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Chapter Text

Ei was eight years old when she met for the first time the Gunnhildr family. Her own family was throwing a party to celebrate a brand-new deal making their agency one of the most powerful of Teyvat. Her parents insisted that she and her twin sister Makoto should come and meet with their future partnerships. 

Ei always hated these kinds of events. First of all, it was too hot, there were too many strangers and the worst was that she had to talk to them. 

Makoto was good with people. Her sister always managed to make them smile and be actually polite which was something Ei couldn't do even to save her own life. To spare her parents any problems she would just stay in Makoto's shadow. It was better this way.

That night was boring but then the Gunnhildr family made their entrance. 

The first thing Ei saw was the tall blonde woman. She was wearing an expensive blue dress but what really struck Ei was her smile. Her smile should be beautiful, but it just made Ei uneasy. Everything about this woman screamed forced and faked.

The second thing Ei noticed was how hard she was holding the shoulder of a girl that must be the same age as Ei. She was blonde like her mother and was gripping the hand of her little sister. Her blue eyes made their way toward Ei for a couple of seconds before her mother made her greet other people with a perfect smile. 

Ei found herself a little intrigued at first, she swore she saw how uncomfortable the girl was to be there but then a few seconds later the girl was blending with the boring adults. 

It's when her family introduces herself that Ei learns the name of everyone. The mother was Frederica, who was married to Seamus. Their children were Jean and Barbara. 

Ei noticed how Jean kept avoiding eye contact with people hence to her getting scolded a little by her mother. Jean was probably just shy, she couldn't understand why someone would get scolded for that.

It's only a few hours later when Ei gets her first conversation with Jean. However, it wasn't a happy meeting. 

The reason being Frederica.

The party was going smoothly until a little boy the same age as Ei began to pick on Barbara. He tried to steal away her toy until Jean pushed him. 

"Get away from my sister!" Her voice was harsh and her fake polite smile was no longer on her face. 

The boy began to cry when he fell down on his but. Ei laughed slightly. Serve him right.

Because of the cry of the boy, a few adults began to come and Ei felt shivers down her spine when Frederica looked at her eldest daughter.

The woman had a gaze terrifying like she was going to freeze her daughter. The youngest Raiden immediately saw the panic in Jean's eyes.

"Mother, I just wanted to help Barb-" Jean spotted talking and shut her eyes when Frederica raised her hand to put it firmly on her shoulder. For a second Jean was relieved only to shake at the look her mother gave her when she opened her eyes.

"Not a word, Jean. I'm awfully disappointed in your behavior. This conversation is not over." 

Everyone was either looking at the boy crying or at the young Barbara to see the exchange between the mother and her daughter.

But not Ei and Makoto. 

That's why they slowly chased after Jean when the blonde ran to hide herself from the crowd. 

Jean didn't see them and was trying to hold back her tears while softly speaking to herself to grow up. 

Makoto looked at her sister trying to find the right words but was surprised when her sister approached Jean.

"Your mother is a witch." 

Jean yelped in surprise to find the Raiden twins in front of her. 

Makoto let out a scandalized gasp. "Ei, that's not a nice thing to say! Apologize to her immediately!"

Ei pursed her lips at that. What was she supposed to say? It's the truth after all.

Both of the twins were surprised when they heard a soft giggle between sobs. "I don't mind it." The blond looked behind them before adding "My friend Kaeya also thinks she's a witch." 

Ei laughed slightly at that while Makoto tried to scold her. 

"Are you okay?" Asked Makoto. Her sister was always looking after the people around her. 

Jean nodded. "Yes thank you. Though… I want to apologize for earlier. My behavior was unacceptable and-" 

"I would have done the same if someone was picking on my sister." Ei immediately interrupted the girl. Ei raised her chin slightly. "Even worse." 

"Like what?" Jean was curious about the youngest.

"I would beat them up." Proudly said Ei.

Her sister let out a sigh. "You can't do that, Ei. That's why mom and dad won't let you go to school." 

"But how can I protect you then? You can't even throw a punch to a teddy bear." 

Makoto blushed from embarrassment. "And you can't communicate without punching anyone. It's not better than me." 

Ei was annoyed at the comment of her sister. It's true that she was not good with people, but she really tried. It's not her fault if they're boring or annoying. 

"You didn't punch me." Both twins looked at Jean. The girl was no longer crying, and she tried to smile at them. "I think you're kind."

Ei felt her heart warm itself at those words. It was weird, she wasn't used to these kinds of words with other people than her family.

Now that Ei thinks of it… She didn't find Jean lame or annoying like some children of her age. It was a first for her and she didn't know how to act.

Ei tried to look cool in front of Makoto. "Well of course. It's only natural between… Friends?" Ei held out her hand for Jean to shake it.

Makoto wanted to tease her sister but stopped. She knew it was important for Ei. Her little sister never made friends because of her lack of communication. Her sister was trying her best to befriend Jean.

Jean looked surprised but quickly took Ei's hand. "Friends." She smiled at Ei. 

Ei also smiled and looked at Makoto to find her sister crying softly. "Makoto!?" She let go of Jean's hand to run over her sister holding her. "Why are you crying?" 

"You finally made a friend, Ei…" Her sister was sobbing against her chest. Ei only nodded and looked at Jean trying her best to reassure Makoto. Some children often makes fun of Makoto for being too sensitive and call her a silly cry baby, but not Jean.

Ei smiled once again to her new friend.

"I did." 

Chapter Text

Ningguang was ten years old when she met Raiden Ei. 

Ningguang was out shopping for her parents that day at the gas station near her home. Both of them worked very hard to put food on the table, so it was very common for her to do some tasks to help them. 

Ningguang's grip was tight on the money. She was afraid of losing it. After all, if she loses the money then her family won't be able to eat. The thought of her parents not eating so she could was haunting her. 

Ningguang hated to be poor.

She hated being one of the only kids to stay at school when they had to pay for some school trip. And most of all, she hated seeing her parents looking at her every day with their faces saying sorry.

It wasn't their fault. Since the big agency Fatui bought and sold a lot of businesses, many people lost their jobs. Her parents were just trying their best to live.

She was proud of them. 

She just hated to be poor.

After she gave the money to the cashier, she let out a sigh of relief as she looked inside the bag. Tonight no one will starve. 

However, she was too busy looking at her bag to notice that people were coming inside. Before she could register what happened she bumped into a person and tripped making her knock off some bottles of alcohol. 

Ningguang felt her heart race. She looked to the floor to see at least three bottles completely destroyed. Her gaze immediately went to the price of the bottles. She felt like she was going to throw up. If the manager of the gas station asks for reimbursement, there is no way she can pay for it. 

"What happened here!?" Almost yelled the cashier. 

Ningguang felt panic overcoming her. She looked at the person she bumped into and thought for a second she lost her mind as she saw the same person twice. But it wasn't the same person. In front of her were two girls probably her age looking at her with different expressions. One was looking at her with concern while the other looked blankly at the cashier.

"The bottles fell down sir." Said the with a softer look. 

"I can see that!" The purple haired girl immediately hid herself behind the one who was still looking at the cashier. "What I want to know is who is responsible for that."

Ningguang felt her hands become sweaty when the other twin looked at her. That girl was definitely going to denounce her.

A few seconds later, a man with the same hair color as the twins entered the gas station. 

"What is happening? I thought you were getting some snacks, girls." 

Ningguang saw how the cashier's mouth dropped. That man must be famous. 

"Mr Raiden. I'm sorry for the trouble. I'm just trying to solve an incident." His voice was high pitched and he looked nervous. 

Mr Raiden sighed. "I see. Makoto what happened?" He was speaking to the girl hiding behind her sister who was now looking at the cashier with an annoyed expression. 

"We huh…" Makoto looked at her sister for help. Ningguang was confused. She just expected the girls to denounce her so why would they let themselves also be punished for her mistake? Even if one of them bumped into her, it's still her fault for breaking the bottles. 

"We were trying to reach something, and I made the bottles fall." Ningguang couldn't believe it. The silent twin took the blame for her.

Mr Raiden sighed and kneeled before his daughter. "Try asking for help next time, okay Ei?" Ei nodded. "Apologize for your mistake." 

Ei bowed slightly. "I apologize for my mistake. I will reflect on it." 

The cashier was stuttering. "It's okay really! As long as someone can pay for it." 

"Of course. Girls wait for me next to the car. I'll buy you snacks." 

The twins nodded and made their way outside. Ningguang felt guilty. Maybe they were going to get punished because of her. 

She decided to follow them outside. She wanted to apologize but she also wanted answers. Why lie to protect her? 

As she approached the girls, Makoto smiled at her. 

"Sorry for earlier, I wasn't paying attention and bumped into you." Said Ningguang.

Makoto's smile grew bigger. "Then I also owe you an excuse. I'm the one who made you tripped. I'm sorry." 

"How can I repay you?" If there was something that Ningguang hated the most after being poor, it was definitely being in debt to someone. 

Makoto blushed. "No need to!" 

But Ningguang wasn't going to back down. She smiled softly. "I insist." 

After a long silence, Ei spoke up. "I guess you can help us with our homework for at least three weeks." 

Makoto frowned at her sister's deal. "You're just going to let her do everything for you." 

Ei tried to hide her smile. "I won't." 

Makoto sighed. "You're not a very good liar." She glanced at the white-haired girl. "But if it's fine with you we can do that." 

Ningguang reflected for a moment. "Three months." Both twins were taken aback. "The bottles were expensive and," She pointed at Ei "You took the blame. I think it's fair." 

Makoto was thinking about it, but Ei was already shaking hands with Ningguang. "Deal." Makoto said nothing but shook her head. 

"Before I go… Can I know why you lied to protect me?" 

Ei was surprised by the question. "Why?" She was thinking very hard before shrugging. "I just wanted to." 

That girl is odd thought Ningguang. But she smiled a little. "Well, thank you." 

Ei blushed. "Don't worry about it." Ei wrote something on a piece of paper and gave it to Ningguang. "You can come every weekend." 

"What's your name by the way?" Asked Makoto. 

"Ningguang." 

Makoto smiled and Ei nodded. 

"See you next week Ningguang!" Said Makoto before dragging her sister to enter the car as their father finally exited the gas station. 

"See you." Muttered Ningguang waving at the twins.

          ___________________________________

Time passed quickly and Ningguang grew closer to Ei. 

She learned many things about the Raiden family.

She knows that people can't tell the twins apart if they don't wear the accessories in their hair but that it's actually easy because of the mole under Ei's eye. 

She learned that their family tried to do many activities together but unfortunately there was always one member who was bad at something so they decided to find a common hobby. 

Mr Raiden is quite good at everything except fishing. 

Mrs Raiden was terrible at drawing.

Makoto wasn't good at sports.

And Ei was a terrible cook.

The first thing that Ningguang understood after two weeks of tutoring was that Ei was just lazy. Ei was actually smart and could do her homework, but she preferred to sneak off to play some video games or practice with a bow. 

Ei was also funny to tease. 

If Ei didn't want to do her homework Ningguang would simply fake being upset and leave the room to call Makoto. Ei would immediately whine and pout at Ningguang and then do her homework with her grumpy attitude. 

Today was officially the last day of her debt to the twins. But it didn't feel like it. Ei never mentioned anything about it, and Ningguang didn't want to because she was afraid of ruining the girl's mood.

So the girls decided to speak.

Today's topic was the future. 

Ningguang was lying on her back in front of the table where Ei was doing some silly doodles instead of finishing her homework.

"My goal is to become rich. And I also want a house in the sky." 

Ei chuckled "I don't think that it's possible but I could help you build it if you find a way." 

Ningguang raised an eyebrow "And you? What do you think your future could be?"

At that Ei's smile slowly dropped. "Makoto is going to be the head of the family and I will help her. People don't have exceptions for me, so I can just follow her around like a shadow."

Ningguang sat on the floor to face the youngest twin. "Are you okay with that?" Ei shrugged, and Ningguang let out a sigh. "What do you want to do with your life? Are you okay with playing the supporting role forever?"

Anger flashed in Ei's eyes. "Your tongue is sharp today." Ningguang simply smiled, still waiting for the truth. Ei looked at the paper in front of her. "I don't want people to think that they can choose which path is right for me. I want to find that answer myself." She erased one of her drawings. "I wonder what person I can grow to become." 

Ningguang was delighted to hear her answer. She knew that Ei had ambions "I look forward to it, Ei." Ei smiled at her, which was something the girl did only with a few people. "Maybe you could work for me later…" Said Ningguang to tease the purple haired girl.

Ei threw her pen at Ningguang. "Never." Ningguang laughed. She knew how to get a quick reaction from Ei. It was seriously funny to anger the girl.

Ningguang glanced at the clock in the room and her smile disappeared. It was time to go. "I have to go." With Ei's help she took her things and made her way to the door of the Raiden's house. 

Three months were nothing and maybe it was selfish but she wished she had broke more bottles so she could win more time with Ei.

Being with Ei was fun and Ningguang didn't want it to end.

Ei was grabbing her coat. "Already three months huh…" 

Ningguang tried to smile but she couldn't. "I thought you forgot about it to be honest." 

Ei gave her her coat. Ningguang saw the hesitation in Ei's eyes and waited to see if the girl wanted to say something. "Are you coming back next week?" 

Ningguang tried to not smile, but she failed. "Do you want me to?" Ei simply nodded. Ningguang couldn't resist and hugged her friend. "I'll see you next week then!" 

And just like that Ningguang left her friend completely frozen, still trying to understand what happened.

Ningguang laughed, Ei was the best to tease.

Chapter Text

Jean was ten years old when she met Ningguang for the first time thanks to Ei. 

Ei told her a lot about Ningguang like how smart, kind and fun the girl could be. Of course, Jean was intrigued, and she got to meet Ningguang a few months after her debt to Ei was paid. Jean didn't quite understand the whole debt and deal, but Makoto told her Ei was just weird and Ningguang a bit dramatic so just dropped it.

Her first meeting with Ningguang was normal. Ei wanted to introduce her first friend to her newest one so Jean couldn't possibly say no. 

The first thing Jean noticed about Ningguang was her eyes. They were beautiful but most importantly they were in constant movements. It was like Ningguang was always analyzing what she could see. Also, Jean couldn't help to notice how pretty Ningguang was. Of course she still thinks Barbara is the prettiest girl on the planet but maybe she was a bit biased.

Ningguang wasn't shy and was always talking to people with ease but what struck Jean the most was how indeed Ningguang could be smart.

Like her, Ningguang was actually a bit of a bookworm but it was actually by choice. Jean was studying because she wanted to make her family proud and because it's what her mother expects her to do. It wasn't because Jean particularly liked learning. Jean was a bit jealous even if she tried to shove away the feeling. After all, her mother forbade her from feeling envious of other people. 

She is a Gunnhildr. 

On the other hand, Ningguang was not from a prestigious family. Jean didn't care and neither did Ei. 

But her mother… Jean immediately saw the look of her mother when she told her about being friends with Ningguang.

Her mother never liked to see her daughters befriend people with a "little name, especially Jean since she is her heir. 

To be honest Jean never understood why a name was so important to her mother. To Jean, a name wasn't something you could just take to define a person. A person is made by their choices. 

But to her mother a name is everything. That's why she was cautious around Ningguang and kept telling her to be careful with her. That Ningguang's kind of people were always after something and wanted to see people like her fall.

Jean didn't listen though. Her mother was a bit paranoid about that kind of thing.

Ningguang is her friend and that's all she needs to know.

Everything went smoothly with Ningguang. 

Both of them bonded over their thirst for knowledge and Ningguang liked to tease Jean a lot.

The truth is that Ningguang loved to tease people but she was almost a nightmare to Ei and Jean. She loved to tease Jean because she thought she was just the sweetest she ever met. Ningguang always dared Jean to do things her mother warned her about. Of course Ei was always behind Ningguang to support her ideas since she didn't like Frederica. 

The only person Jean could trust to save her was Makoto. Sometimes Jean wondered if Makoto was an angel or some kind…

It's not until she's eleven that Jean finally snaps at her mother for her behavior towards Ningguang.

For the first time in her life Jean scored lower than one person in her class. For some it may not be a big deal but for Jean's mother, it was a sign that her daughter wasn't doing her best and was distracted.

When Jean came back home after hanging out with her best friends, she suddenly felt cold. Her mother was waiting for her in the living room with her results on the table.

Jean tried to not shake when she finally was in front of the table and mother.

Her father was working and Barbara was currently at her singing practice. 

It was just the two of them.

She must be calm or things will get worse. Her mother hates when she let her emotions take over.

"What is the meaning of this, Jean?" Her voice was calm, but Jean could hear the anger.

"I didn't expect any questions about the newest subject. I was caught off guard." 

"Caught off guard?" Her mother was already standing up to tower over her as she repeated her words. "If you were caught off guard, it would mean you didn't try your best." Jean gulped at her mother's words. "It means that you're not studying enough." She placed her hand on Jean's shoulder. "It means that you must work harder." 

"I already do mother I-" She felt the grip of her mother tightens around her shoulder. Her mother always hated when she tried to justify her mistakes.

"Clearly it's not enough considering your grades." She put her other hand on Jean's chin to raise her head. "I'm telling you this for your own good, Jean. One day you will take my place as the head of the family and I need you to be ready for it. Our heritage is everything. The Gunnhildr family has always been important to Teyvat." Her mother gave her a smile which was something she doesn't get to see every day for as far as she can remember. 

But something was off with this conversation and Jean couldn't control the words coming out.

"What if I don't want to? Ning always says that we should be able to do whatever we want and choose our own path. I don't think that I-" Jean stopped when she felt the hand on her shoulder shake a bit. 

Her mother was furious. "It's your duty as a Gunnhildr. A lowlife like your friend can't understand how important it is. I won't let you ruin your future over a stupid friendship." 

Jean couldn't bear to hear her mother talk like that about her friend and for the first time she let anger take over her. 

"Don't talk like that about Ning!  She's incredibly sweet and smart. She's one of the best people I could possibly meet in my life. And I believe in her, I think that she's going to contribute to Teyvat even more than everyone else." 

Her mother let out a laugh. "Jean, I never raised you to say such foolish things. I think you must be exhausted. You should take a shower and go to sleep." 

Jean gritted her teeth. She knew the conversation was over but still she was so angry. Her mother could be awful towards the people she despised. Nevertheless, Jean went upstairs without saying anything else. Her mother won't tolerate her rejecting orders.

This whole conversation was eating her from the inside. Even after a few days, she couldn't forget what her mother said. As she was helping Ningguang getting home she felt bad to keep the conversation to herself. She didn't want to hurt Ningguang by telling her what her mother thinks, but she also felt like she owned Ningguang the truth. 

Eventually, Ningguang saw how weird she was and smiled at her. "Spit it out. You've been acting weird lately."

Jean gulped. "My mom and I had an argument last time." 

Ningguang frowned. "Are you okay? It's unusual for you to anger her that much." 

"That's the thing… I still feel a bit angry at her and I don't know what to do." 

Ningguang smirked, "Now that's something even more unusual… I bet you're also adorable when you're upset." 

Her joke made Jean roll her eyes. "Ning." 

Ningguang chuckled. "See I told you… Anyway, why were you fighting with her?" Ningguang saw the hesitation in her friend's eyes and placed a gentle hand on her arm. "You know you can tell me anything right?" 

"I don't want to hurt you." 

Ningguang raised an eyebrow. "Me?" 

Jean nodded and proceeded to tell everything to her friend. She saw how hurt Ningguang was by her mother's words. Especially when she was talking about her social status and how she must lack intelligence to succeed.

"I'm sorry Ning."

Ningguang stopped her in the middle of the street. "You don't have to apologize, Jean. I must admit that I now understand why Ei sometimes calls your mom a witch, though." Jean smiled thinking about how that was the first thing Ei ever told her. "But don't worry," Ningguang raised her chin. "I'm going to prove her and everyone else that I'm far from being a stupid girl and can achieve anything by myself." 

Jean didn't know why but seeing Ningguang standing there with the sun almost gone behind her back and the cold breeze making her slightly blushed was breathtaking. Her words were strong, it was a promise to herself and Jean believed stronger than ever that Ningguang was going to rule over Teyvat if she decided to.

"Wow." That's all she could say and Ningguang bursted out laughing.

"Stop looking at me like that or my ego is going to explode and I don't think that Ei could stand it." 

"Sorry…" Jean was embarrassed but she couldn't help but to look at her friend. "I just think you're amazing. I'm glad to be your friend." 

Ningguang was blushing and turned away to hide. "Well I'm not going to end our friendship just because your mom wants to. And stop apologizing for everything." 

"Sorr-" Jean sighed, it's going to be hard. "I'll try. It must be late, maybe we should go, I don't want anything to happen to you on the road." 

"Lead the way~" Ningguang offered her hand to laugh but Jean took it without hesitation. 

Jean was always ready to help someone who is reaching out to her.

And she was dense… but that's another discussion for another time.

Chapter Text

The first time the girls screwed up, they were twelve years old.

If you asked Ei it was chaotic but also a good memory.

If you asked Ningguang it was at first stressful but then hilarious.

If you asked Jean it was a living nightmare.

The girls were at Ei's house. It was raining making it impossible to stay outside to study so they were ""caged"" in the house according to Ei.

When the three of them were done with their assignments, they decided to visit Makoto. Makoto was staying in the house with her tutor to learn more things about the agency of her family. 

Ei asked her twin if she wanted to play with them or cook something to which Makoto laughed and forbade her sister to touch the kitchen. Unfortunately, Makoto couldn't play with them and had to stay. 

Playing games with three people was hard, especially inside the house. But Ei got a great idea. They could play football in the hallway. 

Ningguang and Jean were fine with it, after all they were just going to play a little bit, nothing wrong, right ?

To play they decided to put one person in the middle of the hallway, and two at the different doors at the end of it. The objective was to score by passing the ball behind the person guarding the door. The person in the middle had the advantage, so they decided by rock-paper-scissors. 

Jean immediately lost because she always chose scissors first which was something Ningguang and Ei noticed long ago. At the last round Ei won with rock.

The game could start.

The game was fun even if Ningguang quickly began to be exhausted, PE class wasn't her favorite thing after all. She wanted to stop, but she knew Ei wanted to score against Jean. 

Ei and Jean were both very talented in sports. It was something they both liked and they quickly became some sort of rivals regarding the subject. Well at least to Ei. She was very competitive.

Ningguang decided to rile up Ei a little by teasing her.

"What's wrong Ei? You can't score against Jean?" 

Ei kicked the ball in her direction with so much force Ningguang swore she almost lost a finger by catching the ball. 

Ei saw the look on Ningguang's face and smirked. "Afraid of losing or breaking your nails, my lady?" 

Ningguang huffed at the nickname. "You wish." She pointed at Jean. "But your enemy is still undefeated my dear almighty Ei." 

Jean frowned. "Enemy seriously?" 

"I'm going to show you what I can do." Said Ei with a fierce look. She turned to Ningguang. "Kick the ball with all of your strength. I'll show you what I can do." 

Ningguang did it without hesitation and Ei quickly kicked the ball in the direction of Jean who was caught off guard by the speed. Before she could move the ball went above her head and crashed into the room behind her.

Ei was jumping towards Ningguang with a proud and stupid smile already taunting her. "Yeah, yeah, I get it. You're really good." 

"I told you I could do it! Nothing can stop me when I want to!" 

Ningguang laughed. "Not even the kitchen?" 

Ei glared at her. "Do not mention that thing to me. It's still a mystery to me that I cannot conquer the kitchen." 

Ningguang almost died of laughter. "Oh my… Conquer the kitchen? That's hilarious!" Ningguang turned to Jean. "Did you hear that? Ei can be so-" Ningguang stopped laughing when she saw Jean at the door. 

Jean hadn't moved since the goal except that she wasn't facing them.

Ei looked at Jean with concern. "Did we break her?" 

Ningguang slapped Ei in the stomach. "First of all it's not WE and second I don't know." 

Slowly they went to Jean's side and saw how livid she was. Ningguang was going to ask what happened but then she saw it too. 

"Shit." Muttered Ningguang. 

In front of them was a porcelain vase completely destroyed with besides it the murder weapon.

Ei took the ball and looked at the vase. "Well it's definitely not possible to pick up the pieces." 

Ningguang almost laughed. "Obviously, Ei." 

Ei raised her hands. "Just saying." 

Jean bent to look closer at the vase. "Please tell me this is not something that belongs to your family's heritage." 

Ei's answer was cheerful. "It's not! Actually I think it's just a historical vase of more than four centuries. Dad is quite fond of it."

Ningguang's eyes widened and Jean almost whined falling to her knees. "And… You think your parents are not going to be mad that we broke it somehow?" Ei looked confused and Ningguang sighed. "Ei. It's a vase from four centuries ago that is probably very expensive and cannot be found anywhere. It's like some sort of rare video game with one copy available." 

Ningguang's words finally went through Ei's head and she looked at the vase with her mouth wide open.

Jean closed her eyes. "I think I'm going to pass out." 

After a few minutes of silence Ei began to pick up the pieces. "I broke it so no need for you to worry about it." 

Ningguang and Jean weren't happy with that. 

"You were not playing alone, Ei." Said Ningguang.

"Exactly. At least let us take the blame with you." 

Ei smiled at them. "While I appreciate your sacrifice, I think we need a plan because my father is not going to be happy." 

Her friends obviously agree with her statement. They needed to find something quickly. 

"Does your father often come here to look at it?" Asked Jean.

"Not really, why?" 

Jean sighed. "It's stupid, forget it." 

Ningguang chuckled. "Well we're already doomed so we should try something at least." 

"Okay. I was thinking that maybe we can create another vase? Maybe he won't notice it or if he does you can try to find something." 

"Like…?" Ei wasn't convinced.

"You can tell that you wanted to do something special for him." Suggested Ningguang. "Like… I don't know. Look dad, I made something with my love for you and it's worth more than four centuries." 

Ei pondered and shrugged. "I'm just trying to survive so yeah why not!" 

With that awful plan in mind, the girls spent their entire day trying to create a vase similar to the one they broke. 

With three different versions they went with the one Ei did. It seems that she was quite talented. 

Jean was trying her best to distract Makoto in the kitchen meanwhile her friends went upstairs to clean the mess they did.

Ningguang and Jean had to go and left the house. They agreed to take the secret to their grave no matter what.

Ei felt like she would be the first one to be buried.

Eventually, several weeks passed and none of Ei's parents said a word about the vase. 

Ei and her friends were relieved. The plan did work after all… 

At least that's what they thought until Ei's dad came downstairs one day while holding the fake vase as the twins were watching something on the TV.

"What is this vase?" 

Ei tried to fend innocence. "I don't know, what about you Makoto?"

Makoto shook her head. "I don't know, but it does look like a version of the one we have upstairs." 

Ei almost choked. Why is her sister so smart…

"It's funny that you're saying this Makoto because I just thought the same." Said their father. "It's almost like someone tried to prank me." His gaze was on Ei, but she tried to ignore him by watching the TV like her life depended on it.

"Maybe mom did it?" Suggested Makoto.

"Your mother isn't good at this kind of thing. But I know someone that is talented enough to pull off something like that." His gaze was almost burning Ei.

Makoto turned to Ei. "Did you…?" 

Ei couldn't resist and looked at Makoto. "What if I did…?" 

Her father placed himself right in front of the TV. "You better have an explanation." 

Here goes nothing thought Ei. "It's actually a gift for you. I wanted to make something special for you that is much more valuable than your porcelain vase." 

Makoto was immediately fooled. "It's so sweet, Ei!" 

"More valuable than a vase from four centuries ago?" Her father chuckled. "Well okay!" Ei almost smiled but then her father put the vase right on the table in front of them. "Your joke was funny for a few minutes, Ei. Now tell me where did you hide it?" 

Ei swallowed. "Somewhere." She couldn't tell him that she threw it in the trash like it wasn't important.

Her father sighed he was starting to get angry. "Raiden Ei." 

She was screwed. "If I told you that I may have hypothetically broken it… Are you going to be mad?"

Her father closed his eyes. He was trying to not yell. "Then I hypothetically guess that you can consider yourself grounded for three weeks." He took the vase and proceeded to leave the room. Ei was glad. It wasn't so bad… "Also you can hypothetically forget about eating desserts for at least a month." And then he left, leaving Ei completely frozen.

He can't do that can he…? Sweets are her favorite thing; it's like Sonic without his rings.

"Can he legally do that…?" 

Makoto laughed at her. "It seems like it." 

When Ei told her friends about it it was like they were celebrating the end of a curse. Or at least Ei and Jean were because Ningguang was just teasing them like she wasn't involved in the mess.

Then something odd came into Ei's mind. Makoto wasn't shocked at all by the story. "Makoto… Did you somehow…?" 

Makoto giggled. "Let's say that you're lucky I got rid of the trash myself that night or your vase would've worked for only a few hours." 

Archon… She loves Makoto.

Chapter Text

Ningguang and Ei are fourteen years old when they argue for the first time.

But it wasn't like their usual arguments, which were most of the time silly.

The girls were with Jean and Makoto that day. All of them were waiting for the rain to stop a little before getting home. Unfortunately, it seemed that the rain wouldn't stop so Makoto suggested that two of them should go buy umbrellas to the nearest shop.

After a few minutes it was decided that both Makoto and Jean should go. Ningguang was tired and Makoto didn't want to go with Ei since she was afraid her sister was going to scare off other people if they talked to her.

Once the girls left, the two of them talked like they usually did.

Everything was great until Ei brought up something sensitive to Ningguang.

"I want to tell you something but please don't get angry." 

"Are you finally going to confess to me?" Teased Ningguang.

"Hahaha." Said dryly Ei. "It's serious." 

Ningguang nodded. "Okay go on." 

"I was thinking the other day that maybe I could talk to my parents for yours. I know for a fact that they're hardworking and brave people so I thought-" 

Ningguang cut her off. "That they wanted your pity?" 

"I knew you would say that. It's not pity, I think my parents would be delighted to work with yours." 

Ningguang snorted. "Yeah sure, but has you thought about mine? How do you think they would react if I told them that because my rich friend talked to her parents they could get a new job?" 

Ei sighed. "Can you at least consider it?" 

Ningguang chuckled angrily. "I did and it's a no." 

"Try to talk to your parents I definitely think-" 

Ningguang raised her hand to stop her. "You have met my parents Ei. They're very proud people and they don't need your help." 

"I'm just-" 

"Sticking your nose in other people's business." 

Ei whistled. "Jeez… Calm down Ning. We're just talking." 

Ningguang was furious and she felt tears picking her eyes because of frustration. "No we're not just talking, you're trying to interfere in my family's life which is something I already told you to not do. Life is not a game, it's more complicated than it looks, Ei." 

Ei raised her eyebrow. "Do you think I'm dumb? I already know that. I was just suggesting something to you." 

Ningguang almost yelled. "And my answer is no. My family doesn't need your help or your money." 

Ei wanted to argue that it wasn't about the money but Ningguang always says the same thing to her. She always says that in this world it's always about the money. She wasn't wrong when you think about it so Ei didn't utter another word after she let out softly, "Sorry, I won't speak about it again." 

Ningguang didn't say anything. She was trying to calm herself down. She sat on the bench which was completely wet and made a face that almost made Ei snorted. She didn't though, because she didn't want Ningguang to be more upset.

After an uncomfortable silence, Ningguang broke it. "You know…" Her voice was calm and she didn't seem angry anymore. "What you're trying to do, it's very kind and I'm sure plenty of people would've accepted your help. But my family is not like that. We're always trying to accomplish things by ourselves." 

"I get it. I'm sure you're going to do great things in a few years." 

Ningguang smirked at her. "Make sure to keep an eye on me though. Who knows I might become a pain in the ass for Makoto in business." 

Ei scolded. "We both know that she doesn't need my help with it." 

Ningguang hummed. "You're right she's going to be a force to be reckoned with." 

"Like me." 

Ningguang giggled. "You? You're adorable, you just hate people." 

Ei looked offended. "I'm not adorable. You're the only one saying that with Makoto and Jean." 

"Both of them really think that you're adorable, while I'm saying it to piss you off." 

Ei rolled her eyes and was about to tease Ningguang when she heard Makoto yelling. "Sorry for the wait!" The first thing that Ei noticed was that the girls were back with only two umbrellas. Meanwhile, the first thing Ningguang noticed was that Jean's jacket was no longer on her but instead on Makoto.

Ningguang didn't miss a beat to tease her friends. "Nice jacket Makoto." 

Makoto immediately blushed. "I was cold." Ningguang was about to tease her more but Ei interrupted her.

"That's why we only got two umbrellas? Where did you buy the jacket?" 

Ningguang almost sighed. Archon… Ei could be so dumb.

"The jacket is mine. Unfortunately, there were only two umbrellas left so we didn't have a choice." Said Jean while giving her umbrella to Ningguang.

"Oh. Thank you then. Our parents will kill me if Makoto gets sick." 

"It's nothing, don't worry." Jean smiled and turned to Makoto. "You can keep it and give it back to me next time!" 

Makoto smiled and Ningguang saw how she gripped the jacket. "Thanks Jean." 

Yeah… Jean is never getting that jacket back, thought Ningguang. 

Ei took the umbrella from Makoto and linked their arms together. "Shall we go?" 

Ningguang did the same with Jean and felt her friend stiffened. "Lead the way~" 

After that day the argument they had was never brought back again. When they think about it, both of them definitely believe that this argument only made their friendships stronger. 

Chapter Text

Jean Gunnhildr has always been active. From the moment she wakes up she never ceases to move. From her daily workouts to cooking, to helping her family and most importantly her studies. 

Some people think that she's a little hyperactive but in reality Jean just doesn't like doing nothing. 

Her mother always told her to make herself useful or at least always trying to improve herself. Doing nothing was something Jean was not comfortable at and she even considered it a waste of time.

At least it was true until her best friends decided to change everything.

Everyone was enjoying their summer break and the girls were as usual at the Raiden's house.

But Ningguang, who normally greeted Jean with a big hug to tease her, suddenly reached to touch softly Jean's face. 

"Jean, are you sick?" 

Jean frowned. "I'm not." As she saw how concerned Ningguang looked she decided to ask. "Why?"

"You got bags under your eyes." 

"Oh this? It's nothing don't worry." 

Ei also came closer to look at her friend. "Hum… You look exhausted." 

Jean sighed. "I guess it's because I work hard on some homeworks." 

"Homeworks…?" Muttered Ningguang. "We're only on our fourth day of summer break and you're already doing your homework like it's due to tomorrow?" 

Jean was flustered. "I don't mind. Like this I can learn more things and help people when I'm done with it." 

"Why?" Asked Ei. 

The answer was obvious to Jean. "So I can be useful to people."

Ningguang and Ei looked at each other for a moment before they nodded and both of them linked their arms to Jean's.

"I think it's time we finally create this special day." Said Ningguang with a smirk.

Ei nodded. "Indeed… We have to before we lose our precious friend to exhaustion." 

Jean tried to get away from her friends. "What are you talking about?" 

"As your best friends we're always looking after you Jean. And let me say that it's not the first time we saw those bags under your beautiful eyes." Her friend led her inside the house to make her sit on one of the chairs in the kitchen. "So with my genius brain and Ei's… Ideas. We have come to the conclusion that we needed to step in if we wanted to save you from killing yourself at work." 

Jean sighed. "You're exaggerating."

"And you're lying to yourself." Snapped Ei. "You need to look after yourself. Everyone got their own limits." 

Jean sighed once again. It was her choice to work so much but it seems her friends weren't going to let that slide. "What do you suggest then?" 

Her friends looked at each other before shouting together, "Let Jean do nothing day." 

Jean chuckled. "Okay…?" 

"Basically, for one day, you stay with us and do nothing like you unusually would." Said Ningguang with a big grin on her face.

"That's… Impossible?" 

"Jean trust us. Try at least for a day." Said Ei eager to apply their plan.

Jean wanted to say no but she was unable to refuse anything to her friends when they were excited. "Why not." 

As soon as she said those words the "Let Jean do nothing day" officially began.

At first the girls were trying to lay outside right beside the pool, to enjoy to sun. But Jean wasn't comfortable, she was losing her mind. And it seems she wasn't the only one because Ei also got up and yelled. "Let's try something else before I die from boredom." 

Jean almost embraced her friend. "We can always read something?" 

Ei lightly punched her in the arm. "No studying!" 

Ningguang was thinking before agreeing to Jean's proposal. "We can but let's try something else." 

And that's how they found themselves to read different books reflecting their personality. Ei was reading a comic about heroes meanwhile Ningguang was reading a story more about slice of life. Jean was losing herself in the story. It was about knights going on a mysterious quest to save their kingdom. The story even had a bit of romance and Jean was quite fond of it. 

Eventually, they decided to return to the kitchen where Makoto was already cooking something.

"Are you guys staying tonight?" Aksed Makoto as she opened a jar.

"Yes, we're finally getting Jean to rest." Proudly said Ei.

Jean blushed a little embarrassed. "It's a little stupid." 

Makoto looked confused. "Looking after yourself is never stupid. I think it's one of the most important things, because how can you look after people if you can't do it for yourself?" 

Makoto's words hit Jean harder than she wanted to admit. Maybe she needed to improve herself on that…

Her thoughts were interrupted by Ningguang screaming at Ei. "Did you just throw a freaking blueberry between my breast?" 

Ei looked smugly at her friend.  "Last you said I wouldn't dare to do it." 

Makoto looked offended and blushed. "Ei! That's inappropriate!" 

And that's how Ei was scolded by her twin sister on how to behave with her guests even if they were friends to Ningguang's delight.

That night, they decided to watch a movie. It was stupid and not the best thing but still Jean felt at peace. She was lying between her friends in Ei's bed and was having a hard time keeping her eyes open. 

She must admit that she was indeed exhausted. Today made her realize that it wasn't so bad doing things for herself. She felt like she just had one her best day ever.

Softly Jean expressed her gratitude. "Thank you for today." 

She expected them to tease her a bit but instead they both smiled at her. "Anytime you want." 

Jean finally closed her eyes and fell asleep with a small smile on her face. 

When Ningguang noticed that Jean fell asleep she immediately seized the moment and took out her phone to take pictures. 

Ei sighed. "You're so evil…" 

Ningguang looked offended. "Ei. It's not everyday that we get the chance to get pictures of a clingy Jean." 

Ei looked at how Jean was cuddling Ningguang and was amazed. From what she saw Jean seems to avoid to be touched like she hates it.

So it was indeed a rare sight.

It was like a Pokemon Shiny… 

Ningguang almost burst out laughing when Ei also took out her phone to take pictures. 

Let's say it's another way of showing how much they love her… After all no one is more fun to tease than a flustered Jean. 

Chapter Text

"I don't want to see you anymore!" Said Makoto after slamming the door to Ei's face.

Ei could only stare at the door, stunned by what happened.

Archons… Her twin sister hates her.

Two days after her fight with her sister, Ei managed to get out by herself to see her best friends.

Ningguang and Jean were good with people… They could help her fix her mistake.

Ningguang looked concerned. "This is the first time I see you depressed. What happened?" 

"Is it because of your fight with Makoto?" Said Jean quietly.

Ei almost grabbed Jean by her shoulders to shake her. "How do you know that!? Did Makoto say anything to you!?" 

Jean looked around a little uncomfortable with how close her friend was. "We often talk and she sent me a text saying that you were annoying and trying to control her life." 

Ei winced. "I'm not trying to control her life. I'm just trying to protect her." 

"Well there must be a reason for her to get mad at you." Said Ningguang as she ordered another drink.

"Lately, a guy at her school has been very persistent with her. Always trying to do his homework with her, trying to walk her home, hell, he also sent her plenty of messages. She told me she didn't want to befriend him and that he was getting on her nerves." 

Ningguang sighed. "I don't like where this is going… You threatened him, right?" 

Ei nodded ashamed. "I sent him a message with a bunch of private stuff I hacked from his computer. I told him to leave Makoto alone, or I'll expose him. He's not a good person. I don't want him near my sister. He told Makoto and now she doesn't want to talk to me." 

Jean patted her shoulder. "Don't worry, what you did was to protect her. It wasn't the right way to do it but if you talk to Makoto, I'm sure she'll understand."

Ningguang hummed. "You also need to apologize to her."

Ei froze. "How? I'm not good with words and at expressing myself." 

Ningguang shrugged. "I'm sorry Makoto, sometimes I'm a jerk but it was to protect you." 

Ei wasn't convinced so she turned to Jean. "How do you usually apologize to Barbara?" 

"Barbara never got mad at me…" 

Ningguang hugged a stiff Jean. "That's because you're adorable!" 

Ei kicked her friend under the table. "You're not helping!" She drank her soda. "Maybe I can buy her something?" 

Ningguang looked at her like she just said the stupidest thing ever. "That's how despicable rich people do. You may be rich but you're just dumb, so forget about that."

"Then what!? She doesn't want to talk to me! Should I harass her with messages!?" 

Jean immediately stopped drinking. "Maybe." Ei calmed down to listen. "Messages are not sincere, but a letter is a good idea. Try to write how you feel about the whole situation. Makoto will come to talk to you once she's ready."

Ei sighed. "I'm not very good…"

Ningguang huffed. "We can't help you. Makoto deserves something from you. Don't think too much about it."

Ei sinked in her chair. "I'll try…" She smiled a little at her friends. "Thanks."

Both of them smiled at her and gave her more advice to help her reconcile with Makoto.

That's how she started to write a letter for the first time in her life. After more than fifteen wasted papers, she finally felt pleased by her letter. She looked at her window and saw how bright and beautiful the moon was.

Usually, Makoto would be there with her laying on the bed, talking about her day or just watching the moon while Ei played a game. 

Ei really missed her sister. She never felt more empty than these last few days. After all, it's their first fight and they never got separated for such a long time.

She looked at the letter in her hand and hoped that her feelings would reach her sister. 

Once in front of her sister's bedroom, she slid the letter below the door and left in her own bedroom.

She wanted to wait and see if her sister wanted to talk after reading the letter, but it was already late and she didn't know if Makoto was awake. So, Ei decided to sleep and tried to ignore the ache in her stomach.

At the end of the day, she didn't sleep much and Makoto was already out of her bedroom.

Ei sighed. Seems like her sister didn't want to talk and already left for her lessons.

But Ei was taken aback, once she got down in the kitchen. Her parents weren't there but her sister was making breakfast and immediately dropped what she was doing when her eyes fell on her sister.

"Ei." Said quietly her sister. 

Her heart felt warm when she heard the voice of her twin. "Did you read my letter?" 

Makoto smiled, not surprised about how straightforward she was. "I did."

"So?" 

"I cried a lot… For many reasons. One of them being that I was touched that you trust me enough to express yourself to me. Then, I was hit by how important you are in my life and how much I love you." Ei smiled a little at that. "I wanted to come into your bedroom and hug you… But then I realized that it was a bad idea." Ei couldn't hide her disappointment. "Because even if I hate to admit it, I rely too much on you to protect me. I treasure our bond more than anything but I think that we need to learn to spend more time on our own."

"But I love to protect you. I love spending time with you." Ei felt something bothering her in her throat. What was that…? It's like she was going to throw up.

"I'm not saying it's wrong, Ei. But we're not going to spend our lives together for eternity."

"I don't care about that!" 

"If you don't care then why are you crying?" 

Ei touched her cheeks and was surprised to feel the tears falling down slowly. "I'm sorry, but please explain yourself. Is it because of the guy?"

Makoto sighed. "It's not Ei. It's about us. I don't want to depend on you for the rest of my life. Eventually, we're going to follow our own path and I want us to be ready for it." 

"I don't want to follow my own path if it means growing apart from you." Ei knew she was being stubborn but everything was hard to accept. She didn't know if what she said even made sense.

"I'm not saying that we're not going to be together in the future and that I don't want to. I want to spend my time with you as much as I can. All I ask of you is to let me protect myself and trust me to live my life on my own." 

Ei didn't know what to say or do, so she waited several minutes before answering. "I can do that. But… does that mean we're not going to hug anymore or…?" 

Makoto immediately hugged her sister tightly. "Of course not. I'm not getting rid of you Ei. Anytime you need me I'll be there." 

Ei just nodded and let her sister hug her. 

Ei was fourteen when she realized that she was the one that needed her sister the most. She also realized that her greatest fear was to lose her and hoped that she would never have to live through that.

Because if she did, she would hate to live without Makoto.

Chapter Text

When Ningguang's teacher told her about the scholarship, she almost jumped from her chair to hug him.

Because of how exceptional her grades are, a private and one of the most successful schools in Teyvat wanted her to study here.

Her.

Not some spoiled and annoying kid.

No.

They wanted Ningguang because they saw how much potential she has. 

Everything was perfect.

Which was weird.

So, Ningguang couldn't help but laugh a little when she got a message from an anonymous person a few hours later.

I know about your business, drop your scholarship or you're done.

But Ningguang wasn't going to drop her only chance to succeed in her life.

She was going to fight for her future like she always did.

First she needed to find the person behind the account, and she knew exactly a person capable of finding it out.

"I thought you hated arcades." Told her Ei as she was trying to find her last coins in her pocket to pay for her drink. "Damn it, where is it…?"

"I don't hate them." Denied Ningguang with a little smile.

Jean gave Ei one of her coins. "Last time, you said that it was a place full of dumb persons like Ei except that they smelled awful." 

Ningguang looked around her with her nose in her scarf. "Well, you can't deny that the smell is not particularly pleasant." 

Ei laughed and took her drink. "Then why are you here?" She raised her hand to stop Ningguang from talking. "And no bullshit. Do you have something to ask me? We all know that I am the big fan of arcades. So you tried to please me. Why is that Nin-Nin?" 

Ningguang groaned. "Don't call me that idiot." Then, she smirked at her friend. "But you're right I need your help for something." 

"I'm listening." 

"Someone is trying to ruin a big opportunity for me." She showed them the letter she got for her scholarship. 

Jean beamed with joy. "That's wonderful Ning! you really did it!" 

Ei also smiled at her. "Congratulations. But who is this person?"

Ningguang sighed in frustration. "I don't know. Which is why I need you to find out. This person knows about my little business. As you know it's difficult for me to make money on my own. So, I decided to create my own business at school. Under a fake name, I do the homework of some people in exchange for money. I don't know how this person got my name, but I'm not letting them ruin my future." 

Jean was shocked by this. "It's pretty bad indeed… Do you perhaps keep the name of your clients?" 

Ningguang nodded. 

"Message this person and ask them for your name. If this person responds with one of the names you give to your clients then it can be easier to find them and talk to them at school." 

Ei snapped her fingers. "No. This person is threatening her future, we're not going to go easy on them. Also, they could lie and they might know about all of her names." 

Jean sighed but nodded. "You're right…"

Ningguang gave her phone to Ei. "Good luck then." 

"Tomorrow." Said Ei before leaving her chair to play.

The next day, the girls were sitting at their usual place in the teahouse of Komore.

"I think you might become a misandrist. His name is Ajax. He's pretty smart because he hid behind the name of Childe, but I found him. He wanted your scholarship, but you're way smarter than him and also more… Calm." 

Ningguang chuckled. "Not smart enough to understand that you don't mess with me." 

Ei laughed. "What are you going to do with him?" 

Ningguang sighed. "I don't know… But his alias… I think I saw it before."

Jean gave her a paper. "I checked the list of clients you gave me yesterday and the name Childe is there." 

Ningguang grinned. "Well, well~" She took her phone and sent a picture of his alias to Ajax. "Looks like he can't report me if his hands are also dirty." 

Ei chuckled. "It wasn't that hard." 

Jean smiled slightly. "Yeah but maybe it's better if you can stop your business."

Ningguang nodded. "I will… If Ajax agrees to my deal." 

"What deal?" Asked Ei.

Ningguang gave her phone to her friends, so they could read her latest message. 

Jean frowned. "You're going to give him lessons in exchange for money?" 

Ningguang smirked. "And my silence. I know he could try to tell other people about my business but if his family learns about him paying people to make his grades better… He's going to tarnish the reputation of his family." 

Jean winced. "Yeah it's bad for him."

Ei looked at Ajax profile. "Ah, I didn't notice that his family is pretty wealthy." 

Ningguang chuckled. "Only because you're way wealthier but trust me his family is not something you want to mess with." 

Jean was concerned. "But you just did…"

Ningguang's phone rang and she smiled. "Only because I know he can't reach me." She showed them her phone. Ajax agreed to her deal. "And I'm not alone. I've got you both." 

Ei smirked. "Anytime."

Jean slightly blushed and smiled at her.

Ningguang hugged them, being thankful to be able to move forward to build her future with such good friends.

She wondered if Ajax had this chance… 

If not then it's another win for her.

Chapter Text

Today the girls were in the kitchen of the Raiden's. As usual, Ei was playing a game while Ningguang and Jean were going over some homework. 

Eventually, the phone of Ningguang rang and the girl sighed, making her friends look at her.

"Is there a problem?" Immediately asked Jean.

Ningguang sighed once again. "It's nothing. I rejected another guy yesterday and he keeps sending me gifts and love letters. I'm just not interested." 

Ei frowned. "Do you want me to threaten him?"

Ningguang let out a little laugh. "It won't be necessary, I'll just block him. He's from another school. I won't see him." 

"You seem to be used to it." Said Jean with compassion.

Ningguang shrugged. "Well, you know how it is. After all, I guess both of you get the same attention." Ningguang hummed after thinking a little. "Now that I think about it, I never asked you if you are interested in someone." 

Both of her friends hid their faces with an object. 

Idiots.

Ei tried to speak as if she wasn't embarrassed. "It's true that some people from my dojo are hitting on me." 

Ningguang let out a gasp. "And you didn't tell me?!" 

Ei said nothing before looking at Jean. 

Sorry Jean, she thought. "Jean is awfully quiet…" 

It worked and Ningguang made Jean drop her book. "Don't lie to me, Gunnhildr. You're a walking knight in shining armor, there is no way not a single soul is begging on their knees for you." 

Jean looked away flustered. "Hum… I do get some letters usually… B-But I never read them. I think they might want to be friends with me…?" 

Ningguang almost fell from her chair. "There is no way, you're that stupid, Gunnhildr…" Ei let out a giggle and Ningguang stared at her. "Don't laugh at her, Raiden. You're both so useless… Bring your letters tomorrow." 

Jean wanted to hide. "Why?" 

"For fun obviously." Said Ningguang with a smirk. 

Jean died a little inside, ready to officially die for good from shame tomorrow while Ei was thanking the sky for not being in her friend's position.

When Ningguang told Jean to bring letters, she wasn't expecting her friend to actually bring a box full of them. 

The number of letters was ridiculous and you could tell by some drawings that some were cards of confessions. At this point, Jean was just in denial.

"Those are from this year. I didn't find the old ones. I guess my mom threw them away since I don't read them."

Ei already read a few ones and chuckled. "You got a lot of confessions from girls, maybe Frederica doesn't want you to be gay."

Jean just smiled. "Well… You may not believe it but my mom isn't homophobic. She's just against the idea of me getting in a relationship before securing my future."

Ningguang let out a laugh. "That's surprising! For the homophobic part of course." 

Jean shrugged. "Well my dad is, so…" 

"Did you tell them?" Asked Ei as she was reading a letter. 

"What?" Blinked Jean.

"That you're a lesbian." 

Jean just stood there trying to process the words. "I never told you that I was…?"

"Oh." It was Ei's turn to process things. "I thought that… Well you know…" 

Jean blushed. "I never thought about it…"

Ningguang grinned. "You should read some letters to make up your mind. You gotta tell me your secret, it's like they're love struck."

"How did the two of you understood that you were…? You know…"

"Oh definitely when I saw Ei's mom. She's hot." Ningguang immediately dodged Ei's kick. 

"I was about to say, that it was when we kissed to make you feel better about how terrible it was, but fuck you." Snarled Ei.

Ningguang let out a scandalized gasp. "I'm a fantastic kisser. You probably smelled your own breath and it ruined the moment."

Ei smiled trying to annoy her friend. "You're also the one who cooked that day, so on top of being a terrible kisser you also can't cook…"

Ningguang turned to Jean. "Alright, Jean come here I'm going to kiss you to prove my point."

Jean froze. "Excuse me…?"

"Don't worry as I said I'm a fantastic kisser."

Jean prepared to stand up to leave the room in case her friend made a move. "I don't think that's a good idea." 

Ningguang frowned. "Why not?"

Ei chuckled. "She knows best."

"It's not that. I just… I don't want my first kiss to be something like that." 

Ningguang's eyes widened. "Your first…? I thought you already kissed someone."

Jean was trying her best to not blush. "I don't hug people and you really think that I'm bold enough to kiss someone?"

"Well, we thought that someone already did at least." Said Ei.

Jean looked away to avoid her friends. "It doesn't matter."

"If you say so… I'll gladly kiss you though." Insisted Ningguang with a smirk.

Ei rolled her eyes. "Shut up Ning, leave her alone."

Ningguang shrugged and looked at the letters on the table. "So, none of these people are interesting enough for you?" She asked Jean who was pensive while she looked at the letters. 

"I do think some of them are interesting but I don't want to make more friends for now… Or find someone to date. We're young and I don't think that dating is the most important thing."

Ningguang sighed. "Such a heartbreaker." She also smiled at her friend. "But you're right, take your time."

"Don't worry I will. And I also know that if I want advice I can come to you."

Ningguang jumped on Jean to hug her. "That's right! And if someone messes with you, I'll ruin their life!"

Jean was about to scold Ningguang when Ei interrupted them. "That's weird…" She was holding a letter. "I feel like I know this person's handwriting." 

Both of her friends bent to see the letter. Ningguang almost choked while Jean frowned. "Well, this one is beautiful. But I don't think I recognize it. Do you, Ning?"

Of course she recognizes it and she's glad that her two friends are too dumb to identify the writer, especially Ei.

Ningguang hummed. "Nope." 

Ei and Jean shrugged and let the letter on the table to pick a new one. 

Later, when Makoto came to them with some desserts, the girl almost dropped the tea when she saw Ningguang fanned herself with the letter she wrote to Jean.

Ningguang just smiled at her knowingly.

Raiden Makoto was in debt to Ningguang.

And she didn't know if it was a good thing.

Chapter Text

Four days. 

Four days to find the perfect costumes for the Halloween party held at Ningguang's school.

Ningguang was the only one that actually loves parties but this time was different.

Three persons could win a prize depending on their costumes.

Sounds easy right? 

Well turns out it's not, especially because they couldn't agree on the perfect choice.

"We're not doing the three friends in Harry Potter, because first of all it's way too obvious and I also don't like the characters." Said firmly Ningguang.

Ei sighed. "I don't like to think so much, why are you bothering me with it…"

"Because there is a prize and I want it." 

"Since it's for Halloween, we should go for something scary right? We should try this." Jean showed them a picture on her phone and Ei cackled while Ningguang looked disgusted.

"Somehow you managed to make a proposal worse than Ei's… We are not going as Cerberus." Ningguang checked the list in front of her. "We said no to: Bella×Edward×Jacob, Totally Spies, the three musketeers, Naruto×Sakura×Sasuke, Mario×Luigi×Peach, The Powerpuff Girls, The Plastics, Alvin and the Chipmunks,Luffy×Zoro×Nami, Harry Potter and Cerberus." She looked at her friends with disappointment. "What the hell is wrong with the two of you?"

Ei looked offended. "You're the one who picked the first one and The Plastics, weirdo."

"And you wanted us to go as Chipmunks. Tell me which one is worse."

"We can try superheroes. Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman are great." Immediately proposed Jean to calm the tension.

Ningguang looked at the picture. "Hum… It could work. But I just don't see any of us for Wonder Woman."

Ei also agreed for the first time. "True."

The three of them were suddenly quiet, trying to figure out the perfect costumes. 

Ningguang chuckled at something which picked the interest of her friends. "I may have an idea… It's quiet a famous trio and I don't think that anyone got enough courage to do it." She showed them a picture on the computer and both chuckled.

"I'm in." Said Ei with a smile. "It could be fun."

Jean also nodded with a smile.

Ningguang beamed. "Good! So, who is the little guy?" 

At her question both of her friends avoided her gaze.

Arh…

As always, may rock, paper, scissors lead us.

"1,2,3!"

Paper, Paper, Rock.

Jean looked down horrified at her rock. "No way…"

Ei patted her friend on the shoulder, understanding of her suffering. "Thank you for your sacrifice.

Ningguang giggled. "Let's work on the costumes."

Four days later, the three of them were in their costumes waiting outside of the room where the party already started.

Ningguang took a look at the people inside the room.

"Look at those fools. Already at least nine of them as stupid wizards." 

Ei grunted. "Yeah, maybe you were right on that one."

Ningguang hummed. "I'm always right." She then proceeded to brush her wig a little. 

"That's puuurrrrfect." Ei smirked at Jean.

Jean was crimson trying to hide herself behind her friends. "Can we please end this already?"

Ningguang sighed. "You're fucking adorable, Jean. If someone bothers you we're kicking their ass off earth."

Ei nodded. "Let's win this prize."

Ei opened as wide as she could the doors to make people look at them. Jean, still behind her friends, took a long breath and played the theme of their characters.

Ningguang made the best dramatic pose she knew. "Prepare for trouble!"

Ei also tried her best to pose. "And make it double!"

Ningguang gazed at the crowd watching them. Eh… Look at the future winners. "To protect the world from devastation!"

Ei pointed at the crowd in front of them with a smirk. "To unite all peoples within our nation!"

Meanwhile, Jean was still behind her friends, cursing her fate as people were taking pictures and videos.

Ningguang took a rose from her pocket behind. "To denounce the evils of truth and love!"

Ei took the rose from Ningguang's hand. "To extend our reach to the stars above!"

"Jessie!" 

"James!"

Ningguang rested a hand on Ei's shoulder "Team Rocket blasts off at the speed of light!"

Ei tried her best to speak with the rose in her mouth. "Surrender now, or prepare to fight!"

Jean finally jumped on her feet and tried her best to smile brightly between her two friends as she pushed them slightly. "Meowth!

That's right!"

Then everything went quickly. 

First some people were laughing at them still holding their phones, then some went to greet them.

"We were wondering if you would come Ningguang!"

Ningguang smiled at them. "I'll never miss an opportunity to win."

"And you also came with your friends, we don't get to see them very often!"

Ningguang's smile grew bigger. "I'm glad they decided to come with me today."

"You almost dragged us here." Deadpan Ei.

But Ningguang didn't pay any attention to her, she was looking for Jean who disappeared. "Where the hell is Jean?"

Ei pointed at the table where drinks were served. "She decided to die of shame at the table, but it seems she's not alone anymore."

Ningguang looked at the table to see her friend surrounded by several teens trying to touch the ears on her head or just get a little closer to her.

Ningguang sighed at the sight of Jean standing stiffly as a girl tried to touch her. "You must be kidding me… Team Rocket shall get their cat back. Come with me Ei. We can't let her suffer anymore."

She took Ei's hand to drag her to the table and wrapped her arm with Jean's.

Jean was relieved to see her. "Ning…"

Ningguang faked her smile at the teens in front of her. "Sorry guys but we must go take some pictures, thank you for keeping Jean for us though."

Without another word, she tried to leave the place with them but someone tried to get their attention.

"Stop right there Team Rocket it's over for you!"

They turned around to find Venti, Zhongli and Xiao dressed as Ash, Brock and Misty. They were standing in weird poses. 

"What the fuck…" Muttered Ei.

Ningguang huffed. "With no Pikachu I don't see how you can defeat us."

Zhongli turned slightly towards Venti. "She's right, I told you we needed one."

Venti only laughed. "Hehe. Tartaglia didn't want to do it for free and I lost my wallet."

Xiao punched him in the arm. "You're just broke, liar."

Venti whined and rubbed his arm. "Which is why we need to win this prize!"

Ei groaned. "Wait, the prize is money? That's lame."

Ningguang huffed. "Only a rich person can find money lame, I swear… And we don't know what the prize is but you can always try to sell it."

Venti winked at her. "Correct! So, if you could withdraw from the competition…"

Ningguang smirked at him. "No way. You know that I love to win."

Venti laughed and rubbed his head. "Yeah, but I still wanted to give it a try!"

Xiao pointed at the stage. "Someone is going to speak."

Zhongli frowned. "It's too early for the winners to be announced."

The student spoke loudly enough to draw attention to him. "I hope you're having a good time, unfortunately the prize… Disappeared." 

"What do you mean!?" Screamed someone else.

"Hum… The prize, which was a pie, was in the kitchen and then it got eaten by someone hahaha…"

A pie… They did all this for a pie… 

Ei immediately turned around to leave. "No way I'm staying for a pie."

Xiao sighed. "I agree."

Venti and Ningguang were still looking at the stage as their will to fight was buried. "Fuck that pie." Spited Ningguang. "We're leaving for the arcade. Do you want to come?"

Venti jumped on her. "Deal, but you're paying!"

Ningguang pushed him. "Your friend can do it for you!"

The six students eventually left the party to play at the arcade. 

And… 

With how much fun they had it didn't feel like losing at all.

Chapter Text

Never in her life did Ei felt so conflicted.

It seems that her behavior and grades were finally up to her parents' expectations. Which was good, she truly felt happy and also proud of herself. Especially, when she saw the look her parents gave her. 

One full of pride, love and joy.

Not that her parents don't love her, but they never congratulate her like they do with Makoto, because she often gets into trouble.

But what she never expected was to make a choice that could change her whole life.

Her parents told her that if she wanted she could go to school like her sister or stay at home to study like she always did most of her life.

Ei was surprised.

It's been years since she dropped the thought of going to school. But now that she could… She doesn't know if wants to.

Going to school means that her routine wouldn't exist anymore and thinking about it made her a bit anxious.

She actually likes staying at home to study. She was alone and could do whatever she wanted once her lessons were done… 

Going out to meet a bunch of new people, being forced to sit through hours of (boring) lessons, just thinking about it is making her uneasy.

She wasn't sure that she was ready. 

That's why she immediately texted her friends about it.

Soon, her friends were at her door with a plate full of desserts ready to listen to her problem.

"Why is meeting new people an issue for you?" Asked Jean once she told them everything.

Ningguang almost hit her head on the table at the way her friend was already asking the worst and complicated problem.

Ei pursed her lips. "I don't feel comfortable." Ei knew that her answer wasn't enough and she tried to elaborate. "I don't think that I'm good with people and I already feel happy to have the two of you."

Both of her friends were touched by her words but Ningguang tried to reasonate her friend. "I think that once you open up to people you can easily befriend them. Also, even if I'm delighted to hear that you love us so much, it doesn't mean that you don't have the right to make more friends."

Jean nodded. "Even if we get other friends, it doesn't mean that they're going to replace any of us. But if you feel more comfortable in your house then there is nothing wrong with staying here. Do what you really want for yourself."

Ei tried to hold back her tears. She's not used to hearing such things aside from her sister. She's not the kind of person that will willingly say they need to hear good things about herself sometimes. Because, somehow, she wants to be the strong one. But right here with her friends, she feels at peace and allows herself to be weak and lost. 

"Thanks. It means a lot to me." She even let Ningguang wrap her arm around her shoulders. Sometimes some warmth was nice… "I think I need time to think, but it feels good to know that you got my back no matter what."

No words were needed, her friends just smiled at her and stayed the whole day by her side.

She felt lucky to have friends like them. If one thing was irreplaceable in her eyes it would be  their bond and friendship.

At the end of day, Ei was ready to turn the page. 

"I want to give it a try and go to school. But only if I can go to the same one as Ningguang and Jean."

Her mother chuckled. "It's the same one as Makoto anyway so I don't see any problem with it."

"I'm doing this for myself." Tried to clarify Ei. "Makoto doesn't always need me. I'm aware that she can achieve things without me and I also want to prove to you that I can do things on my own."

She could see that her parents were taken aback. "Then it is settled." Her father smiled at her. "I'm looking forward to it."

Ei only nodded. "I won't disappoint you."

"You never did." Said her mother while washing the dishes. 

EI felt her heart throbbed. It wasn't every day that she got to hear this from her parents. She couldn't say it out loud but that night she felt loved and ready to move forward with the help of the people she cares about. 

It felt good to know that a part of her parents was looking at her not with disappointment but with pride.

Maybe that talking about how you feel was a good thing after all… Not every day of course but she can still try.

Chapter Text

Ningguang wasn't the type of people to feel stressed usually, but today was an exception. 

She finally got into the school she wanted because of her efforts.

She looked at her skirt and shirt one more time before going into the building. 

She looked perfect.

First impressions are always important and she must show those people that she wasn't there because of some dumb luck.

She's here because she fought for her place.

When she pushed the door and made her way to the hallways, she could see people staring at her and already speaking between them. 

Ningguang made sure to not glance at them and immediately went to search after her friends.

Unfortunately, she couldn't spot them and decided to call Ei since Jean somehow never picked her phone.

"Where are you?" She made sure people couldn't hear her and whispered. "I'm stressing out, you were supposed to help me."

She heard Ei chuckled. "Well guess what… I'm also freaking out." 

Oh great… It's true that it was also Ei's first day as a student, but when they talked about it to her, she just said it would be fine. 

"Tell me where I can find you. Oh also, have you seen Jean?"

"Restrooms and no." Ei hang up. 

Rude.

When she got to the restrooms, she was immediately pulled by her wrist by Ei.

"What the hell are you doing here, Ei?"

"People were already trying to talk to me and I just panicked. Also, some of them think I'm Makoto." 

Ningguang sighed. "You're such a coward…"

Ei glared at her. "You're also hiding with me right now. I'm not scared, I'm just taken aback by how friendly people can be."

Ningguang giggled. "Trust me, not all of them are."

"I'm not naive."

"I never said you were."

"Shut up."

"Shut me up with your lips, coward."

Ei rolled her eyes. "You're so annoying that I want to leave the restrooms."

Ningguang beamed. "Let's go together then!" She linked her arm with Ei's and left the restrooms with Ei trying to stay calm as soon as she could feel once again people staring at them.

"Should we head to our first class?"

Ningguang nodded. "We should. I wanted to see Jean but…"

Ningguang was interrupted by Jean running towards them all sweaty and with… scratches over her face?

Jean smiled at them and tried to control her breathing. "Sorry. I always take Barbara to her school before coming but she had a hard time with letting me go."

Ei frowned. "Did Barbara also attack your face…?"

Jean blinked before touching her face to wipe the blood. She winced. "I actually ran into a cat stuck in a tree." She took out a tissue to clean her face, but Ningguang took it from her with a sigh. Those girls could be so careless… "He was a bit frightened but at least he's safe now."

"You're telling this story like it's something you usually do." Tried to joke Ningguang.

"I always help people when I can so it's not really an exception."

Ei hummed. "You can always say no."

Jean just smiled. "I love to help. It's not a problem. Anyway, how do you feel about your first day?"

"It's not that bad. I must admit that it does feel a bit unreal to be together though." Said Ei as Jean led them through the hallway and occasionally waved to some students. 

"I was nervous." Admitted Ningguang with a smile. "But since we're together now, everything is fine."

Ei was about to tease her friend until Makoto went to greet them. 

"HI girls! It's weird to see you together even at school now." 

Ningguang playfully sighed. "I know right… I can't believe I even have to support them at school now…"

"Go away if you can't deal with the amazing person that I am." Said Ei while pushing Ningguang slightly towards Makoto. 

Makoto laughed and also gave a bag to Ei. "You forgot your meal at home."

Ei refused to take it. "I made my own."

Her two friends chuckled at that and Makoto tried to hold her laugh. "Come on Ei… We all know you can't cook."

Ei huffed and took the bag trying to hide her embarrassment. "Fine. Happy now?"

Makoto beamed. "Delighted." She looked at Jean with concern. "Is that blood…?" She pointed at Jean's white shirt. 

Jean looked at her shirt and let out a whine. "It was a new one…"

Ningguang giggled. "Are your parents going to believe your story with the cat?"

Strangely, Jean smiled widely and took her phone. "I took some pictures with him. I have proofs!" She showed them pictures of her bloody and the cat looking annoyed by his savior smiling in the picture.

Ei and Ningguang bursted out laughing while Makoto looked at Jean as if the cat also damaged her head.

Unknown to her it was something the three friends always did. They like to take pictures of things they did especially if it's a success.

Which is why Ningguang suddenly gave her phone to Makoto. "Can you please take a picture of the three of us? Today is something to not forget."

Ei groaned when she felt Ningguang pull her by the waist. "Right now? There's a lot of people."

"Don't be shy, Ei." Said her sister as if she was scolding her. "Smile~" 

The three of them did their best to smile and Makoto took the picture before giving Ningguang her telephone back. "I didn't get to ask you but what is your class? Here's mine." 

Ningguang's eyes went wide. "Oh we're together!"

"Be brave Makoto." Cheered Ei to tease Ningguang, who only rolled her eyes.

Jean looked at Ei's paper. "Our first class is science."

Ei looked at her friend confused. "Our?"

Jean only hummed like it was common sense. "Yeah we're together, I looked on the website yesterday and saw your name."

Ei almost jumped from joy and relief to not be alone. Instead, she just shook Jean by her shoulders. "Next time you should text me Gunnhildr!"

"Sorry I'll think about it next time, promise!"

Ei then dragged Jean to their first lesson, trying to hold her excitement to be with her friend.

Ningguang was trying to hold her laugh. "They made a big mistake by putting them together."

Makoto only smiled. "I disagree. I think that it's the best outcome. Ei needs someone to sometimes remind her to take things seriously and Jean needs someone to help her have fun."

Ningguang hummed. "You're right…" She then smiled mischievously at Makoto. "Meanwhile I can try to help you get the woman of your dreams."

Makoto looked at her with horror. "I don't think that it's necessary…"

"Don't worry we will find a way for you to pay me back."

"I never asked for your help!" Tried to clarify Makoto only for Ningguang to ignore her with a big smile on her face.

This year was going to be fun.

Chapter Text

Jean knew something was wrong with Barbara, the second they ate at night with their parents.

Her little sister who is usually bubbly as she is always trying to get the attention of everyone, was this time quiet and barely smiled at them. 

Jean wasn't the only one noticing her strange behavior and her mother quickly asked if Barbara was alright, to which the youngest responded that she felt a bit sick.

Without wasting any time, their father took her upstairs to check her temperature. 

Jean was waiting outside of Barbara's room when her father came out and just smiled at her. "She's just a bit exhausted, but you don't need to worry she's going to be fine." 

But after a few days, Jean noticed that Barbara wasn't getting better at all but rather worse.

One night, Jean sneaks into her sister's room with the intention of discovering what's wrong with her.

Barbara was wrapped in her blanket and was facing the wall. Jean decided to take a chair and sit beside her sister's bed.

"You know you can talk to me about everything, right?" Her voice was soft, but she kept her distance with Barbara to not overwhelm her.

Without hesitation her sister nodded and turned around to face her sister.

Jean couldn't help but frown when she saw the tears running down the cheeks of her little sister. 

"Promise me you won't tell mom and dad."

If that was the only way to make Barbara speak… "I promise."

"I think I did something wrong…" Jean could see that Barbara was trying to hold back her tears.

"What do you mean?"

"Because I'm a Gunnhildr, some people are being mean to me… They- They said that I'm terrible and deserve to be cursed because our family is trash." Barbara broke down and Jean wrapped her sister into a hug.

Jean was shocked. Who the hell would tell such horrifying things to her sister? 

Jean was more than aware that her family wasn't loved by everyone, after all like her mother said "That's just how the world is.", but Barbara never did anything wrong. It wasn't fair.

"And those people who are bullying you, can you tell me if I can speak to them?"

Barbara looked at her with horror. "I don't want you to be involved too!"

Barbara's concern was sweet, but Jean knew that she was also stubborn… She needed a plan.

For the first time in her life, Jean lied to Barbara.

"Alright, I won't get involved."

Of course, Jean tells everything to her best friends.

Ningguang is concerned about Barbara while Ei is ready to beat up the people who dared to hurt the youngest.

"Even if Barbara doesn't want you involved, a part of her must kinda want it." Argued Ei.

Ningguang nodded, she was actually on Ei's side for once. "If she told you about it, it would be because she trusts you and hopes that you're going to help her."

Jean sighed. "I'm going to pick her from school today. I'll just watch her for a moment and if those people are bothering, I'll try to talk to them."

Ei frowned. "They need a good slap in the face."

Ningguang slapped Ei on the back of her head. "You can get into trouble. However, you can threaten them."

Jean wasn't pleased with the suggestion. "No. Let me handle it, I'm going to find a way to fix the situation."

Ei huffed. "That's boring but if you can do it… I'll help you." She turned to Ningguang. "You're tutoring someone today, right? Don't worry, Jean is going to be fine with me."

Ningguang rolled her eyes. "That's exactly why I'm concerned. Don't be reckless." She also looked at Jean. "Both of you."

Jean smiled at her friend. "Don't worry about us."

Jean looked at Ei trying to understand why her friend was wearing a mask. 

"What are you doing with that…?" 

Ei smiled brightly. "I saw that once in Love Live with Makoto. When you don't want people to recognize you, wearing a mask is pretty good."

Jean was sure that it was actually the opposite but didn't say anything. If Ei was excited to wear a mask then good for her.

A few minutes later, Barbara was out of the school and looked anxious as soon as she said goodbye to her friends. She often was looking behind her, probably afraid that someone was following her. Which was a problem for them since they were the one following her.

Eventually, Barbara was stopped by a bunch of teenagers near a children's playground. 

"What's up Gunnhildr?" Said the tallest of the band. "Did you bring the money?"

Barbara was shaking and tried to get past them but a girl with a ponytail harshly grabbed her little sister by the shoulder.

Ei could feel Jean tensed up at the action. 

"Are you deaf? He's talking to you freak."

The second boy of the band took Barbara's face in his hands to make her look at him. "And don't you dare cry. We told you to bring the money or…" He smiled viciously at the young girl. "You know the consequences."

The girl laughed. "You know that your money is the only thing that is worth something in your family. It's the only thing that can protect you. Mommy and daddy can't do anything about it. You're worthless."

Barbara was crying silently and Jean couldn't bear it anymore. She jumped from behind the bushes and tried to not jump on them.

"Leave my sister alone." Her voice was unusually cold and she felt Ei's hand on her shoulder.

The bullies looked slightly shocked for a moment and Barbara tried to run to her sister but they held her. 

The tallest laughed loudly. "Looks like big sister is here to save you, she even took some weirdo with her."

Jean tried to contain her fury. A Gunnhildr must keep their emotions under control. "What do you want? Why are you bullying my sister?" 

The second boy sighed. "We were just having fun." He placed his arm around Barbara's shoulder. 

Ei also felt anger rose within her. "Let her go."

"Can't do. You see, she promised us money. Money in exchange for her liberty." Said the girl.

Jean looked at them annoyed. "Barbara is free to do what she wants and we're going home."

The shortest boy snickered. "You're so greedy, Gunnhildr. Honestly, what is some thousand to you and your disgusting family?"

"I don't care about the money. I just want you to leave Barbara alone. She did nothing wrong." Jean thought that she could speak to them but she was clearly wrong as they laughed together at her face.

"But are you gonna do anyway? Your parents are not there and you seem to be all bark but no bite." To show that he was right, the tallest boy pushed Barbara to the ground. "Oh my bad. I threw a waste on the ground." His friends also laughed with him as Barbara was choking on her tears.

But he wasn't right and before they could move and react, Jean was already throwing herself at the boy taller than her. 

Ei looked stunned at Jean. She never saw her friend with such a look on her face. A face of pure hatred as she was punching the boy on the ground. 

"Don't. Touch. My. Little. Sister." 

Ei went to Barbara to help her get up. The younger girl was dirty and her face was a mess from all the crying. "Go hide. We're catching you up later." She watched Barbara run only to turn around and see the girl with the ponytail trying to smack Jean with a stick behind her back.

Ei ran and kicked the stick out of the girl's hand making her yelp in pain. 

"Bitch!" 

Ei took off her mask. "You're going to regret laying a hand on my friends." She was too busy glaring at the girl that she didn't noticed the shortest boy coming from her left to hit her in the face with a punch.

Jean finally stopped to hit the boy on the ground when she heard her friend screaming in pain. Without losing a second she went to Ei's side to help her. 

The girl let her pass as she glanced at the bloody hands of Jean and her friend on the ground. 

"Ei are you okay?"

Ei chuckled and winced. "He punches like a baby."

Jean helped her to get up and the two of them faced the other teenagers. "You're never going to lay a single finger on my sister after this." 

After she threatened them, all of them were fighting again. Ei and Jean were already on top of them. Martial arts and fencing gave them an advantage if they were being honest.

Both of them were forced to stop when police officers yelled at them with Barbara at their side.

Ah… Of course the youngest went to the police… Thought Ei. 

They were fucked.

Jean tried to not play with her hands to let out a bit of the pressure and stress she was feeling right now. If Ei and Barbara weren't there with her, she probably would've had a panic attack. 

But her friend was pretty relaxed. Ei even took a picture of them to send it to Ningguang. 

Ei smiled after sending the picture. "I can't believe we're being arrested! I'm so glad that my first time in jail is going to be with you, Jean!" 

Jean almost choked on the mention of going to jail.

Barbara looked at her sister, terrified. "We-We're going to jail because of me!?"

Jean tried to reassure the young girl. "We're not going to jail, don't worry mom is almost here." 

That was exactly why Jean was freaking out. She rather goes to jail than face the wrath of her mother.

Jean stiffened as she spotted Frederica walking in the police station still wearing her business clothes.

When Frederica entered the police station the first thing she did was to greet every person in it. The second thing was to discuss with the officers who took her children. Frederica briefly glared at the other teenagers who were getting medical attention before walking towards her daughters with a stern look.

She firstly looked at Ei who gulped down. Somehow, Frederica always spooked her. The woman has such an intense aura and seemed to always control her emotions… It was unusual for Ei.

"Are your parents available to pick you up?" She paused before looking at Ei's face. "Has anyone attended to your wound?" 

Ei nodded. "Yes, my father is coming with my sister and I'm going to be fine after all, Jean helped me before they could do more damage."

Frederica hummed before looking at her daughters. 

It was impossible to know what she was thinking right now and the sisters both got goosebumps when their mother spoke. "What's the meaning of this?" She looked at Jean. "I believe you owe me an explanation for your behavior. Fighting in the streets is unacceptable. I like to believe that I didn't raise you to be a street fighter."

Jean tried to gather her emotions and control her voice. Her mother was furious and she couldn't lie to her with the situation they were in. "I do feel ashamed for losing control and letting my emotions lead me to use violence." Jean's voice was small at first but then she looked at Barbara still shaken by the events of today and she regained confidence in herself. 

"However, I was protecting our family. I will never apologize for protecting Barbara from those bullies. They tried to defile the reputation of our family and they did so by harming my own little sister. I had to do something. Sitting around doing nothing wasn't an option."

Something glinted in Frederica's eyes. Maybe Jean was wrong but she liked to believe it was some sort of acknowledgement and respect towards her words. 

Frederica didn't utter a word to Jean but kneeled to take her youngest daughter's hands in hers. 

"Are your bruises hurting you?" Her voice was soft and Barbara suddenly broke down. 

She told everything to her mom. How she was trying to be strong and worthy and their family name. She didn't want to involve her parents because she knew how much their family was already hated by some people but eventually told her big sister because she was so scared of the situation. 

Frederica held her youngest daughter into a tight embrace trying to let her know that she won't go anywhere. "I'm sorry if my words can sometimes be hard for you, but I also want you to know that asking for help is not a weakness. Especially if you're asking help from your own family. As Gunnhildr we must stick together. You're my daughter and I will always try my best to protect you." She gently pushed Barbara away to get up. 

"You're not angry…?" Asked Barbara.

Frederica heavily sighed. "I won't deny that I was at first. But you're clearly not the one to blame for the situation. Your father and myself weren't the best listeners and we're definitely going to discuss the issue once we're at home." She looked at Jean. "Next time, try to talk to us before putting yourself into danger. Understood?"

Jean nodded. "Yes mother."

"This is harassment and we can take legal actions against those bullies." Frederica looked at the teenagers across the room and glared at them but also seemed amused. "At least you won the fight and based on the look on their faces I don't think that they're going to bother your little sister anymore." She cleared her throat. "It doesn't mean that I'm proud of your behavior of course."

Jean was a little confused by the behavior of her mother and could only nod. "I understand."

Frederica reached to take her youngest daughter's hand and smiled politely at Ei. "Send my regards to your family. Goodbye, Ei."

Ei simply waved back, still amazed at the new facet she just witnessed from Frederica.

She immediately texted Ningguang. 

"Frederica might not be the devil after all…"

Chapter Text

When Ei got paired up with Sara the first time, she felt uneasy. They barely talked, and she sent plenty of looks towards Jean asking for help or at least some advice. Unfortunately, Jean was actively working on the project with her own partner. 

Ei was alone.

She was getting a little desperate. She wasn't very good at socializing, and Sara seemed like an intense person. She wasn't intimidated by the other girl, but she also didn't want to push the wrong buttons and make Sara upset.

At the end of the class, she only managed a weak "goodbye" and left not hearing what Sara said.

The next day, she's surprised to find Sara waiting for her in front of the gate.

Ei quickly learns that Sara is in fact a shy person. Her classmate was anxious at the idea of speaking to Ei for the first time, especially since Ei was new.

Sara quickly asked her if she was free to work on their project and the two of them often met at the library to talk and work.

Ei observed that Sara was a great listener and a straightforward person. It turns out that they both have a hard time talking to new people and are more comfortable with a small circle of friends. 

Sara was adopted by the big Kujou family. She told everything to Ei, about how she felt like she wasn't enough for them but still wanted to prove herself to her family. Sara has big ambitions and is also strict… Which didn't make a big difference once Ei was already asking her to break one or two rules with her.

Ei found herself taking a liking to Sara. She was fun and they had things in common. 

But the thing is… Ei was scared.

She didn't know how to break the news to her best friends. 

Because it was like cheating, right? 

She was spending more time with Sara than her friends lately and the guilt was eating her.

That's why she felt completely trapped when Ningguang asked her if she wanted to hang out after their classes.

"Jean is training for her fencing competition and I really need to relax a bit, my grades are starting to get on my nerves."

Ei gulped. How can she tell her best friend that she already got invited by Sara…? "I can't."

Ningguang was surprised. "Oh? Next time then." 

Ei was taken aback. "You're not going to ask me why?"

Ningguang shrugged and picked a book from her locker. "I'm not your girlfriend Ei. I don't have to monitor you."

It still didn't make sense to her. "But still…"

"Breath Ei. It's not a crime to say no."

Ei couldn't answer anything before Jean joined them.

"What are you talking about?"

"Ei is freaking out because she can't join me to drink."

Jean looked confused. "That's rare. Do you have any plans with your family?"

Ei inhaled. Don't be a coward, Raiden Ei. "Actually, I'm shopping with Sara."

Ningguang and Jean were silent.

Oh. 

She fucked up, right?

But Ei was surprised to see Ningguang smiling. "Why didn't you say so sooner?"

"I guess I was anxious…?"

Jean frowned. "Why?"

"Well technically lately, I'm spending more time with her than you and I'm afraid that you're going to think that I'm trying to replace you…"

Ningguang giggled. "Ei, you're allowed to have friends, it's not a crime."

Jean nodded. "I don't only speak to Ning and you. If you want to spend more time with Sara then it's fine."

"Are you sure…?"

Ningguang sighed but still smiled. "Of course we are. If you want to invite Sara to drink something with us next time don't hesitate."

"Sure…"

"Where are you going with her?" Asked Jean while trying to fix her tie.

Ei checked her latest messages with Sara. "Some bookstore but we're also going to buy some things to go hiking together."

Ningguang whistled. "If she can get you to leave your room then she's a keeper."

Ei rolled her eyes. "Don't make it weird. We're just friends."

Ningguang just giggled behind her hand. "Sorry… You know I love to tease you. Besides, I know I'm your dream girl."

Ei blushed. "I was joking!"

But of course Ningguang pretended to not understand. "Maybe you should try to ask me on a date."

Ei just sighed and saw Sara waving at her. Ei waved back and so did her friends which took Sara by surprise. The young student left while trying to hide her red cheeks. 

Jean looked at her watch and gasped. "Crap. I'll see you tomorrow I'm almost late for practice."

"See you later!" Ningguang and Ei waved at Jean before leaving the school together.

Ningguang waited with Ei until Sara went to them to pick up Ei. Sara was at first stiff but she quickly warmed up since Ningguang was nice to her.

Eventually, Ei and Sara left to catch their bus.

Ei was a little lost at first. There were a lot of shops, a lot of people and Makoto wasn't by her side to hold her hand nor were Ningguang and Jean here to take her arms.

But Sara was a good guide. She didn't try to take Ei to places that would never pick her interest. Let's say that having the same interests made shopping easier.

The only thing that Ei could not understand was how Sara didn't like to take her drink with sugar… 

Sure her friends already told her that putting five sugars in almost everything wasn't healthy but they never gave her the look of "Are you fucking serious right now…"

Ei wondered if this was because they knew each other for so long…

But aside from this, her day with was pleasant and Ei felt more than happy to share her day with a new friend.

The thought of having a new friend was still a little odd to her but it gave her confidence in herself.

She was able to make a new friend without the help of anyone and stayed true to herself which was the most important thing to Ei.

After this day, going out with Sara was something Ei did often and today she even managed to convince Sara to come drink with her and Ningguang.

Sara liked Ningguang but the girl was a little intimidated. Ei couldn't understand at first because… It's Ningguang. But it turns out that Sara was very observant and could tell things about Ei's friends that even Ei wasn't really aware of.

Sara was smiling as she was telling her side of the story while Ningguang laughed behind her hand. "I assure you it's true. Everyone thought that you were a royalty when they first saw you."

Ningguang was enjoying the conversation a little too much. "Now when you're addressing me I want you to use Your Majesty." 

Ei huffed. "No way."

Sara looked at them bickering and laughed lightly. "At first I also thought you were dating to be honest."

It didn't really surprise Ei because it wasn't the first time she heard it but still… She let out a sigh. "Why? I'm genuinely asking."

Sara shrugged. "I don't know. I guess it's because of how close you are."

It didn't make sense to Ei at all. "I'm also close with Jean and we don't get those rumors."

Ei really didn't expect the next thing Sara said to her.

"Well that's because she's dating Makoto isn't?"

Ei was stunned. Did she say… Makoto…? Like her twin sister Makoto…? 

"I think you're mistaken Sara. I would know if my own sister was in a relationship with my best friend."

"Sorry! It's just what people say you know. And I think it doesn't help with the way your sister is looking at Jean."

Ei tried to look at Ningguang for some answers but her friend was hiding her face behind a menu. "I don't think I follow you…"

Sara was having a hard time to explain things. "She always looks at her with big eyes and small smiles. I'm not saying your sister is with Jean but I think she might be in love."

Ei tried to repeat everything but the words still didn't make any sense to her. "Makoto is in love with Jean…?"

Ningguang bursted out laughing and put down the menu. "I would even say she's down bad."

Ei looked offended at Ningguang. "You knew!?"

Ningguang rolled her eyes. "The whole world knew. I tried to give you hints, but you're so stupid I just gave up and hoped you will realize it the day you got an invitation for their wedding."

Ei wanted to strangle her friend. "My own sister is in love with our best friend, and you didn't tell me!?"

"Makoto didn't want to. I think she was afraid that you would have a heart attack, but you look pretty fine to me…"

Ei wasn't fine at all. She felt like she was going insane. "What can I do…?"

Sara frowned. "I don't think there is a lot you can do. You can support your sister or mope alone."

"I need to talk to them…" Ei was already rubbing her temples.

Ningguang snorted. "No you're not. Have you forgotten who our best friend is? Jean isn't aware that Makoto is crushing on her."

Even Sara looked surprised. "I thought it was obvious."

Ei groaned. "Clearly you haven't seen Jean with her love lett-" She gasped. "The fucking love letter! The pretty one was from Makoto!"

Ningguang couldn't stop herself from laughing until she was out of breath. "It's so good to not be alone anymore."

"It's so…" Ei was at a loss for words. 

Sara patted her shoulder. "Don't worry. I'm sure you just have to talk to your sister to make everything better."

Ei tried to smile at her friend. She hoped that Sara was right…

Chapter Text

Ei was weird.

Not that it was a bad thing usually, but these days Makoto couldn't understand what possessed her sister.

At first, she thought that maybe her new friend, Sara, was being a bad influence on Ei, but it turns out it was rather the contrary. 

Sara was helping Makoto. 

Ei was suspiciously clingy to Makoto. The first day Makoto didn't pay it any attention because sometimes Ei would seek comfort but then a whole day became a whole week.

Sara was the one to drag Ei away from her and Makoto was thankful to her.

Ei wasn't just clingy, she was also looking weirdly at her. 

She looked at Makoto as if she was at any moment going to explode.

So, Makoto came to the conclusion that Ei was hiding something from her.

She knew it as a fact because Ei couldn't lie to save her own life.

When she asked Ei if something was wrong, her sister looked away and replied "Nonsense! I'm perfectly fine!" With her voice slightly more high pitched.

Every time Makoto tried to ask Ei why she was acting weird, her sister just ran away and then came back as if nothing happened.

But Makoto wasn't buying it. 

Something was bothering Ei, and she had to find exactly what.

She tried to ask Sara but the girl just shrugged. "I don't know. Maybe because school is stressful for her these days?"

Which was, of course, a lie because Ei wasn't the type of person to let stress get the better of her. And if she was anxious then she would exercise more than usual or at her worst shut down completely from everyone.

When she asked Ningguang, she felt chills down her spine. "Who knows… You should try with Jean."

Of course Ningguang was trying to make her speak to Jean…

Speaking to Jean was always difficult for Makoto. She had to train in her head over and over again to not face the Gunnhildr heir as a complete mess.

Makoto loves everything about Jean. The blonde is smart, hard working, courteous, kind and of course beautiful… The list could go on forever.

It was hard for Makoto to not fall for the charms of her childhood friend. 

However, if Makoto had to face Jean to discover what Ei was hiding from her then so be it.

Makoto knew that Jean was out of town this week as the girl was camping with her mother in the mountains so she just tried to call her.

She felt her heart skip a beat when Jean picked up. "Hello…?" 

"Hi, Jean! Sorry to bother you, I know you're currently with your mother…"

The wind was blowing harshly, and Makoto struggled to hear Jean. "Don't worry about it! We're currently taking a break. She went a bit on her own to make a map. How are you? Can I assist you with anything?"

Makoto smiled fondly. Always taking care of everyone before anything else… "I'm fine, thank you. It's just that I'm currently a little worried about Ei."

"Ei?"

"Lately I feel like she's hiding something from me. She's clingy but also distant…? I don't really know how to explain things but Ningguang told me that you may have noticed something." 

"Hum… Now that I think about it she's been a little odd. She asked me something…"

Makoto could tell that Jean was embarrassed. "Oh?"

"Don't worry I won't try to pry, or anything but she may be under the impression that you're in love with someone. She asked me what kind of person could be ideal for you to date… Maybe she's trying to set you up with someone."

Oh lord…

What the fuck, Ei.

Makoto tried to collect herself. "I see… It's just nonsense then! I'm glad she's just being silly." She was going to kill her sister. "I'll try to speak to her then! Have a fun and safe trip with your mother, Jean!"

After Jean had thanked her and hung up, Makoto ran out of her room ready to set Ei on fire.

Makoto founded Ei in the kitchen with Ningguang. Ningguang was currently trying to follow a recipe for the dinner since the Raiden's parents were at a business party tonight. Of course, Ei wasn't touching anything and was just nagging her friend.

"And don't try to poison me."

Ningguang threw an empty bottle of water to Ei who caught it easily with her hands. "Shut up. I told you to order something if you're not happy with my cooking."

"That's true. Excuse me my lady."

"You're so…"

Before Ningguang could end her sentence, Makoto slapped her hands on the table to face her twin sister.

"I know that you know."

Ei looked at her with confusion all over her face. "Try to be a little more precise please. You know a lot of things that I know."

Ningguang had stopped to enjoy the conversation fully aware of what Makoto was talking about.

Now Makoto was embarrassed, and she struggled to mutter the following words. "About my… Crush."

The reaction of Ei was immediate and the girl paled. "Oh."

Makoto tried to restrain herself from hitting Ei. "You were weird and when I asked Jean about it, she told you went to her asking what could be my ideal partner. Are you out of your mind?"

Ningguang was cackling, having the time of her life. "Oh my god, Ei… You're so stupid we're really lucky Jean is obvious."

Ei was embarrassed but still tried to defend herself. "What was I supposed to do!? I wanted to help you and give you some kind of support but I didn't know how to tell you that I knew!"

Makoto groaned and sat down in front of her twin. "By having a conversation perhaps?" 

"That was embarrassing."

"Well it's even more embarrassing to learn from your own crush that your sister is trying to set them up together."

Ningguang placed herself beside Ei. "What are you going to do now?"

The answer was obvious to Makoto. "Everyone shut their mouths. I'm not ready to confess and Jean is probably going to reject me. She's not ready to be in a relationship from what I can see." 

Ningguang hummed. "Make sense to me." She turned to shake Ei a little. "What about you?"

Ei slightly groaned. "I respect the decision, but I feel bad to lie in Jean's face."

Ningguang chuckled. "We're not really lying, everyone is aware of it. It's not our fault if Jean is Jean."

"Fine… But can I punch Jean if she hurts Makoto?"

Makoto pinched Ei's cheek, making her whine. "Don't even think about it! I'm a big girl, and I can handle a little heartbreak. However, I will not tolerate seeing you throw away your friendship with Jean over my own crush!"

Ei was a little stunned. "I was mostly messing with you, but don't worry, I won't destroy anything."

Both of them looked at each other for a moment while smiling until a strange smoke and a panicked Ningguang interfered.

"Fucking hell, the dish is burning up!"

Makoto truly hoped it wasn't a sign for futures misfortunes…