[Hearing Heizou call him his family, hearing that he makes the detective happy, calling him danna-sama… Lyney could look up what the word means, but waiting until Heizou is ready to tell him feels more precious. And with Heizou so close, he tries to offer that not-quite-purring hum he can do, something deep in his chest that he hopes can help soothe Heizou’s anxious thoughts.]
[He does, however, let out a thoughtful hum that breaks up that not-quite-purring, and when he speaks he speaks carefully.]
Kaveh… is an interesting one. When I first met him, my first instinct was to assume he was hiding something. After all, what kind of person could be so kind and selfless, seeing the good in everyone? It seemed too good to be true, and I grew suspicious of him. But believe it or not, he’s proven to me that his kindness is genuine, as strange as it is to consider.
[He still remembers, all those months ago, when Lyney had been affected by Norhpip’s influence and had left Kaveh behind, only to get caught in a trap in his escape. He remembers how Kaveh had come looking for him, helped rescue him, and even forgave him for his decision. It was an act of kindness Lyney still sometimes wonders about, and can only fully settle on the notion that Kaveh really is just that kind. Whether it’s pity or altruism is debated depending on Lyney’s cynicism for the day, but he’s at least come to learn that Kaveh’s motivations are genuine.]
[And then there’s Alhaitham… a wry chuckle escapes him.]
I think I’m to blame for Alhaitham’s coldness towards you. He hasn’t liked me since the moment he met me, and nothing I do seems to change his mind. Kaveh has said he values honesty in others, but that sort of open honesty is difficult to offer to a man who would probably skewer me on sight if he had the chance. I’m sorry if I’ve made things difficult for you, chérie.
[Despite his teasing, Lyney has tried to make amends with Alhaitham, he really has. He doesn’t like having enemies if he can avoid it. However, he’s starting to wonder if it’s simply a lost cause at this point. Lyney is fine with that; he’s certainly accumulated his fair share of nay-sayers after the nation found out about his allegiances, so what’s one more heckler in the crowd? He will be cordial, he will be civil, but he doesn’t think true friendship will ever be cultivated from that relationship.]
But still… I don’t think they despise you the way your mind is telling you they do. Friendship is… messy. And sometimes it’s scary. But it involves work, from both parties. If both parties are putting the work into your friendship, that counts for something, doesn’t it? And even if there is contempt there, you shouldn’t let it weigh you down. What’s one or two nay-sayers against the support of family? Against the support of those who wish to keep you?
[He presses a kiss to Heizou’s temple.]
Because I don’t care what they think of you. I still intend to keep you, regardless of who out there may have a problem with you. Because you have become more than just a partner or friend, Heizou. You… are family. Mon coeur, mon tresor, ma famille, mon amour.
[He punctuates each of those old Fontainian words with a kiss to Heizou’s temple, his brow, his cheek. Wherever he can reach.]
[Those attentions are so lovely, filling Heizou with such warmth and affection that he can't help but smile. How could anyone blame him for falling for such a wonderful, caring man when he treats him like this? Like a priceless treasure, a gift worth cherishing forever. He feels Lyney's love in more than just his kisses: his slow-blinks, the rumbling purr in his chest, the soft, warm smile... Heizou can only hope to convey his own feelings half as well as Lyney does.
He keeps sinking into his love's embrace, practically melting into him with a happy hum. The support Lyney has provided him, especially since they started officially dating, still feels new and strange in many ways. It's taken Heizou time to become accustomed to it. Though by now, he really wouldn't know what to do anymore without it.]
I don't care what they think of you, either. Alhaitham's distaste for you after all this time is childish, and it doesn't matter if he extends it to me as well. I've never expected anything from him, anyway.
[There may have been a small window of time in which Heizou may have thought they could at least get along well enough. But if the older man can't get past his opinion of who Heizou has taken as a partner... It's as Lyney has said. He doesn't need to spare too much thought to a nay-sayer or two. He never has.]
Kaveh on the other hand... I'm not sure what the best course of action there is. It'd be easier if he just gave up on me. I'd understand. But he's so genuinely kind, and really insists on making things hard for himself - as usual... I'm not sure what I'm supposed to do with that.
[Heizou lets out a small, hollow chuckle.]
I'm sorry... I'm really not as confident as people think I am. It must be a bit disappointing for you to see that I don't always have the right answers.
Well, you could think of it like... how I do when an audience member gives me flowers. I don't always know what their intentions are, whether innocent or something more. But the flowers are lovely and brighten my room, so I accept them all the same. If you're not sure how to handle kindness, you could always approach it like that.
[Lyney hums a bit, moving to rub his cheek against Heizou's hair.]
No, it's not disappointing at all. Believe it or not, even I don't have all the answers at times. That doesn't make you think any less of me?
[Lyney probably doesn't have to say it, but Heizou has certainly seen Lyney's lower moments before. If Heizou could forgive Lyney of his lower moments, why wouldn't Lyney return the favour?]
[He pauses briefly, turning over something in his head for a moment before deciding to speak up.]
Cherie... If it helps any, I think I might have some news that could help you feel a bit better.
[He hums softly, thoughtfully. Accepting someone's friendship as though they were a gift? It does sound nice. At least in theory. But what happens when it turns out there's a price tag on it that he'd failed to see? It's not like that's something he wouldn't expect, but would the disappointment taste worse in such a case? Heizou doesn't know. And that bothers him.
Still, he nods. He likes what Lyney is suggesting, and he thinks he might like what he's saying about friendships brightening his life. But he also knows it's going to be harder for him than he'd like to admit. At the very least he can try.]
...I could never think less of you, danna-sama. [He snuggles in closer, pressing a small, light kiss to whatever part of Lyney he can reach. A reassurance. Not that Lyney may need it, but Heizou offers it to him all the same.] You're wonderful, imperfections and all.
[He settles comfortably into that pause, though, basking in Lyney's warmth and scent and letting it lull him into a place of relaxation and peace. Talking to his beloved always makes him feel better, and he does love these moments of openness with each other. Though when Lyney speaks up again, he peeks an eye open with a hum.]
Then if I'm so wonderful and can still have imperfections, why can't you also be wonderful in spite of having imperfections?
[Lyney appreciates the reassurance nonetheless, accepting it even if he doesn't need it right now. He keeps those reassurances close to his heart, which helps keep it warm.]
[Now that Heizou seems relaxed and calm, Lyney smiles down at Heizou. He brushes Heizou's hair aside and smiles down at him, a playful glint in his eye.]
Well... I recently spent some time talking to the captain of the crew that Freminet is a part of. Do you want to know what we spoke about?
[He chuckles softly at the question.] I believe you might be just the tiniest bit biased, my love~
[As if Heizou isn't also extremely biased when it comes to Lyney. But that's clearly neither here nor there at the moment. After all, Heizou is busy being comforted by his sweet magician boyfriend, and it's obviously very effective treatment.
He does give Lyney a curious look, though. The captain of Freminet's crew? He can't imagine what that might be about. Or why it would be something that Heizou should be made aware of. Clearly it isn't anything troubling, or else Lyney wouldn't have that look in his eyes...]
...Why do I get the strangest feeling it involves me for some reason?
[Lyney kisses the top of Heizou's head, but when he leans back, he grins in a way that hints at him hiding something.]
You see, I wanted to talk to the captains of my crew about inviting more members to join us. They've been so kind to Freminet and I, well, I wanted to make sure I could have everyone under the same roof, so to speak. Lynette I spoke for, of course, because she would want to stay near family. But, well... I haven't asked you what your stance on joining a crew was, so I never pushed the issue with you. But... if you'd like a place to call home, Cloud and Tifa would be happy to invite you to join us.
[The curiosity in Heizou's eyes shifts into one of genuine surprise, blinking almost owlishly at the grin Lyney's wearing on his face. The topic of conversation has slowly sobered Heizou up, but for a second now he has to wonder if he's actually still drunk. Because surely he didn't hear that correctly. Lyney wanting him to join a crew? To join their crew?]
Is that... allowed?
[Based on that reaction it's probably hard to say what exactly Heizou thinks about this. Though maybe the conversation up until this point has been somewhat telling enough; how could anyone outside of his tiny circle of friends be willing to just... let him in?]
I assumed paladins and corsairs couldn't be on the same crew, but... if you and Freminet are, then... [Heizou looks a bit... confused. Maybe even flustered?] I don't know a Cloud or a Tifa...
Well, if it wasn’t allowed, Freminet and I wouldn’t be allowed to be on the same crew, now would we?
[He chuckles a bit as he takes in that surprised look.]
It’s okay. Tifa works at the Seventh Heaven bar, and Cloud… well, he’s usually quite busy and hard to pin down. But I was able to talk to Cloud, and he has no problem with you joining our ranks. His only stipulation is that you come around to our gatherings when we have them, to mingle with the rest of the crew.
[He runs his hands through Heizou’s hair, gently combing it with his fingers.]
You know, I wouldn’t have even joined this crew if I didn’t feel comfortable with them. But they have a strong belief in family, and in staying together through difficult times. And… they don’t mind Freminet and my’s background or affiliations. So I don’t think they will mind you at all.
[His eyes flutter shut at the feel of Lyney's fingers in his hair, against his scalp. It's such a warm, gentle gesture, and Heizou can't help but hum a bit. It's partly a thoughtful sound, while he considers what he's being told.]
...You trust them?
[That in and of itself would be saying a lot. If they know about the House, about the life the siblings led in the shadows of Teyvat, but are still accepting, then... Maybe even Heizou could feel comfortable there.]
[Heizou would know by now that it's hard for Lyney to truly trust those outside of the House, save for a very select few. Him admitting he trusts Cloud and those in Avalanche is something indeed.]
They were... understanding of our story, when we told it to them. They didn't even blame us for any actions we took, and even said they would have done the same if it meant protecting their loved ones. That alone is enough for me.
[That simple admission really does tell Heizou so much. And if these are people who have treated his dearest magician and his family with the care and kindness they deserve, then... Heizou may be willing to at least keep an open mind.]
...I really don't know how well I would do on a crew. I'm not much of a "team player", after all. But if it's for you...
[His fingers have found one of Lyney's shirt buttons again, twirling it idly as he talks.]
I should at least meet them before making a commitment, right?
[Lyney smiles softly as Heizou considers his offer. He nods once, reaching down to take that hand in Lyney's own, entwining their fingers.]
And that's completely reasonable. Fortunately, you're invited to the next crew dinner, so there's as good a chance as ever to meet them, right? I told them you enjoy fried foods, so to add that to the menu this time.
[He looks at their joined hands, watching the way their fingers twine together and enjoying Lyney's warmth. Admiring the intimacy of this little motion, letting its meaning carve itself into his heart. Lyney's thoughtfulness never goes unappreciated by Heizou, even if he questions the desire to have him join a crew.]
[Heizou's gaze is brought back to Lyney's face with that motion, and he stares at the plush softness of his lips before his eyes dart over to let green meet violet. It really does warm his heart to know that Lyney counts him among the few precious people that he'd do anything for. He doesn't think anyone else could ever think so sweetly of him. He had kind of long given up on the idea of having a family.
He manages a soft smile for Lyney then, leaning forward enough to let their foreheads touch and their noses brush together. He kind of wants a kiss but he's also hesitant to ruin this moment.]
Okay~
[There's a soft chuckle as he absently rubs his nose against Lyney's, letting their bodies practically melt together.]
I love you. I'm so lucky to have you call me family.
And I'm so lucky to have you as a part of my family.
[Lyney considers Heizou to be precious to him. So very precious, precious enough to consider him part of his family. He isn't about to let Heizou think anything less about himself. He rests his forehead against Heizou's.]
[Somehow it always feels more honest in his native tongue, more important and meaningful somehow. That's why he's happy to say it again, snuggling in close.]
...I'll do my best, Lyney. To be... kinder to myself.
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[He does, however, let out a thoughtful hum that breaks up that not-quite-purring, and when he speaks he speaks carefully.]
Kaveh… is an interesting one. When I first met him, my first instinct was to assume he was hiding something. After all, what kind of person could be so kind and selfless, seeing the good in everyone? It seemed too good to be true, and I grew suspicious of him. But believe it or not, he’s proven to me that his kindness is genuine, as strange as it is to consider.
[He still remembers, all those months ago, when Lyney had been affected by Norhpip’s influence and had left Kaveh behind, only to get caught in a trap in his escape. He remembers how Kaveh had come looking for him, helped rescue him, and even forgave him for his decision. It was an act of kindness Lyney still sometimes wonders about, and can only fully settle on the notion that Kaveh really is just that kind. Whether it’s pity or altruism is debated depending on Lyney’s cynicism for the day, but he’s at least come to learn that Kaveh’s motivations are genuine.]
[And then there’s Alhaitham… a wry chuckle escapes him.]
I think I’m to blame for Alhaitham’s coldness towards you. He hasn’t liked me since the moment he met me, and nothing I do seems to change his mind. Kaveh has said he values honesty in others, but that sort of open honesty is difficult to offer to a man who would probably skewer me on sight if he had the chance. I’m sorry if I’ve made things difficult for you, chérie.
[Despite his teasing, Lyney has tried to make amends with Alhaitham, he really has. He doesn’t like having enemies if he can avoid it. However, he’s starting to wonder if it’s simply a lost cause at this point. Lyney is fine with that; he’s certainly accumulated his fair share of nay-sayers after the nation found out about his allegiances, so what’s one more heckler in the crowd? He will be cordial, he will be civil, but he doesn’t think true friendship will ever be cultivated from that relationship.]
But still… I don’t think they despise you the way your mind is telling you they do. Friendship is… messy. And sometimes it’s scary. But it involves work, from both parties. If both parties are putting the work into your friendship, that counts for something, doesn’t it? And even if there is contempt there, you shouldn’t let it weigh you down. What’s one or two nay-sayers against the support of family? Against the support of those who wish to keep you?
[He presses a kiss to Heizou’s temple.]
Because I don’t care what they think of you. I still intend to keep you, regardless of who out there may have a problem with you. Because you have become more than just a partner or friend, Heizou. You… are family. Mon coeur, mon tresor, ma famille, mon amour.
[He punctuates each of those old Fontainian words with a kiss to Heizou’s temple, his brow, his cheek. Wherever he can reach.]
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He keeps sinking into his love's embrace, practically melting into him with a happy hum. The support Lyney has provided him, especially since they started officially dating, still feels new and strange in many ways. It's taken Heizou time to become accustomed to it. Though by now, he really wouldn't know what to do anymore without it.]
I don't care what they think of you, either. Alhaitham's distaste for you after all this time is childish, and it doesn't matter if he extends it to me as well. I've never expected anything from him, anyway.
[There may have been a small window of time in which Heizou may have thought they could at least get along well enough. But if the older man can't get past his opinion of who Heizou has taken as a partner... It's as Lyney has said. He doesn't need to spare too much thought to a nay-sayer or two. He never has.]
Kaveh on the other hand... I'm not sure what the best course of action there is. It'd be easier if he just gave up on me. I'd understand. But he's so genuinely kind, and really insists on making things hard for himself - as usual... I'm not sure what I'm supposed to do with that.
[Heizou lets out a small, hollow chuckle.]
I'm sorry... I'm really not as confident as people think I am. It must be a bit disappointing for you to see that I don't always have the right answers.
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[Lyney hums a bit, moving to rub his cheek against Heizou's hair.]
No, it's not disappointing at all. Believe it or not, even I don't have all the answers at times. That doesn't make you think any less of me?
[Lyney probably doesn't have to say it, but Heizou has certainly seen Lyney's lower moments before. If Heizou could forgive Lyney of his lower moments, why wouldn't Lyney return the favour?]
[He pauses briefly, turning over something in his head for a moment before deciding to speak up.]
Cherie... If it helps any, I think I might have some news that could help you feel a bit better.
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Still, he nods. He likes what Lyney is suggesting, and he thinks he might like what he's saying about friendships brightening his life. But he also knows it's going to be harder for him than he'd like to admit. At the very least he can try.]
...I could never think less of you, danna-sama. [He snuggles in closer, pressing a small, light kiss to whatever part of Lyney he can reach. A reassurance. Not that Lyney may need it, but Heizou offers it to him all the same.] You're wonderful, imperfections and all.
[He settles comfortably into that pause, though, basking in Lyney's warmth and scent and letting it lull him into a place of relaxation and peace. Talking to his beloved always makes him feel better, and he does love these moments of openness with each other. Though when Lyney speaks up again, he peeks an eye open with a hum.]
Oh? News about what?
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[Lyney appreciates the reassurance nonetheless, accepting it even if he doesn't need it right now. He keeps those reassurances close to his heart, which helps keep it warm.]
[Now that Heizou seems relaxed and calm, Lyney smiles down at Heizou. He brushes Heizou's hair aside and smiles down at him, a playful glint in his eye.]
Well... I recently spent some time talking to the captain of the crew that Freminet is a part of. Do you want to know what we spoke about?
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[As if Heizou isn't also extremely biased when it comes to Lyney. But that's clearly neither here nor there at the moment. After all, Heizou is busy being comforted by his sweet magician boyfriend, and it's obviously very effective treatment.
He does give Lyney a curious look, though. The captain of Freminet's crew? He can't imagine what that might be about. Or why it would be something that Heizou should be made aware of. Clearly it isn't anything troubling, or else Lyney wouldn't have that look in his eyes...]
...Why do I get the strangest feeling it involves me for some reason?
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[Lyney kisses the top of Heizou's head, but when he leans back, he grins in a way that hints at him hiding something.]
You see, I wanted to talk to the captains of my crew about inviting more members to join us. They've been so kind to Freminet and I, well, I wanted to make sure I could have everyone under the same roof, so to speak. Lynette I spoke for, of course, because she would want to stay near family. But, well... I haven't asked you what your stance on joining a crew was, so I never pushed the issue with you. But... if you'd like a place to call home, Cloud and Tifa would be happy to invite you to join us.
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Is that... allowed?
[Based on that reaction it's probably hard to say what exactly Heizou thinks about this. Though maybe the conversation up until this point has been somewhat telling enough; how could anyone outside of his tiny circle of friends be willing to just... let him in?]
I assumed paladins and corsairs couldn't be on the same crew, but... if you and Freminet are, then... [Heizou looks a bit... confused. Maybe even flustered?] I don't know a Cloud or a Tifa...
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[He chuckles a bit as he takes in that surprised look.]
It’s okay. Tifa works at the Seventh Heaven bar, and Cloud… well, he’s usually quite busy and hard to pin down. But I was able to talk to Cloud, and he has no problem with you joining our ranks. His only stipulation is that you come around to our gatherings when we have them, to mingle with the rest of the crew.
[He runs his hands through Heizou’s hair, gently combing it with his fingers.]
You know, I wouldn’t have even joined this crew if I didn’t feel comfortable with them. But they have a strong belief in family, and in staying together through difficult times. And… they don’t mind Freminet and my’s background or affiliations. So I don’t think they will mind you at all.
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...You trust them?
[That in and of itself would be saying a lot. If they know about the House, about the life the siblings led in the shadows of Teyvat, but are still accepting, then... Maybe even Heizou could feel comfortable there.]
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[Heizou would know by now that it's hard for Lyney to truly trust those outside of the House, save for a very select few. Him admitting he trusts Cloud and those in Avalanche is something indeed.]
They were... understanding of our story, when we told it to them. They didn't even blame us for any actions we took, and even said they would have done the same if it meant protecting their loved ones. That alone is enough for me.
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...I really don't know how well I would do on a crew. I'm not much of a "team player", after all. But if it's for you...
[His fingers have found one of Lyney's shirt buttons again, twirling it idly as he talks.]
I should at least meet them before making a commitment, right?
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And that's completely reasonable. Fortunately, you're invited to the next crew dinner, so there's as good a chance as ever to meet them, right? I told them you enjoy fried foods, so to add that to the menu this time.
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When is it..?
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[He slowly lifts their joined hands up, and he kisses Heizou's knuckles.]
I told them I wanted all of my family to be allowed to attend. And they agreed. I'll ensure you don't miss the next one, okay?
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He manages a soft smile for Lyney then, leaning forward enough to let their foreheads touch and their noses brush together. He kind of wants a kiss but he's also hesitant to ruin this moment.]
Okay~
[There's a soft chuckle as he absently rubs his nose against Lyney's, letting their bodies practically melt together.]
I love you. I'm so lucky to have you call me family.
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[Lyney considers Heizou to be precious to him. So very precious, precious enough to consider him part of his family. He isn't about to let Heizou think anything less about himself. He rests his forehead against Heizou's.]
J'e t'aime, mon coeur.
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Aish'te'ru yo.
[Somehow it always feels more honest in his native tongue, more important and meaningful somehow. That's why he's happy to say it again, snuggling in close.]
...I'll do my best, Lyney. To be... kinder to myself.