stern, his eyes glaring like daggers as he tried to be friendly to the brunette before him.

Donna stuttered over her words, spitting out an apology before turning around and glaring at you, walking away to sulk afterwards.

You turned your gaze back to the red head and noticed that his eyes were already trained on you, as if he was waiting for you to speak. You swallowed the nervous lump in your throat.

“Thank you, Master Diluc, but you really shouldn’t have done that. I’m sure she was just trying to make conversation with you, you must be well aware of her feelings towards you.” You tried to reason, sticking up for your boss as much as you could as you didn’t want to be fired.

“I am aware, however I feel the need to clarify her feelings stay unrequited. I appreciate the lengths she goes to, however this affection is no longer required. I do not need such futile things, please inform her for me.” He continued.

His words made you wince.

He didn’t need such futile things…?

“I will, Master Diluc.” You bowed respectfully, handing him his change before sending him another smile.

“Have a lovely day Y/N, and do feel free to drop by the tavern for a bit, your drinks will always be on the house.” You smiled at him and nodded, waving him off as he disappeared around the corner.

Diluc had never once charged you for a drink at his tavern, in fact, not even Charles did. At first, you had found it weird when your hard-earned money had been given back to you at the bar, but you couldn’t complain, as a matter of fact you were grateful.

You still had no idea why he did this act, but you brushed it off as a kind gesture and went on with your life, dropping by the tavern every once in a while for a friendly conversation.

“Good evening Charles!” You chimed brightly, making your way over to the stools at the bar. The bartender turned around and you watched his expression brighten at the sight of you.

“Ah! My favourite customer! I’m glad you’re here, these drunkards are out of control this afternoon, it’s good to have someone who knows how to handle their booze.” You laughed at his words, making yourself comfortable in the stool furthest away from the festivities.

“I can only ‘handle my booze’ because I don’t drink alcohol Charles.” You smiled, watching him pour your usual drink, Wolfhook Juice.

“And I thank the archons everyday for that fact.” He let out a hearty chuckle while handing you the drink before he turned to the other customers.

You smiled to yourself before sipping on your drink. Despite how loud the tavern was from all the loud chatter of the customers, you always managed to find comfort in there.

It put you at ease with how lively it was, it made you feel at home. Ever since you had come to Mondstadt from Liyue, you had always longed for your hometown.

But this was your home now, and you loved it.

“Where is Master Diluc?” You spoke up, your gaze flicking around for the familiar tuft of red hair you had grown to love.

“He’s had some business to attend to so he won’t be joining us tonight, but don’t worry your drink are still on the house.” He sent you a playful wink at the end of his sentence in which you flicked an ice cube at him.

“You make me feel bad for having free drinks all the time Charles. One of these days you’re going to have to allow me to repay you for all of this.” You lifted your glass up to your lips and took a sip, relishing in the coolness of it.

“I’m afraid you may go bankrupt.” You both laughed at his words before you drank the remaining liquid in your glass, placing it down onto the bar.

“Well well if it isn’t the Flower Damsel, what brings you to such a place at such late hours?” Your body tensed before it relaxed at the realisation of who it was.

“Good evening to you too Captain Kaeya.” You turned to send him a smile before patting the stool next to you.

Flower Damsel. A nickname you had adopted after Kaeya had saved you from an abyss mage, and then a group of hilichurls, and then some Fatui agents. Needless to say you always managed to find trouble, or maybe it always found you.

The flower part came from your occupation, working at the flower shop at the front of the city. It also came from how kind you were, or at least that’s what Kaeya said to cover up his terrible nicknaming abilities.

“I’m assuming you’re here for my dearest brother?” The captain teased, watching your face turn bright red as you shot him a sharp glare.

“If you hadn’t gaslit me into telling you about my feelings for him, my life would be a lot easier.” You huffed, accepting another drink from Charles.

“Oh please, it’s not like you’re any good at hiding it.” Kaeya accepted his own drink from Charles and took a big sip, letting out a relaxed sigh after.

“He does have a point, I’m surprised Master Diluc hasn’t caught on yet.” Charles chimed in, polishing a few glasses as he flicked his eyes at you.

“Master Diluc is a smart man, he most definitely knows already…he just probably doesn’t want to have to let me down…” You let out a defeated sigh, your shoulders slumping over the bar.

“You think he would reject you?” Kaeya side-eyed you, his cup held up to his lips as he drank from it once again.

“Of course, what would a man of his class have anything to do with someone as insignificant as me?” You laid your head down onto the cool wooden bar and sighed again.

“Now now don’t get all sappy on me,” Kaeya started, gently patting you on the bag as he downed the rest of his drink, “Say, I’ll walk you home, I wouldn’t want anything to happen to you now would I?” You smiled at the captain before finishing your drink and waving to Charles as you both exited the tavern.

It was fairly late into the night, almost 2 weeks after you had last seen Diluc. Naturally, you were worried for the man, what if something had happened?

The sky’s were pouring down rain, people had retreated into their homes and the city was quiet. The sun had long since set, and the people of Mondstadt had tucked in for the night. You included.

That was until the loud banging on your door woke you up, panic instilling through your body as you slowly crept down the stairs and into your living room where the front door was.

The banging had softened now, but it still alarmed you greatly. Who could possibly be visiting at such late hours? And why were they so urgent to enter your home?

With shaky hands, you twisted the doorknob and pulled it open.

“Master Diluc!” You let out a noise of surprise as the red-head looked up at you. He looked disheveled, his hair sticking to his face from the rain, his coat drenched and he was hunched over, cradling something to his side.

His burning eyes locked with yours as he let out loud huffs of exhaustion, no words coming from his mouth at all as he made silent pleas with you.

“Come inside quick, and make yourself comfortable while I go and run you a bath.” You didn’t really know what to do, you had never seen him like this before.

He stepped into your home, his hands still cradling something that was tucked into his coat. You chose not to question it for now, assuming he would tell you once you returned from running his bath.

After you did, you rummaged through your closet and eventually found something that may fit him. You laid it out in the bathroom before returning back downstairs with a towel.

When you got there, you saw him hunched over, sitting up-right on your couch. His hair was a mess, knotty and soaking from the rain.

“Master Diluc? I brought you a towel.” You walked over and gently placed the towel over his shoulders before walking around to face in front of him.

Still, he said nothing.

Instead he pulled back his coat, revealing what he had been hiding since he got here. Your eyes widened at the sight and your hands went up to cup your mouth.

“A puppy?” You said, your eyes meeting his as he nodded at you. The small animal was looking up at you with big doe eyes, it’s fur soaked and it’s entire body shivering from the cold.

“I found him on my way back, I couldn’t just leave him there so I brought him here. I’m sorry for the sudden intrusion.” The first time he had spoken to you that evening.

“No no no it’s absolutely fine, I’m just glad you’re okay-“ You cut yourself off as you realised what you had said. Your face went bright red as you looked anywhere but at him.

“Thank you for your concern, Y/N.” His voice, as soothing as ever.

Your flustered form fumbled around for another towel to wrap the dog in. Diluc handed you the puppy as you wrapped it in a blanket and gently placed it back into the couch, watching it snuggled further into the warmth of the towel.

“Your bath is ready, Master Diluc. it’s just upstairs so feel free to go for one whenever you want.” You smiled up at him as you stepped away from the dog, bowing to him respectfully.

“No need to be so formal Y/N, just call me Diluc for this evening.” Your heart beat quickened at his words as you smiled like an idiot and nodded before shooting off into the kitchen and fetching something for the dog to eat.

You heard Diluc make his way up the stairs before the bathroom door clicked shut. You let out a relieved sigh and felt your shoulders relax.

Diluc had showed up at your door in the middle of the night with a puppy. All things considered, it seemed unusual for him to not only disappear for multiple weeks on end, but also show up looking as disheveled as he did.

There had to be some other reason as to why he was here, and you were going to find it out before he had a chance to disappear again.

“Uhm Master- I mean- Diluc? Could you pass me your clothes so I can start to dry them?” You gently knocked on the bathroom door.

But there was silence.

“Diluc…?” You knocked again, but you were greeted with silence once again.

You couldn’t even hear the sound of the water sloshing around as he washed himself. No sound of his breathing or anything at all.

Your worries worsened as the seconds went by, continuing to knock on the door and call out his name. However, you received no response each time.

“Lord Barbatos, please forgive me for this.” You prayed before closing your eyes and opening the door slowly, squinting your eyes open before they widened in shock.

“Master Diluc! Are you okay?” You cried out, quickly making your way over to the bathtub and his limp form sitting in the water.

“Oh no- Gods no- Please.” Your breathing was jagged and your eyes were teary as you desperately felt for a pulse. You felt your shoulders relax a bit as you felt the small thumping of his heart.

Thankfully, he had not yet removed his pants yet, so you didn’t have to deal with him being completely nude.

You observed his figure and saw small cuts all over his body, bruises littering his stomach and arms and a large gash on his stomach spilling out blood. The water in the bath had turned red from it, the sight making you lightheaded.

It was an effort, but you managed to pull him out of the bathtub and lay him onto the ground of the bathroom before running off to get medical supplies.

Of course, you would’ve preferred to take him to see Barbara, but the church was so far away and it was so late into the night. You knew no other healers who could help him so you tried your best to stop the bleeding and aid him properly.

After what seemed like forever, you managed to stop the bleeding momentarily and bandage him up. It took even more effort to dry him off and get him into a new change of clothes.

Your face was bright red as you caught yourself staring at his toned body, his muscled stomach, his biceps and even his hands. You were even more flustered as you were changing his clothes, having to do it with your eyes closed for not only his privacy but for the sake of being respectful.

You had laid him down onto your bed, choosing to let him take it as it was far more comfortable than your couch. You had brushed out his hair and braided it carefully before going back down onto the kitchen to get him water for when he wakes up.

Once you returned, you sat down next to him, staring at his exhausted form with worried eyes. You bit your lip to hold back your tears as you reached up to gently tuck his hair behind his ear.

“Oh Diluc…what got you into this mess?”

The next morning you woke before him, choosing to take the day off to aid to his needs. You dried his clothes and made him breakfast.

The puppy he had brought him was much more lively as it was jumping around at your feet as you prepared his meal. You fed it small pieces of chicken before taking Diluc meal upstairs for him.

“Now now, calm down you’re going to wake him up.” You whispered to the dog, shushing it’s loud yaps as you both made it up the stairs and into the bedroom.

You almost jumped out of your skin as you saw him already sitting up and looking around the room. His eyes locked with yours and then the dogs.

“Master Diluc! You’re awake, I’m glad.” You sigh with relief at seeing him conscious as you walk over and carefully place the platter of food onto his lap.

“I thought we already went over the formalities?” You tensed up at his words. You had totally forgotten, you had been too focused on whether he was going to wake up from his slumber.

Feeling uneased by the silence, he clears his throat before continuing.

“Never mind that, I must thank you for not only allowing me to seek refuge in your home but also for aiding me. I should have made you aware of my condition, I apologise if I worried you in any way.” He bows his head in shame and your heart clenched painfully.

“Oh no, don’t apologise. I’m just relieved you’re okay now, I wasn’t sure what to do at first but I managed to patch you up pretty well.” You became flustered as his eyes were trained on you.

His gaze made you melt and made your stomach erupt in butterflies. His eyes were scarlett red and so fierce, yet they had a sense of warmth behind them.

“You did a wonderful job. How could I repay you for aiding me?” He continued to stare up at you, his eyes filled with a new determination that you’d never seen before.

“Think of this as me repaying you for the free drinks at the tavern.” You smile at him before lifting the small dog at your feet up into your arms.

“This little guy managed to make it though the night as well, I guess you both have something in common now.” You let out a happy laugh as the puppy licked your cheek.

Diluc observed the interaction with wide, sparkling eyes. You looked so beautiful. Had you always been this breathtaking?

Diluc never understood why he found himself so enamoured with you. He found himself thinking of you while he worked, found himself purposefully bumping into you around the city and even offered you unlimited free drinks.

Yet he could never understand why.

“Would you like to keep him?” He spoke up, watching your head flick to his direction as a bright smile crossed your features.

“Really? Are you sure?” The smile on your face only for wider as you saw him nod his head. You snuggled the dog closer to your chest as it tapped happily and licked your face all over.

“Oh! We need to name him!” You carefully sat down in front of Diluc on the bed, the dog still cradled in your arms as you looked at the man expectantly.

“I am…not the best with names…why don’t you come up with one and I’ll give my opinion on it?” He says bashfully, his hand reaching up to gently scratch the dog behind the ear.

“Hmm…” You looked around your room, looking for some inspiration before your eyes landed back into Diluc.

Then you got an idea.

“Let’s name him Phoenix.” You smiled at the man before you, watching his eyebrows furrow in confusion.

Before he could ask, you answered.

“You have a pyro vision right? I’ve seen you fight before! The giant Phoenix you make out of fire! It’s so cool, I think it’s a perfect name for our puppy!” You exclaimed.

Diluc felt his face heat up and his palms start to sweat, he felt his heartbeat in his ears and knees. His lips twisted up into a smile before he composed himself and coughed into his closed fist.

Our puppy.

“It’s a wonderful name Y/N, I think it suits him.” You both smile at each other before you shoot ip from the bed with the dog still in your arms.

“I should leave you to eat your breakfast in peace, your clothes are laying just over there on my dresser for whenever you need to leave. I assume you have some duties to attend to, and you should probably go see Barbara…” You smile and wave at him in which he returned, before you slipped out of the bedroom and back downstairs.

It had been about a month since then, and Diluc had now begun to make frequent visits to your home. Phoenix and him got along wonderfully, and you wondered if it was because your puppy knew Diluc was the one who saved him…

Today was another afternoon where Diluc came to visit, however today seemed a bit different.

“Good evening Diluc, come inside quickly before Phoenix tries to make a run for it.” You usher the man inside quickly, the dog already jumping at the sight of him.

“Good evening Y/N, how are you today?” He said as he scooped the puppy into his arms and gently rubbed behind its ears.

It was odd to see the notorious Master Diluc be so gentle with such a small creature, but it warmed your heart nonetheless.

“I’m good! Phoenix has been following me around all day tho and hasn’t kept whining. I think he really misses you.” You giggle when Phoenix lands a big lick on Dilucs cheek, making the man grimace and place the dog back down.

“He is quite lively when I’m around, I’m glad I let you keep him otherwise I wouldn’t have been able to care for him as well as you do.” He says, taking his coat off and hanging it by tens door before taking his shoes off as well.

“He keeps me on my feet is all I’m gonna say. He’s good company too!” You smile down at the dog and watch as he jumps and barks happily.

The evening continued with you and Diluc making conversation as you prepared dinner for you both. Phoenix sat by Dilucs feet as he told you about his day, his dealings and his upcoming goals.

The two of you had grown rather close in such a short amount of time, it almost felt unreal to you that THE Master Diluc was now one of your closest friends.

The man whom you had loved for years…

It was when you both were finished your meals and Phoenix was passed out on the couch that Diluc finally dropped the bomb on you.

“I am going to be leaving for a few months.” He said, taking a sip of the grape juice you had poured for him.

“Oh.” You felt the room go quiet as you stared at the glass of water in your hand. You didn’t know what to say.

He was leaving? Again?

And this time…for months?

“Well uh- when- when are you leaving?” You tried to sound confident, and thankfully it seemed to work as he took another sip of his drink before answering.

“In about 3 days, I have dealings in Snezhnaya that I need to handle. However due to me being banned from the country, it’s going to be a lot more difficult so it will evidently take longer.” He explained, not once looking up to see the absolute distraught on your face.

3 days…

“Ah I see…” You took a sip of your water.

“Well, I do wish you the absolute best on your journey. However this time, could you return without the major injuries and a stray animal?” Your words made him laugh.

He laughed.

Diluc laughed.

You felt a smile pull its way onto your lips as he finally met your eyes.

“I can not promise anything.” The room then filled with a comfortable silence as you both basked in each other’s presence.

“You know…Phoenix is gonna miss you while you’re gone.” You broke the silence, the sadness coming back.

“Are you going to miss me?”

His words made you freeze, and it seemed to have shocked him as well. You both stared at each other for a moment before he coughed and stood up from his chair.

“I should go, I wouldn’t want to trouble you any further.” He said without looking at you once again. He made his way to the door and grabbed his coat.

“I will be leaving for Liyue tomorrow where I will leave for Snezhnaya. Thank you for this evening, it was as pleasant as ever,” He started, finally turning back around to face you, “Take care of yourself Y/N.”

Then he slipped out the front door of your home without another word. You stood frozen, trying to process everything that just happened.

‘Are you going to miss me?’

Your heartbeat picked up as panic set into your system.

He was leaving tomorrow.

Without another thought you ran towards the door and ripped it open, looking down the street to see that he was almost out of the gates of Mondstadt.

“Diluc! Wait!” You screamed out, hoping to grab the attention of the man as you sprinted after him.

He turned to see your figure running towards him, he made slow steps back towards you. His expression was almost unreadable as he stared down at your exhausted form.

“Are you alright Y/N-“ He stopped himself when he saw you hold your finger up to shush him as you caught your breathe.

“What- *breathe* what did you mean- *breathe* when you asked me if I’d miss you?” You looked up at him, still huffing and puffing from your run.

You watched his shoulders tense up as his gaze fell to his shoes, his hands tucked themselves into his sides and his cheeks started to heat up.

“I would like to think you are smart enough to figure that out on your own.” He said, still not looking up at you.

“What-“

“I must go now Y/N.”

You looked up at him in confusion. Why couldn’t he just tell you now before he left? Why?

“I will see you in about 3 months, please, do take care of yourself and Phoenix for me. Stay safe while I’m gone.” He said, finally looking up at you.

His eyes held in unreadable expression that you couldn’t understand at all. He reached his hand up to gently tuck a piece of hair behind your ear.L before it dropped back to his side.

“I’ll see you soon, Y/N.” And with that his back turned and he walked out of the gates on Mondstadt, leaving you with thousands of questions that would remain unanswered for the rest of time.

Three months had managed to pass by in a flash. The first month was hard for both you and Phoenix as you were both used to having him around most of the time, but you both adapted.

You hadn’t even noticed what the day was until you were sitting in the tavern. Charles had served your rightful drink with an expression you couldn’t quite pin.

He had been glancing at you ever since you walked in and it was starting to bug you. Why did he keep looking at you?

“What? Is there something on my face?” You spoke up, chuckling softly as the bartender jumped at your sudden speech.

“No no, sorry- I was just wondering why you were here?” His words confused you.

“What do you mean?” Your brows were furrowed in confusion as you finished the last bit of your drink before placing it back down onto the bar counter.

“Well…Master Diluc is coming home today, I thought you’d have gone to meet him.”

Oh my god.

You had completely forgotten.

“Oh my Archons- Charles why didn’t you tell me earlier?! Fuck!” You stumbled around for your things before bolting out of the tavern.

“I’m not your alarm clock Y/N!!!” Charles yelled after you, but you barely heard him since you had already made it halfway down the street.

Until you were stopped.

“Oh hi Captain Kaeya, sorry to push past you but I’m kinda in a rush-“

“I’m sorry Y/N, but I’m going to need to borrow you for a second.” He sounded so off.

Instead of his usual charm and flair, his expression was blank. No ‘Flower Damsel’. Just Y/N.

What was going on?

Nevertheless you followed Kaeya up into the Knights headquarters, making your way into Grand Master Jeans office.

Although you weren’t entirely familiar with the woman, Diluc had mentioned her a few times, along with the fellow librarian Lisa. They seemed nice, however their expressions were grim.

“You must be Y/N, please take a seat.” Jean spoke up, gesturing her hand towards the sit in front of her. You looked around before nervously taking a seat.

You twiddled with your thumbs and bit the inside of your mouth as you felt 3 pairs of eyes bore into your soul. Their eyes felt like they were trying to carve you out as Jean let out a soft sigh.

“Master Diluc-“ She started, watching you perk up at the name. The sight only making her more distressed.

“Master Diluc, will not be returning to Mondstadt.”

…

…

…

“What?” You suddenly felt small, inferior, fragile.

You felt the world fall silent and the breathe in your lungs disappear. You felt the air around you grow heavy as if someone had placed weights on your shoulders.

You felt the warmth in your body completely vanish as you stared up at the grand master with wide, doe-like eyes.

“I am aware that you were quite close to him, and along with Kaeya, I felt as tho you were to be one of the first ones to know.” She bowed her head so her eyes landed on her desk.

“I apologise for this. All of Mondstadt will grieve his loss tonight.” No.

No.

No.

No.

No.

“Come on Flower, let’s take you home.” Kaeyas touch was gentle, yet it felt like a thousand knives were being shoved through your skin.

You couldn’t remember how you got home, everything was a blur. Kaeya sat with you in your living room as you stared blankly up at the walls. Phoenix tapped away at your feet, yet you couldn’t respond.

“I know how surreal this must be, that the mighty Master Diluc would fall at the hands of Snezhnayas diplomats,” The Captain started, his gaze no longer fixed on you but at the floor, “Trust me, I’m having a hard time accepting it too.”

That’s when you snapped out of your seemingly never-ending daze. You flicked your gaze over to Kaeya and saw that his shoulders had begun to shake.

“Oh Kaeya…” You cooed softly as you pulled the normally ecstatic man into your arms, feeling his shoulders jump with each sob he let out.

His tears stained your clothes as you gently lulled him, rubbing circles on his back and gently combing your fingers through his hair.

And even tho this man was breaking down into your embrace, you still couldn’t accept it.

A week had passed and the news spread to the whole city. Walking out of your home felt like walking into fire as the stares of the citizens bored into your back. The air felt suffocating and your lungs struggled more and more everyday it seemed.

Kaeya had been visiting ever since Grand Master Jean had told you then news, ensuring that you were well and okay in his brothers absence.

Even tho Diluc had never spoken to Kaeya about you or about the red-heads feelings for you, it felt more of like a silent oath between the two brothers.

That if anything were to happen to Diluc, Kaeya would take care of you. Kaeya would be the one to help you heal and protect you when Diluc couldn’t, and the captain planned in taking that oath to his grave for his brother.

However today, Kaeya had gotten caught up in work and couldn’t visit you. Of course, you didn’t mind it. Your brain still hasn’t processed the fact that he was gone.

Phoenix could tell something was wrong with you, as he was constantly by your side when you were home. He would lay at your feet when you sat down, and he would jump up and sleep on the empty side of your bed at night. He never left your side.

The days passed by like a blur and eventually it had been about a month since the news reached Mondstadt. The city hadn’t completely mended from the news, but they were slowly starting to heal. Slowly.

You however, had spoken barely a word to anyone since that day. The day you heard that your Diluc, was never to come home again.

It wasn’t like he was yours, but in a way it felt like he was. He shared information with you he would never dream of telling anyone else. He let you in on his personal life. He told you about his father. Hell he even told you about his work and how he was the Dark Knight Hero.

You were his special little somebody.

And he loved you, till his very last breathe.

And he had hoped that the winds would carry that message to you for the rest of your life, so that you knew that even in his final moments he adored each and every part of you.

Oh how he had wished he had told you what you wanted to hear the day he left.

You found yourself at Windrise, staring up at the Anemo Archons statue with a blank expression. The storm clouds were beginning to role in over the trees, but the rain had not yet started.

Your eyes were trained on the carvings of the statue, tracing every detailed line with great care before you finally reached the statues face.

The Anemo Archon, Mondstadts ruler.

The city of freedom.

How?

How could someone be free without the source of their own freedom?

How could someone be expected to move on, when all they’ve known is the presence of someone who is no longer?

You turned away from the statue, making your way out into the middle of the grass in front of the tree. This time, you stared up into the sky.

The grey clouds blocked out the sun and kept its warmth from grazing your skin.

All of a sudden you felt wetness on your cheeks. You reached up, gently wiping the water from your face. Was it rain? No, it hadn’t started to rain yet.

Tears?

And before you knew it, the tears continued to fall down your face. Your shoulders shook violently and your hands grasped at the fabric over your chest. Your knees felt like they were going to give out as you finally felt the rain start to fall.

Your cries echoed through the valley of Windrise, and were soon blocked out by the rain pouring down on you. You screamed out into the sky, hoping for someone, anyone to answer you.

And then you felt the winds around you pick up.

Your eyes opened slowly and you observed the small glowing object that hovered in front of you. It flew with a soft aqua green colour. There was a white symbol on it and the outside was gold.

A vision.

An Anemo vision.

Your shaky hands grasped the metal object as your eyes traced its appearance. This was real. You had a vision. The Anemo archon had gifted your a vision.

Though many other people would’ve been ecstatic to find out they received a vision, it only made you cry harder. This time, your sobs turned into pained screams as you clutched the vision to your chest. The winds never died down as you cried and cried into the rain.

You were gifted an Anemo vision.

You were gifted proof…

That he was really gone.

….

….

….

✯ This is unedited! ✯

“Fuck…” You groaned out, your vision blurry as you slowly opened your eyes to be greeted by your lover.

“Well well, look who’s finally woken up, how was your sleep dear friend?” A voice echoed off the walls, your body flinching as you lifted your head.

“Signora..” You growled out, pulling against your restraints.

You were leaned up against a wall, your hands tightly secured as well as your legs. Your lover, Ajax, was in the same position just across from you.

“No need for the hostility little one, I’m only here to get some answers. If you can give me them, you will both make it out alive.” She wakes over to you, tracing your jawline with her pointer finger before you shoved her hand off of you.

“I’m not telling you where he is.” You glared at her, eyes flicking to Ajax to see that he had started to wake up.

You and Ajax had overheard some of the other harbingers plans. One of those plans including disposing of the beloved traveller.

Aether had become a problem for the Fatui, and they were finding it harder and harder to move forward with their plans with him in the way. So they planned to assassinate him before he could stop them once more.

Of course, neither you nor Childe could let them do that. Sure, you both served under the Tsaritsa, but there was no way you were going to let him die, not when he was so close to finding his sister.

“Come now, this could be so simple. Just tell me where the Traveller is and we can all go on with our days.” She spat out, signalling for some Fatui agents to grab you.

“Tell me where the boy is.” Her voice was laced with venom as she held her hand up.

You looked at Ajax, and saw him looking at you with a worried look. You could tell he was panicking from the way his eyebrows furrowed and his eyes flicked around the room, looking for anything that could help you.

“I don’t think I will.” You spat back, bracing yourself as the agents lifted you and slammed you into the ground, your face now pressed into the cold floor of the Tsaritsa’s palace.

Signora dug her heel into your back, making you cry out in pain and press your face further into the floor.

“You would be an idiot to continue to defy my orders, tell me where Aether is, or you will die here.” She was starting to become impatient, her heel still pressed into your back.

“Or maybe, I should take what you love most.” Signora raised her hand again and clicked her fingers.

The agents went over to Ajax, holding their blades up to his throat and pressing him further into the wall behind him.

“No, please!” At this point, you didn’t know what to do.

If you kept refusing to give her an answer, Ajax would die. However, if you told her where Aether was, there would be no one left to stop the Tsaritsa, or to stop the Abyss.

“Make your decision quickly, or you just might be too late.” Signora chuckled mockingly, finally releasing you from the pressure on your back.

Your eyes flicked up to your lover, seeing his shake his head at you. Tears welled up in your eyes as you watched his mouth form into a smile.

What were you going to do?

“You’re taking too long.” Signora scowled, the agents began pressing their blades further into Ajax’s neck to the point it started to draw blood.

You looked back at the floor beneath you and let tears slip from your eyes, your jaw clenched tighty before you answered,

“Kill me instead.”

You could feel eyes on you, but you couldn’t bring yourself to look at him. This was already hard enough.

“Oh, what’s this? The little lamb wants to be a hero, is that right?” Signora sounded amused as she signalled the agents to let go of Ajax.

“Very well, if this is your way of refusing to give us an answer, then so be it.” You heard the agents footsteps get closer to you.

“No- No- WAIT!” Childe struggled against his restraints, pulling and wiggling to get out as he watched them pull you up.

Your eyes finally met his, and he felt as if his world was falling apart.

“One last time. Are you going to tell me where Aether is?” Signora stood in front of you, blocking your view of you lover.

You thought for a moment, trying to think of anyway that could get you both out of here alive. However, with the advanced security of this palace and the countless guards standing in the room with you, there was no way you’d both make it out unscathed.

“I would rather die.”

And with those words, you felt the blades of the agents slice through your abdomen, a pained scream leaving your lips as they threw you into the ground, your blood staining the ice floor.

“NO!” Ajax screamed out, tears pouring out of his eyes as he struggled even more.

“Pathetic.” Signora spat before her and the agents made their way out of the room, leaving you to bleed out in front of your lover.

“Y/N!!” He sobbed, trying to stand only to fail and fall back against the wall. He tried using his vision, but it was no use.

He stared at your limp figure for a moment, calling your name out desperately so he knew, he had to know that you were still alive.

As the room went silent, only filled with his quiet sobs, he felt a gentle pressure on his leg. He looked up to see you you gently gripping his leg. You must’ve dragged yourself over to him without realising.

“I’m so sorry- I’m so sorry my love- I swear I’ll get us out of her-“ He was cut off my the sound of your weak coughing, blood dripping from your lips.

“There would be no point in taking me with you. You know that,” Your voice was weak, but you carried on, “Even if you did get me back to safety, I would die before medics could even get their hands on me.”

Your words made him sob even more.

You were right.

“I’m sorry- I couldn’t protect you. If i had just-“ He was cut off once again, this time by the feeling of you cupping his cheek gently.

“Shh.” You whispered, gently soothing him as you cupped his face between both of your hands. It only took him a short moment to calm down enough for you to speak again.

“Don’t blame yourself,” You started, waiting for him to meet your eyes, “If you had died, Teyvat would have no hope of being saved.” You mustered up a smile, admiring your lovers features for the very last time.

“You-“ You were cut off my more gut-wrenching coughs, blood spilling onto the ground as you leaned your forehead against the leg.

“You, deserve a life after this chaos,” You swallowed back the tears, “You, deserve more than I could ever wish to give you.”

You felt his body shake, silent sobs leaving his lips as his nails dug into the palms of his hands. His bottom lip was tucked in between his teeth as he tried to hold it together.

The clock was ticking, your final breathe was getting closer and closer. At this point, you were using your vision to keep you alive, but it could only do so much.

Your vision was starting to blur, the world around you seeming colder than usual. The warmth of your eyes no longer bringing comfort to the broken soul sitting in front of you.

“Thank you.” His head shot up at your words, desperately pulling the restraints as he stopped holding back his sobs.

“No- No don’t say that like it’s the end- I can get you out of here- please Y/N- please…” He cried out, the sound of the door creaking open echoing through the room as agents slowly started to make their way towards the two of you.

“Thank you, for loving me despite my flaws, and despite the pain I’ve put you through,” You let the tears fall freely as their footsteps got closer, “Thank you for introducing me to your lovely family, I wish-“ More violent coughing ensued.

“I wish- I could have gotten to make my own family with you.” Your words made him choke up more, watching the agents get closer and closer before his gaze flicked back to you.

“I love you, more than all of the constellations in Teyvat,” You reached up to cup his cheek one last time, “And I will continue to love you, until your last sunset, and past it.”

You heard their footsteps stop right behind you both, knowing what was going to happen after. You mustered up your best smile, tears falling down your cheeks as you stared lovingly at the man before you.

“Be safe, my love.” You whispered out loud enough for only him to hear.

Just after you said that, the agents grabbed you, lifting you up and dragging you out of the room.

“No- NO!!” Childe screamed, kicking against his restraints, only to be picked up as well.

Two more agents had entered the room, now dragging him through the opposite doors to you.

He screamed and cried out, struggling against their hold as he watched you slowly get further and further away from him. His body shook with violent sobs.

Just before the doors closed behind you, your head lifted to meet his broken stare.

A smile had graced your features, even as you were dying, you always did look so beautiful.

“I love you.” You whispered out, hoping your words could echo off the cold palace walls and meet your lover as the doors closed behind you.

As the doors slammed shut, Childe slumped in the grip of the agents, his body no longer having any strength to fight against them, letting his grief overtake his entire body.

The agents took Childe outside, throwing him onto the snow. His restraints were cut and the agents turned, leaving him alone in the cold.

Childe stared up into the cloudy sky of his homeland, feeling colder than usual. The snow but his cheeks violently as he let his tears fall, his heart clenched painfully in his chest.

The lands of Snezhnaya had never looked so dull before in his life.

“I love you too.” He whispered out into the air, regretting not having told you before when he still could.

“Next time…,” He choked out.

“Next time, I’ll save you.”

And amongst his many other wishes in life, his biggest wish…

Was that you died knowing that you were loved.

Note: I hope you all enjoyed. This is the first thing I’ve written in a while and of course it had to be angst. Thank you all for your patience, I’m hoping to get back into a regular pattern of posting. I appreciate all of you.

Kaeya:

- Anyone who told you dating the cavalry captain would be easy, was obviously lying to you.

- This mf got drunk and missed a date you both had planned together, leaving you alone sitting in the middle of the restaurant like an idiot.

- (You better backhand him for that).

"I swear to the archons if I walk through this door and he's sitting there I'm gonna rip his dumb head off of his dumb body." You mumbled to yourself as you approached Angels Share.

You had waited over 2 hours for him to show up, but he never did. So obviously you were beyond livid at this point, and the only place he could be besides home was passed out on the tavern floor.

You turned the doorknob and slammed the door open, catching the attention of everyone in the tavern. Your eyes landed on a familiar blue-haired man and the anger inside you started to bubble over.

Everyone in the Tavern shivered at your cold gaze, falling silent as they watched the scene unfold. Diluc sighed, knowing exactly what was about to happen.

"Greetings Y/N, you look lovely tonight." Diluc said nonchalantly, nudging his brother's arm. Kaeya furrowed his brows before turning around on his stool, meeting your harsh glare.

"Darling~!" He slurred out, his body wobbling side to side as he steadied himself on the counter. Rosaria who was sitting next to him looked at you with confusion.

"Why are you so dressed up? You look hot." She was just as drunk as Kaeya was, but in one single moment, she sobered up almost immediately.

"Oi, didn't you have that date tonight?" The nun nudged Kaeya, watching his eyes widen in panic as he flicked his gaze back to you. Your eyes were filling up with frustrated tears as you practically stomped towards your boyfriend.

"Y/N I'm so sorry my love-" He tried to apologize but instead was greeted with a hard slap to the side of his face. You let angry tears fall down your face, holding back violent sobs as you held your cold gaze with your lover.

"I don't want you in the house tonight, find somewhere else to stay." You didn't mean to be so cruel, but you were hurt. The dinner you had both been planning meant the world to you. You had barely seen Kaeya ever since the Stormterror incident, so tonight was the first night in a while you were able to spend time together.

Without another word you stormed back out of the tavern, slamming the door shut behind you as you made your way home. That night was cold, and although you did miss your lover, you were still upset.

The next day you tried searching for your lover. Sure, you had been a bit dramatic, but you were hurt. You were looking forward to spending time with him after so long, only to find out he ditched you to go get drunk at the tavern.

You looked in the headquarters, but nothing.

You asked Amber, but nothing.

You even asked Diluc, but still nothing.

No one had heard of your lover, so you finally asked Jean. You knew she was a busy woman so you wanted to avoid troubling her any further, but you had no choice at this point.

"He's gone on patrol? But it was his day off today, wasn't someone else supposed to take over for him?" You were beyond confused, had he come into work despite having taken the day off.

"Yes, but he insisted on doing patrols. He said he needed something to get his mind off of something. Did something happen?" Jean questioned. You could see the concern in her eyes as she leaned forward in her chair.

"No no, it's fine. I just need to talk to him about something, do you know which route he took?" Jean nodded at your words and gave you the directions, dismissing you kindly as you left the headquarters.

You were walking through Wolvendom, searching for the familiar tuft of blue hair amongst the greenery. Your eyes scanned the landscape before landing on the group of knights walking just ahead of you.

You started to pick up the pace but stopped in your tracks once you heard what they were talking about. Your heart dropped to your stomach and tears started to flood your eyes.

"Jeez! Seems like your little Y/N isn't as great as you thought!" One of them let out a hearty chuckle, smacking Kaeya on the back.

"Now now Y/N isn't that bad." You could hear the sarcasm in your lover's voice as the knights continued to laugh, mocking you.

"I just wish they weren't so clingy." He sighed, shaking his head and letting out another mocking laugh.

Tears were now falling freely as you stepped back, a stick cracking underneath the pressure of your foot. The group of knights looked back, their eyes widening at the sight of you.

"Darling? W-what are you doing here?" Kaeya chuckled nervously, taking quick steps towards you, hoping to reach you before you could run off.

But he was too slow.

In a moment of panic, you turned on your heel and sprinted as fast as you could away from the group. Shouts of your name echoed through the air as you attempted to wipe the tears from your eyes.

Throughout the day you managed to successfully avoid Kaeya, choosing to hide away at the statue in windrise. There were rarely any patrols here and you knew this was the last place he would check.

So when the sun fell and footsteps started to approach you, you knew there was no use in running anymore. You were sat down in front of the statue, leaning up against the stone and staring up at the stars.

"Good evening Love." His voice fell on deaf ears, you didn't feel like talking to him. He sighed, sitting on the steps just in front of the statue.

"You don't need to talk to me, but at least listen to what I have to say." He started, glancing back at you, only to receive a nod as you turned your gaze to the floor.

"I'm sorry, my love," He started, swallowing the lump in his throat before continuing, "I am genuinely, from the bottom of my heart, so sorry for what I've done. It was immature and selfish of me to not only miss a date we had planned but also talk about you behind your back." He let out a shaky sigh, his head hanging low in shame as he stared at the cement below him.

"I shouldn't have done what I did and I now realize how lonely you must have felt. I apologize for my and absence and for being a terrible partner." his voice was strained. He had to stop talking otherwise he would've broken down in front of you.

"If you would like to part ways, I will accept that, but I do hope you consider giving me a second chance to redeem myself." He fell silent once again, waiting for your response.

he was expecting the worse, for you to tell him you couldn't take it anymore, for you to tell him that you were tired. However, instead, he felt arms wrap themselves around his waist and warmth spread across his back.

"I would never leave you over such childish matters." You muttered, placing a gentle kiss on his shoulder blade before resting for head against his back.

"I love you too much to let you go over something as silly as this. Although I am still upset, I want you to know that I will love you regardless of the things you do. Even if you were to tear the ground open from under me, my heart will remain yours till the end of time." You felt him twist in your embrace as he turned around to pull you into his lap.

"As will mine." He whimpered out, burying his face in your shoulder as he let out quiet sobs.

He was not used to being loved like this, but he would pray to the gods every single day if it meant he could keep you in his arms forever.

Childe:

- Long story short, he got carried away with the traveler and you almost died.

- Like literally.

- Just read and you'll find out.

You knew you should've just stayed home when the traveler had asked you for help. You knew you should've said no. However, when you found out your lover would also be joining her, you couldn't help yourself but be curious.

They had been together a lot recently, Childe saying he was simply helping Lumine with commissions and putting up posters for her brother. You didn't mind at first, knowing the blonde had pure intentions, but as the days of not seeing your lover stretched on and the late nights he would come home got later and later, you were getting more and more concerned.

So you joined them, however, it only made your gut feeling even worse as you struggled to keep up with the two. They were happily chatting away, walking ahead of you while you hung back by yourself.

You saw the bright smile plastered on his face as he told the Traveler all about his homeland and his family. He even promised to take them there one day.

He had promised you that as well.

You sighed, forcing back tears as you lagged further and further behind the two, eventually no longer seeing them in front of you. They hadn't even noticed you weren't there with them, which only made your heart hurt even more.

The sun was setting and you decided to just sit at the edge of a cliff and admire the beauty of Liyue. The golden plains lit up as the sun spread across the lands. You let yourself relax, taking in the view as all your worries faded away.

That was until you heard footsteps behind you and a sinister chuckle. You shot up, spinning around to be greeted by a large group of Fatui skirmishers. you took out your sword, gripping it in your hands as you glared at the men before you.

"Well well well, look who we have here." One of them smirked at your form before they all lunged at you.

Childe was happily chatting away with Lumine, happy to be able to share his troubles with the blonde. He hadn't even noticed your absence until Paimon spoke up.

"Hey, Paimon feels like we're missing something. Where did Y/N go?" She spoke out, whipping her around but not seeing you anywhere. Childe tensed up, his attention no longer on the blonde, but on finding you.

"When did they leave? How could we not have noticed?" Lumine spoke up, worry laced in her voice as she hurriedly started jogging back in the direction they came.

"Paimon didn't even realize! Oh gosh, I hope they're okay..." Paimon flew beside the traveler as the three quickly made their way back. Childe stayed silent, his eyes flicking around for any sign of you, listening in for anything.

His worries worsened as he heard a loud scream echo off the golden mountains, his jogging now turning into a sprint as he made a b-line towards the sound.

The traveler tagged behind him, she too looked around for you, worried that something had happened. Childe prayed to the gods that the scream didn't come from you, he prayed on everything he had that you were okay.

That was when he saw you, gripping onto the side of the cliff for dear life as the skirmishers towered over you. They smirked down at you, watching you struggle to hang on.

"Bye-bye." One of them snickered out before stomping on your hands, causing you to let go and start to fall down onto the sharp rocks below you.

"Y/N!!" The three screamed out, Childe now speeding up.

He had to make it to you, he had to save you. He wouldn't forgive himself if you died due to his negligence. He used his vision to launch himself into the air, his arms reaching out to catch you before you landed.

You felt arms wrap around you, opening your eyes to see your worried lover. He landed onto a clearing, making sure your body didn't make an impact with the ground as he cushioned your fall.

He hurriedly observed your body and put pressure on your open wounds, tears filling his eyes as he watched you weakly reach up to cup his face.

"Ajax...? You're here." You smiled weakly, watching tears start to fall from his eyes.

"Yes I'm here, I'm here baby, it's okay, you're okay." he let out soft whimpers as he ripped apart your already torn jacket to wrap it around your wounds.

"What happened? Why did you leave?" He had so many questions, but his main concern was who had done this to you. He was going to make them pay with their blood for hurting his love.

"The men up there, the Fatui..." Childe's blood boiled as he glanced up to see the skirmishers looking down at him in shock and fear. He stood up, motioning for Lumine to come and tend to you while he took care of his "soldiers".

"I'll be back love, just hold on a bit longer." He shot you a smile before launching himself up to the top of the cliff. The only thing that filled the air was the screams and pleas of the Fatui, weapons clashing before silence fell.

Your lover returned to your side, gently lifting you up into his arms as he sprinted towards a nearby village. Lumine and Paimon tagged behind you both, looking out for any more trouble along the way.

You let your eyes fall shut as your body fell unconscious.

When you woke you were in an unfamiliar room, looking around to see your lover asleep on a chair next to you. You sat up slowly, wincing in pain as you leaned up against the wall behind you.

The door opened, revealing the Traveler and Paimon. Lumine had a tray of food in her hands. Her eyes widened as she hurriedly made her way to your side.

"Y/N you're awake!" She let out a relieved laugh as she placed the tray on the bedside table.

"Lumine? Where are we?" Your voice was strained, and the blonde passed you the glass of water that was on the tray.

"We are in Qingce village, a kind lady offered to aid you. We promised that once you woke up we would take you back to Liyue Harbor so Baizhu can take a look at you, but I think you and Childe need to have a talk," She started, laying the tray gently in your lap before continuing, "Paimon and I will go run a few errands before we leave. I'm so glad you're okay Y/N." She smiled brightly at you before exiting with Paimon tagging behind her.

You sighed, feeling guilty about being so jealous of the girl. She was kind and caring, no wonder your lover spent so much time with her. She only wanted the best for you, and all you could do was be jealous of her kindness.

You ate the food given to you before setting the tray to the side, turning your gaze out the window. It was daytime, meaning you had slept through the night. You sighed, leaning back and watching the birds fly around outside.

"Y/N...?"A raspy voice filled your ears as you turned to gently smile at your tired lover.

"Hi, Love." You reached a hand up to brush some of his be hair out of his face. His eyes widened as he practically threw himself at you, his arms latching around you tightly.

"I'm so sorry...I'm sorry...I'm sorry..." He continued to apologize as you brushed your fingers through his hair, shushing him gently to calm his shaken form.

"Don't apologize, love. It wasn't your fault." You lifted his head up, meeting his eyes as you started to place gentle kisses all over his face.

"Let's just get home okay? We'll talk once we're back." Your relationship was far from perfect, but you didn't want perfect.

You just wanted him.

Thoma:

- He didn't mean to I promise you.

- But working for the Kamisato clan can get kinda tough and he has to spend a lot of time running around. So he barely has time for you.

"Thoma? Are you free today?" You knew your attempt at asking was futile, but there was no pain in asking. Even though you knew he would most definitely decline, saying he had something else to do, saying he had an errand to run.

"Sorry Y/N, Miss Kamisato needs me for something. I promise I'll spend time with you later." He apologized, pulling you into a quick hug and pecking your lips before shooting off.

You sighed, your heart feeling heavy as you returned back to your room, shutting the door and deciding to just sleep the rest of the day away.

"Thoma? Do you think you could help me-" This time he cut you off.

"Sorry love, I have to shoot off right away. I promise I'll take you out tomorrow." He did his same routine of hugging you, kissing you, and then leaving.

Every day you asked him to spend at least a moment with you, but instead, you were met with empty promises that will never be filled and a broken heart.

You walked through the streets of Inazuma city, stopping in to browse at a few places before returning home and calling it a day.

This turned into a continuous pattern; you asking Thoma whether he could hang out or not, and then him saying no before shooting off again.

You had gotten too accustomed to not seeing him, you were shocked when he finally had some time to spare for you. To be honest, you almost forgot you had a lover.

"Love? Are you hungry? Do you wanna get some lunch with me?" He smiled at you, his hand resting on your hips, yours resting on his shoulders.

You stayed silent for a moment before letting a bright smile across your features. You were beyond happy to finally be able to spend some quality time with your lover.

You opened your mouth to accept his offer, only to be cut off by a knock at the door. Your smile dropped as you looked behind him and saw Ayaka standing at the doorway.

"I apologize for interrupting, but I must borrow Thoma for a moment. Only if that is alright with you..." She looked at you, shyly twisting her fingers as she got nervous under your intense stare.

"Sorry Miss Kamisato, but we-" You stopped talking when you felt Thomas's hands leave your waist as he turned his back to you and walked towards the door.

"It's fine! We'll only be a moment, stay right there my dear!" He shot you a quick smile before following Ayaka out the door. You saw her send you an apologetic smile before they both disappeared.

You sighed, feeling tears well up in your eyes as you collapsed onto the floor. You were beyond tired of this all. You just wanted to spend time with your boyfriend, only for him to abandon you when you need him most.

But still, you did as he said and waited.

More than 3 hours had passed and you hadn't seen nor heard of either of them. Your heart hurt even more now, finally deciding to just go outside and get some fresh air.

You stepped outside, observing the empty streets of Inazuma that were illuminated by the bright moonlight. You found yourself at the docks in Ritou, your favorite spot to relax when you were stressed or upset.

You stared out onto the water, watching as the moonlight bounced off of the dark ocean. You longed for your homeland, Liyue. Being stuck in Inazuma was fun at first, but as the days went by you became even more homesick.

You hadn't even noticed the tears that were falling down your face until you let out a quiet sob. They soon turned into violent cries as you hugged your knees up to your chest.

You were so, so tired.

"Y/N!" You heard a shout for your name as you turned around to be met by your lover running towards you, his eyes filled with worry as he crouched down in front of you and gently pulled you into his embrace.

"Are you okay sweetheart? Why did you run off? I'm sorry I left for so long, I was just-" You cut him off, your hands gripping his shirt, your knuckles turning white as you let out another sob.

"I can't do this anymore Thoma, I'm so tired." You cried into his chest. You felt his body tense up and his grip around you tighten.

"What do you mean Love?" He was nervous about what you had to say next, the thought of you leaving him made him nauseous. He loved you so much, his heart wouldn't be able to take it if you left with him.

"I think we need to take a break, Thoma." His worst fears came to life, tears welling up in his eyes as he hugged you tighter, burying his face in your shoulder.

"No! Please let's just- Just please don't leave me..." His voice shook as he let out silent sobs. You felt tears drip through the fabric of your shirt.

"I'm sorry Thoma, I can't do this anymore. You're never around and I can't-"

"Please let me explain!" He cried out, pulling you closer as if you were going to slip away from him.

You stayed silent, patiently waiting for him to calm himself down and lift his head up to meet your eyes. You watched him swallow the lump in his throat before speaking.

"With the vision hunt decree, I've been busy helping the Kamisato clan. Things have been insane and I've been busy dodging the decree and helping others. I'm sorry for not being around and for not making time for you, I promise to try harder and I promise I'll be better for you. Just please...please don't leave me..." He let out another sob, returning his face back to your shoulder.

You stayed silent, running your fingers through his hair as you both cried in each others arms. You could never bring yourself to hate him or stay mad, so instead you chose to silently comfort your lover.

You could talk more later anyway.