Solar Eclipse

by Clavlys

Summary:

Wanderer and Albedo learn how to cope with the world changing around them while they stay the same.

I've posted this story before but deleted it due to the fact I was embaressed... I decided to edit it and repost it!
Slow updates*

Notes:

Please ignore any mistakes I edited it twice but some probably still slipped in 3

Chapter 1

Fresh snow crunched under his geta. What a bizzare sight it was. walking through snowy mountains of Mondstadt with no protective clothes. On his side a bag full of Sumeru specialities. Dangers of dragonspine didn't scared him and the sheer cold was nothing but a breeze. His hat protected his clothes from being soaked, this was also the reason why he prefered to walk. Not that he was in hurry anyways.

Aproaching Wyrmrest Valley he spotted a broken brigde from afar.
It was no trouble for him to cross. Lifting himself with anemo he floaded over. It definitly was a hazard, or knowing his friend it had a purpose. Keeping monsters or even humans away? Perhaps.
Speaking of which.

  "Albedo?"
Peeking inside the cave all Kuni saw was an alchemy table and notes scattered across it. One with big letters written on it. "I'LL BE BACK" clearly he had to leave in hurry but didn't wanted to alarm anyone because of his absence.
He knew the other was coming today.

Wanderer set his bag on the table and sat down on one of the chairs. Thankfully, Patience was his strong suit.

After some time he found himself drifting away. His eyes losing focus. he didn't needed sleep but it was a good way of passing time. A nap wouldn't hurt, would it?
.
.
.
.
.
  He woke up to a gentle touch on his scalp. Slender fingers in his dark hair.
  "ah...."
Kuni couldn't control the gasp that escaped him.
 
  "fascinating..."
A whisper behind him made him turn his head up.
  "Hello, thank you for waiting for me."
Kuni was welcomed with a soft smile above him. Albedo removed his hand and walked to his table. Reaching out to the bag he pulled out the starshrooms.

"Which one is the chasm one?"

  "They should be labeled."
Kuni stood up from the chair, rubbing the sleep off his eyes.

"They are, but it seems you brought extra."
 
"Extra? You said you wanted some backups"
  Wanderer rested his chin on blonds shoulder. He’s so warm... Locks of blond hair tickled a side of Kunis cheek.

"I did but ... don't you think 10 is too much?"
Albedo put his hand on top of Kunis head.
"But don't worry they won't go to waste."

Both of them weren’t the most "touchy" people but for Albedo when it came to Kuni he couldn’t resist the urge... Kuni mostly kept his hands to himself, still the Alchemist knew that in some moments Kunis touch meant more than hundred words.

Blond took everything out of the bag and arranged them in neat order.
"I hope it wasn’t much trouble to get them?"

"The only problem was getting inside the chasm. I didn't expected the millelith to actually do their job."
Only Liyue miners and people with special premissions were allowed in the depths. Monsters were not a problem, it even reminded Kuni of abyss in some ways, as a harbinger he was send there for expeditions with a team of men. Of course it was only him who came out from there.
He never told anyone about his "past life". only people that knew were the traveler,her little companion and Buer.
It may felt unfair since Albedo did share his past with him, the two men knew eachother for awhile now but Kuni stayed a mystery to Albedo. All he knew is that the boy was a puppet and possessed no heart.

"You are very touchy today, but excuse me, could you bring me my bag?"

Kuni nodded and got the bag from the corner of the cave. He placed it next to the blond.

"Thank you, do you want to watch?"

Kuni gave a nod and sat down.

"Well... starshrooms grow both in the depths of chasm and lands of Sumeru. They have different reactions when in contact with the elements of electro and pyro. The starshrooms from the chasm carry a glow that the sumeru ones lack. It could be somekind of mutation..."

Albedo noted everything he said in his notebook. His writing pace was fast just like his words.
Kuni lost himself in Albedo, his hand movements, his voice, his hair,his skin, his eyes, his perfectly symmetrical star on his, oh, so alluring neck. How much Kuni wanted to just-

"You are quiet."
Albedo must have noticed that he wasn't listening at all, but he knew Albedo didn't expected him to.

   "I just have nothing that I can share."

"Nothing interesting happened on your way here?"
Albedo spoke as he worked. Removing the spongy head of the mushroom from the hard base.
"seems the base doesn't glow at all....
He murmured to himself."

It was getting dark outside and the only light source in the camp was an oli lamp on the table and warming bottles on the shelves.

  "I only encountered some fatui, these guys multiply like mushrooms after the rain."
Kuni said with a sigh. Crossing his arms.

"Thats true, not once was I ambushed by them. There is especially a lot of them here."

  "Do you know why?"

"I think I can guess."

After their short chat silence fell over them. Both man didn't minded it though. Kuni found small talks pointless. Forcing a conversation just to fill up the awkward empty space.
Sound of a pencil on paper echo through the cave.

"Kuni"
Wanderer lifted his head and looked at Albedo.
"Do you mind helping me dry these excess mushrooms? Just place them on the stove there and light the fire."
Blond handed him bag of starshrooms.
Kuni headed to the stove.
In the moments like this he wished he had a pyro vision... oh well he needs to sick to the traditional methods.

After a frustrating fight with flints and sticks he finally lit the fire. He really expected Albedo to have some kind of a machine that makes fire...On top of it there was already a metal grill that he could put the food on to dry.

Albedo let out a sigh and started to clean the table, making some space on it.

"Since youre here now I guess I can put off this experiment— and focus on something that will surely be more interesting for both of us."
 
Kuni stood up.
   "What do you mean? I thought every experiment is important for you."

"That’s true... but some can be done later then others."
Albedo took off his gloves replacing them with latex ones.
"Especially since mushrooms won't run away unlike certain someone.... Sit down"

   "I'm sitting."

  "On the Table."
Albedo crossed his arms as Kuni huffed and switched his position. Albedo was surprised how obedient the other was.

  "Why these gloves?"
Kuni pointed out.

  "I don't think you want me to touch you with the same gloves that I touch different specimen with. They are pretty dirty."

  "I would prefer to not be touched at all."

Wanderer got himself comfortable. One leg on the furniture and other not reaching the floor. His height was rather unpractical, still he was taller than Albedo, but not by much.

"Strip"

  "Excuse me?"

"Strip I assume your hearing isn't damaged? I wanna study you."

Bastard. Fine Kunis in a good mood today he will be obedient. He will play along, for now. Maybe he could get something out of this?
He took off the layer and layers of cloth. Albedo decided to spare him and searched for something inside of his drawers instead of staring. He was left in his bodysuit, the rest placed neatly next to him. He hopes he can at least keep it on...

Albedo eyes scanned his body from head to toe. Kuni avoided eye contact as his face bloomed with barely visible pink tint. It didn't go unnoticed to Albedos keen eye, he found it rather Adorable.

"We will start with your eyes."

Albedo held a bright light to his eye making him squint his eyes but the blond kept it open with his fingers
   "ughh..."

"Pupils are normal."
He noted down. He took a piece of paper and held it far away from  Wanderer.
  "Can you read these numbers out loud?"
 
Kuni tried focusing his eyes, his head leaning forward. The numbers were blurry but he could make up some by their shape. The longer he kept staring at the paper the more his eyes begun to sting. Finally after reciting the numbers Albedo spoke again.

  "Hm. That’s surprising your sight has some small issues. You got 30% of them wrong."
  Albedo put the paper on the table allowing Kuni to see the actual numbers
  "That’s not tragic but definitely not the greatest."

Kuni looked at the blond with disbelieve. How could his eyesight have flaws? He wasn't human, his bones never broke and if they did, it was  matter of hours till they healed— how come his eyes didn't? That’s absurd.

"I see your confusion, but I don't think that's anything to worry about. Unless you're scared of becoming more human?"

Kuni huffed
  "I could never be a "human" you know that. Humans are fragile you know that too, I am not."
Kuni looked at Albedo from under his bangs— they had grown a lot now, covering his eyes when he looked down.
Giving rather menacing look.
  "...Will i need to wear glasses?"
The next sentence sounded silly after his serious speech.

"It could be the case but we could also try to find a way to improve your eyesight."
Albedo placed the tip of his pen to his bottom lip, thinking.
"But it would require a lot of effort and it could end up damaging it even further..."

Albedo wrote something down in his notebook. He reached for the puppets wrist grabbing it in a firm yet gentle hold. He observed his hands, rubbing his thumb over palms.
Albedos touch was much different from The doctors. Albedo made sure that Kuni was comfortable and he always asked first by going slow. Kuni could always dodge his hands. Dottore...he would force his way to observe him. It didn't matter that he was uncomfortable. There was no way to stop.

It took him quite sometime to expose himself in front of someone again even if they held no malicious intent and only wished to dress his wounds....

"Ow! What the hell!"
Kuni came back to Teyvat after his arm got pulled in a awkward way, bending it backwards.

"No joints cracking, interesting."

  "Is your goal to break my arm?! Stop that!"
Albedo let go off the mans arm while saying a quick "sorry". It didn't hurt a lot but the pulling was annoying.
Albedo next touched his neck, feeling no pulse. Later came his ears, nothing wrong with those. Joints functioned as they should. The check up was pretty boring until...

"Now... I know it may bring you some discomfort but could you please take off your top?"

Kuni sat dumbfounded. Trying to process his words. It was an innocent request, but he could still see a subtle pink blush on Albedos cheeks. The air grew a bit heavy. Albedos bright eyes stared at him with anticipation.

Kuni didn't wanted to, but Albedos enthusiasm was great and he didn't wanted to crush it. Wanderer took a long inhale and then a slow exhale.

   "Fine."
After he was done Kuni turned back to the other, wrapping his hands around himself in a attempt to cover his chest.

"Is it too much?"
Albedo leaned in close, too close for Kunis liking.
  "Can you remove your hands please? I don’t think there's anything that I haven't seen on others?"
He assured with a soft smile.
The Alchemists honey dripping voice melted him. He lowered his guard.
Kuni had small breasts.
  "I see."
Albedo reached out his gloved hand.

   "W-what are you doing?!"
Kuni grabbed his forearm. The force of it was enough to make Albedo let out a  groan. Kuni quickly let go, his face red and hot as a pyro slime. Albedo really was wondering where did all that blood came from if not from his heart.
It is a subject to research for later.

"Forgive me I... couldn't help myself."

Kuni let out a chuckle. Albedo could feel the tension building up.

"Ah... Could you please turn around for me again?"
Albedo asked Innocently, Kuni obeyed. His face was still flustered. Albedo traced his spine with a gloved finger— stopping at his tailbone. This action sended shivers down Kunis body. Perfectly straight as expected.
"You can turn around now."

The puppet faced him again, now crossing his legs. He looked straight at Albedo and then he started to speak...

   "You know... you think I didn't saw you starring at me..."
Kuni lowered his voice looking Albedo in the eyes. His head bowed slightly. Smile creeping in.
   "Down there?"

Albedos face now became a color of a valberry. Struggling to find his words.

   "Why don't you take a look and test your hypothesis? Hm?"

Kuni spread himself slightly and *gods* Albedos expression was priceless. He was already becoming a mess (so was Kuni in his pants). To Albedo, it was scary how quickly Kuni could switch. He held a mischievous smile on his face that could spell the end of the chief alchemist.

Kuni pressed the heel of his foot to the others shoulder. His legs are so strong! One move send Albedo kneeling on the ground. He made a mental note to himself to write that down later.

Albedo took the foot and kissed its toe. His feet were small and dainty but held impressive strength.

"It seems this check up is going in a different direction."

  "Ah.. Hurry up and take off my clothes will you? You want this."

Kuni nudged him with his foot then raised his hips to let Albedo slide the rest of his bodysuit down. Thanks to his new found power over the other he wasn't embarrassed anymore.
Kunis pussy was right in front of Albedos face. Already wet from the foreplay.

Wanderer placed his hand on top of blond hair, stroking slightly. Albedos body started to feel like jelly. He held Kunis thighs in a tight grip. His dark hair perfectly contrasted with his pale face. Sharp and mysterious, glowing like a moon in the endless sea of stars.

   "You sure are taking your time, never seen a cunt before?"
His words were bold and straight forward.

"Forgive me, I was just admiring your beauty. You shine like the moon."
At this comment Kunis smile dropped replacing it with confusion. Uh oh wrong move. But then a blush spread all around Wanderers face, eyes going wide eyes.

   "Idiot."
Albedos face was forcefully shoved downwards and pressed into Kunis cunt.
   "I hope your mouth isn't only good at spitting out nonsense."

Albedo could only moan at that. Scent of musk and something sweet filled his nose. Kunis legs locked in place around his neck. Albedo felt like he was trying to suffocate him. Blond finally opened his mouth— sticking his tongue out. Albedos hot breath made Kuni shiver.
He licked between Wanderers folds.
Everything was new, he didn't had any experience in sex. He only knew about reproduction from books that never stated how to actually pleasure a person.

Albedo sucked on Kunis clit while occasionally gazing his teeth over it. Hand in his hair pulled him closer. It was getting bit hard to breath. Sweet smell overwhelming him. He mouthed at Kunis pussy with his tongue very close to the entrance.
He felt the man shake and rock his hips forward.
"F-fuck Albedo~ You sure you weren't ah~ made as a fuck toy?~"
His voice was breathy and muted to Albedos ears as they were covered by Kunis thighs.

Albedo grabbed Kunis legs and lifted them up. Now he had a better excess to Kunis hole. He dipped his tongue inside slowly and he was meet with resistance. He knew he had to breach it. Looking up he could finally see the pleasure drunk face of the man. Eyes glossy and lidded. Small gasps coming out of his parted lips.

  "Go on or I will choke you to death..."

Kuni was now laying on the table with his legs up. Hands no longer on blond locks.
Albedo went back down. Pushing himself inside he finally breached in deeper, hearing a moan above. In and out he found a steady pace. Whimpers and moans filled the cave and he himself would also moan while deep inside Kuni. Oh how bad he feels for any person who would accidentally found themself passing by. Hands reached for Puppets clit making circular motion on it. Slick now dripped down his chin.

   "Albedo Albedo Albedo~"
Kuni tried fucking himself on the tongue. He was seeing stars... no... A  galaxy. Saying the name of his friend lover like prayers. He felt himself reaching his peak.

Albedo speed up on his actions. Kuni was close and shaking. His hole clenching rapidly leaking out more juices. He himself felt lightheaded. The noises and the way Kunis chest raised and fall drove him crazy. These strong feelings... he never felt them before.

  "Albedo AH~ Im-!"
Words were cut short with a loud moan.
Kuni felt like he was going to faint with how intense pleasure had hit him. Hand scratching on the table, eyes rolling back, mouth agape. His body felt like it was struck by a lightning. The world became a blur.

Albedo wiped his face with his hand and got up. Kuni still seemingly out of it didn't noticed Albedo staring down at him. Alchemist pressed his thumb to corner of Kunis mouth wiping away drool that dripped down his face.

When Albedo was about to leave to find something to clean the man with he was stopped by a hand on his wrist.

   "You don't want to finish?"

Kuni pointed his finger down Albedos gaze followed.

   "Oh ..."
A tent in his pants stood proudly, Albedo just now realizing that his underwear felt weirdly sticky.

   "Do you have a bed here?"
Kuni tilted his head to the side. Blush still present— looking rather cute.
   "This table isn't the most comfortable."

Albedo nodded and picked him up. Kuni clinging to him like a koala bear to trying not to fall.
On their way to the further part of the cave wanderer started to kiss the others neck and hump into his shirt. Hot breath tickling him.

"Inpatient are we?"

"AGH!"
Kuni was thrown against the mattress that laid on the floor. Albedo over him with his hands on both sides of mans head. Albedos long hair covering them like a curtain. Their faces close.
Albedo leaned in, his lips teasing Kunis. They only brushed against each other before Kuni sealed the kiss. It started slow at first. Kuni licked alchemist lips, Albedo... didn't really took the hint so the other had to force him open. Albedo gasped when he felt tongue inside his mouth. Wanderer raised his hands and buried them in Albedos locks. He untied his braids and the small ponytail throwing the hair tie aside. Somewhere in the meantime, Albedo took off his gloves.

After solid 5 minutes that felt like hours to both of them, they parted. A string of saliva connected their lips for a moment before breaking. Kunis face twisted into a grimace

  "Is that what I taste like? Gross..."
Albedo laughed, god his laugh was like the most beautiful song. He was shining like the brightest star... The sun itself.
   "Shut up! You're running the mood."

"But hah- you started it."
He wiped the single tear from his eye smiling.
"You look adorable when you pout like tha- AH!"

Albedo was quickly flipped over, now Kuni was sitting on his stomach. His wetness dripping down and making a mess on his skin.

  "Its not really fair that you're still clothed when I exposed myself to you."
Kuni hooked a finger on the shirts collar
   "Shall we?"
  He purred, taking off everything that Albedo had, leaving him bare and for Kuni to admire. The only thing left was his boxers.

Teasing finger moved downwards, from Albedos chest to his abdomen. Tracing every little cut that made Albedo feel so real and human.(Albedo was the more human one out of them two, Kuni knew it) His dick had soften but that wasn't much of an issue. Kuni tugged down the underwear and throwed it on the floor with the rest of clothes. He pumped it once, twice and it was back to full hardness. Albedo observed every action Kuni did with a dark blush on his face. 

"It feels like its not your first time, isnt it?"

   "You would like to know, wouldn't you?"
Kunis finger pressed on Albedos slit.
   "Too bad."

The Alchemist moaned at that. He felt something touching his lips.

   "Open wide~"

Before he could respond three fingers were shoved inside his mouth. His lips closed around them, licking them up. Wanderers nails were quite long but well kept.
They were pulled out soon after. Slender fingers covered with Albedos  saliva drifted to Kunis bottom. Albedo watched as they disappeared inside of Kuni. The man whimpered at the feeling. In all honesty they didn't even needed lube, he was just so wet already.

Kuni stretched himself open with two fingers, his eyes were closed shut, eyebrows frowning, lips slightly open— letting out whimpers and moans.
Albedos cock twitched, waiting to be touched.

Finally after some time Kuni pulled out his fingers and placed one hand on Albedos hip.

  "Ready?"

Albedo nodded and then added a quiet "yes". He didn't really knew what Kuni wanted to do, but he let himself be pulled along.
Kuni held his mischievous smile and lined up Albedo to his Pussy. Slowly he lowered himself on Albedos cock. The walls clenched tightly around him, sending sparks of pleasure to his brain.
Kuni started to go up and down, riding Albedo. He leaned forward and intertwined their fingers.

"Close your pretty eyes and focus"
Kuni bit others ear gently whispering to it.
"You won't find anyone better than me, no matter how far you search~"

Alchemist gasped. His voice was...so alluring as if trying to hypnotize him. He thrust his hips up to hear a moan right into his ear. Albedo thought he will cum on the spot. His thrusts and Kunis bounces were in sync both chasing the pleasure. The cave was dark, his vision could be playing tricks on him but he swears he sees Kuni in a faint neon turquoise glow. His eyes were shut, small gasps of air coming out of him. His character wasn't perfect by any means but his beauty was divine.

When Kuni opened his eyes, he saw gold. The man under him with his hair that looked like a halo. Their faces inches away. Kuni closed that gap. The kiss was heated making him lightheaded. Too much teeth and tongues but they didn't minded.

"You" Albedo started, grabbing the others attention. "You carry the aura of the moon. A lunar being that no researcher can understand."

Albedo brushed Kunis hair behind his ear.
"Mysterious, close yet so far away."

Puppet only chuckled.
"Did you found your inner poet?"

"You seem to like it"
Alchemist smirked. Sweet sounds of moans,whimpers and groans along with slapping of skin were making it hard to focus. Kunis movements were becoming faster, Albedo tried to keep up.
Then a idea pop into his head.

"Ah...ah...FUCK AhH!"

Albedo got Kuni again on his back. Legs held open by Albedos hands. He thrust forward, again again and again faster and faster each time. The man below him made sounds that sounded like he was choking, gasping for air...drowning. His body was twitching and spasming violently. Tears going down his cheeks like a waterfall. Even if he looks like a ruin, hes still beautiful.

Albedo himself felt like he was close. When Kuni yelled, it was over for him.
"ALBEDO!~"

"Kuni...."
They reached their high together, moaning each others names. Albedo spilled inside, Kunis pussy milking his cock for all its worth.
He felt like he was floating. World going blank.

After a minute Albedo pulled out watching cum and slick and cum flow out of Kuni, his hole clenching around nothing. Albedo collapsed next to the other man who was still catching his breath. Eyes lidded and wet.

After quick rest, Albedo stood up and went to grab a bucket and a washcloth. The water was cold but he hoped Kuni wouldn't mind.

Albedo pressed the cloth to Kuni. He whimpered at the coldness.
"I will be quick"
His soft voice seem to calm the other down. He wiped the cum and other liquids down. After he finished he wiped his dick and put the rag back into the water bucket.
He laid beside Kuni who then cuddled to his chest. He closed his eyes processing what happened today. Was he... tired? He supposes this amount of activity could worn you out but this much? Albedo didn't wanted to end his day yet, he had a lot to do-
.
.
.
.
.

He felt something warm on his neck.
A tongue swirling around his star mark. Lips wrapped around his neck. Sucking greedily.

"Ah Kuni...I don't think I can go again."
Wanderer didn't answered, just kept his mouth on Albedo. The Alchemist despite his words made no effort to stop the other. Hand pressed onto his chest right on his heart. Tongue pressing down on his pulse point. Kuni sucked a hickey there. Despite everything his movements were low, soft and tender.

He was slightly humping his thigh. If Albedo didn't came just a moment ago he swears he would get hard again.
Kuni playing with his neck for awhile now and not a single word was exchanged between them. Only quiet moans slipping out. Albedo played with Kunis hair. It felt like silk, delicate. He once said to Albedo that his hair grows extremely fast and always stops at his ankles. It was a fascinating information to Albedo. He also knew that no matter how much the other worked out, he will never gain any muscles same as his weight that always stayed on the 43 kilograms mark.
As if... his body, his creator wanted him stay the same.

Albedo never seen him with hair longer then to his neck, how would he looked with the length he described? Would he look good with a braid or a ponytail? Albedo wanted to find out but he doubted he will get his answers soon.
His body was pale...could he get tanned? 
Further examinations are needed. This boy made Albedo really curious, last time he was this fascinated by a person was when he meet the traveler.

Kuni continued on the abuse on his neck, a hand pressing harder on his chest. Kuni was quiet...he wasn't even throwing teasing words. It worried Albedo. His face was blooming red as Kuni landed a rough bite. He kept his teeth in place making the feeling spread through Albedos whole body. Soon the abuse on his neck stopped. Kuni placed his head on his chest next to his hand. The Alchemist sighed. It seemed that Kuni was falling asleep... Albedo observed Kunis peacefull sleeping figure.

Soon his own eyelids started to feel heavy. Kuni made no noises in his sleep... not even breaths. Albedo despite being made artificial, his body structure on the inside and outside that greatly resembled that of a normal human.
Albedo wasn't proud of his more... unethical side that wanted to see Kuni from inside. But knowing the mans nature it could be possible without giving him much pain and changes could be made to his body if forced.

Albedo tried to push those thoughts aside as he kissed the top of Kunis head. Tomorrow he will know if his partner will stay. Wanderer as his name suggested had a habit of not staying in one place. From one perspective it was productive and helpfull. Kuni brings him specialities from all the seven nations which he was greatfull for... Though Albedo wishes he could stay with him...just a bit longer. He hoped that the intimacy helped to bring them closer....

Chapter 2: Together

Summary:

Boys get a visitor

White flowers on the cliffside were swaying to the rythm of the breeze. gentle night wind carried dandelion seeds, swirling them around in a dance. Blank Canvas stood in front of him, staring back with mockery. His mind was just as blank. He came here during the daylight, now the darkness has set. Walking to the edge he looked down. It was a long way down. A dark abyss. If a person was to fall from this height theres no way they would survive.

"You have a death wish?"

Albedo turned his head to the voice of a stranger. It definitly wasn't anyone from Mondstadt. His presence was unusual.
The moon hid behind him, giving him a lunar glow. His eyes shining brightly, like a gems. stars reflecting in them. Was he seeing things? Who would come here in the dead of the night...

"I do not."

The stranger chuckled. It sounded mysterious like sirens song. His hair was flowing with the chilly wind. Albedo couldn't shake off the feeling of familiarity the more he looked at the stranger. Soon the person started walking away.

"Wait!"
He reached his hand out to him, but the stranger kept walking his way. Albedo sighed. His mind now filling with colors... turquoise,light and navy blues,dark purples and cyans melting into one picture. Albedo returned to canvas and took the paint. Letting his mind guide his lines.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Albedo woke up. He was covered by a blanket, he doesn't remember putting it over himself. "Kuni..." his mind called. The cave was silent. The Alchemist sighed with dissapointment. He probably already left.

Albedo picked up his clothes from the floor and started to put them on, it would be rather indecent to be walking around naked even if hes alone. Archons forbit someone walked in!  Albedo was feeling weirdly light but still the feeling of sadness at the Wanderers absence lingered deep in his heart. He really thought that--

"Is it suppose to be me?"
That voice. It made Albedos heart skip a beat. There he stood, Looking over at something. His question went on a deaf ear as the blond was too overwhelmed by the fact that he was still here.

"Oh? What is it?"
Albedo looked over his shoulder. He wasn't prepared for what he saw. Kuni was looking at one of his paintings, the painting of the "stranger" well... no longer a stranger. The canvas portrayed a pale boy with dark hair and bright eyes. The background was a spiral of messy blues. It indeed resembled the wanderer, although some details were missing. His hair was longer and it ended in a more of a round way. Bangs were more to the left side. Eyes missing the iconic red eyeliner, and the head missed the comically large hat. His clothes were pretty accurate comparing to everything else. Albedo could spend hours pointing out flaws in it. He could blame it on the lightning back then and decided to do so.

"Well it was pretty dark back when i painted it and... I only got a glimpse of you."
Albedo felt... embarrassed? It wasn't like this painting was a secret but he kept it in a good place. That would mean Kuni rummaged through his cave. He would have to confront him about it.

"Do you draw every person you see?"
Kuni said with sarcasm, kneeling down to look closer at the piece.

"Im more focused on how did you found it."

Kunis posture stiffen. Head slowly shifting to Albedo.
"You would like to know wouldn't you?"
He said with a shit eating grin.

"It been quite awhile, wasn't it?"

"Since we met? Few decades I think."
A Sigh.
"months, years or milenium, it doesn't make a difference to me anymore."
Kuni said, blankly staring into the painting.

"To me it does."
Albedo left Kuni and went to a small mirror on one of his shelves. The puppet followed behind. Lifting the object up Albedo was greeted by the mess that his face was. Hair was almost like a birdnest, free from its usual ponytail and braids. The hair where his braids used to be was a bit curly. To be honest Albedo doesn't remember the last time he let his hair down fully to sleep. He did that only while showering. His eyes went down to his neck. It was.... something. Bruises and hickeys adored his skin, especially his star. The bite marks looked like they were made by a wild animal.

Kuni was the opposite. He was clean of any traces of last night. He was now tracing the lines of Albedos neck. His eyes narrowed.
"I don't remember making this many..."

Albedo only sighed. A shiver went down his spine. Kuni didn't knew how much Albedo fell for him. Like a shooting star. Love was a unknown territory for him. At first it was a scary feeling but the longer he was with Kuni the more he got used to it.
This kind of love was different the one he shared for Klee or his master. Different from his love for art... It was strange.
Albedo touched his neck.
"Do you knew that even small marks like that can get infected?"

Kuni raised a eyebrow at him.
"Im aware, but im sure that you wouldn't let that happen, would you?"
Wanderers hand shifted downwards, now placing it over Albedos heart.

"You're not that reckless."
His voice calm and smoothing. Kunis palm pressed down. Albedo noticed that he has a obssession with his heart and pulse. Could it be because he lacked them? Alchemist never asked, he felt like it was very sensitive topic to the other— same as mentioning his creator. Its not like Albedo didn't had some weird obssessions... So he isn't the one to judge.

"You should have your hair down more often. I like it"

"Im not a fan of hair in my eyes. Its inconvenient."
Albedo brushed his hair with his fingers, putting an unruly streak behind his ear.
"Do you want anything to eat?"

"Sure"
As soon as he spoke a bucket was placed in front of him.

"fetch us some water, will you?"

"Uh... its not the same bucket you used for cleaning me up right?"
Kunis face turned into a frown.

"N-no! Of course not!"
Albedos face grew red. He coughed.
"On the note. Im glad youre here since we will be having guest today."

"Guest?"
Wanderer crossed his arms and raise his eyebrow. Albedo could *almost*hear his thoughts.

"Don't even think about it, She was eager to see you again."
Albedo gave a soft smile.
"Besides, I have many people I would like you to meet. You can't avoid human contacts forever. I'll get you used to it. Klee is a good start."

Sucrose came to mind. one of Albedos first assistants and students. Its been awhile since he saw her once she left to join akademiya. At first she declined not wanting to leave her masters side and the friends in Mondstadt but eventually she accepted to be Amurta darshan student. When Albedo first found out he felt proud. His student spreading her wings like a butterfly he raised and cared for. Sumeru was far away which meant she will be away most of the time. The work in akademiya never ended. How did Akademiya found her? Thats a story for another day.

Wanderer rolled his eyes.
"You and Durin are enough for me."

"And Traveler?"

"...and Lumine. Not Paimon though, shes only fine for the first 2 hours."

Albedo shook his head and poke Kunis cheek.
"Now, chop chop fill this bucket up"

Kuni sighed and picked up the bucket.
"Why am I helping you again?"

"You know why."
Albedos smile— Kuni was weak for it. Heh isn't it pathetic? The feelings he swore to get rid of were taking over his very being.

Kuni left the cave with the bucket in his left hand. This is going to be a long way... As he walked down the road everything seem to gone quiet. The usual hilichurl filled paths were empty. Well Kuni supposes its for the better. Going down the snow-covered road the puppet tried to keep away from fatui as far as he could. Their number definitly decreased in the dragonspine from the last time he visited but he prefers not to get his hands dirty and focus on the task. Soon he reached the water source. Kuni cannot wait to return to the camp... Albedo praising him for how fast he returned. Then he'll be rewards with Albedos delicious cooking and...
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The lake was completely frozen. Oh what a funny joke.

Kuni stood staring at the Ice. He droped the bucket and placed a foot on it. It didn't even cracked... Second foot soon joining in.

"How am i suppose to-"

Before he could finish the ice broke. Thanks to his quick reflex he managed to lift himself in time, avoiding ruining his clothes. Well... now problems sovled.
Filling the bucket to the brim Kuni was about to head back when suddently...

**KABOOM**

A explosion echoed in the distance. Turning around he saw the cloud of smoke and dust raising to the sky like a small volcano eruption. He couldn't help but flinch at the sound. What could it be, Fatui testing new weapons? Can't they do it in their own lands? The smoke wasn't anywhere near Albedos camp...good. Kuni knew Albedo wasn't helpless. He could defend himself but... The puppet couldn't help but feel protective over him. He really did became attached to the other even though he promised himself not to.

Walking back he heard no other explosions. But on his way he saw a big black crater of what before was a fatui camp. Kuni chuckled to himself. Now it was obvious whos doing it was. Their little guest arrived safetly.

"You should've bring guards with you. Its too dangerous for you to come here alone, especially now."
Albedos scolded Klee.

"But..! I can defend myself! Did you heard how my new bombs got rid of those guys!"
A cheery voice of a young girl reached Kunis ears.

"That explosion almost gave me a heart attack Klee..."
Albedo sighed. Kuni didn't wanted to interrupt their talk but he fears that he won't be able to stay unnoticed for much longer... would his longer absence worry Albedo? Would Albedo search for him? Would he abandon his sister to save Kuni? Maybe it was wrong to think this way, but he couldn't help himself.
Soon he came to the view.

"Oh, youre back"
Albedos attention was now on him. His smile filled wanderer with warmth. Albedos neck was covered by a scarf. Kuni had a urge to chuckle at his poor attempt of hiding the hickeys but he kept his calm. His hair was still down but now it looked like he at least brushed it.
The girl was now looking at him too. Her eyes shining like little rubies. Her hair was cut short and beneath spiky ears popping out. She has grown quite a bit. She changed unlike him and Albedo. Her outfit wasn't fit for the dragonspine aside from the coat she must have put on in hurry. She was sitting on a stool in front of Albedo. On her lap she held her stuffed best friend.

The Alchemist stood up and looked at him. Klee followed and looked at Wanderer, mimicking Albedo. Truly like siblings.

He placed the bucket with water on the floor and came closer to the two. His arms crossed over his chest. Klee raises her head to look at Albedo. He nods at her. Girls face lights up. Is that some secret way of communication these two have?

Klee threw herself onto Kuni, squeezing him with all her little might. Wanderer let out a sigh and gave her a head pat.
"Spark Knight Klee is back to the evil lands of dragonspine!"
She lifted up her plushie.
"Dodoco too!"

He kneels down to the child as she let go of him. Klees smile was as bright as the sun. It really reminded him of her brother... Kuni reaching out to his sleeve he pulled out a tiny rag doll. Its appearance based on his past self. It was just a replica he made since the original got burned down along with...no theres no use in thinking about that now.
"He says hi too"
Wanderer took the dolls small arm between his fingers and moved it to imitate a wave.

Klees eyes widened— new found spark filling them. She let out an excited squeak. Albedo looked amused to say the least, looking at their interaction with a smile.

"Hes so cute! Is he your best friend too, Like dodoco is to me?"

"hm... more like a companion."
Kuni looked at the doll. It was far from perfect but he felt like it was fitting. He carried it around everywhere he went, despite everything his past kept on clinging to him like a ghost. He had no choice but to accept it.

"Ohh... okay. whos your best friend then?"

"I suppose I don’t have one."

"Everyone needs a best friend!"
The little elf then hooked her arm over Albedos. His eyes widened for a second but then he put his hand on her head.
"My brother can be your best friend! He doesn't have a best friend too."

"Well... I think we can be best friends, right Albedo? I think we know eachother *deeply* now."
The Alchemists cheeks started to feel warm. Klees eyes only seem to sparkle further. They didn't told anyone they just recently started dating, not yet.

Her gaze shifted to Kuni as she let go off her brother.
"Well Klee is always glad to have new best friends to play with!"
'So more then one is allowed huh?' Kuni thought to himself.

"Say Klee..."
From the corner of his eye he saw Albedo taking the bucket with water and carring it to the makeshift cooking station. At least now he could chat with the girl and have an excuse to not act like Albedos assistant again.
"Thats explosion... Youve got quite the destructive power in you."

Kuni heard Albedo sigh from a distance. Klee nodded her head.
"Its my newest one! I worked on it all alone!..."
Theres a small blush on her face seemingly from embarrassment.
"Maybe with a little bit of help... but mostly alone!"

"Well it surely leaves an impact on the landscapes...poor Mika..."
Albedo mumured under his breath.

"You didn't got hurt?"
Wanderer took a chair and sat down in front of the stool Klee was sitting at. Taking a closer look at her, he noticed no scars,no burn marks, no little scratches. It was impressive when the kid was playing with literal explosives.

"Nuh uh! Im very carefull but people say that im just too lucky!"

"Well its good that nothing happens to you. You should also consider others safety though..."

"I do, I always yell when im about to test my new bombs"
The little elves excitement grew in her eyes when she continued to talk about her interest. Kuni wasn't that invested in it but the bright smile on her face was priceless.
Children are innocent beings that deserves to be heard out and understood. Whenever Kuni talked to a child there was a slight ache deep inside of him. Is it because he never got to be one or its the memory of that boy? He may never know.
"Though... Albedo still tells me I can't bring bombs into his lab, but im fine with it because later we play together."

Wanderer nodded along. Klee in recent years could talk on and on about the topics she finds interesting. Hes happy that despite all the losses shes still her cheerful self. When our alchemist saw his sister cry that one day something in him broke. He doesn't want to see her cry like this ever again... but even he knows not try to deceive the death.

The soup next to him started to boil. Albedo took the pot and placed it on the table, taking out 3 bowls from his cabinet.
At least he can stay with her as long as she needs. And now Kuni can be there too. Longevity is a curse but can be a blessing too.

"Ah! Albedos cooking is the best!"

They are together in this. None of them will be alone again.

"Hmph. Its not half bad, but definitely not the best thing I ate"

At least that’s what Albedo hopes for. He could be putting too much trust in Kuni but for now he wants to enjoy the moment. All of them eating together.

This feeling... Its love.

"Why are you smiling like that? Eat with us."
Kuni glared at him. Albedo only chuckled and sat next to them with the bowl on his lap.

"Albedo! Today I fixed Bennetts glider."

"Oh? Did it got burned again?"
Its been awhile since Albedo saw Bennett... He was all grown up but his luck stayed the same. Some things don’t change.

"Well... nope it got thorn apart by a tree branch."
Klee shoved a spoon into her mouth she didn't even swallowed properly before resuming the talk.
"It wasn't that hard to fix only some needle work and a simple replacement of the base"

Albedo was proud of Klee. She was now helping knights more by offering repairs. She found her new hobby aside from fishblasting (that she still does from time to time). She became a very productive girl. Shes still a child though, she can be reckless and childish but her childhood is what Albedo wants her to cherish. A spark that keeps on burning.

Kuni has been quiet. It wasn't awkward since Klees voice filled the usually silent cave. After they ate and talked for hours it was time for Klee to return to headquarters.

"Its time to go back Klee, its getting late. I will walk you back."
Klees smile disappeared as quickly as Albedo said those words.

"Albedooo...why can't I stay?"
He placed a hand on top of Klees head.

"You don't want to worry other knights do you?"
Klee shook her head and eventually got up. She walked to the wanderer.

"Bye bye Kuni! It was nice to see you!"
His face lit up as the child said her goodbyes.

"We will meet again, worry not. Now let your brother take you back. I will stay on guard here"

Klee nodded and took Albedos hand waving her last goodbye. Kuni was now alone. Klee was a nice girl and her crafty skills impressed him but its nothing he haven't seen before. The cave suddenly felt colder without them. No sounds were heard aside from the blowing of the wind. Kuni stood up and went further into the cave. The painting was gone, he assumes Albedo hid it. The "bed" if you can even call it was now more neatly put together. Blankets placed on top of the mattress as if no one ever slept in it or did other... Things.
Well it wont stay like this for long.

Kuni now under the covers sighed. He didn't knew why he laid down. It was just something inside telling him to do so. For the long time in his life he never felt this much comfort as he did today. It really has been awhile since the last time he felt welcomed. Albedo was...something. was it sympathy that made him stay by his side? Pity because of his lack of home? Kuni couldn't exactly figure it out. Albedo didn't exactly *needed* him anymore.
Did Albedo wanted something from of him? Possibly.
Knowing him it would be testing his limits and how his body worked which wasn't anything he haven't experienced before... He believes Albedo is different then Dottore. If he is wrong then Kuni feels like he would break for good. Pathetic isn't it?
Could he ever achieve normality after everything he went through...

"Kuni? Are you crying?"

Kuni brought his hand to his cheek. There he felt it, tears running down his cheeks. Why *was* he crying? Could it be from pity for himself? He didn't knew exactly. He thought he was past that point.

He couldn't respond. His throat was too tight. Albedo looking at him with such care only made him more tense. The tension was thick. Alchemist reached out his hand to him, Kuni leaned away.
Wanderer assumed it must have upset the other because he just... stood up and left. Kuni was confused. Albedo wasn't the type to just leave people like this or was this the real Albedo all along? Was he foolish enough to think he could have comfort in anything in this world? He did pushed him away but...
Kunis thoughts swirled around like a thunderstorm.... It was stupid. So utterly stupid and useless. He wanted to laugh.  Why was he overthinking this? He wasn’t tied to anything here, he could just-

"You left it on the chair when Klee left."
In front of him was Albedo, holding his tiny doll. Kuni took the doll from Albedos hands and stared at it.

"We don't need to talk about it if you dont want to. There’s always another day for that."
Alchemist sat down next to him. There was distance between him as he didn't wanted to upset Kuni further. Albedo heard a chuckle next to him.

"You're an absolute moron"

Albedos eyes widened at Kunis sudden change in demeanour but then he smiled.

"Moron? That’s new, most people describe me as a genius."
Albedo scoots closer to Kuni. He made him speak, thats a progress. He didn't felt particularly touched by the insult.

"To me youre just a fool."

"Am I a fool for caring about you?"

"Of course you are."

"You know you secretly want to be cared for."
Alchemist took the puppets hand. Despite everything it did felt human.  Whoever created him must've been a master in their craft.

"you know how much I really and truly"
Albedo pressed his lips to his fingers. It was a gentle kiss that lasted a second but it was enough to make him freeze in place.
"care about you..."
Albedo shifted his gaze, looking directly in Kunis deep eyes.
"My delivery boy~"

"O-oh that was just unnecessary."

Albedo reached out to touch Kunis cheek and wipe the tears away.
"We already had intercourse, and now you're getting shy at this little gesture?"

"Its different..."
Kuni turned his face away. if someone saw him right now they wouldn't believe its him. So flustrated and quiet.

"How is it different? Is this perhaps... Too personal?"
Albedo leaned in closer.
"Do my gentle touches have an effect on you?"

Kuni didn't responded. He gave a tug on Albedos scarf— exposing his neck. He was his.

(...)

The rest of the day went by. Both Kuni and Albedo doing their own things in peace. It was rare for Kuni to stay overnight but it seemed to be more and more common. The sky bathed in oranges, pinks and yellows. Albedo couldn't help but admire the sight. Living beauty kept surprising him even after living for all those years. The way colors blend filled his artistic mind. One would need to be blind to not see how stunning sunsets and sunrises are. Albedo felt eyes on his back.

"What are you staring at?"

"Just admiring the scenery."
Kuni only huffed and went back to... what was he doing anyways? Kuni was holding something, Albedo went closer. The wanderer was sitting on the chair with piece of paper on his lap.

"It would be more comfortable on a table."
Kuni was startled and tried to cover the page. Was he drawing? Writing?

"Its nothing anyways."

"Oh come on... Let me see."

After a minute of intense thinking he finally uncovered the paper. It was full of little doodles. Bugs, flowers, cartoony cats, It was almost like they were drawn by a child.

"Don't give me that look, its bad. I don't know why I even did that"
A delicate blush adored Kunis face. Albedos curiousity only rose.

"Have you ever tried painting?"

"Ha? You think you can make me paint with you? No way. I won't be the subject of ridicule."

Wanderer wasn't really convinced to this idea but Albedo was already taking out canvas with a sparkle in his eyes.

"You seriously want us to paint? Don't you have anything better to do?"

"Hm... I could preform another study on your body instead but this time. I won't allow myself to get..."
Albedo coughed.
"distracted."

"Can't you just leave me in peace... Don't you have stuff to do?"

"I do have something else that I could do, but I much prefer your company."

Albedo placed the canvas on a easel. Kuni narrowed his eyes and sighed. The Alchemist was too clingy for his standards, he was used to being on his own and now this man never misses the opportunity to "Bond" with him. Whenever he visits Albedo he feels like all the worlds attention is on him. Just like the moon he prefers to stay in the shadows. Before he tried to be sun, the center of world with planets under his command. Now watching from afar became his norm.

A paint brush was placed in his hand. To Albedo it was a powerful tool but to Kuni it was nothing but couple of hairs on a stick. He stared at it indifferent.

"Well, is there anything you have in mind that you want to paint? "Nothing" is not an option."

Albedo stood behind Kuni. His voice was warm like a fireplace. Blank canvas in front of them. The sun was setting down in the background with gentle snowflakes falling down. He shook his head. Albedo fell quiet for a second before speaking again.

"People can be quite difficult to draw, especially for beginners so I think nature will be a good start."
Albedo pressed close to him, his chest touching puppets back, hand on his shoulder while the other reached forward. Kuni followed Albedo gaze.
"Look at this tree... Focus on it. The colors, the snow that rests on it. Try coping it on the canvas."

The brush was dipped in paint, it was dark green color. Albedos hand was holding Kunis as he place it upon the canvas. Painting simple shapes, a over all sketch. Kuni watched as his hand was guided by him. He was holding the brush but Albedo was the painter. It didn't looked hard, Kuni focused on the movements...

But when finally Albedo let go off his hand to draw freely he felt... Lost. He did an experimental stroke. It looked shaky... Was his hand shaking? It didn't looked like it was. Kuni froze for a good moment before Albedo brought him back to reality.
"Are you trying to paint with your eyes?"

"With the power of my mind actually"
He snapped back.

"I didn't knew you had such ability, may I study it?"

Kuni only sighed and looked back at the painting. Albedos smirk was pissing him off. He knew better then to start an unnecessary argument though. He placed the paintbrush on the canvas again and as told he tried to copy the scenery in front of him. It was frustrating when the sky changed oh so quickly and he had to change the colors ruining his whole plan. Albedo, thank Archons, got himself busy with writing something so he couldn't see how Kuni struggled to paint even a single line. This was humiliating

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"And? How is it going?"
Albedo finally stood up and came up to Kuni. Taking look at the canvas he saw what somehow resembled the scenery. It was now dark so the tree wasn't very visible. It was surrounded by darkness.

Wanderer placed the paintbrush and palette to the side without a word, returning to his previous seat. Albedo stayed to examine the piece further...
And there he saw it. In the snowy path on the painting there seem to be a figure. Kuni tried to paint over it but it was still visible. Yellow, navy Blue, beige, gold and what he assumed was white. Albedo felt his heart quicken. Looking over his shoulder Kuni was staring at the floor of the cave with his face propped on his hand. He really was trying hard to avoid his gaze huh? The Alchemist sat down next him.

"You did great."

Kuni still didn't looked at him. Albedo took his hand and intertwined their fingers.

"W-what are you..."

"May I kiss you?"

"H-huh?! Where did that came from."

"I just have the urge to."

"Well... Go ahead."
Only then he faced the other one. Albedo took his chance and locked their lips together. Kuni kept his eyes open, looking at Albedos closed ones. There was no force in this kiss, no heat. Just pure... Love. This gentleness, it made his head spin. Soft lips moved on his in slow motion. Albedo pulled away slowly. They remained still for awhile just looking at eachother.

"I love you."

"..."

Kuni squeezed Albedos hands, words refusing to come out of his mouth. He wanted to scream, cry, throw himself on Albedo and never let go. Yet all he managed to do was this hand squeeze.
Albedo didn't minded one bit.

"Its okay, We have all the time in the world."

"I hope so."