[In lieu of any eyebrows to arch, Vanitas' eyes widen slightly to hear Aether's accomplishments.]
Ah, so you're a hero, in that case. No wonder they took an interest in you. Anyone capable of saving part of the world is bound to be strong enough for their needs.
[It helps that Aether is a ball of sunshine, too.]
A dragon, even, hmm? Maybe that's the limit to their power - perhaps gods are beyond them?
[He lists those titles with an unreadable expression. Considering his cat form it doesn't really look that different though.]
He's not an ordinary dragon, but a dragon Sovereign. [He says, then explains:] Ages ago, Teyvat was ruled by seven elemental dragons - the Dragon Sovereigns. Their power was beyond that of gods. At some point, a Descender known as the Heavenly Principles appeared from beyond the false sky of Teyvat, bringing humanity with it and waging a war against the dragons. Needless to say, the dragons lost that war.
[While Aether's expression may not change, his voice says quite a bit.]
Ah... So a god in his own right, then. So much for my theory, heh. [He chuckles ruefully.] It sounds as though Teyvat has seen its share of troubles, I must say. Hopefully it's been a welcoming place to you. I'd hate to think of you being somewhere hostile. You don't deserve that.
A Descender is someone able to rival the will of the entire world... but sometimes even that is not enough.
[It remains in his memory, how he failed to save Direidyth and he couldn't do anything to change his sister's fate.]
Not like I'll stop trying.
[He can't stop.]
You're right. Teyvat has seen a lot of tragedies. In fact, when we first arrived there it was during a huge cataclysm. My sister and I tried to escape, but a god stopped and separated us. [He's tail swishes a little as his form cuddles closer to Vanitas.] When I woke up 500 years later I couldn't even speak the language of the world... But I met many kind people, who helped me, worried about me, supported me... I'm always thankful for that.
The entire world, huh...? You truly are something special, then. Perhaps being that is what draws so many people to you.
[Be it back on Teyvat or here. Though he notes the sadness in Aether's voice and nuzzles at him.]
No, of course not. That's not your style.
[He's too strong for that.]
...I'm sorry. I know that it's a sensitive subject for you. [Given he's still searching for his sister... Leaning into the contact, he starts grooming Aether's face.] It sounds like you've been truly blessed with considerate companions, even if life has been cruel to you. It's a wonder you can maintain your hope and compassion in the face of such adversity.
[He ponders about it for a moment, then something of a laugh escapes him.]
Maybe you're right.
["Special". He's not sure he's ever wanted to be that, but as long as he can help someone out there... it's good.]
Don't be. [He closes his eyes as his face is groomed.] At first I wanted to find my sister and leave Teyvat as fast as possible. I didn't really want to be involved in anything going on there beyond what was needed to achieve my goal.
[He pauses.]
But eventually... I grew too fond of that place. Of the people I met.
[That and he just couldn't look away from tragedy. Perhaps the one that destroyed his home world kept coming up to his mind.]
It isn't easy to be someone - or something - unique in the world. That much I can understand.
[Given how he's inherited the power of the vampire of the Blue Moon and now is seen as a threat by most regular vampires.]
...you're probably too kind for your own good, but that's what makes you, you. [He chuckles softly, getting under Aether's chin.] You've touched so many lives, and I'm sure you've saved many people despite hurting. You should be proud of yourself.
[It may not be what Aether wants for himself, but to those whose lives he's touched, surely he's a guardian angel.]
[He finds himself purring again, feeling that Vanitas is spoiling him. It's nice. Aether could easily fall asleep like this, just next to him in this fluff form.]
I'm just doing what I think is right. [There's nothing special about it, he thinks.]
...Thanks. I know I have done a lot to help whenever I could.
[But the ending of his own journey is still so far.
He shakes his head, nuzzling against Vanitas more.]
But it doesn't matter now. Right now... I'm here with you. [It's this quiet calm that makes him happy.]
[Not everyone does, it's true. He can't argue with that especially considering all the people he's gotten to know.]
More than a hero material... An actual hero. [He could grin about it, because no matter what, it's true. He became a hero to many during his travels, even if it was never a part of his plan.
Whenever he's with Vanitas, it's difficult not to feel appreciated and loved. The other seems to know exactly what to do or say to drive away any worries this traveler could have. Aether laughs at the aggressive grooming he receives.]
All yours, it's true! But what is this licking attack?
[He's amused, pawing at Vanitas a little, before... suddenly returning to his usual, more human form! A bright smile shines on Aether's face as he lays on his side and grabs his lover right into his arms, bringing him close to his chest, pressing small kisses to his kitty ears and top of the head, while he strokes his fur.]
Oops, my bad. [He teases lightly, pausing in his grooming to put a paw on Aether's cheek, gently nudging him.
He's glad to be able to distract his friend and lover from more depressing thoughts regarding his own friends being here, and show Aether some appreciation for his presence.]
It's called grooming, you silly.
[Though him having control of the situation doesn't last long once Aether changes back, eliciting a surprised noise from Vanitas, who scrambles to back up so he won't get squished. Thankfully Aether seems conscious of his own form and instead is capable of scooping him up with little fanfare, delivering kisses and pets to his feline form.]
Tch... Cheater.
[Not that he REALLY minds. He simply sits there, accepting the love and affection with only a slight swish of his tail as rumbling begins emanating from his chest.]
[The response to that is a bright laugher as Aether nuzzles his cheek against his lover's head. He's just such a cute cat!]
All's fair in love and war.
[And this is his way of loving the other, so clearly it means he's justified!
Aether's laughs and chuckles calm down eventually and he again wraps his form (now much bigger) around Vanitas, keeping him close as his wings come around them as well. There's a quiet smile on the traveler's face.]
I'm thankful I got to meet so many wonderful people. [He says quietly.] And I'm even more thankful... I got to meet you. That I can be with you.
[He closes his eyes, his expression that of a calm.
This world is not perfect and they endure all kinds of hardships here, but if Aether had a choice to leave or stay, he would choose the latter option. He would stay to be by Vanitas' side.]
[At that he has to scoff, accepting the affection with a light huff. He can't argue that when he's used the same excuse himself.]
Tch, fair enough.
[Clearly!! Given how nice and warm Aether's hold is, there's no complaints from Vanitas, only a loud purr as he settles down in his lover's hold. He's glad to have made him happy with something so simple.]
Aether... I'm glad I got to meet you, too. You don't know how inspiring you've been to me...
[It's said quietly, in a hushed tone as he ducks his head and tries to muffle his words. Because it's true: the traveler has inspired him to try to be a better person, to not cultivate a hated persona as much as he would have otherwise done here. He's still got a long ways to go, but... he's trying. He's making progress.]
[Aether only hums softly to himself, gently giving more attention to those cat ears, the fur, the adorable form that Vanitas has taken now.]
I'm glad.
[His voice is quiet, but he really is happy. He knows Vanitas is doing his best, even though he still causes so much chaos sometimes. As if to reward those efforts, the traveler presses a soft kiss to the top of his companion's head.]
I'm glad I can see this side of you as well.
[A gentle, kind and a bit more honest side. It's just nice. Aether always appreciates it.]
[Despite his embarrassment, there's no way Vanitas can deny enjoying all the affection being showered upon him, not when it's a sign of how happy and content Aether is. So in turn, he rumbles softly, allowing his purr to wash over him and transfer to Aether's hands.]
...thank you for not sharing it with others.
[For telling anyone and everyone that he's just a great big softy underneath it all, and happens to be a cat to boot.]
It's much easier to know it won't get around.
[And he prefers that it's for his lovers only. Something special just for them.]
[The petting is nice, so much so that he almost misses the request. Though once it registers, his ear prick forward curiously.]
I can, if you so wish it.
[Stepping off Aether's lap so he won't put too much weight on him when he shifts back into his human form, he changes back with much more ease than the first couple of times he practiced doing so. Though he's still in a rather cat-like pose, with hands resting on his crossed legs as he peers at Aether.]
[Aether watches him shift back into a more human form, then closes the distance between them once more, gently coaxing Vanitas to lie on his back, while the traveler brushes some hair away from his cheek and looks him deep in the eye.]
No matter what kind of chaos will accompany you, I will always believe in you. Not because I want you to be weighted down by expectations... I understand all too well how that feels. [He's carrying so many hopes and wishes on his shoulders sometimes. It's difficult, he knows. He doesn't want to fail people he cares about either.]
I believe in you, because I know you mean well.
[Despite everything, he's seen the care Vanitas has for those around him, going as far as to wishing to sacrifice himself to save them from pain.
He just wishes Vanitas would see it, too. That he's a far better person that he desperately tries to seem.]
[It doesn't take much to get Vanitas sprawled out on his back; he trusts Aether not to be more than he can handle, to not push him beyond his limits, be it teasingly or seriously. Though he can't help fidgeting a bit under that unwavering gaze, heart starting to pound a little harder.]
I'm sure you do... If anyone could, it would be someone like you who's had so much asked of them by so many. [Having been around all of Teyvat means that Aether has supported and gained the admiration of many. Perhaps too much so. It's unfair that he has such a huge burden placed upon him. In some ways Vanitas is glad that he's free of such a burden here.]
...Aether...
[He hates being perceived, yet maybe this once it's not so bad having someone know how much he really cares, despite the aloof attitude he tries to present to all.
Sighing softly, he reaches up to touch Aether's cheek... then lightly pinches it. Just because.]
[He isn't sure how to feel about someone understanding that part of him. It's new. Many people noticed in the past that Aether was tired, but he rarely ever explained why. With Vanitas he doesn't have to explain at all.
He isn't planning to push his lover, his gaze quickly softening. He leans into the other's touch... then his eyes widen in surprise when his cheek is pinched. A chuckle breaks out of him soon afterwards. It's a clear sound and he can't help but bump his nose against Vanitas' affectionately, settling on top of him like a lazy cat would.
He understands! No more of this!
As long as his love knows how much he truly is cherished.]
[Having expectations heaped upon you, for good or bad, is like being crushed by a great weight. While most of what people expected of Vanitas was negative, it still took its toll upon him. He can only imagine how painful it must be for people to pin their hopes on Aether.
Noé did, once, and had a brutal wake-up call when Vanitas couldn't save a young vampire girl. So he knows that, perhaps at least once, Aether must have experienced a similar 'failure.'
Hence the pinch. A teasing, gentle way of reminding his lover that things don't have to be so heavy between them; he understands. That's why he happily wraps his arms around the blond, hands petting over his feathered wings.
Yes, he's cherished indeed. As is Aether. They're both special to one another, and will remain so.]
[This quiet understanding between them is another wonderful thing. Words help sometimes, but what helps Aether the most is the sense of rightness when he shares a quiet moment like this with Vanitas.
It's true that he's experienced moments of failure back in Teyvat but also here. He's eager not to dwell on it, though, and enjoy the moment with his lover instead. His wings flutter lightly at the touch as he shifts them a little closer for more petting.
They're both cherished and as if to prove that further, he presses a tender kiss to Vanitas' lips, nice and slow as always. A kind of kiss that warms one's heart and makes the world seem all the brighter. He carefully deepens it eventually, before pulling away with a small sigh.]
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no subject
Ah, so you're a hero, in that case. No wonder they took an interest in you. Anyone capable of saving part of the world is bound to be strong enough for their needs.
[It helps that Aether is a ball of sunshine, too.]
A dragon, even, hmm? Maybe that's the limit to their power - perhaps gods are beyond them?
no subject
[He lists those titles with an unreadable expression. Considering his cat form it doesn't really look that different though.]
He's not an ordinary dragon, but a dragon Sovereign. [He says, then explains:] Ages ago, Teyvat was ruled by seven elemental dragons - the Dragon Sovereigns. Their power was beyond that of gods. At some point, a Descender known as the Heavenly Principles appeared from beyond the false sky of Teyvat, bringing humanity with it and waging a war against the dragons. Needless to say, the dragons lost that war.
no subject
[While Aether's expression may not change, his voice says quite a bit.]
Ah... So a god in his own right, then. So much for my theory, heh. [He chuckles ruefully.] It sounds as though Teyvat has seen its share of troubles, I must say. Hopefully it's been a welcoming place to you. I'd hate to think of you being somewhere hostile. You don't deserve that.
no subject
A Descender is someone able to rival the will of the entire world... but sometimes even that is not enough.
[It remains in his memory, how he failed to save Direidyth and he couldn't do anything to change his sister's fate.]
Not like I'll stop trying.
[He can't stop.]
You're right. Teyvat has seen a lot of tragedies. In fact, when we first arrived there it was during a huge cataclysm. My sister and I tried to escape, but a god stopped and separated us. [He's tail swishes a little as his form cuddles closer to Vanitas.] When I woke up 500 years later I couldn't even speak the language of the world... But I met many kind people, who helped me, worried about me, supported me... I'm always thankful for that.
no subject
[Be it back on Teyvat or here. Though he notes the sadness in Aether's voice and nuzzles at him.]
No, of course not. That's not your style.
[He's too strong for that.]
...I'm sorry. I know that it's a sensitive subject for you. [Given he's still searching for his sister... Leaning into the contact, he starts grooming Aether's face.] It sounds like you've been truly blessed with considerate companions, even if life has been cruel to you. It's a wonder you can maintain your hope and compassion in the face of such adversity.
no subject
Maybe you're right.
["Special". He's not sure he's ever wanted to be that, but as long as he can help someone out there... it's good.]
Don't be. [He closes his eyes as his face is groomed.] At first I wanted to find my sister and leave Teyvat as fast as possible. I didn't really want to be involved in anything going on there beyond what was needed to achieve my goal.
[He pauses.]
But eventually... I grew too fond of that place. Of the people I met.
[That and he just couldn't look away from tragedy. Perhaps the one that destroyed his home world kept coming up to his mind.]
no subject
[Given how he's inherited the power of the vampire of the Blue Moon and now is seen as a threat by most regular vampires.]
...you're probably too kind for your own good, but that's what makes you, you. [He chuckles softly, getting under Aether's chin.] You've touched so many lives, and I'm sure you've saved many people despite hurting. You should be proud of yourself.
[It may not be what Aether wants for himself, but to those whose lives he's touched, surely he's a guardian angel.]
no subject
I'm just doing what I think is right. [There's nothing special about it, he thinks.]
...Thanks. I know I have done a lot to help whenever I could.
[But the ending of his own journey is still so far.
He shakes his head, nuzzling against Vanitas more.]
But it doesn't matter now. Right now... I'm here with you. [It's this quiet calm that makes him happy.]
no subject
Still, not everyone does. [Like himself. He may save vampires, but he does so for his own reasons, not because it's the right thing to do.]
Mmm... Truly hero material...
[He has to admire Aether and his compassion even if he has no plans on changing and becoming a "better" person.
For now, he simply showers his lover with affection, intent on making sure Aether knows he's appreciated.]
Heh, that's true. You're all mine right now... [As if to prove it, he places a paw upon Aether and leans in to aggressively groom his face.]
no subject
More than a hero material... An actual hero. [He could grin about it, because no matter what, it's true. He became a hero to many during his travels, even if it was never a part of his plan.
Whenever he's with Vanitas, it's difficult not to feel appreciated and loved. The other seems to know exactly what to do or say to drive away any worries this traveler could have. Aether laughs at the aggressive grooming he receives.]
All yours, it's true! But what is this licking attack?
[He's amused, pawing at Vanitas a little, before... suddenly returning to his usual, more human form! A bright smile shines on Aether's face as he lays on his side and grabs his lover right into his arms, bringing him close to his chest, pressing small kisses to his kitty ears and top of the head, while he strokes his fur.]
Now who has the upper hand?
[He chuckles.]
no subject
He's glad to be able to distract his friend and lover from more depressing thoughts regarding his own friends being here, and show Aether some appreciation for his presence.]
It's called grooming, you silly.
[Though him having control of the situation doesn't last long once Aether changes back, eliciting a surprised noise from Vanitas, who scrambles to back up so he won't get squished. Thankfully Aether seems conscious of his own form and instead is capable of scooping him up with little fanfare, delivering kisses and pets to his feline form.]
Tch... Cheater.
[Not that he REALLY minds. He simply sits there, accepting the love and affection with only a slight swish of his tail as rumbling begins emanating from his chest.]
no subject
All's fair in love and war.
[And this is his way of loving the other, so clearly it means he's justified!
Aether's laughs and chuckles calm down eventually and he again wraps his form (now much bigger) around Vanitas, keeping him close as his wings come around them as well. There's a quiet smile on the traveler's face.]
I'm thankful I got to meet so many wonderful people. [He says quietly.] And I'm even more thankful... I got to meet you. That I can be with you.
[He closes his eyes, his expression that of a calm.
This world is not perfect and they endure all kinds of hardships here, but if Aether had a choice to leave or stay, he would choose the latter option. He would stay to be by Vanitas' side.]
no subject
Tch, fair enough.
[Clearly!! Given how nice and warm Aether's hold is, there's no complaints from Vanitas, only a loud purr as he settles down in his lover's hold. He's glad to have made him happy with something so simple.]
Aether... I'm glad I got to meet you, too. You don't know how inspiring you've been to me...
[It's said quietly, in a hushed tone as he ducks his head and tries to muffle his words. Because it's true: the traveler has inspired him to try to be a better person, to not cultivate a hated persona as much as he would have otherwise done here. He's still got a long ways to go, but... he's trying. He's making progress.]
no subject
I'm glad.
[His voice is quiet, but he really is happy. He knows Vanitas is doing his best, even though he still causes so much chaos sometimes. As if to reward those efforts, the traveler presses a soft kiss to the top of his companion's head.]
I'm glad I can see this side of you as well.
[A gentle, kind and a bit more honest side. It's just nice. Aether always appreciates it.]
no subject
...thank you for not sharing it with others.
[For telling anyone and everyone that he's just a great big softy underneath it all, and happens to be a cat to boot.]
It's much easier to know it won't get around.
[And he prefers that it's for his lovers only. Something special just for them.]
no subject
So it's our little secret... but I would want people to know how kind you truly are.
[He really cherishes this side of Vanitas.]
Don't worry, though. I'm not planning to tell people if that's not what you want.
no subject
Good. The more people believe in you, the harder it is to meet those expectations.
[And he knows he's a miserable little shit, who would only disappoint folks in the end.]
There's no need for anyone to know. They wouldn't understand.
no subject
Vanitas... can you turn back to your normal form?
[This may seem like a random request, not connected to their conversation, but he has something in mind.]
no subject
I can, if you so wish it.
[Stepping off Aether's lap so he won't put too much weight on him when he shifts back into his human form, he changes back with much more ease than the first couple of times he practiced doing so. Though he's still in a rather cat-like pose, with hands resting on his crossed legs as he peers at Aether.]
What is it?
no subject
No matter what kind of chaos will accompany you, I will always believe in you. Not because I want you to be weighted down by expectations... I understand all too well how that feels. [He's carrying so many hopes and wishes on his shoulders sometimes. It's difficult, he knows. He doesn't want to fail people he cares about either.]
I believe in you, because I know you mean well.
[Despite everything, he's seen the care Vanitas has for those around him, going as far as to wishing to sacrifice himself to save them from pain.
He just wishes Vanitas would see it, too. That he's a far better person that he desperately tries to seem.]
no subject
I'm sure you do... If anyone could, it would be someone like you who's had so much asked of them by so many. [Having been around all of Teyvat means that Aether has supported and gained the admiration of many. Perhaps too much so. It's unfair that he has such a huge burden placed upon him. In some ways Vanitas is glad that he's free of such a burden here.]
...Aether...
[He hates being perceived, yet maybe this once it's not so bad having someone know how much he really cares, despite the aloof attitude he tries to present to all.
Sighing softly, he reaches up to touch Aether's cheek... then lightly pinches it. Just because.]
no subject
He isn't planning to push his lover, his gaze quickly softening. He leans into the other's touch... then his eyes widen in surprise when his cheek is pinched. A chuckle breaks out of him soon afterwards. It's a clear sound and he can't help but bump his nose against Vanitas' affectionately, settling on top of him like a lazy cat would.
He understands! No more of this!
As long as his love knows how much he truly is cherished.]
no subject
Noé did, once, and had a brutal wake-up call when Vanitas couldn't save a young vampire girl. So he knows that, perhaps at least once, Aether must have experienced a similar 'failure.'
Hence the pinch. A teasing, gentle way of reminding his lover that things don't have to be so heavy between them; he understands. That's why he happily wraps his arms around the blond, hands petting over his feathered wings.
Yes, he's cherished indeed. As is Aether. They're both special to one another, and will remain so.]
no subject
It's true that he's experienced moments of failure back in Teyvat but also here. He's eager not to dwell on it, though, and enjoy the moment with his lover instead. His wings flutter lightly at the touch as he shifts them a little closer for more petting.
They're both cherished and as if to prove that further, he presses a tender kiss to Vanitas' lips, nice and slow as always. A kind of kiss that warms one's heart and makes the world seem all the brighter. He carefully deepens it eventually, before pulling away with a small sigh.]