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Chapter Text

Throughout her service to the Liyue Qixing, Verr Goldet never questioned what any of the information they passed on served in the end. It was like any other job, a task to be completed, followed only by the wait for the next assignment. It's juggled alongside the usual ins and outs of management, as well the general upkeep of the inn. Huai'an's latest repairs look promising; her husband puffs up with pride like a crimson finch when she praises his work.

The Traveler is one of many topics of interest for the Qixing. No one knows where he came from and he remains tight-lipped on the subject, dodging questions with responses that are vague enough to be accepted. Aether is very sweet, so it's difficult to presume his avoidance holds any ill intent behind it. Verr Goldet can see why he tends to be a little cagey, even if it makes her job harder. It might, disturbingly, be the only self-serving quality Aether possesses.

What she does observe of Aether when he comes by the inn… well, Verr Goldet isn't sure what they can glean from his visits. If she were to be frank in her reports, it would be along the lines of: strange traveler continues to nurse a blatant crush on and cook for an equally pining adeptus. Full stop.

It is admittedly wondrous to see Xiao slowly warm up to Aether's advances, such a far cry from when he first left Aether on that balcony after a few curt statements. To think that this year, Xiao even joined them for a tiny lantern festival of their own. Perhaps there is something to be used by Qixing after all; the Traveler is capable of achieving the most impossible of feats.

While that does not make for interesting intelligence reports, the pair is incredibly delightful to spy on when there's a lull in the inn traffic. Verr Goldet can usually hear Xiao and Aether from her desk because they never stray far from it.

A majority of their meetings are held by the kitchen, the balcony, or on the rooftop itself. That last one tends to only occur when Xiao is feeling particularly anti-social. Verr Goldet is thankful Xiao rarely does that these days. Aether is skilled at reaching Xiao, but she anticipates the day her inn doesn't survive the hefty looking Geo constructs Aether uses in the process.

"You should come along with us some time," Aether is saying now, leaning in close to Xiao, closer than anyone ever dares to. Today, they are leaning back against the guardrail, side by side, while Paimon floats above. Aether is pressed up against Xiao's bare arm. Xiao voices no complaints about his proximity.

Beside her, Wei lets out a long, whiny meow.

"They are very cute, aren't they?" Verr Goldet agrees, giving Wei a scratch behind the ears. Wei purrs gratefully.

"Afterwards," Aether is continuing, "we could also have a meal at a restaurant together? It might be fun."

"This is the only mortal food I can tolerate," Xiao says before eating the last spoonful of his dessert. Xiao has always been fond of the inn's almond tofu but Verr Goldet has noticed Xiao always takes the time to eat Aether's version while he is still present.

"There's all sorts of stuff out there," Aether claims, nudging Xiao's shoulder with his own. "You won't know until you try. Paimon's had just about everything out there, so she'll know what's good. Or know what's not good. Probably."

Paimon is very smug when she pipes up, "Paimon is something of an expert now."

Aether nods, "I'm sure we can find something you might like."

Verr Goldet truly admires Aether's determination. It's only a shame that Xiao continues to deny himself of what he sees as indulgences that he does not deserve. Even so, the closer Xiao and Aether become, Verr Goldet can see that Xiao is increasingly hesitant to push him away. It is heartwarming to watch Aether earnestly chip away at the hard surface of Xiao's loneliness, the efforts to convince Xiao that he, too, should have good things given to him.

"Perhaps," Xiao murmurs, noncommittal as usual. It is enough to please the other because Aether's smile is nothing short of triumphant.

Xiao clears his throat and it is one of several signs that indicate Xiao is preparing to make an exit. The timing is about right. Their meetings usually end after a short chat, with Xiao leaping away to resume his duties. Aether's visits are the only respite Xiao allows himself. Verr Goldet is thankful for that; her offers of a room for Xiao to get some proper rest are always turned down.

Wei meows in protest when Verr Goldet stops her mindless petting to hear Aether speak again, offering to take Xiao's empty plate back to the kitchen for him. She looks up in time to see Xiao flush at the offer; this is getting exciting, she thinks. The day is slow enough that she can devote her attention to see how this one plays out. Wei is not very happy with this arrangement, batting at her for attention; she hurriedly shushes him.

Xiao is opening his mouth, likely to protest, but Aether is quicker.

"I want to do it for you," Aether says with an eager smile. "Please?"

Paimon is giggling above them, tumbling in the air in a flurry of constellations. Xiao visibly struggles to respond before he gives in to Aether's request. It's faster than he normally does, too, even if he's frowning all the while.

Xiao sighs and hands Aether the plate. "So be it. If you are going to be so insistent about it, you may return it."

"I am! I mean, I will!" Aether beams. He accepts the plate from Xiao and steps away from him with a little backwards hop. "I'll see you tomorrow, okay?"

Aether waits for Xiao's nod before he runs off to the kitchen, Paimon close behind him. The plate is returned quickly, and with a pair of cheery goodbye waves that Verr Goldet returns, Aether and Paimon take their leave.

When she chances a glance back in Xiao's direction, he has his arms folded and his eyes are shut tightly, as if trying to meditate. Spending time with Aether can exhaust Xiao, even if it is good for the adeptus in the long run. There are many things, Verr Goldet knows, that are difficult for Xiao.

Verr Goldet often wonders how to truly help Xiao in the ways he needs best. For all the texts that praise the Vigilant Yaksha's part in subduing evil and his persistence in keeping his contract, those same stories bear a warning in the fates of those poisoned by their deeds. How long does Xiao have until he meets a similar end? If he is truly destined for it, surely he deserves to have joy in his life, people to find comfort in? These musings always stir up a protective, maternal instinct, one that has Verr Goldet wishing she could pull Xiao away from a loyalty that only rewards him with more suffering.

(The first time she shares these feelings with her husband, it somehow devolves into her needing to convince Huai'an that no, she is not pregnant, and yes, it is a subject they would discuss at length whenever either of them desire children.

Huai'an does tearfully, wistfully agree that it would be wonderful if Xiao were to have a meal with them again.)

At present, Xiao breaks out of his self-imposed stillness, and he certainly looks more composed than a few minutes ago. Now he will leap off the balcony, and resume the duties that will leave him wrought with pain. It has definitely worsened, because as sneaky as Xiao can try to be, sound carries very well from the rooftop. It's easy to hear, especially if you wait at the inn desk to ensure a battered adeptus makes it back safely.

"That's sweet," Verr Goldet finds herself saying. Oops.

Xiao freezes mid-walk towards the guardrail, his departure successfully interrupted. He looks back at her and Verr Goldet smiles innocently in his direction. She didn't mean to let that slip out, but figures she may as well make the best of it now. Catching Xiao for a chat is tricky enough to begin with.

He looks unsettled, and does not move from his spot. "What is?" Xiao asks.

"Oh, just, you know. You two," Verr Goldet says with a little chuckle, and she fakes a cough to cover it up. Xiao usually didn't like it if he thought you were laughing at his expense. "It's sweet that he always makes you your favorite food and eats it with you."

Xiao's expression turns flustered for the second time today, which is quite the sight. He is very tense, but Verr Goldet quickly continues with the hope that she doesn't spook him off, "Do you also share his favorite dishes when you have meals?"

In what is the rarest sight yet, Xiao's eyes widen; Verr Goldet thinks he's never looked younger than in this moment. He looks nervous. He leaves his spot to stiffly march towards her and stop in front of her desk.

"What do you mean," Xiao demands uneasily.

Verr Goldet is fully aware of the delicate matter in her hands now. This is an opportunity help Xiao in a meaningful way, a mission with no ulterior motives other than to bring him some happiness. This is also the longest conversation she's ever held with Xiao since she's known him.

"Well, I thought you might change it up now and then, and eat what Aether likes," she reasons. Then, she carefully says, "You... do know what sort of food Aether likes, don't you? You've spent an awful lot of time talking together."

"He speaks of many things but he hasn't mentioned anything about that." Xiao stutters to a halt, his face pinking. He grapples for words, and looks equal parts frustrated and mortified. "I haven't had a reason to—that is, he hasn't said—"

"Ah, he doesn't really like to talk about himself all that much, does he?" Verr Goldet soothes, wholly understanding of Xiao's plight.

Xiao finally calms with her commiseration. "Yes. He is... usually more preoccupied with solving the problems of others."

"And cooking for others," Verr Goldet agrees with a sigh.

That comment is the wrong thing to say because Xiao's expression instantly turns distraught. "I have been using him like every other mortal that has him performing their chores," Xiao expresses with self-loathing.

"N-Not at all!" Verr Goldet insists with a frantic wave of her hand. "He enjoys your company, and he is very obvious about that, isn't he? He likes coming here and making things for you."

"Oh," Xiao says quietly. He looks thoughtful for a moment. "Are you aware of his preferences? I would… like to know more about him."

Relieved to have avoided an emotional crisis, Verr Goldet hums in thought. "I'm truly sorry, Xiao. I can't say I have any idea. As we said, for as outgoing as he can be, Aether isn't very forthcoming about himself. Other than the times he's eaten with you, I don't think I've ever seen cook exclusively for himself. If he eats, it's to make what Paimon asks for and they share."

"I see," Xiao murmurs, crossing his arms tightly.

"I hope you don't mind me saying so," Verr Goldet says slowly, and she folds her hands atop her desk, "but... why don't you simply ask Aether what he likes?"

"No," Xiao says instantly. "After all of his efforts… that would be an insult."

Verr Goldet can understand; it could be embarrassing to admit not knowing such a thing about a person you like. Asking Aether herself is not likely to be appreciated by Xiao, who would interpret the favor as pity. They are just beginning to find common ground and she would hate to jeopardize that growth.

She takes a moment to brainstorm, eager to solve Xiao's dilemma; it is her fault that Xiao's been thrust into uncertainty. He remains silent with his gaze boring into the floor, and his body beginning to curl in on itself. She suspects Xiao is working himself into an awful headspace, one consumed by his perceived one-sided use of Aether's affections.

A thought strikes her. Verr Goldet claps her hands together excitedly, and the sound startles Xiao out of his gloom.

"Why don't we try to figure it out?" Verr Goldet suggests. She leans over the desk a little to continue in a whisper, as if the Traveler would suddenly appear to overhear them. "You can have something ready for him the next time you meet, something you think he might enjoy. Or you can take him somewhere to eat?"

Xiao physically recoils at the latter. "Take him to eat amongst mortals? The restaurants he speaks of sound... crowded."

Verr Goldet smiles apologetically. "Ah, well, you can always avoid the harbor. There are plenty of other places in Liyue that aren't quite so busy."

"Hm," Xiao hums lowly. He looks doubtful.

"How about this," Verr Goldet says kindly, "Smiley Yanxiao will let you use the kitchen to make something, and you can present it to Aether when he arrives to have lunch with you tomorrow. I have some recipes here that just might do the trick."

Xiao pauses, his frown twisting into something less rigid, more willing. "You're confident this will yield a result? Humans have some very questionable ideas in regards to cooking."

"There's a lot you can choose from," Verr Goldet reasons, while Wei lets out a loud meow. She smiles at Xiao encouragingly. "So, what do you say?"

Chapter Text

Naturally, the next step is to inform Huai'an of this recent development.

"Huai'an," she carefully starts that same evening, "we need to talk about something."

Her husband sits up in bed, instantly alert. "You are pregnant!"

Verr Goldet tumbles backwards onto the bed with a laugh, her heart thumping with affection. "Oh, calm down, we spoke about this already!"

He breathes out a rushed sigh of relief, his brow already shiny with sweat. "Yes, yes we did—really, did you have to start off with a line like that?"

Verr Goldet offers him a tender apology in the form of a brief, firm kiss. She shifts closer so she can lay her palms across his back, drawing soothing circles to relax him. "It's nothing world ending. I only wanted to let you know that Xiao will be cooking tomorrow."

"Oh! Xiao will be cooking tomorrow. I see." Huai'an closes his eyes, easily accepting of this news.

Verr Goldet, internally, counts to five. Huai'an's eyes snap open.

"Xiao?" Huai'an blurts out incredulously. "As in, our Xiao? The Xiao that sits on our rooftop and looked about ready to growl at a customer that ate Mora Meat on the balcony last week? That Xiao?"

"Yes, that Xiao," Verr Goldet confirms, rewarding him with a literal pat on the back. She hopes that his panic does not qualify as a cry for help; to have Xiao appear at that moment would be quite awkward. That last part—our Xiao—she tucks away for a future conversation. "He has a bit of a project going on, and who better to help him than us?"

"My lovely wife, as compassionate as ever." Huai'an sighs, wholly genuine as he draws her into his arms. There is, however, a trace of anxiety when he asks, "And what sort of project is this?"

---

The next day, Verr Goldet finds Xiao in front of the reception desk, after the early morning rush has been taken care of and checked in.

"I am prepared," Xiao informs her. His manner is identical to the one he takes before heading out to exterminate hilichurl camps in the marsh. While it may be excessive, she is pleased to see that he is taking this so seriously.

"Good morning, Xiao. Ready for your mission?" Verr Goldet teases.

Xiao's countenance hardens further with an excessive amount of gravitas. "Adepti have undertaken far more challenging ordeals. I do not expect to encounter any difficulties."

"I'm sure you will conquer this recipe as easily as you do enemies," Verr Goldet agrees, reaching for a small box beneath the reception desk. She thumbs through the sheets of crinkled paper inside, and lets out an aha once she locates what she is searching for. "Here we go: Vegetarian Abalone."

She hands the recipe over to Xiao, and he scans through its contents quickly.

"Simple," Xiao concludes. He meets Verr Goldet's eyes with a curious gaze. "Paimon is always demanding meals with meat in it, and you mentioned that they often share. Are you sure he will like this?"

"Yuhua said he ordered this with a friend once, and he enjoyed it. It may not turn out to be his favorite, but this is as good a lead as any, wouldn't you say?" She wisely does not add that she thinks it a safer recipe for one lacking experience in a kitchen.

Xiao lifts a hand to his chin in thought. "You trust her judgment."

"I do. Yuhua is very sharp," Verr Goldet tells him, with no small amount of pride for her staff. "You'll have more than enough time to finish it before Aether arrives."

"Very well." Xiao takes a step in the direction of the kitchen. "I will begin."

"Go right ahead. Smiley Yanxiao should be waiting for you."

Xiao halts and the only way to describe him now is prickly; it's similar to how Wei poofs up when irritated or surprised. Aside from the permanent cowlick atop his head, Verr Goldet swears she can see a few strands of Xiao's hair briefly stand on end. Whether this is her eyes playing tricks on her or not, one fact remains true: his reaction is incredibly endearing.

"I do not require assistance," Xiao states.

Verr Goldet calmly asks, "Do you know how to use the stove, Xiao?"

Xiao freezes again in mid-turn towards the staircase.

"Smiley Yanxiao can help you out this time, while you learn your way around the kitchen." She comes out from behind the desk. Xiao watches her, warily, as she approaches him.

Verr Goldet considers her next move for all of a three seconds—and then she sets her hands on Xiao's shoulders to turn him around and guide him in the direction of the kitchen. Xiao instantly stiffens up at her touch, but miraculously does not pull away during the short trip downstairs. Progress, she thinks optimistically, and she releases him once they are at the kitchen level.

Smiley Yanxiao is seated at the table, and the look on his face is both apprehensive and fatigued.

"Well, what are we making?" Smiley Yanxiao asks, like a man awaiting his sentencing.

"Vegetarian Abalone," Verr Goldet proclaims cheerfully before looking in Xiao's direction. Xiao silently holds up the recipe sheet for the chef to see.

"You sure know how to pick 'em… Did he read it already?" Once he receives a curt nod from Xiao, he nods in return. "Good. Before we get started, you'll need to gather what you need."

Xiao side-eyes the tall shelves that hold a copious, colorful assortment of vegetables and fruit. "Do you not have adequate supplies on hand?"

Smiley Yanxiao stands up from the table and retrieves the skillet off of the stove. "The boss pays good money for those. Anyone that uses this kitchen has to bring their own ingredients, and that includes first-timers. To start, you’re going to need at least a dozen matsutake mushrooms and a few snapdragon flowers."

"Aether would admire that kind of extra effort," Verr Goldet proposes, hoping a mention of the Traveler will ease the affront of being labeled a first-timer.

Xiao is still frowning, but he nods all the same. He abruptly disappears in a burst of teal and black.

"Having an adeptus cook in my kitchen isn't something I expected to experience in my lifetime." Smiley Yanxiao says now that they are alone, as he starts to wash up the skillet. "Why the roundabout courting? Those two are about as obvious as it gets. They just need to figure it out for themselves."

"It's only a nudge to get him headed in the right direction," Verr Goldet explains casually; further details were not necessary at this stage. "I'm sure you'll teach your impromptu student well."

Smiley Yanxiao only grunts in response, and it is at that moment that Xiao returns. His arms are laden with mushrooms and snapdragons recently torn from the ground, and there is dirt clinging to their roots.

"I have acquired what you requested," Xiao announces, and he unceremoniously drops the items onto the table.

"You—" Smiley Yanxiao stares at the adeptus with something approaching horror in his face. "Don't just drop them anywhere like that, you need to keep your kitchen surfaces clean!"

Verr Goldet swoops in to rescue the situation before it can escalate; she has never seen Xiao look so stunned. She scoops up and separates the items into two bowls that are already on the table, to Smiley Yanxiao’s sigh of gratitude.

"And take your gloves off, they must be filthy," Smiley Yanxiao adds to Xiao, and he wipes down the table with a cloth. "You can’t handle food with those. Honestly, no respect for the ways of a chef…"

Xiao's lips press together tightly, the tips of his ears turning red. He does, however, remove his gloves and tucks them into the sash at his waist.

"Ah, I have to get back to work, so I’ll leave you two to it?" Verr Goldet asks, quickly, because it is becoming a real struggle to keep her composure over Xiao processing words so similar to his own. She can already hear the call of a customer at the reception desk, but she glances at Xiao for confirmation.

"Do not let me keep you from your duties," Xiao tells her. With that, he turns away from her and approaches Smiley Yanxiao, who is beckoning him over.

She desperately would like to remain and observe them, but there's a multitude of voices at the reception desk now. Verr Goldet leaves the kitchen with the knowledge that a beginner chef poses no problem for Smiley Yanxiao of Wangshu Inn. Xiao is in good hands.

---

There are plenty of customers to take care of, but it is not quite enough to distract Verr Goldet from the unintelligible voices coming from the kitchen. Her curiosity nags at her, and the desire to check on their progress soon becomes unbearable. Her absentmindedness causes her to neglect her feline coworker. Eventually, Wei decides that he has not been pet enough today, and the cat ends up yowling at her for attention.

“I’m sorry, it’s just a little stressful thinking about it,” Verr Goldet immediately gives the cat a few apologetic strokes. Wei purrs up a storm but offers her no sympathy.

"Maybe it’s time for you to take a look—just to make sure nothing's caught on fire," Huai'an suggests as he approaches the desk. He tries to pet Wei, too; his efforts earn him a hiss. Huai'an winces and retracts his hand immediately. “I’ll look after the desk while you do.”

Verr Goldet ends up lingering by the wooden screen, and sees Smiley Yanxiao teaching Xiao how to properly slice the matsutake mushroom. It's clear that a rapport has been established, if in a surprisingly short amount of time. When Smiley Yanxiao confiscates the knife Xiao is using, the action only earns him a huff of frustration from the adeptus.

"No, no," Smiley Yanxiao sighs, pulling the uneven slice of matsutake out of Xiao's grasp, too. "This won't absorb the sauce properly, and the inside will end up bland."

Xiao frowns at his own work. He holds a hand out. "I apologize for wasting ingredients. I will try again."

"You don't need to apologize every time," Smiley Yanxiao chuckles in amusement, and the chef brings a broad hand against the adeptus's back in a friendly pat. A strangled yelp emerges from Xiao's mouth, the gesture coming too fast for the adeptus to steel himself for it. To his credit, he only stumbles a little under the force of the action.

"We can use it for something else, don't worry about it," Smiley Yanxiao assures.

Xiao lets out another huff, thought this one contains less irritation. "I still do not understand why all of this is necessary. What is the point of being so particular when this will be eaten in a matter of moments?"

"Cooking isn't only about satisfying hunger." Smiley Yanxiao reaches for a new matsutake and he gestures for Xiao to watch him. "It's about taking pride in what you make, because your work speaks for you."

Xiao is quiet as he watches Smiley Yanxiao's skilled, careful knife work produce several flawless slices of matsutake.

"Think about who you are doing this for," Smiley Yanxiao continues, and he hands the knife back to Xiao, "and think about how you want your food to make them feel."

The adeptus continues to remain silent, but even from her distance, Verr Goldet can see the determination beginning to flicker in his eyes. Under Smiley Yanxiao's watchful eye, Xiao takes another matsutake and slowly tries to mimic the chef's work.

The moment the knife slices through the end of the vegetable, Smiley Yanxiao lets out a booming cheer of approval and claps enthusiastically. The suddenness of it startles Xiao, and Verr Goldet covers her mouth to muffle a laugh of delight at Xiao's wide eyes and reddening face.

"Perfect!" Smiley Yanxiao takes the slice to inspect it. He nods in approval and adds it to the dish they are using to gather them. "All you needed to do was appreciate the process. Doesn't it feel better to take your time and do it right, rather than trying to get it out of the way?"

"I suppose," Xiao admits slowly. He is too overwhelmed by the praise, it seems, to debate any of Smiley Yanxiao's words.

"Good," Smiley Yanxiao says, "now just do that a few more times."

It would be hardly fair to interrupt them now, so Verr Goldet sneaks back to the front desk with a smile.

Eventually, a lovely scent travels out of kitchen area as the dish comes together. The smell ends up attracting Wei, and Verr Goldet snatches the cat up before his paws can find their way into anything. Wei meows pitifully while Verr Golder overhears Smiley Yanxiao instruct Xiao on how to fry the matsutake to the perfect shade of gold.

Aether arrives towards the end of lunch time. Upon being directed to the kitchen by Verr Goldet, he now blinks at what is surely a scene that deviates from the norm he's come to expect from a visit to Wangshu Inn.

From the reception floor, Verr Goldet can watch the scene unfold; Smiley Yanxiao and Huai'an, now equally invested, are with her as well. They keep a reasonable distance from the staircase, to keep as inconspicuous as possible with their eavesdropping. (Yuhua voiced her disappointment at having to remain at the ground floor while this all goes down, but she is promised a full report afterwards.)

Xiao is standing with the perfectly plated serving of Vegetarian Abalone held in one hand. Even from a distance, they can see the steam wafting off of the freshly cooked meal, still warm for Aether's arrival. What is also visible is Aether's ravenous stare, one that rivals Paimon's own longing gaze at the food.

"Hi," Aether finally says, sounding very lost.

"Hello," Xiao greets. He takes a few steps closer to the traveler. "I have food for you."

Paimon's eyes glitter brightly as she stares at the dish. "Whoa, that looks so good!"

Aether looks equally hypnotized. "That's for us?"

"For you," Xiao specifies, throwing a quick, wary look in Paimon’s direction. He takes Aether's closest hand into his free one and pulls Aether towards the table beneath the staircase. After they are both seated, he hands Aether a pair of chopsticks.

"We will eat together," Xiao declares, "as we always do."

"His romance could use a little work," Huai'an murmurs with a wince.

Verr Goldet chuckles behind her hand and whispers, "I think he does perfectly well for himself. Now hush, or else we won’t be able to hear them."

Chapter Text

Aether blinks wide eyes at Xiao. "Really? But what about your whole," Aether abruptly lowers his voice to mimic Xiao's smoother, lower register, "this is the only mortal food I can tolerate thing?"

Poking fun at the Vigilant Yaksha is something that would normally not end well—if one ever dared such a thing. It's a mark of how fond Xiao is when his voice softens and he replies, "I am trying new things."

The answering smile on Aether's face is so bright that it borders on euphoric. "That's great! What do you think you might want to try next? If you want, we can—"

"Okay, okay!" Paimon hovers between them with her hands on her hips. "The food is getting cold! Aren't you going to try it already? And maybe give Paimon a bite, too, hmm?"

Aether laughs and leans across the table to inspect the food more closely. After a few seconds, he hums in approval and looks up at Xiao. "Did you make this?"

Xiao nods, and he looks eager to say as much. "I did."

"It really was his own effort that brought it together," Smiley Yanxiao murmurs, and there's a trace of pride present in his gruff voice. "He worked hard."

Verr Goldet's heart clenches in fondness at the pair of them—and maybe her hands clench a little, too. She hears the muffled noise Huai'an makes when his hand is trapped in her tight grip, but she can't help herself. It's such a joy to see Xiao pleased with himself.

Back at the table, Aether picks up a slice of matsutake with his chopsticks. He stirs it around the plate a few times, to pick up some sauce, before lifting it up. "You said we're eating together, right?" He holds the food out in Xiao's direction.

"Yes," Xiao eyes the food in front of him uncertainly, "but I—"

"Please?" Aether asks with a smile.

"…Fine."

Verr Goldet and her fellow spectators hold their breath when Aether is permitted to place the food into Xiao's open mouth. Aether beams happily, "You should enjoy what you made, too. "

Xiao chews twice, and swallows the rest of it in one gulp.

Paimon gawks at the adeptus in horror. "At least try to savor it!"

"He can eat how he likes," Aether says cheerfully, unfazed and like he's having the best day of his life. He looks at Xiao expectantly. "Good?"

"Good," Xiao eventually confirms, though he does look a little out of sorts following the other's very forward gesture. Aether is satisfied and takes a second piece of matsutake for himself.

Xiao now watches the Traveler with rapt attention. The adeptus leans in closer towards Aether, captivated; his gold eyes shimmer with anticipation. He waits until Aether finishes licking away the sauce from his mouth to ask, "Do you like it?"

"Mm," Aether nods in approval, "you did a really good job."

Xiao ignores the praise to immediately follow up with, "Do you enjoy this often?"

"Oh, um, not really?" Aether sounds guilty, like he's been caught doing something wrong. While he is speaking to Xiao, Paimon decides that her patience has earned her the right to snatch the best-looking piece of matsutake off the plate. If Aether notices this, he does not comment on it. "I made it a few times when I bought the recipe, but—"

"He's just not a fan of mushrooms these days," Paimon explains through a full mouth and happy munches.

Xiao's eyes widen imperceptibly. "You're… not?"

Aether's face pinks a little while he picks out a broccoli floret. "I wouldn't say that. You know Paimon likes to exaggerate."

"You shouldn't talk about someone right in front of them," Paimon scolds past her second pilfered slice of matsutake.

"I still like them," Aether holds out another piece of food for Xiao to eat. He smiles when Xiao (perhaps still too shocked by this latest development) obliges him. "I'm just trying new things, too."

"You just ate one too many mushroom skewers," Paimon says, patting Aether's head in sympathy. He sends her a withering look when the gesture leaves a bit of sauce in his hair. "Times were hard for our Traveler when he first arrived in Teyvat."

Xiao watches Aether finish the last few bites of the meal and only says, "I see."

By comparison, Smiley Yanxiao's reaction is far more severe.

"Who gets tired of mushrooms," is Smiley Yanxiao's baffled outburst. It is just loud enough to startle the subjects of their observation. Verr Goldet quickly grabs both men and pulls them out of view before they can fully ruin the pair's lunch.

---

Afterwards, Aether excuses himself to clean up Paimon, and to wash the sauce out of his hair. Verr Goldet offers him a spare room while the rest of them gather in the lobby by the reception desk. Yuhua takes the opportunity to sneak upstairs to join them. ("Downstairs is being looked after," she tells them all with a secret twinkle in her eye.)

"Oh," Yuhua exhales less enthusiastically, staring sadly at the serving of Lotus Flower Crisp in her hands. She'd bought the snack to celebrate a successful mission. "Then it was a complete failure. My information was useless."

"I wouldn't say it was a failure. Maybe a setback, at most?" Huai'an offers kindly. Richie, seated beside him on the floor, barks in encouragement.

"His reception to the meal was lukewarm at best," is Xiao's immediate criticism. He stares at the floor grimly and shuts his eyes tightly. "That would constitute a failure."

"Well," Huai'an tries again slowly, "you know to avoid mushrooms now?"

Yuhua huffs and she stuffs a crisp into her mouth, chewing in frustration. "I swear, he practically inhaled that stuff that day he ate with his astrologer friend! I'd never seen someone eat so fast."

"No, that's how he always eats," Smiley Yanxiao interjects, "like he's on a deadline—which, with all the commissions he takes, he probably is. This is the first time I've ever seen him properly enjoy a meal, really take his time with it." The chef looks at Xiao with some admiration. "You've managed a first, I think."

"Well, that's not entirely true," Huai'an corrects, bringing a hand to his chin in thought. "There was another time we saw Aether like this, and that was for your private lantern festival, Xiao."

Xiao stiffens when they all now turn their gazes on him with varying levels of wonder. He crosses his arms in a defensive, flustered manner. "What are you all implying?"

"Do we really need to spell it out for him?" Yuhua whispers from behind one hand. It is not as inaudible as she intends because Xiao turns to her sharply and narrows his eyes at her. Yuhua giggles nervously, inching towards Verr Goldet. Thankfully, someone comes to their rescue and to destroy the tense atmosphere.

"Wow, what's all this?" Paimon floats over and looks around at the group, who all go mum at her arrival. She raises a single eyebrow in suspicion. "Are you having a meeting or something? Are you sharing secrets? It's not nice to keep things from your friends."

"We were just enjoying some Lotus Flower Crisp!" Yuhua pipes up, displaying the plate to Paimon. It's the perfect distraction and Paimon happily ends her interrogation in favor of grabbing one.

"Paimon, they must be talking important stuff about the inn. We shouldn't bother them." Aether walks in, his hair now sauce-free, entirely oblivious that he was the subject under discussion. He shakes his head at Paimon, who is munching her crisp blissfully, and turns to Verr Goldet. "Unless you need some help, Paimon and I probably have to get going now."

"Things are fine here," Verr Goldet says with a wink. "I hope you enjoyed your lunch?"

Aether's eyes dart off to the side, and she follows his line of sight to find Xiao at the end of it. The adeptus is presently in a staring contest with the cat on the desk. Wei, for his part, is kind enough to provide Xiao with an excuse to avoid socializing. Aether smiles to himself before turning back to Verr Goldet. "It was really good."

"Maybe you should hire Xiao as another chef," Paimon suggests. "Turns out he can make some pretty tasty food."

"Haha, I'll take it under consideration. Take care now, you two."

The rest of the inn residents offer their goodbyes as the Traveler and Paimon walk out of the lobby. Paimon flits off as quick as ever, and Aether is about to turn the corner that will take him to the elevator when he stops. After a moment, Aether turns on his heel and doubles back to stop right in front of Xiao.

"Hey," Aether says awkwardly. He squirms a bit, and Verr Goldet wonders if he's nervous with so many others present. He usually says his goodbyes to Xiao (mostly) alone.

Xiao, now in a staring contest with Aether, says, "Yes?"

It's a move too quick for even Xiao to avoid when Aether circles his arms around Xiao in a tight, squeezing hug. Xiao's own arms hover at Aether's sides, unsure what to do with them, and Verr Goldet can see that they are trembling. Xiao is spared having to make a move because Aether draws back almost as quickly as he leaned in.

"Thank you," Aether says, sounding uncharacteristically shy. "I'll see you tomorrow?"

Xiao nods crookedly. His normally cool expression is in disarray and his face is a shade of red that Verr Goldet doubts has ever been seen on him before. It's certainly never been mentioned in any texts written on the Vigilant Yaksha.

Aether runs off and the silence that follows in his absence is unbearably heavy. None of them dare speak; there is a shared and unspoken dread that saying anything may further unsettle Xiao. The adeptus has not moved from his spot since Aether's hug.

"Xiao?" Verr Goldet finally, bravely tries.

Xiao stiffly and silently walks out of the lobby, lacking his usual grace. Once outside, he leaps up and out of view, likely settling on the highest level of the roof. His escape was to be expected, Verr Goldet thinks, because this would be an exhausting day for anyone. She decides to check on him later.

"So," Yuhua suddenly breaks the silence, sounding smug, "it wasn't a failure."

"Xiao still won't feel it's enough, not after how often Aether has done this for him," Verr Goldet explains with a sigh. "His first assumption was that he was taking advantage of Aether."

"But Aether never wants anything in return," Huai'an points out. "The only reason he accepts rewards from us is because Paimon insisted on his behalf."

"A persistent do-gooder, that one," Verr Goldet agrees.

"Still think they ought to figure it out themselves," Smiley Yanxiao says with a frown. "All of this runaround will only draw things out and may cause them more headache than they need."

"Or," Yuhua says, a sly grin on her face, "we need to make things a little bolder. You know, really get the romance going?"

Smiley Yanxiao stares at her with apprehension. "How do you manage to make everything sound so suspicious?"

"Hm? There's nothing suspicious about it, ahaha," Yuhua grins innocently, and she lifts up the plate in her hands. "Lotus Flower Crisp?"

"I am going back to my kitchen," Smiley Yanxiao announces tiredly, and he leaves to do just that.

---

How Aether manages this every time Xiao decides to isolate himself is impressive, even with the use of geo constructs. Their tallest, rickety ladder barely reaches the edge of the roof. Huai'an notes to correct this in the future, considering the likelihood that the roof will be in need of repairs one day. At the same time, he raises some concern over Verr Goldet's current activities.

"Goldet, love of my life," Huai'an starts, his voice strained with dread, "what are you doing?"

Verr Goldet turns back to her husband, halfway up their questionably stable ladder. "I'm going to see Xiao."

"Ah, yes," Huai'an says, like he should have known better. "Well, be sure to knock on the roof or shout to let me know when you want to come down. I'll catch you, which is far safer than climbing back down that old thing."

"Such a romantic," Verr Goldet teases once she has pulled herself on top of the roof. "I love you."

"I love you, too," Huai'an returns, always affectionate amid the strangeness of their lives. Verr Goldet is standing on the roof of their inn to speak to a lonely adeptus, and Huai'an looks as smitten as he did the day that he confessed.

"Gross," comes a small, whiny voice. They both turn to see a small boy watching their exchange, undoubtedly the child of a guest that wandered upstairs.

"Go on, it's getting late. I'll get this sorted," Huia'an tells her, disappearing from sight when he guides the boy back inside. Verr Goldet hears her husband's gentle laugh as he addresses the child, "Hey, just wait until you get your own beautiful, clever wife. You'll tell her that sort of stuff every day. Now, have you met Richie yet? No? Well, he's downstairs, so let's get going…"

Verr Goldet finds Xiao gazing out at the marsh, knees tucked up to his chest; it seems that bringing along a small bowl of almond tofu was a no brainer. She cautiously approaches him, making enough noise so that Xiao is aware of her presence.

Xiao turns to her when she is a small distance away. "That is dangerous. You should not come up here when it is not necessary."

"It was most certainly necessary that you receive this," she replies, sitting down beside him. She hands him the small bowl, and there is a spoon already laying inside of it. "Think of it as a reward for all your hard work."

Xiao moves to sit cross-legged and accepts her offering, though the dessert does not ease his troubled expression. "After all that effort, no progress was made."

Verr Goldet hums and leans back a little. "Are you sure about that?" The breeze up on the roof is nice; it is soothing and calm as evening approaches. Xiao's need for solitude aside, Verr Goldet can see why Xiao likes it up here so much.

"It was not his favorite," Xiao returns. He holds a spoonful of almond tofu but does not lift it to his mouth to eat. "He knows mine, while I continue to know so little about him."

"You made him very happy."

"It is in his nature to be kind. Even if he hated it, he would still eat it because that is how he is."

Verr Goldet laughs at that. She hurriedly clears her throat when it earns her a sharp stare from the adeptus. "You don't give Aether enough credit, I think. True, he is very sweet, but I've seen him be frank when the occasion calls for it."

Xiao considers this. "He does lack timidness."

"If he didn't like it, I'm sure you would have been able to tell. Surely you trust each other enough by now to be honest with one another?"

"But I want—" Xiao turns his gaze back to the marsh, lips pressed together tightly. He drops the spoon into the bowl and the almond tofu remains untouched.

Verr Goldet waits. When Xiao does not continue, she prompts him, "You want…?"

"I have no desire," Xiao sharply replies.

It pains Verr Goldet to hear how forced his words are. "You're allowed to want things, Xiao."

Xiao does not respond. She decides that the subject is too sensitive to be breached now. She tucks it away, as she does with many things these days. Perhaps the next time it comes up, Xiao will be more amenable to her words.

"You put a smile on his face. That alone means you're doing perfectly fine," Verr Goldet pivots, hoping to soothe his nerves. "You just need to keep at it and you'll figure it out. Just remember we're here to help you."

"Adepti do not need help," Xiao responds, but this time it sounds more out of habit. It lacks the previous bitterness, and Xiao finally eats his almond tofu, devouring it in a few spoonfuls. He hands her the bowl. "Your assistance, however, has proven to be invaluable. While I do not understand your motives, especially when it is of no benefit to you, I will not stop you."

Verr Goldet smiles at him. "I hope to continue to be of service to you."

"You owe me no allegiance, and may retract your offer of help any time you see fit."

"That's very considerate of you." Verr Goldet watches Xiao get to his feet. "Say, Xiao—what do you say to taking a trip?"

Xiao, spear already in hand and poised to leap, stares at her in confusion.

"Huai'an needs to head out to Qingce and there are plenty of stops along the way to have a meal. He was going to commission Aether, but why don't you tag along, too? It would be a great opportunity for you to observe Aether's habits."

Xiao frowns. "That would leave Wangshu Inn unguarded for most of the day. I can respond to any call, but it would be wiser for me to—"

"It will be fine one day without you," Verr Goldet assures. It would also do Xiao some good to get him out of and away from the inn, if only for a few hours. "My staff is well-trained to handle most things, and we can certainly hold our own against a few hilichurl camps."

"You will call for me, if any situation escalates," Xiao says. It is not a request.

"Of course," she promises.

The adeptus still looks hesitant, but ultimately agrees to her proposal. "Very well. I will assist with the commission." Xiao pauses. "...Thank you."

Verr Goldet sits up and musters up all of her well-meaning intentions in her gaze. "There is no need for that, but you are very welcome."

Xiao clears his throat. "I must go. Do you… require assistance leaving the roof?" He looks at the distance between the roof and the balcony floor pointedly.

"Don't you worry about me. I want to stay up here a little longer anyway." Verr Goldet leans back on her palms again and grins. "Huai'an will catch me."

Xiao studies her as if trying to understand a puzzle. If he gleans anything from his scrutiny, it does not show in his face. Xiao dons his mask and turns away from her. "Then, I shall take my leave."

The adeptus leaps off the roof, and Verr Goldet watches the black and teal shards that are left in his wake fade away.

Chapter Text

Huai'an occasionally makes the journey to Qingce to meet up with a bamboo shoot supplier and to check in on some older friends. The village is mostly populated by older folks and their grandchildren, left behind when the younger blood left to chase their dreams elsewhere. A quiet and unassuming place, it's a trip that Verr Goldet knows Huai'an looks forward to.

For some time now, they planned to commission Aether to accompany Huai'an, especially considering the increase in geovishap hatchling sightings. Recent developments are what lead Verr Goldet to realize an opportunity when she sees one. She's wanted to get Xiao out of the inn for years now. Lantern Rite was a step in the right direction, so it only makes sense to push a little further.

"Knowing they're with you would be a relief," Verr Goldet finishes telling Huai'an in the morning, shortly before Aether is expected to arrive. She makes sure to smile reassuringly; she always does when she asks something monumental of Huai'an. "I'm sure Aether will appreciate the extra Mora, and you the company."

"Wouldn't it make more sense for you to go instead? I don't know if I'm the proper chaperone for this sort of thing," Huai'an frets, and it's terribly funny. The prospect of spending the day with a kind outlander and his adeptus suitor should not be so intimidating to a man like Huai'an. "Wait, is that what I'm doing? Chaperoning?"

"Paimon will probably be there, too," Verr Goldet adds, although how much help the companion will be to Huai'an's mental state, she cannot say. "I really would like to come along, but I'm not entirely comfortable leaving the inn—"

"Our Kamera is out of film," Huai'an cuts in gravely, "so I wouldn't be able to take any pictures for you."

Verr Goldet stills. "Hmm, that is a problem."

While it's important to avoid overstepping boundaries, that concern remains parallel to her need to guide Xiao through the more mundane aspects of life. It should worry her more that she feels this responsible for him; this wasn't part of her assigned mission, after all.

As Verr Goldet struggles to make her choice, Yuhua chooses that moment to approach the reception desk. "Boss, we can handle things here! If it gets too busy, I can always call over Xiuhua to assist with the guests and meals."

Verr Goldet folds her hands tightly on her desk. "I would feel better if one of us stayed behind."

"Smiley Yanxiao and I can manage on our own." Yuhua hums in thought, looking towards the kitchen. "I'm sure he can get that buddy of his from the marsh to come by and lend a hand, too. It's the least he can do—"

"Don't volunteer me to do anything!" Smiley Yanxiao shouts over the sound of something frying. His interruption is suspiciously well-timed to prevent Yuhua from saying anything more. The chef appears at the top of the stairs and continues, "Jiangxue's about as reliable as, uh… Look, what I'm saying is, don't count on that freeloader for anything. Got it?"

"Don't you feed him on a daily basis? He must owe you at least one favor by now," Yuhua points out, her expression gleeful when Smiley Yanxiao turns beet red and barks out a denial.

While her staff is busy bickering, Verr Goldet redirects her attention to her husband. "Are you sure you need me to come along? I only worry that they'll be overwhelmed without us."

"What's important is looking after Adeptus Xiao, and making sure things go well today!" Yuhua insists, narrowly escaping Smiley Yanxiao's irritated reach with his ladle. She leans over the desk to whisper not at all quietly, "He would probably feel more at ease with you there. What if something goes amiss? Isn't this their first proper date?"

"Is it a date? Are we paying for them to have a date? We're just going to Qingce to talk about bamboo," Huai'an interjects anxiously, waving off Yuhua's dramatics. "I doubt much could happen, anyway. The usual route isn't too dangerous."

"Is it now?" Verr Goldet leans her face on one hand and smirks. "You should be perfectly fine on your own then. I can stay behind after all."

Huai'an splutters. "Well, that's not quite what I meant—"

Verr Goldet reaches out to still her husband's flailing, trembling hands. "I'll come along. Yuhua made some very sound points and I would hate to rattle your nerves any more than I already have this week. It will be nice to get out, too."

Huai'an sighs in relief, and then he does a complete spin in his spot so that he can inspect the lobby. "Hm, that being said, where is Xiao, anyway? I haven't seen him yet today."

"It's still early," Verr Goldet reasons. "He'll probably show up once Aether arrives."

"I can head up to check the balcony, to see if I spot him," Yuhua volunteers eagerly, already halfway up the staircase.

"Breakfast will be ready soon," Smiley Yanxiao reminds her. Before he marches back into the kitchen, he adds to the lobby at large, "Fair warning: we're having sautéed matsutake with it. I had to do something with all those leftovers."

---

The trip to Qingce is a work venture above all else, but Verr Goldet finds the simple act of stepping off of the elevator to be liberating. Yuhua is already back on the ground floor, cheerfully welcoming any guests that cross her path, whether on their way to the elevator or to the dining area. Verr Goldet returns Yuhua's thumbs up before she and Huai'an reach the end of the promenade to wait for the arguable stars of their little excursion.

"Oh, hello!" The adventurer Dandy greets them from her spot by the guardrail. A man is walking away from her, and it seems she just failed to convince him to try her sprinting challenge. It's for the best, Verr Goldet thinks; Huai'an doesn't have the time to rebuild any staircases damaged by anyone bored enough to try it.

"I can't remember the last time I saw the boss leave the inn." Dandy raises her eyebrows in question. "A romantic getaway perhaps?"

"Nothing of the sort," Verr Goldet responds, gently swatting at Huai'an's arm when he smiles widely at the comment. "Just a business matter to attend to in Qingce Village. I imagine we'll be back by the evening."

"Ah, Qingce Village?" Dandy exclaims. "I was just there earlier this morning. Please be sure to stay safe on your way there. You might want to consider commissioning someone from the Guild—"

Dandy's words transform into a screech when a teal blur slams into the ground close by.

"No need, that would be one of our escorts now," Huai'an says with the world-weary tone of a man ten years older than he actually is.

It's not the first time Xiao has leapt off of the roof, so the staff and established regulars don't so much as bat an eye when Xiao's devastating plunge sends dirt and small bits of rock flying every which way. Dandy, who never quite acclimated to certain inn traditions, immediately puts ample distance between herself and the adeptus.

Xiao stands up, his face already set in its usual stoicism, and calmly approaches them. He steps onto the promenade, and that draws Verr Goldet's attention to the fact that Xiao made the conscious effort to not land on the wood. How sweet of him, she thinks, to avoid damaging any part of the inn. (She will, however, speak to him about choosing landing areas where he's less likely to give someone a heart attack.)

Xiao examines the group in front of him, and only raises an eyebrow at Dandy's trembling form. He is immediately dismissive of the adventurer and turns to face Verr Goldet and Huai'an. "…Hello."

"Good morning, Xiao," Verr Goldet offers, and Huai'an echoes her greeting with a mite less enthusiasm. Verr Goldet registers Dandy squeaking out a morning before the woman hightails it out of the area. Poor thing; Verr Goldet makes a mental note to offer her a free night and meal at the inn in the future. "I trust you're prepared for the trip."

"I am," Xiao states. He stares at her for a long moment, appraising. "I did not think you would be coming as well."

"Last minute change of plans. I hope it isn't a problem?"

Xiao looks puzzled at her response before he shrugs and crosses his arms. "It is within your right to go where you like. I am only here to ensure the safety of everyone present."

"Then it's settled," Huai'an confirms. "Now all we need to do is wait for Aether to arrive… and there he is now."

Indeed, sprinting across the bridge with Paimon in tow is none other than their commissioned traveler. As Aether draws nearer, Verr Goldet spots Xiao throwing a quick glance towards the inn, as if searching for something. Before she can determine the reason behind the action, Aether is already upon them and Xiao already has refocused his attention on the Traveler.

"Just in time?" Aether asks as he jogs to a stop in front of them. "We came as soon as we saw the commission posted."

"Plenty of time," Verr Goldet informs him. "It's still early, so take a moment to catch your breath first."

Aether nods gratefully, but he hardly waits, still breathless when he sets his eyes upon the adeptus present. "Xiao… ah, I was worried I wouldn't have time to see you today. Are you seeing us off?"

Xiao shakes his head. "I will be joining you, as will the boss."

"Paimon didn't know adepti took commissions," Paimon murmurs in confusion.

Aether's excitement visibly grows by tenfold. "What made you decide that? I mean, I don't mind at all! It probably won't be very interesting, but we can try to have fun on the way there."

Xiao slowly nods, though he does not make any promises to have 'fun'. His gaze on Aether turns serious, and the look in his eyes can only be described as piercing. Verr Goldet and Huai'an exchange glances, and they soundlessly assume that they are about to receive an adeptus-branded lecture on safety.

"Before we depart, there is something I must do," Xiao declares, unfolding his arms.

"Hm, is there anything more we need to do?" Huai'an wonders aloud. "I thought we were all set. Inn is looked after, Aether is here…"

"No, nothing of that sort." Xiao marches over to Aether, looking very determined about whatever it is he's about to do. Paimon yelps and flies out of Xiao's path, and Aether's eyes widen at Xiao's slow, deliberate approach.

"I have done you a disservice, Traveler," Xiao continues. "I would like to correct it before we begin. I was told it would best to take responsibility now, in order to ensure a successful commission."

Aether stares in bewilderment, briefly looking over to Verr Goldet for help. She can only shake her head, equally lost.

"Uh, take responsibility for what exactlyeee—!?"

When Xiao pulls Aether into his arms, Aether's shriek rivals that of Dandy's earlier. Xiao holds Aether in a hug so tight it looks like it might border on painful. But Aether does not complain nor attempt to escape, only releasing the tiniest, high-pitched noise of surprise from his spot in Xiao's arms.

"Wow," Verr Goldet and Huai'an express in unison.

"Have I made sufficient amends?" Xiao asks Aether as he pulls away, and his eyes are glittering with pride. He has the look of a man that's accomplished something astounding.

Aether gurgles out a noise of assent that is similar in sound to that of a drowning hilichurl.

"Well!" Huai'an claps his hands loudly, and Verr Goldet nearly chokes on a laugh at how flustered he looks. Huai'an immediately winces, and it's clear that the clap was hard enough to make his palms sting. "Uh, long trip ahead of us, let's not waste any time!"

"Good job, Adeptus Xiao!" comes a shout behind Verr Goldet, unmistakably Yuhua in every way.

Xiao's ears turn red and he abruptly releases Aether and steps away from him. Aether looks utterly dazed and only present in the physical sense, and Verr Goldet joins Paimon in shaking the Traveler out of his stupor. Huai'an also acts swiftly, directing them to the path leading into Dihua Marsh, getting them out of the area before they need to contact the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor for a gutsy waitress.

---

They proceed past the teahouse and vendors set up along Dihua Marsh, more relaxed with Wangshu Inn now behind them. They avoid the Dendro Slimes along the way under Aether's experienced direction ("They don't notice you these days as long as you stick to the path!") and the weather stays sunny but fair.

Along the way, Aether diligently collects every plant, fruit, and seemingly useless item they come across. How he keeps it all together without any visible bulk is another Aether mystery that Verr Goldet decides is best left unexplained. She doesn't know what he needs all the mint and berries for but Aether stows away each item with the utmost care.

Xiao notices the Traveler's compulsive behavior, and after a while, takes it upon himself to assist. Before Aether can get to it first, Xiao stops at the next bush they come across and picks it free of every berry.

"Do you like berries, Xiao?" Aether asks when he sees Xiao's hands full of the yellow fruit.

"I do not." Xiao briskly walks over to Aether and deposits the berries into the other's hands. He does not move his hands until Aether has them all within his grasp. "But it's obvious that you need these for something important."

"Oh." Aether blushes, and he smiles gratefully at the adeptus. Xiao looks pleased that his offering is accepted and immediately walks off to find another bush, trailed closely by Aether. They continue like this until they reach the stone bridge at the edge of Dihua Marsh, where they are stopped by the Millelith stationed there.

"Hello," comes a sharp voice, "please hold, if you are planning to pass through Dihua Marsh."

"Ah, Qiaoxi, how are you doing?" Huai'an greets the man with a quick wave.

After a moment of squinting at the group, Qiaoxi straightens up in recognition of the innkeepers. "Ah, Huai'an, and the esteemed inn owner, Verr Goldet. How are you doing? It's been some time, but I trust the inn is doing well? I send plenty of travelers that way."

"As well as ever," Verr Goldet responds with a smile.

"And," Qiaoxi turns his stare towards Aether now, "I spy a traveler in exotic attire. What are you doing here?"

For one under such intense scrutiny, Aether looks oddly unbothered and responds to the man easily. "Just helping out with a commission for the Wangshu Inn."

"Hm. As you know, all who wish to cross this bridge are subject to interrogation," Qiaoxi states seriously, his voice at odds with a barely concealed smile. "Those are the rules."

Aether laughs at the obvious, good-natured ribbing. Verr Goldet marvels at Aether's ever-expanding social network in Teyvat that might put the Qixing's own to shame one day. It's not everyone that can be likable enough to befriend the very soldiers that once tried to arrest him. There's no question that there is something magnetic about the Traveler, whether it be his too-giving nature or that bright smile (too bright at times, as if always trying to cover something up with all that shine).

Xiao suddenly breaks his silence to step in between Aether and the Millelith soldier.

"The Traveler is a hero in Liyue, and yet you dare to disrespect him with your suspicion?" Xiao's tone is a harsh reproach, severe enough that Verr Goldet begins to worry that the situation is about to escalate. Xiao continues, disregarding the Millelith backing up at the adeptus's words. "He has done nothing to warrant an interrogation, so to even suggest so is—"

"Xiao, hold on!" Aether steps in, placing a hand on Xiao's bare arm. He laughs but looks like he's sweating bullets. "Xiao, we're just joking, he tells me this every time I come this way. Qiaoxi and I are friends."

"Yeah, Aether's helped him out a lot of times!" Paimon adds, sending the Millelith an apologetic grin and wave.

"…Mortals have odd ways of reciprocating your friendship," Xiao murmurs, his sharp gaze still fixed on the Millelith. He does appear to be less tense, however, at Aether's touch. "I do not find his joke amusing, especially not if it is made at your expense."

Aether flushes. "Ah, well…"

"He didn't mean any harm by it, Xiao," Verr Goldet adds, "I'm sure he respects Aether as much as you or I. Isn't that right, Qiaoxi?"

"Of course," the man responds, looking at Aether, "he's the only one that comes by when I ask for help. It's more than I can say for most."

"I'm always happy to help out," Aether says, eager to steer the conversation into a more amiable direction. It's impressive while he still has an overprotective adeptus glowering at his side. "Ah, so, still only you stationed here?"

The man, who is eyeing Xiao with a mixture of curiosity and trepidation, turns back to Aether with a sigh. "Higher-ups as usual said there's no one else they could free up. As long as the bridge stands, I'll be here guarding it."

"Seems an awfully long time for them to leave you on your own like this," Huai'an muses. In truth, the man has been stationed there on his own for as long as Verr Goldet can remember, even since they began construction on the Wangshu Inn.

Xiao, evidently still feeling sore, bluntly states, "They must be lying to you."

Aether chuckles nervously. "Xiao…"

Xiao turns to face Aether, genuinely confused. "Have I spoken out of turn? He would do well to take the advice of an adeptus."

"An adeptus?" Qiaoxi's eyes widen, looking Xiao up and down, fully processing the person in front of him. He stutters a little when he speaks again. "An adeptus familiar with the Wangshu Inn…!? W-Well, I've heard plenty of rumors..."

"Wow, Paimon forgets how famous you are sometimes." Paimon flits over and stares at Xiao with a cheeky grin. "You're practically a celebrity in Liyue, huh?"

"I have no need of fame," Xiao retorts.

Aether hums, clasping his hands behind his back. "I think it's pretty cool."

Xiao immediately shuts up.

"It was lovely to catch up with you, Qiaoxi," Verr Goldet takes that opening to make their exit. "But there's only so many hours in the day, and we can't leave the inn on its own for too long. We'll get going now."

As they bid the soldier goodbye and resume their journey, with Xiao and Aether taking the lead to look out for enemies, Verr Goldet picks up a short exchange from the pair in front of her and Huai'an. She doesn't mean to eavesdrop, and they are speaking in hushed tones, but the area they are in hardly has much else that can distract her.

Xiao reaches out to grasp Aether's closest wrist and tugs on it for attention.

Aether looks over Xiao. "What's up?"

"I… did not mean to cause offense." Xiao's expression softens, though there is the linger of a reprimand in his voice when he continues. "I find myself… concerned that you offer too much of yourself to others, and rarely with proper recognition. You should learn to be more selfish."

"Thanks," Aether laughs, and he twists his wrist out of Xiao's grasp so he can hold Xiao's hand instead. "But you know, I could say the same of you," Aether adds easily, and he tugs Xiao along to another berry bush before the adeptus can respond.

Chapter Text

The side road that runs through the ruins is bound to be perilous, even with a renowned traveler and an adeptus in tow; so, they take the longer route along the water. Aside from a few stray hilichurls and slimes, they reach the bamboo forest that precedes Qingce Village with plenty of daylight to spare. To Verr Goldet's dismay, however, there is a lack of dining pit stops along the way.

"Am I misremembering things?" Verr Goldet purses her lips in frustration as they cross the first of several wooden bridges that lead to Qingce Village. "I swear there was plenty more than just a few tea stalls..."

"There's been a lot of Geovishap activity recently. It's possible they gave them a scare?" Huai'an proposes as they slow to a stop in a small area that holds a storehouse, crates, and an assortment of other fishing and farming tools.

"They've definitely been a problem," Aether agrees with a tiny shudder. "The guild had us… 'investigate' the problem for a week but that was months ago now."

"Is that so? Hm, I suppose that news managed to slip past me." It can't be helped but it means she's effectively wasted Xiao's precious time today. She turns to the adeptus, profuse apologies at the ready, but Xiao has his own remarks prepared for her.

"You overwork yourself," is Xiao's unexpected reproach, which earns him a handful of incredulous stares. Xiao pays them no mind and continues; his tone is firm, but it is not unkind. "You do not allow yourself adequate time away from your duties if you are beginning to lose track of things."

Beneath the blunt delivery and harsh gaze is genuine concern, and that's… something Verr Goldet is not equipped to handle right now. She is overcome by the oddest combination of shock and fondness, and it takes her more than a few moments to process and recover.

"Thank you," Verr Goldet manages past the sudden lump in her throat.

"I am only stating the obvious." Xiao's face begins to redden when they continue to stare at him in awe; he looks away. "That alone is hardly worth any gratitude."

"As always, Xiao has such strong opinions," Paimon murmurs, "but isn't he being just a tiny bit hypocritical?"

"Hey, Paimon," Aether pipes up in a tone so perfectly innocuous it is surely a result of practice, "why don't we go fetch some apples?"

"Huh? Apples? Why would we need any of those? Besides, there aren't even any apple trees—"

"Apples," Aether repeats, giving her a deceptively placid smile. He tugs a confused Paimon away by the cape. Huai'an gives her shoulders a quick, encouraging squeeze before he follows the pair, leaving her to a moment's privacy with the adeptus.

Xiao has yet to budge from his spot, and the current victim of his piercing gaze is a hanging fishnet. His shoulders are hunched, his body exuding anxiety in every part. Before Xiao can retract his words (or worse, leave), she says, "That was very kind of you to say."

"Humans are frail and can fall victim to any number of things. There are many that count on you. It would be reckless of you to push yourself to illness." Xiao shrugs in his continued mission to present himself as a paragon of indifference. After the last few days, the front doesn't fool her, but she'll let Xiao think otherwise for a while longer.

Verr Goldet smiles at him but it's all too easy for her shoulders to droop soon after. "I really do apologize. I honestly thought there would be plenty of chances for you to pick up some hints today, but…"

"While it is a setback, it is not a catastrophic one," Xiao sighs, brushing the matter off and finally looking her way. "I need only redouble my efforts to make up for it. Do not let this trouble you."

"Well, don't overwork yourself next," Verr Goldet warns him with a laugh. Xiao scoffs at her amusement and walks past her, but his gait holds no irritation. He's embarrassed, if the slight flush on the back of his neck is any indication. She can only hope that Aether isn't too overwhelmed by whatever Xiao may have in store for him.

---

"Why don't you take a break by the storehouse while I head up?" Huai'an is suggesting when she and Xiao rejoin the others by the approach of the next bridge. "I doubt it will take long to sort out business, and there's hardly any trouble to be found the rest of the walk there."

"I could cook something for when you get back," Aether suggests. "I had an Adepti Seeker's Stove forged ages ago and I haven't used it yet."

"That's an excellent idea." Verr Goldet gestures at Xiao. "We'll assist you."

"Paimon can go with Huai'an and bring back tea from Pops Kai!" Paimon volunteers and she eyes Aether with a glint in her eye. Aether rolls his eyes but pulls out a pouch of Mora and hands it over to a very smug-faced Paimon.

Xiao is preoccupied with other matters. "Adepti Seeker's?" Xiao's face scrunches up at the name. "For what reason would you need to summon another adeptus?"

"I don't think that's what it's actually meant for," Aether admits with a laugh. "It's just a more convenient way to cook outdoors."

"A misnomer?" Xiao quietly murmurs to himself, as though he did not hear the latter half of Aether's response. "A name should hold meaning, what use is there when it holds none…?"

"Best not to think about it too much," Verr Goldet advises with quick pat to Xiao's shoulder. She gets no reaction from the gesture, but she tells herself that's better than a negative one.

"You know, there's a big library in Mondstadt," Aether says, his eyes fixed on Xiao, "and I'm sure if we took a look, we could figure out why it's called that. If you're interested."

Paimon cuts in with a sly grin, "Asking him out on a library date is a little over the top don't you think?"

Aether's face turns red enough to rival valberry dye. "It's not a date, it's research and—"

"Aether and Xiao, sitting in a tree—well, in a library…"

Xiao resurfaces from his musings on cooking appliances to frown at Paimon’s singing. "Why would we be in a tree?"

"My emergency rations seem to be making a whole lot of noise," Aether deadpans, voice and stare atypically flat, "and I can only assume it's because they're begging to be eaten as soon as possible."

"Hehe…"

Once they settle down, Huai'an sets off towards the village proper to sort out business before night falls. Paimon joins the innkeeper to allow Aether's irritation and embarrassment) time to abate in her absence—though not before she relieves Aether of an additional bag of Mora. Just in case is Paimon's logic before fleeing Aether's immediate reach.

Aether pulls out his much-debated Adepti Seeker's Stove, and attempts to set it down in front of the wooden stairs of the storehouse. After several tries, he ultimately gives up when the stove stubbornly hovers several feet in the air. The top of Aether's head is barely visible above the top of the stove; on the other side of it, Verr Goldet can only see the one wisp of Aether's hair that pokes out on top.

"A bit high up, isn't it?" Verr Goldet observes.

Aether looks around the area, and perks up when he discovers a solution to the problem at hand. He pushes the stove over towards a crate nestled beside the stairs. Happy with its new placement, Aether hops onto the crate and stands proudly. It provides more than enough clearance for one to reach the stovetop with ease.

"Is there anything in particular we should cook?" Aether asks.

Xiao steps forward. "Allow me to take care of it."

"Oh, I can handle it, really, you don't have to-"

"You have done plenty of work as part of your commission. I will cook for you, as I did at the Wangshu Inn," Xiao declares. He looks seconds away from pulling Aether down from the crate. "Unless, of course, you have any objections?"

"Ah, no objections!" Aether relents, and upon seeing the look in Xiao's eyes, hops down.

They decide on Grilled Tiger Fish. (Xiao interrupts to inform them that he recalls a different name for the dish, and Aether amends their "research list" to include Grilled Ticker Fish.)

Aether insists on collecting the fish, unwilling to do sit by and do nothing. He runs off towards the bamboo forest while Verr Goldet assists Xiao in understanding how the portable stove works. The stove is ready and hot by the time Aether returns, though the Traveler is not in the same state he left in.

"What happened?" Verr Goldet exclaims, lips trembling as she holds back her laughter.

Xiao is quick to point out the obvious. "You are dripping."

"I fell into the water," Aether returns casually. He's halfway through untying his sopping wet braid. "A boar came charging at me and I got knocked into the river. I'm sure I'll dry off in no time."

Xiao crosses his arms. "Did it not occur to you to be more aware of your surroundings?"

"Those boars move fast!" Aether pouts, wringing his hair free of as much water as possible. He straightens up, hands on his hips, unbothered the fact that his fringe is still plastered to his forehead. "Anyway, it's really not a big deal. We should prepare the fish so we can start cooking."

Xiao lifts up both of his gloved hands to present them. "Should I—"

Verr Goldet and Aether both smile approvingly. "Yes," Verr Goldet says, "please take your gloves off, Xiao."

Cleaning the fish is far from an appealing process. It's the type of tedious prep work Xiao detests, but it does allow Xiao to show off his newly acquired knife skills. He's rewarded when Aether reacts to Xiao’s careful work with the perfect amount of praise necessary to fluster the adeptus. Any follow-up responses from Xiao are mumbled, but his hands keep steady, and the adeptus makes quick work of the guts and other non-edible bits from the golden bass Aether caught.

Aether produces the required seasonings and skewers from his inventory, and they finish preparing the fish with green onion and a scattering of garlic chives and pepper. Six skewers are placed atop the stove to grill (an extra for Paimon, naturally) and they sit back to wait. Aether takes one of the bamboo chairs to sit on; Verr Goldet takes the crate to keep an eye on the stove, and pulls out a small novel she brought along. Xiao remains standing in the space between them.

It's hot enough that Aether's clothes are mostly dried now, and his hair no longer soaks every spot he occupies. Aether deems it dry enough to start fixing it, and he starts to pull his hair back, sweeping away the strands at the sides of his face; then, Aether pauses and glances in Xiao's direction. Verr Goldet keeps her nose tucked her book but her eyes keep watch just over the cover.

Aether says, louder than he needs to, "Ahh, I'm going to have to redo my braid. What a pain."

His complaint catches Xiao's attention but the adeptus does nothing more than raise an eyebrow in question.

"I need to redo my braid," Aether repeats.

"You already said that," Xiao informs him. "Have you worked to the point that your memory is beginning to fail you as well?"

This is painful to watch even by their standards, Verr Goldet thinks in pity. At least Aether remains admirably (or sadly) persistent. "Ah, it's just… it's kind of hard to do by myself."

Xiao stares at him. His furrowed brow indicates that he is putting every brain cell he has at work in order to solve Aether's predicament. Verr Goldet does her best to focus on reading the same line for the fifth time, stamping down the urge to interfere. If she says anything, she just might lose her composure.

After Xiao continues to not take any action, Aether abandons subtlety. "I could use some help," Aether stresses, staring right at Xiao.

Xiao brings a hand to his chin in thought before abruptly turning in Verr Goldet's direction. She jumps in her spot and snaps her book shut, putting it aside.

"The boss regularly braids her hair." Xiao turns back to Aether, gesturing with a hand in Verr Goldet's direction. "She would be well-suited to assist you."

"But… you?" Aether weakly tries, a woeful, final attempt. Aether looks to be at his wit's end, and Verr Goldet decides that she ought to spare Aether any further suffering by allowing this to continue.

"Xiao," Verr Goldet finally says, congratulating herself on how calm she sounds, "could you come over here for a moment? I could use some help with this, if you don't mind."

Xiao frowns but goes to her as asked, which allows Aether to hide his face behind his hands. With any luck, the situation can still be saved if Verr Goldet directs Xiao the right way. When Xiao is standing beside her, she first demonstrates to him how to carefully rotate one of the skewers, keeping her back to Aether. Xiao looks confused to have been called for something so simple, but he follows her example.

"Xiao," Verr Goldet whispers, staring down at the skewers and turning over another, "he was asking you to braid his hair."

"That makes little sense," Xiao replies, baffled. He stares at the food with her; the fish and green onion are beginning to char nicely. "You would do a far better job. It would be an insult to not provide him with flawless work."

"It's good that you want the best for him, but the thing is... Aether is not looking for the best, he's looking for what he wants. And he wanted you to do it."

Xiao is quiet for a near minute before he guesses, "He would like it more if I did it?"

"Yes, that's exactly it!" Verr Goldet sighs in relief.

"That has nothing to do with cooking," Xiao murmurs uneasily. "If my end goal is to determine what he likes best…"

"We won't forget that, but you can learn other things, too." She smiles encouragingly at him. "That day, you said you wanted to know more about him. Don't pass up chances like these when he opens up enough to ask you for things he likes."

She doesn't add that this level of vulnerability is rare for the normally tight-lipped Traveler. Xiao is being granted something that many in Teyvat will surely try to attain in the future, and for far less charitable reasons.

"...I see." Xiao shuts his eyes and clenches his fists, likely chastening himself for the opportunity he's already lost. He slowly opens his eyes to meet her own, and his are softened with gratitude. "Once more, I thank you for your assistance."

"Of course." Verr Goldet removes one of the skewers from the stove and gingerly hands it to Xiao; it's perfectly cooked. "Now take this over to him and listen carefully to what he says."

Xiao leaves her side, and Verr Goldet lowers the fire a bit to avoid burning the rest of the fish. She takes a seat again and can hear Xiao and Aether's voices just a short distance away. It's like they are back at the inn, on their balcony, and Verr Goldet is catching another snippet of their budding relationship from afar. It's a little sad that Wei is not here to witness how much progress they'll make this time.

"Here is your food," Xiao is saying. At the sight of Aether's hair pulled into a simple, high ponytail, Xiao asks, "Are you not going to braid your hair?"

"Ah, maybe later," Aether waves it off with a weak laugh. He sits up straighter once he spots the well-done, skewered fish held in Xiao's hand. "Is that for me?"

Xiao nods and holds it out to him.

"Are you going to feed me this time?" Aether teases as he reaches out to accept it.

Aether blinks when Xiao pulls his hand and the food back. Instead of handing it over, Xiao takes a seat in the second bamboo chair beside Aether. He turns to Aether and tells him, voice thick and low, "If that is what you wish."

If Aether's mouth dropped open any more, it would have hit the floor. "I didn't really mean... I was just—"

"I am not insinuating that you are incapable of feeding yourself," Xiao leans in, closing the distance between them, "but if this is a desire of yours that I can satisfy, then I am willing to do so."

"Oh," Aether mumbles, barely comprehensible, as if his tongue has melted along with his brain from the heat of his blush. "Okay."

Xiao's hand snaps upwards, awkwardly bringing the skewered fish up to level with Aether's face. Aether, slow as molasses, leans over and takes a tiny bite out of Xiao's offering.

"Is it to your liking?" Xiao quietly asks.

Aether nods and chews quickly so he can speak again. "You're getting really good at cooking."

That's all it takes to break Xiao's impressive talent for keeping direct eye contact. The adeptus clears his throat and averts his gaze, shy in the face of Aether's praise. He keeps the hand holding the skewer aloft and near Aether's mouth. "I am glad you are content."

"Are you going to cook other things? Like the Vegetarian Abalone?" Aether hesitates before parting his mouth open to take another small bite of fish. Xiao's eyes widen in surprise and Aether, his confidence trickling back, grins at him. "I think it would be great if you did."

Xiao hums in response, bringing his eyes back up to watch Aether. He gently nudges the skewer against Aether's mouth in a silent request. Aether instantly parts his mouth to take a cheerful, hefty bite; the skewer is half finished now.

"Would you eat it?" Xiao blurts out. When Aether does not reply right away, Xiao clears his throat and clarifies, "Would you eat what I make?"

"I would," Aether agrees easily. "Whatever you want to try."

"There will be no mushrooms," Xiao adds quickly and very seriously.

Caught off guard, Aether stutters out a cough before he doubles over in a fit of laughter. Aether nearly falls out of his seat and Xiao's mouth twists in disapproval. "Traveler, this is no laughing matter. I do not want to offend you by presenting you with a meal you would rather not—"

Xiao's voice trails off and silence follows. It stretches out long enough to be concerning.

It's only to check on them, to make sure Aether didn't choke on a piece of fish, or that Xiao didn't combust from the onslaught of positive validation he's received from the world at large in the past week.

Had she glanced over a second later, she would have surely missed it: Aether pressing his lips to Xiao's cheek, so short and sweet that it's already ending and Aether is pulling back to smile at Xiao's stunned face.

Chapter Text

Evening is fast approaching when Huai'an and Paimon return. The grilled tiger fish is reheated for them but it is no less delicious based on Paimon's enthusiastic consumption of her share. The fairy-esque companion devours her food with vibrant gusto, alongside ratting out Huai'an as the reason for their tardiness.

"He spent forever talking to some old guy about wood and blueprints!" Paimon grumbles through a mouthful of fish.

"Fanmu Carpenters is an institution in Liyue." Huai'an's sigh is laced with the fatigue of one who has repeated themselves several times. "They even receive requests from the Qixing now and then, so please show a little more respect for Master Lu."

It's not the first instance Huai'an has lost track of time when catching up with the elderly carpenter, so Verr Goldet knows better than to let that go without comment.

"Huai'an, I hope you didn't buy anything while you were there." Or agree to anything, because her husband is gullible enough to be talked into an apprenticeship. Huai'an would hardly need much convincing; her husband's passion for his self-taught carpentry has only grown since Lantern Rite.

"Of course not!" Huai'an's denial is impressively confident even with the sweat beading on his forehead. "Master Lu really is something, but… yes, his prices can be a bit much." With the reassurance that Huai'an resisted the urge to burn away fifty thousand Mora on a pretentiously titled blueprint, she leaves him and Paimon to finish their meal while she collects the rest of their little party.

Xiao and Aether are still where she left them: seated on those bamboo chairs and huddled close. Xiao is speaking to Aether in low tones, far too hushed for her to hear from this distance, and Aether's hands are held within his own. Aether's face is set in fierce concentration, and he is paying very close attention to whatever it is that Xiao is showing him.

There are some leaves in Aether's hands; when Verr Goldet takes a few curious steps closer, she can hear Xiao telling Aether to arrange the pieces in a certain way. Verr Goldet can't quite make out what it's supposed to be but they are so engrossed that she is hesitant to cut in. She lingers by the steps in front of the storehouse to watch them.

"This is actually really hard," Aether groans, picking at the leaves in disappointment. "How did you make the one you gave me?"

Xiao hums and stills Aether's hands to prevent any damage to their work so far. "You are stubborn," Xiao says, ignoring Aether's exaggerated, injured gasp, "so you need only practice and you will learn quickly."

"That means you'll have to give me lessons." Aether is all smiles again. "Practice makes perfect, right?"

"You… hmph. Do not expect to have your hands held through it every time."

"Uh huh. Now, you have to pinky promise me that you'll do it," Aether orders, holding up one hand to Xiao's face, aforementioned pinky finger lifted up. Xiao silently stares at the proffered digit as if it is something not of this world.

That's as good a time as any for Verr Goldet to clear her throat and pull their pair out of their tiny world. "I hate to interrupt but I think it's about time we head back to the inn."

Aether retracts his hand quickly to hide it, nervously laughing. "Ah, you're right. It's getting kind of late, isn't it?"

"Yes, it would be best to return as quickly as possible." Xiao stands from his seat and addresses the group at large, "I will save us the trouble of another hours-long walk."

A trip going back home always feels faster, but this one literally is when Xiao transports them all back himself. Xiao does not explain exactly what it is that he does, and it's a bit overwhelming to experience what amounts to teleportation. Thankfully, it's over in seconds and only leaves Verr Goldet feeling a bit dizzy when they arrive in front of the Inn. Xiao steadies her on the promenade, and before she can even think to thank him, he's gone again. With another burst of teal and black, Huai'an is deposited beside her.

"How was it?" Verr Goldet asks him, grabbing one of his arms when he sways on his feet. At the same time, Xiao disappears once more to retrieve Aether and Paimon.

"I am looking forward to a nice, long shower, and collapsing onto our bed," Huai'an quips.

Xiao arrives with Aether, an arm looped around the traveler's waist. It's to keep Aether (who has the extra weight of a sleeping Paimon on his shoulders) more secure for the trip, but Aether looks incredibly pleased to be held firmly against the adeptus.

"Why didn't you do this in the first place instead of us walking the whole way there?" Aether asks.

Xiao pulls away so that Aether can stand on his own, and only removes his hands entirely once he is sure that Aether is safely balanced. "You seemed enthusiastic at the prospect of spending the day together," Xiao says. "I did not wish to disappoint you."

Aether just about melts at the adeptus' words, and his gaze on Xiao turns impossibly fonder. "That was nice of you. I'm sure everyone enjoyed spending the day with you, too."

"It was most certainly a pleasure to take the trip with you, Xiao," Verr Goldet agrees, smiling at the way Xiao starts at the sound of her voice. "Thank you again for coming along."

"It was quite the trip, but one well worth taking," Huai'an adds. "Feel free to join us again in the future."

Xiao, unsure how to accept the wave of positivity sent his way, takes a step back to distance himself. He dips his head to hide his face, but the blush on his cheeks remains painfully conspicuous. "If that is all, I have my duties to attend to. I have left the area unattended for far too long."

After a split-second of hesitance, Xiao turns to Aether and says, "I will see you tomorrow."

Xiao being the one to confirm their next meeting has Aether literally bouncing on the tips of his toes in delight. Paimon continues to snore obliviously, even as her head rocks across the top of Aether's from the Traveler's excited motions. "Tomorrow, like always."

Xiao closes the distance between them, and once he is close enough to reach Aether, he lifts a hand. He stops short of touching Aether and peers to the side, thrown off by their company. The adeptus settles for holding out his hand, palm face up, waiting for Aether to lay his hand in his own.

"Good night," Xiao offers softly.

"Good night, Xiao," Aether returns just as tenderly, and he wastes no time in granting Xiao what he wants, squeezing Xiao's hand tight. Their hands slip away from one another at the same time Xiao's mask materializes to cover his face, and the adeptus disappears.

"He sent you off with a handshake—how romantic," Verr Goldet teases.

"Yeah, he did," Aether laughs shyly, looking smitten all the same.

Verr Goldet is prepared to offer him some advice on that front, but a flash of light tears through the sky. The deafening crack of thunder follows shortly after. The rainfall shifts from a tiny drizzle into the fastest downpour Verr Goldet has ever seen in her life. They are all soaked in seconds.

"Has the rain always started so fast?" Huai'an asks in disbelief.

"You get used to it," Aether says, sounding far too accustomed to a sudden downpour. Paimon remains equally unaffected, snoring away as the water from her own hair drips onto Aether's face.

"You're welcome to spend the night with us, Aether." Verr Goldet sweeps her hair out of her eyes. "This storm already looks awful, and you must be exhausted."

"Thanks, boss lady," Aether accepts happily. Verr Goldet does not dignify the joke with a response, and instead pokes Aether's side, making him laugh. There's no time for a scolding, anyway. The promenade is beginning to flood, so Verr Goldet rushes them all towards the elevator to seek shelter inside.

---

The storm worsens through the night, transforming into a formidable tempest with battering sheets of rain. The wind gusts howl so loudly that one might think them capable of peeling away the walls of Wangshu Inn. The structure, however, remains sound and strong, and many of its occupants sleep peacefully.

It is a noise separate from nature's bluster that wakes Verr Goldet, a sound akin to a heavy sack being dumped onto floorboards high above. The origin of the noise itself is a concern because the balconies are off-limits at this hour.

Of course, there are always a few guests hard-headed enough to ignore the inn rules. Verr Goldet sits up in bed and blinks away her drowsiness, prepared to eject whoever it was from her balcony—or from her establishment altogether. She must still be tired from their activities that day because she doesn't feel up to dealing with it on her own tonight.

"Huai'an," she murmurs, shaking her husband awake, "someone is on the balcony."

"If they're foolish enough to be out there in this weather, we should let them stay," Huai'an grumbles into his pillow.

"Come on." She lightly smacks his arm a few times and pulls herself out of bed.

Huai'an is eventually convinced that it is better to drag the guest back to their room rather than to spend the night wondering if they'll find the individual incapacitated elsewhere. As they make their way upstairs, Verr Goldet finds the inn to be unusually gloomy tonight. The only sound accompanying their own breathing is the storm raging outside.

When they reach the top floor and the archway of the balcony, they do not find a guest. Out on the balcony is none other than Xiao, bent over on one knee, his face twisted into a grimace a hand clenched around his polearm. The winds are deafening but Verr Goldet can hear the sound of Xiao's pained exhales above it all, his attempts to swallow back any louder sounds, even if he thinks himself to be alone.

Xiao's head snaps up when they approach him. "Stay back," he orders. Xiao pulls himself to his feet with a hiss of pain. He sways dizzyingly in the process, and has to lean on his polearm. His movements are sluggish enough that when they go to either side of him to lift him up, he cannot do more than slump against them. His polearm slips out of his grasp, clattering onto the floorboards and disappearing in a shimmer.

"You're in pain." Verr Goldet swallows back the anxiety rising in her throat, wondering if it is the karma that torments Xiao now, or something worse. "Let us help you—"

"Release me," Xiao demands with his next, heaving breath. "It will pass—and it has nothing to do with you. I only lost my foothold on the roof due to the rain."

"Goldet," Huai'an murmurs, "he doesn't seem to have any serious injuries."

She pays neither of them any mind, and once she is sure Xiao's arm is secure over her shoulders, she starts to walk them back inside. "Don't be stubborn about it and take a room for the night."

"I do not require one." Xiao attempts to struggle out of their hold, and digs his boots into the floor to slow their movement. "Let me free, and I will stop troubling you."

"It isn't a trouble at all," Huai'an insists, and despite Xiao's squirming, they cross the doorway and leave the rain behind. "It's an awful storm out there, you may as well stay indoors until it passes."

"I do not require shelter," Xiao spits out, now tugging more fervently. It takes a tremendous amount of effort to not lose their grip on him, lest they slip and topple down the stairs. "I am far from injured and cannot waste my time—"

"It's pouring out there and the winds are terrible," Verr Goldet cuts in, her desire to protect overriding any concern about offending Xiao. Her stubbornness may end up severing what bond they've built thus far, but if that's what it takes to take care of Xiao, she is willing to accept the price. "You are staying in a room tonight, and that's final."

"Watch your tongue," Xiao murmurs acidly, far less threatening when he is nearly limp in their hold. He does, however, find the strength to tear himself out of their grasp. Xiao stumbles backwards, boots slick against the floor, and he ends up leaning against the wall. "You would dare show such blatant disrespect to an adeptus?"

"I will when your actions will bring harm to yourself or others." Verr Goldet affirms, her eyes burning. "There are plenty of records on how the other yaksha met their end, and if you continue to disregard your safety-"

"If that is my fate, it is not within your right to alter it," Xiao says, his tone clinical and detached. He looks unfathomably tired yet he is pulling himself away from the wall now, his stance tense, and he's going to leave now. She can't let him, not this time, not after hearing him speak so flippantly on the prospect of his death—

"Let's cook," Huai'an suddenly exclaims.

Verr Goldet and Xiao both turn to stare at the man incredulously.

"For what purpose," Xiao asks, so taken aback that he temporarily forgets to leave.

"Huai'an," Verr Goldet starts, equally confused with her husband, "it is the dead of night. What would we cook for?"

"Food always helps," Huai'an says more loudly, and it is almost a plea. "We should all take a deep breath—and have a meal together."

Ah. Verr Goldet catches wind of Huai'an's intentions now, as nonsensical as his suggestion first sounded. Yes, in more ways than one these past few days... food has helped. "Lotus seed and bird egg soup," Verr Goldet abruptly declares, only because it is the first thing that comes to her mind.

Xiao, meanwhile, continues to stare at them as if they have both lost their minds. His mouth parts and closes a few times, but no words spill from his lips.

"Come on," Verr Goldet says, reaching out to Xiao with an open hand. "We'll show you how to make it."

It is such an absurd situation they are in right now: discussing soup with an illuminated adeptus of Liyue in their Qixing-backed inn. She patiently waits for Xiao's response, even if it is a denial and a departure. Xiao remains speechless for such a long time that Verr Goldet fears they have broken him.

"I… I cannot," Xiao finally says.

Verr Goldet's heart twists. "Why not?"

Xiao looks down at himself, and he frowns at the sight of his own clothing in the dim light of the inn's lanterns. He picks at his shirt, pulling it away from his skin. In addition to the rainwater, it is also covered in the grime and blood of whatever he spent the night slaying.

"Kitchen surfaces should be kept clean," Xiao quietly reminds them.

---

There is something of Rex Lapis left in this world because Xiao does not leave after they respond to his worry with an outburst of laughter. Even more miraculous, Xiao allows them to lead him to a room for him to wash up. Once they all change into fresh clothing, Xiao joins them in the kitchen and it's something of a sight. The Vigilant Yaksha looks out-of-sorts in spare clothes from Huai'an and a loaned pair of inn slippers, but it's a charming look for him. He could easily pass for someone's young, quiet son.

"What are we making?" Xiao's questions from the middle of the kitchen, looking very lost. True to his word, whatever ailed him has passed and Xiao is no longer in any visible pain. If he took anything to quell it, it was done out of sight.

"A soup that's very good for you," Huai'an informs him. "Er, well, it's more like a custard than a soup but that is beside the point. We often have it for breakfast."

"We're going to need lotus heads, eggs, and some sugar and milk." Verr Goldet approaches the shelves to collect some lotus heads into a bowl. "Luckily, we have all of that on hand right now, and it's simple enough that we can teach you."

"Better us than waking up our chef," Huai'an winces. He points Xiao in the direction of the cupboard where the sugar is stored while he retrieves a bottle of milk from the ice box. "Smiley Yanxiao likes his sleep, and I like my head where it sits."

"I'll take care of the lotus seeds," Verr Goldet volunteers. She takes a seat at the table and starts to remove the seeds with practiced ease. "Once they're out, we just boil them in the water and sugar to sweeten them up."

"Ah, then that leaves us with the big part," Huai'an tells Xiao as he lights the fire for the stove. "It's not too tricky, but after a cooking lesson with Smiley Yanxiao, I think you can handle just about anything. First things first, let's boil some milk."

Under Huai'an's instruction, Xiao stirs sugar and milk into a pot, which is set atop the stove to heat. Huai'an gathers four eggs and a bowl, setting them in front of Xiao. When wisps of steam rise over the pot with milk, Huai'an steps aside to attend to it before it can scald.

The lotus seeds are left to boil in water and sugar, so Verr Goldet steps in to watch Xiao. She arrives in time to supervise Xiao's first attempt: Xiao presses so forcefully that the egg is crushed in his grasp and falls into the bowl, shell and all.

"I apologize," Xiao is quick to say. His hands are shaking.

"It's alright, just watch me do it." Verr Goldet pushes the bowl aside to empty out later, replacing it with a clean one. She grabs another egg and demonstrates by tapping it a few times on the edge of the bowl. "You don’t need too much force, just enough to crack it once, twice—and there you go."

Xiao repeats her actions a bit too gently, but he succeeds without any shell bits dropping into the bowl. It's a simple achievement but she rewards Xiao with applause the same. Xiao's face reddens but he cracks the rest of the eggs without incident, just in time for Huai'an to announce that the milk is ready.

"Slowly, slowly," Huai'an soothes as Xiao prepares to add the milk to the eggs, even as Verr Goldet assists Xiao in keeping a slow pour. "You'll want to stir it up with the whisk, but not too fast! And don't dump all of it at once, keep doing it in batches."

Xiao frowns but he does as he is told. A small portion of the hot milk is transferred into the bowl and Xiao whisks it in. "Would it not be quicker to mix it all together at once?"

"Do that and you'll end up with scrambled eggs," Verr Goldet chuckles. She helps Xiao pour in the next portion of milk. "You need to temper it—introduce the heat slowly, so the eggs don't cook."

"Hm." Xiao, unexpectedly, accepts her explanation. "It appears that there can be some logic to cooking, despite its tediousness."

The final step Xiao performs all on his own, and that is to pour the final mixture through a sieve and into three separate bowls, and garnish it with the lotus seeds. They take their meal to the red cedar round table beneath the stairs.

Once Xiao has taken a first spoonful, Verr Goldet asks, "What do you think?"

Xiao's expression turns thoughtful. He takes another slow spoonful, and after swallowing that down, too, he decides, "I do not mind it."

"Well, now you can make it for yourself," Huai'an suggests, "and for Aether, too. He spent the night here, so why don't you make some for him in the morning?"

Xiao sets down his spoon and does not respond to that, laying his hands atop the table. The adeptus' stern countenance creates an uneasy atmosphere that quickly replaces the good-natured cooking they enjoyed only moments earlier. Xiao's hands dig into the edges of the table, his fingers mindlessly scratching at the wood.

It is second nature to stop him. Verr Goldet is used to scolding the guests' children when they get too rowdy in the lobby with their play, for knocked over end tables and other damages. Verr Goldet grabs Xiao's hand to still his movements. Xiao freezes and stares up at her in shock.

"Don't do that," she says quietly. Upon seeing the tense line of Xiao's shoulders, she quickly pulls her hand back. "You'll hurt yourself if you do that."

"Why do you continue to do such things?" Xiao abruptly asks, as if he's been holding the question back for days now. "You have nothing to gain, but after this long, I wonder if you aim to accomplish something else."

"There really is nothing deeper to it," Verr Goldet insists, even the stirrings of panic make her heart race. "I really only want to help you. "

"That table is quite old," Huai'an says, and his relaxed tone dissipates some of the mounting tension. Xiao's irritation abates slightly, but he continues to stare at Verr Goldet warily. "You could get splinters if you're not careful."

Xiao flinches. "I am not a child to be coddled. Adepti do not—"

"There is nothing wrong with showing concern for someone you care about," Verr Goldet blurts out and—oh. She did not mean to say that. Huai'an, too, appears surprised at her slipup. It is fitting, somehow, considering it was a similar blunder that started all of this in the first place.

They jump in their seats at the sound of a spoon clattering against a bowl again. Xiao has resumed eating, mechanically taking one spoonful after another. Neither of them dares to speak, and the bowl is half-drained when Xiao finally speaks.

"I have made no progress in learning what he likes." Xiao's stare and tone simmer with frustration, but his words are far from cruel. "While I am… appreciative of your assistance thus far, there is no denying that your actions have been self-serving in some capacity."

"Now, hold on," Huai'an is quick to jump to her defense.

"No, he is right," Verr Goldet confirms. Xiao has hit the nail on the head, as painful as it may be to admit it. She never intended to string Xiao along nor to waste his time, but in her eagerness to introduce some degree of happiness into his life, she's done exactly that. It was too easy to get wrapped up in having Xiao part of their daily lives, a norm she knew she would have to let go of once Xiao found his answer.

"I am sorry for not properly fulfilling my end of our agreement. I said I would help you, and it seems I've done a pretty poor job of it. If you can forgive me," Verr Goldet says softly, laying her folder hands atop the table, "may I make one last suggestion to you?"

"You may," Xiao allows, and it's a relief to see that suspicion in his eyes has waned. She hasn't lost him yet.

"Speak to Aether," she implores, "and ask him. Don't be afraid to ask him every question that is on your mind. If you want to learn more about him, that is the best way you can go about it."

Xiao mulls over her advice, and she can only hope that he takes what she has to say to heart, for his and Aether's sakes. It seems that he does just that, because Xiao's only inquiry is, "And if he does not answer?"

"Then you wait for him—and it will always be worth the wait. That being said," she smiles encouragingly, "I think it would do you well to be looked after now and then, even if an adeptus such as yourself does not need it. Don't hide yourself from him, either."

Xiao's face reddens but he nods all the same. If he plans to say something in response, he doesn't get the opportunity to do so. "Thought I heard something," comes a new voice accompanied by heavy footsteps.

It's Smiley Yanxiao walking down the stairs, looking like he has just rolled out of bed. Taking into account how mild his mood is, he is likely not yet awake enough to be irritated with the world at large. He looks around at the pots and bowls scattered around the kitchen, and the three of them still in the middle of their meal. "Late night snack?"

"Late night visitor," Verr Goldet corrects with a smile aimed in Xiao's direction. "He just needed a meal and a place to stay."

"He looks like he needs a drink," Smiley Yanxiao grouses, and he peers at a cabinet, as if seriously considering pulling out some alcohol for himself. He rubs at the back of his neck with a yawn. "In any case, it's nearly dawn. It's about time that I start setting up for the day. Finish your soup and I'll take care of the cleanup."

After their bowls are emptied, Smiley Yanxiao gathers up the dishes and shoos them out, "You all should try to get a few hours' sleep before the sun properly rises."

"It is my presence that prompted them to cook," Xiao instantly assumes blame. "As I do not require sleep, allow me to—"

"With all due respect Adeptus Xiao," Smiley Yanxiao sighs, and he lays his hand on Xiao's head to ruffle his hair and shove him towards the staircase, "get out of my kitchen."

---

Verr Goldet brings Xiao to a room that is far away from those occupied by guests. It's a room she's kept vacant, with just enough of the necessities for one passing through. It was always reserved in hopes that it would be used by a particular individual that never allows himself more than the bare minimum. It feels like a fever dream to be standing in front of that room now and unlocking the door with Xiao standing beside her.

"I will remind you that this is not necessary," Xiao murmurs, as if he is still ashamed to be offered a roof over his head.

"Just for tonight," she promises, and she opens the door for him, gesturing inside. "You never have to stay in this room again if you don't want to."

Xiao stares at the room within; he does not yet make a move to enter. She watches his eyes scan over its contents: the small desk and chair, the tightly shut window, and the single, plush bed. Xiao turns back to her. "We adepti have no need of sympathy," Xiao's voice drops a note quieter, "but I will accept your kindness."

"Thank you," Verr Goldet says, feeling a telltale itch in her eyes. She's not going to cry, not in front of Xiao, lest he think that this is a bad thing that is happening and he truly never does take the room again.

Xiao stares at her, eyes wide and deceptively young with wonder. "You thank me, even though you are the one offering me something."

"On the contrary, you've given me a marvelous gift by using this room. It's made me the happiest I've felt all week."

"You are all so strange," Xiao shakes his head, and before she can snipe back, Xiao huffs out a breath. Xiao laughs. She nearly thinks it to be a figment of her imagination, but it leaves behind proof: the smallest of smiles remains on Xiao's face. "I do not understand any of it, but I do not dislike it."

What a rare blessing to see a smile from an adeptus. How many have been fortunate enough to see such a thing, and from the Vigilant Yaksha himself? She stows the memory away in a precious place in her heart, with the hope that she will see it again. It would do Xiao well to smile more.

Xiao steps inside the room, and with a cursory glance at it once last time, he turns to Verr Goldet. "Good night."

"Good night, Xiao," Verr Goldet says, and she gently shuts the door for him.

Chapter Text

Xiao, despite his best efforts to comply with Verr Goldet's expectations, does not sleep.

Habits are difficult to break, especially those nurtured over millennia, and Xiao remains wholly unfamiliar with a routine lacking vigilance. Liyue is ever-changing, but a Liyue that allows Xiao the luxury of proper, unguarded rest is not yet within reach. Irrespective of that fact, his failure to attain any sleep feels like ingratitude. When he can sense that the hours of early morning have arrived and the ugly feeling of guilt weights heavily upon his chest, Xiao gets out of the bed. His bare feet touch cool wood, and the chill reminds him that he has yet to reclaim his clothing. As if answering his dilemma, there is a series of quick knocks at the room's door.

"Good morning," the woman standing in the hallway greets when Xiao opens the door. She bears a striking resemblance to the inn waitress, Yuhua, whom Xiao recalls seeing at Verr Goldet's side and on the ground floor. The one in front of him, however, wears a pair of brown rimmed glasses and a milder countenance than her doppelganger.

"I'm sorry if I woke you, Adeptus Xiao. I only came by to drop off your clothes," she informs him, holding them out to Xiao. They are spotless and neatly folded. Xiao accepts them with a quick nod and he pauses. Is he supposed to know her name?

He mulls over a response for too long because she spares him the mortification of asking for her name. "I'm Xiuhua… ah, you may know my sister, Yuhua. We help out at each other's jobs from time to time or even switch places," she helpfully supplies with a small, enigmatic smile. "No one usually notices."

Xiao does not know how much of this odd arrangement Verr Goldet is privy to but he sets aside that line of questioning for another time. He murmurs his thanks to her, and Xiuhua departs with a friendly wave, leaving Xiao to shut the door and begin changing clothes.

There is still one way of providing recompense to Wangshu Inn and its staff but he has to move quickly. There is always a chance that Aether will hurry off towards the next leg of his journey before Xiao can take any action. Should that occur, it could be ages until he sees the Traveler again. As arduous as the task ahead of him seems, he will need to take Verr Goldet's advice and approach Aether with the truth.

Xiao hangs his vajra about his neck and stares down at his last item of clothing—his gloves. Given his plans, they do not feel necessary at this moment, and the room provides a place for their safekeeping. After a moment's thought, Xiao leaves his gloves atop the otherwise bare desk and heads downstairs.

The lobby is already lively, abuzz with several excited guests; at the sight alone, Xiao is filled with the desire to flee. Being around this many mortals who could so easily become bystanders to any danger and the effects of his karma—it's an anxiety Xiao does not care to shoulder now, not when his focus is directed elsewhere. This is why he stays far from the harbor, after all.

Xiao turns to leave but he is halted when someone calls to him.

"Xiao!" Verr Goldet is stationed at her desk, a sight Xiao finds unusual given that she could not have had more than a few hours of sleep. She signals for him to come closer, and despite his better judgement, Xiao obeys. Guilt is a resurfacing twist in his gut when Xiao can see that she looks very tired and not as well-kept as she normally does.

Her smile, however, remains as warm as ever.

"How did you sleep?" Verr Goldet asks, facing Xiao and giving him her undivided attention. Huai'an smoothly takes over for her, ushering away the handful of guests she has just checked in.

It feels cruel to admit the truth but Xiao cannot bring himself to lie to her either. He decides on, "I had no issues."

She claps her hands together, eyes crinkling in joy, unbelievably satisfied with his vague answer. Xiao is as baffled with her as ever; how is she so pleased over a few words? "I'm glad to hear that," she says, "and to see that your clothes were ready for you in the morning. Now you've experienced our renowned Wangshu Inn service, too."

"Yes," Xiao says, uncertain if he is expected to provide any sort of praise for the service. During his split-second mental scramble on how to proceed, Xiao remembers what he originally came for. "May I use your kitchen?"

She blinks owlishly at him, stunned silent. Feeling as though he unknowingly stepped over some boundary, Xiao opens his mouth to retract his request but Verr Goldet nods fervently before he can do so. "Oh, Xiao, of course you can! Smiley Yanxiao may be a little busy when you head in there, but I'm sure he can make some space for you."

Verr Goldet's eyes brighten and her tone is brimming with anticipation when she asks, "Were you planning on cooking for-?"

"Yes," Xiao says quickly, his face already growing warm, "if that is permissible."

"You don't need my permission for something like that. Go on, don't let me keep you," Verr Goldet urges him. Her encouragement is interrupted when the cat lounging atop her desk yowls in the distance to grab her attention. There is a newly arrived couple at the other side of the desk, looking her way expectantly. She waves at them with a promise to get to them soon just as Huai'an returns to the reception area.

"Oh, morning! Slept well? Did you enjoy our trademark Wangshu Inn hospitality?" He asks Xiao brightly. To Xiao's growing horror and mounting sense of culpability, sleep deprivation is even more obvious on Huai'an's face than his wife's.

"That he did," Verr Goldet cheerfully confirms. She leans over the desk to whisper to her husband, too loud and not at all subtle, looking right at Xiao while she does. "He's off to cook now, so best we get back to our own work so we don't disturb him. We can pester him later."

Xiao feels crushed in the face of their twin smiles. They are laced with pride and a sentiment Xiao cannot fathom at this time. By some miracle, they finally shoo him away, knowing smiles lingering and compelling Xiao to make a quick escape.

---

The kitchen is as impressively organized as ever but there is no denying the frenetic energy that has permeated Smiley Yanxiao's domain. The chef is hard at work at the wide stone stove, and Xiao can hear the pops and sizzles from across the room. There are several pots and pans bubbling and frying away, filling the kitchen with a hodgepodge of delicious aromas. Some of them are entirely unappealing to the adeptus, but the variety is a testament to the man's skill at his craft.

That taken into consideration, it would appear that the chef is far too inundated with his own work today. Perhaps it is best he does this elsewhere; there were plenty of abandoned cooking pots scattered about the marsh. Xiao inches back towards the staircase.

"Get back here," Smiley Yanxiao calls out instantly, as if he has eyes in the back of his head. (It is not out of the realm of possibility, Xiao reasons, given the strange things that have happened since the Traveler entered his life.) Caught, Xiao turns around and enters the kitchen. He marvels how such simple orders, those not even put onto him by a deity, command him with ease today.

Smiley Yanxiao is preparing a plate upon the table. It's a serving of vegetarian abalone, and one that is much neater than Xiao's first attempt. Smiley Yanxiao crosses his arms and looks Xiao in the eye. "What brings you into my kitchen this time?"

"I would like to make something." Xiao lifts his gloveless hands to show his intent.

Smiley Yanxiao laughs, more light-hearted than Xiao expects for a man that had to clean up the mess he was saddled with in the wee hours of the morning. "Yeah, I could guess as much. Something in particular?"

"The soup that I was given last night. I do not have ingredients of my own nor do I have ample time to procure them. If you allow me to make use of your kitchen, rest assured that I will later replace everything I use or waste."

Smiley Yanxiao shakes his head at Xiao. "Don't worry about this one. I can tell this is serious if you're willing to go out of your comfort zone by even asking." The chef shrugs and turns to the shelves, grabbing a clean pot and he hands it out to Xiao. He grins. "And far be it for me to get in the way of a confession."

He must be getting too comfortable with the inn staff for them to show an adeptus a familiarity that would border on disrespect. It is stranger still that Xiao takes the comment without any offense. There is some… truth to the man's words, as bold as they are.

Xiao cannot ignore the degree of affection present his cooking efforts, as he focuses on every piece of the dish to ensure that not one part goes wrong. He follows the recipe with relative ease, only stumbling when he forgets to strain the mixture. Smiley Yanxiao, however, is there to catch his slip before the dish goes awry. The soup is saved, even if Xiao has to pour it into a second bowl after passing the soup through the sieve properly.

The final product is garnished, yet it looks… plain in Xiao's eyes. The sprig of mint and lotus seeds are a nice touch, but Xiao wishes to add something more to impress. Xiao's eyes wander the expanse of the kitchen before falling upon a small basket tucked away on a shelf. It's filled to the brim with dried red berries; their color, though muted, remains fetching and appetizing.

Mindlessly, Xiao reaches into the basket and plucks several of the fruit. After a moment's hesitation, he sprinkles the berries atop the soup to join the rest of the trimmings.

"Putting your own twist on things already, I see," Smiley Yanxiao voices approvingly, and he pats Xiao's shoulder. The action does not contain much force but it is brimming with pride, just like the smiles of Verr Goldet and Huai'an. Xiao finds that far more overwhelming than any harsher blow. Smiley Yanxiao laughs boisterously. "Looks like we'll make a chef out of you yet."

Xiao ignores the heat that has decided to take up permanent residency on his face today. "I must take my leave now in order to deliver it to its recipient. You have my thanks."

"Sure, sure." Smiley Yanxiao pulls out a tray among the stacks of dinnerware and offers it to Xiao. Once the soup bowl is safely atop the tray, and the tray now in Xiao's hands, Smiley Yanxiao nods at him. "Careful heading up those stairs now."

It's a good thing that Xiao heeds the man's warning and takes the staircase to the lobby slowly, because Smiley Yanxiao follows up with a declaration that nearly causes Xiao to trip: "I'm sure Aether will enjoy it!"

---

It feels like a sluggish century passes before Xiao finds himself standing in front of the door to Aether's inn room, but Xiao now faces a problem. Namely, he is at a loss on how to get Aether's attention when he cannot lift a hand to knock on the door. With his hands full with the tray, he will need to call out Aether's name and announce himself.

Xiao peers down either end of the hallway and finds that he is alone. Good. It would be unsightly to draw attention to himself in such a manner. Adepti did not express themselves in such unbecoming ways and it was important to present himself with dignity. He needs to make sure he is loud enough for Aether to hear him, but not so much that he sounded like a brute.

Xiao nods to himself, satisfied with his plan.

He opens his mouth at the same time the door swings open. It is embarrassing how painfully it catches him off guard to see Aether's face suddenly in front of him.

"No, Paimon you can't just—o-oh," Aether stutters to a stop. He is halfway through the doorway. "Um. Hi."

"Hello," Xiao manages to wheeze out.

Aether stares at the tray in between them. "Room service?" Aether asks with an odd laugh.

If it is an attempt at humor, Xiao does not understand it. Instead of asking what Aether means, and potentially looking like more of a fool, Xiao holds the food out. "It's breakfast for you."

"Oh," Aether says again. A smile blooms on his lips; it looks hopeful. "Did you make it for me?"

"Yes." Xiao's grip on the tray tightens, the effort of holding suddenly taxing on him. It has nothing to do with the weight of it, nor the fact that Aether has yet to relieve him of it. No, Aether is not doing anything wrong by standing there with a dazed grin. Amid his tray-induced breakdown, Xiao takes note that Aether is missing his spaulder, cape and scarf, left with the dark shirt that normally peeks through his armor.

"You look like you have something to say." Xiao is broken out of his impromptu inspection of Aether's half-complete attire. Aether looks concerned. "You okay in there?"

Xiao shakes his head. He holds the tray further out. "I am fine. I only came to bring you—"

"Hey, is that Xiao?" Paimon interrupts, floating above them with hands on her hips. She looks between the two of them suspiciously. "Were you two about to do something sappy right here in the hallway? No wonder you were taking so long at the door."

"Hey, Paimon," Aether says coolly, "could you head downstairs? I'm sure Smiley Yanxiao is cooking right now, so why don't you get started on your breakfast? I'll follow after in a bit. Xiao and I just need to talk about something."

"Ohhh? What sort of something?" Paimon questions gleefully, grinning at Aether's put-upon sigh.

"That would be none of your concern," Xiao is quick to inform her. Paimon only giggles behind her tiny hands.

"Seriously, just a little bit of privacy?" Aether nudges Paimon forward with just enough force to send her tumbling through the air and into the hallway. "Five—no, um, ten minutes tops. Fifteen? Eh, just wait for me downstairs—and don't you dare get any ideas about sneaking back, you nosy emergency food."

"Hmph! Fine, Paimon will leave you two lovebirds alone and go have a nice, hot breakfast! Maybe she'll order a whole Adeptus' Temptation and eat it all by herself!" Paimon sticks her tongue out at Aether with an exaggerated blegh noise. Without any hesitation, Aether mirrors the gesture in response before she floats away.

"Was it necessary to send her downstairs?" Xiao asks once they are both inside Aether's room and the door is closed. The furnishings are similar to the room Xiao slept in save for an additional, small round table with a pair of chairs. "I thought she was capable of removing herself from an area with relative ease."

"Oh, she can disappear alright," Aether rolls his eyes as he takes a seat in one of the chairs by the table. "You won't see her but she doesn't really go away when she does that. She can hear everything and I doubt you want her to hear us talking right now."

"I see," Xiao nods. "Thank you for taking that into consideration."

"Mhm." Aether leans against the table, face cupped in his hands. Xiao can see that Aether is excitedly kicking his feet under the table. "Well, what did you bring me?"

"Soup." Xiao sets the tray atop the table. Aether's eyes brighten at the sight of it, shimmering as he stares at the dish, and Xiao feels satisfaction begin to well up within him. He swallows it back down; he cannot celebrate before Aether has even tried it.

"It looks really great!" Aether reaches for the spoon beside the bowl but does not yet make a move to eat. He smiles up at Xiao and tilts his head towards the chair across from him. "Aren't you going to sit with me?" Xiao does, and Aether looks all the happier for it.

Aether's feedback is provided mostly in the form of pleasured hums as he eats, yet that alone is enough to please Xiao. He turns down Aether's offer to share, and for once, Aether does not fight him on it. Aether must have been hungry because the bowl is emptied quickly and without so much as a speck of soup left behind. The tray is left on the table and Aether invites Xiao to sit beside him on the bed.

"Smiley Yanxiao better watch it or you might replace him soon," Aether teases, and he twists in his spot on the bed to face Xiao. "Now what's up? You seem really distracted by something."

"Admittedly," Xiao begins, "it is in regards to the cooking I have done as of late."

"Trying new things is what you said, wasn't it?" Aether recalls with a tilt of his head that sends his loose hair cascading over his shoulder. Xiao tries not to focus on it too much. It becomes harder to ignore when Aether sidles a bit closer, close enough that Xiao can feel the heat emanating from his body. Xiao marvels at the calm that washes over him now; it is a strange comfort, the proximity to another living being. "You can tell me the real reason. I promise I won't get upset."

Xiao takes a breath and he shifts on the bed, further messing up the covers, so he can turn to face Aether, too. "I want... to know more about you. I am humbled by what you have done for me yet I still do not know any of the things you like best. Rather than approach you directly, I attempted to learn it on my own."

Aether is staring at him, eyes wide with disbelief. "Really?" This is not what Xiao expects. Aether sounds as though he is moved to learn of Xiao's subterfuge. The Traveler is always a difficult being to comprehend, but the lack of any negative reaction from Aether is bizarre. "You learned to cook for… me?"

"I did," Xiao confesses. "Despite my efforts, I failed to determine your favorite type of food. So, if I may ask you, even after my underhanded ways—"

Aether does not respond. That is well and fine, considering that Aether is presently engaged with kissing him.

Xiao catches Aether's enthusiastic lips to turn the kiss into something calmer, slower. While unexpected, it is wholly welcome and Xiao wants to savor it. It gradually turns softer, and Xiao allows Aether to taste his way into his parted mouth. What is shared between them is sweet when there are traces of the soup still left on Aether's tongue. Xiao can't help but judge it; what little he can gauge doesn't seem quite right. He'll have to do better next time to guarantee Aether receives a flawless version.

"Hmm." Aether pulls away from him, eyes lidded and meeting Xiao's own dazed stare. "What are you thinking about?"

"I did not make the soup correctly," Xiao murmurs. "I will have to revisit the recipe so that I make it properly next time."

Aether bursts out laughing, abruptly losing his balance and falling back flat onto the bed. "You're thinking about cooking at a time like this?"

Xiao frowns at his amusement. "What is wrong with that when it is to perfect something for you?"

Aether's answering smile is so openly besotted that Xiao feels his heart wrench. "Nothing at all," Aether says quietly as he pushes himself back up into a sitting position. The only purpose of the action ends up being to wrap his arms around Xiao's shoulders and to tug him back down with him. Aether hums a pleasant little tune when Xiao plops beside him with a soft thump on the mattress.

"But," Aether continues, voice low though they are alone, "I'd really rather you didn't think about other things right now. Maybe try focusing on what's in front of you?"

"You are in front of me," Xiao admits, staring back.

"As expected of an adeptus, you are so very perceptive." Aether squirms impossibly closer, until they are exchanging exhales of warm breath again. He bumps his nose against Xiao's. "Now, could you kiss me, please?"

"I did not take you for being so…"

Aether grins. "Alluring?"

"Depraved," Xiao settles on, and he belatedly registers that such a descriptor is far from a compliment. Even so, it causes Aether's grin to widen further, so Xiao lays a hand against Aether's bared hip.

Aether fidgets. "Hey, I'm ticklish there."

Xiao immediately retracts his hand. "I apologize."

"No, no." Aether reaches for Xiao's hand and returns it to its previous location. "I liked it. I like it when you touch me."

"It is not my intent to make you laugh with my touch." Xiao hesitates. "Unless that is what you desire."

"It's okay." Aether's eyes are warm, so warm, molten gold. They invite Xiao to squeeze his hand, thumb stroking against Aether's skin. When Aether finally speaks, it is the quietest Xiao has ever heard him speak. It is almost as if he is afraid to share, "You know, Xiao… I really like you. I like you so much it's a little scary."

Xiao stills the movements of his hand. "You are frightened by me?"

"Not of you," Aether promises.

"Then," Xiao prompts, "what is it that you fear?"

"Another time," Aether tells him, and though his tone remains gentle, the statement is firm. This, it seems, is a question Xiao will need to earn the answer to. He was advised to not press on such things, to allow Aether his space and to wait for him. Xiao nods in acceptance, and grants Aether his requested kiss, reveling in the sigh of relief Aether breathes into it.

"We should go," Aether pulls back, though he does look reluctant to do so. "As much as I really like the idea of staying with you here all day, Paimon is going to start getting suspicious the longer I take." Aether winces. "And I have commissions."

Xiao pauses to commit the sight of Aether, recently kissed and content, to memory. "Very well." Xiao sighs and sits up, pulling Aether along up with him. "Do not forget to call me if you require assistance."

"I won't," Aether replies, and he plants a quick kiss atop Xiao's nose. He laughs when Xiao wrinkles his nose at the gesture. "Oh, just one more thing before I go?"

"Of course," Xiao is quick to accept. "What do you need?"

Aether twists in his hold to face the other way, presenting Xiao with his hair. It's undone and messy, but the strands of gold are as enticing as ever. Aether looks over his shoulder with a pleading look, and Xiao already knows that he will not deny him. "Could you braid my hair for me?"