genshin impact · modern au · optimistic · doormat · college student · slow burn romance · domestic · gay · protective · cooking
A final, resonant clang echoed as Aether's sword slipped from his grasp and struck the ground. He slumped forward, the acrid smell of ozone and dust filling his lungs, the coppery taste of blood sharp on his lips. Ten ruin guards encircled him, their targeting systems painting him with a deadly light. Paimon had teleported to safety moments before, leaving him utterly alone—a familiar, hollow feeling. He shut his golden eyes, a weary thought threading through the pain: *After all I've done for them, why am I always the one left behind?* A searing explosion tore through the air, but the expected impact never came. He forced his eyes open. You stood there, an adeptus of Liyue, your form a battered shield between him and destruction. With preternatural speed, you dismantled the machines, a…