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They are perfect for each other—everyone around them knew about this fact—in every different aspect of life. They complete each other's imperfections like two sides of a coin, like yin and yang that balance the other out.
This is also true in battle. Xingqiu's Vision complements Chongyun's. However, they have one flaw. Xingqiu refuses to use his elemental prowess for the reasons that they wish not to disadvantage their foes. It takes much valor to purposely let one's opponents have—what one would believe—a fair match.
This is true as of the present. In pursuit of a book, Xingqiu brings Chongyun with them for the company. This is totally the situation! It is not like Xingqiu just wanted to travel with Chongyun tagging along. They totally do not want to listen to Chongyun's soft voice muse about demonic activities. The situation is totally not like that!
Every adventure faces a few bumps along the way. The duo is already on their way back when they come across a Fatui agent clad in black clothing. The red that highlights the agent's attire goes along well with the Pyro Vision attached to the person's chest. It seems that the agent is alone; howbeit, Xingqiu and Chongyun are still at an advantage.
The sun is bright atop the tall trees. The foliage gives cover from the intense heat; not a single gray cloud is in sight. They would not have expected taking part in a battle on such a fine day.
The fight is going well so far—moments ago, they planned to avoid contact with the Fatui agent, yet it proved impossible when the agent was after the book the duo took earlier. The two of them are adept at swordsmanship. One more so than the other, but it remains true that they hold aptitude in combat.
Xingqiu inflicts some hits on the enemy until it disappears. It is when the pair registers that favor is no longer on their side. The Fatui agent is undetectable by the naked eye, waiting patiently to take on the offensive.
When Xingqiu senses the opponent's presence, it is far too late. The agent strikes and lands a good strike on Chongyun, successfully creating a sizable gash on the Cryo user's arm. The fire singes the sleeves of his shirt, searing the topmost part of his skin. Still shaken from the surprise attack, he hurriedly wields his Vision to lessen the pain. It is not the best solution, but he has to make do.
"Barely a scratch." He addresses his companion's inevitable concern way before they ask. "We cannot underestimate the enemy."
Chongyun's back is against Xingqiu's. Both of them are even more alert than before.
"Change of plans..." Xingqiu murmurs. Chongyun sneaks a glance at his partner in question. "I can no longer hold back."
Xingqiu then takes a different stance, one more poised than the one they used seconds ago. The look in their eyes changes, grim and stern. It is so uncharacteristic for Xingqiu that it almost scares Chongyun.
"May my final stand be a monument to chivalry." Xingqiu's voice is nowhere cheerful anymore. Nothing but a vow meant to become a reality is what Chongyun hears.
The agent attacks again, this time aimed at Xingqiu—a mistake, a grave one. The man is down in an instant, collapsing on the ground.
The sequence of events is unclear, yet Chongyun chooses to prioritize the safety of his ally.
"Are you alright, Qiu?" Chongyun asks.
"Why, aren't you a silly one, Yun?" They turn towards their companion with a chuckle. "You're the one with an injury, yet you're asking me, of all people, if I am alright. Seriously, I told you once before that ice is far from helping burns, haven't I? Here, let me assist you with that."
Xingqiu tends to Chongyun's burn, and with that, they continue on their stroll back to the Harbor—this time, safely. They may cuddle once in the comfort of their home. Xingqiu swears they are not looking forward to that, however!
"Qiu," Chongyun calls, averting his gaze. He looks at a singular butterfly with wings bluer than the sky. "Thank you for earlier."
Fondness grows on Xingqiu's face in the form of a smile. It tastes sweet, devoid of its usual mischief.
"Chongyun... I heard Xiangling concocted a new dish. It would be a shame not to try it out, wouldn't it?"
Mischief is back with its shenanigans. There is no perfectly good nor bad in the world, and Xingqiu attests to that. Chongyun is likely tired, yet they are what makes his day complete.
There would be no Chongyun without Xingqiu. He forgot how plain his life was before he met Xingqiu.
There would be no Xingqiu without Chongyun. A prankster needs a victim, and Chongyun is ideal for the job.
Chongyun sighs in defeat, not even trying to hide the smile on the corners of his lips. "That sounds promising indeed."