Archive of Our Own ^beta

The string of fate had always been a powerful thing, the invisible line of a connection only visible to the stars above. Throughout the night and day, they would look from their endless ocean, down to the soil, waiting. Always hoping to encourage humans to take a step toward the designed destination they had carved for them.

And today the stars gave their first push.

Standing at the bottom of a mountain, a short figure stood on the line between white and green. The scenery was something he hadn't seen before, the grey mixed with white standing out from the bordering nations like a sore thumb.

It was undeniably beautiful, he thought, different and yet more mesmerizing from any other place he had traveled thus far.

Aether smiled as he studied the mountain in front of him, taking in as much as he can. The whole area seemed to hide secrets, both out in the open and buried deep into the ground. The feeling of the unknown already made him eager to begin another adventure once more.

But as Aether stared at the misty scenery before him, the more an odd feeling started to grow in the back of his mind. Minutes passed by slowly, and yet nothing seemed to change around him. The mountain in front of him felt almost frozen in time. It looked peaceful, quiet.

Isolated.

Whoever lives here might not be too fond of people.

With a shake of his head, Aether pushed the unnerving feelings down. The man he had heard about living here didn't sound to be bad at all. And either way, it made sense he would feel intimidated by the snow-covered land. Anyhow, he had to remind himself he has gone over through far more intimidating places. At the end of the day, he was doing it all for a reason.

A flash of a girl in a white dress passed his mind.

"Do you really have to go there?"

Before his thoughts got the better of him, an unusually quiet voice spoke from next to him. After a split moment, the traveler tore his eyes away from the scene before him, turning around to meet the gaze of a small floating fairy.

"I do, Paimon," Aether spoke softly, petting her white hair in an attempt to soothe her obvious worry.

"Fine, but make it quick! Paimon is already nervous enough to leave you on your own." the fairy pouted, leaning into the comforting touch.

"I'm the one who does everything either way." he laughed as Paimons anxiety disappeared instantly, her brow furrowing in a show of fake offense. Her act didn't last long though, uncertainty taking up her features barely a second after. Aether did his best to give her a reassuring smile. Despite their silly bickering, they both are not happy to separate, even for a day.

The flying pixie gave him one more hug before biding him farewell, quickly disappearing in a fog of lost galaxies without another word. Aether's gaze lingered where she was just floating a moment ago. He would be lying if he said he wasn't nervous himself. His mind recalled countless tales that flew around him as soon as he told his friends where he was heading.

Dragonspine. A cold and cruel place, with potential danger hiding in every corner. The land held home for many tragedies, blood and destruction always the main theme of the stories. No other adventurer dared cross paths with it, the few who did being described as nothing but reckless.

But Aether never was one to back down from a challenge.

Turning around, the traveler set his eyes on the prize, his determination shining through like an old friend.

And so with a deep breath, a star began its journey once more, looking for its pair.

"Hello?"

Actually finding solid furniture placed deep into the mountain was more surprising than Aether thought it would be. Let alone finding that an actual person was really living here, barely hidden in a shallow cave.

If it wasn't for his goal, he was sure to have missed the small base. He had been on Dragonspine for a few hours and yet it was enough for his craving of exploring to increase tenfold.

Were it in any other scenario, Aether would still be near the bottom, exploring every nook and cranny of the cold mountain. From the deep cave system he glanced through, to the absolutely massive bones of what seemed to be a creature's rib cage. Now all the tales made sense to him. But even without them, Aether could confidently confirm the importance of this mountain, scary stories aside.

There were too many things to explore and discover. It was difficult to shake his excitement off his shoulders, but he made it work.

Now, if only the man he found would respond.

"Um, excuse me? " he tried once more, taking a hesitant step closer to a crouched form, their back turned to him as they studied something on their desk.

The next few moments moved in a blur.

Aether shouldn't be surprised, but he couldn't stop the flinch when the hilt of a sword moved against him, the all-familiar feeling of a blade barely a few inches away from his neck. Adrenaline shoot through him, his senses yelling at him to take out his own sword. Maybe it would be the logical thing to do. But, despite the threat almost kissing his skin, the traveler simply slowly raised his hands, taking a moment to properly look at his aggressor.

Deep cyan eyes gazed down at him, the sharp and cold glare reminding him of the harshness of the mountain itself. The man himself didn't look threatening at all, with a lean frame around Aether's height, an oversized jacket hiding away his build. And yet, the other's gaze was more than enough to make him intimating.

After a long tense moment, the man finally spoke up.

"How can I help you?" although a bit hesitantly, he lowered his weapon, letting Aether breathe for a moment. However, the blade remained in his hand, waiting. Cautious.

Aether couldn't blame his weariness. From what he heard and saw, no other human even dared to take a step into the freezing mountain, with the exception of the greedy treasure hoarders and the reckless Fatui. If anything, it eased Aether to know the man's survival instincts were sharp enough to surprise even him. He has been in the mountain only for a few hours, but he already could tell it was no easy feat to live here.

"Are you Albedo?"

"Yes, that would be me."

Cold and quick to respond, daring Aether to say one wrong thing. Somehow, that didn't dishearten the traveler.

"I was told you could help me?" for someone whose life got threatened just a moment ago, Aether sounded too calm about the whole situation.

Maybe that's what made the man finally completely lower his sword.

Albedo's expression turned into one of confusion, his brow raising for a split second before he recomposed himself just as fast. With a move of his hand, he dispelled his sword and straighten his back, the ghost of an apology lingering from his glance. The tension from his body calming down just a touch.

"Apologies. Please, come in."

Aether paused for a moment.

Despite the alchemists' temporary trust, there was still a coldness to his tone, a guarded stance. Does that mean he doesn't fully trust him yet? Or was this how he normally is?

Aether hoped for the former.

With the previous tension gone for the time being, Aether quickly took a sit by the fire, taking a moment to properly study the makeshift base he was fortunate enough to fall upon.

It was surprisingly warm, the small area situated perfectly with torches to warn off the cold. And yet, strangely enough, the cave itself wasn't nearly as deep as the ones he saw through his roaming. It was just barely deep enough to comfortably provide shelter for any upcoming storms. Aether briefly wondered if the other caves were not as safe as this one felt.

Glancing back at Albedo, he was surprised to find him already looking back, his full concentration placed on Aether. At least this time, there was no hostility in his gaze. Instead, a more interested glint shined, serious and methodical as his eyes slowly eyed him up and down.

He was studying him, Aether realized.

He wasn't sure how to feel about that.

"Um."

Whatever daze Albedo was lost in breaking off, moving into his previous posture. Before the situation turned awkward again, Aether took that as his cue to begin.

"I'm Aether. I'm just journeying through Teyvat, looking for my sister."

Realization shined through the alchemist's blue eyes, somehow his focus sharpening even more on him. In the back of his mind, Aether briefly wondered if he had just now recognized him as the honorary knight. But before he could ask, Albedo nodded along, and so Aether continued.

"I have gone to a lot of regions and asked everyone I could: shrine maidens, archons, astrologists..."

"But you had no luck?"

Aether gave a small nod. "This mountain was my last stop before I take a break. Dragonspine it's called I think?" he added, fidgeting in his seat as he waited for Albedo to organize the information, the other getting lost in his own thoughts again.

This was the only potential lead he has had for months. Although he does know that his sister is okay, -physically at least- their last meeting only left him even more baffled than before. He wasn't sure how the alchemist could help him, but he knew better than to pass an opportunity.

The soft thud of a book closing pulled Aether out of his thoughts. Once again, he was surprised to see all of Albedo's attention focused only on him.

Aether caught himself suppressing a shudder. Did Albedo look at everyone that intensely?

"I'm afraid whoever told you I could help overestimated my abilities or misunderstood them completely. I am an alchemist. My field of expertise is far from what you are searching for."

Aether had to stop himself from visibly deflating.

Great now what was he supposed to do? This was the only potential lead he had in a while. Months of searching and asking only to be left empty-handed once more. Meeting the next archon always is an option, but it always drained him out when he did. Maybe he really needed to take a break after all.

"You said you already have gone through most of Teyvat, yes?"

Aether blinked, looking like a deer caught in headlights under the man's sympathetic gaze. It felt a little strange to see the shift in Albedo's personality, but he wasn't going to complain.

Was he being that obvious about his emotions, or was Albedo simply that observant?

"Go to the City of Mondstadt and look for Mona Megistus. She is the most capable astrologist I know. If there is something you want to know about your life, she will tell you."

"But she send me here!"

A pause fell into the room, Albedo stilling where he was trying to bring out his map.

"She did?" the alchemist asked, confusion clear in his voice. "Are you certain it's the same person?"

"Short figure, purple-ish twin tails, and a big witch hat?" Aether spoke after thinking for a brief moment, not sure what to think when Albedo slowly nodded.

"How peculiar," Albedo spoke more to himself.

Both boys slowly drifted off to silence, Albedo more so confused than the other, trying to consider the situation the situation at hand.

While he and Mona are complete strangers to Aether, that wasn't the case for the other two. Mona is one of the few people Albedo feels comfortable enough calling a close friend. Despite their different occupations, they both know very well each other's work. Mona was a brilliant woman, cunning and clever. She couldn't have misunderstood his work.

Glancing at the traveler, Albedo felt the same magnetic pull when he had met his amber eyes from the first time Aether was... intriguing, to put it professionally. From his foreign clothes, to his passive demeanor, to the otherworldly aura he seems to possess. He was different, but not in a negative way. Mona must've seen it too. Could that be the reason for her sending the traveler here? Because she saw Aether's uniqueness and wanted Albedo to see it too?

No, that doesn't sound right. There's something more to this. Something I can't quite grasp yet.

"Did she say anything else? How i could help for example?"

"Uh, not really. But she was able to tell me some of my secrets just by looking at me without me even asking. I think she was trying to prove herself."

Sounds like Mona, Albedo nodded to himself.

"She said 'You will find what you are looking for if you go and meet him'." 

Letting Aether's word sink in, Albedo began turning them in his head, poking and rearranging them in a way to make sense. She had to have seen something, but what may that have been? Mona wouldn't send just anyone to him without a good reason. In fact, Albedo doesn't think she ever has done that before.

"Did she say 'what', or 'who'?"

"I'm pretty sure she said what." Aether looked determined, yet lost by the whole situation. Honestly, he couldn't blame him. Not when Mona was involved.

With a sigh, Albedo ran a hand through his hair, the pieces starting to fall together before his eyes with that simple hint of information. He wasn't sure how to feel about the image they formed.

"I have some theories."

"That was fast." the traveler looked surprised, almost impressed.

"I need to ask, you are certain she was talking about your sister?" Albedos suspicions only grew when the other nodded. "And that she wasn't talking about an item?"

At that, Aether's conviction began to shrink, his brow furrowing. Albedo gave him time to think, already having a mental idea about his answer. For better or worse, he knew how Mona worked. He was only looking for confirmation. After all, falling to a conclusion without properly investigating and rejecting any other scenario was never something any scientist should do.

"I have lost my original sword, but I'm not looking for it."

A simple set of questions paired with a set of simple answers, but more than enough for Albedo to turn to a conclusion.

Mona was smart but also mischievous at times, there to give a push to whoever needed it in the name of 'fate'. For someone who claimed to be an observer, her self-control would fade away when her readings ended in a good outcome. Even when she herself had claimed to not want to interfere with such things as fate, Albedo can name many times where she gave a personal touch.

Whatever she saw exactly, he wasn't sure. But there was no doubt in his mind the astrologist was certain that something could form between him and the traveler. Something that would replace what Aether was 'missing' along with the disappearance of his sister.

Of course, Mona would do something like this.

"I'm afraid she didn't mean finding your sister." Albedo tried to keep his stance professional, noting to himself to have a word with Mona whenever he gets the chance. "But more so what you have lost along with her."

"Lost?"

"What you now don't have without her."

"Oh."

Color began to bloom on Aether's cheeks, the shake darker than the show could ever make him. The sight made Albedo's own composure crumble ever so slightly, heat rising up on his own skin. He wasn't sure if he should be grateful or not at how quickly Aether picked up on the implications of this whole dilemma.

"Oh."

Albedo found Aether's reaction suitable for the situation.

For a moment, he feared he had made the other uncomfortable. After all, they were simply strangers to each other. To claim someone he just made could replace the undoubtedly good feeling his sister gave him was outrageous at best. Albedo really hoped Mona wasn't just trying to get him to be more social by bringing him in an undoubtedly interesting person to him.

Thankfully Aether didn't appear to be upset by the situation. But even so, Albedo had a hard time trying to read him. He didn't look mad, but he didn't appear happy either. Aether took a moment to himself, lost for words as his mouth opened and closed, trying to find the words for all this.

"Lumine and I travel everywhere together. As long as we were together, we didn't care much about where we were. We are twins so, we pretty much have been with each other since birth."

Aether and Lumine, two fitting names for children of gold. Albedo has never seen Lumine but he can imagine her with brightness, undoubtedly matching her brother. But alas, this wasn't the right time to ask.

"So you seek adventure?"

Aether didn't respond, glancing to the side as he moved his scarf farther up to cover his blush. That sole action was enough to tell Albedo everything he needed to know. That what Aether sought wasn't as simple as that.

"A bond?"

A long pause, followed by a slow nod.

Albedo really will need to have a talk with Mona after this.

"That's a way to say it."

A long silence fell into the cave, the realization of the reasons for their meeting bringing the previous awkwardness up to the surface. Despite Mona's prodding to be more social, never before she has sent someone to him. There's got to be something more to this. Something Albedo is desperately trying to see.

"Is she always like this?" Aether joked in an attempt to dispel the awkwardness.

Albedo cleared his throat, willing down his embarrassment over the whole situation. "I'm afraid so. Even though she claims she doesn't like to interfere with the natural flow of things, she gives a hand more often than she should."

"I see."

Again silence.

Really, what could they say about this turn of events?

It was Aether's turn to clear his throat, gathering himself as he glanced outside towards the darkening sky. "I should go before night falls."

Albedo escorted him out of the cave, ignoring the pitch of disappointment that dared to show itself.

"It's already quite late. Are you sure you're going to make it?"

"I have my ways." Aether laughed, indifferent but carefree."It was nice to meet you Albedo! See you around."

The alchemist could only wave, Aether already sprinting his way down the mountain, leaving Albedo alone with his thoughts.

Never before he had been so fascinated with someone.

Hours passed by in the blink of an eye, the moon had long got its place, high in the sky. The alchemist was still sitting at his desk, trying to recall a pair of amber as he painted gold hues. He hated to admit it, but the more he drew, the more he understood why Mona wanted him to meet Aether. With one glance, he caught his attention without even trying to.

Setting his charcoal down, Albedo decided to never bring this up again in his thoughts. Whatever Mona was hoping for, he won't let it concern him. He let his feet take him away from his desk, stretching as he found himself walking outside his camp. 

Inhale, exhale.

The small break was much needed, he quickly realized, the chilly air in his lungs exactly what he needed to come to. He was ready to head back, and draw the day to a close before he stopped. 

He could feel it again, the same magnetic pull the traveler had, the same that stole his interest away. But when he glanced where he felt it from, he was surprised to see nothing but the stars staring back at him. The feeling only got stronger, singing a gentle yet quiet sound. 

Albedo could only stare back at the sky, confused.

And so, he could only wonder.

What could have Mona read in the stars that he was desperately trying to understand?

Albedo did see the golden traveler again. Sooner than he expected too.

Barely a week had passed after their first encounter and yet to Albedo, it felt like a day.

Aether had left him with the strongest wave of inspiration he ever had for a long time. Drawings and experiments completed as easily as breathing, any dead ends carved into a new path with only a touch of his hands.

When Aether found him again, he was observed in one of these new paths. An experiment he had left on the back burner now almost completed.

Maybe that's why, when Aether approached this time, he allowed himself to leave his guard down.

"Need any help?"

And maybe, that's why he gladly accepted the travelers help. 

Albedo was quick to notice the chain of reactions their meetings had set off.

From their second meeting and onwards, Aether had effortlessly stepped into the role of his helper, carefully stepping into Albedos. Unlike in Mondstadt, Albedo was used to working completely alone here, trying to avoid bringing his official assistants to the cold mountain as much as he can. 

Now, Albedo could finally put a name on the peculiar aura Aether carried with him.

And soon enough, Aether himself had become one of the subjects of his research.

And so the visits continued.

Sometimes, he would show up with a companion in toe. A white-haired pixie, seeming to float by his side without wings or any outside help whatsoever. She came with a bag of mystery on her own: an appetite fitting that of a hillichurl, the ability to snap away into thin air, and clothing similar to the of the sevens statue. The small creature was almost as interesting as Aether.

Almost.

Today was one of those days, Aether and Paimon visiting the alchemists makeshift base once more. If it was anyone else, Albedo would be irritated by the unannounced and frequent visits. But strangely enough, he found out he didn't mind.

Another interesting realization he will have to investigate on a later day.

"Paimon can't take it anymore!"

"That took longer than I expected."

"Oh shush!"

Curiosity took over Albedo, his movements pausing. Yet another not-fight, as Paimon put it before, had broken up between the fascinating duo. And like any other time, Paimon was huffing in annoyance while Aether had that all familiar teasing glint written all over his body language. Albedo had the luck, for the best or the worse, to have the very same look directed to him before. The only difference being the source of Paimons obvious annoyance was Albedos own source of amusement.

But he wouldn't admit that aloud.

"You insisted on coming you know. Albedo's lab ain't gonna change temperature."

"And now Paimon is going to sleep! It's too cold here."

Too caught up in his laughter, Aether barely had time to exchange a goodbye to his companion, Paimon disappearing into her secret space without a second to spare. Perhaps one day, Albedo will have the honor of investigating that mystery too. But that was something for another day.

Now his full attention stolen, Albedo turned to properly look at Aether. The traveler looked lost in his own thoughts, unfocused eyes dancing with the flames in front of him.

"She is a fitting guide for you." a quiet voice pulled Aether out of his thoughts, almost startling him if he wasn't already used to the alchemist cryptic ways.

"Two beings associated with stars." he continued, humming lightly as he sat next to him.

"Although Paimons connection seems to be more obvious with her abilities and such, yours seems more, pure in a way. As if you were made from stardust itself. More deeper and meaningful."

When Albedo finished his small rant, he was met with a pair of wide amber eyes, the owner of them reduced speechless. At first, he thought he had said something wrong, making Aether uncomfortable with his obscure theory. But before he had the time to apologize, something shifted in the other, his shock turning into a small smile. And if Albedo didn't know better, he would've blamed the color of Aethers cheeks on the cold.

"You know, everyone is associated with the stars in one way or the other."

Aether had moved closer to him, closer than anyone has ever dared to be to Albedo.

Once again, Albedo realized he didn't mind.

So when the traveler guided him up, he followed, captured by the star's orbit.

"Let's go stargaze."

Albedo happily agreed. Not scared when the magnetic pull increased ten times more when he and Aether stared at the stars.

Around half a year had passed ever since a golden stranger stumbled into Albedo's lab. Half a year since a connection clicked between two people.

"What's your constellation?"

Aether visits had begun spacing out, each time taking longer for him to visit the alchemist. Albedo told himself it didn't bother him as much as it did.

"My constellation?"

It was one of the rare times Albedo had come back to Mondstadt, a required 'break' Master Jean had instead of in exchange for his month-long expeditions in Dragonspine. The buzz of the busy streets was something he hadn't heard in a long time, reaching his lab through the opened window.

Technically, he knew this wasn't really a break at all. If Jean were to barge into the room right now it was sure she would scold him for his stubbornness when it comes to alchemy. But if anyone had to ask, he was simply showing around the Honorary Knight. 

Aether was next to him, taking a seat on the top of his workstation, feet swaying back and forth like an excited kid. The sky was clear, the sun bright, everything coming down to enwrap the traveler's form with a subtle glow. 

Maybe he should stay in Mondstadt more this time, if it meant getting the chance of painting Aether's brilliant shine under the sun.

And Aether, charming and sweet, simply smiled. Completely oblivious to Albedo's inner turmoil. 

"I told you. The stars have a place for everyone. I want to know yours."

With a shake of his head, Albedo brought himself to the present. Right, Aether had asked a question. He had to take a moment to think about it, the question something he never got too often.

"I believe it's Princeps Cretaceus."

"Fitting." Aether grinned, picking around at the corner of Albedos vision.

Albedo wondered what that meant. 

"Have you tried to find it?"

A small frown fell on Albedo's mouth, placing down the glass vial as he marked the experiment down to a stop. He wasn't sure why, but it felt like the question held more importance than it showed.

"It hasn't crossed my mind to," Albedo confessed, unsure why he was hesitant to do so. Was that something people normally do? Should have he thought of doing it before?

Thankfully for him, and strangely enough, Aether seemed pleased by his response, excitement radiating from him.

"We can look for it together!" he jumped down, speeding off towards the window, trying to figure out when will the sun finally settle for the day.

Aethers's enthusiasm must be infectious, because despite Albedo's specializations swaying far out of the stars, he couldn't help but feel ecstatic over the idea. Leaning down, he let his chin rest on his hand, closing his eyes as he pretended to think.

"Is that an excuse to stargaze with me again?"

When Albedo opened his eyes again, he had to stop himself from grinning at the scene before him. Aether's body froze, eyes staring wide at him, a wonderful shade of red decorating his cheekbones. If Albedo hadn't practiced on his self-control, he would be already moving to draw the traveler in front of him right now.

"Oh, ah, well..." Aether stuttered, not denying he was caught red-handed.

Maybe Albedo's self-control wasn't as good as he thought it was, cause when a laugh began blooming in his chest, he couldn't find it in him to stop it. A quiet yet uncontrolled sound, echoing off him for a moment longer than it should.

It was enough for Aether to pause.

With a deep breath, Albedo tried to recollect himself. He was so caught up in his own surprise he didn't see the way Aether's embarrassment melted into endearment, pouting only when Albedo looked up at him again.

Despite his disorderly actions, Albedo didn't feel bad for his actions at all. Instead, it felt, refreshing, to let go of himself for a moment. And if the embarrassment radiating from Aether meant anything, he didn't think the traveler disapproved of it either.

So, Albedo wasn't afraid to smile as he spoke.

"I don't mind, Aether. I enjoy your company more than anyone else."

Aether's eyes snapped at him. "Really?"

"Of course."

It was Aether's turn to laugh, his pout disappearing completely. Now he was feeling silly for worrying over a moment ago.

"Well, definitely gonna add that on the list of things I can brag about."

A month had passed since Albedo had last seen Aether.

He had long returned to Dragonspine, already making ends meet with his work as The Chief Alchemist and as a Knight of Favonious. Everything had once more fallen into routine, Albedo returning to his personal experiments, and Aether setting off to continue his journey. Everything should have been back to normal.

And yet, the more Albedo mindlessly stared through a set of old notes, the more restless he began to feel.

It began as soon as he set foot on the all-familiar camp, the home he had made for himself to fit his complex needs. An inability to focus, the sight of yellow reminding him of a gold braid.

A lonely feeling in his chest.

At first, he had classified his state of mind as an anomaly: each time Aether had resumed his travel, his departure left him with a wave of inspiration. New insights and ideas blooming with his help. For the effects to reverse without a change wasn't something Albedo could just ignore. No outside sources should be responsible for this either, for he has slept and eaten properly the past few days. But somehow, their last meeting left him feeling hollow and unfocused.

What was different this time? What had turned his inspiration into a state of absent mindedness? The prolonged absence of the traveler? The fact Aether was visiting a completely new region? A mix of those things? Would seeing him again fix his train of thought, or would it make it worse?

Maybe it was a good thing Albedo couldn't fully focus on his experiments, otherwise, he would have missed the soft crunching of snow, slowly approaching his lab.

"Aether?" the response was automatic, no one else visiting him in Dragonspine.

When he thought he wanted to see Aether again, it wasn't like this.

Blood. Blood was the first thing Albedo noticed when he shifted around. Any and all thought had now stopped completely, everything standing still as the all-familiar mop of golden hair rose up.

His head moved to see him slowly, clutching his bloody side a touch softer as he tried to speak.

"Al..."

Aether barely could get a word out before he collapsed, the thick snow below him the only thing easing his fall.

Albedo never had moved so fast in a long time.

In a few moments, the alchemist was on his side lifting Aether bridal style, letting him get close, barely surprising the shake of his hands as he rushed Aether inside. Swallowing down the lump in his throat, the alchemist tried to ignore the feeling of something warm and wet soaking through his shirt as he helped Aether to his bed.

"Don't use your energy," he whispered, carefully as he laid him down, Aether groaning while he did so.

The shock had begun to slowly fade out, pure dread and anger clouding Albedo's rational thought. What did this to Aether, who did this? How? What could've happened? The hero of Mondstadt, the one who fought a dragon and won. The Honorary knight who accomplishes any commission given, regardless of the difficulty. Never before Albedo had seen Aether injured. And yet now, he looked so small in his arms, fragile and vulnerable.

But Albedo needed to remind himself: Aether was human.

Even the gods weren't untouchable.

Successfully letting Aether comfortably rest on his bed, Albedo was quick to move, hurrying around the cave as he grabbed anything he needed. A first aid, a few bottles of water, potions and herbs, anything he thought could help Aether. In no time, he was back next to the other, supplies in hand. Thoughts dark and scrambled, Albedo tried to regain his composure. 

Despite the topic being outside of the alchemist field of research, Albedo has been taught a lot about proper medical health. Both the Knights of Favonious and his master deeming it as valuable knowledge for him to have. He was no stranger to injury, and yet he couldn't stop the sharp inhale that caught in his throat when he raised Aether's top.

The cut was wide, long enough for his palm to barely cover it, and deep enough to cause an obvious dip.

"It's not-" Aether winced, startled when he felt Albedo begin pouring freezing water over his already cold skin, "t-that bad."

"You're bleeding Aether."

Before Aether could get another word out a finger was pressed against his lips, shutting down any objections he might've tried to voice.

"No more talking before I estimate the severity of the cut. Understood?"

If Aether's weakness wasn't obvious enough already in his complexion, it was in his behavior. The usual stubbornness he held was no one where to be found, simply agreeing along without another word.

Albedo had to remind his artificial lungs to breathe, the cold air of Dragonspine forcing him to stay grounded, the light shake of his hands dying out as he began to observe Aethers injury now that he had cleaned it.

Bright red blood, steadily flowing out. Albedo never felt more relieved to see it. Bright red meant no veins had been cut, while the slow flow meant no artery either. A small weight was lifted off the alchemist shoulders. If any major systems had been damaged, he wasn't sure if he could have managed to stay nearly as calm as he managed to be right now. No foreign objects stuck into it either. Despite the wideness of it, Albedo thanked the archons for the traveler's luck.

Bringing the first aid closer to him, he carefully began working, bandaging Aether as methodically as he could, muttering quick a apology when Aether let out a hiss of pain. No other words were exchanged during the processes, Albedo taking a deep breath once he had finished. Everything looked correct, the pressure just right and if he needed it, he had more bandages to spare. However, by the time he finished, Aether's breathing had begun evening out, his eyelids falling closed, exhaustion almost taking him over.

"Aether, can you hear me?"

Relief flowed through him when Aether slowly opened his eyes, tiredly nodding. Looking through the collection of potions he got, he turned to the other, helping to raise him into a sitting position, careful to not disturb the cut. Aether whined a complaint, wanting nothing more than to just sleep for a moment.

"Please hold on a little longer. I need you to drink something."

It was dangerous to do this, he knew. If Aether lost consciousness mid-way he might end up choking him, leading to other problems. But if there was one thing Albedo was confident in, it was his alchemy. It's the closest thing he has to healing magic, and he wasn't going to not use it.

Wordlessly, Aether followed through, letting Albedo lift the glass to his lips. He barely could register the taste of the potion, slowly drinking it all down. Albedo could only try to gently rub his hair through the process, trying to provide even a hint of comfort through the pain on Aether's side.

Once Aether was done, Albedo quietly placed the vital down, a relieved sigh leaving him. Letting Aether slowly fall back down on the bed, he helped to tuck him in, covering him with the warmest blanket he had to offer.

"You can rest now, Aether."

And Aether did, without a second to spare.

Dragonspine was an unforgiving place, only the best of adventurers able to cross it and survive. Here everything worked against any person who walked upon it. The grey clouds hiding the passing of time, the never changing cold climate, the monsters swarming through its wake. Albedo was one of the very few people that was accustomed to it.

Approximately five hours had passed since the hurt traveler had stumbled into his camp. Five hours he had been sleeping, unmoving on Albedos makeshift bed.

If it hadn't been for the slow rise and fall of Aether's chest, Albedo would have thought he was dead.

In two hours, the night will come, making any descend down the mountain ten times harder. Despite his ever growing anxiety, Albedo crosses out the idea of getting Aether to a medical professional today. Even as a knight, he wasn't arrogant enough to confidently move the both of them down the mountain on his own. The risk was too strong, too great. He can only hope the potion was good enough to help Aether find his footing by tomorrow morning.

The warmth of the torches around them did little to soothe Albedo's mind, scenarios and theories swimming through his mind, drowning out his rational thought. What if he misinterpreted Aether's injuries? What if he didn't took care of them properly? Could there be an injury he missed? What if-

"Albedo?"

Once again, Albedo hadn't been so grateful to not be able to focus.

Scrambling away from his desk, Albedo was quick to sit next to Aether, his hands cupping one of the others without thinking. If he did it to comfort himself or the injured man, he wasn't sure.

"Aether," the alchemist didn't think as he moved closer to the other, his grip tightening where they were holding each other. "You're awake."

"I am." Aether's gaze lingered a moment on their conjoined hands, offering a weak squeeze of his own before meeting Albedo's gaze.

A moment of silence stretched between them, comfort finding itself through each other's eyes. Hearing Aethers voice felt like a glass of cold water for his thoughts. Grounding, reassuring, but at the same time, startling.

"I need to take your vitals again." reluctantly, Albedos hand let go of Aethers own, motioning Aether to stay in place when he tried to sit up.

"Again huh." Aether laughed breathlessly, offering his wrist to the other. "Looks like this has become a regular thing between us."

Despite the worry still itching under his skin, Albedo let a small smile tug on his lips, the travelers easy going personality shining through once more. Maybe that's all he had to do. Pretend this was just another experiment like all the other times he did this. That Aether was simply tired, and not on the brink of death hours prior.

Breathing and pulse slower than normal, but that's to be expected. Aether had lost a lot of blood, it will take some time for his body to replenish it. Even with only body tissue being cut, the slice still had danger of being fatal had it not been treated soon. Albedo barely managed to contain an unpleasant shiver as his mind recalled the amount of blood the first set of bandages had gathered.

"How are you feeling?"

"Like shit."

He couldn't help but chuckle at Aethers bluntness, the laugh that followed from the traveler calming down his running thoughts just a bit. It was relieving to see him acting like himself again, little by little. It meant his power was returning to him. Albedo really needed the distraction from his unpleasant thoughts.

The image of the bleeding traveler crawling into his lab wasn't going to leave any time soon.

Albedo was going to fetch some more blankets when he felt a small tug on his coat, turning around to see Aethers gaze once more. A sharp exhale left him, his heartstrings tagged violently all at once as he was met with Aethers somber expression. Maybe he shouldn't celebrate just yet. Maybe he should bring out more of his potions after all.

Aethers didn't speak as his hand shifted, reaching around until finding again Albedos own, holding it tightly. His eyes had begun flattering close again, his head sinking into the pillow with a content sigh. If it was any other time, Albedo would be happy to let him sleep there, fingers linked and curled up close to him.

"Do you wish to sleep?"

"A little."

While Albedo didn't have any wounds, there was still a dull pain forming right where his artificial heart stood. He wanted to let Aether sleep, let him have a few more peaceful seconds from the pain but that wouldn't help much in the long run.

Albedo was glad he kept everything from before close, easily grabbing a water bottle with his free hand and giving him to Aether. He graciously took it, downing most of it with a satisfied sight. The cold water helped the drowsiness go away, Aethers body straightening ever so slightly.

Albedo gently cleared his throat, successfully catching the other's attention. "You lost a large amount of blood, but it seems the bleeding have stopped a few hours ago. Please take it easy as your body recovers."

Aether nodded, finishing off the last of the bottle with a big swing before giving it to Albedo.

"Thank you."

Albedo shook his head. "You do not need to thank me for basic human decency."

"Still, even now you seem to treat me so..."

Slowly, Aethers eyes lowered, Albedo following his gaze to their connected hands.

"Gently. I don't see you doing that a lot. No offense."

Albedos knows what he means, has been told so many times. When people talk about him, it's always in a professional way: calm, reserved, sometimes even cold. Albedo was known for his solitude, only known to show affection for his little sister. Although, he didn't ever minded about his antisocial reputation. After all, his work required absolutely no distraction, no interaction outside of his assistants. For him to act so open, so tenderly towards someone...

"I was worried. Isn't it logical?"

"You still are. Even when you said I will be fine." Aether spoke, a sad smile on his lips.

Once again, the traveler reads him effortlessly. A shiver ran down Albedos spine. He should be bothered by his own behavior, trying to cover the heart on his sleeve. And yet, he finds himself staying in the spotlight Aether placed just for him.

It's as scary as it is thrilling.

"What happened?" Albedo questions in a whisper, an obvious attempt to change the subject. He rather not think about the indications of his behavior. Not now.

Aether allowed him the luxury.

"Damn Fatui," he spoke through gritted teeth, as the mere idea of them physically hurt him. "They ambushed me when I was helping someone from the guild."

"I see."

"I did manage to make the retreat and help him. But not before this."

Now he had a whole organization to be outraged at. Breathing through his nose, Albedo did his best to keep his anger in check. The Fatui never were good people, that was a fact everyone knew. No one liked them, Albedo included. But now he had even more of a reason to hate them.

"One moment."

Letting go of Aethers hands wasn't something he liked doing, but was necessary as he stood up. He needs to focus on the now, on taking care of the injured person in his lab, of Aether. One day, the Fatui will get what they have coming, if not from him, then from the rest of the Teyvat.

Moving across the cave Albedo let out a small sigh, letting his previous thoughts die down. Aether was waiting for him, so he should make it quick.

Like right now, Albedo had needed a distraction when Aether was still resting, two hours of worrying driving him mad. So, he had made something while Aether was sleeping, keeping his hands busy in the most productive way he could think of at the time: making a meal.

Carefully opening the pot, he hummed as he poured some goulash into a bowl. It wasn't one of his best cooking, but that was sure when your mind is preoccupied over if someone important to you is going to be okay or not. Even when he convinced himself Aether wasn't going to die, he found himself still worrying. 

Pain, obviously, isn't pleasant. So the least he can do is take care of him.

With the bowl of warm food, Albedo moved back to Aether once more, the latter no doubt following his movements throughout the whole lab. He was smiling again, almost jumping off the bed when the aroma of hot food hit his nose.

"Replenishing nutrients will help both with your blood loss and your wound, strengthening up the healing process. Fruits would be ideal but unfortunately didn't have one that wasn't contaminated."

With the help of Albedo, Aether managed to move into a sitting position, the latter more impatient than the other. Injured or not, he can guess Aether hasn't eaten in long while, sleeping through dinner and, knowing him, working on commissions through lunch.

Then, Albedo got an idea. It couldn't hurt to indulge a little, could it?

Wordlessly, the alchemist raised a spoon to Aethers lips, feeling heat rising in his face. For a second, he was worried he was crossing a line, maybe even accidentally offending the other. But when Aether's grin widened, Albedo smiled back, relieved as the other accepted the food, looking too happy over the situation. The small cycle continued, Albedo feeding Aether, the excuse of his injury hanging from his tongue if Aether choose to tease him.

Instead, Aether giggled.

"Mm, I could get used to this."

Albedo hummed back quietly, careful to not spill any food. "This?"

"You taking care of me."

Despite himself, Albedo chuckled a hushed sound, a smile returning to him. "You better not get injured again for such a simple thing. You may always ask."

Aethers grin could rival the sun itself.

"I will take you up on that."

"I can't believe you!"

The calm didn't last long.

Despite Aethers wound healing nicely enough for him to stand up without much of a hustle, that didn't stop Albedo from insisting on getting him to professional medical attention as soon as possible. It was a slow journey, their destination being the Knights of Favonious building. The two took frequent breaks, Albedo insisting to check if the cut had reopened again. Aether seemed surprised the first few times, before he quickly warmed up to Albedos careful touch, comfortable enough to even tease him a few times.

Albedo had pretended his blush was from the cold.

"And you!" it was hard to not flinch a little at the loud high pitched voice fleeting closer to him. It was more than enough to bring him out of his own head. Almost enough to rise his annoyance.

"Why didn't you call for Paimon?! What would you have done if-"

"Paimon." Albedo tried to speak.

"Paimon isn't done!"

"Paimon," he interrupted once more, tone sharper. "I'm a Captain of the Knights of Favonious and a scientist. I was trained for situations like this."

That seemed to temporarily calm down the girl's anger, finally quieting down for a moment to listen to what the alchemist had to say.

"I didn't call you because I was making sure all of my attention was turned to healing Aether. That is what you would've wanted me to do, correct?"

"Are you saying Paimon is distracting?!"

"Paimon, you are literally yelling right now. Be honest, would you have stayed calm if you saw me bleeding out?" Aether chimed in from next to her, sending her an unimpressed look at Paimons betrayed face.

"Still! Paimon is your companion. Paimon promised to help you!"

"And you do." Aethers gaze softened. "Have a little faith in Albedo. He is more than just a mad alchemist."

Paimon seemed conflicted, glancing between the two men before she sighed in defeat, floating lower.

"Fine."

Albedo released a breath he didn't know he was holding, relieved to have calmed down Paimon. He knew her anger came from a good place, no doubt being worried about her friend's well-being. With that in mind, he managed to lower the frustration slowly building in his head.

When she looked at him again, her pout began turning into a small smile. "Thank you for taking care of him. He can be a big dummy!"

"No need to thank me." Albedo smiled back." I will always help Aether without a second thought."

"It wasn't that bad." Aether quickly shut up when two pairs of blue eyes glanced to stare him down.

"Okay I get it- stop looking at me like that!"

Albedo wasn't sure what possessed him, if it was something sinister or something pure, but he didn't stop his movements. Aether had kept his gaze too, not stepping back when he reached out, wordlessly lacing his hands with the traveler. Even Paimon had gone quiet from beside them.

"Please be more careful."

Warm colors suited Aether like a glove, complicating his already soft features. The pink spreading up to his ears could be described as nothing but brilliant. It left Albedo feeling breathless, wondering if he was the only one who made Aether react like this- if Aether liked this too- if Aether felt the same way he did.

The giggle that Aether gave him was enough to make melt all of Albedos worries away.

"I will."

The sudden slam of a door tore the two boys away from each other, color now blooming on both of their faces as they glanced at anything other than each other. Distantly, he could hear Paimons giggles, no doubt ready to begin teasing Aether for their little display a moment ago. Aether pretended not to hear, suddenly too interested in the tiles beneath his fit before hesitantly looking up.

When their eyes met again, Albedo could only offer a small smile.

"Oh my goodness so sorry it took me so long!" Barbara spoke out of breath, sprinting over to where the small group stood. One glance behind her was enough to confirm she was the one who had broken their moment a second ago, coming up from the front door. The sweat glistening on her forehead was enough of a reason for Albedo to forgive her.

Being reminded of the reason why they were here quickly hit a switch in Albedos mind, slipping into his working attitude. He took it upon himself to explain the past day to the nurse, knowing every bit of information was important when it came to someone's health. Aether tried to interject a few times, claiming his injury wasn't as bad as it sounded, only to be shushed by his flying companion.

"I see. Don't worry I will take it from here! Follow me, I already have a room ready."

For a moment, Aether hesitated before following Barbara. He could see it, in the way he was fidgeting, Aether was contemplating something. At last, he let out a small sigh, waving Albedo with one last longing glance, Paimon following close behind Aether before the two began following the nun.

Albedo wanted nothing but to follow, but he also didn't want to interfere with Barbaras work. So he was left in place, alone with his thoughts.

The past hours began crawling back into his mind, the pure horror he felt when he saw Aether, the kind and strong Hononary knight bleeding, almost crawling into the cave he dares call home. Some of the fear still lingered, the shock of it all shaking his very being. Throughout the past day, Albedo realized how small Aether could feel, how human he truly is. How much he needed care like any other. Care Albedo wished to give him.

And at last, Albedo came to a realization.

The very first-time Albedo met Aether, he thought it was one chance in a million. A fallen star he was blessed to see, and lucky enough to have it fall right on his doorstep.

That no longer sounded right, Aether deserved better than that. To note down their meeting on pure luck would be ignorant, undeserving of what the traveler deserves.

The stars led him to him. To each other.

And when Aether greeted him with a kiss when Barbara finally let him free, he knew for a fact that the traveler felt the same.