Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

To Alhaitham, Lumine reminded him of the sea. 

He acknowledges that it is a peculiar comparison, especially when others are more keen in comparing her to the dancing winds, or the evershining stars. And while those are valid comparisons, Alhaitham thought that they did not fully encompass her true nature. 

The sea is seemingly vast and endless. Beautiful, yet dangerous. There was something about that traveler from a land afar, something that simply could not be seen through the naked human eye. Mysterious, yet ever present. 

There was something more about her that did not quite meet the eye. There was something behind her smile, her seemingly polite demeanor, and brave facade. There was something more to the way she held her blade, or the way she gazes up to the night sky with a distant and unreadable expression on her face. 

But alas, none can ever truly reach the bottom of the sea. And besides, Alhaitham has never seen the sea as anything more than a body of water that just so happens to be so vital to human activity. 

“Not a fan of parties?” 

Turning towards the sound of that soft voice, Alhaitham was greeted by the sight of her small smile. The pale glow of the moon, and the faint sound of music, laughter and cheer. She offers him a glass of imported Mondstadian wine, and he accepts without much thought. 

“Not particularly.” He replies. “And you?” 

“I enjoy it in moderation.” She laughs lightly, taking a sip of her wine. “But frankly, I’m feeling rather tired after being dragged to the stage by Nilou and stuffed to the brim with food by Paimon.” 

Alhaitham nods, taking a sip of his own wine. To his surprise, it was a strong one. 

“‘Death After Noon.’” Lumine says. “A favorite of a friend and one of the stronger ones. Sorry if it isn’t to your taste.”

Alhaitham sighs amusedly, taking another sip of the intoxicating wine. “Eager to drink your sorrows away, are we?” 

There was a flash of sadness behind her eyes, before it quickly disappeared into something more neutral - something that Alhaitham could not completely decipher. At that moment, he could not help but remember her moment of weakness when she faltered at the recount of Lesser Lord Kusanali’s estranged history. 

But before he even thought of pursuing that topic, Lumine swiftly steers the conversation to another direction. 

“Are you looking forward to be able to dream again?” 

It was a strange question, certainly not a type of question Alhaitham thought anyone would ever ask him - a question that he had never entertained before. The childishly curious glow behind her golden eyes made the question, this situation, all the more peculiar. 

Yet, Alhaitham answers the question in a way that is familiar to him. “What is there to look forward to?” 

He answers the question in pure rationality and objectivity. He expects her expression to contort in annoyance, or even disappointment. But strangely enough (or perhaps, not so strange considering her very existence itself is strange), she only smiles softly. 

“Nothing much, really.” She takes another sip of her wine. “Whether they bring joy, sadness, fear, or anger; at the end of the day, dreams are just, and always will remain to be dreams. Another natural process of living.” 

Lumine gazes to the night sky, and, ah, there it was again. That distant expression that reminded him of the vastness of the open sea. 

“But hey, there’s nothing wrong with looking forward to dreaming again!” She says cheerfully the moment she snaps awake from her previous trance. “Who knows, maybe you’ll dream of something so wonderfully pleasant that you’ll wake up the next day feeling completely refreshed!” 

“I suppose.” He comments, unsure of what else to say. 

“I’m going to go back now. I don’t want Paimon to think I’ve abandoned her or something.” She smiles and slowly gets up from the lone branch they had shared. “Are you going to go home after this?” 

A part of him wants to stay a moment longer. But still, he replies with a simple, “Yes. I think I’ve overextended my stay in this victory celebration.” There were still many things he needed to get done.  

“Okay.” Again, she smiles softly. “Goodnight, Alhaitham. May you have sweet dreams tonight.” 

With that, she disappears into the crowd. 

---

That night, Alhaitham dreams for the first time in many years. 

It felt strange to be able to dream again, to see images flash before your eyes that felt so real, yet so fragmented at the same time. So irrational, so ridiculously separate from objective reality. And yet, Alhaitham immerses himself in his dream nonetheless - not that he could do much about that anyway. 

He dreams of reading a book with dubious information while laying in a sea of grass, the clear blue sky a perfect backdrop for the jaded white pages of that ancient book. 

Then, in the irrational, fragmented style of dreams, the scene changes. 

Alhaitham dreams of himself as a child once more. Young and naive, happily strolling through the forest and appreciating the beauty of the flora and fauna without even thinking of its scientific name or how it could be used for the “progression of humanity” or something amongst those lines. 

Then, he dreams of visiting the library in the Akademiya, browsing through the shelves in search of a good read. And then, he dreams of Port Ormos, of a memory he recalls with perfect clarity. 

That day, the sky was clear, and the wind was blowing tenderly. The wind had allowed the smell of the sea to travel until the heart of the city. The wind had allowed the strands of her blonde hair to dance freely to its soft breeze. 

“Thank you for your help back there.” She says, a smile on her face as she places her hand above her heart. “I’m Lumine. A student from the Akademiya.” 

That wasn’t how their first meeting went, but the dreaming Alhaitham could not have known that. So, he replies. 

“I’m Alhaitham.” Dream Alhaitham says. “It's nice to meet you.” 

It's strange. Up until a few days ago, Sumeru was a dreamless land. It was once considered a blessing from their Archon, for dreams are nothing but a hindrance to rationality and wisdom. Now, the people of Sumeru dream once more. 

And in this once dreamless land, Alhaitham finds himself dreaming of her.

---

“Good morning.” 

Kaveh freezes and slowly turns his head to face his roommate with a bewildered expression. “What?” 

“I said, ‘good morning.’” Alhaitham repeats, eyes still fixed on his book. 

Dumbfounded, the blond repeats; “What?” 

At this, Alhaitham lowers his book and raises his brow. “ What .” 

“You never greet me good morning.” Kaveh’s expression went from bewildered to a mix between suspicion and concern. “What’s this? Are you sick? Did you do something? Who are you and what have you done to Alhaitham?” 

“Babbling nonsense right after you wake up? What a productive way to start the day.” Alhaitham sighs as he gets up with his book in tow. “I’m going on a trip to Port Ormos for a few days, so don’t forget your key. Have a good day.” 

“D-D-Did you just … told me to have a good day? Alhaitham, are you sure you’re not sick?! Did you have a dream of your impending death or something?! Oi, Alhaitham!”

Paying  no mind to his roommate’s hysterics, Alhaitham swiftly makes his way out of his home and makes large strides towards the City’s exit. The clear blue sky, the beautiful shades of green that graces his eyes. 

In a rare moment of reverie, Alhaitham allows himself to pause and take in the sight of the hustle and bustle around him. 

It's strange. How is it that a dream that he does not remember made him feel so refreshed, so tranquil and peaceful in this singular moment of time? 

Another question that requires an in depth investigation it seems. Perhaps he should make a stop at the Akademiya to search its archives for anything related to this topic. 

“... Lumine! Hey, Lumine! Wait for Paimon!” 

A gentle breeze, the scent of flowers and the distant sea. Alhaitham catches the sight of her blonde locks, of her small back disappearing in the crowd of people. 

For a moment, Alhaitham considers following her - to understand what had caused her to take such large strides to the point that even her little pixie friend struggled to catch up. 

But in the end, Alhaitham decides that he had spent enough time lingering on needless, irrational things. 

And so, he lets her go.

Chapter Text

When Alhaitham returns from his three day trip to Port Ormos, he is back to his usual self. Or in Kaveh’s words, an ‘annoying piece of shit.’ 

Alhaitham, being Alhaitham, paid no mind to his roommate’s nonsensicality and simply resumed with his daily routine as the Akademiya’s Scribe and temporary sage. And of course, his own personal research on things that intrigue him, which at the current moment is the phenomena of dreams. 

 Speaking of dreams, Alhaitham’s current job was to document the recent issue that occurred during the “Moment of Dreams'' event. Lesser Lord Kusanali herself had assigned that task to him, and gave him all the details he needed to complete the report. Being the ever gracious Archon, she had even offered to help him. But of course, Alhaitham had politely rejected, stating something amongst the lines that she should best use her time for other endeavors. And while there was truth to his words, it wasn't exactly the complete truth. 

Alhaitham wanted to learn more about dreams, about the dreams of other people, and find a groundbreaking discovery about them. If there was anything even remotely groundbreaking to discovery anyway. 

Well, Alhaitham had already resolved to learn more about them anyway. He’s not the type to back down so easily. 

“Busy at work, are we?” 

“Lesser Lord Kusanali. Is there anything I can help you with?” 

As Alhaitham makes movement to get up from his seat, the Dendro Archon shakes her head and gestures to him to remain seated. 

“A small favor of sorts, but it's nothing of too much importance. If you are busy, I will not burden you with it.”

“What type of favor is it?” Alhaitham inquires. “I am not too busy, but I would prefer not to burden myself with a more strenuous kind of favor in consideration with my workload for the Akademiya these days.” 

“Ah, its nothing too strenuous. It’s just …” Nahida’s expression turns a little wistful. “Well, recently the traveler has been busying herself with some research in the library. And while I know she’s capable of understanding her own limits …” 

“I understand.” Alhaitham says as Nahida seems to struggle with her words. “I’ll keep an eye on her and report back to you.” 

“Oh, no! There’s no need for that!” Nahida quickly waves her hands. “Please just keep her company. The two of you are quite close, correct? I’m sure Lumine would appreciate someone she’s comfortable with accompanying her, even if in silence.” 

The two of them? Close? That was the first time someone described them as such. 

Nevertheless, Alhaitham nods dutifully. “I understand.” 

With that, he returns to his work. 

---

The next day, Alhaitham brings his work to the library where Nahida said  Lumine often conducts her research. 

She wasn’t hard to find, not with her distinctive blonde hair and white dress sticking out like a sore thumb. Oh, and the fact she was tiptoeing, jumping and tiptoeing again in an attempt to reach for a book far beyond her reach. 

Placing his items on the table, Alhaitham makes his way to the rows of towering shelves. His steps felt strangely light, Archons knows if its because he had a nice sleep, or because the sight of Lumine reaching so desperately for a book made him feel amused. 

“Need a hand?” 

“Alhaitham!” 

The way her eyes widened like a fish out of water almost made him laugh. If he was a more emotional and expressive person, he would have teased her for hours end because of her little stunt. But he was not. 

So, he grabs the book that she was reaching for and hands it to her. 

“You do know there are stools and stairs for this reason, right?” He asks in his usual nonchalant tone. 

“Of course I do,” She huffs, cheeks puffing. “I could have grabbed it without one.” 

Alhaitham resists the urge to roll his eyes. “I see. Then would you like me to put this back.” 

“I wouldn’t want to waste your hard work grabbing it, so no, it's fine.” She takes the book from his hand and places it close to her chest. “Thank you, Alhaitham. I appreciate it.” 

Ah, there it was. That small smile, that tenderness behind her golden eyes. 

For some reason, Alhaitham feels as though he is gazing at the sea. 

“What are you doing here? Conducting some research?” Lumine asks curiously. 

Snapping awake from his thoughts, Alhaitham crosses his arms. “Something like that. I was hoping for a change in scenery while I am doing my work.” 

Lumine smiles wryly. “It must be quite suffocating being stuck in your office for hours on end. I can’t imagine going that long without feeling the sun or wind against my skin.” 

“And what of you?” Alhaitham glances at the book in her hands. “Any particular reason you are studying about Sumeru’s history?”

And there it was again. The distant look in her eye that makes her look as though she is an ancient star in Teyvat’s night sky. 

“Just wanted to expand my horizons and double check my understanding about Sumeru’s history.” She replies. Alhaitham doesn’t sense that she’s lying. “I think the fight with that Fake God may have caused me to develop some confusion or maybe even memory loss.” 

There was a faint pang in Alhaitham’s chest. So faint, that he did not even recognize it. 

“Ah, but don’t worry, I’m fine!” Lumine quickly says, offering him a small, yet sincere smile. “I’m going to go and read now. Goodluck with your work.” 

“Of course.” And before Alhaitham could stop himself, he adds. “I’ll be in that table if you need my assistance with grabbing other hard to reach books.” 

Lumine laughs. “Sure, sure. Thanks for the offer.” 

She waves her hand at him and disappears into the row of shelves. Alhaitham returns to his table, the sound of her laughter echoing in his heart. 

---

Alhaitham is not a dreamer, but that night after their conversation in the library, he dreams of her.

In his dream, he’s a student of the Akademiya once more. Young, ambitious, while still a little naive. He looks incredibly jaded in the Akademiya’s standard robes, so incredibly out of place as he browses through the library’s collection in search of a good read. 

Alhaitham could accurately describe his entire student career with a single word: monotone. 

Attend lectures, find research topics, do research on chosen research topic, write a paper on chosen research topic, receive feedback, get a good score, and rinse and repeat. For someone as bright as Alhaitham, the Akademiya was a breeze. For someone as high and mighty, so seemingly cold and untouchable, the Akademiya was just another thing he had to complete. 

His classmates called him a bore, and people tended to avoid him because of his bluntness and overly rational way of putting things. 

And that was fine, Alhaitham had decided. He enjoyed the silence, enjoyed having more time to himself. 

But still, perhaps his subconscious had longed for something different. Hence, this dream. 

“Need a hand?” 

The girl lets out a gasp, but student Alhaitham pays her no mind as he reaches for the book she had been trying to reach. 

“You do know there are stools and stairs for this reason, right?” He says bluntly, handing the blonde girl dressed in the Akademiya’s standard uniform her book. “That would have been more efficient instead of you jumping and tiptoeing around and potentially disturbing others in the library.” 

He expects the girl to shrink, or even send him a cold glare. Yet, it did not come. 

Instead, she smiles sheepishly as she takes the book from his hand. 

“You’re right. Still, I thought I could have grabbed it without one,” She says as she tucks the strands of her blonde hair behind her ear. “Thank you. I’ll do that next time.” 

Dream Alhaitham tries not to stare, but it was to no avail. And then, for some reason; 

“Alhaitham.” He says. “And you are?” 

“Lumine.” She smiles. It's blinding. “Say, if it's not so much of a bother, would you mind if I join you at your table? I promise I won’t annoy you too much.” 

“I don’t mind.” Dream Alhaitham replies. “Let’s go. Are there any other hard to reach books you’d like to grab?” 

“There are a few.” 

Lumine turns her back and disappears into the row of shelves. Alhaitham follows her. 

Then, he wakes up. 

---

On the following days, Alhaitham takes his work to the library where he would find Lumine lurking through the jaded old bookshelves of the Akademiya. 

She had taken up his advice and made use of the library’s stools and stairs to reach for the unreachable. But there were still several occasions where Alhaitham caught her stubbornly trying to tiptoe and jump for a book beyond her reach. 

It was an amusing sight, really. And whenever Lumine had realized his eyes on her, she would turn to him and smile sheepishly in response to his small smirk. 

They talked sometimes, but most of the time, they kept to their own world at opposite ends of the library. 

Deep down, Alhaitham wondered if he wanted her to join him - for her to sit beside him, blissfully reading as he scribes countless papers that needs to be done. Just like he did in that dream he could no longer recount in full detail. 

But of course, Alhaitham rationalizes that dream as another product of an incomprehensible human psychological process. 

“Shouldn’t you be going home soon? It's getting quite late.” 

Looking up from his work, Alhaitham takes a moment to observe the features of her face, of Lumine’s ever serene smile that is present on her lips. Then, he glances at the clock and realizes that he had indeed overextended his time in the library. 

“It would seem so.” Alhaitham replies, setting his pen down. “I’ll go home shortly after this. Thank you for the reminder.”

“Of course.” Lumine smiles. Ah, it really is blinding. “I’ll be going now. Good night, Alhaitham. May you have sweet dreams tonight.” 

She waves her hand and once more, Lumine turns her back and disappears into the row of shelves. 

Alhaitham does not follow her.

But maybe, deep down, he wants to.

Chapter Text

Alhaitham’s head was hurting again. 

No, not because Kaveh’s nonsensical babblings, or because of another stupid question some random mediocre scholar asks (though they may had a role in making it worse). It was the lingering ache from the blow he received during his ingenious plan to dethrone the Sages. 

Alhaitham had, naturally, anticipated that he wouldn’t remain unscathed, especially given the inherent danger of their operation. He also had taken precautions to get his head checked after the entire ordeal. But alas, life is unpredictable, and now occasional aches have become a part of his life. 

Still, Alhaitham would not be Alhaitham if he allowed even the slightest bit of weakness and vulnerability to show. So, he carries on with his day in his usual stride. 

And of course, the first thing that greets his sight when he enters the library was Lumine’s silly (adorable) attempts at reaching for a book far beyond her reach. 

Alhaitham honestly doesn't know if it’s making his headache better or worse. 

“I’m starting to believe you have something against stairs and stepping stools.” 

“Well, hello to you too, Alhaitham.” 

Lumine smiles sweetly at him, and Alhaitham feels the urge to tease her relentlessly about her short stature and petite build. He reaches for her book and takes a moment to read its title. 

“Conducting research on Fontaine already?” He inquires, passing the book to her. “On its judicial system nonetheless.

“Yeah, it’ll be helpful to learn more about Fontaine before I actually travel there. Oh and to be able to somehow squeeze myself out from any nasty legal situation I may encounter.”

 She takes the book from his hand, and for some reason, Alhaitham finds himself entranced by the way she pushes the stray strands of her hair behind her ear. 

“Judicial systems are tricky. Finding loopholes in established laws is even trickier. I’m more used to fighting my way through, but my time in Sumeru has definitely pushed me to … Alhaitham?” 

Alhaitham blinks. “Yes?” He focuses his eyes on her. 

“Are you alright?” 

Again, he blinks. Twice, thrice. “Yes.” He replies, voice tight. “Why wouldn’t I be?” 

“Sorry, you just looked a bit space-y. I thought you weren’t feeling well.” Lumine explains gently. 

He wasn’t feeling well, but he was trying extremely hard to keep that at bay. And when Alhaitham tries extremely hard, when he puts his very best at something, chances are that he’ll yield a 200% success rate. 

To think that she was able to see through him. Alhaitham was sure this made his headache significantly worse. 

“Just a minor headache. It should go away on its own.” He replies, feeling no need to keep it a secret. 

“That doesn’t sound very reassuring.” Lumine murmurs, brows furrowing in concern. “Is it because of that blow you received during our confrontation with Azar?” 

She’s too perceptive. Is this how others feel whenever he sees right through them? 

“That is a possibility.” He replies cryptically. “In any case, it's not a big deal. As you were saying—” 

“You bastard! You stole my credit for that paper!” 

“Huh?! What are you even talking about?!” 

Great. Two adult Akademiya scholars throwing hands at one another over a petty dispute like stealing another student’s credit for a paper. As if this day couldn’t get any worse. 

Curious, Lumine pushes a few books from the shelf and take a glimpse at the commotion happening right behind them. Internally grumbling, Alhaitham sighs as he decides he probably should do something to shut them up. 

But it seems the enraged student overestimated the strength of the Akademiya’s ancient shelves. 

“You took everything from me!” 

“Ah!” 

One shove and the next thing they knew, the towering bookshelf was losing its balance, and it was raining thick, encyclopedia books. The shelf was falling, the books were falling, they were both trapped, Lumine would be crushed by a stack of books, and it would be catastrophic if this created a domino effect that’ll destroy the entire library’s collection. 

So, Alhaitham does what any other rational person would. Pin Lumine to the falling shelf, shield her with his taller frame from the onslaught of books, all the while stabilizing the bookshelf with both his raw strength and dendro vision. 

And it all worked out in the end. 

Except for the fact that his back was hurting, his head was spinning, and his vision was turning alarmingly dark. 

“Alhaitham!” Lumine shouts, voice muffled. “Y-You’re bleeding!” 

“So I am.” He replies, still in his calm and composed voice. “Are you alright?” 

Both arms still protectively pinning her to the shelf, Alhaitham takes a moment to observe her. Yes, she’s unharmed, golden eyes shining with worry as her face turns a few shades pale. 

“I’m fine.” She whispers, hand reaching out to touch his bleeding forehead. “We need to get you to the infirmary as soon as possible.” 

“Yes. That would be logi—” 

Before he could even finish his sentence, a thick encyclopedia book fell straight onto his head. And thus, the world turns dark. 

This really wasn’t his day. 

---

Alhaitham wakes to the feeling of lukewarm water against his forehead. 

“Alhaitham, you’re awake!” 

He blinks, once, twice, and then fully registers the situation he is in. Right after that potentially fatal blow to his head, Alhaitham had passed out. And now, he seems to be at the infirmary with Lumine now dabbing his forehead with a wet towel, presumably to get rid of any sweat. 

“How are you feeling?” Lumine asks, voice as tender as the soft morning glow. “The book did quite a number to your head. Luckily, it didn’t cause a concussion, but still.” 

“I’m alright.” He replies, voice surprisingly even. “What’s the situation?” 

“Are you seriously asking that now? Sigh, don’t worry. The situation was resolved without much issue thanks to Cyno personally overseeing the scholars’ petty dispute. You won’t have to worry about your reputation as the Mighty Scribe being tarnished after being defeated by a pile of books.” 

At the mention of General Mahamatra’s name, Alhaitham’s mood grew sour. “I see.” 

Whether Lumine picks up the subtle change in his mood or not, she is careful not to show it. Instead, she basks the towel in the basin, squeezes it, and dabs it on his forehead once more. 

“Thank you for protecting me.” She whispers, carefully moving the towel from his forehead to his cheek. “But please, don’t do something so careless like that again.” 

That pained expression on her face. His throat felt dry, as his heart felt as though it would stop. 

“On the contrary, it was the most rational thing anyone could have done at that moment.” He argues. “Would you have preferred to be the one lying down in one of the Akademiya’s uncomfortable infirmary bed instead?” 

“I would have been fine.” Lumine stubbornly persists. “I’m stronger than you think, you know.” 

“I know.” Alhaitham could not believe that his voice could sound this soft. “But there’s no use in arguing for something that’s already happened.” 

“Ever so rational.” Lumine sighs as she pulls her hand away. Alhaitham almost instantly misses the feeling of her touch. “I’m going to call the nurse to get you checked. Don’t even think about running off on your own—” 

“Lumine.” 

She pauses and turns around to face him. And for some reason, no words could escape Alhaitham’s lips. 

“... Yes?” Lumine responds, smiling that gentle smile that roused something so real within him. 

Thank you, he wants to say. But instead he says, “It's nothing. Forget it.”

For a moment, disappointment flashes behind her eyes. It was so plain, so obvious — so uncharacteristic for the usually affable, yet guarded traveler that reminded him of the open sea. 

And at the sight of such raw emotions on her face, Alhaitham felt the urge to reach for her face. To gently comfort the creases of her face, to wipe away the sadness from her eyes. 

“Okay,” She eventually says, forcing a smile. “I’ll be right back.” 

When she disappears from the infirmary, Alhaitham lets out a groan. 

---

Alhaitham remembers the last dream he had as a child with perfect clarity. 

It was an innocent, childish dream. One that was both coherent and incoherent at the same time. Alhaitham had dreamt of the sea. Of the sand on his feet, and the ocean wind on his face. 

Thinking back, Alhaitham had always been fascinated by the sea. 

Perhaps it was because it was a strange and unfamiliar thing to him, something that he could only see in the thick textbooks and encyclopedia books that kept him company through his days. 

Perhaps, it was because of its beauty, of its mystery. Because it was something so unobtainable, something so unreachable. 

He wants to embrace the sea, to be embraced by it. Bask his feet in its coldness, feel its warmth against his skin. 

It’s silly, childish and immature. Yet, it's not completely irrational. It's natural to long for something, after all. 

To yearn, to pine. 

“Alhaitham!” 

He feels warmth radiating from her hand, he feels his body grow light as she pulls him to join her by the shore. Brilliant blue, her golden eyes shining like crystals touched by the moon’s pale glow. 

Lumine laughs, so full of life, so full of warmth and joy. And for some reason, Alhaitham reaches for her and pulls her into his embrace. 

The strands of her blonde hair stuck in his finger, the scent of the ocean. Her small body feels so nice to hold, so perfectly complementary to his large figure. It felt nice, and Alhaitham felt as though he was intoxicated by her warmth. 

She tucks her head underneath his chin and Alhaitham allows himself to bask in this dream for a moment longer.

Chapter Text

Tonight, Alhaitham dreams of the first time he saw her wield her blade. 

It wasn’t surprising that he dreamt of that scene. Alhaitham doubts he could ever erase the image of her cold and calculating eyes, of the way she nimbly pace herself through the battle. Of how deftly she wields her sword as though she is a natural born warrior who had fought countless battles and always emerged victorious. 

He remembers how well they worked together when facing the eremites. The way she mercilessly defeats those who dare approach them. How his brute strength perfectly compliments her nimble dance. 

He dreams of the hustle and bustle of Port Ormos and the faint scent of the ocean. At that time, Lumine’s small back had appeared more like the hidden depths of the ocean. Her blonde hair flowing with the wind, her divine white dress that remains pure and clean. 

There was something about her. So beautiful, mysterious and deadly. 

Alhaitham could never fully take his eyes off her. 

---

Dark clouds were looming above Sumeru. 

Alhaitham does not need a background on climatology to understand that rain is soon to come or to understand the implications of what rain would result. Nobody does, really. But still, there are those who continue with their day regardless of the weather for whatever reasoning they have. Surprisingly enough, the Akademiya’s Scribe was one of them today. 

Truth be told, Alhaitham doesn’t particularly like the rain. He acknowledges its importance to the ecosystem and the earth, but other than that, it's simply a nuisance which disrupts everyday life. So if it was raining, there was a good chance that you’d find the Scribe comfortably tucked in his home or office. But today was not one of those days. 

Making the last trek to the Statue of the Seven on Devantaka Mountain, Alhaitham lets out a sigh. 

After his short ‘business trip’ to Port Ormos, he had hoped to return to the city before nightfall, but judging from the way the dark clouds gathered and the way the sky rumbled, it seems like he would have to take shelter near the looming Ruin Golem. It wasn’t ideal, but what else could he do? 

So, he makes an offering to the Statue of the Seven and makes a quick trek down the road. 

Then, he notices a familiar figure. 

It was Lumine, sitting underneath an Adhigama tree, all by herself. 

For a moment, Alhaitham stops in his tracks. Her back looks so small from this distance, and the way she seemingly stares emptily at the ancient Ruin Golem in front of her — it made her look so ethereal. So out of this world. 

The low rumble of thunder, the gentle wind turning ever so cold. Unbecknowingly, Alhaitham takes a few steps closer towards her and finds himself unable to stop when he hears her soft voice singing a melancholic tune. 

Throat suddenly dry, Alhaitham doesn’t know why he couldn’t seem to find the right words to her. 

So, he simply starts with a simple; 

“I didn’t know you sang.”

“Why, hello to you too, Alhaitham.” 

She turns to him with a smile, and Alhaitham thought it was too difficult to look away. Still, he acknowledges her greeting with a nod and make strides towards her. 

“May I join you?” He asks. 

“Of course.” She pats the empty space beside her. “I didn’t expect to see you roaming free in a place like this. Especially when you’ve been busy taking up the temporary role of a sage, and after that tiny accident in the library.” 

“On the contrary.” Alhaitham scoffs as he crosses his arms. “I cannot stand inaction and simply taking orders without being able to do as I please.” 

“I thought you’d say something like that,” She giggles lightly, Alhaitham could not help but stare. “How are you feeling?” She asks softly. 

“Alright. It still hurts from time to time, but nothing I cannot handle.” He pauses for a moment, then looks away. “What about you?” 

Even without looking at her direction, Alhaitham knows she must’ve been taken aback. He wasn’t the type to confront other people’s emotional wellbeing, after all. 

“As good as good gets.” Lumine eventually replies. “Though I admit I have been feeling rather … weary.” 

At that quiet confession, Alhaitham turns his head to face her once more. She was gazing at the Ruin Golem once more. Observing it, understanding it. 

“Sometimes,” She whispers. “I wish I could be more pragmatic and rational like you.” 

Alhaitham blinks. Lumine turns to him with a smile. 

“Sometimes I wish I would stop taking everything to heart.” She continues. “To stop thinking how lonely it would be for the world to forget about your existence, to stop thinking how lonely it would be to be left behind by your only family. To stop … feeling so much.” She lets out an empty laugh. “I wish I could just rationalize it all as ‘life.’ That these things are natural, and that there isn’t anything I could do about it other than go with its flow.” 

There was the row rumble of thunder, the sound of birds taking flight and perching on branches. Alhaitham watches in silence as those brilliant gold peers through the world. 

This wasn’t his area of depth. Alhaitham had never been one for sentimentality, and nobody had ever expected him to be the source of their comfort. And yet, here they were. 

At this moment, Lumine was the sea and Alhaitham was floating in the midst of nowhere within its vast emptiness. 

But still, he attempts to swim. 

“Without those traits,” He pauses. “You would not be you.” 

Her eyes shone. Alhaitham feels his mouth growing dry. 

“To take things to heart, to feel sorrow and take a moment to pause and reflect; there is nothing wrong with that.” He continues despite how wrong it felt for him to say these things he never imagined to say. “In fact, it may be the most rational and pragmatic thing one can do. Humans need to rest and stop. Need to feel and reflect in order to carry on.” 

“I … see.” 

“And besides,” Alhaitham finds himself saying. “As be pragmatic and rational I may be, it does not necessarily mean that I am unfeeling.” 

“I know.” She says, eyes shining in a certain fondness that makes his heart ache ever so slightly. “You came to me because you were worried about me, didn’t you?” 

It was at that exact moment lightning strikes and rain pours down the earth. Perhaps it was divine intervention that saved him from feeling something more than he was supposed to. 

“We should take shelter.” Alhaitham says, getting up from his sitting position. “Come, there should be a cave nearby.” 

Lumine nods, and Alhaitham suddenly realizes how he had been unconsciously slowing his strides to ensure he did not leave her behind. 

---

Lumine was shivering. Alhaitham decides that the most rational decision one could make in this situation was to take off his coat and drape it over her shaking shoulders. 

“... Alhaitham?” She looks at him with worry in her eyes. “Are you sure it's okay for me to use this?” 

“I’m not the one currently shaking from the cold, am I?” He replies taking a seat by the entrance. 

Internally, Alhaitham winces at how cold he sounded. It was strange how a few moments ago he was extremely close to showing actual empathy and warmth to her, and now he was back to his usual, distant self. 

Still, it seems as though Lumine was unaffected by his seemingly cold reply. With a single movement, she unclasps her scarf and drapes it over his gray locks. 

Alhaitham blinks, but Lumine remains impassive. Without further explanation, she uses her scarf as a towel and runs her fingers through his hair. 

“... What are you doing?”  

“Drying your hair.” Lumine replies. “It's not much, but it should help prevent a cold or the likes.” 

Alhaitham opens his mouth, but then closes it when he couldn’t find any words to retort her. 

Rationally, he knows he could gently push her away, or even come up with a snarky reply on how this wouldn’t be of any help. But for some reason, Alhaitham didn’t have the heart to argue and simply allowed her to continue her ministration.

Maybe, deep down, he enjoyed this attention he was receiving from her. Maybe, he had longed to feel her touch ever since his very first dream of her. 

“I’ve always been curious,” Lumine suddenly says. “But what’s this headpiece for? Is it for listening to audio recordings? Or does it help with your hearing?”

Alhaitham lets out a scoff as he tilts his head to look her in the eye. “Curious, are we?” 

“Well, I did say I was curious.” Lumine laughs. “It's pretty. It goes well with your aesthetic.” 

That was the first time Alhaitham had heard such a compliment. Most of them time, they would be prodding him for information on what it is and how it  — 

“You’re really handsome. But, you know that, right?” 

Alhaitham’s eyes widened.

Lumine stares at him, those golden eyes seemingly glowing in the dim lighting of the cave. It was unsettling. The way she looks at him, the way her fingers were still intertwined with his damp, gray locks. 

His mouth parts, but his accursed heart was racing to the point he could hear its loud thump in his ears. Lumine moves her hand, draping her scarf around his shoulder, and gently pushes away the stray strands covering his forehead. 

Suddenly, there was no air. No oxygen to breathe. 

Then, Lumine’s eyes widen as her cheeks turn a shade red. The implications of her words and actions must have caught up to her. And this was the perfect moment to shift the situation to Alhaitham’s control. 

He could have reached for her hand, or perhaps, placed both his hand around her waist and brought her closer to his lips. He could have brought her hand to his cheek, he could have cupped her face with his hand. 

He could have embraced her, or perhaps, brought his lips to hers. 

If this were a dream, he would have acted on such desire. But this was reality. He could not do simply as he pleased. 

So he says; “I do.” 

Lumine blinks once, and then twice. Then, she laughs and playfully slaps his shoulder before excusing herself to go dry off in a more secluded area in the cave. 

Only when she disappears from sight, Alhaitham covers his mouth and silently curses. 

Chapter Text

After a good amount of research, introspection and reflection, Alhaitham had reached a rather disturbing conclusion on his research about dreams, or more particularly, about his dreams in regards to her. 

He was attracted to Lumine. 

Physically, and even emotionally. 

Contrary to popular belief, Alhaitham is no fool when it comes to delicate matters such as these. He knows what love is, what it means to be in a romantic or even intimate relationship. He had experienced attraction and had his fair share of relationships in the past, after all. 

But this was different. It felt different. 

Back when Sumeru was a dreamless land, Alhaitham did not feel petty emotions such as longing or the desire to linger in a dream that had no (or at least, very little) basis in reality. But now that he could dream again, Alhaitham could feel those emotions he consciously hides underneath the surface seeping through in his daily life. 

And truthfully, it was becoming unbearable. 

While Alhaitham did not always agree with the Akademiya’s way of thought and philosophy, he now understands why the fact that adults in Sumeru do not dream is something one should have pride for. 

They are nothing but fantasies, needless distractions. They hinder objective rationality and have too much unnecessary connection to human emotion. 

Alhaitham may be attracted to Lumine, but it does not mean that he wants to kiss her senselessly like he does in his dream. 

He does not want to run his fingers in the strands of her hair or take her to a secluded area in the Akademiya where only he knows. He does not want to pin her to the wall, to feel the warmth of her body as he feels her melodic laugh reverberating in his chest. 

He does not want to cup her cheek with his hand, does not want to feel her gentle hand above his as she smiles that radiant smile of hers that makes him feel. 

He does not want to hear “Alhaitham,” in her gentle voice. 

He does not want to kiss her, does not want to feel her lips against his as he intertwines their fingers together. The silence of the empty hallways, the faint scent of the sea that seeps through the open windows. 

Alhaitham does not want to kiss her. 

No, not at all. 

---

Oh, who was he kidding, of course Alhaitham does. 

“O-Oh! Hello, Alhaitham. It’s nice to see you again.” 

The moment their eyes met in the House of Daena, Alhaitham was already internally bracing himself for the storm that was about to come. 

Truthfully, he could still avoid jumping into the storm. He just walked into the room, and she so happened to raise her head while working on whatever thing she was working on. He could just say a quick ‘hello’ and excuse himself to another corner of this vast library. 

But deep down, Alhaitham knew that wasn’t what he wanted. Consequences be damned. 

“Hello.” He replies, making strides towards her. “Keeping yourself busy, I see.” 

He hoped he didn’t sound too awkward. But considering the fact that this was the first time they’ve seen each other again after Lumine’s certain slip-up in the cave, he thinks it was okay. 

“Yes.” Lumine replies, straightening her back as he takes a seat beside her. “Nahida recommended some books.” 

Alhaitham nods as he takes off his coat and places it on the chair. 

“I see.”

“M-Mhm.” 

Then, silence. 

Archons above, this is why Alhaitham tries to avoid feeling things. 

He clears his throat. “What books did she recommend to you?” 

“Ah, that …” Lumine turns to the book she was reading. “It's actually a book from the restricted archives, so I’m not sure if it would be okay for me to mention it in broad daylight here.” 

“From the restricted archives?” Alhaitham raises his brow. 

She smiles plainly. “Don’t worry about it. It's simply just … a more radical text about Teyvat’s history. It has nothing to do with dangerous knowledge that involves the six sins of the Akademiya.” 

Ah. Alhaitham thinks he knows which text she is talking about.

“I see.” He says. “Be careful with that text. The scholar who wrote it tends to support his theories in ways that always confirms his findings. The evidence he provided are also rather dubious, but that's a given considering how the destruction of that ‘place’ is still considered a mythical story even until today.” 

She blinks, once, twice. Those doe, golden eyes looking at him in intrigue. 

Unconsciously, Alhaitham silently taps his fingers rhythmically while waiting for her response. 

“Wow.” Lumine eventually says. Then, she smiles widely.  “Leave it to Alhaitham to know everything there is to know. You’re really well read, knowledgeable and critical about lots of things, huh?” 

This time, he is the one to blink. An unfamiliar heat rushed to his cheeks, and Alhaitham found it of great imperative to scoff and look away. 

“As anyone should be.” He replies, whipping out the papers he had to work on for today. “If you’ll excuse me, I have some work to complete.” 

“Of course.” Lumine says understandingly. “Would you like me to move to another table so you can focus?” 

For a moment, Alhaitham pauses and turns his head to her direction. 

She’s smiling with that pretty, small smile that is so blindingly sincere and kind. She looks so divine, she’s so understanding and gentle and everything that Alhaitham wishes he could indulge himself in. 

Lumine tilts her head, and Alhaitham realized he had been staring. 

“No.” He replies despite himself. “Stay here. Stay by my side.” 

It was subtle, but he catches the way her lips part and her eyes widen ever so slightly. That was no good. It made him feel. 

“Okay.” She smiles. 

And so, she continues reading her book. Althaitham then slowly resumes with his work. 

---

Alhaitham dreams that he falls asleep while working in the House of Daena. 

It was a simple dream, nothing too imaginative or dramatic. But it was a nice dream nonetheless. Alhaitham couldn’t recall another dream that made him feel so content and at peace. 

He dreams that she is sitting beside him, humming to him a gentle tune as she continues to read her book and keep him company. He dreams of the warmth of her hands, of her fingers pushing away the stray strands of his ash colored hair. 

He dreams of Lumine placing a cup of tea on the table, then of her taking his coat and draping it over his shoulder. 

Then, he dreams of stirring in his sleep and turning to her. 

“... Lumine?” He calls. 

“Shhh, its alright.” She replies in her gentle voice. “Get some rest, Haitham. You deserve it after all you’ve done for Sumeru.” 

It was nice to hear her voice, to feel the warmth of her touch. 

This is a lovely dream, one that he wishes could last just a little longer. 

So, in a rare moment of indulgence and perhaps even vulnerability, Alhaitham reaches for her hand and gives it a gentle squeeze. 

“... Alhaitham?” Came her voice, confused yet not displeased. 

“Lumine.” He calls her name. “... You’re beautiful.” 

He hears her gasp and if he was not aware this was a dream, Alhaitham himself would not have believed he said such foreign words. 

Yet, he allows himself to show his true self in this one dream. 

“I wish,” He whispers. “I could dream of you every night." 

He closes his eyes and allows this dream to take him wherever it pleases.

---

Alhaitham wakes up feeling disoriented. 

His head was spinning a bit, but that was a given considering his hunched back sleeping position and the fact he had been too engrossed in his work to even notice he had fallen asleep—Wait. 

He had fallen asleep in the House of Daena. 

He had dreamt that he had fallen asleep in the House of Daena. 

Alhaitham jolted up from his seat, causing the still full tea cup to rattle and his coat that he swore he had taken off when he arrived, fell from his shoulders to the floor. Lumine was nowhere in sight. 

That wasn’t a dream. That was real.

“Fuck.” He curses. 

He really fucked up, didn’t he? 

Chapter Text

To Lumine, Alhaitham reminded her of a tree. 

She confesses, it was probably the most obvious comparison to make, given that he possesses a Dendro Vision. But still, she thinks it suits him perfectly. In fact, Lumine could not envision any other comparison for the rational, yet haughty scholar. 

Trees are strong. They endure the harshness of nature, and persevere through the years that pass by. Their large stature is imposing, and they are stubbornly unmoving.

Yet, they are a silent protector; nature’s wonderful creation. 

Its branches and leaves provide shade from the sun’s relentless glow, and its strong bark provides a space for people to rest their tired backs. 

For someone who had spent thousands of years roaming countless worlds, Lumine has grown to appreciate its firm support. How its branches and leaves create a protective shade where she and her brother could rest for a moment in time. 

Alhaitham’s presence reminded her of that feeling of safety. 

Well, minus the fact that he can be a bit too arrogant sometimes. 

But still, Lumine can’t help but want to indulge herself in his presence. To feel that strange sense of reassurance just by knowing that they are in the same room, or sometimes, by sharing a conversation and even private and intimate moments. 

Like that time in the cave. 

Like that time he held her hand and blurted out those words he probably had not mean to say. 

“Are you still thinking about that incident with The Scribe?” 

“...! Nahida!” 

The Dendro Archon smiles pleasantly and Lumine shakes her head in an attempt to rid of her painfully obvious blush. 

“Its been a week, Lumine.” Nahida gently, and also playfully, reminds her. “You cannot avoid him forever.” 

“Well actually, I could. Considering that he’s also making active attempts to avoid me. Thus, why he’s been at Port Ormos the past few days.” Lumine argues. 

“Yes, but for how long would that work?” Nahida argues back. “Who knows, perhaps I might assign you both to a mission that can only be completed through the combination of your strength and Alhaitham’s intelligence.” 

Lumine immediately shrinks. “You wouldn’t … right?” 

“At the moment, no. But if it's absolutely necessary, I would.” Nahida lets out a cheery laugh. After sensing Lumine’s discomfort, the Archon softens. “I know this may sound cold, but I really don’t understand why you are so insistent in avoiding him? Does the implication of his words disturb you so much? If that is the case, then would it not be easier for you to cut all ties with him instead?” 

“No, that’s not … The implications of his words did rattle me, but I wouldn’t say I’m … completely disturbed.” 

When she verbally expresses her thoughts like that, Lumine couldn’t help but blush. 

I wish I could dream of you every night. 

There were three major implications of his slip that evening. 

1. Alhaitham dreams of her often, or at least enough to the point where he wants to dream more of her 
2. The nature of those dreams were pleasant, given the fact that he wants to dream more of her 
3. Most of his dreams of her were intimate, supported by how naturally he held and squeezed her had under the guise that he thought it was a dream 

And honestly, Lumine didn’t know how to feel. Or at least, how she should feel. 

“Then shouldn’t you be happy?” Nahida inquires innocently. “Are you not attracted to him?” 

“Well, I …” Lumine sighs. “I find him attractive, yes. But I know, logically and rationally, that I shouldn’t act upon such fleeting emotions. Especially not towards someone who I consider very dear to me.” 

“You’re worried that a change in the nature of your relationship would cause him pain in the future.” 

“Yes.” Lumine confesses. “Alhaitham deserves better than an ancient star. A descender who isn’t even part of this World.” 

Nahida looks at her before slowly pondering to herself as though she is analyzing a paper. It made Lumine nervous. She didn’t know what sort of advice her younger friend would come up with. 

“If that’s what you truly believe, then you best tell him those words. But, if it's not …” the Archon looks up to her and smiles. “You should reevaluate your feelings. Then, you should have a discussion on him and decide how to proceed from there. That is the wisdom that I can impart to you.” 

The God of Wisdom’s wisdom, huh? Lumine smiles sheepishly. 

“Thank you, Nahida.” 

---

Compared to Alhaitham, or even compared to Nahida, Lumine considers herself ancient. 

Though her physical appearance remains youthful, and though she could no longer remember in perfect clarity of the worlds she had once traveled along with her brother; it does not change the fact that she is a lonesome creature who had witnessed the birth and death of stars. 

And while she once possessed powers that could rival the Gods, and while her constitution is far more durable than a normal human, she was not immortal. 

She knows that her journey is a long and arduous one. She knows that there is a chance she may fall, especially when her greatest enemy is her brother - the one person whose powers are of equal, if not, stronger level with hers. 

And now, she knows there is a possibility that she may disappear from Teyvat and return to whence she came from. Or even worse, completely forgotten by this world like The Greater Lord was. 

And that was cruel. Lumine did not want to subject such cruelty to someone she held dear - Especially Alhaitham. 

She knows that. Rationally, logically. Yet, her heart could not stop yearning for him. 

She wants to bask in his presence once more. She wants to talk to him, to sit beside him while reading. 

She wants to comb her fingers through his hair again. 

She wants him to hold her hand again. She wants to hold his hand. 

“ You’ve always been too emotional, sister.” 

“I know.” 

Dream Aether looks to her in disappointment, but Lumine is used to these nightmares already. 

Yet still, she dreams. And at some point, she eventually dreams of him.

So, Lumine makes up her mind. She was going to find Alhaitham at Port Ormos tomorrow and talk about them . 

If that even existed in the first place. 

Her spontaneity and lack of rationality was going to be the end of her. 

---

“Ahh! The thunder is really scary! Are you okay, Lumi?” 

“I-I’m fine.” 

The truth is, she was not fine. Not at all. 

There was a thunderstorm currently brewing in the skies of Sumeru, and ever since Inazuma and the incident with the Balladeer, Lumine came to despise thunderstorms. 

It was pathetic, Lumine knew. But still, no matter how ancient she is, at the end of the day, she had worries and fears just like anyone else. 

“A-Are you alright, Paimon?” Lumine asks her companion who was struggling to stay afloat. “I’m sorry I insisted on going to Port Ormos today. If I knew the w-w-weather was g-g-going to be like this …” 

“Lumine! You’re shivering!” 

Lightning flashes, and Lumine winces. She takes another step through Devantaka Mountain, but fails to account just how slippery the ground has become. 

“We need to get you somewhere warm and quick!” Paimon says, worried sick. “We need to … ah! Look! There’s someone in the distance! HEEY!! WE NEED HELP! HEEEY!” 

“P-Paimon … it’s alright, we’ll--Ah!”

The ground beneath her suddenly gives in, and it took Lumine far too long to realize that she had gotten herself caught in a landslide. 

“Lumine!” 

Yesterday, she thought about how her spontaneity and lack of rationality was going to be the end of her. And now, here she is. Falling from Devantaka Mountain in a thunderstorm because of a landslide, because she decided that she needed to find Alhaitham today. 

It was rather silly, really. 

Well, Lumine’s strong. She knows she’ll survive the fall, and would survive the landslide.  

Still, its a shame. She was really hoping that she’d be able to see him today. 

Ah well. 

“LUMINE!” 

Huh? That’s strange. Why does she hear Alhaitham’s voice? Was she hallucinating? How unpleasant. 

Lumine falls as she slowly loses consciousness. The last thing she remembers is Paimon’s panicked cries, and a familiar protective presence wrapping itself around her. 

And green eyes. Such pretty green eyes.

Chapter Text

Alhaitham was not avoiding Lumine. He simply needed time to recollect his thoughts. Preferably, away from her. 

So, he packed his bags and went for an impromptu trip to Port Ormos. 

He knew he was being irrational. Cruel, even. That is, if Lumine felt offended by his absence. If she was not, then well, all the better. Or not. Hah, he really needs to make up his mind about how exactly he feels about this entire ordeal. 

The truth is, Alhaitham has an idea what is happening to them. 

They’re experiencing mutual attraction, one that was born through their previous encounters and interactions. From mutual admiration and respect. And from the desire to develop their relationship into something a bit more than what it was. 

And in Alhaitham’s perspective, that was an alarming development. 

He’s a man made of conviction and determination. What Alhaitham wants, Alhaitham gets. But that does not mean he strides onwards without a single care for his limitations and weakness. 

And in this case, Lumine is his limitation - his weakness. 

Ever since they first met, Alhaitham’s intuition tells him that she is someone far beyond him. His instincts tell him to be wary of her, and his head continuously turns its gears in attempts to analyze and comprehend her very existence. 

Then, there was how she speaks. How she smiles at him with such gentle tenderness that makes him feel disgustingly weak. 

The Akademiya teaches their scholars to go above and beyond, but never outside of their boundaries. And for Alhaitham, Lumine was out of bounds. 

But again, what Alhaitham wants, Alhaitham gets. There was no physical boundary between them, and if he truly wanted to, he could simply cross that line that he knew once he crossed, there would be no turning back. 

The question was; does he? Is he prepared to thread that path and bear the consequences of her (of his own feelings) on his own two shoulders? 

“ Alhaitham.” 

Ah, there she was again. Laying beside him, that tender, gentle smile shining brighter than the early morning sun that enters their bedroom in his dreams. 

Alhaitham feels like an idiot, like an absolute fool. Still, he knew he could only do so much before his own heart catches up with him. 

So, he decides. Tomorrow, he will return to Sumeru City and face her head on. 

---

“How is she?” 

“Alhaitham! Lumine’s fever is cooling down! Paimon thinks the medicine you gave her is working!” 

Alhaitham sighs in relief and places the bucket of fresh water by the table beside Lumine’s bed. He dips a towel in the bucket and squeezes it. Gently, he dabs it across her burning forehead. 

Thank the Archons. He thinks. Thank the Archons, she’s alright. 

“She’s still a bit warm, so we should keep a close eye on her for a while.” Alhaitham says, turning towards the flying pixie. “If it gets any worse, we’ll call a doctor. But for now, we should allow her body to fight the fever on its own.” 

Paimon nods frantically, before floating closer to her travel companion and holding her hand in hers. 

“Oh, Lumi …” Paimon quietly cries. “Paimon told you we shouldn’t have gone out today … now look what happens …?!” 

“What were you two doing out there anyway?” Alhaitham asks as he sets the towel on her forehead. “The skies had been dark since this morning. You should have known better than to set out when a storm is brewing.” 

“I know! But, Lumine was so stubborn about how we should go to Port Ormos today!” 

“To Port Ormos?” Alhaitham’s eyes widened slightly. “... Why?” 

“Because …!” Paimon stops. Then, she averts her eyes. “I-Its none of your business! W-What about you, huh? What were you doing out there in the middle of the storm!” 

“I was.” Alhaitham pauses. He crosses his arms and looks away. “... I was going back to Sumeru City.” 

Lightning flashes and thunder soon strikes. When Alhaitham spares a glance at the pixie, he felt his heart drop at the realization in her expression. So his hypothesis was correct. 

She was going to Port Ormos in search of him. 

“... You know,” Paimon tightens her grip on Lumine’s hand. “Lumine has been having a lot of nightmares ever since we arrived in Sumeru. But these past few days, they were especially horrible. She kept waking up in the middle of the night, but whenever Paimon asked her about it, she would avoid answering.” 

It was not an accusation, but Alhaitham felt a pang of irrational guilt all the same. 

“Recently, Paimon discovered that Lumine sleeps better when Paimon holds her hand.” The Pixie smiles as she slowly lets go of her hand. “It doesn’t always works, but Paimon thinks thats better than Lumine getting horrible nightmares all the time.” 

Alhaitham gazes at Lumine’s hand. “Then why did you just let go of her hand?” 

“Because Paimon thinks you should be the one to hold Lumine’s hand this time!” 

Alhaitham blinks, then stares at the floating creature with a deadpanned expression. Paimon grins. 

“Paimon thinks you holding Lumine’s hand would have more positive results than Paimon holding her hand.” She adds, this time with more sincerity in her tone. “Besides, if you have no issue with holding Lumine’s hand in your dream, nothing should stop you from holding her hand in real life!” 

Alhaitham was this close to smacking the annoying pixie with his book. 

Regardless, Paimon floats away, saying something amongst the lines of checking out the kitchen. Left alone with the unconscious Lumine resting in his bed, Alhaitham lets out an exasperated sigh.

“To think you told others about that incident in the House of Daena …”

Alhaitham combs his ash hair. Then, he gingerly places his fingers above her hand. 

“You’re unfair.” He murmurs. “But then again, I suppose I deserve that.”

Warm. Her hand is warm. 

---

At some point, Alhaitham whips out his book and begins reading, all the while using his unoccupied hand to hold Lumine’s own. 

And then, Lumine begins to stir. Alhaitham shuts his book almost immediately. 

“Lumine?” He calls gently. “Can you hear me?” 

“... Brother …?” 

“Wrong. Try again.” 

“... Alhaitham …?” Lumine blinks as her eyes begin to focus. 

“Correct.” He replies, this time with a smile. “Good morning, or I more precisely; good evening. How are you feeling?” 

“I feel … heavy. Like I’m drowning in the sea.” Lumine sighs, as she slowly turns her head to face him. “Where’s Paimon? Is she alright? Did something happen?” 

“Paimon is fine. I think she’s cooking something in the apartment kitchen right now.” Alhaitham pauses for a moment before giving her hand a squeeze. “I found you and Paimon on Devantaka Mountain in the middle of the storm. You were out cold from a fever for a few hours.” 

Lumine blinks, once, twice. Then, her cheeks seemingly grow a shade redder than before. 

“Oh.” She murmurs. “Thank you … for coming to our rescue.” 

“You’re welcome.” Alhaitham tightens his grip on her hand. “And I …” He clears his throat. “I’m glad you’re alright.” 

The edges of Lumine’s lip twitches and a small smile slowly graces her pale face. Ah, there it was. 

That smile — his weakness. 

“Thank you, Alhaitham. I’m really … grateful that I got to see you today.” 

There was something about this moment. About the faint sound of rain, about the way her golden eyes seemingly shine in the dim lighting of the room. 

Alhaitham’s heart hurts. It hurts in a way that he has never felt before. 

At this single moment in time, Alhaitham thought of his heart like an overflooded dam. Too much rain, too much water to be contained. And Alhaitham knew, both rationally and emotionally, that perhaps the only thing he could do to soothe this pain was to open the floodgates and allow the waters to flow back to the sea. 

So, he speaks; 

“If I were to kiss you now, would you be against it?” 

Lumine’s eyes widens ever so slightly, and Alhaitham himself could not believe that he allowed himself to speak such words. 

“... This isn’t a dream, Alhaitham.” Lumine murmurs, cheeks growing red. 

Despite himself, Alhaitham lets out a low chuckle and allows himself to be defeated by her. 

“I know.”

Alhaitham has never been one for vulnerability, much less to wear his heart on his sleeve and allowed himself to be weak in the presence of another person. 

He thinks he must wear vulnerability rather strangely. So, he already braces himself for the consequences of letting emotions show. 

But then, Lumine reaches her hand out and gingerly rests her palm on his cheek. And it was this touch that made Alhaitham realize that this is what he had always longed for. 

When she gently guides him to come closer, Alhaitham does so as though it was as natural as breathing. Kneeling by the bedside, Alhaitham cups her still warm cheek with his hand and gazes into those divine shades of gold. 

Lumine smiles, and Alhaitham carefully plants a kiss on top of her forehead. 

“Rest.” He whispers, lips still touching the base of her forehead. “This … can wait until you get better.” 

“Okay,” Lumine whispers, combing her fingers through his ash-colored locks.  “Rest with me. Please, Alhaitham?” 

“Alright.” He finds himself replying.

The bed was rather small to fit the two of them, but Alhaitham makes do. He allows Lumine to snuggle close to him, and he allows himself to rest his arm around her petite form. 

She falls asleep quickly, and Alhaitham could only silently stare at her resting figure as he feels the warmth of her body, and smell the scent of her hair overload his senses. 

That night, Alhaitham does not dream.

Chapter Text

The next morning, Alhaitham found it difficult to comprehend his own actions the night before. And judging by how Lumine, who appeared to have developed a healthier complexion after a good night’s rest, was blushing profusely at the moment, it would seem that she was facing the same dilemma. 

Suffice to say, it was awkward. 

But still, Alhaitham would not be Alhaitham if he didn’t somehow make the tides turn into his favor somehow. 

So he asks, in the most natural tone that he could muster; 

“How are you feeling?” 

Lumine, who was clutching the blankets in an attempt to soothe her nerves, turn to him with a small and polite (and slightly reserved) smile. 

“Much better, all thanks to you.” 

“You give too much credit. It was your body that did most of the work.” Alhaitham hands her the breakfast Paimon had made before excusing herself to rest in her pocket dimension. “You should eat. Your body needs all the strength it can muster for a smooth recovery.” 

“Of course.” Lumine accepts the plate. “What about you? Are you not going to eat?” 

“I’ve eaten already.”

Alhaitham doesn’t need to go on about the details about how he woke up, realized what he had done last night, and decided that the first thing he had to do was to distract himself by eating. 

“Oh.” Lumine deflates. “Okay.” 

Shit. “Is the food not to your liking?” 

“Oh, no. It’s quite alright. You’d be surprised to know that Paimon is actually a decent cook.” Lumine puts on a reassuring smile before taking a bite of her breakfast. “Has the storm stopped?” 

“Yes. Although, it would be best to wait another day before going back to Sumeru City, especially considering your health.” Alhaitham replies, crossing his arms. 

“I won’t be so easily defeated by a fever, you know. I’ve been through worse.” She wryly says. 

Alhaitham doesn’t like that statement at all. “All the more reason to take it easy.” 

Lumine pouts, but she doesn’t say anything in return. She focuses on her breakfast, taking slow bites of the bacon that Paimon had, impressively enough, prepared rather neatly. 

Alhaitham’s hand twitches as he feels the urge to reach for his pocket for a book to distract him from his own thoughts — from his own longing, his own yearning for something that is so close, yet so far. 

So, he makes a first step; 

“Did you have a nice sleep?” 

The blonde pauses, before slowly turning to him and gauging his expression. Then, a small, yet incredibly blinding smile, appears on her lips. 

“I did. The best I’ve had in a while probably.” 

“Is that so?” He averts his gaze. “Your floaty friend had told me that you often have nightmares. Is that … true?” 

“It's true, but Paimon makes it sound like I have them every night. Which, I don’t by the way. I only get them when I’m stressed … which is unfortunately an emotion that I’m experiencing a lot these days.” Lumine’s gaze softens. “But last night, I had a really nice dream. A dream that I haven’t had in a while now.” 

Alhaitham feels something stirring. “Care to share what it was?” 

“I dreamt that I was soaring through the skies like a crystalflies in the night sky.” She explains. “It felt like I was free from all the weight and burdens of the world. It was … nice.” 

“That sounds like a nice dream.” Alhaitham comments. “I believe there had been some research in the old archives in the Akademiya that hypothesized that dreams are a way for one’s subconscious to express their true desire.” 

Lumine blinks, once, twice. Then, Alhaitham realizes that he may have accidentally dug his own grave. 

“Say,” She starts. “Do you have any plans today?” 

He feels his heartbeat quicken. “No. Why?” 

“Shall we take a quick stroll to the shore?” 

He didn’t have the heart to say no. 

---

The shore by Port Ormos is by no means the most beautiful shore in Teyvat. 

It wasn’t as impressive as Mondstadt’s Falcon Coast, or as extensive as Liyue’s Yaoguang shoal. Yet, it is still a beautiful coastline nonetheless. 

But Alhaitham knew, nothing could compare to her beauty that was accentuated by the brilliant blue of the vast ocean. 

“It's a shame that the skies are still a bit cloudy. The water must be cold too.” 

“I would advise against trying to soak your feet in the shore. But, if you’d like to reverse your recovery process from last night’s fever then feel free.” 

“Hmph. What an Alhaitham-like statement.” 

Low waves sweep through the sand, and Alhaitham finds himself staring at Lumine’s back as the cold wind slowly picks up its pace. Once more, he unfastens his coat and drapes it around her small shoulders. 

This time, however, Lumine keeps his hand on her shoulder by placing her hand above his. 

This proximity. It could only be described as intimate. 

“Did you mean what you said in the House of Daena?” She asks. 

“What exactly did I say in the House of Daena?” 

“Answering a question with another question? Dare I say, that isn’t very scholarly of you, Mister Scribe.” 

Lumine gives his hand a squeeze, and Alhaitham realizes that he had nowhere else to run. 

So, this was it. The moment of truth. 

“I meant it.” He replies. “Every single word.” 

“I see.” She said, “Do you often dream of me?” 

“Does that disturb you?” He whispers, daring himself to trail his freehand to touch the strands of her blonde hair.  

“No.” She answers. “It does not.” 

The wind picks up and Lumine’s shoulders begin to shiver ever so slightly. And suddenly, just like the night before, Alhaitham could no longer allow himself to be confined by logic or rationality. 

So, he wraps his arms around her and pulls her into his embrace. 

Lumine lets out an audible gasp, but he could not bring himself to witness what expression graces her face. Instead, he hides his face on her shoulder. 

His face felt hot. It was as though his entire body was set aflame. 

“In this once, dreamless land,” Alhaitham whispers. “I dream of you.” 

“... What is that supposed to mean?” 

“It means,” He begins, slowly loosening his embrace around her. “That I must long for you.” 

Lumine does not reply, and Alhaithamt thought that silence had already gave voice to what was to come. So, he pretends that he is a rational and objective man who does not care for trivialities such as this. 

But then, as he is about to let her go, Lumine places her hand above his arms and leans against his chest. 

And perhaps, that was enough.

Chapter Text

Recently, a certain rumor has been echoing through the halls of the Akademiya. 

The position of the Scribe is nothing special when compared to a Sage or even the Mahamatra. Besides, given the current Scribe’s, well, personality, the man had scarcely been the topic of the Akademiya’s hottest gossip. Save for the occasional, ‘ Oh Archons, the Scribe is such a piece of work,’ or ‘ How does Mister Kaveh deal with this guy everyday.’

Of course, the dethronement of the Sages did serve well in increasing the gossip about him. But nothing quite compares to this. 

Kaveh clears his throat to gain the attention of the gossiping students lingering in the hallway. The students let out a squeak and quickly excuse themselves before scrambling about. The Architect sighs as he massages his temple, before proceeding to knock on the door. 

Then, came two replies. 

“Go away.” 

“Come in!” 

Wasting no time, Kaveh swings open the doors of the Scribe’s office; revealing Alhaitham who was seated on the chair of his desk, and Lumine who was sitting on Alhaitham’s desk. 

If it were anyone else sitting on Alhaitham’s desk, Kaveh was sure they were as good as dead. 

“What?” Alhaitham is practically glaring at him. 

“ What.” Kaveh unabashedly glares back. 

“Hi, Mister Kaveh.” Lumine greets, a polite smile on her lips. “How is your day going so far?” 

Kaveh turns to Lumine, then spares a glance at Alhaitham, and then back to Lumine once more. 

“It's rude to ignore someone’s polite question, oh great Architect.” Alhaitham sneers, crossing his arm. 

Kaveh swore he caught a hint of protectiveness in the Scribe’s usually arrogant tone. He honestly can’t wrap his head around this relationship that seemingly came out of nowhere. 

“Shut up, Alhaitham.” Kaveh gives his Junior’s lover (or alleged lover, since Alhaitham has never confirmed nor denied the rumors) a smile. “Good day to you, Miss Lumine. I’ve been doing very well. What about you?” 

“Things have been good. Thank you for asking!” 

Lumine hops of Alhaitham’s desk, and it was then Kaveh realized that the two were (By the Archons above!) holding hands. 

“Well, I’m sure you’re here for some important work. So, I will,” She turns to Alhaitham, who Kaveh swore was making some sort of ugly puppy dog face at her. “Excuse myself to go grab a seat for lunch! Would you like anything in particular, Haitham?” 

“Anything’s fine.” 

“Okay, I’ll get us some Samosas. I’ll see you later!” 

The traveler gently pats the Scribe’s shoulder, gives Kaveh a quick wave (which Kaveh also forgot to reply because of how stunned he was), and gently shuts the door of the office close. 

Kaveh takes a deep breath and slowly lets it out. 

“What in the Archons name was that?” 

“Give me the papers now or I’ll increase your rent.” 

Kaveh slams the proposal for the new Kshahrewar construction protocols and musters his most vicious and annoyed expression. Judging by Alhaitham’s impassiveness as he takes the papers with stride, it was not at all effective. 

“Look.” Alhaitham does not spare him a glance but Kaveh is used to that anyway. “I get your relationship is nobody’s business and I have my own damned life to think about before I even bother thinking about yours. But be clear with me, oh Mighty Scribe; what is your relationship with Sumeru’s highly popular and distinguished savior, Miss Lumine?” 

Alhaitham snorts as he looks through the papers. “I thought you just said you have your own damned life to think about.” 

“Yes and I’m worried that I’m going to go insane from all the questions people ask me about YOUR relationship!” 

“Sounds like a you problem.” 

“By the Lesser Lord’s name.” Kaveh groans, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Please just tell me if you’re actually in a relationship with Miss Lumine so I can confirm that to all these curious scholars and Miss Lumine’s and your, ugh, heartbroken admirers, and let the rumors die down.” 

This time, Alhaitham places the papers down and looks to his senior with his usual plain and apathetic expression. Except, this time, Kaveh catches a hint of hesitation that was extremely apparent for someone as stoic as Alhaitham. 

“There is nothing to confirm.” Alhaitham says. “Because Lumine and I are not in a relationship.” 

“... Hah?” 

Before Kaveh could begin his two hour rant, Alhaitham had already walked out of his own office. 

---

After they had a pleasant lunch together at Puspa Cafe, Lumine had decided to go to the House of Daena to grab a book. While Alhaitham considered joining her, he restrained himself as he needed to submit some reports to Lesser Lord Kusanali. They agreed to meet up again in his office, with Alhaitham giving her permission to enter first if she arrived before him. 

So when Alhaitham returned to his office, he sighed in relief that Lumine was already tucked comfortably in the sofa and that Kaveh was nowhere to be found. 

“Welcome back.” Lumine greets, putting a bookmark as she puts her book down. “How was the meeting?” 

“It was alright. Business with the Lesser Lord is far more pleasant than any business with those self-important scholars.” Alhaitham replies, taking off his coat and placing it on the back of the sofa. “What are you reading?” 

“Catching up with some research on Fontaine.” Lumine shows the cover of the book. Ah, he recognizes that one. “I didn’t expect to find such a … well, a critical book about the Hydro Archon’s history out in the open for anyone to read.” 

“Such works aren’t generally accepted and that particular book is very close to touching the restricted-zone. Perhaps its only saving grace is that it's not a popular topic of research, making it pretty much untouched for many years.” Alhaitham pauses. “It's a good read.” 

“I think so too.” Lumine replies. “It’ll be helpful for my journey, that’s for sure.” 

Right. Her journey.

Alhaitham makes strides towards his desk and then gestures Lumine to follow him. The blonde lets out a giggle and places her book on the table before following him to his desk. 

Once more, she plops herself on top of his desk. Gingerly, she reaches out to push away the stray strands of his ashen hair, thumb lingering on the corners of his eye. Alhaitham takes her hand in his, giving it a squeeze before planting a kiss on the back of her hand. 

“Mister Kaveh approached me in the House of Daena.” 

Alhaitham’s mood sours almost immediately. “Why?” 

“Well,” She turns to stare at the row of books on his shelves. “Promise me that you won’t kick him out for it?” 

“It's my house. I do whatever I please.” 

“Haitham.” 

“Fine.” He rolls his eyes, thumb fiddling with her palm. “I won’t. Not yet at least.” 

She rolls her eyes affectionately. “Well, he asked me to tell him if I think you’re just playing with me so he’ll ‘teach you a lesson’ on human relationships.” She explains with a wry smile. “Oh, my. You look like you’re actually going to kill him.” 

“No, I do not.” 

Lumine shakes her head as she lets out a low laugh. Alhaitham feels the urge to pull her into his embrace. 

She opens her eyes, those divine golden eyes peering through his jaded teal. He intertwines their fingers together, and savors the sensation that such a small gesture brings. 

“Whether we are lovers, something else or nothing at all, it does not change the fact that I care for you, Haitham.” She whispers those words for him and him alone. “I don't care about what Kaveh, or anyone, thinks.”

“I know.” He replies.

She smiles and, without another word, pulls him into an embrace. 

---

That night when Alhaitham returns home, he is greeted by sight of a very annoyed looking Kaveh just lounging in the living room. 

He expects his senior to go on a two hour rant, and has already prepared around a dozen retorts he can shoot back. Unexpectedly, Kaveh only shrugs at him and told him these very words; 

“It's your relationship, so it’s none of my business. I just hope for all parties involved, and by that I mean everyone including those who will be subjected to your petty emotions you insist not having, that you won’t regret the consequence of your relationship’s ambiguity.” 

That was probably the wisest thing Alhaitham has ever heard from him. Not that he would ever admit that. 

Still, Alhaitham cannot deny that Kaveh’s words made room for some personal reflection. 

That night, Alhaitham dreams of her once more. 

He dreams of that scene, that one moment that pinpoints the change of their relationship from a simple ‘camaraderie’ into something that they chose not to name. 

He dreams of the sea, of her small back, of how his hands lingered on her shoulder after draping his coat on her. And in the strange, incomprehensible way dreams often transition, he then dreams of that moment of vulnerability when he asked if he could kiss her. 

They say that dreams are a way for one’s subconscious to express their true desire. 

Then perhaps, this dream reveals the truth he has yet to speak. 

Instead of the gloomy, dark gray skies that grace that day, the skies in his dream are bright and brilliantly blue. Instead of a guarded moment of vulnerability, he dreams that he had swept her off her feet and carried her into the sea. 

And they were unabashedly laughing, happy and content. 

There were no walls between them, no doubt nor hesitation. They did not worry about the inevitable goodbye that they would have to say, nor did they worry about the cruel and unforgiving nature of the world that surrounds them. 

He dreams that he had kissed her on the lips that night, that her body was warm not because of her fever, but because of the heat of the moment. 

Alhaitham has never been particularly emotional, neither has he ever willingly worn his heart on his sleeves. 

Yet perhaps these dreams, these incomprehensible, yet not fully illogical phenomena, seems to tell him otherwise. 

---

“The first dream I had in years was about you.” 

There was a moment of silence, a moment that was defined by nothingness. Lumine places down her book and turns to him. Her expression was guarded and she looked at him with wonder, disbelief and curiosity all in one. 

Alhaitham felt the weight of that gaze crushing him. But, he does not allow himself to falter. 

“Me?” 

“Yes.” He replies. “Of the day we first met. With some differences that could only be attributed to the incomprehensible nature of dreams.” 

She blinks, seemingly not understanding where the conversation was going. So, Alhaitham continues. 

“I dreamt that we were classmates.” He continues to gaze into her golden eyes. “We met in the library of the Akademiya. You were trying to reach for a book beyond your reach, and I decided to help you grab it, along with other books you needed for whatever research you were working on.”

“Classmates, huh?” She ponders, a gentle expression on her face. “That’s an interesting thought.” 

“It is.” He hesitates for a moment. Then, “I often dream of us by the sea.” 

“The sea?” 

“Yes. Of us enjoying the fresh sea breeze together. Sometimes, we do mundane things like kicking sea water at each other, or we would just gaze at the vast and brilliant blue sea while holding each other without speaking a single word.” 

Her eyes widen ever so slightly as a hint of pink begins to surface on her cheeks. 

“I …” She hesitates. “... I didn’t know you dreamt of such things.” 

“What? Did you assume I only had perverted dreams of you?” 

“What?!” Her cheeks flared red. “No! I never—” 

Alhaitham laughs. 

No, not a funny snort, or a sarcastic laugh that had as much emotions as an unmoving rock. 

He laughs unabashedly. Sincerely, without worrying about pretenses or anything in between. 

Alhaitham laughs, and just like that, the walls between them disappear. 

“W-What are you laughing at …?!” Lumine asks, a small smile on her lips. 

“Nothing.” Alhaitham returns that smile, reaching out to hold her hand. “Its funny seeing you go red.” 

“Funny.” She pouts. “... You have a nice laugh.” 

“Do I now?” He dares himself to be playful. “Award winning?” 

“Hm.” She leans forward and hides her face in the safety of his chest. “... Let's go to the shore again soon, okay?” 

This is not a dream. Alhaitham is grateful that this is not a dream. 

Chapter Text

Like everything else, the whispers about the Scribe’s relationship with the mysterious traveler eventually loses its zeal. 

Sure, there were a couple of gossips here and there, but nobody was surprised to see the two of them roaming the halls of the Akademiya together. At this point, everyone seemed to have reached the conclusion that they are, most likely, in a relationship. And if they were not, then they must be at least fond of each other. 

Everyone has seen how they gaze at each other, after all. 

Tender and gentle, mutual respect and admiration. 

It was blatantly obvious. So painfully obvious. 

Especially for the people who often come and go to the Scribe’s office. 

“Oh, hello, Mr. Kaveh! Haitham just went to drop off his request for leave. He should be back in a while if you’re willing to wait.” 

Kaveh blinks, once, twice and wonders why he’s so taken aback at Lumine’s presence in Alhaitham’s office when this is hardly the first time this has happened. 

Oh, right. Because Kaveh still can’t believe that his overly rational and coldblooded roommate managed to get into a relationship before he did. 

Ugh.

“H-Hi, Miss Lumine.” Kaveh greets back, albeit awkwardly. He did just burst into the office in a fit of anger after discovering that his request for funding was rejected. “It’s alright. I think I’ll just come back later — Wait, did you say request for leave?” 

The blonde woman, who was casually browsing through the Scribe’s book collection as though it was the most natural thing in the world (It wasn’t. Alhaitham threatened to skin him alive the last time he did that), tilted her head curiously. 

“Yes? Did he not tell you?” 

Kaveh groans, massaging his temple. “No. He did not.” 

“Oh.” Lumine smiles wryly. “He’s planning to take leave for a week. We’re planning to stay at his apartment in Port Ormos for a while.” 

“You’re planning to—I mean, that’s great. I don’t know what you see in him, but good for you.” Kaveh spats. But then, he realizes that he was being unnecessarily petty. “Er, I mean …” 

Lumine giggles, brushing off his comment with a wave of her hand. “It’s alright. I won’t tell Haitham about it.” She hesitates for a moment, before saying; “I’m sorry if this is going to cause some difficulties for you.” 

Oh, no. She looks sad. Alhaitham is definitely going to skin him alive if he finds out. 

“No, no! Don’t worry about that! Sure it's annoying when he just does whatever he pleases, but it's not like that’s your fault. Besides, it's always a plus to have the house for myself!”  Kaveh laughs nervously. “I’m used to his annoying, ‘nobody is the boss of me’ attitude, and I’m just mildly pissed off at him at the moment because my Darshan funding got rejected again. So uh …don’t sweat it. Please.” 

Lumine blinks, then smiles once more. “Thank you Mr. Kaveh. I really appreciate your kindness and um, reluctant but very sincere support for our relationship.” 

At her genuine compliment, Kaveh feels both abashed and full of pride. 

“Hah! Don’t mention it. Just doing my duty as his senior to make sure he doesn’t go astray.” Lumine stares at him, and Kaveh quickly clears his throat. “But I trust everything is going well?” 

“Yes.” The blonde woman smiles and, by the Archons, does she look downright divine with that small, yet gentle smile on her lips.  “I’m really happy with him.” 

They talk a bit after that, but unfortunately, their time is cut short by Alhaitham who returns to his office. The Scribe seems to regard him with suspicion, but Kaveh just shrugs it off. Lumine then quickly excuses herself to visit the Dendro Archon, thus, business resumes as always.

“I’m sorry to hear about your request for funding getting rejected. But I assure you I had nothing to do with that.” 

“Hmph. Well, you could have a hand in helping it get approved, no?” 

“I’ll see what I can do. Just don’t expect to automatically get approved. Your Darshan has a history of unnecessarily splurging, thus making the treasurers reluctant in giving any funding.” 

“Okay, okay. Just get to it.” 

Alhaitham shrugs, but grabs his pen and paper and begins writing anyway. After a few, he hands the recommendation letter and much to Kaveh’s surprise, it was actually legit. 

Perhaps love really does change people for the better.

“If you have something to say, spit it out.”

“Two things. First, thanks.” Kaveh waves the paper in his hand. “And second, take care of Miss Lumine. It's not everyday you’ll find someone who can tolerate, much less, find happiness from someone like you.”  

Alhaitham rolls his eyes. “Get out.” 

Kaveh snorts. Still an asshole. 

---

After Alhaitham gets his leave approved, they depart to Port Ormos for a one week vacation. 

They made a vague outline on what they plan to do, but it was mainly planned as a time for them to spend time with each other. So, as long as they were together, they didn’t really mind what they were doing. 

But of course, they chose to go to Port Ormos for a reason. That is, to visit the shore. 

They were in no rush to go there though. So, they spend their first night in the comforts of his apartment. 

“I still can’t believe you have a house in the city and have an apartment here. Mora has never been a problem for you, huh?” 

“You could say that. Or, you could also say that I’m good at managing my finances.” 

“Somehow, that felt like a personal attack to Mister Kaveh.” 

Alhaitham smirks, causing Lumine to let out a giggle. 

They finish up dinner, and Lumine offers to help him clean the dishes. As they clean the dishes together, they talk and exchange stories. Alhaitham about how he’s always liked the ambience of Port Ormos to the point where he decided he should get a small yet cozy apartment as a getaway, and Lumine about how the seafood in Port Ormos is the absolute best. 

Conversing while doing the dishes. It was a small and mundane thing, yet for some reason, it made Alhaitham feel something akin to warmth. 

How strange. 

“A-Are you sure its okay for us to share the bed?” Lumine asks rather shyly as she sets herself down on his small bed. “I know we’ve done it before, but I was sick and uh …” 

“It's fine.” Alhaitham answers quickly, not trusting his own voice. “Unless, you’re uncomfortable with it.”

“I wouldn’t say uncomfortable …” She fiddles with her hair, then gently pats the empty space beside her. “Let’s talk for a while, shall we?”

Alhaitham sets himself down on the bed beside her. For a moment, the two of them simply stared at each other, then promptly averted their gaze. 

Damn. He really needs to get a grip. 

“What would you like to talk about?” Alhaitham asks, clearing his throat. 

“Nothing in particular, really. Though, I suppose there is one thing that I think we really should talk about.” She hesitates for a moment, but then faces him head on with a careful smile. “This question is long overdue, but what are we, Haitham?” 

The dim lighting of the room, the faint glow of his Dendro Vision that rests on the table top. There was something so ethereal about this moment. About the way Lumine stares at him with those doe golden eyes, about the way he felt his own heart thumping against his chest. 

Eventually, he replies; “What do you think we are?” 

“Answering a question with another question? That’s rather unexpected.” Lumine jests. “Is this your way of saying ‘we are whatever you want us to be?’” 

She took the words straight out of his soul. 

“Yes.” He replies bluntly. “I would rather not force anything upon you.” 

“Just as I would rather not force anything upon you as well.” Lumine gently places her hand above his. “That’s why I think it's important that we talk about this. About us.” 

If Lumine felt his hand twitch, then she is kind enough not to acknowledge or mention it. Alhaitham is not used to feelings, much less anything like this. 

“I suppose we could be considered lovers.” He says. 

She tilts her head sideways. “And is that what you want us to be?” 

“As I’ve said before, I would rather not force anything upon you. But, if I had to choose an answer, then yes. I would like us to be lovers if that means we can remain together and spend time with each other.” 

He pauses, taking a moment to observe her neutral expression. Then, 

“I care for you, Lumine.”

Her eyes widen as her lips slowly part. Pink dusts her cheeks, and warmth seemingly spreads from her hand to his own. 

“That came out of nowhere.” She chuckles nervously. “Well, not really considering that we’ve definitely had something going on for a while, but …” 

The pale glow of the moon, the faint sound of the night winds. When Lumine averts her gaze, Alhaitham bears witness to that distant and lonely expression once more. 

It was then that Alhaitham remembers his initial reluctance - that fear he felt because of her. 

“I can’t stay in Sumeru.” Lumine begins slowly. “I’ll probably get myself tangled up in another big mess in Fontaine, Natlan, and Snezhnaya. And while I don’t like entertaining this thought often, there is always the possibility that I won’t return to your side.” She smiles sadly as she looks at him. “But you know all that, don’t you?” 

“I do.” 

How could he not?

“There’s more to me than what meets the eye.” 

She places her hand above her chest, and for a brief second, Alhaitham swore he saw a glimpse of translucent wings behind her back. 

“I can’t explain everything in full detail, not yet at least. And even when I do, it’ll be a long and seemingly unbelievable story.” She gazes at him once more, this time with that small, yet sincere smile that he’s grown terribly fond of. “But you already know that, don’t you?” 

Once more, he replies; “I do.” And then, “But I’m willing to wait.” 

“Really?”

Alhaitham feels a twinge of offense at her genuine surprise. “What? Did you really think otherwise?” 

“It's just … you’ve always given me the impression of someone who will stop at nothing to find the answer that he seeks. For you to simply wait for the answer to come to you in due time …” Her cheeks grow pink, and she looks painfully happy. “... You must really care for me, don’t you, Haitham?” 

Yes, he does. But that’s not something that Alhaitham would ever explicitly state. 

To have Lumine, the very person who is capable of making him feel something like this, spell it out right in front of his face … Suffice to say, Alhaitham is having an extremely difficult time controlling the painful ache in his chest. 

Thank the Archons for the dim lighting of the room. And thank the heavens above that Lumine is too flustered at her own words to realize how embarrassed Alhaitham is at the moment. 

“I told you before, didn’t I?” He whispers. “In this dreamless land, I dream of you.” 

Lumine looks at him, cheeks still tinted in red. Before she could say anything, however, Alhaitham had cupped her cheek and planted a kiss at her forehead. 

 “Can I kiss you?” He asks, lips lingering on the base of her forehead. 

Lumine lets out another chuckle, before nodding and giving him her consent. So, for the very first time, Alhaitham claims her lips as his. 

---

Deep down, Alhaitham knew he was always fond of the sea. 

The sea is mysterious, yet beautiful and is seemingly vast and endless. It is the source of life, while also being the cause of tragedy. Everyone knows of it, but nobody could ever fully comprehend it. 

It was so much like Lumine. Alhaitham wonders why he didn’t realize it the first time they met. 

“What?” 

“Nothing! I’m just surprised that you’re taking off your headphones. Hehe, it's so strange to see your ears.” 

“Why is it so strange? They’re just ears.” 

“Hush, you.” 

Lumine kicks off her boots and begins drawing random shapes on the sand. Shaking his head fondly, Alhaitham takes off his coat and sets it down along with their other belongings. He offers her his hand, and she takes it graciously. 

The sky is clear without a single cloud to ruin its brilliant blue, and the wind is tender and gentle. When the waves swept through their feet, Lumine let out an elated shriek; saying something amongst the lines of how cold, yet refreshing it was. Seeing her so happy and content made Alhaitham feel as though he is floating above the clouds. 

“Well?” 

“Well what?” 

“Are you not going to sweep me off my feet?” She grins. “Didn’t you mention that you did something like that in one of your dreams?” 

He almost regrets telling her about it now.

“Hm, I don’t know.” He pretends to think. “Are you implying that you would like me to sweep you off your feet and carry you in my arms?” 

“Maybe,” She replies cheekily. “But hey, I’m not going to force a feeble scholar who only knows books to break his back for me — Wah, Haitham!” 

And just like that, Alhaitham reenacts the scene from his dreams by sweeping her off her feet and carrying her in his arms. 

Seeing the absolute shock on her face, Alhaitham couldn’t help but snort. It was a funny expression for an equally funny situation. 

If someone were to tell the Grand Scribe a few months ago that he would be reenacting a cheesy scene from his own dream with an actual person that he harbors feelings for, Alhaitham wouldn’t even bat an eyelash. 

Well, look at him now. 

“Why do you look so surprised that this feeble scholar actually has the strength to carry you in his arms?” Alhaitham teases. “Did you forget how he almost bested the General Mahamatra the month before?” 

“If my memory serves me right, I had to block Cyno’s first attack aimed at your head,” She retorts playfully. “But no, I’m not surprised at the fact that this feeble scholar actually has the strength to carry me in his very strong arms.” 

“If you say so.” 

Alhaitham steps into the ocean, still carrying her in his arms. He could feel her eyes on his, feel the warmth of her fingers reaching out to push the stray strands of his hair; her lingering touch on the corners of his ears. 

When he gently sets her down, Lumine directs tiny splashes at him with her feet. Amused, he decides to retort by leaning down and messing with the strands of her hair. 

“You have a pretty smile,” She whispers. “But you know that, don’t you?” 

“I don’t actually.” He replies. “But thank you for telling me.” 

He cups her face with both of his hands and rests their foreheads together. Lumine laughs, and Alhaitham found it difficult to contain this emotion that could only be joy.