⋆｡‧˚𝐇𝐀𝐁𝐑𝐎𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐀˚‧｡⋆

୨ৎ𝑪𝒀𝑵𝑶

❤︎i love this man so much it's unhealthy❤︎
❤︎gn!reader❤︎

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The sun was just beginning to set over the vast expanse of the Sumeru Desert, casting long shadows across the dunes and painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. You stood amidst the ruins of an ancient civilization, half-buried in the shifting sands. 

As a researcher of the Vahumana Darshan, your focus was on historical texts and the mysteries of the past, making these newfound ruins an exciting discovery. Today's expedition had been particularly exhausting, the relentless heat sapping your energy as you meticulously documented inscriptions and artifacts.

You were engrossed in your work, taking detailed notes and sketches, when a voice broke the stillness of the evening. "Need some help?"

You turned to see Cyno approaching, his presence as commanding as ever. The General Mahamatra was known for his stern demeanor and unparalleled combat skills, but over the past few months, you had come to know him as more than just a strict enforcer of the Akademiya's rules. There was a softer side to him, one that he rarely showed to others.

"Cyno," you greeted with a tired smile. "What brings you out here?"

He shrugged, a faint smile playing on his lips. "I was returning from a mission and saw you from a distance. Thought you might need some assistance. Plus, it's not every day I get to see a Vahumana researcher in their natural habitat."

You chuckled, appreciating his attempt at humor. "Oh i couldn't possibly bother you with any work considering you just finish your own. How about you just rest and keep me company for now?"

"Works for me," He grunted out as he took a seat near to your bags. Needless to say he was truly wiped out from having stayed out for so long now and probably would've headed straight back if he hadn't spotted you. 

Together, you just co-existed as the air filled with the soft rustling of sand and the distant calls of nocturnal creatures waking up. Cyno sat with his head down and the grace and precision of a seasoned warrior, yet he still made small attempts to keep the two of you in conversation which was mainly you telling him more about this project.

 After a bit Cyno began to fall into a drowsy state and you decided to let him be, feeling honoured that someone of his valour felt comfortable and safe enough with you to leave him so vulnerable. 

"How's your research going?" Cyno asked after a while, breaking the silence. You turned to look at him, not having realized when he woke up.

"It's going well, but it's challenging," you admitted, carefully brushing sand off an ancient tablet. "These ruins are incredibly well-preserved, but there's so much to document. I just hope I can do it justice."

He nodded thoughtfully. "I'm sure you will. Your dedication is impressive. Not many people would willingly spend days out here, especially under this sun."

You smiled, feeling a warmth that had nothing to do with the temperature. "Thank you, Cyno. That means a lot coming from you."

As the last light of day faded, you realized just how late it had gotten. The stars began to twinkle in the clear night sky, providing a serene backdrop to your work. You stretched, feeling the fatigue in your muscles.

"We should set up camp for the night," Cyno suggested, glancing at the darkening horizon. "It's not safe to travel back to the Akademiya in the dark."

You nodded, packing up your equipment. "You're right. Thank you for your help today. I don't think I could have finished without you."

He waved off your thanks with a dismissive hand. "It's no trouble. Besides, it's good to get away from the Akademiya once in a while."

You found a sheltered spot among the ruins and began setting up a small camp. Cyno built a fire, its warm glow casting flickering shadows on the ancient stones. The two of you shared a simple meal, the companionship as comforting as the food.

"Do you ever get tired of it?" you asked suddenly, curiosity getting the better of you.

"Of what?" Cyno glanced at you, his expression curious.

"The constant vigilance, the responsibility of upholding the Akademiya's laws," you clarified. "It must be exhausting."

He was silent for a moment, considering your question. "It is, at times. But it's also necessary. The Akademiya needs order, and someone has to ensure that. Besides, I believe in what I'm doing. It gives me purpose."

You nodded, understanding his perspective. "I suppose we all have our roles to play. Yours just happens to be a bit more... intense."

His expression softens as he lets out a huff, a ghost of a smile gracing his lips. "I suppose that's one way to put it."

By the time you finished eating, the moon had risen high, casting a silver glow over the desert. The temperature had dropped significantly, and you found yourself shivering slightly. Cyno noticed and moved closer, his body radiating warmth.

"It's getting cold," he said, his voice low. "We should sit closer to keep warm."

You nodded, grateful for the excuse. As you settled beside him, your shoulders touched, and you felt a comforting sense of closeness. The fire crackled softly, and the stars shone brightly above, a breathtaking display against the clear night sky.

"You know," Cyno said quietly, "there's something peaceful about this. Being out here, away from everything. It reminds me that there's more to life than just duty and responsibility."

You turned to him, surprised by his introspective tone. "I didn't expect you to be so... poetic."

He shrugged, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "There are many things you don't know about me."

You felt a sudden urge to learn more, to uncover the layers beneath his stoic exterior. "Then maybe you can tell me more next time. Over another campfire, perhaps?"

Cyno's smile widened, and for a moment, you saw a glimpse of the man behind the grand title of General Mahamatra. "I'd like that."

As you both sat there, shoulder to shoulder, you gazed up at the stars. The vast, ever-changing world of Teyvat seemed a little smaller and more intimate in that moment, you had found someone who understood the importance of balance, of duty and freedom, of work and companionship. And as the cold desert night wrapped around you both, the warmth of Cyno's presence was enough to keep you safe and comforted.

"Y'know, I told a star a joke once and it made the sky "light up."

"...What?"

"You don't get it? Well-"

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