( the pout is adorable. it just makes zhongli yearn for him even more.

gently, zhongli extends his hand and cups venti’s cheek. eyes like cor lapis remain fixed on him, and he offers a sweeter, nostalgic smile. )

Barbatos.

( a pause, as he traces his cheekbone with his thumb, ardently. )

I can give myself fully to you, now. I would rather no other place than at your side. If that is what you also would like.

( he means it, no longer tied to liyue despite how fond he is of it. like a parent finally seeing its kid grown, he needs to leave the nest, too.

maybe with venti he can. )