i wanted to write something for zhongli based around the new years - i’d imagine it’s quite a day for him, seeing it’s his birthday and all that, but AH i am a day late :wheeze:
- zhongli/reader, sfw, headcanons
- For Zhongli, the New Year is very special time for him- he revels in the glow of the fireworks as he leans off the balcony, their starbursts gently warming his cheeks.
- He inhales, exhales, and the stars seem to sigh with him. Another year has Liyue stayed strong - a grain of sand in his personal hourglass, but he is filled with pride nonetheless. It is merely a bonus that he is a year older.
- As much as Zhongli celebrates on his birthday, it is also a time to reflect on what he’s lost and gained in the given year, and to pay homage to the loved ones of long past.
- So much has changed in the past millennia he has been alive; his heart like a revolving door with how many people come and go. But even so, he still visits the shrines of old friends and pours them a drink on him, if only to sit and gossip like they once did.
- Lighting a candle and leaning against gravestones, Zhongli tells them about his year, and about you and how much he adores you. And although he is quite old enough to know that your love doesn’t require a blessing, he prays for one all the same, head bowed to the granite floor. Or at least, that’s what he tells you he wishes for; you can never have enough good fortune, he says.
- Speaking of fortune- festivals are a secret favorite of Zhongli’s!! Though it is less of a secret the more he brings home foreign trinkets from foreign holidays. But, no matter how much he travels, the festivals Liyue holds will always have a special place in his heart.
- Although, he can’t help but admit he’s a touch biased - it is a festival for him, or rather Rex Lapis, after all. Zhongli says it’s a way to thank him for another year of protection, and although he may not voice it, he is quite touched the city continues to honor him despite his “passing.”
- But! Festivals are no fun when you’re just an outsider watching in, so for his birthday Zhongli takes you out for a night on the town.
- Wrapping you in winter scarves and cloaks so you don’t get cold even in your festal attire, Zhongli whisks you away to every corner of the city. From feeding the ducks in the lotus gardens, to trying his hand at all sorts of stall games, not one stone goes unturned at this festival dedicated to him.
- Above all that, however, his favorite sight is the fireworks off Yujing Terrace, you snug in his arms as you watch the show. A stuffed dragon Zhongli won for you sits snugly in your lap, and he cant help but hold you close, absolutely endeared, when the display makes your eyes shine.