Archive of Our Own

Lisa is the first to notice. Her hours in the library and her easy-going nature afford her plenty of breaks throughout the day. Usually, she’d thumb through old academic tomes, or the cheap romance paperbacks kept on the back shelves.

On that day, however, she decided to go for a stroll. As she was heading out of the entrance, Jean’s tired eyes crossed her mind. Quickly, she doubled back, resolving to drag the overly-diligent Acting Grand Master away from her desk. Taking in the spring air together is just what they both need.

She rounds the stairwell, and stops short. Kaeya is leaning against the wall, fingering a piece of paper. He turns it over and over again in his hands, restlessness betraying his nerves. He never was quite as smooth as he pretended to be when he was alone.

Regardless, Kaeya loitering around the Favonius Headquarters certainly isn’t new. What’s unusual is that he’s standing outside the door of the Knight’s Alchemy lab. It’s... troubling. Kaeya’s last attempt at Alchemy had left Sucrose with a face full of soot, and thoroughly ruined Lisa’s hair. It was only thanks to Jean’s younger sister passing by that they were able to put out the ensuing fire. It was honestly miraculous how badly it went. Seems that what Kaeya possessed in charm and combat skills was accompanied by a deficit in potion mixing and science.

Lisa steps forward, planning to ward Kaeya away from the laboratory for the sake of humanity. But then, the lab door opens and Kaeya’s head shoots up. Albedo emerges from the doorway, holding some loose papers.

“Ah, you have the samples I asked for?”

“I’m afraid not.” Kaeya slips right back into that teasing, flirtatious drawl of his. “I do have something else that might be of interest to you, though.”

“Hm. Is that so?” Albedo’s eyebrows furrow. He doesn’t seem to be the slightest bit affected by Kaeya’s smirk - not to mention his open shirt. Is it just Lisa, or is it unbuttoned lower than usual? As if their Cavalry Captain felt it necessary to expose more of his tanned skin than usual...

Albedo tilts his head, thoughtful. Mid-morning sunlight filters in from the window across from him, casting the shadow of Kaeya’s silhouette over his face.

The picture they make suddenly appears very intimate. They’ve barely said two words to each other and yet somehow, something unsaid has passed between them. Lisa’s eyes widen, curiosity getting the better of her. She sees the way their fingers linger when Kaeya hands over the document he’s holding. She sees the way Albedo swallows at the contact, throat bobbing. And she sees the strange emotion in Albedo placid blue eyes, depths clouded with affection.

It’s strange. It’s very, very strange.

Lisa is still contemplating how very, very, very strange it is when Albedo turns on his heel. He steps back into the lab, and beckons Kaeya to follow him. The Cavalry Captain joins him eagerly, his eye twinkling. The door clicks shut behind them.

Lisa raises her eyebrows, still hovering on the steps. Then she titters, covering her mouth with her hand to stifle any further laughter. Albedo had been smiling. What’s more, he’d allowed Kaeya into the Favonius Alchemy laboratory. Voluntarily. Even Jean or Grand Master Varka were rarely given entry.

“My, my.” Her voice rings around the empty hallway. “How very interesting. And here I thought secret romance was a concept confined to literature.”

This could prove to be very amusing indeed.

Sucrose realises next.

It’s a relatively quiet afternoon in the Knights’ Headquarters. A few lost cats from The Cat’s Tail, and a request from Sara to clear out the pigeons trying to steal from Good Hunter. Nothing major.

No-one appreciates the lack of urgent matters more than Sucrose herself. Her recent duties as Albedo’s assistant have deprived her of the time required to continue her current bio-alchemy experiment. She’s been itching to get back to it and now she finally has the opportunity. There are still so many unanswered questions and variables to discover. The prospect is exciting.

However, during her second run-through of the experiment, she notices an error in the output ratios. Frowning, she attempts to fix the issue by adjusting the sample sizes, but finds herself with the same persistent problem.

She makes a quick decision. Her biggest priority is the efficient completion of her research, in time for the end of spring. The fastest way to fix this is to consult a superior Alchemist - like Master Albedo. So she gathers the samples in her arms and heads up to the first floor.

Albedo had said he was in the library, gathering additional material, but when Suctose looks for him there, she finds nothing. She adjusts her grip on the test tubes, careful not to spill them. Perhaps he was called into Jean’s office for some reason? Or maybe he needed to discuss cavalry expeditions with Captain Kaeya again? Albedo had been soliciting his advice very frequently in the last couple of weeks.

Sucrose climbs the stairs, peering nervously around the doorways. Eventually, she reaches the door of Kaeya’s office. It’s shut, but a few low sounds drift through the wood. She contemplates returning later - but if it’s only a conversation about business, then they shouldn’t mind her intruding, right?

Awkwardly, she uses her elbow to twist the handle, keeping the samples secure against her chest.

The door swings open.

A lot of things happen in the space of a single moment. One: Kaeya and Albedo spring apart, from where they were flushed and entangled on Kaeya’s desk. Two: Sucrose shrieks so loudly that the birds on the Headquarters’ roof are scared away. And three: she drops every single test tube in her possession.

The knights would later report that Sucrose slipped and the samples fell from her hands. Sucrose doesn’t contradict them. She nods, covering her blushing face.

The other knights privately question why Kaeya seems so sheepish, and why his hair is mussed and loose from its ponytail. They also wonder at the colour that seems to have crept into Albedo’s pale cheeks, blotching them pink, and the dishevelled state of his clothing.

But they’ll write these oddities off. Once the broken glass is cleaned up, most of them forget about the entire incident. Sucrose, after apologising profusely to Albedo, is also glad to pretend it never happened.

And if Lisa smiles knowingly behind her cup of tea, nobody notices that either.

Jean begins to take note when Kaeya starts claiming every Dragonspine task demanded of the Knights. When she questions him on it, he shrugs, smirking. “I can handle the cold better than most of you. Why not help out a little? Are you prohibiting it?”

“No.” Jean responds, eyes drifting back to the mounting pile of paperwork on her desk. “You’re free to supervise these missions if you wish. But please ensure you don’t neglect your summer duties within the city as well.”

“Of course not.” Kaeya dips his head in a playful bow. “I couldn’t desert our dear Grand Master in her time of need, could I? You’ll always have my full support.”

“ Acting Grand Master, Kaeya.” Jean reminds him as he leaves. If she was less tired, she might enjoy his antics - but right now she’s running on two hours of sleep and is just about ready to pass out.

Her eyes drift over to the map that she uses to keep track of the knights’ positions. She gets to her feet, ready to adjust the pin marking Kaeya’s location. Her fingers pause when she moves it over to Dragonspine. The blue pin hovers over the mountain, suspiciously close to the gold marker showing where Albedo resides.

Her brow furrows. Kaeya’s requests are abruptly given an entirely new context. It registers with her that every time Kaeya has asked to partake in a Dragonspine task, Albedo has been staying on the mountain.

She taps the pins together, mulling over the realisation. It’s certainly out of character for both of them. Kaeya is a notorious flirt and Albedo tends to avoid company of all kinds.

Then she glances back at the papers flooding her table, and sighs. She doesn’t have time to devote to this. Mondstadt comes first, always. She’ll only act or think on it further if Kaeya and Albedo’s connection begins impacting their work.

Until then, she’ll stay out of it. It’s none of her business.

Eula and Amber are next to realise. It happens one evening after work. Eula had mentioned wanting to try Angel Share’s autumn specials, but regretfully being unable to. Amber didn’t have to ask why; she knew all too well the hostility the people of Mondstadt held towards Eula and her family. It really wasn’t fair, and it made Amber sad to think that Eula wouldn’t get to experience Angel Share’s brand new beverage, the Foamy Reef.

So, she’d talked with Charles about times when the bar would be a little quieter and pleaded with him to allow Eula to drink there - just for a bit. He’d agreed reluctantly and she had skipped home, eager to tell Eula the good news.

They go to the tavern at just past three on a weekday, having gotten permission from Jean to take the afternoon off. It’s perfect - the lunchers are gone and the evening drinkers haven’t yet finished their work.

There are only a few people at the tables. Though some of them shoot Eula a dirty look, they keep their complaints to a whisper. Eula strolls past, head held high, and sits down at a cosy spot in the corner. Amber joins her, smiling.

She had forgotten just how unfamiliar Eula was with Angel’s Share. It was gratifying to see her take in the high ceilings and chandelier, as well as the homely wooden chairs and tables. Whilst her friend is distracted, she nips over to the bar and orders two Foamy Reefs.

When she returns, Eula sniffs. “Hm. Ordering drinks without asking me first. I will have vengeance for that.”

Amber, used to her cold temperament and strange manner, just laughs. “It’s okay, Eula. You can get the next round.”

They stay there, talking and enjoying themselves, until the sun begins to sink below the city walls and their table is full of used glasses.

More people begin to filter in, ready for an evening of drinking. Eula tenses, but when Amber asks if she wants to leave, she refuses.

Among the new people are Kaeya, who shoots Amber a wink and sits himself down at the bar. Amber waves back, glad to see him enjoying himself. He’s been a little out of sorts recently, for some unknown reason.

About an hour later, Diluc enters through the back door, to the excitement of some of the patrons. His bartending abilities were adored by the city’s people, and getting a chance to drink his concoctions was a treasured occasion.

Diluc’s eyes narrow when Kaeya calls out to him, drumming his fingers against the bar. He turns, in an effort to escape his brother’s needling, and spots Eula seated in the corner. He raises an eyebrow, but doesn’t say anything further.

When Amber goes to order from Diluc, he mixes their drinks without a hint of reluctance. Amber admires his professionalism. As she takes the glasses, she notices Kaeya is looking a little worse-for-wear.

“Are you alright, Captain?” She asks cautiously.

Kaeya sways a little. Sweat beads on his hairline and his fur lies abandoned on the chair next to him. His sharp blue eye is clouded with intoxication. It’s a rare sight. Amber hears that he’ll only usually get this drunk if he’s talking with Rosaria.

“Quite alright.” He tells her, determinedly not slurring his words.

“He’s not.” Diluc interjects, rolling his eyes. “Someone is going to need to take him home, and it’s not going to be me. What do you say, Outrider?”

Amber hesitates, glancing over at Eula. A group of nearby hunters, growing bolder after a few pints, are jeering at her. She looks decidedly uncomfortable. Amber can see her mouthing something about revenge.

“Well, we should be going soon anyway.” She shrugs awkwardly. “I guess we can take him back to the Knights’ headquarters with us.”

Diluc‘s stormy expression lightens for a moment, with genuine gratitude.

Then Kaeya lurches forward, trying to pour someone else’s drink into his own glass.

“Alright, that’s enough.” Diluc takes the bottle from the bar top before Kaeya can empty it all over himself. “You’ve drained my cellars enough for one night.”

Kaeya grumbles, clumsily trying to retrieve the wine. “Give it back. And get me another Death in the Afternoon.” Diluc doesn’t budge and Kaeya pouts, doing his best to look convincing. “Please, Mr Bartender. It is very unprofessional to discriminate against your customers. And your own family , Diluc. You’re truly showing me how cold—“

“Don’t push your luck.” Diluc glares. He turns, fiddling with the taps, and places a glass of water in front of his brother. “Drink this and get out.”

Amber has seen those two interact enough to know that this is Diluc’s roundabout way of showing he cares. He could’ve just thrown Kaeya out, but instead he fetched him water to help him sober up.

She walks over to Eula, shooting a frown at the hunters jibing her. “We’ve got to take Kaeya back with us. He’s... completely wasted.”

Eula’s lips turn downwards. “Hmph. Kaeya intruding on my quality time with you. I won’t forget this.”

“Of course not.” Amber consoles her, glancing back at the inebriated Captain.

It’s quite a hassle to herd Kaeya out of the tavern door. All of the grace and wit he possesses when sober has vanished, leaving him a stumbling moron who can barely walk in a straight line.

They throw his arms over both of their shoulders, hauling him towards the city square.

“How irresponsible.” Eula murmurs under her breath.

Kaeya and Amber have never been close, but she still feels the need to defend him. “He doesn’t usually drink this much. I don’t know why he’s decided it would be a good idea tonight.”

“Maybe he can answer for himself.” Eula asserts. She shakes Kaeya’s shoulder, and he jerks woozily to the side. “You there, Kaeya Alberich. I demand to know why you’re inconveniencing us in this way.”

“You... Eula...” Kaeya’s bleary eyes widen. “Eula, why am I... why are we...” Abruptly, he steps away, nearly stumbling into a hedge. Amber thankfully grabs him before he can fall.

Kaeya turns his eyes back to Eula. “Listen, I... I think I’ve given you the...” He pauses, drunken mind searching for words. “...wrong idea.”

Alarm bells begin ringing in Amber’s head - the kind that announce impending doom and Eula’s wrath.

Eula huffs, crossing her arms. “How so?”

Kaeya tries to step forward, and promptly trips over his own feet. He staggers closer to Eula, and she holds him up at arm’s length. Kaeya tries to place a clumsy hand on her shoulder. “Listen, you’re gorgeous. And if I were anyone else... I’d happily go home with you. But...” He thumps his chest dramatically, throwing himself off balance. “My heart belongs to another. I can’t sleep with you... I’m sorry, I know you probably find me very handsome—“

Eula’s face is turning white.

Amber dashes forward, slapping her hand over Kaeya’s mouth. “I think you should stop talking, Captain.”

“Huh? But Eula, it’s... the truth. I love someone else.” Kaeya’s face twists, suddenly frustrated. He casts a longing look at the Crafting Bench as they stumble past it. “Someone who I can’t see because work can’t wait.” He huffs, speaking more to himself than anyone else. “Dragonspine is so important... Away for five weeks and doesn’t even tell me until... day before.”

Amber and Eula exchange a look. There’s only one person they know who works on Dragonspine regularly.

The puzzle pieces slot into place. Suddenly everything makes sense. Kaeya’s onset of low spirits coincided perfectly with the time that Albedo left for his extended research.

Thankfully the realisation seems to have distracted Eula from the vengeance she would have reaped against Kaeya for implying she wanted to sleep with him.

Amber wants to make sure they’re on the same page. She mouths the word Albedo to Eula, who nods gravely.

Albedo and Kaeya. Kaeya and Albedo. It feels surreal to imagine them romantically attached to anyone, let alone to each other .

Kaeya is worrying his bottom lip between his teeth, muttering to himself. Eula sighs and loops her arm across his shoulders again. Amber joins her, pulling him forward.

“Make no mistake, Kaeya Alberich, I will have vengeance for this.” Eula tells him as they guide him home. “Once you’re sober.”

Kaeya looks away, and mumbles something about thigh-high boots and white hair.

Eula does indeed get her revenge - in the form of a glass of water left on Kaeya’s desk to calm his hangover. She also leaves a threatening note telling him exactly how bone-chilling her vengeance would be if he ever interrupted her evening with Amber again.

Amber never mentions it and Kaeya doesn’t bring it up. But he stops drinking like a sailor at every opportunity, and finds a way to be transferred to Dragonspine for a week or two. All’s well that ends well, Amber supposes. It’s nice that Kaeya isn’t moping about anymore.

Klee catches on after one of her visits to Dragonspine.

Usually she wouldn’t come up here, because the cold is the worst and it makes her fingers hurt. Also, all the lakes are frozen over, so even though she’s out of Master Jean’s eyesight, she still can’t go fish-blasting.

She gets to visit Albedo though, which is just as good. His little campsite is so fun - there are shiny glass bottles in the colours of the rainbow, and weirdly-shaped cups on every surface. It reminds her of her mother’s work space, and the thought of that comforts her.

Kaeya is there, too. Klee is happy to see him as well. If she had been able to go fish-blasting, he surely would’ve helped her cover up the evidence. And she uses the Favonius Survival Rulebook he wrote every day. He’s the best - even if he does laugh and tell her she looks like a giant ball, with all her coats layered around her. He apologies when she pouts and Albedo nudges him.

They travel all over Dragonspine. Klee is running out of steam around Wyrmrest Valley, so she decides to make snow-angels. She must flail a little too enthusiastically, because her tiny foot kicks Albedo in the leg. He stumbles, but quickly rights himself thanks to Kaeya’s steadying hand on his shoulder.

“Oh! I’m really sorry, Albedo!” Klee bursts out, sitting up in the snow. Tears well up in her eyes at the thought of hurting her big brother.

She looks so stricken that Albedo kneels down and pats her head. “Don’t worry, Klee. I’m completely fine.”

“You sure are.” Kaeya chimes in with an exaggerated wink. Klee thinks that he’s making some kind of joke, because he snickers afterwards, but she doesn’t get it. Before she can ask what it means, Albedo lifts her to her feet, sighing.

“Don’t worry, Spark Knight. You’re very brave and very strong, but your brother here can hold his own. He’s not injured.” Kaeya reassures her.

He flicks his fingers, and Klee gasps when she feels the ice and snow fall from her clothing, manipulated by his cryo vision. She beams, rubbing her hands together. She took her mittens off to make a better snow-angel, but now she doesn’t know where they’ve gone.

As if to answer her question, Kaeya produces a pair of tiny gloves from his pocket. He motions for her to hold out her hands, and then slowly pulls them back into place.

Klee really does like Kaeya. She definitely forgives him for calling her a giant ball earlier. “I’m really glad you’re friends with Albedo, Kaeya!” she announces, waving her arms.

Kaeya blinks, startled. Then he smiles and takes her hand. “I’m glad, too.”

“Alright.” Albedo steps in, taking Klee’s other hand. “Let’s get back to camp. I still have some notes to compile.”

“Okay!” Klee nods emphatically, squeezing his hand. “Klee will play with Kaeya while you work!”

She’s too busy jumping and kicking at the snow to notice the look that passes above her head. She’s also too preoccupied with the snowmen she spots up ahead to see the genuine softness in Albedo’s eyes, and the way Kaeya’s eyes gleam with unrestrained happiness. Her approval means more to him than she could possibly know.

Once they get back to camp and eat dinner, they huddle around the campfire. The warmth is amazing and Klee stretches out in the amber glow. Albedo lets her sit under his arm, and Kaeya tells her ghost stories that make her squeal and hide in Albedo’s chest.

When Albedo reprimands this, Kaeya chuckles and moves to the safer territory of fairy tales. Klee gasps and giggles as he draws her into vast worlds; full of beautiful princesses, evil sorcerers and creaky old castles.

Klee’s eyelids are beginning to droop when Kaeya reaches the end of his story. She smiles when he tells her about how the prince and the princess were reunited, thanks to their true love.

“And they lived happily ever after!” She interrupts before Kaeya can say it, too excited to resist.

Kaeya nods, firelight dancing across his face. “That’s right, they did. Now, if your brother agrees, I think it’s about time you got to bed.”

“Mm.” Albedo hums in agreement, stretching. “Come on, Klee, it’s bedtime. Let’s get you settled.”

As he tucks her in, she repeats a garbled version of the princess story Kaeya told her.

She’s delighted when she remembers the last line perfectly. “And then the Prince and the Princess found each other and were married. And they lived happily ever after!”

Albedo bobs his head fondly. “That’s right.”

“That story is the best!” Klee tells him, kicking her feet under the bedding. “I don’t know what married means, but it sounds exciting!”

Albedo smiles, just slightly. “Being married is something you only do with someone very special. It’s a commitment and a promise to love each other forever.”

“Ooh.” Klee taps her chin, looking serious. “Is everyone married?”

Albedo shakes his head. “No. Lots of people aren’t.”

“Are you married?”

“No.”

“Aw.” Klee pulls a face. “How come? You don’t love anyone?”

Albedo’s eyes widen. He looks like he’s been caught off guard. When he answers, his voice has a strange undertone to it. “No, I don’t.”

Klee gasps, pointing her fingers in Albedo’s face. “You’re lying, Albedo! I can tell.” She rolls over, arms crossed and sulking.

“Klee, I’m not—“ Albedo stops himself, rubbing his temples. “Okay. Love is complicated . It doesn’t make any sense, really.”

Klee slowly turns back, listening intently.

“Love is... impossible to describe, much less define or understand. It’s like becoming a different person, or feeling a different person’s emotions as your own. It’s like a compulsion, or an uncontrollable need.” Albedo clears his throat abruptly. “My point is: it’s hard to know if you’re in love, even if you are.”

“Hmm. That was a lot of words, but Klee understands.” Klee asserts, chest puffing with pride. “But you’re smarter than Klee, Albedo, so you can figure out if you’re in love for sure! Like those weird number squiggles you draw when you work - do it like that! And tell me once you do.”

Albedo nods, lost in thought “I’ll try, Klee. Go to sleep now.”

He begins to stand but Klee’s hand shoots out and tugs on his sleeve. “I will, I promise. But Albedo, you have to promise that if you do love a person, you won’t be a meanie. You’ve gotta marry them like in the story, okay? Then Klee can come to the wedding and we’ll all go fish-blasting afterwards, and live happily ever after!”

Albedo exhales, smiling slightly. “I promise Klee. I’ll keep you... updated on my findings.”

Klee lets go of the sleeve, satisfied. “Good. G’night.”

As she closes her eyes, sinking into sleep, she hears Albedo wish her the same.

It’s a few days after they return to the city when Albedo tells Klee he’s found the answer to her question.

They leave the city around mid-afternoon. Klee delights in the secrecy, skipping along the path happily. Albedo has to guide her away from committing acts of terrorism against the hilichurl population a few times, and they reach Stormbearer Point as the sky begins to turn orange.

Kaeya is waiting there. He sits on the edge of the cliff, swinging his legs back and forth. He makes a suitably striking figure, silhouetted against the setting sun.

It’s still the middle of winter, but Albedo and Kaeya are both at home in the snow. Beside Kaeya there are two boxes - one white leather, one black velvet. Klee runs forward to inspect them, but Kaeya thankfully snatches them up before she can accidentally kick them into the frozen sea.

The space around Kaeya is clear of snow - just enough room for two people to sit beside him. Klee flops down onto the ground, Kaeya’s protective arm keeping her from going too close to the edge.

Albedo joins them, smiling. “Klee, do you remember our conversation last week?”

Klee tilts her head. “About that lizard I found?”

“No, Klee. About Kaeya’s story and... marriage.”

Klee brightens. “Oh, yeah! You were going to tell me if you were in love.” She gasps, tugging at Albedo’s jacket excitedly. “Did you figure it out?”

Albedo glances over at Kaeya, and nods.

She claps her hands in glee. “Who is it, who is it!“

“I think the answer may be more obvious than you think, Spark Knight.”

Klee swivels around, giving Kaeya a confused look. “What do you mean? I don’t get it.”

Kaeya chuckles and holds the two boxes in front of her. Slowly, he cracks them open, revealing two rings.

Klee’s eyes go as wide as dinner plates when Kaeya passes one of the boxes to Albedo. “Kaeya is— Kaeya is...”

“Yes, Klee.” Albedo’s fingers fidget around the black box. “You told me to think about it and I did. I’m as certain now as I could ever be. I am ... in love with Kaeya.”

“It should go without saying that his feelings are reciprocated.” Kaeya interrupts, patting Klee’s shoulder. “I hope that’s alright with you.”

A moment of silence passes. Then Klee opens her mouth.

“ Yay !!!” She throws herself at Kaeya, tackling him in a hug that almost sends them toppling over the edge of the cliff.

Albedo makes a choked noise and hauls them further onto solid ground. “Klee, that’s dangerous—”

“ Albedo !” She ignores his scolding and hugs him next, jumping up and down. “You love Kaeya! Kaeya loves you!” She freezes suddenly, hands covering her mouth. “Does this mean you’re getting married?”

Kaeya grins. “It does indeed. That’s what these rings are for.” He flicks the white box closed and wraps his arms around Albedo, sandwiching Klee between them in a warm embrace.

Klee squeezes them both as hard as she can. “I’m so happy! A wedding! Your wedding ! Cake and dancing and fish-blasting and—” She trails off, mumbling to herself about all the fun they’re going to have.

Kaeya looks down at Albedo, eyebrows raised. “I’m not sure the Acting Grand Master is going to agree to that last suggestion.”

“Well.” Albedo smiles. He pats Klee’s head and she nuzzles into his chest. “Maybe Jean will make an exception for our wedding.”

Kaeya hums, pulling him closer. “It’s weird hearing you say that. Our wedding .”

“A good form of weird, I presume.”

Kaeya lays a quick kiss against Albedo’s forehead. “Of course.”

They watch the sun dip below the horizon together, Klee’s head cradled against both of their chests.

To Klee, it feels like this is the start of a wonderful new adventure.

Aether returns from Liyue three months later. He‘d enjoyed his time in the bountiful harbour, and had made a myriad of new friends. But there’s a relief to returning to Mondstadt.

When he arrives, the snow has begun to melt. The first green traces of spring are pushing through the blanket of frost. When he steps through the stone gate and feels the wind across his cheeks, he feels more at home than he has in a long, long time. It’s strange to think that he’s formed such a connection to a place so far from his actual world. Paimon, bobbing alongside him, cheerily commentates on how excited the Knights of Favonius are going to be when they see him.

However, his glorious homecoming is very quickly interrupted. It seems that in his absence, the entire city has lost their minds. Older women are gathered in circles, talking in panicked tones. The city youth looks glum and there’s a huge crowd around the fountain, frantically tossing coins and making wishes.

For one terrifying second, Aether fears that another crisis has reared its ugly head. He spots Diluc, leaning against a wall at the edge of the mob. He hurries over.

Diluc stands when Aether and Paimon pop up beside him. “Traveller. Paimon. I trust your journey went well?”

“Very well!” Paimon pipes up. “But what on Earth is happening in the Square? Did someone die ?”

Diluc looks distinctly more grumpy than usual. “That would probably be easier to deal with than this. It’s completely ridiculous.”

“What happened?” Aether asks, shifting nervously from foot to foot.

“My brother . He was spotted this morning with a ring on his finger. Apparently that’s cause for this much alarm.”

Aether tucks his hair behind his ear, thinking it over. “But how did that result in this ?”

Diluc throws his hands up, clearly irritated. “I don’t know. Apparently half the city has had their eye on him for some time. And the mothers are mourning the loss of...” A muscle in his temple twitches. “Their perfect son-in-law.”

Paimon bursts into laughter, but claps her hands over her mouth when Diluc’s jaw clenches.

Aether is at a loss for words. “So everyone is upset because Kaeya is engaged?”

Diluc nods, curt. “Yes. You should get to the Knights’ Headquarters. They’ll probably want to celebrate your return. I’m sure they’d all welcome a distraction from this mess.”

“Right. Thank you, Diluc.” Aether responds, head spinning. Him and Paimon wave goodbye, weaving through the onlookers.

Even the area outside the Headquarters is more chaotic than usual. Aether slips through the double-doors, sighing.

Amber is pacing in the foyer. She lights up when she spots Aether. “Traveller, Paimon! It’s so good to see you again!”

“You too, Amber.” Aether tries to meet her sunny smile with one of his own, but he’s still confused about the spectacle he witnessed in the City Square.

Amber senses his uncertainty and shrugs. “It’s a bit of a circus right now. But I’m sure the Knights that aren’t on-duty would love to see you.”

That’s how most of the Knights end up crowded into Jean’s large office, quizzing Aether on his travels. Someone cracks open a bottle of wine, and soon they’re are using Jean’s desk as an impromptu bar. Aether knows she would usually object but she‘s preoccupied, napping in the library under Lisa’s supervision.

Kaeya joins them about an hour later and everyone studiously avoids commenting on his relationship status.

Everyone except Paimon, that is, who barrels towards him and immediately demands an explanation at the top of her lungs. Kaeya ushers them over to the desk-bar and motions for her to quiet down. Despite his best efforts, she continues berating him for three minutes, seemingly unaware that she’s preventing him from explaining himself.

Eventually she pauses to breathe, and Aether cuts in, giving Kaeya a meaningful look. “You have to admit, this whole situation is pretty... incredible.”

“Oh my, I’m hurt.” Kaeya feigns upset, voice lilting with amusement. “You think I can’t secure myself a spouse?”

“No, no.” Aether shakes his head, trying to find the words. “More like...”

“More like you wouldn’t wanna settle down!” Paimon interjects, thoughtless as always. “You seem like the type to find commitment boring, let alone marriage .”

Aether winces at her lack of tact, but Kaeya just laughs.

He stares down at his cup, swirling the liquid around. “Let’s just say I found someone who makes those pesky issues you brought up worth it.”

“I would hope so.” Aethers comments, watching a few of the new recruits outside the window consoling each other. The women probably burst into tears every time the ring around Kaeya’s finger catches the light. “It’s not just commitment - you’ve broken about a dozen hearts, by doing this.”

“Yeah!” Paimon swipes at Kaeya’s ponytail. “Think of all the sad mothers we saw on the way here.“

“I’m more than aware. But that is a cross I am willing to bear.” A private smile crosses Kaeya’s face, and it’s more openly vulnerable than Aether has ever seen him. “It’s definitely worth it.”

Aether opens his mouth to ask for more information, but the sound of the door distracts him.

The other knights look up as Albedo enters the room of festivities. He holds a clipboard, jotting down notes.

“Albedo, it’s dangerous to work whilst walking about in the dark streets.” Kaeya calls out casually.

“Thank you for your advice, Mr Alberich.” Albedo closes the door, nodding a greeting to Sucrose.

“Albedo.” Aether gets up to hug him, grinning. “I didn’t expect to see you yet. When did you get back from Dragonspine?”

“My current research isn’t at a crucial point. I am free to take a few hours out of my day to travel to the city, and see you now that you’re back in Liyue. Besides, as Kaeya observed, I worked during my journey here.” Albedo tucks the papers under his arm, embracing Aether. “It’s nice to see you again. You too, Paimon.”

Paimon giggles delightedly at the acknowledgment.

When they break apart, they’re both smiling. Albedo clears his throat, retrieving his clipboard and pen. “Please, tell me about the wildlife in Liyue. What is Alchemy like there?“

Aether holds up his palm before Albedo can continue. “Of course, of course. But there are some rather pressing matters that need to be finished first.”

“Hm.” Albedo taps his chin, gaze darting from Aether to Kaeya, who is still standing behind them. “What matters are you referring to?”

Paimon grabs Kaeya’s hand and waves it in front of Albedo’s face enthusiastically. Kaeya lets her jostle his arm around, trying not to chuckle.

Aether turns to Albedo, expecting to see a muted form of the disbelief he feels.

But Albedo doesn’t look even slightly perplexed. He nods. “Ah. That.”

“Don’t tell me you know who it is.” Aether’s mouth gapes in disbelief.

Albedo’s expression remains neutral. His voice doesn’t waver. “I may have some ideas.”

Kaeya clears his throat, moving closer to where the two of them are huddled together. “Well, Chief Alchemist, why don’t you explain the situation to our dear friend, the Traveller?”

“Is that a good idea?” Albedo questions, genuinely contemplating the pros and cons.

“I think so.” Kaeya answers cryptically. His lips curve into a pleased smirk.

Aether’s eyebrows shoot up when Kaeya wraps his arm around Albedo’s waist, tugging the blond towards him. He expects Albedo to rebuke him for such blatant harassment. Instead, he leans into the touch.

Aether feels like he’s experiencing a bizarre dream. “What are you guys talking about?”

Kaeya’s hand inches lower, playing with the hem of Albedo’s shorts. Albedo sighs good-naturedly. “Perhaps it would be easier to show you, rather than tell you.” He holds his hand out, putting his pen down.

Aether’s jaw drops when he notices a matching ring to the one adorning Kaeya’s finger - this one silver.

He blinks. Then blinks again. Paimon gasps when she comes to the same realisation, clutching her tiny hands over her mouth.

“You aren’t saying anything.” Albedo observes, concerned and curious at the same time. “Are you alright?”

Kaeya shrugs. “I think they’re in shock, sweetheart.”

“I thought I asked you not to call me that in public.” Albedo responds, exasperated.

“Well, why not?” Kaeya shoots back, eyeing him with sparkling eyes. “If our secret‘s been revealed then I can call you whatever pet-names I like, snowflake.”

“That isn’t...” Albedo gestures vaguely. If Aether wasn’t experiencing catatonic shock, he might notice the red dusting Albedo’s pale cheekbones.

“You... You two...” he trails off weakly, mind racing. “How long?”

Kaeya motions vaguely. “About a year.”

Paimon shrieks. Aether feels astonishment rush over him all over again. “A year — You mean you were together last time I visited?”

“That is correct.” Albedo says, unaffected by their bewilderment.

For a moment, Aether considers whether this is an elaborate prank Kaeya has orchestrated. But then his gaze drifts downwards, and he sees that Kaeya and Albedo’s fingers are twined together. The matching rings gleam, silver and gold matching each other’s visions.

This close, Aether can see that there are tiny blue stones inlaid in them. Kaeya’s bears the pale colour of the stormy sky above Dragonspine. Albedo’s is a deep, rich blue-black - the colour of the Mondstadt city night. The hues contrast beautifully with their differing skin tones. The rings look like they belong there, and the affection on both of their faces is yet more proof of this fact.

Aether breathes out. “You’ve kept this a secret for a year?”

“For one year and one month.” Albedo corrects. To a stranger, he would look as unbothered as ever. But Aether is a close friend, and he can detect the hints of bashfulness in Albedo’s expression.

“I’m... happy for you both.” He rubs his face. “Mostly surprised, but happy as well.”

“Paimon’s too shocked to be happy!” Paimon squawks, buzzing around in a wobbly circle. “This whole time... This is worse than that time you tried to experiment on me, Albedo!”

“Paimon.” Aether grabs her flailing arm, stopping her rapid flight. “Albedo has apologised for that many times.“

“Honestly, I have no idea what you’re referring to.” Kaeya cuts in. “Though it does sound hilarious. But I appreciate your support.”

“ We  both appreciate your support, Aether. Thank you.” Albedo smiles, small and faint.

The evening progresses, and eventually Aether processes the revelation. He may not have noticed their relationship, but when he really looks, he can see the way they look at each other. It warms him to see the love on their faces, even masked in secrecy.

Although, since telling him, Kaeya seems to have decided it’s his duty to reveal it to everyone else in attendance. And though their reactions range from apathetic to embarrassed, Aether is astonished by the lack of surprise on the Knights’ faces.

He pulls Amber aside, whispering, “Did everyone except me already know?”

Amber shrugs guiltily, laughing. “Despite what Kaeya may believe, he’s not actually that good at keeping secrets. I couldn’t understand it the first time I figured it out. I mean, they’re so different.” She gestures to where Kaeya and Albedo stand, talking. Their heads are bowed together and when Albedo murmurs something, Kaeya laughs.

“Hm. I guess sometimes odd things end up fitting together.” He considers, watching them laugh.

They seem happier than Aether has ever seen them. On their fingers, the rings gleam. Perfect, complementary reflections of each other.