startraveler | Inbox

[He's silent for a moment or two. Maybe he's too dramatic about it, but at the same time he can still see it. He can see Vanitas' form in the cold cage, with wounds old and new, with eyes begging for a glimmer of hope, fearful, deeming himself cursed.]

Xiao, I...

[They're both so similar. Two tortured souls, but one chooses to stay away from people and the other toys with them instead, until they all think of him as a heartless monster.]

No one can protect me from my own heart. [He breathes out.] But I know you mean well. I know you want to keep me safe...

[He's caused Xiao distress.]

You can come over. The two of you... will likely meet again anyway. He will try to say something again, I know it. You can scold him, be harsh with him... maybe punch, if you really must. But... [He breathes in and out.] He is important to me. He acts in such a pointless way, but he means a lot to me and I do not wish him harmed... I've seen enough of his pain.

[ It's not dramatic - its trauma. It's understandable. Xiao has lived through wars and seen a lot of nasty things and he has been the one tortured, so it didn't affect him as much.

They really are similar, which makes it a shame that they're probably never going to get along after this. It's probably a good thing that Xiao never went down the road Vanitas did - but he was lucky to have Morax to guide him. ]

I do. Which means I will keep the people you care about safe as well.

[ Aether mentions things that he can do to Vanitas if he comes over, but it's lost the effect it would have already. If Aether says he doesn't wish him harmed, then he won't be. ]

I will stay where I am. If I do not come to make him beg, I should not risk my karmic debt harming him either.

[ He called himself a human, after all. ]

[Xiao is too kind and loyal. Even though he want justice for Aether, he also agrees to forget about everything else to make this easier for the traveler. To protect those he cares about.

...Aether truly doesn't deserve Xiao.]

I... I think you should come. Like I said, you two will likely meet each other eventually anyway. Clearing the air will be a good idea.

[He needs to make sure Vanitas knows his mistake without any harm befalling him.]

[ There's a bit of a pause as Xiao weighs the options for a moment. Then one of those typical 'Xiao gives in' sighs is heard through the device. ]

Alright. I'll be there soon.

[ If anything, it will give him peace to look Aether in the eyes and know if his words are true. That Vanitas didn't hurt him in such a low way.

Going to Aether's place takes longer than it would have back in Teyvat - he quickly learned he cannot teleport here - but he's still an Anemo user and the wind is always at his back. The fact that he, unlike certain other people, can jump from a building without getting hurt also helps.

Eventually, there's a simple knock. On the door, even. ]

[Aether is still very worried and before Xiao gets here, he walks into the bedroom. His hand shakes a little bit, there's a trace of fear in his expression.]

Why did you tell my friend you took advantage of me? He wanted to kill you for that.

[He shakes his head and tries to calm down. Everything will be fine. Vanitas is not going to be tortured for this.]

He'll be here soon. Please, apologize to him.

[Never mind that Xiao wanted Vanitas to apologize to Aether.

Before the traveler can say anything more or hear any response from Vanitas, there's a knock on the door. Aether quickly leaves the room to let Xiao inside.]

Xiao! Sorry... for all of this.

[He wishes all his friends could get along, but life is never that easy.]

[Still all bandaged up, Vanitas looks mildly surprised before breaking out into a grin. Not malicious, but one of amusement all the same.]

I thought wording it in such a way would be fun, that's all. I was curious as to what you meant to him.

[He laughs, leaning back on the pillows.]

Apologize? It's hardly my fault he didn't let me finish.

[No, no, it's entirely his fault. He's just being a piece of shit right now. All the same, at the knock on the door, he waves Aether away, still chuckling to himself.]

[ Xiao steps inside with a small nod to Aether. Kaeya's sword is tied to his belt and there are still a few wisps of dark miasma trailing over his shoulders. He waits a moment for that to clear before going further inside the home.

His bird-of-prey eyes are intense, pupils narrowed to barely a slit in the sharp yellow irises. Xiao can't magically turn off his own heart's anger, but he can cage it. ]

Why are you apologizing? You are the wronged party in this.

[ Was that not clear? Xiao wasn't threatening violence because Vanitas riled him up and said things that made him angry. No, it was because Vanitas joked about such a thing, and did so about someone that cares about him. That pisses him off more than any personal insult ever would.

Aether is the one gathering intense friends! Especially the kind that try to push away everyone because they think they're cursed to bring pain to everyone they care about. ]

[Considering Vanitas chuckles like mad, Aether starts having some second thoughts. Especially, when Xiao comes in and his anger is all the more obvious to the traveler.

Aether steps aside to allow the other in.]

He's doing all of this on purpose. [Aether sighs.] I wouldn't pay that much mind to it.

[Though, it did hurt him that Vanitas would go this far. He hesitates again then finally leads the yaksha to the bedroom where Vanitas is resting. And laughing. He hopes he's not laughing anymore...

Aether shoots him a warning look.]

Vanitas, please explain yourself.

[He's going to a huge headache after this.]

[For his part, Vanitas merely gestures with a gloved hand, idly waving it about.]

Once I learned he was a friend, I wished to assess just how far that extended. To what lengths he would go. Curiosity, that's all.

[In other words, he did it for shits and giggles. Which is probably not the answer Aether is longing to hear. Then again, anything coming out of Vanitas' mouth rarely is for most people.]

Though I never said how I took advantage of you, now did I? Had calmer, more rational minds prevailed, I could have explained I got to use you as a blanket. That's all.

[He pats the bed, giving Aether a rather distinct come hither look.]

Care to demonstrate so our little friend here can get a better understanding?

[ Xiao follows, stopping as far away from Vanitas as he can while still having a good view of the man. Crossing his arms, he simply looks at him with that intense gaze, and there's not gentleness to be found - unlike every time he looks at Aether. ]

You can stop, now. I will not raise my hand to you, not will I play your games.

[ His voice is cold, a slight hint of pointed teeth bared that has nothing to do with what Vanitas usually works with. There's a heaviness in the air even has he holds back the whispers that plague him. ]

If you have only asked, I would have told you that we share a bond. He is the only one other than my God that I will kill for.

[ Morax hasn't asked for centuries, so at the moment it is only the Traveler he will take on the burden of death for. ]

Aether calls you a friend, yet you try to provoke his allies by claiming to have harmed him. If you wish to challenge his care for you, then leave me out of it. I have no interest in knowing you, and all you have done is ruin yourself.

[ ...he's heard the short jokes since he gained human form, it's older than his nation by now. ]

[The look that Aether gives Vanitas is very hurt, somewhat disappointed. Even now he continues to provoke. Aether isn't planning to move from his spot, though, remaining like a physical barrier between the other two. Maybe it's for the best that Xiao doesn't come any closer, especially when cold chill fills the air and even the traveler can't stay calm in the face of it.

The hostility from Xiao can be felt even without words and when he speaks, it's obvious that Vanitas could end up dead any moment now, if Aether only wished for it.

...What a scary power Xiao gives him. His loyalty is truly unmatched and while usually Aether is grateful for his friend's dedication, this time more than ever he wishes he could relax and brush it all off... Not like the yaksha could ever do that.]

Vanitas.

[He looks towards the man on the bed.]

Xiao is a very important friend of mine. My dear companion. A person who saved me multiple times.

[His tone has a pleading note to it. Don't. Don't provoke his friends any more.]

[For what little it's worth, Vanitas seems to note Aether's disapproval, a faint frown working its way onto his features rather than the usual smile or smug smirk. With something of a sigh, he falls back against the pillows, glancing aside as his expression become one of... not anger or annoyance, but perhaps a pout? Like that of a petulant child denied his favorite game.]

...very well. Out of respect for our mutual treasure, I'll refrain from further antagonizing. Though frankly I care little what you think of me, as whether I've ruined myself has long been an issue passed.

[So he says, and yet Vanitas hefts himself out of the bed with a grunt to carefully stride over to the pair, one arm clutching his bruised stomach while the other reaches out to brush his fingers over Aether's cheek.]

I hate seeing you so upset, my mouffette. So for your sake and yours alone, I'll play nicely from now on. Will that make you happy?

[Then, because he can never fully help himself, he leans in, aiming to steal a kiss from Aether if neither man stops him.]

[ There's a brief hint of warmth in his chest as Aether calls him an important friend and dear companion, but his stony expression doesn't waver. The more he hears this man speak, the more it sounds like he's poking sore spots just to see what happens.

Pitiful. Aether is too kind... but he knew that already. He had been cold and standoffish with him for a long time - and still is, in some cases. His kindness is unconditional, however, and Xiao doesn't feel worthy of it. Then this man decides to spit on that kindness for no real reason.

Ruined, indeed.

When Vanitas gets up and walks towards them, he backs off as far as he's able to keep his distance from him. Not out of fear, but because the curse he carries can taint humans. Not even this wretch is worth that suffering.

...then that kiss is attempted, and only thousands of years of discipline keeps him back. If looks could kill, Vanitas would be disintegrated. ]

[Xiao has it right. This guy is just doing his best to poke a bear and Aether is very worried, because what in the world is this self-destructive behaviour. It's not the first time he sees this, though and he's sure it's not the last either.

He'd argue that Vanitas shouldn't get up, but the man is difficult to stop. What makes the upset all the more evident on his face is the attempt of a kiss. Aether quickly presses a hand over Vanitas' mouth and shakes his head with a sigh.]

Is that so? Because to me it seems like you're refusing to listen and finding new ways to annoy people.

["People" = Xiao. Even Aether can feel that killer gaze on his skin.]

Honestly, one day you'll really get yourself killed... Do you think I would want that?

[He drops his hand down and crosses his arms over his chest instead.]

[Perhaps at least some of it can be explained away as force of habit, as Vanitas uses such methods to get the information he seeks on a regular basis. Though the rest of it is a truly self-sacrificial act of throwing himself in harm's way again and again, trying with all his being to rile up someone who is clear more of a match than he would ever be in a thousand lifetimes.

Denied his prize, his lips curve into a pout behind Aether's hand, though his gaze remaining firmly on Xiao belies his intentions. Teasing, taunting. Mocking the beast's presence and self-ascribed title of protector. He could force the issue, but it's Aether. He never can go against his wishes so blatantly. Toe the line, yes, but act aggressively against them? No.]

Oh~? Does it come across that way? My bad. I thought my care for you would be welcomed...

[He doesn't sound sincere at all. But with his kiss refused, he instead settles on taking up Aether's hand, holding it gently before leaning in to kiss that instead. Offering something of an apology at least?]

No... You're far too kind to revel in my demise, no matter how much I may deserve it. That's why I won't tease your little pet anymore. Though I don't think I can completely ignore you, either. You make life so much more interesting, you know.

Tch.

[ Xiao looks away, obviously disgusted by this attempted forced intimacy. For someone who avoids it at every moment, barely holding hands without worrying, pushing for it like this makes it even more bitter. Aether was stubborn, but never like this. ]

I will take my leave. The Traveler is more than capable of handling someone like you when sober.

[ He's seen Aether fight more than once, he has no doubt about that. It's the 'taking advantage' Xiao hates. Then again, like he said, he can't protect the other man from his own heart. No matter how much he's tried in the past when it comes to getting involved with him. ]

Do not cause him grief because you do not know how to handle his kindness. He is incapable to give up on someone, no matter what.

[ Case in point; this guy. ]

[Vanitas really is doing his best to make the worst impression possible. Aether allows the man to take his hand and kiss it, but he looks exasperated with how insincere Vanitas goes about his "apology".

Then he calls Xiao Aether's pet and the traveler yanks his hand away from him.]

Vanitas... It doesn't bother me what you tell other people about me, but don't you dare call my treasured friend a pet ever again.

[He speaks slowly, but the anger is clear as day in his voice. He's stopping himself from more biting words because he knows what Vanitas aims for here. It still hurts him, though.

With an irritates sigh, he steps away and his expression shifts, softening when he looks at Xiao.]

You're right... I'll handle this on my own. [He takes a deep breath in and out.] I'll talk to you later, okay?

Edited 2025-10-15 10:43 (UTC)

[There's no doubt that Vanitas is deliberately stirring up trouble as best he can, given his gaze remains on Xiao while lips brush over Aether's hand. He's clearly trying to taunt him, mock him by encroaching on Aether while in his presence. To Xiao's words, he chuckles, amused.]

Yes, I rather imagine he's not the sort to let anyone go should he wish to help them.

[Then of course, he goes an sticks his foot in it with the whole "pet" comment. Once Aether jerks his hand back and regards him with genuine anger, Vanitas' brow quirks up, surprised. Truthfully, he'd wondered if there was anything the traveler wouldn't take in stride. Clearly there is.]

I see... Even you have your limits.

[While the two exchange words, Vanitas eyes them thoughtfully, almost looking mystified. Only once Xiao leaves, though, does he speak up again, addressing Aether. His words sound surprisingly sincere when they come out a quiet murmur.]

....my apologies. I went too far.

[ Xiao gives Aether a nod, before turning away from Vanitas, ignoring him. He's been called a pet almost as often as short, and it doesn't bother him either. He has spent far too long dehumanizing himself to a 'weapon' to care.

Aether is helping him out of that, though. Maybe that was why it caught his ire more than anything.

The yaksha seems to pause and freeze for a moment, before sighing in annoyance and heading for the door instead. It's hard to storm off like he usually does when he can't teleport. ]

Call my name when you need me. I will come.

[ He says to the Traveler, his expression briefly softer before he closes the door.

...Aether may find himself feeling watched for a few days after this. ]

[That's exactly why it angered him this much. Xiao has trouble thinking of himself as a person and Aether is doing whatever he can to make him realize that he is not a weapon or an object. He can't be replaced, he has people who care about him and want to be by his side, the traveler himself included.

Aether leads Xiao back to the door, giving him a small, but tired smile as the other leaves him with the same offer as always "call my name". Hah. He hopes the yaksha won't regret ever giving him this power.]

Thank you.

[He closes the door, then slowly comes back to Vanitas.]

...You really did. [He admits with a sigh, then he falls silent for the next few moments.]

He wanted to make you beg for my forgiveness, but I pleaded him not to do it. I was scared. I didn't want to see you tortured again. Especially not because of me. [His voice gets quieter as he speaks, his head hangs low.]

[Seeing the tiredness in Aether's form causes a twinge of guilt, but it's his worlds which make it blossom into regret. Rarely does Vanitas ever think twice about his actions, having full confidence in them and his goals, but this time... he may have overdone it.]

...I see. I'm sure that would not have gone over well for any of us had he chosen to proceed. [A fight would have likely broken out, with Vanitas as the loser. And yet the one who would've suffered most would have been Aether. So he sighs, stepping closer to take the traveler's hands in his own, allowing his head to bow somewhat.]

I took things too far in this instance. It was never my intention to hurt you. I hope you can believe that. Should you wish it, I'll apologize to him as well. Though he seems the sort to have no use for pretty words.

[Aether allows his hands to be taken, looking at Vanitas still tired, but somewhat calmer than before.]

He believes himself to be a weapon, not a person. [He doesn't think there's a need to explain Vanitas what that means. Xiao would kill him without any hesitation and Aether's hand trembles at the thought. The last thing he wants is for one of his friends to have blood of another friend on their hands.]

He will... likely not take an apology, but please be careful. I'm not planning to stop you from teasing anyone, but... sometimes it's best to take a step back and think if this is really worth it.

[Idly, he rubs his thumbs over those gentle hands, loathing the thought of them needing to cradle his own battered body.]

Understood. ...when I was with the church's Chasseurs, we were taught we were God's blades. Weapons in service of Him. I imagine Xiao sees himself as much the same in regards to you. [Sighing heavily, he lifts Aether's hands in order to press his lips to his knuckles.]

Very well. For your sake I'll try to curb my tendency towards riling others up. Sometimes though it's the best way to obtain information or get another to let their guard down.

[And, well, it's fun.]

[He thinks about it for a moment, then shakes his head.]

It's... far more than that. In the distant past he was a victim of an evil god, who stripped him of any free will. He was saved by a different god, the one that he serves now, but he still lives with the guilt and doesn't see himself worth of anything else.

[Doesn't that sound similar?

He accepts the soft kisses against his knuckles, then he brings a hand to touch Vanitas' cheek, brushing hair away from his face.]

Just my friends... I'm only asking you to not anger my friends. I can protect you from anyone else if need arises, but...

[Fighting friends or watching your friends fight to death over silly reasons like this... is difficult.]

[It does, leaving Vanitas quiet, contemplative. He knows the agony of having no sense of self-worth. It's still something he's wrestling with every damn day. He can only imagine how much that holds true for one who lives a longer time than that of a mere human.]

I'll do what I can to make peace with him, however futile it might be. Perhaps I can make up for my callous words in some small way.

[He leans into Aether's touch with a soft sigh, relishing the contact unlike he would with most anyone else.]

But you wouldn't be able to raise your blade against a friend. Or at least you wouldn't wish to. I understand. I won't force you into such a position. [He covers Aether's hand with one of his own, eyes closing.] If you would do me a favor... Tell me where he resides. I'd like to bake him something and deliver it personally.

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject