Work Text:
Haurchefant's the first to be erroneously summoned. He stays to help around in the Crystarium, hangs out with Exarch since their adoration for WoL, bizarrely, pushes them closer together instead of sparking the rivalry. Exarch's infinitely curious about the events of Heavensward and especially the time Haurch and WoL spent together (bonus points if Haurch was an actual lover and has lewd stories to share). Eventually Haurchie, being as intense AND sweet as he is, convinces Exarch to reveal himself. He becomes his accomplice instead of Urianger. He feels that Exarch's in a dire need for comfort and he provides it. Warmth, companionship, shared fantasies. They spend several years as lovers. Exarch still intends to carry out his plan, he asks Haurch to pursue WoL and love him twice as fervently on his behalf when he's gone. Haurch makes the promise but keeps secretly looking for another way to save everyone since he's grown to genuinely care about Exarch. WoL arrives, Haurch still doesn't have a sound plan, panic and chaos and still lots of collective swooning over their hero, now here in the flesh. Canon ShB and post 5.3 events happen, the two end up pursuing WoL together, returning to the Source and becoming Eorzea's cutest throuple.
Haurchie being corny, leaning down to smooch Exarch, showering him in praise. Finished a regular meeting with some of the Crystarium folks? "You're doing amazing". Mistakenly pulled Alisaie and got beaten up by her? "You're working tirelessly and trying your damnedest, I'm so proud of you". By the time WoL arrives Exarch's so much more confident and easy.
