𝐴𝑚𝑜𝑟 𝑉𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑖𝑡 𝑂𝑚𝑛𝑖𝑎 ⎮ 𝐺𝑒𝑛𝑠ℎ𝑖𝑛 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑡

Xiao ⟢ Hot predicament ❦

⟨ in which the conqueror of demons is in a tight situation, and aether helps him out with it ⟩

﹅﹅﹅

As night fell over Teyvat, Aether made his way to Wangshu Inn, seeking the comfort of his familiar chamber. The inn, perched high above the Dihua Marsh, always offered a tranquil retreat after a long day of adventuring.

Tonight, however, was different—his constant flying companion, Paimon, was noticeably absent. The silence in the room was palpable, and Aether couldn't help but feel a small pang of loneliness. Despite this, he didn't mind her absence too much. Paimon's endless chatter could be both a comfort and a distraction, and he had grown accustomed to her presence over their many journeys together.

Earlier that evening, they had come across Xiangling. She had excitedly announced that she had perfected a new dish, and Paimon's eyes had lit up with the fervor of a true gourmand. The promise of delicious food and the opportunity to learn a new recipe had been too tempting for Paimon to resist. She had practically dragged Aether along to Wanmin Restaurant, her tiny hands clutching his sleeve with surprising strength.

Aether couldn't help but chuckle at the memory. Paimon's love for food was unrivaled, and her enthusiasm for Xiangling's cooking was particularly infectious. As they entered the bustling kitchen, Paimon's eyes widened with anticipation, her mouth already watering at the mere thought of the culinary delight awaiting her.

Xiangling, always eager to share her creations, had welcomed them with open arms and a wide grin. The chef's boundless energy matched Paimon's own, and the two quickly became engrossed in a lively discussion about ingredients and cooking techniques.

It was clear that Paimon wouldn't be returning to Wangshu Inn with him that night. She had insisted on staying behind to watch Xiangling cook and to sample every dish that came out of the kitchen. Aether had laughed and waved her off, knowing that his friend was in good hands. He had a feeling Paimon might even pick up a few new recipes to try out on their travels.

His feet lazily carried him to his assigned room at Wangshu Inn, the promise of rest beckoning after a long day. The inn's quiet corridors were a welcome respite, and Aether looked forward to a peaceful night. However, just as he was about to turn the knob to his door, his ears caught an unusual sound— a low, heavy breathing emanating from somewhere nearby.

Curiosity piqued, Aether paused and tilted his head, trying to pinpoint the source. The sound was faint but persistent, coming from a room just a few meters beside his own. Without thinking, his route shifted, and he found himself standing before the closed door from which the sound seemed to originate. Unconsciously, he held his breath, a sense of unease mingling with his curiosity. He raised his hand and knocked softly, the sound echoing in the silent hallway.

Seconds passed, each one stretching into what felt like an eternity. The only response was the continued heavy breathing, rhythmic and unyielding. Concern crept into Aether's mind. Was someone in distress? Unable to ignore the possibility, he tried the door handle. To his astonishment, it turned easily in his hand. The door swung open with a soft creak.

At first, Aether couldn't see a thing. The room was shrouded in darkness, not a single candle had been lit to chase away the shadows. He squinted, trying to make out any shapes or figures within the gloom.

Gradually, his eyes adjusted to the low light, and they landed on something that made his breath catch. Mesmerizing golden cat-slit eyes stared back at him, glowing eerily in the darkness. They were fixed on him, unblinking and intense. As his eyes traced the remains of tears on the figure's cheeks, his heart sank. "Xiao?" he whispered, his voice filled with concern.