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It’s been nearly four days, but Albedo finally perfected the potion he had been working on for Jean. They were fortunate that Sucrose was able to lend her assistance in gathering some supplies, as it made the work easier. The Acting Grandmaster had requested a potion that worked opposite of a warming potion. A concoction able to stave off intense heat and keep the body cool – though they weren't sure why she needed it. Nonetheless he still got to work and after three sleepless nights it was completed.
Albedo was an artificial being –a homunculus– but sleep was still important for her. Even if they were able to work just as efficiently without sleep, the exhaustion would eventually catch up and she’d crash. With a content sigh, Albedo left his laboratory with the light blue potion in hand, heading to the Acting Grandmaster’s office. It wasn’t a far walk, and he hoped that his exhaustion wasn’t obvious – he could take a nap once the potion was in her possession.
Upon arrival Albedo knocked on the Grandmaster’s door, to which Jean called out “come in”. The alchemist carefully opened the door and walked inside, closing the door behind themselves before approaching Jean’s desk.
“Oh, Albedo! Are you here on part of my request?” Jean asked as she lifted her head from the pile of paperwork. Albedo nodded as she responded.
“That is indeed what I came to deliver.” He lifted the bottle to show her the blue liquid inside. “The effects of this potion are just as you asked. When ingested it provides both immediate and long-lasting cooling effects to one’s body.” Albedo explained as Jean took the bottle to examine the liquid inside.
The Acting Grandmaster hummed as she nodded. “This is perfect, thank you so much Albedo. This will certainly come in handy during one of the Knights’ trips.” She set the bottle down as she looked up at Albedo.
“Don’t mention it, I am glad that I was able to provide my assistance.” The alchemist responded as they nodded. Jean paused for a moment before she smiled.
“Be sure to get some rest, I’ll let you know if I require your help again.” Her words let Albedo know that she could clearly see his exhaustion, though it would be hypocritical of her to blatantly point it out. Albedo nodded to her before exiting her office.
He turned to the hall and noticed a small group of knights gathered near Kaeya’s office. The thought of Kaeya had Albedo’s feet moving on their own, eager to investigate. As she approached her eyes fixated on the center of the gathering, the Cavalry Captain and Quartermaster himself Kaeya Alberich. He barely noticed Raymond and Miles part from the group, gaze focused on the skin of Kaeya’s chest. The soft, supple flesh on display for anyone to see. Kaeya was talking to Huffman, who seemed to be concerned about whatever they were talking about. Albedo could care less, his goal was right in front of him and nothing would stop them from smothering their face into Kaeya’s bosom.
Kaeya noticed Albedo out of the corner of his eye but continued his instruction to Huffman. Just as the latter was about to speak, Albedo stepped between them and immediately buried their face into the captain’s chest. Kaeya and Huffman both paused, equally taken aback by the alchemist’s action. The silence was brief before Kaeya cleared his throat.
“Did you have something you wished to ask?” He inquired to Huffman. The lower knight focused back on their conversation as he nodded.
“Ah, yes! This new patrol route.. are you certain I should be moved from the Angel’s Share up to the statue of Lord Barbatos?” Huffman asked. Kaeya hummed and handed the knight the papers he had in hand.
“Acting Grandmaster Jean has a trip planned for some of the knights stationed around Mondstadt. Redistribution of patrol routes is essential in this case.” Kaeya explained. “As I stated previously, Miles will be taking on the Angel’s Share route. The new schedules I’ve provided make it most convenient for everyone.”
Huffman looked over the papers as Kaeya spoke and nodded in understanding.
“Yes, this does make sense…” He trailed off with a sigh. “I’ll be sure to adjust accordingly, Sir Kaeya.” The lower knight saluted to the captain before walking away. Kaeya watched him go before turning his attention to the little alchemist nestled in his chest.
Albedo’s hands had moved up to hold Kaeya’s waist as he was briefing Huffman, relishing in the taller man’s subtly sweet scent. The captain chuckled as he admired Albedo’s nearly blissed out state, bringing a hand up to rub their back.
“Is something the matter, my love?” Kaeya gently rubbed the alchemists back as he spoke. It was unlike the blonde to suddenly indulge in PDA like this. Albedo hummed and finally looked up at the other.
“Could I trouble you to take a nap in your office?” Their question was direct, teal eyes gazing up at icy blue. Kaeya noticed the obvious eye bags hanging heavy beneath the blonde’s eyes and brought his other hand up to gently cup their cheek.
“Of course, I just finished with my primary task for the day, I’m sure I can spare some of my time and my couch for you.” Kaeya spoke with a soft smile on his face. Albedo sighed softly and nuzzled into the palm of Kaeya’s hand as she hugged the taller man’s waist.
“Thank you.” Their tone was hushed as she reveled in the comforting heat of Kaeya’s palm. He reluctantly let go of the captain after another moment and allowed the taller man to lead them back to his office. Once inside, Kaeya closed the door behind the other and shed his outer layers before settling comfortably onto the couch and patting his lap. Albedo removed her coat and boots as well before climbing into Kaeya’s lap and curling up against his frame. The alchemist once again rested their head against Kaeya’s chest, appreciating the breast tissue that acted as the perfect pillow.
“My my, how many days have you gone without sleep?” Kaeya asked as he retrieved a blanket from the back of the couch and draped it over them. Albedo sighed again and nuzzled against Kaeya’s chest before responding.
“I haven’t slept in four days.”
“Four-?!” Kaeya was shocked, even knowing that Albedo is a homunculus, that much sleep deprivation is still concerning – though it does explain his earlier behavior.
“Sunflower, my darling, could you truly not find time to take rest breaks?” One of Kaeya’s arms was wrapped around Albedo’s body to keep her secure while the other undid their braids and petted their hair. The alchemist hummed, notably sleepier than before.
“I suppose… I was simply eager to complete the Acting Grandmaster’s request…” He sighed again, face pressed to the warmth of Kaeya’s chest as they kept themselves curled up in his lover’s lap. Kaeya tutted at the blonde but did not question her any further. He wanted to ensure Albedo would be getting the rest he needs, but not before indulging himself first.
“You poor sweet thing..” Kaeya trailed off while bringing a hand beneath Albedo’s chin. “You did so well to get your work done, could I trouble you for a kiss before I lose you to the dream realm?”
The blonde lazily looked up at Kaeya, gazing into Kaeya’s lone eye before leaning up to press a gentle kiss to the captain’s lips. Kaeya returned the kiss with just as much tender love, their lips fitting together perfectly. It was so full of warmth, Kaeya didn't want it to end, but he still pulled away with a smile before pressing another kiss to Albedo’s forehead.
“Thank you.” He whispered against the blonde’s hairline. Albedo hummed in response and nuzzled back into the captain’s bust. Kaeya smiled and continued to kiss the top of the alchemist’s head while gently petting his hair.
Albedo was soon lulled into slumber, lost within the depths of his exhaustion and the warmth and comforting scent of his lover.
Kaeya hummed a tune lost to time as Albedo slept, keeping the little alchemist held close and safe within his arms. He’d ensure Albedo got the rest he needed.