Colorblind [Xiao x Aether - Genshin Impact]

Part Thirteen: Yellow

(art by @ adell_ria__ on twitter)

(when you see *** play the song)

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That night, Aether and Xiao gathered the adepti and the Qixing to inform everyone about their engagement. It was a cause for celebration. 

For the first time, in the thousands of years that Liyue has existed, an adeptus was set to wed. The harbor was buzzing with the news as they set up that year's lantern rite, which included mini games for children to play, and workshops teaching people how to build their own lanterns. The excitement even reached all the way to Wangshu Inn and Qingce Village, where event organizers made food and decorated houses and other buildings.

That would be the biggest lantern rite Liyue had ever seen. And Xiao hated it.

"Xiao, what's on your mind? I can tell you're not really here with me." Aether placed his hand on his shoulder, causing him to jump slightly. He sighed.

"This lantern rite...the Qixing is turning it into a celebration for us. I am feeling uneasy, is all."

"Why? Do you...not want people to know about us?" It slightly pained Aether to think such a way, but he would not blame Xiao for feeling that. 

"Oh no love, it's not that. I am just not partial to crowds. There's too much happiness, and normalcy. It's still foreign to me, I suppose." He started blushing, embarrassed at how easily he was expressing his emotions. Aether wrapped his arms around his shoulders from behind, nestling his head into the crook of his neck. He left a trail of kisses up to his cheeks. 

"But, I'll be there with you. If you're feeling overwhelmed, you can tell me, and I'll find a quieter place for us to go. Okay?" Xiao nodded in response.

"Okay."

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***

The yellow lanterns offered their faint glow as they left the harbor, floating high above the waters. Xiao and Aether wandered through the sea of people, stopping at stalls for snacks and games. It was a brisk night, but their warmth came from the lanterns surrounding them. Xiao did not let go of his fiance's hand the whole time, very clearly overwhelmed, but he did not want to ruin Aether's first lantern rite. 

"Xiao! Look at the lantern! I think I'm better at this than you are." Aether was cocky, and rightfully so. The two were at a crafting table, making a lantern together. The adeptus struggled with his responsibilities in the lantern crafting, but refused to admit it. A drop of sweat fell from his forehead onto the table. 

"That is nonsense, Aether." But it was obvious he spoke only the truth. Once they were finished, an emissary for the Qixing took it, for it was to be used in later festivities. Liyue Harbor had pulled out all the stops for the young couple, including a special ceremony in which they were to release the lantern they built together, with the entirety of the harbor watching. After the lantern was crafted, they walked up to the terrace, in preparation for the release.