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For as long as Venti had lived (and he had lived a very, very long time, first as a wisp and now as a God), there were few constants that he’d allowed himself to indulge in. The first was the stars above, twinkling brightly and vigilantly across centuries and centuries. The second was the exhilarating feeling of falling, always just enough to spark the adrenaline in his veins and draw forth a laugh before the wind gently caught him in its embrace. Lastly, and perhaps most effectively, the numbing warmth and buzz of Dandelion Wine down his throat and through his blood.
Though new flavors of wine were constantly being cultivated and improved upon, there was just something so distinctly special about the memories Dandelion Wine brought (of hopes of Freedom and a young bard who laughed so brightly). It was a comfort which rarely failed to ease his nerves especially when surrounded by other inebriated company and no matter what Diluc or Zhongli or anyone else said, Venti didn’t regret his choice of poison. They all had their vices and coped differently anyways.
No, Venti would never regret drinking to his heart’s content and making merry until he was forcibly kicked out.
However.
If there was one thing to hate about his habits, it was the aftermath.
Venti, who had lived for a very long time and who valued freedom more than anything in the world, and was the Anemo Archon of the land and the distant protector of Mondstat...was lonely.
The idea seemed preposterous of course - he had his friends amongst the Archons and even if his citizens didn’t know him as Barbatos, they still knew and loved him as Venti, Mondstat’s Three Times Awarded Best Bard. He had a natural boyish charm and a soothing voice which drew admirers and envious competition all across the city. He was also well-known by the Tavern regulars, who often took him up on his offers to sing in exchange for a tasty drink or two for the night, and by Diluc, who for all his huffing and gruffing, still served him and was a begrudging friend.
It was just...not enough, he supposed, ever since the ugly feeling settled in his chest as he’d drunkenly stumbled his way through the streets alone for the millionth time. There wasn’t anything particular that triggered it, just...one second he was walking and the next he was hit by the crushing sort of loneliness of always quietly laughing at his own jokes, voice echoing alone in the dead of the night. He thought of the members of the Adventurer’s Guild and the Knights of Favonius who frequented the tavern, who left together and supported their drunken members on their way out or the cozy air of two lovers as they left, intent heavy as they held eyes only for their partner. Then he thought of himself, about what it meant to be Venti and Barbatos and a God and a bard, and suddenly Barbatos realized the last time anyone had gone looking for him for the sake of being around him was...well, probably the real Venti.
…
The realization hurts more than it should.
He was Venti, the carefree bard! He was supposed to be merry and free and happy!
(He was lonely, he’s still learning to be a human, and even though his rhymes exuded nothing but confidence sometimes he couldn’t help but question his own worth. If he weren’t an Archon, would anyone ever even willingly seek his company? He was scared of finding out the answer.)
Eventually, it stopped mattering. It wasn’t that the loneliness went away per say, or that he stopped having doubts. Venti just...drank enough that they didn’t matter and laughed loud and hard until he was too focused on his aching throat and the white noise in his ears to formulate thoughts.
Then, the winds changed, Dvalin became StormTerror, Mondstat fell into a panic.
He changed everything.
Venti decided from the start that he liked Aether. It was hard not to with the way the kid seemed kind-hearted and ready to help despite his own preoccupation with finding his sister. By the time they’d rescued Dvalin and then undergone the nasty Gnosis-stealing fiasco with the Fatui, he and the Outlander were officially certified friends (Aether had asked him shyly and the God had nearly squished his pudgy cheeks right then and there in delight). Of course, he didn’t expect much out of it. Aether was kind and cared about him, Venti had no doubt, because he cared about everyone. It was an endearing trait and one he was sure would land the Outlander with a whole army of friends across all the regions of Tevyat throughout his travels. For this reason, he didn’t hesitate to send the blond off to Liyue for the Rite of Parting with the assurance that someday, one day, they’d reunite and the Traveler would speak of his story while Venti listened and wrote countless songs of the brave Outlander from a world beyond. In truth, he really didn’t expect to see the blond again anytime soon - Tevyat was vast and finding a missing sister was a harrowing and undoubtedly long mission.
Except...he did come back. Frequently at that - first sporadically as the Outlander was no doubt caught up in exploring Liyue and the death of the Geo Archon (his winds told him of the Old Blockhead’s dramatic entrance into retirement and honestly, Venti was so giving him shit for this for the rest of his life because Morax, what is wrong with you- ), and then frequently, as time passed and idled away in between the Lantern Rite Festival and his exploration of the icy planes of Dragonspine. That was a surprise.
Yet, even more surprising, was that Aether...sought him out. Him , specifically. Venti. Barbatos. Himself. He knows because even if his call to fame was his endless stomach for alcohol, there was a special sort of warmth reserved for when Aether came rushing through the city gates or into the Cathedral’s plaza or even into the tavern depending on the time of day, a bright smile on his face and the call of Venti’s name on his lips.
“Venti!”
So happy. So bright. It was blinding.
“Aether!”
Slowly, ever so slowly, he dared to return the hugs, first loosely and then tightly. Slowly, he let himself trust that even if he didn’t know exactly when, when Aether returned he would seek Venti out because the blond actually liked being around him. Even more slowly, the faint heat in his cheeks and the surprised gasps at the sudden barrage of warm body and limbs surrounding him became an eager, expectant warmth in the center of his chest and the sound of fond, relieved giggles. Just like the time he’d revealed his true identity to the other, Aether seemed to have a natural knack for comforting him without even saying a word. All he had to do was smile prettily and crinkle his shining golden eyes and just like that, Venti would smile, songs and rhymes and soft endearments falling from his lips as he joined the blond’s adventures whenever the Outlander would ask. On a particularly drunken night he’d even asked the Traveler for a kiss as his payment the next time they went out and had succeeded in making the blond near asphyxiate to death from choking on his drink. Paimon had whacked him rather rudely for ‘such a terrible joke!’, which had evolved into a vicious slapping fight only stopped by Diluc kicking them out of the Tavern. Aether had reprimanded them both and in the end, Venti never had the courage to clarify he’d been serious.
Still, from then on Aether accompanied him more frequently.
“Venti, are you even able to walk right now? Do you just wander around like this everytime you leave the Tavern? What if something happened to you?!”
“Pssshh, I’m an Archon! I’ll be fineeeee. You - hic! - you worry too much...”
Apparently Aether was more of a mother hen than he’d thought because now the Outlander had taken on the role of a personal escort. It was never a planned thing; he’d just walk to Venti and strike conversation with him either on the way to the Tavern or back. Sometimes he’d even stay the whole night when he could afford it (keeping Paimon fed unsurprisingly sucked away most of his Mora, but at least the little menace had the decency to give them alone whenever their little outings occurred. Venti would have to treat her for that some day.)
Venti personally preferred the last two the most. Walking through the city streets at night with Aether...felt like home, in a weird and sentimental way he was embarrassed to admit. Sure they parted ways since Aether had his room at the inn while Venti slept...wherever...but still! In the sacred moments before that there was the warmth of Aether’s smile and the weight of his steadying hands around the God’s waist, supporting his weight and keeping him safe and steady. If he thought about it hard enough, it almost reminded him of the lovers he’d always see exiting the Tavern, but that was an embarrassing train of thought Venti would save for exploring another day…
For now, being bathed in the dim gold of the lamplights and clutching the Outlander by his side tightly under the pretense of being drunk was enough.
Licking the final remnants of his stolen drink from his lips, Venti giggled drunkenly as he narrowly escaped Diluc’s enraged attempt to grab him. Tomorrow the Tavern Owner would likely tear his head off with an extensive bill for his mischievousness but today he’d run away under the pretense of being too drunk. (They both knew he could sober up anytime but chose not to. Tormenting the red-head was too much fun).
Shivering as the cold air of the outside nipped at his flushed face, Venti hummed idly as his eyes scanned the area in search of a certain blond, his heart already beating eagerly in his chest with want for a comforting and warm embrace. The bard was naturally physically affectionate when he wanted to be, but being this drunk meant Aether would hold his hand the whole way back and fuss over him. Another giggle escaped his lips at the image of the flustered blond coming to mind and Venti settled in one of the many seats in front of the Tavern, his legs swinging childishly in time to his tune as he awaited his Traveler’s arrival.
…
Fifteen minutes passed. Then a half hour.
The cold nipped at his cheeks unpleasantly, the liquid warmth fleeting in its warmth. Aether must’ve been caught up in something that day. Probably Paimon - the stupid pixie was always hungry.
…
An hour had passed. At least...Venti thought so, given Patton had left his post for the night to get some rest. Diluc would probably finish up soon too, since he was pretty diligent with his cleaning. Venti briefly wondered if he should vacate the premises before the crimson-haired man confronted him for his revenge, but what if Aether came? ...No, Diluc wasn’t that evil so he could just wait. It’d be fine, Aether would...be here soon. They’d always see each other at least once a day now that he was in town…
…
A hand shook him awake, too large and firm to be the familiar touch belonging to his Traveler. Venti blinked sleepily, wiping away the small dribble of drool which had accumulated from his brief nap against the table. Diluc towered over him, trade-mark frown and black trench-coat in place. He must have just ended his shift.
“You alright?”
The combination of words sounded odd with the man’s gruff voice, momentarily stunning Venti before he nodded, slowly regaining more awareness of his surroundings as he rubbed at his eyes. Sometimes he forgot Diluc cared in his own way, even if the man typically lacked the ability to show it. Glancing down the road left him empty-handed, the city quiet and sleeping aside from their voices.
“...Doesn’t Aether usually…”
Just like that, the ache in his chest he’d been trying so hard to ignore was brought to the surface. Venti smiled shakily, feeling suffocatingly vulnerable and trapped now that his happy-hours buzz had faded.
“Yeah! Yeah...he’s just. Y’know. Probably really busy today! Cuz he’s...the Traveler. Yeaah...ehe..”
Diluc’s frown deepened, the wrinkles in his brows growing prominent as he stared down the bard. ‘ He really should stop doing that,’ Venti thought distantly, ‘they might become a permanent part of his old man face.’After a pause, the redhead hesitantly spoke again.
“I can...help you along, if you need it.”
‘If you need it.’Well wasn’t that just a sucker punch to the gut. Like he was some kind of burden...Diluc probably didn’t mean it that way, but well, Venti wasn’t in his right mind right now so sue him for being sensitive. Clearing his throat, the bard forced his tone and expression to be more chipper.
“No, nope! I’m fine. Just...resting here a bit, eheh. I’ll just...wait a little longer and then go. It’s all good.”
The red-head studied him warily, doubt clear in the glow of his crimson eyes. To prove his point, Venti began humming loudly and pointedly turned his gaze to the empty streets ahead, begging that the man would take the hint and respect his decision. After another few awkward moments, he relented with a long sigh.
“...Don’t get a cold.”
Venti scoffed, a small smile quirking at the edge of his lips at the gruff sentence as Diluc took his leave, gloved hands clenched around his claymore. Probably off to do his usual nightly superhero routine for Mondstat before he actually slept - it was a wonder the man managed to function at all with everything he did. Shaking away the thought with an amused huff, Venti refocused his attention to the streets ahead in earnest and hoped that maybe, just maybe if he stared long enough, Aether would appear.
After the second time he sneezed, Venti finally gave up in his waiting and began trekking the familiar path through the streets alone, no small amount of disappointment and anxiety seeping through his tired form. His winds had informed him after the first hour that Aether was definitely still in Mondstat though his exact whereabouts were unknown, which didn’t exactly make the bard feel better. They hadn’t seen each other all day since his Traveler was busy with all sorts of Requets and Bounties and Commissions. Hopefully he wasn’t hurt somehow…maybe he should check the Cathedral..
Worry rising in his chest with every step he took towards the building, Venti blinked in attention when a sudden flash of gold caught his eye. Heart soaring in his chest, the bard watched as the blond emerged from the Church, seemingly unharmed. Preparing to take off towards the other, his shoes scraped across the ground in an abrupt stop as another person came into view, their arm linked with the Traveler’s own with a shy smile and a gentle flush on their face. He knew those twin pigtails anywhere.
‘The Deaconess. Barbara?’
Oblivious to his staring, the pair seemed to be engaged in some hearty conversation, a matching pair of drinks in their hands Venti had never seen before as they made their way towards a nearby bench.
A sudden, inexplicable weight settled in Venti’s chest, causing him to feel sick as he averted his eyes from the pair. Suddenly, he didn’t feel like seeing Aether anymore...
He snuck another glance at the cozy pair, simultaneously tormented by yet unable to look away from the soft smile on Aether’s face as he laughed at whatever Barbara said. Venti bit his lip, eyes squinting shut as a cesspool of ugly emotions swarmed through him.
Of course Aether would spend time with other people...that was normal. Venti was fine with that - the Outlander was a resourceful and kind guy, he knew that, and hey Venti had his own stuff to do! It was just that...well...they’d been ending off the day together. For...a while now. The only person who saw him beyond that point as the blond headed off to bed was Paimon, which was expected since she was the Traveler’s companion. For Aether to spend that precious time with someone else without even giving him a head’s up…
Like a thorny vine, jealousy coiled itself around the Archon’s heart with a vice-like grip. Huffing, Venti raised his nose in the air and turned away, unwilling to further his humiliation and disappointment anymore than it already had been that night. He’d known from the start anyways - alcohol was much better and more reliable company than any humans, or any stupidly pretty Outlanders!
Yeah…
He’d be fine.
“..You’re drinking an awful lot already. Isn’t it still pretty early?”
Venti slurped down the last of his drink and slammed it onto the bar noisily, a shit-eating grin on his face despite the alarming level of concern in Diluc’s tone. As much as Venti drank at the tavern religiously, they both knew he was here entirely too early for his usual schedule. It was still light outside, whereas the bard usually preferred to come after nightfall so the liquid buzz lasted him until he fell asleep. Tonight he was determined to accomplish the same by guzzling down an even more ridiculous amount of wine than usual and for once he had the Mora to make it happen. Perhaps that was the most concerning thing.
“Uh-oh, looks like it’s empty again! Another glass, pretty please~?”
Tragically, Diluc the buzzkill, only furrowed his brows further at his whining and Venti pouted, digging into his pocket to rattle forth some Mora onto the counter as encouragement. Still the crimson-haired man remainedunmoving and Venti squirmed in place uncomfortably, opting to attempt to steal the bottle of wine from the man’s hands. That finally snapped him into action and the red-head reluctantly filled his glass, watching with silent judgement as it was scarfed down again. Behind them, the Tavern door squeaks open.
“Venti, there you are!”
Faltering momentarily at the unexpected yet familiar tone, Venti slurped his remnant of his drink down slowly, desperately drawing out the silence in favor of responding. Aether, oblivious to his foul mood, drew closer and squished the bard into a brief hug before letting go and settling besides him, a smile on his face.
“I was wondering where you went...usually you don’t come to the Tavern this early.”
Sucking at air as the final drops of his drink disappeared down his throat, Venti licked his lips with a loud smack, keeping his gaze pointedly on the bar counter even as the warmth of Aether’s proximity tempted him to lean in. A moment of silence passed as he reached for the bottle again, Diluc no longer fighting him as he refilled his glass. Whatever was going down between the two, the crimson-haired man knew better than to interfere between a warring couple. Tonight was not his battle to pick, so with a final glance he left the two to attend to his other customers.
“...Venti? Are you okay?”
Snorting quietly under his breath, Venti ignored the concerned gaze digging into his side and swung back another drink. A gloved hand landed on his shoulder and he looked up, irritable.
“Just. Peachy.”
Floundering at the bard’s short tone, Aether watched in silent shock as Venti tore away from his touch. The hurt on the blond’s face was almost enough to make the God regret his petty actions, until the ugly sensation from the memories of the other day made itself known. Scowling deeply, abandoned his glass in favor of downing the entire bottle of wine. Again, a firm hold stopped him, the touch searing into his skin.
“...Did I do something? What’s wrong, you seem really upset…”
Grumbling under his breath when the blond continued to stop his attempts to drink, Venti placed the bottle back on the counter and turned to face the stubborn Traveler, an angry flush on his cheeks.
“...’m fine -hic!-...tired.”
Infuriatingly concerned as always, Aether’s disposition changed to that of a gentle mother, fussing over him in the familiar way which made Venti’s heart ache with want.
“Oh...well, you can rest at my place then. The Tavern isn’t really the place for sleeping. I’ll help you get there.”
Protests building on the tip of his tongue, Venti briefly struggled against the arms gripping his own. A part of his heart was beating warmly at the touch, reveling in the physical contact he’d desperately missed. The other half however, still beat angrily and warily as he thought of another lonely night in the coming future. He made eye contact with Diluc.
Eyeing the duo carefully from a distance, it was clear the crimson-haired man would side with Aether if Venti chose to make a scene. He made for such an annoying friend, honestly.
Biting his tongue as Aether tugged at him again, Venti reluctantly stood, desperately trying to maintain his own weight and not lean against the blond despite his desire to. No...this was nothing special. He had to remember that. With that, he allowed the blond to slowly guide him out of the Tavern and through the bustling streets, the faint light of lanterns onto just fading in while people began to close up their business for the day.
For once, the walk back was fully silent between them and the God was grateful. He didn’t know what to feel anymore.
Inside the inn room, Venti momentarily allowed an emotion aside from anger to show on his face as his eyes wandered around the room, noting the few photos and knickknacks decorating the shelves to make the place more homey.
“Hey, you’re back! And you found Tone-Deaf Bard! Paimon knew you were worrying for nothing!”
Waving off his companions triumphant smile with a small laugh, Aether turned his attention to his guest and motioned to the bed across the room.
“It’s all yours, so feel free to rest for as long as you need. You seemed pretty out of it.”
Staring at the flooring below his feet with a pointed gaze, Venti said nothing. The floorboards ahead creaked awkwardly in the silence as Aether shifted his weight from foot to foot, waiting for a response. After another unbearably tense few seconds of silence, Paimon flew forward with a huff and tugged at the bard’s braids.
“C’mon Tone-Deaf Bard, didn’t you hear him?! Paimon didn’t think you could get this drunk!”
Gritting his teeth at the pain of having his hair yanked, Venti slapped away her hands and firmly planted his shoes where he stood, stubbornly refusing to give in despite the ridiculousness of the entire situation. Ignoring the offended gasp which escaped the tiny flying companion, the bard reached up and lowered his beret over his eyes protectively.
“What the- Hey! You can’t just hit away Paimon like that!”
“..Says the one who yanked my hair..”
“Well maybe if you -!”
“Paimon, would you mind spending the day with Amber? Venti’s just...really tired and grumpy right now so he needs some rest. He doesn’t mean any of this. ”
The pixie in question quieted, some of the irritation in her tiny form easing at Aether’s pleading tone. Sharing a silent conversation with the Traveler with her eyes, Paimon sighed and relented with a dramatic flourish.
“Oh alright, Paimon will forgive you just this once! You better apologize once you’re better, Tone-Deaf Bard - Paimon wants snacks! Lots of them!”
With a final petty kick at the feather on Venti’s beret, she flew off and left the two alone.
Venti swallowed, his throat thick with biting words that threatened to break free.
“Okay, now that she’s gone, what’s up? I know you said you were tired but I’ve never seen you this upset - Did I really do something?”
Feeling his emotions bubble over at the innocent inquiry, Venti spun around to face the Traveler with an accusing look, his tone sharp to hide the hurt festering inside him since the night before.
“Did you ‘ do something?’ No! Of course not! How could the Honorary Knight, everyone’s Beloved Hero, possibly do anything wrong?!”
“Venti-”
“Forget it! This...is all stupid anyways. Whatever. I’ll get over it just...leave me alone for today.”
Spinning on his heels to leave the room after his bout of yelling, the bard was stopped in place when he was dragged back against the blond’s chest, two arms tightly clasping around him in a hug.
“No, I’m not leaving you alone like this.”
“Outlander-”
“I don’t know what’s going on, but I’m not leaving you alone until you’re okay.”
Biting his lip in frustration, Venti cursed under his breath at the stinging sensation rising behind his eyes. He didn’t want any of this, dammit!
“Oh but it’s fine if you leave after, right? You’ll just forget me like everyone else!”
“Wait what? Where is this coming from?”
Honestly, the God was so fed up with this. Turning in Aether’s hold until he could look the blond in the eyes, Venti finally let his angry facade fade to show the despair inside.
“You didn’t come. Every week, for Celestia knows how long now, you’ve always come to see me at least once. I waited for you for an hour after the Tavern closed , Aether. I waited until even Diluc had gone home, and I didn’t even hear a peep from you or Paimon! Do you have any idea how worried I was?! And then, then I see you casually strolling by with that Deaconess latched onto your arm! How do you think I felt?! Sure we never verbally agreed we’d meet every night, but you could’ve come and said something . I..I felt so stupid standing there all night!”
Golden-eyes widened at the pinpricks of tears caught in the God’s lashes, the blond’s brow furrowing into an apologetic and understanding expression. Without another word, he tugged the Archon forwards again and tightly wrapped the bard in a hug, gently nestling his head on top of the other.
“You...were really that worried?”
Sniffling miserably against his collarbone, Venti nodded, giving up his pretense of not wanting physical contact with the blond.
“Of course I was! We practically end off every day together and then you just…”
“Yeah...you’re right. I should’ve said something, I...was a bit in my own head, yesterday. I didn’t think you’d care this much, honestly; you’re always so popular at the Tavern so I figured you’d have no problem finding other company…”
Squinting his eyes shut to stop the small trickle of tears dripping their way down his face, Venti shifted against the blond to press closer.
“Popular as a bard, sure! Aether, how many people do you think actually come looking for me for my company?”
“But...you’re great company! You’re-” A bitter laugh interrupted him.
“-A drunkard. I’m just another drunkard in most people’s eyes, Outlander. And I’ve been alive for centuries now. Sure the anonymity is nice but even I get lonely sometimes.”
Mulling over the God’s words in his head, a shot of guilt ran through the Traveler’s heart as he suddenly realized how much he’d unintentionally hurt Venti. The Archon had always made a point in keeping a certain distance from mortals with his facade, one which Aether had worked hard to breach past ever since the God had revealed his true identity. It had been exhilarating when his efforts finally paid off and Venti began returning his embraces, seemingly just as eager and comfortable around the blond as the Traveler was around him. Maddening even, with how physically intimate Venti would become around him when he was drunk. That was why Aether had gone to consult with Barbara to begin with - he’d been convinced the heart palpitations the God gave him whenever he was around was a definite sign of some illness. Luckily, the sweet Deaconess had immediately shut down that line of thinking once he told her his symptoms. She was a blessing of a friend for not laughing at him outright, honestly, and Aether truly was thankful to have spent time with her given her typically busy schedule. He never once considered Venti would be affected so much by his brief absence…
Warmth building in his chest as he thought the God’s adorably angry expression, Aether let out a small sigh and squeezed the Archon against him. Now that he knew he wasn’t the only one with repressed feelings, the blond was determined to reassure Venti of their relationship.
“Hey...you wanna lay down and cuddle?”
Eyes widening at the sudden proposition, Venti drew back sputtering, his face flushing bright red and only worsening when Aether’s grip around his waist tightened to keep the bard from going too far.
“W-Wha-!”
“I’ll take that as a yes!”
Scooping the Archon into his arms without a moment’s hesitation, Aether made the short trek over to his bed and gently lay the shocked God on it before reaching to take off the other’s shoes. Venti, already adorably flustered, somehow managed to turn an even brighter shade of red as he flailed his hands in protest.
“I-I’m not a baby, I-I’ll do it myself!”
Amused, Aether only stuck out his tongue before clambering onto the other side of the bed after slipping off his own boots. Maneuvering himself to face Venti, the blond gave the flustered Archon a wide grin.
“Hi.”
Scowling at the near-constant heat flowing through his cheeks, Venti averted his eyes from the unfairly pretty gaze fondly peering at him. What in Tevyat had come over Aether?! Not that he was complaining…
Stifling a quiet chuckle, Aether shuffled forward across the mattress until he was close enough to wrap his arms around the other and grinned when the God hesitantly melted into his embrace. It was nice having the Archon so close to him again, the warmth of their bodies pleasantly melding together while Venti’s heart beat against his own. Aether closed his eyes and hummed contently, nuzzling against the flustered bard affectionately.
Swallowing thickly at the tenderness of their interaction, Venti cleared his throat and hesitantly allowed himself to settle against the base of Aether’s throat. It was strangely calming to feel the way the other’s body gently rose and fell against his own while the Traveler breathed, almost enough to lull him into sleep.
“...I’ll be honest, I’m not always the best with using my words. Lumi was always better with that kind of stuff...and I think that’s probably I mesh so well with Paimon too - she does most of the talking for me.” Aether shifted, a soft look in his eyes as he drew back to meet shy aquamarine. “I think it’s part of why I like you so much. You...remind me of myself, with how you always try to hide away your real emotions, even if your eyes can’t lie about them.”
Squirming against the blond’s chest in embarrassment, Venti forced himself to continue meeting the fond look in the other’s gaze even as heat flared inside his gut and crept its way along his ears. Whatever was hanging in the air between them felt heavy and terrifying and oh so tantalizing, causing the God to feel small compared to the Traveler. Nervously he wet his lips and forced himself to swallow, his throat inexplicably parched for no apparent reason.
“...Lines like that won’t work on a bard...you could say that about anyone..”
Aether hummed in acknowledgement, his forehead wrinkling in thought even as his lips quirked at the Archon’s reference to their past time together. Then, he leaned in dangerously close, breath fanning across the God’s lips while his gloved fingers rose from the bard’s waist to gently cup his jaw.
“Is that better?” He whispered quietly, tenderly . Venti let out a shuddery breath, eyes closing in a languid blink before he nodded, unable to look away.
“..Yes.”
Aether smiled and Venti’s heart wavered in his chest, physically squeezing from the soft and heady emotions fuzzing over his thoughts.
“..No matter what happens, you can come home to me.”
Aquamarine eyes widened, the God’s breath stilling at the all-consuming cosmos of love in the other’s eyes.
“Venti,” The Archon shivered, pulse racing through him at the gentle calling of his name. “-no matter where I am. Even if I don’t see you off to the Tavern, even if I don’t see you at the end of a day. You don’t have to be scared. You’re...You’ve always been precious to me. So...my arms are open for you. You’re not the only one who’s searching. I’ll meet you halfway and find you too.”
Calloused fingers caressed the corners of his eyes softly and Venti exhaled sharply, blinking past tears in his eyes he hadn’t even realized were there. ‘ Oh.’ He thought weakly, lips quivering with emotion. ‘Looks like he hit the nail on the coffin without me saying a word again.’(Because suddenly he’s realized that maybe, just maybe, he’s been terrified of Aether losing interest - of once again becoming that annoying Archon who bothers other people for company when no one reaches out for him first).
“Aether-” A choked gasp, a prayer, a loving plea.
“Shh.” The Traveler leaned forward and planted a kiss on his forehead, his hands tracing up the God’s neck and gently tangling in the bard’s hair, careful to not upset the braids. Venti felt as if he were melting alive at the touch, each inch of his skin aching with the need for contact.
“It’s overwhelming - I know. You’re safe here. You’re home.”
“You’re home..?”
Aether nodded, trailing another gentle kiss between the God’s brows.
“Your home.”
“...”
Venti closed his eyes.
“...I think I’ll get some sleep after all.”
The blond’s quiet chuckles reverberated through the Archon’s ears.
“Yeah...it’s been a while since you’ve been home.”
They slept.
Steadily, easily, they fell back into their unspoken routine. Sometimes, just as the day turned to night and as the vendors of Mondstat began to close shop, the bard and the Traveler would walk together to the Tavern before parting ways with a shared glance and soft smiles. Sometimes, as the moon reached its peak in the sky above and the drunkards of the Tavern stumbled out to head home, a golden-haired Traveler would be waiting for his bard, arms open wide to embrace the other into a hug. On special occasions, both would occur as the Traveler and bard stayed together for the night and both stumbled out of the Tavern giggling conspiratorially.
Other times…
Staring at the inn door in front of him, Venti reached forward and knocked, mind hazy with drink-diluted nervousness. Aether had said the inn-keeper would let him in without problem if he mentioned his name, but anxious thoughts still swept through the God. It was the first time he’d been here since the blond reassured him. Lost in his thoughts, Venti startled when the door suddenly opened to reveal Aether, a kind smile on his face.
“Hey there.”
The Archon took in a breath, eyes tracing over the other’s lack of armor. He must’ve been preparing to sleep.
“Ehe...Didn’t keep you waiting, did I?”
“Ehhh just a bit. Now get inside you dork, I’m getting cold standing here.”
Relaxing a bit as their playful banter ensued, Venti stuck his tongue out at the blond before stepping inside. Everything from here on out would be new territory but at least this much hadn’t changed.
“How rude! I’m an Archon I’ll have you know!”
“Venti the Archon? Nahh that doesn’t ring any bells. You’re just some bard.”
“Mondstat’s Three-Times Awarded BestBard.”
“Ah and so humble too...you really are one of a kind, Barbatos. ”
Cheeks flushing red at the way Aether’s voice deepened with the use of his name, Venti sputtered in embarrassment and averted his gaze, a pout forming across his lips as the Traveler broke into a fit of giggles. Determined not to be bested, the God caught the other’s wrist and brought it to his lips with a flirty wink, satisfied at the way he felt blond’s pulse jump beneath his touch.
“Mm, call it louder~ You have such a pretty voice when you say my name, Outlander~.”
Letting out a startled squeak which sent the God keeling with laughter, it was the Traveler’s turn to glare at the Archon while his cheeks flushed red, scandalized by the bard’s perverseness. Then, noticing the blond let out a small yawn, Venti intercepted before the other got one over him again.
“Okay, okay, I’m done teasing for now. You were getting ready for bed, right? I...guess I’ll join you?” The bard’s voice pitched up into a question against his will, nerves returning at the thought of actually sleeping with the other despite having already cuddled before. At least the blush on Aether’s face reassured him he wasn’t the only one nervous about everything.
“Oh! Yeah, of course. Um...I left you an extra toothbrush in the bathroom so you can do that while I change since I already brushed my teeth. Do you need a change of clothes at all or..”
“Ah, no I’ll just sleep in what I’m wearing right now. Perks of having Archon powers and all that.”
Aether nodded, his expression turning thoughtful as he wondered exactly what the full extent of an Archon Power’s entailed.
“Sure, okay.”
With that, Venti made his way to the aforementioned bathroom and absolutely did not think of Aether stripping down to his night clothes in the next room, because that would just be ridiculous. It wasn’t like they were going to sleep in the same bed or anything.
…
Staring himself in the mirror as he rinsed out his mouth, it occurred to Venti that this...would be their new normal. Coming home to Aether. To this - actually doing human things and settling down for the night together. Like a couple. The Archon’s cheeks reddened and Venti splashed his face with cold water, a brief surge of self-consciousness rising through him as he scanned over his appearance. He wasn’t usually one to care all that much even if he took care of himself but he hoped there wasn’t anything that would turn Aether away, as stupid as the thought was.
“Venti, are you done in there? I’m about to head to bed.”
“Coming!”
Giving himself a final once-over in the mirror and lightly slapping his face to get himself together, the God emerged back into the main room.
For a moment his heart stuttered, mind overwhelmed by the sight of Aether’s exposed arms and legs, toned muscles dimly highlighted by the lamp overhead. It was strange seeing the blond in only a crop top and trunks, but certainly not...unpleasant.
“..You’re staring.”
“Huh? Oh, eheh, just...enjoying the view.”
Flustering at the words, Aether crossed his arms over his chest defensively and motioned to the God’s body.
“What about you? A little over-dressed to sleep, don’t you think?”
Glancing down at himself and back up at the blond, Venti slowly nodded, cheeks flushing as he realized he’d have to undress as well. The bard was accustomed to sleeping outside most nights so it was strange actually having the luxury of being able to change for once.
“Yeah..Just give me a minute.”
Turning away to spare himself the embarrassment of the other’s reaction, Venti fumbled with his bow tie and untied his cape, draping it across a nearby chair. Next came his shoes and beret, lovingly placed on top of his cape along with the feathers and his fake vision. Twisting his arms behind his back to untie the strings of his corset, the Archon stilled as warm fingers met his own, the sudden heat of Aether’s body behind him causing sparks to dance along his neck.
“...Can I?”
Drawing his fingers away in silent assent, the Archon held his breath, heart pounding in his chest as Aether slowly made his further down the base of his back, carefully untying and unclasping until the corset was loose enough to slip off his waist. Gently slipping it off himself and tossing it across to the chair with everything else, Venti paused as the presence behind him lingered, causing heat to creep up the back of his neck.
“A-Aether?”
Soft lips pressed against his nape in a chaste kiss and Venti gasped, a soft flush flooding his face at the intimate yet gentle gesture.
“..You’re pretty. Can I undo your braids?”
Flustered beyond words, the God buried his face in his hands and nodded, at first tense and then gradually relaxing as Aether’s fingers softly wove through his hair and smoothed out any tangles as gently as possible without a comb. Turning back when the blond drew back and let out a satisfied hum, Venti shyly watched as the Traveler released his own braid, golden locks tumbling over his shoulders like molten-gold. He was...gorgeous and the God wished he had the courage to reach forth and touch them without his mind imploding more than it already was. As a bard his specialty was rhymes and riddles not soft emotions and tender gestures - he’d never ever expected himself to be part of something so... domestic . It felt amazing...and overwhelming, after spending centuries upon centuries alone. He was glad Aether was taking it slow.
Apparently having given up with combing the rest of his lengthy hair (Venti would have to see to that properly sometime..), the blond snuggled beneath their blanket and nestled himself on the pillow, leaving his hair to drape off the side off the bed so he could sleep comfortably. Catching Venti’s longing gaze, Aether lay out his arm and smiled, gently urging the other to lay down.
Gaze darting from the inviting lips to the fondness clear in the Traveler’s face, Venti took a steadying breath before gently slipping beneath the sheets himself and slowly sinking into the natural heat emanating off his partner.
“..Hey.”
Aether giggled, gently tugging the bard closer and pressing another quick kiss to the God’s forehead for his cuteness.
“Hi. I missed you.”
Letting out a groan as another surge of blood rushed to his cheeks, the Archon weakly smacked at the blond’s chest in protest even as he allowed the other to connect their palms. God, Aether was so warm and close, this was amazing and he couldn’t believe he hadn’t done this s ooner .
“Just turn off the lights already..”
With another quiet giggle Aether obeyed, briefly turning to his other side to tug at the lightswitch. The room plunged into darkness, drenching their eyes in the inkiness of the night and amplifying the sounds of their shared breathing as the Traveler shifted back around to face him, both of the males carefully adjusting themselves to settle into a quiet position.
Staring across at the blond’s face so close to his own, Venti willed himself to give in to the tempting lullaby of sleep tugging at his body. He’d always been guilty of falling asleep easily and being surrounded by the safety of Aether’s arms and his warm breathing oly amplified the pull even more. Still, a part of him hesitated despite it all, half wondering if he’d wake the next morning at the Tavern with only a distant dream of phantom kisses and shared body-heat, no matter how real it all felt right now.
Lashes fluttered against his own, the grip on his hand giving him a hesitant squeeze.
“...Is this too much?”
Venti shook his head, shifting his free hand to tug away the strands of hair itchily scratching against his face.
“No.” The God whispered, and he knew he meant it. “I’m just...scared this is all going to disappear.”
Soft breathing was his only response, nearly fooling the Archon into thinking the other had fallen asleep if not for the slight glow of his braids catching the gold of Aether’s eyes. Then, without a warning but slow enough to be stopped if it was unwanted, the blond closed to few inches separating them and kissed him. It felt soft...slow...languid and so, so full of love. Venti melted, mind and body reduced to putty as his senses narrowed to the pounding of his heart and the gentle point of contact between their lips. It felt simultaneously like eons and yet no time at all had passed when Aether drew back, their lips smacking quietly in the darkness as they both regained their breath.
“I...didn’t have the courage to tell you with the lights still on. You’re too...perfect and Venti I-” The heart pounding in the chest against him raced faster. “-I love you.”
Venti stared, dopamine rushing through his veins and drawing his lips into a wide smile, all thoughts beyond how much he loved the blond in front of him disappearing from his mind.
“I love you too.”
And then the God kissed him, no longer fearful of searching in the darkness alone. He was home. Aether was home.
Bonus:
Warily sparing a glance at the bard cheerily resting against his countertop, Diluc watched as the God carefully ( carefully? ) counted out the mora he’d earned from the night’s performance, for once opting for payment in actual money as opposed to drinks. It felt uncanny seeing Venti this happy without more than a Keg’s worth of Wine down his liver and for a moment the crimson-haired man glanced at the counter behind him, wondering if the other had somehow snuck off with some drinks without his notice.
“Well, I think I’m done for the night now! Thanks a bunch for letting me perform as always, Diluc~”
“You seem concerningly chipper. Did you drink before you came here or something?”
The Archon let out a dramatic gasp, tilting his head back against the counter.
“Oh my friend, you wound me! How could I dare drink at another establishment and betray you!”
Brows narrowing at the bard, the Tavern-Owner prepared to respond when the Tavern door suddenly opened, a familiar blond head of hair and his floating companion popping through. Immediately, Venti scrambled up in his seat, excitement clearly shining in his eyes.
“Aether!” “Venti!”
Watching the rather dramatic reunion, Diluc’s eyes darted from the shared blush on their cheeks to their intimate embrace. Then, as if he needed a reason to gouge out his eyes, the two kissed each other, Paimon gagging discontentedly behind them. Diluc was inclined to do the same.
“EW! At least save it for when Paimon’s not here you two!”
“Your floating companion is right. I have rules against PDA in my Tavern.”
“That’s okay, we were just leaving anyways!~” With a sly wink and a brief apologetic grin from Aether, the bard was gone, dragging the Traveler out of the Tavern like some trophy. Paimon let out a long suffering sigh, linking eyes with the crimson-haired Tavern-Owner.
“You are SO lucky you don’t have to live with them.”
Then with a poof, she disappeared, either to presumably trail after the two or to seek shelter elsewhere for the night. Diluc sighed. Well, hopefully this meant his stock of Dandelion would be at least a bit more safe - it was always a pain to restock.
“So…”
An irritatingly familiar tone droned by his side, their owner sounding infuriatingly smug and sticking his nose in business where it didn’t belong as always.
“Who do you think Tops?”
Diluc closed his eyes, hand rising to pinch the bridge of his nose before he strangled his brother.
“Get out.”